Was Kobbie Mainoo injured? Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag explains surprise substitution during Nottingham Forest clash as Dutchman says he has 'no regrets’ over decision

The youngster made it to Ten Hag's starting lineup against Nottingham Forest on Saturday but was subbed off at half-time as the Dutch manager brought in Scott McTominay in midfield. The United manager later confirmed in a press conference that Mainoo did not suffer an injury, and his removal from the pitch was a tactical call for which he has "no regrets". Ten Hag's decision was met with general confusion amongst fans and pundits alike, as the teenager was one of his side's brighter sparks.

Speaking to reporters after the game, the Dutchman explained why he introduced McTominay in place of Mainoo in the second half. He said, "Scott [McTominay] brought energy, I think the second half was much better on our side. The first goal, when you analyse it well, has nothing to do with the midfield. The second goal came from poor communication."

The Red Devils ended 2023 on a depressing note as they suffered their ninth defeat of the ongoing Premier League season. Forest took the lead with Nicolas Dominguez's strike in the 64th minute before Marcus Rashford brought his team back into the game for a brief period. Morgan Gibbs-White then scored the winner in the 82nd minute to seal a memorable win for the hosts.

Ten Hag's side's first game of the new year is an FA Cup third-round clash against Wigan Athletic on January 8, before they take on Tottenham in their first league game of 2024 on January 14.