Erik ten Hag branded the media a “disgrace” due to the “embarrassing” reaction to Manchester United‘s dramatic FA Cup semi-final win against Coventry City on Sunday. United narrowly escaped humiliation at Wembley Stadium, but Ten Hag has come out firing in defence of reaching a third final in two seasons.
The Red Devils were almost on the wrong end of one of the greatest shocks in English football history as they booked a repeat of last year’s FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Ten Hag’s side were cruising and 3-0 ahead in the 70th minute, but 24 minutes later, the Championship outfit had made it 3-3 and forced extra time.
Victor Torp thought he had completed an incredible comeback in the dying embers of extra time before VAR cruelly denied him due to the narrowest of offsides.
United kept their nerve on penalties, triumphing 4-2 after Casemiro missed the first spot kick, but have been painted as the beaten team since in light of their unbelievable capitulation.
Despite booking a fifth Wembley trip in 16 months, Ten Hag is under more pressure than ever before amid an expectation that INEOS will make a fresh start this summer.
However, the Dutchman didn’t allow the criticism of Sunday’s antics go without a response on Tuesday afternoon during his Sheffield United press conference.
“The reaction from you was embarrassing. It is the comments,” Ten Hag unloaded at Carrington ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash.
“Top football is about results. We made it to a final and we deserved it not only by this game but also the other games.
“We lost control for 20 mins, we also had bad luck, 3-2, 3-3. We were very lucky in the end, clear.
“Penalties was very good and we made it to the final, it is a huge achievement. Twice, in two years- is magnificent. For me as a manager, four cup final in four years. The comments are a disgrace.”
United have won just one of their last seven Premier League games, leaving Champions League qualification almost impossible.
The Red Devils now face a fight to qualify for European football altogether and must win both games at Old Trafford this week against 20th-place Sheffield United and 19th-place Burnley.
But Ten Hag is facing further injury woes ahead of Wednesday night, confirming he has four new problems, including captain Bruno Fernandes, after the Coventry classic.
He explained: “We had a problem with Alejandro Garnacho, that’s why we took him off during the game but I think he will be fine. Scott McTominay we have to assess today, really doubtful.
“Marcus Rashford is also doubtful and there was also an issue with Bruno Fernandes with the hand but I think he can make it. We have some doubts going into the game tomorrow.”
