Erik ten Hag clarifies Scott McTominay role at Manchester United following his heroics vs Spain
Erik ten Hag suggested that Wout Weghorst will maintain his position as the lead striker for Manchester United, even with Anthony Martial back in the mix.
Weghorst has been a regular starter in all 18 games he has played since joining on loan from Burnley on January 13th, while Martial has been absent for every single one.
Despite Weghorst’s presence, Manchester United has only lost two games since his arrival, but he has only managed to score two goals in cup matches against Nottingham Forest and Real Betis, both of which were rebounds.
During the European Championship qualifying matches against France and Gibraltar, Weghorst was unable to score for the Netherlands, while Scott McTominay managed to net four goals in Scotland’s wins over Cyprus and Spain.
Despite playing as a striker for the United youth team and being used as a forward by Ten Hag during a match against Chelsea in October when United was trailing 1-0, McTominay is considered a midfielder by the coach.
“He can play in many roles,” Ten Hag noted. “It’s clear he has scoring capabilities. Also this season for us he’s a really good finisher. But I see him as a midfielder.
“So I think I’m happy with Wout is doing. Because when Wout is in the team the team is performing better.”
Bruno Fernandes scored two goals in the FA Cup quarter-final win against Fulham, becoming the second Manchester United player to reach double figures this season. However, he still trails Marcus Rashford, who has scored a career-best 27 goals this season.
With plans to sign a first-choice striker in the upcoming season, Ten Hag has identified Harry Kane as the primary target. He also hinted that Manchester United is already preparing for recruitment next season.
“I think we have players like Bruno, like Jadon Sancho, like Anthony Martial, like Scott McTominay, like Antony dos Santos, we have enough players with the capabilities to score goals, definitely,” Ten Hag added.
“What I said previously, I work in the back on next season but we’re working now on this season, so first of all make sure everyone is available and keep improving the way of play and that’s the best chance of scoring more goals.”
Erik ten Hag clarifies Scott McTominay role at Manchester United following his heroics vs Spain
