'100% belief', 'don't judge him': Erik ten Hag backs two Man Utd stars to shine ahead of Arsenal friendly
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag spoke about Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount ahead of the pre-season friendly against Arsenal at the SoFi Stadium in California.
Rashford had a difficult 2023/24 season with the Red Devils. He struggled in front of goal, scoring only eight times from 43 appearances in all competitions for the club.
This was a significant dip in form from the previous campaign where he netted 30 goals. Ahead of the Arsenal friendly, Ten Hag was fully supportive of the 26-year-old.
The Dutch tactician said that Ruud van Nistelrooy has been brought in to help the strikers and Rashford can only prove himself which he is capable of doing.
Ten Hag added that he is 100% confident Rashford can replicate his 22/23 season form.
He said: “The reason Ruud is here is clear, he can help the strikers, but he is much more than this.
“With Rashford he can only prove himself.
“He is capable, he scores so many goals already at a relatively young age, he is capable of it. So I am confident, 100 percent belief, he can do the same as few years ago.”
Meanwhile, there has been much speculation over Mount’s future on the back of an injury-plagued debut season, but Ten Hag insisted he can’t be judged by that.
The manager believes Mount can be a ‘very good player’ with his ability to play in multiple positions.
He added: “You can’t judge his season, because he was injured. Don’t judge him. But when he is fit he will be a very good player for us and we can use him, versatile.
“You need certain types in the squad, team players, multifunctional players, definitely he is one of the players who can play in several positions, he will help the team.”
United started pre-season with a 1-0 loss to Rosenborg before beating Rangers by a 2-0 scoreline. Ten Hag will be eyeing another good display with a win against Arsenal.
Both clubs are missing key players after their recent international commitments, but they will be aiming to claim bragging rights ahead of the new Premier League season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com