Manchester United managed to take just one point at Aston Villa on Sunday.
Marcus Rashford was the only attacker who showed some promise and received a 6/10 rating for his performance.
However, he was taken off in the 64th minute for Antony. Erik ten Hag explained the reasoning behind his substitution after the game.
He said (via ManUtd.com): “Yes, that [the potential for a second yellow card] was one of the reasons to take him off.
“If it was another foul – probably he would be sent off. We can’t take another risk.”
Rashford got a yellow card five minutes before his substitution. He brought Matty Cash down near the touchline, forcing the referee to brandish the card.
He then tripped Leon Bailey as the latter looked to cut in from the right flank. The home crowd wanted the referee to show another card, but he took a lenient approach.
The official was quick to reach into his pocket during the game and booked five United players. However, he decided not to dismiss Rashford.
Ten Hag realised that Rashford was just a foul away from getting sent off and opted to replace him.
United received two red cards in two previous games – both for Bruno Fernandes. Another sending-off would have forced United to play with ten men for almost 30 minutes.
Rashford has looked much more positive this season. He has shown the ability to take on the defenders and dribble past them.
He had two shots on target and played one key pass against Villa.
Rasmus Hojlund failed to get involved in the game, while Alejandro Garnacho had a quiet game by his standards.
Rashford was the only attacker who looked threatening.
Stats from sofascore.com.
