Erik ten Hag reveals half-time message to players that inspired Aston Villa comeback and says ‘fans deserved it’
ERIK TEN HAG inspired Manchester United’s incredible second-half comeback against Aston Villa with his rousing half-time message.
The Dutchman spoke to his Red Devils players in the dressing room at the break.
GettyRasmus Hojlund grabbed a crucial late winner for Manchester United[/caption]
Erik ten Hag spoke with his players at 2-0 down to Aston VillaReuters
Villa led 2-0 at Old Trafford thanks to goals from John McGinn and Leander Dendoncker, prompting boos from the home crowd.
But the stats proved United came out flying after the break as they fought for their boss.
Alejandro Garnacho had a goal ruled out for offside before his double got the hosts level against Unai Emery’s high-flyers.
Then Rasmus Hojlund produced a smart late volley to grab his first Premier League goal and seal a memorable and much-needed 3-2 win.
And Ten Hag revealed what he said to his struggling side at the interval to motivate them in front of club legends Robin van Persie and Edwin van der Sar – as well as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford.
Asked on Match of the Day about his confidence-boosting message at 2-0 down, the United boss said: “Keep believing.
“I think our fans they deserved it. They are always behind us and we’ve had so many setbacks. So I’m really pleased from the performance of this team.
“What kind of team can handle and deal with the amount of setbacks we have had?
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“They are resilient, they have showed character and their personality to turn it around. I am very pleased with the performance of this team.
“Keep going, even when you get setbacks. Again we had so many setbacks today as well. Two set plays and we lose focus, also you can say very well done from Villa.
“But we created moments in the first half and you get disappointed you don’t score.
“Straight after half-time, we have a goal which is offside. But I am very pleased with the strength of my team and the character the team showed.”
