The result would have done little to ease the pressure on Ten Hag, despite the Dutchman’s resilient figure in the pre-match build-up. He pointed to his team’s character, but also cited their failure to keep possession at key times.
The visitors opened the scoring after keeper Andre Onana gifted a pass to Jayden Bogle. The hosts also switched off in the second half as Ben Brereton Diaz made it 2-1.
Ten Hag acknowledged the positives of their resilience but also emphasized the negatives, stating the need to learn from the mistakes. Captain Bruno Fernandes played a key role in their latest escape.
After Harry Maguire’s header and the Red Devils conceding again, Fernandes leveled from the penalty spot and then scored from 25 yards to make it 3-2. He also set up Rasmus Hojlund’s close-range tap-in as United moved to seventh in the Premier League table.
Ten Hag praised Fernandes’ form and emphasized his leadership and energy, stating his importance in encouraging the team. The decision to make Bruno Fernandes the club captain has also been scrutinized, according to Ten Hag.
He expressed satisfaction with Fernandes’ performance and attitude, stating that when in the right position, Fernandes finds the right spots and shows his leadership.