Erik ten Hag held a pre-game press conference ahead of Manchester United’s match against Crystal Palace.
After the 1-1 draw at Selhurst Park last month, the two teams are facing off for the second time in a short period of time.
A better outcome is hoped for at Old Trafford after United’s three points were denied by Michael Olise’s free-kick in stoppage time on that occasion.
Since that match, United acquired Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich on the final day of the transfer window to cover Christian Eriksen’s injury absence until at least late April.
At the press conference before the Reds play against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, when asked if the midfielder will be in the matchday squad, Erik ten Hag told Manchester United TV that he is a fit player and knows the task at hand.
“Yes. He is looking very good. He [Sabitzer] has only had one session, but you can see he’s a very fit player. Coming from Bayern Munich, I didn’t expect anything different in Germany; their players are always good. He’s ready to play. He’s a really smart player, and we gave him some guidance. He knows what to do; he knows the job, and he could do it (start the game),” Erik ten Hag disclosed in the press conference.
Christian Eriksen’s injury, which will keep him out until at least late April after a hard Andy Carroll challenge on Saturday against Reading, prompted Sabitzer’s entry.
This only increases the need for the Austrian to get going, as Donny van de Beek is also out and Scott McTominay is having fitness issues.
Although Fred has stepped in at various points this season and performed admirably, his skill set is better suited to coming on as a substitute and bringing energy or offering a more organized defensive detail against a top-tier team.
Ten Hag made it clear that he wants a better performance than he received at Selhurst Park a few weeks ago. Sabitzer’s start tomorrow may help to achieve that. United need craft and cunning to unlock Palace.
