Ten Hag avoids the Sancho route refuses to speak on Rashford in public

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has refused to comment publicly on Marcus Rashford’s poor form, saying he will only discuss the player’s performance privately.

The Red Devils suffered their sixth defeat of the season when they lost 1-0 at St James’ Park and Rashford was particularly abysmal as he contributed little in the attack and failed to track back to support the defence.

Newcastle put the visitors through the wringer for most of the encounter, but were mostly profligate; however, Anthony Gordon’s goal in the 55th minute ensured victory for the Magpies.

Another defeat for the Red Devils meant the magnifying glasses were lowered again, and Rashford’s lacklustre performance stood out in a stream of underwhelming displays.

Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag was questioned about the striker’s poor showing and form, which has seen him score only two goals this season in 13 starts.

Ten Hag uncharacteristically opted for the courteous and more cliche approach this time, as he refused to give anything away, saying it was a matter to be discussed privately. This was a sharp contrast from his handling of Jadon Sancho’s situation, where he told reporters the former Dortmund winger was training poorly.

"I talk with him about that, not the media," the former Ajax boss told reporters, per the BBC.

Pressed to reveal more, the Dutchman came in defence of his ace, saying, "I know this issue is coming up. Marcus is investing a lot. We support him and he will return to his form. He will recover and he gets all our support."

Meanwhile, former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed the mistake he made in the 2011 UEFA Champions League defeat to Barcelona.