Ten Hag hits back to fans and United icons after being booed for subs vs Burnley
ERIK TEN HAG has launched a defiant defence of his team and his tactics following Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Burnley.
The Red Devils boss was booed for his decision to substitute fan favourites Rasmus Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo in the 65th minute while the game was tied at 0-0.
Old Trafford's frosty show of dissent towards the Dutchman came after Mainoo and Hojlund were replaced by Amad Diallo and Scott McTominay.
United scored shortly after the substitutions were made with Antony finding the net in the 79th minute.
But the Brazilian's hard work was undone when a 87th minute Burnley penalty was dispatched by Zeki Amdouni to secure a 1-1 draw for the Clarets.
Ten Hag defended his substitutions, claiming that Hojlund, 21, and Mainoo, 19, need rest as they are still adjusting to life as Premier League regulars.
Speaking in his post match press conference he said: "I am the manager and have to decide what the team needs.
"It was the right decision and totally logical to bring off very young players who are in their first year of the Premier League and feel some fatigue.
"They have both had injuries this season and I want to protect them."
Ten Hag went on to call for United fans to be patient with his team, adding: "Fans need patience.
"I understand they want to see the skills of these players but the league gets more intense year by year and the youngsters need to adjust. That takes time."
It wasn't just the die-hard supporters of Man Utd that Ten Hag appeared to have a message for either with the 54-year-old also seeming to take aim at former stars like Roy Keane and Gary Neville, who have criticised his side's performances.
He said: "People forget that the Man United team of 2004-05, they also didn't play that great football.
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