Scott McTominay insists Manchester United players are 'firmly behind' Erik ten Hag

Scott McTominay and Erik Ten Hag at a press conference on 11 December. Credit: PA Images

Manchester United footballer Scott McTominay says his teammates are "firmly behind" Erik ten Hag and that there is none of the toxicity seen under previous managers.

It has been a roller-coaster ride with more lows than highs since Sir Alex Ferguson retired after winning his 13th and final league crown in 2013.

United have not managed so much as a sustained Premier League title push since then, with Ten Hag the fifth permanent boss entrusted with taking the club back to the top.

The Dutchman is under scrutiny after Bournemouth condemned them to an 11th loss of the season and, having seen managers come and go, McTominay says the players are also accountable.

Scott McTominay says the team "just want to do well for the football club and it’s as simple as that." Credit: PA Images

"It is the players’ responsibility, first and foremost – the players know that as well," the United midfielder said.

"We have had many amazing players over the time, and I feel like now we’re at a stage we have big characters in the dressing room.

"It’s not just a case like with some of the other managers where it’s been a little bit toxic at times.

"The boys are firmly behind the manager, and that’s the be all and end all.

"I’ve said that in many other interviews and that’s the way it will remain to stay. We’ve got an amazing coaching staff as well. People can get lost in translation and carried away with what the players think and what they say behind closed doors.

"We just want to do well for the football club and it’s as simple as that."

United players were left dejected after the 3-0 loss at home to Bournemouth. Credit: PA Images

Saturday’s 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth was the worst possible preparation for the crunch Champions League clash with Bayern Munich on Tuesday 12 December, and the weekend trip to rivals Liverpool.

"Obviously we know the inconsistencies we have had, we are not naive to that," McTominay said. "We have spoken about it as a group, with the coaching staff.

"The schedule is relentless and we can’t blame it on a backlog of fixtures and stuff like that.

"But, for us, we have to come together as a group and figure it out where we are slightly inconsistent at this moment in time.

"The boys are honestly doing everything they can do to contribute and give their best whenever they approach the pitch."


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