Erik ten Hag said he understands fan frustrations after Manchester United suffered their fourth Premier League defeat of the season to Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
Man Utd failed to get on the scoresheet as Joachim Andersen’s sweet strike earned the Eagles all three points, leaving the Red Devils down in tenth after a second home defeat in a row. It’s the club’s worst start to a season in 34 years, when a shocking run of results nearly cost Sir Alex Ferguson his job.
Ten Hag has been tasked with reviving United’s fortunes but has faced on and off-field turmoil in recent months. His side looked awkward in defeat to Roy Hodgson’s Palace with summer signings Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat all in action.
Boos rang around Old Trafford as United spluttered towards defeat, having got back on track previously with wins over Burnley and Palace in the Carabao Cup.
Responding to the jeers, Ten Hag said: “I understand. We play at home and we play – we have to win, with all respect.
“I know every game in the Premier League is difficult. You have to play your best and I understand fans expect the best.
“It’s a bad start and we have to catch up. We have to do better. This isn’t good enough.
“I can give you reasons but you will explain it as an excuse, and there are no excuses. We need to win. It is not a matter of luck, you can’t explain it like this.”
On inconsistency being an issue this season, he added: “Of course, that is the concern and we have to be more consistent. The demand is we get a row of wins and we have to do better than we do now.”
Man Utd have an important Champions League clash with Galatasaray in midweek and another home league game against Brentford on Saturday before the October international break.
What we know
- Man Utd were beaten for the fourth time in the Premier League this season
- Supporters jeered as Crystal Palace won 1-0 at Old Trafford
- United lost previous home league game to Brighton before wins against Burnley and Palace in Carabao Cup.
