Erik ten Hag is often seen shaking his head in disapproval when a match is going against Manchester United, and he did so again in added time in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham.
In the heavy defeats to Manchester City and Liverpool, the gesture was down to “not sticking to the plan”. In the loss to Newcastle, it was for a lack of desire.
Against Tottenham it was for not putting in 100 per cent effort, very much a cardinal sin under the Dutchman's watch. Speaking after the match, he said: “Some thought 90 per cent was enough, we lost focus, that's why we gave balls away, we didn't do our jobs in positioning and you concede goals. ALSO READ: Erik ten Hag explains substitutions in draw vs Tottenham “You have to bring it every time, although I know they are not robots.
It's a tough schedule, but it can't be, we can't accept, when you are playing for Man United and wearing the shirt then you have to give it on every occasion, every game.” Ten Hag has repeatedly reminded his players about the standards - so break them at your peril.