Erik ten Hag suggests solutions for Manchester United squad issue

Erik ten Hag has stressed the importance of Manchester United winning their Europa League group to avoid an extra knockout tie.

The eight group winners automatically go through to the last 16 but the runners-up would face a knockout tie against a team who finished third in their Champions League group in February.

Those knockout ties are due to be staged on February 16 and 23, while the round-of-16 matches are scheduled for March 9 and 16.

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At one stage during their 3-2 win over Omonia Nicosia last week, United were bottom of Group E but are still second as Real Sociedad won at Old Trafford on the first matchday.

United have already had two Premier League matches postponed due to the Queen's death and the prospect of two free midweeks in February understandably appeals to Ten Hag.

"I told the players weeks ago before the break it was important to get number one in this group, so that will be our aim. Our aim is to win all of the games but it's clear we want to avoid that if it's the way. If you want to win you have to win them all.

"I think all the clubs have the same problem, the clubs who play in Europe, but we have a squad to cover that, all the opportunities will double, injuries will be there, suspensions will be there and then you have to deal with it as a squad.

"All out for the victory (against Omonia). The first game is always the most important. It's Europe, it's tough, we want to be number one in the group, so we have to win the game."

Christian Eriksen has quickly established himself as an integral player in the United side and he is one of only two outfield players who have started all of their matches this season.

The 30-year-old is certain to be included in