Marcus Rashford sends message to Manchester United teammates as Erik ten Hag defended

Manchester United have won their last three matches but have been far from convincing, meaning Reds fans head into Sunday’s derby pensive.

The hosts beat City at Old Trafford back in January thanks to Marcus Rashford’s late goal. He ended last season with 30 strikes but has scored just one for his club so far this term.

Erik ten Hag has endured a tricky start to the campaign but knows an unlikely win will boost the confidence of his side. Rio Ferdinand says the United boss has had a lot to deal with off the pitch which hasn’t helped his fortunes on it.

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Rashford has urged the Reds' defence to perform well to avoid slipping to defeat against Manchester City on Sunday.

The Reds' defence has been under the microscope this season after David de Gea was replaced by Andre Onana and injuries plagued the back line.

In midweek, United's defenders stole the show with Harry Maguire scoring the winner 20 minutes from time and Onana producing a stunning penalty save to secure the important three points in the Champions League.

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Ferdinand says off-field matters have hampered Erik ten Hag’s ability to fully concentrate on football matters at United, suggesting no other manager in English football has experienced such a chaotic start to their tenure.

The takeover process remains hanging over the club despite recent clarity on the situation revealing Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to invest £1.3billion for a 25% stake. Meanwhile, Ten Hag has had to deal with several player protests in his first 16 months at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo had his contract terminated last year after publicly