Wayne Rooney criticises Manchester United players as Erik ten Hag comes under pressure

Wayne Rooney knows Erik ten Hag will accept the criticism coming his way but insists the Manchester United players must take responsibility for their terrible form.

United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, following a dismal 3-0 defeat at home to Newcastle. They have now endured their worst start to a season since 1962, having lost eight of their 15 matches across all competitions.

Ten Hag has come under growing pressure in recent weeks but retains the backing of the United hierarchy, with chief executive Richard Arnold claiming the club are making 'good progress'. And while Rooney understands that fingers will be pointed at the manager, he believes the players are not fulfilling their responsibilities on the pitch.

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"That's the job," Rooney said of the pressure on Ten Hag. "That's part of the job, we all know that when we take jobs. I know coming here [Birmingham City] there is a lot of pressure. I'm sure Ten Hag knows that at Man United.

"It's not going as well as they'd like or would have hoped but the players need to take responsibility. I know some of the players, they're not performing at the levels which I know they have.

"Of course, ultimately it starts and ends with the manager, that's part of being a manager. You'll get the critics after the last few weeks but players can do a lot more."

The mood around Old Trafford has soured significantly in recent weeks and the Manchester Evening News understands there is unrest among the players. Dressing room sources suggest there are doubts surrounding the Dutchman's management and simmering resentment between teammates.

Ten Hag said he