What Bruno Fernandes did after Man United vs Chelsea might force Erik ten Hag to make shock U-turn

The last time Manchester United conceded fewer than 16 shots in a game was the FA Cup third round win over Wigan Athletic in the first game of 2024 - some 14 matches ago.

You have to rewind to the 1-0 away win over Nottingham Forest, five weeks and six fixtures back, to find the previous occasion they allowed fewer than 20 efforts on goal. Over the past five games, United have shipped an astonishing 134 shots and perhaps the miracle is that only 11 have gone in.

There are several reasons behind the leakage. An ever-changing backline amid this season’s spate of injuries has been a thorn in the side - Raphael Varane and then substitute Jonny Evans both went off injured against Chelsea with just two centre-backs now fully fit.

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Luke Shaw has missed more games than he’s played this term while Tyrell Malacia has not been available all season due to his long-term knee injury. Meanwhile, pivot Casemiro - now also an injury concern - has been woeful this campaign and Kobbie Mainoo, 18, has been left to fend for himself far too often.

That does not admonish Erik ten Hag of responsibility. The Dutchman was branded as a pragmatist upon his arrival, something he has shown off the pitch but scarcely on it.

Concerningly, Ten Hag has indicated that he is not too worried by the number of shots his side are allowing the opposition to take. He denied his team has a defensive issue, stating after full-time on Thursday: “It is ridiculous.

“We showed we were fourth ranking goals in conceding and everyone is talking to each