Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has revealed. Why he took off Marcus Rashford at half-time in the 3-3 Europa League draw with Porto, citing a need for rotation.

The 26-year-old forward was forced off after being involved in two goals. With Alejandro Garnacho coming on as the game turned sour and United fought back in stoppage time. After being reduced to ten men.

“We need to rotate. There’s a tough game on Sunday and we need players ready and fit for that. We made the decision to change for Villa. They had a day more rest than us and we have two away games so we need players. Who are physically fit,” Ten Hag said to โปรโมชั่น ufabet Sport.

Ten Hag elaborated on his stance regarding Rashford’s substitution: “I will have to watch it [Porto’s first goal] back but I think, over the left side definitely, we didn’t defend well tonight and Marcus also played a part in this. But, as I say, it had to do with Garnacho and nothing against Rashy.”

The manager reflected on the game’s dynamic, saying: “We scored two great goals and then we switched off. We don’t keep possession and defending, we’re switching off. We conceded the first goal, totally unnecessary, then you light up the fire in this stadium and it becomes very tough.”

Manchester United are now without a win in four consecutive games in all competitions, including just one win in their last 10 in European competition.