Ten Hag: This is what the team was missing, and we achieved an important victory

Manchester United coach Eric Ten Hag appeared in press statements, after defeating Fulham with a goal without a response, in the first round of the English Premier League.

The coach said: “Substitutes are always important and it was good to see in the first match that you You bring in a substitute and he scores the winning goal (Zirkzee). Everyone sees how important the substitutes are and they must be prepared. The victory is very important, but I am very happy that there were no injuries today.”

He continued: “Against Fulham, it was always a difficult match, but we defended.” We pressed very well. After 10 minutes, we found our style in the match and we kept them under pressure. We created a lot of chances and we should have scored earlier, and this is just what the team was missing - to be decisive in the penalty area.”

He stressed. :"Two seasons ago we had the highest number of clean sheets in the English Premier League. When we have four stable defenders, we will defend properly. If you do not have four stable defenders, gaps will come."

He added: "I know Nasir Well, Mazraoui is a great defender, but he is very calm when he handles the ball - he is not at full fitness, and when he reaches full fitness, he can do a lot. He has to build his physical fitness.”

On the winning goal scored by Joshua Zirkzee: “Scoring is important for a striker and he must be in his position, but he has more qualities and must get the balance right - he must reach the penalty area.” To score goals, but we also want him to communicate. We have some great midfielders around him to create groups.”

He continued: “First match, but it is good to strengthen the belief. I saw many areas where we have to improve, but this is normal.”

He concluded: “Replacing Harry Maguire? He wasn't injured, but I had to replace him because he had a problem."