Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag blasted his side for an “unacceptable” start as they drew 2-2 with struggling manager-less Leeds United on Wednesday.
United went 2-0 down at Old Trafford after Wilfried Gnonto’s first-minute strike, before a Raphael Varane own goal shortly after half-time.
But the hosts responded to claim a point, with goals from in-form Marcus Rashford and the returning Jadon Sancho.
“Very poor. It’s unacceptable,” Ten Hag told reporters.
“You start any game, but especially a derby, the way we did. We were down and had to fight back. We made big mistakes. That’s to do with attitude.
“We were not ready to go into the duels. We lose the duels and the formation was also bad at the start.
“When we lost the ball, we didn’t follow the principles and were quickly down. And, from the warning in the first half, the second half was the same.”
The Dutchman, however, did commend the side for their ability to rally from behind and claim a draw.
“I have to make compliments to the team for the resilience and the way they fight back,” he said.
“I think we make some really good football, great chances and, finally, also we finished and scored two great goals.”
Sancho’s equaliser was a significant moment for him after spending months out of the side due to physical and mental issues.
“I am very happy for him. Of course, also for the team because it is all about that,” Ten Hag said.
“But I am happy for him, it will encourage him and will motivate him further on. He is in the right direction. If he keeps going in this process, works hard, he can do even more and he can really help us achieve our goals.
“Everyone is happy for him. We need him, he can contribute, he can create. I think this team is much better than in his first season, we can play in the opponents’ half, dictate the game and create chances.”
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