Man Utd's Erik ten Hag Refutes Media Criticisms as 'Embarrassing' Following FA Cup Semi-Final Win

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United's manager, has voiced his discontent with the media's reaction to United's FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry, labelling the comments as 'embarrassing' and 'a disgrace.' Despite losing a 3-0 lead and narrowly winning on penalties, ten Hag stood in defense of his team's performance. He emphasized that it was the reaction from the media, and not the match outcome, that was truly embarrassing.

The Dutchman justified his stance, stating that top football is primarily about results, and the team had indeed made it through to the final. He expressed that the team had overall control of the game until the last 20 minutes and also faced elements of misfortune. He was proud of reaching the final which he considered a significant achievement and dismissed the disparaging remarks from the media.

Key figures such as Roy Keane and football pundits, Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, had criticized the club's performance. However, ten Hag remained unwilling to accept defeat, expressing that their criticisms lacked understanding of the game's struggles.

In another unfolding, Antony, a player who had celebrated their penalty shoot-out win by mocking the Coventry players, received particular criticism. Ten Hag, while accepting that Antony had erred, asserted that he had been goaded into his actions. He pointed out that the team's dominance in the game was evident for 70 minutes after which the opposition put up a noteworthy comeback.

In related news, former player Jason Wilcox's addition to United's management as their new technical director was also discussed. Ten Hag looks forward to forming a critical partnership with Wilcox to expedite team processes, drawing on Wilcox’s extensive youth training experience.

Ahead of their match against Sheffield United, there were injury concerns. Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay are doubtful for the game due to injuries sustained in Sunday's win. Alejandro Garnacho had to be substituted out due to fitness concerns but is likely to be fit for the upcoming game, along with team captain Bruno Fernandes.