Football: 'Nonsense' to claim United gave up against Liverpool, says Rashford
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Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker saving a shot from Manchester United's Marcus Rashford at Anfield on Sunday. The Reds won the English Premier League clash 7-0.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
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LONDON – Manchester United’s 7-0 loss at Liverpool
United travelled to Anfield on an 11-match unbeaten streak but suffered the club’s worst defeat since losing 7-0 to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1931.
Their performance was met with criticism from former players and pundits, with former captain Roy Keane saying “when the going got tough, (the players) went missing”.
“We didn’t give up, that’s nonsense. We were unorganised – yes. Communication was bad – yes – that’s why we conceded the goals,” Rashford told reporters ahead of United’s Europa League last 16, first leg against Real Betis on Thursday.
“It comes down to the fact that I believe everyone was trying to get back into the game that much, we came away from the team’s principles, in and out of possession.
“I felt like the forwards were trying to press just as a forward unit – we weren’t connected with the midfield – and then the same with the midfield and the defence... we were talking, but I don’t think we were in agreement on what to do.”
The England international said it was important for United’s players to learn from the defeat and move on to the game against Betis, adding, “we just have to be thankful that the games are coming thick and fast”.
“Because of all the principles we have had from the beginning of the season, we are in a position where we are still fighting on all fronts and we still have a lot of games to play,” Rashford said.
“When we have a game like we did against Liverpool, we want to play again as soon as possible because we want to put it right. Tomorrow, hopefully we can do that.”
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes will continue to captain Manchester United in Harry Maguire’s absence despite being criticised for his performance in the loss to Liverpool, manager Erik ten Hag said.
Some former players have said Fernandes should lose the captaincy for his petulant performance at Anfield.
When asked if Fernandes would continue to lead the side when needed, ten Hag on Wednesday told reporters, “Yes, definitely”.
“I think he is playing a brilliant season and he has played a big role in us being where we are,” the Dutch manager added.
“He’s giving energy to the team, running a lot with intensity, in the right way. He’s pointing and coaching players, he’s an inspiration for the whole team.
“No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes. I’m really happy to have Bruno Fernandes in my team and I’m happy with him as our captain with Harry not on the pitch.”
Rashford also expressed support for Fernandes, saying the Portuguese international is “the perfect player to play with”.
“He’s been a good leader for us, even when he’s not captain, which is always a good sign,” said Rashford.
“He’s helped other players become better leaders and the reality is that we can’t be an organised team in terms of just one leader being captain.
“He’s done a lot for us. I don’t have anything negative to say about Bruno. As the manager said, nobody is perfect. I support him and I’m 100 per cent behind him.” REUTERS
