Mueez Ajao
– Erik ten Hag has told Jadon Sancho to keep smiling after the Manchester United forward made his return to football for the first time in three months.
– Sancho came on as a second-half substitute during the 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Wednesday, his first appearance since Oct. 22.
– The 22-year-old has been given time away from the club to resolve “mental and physical” issues and Ten Hag is happy to see the £73 million winger back on the pitch.
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– “Most important players enjoy football, which gives energy, that gives them the motivation to act and to perform,” Ten Hag told a news conference.
– “I think it was great, the reception from the fans to him, and also that will give him even more a push to continue in the way he’s now acting.
– “He’s just started again, he’s back at Carrington for two weeks, we see that smile and hopefully he can keep that and contribute to the team.”
– United beat Forest to book their place in a Wembley final for the first time since 2018.
– Ten Hag is on course to end a trophy drought which stretches back to the Europa League success under Jose Mourinho in 2017 but the Dutchman admits his team will first have to navigate a busy schedule.
– United face Barcelona in the Europa League just three days before the final against Newcastle, who will have a free week to prepare.
– “We are aware of it but I have handled this before when I have to play a cup game after we play in Europe with Ajax so I know how to deal with it,” said Ten Hag.
– “Newcastle have an advantage but it is about attitude and mentality.
– “It’s good to reach the final but it’s not about reaching the final, it’s about winning it.
– “That’s going to be tough, a great opponent. Now the focus is on the Premier League and in two days it will continue.”
