Erik Ten Hag stands firm on his comments over Jadon Sancho

Erik Ten Hag is standing by his remarks about Jadon Sancho’s omission from the Manchester United squad, according to sources, despite the forward’s infuriated response to his coach’s claims. 

Sancho was discharged from the squad for United’s 3-1 loss at the Emirates Stadium with the manager saying afterwards that “based on his performance in training we didn't select him."

But inside an hour, the forward hit back by insisting Ten Hag’s comments were “entirely untrue” 

Sancho took to X issuing a statement adding: Please don't believe everything you read! I have conducted myself in training very well this week.

"I believe there are other reasons for this matter that I won't get into, I've been a scapegoat for a long time which isn't fair!"

Ten Hag was informed about Sancho’s response on his journey back from North London on Sunday evening but determined against stating a clarification to his post match antics. 

As per sources, it is believed he was clear on his reasons for excluding Sancho and is standing firm on the view that he did not deserve a place in the squad because of his lacklustre performance in the training. 

The English international who moved to Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund for a staggering £73 million ($92m), has made three appearances thus far this season. 

Sancho has risked disciplinary action over his social media post. 

Ten Hag in the past has acted promptly to stamp out perceived indiscipline at Old Trafford. 

When Cristiano Ronaldo went on air in November 2022 to say he “didn’t respect” Ten Hag, the Portugal forward by mutual consent had his contract cancelled before confirming a move to Al Nassr. 

Marcus Rashfod was dropped to the bench for a game against Wolves after arriving late for a team meeting. 

As per sources United are hoping to use extended transfer windows in Turkey and Saudi Arabia to offload dead wood Eric Baily and Donny Van De Beek. 

The European transfer window shut with the out of favour pair- still at the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ 

Bailey was not included in the squad for the summer tour  in the United States and has seen training with the reserves.