Erik ten Hag says Manchester United are “not in a position to underestimate any opponent” ahead of Sunday’s trip to struggling Luton.
The Hatters’ upward trajectory stalled last weekend when they were beaten 3-1 at home by rock-bottom Sheffield United while United appear to have steadied the ship in recent weeks, winning five of six in all competitions.
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Much is made of Luton’s tight Kenilworth Road ground but Ten Hag does not believe that is a factor when the whistle blows.
He said: “The pitch is smaller? Or longer? Is it 11 versus 11? Are no referees coming?
“Every ambience is different and we have to deal with the circumstances but it’s about playing football, 11 versus 11, with a referee.
“It doesn’t matter who you face, the best, the worst, or in-between, I respect every opponent.
“We are not in a position to underestimate any opponent. We have to play our best because we have seen their performances across the season – they are very good, they are really improving.
“I have a lot of respect for this team, we have to play our best football.”
Erik has issued the latest on @LukeShaw23‘s injury 🚨#MUFC || #PL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 15, 2024
United may be without England left-back Luke Shaw this weekend following his half-time withdrawal at Aston Villa last Sunday.
Ten Hag added: “He’s a doubt but we are positive he can make it. It was the right decision [to take him off] when you win the game.
“Aaron Wan-Bissaka will take some weeks because he picked up another injury in training last week.
“Mason Mount and Tyrell Malacia need some more weeks.
“Malacia had setbacks during his rehab process. It takes too long, it’s bad for him and bad for us. We have turned a point and he will return to the pitch, it won’t be long until he is in team training.”
