Erik ten Hag has stinging criticism for Manchester United players despite win at Wolves

Erik ten Hag was left with ‘mixed feelings’ after Manchester United’s win at Wolves (Picture: Getty Images)

Erik ten Hag said his Manchester United side were naive, lacked leadership on the pitch and made mistakes that ‘can’t happen’ during their thrilling 4-3 win at Wolves on Thursday night.

The dramatic contest was won with a 97th minute goal from Kobbie Mainoo, his first in the Premier League, delighting the travelling Red Devils fans.

Ten Hag’s side had looked in complete control at 2-0 ahead thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund, but the visitors missed a string of chances to take a bigger lead.

Pablo Sarabia scored a penalty for Wolves, but Scott McTominay’s header in the 75th minute was a nerve-settler for Manchester United.

Then came late goals from Max Kilman and Pedro Neto which looked set to win Wolves a point, but Mainoo saved the day for Ten Hag.

Obviously the Dutchman was delighted with the win, but did not like what he saw from his side as they chucked away a commanding position and almost left Molineux without three points.

‘We should go up 3-0 or 4-0 but we didn’t and then in the end it is quite naïve,’ said Ten Hag. ‘The way we conceded goals shouldn’t happen but then we showed resilience. Especially Kobbie Mainoo. It was a great goal.

Ten Hag was ultimately delighted with the win, however it came (Picture: Getty Images)

‘Of course we should do better and it was also early in the season when we totally dominate and then we give it away. We should take more responsibility in such moments and we have so much experience in the team. We should manage that.

‘We have to hammer this out of the team. Such mistakes can’t happen. What is asked in that moment is leadership on the pitch. We can’t concede such goals. I have mixed feelings though, I’m pleased with the team performance.’

Ten Hag was thrilled with Mainoo, though, hailing the 18-year-old for the impact he continues to make on the first team.

‘He is making incredible progress,’ said the manager. ‘He has great abilities is the modern midfield player.

‘He can defend and attack but also he has the physicality to do both ways. He is also composed.’

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