Rio Ferdinand has questioned Erik ten Hag’s ultra-disciplined approach (Picture: TNT Sports)
Rio Ferdinand has questioned Erik ten Hag’s ultra-disciplined approach after he branded Marcus Rashford ‘unacceptable’ following his decision to go out partying following last week’s Manchester derby defeat.
The out of form forward, who has only one Premier League goal to his name so far this season, was left out of the squad for Saturday’s game against Fulham having failed a late fitness test.
Ten Hag denied Rashford’s absence was a direct consequence of his decision to go out to celebrate his birthday in the wake of a 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Pep Guardiola’s champions.
The Dutchman has been praised in the past for taking strong action when players have stepped out of line and dropped Rashford last season for a game at Wolves after he turned up late to a team meeting.
Ferdinand questioned Rashford’s decision to go out last weekend but also feels a one size fits all management style is always likely to backfire eventually.
Marcus Rashford was left out of Manchester United’s squad for the game against Fulham(Credits: MI News/NurPhoto/Shutterstock)
He told TNT Sports: ‘That was something that was lacking the discipline it seemed from the outside. I think he’s met that head on with every single decision.
‘But does every situation demand that? Is there different players where you have to adjust the way you’re approaching?
‘It was somethingSir Alex Ferguson was great at that but one of his great traits was that it wasn’t a blanket approach.
‘Certain players he knew could take the stick and certain players he knew needed carrot and needed the arm around the shoulder. He knew one size didn’t necessarily fit all.
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‘Just going back to the Marcus Rashford situation when he went out the other day after the game, you’ve got to be aware of the situation you’ve got to be aware of the climate at your football club. It’s a Manchester derby and you get beat it’s hard to go out.
‘I wouldn’t have gone out. My family will tell you on countless times they came up from London and I wouldn’t go out.
‘I’m not saying don’t go out just understand where you are and the current climate at your football club before you make decisions.’
MORE : Erik ten Hag explains why Marcus Rashford was not selected for Manchester United vs Fulham
MORE : Why Marcus Rashford was not selected for Manchester United against Fulham
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