Ten Hag on Sancho future, injuries and selling all his players

Simon Stone - Chief football news reporter

Manager Erik ten Hag has spoken to the media before Manchester United's trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Monday (20:00 BST kick-off).

Here are the main lines from his news conference:

  • On Jadon Sancho's performance for Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday: "He played very well. He's a very good player and he showed why Manchester United bought him and showed he represents a high value for Manchester United, which is good. I'm happy for Jadon and for his performance. We'll see what is going to happen in the future."

  • On the injury situation: "Scott [McTominay] didn't train so far this week but I expect him back in training on Saturday. We will have to see if he's 100% available or just for a part of the game. Bruno [Fernandes] is a doubt for Monday. But we all know Bruno - never rule him out for any game. Jonny Evans returned for team training today. [Anthony] Martial was partly in team training."

  • On how vital it is United qualify for European football next season: "Of course it's important. But we have two opportunities - one in the league and one in the FA Cup final."

  • On talks with technical director Jason Wilcox and looking ahead to the future: "We talk every day. In a very short period we have to build an intense relationship. We are now working to a plan. The injuries had a big impact but we are still below the levels from the expectations Manchester United has so we have to catch up."

  • Ten Hag added: "I'm now going into my fifth [transfer] window. We have to make new improvements to the squad. But there is a base of this squad that is very good."

  • On the insinuation United could sell most of their squad this summer: "It's a joke. Every summer, [it's reported] 200 players get an interest from Manchester United. We did some research. Every summer, [it's reported] we will sell all of the players in our squad. You [the media] make all of the headlines. You should take responsibility for how you make such a headline."

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