Erik ten Hag unapologetic about strict stance with Jadon Sancho

“It is my job to control the standards.”

Erik ten Hag was completely unapologetic about his strict stance with Man united star Jadon Sancho during a press conference ahead of Saturday’s game against Brighton.

The United manager made it clear that he would be laying down the law, and changing the culture of the club from the minute he arrived at Old Trafford.

When ten Hag first came in, the club had several cultural issues, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo who made his feelings very public at the time.

The Dutchman handled that, and several other issues since then, and the Sancho suspension is just the latest one.

The England attacker has been sentenced to train on his own after posting a message on social media saying that he was being used as a “scapegoat” by the manager.

Speaking at a press conference before United’s game against Brighton, ten Hag remained firm on his stance.

“Strict lines is what the club asked me because there was no good culture before I entered last season, so to set good standards, that is what I did and it is my job to control the standards.

“Of course, it is never someone only makes one mistake, it is a whole process before you come to a certain outcome about strict lines.

“If staff or players or whoever, there is a structure to cross lines so you have to be strong.

“I think everything is said. So the squad is strong, the squad is in good spirits and good mood going into the game.

“You have sometimes setbacks in seasons, players are injured or for other reasons are not available, so you construct a squad and the squad is very good and the players who are available are very motivated to give a good performance.’

Another issue that is rumbling on in the background is the case of Antony, who has been accused of domestic violence.

Due to these allegations, the Brazil international is taking some time away from the team.

“Asked whether he knew how long Antony would be away, he replied: ‘I have no idea. Of course he is disappointed, but he is OK.'”