Coach Erik ten Hag emphasised his unwavering commitment to enhancing his team's performances in the aftermath of a scrutinised week for Manchester United, during which the club's handling of Mason Greenwood came under the spotlight.
Earlier this week, United declared their decision for Greenwood's departure, concluding a five-month internal inquiry related to allegations of sexual offences. High-ranking officials determined that the 21-year-old was not responsible for the alleged crimes, a stance fortified by the Crown Prosecution Service's dismissal of charges encompassing attempted rape, assault resulting in bodily harm, and coercive behaviour earlier this year.
While it seemed likely that Greenwood would be reintegrated into Ten Hag's squad, the club eventually opted to sell the forward, attracting interest from overseas clubs.
Ten Hag candidly stated when asked about the situation in his press conference on Friday: "Look, we are not where we want to be with our team." As United get ready to face Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford following a recent 2-0 loss against Tottenham.
The Dutchman further expounded: "'There is a lot of work, my focus is on the players who are available. I only have statements about our performances, our squad and where we have to improve. It's clear; we have to improve.
The United faithful's foremost desire is victory, as Ten Hag acknowledged, taking full responsibility for achieving that objective. "What United fans expect is us to win. I'm responsible for that. That's where all my effort is going."
Injuries to Mason Mount and Luke Shaw have been setbacks for United, with Shaw's condition being more severe and projecting an extended period of absence.
Additionally, Ten Hag ruled out Rasmus Hojlund, the summer acquisition, from contention for the Forest fixture, stating: "Not for tomorrow,' Ten Hag. 'Today for the first time he came into team training so next week I expect him to do a full week. He's very near to making the squad.
'Luke will be longer than Mason. It'll also take a few weeks before Tyrell will be back. Definitely, we have the solutions in our squad to cope with that. You hope to avoid this scenario but if it happens you have to be ready for it.'."
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