In an attempt to save themselves for the FA Cup final or Euro 2024, Wayne Rooney has accused a few of Manchester United’s injured players of skipping out on matches.
The Red Devils lost 1-0 to Arsenal on Sunday at Old Trafford, their second straight loss and 14th overall in the Premier League this season.
Due to the defeat, Man United are currently languishing in eighth place in the league and might have their worst-ever Premier League finish.
It was another day that showed why they have struggled this season, with no discipline in defense, no creativity in the midfield and poor finishing in the final third.
Erik ten Hag’s team was missing a number of players with injuries against the Gunners, most notably, Marcus Rashord and Bruno Fernandes.
Following the match, former Red Devils forward Wayne Rooney took aim at a few of the team’s senior members who are currently out due to injuries.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the 38-year-old said, as reported by Independent:
“There are some very good players in that squad and the performances are way below par. You look at the injuries and some of those players could play; 100 percent.
“You have a European Championships coming up and an FA Cup final coming up. It is easy for players to stay out for a little bit and then come back towards the European Championships. I have seen it myself over the years. I just think the players who have been injured are not filling themselves with any credit at the minute.”
The claim from the Man United legend should come as a huge concern for manager Ten Hag.
The club’s form has suffered heavily this season due to the unavailability of some of their key players.
Man United still have a lot to play for
The Red Devils are in a race to qualify for Europe next season and their next encounter will be a clash against Newcastle United.
The Magpies are looking to make it to Europe themselves next season so Man United can expect a difficult match.
Ten Hag acknowledged that it would be extremely detrimental to Man United if they were to lose the FA Cup final and miss out on playing in Europe.