Erik Ten Hag has revealed the reason for subbing Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane during their defeat against Newcastle United.

On Sunday, Manchester United was defeated by Newcastle United at Saint James Park in the Premier League. The result means Manchester United has dropped to fourth place on the same points as Newcastle United and could drop out of the top four if Tottenham defeats Everton on Monday.

Erik Ten Hag subbed off his two center-backs in the 83 minutes when Newcastle United led Manchester United by a goal. Ten Hag brought Facundo Pellistri and Victor Lindelof to replace Lisandro Martinez and Raphael.

Asked about his decision to sub off his two center backs, Erik Ten Hag said: “We were not happy,’ Ten Hag told Sky Sports. ‘We played too high in midfield, and it was easy for their two center halves to go and attack.
“We had to play a little bit deeper. Therefore we made the sub. Then we made changes to bring more energy.

“Then in the end we were losing so we decided to go with three at the back and play an extra offensive player and I decided to take both centre-backs off with Lindelof to defend the spaces.”

Reacting to their defeat and performance against Newcastle United, He added: “I hate to say it but they were better today – especially their determination, passion and desire.

“They wanted to win more so they won. axWe had our opportunities but then you have to go for goal with the determination they did.

“It wasn’t good enough. We allowed them too many chances. You have to be hungry and give everything every game.

“Our attacking game wasn’t good enough. I don’t want to focus on one person. It was a team performance.

“We have to deal with the setback and learn a lesson. So many times recently, we came back after Liverpool. I don’t have that concern. I believe in the team. I believe we’ll bounce back.”

Meanwhile, Gary Nevile claims Wout Weghorst lacks the quality to play for Manchester United.

He said on Sky sport: “He does play his part. It’s a big issue.

“He doesn’t deserve to be criticised, I think he is doing his very best. He works as hard as he possibly can but he just lacks the quality that a player in that position should have at Manchester United.

“He’s filling in obviously with Martial being injured. [Cristiano] Ronaldo’s left. [Edinson] Cavani left at the start of the season.

“Manchester United don’t have a centre-forward, really. In order to play football really well, you have to have a good centre-forward. It’s a rule!”