Erik ten Hag has come to the defense of Wout Weghorst after Manchester United legend Gary Neville criticized the Dutchman’s performance. Weghorst joined United on loan in January as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who had his contract terminated. While United have won 12 times and lost just three times in Weghorst’s 19 starts, the Dutchman has only scored twice.
Despite his lack of goals, Weghorst’s work-rate has warmed him to supporters, and his link-up play in the early weeks of his time at Old Trafford was impressive. However, his form has dipped, and he made just four successful passes during the first half of United’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on Sunday. Neville said after that defeat in the north-east that Weghorst is not good enough for United and that the ‘experiment’ must come to an end.
Neville compared Weghorst’s stats to Ronaldo’s, stating that Weghorst has 12 wins, four draws, three defeats, and has only scored two goals, while Ronaldo scored 11 goals in 19 starts. Neville acknowledged that United have ‘profited’ from having Weghorst in the side, but ultimately, Weghorst is not fit to lace Ronaldo’s boots.
Ten Hag chose to focus on Neville’s positive comments about United’s success with Weghorst in the side, stating that he is happy with Weghorst’s performance and that he is doing a great job for the team.
It is clear that Weghorst’s lack of goals is a concern for United, but his work-rate and link-up play have been valuable to the team. It remains to be seen if United will continue with Weghorst or seek another replacement for Ronaldo.