Erik ten Hag sends warning to dressing room ahead of Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic
07.01.2024 - 11:15
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has described cup football as 'do or die' in a warning to his players ahead of Monday's game against Wigan Athletic.
United crashed out of European competition before Christmas, they are out of the Carabao Cup and sit eighth in the Premier League, which means the FA Cup is the only option for a trophy this season.
Ten Hag's side made the final of the FA Cup last term, only to be defeated at Wembley by rivals Manchester City and it's hoped they can go one step further in this season's campaign.
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United begin their FA Cup charge against Wigan at the DW Stadium on Monday night and although the Latics are floundering in League One, they have a history of producing upsets.
Since relegation from the Premier League, Wigan have won more FA Cup ties against top-flight opponents (six) than any other side outside the division. They also won the competition in 2012/13.
Ten Hag has looked ahead to the game in an interview with club media and he said: "We've had a very tough programme in 2023. I think one of the toughest schedules from all the clubs across Europe, we played so many games, so we have to take time to be refreshed and get ready for the second half of the season.
"We have a lot to play for with the Premier League and FA Cup. In the cup, it's always about do or die. We have to be ready because our opponent will be always 100 per cent especially playing in a cup against Manchester United.
"We must be prepared and just like the expectations for every game, we have to win. It doesn't matter whether we are away or home, we have to win games. Every game and league is different.
"One thing