Sancho should be playing on the right as that was where United originally intended to play him. It did not help he was mismanaged by Solskjaer, who rather than insist on Sancho play on the right, started him on the left.
United are in trouble when Martial is the starting striker – and that is a statement one stands by even if he plunders a hat-trick tonight. He’s had two good seasons out of seven for United. He’s had enough chances but United are saddled with him.
Marcus Rashford at least has the benefit of playing in the role where he has played his best. Manchester United had six players inside Liverpool’s third when they were pressing just then and they almost forced the error. The second time Liverpool had the ball in their own third, they did not encounter a press.
Some of the early intentions are laudable; United are playing a high line and there is an in-your-face eagerness. McTominay has been quite physical in the early duels and Varane has just won a throw in off Diaz inside the Liverpool third.
Midfield looks more of a 4-2-3-1 for United, certainly out of possession at least, with McTominay still alongside Fred when United are defending, but both seem to have a little bit more licence to get forward and press.
The first goal of Erik ten Hag era at Manchester United.
@Sanchooo10 goal against Liverpool #ManUtd pic.twitter.com/PUnbMcGcxP
— Nimroy Turgott (@Superkong71) July 12, 2022