Erik ten Hag calls for player protection as Marcus Rashford’s injury adds to Manchester United’s woes in Everton win

Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, who has scored 27 goals in all competitions this season, had to leave the field due to an injury during the team’s 2-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford. United manager, Erik ten Hag, believes that the stress of a hectic fixture schedule is too much for players and called for their protection.

The Dutchman stated during an interview with BT Sport that “We have to wait; [Rashford] doesn’t look well. Once again, that is due to the schedule. It can’t be that you play three games in six days; we have to protect our players.”

This latest win secured United’s place in the Premier League’s top four. However, they face a packed schedule with two games over four days next week which includes a Europa League clash with Sevilla and a Premier League match against Nottingham Forest.

United’s rash of injuries comes due to their crowded schedule. Ten Hag’s comments are a timely reminder for football authorities to prioritize player welfare over fixture requirements.