Man United vs. Barnsley: Erik ten Hag hints big-money player not guaranteed start

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has insisted that Antony 'must earn the right to play' for the Red Devils first team.

Ten Hag has witnessed his side make an indifferent start to the Premier League campaign, collecting six points from their opening four matches.

The second of those victories came on Saturday afternoon as they withstood a strong first-half showing from Southampton to prevail 3-0 at St Mary's.

Barnsley are United's next opponents in the EFL Cup third round on Tuesday, the likelihood being that widespread alterations will be made given the short turnaround and recent international break.

Nevertheless, it appears that Ten Hag is eager to show his squad players that they should not automatically expect to play in the cup competitions if they miss out in the Premier League.

© Imago

"Of course he's impatient"

Even with the exit of Jadon Sancho, £84m-man Antony continues to remain down the pecking order with just one brief substitute outing being handed to the playmaker during the closing minutes of the 3-0 defeat versus Liverpool.

The likelihood is that the Brazil international will be promoted to the starting lineup for the fixture against the League One outfit, yet Ten Hag has suggested that it should not be perceived to be a foregone conclusion.

Ten Hag told reporters, as quoted by the Daily Mail: "We have training every day and the players have to earn the right to play.

"That is professional football, that is top football. Those are the laws. The players have to fight for their positions. You pick the XI who have the best dynamic, the best chemistry.

"Of course he's impatient. He wants to play and he's fighting to play. He is fighting for his position. That's what we expect from every player in the squad at Manchester United, what they should do."

© Imago

How many changes are realistic?

While Ten Hag has spoken of his desire to win another EFL Cup, the Dutchman appreciates that players will need to be rested as the season progresses.

There remains a number of issues in the United ranks, but players such as Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Casemiro and Toby Collyer are all in contention.

Recent arrival Manuel Ugarte may also be handed his first start having been introduced for the final 17 minutes against the Saints at the weekend.