Erik ten Hag generally reserves the day after matches for warm-downs and video analysis (Image: Getty)
Some Manchester United players reportedly complained to coaching staff that they wanted Sunday off after suffering a brutal home defeat to Fulham. Their request, which is said to have been made without Erik ten Hag's knowledge, was flatly denied as the Red Devils squad were hauled into Carrington to go over the game.
United's bubble was burst by the Cottagers, who brought an end to their five-match winning run by dramatically netting in the 97th minute. Alex Iwobi's stoppage-time strike decided the game as Fulham headed back down south with a 2-1 victory and three points in their back pocket.
The day after a match is generally reserved for warm-downs and video analysis under Ten Hag's guidance, but The Guardian claim that some United players asked coaching staff if they could have the day off.
Staff were 'surprised' by the complaint, which was reportedly made behind Ten Hag's back, and the players were reminded of their professional responsibilities before being knocked back.
Man Utd were beaten by Fulham after Alex Iwobi's dramatic 97th-minute winner (Image: Getty)
Murmurs suggesting some members of United's squad felt overworked first surfaced last November. Ten Hag is under extra pressure to manage effectively over the coming weeks as his every move will be heavily scrutinised from above.
New part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is overseeing an in-depth assessment of people in key positions at Old Trafford as he bids to take United back to the top of English football.
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Despite Saturday's last-minute defeat, Ten Hag insists the bigger picture is positive and expects the Red Devils to be in a healthier position once key players return from injury. "We have to catch up in many positions," said the Dutchman.
"We have to recover the injuries, then we will be more balanced. We have to also strengthen the squad in the transfer window. Many good players are coming up with really high potential. Definitely we are [moving] in the right direction. When we have the players available, we have a very good team."
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Following Sunday's warm-down session, United only have two full days to prepare for Wednesday's FA Cup fifth-round clash with Nottingham Forest.
It's then back to Premier League action, with a tough trip to local rivals Manchester City pencilled in for this coming weekend. Ten Hag's side are currently sixth in the table and eight points off the top-four.