‘Nonsense’ to suggest Man United gave up against Liverpool, says Rashford

Marcus Rashford defended Manchester United’s effort in a historic 7-0 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool, with the Red Devils’ top scorer putting a second half collapse down to a lack of organisation.
United equalled their heaviest ever defeat in a competitive game and worst since 1931 at Anfield after conceding six times in the second period.
“We didn’t give up, that’s nonsense,” said Rashford at a pre-match press conference yesterday ahead of United’s Europa League last 16, first leg against Real Betis.
“We were unorganised, yes, communication was bad, yes, that’s why we conceded the goals. But it comes down to the fact that I believe everyone was trying to get back in the game that much we came away from the team’s principles in and out of possession.”
Bruno Fernandes has been singled out for criticism for his attitude while captaining the side at the weekend. The Portuguese midfielder has regularly been appointed Ten Hag’s skipper this season as club captain Harry Maguire has slipped down the pecking order.
Fernandes frequently chastised his teammates and even pushed one of the referee’s assistants in his frustration. Former United star Roy Keane called Fernandes a disgrace, but Ten Hag said the 28-year-old was the right man to lead the team and would remain skipper when club captain Harry Maguire does not play.
Hailing Fernandes as an “inspiration”, Ten Hag said: “I think he’s playing a brilliant season. He’s had a really important role in why we’re in the position where we are because he’s giving energy to the team. He’s pointing and coaching players. He’s an inspiration for the whole team but no one is perfect. Everyone has his mistakes and everyone has to learn. He will learn as well because he’s intelligent. I’m really happy to have Bruno Fernandes in my team and I am really happy that Bruno Fernandes, if Harry is not on the pitch, is our captain.”
Rashford also backed Fernandes, insisting he was a role model for the rest of the team. “I love playing with Bruno, as you can imagine. He’s been a good leader for us even when he’s not been captain, which is always a good sign,” he said.
“I don’t have anything negative to say about Bruno. Like the manager said, nobody’s perfect. Sometimes you want to win so bad you end up doing things that are a little bit out of character but, listen, I 100 per cent support Bruno and am behind him.”
United had lost just once in 22 games prior to their mauling by Jurgen Klopp’s men. Ten Hag has already ended a six-year wait for silverware by winning the League Cup and United remain in the hunt for two more trophies in the Europa League and FA Cup. “We have seen the game, we have to reset and bounce back,” added Ten Hag.
“We win together, we lost together. We made a mess on Sunday and we have to deal with it.”