Ten Hag criticized for "surprising" Jadon Sancho treatment

Sancho has struggled to stay in United’s matchday squad in recent weeks.

Former Manchester United star Teddy Sheringham has questioned Erik ten Hag’s public criticism of Jadon Sancho.

The England international was not a part of Man Utd’s squad for their 3-1 defeat against Arsenal last weekend. After the match, Ten Hag revealed that Sancho’s absence was due to his poor performance in training.

What did Sancho say?

The manager’s comments triggered a response from Sancho, who claimed he was being used as a “scapegoat”.

“Please don’t believe everything you read! I will not allow people saying things that is completely untrue, I have conducted myself in training very well this week,” Sancho’s social media post reads.

“I believe there are other reasons for this matter that I won’t go into, I’ve been a scapegoat for a long time which isn’t fair!

“All I want to do is play football with a smile on my face and contribute to my team. I respect all decision that are made by the coaching staff, I play with fantastic players and grateful to do so which I know every week is a challenge. I will continue to fight for this badge no matter what!”

Ferguson would’ve handled the problem differently

Sheringham, who was a part of Man Utd’s treble-winning side in 1999, believes the situation could’ve been resolved without attracting attention from the media.

“It seems there is some disturbance in the camp as well now. He needs to sort that out,” Sheringham told Sky Sports.

“I’m surprised he came out in the public and questioned Jadon Sancho. He must have his reasons for that and he wants him to liven up.”

When asked whether Sir Alex Ferguson would have had a similar reaction, he added: “No, not at all. Very, very rarely anyway. The more you can keep things in-house, the more you can control them. Now with social media, people are going to have their say. It just brings more hype around the situation. I’m surprised that it has happened.”