Sports Updated: 08 May 2023 15:08 EAT 211 Views | ~ 1 minute

Erik Ten Hag defends David De Gea after West Ham slip

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has defended goalkeeper David De Gea, after his costly mistake saw United fall to the Hammers, denting United’s top four season finish hopes.

Said Benrahma’s hopeful shot from 20 yards was the difference between the two teams who had a go at each other but could capitalize on their chances.

“Frustrating? Yes, I’ve seen it in the same way. I think we started well, dictated the game, created chances, didn’t take them and then one mistake,” said United boss Ten Hag.

“Twice individual mistakes and you lose games. But it is what it is. Now we have a full week, we have to reset, reload and keep going.

The result means Manchester united now lie just one point ahead of a momentum-gaining Liverpool, even though with a game in hand.

Goalkeeper De Gea is however in talks over a new contract with the Club and Ten Hag believes he is still the right man for the job.

“(De Gea) has the most clean sheets in the Premier League, we would not be in this position without him. No concerns. It happens but as a team you have to deal with it, show character and resilience. We want him to stay and to extend his contract.”

Lukasz Fabianski made late saves from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial but Ten Hag’s side offered little in their 57th match of a demanding season which, as well as Liverpool, might just be catching up with them.

“Nothing changed. We could have made it easier with a win. We need three wins from four games, everything is in our hands.’’ Ten Hag insisted.

“Tiredness is in your head. If you have the willingness you can take it. It’s up to the players and staff to be together, to get the willingness in that we can take it.

It was a first victory over his former club for David Moyes’ side since he was in charge at Everton, in August 2012, and a huge boost ahead of this week’s Europa Conference League semi-final against AZ Alkmaar.

“It’s a huge step, getting three points is huge against whoever but against Manchester United was massive for us,” said Moyes.

“It’s a great result going into a European semi-final and we’ll take a lot of confidence from it. We have another big challenge and we are looking forward to it.”

West Ham, who climbed seven points above the relegation zone after the desired win over united means they are now safe.