'I can't understand': Former Man United captain urges Erik ten Hag to embrace tactical shift
Manchester United have had an abysmal start to the season and pressure is mounting on Erik ten Hag to turn things around.
They have been poor in the final third, netting just five goals in seven Premier League games. Only Southampton have scored fewer goals.
However, they have lacked defensive solidity and must be grateful to Andre Onana for his superb displays between the sticks.
Speaking on Stick to Football, Gary Neville suggested a formation overhaul to shore up the defence.
He said: “I can’t understand why he has not gone to three at the back.
“Seriously, if ever there was a team where you didn’t have a pair of centre-halves who could play together, then it’s that group.
“There’s six of them there – there’s (Leny) Yoro, (Victor) Lindelof, (Harry) Maguire, (Lisandro) Martinez, (Matthijs) De Ligt and Jonny Evans.
“My view is that if you look at Martinez – he’s perfect for a left centre-back in a three. Harry has played in a three many, many times in his career.
“De Ligt is someone who I think needs other people around him.
“I said at the start of the season – if ever there was a team that looked like [would suit a back three], it’s United.”
Displaying flexibility or conceding defeat?
Erik ten Hag has spent over two seasons helping his defence to play out from the back.
He has relied on a four-defender set-up with a midfield pivot in front. A shift to a three-man defence would be a bold gamble.
It would highlight his adaptability and willingness to innovate under pressure if it works. If it falters, it could signal an admission of defeat to the mounting challenges.
Neville’s advice is unlikely to help United get better results. They have been carved open at times because of their weak midfield, lack of desire and poor overall set-up.
The manager and the players must take ownership and visit this season’s results as a collective failure.
Moving to a three-man defence won’t help United be more ruthless in front of the goal.