MANCHESTER UNITED fans are convinced Raphael Varane is Erik ten Hag’s new “scapegoat”.
The French defender has again been left out by the United boss for their Carabao Cup clash with Newcastle.
GettyFans believe Raphael Varane is Erik ten Hag’s new ‘scapegoat’[/caption]
The Manchester United boss left Varane out of his matchday squad to play NewcastleRex
Having been benched for Sunday’s loss to Manchester City, Varane was dropped from the squad completely on Wednesday.
Ten Hag put his decision to start Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans over Varane at the weekend down to “tactics” before the Red Devils were smashed 3-0 by their local rivals.
Reacting to Varane’s absence, one fan said: “Ten Hag has a new scapegoat.”
Another added: “I smell drama.”
A third supporter also wrote: “Something is going on.”
Meanwhile, one more asked: “Let me guess? Issues with Ten Hag?”
Maguire has come under pressure from Ten Hag since his appointment last summer.
The defender was stripped of the captaincy during the summer and replaced by Bruno Fernandes.
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GettyHarry Maguire kept his place despite seven changes[/caption]
However, he has started United’s last four matches and kept his place against Newcastle despite Ten Hag making seven changes to his team.
Maguire reflected on the City loss ahead of Wednesday’s match, telling Sky Sports: “It’s really important to put on a performance for the fans.
“Sunday was really disappointing, bad result, bad performance and there is no better chance than tonight to put it right in front of our fans.
“We want to progress in every round and we are looking forward to defending our trophy [against Newcastle].
“We’ve moved on [from the Manchester Derby defeat] and we have to put things right tonight.”