‘He is ready to play’ – Ten Hag on Sabitzer debut

MANCHESTER United's deadline-day loan signing Marcel Sabitzer is ready to play and could be handed his debut against Crystal Palace in the Premier League today, coach Erik ten Hag said.

The midfielder, who joined from Bayern Munich until the end of the season, became a late target for United after Christian Eriksen was ruled out because of an ankle injury that could sideline him until early May.

"He did only one session, but you can see he's a very fit player and I didn't have different expectations coming from Bayern Munich," Ten Hag told a news conference. "I think he is ready to play.

"I think he's a really smart player and I think we gave him some guidance, but he knows what to do, he knows the job."

With United's fine recent form propelling them back up the league table and into the top four, Ten Hag was handed a further boost this week when French defender Raphael Varane, who has suffered several injury setbacks during his time in England, announced his retirement from international football aged 29.

"For United, I think it's good news," Ten Hag said.

"With his nation it is incredible what he achieved, big respect and I am happy he puts all his energy and experience into this team.

"He gave me the information that he was intending to do this. I didn't discuss it with him, Rapha is experienced, at an age he makes his own decision about that, I can only express my deep respect for his career until now but there is a lot to come."

Ten Hag did not comment on the news that all criminal charges against striker Mason Greenwood were dropped by police and prosecutors on Thursday.

Greenwood, who was suspended by United in January 2022 when accusations against him surfaced on social media, was charged with attempted rape, controlling behaviour and assault last October. He had been due to stand trial on Nov. 27, 2023.

United released a brief statement saying the club would "conduct its own process before determining next steps", with Ten Hag pointing to the club's words when asked about the situation.

Meanwhile, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admits that their newfound status as a threat to the Premier League's big guns will make it harder to sign players from their rivals in future.

The League Cup finalists added Everton forward Anthony Gordon and West Ham full-back Harrison Ashby during the January transfer window.

But their long-standing interest in England midfielder Conor Gallagher came to nothing as Chelsea refused to allow him to join a top-six rival.

Howe, whose team host West Ham today, are third in the Premier League table, with just one defeat all season.

Asked at his pre-match press conference yesterday whether other clubs now see the Magpies as genuine competition, Howe said: "I think it is potentially difficult for us.

"It depends on the player and it depends on the club, but I think we're probably aware we are seen differently this season to how we were last season.

"We are viewed differently probably by some clubs now and that is something we will have to adjust to."

Newcastle beat Southampton in Tuesday's second leg of their League Cup semi-final to reach their first final since 1999 and keep alive their hopes of ending a trophy drought that dates back to 1969.

Having revitalised Newcastle with remarkable speed, Howe said the Magpies must now adopt a big-club mentality towards fighting on two fronts at the same time.

They are hoping to qualify for the Champions League via a top-four finish, as well as eyeing long-awaited silverware in the League Cup.

"Now we shift our attention to a different competition we want to excel in. I don't think extreme emotions serve you that well." |