Ten Hag lauds Onana and Rashford after Saints rout – ‘The penalty was the turning point’

Erik ten Hag credited Andre Onana and Marcus Rashford for making the difference in Manchester United’s win over Southampton today.

It was a straightforward afternoon for United on the south coast, with goals from new signing Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho sending the Saints packing in short order.

Southampton’s misfortune began early as Cameron Archer saw a first half penalty saved by Onana before Jack Stephens was shown a red card for a reckless tackle on Garnacho.

Onana has become a rather controversial figure at Old Trafford since signing last year, but in the eyes of Ten Hag, his penalty save set the tone for the afternoon.

He said: “The start was not easy. I think the penalty was the turning point in the game and not so far after we scored and that was very important.

“From that moment on, the game was all ours.”

He also lauded the performance of Marcus Rashford, whose goal today was his first of the season.

“[Rashford’s goal was] very important. For every striker, they want to be on the scoring list. Once the first is in, more is coming.”

He continued, comparing the player to a bottle of ketchup as he stated that he expects Rashford to continue his goalscoring form.

“Once a striker was talking about a ketchup bottle, once it’s going, it’s coming more,” he said.

The same can be said for Matthijs de Ligt, who he confirms is not yet match fit after signing for the Red Devils in August.

“At this moment he is not fit, he’s not at 100% speed. He needs the games to go up to it. We see glimpses now and once he’s there he will do much better. We are happy with him and especially today with his game.”

United return to action on Tuesday as they host Barnsley in the Carabao Cup.