Erik ten Hag gives intriguing Mason Greenwood update; highlights Man Utd need for Rashford support

Erik ten Hag has given an update on Mason Greenwood’s future at Manchester United, emphasising that it is ‘not his decision as to whether he returns.’

In February, it was announced that charges including attempted rape and assault against Greenwood had been dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service.

This decision was made after they ruled “there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction” following “a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses” and “new material that came to light.”

Man Utd subsequently began their own investigation into the situation and they have refused to make “any further comment until that process is complete.”

As reported by TEAMtalk, Greenwood has been linked with moves to Juventus, Roma and AC Milan. Several Turkish clubs have also registered an interest in the Englishman.

It has been widely reported that his Man Utd career is likely to be over. But, the 21-year-old is reportedly keen to play football again at the highest level.

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Ten Hag: Greenwood is a ‘capable’ goal scorer

Now, in an interview with The Times journalist Henry Winter, Ten Hag has addressed Greenwood’s situation.

“The future of Mason Greenwood is understandably a sensitive issue. In February, Greenwood was cleared of charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault,” Winter wrote.

“He is still suspended by United pending an internal investigation as the club considers whether he should continue his career at Old Trafford.

“Ten Hag says simply that the forward has “showed in the past that he is capable of doing that” front role, scoring 36 times in 130 appearances, but emphasises it is not his decision as to whether he returns.”

Then, the Man Utd manager was asked about Marcus Rashford’s superb scoring form.

This season, the England international has scored an impressive 30 goals across all competitions.

Now, Ten Hag has revealed a ‘four-point plan’ for getting the best out of Rashford.

He said: “So, first of all, I make a culture where he can perform. Then I get him motivated and then construct a way of play where he can do it.

“And fitness, as well, don’t forget that part. When those four aspects are there Marcus Rashford will score,” Ten Hag added.

“He can play as a centre forward, can play from the left, can play from the right. When you see his stats, he is scoring everywhere but he feels more comfortable as a centre forward or from the left.”

When asked if Man Utd need Harry Kane, Ten Hag answered: “What we need besides Marcus Rashford is one extra player with scoring abilities whether it’s coming out of our own squad or we have to sign one.”

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