Erik ten Hag explains why he’s handed Wout Weghorst his Manchester United debut from the start vs Crystal Palace

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Erik ten Hag has explained why he’s handed new Red Devils signing Wout Weghorst his Manchester United debut from the start against Crystal Palace.

With Anthony Martial not forming part of United’s squad for tonight’s trip to Selhurst Park, Ten Hag has handed his fellow countryman his debut for the twenty-time league champions.

Having begged to start the 2-1 win against Pep Guardiola’s Citizens, the Frenchman came off at half-time complaining of discomfort.

Weghorst’s inclusion in the starting line-up against Patrick Vieira’s Eagles is one of three changes the former Ajax manager has made to the side that came from behind to beat Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Erik ten Hag explains why he’s handed Wout Weghorst his Manchester United debut from the start vs Crystal Palace

Speaking prior to kick off and explaining his decision to start United’s new number 27, the 52-year-old said: “It changes nothing. A different profile but he is a typical number nine.

“It fits good with Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford.”

When asked whether United will now put more crosses into the box following the arrival of the towering 6ft 6in Burnley striker, the three-time Eredivisie winner responded: “I don’t think Weghorst is a player only for crosses.”

The 30-year-old has already had prior experience of starting at Selhurst Park when he played the full 90 minutes of Burnley’s 1-1 draw against Vieira’s side back in February.

Weghorst nearly scored from a corner, but he was denied by a fingertip save from now United teammate and fellow loan signing Jack Butland.

Ten Hag also gave his thoughts on his decision to start Casemiro despite our number 18 being a booking against Palace tonight away from being ruled out of Sunday’s blockbuster clash against Arsenal at The Emirates through suspension.

Ten Hag said: “We are aware of that but it is about today.

“Sunday is Sunday. Obviously we don’t want him to get booked, that is clear, but it is about winning tonight.”