Three things Erik ten Hag got right as Manchester United draw with Liverpool

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Manchester United draw at Anfield, in what was a strange game against Liverpool.

Both sides were rather poor on the day, with Erik ten Hag‘s squad definitely the happier walking away with a point after what is usually a horrendous fixture for the Red Devils.

It was a game without many chances, but ultimately, United will be ecstatic with a point on the road at their bitter rivals.

Ten Hag got a lot right in this one – so here are three things he definitely deserves the plaudits for.

Dalot over Wan-Bissaka

Despite his very dubious red card, Diogo Dalot had a great game against Liverpool.

He was faced with a tough task against a dangerous winger in Luis Diaz, and the Columbian didn’t have a sniff all game.

In a game where United knew they were going to have to defend – this was a bold call, however, Dalot showed he can step up from a defensive standpoint and contributed whilst he was on to the clean sheet.

Kobbie Mainoo gamble rewarded

It’s always going to be a gamble playing an 18-year-old at the heart of midfield against one of the world’s greatest sides.

Kobbie Mainoo once again excelled and looked like one of the calmest players on the pitch. He oozes quality, and once again showed that if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.

Mainoo should be a regular in this side going forward. Ten Hag’s gamble, although somewhat necessary due to injuries and suspensions, to play him now looks like a real no-brainer.

Evans and Varane’s experience prevailed for Erik ten Hag

Despite the strange decision to leave Raphael Varane out for so long, he proved he’s still got it against Liverpool. With Jonny Evans, they were both solid as a rock.

The experience was dually needed in a fixture with such intensity and the decision to start these two with Luke Shaw on the left from the manager 100% contributed to Liverpool’s failure to score on the day.

Manchester United needed some experienced heads against the Merseysiders, and it was the two at the heart of the defence that really did earn a well-fought point for the Red Devils and Ten Hag.