Erik ten Hag has backed Matthijs de Ligt to bounce back from a disastrous international break with the Netherlands, and insists it will not affect his club form at Manchester United.
De Ligt was substituted at half-time of the Nations League draw with Germany on Tuesday for his own protection, according to Dutch boss Ronald Koeman, after he was blamed for conceding two goals.
It completed a miserable few days for United’s new £42.8million summer signing who was also criticised for one of Bosnia’s goals in the Netherlands’ 5-2 win last weekend.
But Ten Hag offered support to De Ligt, who rejoined his old Ajax boss at Old Trafford this summer after moving from Bayern Munich. He blamed the problem on ring rust after the 25-year-old made just one start for United, and dismissed any concerns about picking him against Southampton on Saturday.
Erik ten Hag is not worried about Matthijs de Ligt’s recent poor form for his country
‘I know Matthijs and he’s a great personality,’ said Ten Hag. ‘He will overcome this and will bounce back in this situation with the Dutch squad. It is definitely not his club situation. I’m not afraid for this situation. I know his qualities, I know his personality and I know he’ll fight back.
‘The other thing is he had been a very difficult pre-season because he didn’t play games. His only game from the start was the last game against Liverpool.
‘Without this he goes and starts for the Dutch squad and he’s not in the rhythm yet or up to full speed. But when he is, you will see his qualities and a different player.’