Erik ten Hag jumps to Matthijs de Ligt’s defence after Man United’s new boy creates a nightmare for the Netherlands

Erik ten Hag has focused on Matthijs de Ligt recovering from a disastrous international spell with the Netherlands, and insists that this will not affect his club form at Manchester United.

De Ligt was substituted for his own safety during the half-time break of Tuesday’s Nations League match against Germany, according to Dutch national coach Ronald Koeman, after being accused of conceding two goals.

It ended a miserable few days for United’s new summer signing, who cost £42.8million, who was also criticised for one of Bosnia’s goals in their 5-2 win over the Netherlands last weekend.

But Ten Hag offered support for De Ligt, who rejoined his old Ajax boss at Old Trafford this summer after a move from Bayern Munich. He blamed ring rust after the 25-year-old made just one appearance for United, and dismissed concerns over selecting him against Southampton on Saturday.

Erik ten Hag is not worried about Matthijs de Ligt’s poor performances for his country

“I know Matthijs and he is a great personality,” Ten Hag said. “He will overcome this and will bounce back in this situation with the Dutch selection. It is absolutely not his club situation. I am not afraid of this situation. I know his qualities, I know his personality and I know he will fight back.

‘The other thing is that he had a very difficult preparation because he didn’t play any games, his only game from the start was the last game against Liverpool.

‘Without that, he will play for the Dutch selection and he is not yet in the rhythm or at full speed. But if he is, you will see his qualities and a different player.’