Erik ten Hag says two Reds ‘fought’ to start vs Forest but reveals one player is ‘not 100%’

Erik ten Hag commended two players for doing their utmost to feature against Nottingham Forest tonight.

Play is underway at The City Ground as Manchester United look to book their spot in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup which, should they reach that stage, would see them face either Liverpool or Southampton at Old Trafford.

On Wednesday, the manager disclosed that Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane were doubts to make the trip this evening, however, both Reds have started the clash in what will come as a huge relief to supporters.

Ten Hag’s comments ahead of kick-off

Ten Hag said of the pair in his pre-match interview with MUTV: “They [Fernandes and Varane] fought to be in the team, which is good. They are highly motivated to give the best performances, help the team and contribute. They are two winners and they want to win. This is a big occasion for this season to win this trophy.”

He did, however, reveal that experienced centre-half Jonny Evans is not fully fit despite being named on the bench, adding: “Jonny Evans is not 100% either, like Saturday, but we have to deal with it and be a little smart to keep them available because we are having difficulties, especially in defence.”

United are already nursing a host of debilitating injury woes to the likes of Rasmus Hojlund, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount and others.