‘He’s an option’ – Ten Hag considers versatile attacker for Community Shield

Erik ten Hag is considering using Jadon Sancho as a centre-forward on his Manchester United comeback.

The winger played in pre-season but has not made a competitive appearance for the club for 100 months and, with Rasmus Hojlund injured and new signing Joshua Zirkzee unlikely to start, Sancho could be tasked with leading the line against Man City in the Community Shield on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ten Hag said (via Manchester Evening News): “Jadon [Sancho] can play across the whole frontline, he’s an option for more than one position and it depends how you set up the team, you can look at your own tactics, opponents that fit the best and Jadon had some abilities you can use in a game, tactics and the next game.”

United have several injury problems going into the game, with Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro sustaining injuries during the pre-season. To make matters worse we’ve got another four defenders who are doubts to face City this weekend.

Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw are all doubts going into the game.

That means United only have two recognised centre-backs for the all-Manchester Community Shield. Lisandro Martinez missed pre-season due to his involvement in the Copa America, while Jonny Evans is set to partner the Argentine at the back.

Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.