One key defensive issue Erik ten Hag must address after Liverpool lead – opinion

Erik ten Hag must address a familiar defensive pattern that has cost them in the first half at Old Trafford against Liverpool.

The Red Devils boss will be frustrated that his defence has conceded two goals in the first half leaving his side with a lot to do in the second half.

United looked solid initially in the opening half but similar defensive errors have emerged.

Last week the Red Devils conceded a late goal to Brighton’s Brazillian forward Joao Pedro who secured the three points for the Seagulls in a 2-1 victory.

The last-minute winner could have easily been avoided if the defence was more organised.  Brighton had several players free at the back post.

Liverpool’s first goal highlights worrying defensive habit for Ten Hag

Liverpool secured the lead through Colombian forward Luiz Diaz who was free at the back post with no surrounding defenders able to cover.

It was a similar issue to what United suffered against Brighton last week and the former Ajax boss will hope that he can erase this issue immediately.

Liverpool extended their lead to 2-0 after a second goal from Diaz who curled the ball into the near post past Andre Onana.