Man United: Erik ten Hag says returning Jadon Sancho must 'enjoy' football to perform at his best
- Planet Sport writer
- 2 February 2023
Jadon Sancho returned to action as Manchester United sealed their place in the Carabao Cup final with a 5-0 aggregate win over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.
Sancho made his first United appearance since October after a lengthy absence.
The player was "not in the right status or fitness state" having done an individual fitness programme in the Netherlands rather than travel to the squad's winter camp to Spain.
He returned to huge cheers from the Old Trafford crowd and Ten Hag is looking forward to getting the 22-year-old back to his best.
"Most important players (have to) enjoy football, which gives energy, that gives them the motivation to act and to perform," the Dutchman added.
"I think it was great, the reception from the fans to him, and also that will give him even more a push to continue in the way he's now acting, he's just started again, the restart he's back at Carrington for two weeks, we see that smile and hopefully he can keep that and contribute to the team.
"He already showed his quality this season for instance, the game against Liverpool, a great goal, scored against Leicester, he had some really good games, Spurs, he already showed his great capabilities.
"I hope when you are available all the time and play often together with the players we have now in the midfield and front line, our attacking play will improve and create more chances, then it's a process players enjoy more and better motivated to work together."
