Erik ten Hag: Manchester United boss says it’s ‘unacceptable’ for players not to give their best ahead of FA Cup semi

Erik ten Hag has reminded his players of the high standards he expects as Manchester United prepare to face Brighton in the FA Cup semi-final on Sunday at Wembley.

“We played a quarter-final in Europe, you have to give everything. But we didn’t. It is unacceptable,” he said.

“As a manager, I cannot accept a team that is not giving its best. I will never accept it. I made them aware of my feelings. They didn’t manage the standards of how I manage a team in professional football.

“Even if you don’t play at the highest level we still have to win. That is what we have to learn. If we have setbacks, we have to stick to the plan, stick to the game. You have to keep the confidence.”

Thursday’s loss was particularly a night to forget for defender Harry Maguire and the England international will miss the FA Cup tie against Brighton through suspension.

That means Ten Hag will once again have to rotate his starting XI.

“We’ve not had the opportunity to often play the same team,” continued Ten Hag.

“We’ve had injuries and suspension in all departments so we’ve not been in a position to often do it.

“When you play a lot of games and the load is getting higher, we need to rotate as you have to keep the players fit and fresh.

“You have to also take decisions based on a tactical approach for the next game, and this is harder when you miss players.

“You have to find solutions and right now we’re looking for the best solution. You have to look short term but of course the longer term as well.”

Meanwhile, Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi has called on his players to handle the “pressure” of playing in such an important match in the club’s history.

“We are excited. We want to play with our DNA,” the Italian said. “Since working in the UK, you understand the importance of the FA Cup. It’s special.

“We have to love the pressure. We have to get used to it. Playing these types of games is an honour and I have no doubts about my team.

“Manchester United are one of the best teams in the UK. If you want to improve and become better, you have to play this type of game.

“We are speaking about Europe, so we need to compete to become bigger.”

Brighton are hoping to reach the final for the first time since 1983 – when they lost to Manchester United in a replay.