Erik ten Hag admits doubts over controversial Bruno Fernandes goal in Manchester United win over City

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag admitted he could understand Manchester City’s frustration at Bruno Fernandes’ controversial equaliser being allowed to stand in the Red Devils’ comeback win at Old Trafford.

The Portugal international’s second-half strike was initially ruled out for Marcus Rashford being in an offside position, only for the decision to be overturned.

The striker was deemed not to have interfered with the move, despite being inches from the ball as he chased down a pass before leaving it for Fernandes to guide a shot home, sparking controversy and protests from the City players.

“I can see it from the other side as well,” Ten Hag told BT Sport.

“The rules, it’s a confusing moment for the back line of the opponent. The rules say Marcus didn’t touch the ball and he wasn’t interfering. Bruno came from the back – but I can see it from the other side.”

Things went from bad to worse for City when Rashford scored United’s second four minutes later to seal a 2-1 comeback victory that sent the Red Devils into third place, one point behind their rivals.

It continued a strong run of form for Ten Hag’s side, who are on a nine-match winning run in all competitions.

“The first half we played very well. We defended very well and broke in good opportunities. We were really happy at half-time,” said the manager.

“After half-time we had to sub (Anthony) Martial, he had some complaints, and the game changed.

“City came in, we were not proactive. They scored. The spirit of the team is so huge, the belief is there that the game is 90 minutes and we can fight back. I’m really happy with the performance of the team.”

Rashford continued his superb recent form by scoring his eighth goal in seven games, despite appearing to pick up an injury in the first half.

Ten Hag said: “Players have to be resilient. You get kicked in a game. It happened and it hurts but you have to keep going. You have to do it to get the right result and performance.

“Deal with the painful moment and the game will go on. In top football you have to suffer and sacrifice to get the right result.

“The belief is back and we’re in a good direction. You have to work out of possession [against teams like City]. They have qualities in split-moments to score goals. We saw that today. One mistake and they scored.”