Leeds United walked out of Old Trafford with a valuable three points after being their bitter rivals 2-1 as the Whites took a major step in securing their Premier League status.
Following the game, there was no shortage of excuses from those associated with Manchester United, as manager Michael Carrick voiced his complaints in an interview after the game.
Rio Ferdinand was also quick to blame the referee for Man United’s shortcomings on the pitch as the Whites dominated the game at Old Trafford for long spells.
However, another former Man United player has made yet another excuse for his former club, which Leeds fans will find hilarious.
Edwin van der Sar blames injuries for Manchester United defeat against Leeds United
Considering Daniel Farke was without two of his most important players, Joe Rodon and Anton Stach, for the game against Man United, Leeds adapted brilliantly.
But following their historic victory, Van der Sar was quick to blame the injuries that Man United had for the result when analysing the game for Premier League Productions.
The Dutchman argued that Kobbie Mainoo was a big miss for the hosts, claiming they “missed him” against Leeds.
“What Carrick has done, bringing Mainoo back in, it is important for (Manchester) United to have youth coming through.
“He represents certain values, and it has made him feel appreciated again, (which) has made a difference. Casemiro and (Manuel) Ugarte are similar types of players, so I think they missed him.”
However, with Leeds’ squad valued at around £300.7million according to Transfermarkt, whilst Man United’s squad is valued at around £649.3million, it’s fair to say that sympathy for Carrick should be limited when discussing the impact of injuries on Man United’s squad compared to Leeds’ squad.
READ MORE: Premier League confirm major decision ahead of Leeds United vs Wolves clash
Ao Tanaka was exceptional in Anton Stach’s place against Manchester United
As mentioned earlier, Leeds had injury struggles of their own in midfield, with Stach’s absence allowing Tanaka to be handed a rare Premier League start.
The Japanese midfielder was exceptional in the FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham, and carried this form into the game against Man United, where Tanaka impressed yet again.
- Tanaka was unfortunate not to score with his only shot of the game to extend United’s lead to three goals before half-time
- The midfielder managed to notch an incredible four key passes during the game
- Out of the four ground duels Tanaka contested, he won three of them (Sofascore)
With Stach being out for at least the next three games, Farke and Co. will be hoping Tanaka can continue to perform at this level in his absence.
READ MORE: Simon Jordan slams Manchester United excuses – “Leeds are a better team” – The Leeds Press
