‘A real disadvantage’ - Manchester United still whinging despite ‘lucky’ VAR call against Newcastle

Erik ten Hag has claimed Manchester United were “disadvantaged” against Newcastle United due to having one less day to recover.

The Red Devils faced Arsenal on Sunday 24 hours after Newcastle drew 1-1 with Brighton at St James’ Park. Despite the situation, an injury-stricken Man United side put the Magpies to the sword.

Goals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund undone Newcastle, who surrendered their advantage in the Europa League race. They must now match Man United’s result on Sunday to stand a chance of European football next season.

Toon supporters felt hard done by at full-time after Anthony Gordon was denied a first-half penalty. Sofyan Amrabat and Casemiro lunged at the winger, with one getting the ball and the other chopping him down.

Man United great Wayne Rooney called his former club “lucky” not to have given away a spot-kick. But speaking post-match, Ten Hag bemoaned the extra day’s rest and a possible foul in the build-up to Lewis Hall’s late consolation.

“We were at a disadvantage to Newcastle,” he said. “They (Newcastle) played on Saturday. We played in a tough game on Sunday against the number two of the ranking (Arsenal) so we were at a real disadvantage, but the lads did very well.

“It was nervous (at the end). I thought it was a foul (on Jonny Evans) but that sums up our season. We had it so often and we had some really poor decisions go against us. Today, I was pleased we got it over the line.”