Jadon Sancho responds to Erik ten Hag's 'performance' criticism

Jadon Sancho has claimed he has been made a 'scapegoat' at Manchester United after Erik ten Hag revealed he was left out of the matchday squad at Arsenal for poor performances in training.

Sancho has made three substitute appearances for United so far this campaign but didn't make the cut for the 3-1 loss at Arsenal, with Marcus Rashford and Antony supporting Anthony Martial in attack.

When asked why the former Borussia Dortmund winger was left out of the squad altogether, Ten Hag said: 'Jadon, on his performance in training, was not selected.'

'You have to reach a level at Manchester United every day and we can make choices in the front line. So for this game he was not selected.'

However, Sancho disagreed with Ten Hag's assessment of his efforts at Carrington, insisting he gives his all and hinting at 'other reasons' for his omission.

A statement from Sancho posted on social media reads: 'Please don't believe everything you read! I will not allow people saying things that is completely untrue.'

'I have conducted myself in training very well this week. I believe there are other reasons for this matter that I won't go into, I have been a scapegoat for a long time which isn't fair! All I want to do is play football with a smile on my face and contribute to my team.'

'I respect all decisions that are made by the coaching staff, I play with fantastic players and grateful to do so which I know every week is a challenge. I will continue to fight for this badge no matter what!'

Man Utd chased Sancho for the most part of two years before finally landing him in 2021. He has struggled to command a regular starting XI place and further attacking reinforcements like Antony and Rasmus Hojlund have since been brought in to bolster Ten Hag's attack.