Erik ten Hag warns Man Utd star over his "attitude" after Aston Villa win

Erik ten Hag warned Manchester United starlet Alejandro Garnacho over his attitude after the club’s 4-2 win against Aston Villa last night.

The 18-year-old came off the bench and provided two assists as Man Utd completed a second-half comeback to set up a fourth-round tie with Championship high-flyers Burnley.

Last month Garnacho dazzled on his full debut against Sheriff Tiraspol, and a week later the Argentina under-20 international scored his first goal for the club at Real Sociedad.

Despite inspiring yesterday’s second-half comeback, the Man Utd boss warned the teenager over his attitude.

Ten Hag on Garnacho

After the game ten Hag stressed the importance of a good attitude.

Speaking to Sky Sports the Dutchman said: "It was good that he came on and showed that performance and had that impact in the game, to be able to assist, make the dribbles and run behind.

"He still has things to learn but quite obviously we are happy with his development and he can contribute to the team.

"It depends on his approach, his attitude. When he keeps working then yes, it is possible [for him to play more]. He wants to improve every day. He has to do the right things in his lifestyle. He has the capability."

What was said in the past

Ten Hag previously admitted that Garnacho’s off-field behaviour was not up to the standard of a Man Utd player. The teenager was reportedly late for training twice during pre-season.

After Garnacho was taken off to a standing ovation in a 3-0 win over Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford last month, Ten Hag said: "I think it was a good performance from him. He did what I expect him to do.

"First, he deserved the chance after the last weeks. The start was difficult for him in the season.

"I was not happy with him but the last weeks I was happy with him - he got a better attitude, more resilience, more determination and what you see he is a talent.

"To deal with the ball in tight areas, to run behind, and especially also his tempo dribbles, he can take players on and that's a good capability in football nowadays, especially against opponents who are defending that compact like this opponent.

"I'm happy with that. I hope for him it's a stimulus, this first game, and that he knows 'yeah, I have to do better to get into the team', to create more but don't forget the other things. You are playing in a team."

When pushed on what Garnacho had done wrong in the past, Ten Hag said: "Not wrong. It's young kids, eh?

"They have to grow and to raise their personality, and they have to know what are the laws and demands in football, in top football.

"It's not only about a trick or about scoring one goal. No, we have to win football games and that demands a lot and then you have to fulfil every day the highest standards.

"That is what we have to teach - and not only to him but all the players, especially the young players."