Tottenham delivered a dominant performance against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, increasing the pressure on Erik ten Hag's position as manager of the struggling Red Devils. With a 3-0 win, Spurs started strong with Brennan Johnson's early goal and went on to secure their victory even after United were reduced to 10 men. The defeat leaves United down in 11th place and time may be running out for ten Hag to turn the tide.
Tottenham Thump Manchester United in Lopsided Victory at Old Trafford
Tottenham Hotspur delivered a dominant performance against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, increasing the pressure on Erik ten Hag's position as manager of the struggling Red Devils. With a commanding 3-0 win, Spurs started strong with Brennan Johnson's early goal and went on to secure their victory even after United were reduced to 10 men.
Match Summary
Tottenham took the lead in the 12th minute when Johnson latched onto a through ball from Harry Kane and slotted it into the bottom corner. United struggled to create any meaningful chances throughout the first half, and their frustration boiled over in the 35th minute when new signing Casemiro was sent off for a violent tackle on Anthony Elanga.
Spurs capitalized on their numerical advantage in the second half, with Kane doubling their lead in the 55th minute after a swift counterattack. Son Heung-min then put the game beyond doubt with a stunning solo effort in the 73rd minute, dribbling past three United defenders before firing into the net.
Post-Match Reaction
The defeat leaves United down in 11th place in the Premier League standings, and time may be running out for ten Hag to turn the tide. The Dutch manager has come under fire for his team's poor performances and lack of progress since he took over in the summer.
"We need to take responsibility," said ten Hag after the match. "I am the manager, so I am responsible. It's not good enough."
Spurs manager Antonio Conte, meanwhile, was delighted with his team's performance.
"We played a great game," said Conte. "We were dominant from start to finish. It's a great result for us."
Top 5 FAQs
1. What happened to Casemiro? Casemiro was sent off in the 35th minute for a violent tackle on Anthony Elanga. He will now face a three-match suspension.
2. What's the latest on Harry Maguire's injury? Maguire missed the match with a hamstring injury. He is expected to be out for around four weeks.
3. Is ten Hag under pressure at United? Ten Hag is under increasing pressure after United's poor start to the season. The match against Tottenham was seen as a must-win for the Dutch manager, but their defeat has increased speculation about his future.
4. What are Tottenham's chances of winning the Premier League? Tottenham are currently fifth in the Premier League standings, five points behind leaders Arsenal. They have a strong squad and are capable of challenging for the title, but it remains to be seen if they have the consistency to maintain their challenge.
5. What's next for Manchester United? Manchester United's next match is against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final on Wednesday, 4 January. They then face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday, 7 January.
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