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Ten Hag rues missed chances as Leeds end Man United’s home run

MANCHESTER United manager Erik ten Hag was left frustrated last night after his side played a 2-2 Premier League draw at Old Trafford against Leeds United.

It could have been even worse, with the hosts having to overcame a two-goal deficit to earn a point.

The draw ended Manchester United’s run of 13 consecutive home wins in all competitions, which dated back to October.

Leeds United scored early in both halves through Wilfred Gnonto and a Raphael Varane own goal to take a 2-0 lead, but strikes from the in-form Marcus Rashford and the returning Jadon Sancho rescued a point for Ten Hag’s side.

“We created great chances. Garnacho twice. Sabitzer. The header of Raphael. At half-time we had to equalise. If you start the second half the same as the first half you make it really difficult,” Ten Hag noted during his post-match interview.

Manchester United were second best for most of the game against the vibrant visitors, whose manager Jesse Marsch was sacked just days ago.

Ten Hag admitted that United should consider themselves lucky to avoid defeat.

He added: “You can say we won a point because coming back from 2-0 down in a derby is good.

“But on the other hand, starting a derby like we did is unacceptable. You have to be ready to fight and we weren’t ready for battle.”

The Dutchman was however happy with the return to scoring ways for Sancho, who missed about three months of the season to attend to his physical and mental health.

“We are happy to have him back because he can contribute with his creativity, speed and intelligence,” he explained.

“He can decide a football game and that is also what we expect from him. He will do just that.”

With the result, third-placed Manchester United missed the opportunity to go level with their city rivals, staying two points behind the champions, having played a game more.

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