Manchester United icon Peter Schmeichel blamed the loss against Nottingham Forest on Erik ten Hag’s decision to replace Kobbie Mainoo at half-time.

The development of the young midfielder over the last month has been one of the few bright spots in a season of difficulty for the Red Devils thus far.

Mainoo did a good job of disturbing the home midfield during a sluggish first 45 minutes at the City Ground, so his removal at halftime and replacement by Scott McTominay came as a surprise.

However, the Scotland international, who has been one of the club’s best performers this season, did not do especially well in defensive midfield for either of Forest’s goals in their massive win.

And, speaking to Premier League Productions after the game, Schmeichel slammed the decision to bench United’s Mainoo.

“He makes a substitution, and I think that has a really big effect on the game,” said Schmeichel, a former United goalie.

“As I previously stated, I understand why you want McTominay on, but not for the guy you take off.”

“The guy you take off Mainoo is a great player, and he played well.” He was in complete command of that portion of the pitch.

“There was no need to make that change when you have other players on the field doing nothing for you.” I’m curious about the substitution and what it means for the rest of the team.

“What motivates you to make a change at halftime?” Is that so you can make three breaks in the second half instead of two? Is that all?

“Or is it to make an impression?” You must keep impact players on if you want to make an impact. That had a significant impact on the game.”

Ten Hag has been accused of taking the easy way out

Stuart Pearce, a forest legend, agreed with Schmeichel but went a step further, accusing Ten Hag of taking the easy way out.

“Sometimes as a manager, you go in at half-time and you feel you have to make a change to make an impact and get a mentality turnaround in many ways,” he added.

“It sends a bad message when you make a substitution and take a young kid off who I didn’t think was doing badly for me.”

“He’s the one bright thing but it sends a message out that I’ve took the easy way out, that’s how I see it.”

Mainoo will almost probably have another opportunity to showcase his abilities when United go to Wigan in the FA Cup third round on January 8.