Manchester United great Peter Schmeichel blamed Erik ten Hag’s decision to substitute Kobbie Mainoo at halfway for the defeat.

The development of the adolescent midfielder during the preceding month has been one of the few bright spots in a bleak season 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, but his replacement by Scott McTominay at halftime was unexpected.

However, the Scotland international, who has been a standout performer for the team this season, did not fare well in defensive midfield for either of Forest’s goals in their thrashing.

Schmeichel slammed United’s decision to sit Mainoo in an interview with Premier League Productions after the game.

“He makes a substitution, and I think that has a really big effect on the game,” said Schmeichel, a former Manchester 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 had 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.” The substitution has piqued my interest, as have the consequences for the rest of the team.

“What motivates you to make a change at halftime?” Is this to allow you to take three breaks rather than two in the second half? Is that all?

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

Ten Hag has been accused of taking the easy way out

A woods icon, Stuart Pearce, agreed with Schmeichel but criticized 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 went on to say.

“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 definitely have another opportunity to demonstrate his abilities when United travel to Wigan in the FA Cup third round on January 8.