Erik ten Hag has indicated that Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, and Harry Maguire were not included in the starting lineup for Manchester United’s match against Brentford due to their limited training ahead of the game.

Despite recently returning from injuries, Martinez, Casemiro, and Maguire were named on the bench, with Ten Hag opting for an unchanged side from their previous FA Cup win over Liverpool. Kobbie Mainoo, who had missed some training sessions due to illness, was deemed fit to start.

In a pre-match interview with MUTV, Ten Hag explained that Martinez, Casemiro, and Maguire needed more time to regain their rhythm and match fitness before being considered for a starting position. He emphasized the importance of game practice and catching up in training. However, he expressed confidence in the available options in defense and midfield, acknowledging a slight shortage of options in the forward line.

Regarding Mainoo, Ten Hag praised his performances for the England national team but acknowledged that club football presented a new experience for him. Despite being a quality player who adds something extra to the team, Ten Hag emphasized the collective effort and the importance of the team’s performance.

This visit to the Gtech Community Stadium marks Manchester United’s first return since a challenging 4-0 defeat in Ten Hag’s second game in charge, back in August 2022.

Despite the two-week break due to the March international break, Manchester United enters the game in decent form following their victory over Liverpool.