Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has questioned the football knowledge of some of his critics amid calls for his departure this summer from impatient supporters.

Despite enduring one of the club’s poorest Premier League seasons, Ten Hag has faced significant challenges due to severe injuries in his first-team squad. Currently, United occupies eighth place in the English top flight, falling far short of Champions League qualification.

While there is optimism for silverware in the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City, Monday’s 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace marked a new low in Ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford.

However, the Dutchman pointed to the steadfast away support at Selhurst Park and disregarded the criticism.

During his pre-match press conference, he stated: “I believe the fans have shown patience – it was evident on Monday.

“But when I observe certain comments, it appears they lack patience. Either they Lack Understanding of football or managing a football team. Perhaps they’re just frustrated.

“However, many people recognize the challenges and demonstrate patience.”

United’s squad is grappling with poor fitness levels, forcing Ten Hag to field midfielder Casemiro and an unfit Jonny Evans in central defense during the recent heavy defeat.

Reflecting on the challenges faced, Ten Hag emphasized the team’s resilience and camaraderie in previous matches.

“If I evaluate the issues we’ve encountered, including injuries, the players have shown great determination in almost every game,” Ten Hag added. “There has been a strong team spirit.

“Monday was an exception, and it was disappointing for everyone involved. It was a collective failure.

“But in all other matches, we have fought together with good team spirit. So, I have no doubts about that.”