Ten Hag's clever reason for starting Forson over Amad & Antony

Tom Weber

• 24 Feb 2024 09:23 CST
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag wants to show young Omari Forson that he has a future at the club.

The 19-year-old academy product, who was poached from Tottenham in 2019, was handed a shock start against Fulham after the disappointing news that Rasmus Hojlund would be out of action for several weeks.

The Danish striker had been in red-hot form for Man Utd, recently becoming the Premier League's youngest player to score in six consecutive games, but will now miss the Red Devils' upcoming fixtures due to a muscular injury.

His absence could have a major impact on the futures of several Man Utd stars, however, few could have anticipated that Omari Forson would be among those players. Ten Hag picked the 19-year-old attacker against Fulham ahead of the likes of Amad Diallo and Antony, citing his impressive cameos in recent games as the reason behind his decision.

“He came twice lately in games against Newport and Wolves. Against Wolves, he had a very good moment where he was decisive in making Kobbie Mainoo’s goal so he deserves to play and, of course, now he has to show it. But he proved it when he came on as a sub and in training.”

Ten Hag wants to convince Forson to stay

However, it doesn't seem that this is the only reason behind Forson getting the nod ahead of more senior players. Unlike Antony and Amad, who are still under contract beyond this campaign, Man Utd are at risk of losing Forson for nothing at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old's deal is up in the summer and the Red Devils naturally want him to stay given his significant potential. Ten Hag's decision to give him meaningful minutes is likely just as much about convincing him that he has a future at the club as it is down to good training performances.

Integrating Forson into the first team will massively boost Man Utd's chances of tying the prospect down long-term, so it makes sense to pick him.