Erik ten Hag has seen the way he uses Wout Weghorst called into question by Paul Merson as the Dutch striker faces backlash for his pre-match conduct before Sunday's 7-0 defeat by Liverpool.
The United loanee came under fire from his own supporters after he was filmed touching the 'This is Anfield' sign on the way out to the pitch before kick-off. It is often tradition for those playing for Liverpool to tap the sign, but the idea of an opposition player, let alone a United one, is unfathomable to most.
Weghorst has since released a statement on social media addressing the controversy, which read: "Normally I never react on media topics, but for this one, it's worth it because you amazing United fans are important to me. So I just want to clarify the video that is doing the rounds.
"From the National team, I know that Virgil always touches that sign and I went to stop him touching it to try and wind him up before the game. As a child I always supported FC Twente, and as a proud player now for Manchester United, my dedication to this incredible club can never be questioned.
"Sunday was a terrible day for all of us. We are putting everything into making it right in the next weeks. We will bounce back together and achieve our aims this season!"
Regardless of the tunnel controversy, the level of Weghorst's performances have come into question, though Ten Hag himself has also come under scrutiny for the way he deployed the Dutchman against Liverpool.
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"Wout Weghorst as a No 10, I’m not having that. How is he a No 10? How is the manager getting away with that?" Merson wrote for Sky Sports.
"It's Manchester United football club and you've got Weghorst as a 10 – he can't turn and run, he can't pass through the eye of a needle. What is the thinking?"
Weghorst has hardly hit the ground running since arriving at Old Trafford during the January transfer window, with just one goal to his name in 14 Red Devils appearances across all competitions.
Despite this, he has been fiercely defended by some who feel that Weghorst's strengths lie in how he brings others into the game. The likes of Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have reaped the benefits of having a big target man in the team.
While it is unlikely that Weghorst is offered the chance to pen a permanent deal at Old Trafford, he is expected to play a starring role for the remainder of United's season as they aim for Europa League and FA Cup glory.
