Erik ten Hag hits back at 'embarrassing' reaction to Manchester United's FA Cup semi-final win - 'A disgrace'

Erik ten Hag has called the negative reaction to Manchester United's FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry a "disgrace" and "embarrassing".

United were criticised for their performance after scraping past Championship side Coventry on penalties to reach the FA Cup final.

Coventry fought back from 3-0 down to take the game to extra-time and then had a late winner ruled out by the video assistant referee for a tight offside call.

Asked if he understood the downbeat reaction to the result, United manager Ten Hag said: "No. Absolutely not.

"The reaction from you [the media] was embarrassing.

"Football is about results. We made it to the final and deserved it, not only for this game, but also the other games.

"We lost control for 20 minutes and were very lucky in the end but we made it to the final. That is a huge achievement. Twice [two FA Cup finals] in two years, it is magnificent.

"For me as manager, four cup finals in four years. The comments are a disgrace."

Ten Hag was also asked about Antony's reaction to the shootout win.

The Brazilian cupped his ears and celebrated in front of Coventry players as some of his United team-mates, including Harry Maguire, went to shake hands with the opposition.

"He was [provoked] and should not react like this," said Ten Hag.

"You have not seen the provocation, only the reaction, but he should not do it. I've also seen Harry Maguire.

"We should acknowledge the performance of Coventry, coming back at 70 minutes when we dominated the game. The game must be closed, but the return from their side was very good."

United will face rivals Manchester City in a repeat of last year's FA Cup final, which was won by Pep Guardiola's side.

Winning the FA Cup could be a route for United to secure their place in Europe next season.

They are currently seventh in the Premier League table ahead of facing Sheffield United on Wednesday evening.

"We have to win every game," said Ten Hag.

"That's what United stands for, that is our approach, go from game to game but we have to qualify for Europe and we have two opportunities in the league and the FA Cup final."

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