Erik ten Hag was pleased with Marcel Sabitzer's debut for Manchester United against Crystal Palace.

After Casemiro received a yellow card in the 70th minute of Saturday's contest at Old Trafford, there were multiple changes made by Ten Hag in an attempt to survive the late onslaught and that included replacing Antony with loanee Sabitzer.

Sabitzer was tasked with protecting the backline and he played his part in ensuring the lead was protected until the final whistle.

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The midfielder was signed from Bayern Munich on loan until the rest of the season and he's set to play an important role in the coming weeks, with Casemiro suspended and Christian Eriksen, Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek injured.

Ten Hag was asked about Sabitzer's debut after the victory against Palace and he admitted he was pleased with the display. "Yeah, he [Sabitzer] understands football. You see that straight from the start and in training as well," Ten Hag told MUTV.

"He did quite well, he's really composed on the ball and he knows how to defend. We need such players who understand the game and who also bring the right spirit."

Sabitzer has chosen to wear the No.15 shirt during his stint at the club. It seems likely he will start against Leeds on February 8.

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