United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, following a dismal 3-0 defeat at home to Newcastle. They have now endured their worst start to a season since 1962, having lost eight of their 15 matches across all competitions.
Ten Hag has come under growing pressure in recent weeks but retains the backing of the United hierarchy, with chief executive Richard Arnold claiming the club are making &aposgood progress&apos. And while Rooney understands that fingers will be pointed at the manager, he believes the players are not fulfilling their responsibilities on the pitch.
EXCLUSIVE: Some United players starting to doubt Ten Hag
“That&aposs the job,” Rooney said of the pressure on Ten Hag. “That&aposs part of the job, we all know that when we take jobs. I know coming here [Birmingham City] there is a lot of pressure. I&aposm sure Ten Hag knows that at Man United.
“It&aposs not going as well as they&aposd like or would have hoped but the players need to take responsibility. I know some of the players, they&aposre not performing at the levels which I know they have.
“Of course, ultimately it starts and ends with the manager, that&aposs part of being a manager. You&aposll get the critics after the last few weeks but players can do a lot more.”
The mood around Old Trafford has soured significantly in recent weeks and the Manchester Evening News understands there is unrest among the players. Dressing room sources suggest there are doubts surrounding the Dutchman&aposs management and simmering resentment between teammates.
