Man Utd boss Ten Hag: Definite setback; we looked better with Ronaldo on the pitch | OneFootball

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag admits defeat at home to Brighton was a "definite setback".

Pascal Gross had Brighton 2-0 up before an own goal from Alexis Mac Allister offered United some hope.

Ten Hag said, "Definitely a setback. A real disappointment this but we have to deal with it. I knew from the start it would not be easy, it is a process and it takes time but we don't have time, we have to win games. We should have done it better.

"I analysed it and it was unnecessary how we gave away two easy balls. I think the organisation was a big mistake. We have to analyse and have to take the lessons."

Asked if he was happy with Cristiano Ronaldo in the second-half, Ten Hag continued: "I think so. It was clear to see the second half we were better in the midfield with Eriksen down and Ronaldo up, then we created. It was a pity we didn't score then.

"It all takes time, you cannot force it. He is one week in training, a little bit more now. He has to do more to get fit and this game will help him. He will be better next week.

"I am not satisfied, totally not happy because we lost and it was totally not necessary. We should have done things better.

"I knew before it was not easy to construct it and develop it, this takes time but I know at the top you don't have time.

"The reaction in the second half we were acting as one team, we were battling for the result. It wasn't that we didn't battle or didn't have the right attitude, we made mistakes.

"We have to take the lessons and learn from it."