Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick revealed the reason to substitute Paul Pogba early in the second half against Leeds United

Manchester United recently got the better off Leeds United at the Elland Road as Ralf Rangnick’s prompt substitutions played a major role in helping the  Red Devils bag all three points. United won 4-2 against Leeds as Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes handed them the first-half lead.

The second half saw Leeds come back in the game as Rodrigo Morena and Raphinha scored in quick succession to level the scoreline. Few eyebrows were raised when Rangnick took off Paul Pogba and introduced Fred early on in the second half. But that move worked brilliantly as the Brazilian along with Anthony Elanga got into the scoresheet and helped the Red Devils get past the Whites.

Despite the win, there was a lot of talk about Pogba’s early substitution which actually changed the game for Rangnick’s men. Speaking about the move at the post-match press conference, the German tactician added how the Frenchman looked out of gas and the intensity was dropping hence he decided to bring on Fred and Elanga and the duo changed the game.

“It is easy to say that afterwards. But I think we needed that intensity. Paul, I wouldn’t say he was tired, but he was a little bit tiring out which is normal after his long injury break. And with Fred and Anthony Elanga, we had two energetic players on the bench and we decided to take those subs pretty early,” he replied.

Rangnick feels it was a nice win for the players, fans and supporters considering the game they played and the significance of this fixture. It was indeed a great win considering the age-old rivalry that Manchester United share with Leeds. Rangnick also lavished praise on the travelling away fans for their constant support.

“[The win] was great for everybody in the club, for supporters, for the players, for us, we knew that we had to win, even more so after yesterday’s results. Let’s keep it going. I hope this experience today will also give us additional energy for the Champions League and upcoming games in the Premier League.”

This was a very crucial result for the Red Devils and the win means that they are only four points behind third-placed Chelsea in the Premier League points table. It has suddenly increased their chances of finishing in the top four though there is still a long way to go.

Manchester United will face a major challenge in Atletico Madrid in th knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League.