Erik ten Hag deployed an unusual tactic against ArsenalCredit: Getty

Several players took up positions on the left flank in an apparent effort to counter Bukayo Saka

Saka’s influence on the match was limitedCredit: Getty

A patched-up Red Devils side appeared more concerned with stopping the league leaders’ threat after shipping four at Crystal Palace on Monday.

Ten Hag was seemingly fearful of one player in particular – Bukayo Saka.

So in a bid to counter the winger’s threat Ten Hag directed several players to cover Arsenal’s right flank.

The average positions of United’s players shows at least eight played towards that area of the pitch to limit Saka’s space.

Centre-back Jonny Evans played almost as wide as left-back Diogo Dalot, and supported the Portuguese in his contest with Saka throughout.

Dalot put in an impressive performance up against the England star, making five tackles as well as winning eight duels.

All three United midfielders were also called on to help their defensive team-mates in nullifying Saka’s threat.

It had the desired effect as Saka failed to assert his influence over the game, but it also had a huge unintended consequence.

Mainly, it freed up Trossard on the opposite flank to cause problems, and he did by notching the winner.

Despite that, the tactic had the positive of limiting shots against the United goal – a key area of concern over the last few weeks.