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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been playing mind games with his out-of-favour forwards Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial, according to sources close to the club.

Sancho, who joined United from Borussia Dortmund for £73 million last summer, has barely featured for the Red Devils this season, making only four appearances in all competitions and none since October.

Ten Hag has repeatedly insisted that Sancho is still part of his plans and has a chance to prove himself, but those who know the Dutchman well say that he is trying to motivate the 21-year-old by challenging him to fight for his place.

However, insiders claim that Sancho is unhappy with his situation and feels isolated from the rest of the squad, as he trains and dresses separately from his teammates at Carrington.

Martial, on the other hand, has been given more opportunities by ten Hag, but has failed to impress with his performances and goalscoring record. The Frenchman has scored only four goals in 17 games this season, and has not completed a full match in the Premier League since January 2021.

Despite his poor form, ten Hag has praised Martial’s attitude and work ethic, and hinted that he could be offered a new contract, as his current deal expires in 2024.

However, sources suggest that ten Hag is not convinced by Martial’s quality and is looking to offload him in the summer, as he eyes a move for Erling Haaland, the prolific Dortmund striker who has a release clause of £68 million.

Ten Hag’s mind games with Sancho and Martial are part of his strategy to keep his squad on their toes and maintain a high level of competition, as he aims to challenge for the Premier League title and the Champions League this season.

United are currently second in the league, four points behind leaders Liverpool, and have qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League, where they will face Barcelona.