Ten Hag claims Barca and Man Utd 'needed a reset'

Ahead of their clash in the Europa League round of 16 play-off, Erik ten Hag has spoken about how both Man United and

needed a reset to get back into winning ways and their meeting in the Europa League is proof of that.

"I think both clubs have the ambition to be in the Champions League and to have an impact in it,"

he said at Wednesday's pre-match press conference. 

"To make the semi-finals and even win it, but the reality is we're in the Europa League, which shows both clubs needed a reset. 

"I think it's exciting to face each other tomorrow night because it will help both clubs. With such tests, you get better."

Barcelona are 11 points clear of Real Madrid in La Liga and has already won a Supercopa de Espana this season.

"It's clear when you see the stats of Barcelona, it's impressive,"

Ten Hag said.

"They defend well, but I think their biggest skill is they have so much possession.

"Barca is a difficult club to manage, but they are playing their best football for several years. You can see [Johan] Cruyff's influence here."

has an injury crisis as well as Sabitzer and Martinez being both suspended for the match.

"We have many options I think to sort it out,"

Ten Hag said of Martinez's absence.

"We can use Luke as a full-back and centre-back. 

"We saw at the weekend [against Leeds United] he did both. We can choose by game what we prefer."

Follow 

 for the