Since those words, Manchester United's ranks have been bolstered by the return of Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund.
Both Reds featured in Wednesday's 1-1 draw with FC Twente, our opening fixture of the Europa League, giving Erik further food for thought when he comes to name his starting XI for the visit of Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (16:30 BST).
After the frustrating result against Twente, the boss discussed his attacking options now that our no.9 is nearing full fitness.
"Of course, they [the forwards] are all main [forwards], but Joshua [Zirkzee] is doing very good," he said.
"He created a very good chance, it was a brilliant shot and a very good stop.
"We are very pleased that Rasmus [Hojlund] is back, of course, and now he has to come up to full fitness, full speed, and he can score a goal, we know that. He’s very good in the box."
In addition to up front, United have four wingers jostling for two positions. Amad and Marcus Rashford started against Twente on Wednesday but on Saturday, at Crystal Palace, it was Alejandro Garnacho who got the nod in place of the latter. Antony started - and scored a penalty - in our 7-0 Carabao Cup success over Barnsley last Tuesday too.
It's worth noting that this luxury was something Ten Hag did not have last term, with injuries causing issues.
In defensive areas, there is also room for rotation. Harry Maguire replaced Matthijs de Ligt in the XI on Wednesday, but the summer arrival from Bayern Munich had started the two Premier League fixtures prior to this Europa League match.
There's much to ponder for Erik, then, and you can have your say too.
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