Manchester United were back in Premier League action and returned to winning ways on Saturday.
As Thomas Frank and his Brentford side arrived at Old Trafford, there was a sense of dread filling the stadium – but by full-time, there was a renewed feeling inside the Theatre of Dreams.
Brentford controversially took the lead in the first-half while temporarily being down to 10 men.
Alejandro Garnacho got Manchester United back on level terms with a volley after a brilliant Marcus Rashford cross.
Then the win was sealed in the 62nd minute when Rasmus Hojlund scored his second goal of the season – courtesy of a magic Bruno Fernandes assist.
Here are five things we learned as Erik ten Hag’s United got back in the win column.
Alejandro Garnacho’s scored but must be more clinical
Back among the goals was Garnacho, as he got on the end of Rashford’s delightful cross – placing it past Mark Flekken.
This was the Argentine’s fifth of the season and he continues to be the biggest contributor to goals for Ten Hag this season, with this being an excellent volley.
| Competition | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Premier League | 8 | 2 | 1 |
| Europa League | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Carabao Cup | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Community Shield | 1 | 1 | 0 |
Despite the goal, Garnacho did scupper several big opportunities in front of the goal which is the one thing he needs to work on.
If Garnacho can start finishing as well as he does instinctively when he has no time to think, then he could finally take that Cristiano Ronaldo-esque step-up.
Marcus Rashford is back at his very best
Just as he was prior to the international break, performance levels from Rashford are slowly but surely returning to where we all know he can be.
Against Brentford was no different as the Englishman turned provider, set up Garnacho on a handful of times with excellent crosses and diagonals – with one leading to Garnacho’s goal.
Rashford created several chances, all while being on his usually uncomfortable right-side. This season could end up an excellent one for the English winger.
- READ MORE: Who is Marcus Rashford? Inside the life of Man Utd’s book-writing, government-tackling ace
Rasmus Hojlund shows why he is starting over Joshua Zirkzee
Three starts and now two goals this season for Hojlund who is looking like he has taken a big step forward this season – while now surely establishing himself as the clear starting No.9 for United.
Joshua Zirkzee has been impressive at times, however he is not really a striker, with qualities which are most noticeable off the ball.
Hojlund’s excellent finish was exactly what United needed and it could be what fires Ten Hag into a winning streak, at a time it was so desperately needed.
Erik ten Hag lives to fight another day
Heading into this game, excitement levels among the fanbase were at an all-time low due to the five-game streak without a win.
But all it took to get fans back on the side was the performance against Brentford with the attacking players turning up as United peppered the Brentford goal with 18 shots – nine on target.
The performance on Saturday against the Bees was far better than what we have seen this season so far, and importantly United took chances.
Ten Hag will now be desperate for this to be the start of a run of results for United if it is the decision to keep the Dutchman will look genius by Ineos.
Matthijs de Ligt is a warrior
Aside from all the attacking brilliance, there were several standout defensive performances. However, we can’t not praise Matthijs de Ligt.
De Ligt took a knock to the head in the first-half which resulted in blood and a painful-looking wound, however after being patched up he continued to play despite the blood continuing to flow.
After a bad night in Porto, this performance shows De Ligt will be a success at the club and hopefully this display can be a catalyst for his campaign.
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