Manchester United are into the next round of Carabao Cup in some style after a 7-0 win mauling of Barnsley at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag got pretty much his perfect game in all departments, as players he backed performed well, others continued their good form, while some, like Antony, found form.
Ahead of the trip to Crystal Palace in what should be a tricky affair, this was the perfect preparation as players will move full of confidence now.
Most importantly for Ten Hag, he finally got from his team what he has been demanding from day one this season.
If it’s a sign of things to come, then fans can look forward to an extremely exciting campaign.
Man Utd give Erik ten Hag what he wants
United’s results this season have been extremely up and down, making it hard to decipher a common pattern or a running theme of the season.
However, there is one clear pattern still, perhaps the only one, but something that has bugged the manager the most.
The win vs Fulham was exciting with the late winner, but United should have killed the game off with the chances they had.
That profligacy came back to bite them vs Brighton before Liverpool laid down the final punishment in a 3-0 loss that flattered their display.
The tide turned somewhat vs Southampton, as United at least finished their clear-cut chances to a certain extent, but what happened vs Barnsley was the true change.
United had five clear-cut chances, scored every single one, and from 13 shots on target, scored seven times in a display of utter ruthlessness.
This ruthlessness is what Ten Hag has been crying out for after each game, win or loss, and to finally get it in such style will delight the manager.
Consistency is the next step
Needless to say, United won’t be creating 13 shots on target of five clear-cut chances every game, but the need to make the most of what they create is paramount.
Goals bring more goals and confidence breeds confidence. That much is clear if United’s performances pre and post-thirty minutes vs Southampton is analysed.
This team clearly has the talent and potential to score goals and the tactical setup is not as open as last season.
However, it sometimes looks like they still carry the demons of last season which doesn’t allow them to play at their best.
Everyone at the club will hope that this 7-0 win is the game that lifts that could from over their heads permanently.
It couldn’t have come at a better time than before a tricky away trip and United absolutely can’t afford to lose this momentum but following it up with a bad result now.
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