The mood at Manchester United is turning. Gone is the doom and gloom following two consecutive defeats, replaced with optimism after two successive wins.
This latest win might only have been against League One side Barnsley, yet it was the manner of the victory which has energised the team.
Manchester United won 7-0, Erik ten Hag’s biggest win as Red Devils boss, and one of the club’s biggest wins of all time.
Marcus Rashford scored twice, along with braces for Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen, plus a much-needed goal for Antony.
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Marcus Rashford difference
One of the biggest impacts came from Marcus Rashford, who led the line and took only 16 minutes to get on the scoresheet.
Ten Hag’s decision to keep Rashford in the team was inspired, when there was an argument to rest him ahead of the weekend against Crystal Palace.
Rashford benefitted from the extra minutes, now scoring in his second successive game, building up a little momentum.
Former United winger Mickey Thomas told MUTV that he can see the change in Rashford already.
Thomas said: “Seven goals is a fantastic return. Marcus Rashford looks a different player, he looks lively.
“He’s confident, and he’s scoring goals that will give him lots of confidence for the games to come.”
Rashford also provided an assist, and Barnsley got off lightly to see him substituted after 63 minutes.
The forward looked a class apart, totally dominant against inferior opposition, the way it should be.
Thomas added in his recap: “Garnacho again looked lively and Eriksen scored two quick goals, it’s been a great performance.”
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Erik ten Hag happy with front three
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was very happy with his front three, focusing on the teamwork more than the individual brilliance.
He told club media: “I think they are very ambitious,. Very hungry, but you can see they give each other the ball. They want to also give assists and also give each other the opportunity to score a goal.”
Ten Hag also singled out the moment which really stood out, when Rashford handed the ball to Antony to take the penalty.
He said: “The the penalty, when Antony needs some confidence, then Rashy gives the pen to Antony, which is good in a team that they are with each other, they are together.”
Rashford had already felt what the power of a goal could do, at the weekend, and he knew his teammate needed one for himself.
It was brave of Antony to step up, because it could have been personally disastrous if he missed. Thankfully he scored, and may yet salvage his United career.
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