Erik ten Hag has demanded that his Manchester United players show fight and spirit in “every game” after snatching a late win over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
The Red Devils once again failed to impress, but were saved by Bruno Fernandes who found the net in injury time after the hosts failed to clear their lines.
Man United were in desperate need of a positive result following consecutive 3-0 defeats to Manchester City in the Premier League and Newcastle in the League Cup.
“Two big defeats and then of course everyone is very unhappy,” Ten Hag told BBC Match of the Day. “That is definitely not the standards we wanted to achieve. We wanted to improve and get a reaction and I think we saw a reaction. A good result and we are happy with it.”
The Dutchman showed faith in Harry Maguire yet again even though the side conceded eight goals in the previous five games in which the former captain had started at centre back.
“Harry Maguire showed a great performance, great leadership but there were more on the pitch and it was a team,” he said.
“The spirit of the team, they fought for every yard, shoulder to shoulder. We have to show it every game. We have seen an improve today and we have to continue this.”
Ten Hag also praised Fernandes for once again saving the day for Man United with his 91st-minute strike from the edge of the box.
“It is always about moments. Players have to realise that. This is the right answer to give. You have to focus on the one moment and top players are doing that and Bruno Fernandes is a top player.
“There is the demand to do it in every game,” he said.
Asked if Man United’s next game against Copenhagen in the Uefa Champions League was a must win game, Ten Hag responded: “We always have to win, doesn’t matter who the opposition is. We have to prepare that and do the same things. Copenhagen are a good side.”
Read – Why Rashford was dropped for Man Utd win over Fulham
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