Erik ten Hag praised the composure Manchester United showed after his team fought back to earn a 4-2 win over Sheffield United.
After losing a 3-0 lead in the FA Cup semi-finals against Coventry at the weekend, the defensive vulnerabilities of the Red Devils were again on show at Old Trafford.
United twice trailed as Sheffield United took leads through Jayden Bogle and Ben Brereton Diaz either side of half-time, with Harry Maguire netting the first equaliser against his former team, before Bruno Fernandes levelled a second time from the penalty spot.
Fernandes’ delightful drive put Ten Hag’s team ahead for the first time, as the Portugal international thumped an effort in from distance. Rasmus Hojlund sealed the win late on with his first goal in eight games, converting from a Fernandes cross.
The chaotic clash continued a recent trend for Manchester United, who have now scored 2+ goals and conceded 2+ goals in each of their last five games. Ten Hag, however, was keen to reflect on the positives.
“Many positives today,” Ten Hag said to BBC Match of the Day.
“The resilience to fight back after losing two times. But also there were negatives. We gave it away, it can’t happen, unacceptable, we have to learn from this.
“But I’m happy with the win and we need to move on.”
Asked for his view on how his side responded to falling behind, the Dutchman added: “Have you seen some panic? No, not at all, we were very composed. We kept making chances throughout the game.”
Ten Hag praised the recent form of Fernandes, who made it five goals in his last six appearances across all competitions with his brace against the Blades.
“He’s very consistent. At the moment he’s in very good form.
“We are striving to progress the team. The number of goals we are scoring in this moment is a huge progress. If we have our back four back, then I’m sure we will be more consistent.”
