Erik ten Hag has backed Manchester United’s young talent to continue progressing after his side secured a 3-2 win over Newcastle at Old Trafford.
Manchester United ended the Premier League campaign at home on a high with a much-needed three points, a result that keeps the Red Devils in contention for European qualification.
Kobbie Mainoo opened the scoring with a composed finish, but Newcastle hit back in the opening minutes of the second half through Anthony Gordon.
Another of the host’s bright young talents restored the lead, however, as Amad Diallo thundered in an effort for his first Premier League goal. Rasmus Hojlund came off the bench to wrap up the win, with a late Lewis Hall goal proving only consolation for Newcastle.
Each of Manchester United’s goalscorers were aged 21 or under and Ten Hag praised the performance of his emerging team.
“It’s always nice to win any game. It’s important to win the last game at Old Trafford this season. The fans deserve this because they’ve had difficult times and always stayed with us,” Ten Hag said to BBC Sport.
“We are here together. We wanted to pay the fans back.
“Fantastic. Great goals. But it was a team effort how we made the goals. But I’m always happy at young players who are progressing very good and scored some brilliant goals.
“Newcastle have a lot of physical power and you have to match that but you also have to play football. We had found the really good balance in this.
“I think he [Hojlund] needs some rest so he’s fresh. Strikers live for goals. It’s very important for his confidence so I’m really pleased he scored.”
