Ten Hag silences critics
With one trophy already in the cabinet, Manchester United look set to build on their success in the FA Cup as well as in Europe, while they also remain in touch of the league leaders – making them a solid banker bet in TAB soccer pools.
By Mark Gleeson
Defeat at the hands of Brighton and Brentford early in the season were seen by many as a sign that Manchester United might not have picked the right man in Erik ten Hag - but how that view has changed in recent months.
With one trophy already secured, the manager has positioned his team for more silverware this season as the Red Devils remain firmly in the mix for more success.
This is emphasised by their immediate programme: Sunday’s League Cup triumph over Newcastle United is being quickly followed by an FA Cup date tomorrow, a vital league match at the weekend, and then their next assignment in the Europa League.
Manchester United are home to West Ham United in the fifth round of the FA Cup in a clash where Ten Hag’s side will be overwhelming favourites, followed by their league meeting at Liverpool on Sunday and then up against Real Betis of Spain next week.
Their chances of success in the two remaining cups are a lot stronger than in the league, where they are eight points off leaders Arsenal. But their more ardent fans will be hoping there is still opportunity for the frontrunners to slip.
Arsenal have bounced back well after losing at home to Manchester City with wins at Aston Villa and Leicester City and have a further catch-up game at home to Everton tomorrow.
They are fancied to extend their lead over second-placed Manchester City to five points again, although it must be remembered it was struggling Everton who upset them at Goodison Park just short of one month ago.
Fulham and Leeds United should provide a lively cup tie at Craven Cottage tonight especially with Leeds’ players looking to impress their new manager.
There is also a chance for an upset tomorrow when Tottenham Hotspur go to Sheffield United. The Blades are in second place in the Championship and have won eight of their last 10 home games.
The second round of the Nedbank Cup kicks off on Thursday as Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants take a break from their respective adventures in African club competitions and face each other in Bloemfontein.
Gallants will be returning from a long journey to Algeria, where they lost on Sunday, while Sundowns played in Egypt on Saturday in a credible 2-2 draw with continental giants Al Ahly.
After Bloemfontein, Sundowns go onto Stellenbosch on Sunday for a league match where they can inch themselves closer to the title, setting new records in claiming the league yet again.