Scott McTominay attributes Manchester United’s significantly improved performance in Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea to the strategic prowess of under-pressure manager Erik ten Hag.
After facing substantial criticism for a lackluster and disjointed display against Newcastle at the weekend, the Red Devils rebounded at Old Trafford with a spirited and attack-minded performance.
- Ramsdale appears to laugh at David Raya after two errors against Luton Town
- Thierry Henry names the best defender in the Premier League
- Guardiola names team that will win Premier League title this season
Taking an early lead through McTominay, United could have secured a more comfortable position by half-time, but a missed penalty by Bruno Fernandes and a fine effort from Cole Palmer before the break leveled the score.
In the second half, McTominay’s close-range header regained the lead for United, and despite numerous chances, they sealed the win.
Amidst concerns about the squad’s work rate and discontent with Ten Hag’s methods, United refuted reports, and McTominay highlighted the manager’s adjustments in training to ensure freshness for the Chelsea match.
The energetic front three led the team’s tireless effort throughout the game.
When asked what was the key in terms of the team’s improved mentality in the game compared to at Newcastle, McTominay told Amazon Prime Video: ‘Obviously the manager, to be honest with you.
‘The way that we’ve approached the game, a lot of light training sessions to keep energy, to keep fresh, and to keep going for the next game – because obviously they come really thick and fast.
‘But for us it’s a night that we should be happy with, and one that we can build on.’
On the need to bounce back from Newcastle defeat, he added: ‘We started really, really well in the game and obviously the fans are really happy with the way we started and reacted after a pretty abysmal display against Newcastle, to be honest.
‘All the boys were so upset with how we coped with that game, it wasn’t anywhere near good enough, and to come here and win tonight was a plus and it’s something we can build on.’
Asked again about the rumours of dressing room unrest, Ten Hag told Match of the Day: ‘I don’t care about the noise. They are used to it. It was the same at Ajax but in a smaller country so less people.’
On his side’s mentality against Chelsea, he added: ‘When you are not on top form on the day, you get beaten. You need to be at your best. When you are not, you get killed. We know that and we need the right attitude every game.’
