Manchester United will look at their 2-2 draw with Leeds United as two points dropped, despite the Reds trailing their bitter rivals by two goals after an hour.
Erik ten Hag’s men deservedly got themselves back into the game and were unlucky not to claim all three points in a cagey affair at Old Trafford.
Marcus Rashford, the most in-form player in Europe right now, scored his customary goal to reduce United’s deficit in half and moments later, it was Jadon Sancho who would enjoy a moment a pure ecstasy.
Prior to Wednesday’s game, Sancho had not featured in the Premier League since October 2022 and with United trailing, Ten Hag called on the winger to spare their blushes.
And that’s exactly what he did. Sancho was unplayable for the entirety of his return to the competition and his equaliser, which he celebrated by pointing to his temple, will rank high among his most memorable moments since he joined in 2021.
Speaking after the game, manager Ten Hag has reserved special praise for the 22-year-old, hailing his impact as he confidently claims the ‘magnificent’ player is back.
“I wanted a different dynamic. In that moment we weren’t in the game,” Ten Hag is quoted as saying by the BBC.
“Luckily it succeeded because we scored two goals. Very happy. He’s all the way back. We know he’s a magnificent player.
“I think consistently he can have a big impact. But he has to work hard. It will motivate him to get more. I really enjoyed it, especially for him. It will strengthen him.
“If you play a derby you need a different attitude. You have to start and be ready and take responsibilty, win your battles and be composed on the ball.”
Now, there’s not a lot of time for rest before yet another edition of this storied rivalry is played out and this time, it will be played at Elland Road.
United are now unbeaten in all five games they have played against Leeds since their promotion in 2020 and Ten Hag needs to extend that run by winning on Sunday after dropping points today.
