Erik ten Hag is preparing his squad for tonight’s Carabao Cup clash against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, in which they begin their defence of the trophy after lifting it in February.
Tonight also marks the first of a double-header against the Eagles, as the two sides face each other again on Saturday in a Premier League outing – again at home.
United saw out a hard-earned 1-0 win over Burnley last weekend to end an unwanted three-game winless streak, so creating a positive run of form with the upcoming run of fixtures will be crucial in boosting morale.
Injuries have plagued the squad since the beginning of the term so Ten Hag will no doubt be hoping to see vast improvements across the pitch when all key players return.
Ten Hag speaks of high standards at United
The manager is well aware of the pressure that comes with filling the dugout in M16 – as is the team – but representing the 20-time English champions is an opportunity that few get to take.
“Pressure is just part of life at Manchester United,” Ten Hag wrote in tonight’s match programme (via Samuel Luckhurst). “For every single person involved with the club.
“The demands here are never easy because expectations are so high and everybody is always watching but you do not wear this crest to have an easy life.”
