Manchester United’s 2-1 win against Aston Villa helped move the Reds within five points of Aston Villa and six adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham.
That means the Reds are within touching distance of the final Champions League spot, but there is a lot of football to be played between now and the end of the season.
A lot of points to be gained, dropped and squandered.
I was shocked to find that only Man City (8) and Arsenal (7) have won more away games in the league this season than United (6), yet we’ve been taking pelters in the media this term.
United were far from fantastic at Villa Park. It was clear that our build up play was dramatically slower without Lisandro Martinez fizzing balls out from the back.
The one observation I would make over recent weeks – with and without Martinez – is our shape [4-1-1-1), even though we’re conceding chances, has significantly improved. That is why I dare ask has the penny finally dropped for United this season?
United have now won four consecutive away games in all competitions, which is our longest such run on the road since winning 10 in a row from June to October 2020. Let’s hope for a similar away run – or longer – this time around, under Erik ten Hag.
Mate sent me this from the bus back from Villa. pic.twitter.com/spqlTPlVYV
— Andy Mitten (@AndyMitten) February 11, 2024
Villa did well to stay in the game but their main tactical objective was to stop United’s counter attack on Sunday. They ultimately failed on that front and were lucky Alejandro Garnacho didn’t pack his shooing boots.
It was a terrific win and I don’t think any United fan can have too many complaints. United are on a good run, Rasmus Hojlund is scoring goals and Andre Onana might be better than what many of us feared.
At least we can all start our week on the right note knowing Manchester United have a 0 goal difference after 24 matches.
Share your thoughts in the comment section if you think this is the turning point of United’s season, and let us know if you think Ten Hag’s side will be successful in their attempts to qualify for the Champions League.
Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
Would definitely be a turning-point if we fielded more than 7 outfield players. 4-1-1-1 ?
Might explain a lot of the dropped points.🙂