Erik ten Hag impressed with Man Utd performance against Aston Villa, urges players to focus on Brighton

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was impressed with his side’s showing as they defeated Aston Villa in their Premier League clash today.

United won the game, with Bruno Fernandes scoring the only goal. The Red Devils sit fourth in the league with 63 points.

United are two points below Newcastle United, but they have played a game less. The manager was happy with the result and performances, capping a superb week.

Ten Hag believes the week ended brilliantly despite the midweek draw against Tottenham Hotspur.

He said (via Man Utd’s official website): “I’m really happy with the points but also with the performance. It was impressive against a Villa side who hadn’t lost in 10 games and scored in every game.

“We were really good on the ball in the first half – magnificent. We created some really good chances through Casemiro, [Marcus] Rashford, Fernandes and [Marcel] Sabitzer, and scored.

“And then, in the second half, you have to make it 2-0 and you don’t make it. And in the end it’s going to be tough but we saw again the determination of this team. 

“We have to keep going from game to game but I think this is a brilliant week for us. Before this week, I would have been happy with a point at Spurs.

“Of course, when you see the game and you are 2-0 up, you are a bit disappointed. But with this win, it’s a perfect week. So big credit to the team.”

The former Ajax manager said fatigue is a mindset and praised the players for showing mentality and character.

There was more praise for goalscorer Fernandes. The Portuguese international played through pain barrier today.

The manager said he had several tactical responsibilities and executed them to perfection.

The focus now turns to United’s Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion.

“We go from game to game – and so the next game is Brighton and you have to do the same,” Ten Hag added.

“Don’t get distracted and not think too much about the table. I’m sure we are totally in control. It’s all about us – it’s in our hands.

“We have to bring the same, at the minimum, against Brighton, because we know it’s a tough team from our experience in the semi-final and we have to go again.”