Erik ten Hag is optimistic about Manchester United's improved consistency following the return of key players, spurred by their thrilling 3-2 comeback victory against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
Despite the looming possibility of a fifth consecutive winless game, United's defensive lapses allowed Villa to secure a 2-0 lead in the first half through an uncontested free-kick from John McGinn and an unmarked goal from Leander Dendoncker.
Nonetheless, a remarkable second-half comeback unfolded, with Alejandro Garnacho scoring twice and Rasmus Hojlund securing his inaugural Premier League goal. This crucial win elevated United to sixth place, coinciding with the recent announcement of Jim Ratcliffe's impending investment in the club.
The victory over Villa marked only United's second triumph in seven games throughout December. Manager Ten Hag, who had been without key players such as Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Mason Mount, Tyrell Malacia, and Victor Lindelof, is hopeful that their return in January will contribute to enhanced team consistency.
"So often we have to change the team," remarked Dutch boss Ten Hag. "You don't get the routines. We know football is about solid performance and consistency, and we know we have to make a step there, but I'm sure when we have more players available in the key positions, we will get more consistency."
Marcus Rashford, making his first start since December 2, delivered an impressive performance. Ten Hag acknowledged Rashford's contributions and highlighted the internal competition within the team.
"I think he played very well," stated Ten Hag. "There is internal competition. (On Tuesday, we played Alejandro on the right; that can be a solution; it can be fluid, but Rashford can also play on the right side."
Villa, initially poised to level on points with leaders Liverpool, faced disappointment with United's second-half resurgence. Manager Unai Emery urged his team to move on and maintain their demanding standards, emphasising the importance of focusing on their upcoming match against Burnley on Saturday.
"Move on, be demanding," he urged. "My mentality now is to focus on Saturday and prepare the match as well as possible. We want to be better tomorrow than today."
