sport news DANNY MURPHY: Erik ten Hag has changed the mindset of his Manchester United ... trends now
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Marcus Rashford is naturally being highlighted for his goals but it's the way that Erik ten Hag has changed the mindset of his players is the most impressive thing about Manchester United this season.
The new United are resilient and defensively committed. Against City, they put their bodies on the line.
Players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw and Rashford himself were written off a year ago. On Saturday, they were cornerstones of a great derby victory against the best team in Europe. It shows what a coach can achieve.
The way Erik ten Hag has changed the mindset of his players is the most impressive thing
Even before Rashford scored his winner, the England striker symbolised a new spirit at the club. When City were a goal up, he sprinted 40 yards to the corner flag to close down a City defender.
It got the stadium going and sparked the comeback. Things like that come from a place of desire and confidence which Rashford now has in addition to his undoubted ability.
I wasn't seeing that energy from him a year ago. Credit to Ten Hag for making him and the rest of the United team believe.
Tactically, the Dutchman is also shrewd. I said after the 6-3 drubbing at City that United would find it difficult against the best opposition with a midfield three of Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen.
