Ten Hag encourages Manchester United to hold their ground against Southampton

Erik ten Hag called on Manchester United to continue to show their resilience as the season draws to a close.

Liverpool’s 7-0 win last Sunday drew widespread criticism but did not hinder United’s exploits in the Europa League, securing a 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the first leg of the round of 16.

The game in the second half was decisive against the Spanish side as Betis equalized as the game progressed, which Ten Hag felt highlighted the team’s character.

That spirit has been present at United on a number of occasions this season and manager Ten Hag is keen to repeat the same against Southampton as the Red Devils look to secure third place.

“I think when the season comes to an end, it will be even more difficult for each team, because the pressure will be higher and higher,” he said.

“So you need character, you need determination, you need resilience, you need a team with personalities, and I think we’ve already shown a few times this season that this team can handle setbacks.

“[Against Real Betis] we saw an example, but even earlier, after Brentford, for example, after Arsenal we bounced back, after [Manchester] The city is back to normal.

“Now I’ll say this [win over Betis] it’s the first part because another one should come on Sunday, but I think this team can rely on that, that they can bounce back, but it takes a lot of energy and a lot of unity from a lot of players to get things done.”