5 talking points as Manchester United break goal-drought against Brentford (Premier League)

Manchester United collected all three points as they defeated Brentford 1-0 at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

In the opening 45 minutes, it was Marcus Rashford who proved the difference as his strike in the 28th minute gave Manchester United and Erik ten Hag a half-time lead.

It was 45 minutes that saw United play a much-improved brand of football in comparison to last weekend’s 2-0 loss against Newcastle United.

Read More: Manchester United player ratings in important 1-0 win vs Brentford in Premier League

The second half contained no extra goals, but with United keeping a clean sheet and breaking their goal drought in the league, it will be a welcome three points for the club.

#1 Ten Hag retains confidence in his team

Rather surprisingly, Ten Hag only made one change to the team that lost against Newcastle, with Jadon Sancho replacing Wout Weghorst.

It showed how much trust the Dutchman has in his squad in their ability to bounce back from defeats, which has been previously demonstrated on multiple occasions

His patience paid off, with his players delivering a professional display and three important points.

#2 Rashford loves a goal at Old Trafford

Rashford’s opening goal of the tie was his 9th goal in nine games at Old Trafford, continuing his brilliant run of form in 2023.

That goal equalled Andy Cole’s tally for the club, Ruud van Nistlroy’s Premier League goal contributions for United, and the most goals scored by a United player in a single season since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson.

He needs just one more goal to set himself apart from all other attackers for single-season goal tallies across all competitions, and will almost certainly break the 30-goal mark before the end of the campaign.

#3 Shaw sees injury at 250 appearances

One down point from the fixture was the loss of Luke Shaw in the 38th minute, with the Englishman hurting his hamstring during this 250th appearance for the club.

After signing a fresh 4-year deal with the club just days prior, Shaw’s injury comes at a time when the club are due to play a further seven fixtures this month, putting a potential onus on Tyrell Malacia to cover.

It is unclear the extent of injury Shaw has suffered, although the club will likely confirm in the next few days if the injury has been deemed serious or not.

#4 Sabitzer thrives in free role

Marcel Sabitzer played a pretty free role alongside Bruno Fernandes in midfield against Brentford, with Scott McTominay at the base.

He excelled in the role, creating several chances and having a few shots on goal himself – in attacking phases, he primarily operated on the edge of Brentford’s area.

It was his cheeky cushioned header that set up Rashford for his first-half strike, and he generally enjoyed a positive performance up until his substitution after 70 minutes.

#5 Home record reigns supreme

At Old Trafford in the Premier League this season, United have only conceded eight goals – the best defensive home record of any side in the competition this season.

After some shakey away defensive performances in recent weeks, this clean sheet will give Ten Hag’s team a much-needed boost.

The club’s next to fixtures, against Everton in the Premier League and Sevilla in the Europa League, are both at Old Trafford and are perfect opportunities to rebuild confidence.