Erik ten Hag urges his Man United players to continue offering one key trait after Carabao Cup win

Erik ten Hag has urged his Manchester United players to continue to take responsibility on the pitch as he cites the importance of the squad going forward.

On Sunday, the Dutchman won his first trophy with The Reds since he joined the club as manager nine months ago.

United won 2-0 against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley but Ten Hag has yet again mentioned the importance of the entire squad in the success in that competition, and the entire season so far.

“Let’s make myself clear, we didn’t win with 11 players, we did win with a squad,” he told reporters. “And I think the squad is already, the whole season, so important.”

Man United have scored 19 goals this season through their substitutes and Ten Hag has made 17 different changes during half-time over the course of the season. That does not only show his eagerness to utilise his bench if things need tweaking but also the successful impact that those players are making.

“Every time players are coming in [to play], if it’s for the whole game, for minutes or a couple of games, I think also during games we can change the dynamics,” added Ten Hag. “We do it with many more than 11 players, so I count on them.”

Importantly, everyone is pushing in the same direction at the club. We’ve seen the likes of Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka left on the bench for prolonged periods of time and continue to support their team. The latter has since grasped an opportunity and impressed whilst the former is still patiently waiting.

Ten Hag mentions how taking responsibility for yourself on the pitch is crucial for his players.

“And I know they will be ready because every time players play games, they take responsibility and it’s about that,” continued the United manager. “Take responsibility, but also you have to fight for your position.

“We have great months ahead of us, also great games and I think everyone wants to play games. The players who form the best teams will play.”

With the upcoming FA Cup clash against West Ham being closely followed by an away trip to Anfield to face Liverpool, Ten Hag could utilise his squad members more so against The Hammers.