Owen Hargreaves has identified the changes in Michael Carrick’s side following their impressive Spurs victory, contrasting City and Arsenal wins.
Manchester United have extended their winning streak to four out of four following a dominant 2-0 victory against Thomas Frank’s Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
Michael Carrick’s men found themselves with a numerical advantage after Spurs captain Cristian Romero was sent off for a dangerous challenge on fellow South American Casemiro.
United took the lead shortly after through Bryan Mbeumo, who finished a smart set piece as Kobbie Mainoo gently set the ball to the Cameroonian just behind the penalty spot, as Mbeumo swept his effort past a desperate Guglielmo Vicario.
With the iconic Old Trafford half-time record on the line, United secured all three points in the 81st minute thanks to their Portuguese maestro, Bruno Fernandes, who pounced on the end of a cross from his fellow countryman, Diogo Dalot.
Former Red Devil, turned pundit, Owen Hargreaves explained a change he noticed in United’s performance today, which opposed their showings against Man City and Arsenal.
Hargreaves highlights ‘very different’ United display
Following United’s victory, Hargreaves was quick to notice the major difference in United’s approach to the game across the full 90 minutes, speaking on TNT Sports.
“They [Manchester United] should have got more, really. I thought they got themselves in brilliant positions, but I just thought they played really well. You know, the team looked really comfortable.”
“Brilliant in possession, very different from the way they played against Man City and Arsenal, where they played on the counter. Defended really well today. You saw something a little bit different.”
“Again, I thought the midfield three just ran the game control, but passed the ball beautifully. And in decisive moments, they were there.”
“That second goal from Bruno, the first goal, the set piece was amazing, but the second one, the finish and improvisation from Bruno is, I mean, let’s be honest, 200 goal involvements is ridiculous. The PlayStation numbers. Yeah, it’s been up since.”
United’s dominant possession against Spurs
United demonstrated throughout the full 90 minutes that they have the quality to create damage consistently, rather than opting for more counter-attacking football.
The match saw United attempt close link-up play in the final third on multiple occasions, particularly between the front four of Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Mbeumo and Amad.
United pinned Spurs in during the game and had the safety of Mainoo and Casemiro to pick up the scraps from Spurs.
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United may adopt a similar approach as they head into their midweek Premier League fixture with West Ham away from home, as their charge for Champions League football continues.
Carrick has shown the players’ adaptability, depending on the opponent’s approach, and this will prove crucial as United try to maintain this great form.
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