Ten Hag: 'I never think negatively'

Coach Erik ten Hag affirmed that he always believes in Man Utd's victory, after struggling to defeat host Aston Villa 2-1 in round 24 of the Premier League.

"I never think in negative situations, I always think positively," Ten Hag said after the match at Villa Park on February 11. "We are not at our best level yet, but we are in a good mood and we have to continue this process, we have to continue to improve. There are still many games ahead, let's see what happens."

Man Utd started the game better and took the lead from Rasmus Hojlund's close-range shot. Aston Villa then equalised through Douglas Luiz, and could have taken the lead if Moussa Diaby, Ollie Watkins or Luiz himself had converted their chances better.

The difference came in the 86th minute, when Diogo Dalot crossed from the right for substitute Scott McTominay to run past Matty Cash and head past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to seal a 2-1 win. The result helped Man Utd reduce the gap to fifth-placed Aston Villa to five points with 14 games remaining.

Coach Erik ten Hag directs the match between Man Utd and Aston Villa in round 24 of the Premier League at Villa Park on February 11. Photo: Reuters — Coach Erik ten Hag directs the match between Man Utd and Aston Villa in round 24 of the Premier League at Villa Park on February 11. Photo: *Reuters*

According to Ten Hag, Man Utd controlled the match in the first 20 minutes, defended well and took the lead. The Dutch coach said that both teams created an open game and could have won when the score was 1-1, and also assessed that Man Utd showed more mentality and personality at the decisive moment.

McTominay continues to lead Man Utd's Premier League scoring charts this season with seven goals. Before his goal in the win over Aston Villa, the Scottish midfielder scored a number of important goals, including two braces as Man Utd beat Chelsea and Brentford with the same score of 2-1. Ten Hag praised McTominay for always being ready, giving his all when given the opportunity, trying to help the team and being an example for his teammates.

Meanwhile, McTominay said: "I just feel as long as I'm fit to come on, I can do well. I'll keep doing what I'm doing. I don't have a problem not starting. I just want to come on, give my all for the team and have always done that. I want to keep helping the team as much as I can and long may that continue."

United have won four games in a row in all competitions and can improve their record when they face Luton, Fulham and Nottingham Forest in their next three games. They then play the Manchester derby against City on March 3. McTominay wants United to extend their winning streak and continue to challenge for the top spots. "Every win is important for the team to move forward, to gain more confidence," said the 27-year-old midfielder. "The strikers are scoring more goals and the team is gaining more points. It's all positive and we have to maintain this result consistently."

Hong Duy

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