Following Manchester United's end-of-season victory against Fulham at Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag informed their loyal support that United have a "really good chance" of winning the FA Cup.
In his debut season at the club, the Dutchman has already steered United toward victory in the League Cup and a return to Champions League football, with a Wembley visit against Manchester City to come.
📣 When Erik talks, Old Trafford listens. #MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 28, 2023
His side came from behind to see off their London visitors, taking an entertaining contest by two goals to one and solidifying their third-place finish in the Premier League table.
Fulham went ahead through an early Kenny Tete header before David De Gea denied Aleksandar Mitrovic from the penalty spot.
United levelled just before half-time through Jadon Sancho, and Bruno Fernandes sealed the 2-1 comeback win with a splendid chip from a Fred through pass.
Not sure what's better, the assist or the finish 😮💨@Fred08Oficial ➡️ @B_Fernandes8#MUFC || #MUNFUL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 29, 2023
As is customary at the end of the season, the players took to the field with their families to thank the fans for their support throughout the campaign.
David de Gea has been the source of many headlines throughout the Red Devils campaign, but his efforts earned him the Premier Leagues Golden Glove award for 2022-23.
🔊 "The Premier League Golden Glove winner: @D_DeGea!" 🌟#MUFC || @PremierLeague pic.twitter.com/AKSmrnMMr8
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 28, 2023
After presenting de Gea with his award, ten Hag took to the mic to address the home support.
"First of all, I want to say thank you to our players," he said proudly. "I think they played a brilliant season.
"They are also supported by the staff. I want to say thank you to the staff.
"Secondly, I want to thank you all. We fought really strong during the season at Old Trafford and away.
"I want to thank you for the season and your contribution backing us, for the support – it was great, so thank you.
"But there is still one game to go and I am sure that these players will give everything to beat Manchester City next week.
"If you have our back, I’m sure we have a really good chance to take the cup back to Old Trafford."
As expected, the manager's confidence was met with jubilant applause and a raucous roar inside the stadium.
🧱 Building the foundations. #MUFC || #MUNFUL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 28, 2023
"The progress is obvious and clear," he said in his post-match comments. "I think it gives us a good base to get this club back to where it belongs.
"It’s obvious we play against probably – at this moment – the best team, but still there is a chance and we have to go for the chance and we have to give everything.
"We can’t be after the game finding excuses for ourselves. I’m sure we will play a good game on Saturday."
United and great rivals City will lock horns at Wembley next Saturday, with both clubs aiming to add to the silverware that has already been earned this season.
For United, a domestic cup double is on offer. For City, the prospect of emulating Sir Alex Fergusons' famous treble-winning side of 1999 is on the lips of every football supporter.
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