Eriik ten Hag is adamant Manchester United’s energy levels will not drop in what could be one of the club’s most taxing seasons. United have already played 40 games and could play up to 25 more if they progress to the finals of the FA Cup and the Europa League. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, United played 66 times in the 2008-09 season when they won the Club World Cup, the League Cup and the Premier League, and reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup and the Champions League final. Also read: Two United players doubts for West Ham tie United played 64 games in the 2016-17 campaign under Jose Mourinho while they competed in 63 fixtures during the Treble-winning season in 1998-99. They also played 63 times in 1993-94 and 2002-03. United resume their Europa League campaign in the round-of-16 against Real Betis next week and Ten Hag highlighted the importance of remaining in Europe, having experienced disappointingly early eliminations with Ajax. Ten Hag guided Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals in 2018-19 but they were eliminated at the group stage in the next two seasons and ejected by Benfica at the last 16 stage last term. “It’s true. In my experience in Ajax, when we dropped out of Europe the levels went down and when you are in it gives energy,” Ten Hag said. “Yes, I think [the United squad can cope with the demands]. Until now, we have managed it quite well and I think we can do it also until the end of the season. I’m happy. Except Anthony Martial, the availability from all the players is there. “Mentally, they are really ambitious, that is one thing and that gives energy. Second, we have the type of players who can handle the load, the physical load. “Of course, the players have to take responsibility for that first. They have to take responsibility for their performance. But I can’t see that [a drop in levels happening]. It’s a trophy but it’s not the end of the season. “What I have heard around me and when I see the comments … when I see the fight in the dressing room it’s not like we are satisfied with this. We want to do better. That is quite clear. So it’s inspiring and it’s not the end – definitely not.” United travel to Liverpool after the West Ham match and host Southampton in between the two legs against Real Betis. They will play their FA Cup quarter-final on March 19 if they defeat West Ham on Wednesday night. READ MORE: Ten Hag targeting two significant signings in summer Emails, the human touch and more – inside Ten Hag’s United revolution United must give Rashford what Ronaldo wanted Ten Hag delivered another masterclass in press conference at Wembley All the United news and views Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.
