Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag says, ‘he won’t let standards drop’

The Dutchman has turned things around since taking charge of the faltering Old Trafford giants nine months ago, leading the club to a first trophy in six years on Sunday.

The victory over Newcastle at Wembley felt like a huge moment for a group who are eager to fight for more in the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup.

Ten Hag told his charges to “get back to work” as they prepare to welcome West Ham in the latter competition tonight and does not think Sunday’s trophy will see levels drop.

“I think in the first place the players have to take responsibility for that,” the United manager said. “They have to take responsibility for their performance. I can’t see that (drop in performance coming). It’s a trophy but it’s not the end of the season.

“So, what I heard around me, when I see the comments in the media (from players), when I see the fight in the dressing-room yesterday, this is not like we are satisfied with this.

“We want to do better and I think that is quite clear, so it’s inspiring and it’s not the end. Definitely not.”

Ten Hag brushed aside any talk of a quadruple, saying his only focus is on their FA Cup fifth-round tie against the Hammers at Old Trafford.

Asked if players find extra energy from winning games and trophies on a run like this, Ten Hag said: “Very good question. It’s true. In my experience in Ajax is when we dropped out of Europe, the levels went down. When you are in, it gives energy.”

United have already played 40 matches in what is a season unlike any other due to the winter scheduling of the World Cup in Qatar.

There is the potential for 25 more games – just one shy of the club record of 66 set in 2008-’09.

Ten Hag, however, is confident he has the strength in depth to survive the schedule.

“Yes (the squad can cope),” he said. “Yes, I think so because until now we have managed it quite good and I think we can do it also until the end of the season. I am happy.

“So, except Anthony Martial, the availability from all the players is there. First mentally, they are really ambitious. That is one thing and that gives the energy.

“Second, I think we have the type of players who can handle the load, the physical load.”

The aforementioned Martial was a key part of pre-season and the United manager’s plans for the season, but an injury-hit campaign has restricted him to just 14 appearances in all competitions.

The France forward has been laid low by a hip complaint right now and Ten Hag was unwilling to say whether the forward will be able to play before March’s international break.

“I hope but I don’t give an expectation about that,” he said of his return date. “Let him do his work.

“Several times now and then he drops back too quickly, so give him the time.

“Of course I hope he’s on board but also at this moment we’re doing really well with this set-up.

“When he will be available, then we have an extra option and we have a good option so give him the time and we will see when he’s back.

“Then we’ll be happy because we have quality option extra for hopefully the rest of the season.”

Martial’s issues compounded the dramatic exit of star name Cristiano Ronaldo, with Wout Weghorst arriving on loan from Burnley in January as United brought in a surprise replacement.

Marcel Sabitzer then joined on loan on deadline day following the ankle injury sustained by Christian Eriksen, but talk of extended stays is of no interest to Ten Hag at this point.

“I think it’s much too quick, much too soon to talk about that,” he added.

“First, we are in this season. That is where the only focus has to be. No distractions from what is coming next season.”

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