Ten Hag: We must build on a good start to 2024

United defeated the Latics 2-0 at the DW Stadium earlier in the week and, in our first Old Trafford fixture of the new year, we host Ange Postecoglou's Spurs this afternoon (Sunday, 16:30 GMT).

Ahead of the mouth-watering Premier League fixture, Erik says the atmosphere at the training ground and the plethora of returning players gives him confidence that we can follow up Monday's win with a strong performance at the Theatre of Dreams.

Read and watch the Dutchman's Matchday Q&A below...

Erik, it promises to be a great game against Spurs. How important is it to start 2024, in the Premier League, at Old Trafford, well?
"I think to set the question is to answer the question. That is what we are looking for. There is a very good spirit at Carrington in the last weeks and there is a real inspiration there. There is a very good fight and we want to do the things right. We started the week well, with the FA Cup win over Wigan, and now we have to build on that. But it is a different game. A different opponent, attractive opponent, and we are really looking forward [and are] excited about this game."

Most importantly, how is the team looking? Any players back from illness or injury?
"Yeah, there are many players returning on the training pitch in this week. It is very good news. Also, long-term [absentees] like Casemiro and Licha [Lisandro] Martinez are returning. Luke Shaw was not that long out and he is returning on the pitch. In the week, Christian Eriksen was not available, but he will be available, and Antony dos Santos and Amad Diallo as well. We have choices to make."

Do you hope that the worst is out of the way and hopefully you can stay more injury and illness free and have your best players available for 2024?
"The conclusion is a little bit too quick. Let's wait. Because they need to stay fit over longer periods and that is what this team needs and that is what this club needs."