Erik: Spurs are a huge challenge

The Reds are back at Old Trafford for our next Premier League assignment, (16:30 BST) as we take on Ange Postecoglou's side with three points the ultimate aim.

United were held to a 1-1 draw with FC Twente in midweek and failed to make our dominance count against Crystal Palace last weekend at Selhurst Park.

Ahead of the Lilywhites arrival, Erik says our previous encounters with Spurs have been entertaining affairs, but has expressed the need for his side to control the match.

Speaking to club media this week, Ten Hag previewed the mouthwatering encounter and below you can read a selection of what the boss had to say...

Sunday's game is being billed as a game between two rivals who are fighting for the top four in the Premier League. Do you see it that?
"[We are] definitely rivals. I think this is good because it is [going to be] a very attacking game, a very open game, a very intense game. I think it has big history, United against Tottenham."

There have been 12 goals scored in the four games you have managed in this fixture, three in a match and no 0-0's since 2014, so there is always seemingly goals in this game. It is an exciting fixture...
"I think both teams will be [thinking] about attacking and therefore there are always spaces which you leave then. That counts for both teams but of course we want to take control of the game and we will do everything to get this done. Of course this is a big challenge against Tottenham with their philosophy of the game. We are looking forward to finding the right solutions."

Are there any changes to your matchday squad for the game?
"I don't expect them. We are now three days up before the game and as I see now everyone came out well from the game against FC Twente. I expect the same squad will be available and then I will pick the team."

We saw Leny Yoro post a picture in the gym of him working hard. Is his recovery going as expected?
"Yes, he is doing very well. It is very pleasing that his rehab is going in the right direction and I expect him soon, but what I mean by soon is that he is now in the right planning process. He is in the right spot and he will return as soon as possible into the squad and then the team training."

You have spoken about the taxing schedule so is it difficult to convince players they need a rest and the need to rotate when they all want to play?
"That is difficult because players want to play. Everything they understand like the ratio [of games] but in their hearts they want to play every game."

Finally it was strange having the Carabao Cup draw after a Europa League game and we will speak later about Leicester, but what are your thoughts on a home draw against Leicester City?
"A strong team, a Premier League team, but of course we are very happy to have a home game. It is also a cup which we want to win and you have to beat every opponent. We are looking forward [to it] and Leicester are a very tough opponent, they will be tough. It will be a good challenge for us but we want to achieve [a place] in the next round."