Erik: I just love United
In his post-match press conference, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was asked if winning a trophy in his first season justifies his move to the club in the summer.
Ten Hag’s side beat Newcastle United 2-0 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday afternoon, earning the first piece of silverware of the Dutchman’s reign.
It also marked the end of a near-six-year wait for a trophy to be brought back to Old Trafford, and, therefore, Erik was quizzed on whether ending that drought – and his quickfire impact at the club – has given justification to a potential “risk” that he took in coming to Old Trafford from Ajax.
The manager's response, speaking after the post-match celebrations, was brilliant, and highlighted the pride he feels to represent United.
Sir Alex and Erik share a hug
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“When I see our shirts, when I see our bond with the fans, when I see Old Trafford, when I see [a] legacy like Sir Alex [Ferguson] left.
“So many big players were developed in United teams and it makes a big impression – we want to do the same.
“This team wants to make its own history, its own legacy. When this opportunity came, I thought this is the right club for me, I want to be a part of it.”
West Ham United await the Reds in the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup on Wednesday evening, and Erik is determined for Sunday’s success to drive us on to more glory in other competitions.
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“And this trophy means something, that's the feeling I get here in the UK.
“We have won something, we have to celebrate that but after that point, you have to keep going, because, on Wednesday, it’s another game and it’s a big game. In our perspective, every game is a big game.
“You can't win when you're not 100 per cent, so we have to do everything to win this game. But this cup can be the inspiration to give even more, to be even more collective, to have even more togetherness, to put even more effort in to be even better, because we can’t be satisfied."