Ten Hag: Players and fans can be 'formidable force'
Erik ten Hag has called for Manchester United's players and fans to come together like never before, ahead of Sunday's 'do-or-die' FA Cup tie against arch-enemies Liverpool.
Writing in his exclusive column for our matchday programme, United Review, the Dutchman delivers a proud and passionate explanation of just how crucial Old Trafford's support can be in helping the Reds to reach Wembley.
United have not lost a home FA Cup game against Liverpool for over 100 years, and Ten Hag also defeated Jurgen Klopp's team the last time they visited M16, in August 2022.
The Merseysiders might head into the match as the bookies' favourites, due to their impressive form in 2023/24, but Erik says the odds can be overturned if we are at our best, both on and off the pitch.
With that in mind, supporters are being encouraged to get there early, in order to start singing and begin building a big atmosphere. Look out for a surfer flag that will be unfurled across the Stretford End ahead of kick-off, as the players walk onto the pitch.
Part one: Press conference v Liverpool Video
Part one: Press conference v Liverpool
Press conference part one | Erik gave a positive update on the squad, while previewing our FA Cup tie with Liverpool...
"Just as we need our players on top form," writes Ten Hag, "the same is true of our fans. The challenge to you is to help us make the most of our home advantage in the last cup game to be played at Old Trafford this season.
"Cup games are do-or-die and we need the players and fans to give energy to each other, if we are to progress to the semi-finals. The prizes on offer today are huge: a return to Wembley, a step closer to a major trophy and a win over our biggest rivals. To achieve those goals, everybody inside Old Trafford has a part to play, working as one big team.
"Together, we are a formidable force."
The boss is keen to point to that last meeting between the clubs at Old Trafford - a 2-1 victory for United near the start of the last Premier League season - and believes that success was a great example of how players and fans can inspire each other.
"This fixture always demands concentration, calm and confidence," he explains. "Every player, whether in the starting XI or on the bench, has a job to do and has to take responsibility for doing it correctly.
"We also had incredible support from the stands when we beat Liverpool at Old Trafford last season and we know, from that experience and other big games, what a difference the fans can make when we really bring the noise.
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"I don’t need to explain to anybody the significance and size of this game," continues the 54-year-old.
"We have the two greatest clubs in English football, with the greatest pedigree and the greatest rivalry, facing each other in a knockout tie in the world’s greatest cup competition.
"When you are a child watching football, these are the games that make you fall in love with the sport; how could anybody not be excited to be a part of this spectacle?"
We hope you're all looking forward to Sunday's match and, if you're lucky enough to be attending, don't forget to right behind the lads by bringing as much noise and passion as you've got!
Come on, United!
Come on, United!
Extended Q&A: 'This is one of the huge fixtures' Video
Extended Q&A: 'This is one of the huge fixtures'
EXTENDED Q&A | We ask Erik about team news, our midweek bonding meal and the magnitude of United v Liverpool…
Ahead of tomorrow’s game, supporters of both clubs are reminded of the comments made by Ten Hag and Jurgen Klopp last season condemning tragedy chanting.
Chants relating to events such as Munich, Heysel and Hillsborough have to be eradicated from the game and fans are reminded that such chants are liable to criminal and club action.
Chants relating to events such as Munich, Heysel and Hillsborough have to be eradicated from the game and fans are reminded that such chants are liable to criminal and club action.
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