Lindelof: We gained control

We had to be patient in an at times end-to-end contest at The City Ground, but were able to secure a place in the last eight thanks to a Casemiro header in the dying minutes of the frantic cup tie.

Taking up a more familiar centre-back role, having deputised at left-back in United’s previous three games, Lindelof was overjoyed to advance in the competition, particularly in such dramatic fashion.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” our no.2 told MUTV. “We felt in the second half we got a little bit more control over the game and it felt like the goal was getting a lit bit closer.

“Obviously, it’s a very nice feeling to see the ball go into the net and we’re happy for Case as well.

“Every game, we try to keep a clean sheet. In the second half, we controlled the game better and we stopped their counter-attacks in a better way.

“I think everyone in the team defended well today and I’m happy with that.”

The Sweden captain was delighted to have the backing of a vociferous travelling United contingent at The City Ground – citing their input as key to him and his team-mates being able to pursue a winner until the death.

“Again, it’s an amazing feeling and we have such an amazing group of fans,” he continued. “Today we have some more away fans with us and you could clearly hear that as well.

“They did a fantastic job supporting us too throughout the game and I think that’s why we had that little bit of extra energy to win the game.”

Lindelof had been absent for almost two months through injury, prior to his reintroduction to the side at the start of the month – as a late substitute in the win over West Ham at Old Trafford.

The defender’s availability will be invaluable as we approach a key run of fixtures – which now includes further FA Cup action, with the Reds drawn to face Liverpool at home in the quarter-finals in just a few weeks’ time.

With challenging games in the schedule both at home and away before next month’s international break – starting with a trip to Manchester City this weekend – Lindelof feels there is plenty to look forward to but won’t switch his focus beyond the next game.

“It’s going to be a great game there [at Manchester City] and I think everyone is looking forward to that as well, but right now, we’re just happy to go through to the next round.

“Tomorrow [Thursday], we start with the preparation for that [facing City]. It’s a big game and everyone wants to be on the pitch and try to get the three points.

“It’s always easier to go into a big game if you win the previous one, you have a nice feeling, so of course, it helps.

Asked about facing Liverpool in the next round of the FA Cup, he added: “I think it’s going to be a great game, but we have a few games before that.

“I’m just very happy for the win today and then we’re just trying to focus on what’s coming next. It’s a big game coming up but I think everyone is looking forward to that as well.”