Three games and three wins. Erik ten Hag's start as Manchester United manager has been a strong one, with the obvious caveat that pre-season results will count for little once the season starts.
Perhaps more encouraging than the results have been the performances, with United beginning to display patterns of play - particularly in attack - with a fluid forward line linking up with the midfield and defence to cut through Liverpool ( 4-0 ), Melbourne Victory ( 4-1 ) and Crystal Palace ( 3-1 ).
While United have notched 11 goals in 270 pre-season minutes so far, they've only conceded twice. For a defence that shipped 57 Premier League goals last season - more than Burnley who were relegated - that is an early source of optimism for Ten Hag.
Needless to say, United will face bigger tests this coming campaign, especially when Liverpool's players are match fit - but with Tyrell Malacia already showing signs of promise, and Lisandro Martinez agreeing to join from Ajax, Ten Hag will have further options to choose from at the back.