Two traits have made Erik ten Hag the most popular Manchester United manager since Sir Alex Ferguson
As the Carabao Cup made its way down the line of victorious Manchester United players in the Wembley Royal Box, there was a roar from the 33,000 travelling fans each time it was hoisted anew into the air.
But towards the end of the procession, the din rose to new levels. Every player had been greeted with a raucous cheer, but this time the decibel levels went up.
It was the loudest roar of them all and it was reserved for the manager. There are popular players in this squad. Marcus Rashford's relationship with fans has been restored this season.
They love the passion of Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro and the quality of Raphael Varane. READ MORE: United have done what great teams do in the space of four days It is Erik ten Hag, however, who is the closest to the hearts of those United fans.