Christian Eriksen praise proves Erik ten Hag was right with Manchester United decision

When Manchester United began their season with back-to-back defeats against Brighton and Brentford, many supporters feared the worst for the rest of the campaign. It was the worst possible start under Erik ten Hag, but the Dutchman, and his players, soon steadied the ship.

Prior to the defeat against Real Sociedad in the Europa League on Thursday night, the Reds had gone on a four-match winning run - which saw United record victories over Liverpool, Southampton, Leicester City and Arsenal.

While the performances against Southampton and Leicester were far from convincing, Ten Hag - and many fans and pundits - took pleasure in the team's ability to grind out a result. In contract, the Reds impressed against Liverpool and Arsenal, and executed their respective game plans perfectly.

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One of the key factors in United's recent resurgence has been the midfield. Against Brighton and Brentford, the Reds were dominated in the middle of the park. However, in the last four league matches, Ten Hag's men have looked solid and comfortable.

Scott McTominay was expected to lose his place in the side following the £60million signing of Casemiro from Real Madrid, but the Scotsman has retained his spot ahead of the Brazilian midfielder and his compatriot, Fred.

The 25-year-old, who was heavily criticised towards the end of last season and at the start of this term, has made six appearances for United this campaign, starting on five occasions. While it would have been easy for the academy graduate to feel sorry for himself after struggling to find his stride, he has actually stood up and been counted in recent weeks.

Although the Scot has come under intense scrutiny