Erik ten Hag can use Bayern Munich fixture to Manchester United’s advantage

The feeling going into Wednesday's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich should have been excitement for Manchester United fans. Instead the overwhelming emotion is fear.

Bayern nabbed Harry Kane, who has taken to life in Munich like a duck to water. The England captain has scored four goals in as many Bundesliga games and he will be looking to continue that form against Erik ten Hag’s side.

The United manager is under increasing pressure with just two wins in five matches with those coming via one-goal margins. The loss to Brighton was not surprising but still very disappointing.

A lack of effort cannot be blamed and United’s injury crisis did not help. The Reds are braced to travel to Munich with a full XI of unavailable players with Jadon Sancho and Antony not currently in the squad.

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Back home, tensions are rising and perhaps a trip away is what everyone needs. After all, it should not be lost on anyone that United are back in the big time playing the biggest fish.

Indeed United’s best performance this season has come when they have not been the favourites. The manner in which they lost to Arsenal was gut-wrenching yet but for a marginal offside call and an unlucky deflection, United may have walked away with all three points. It was not a dominant display it was their best showing this season.

Bayern Munich will pose a potentially tougher test. United could easily get fried under the lights of the Allianz - or they can use the experience to their advantage. Ten Hag and his players could forge a siege mentality. Those not with the squad are out of sight and perhaps out of mind.