Erik ten Hag can use his favourite Manchester United tactic for success vs Man City

Manchester United enter Sunday’s derby on the back of three straight wins yet fans are pensive. Triumphs over Brentford, Sheffield United and FC Copenhagen have come by one-goal margins and generally lacklustre performances.

Harry Maguire’s winning header and Andre Onana’s last-gasp penalty save were vital in restoring personal confidence ahead of a meeting with Manchester City. Both will play important roles in trying to keep the Blues at bay.

Critics have accused Erik ten Hag of failing to instil a distinct style of play, with the word ‘disjointed’ often used. Injuries have not helped cohesion with 17 players sidelined at some point already.

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Many of them have been defenders with nearly all spending time in the physio room at some point. This has hindered Ten Hag’s chance to produce consistency in his game plan. Speaking in the summer, the United boss made it clear what his ideal tactical ambition was.

“We really looked into the history of Manchester United and we really looked also into the qualities of our players,” he said while on tour in the US. “And then you can say, so what do we want to be? That is, we want to be the best transition team in the world. We want to surprise.”

It’s hardly gone to plan so far. Casemiro was the reliable blockade last season. He is back from injury and suspension for Sunday’s clash but this news is not as relief-inducing as it once was given his tepid displays this campaign. Still, United are better with than without.

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford - who scored 30 last term - has hit the net just once for United so far. It was hoped his goal for England against