Erik ten Hag has four weeks to rediscover Manchester United wildcard plan

Players produce moments, teams win matches but squads win you trophies. It’s why Erik ten Hag was so adamant about keeping his roster bulky at the start of the season.

He used 28 different players in the triumphant League Cup run and the figure will be not far off that total by the time United line up against Manchester City in the FA Cup final. In a long season, substitutes need to produce the goods.

For most of this season, Ten Hag has been able to use his substitutes to influence and change games. Think Alejandro Garnacho’s assist for Marcus Rashford’s winner against City in January.

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Antony’s strike against Barcelona and more recently Anthony Martial’s goal against Everton can be thrown into that hat too. But Ten Hag’s plan B hasn't worked as often in recent months.

The Dutchman got it wrong against Newcastle in the 2-0 defeat at St James’ Park and his changes against Sevilla and Tottenham arguably made the team weaker. Martial’s goal against Everton four weeks ago was the last time a substitute found the net for United.

The Reds have lost one and drawn two of the six matches since, including the loss to Sevilla and the 2-2 draw with Tottenham. Part of this is down to the bad injury and suspension luck United have suffered, and the depth of the squad has been exposed.

The return of Alejandro Garnacho will be a major boost and promote competition on the flanks once again. Rashford is still nearing full speed again following his injury, his goal against Spurs evidence of this.

Martial’s availability is a big bonus while Scott McTominay’s impending comeback will at least add another option for the midfield when legs are tired. All of