Man United next five fixtures compared to Chelsea and Aston Villa after dramatic Brentford win

Erik ten Hag got the response he wanted and needed from his Manchester United side as quickfire second-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho completed a vital comeback victory over Brentford. Having fallen behind at Old Trafford, things appeared on the verge of collapse.

That would have been out of keeping with the tone of this game, though. Thomas Frank's side started typically well once more but were fortunate not to be behind after chances for Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund. Ethan Pinnock's goal, whilst inherently symptomatic of United's wider issues, was against the run of play after all.

United rallied well to the blow of falling behind though, especially given the heat of the moment. Matthijs de Ligt was furious not to be on the pitch when his opposing centre-back ended with a free header just outside the six-yard box, and Ten Hag was booked.

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Ruud van Nistelrooy lost his cool. United had been rattled. Before the vultures could settle around the stadium, the pattern of swift attacking play had made the difference at a crucial time. Garnacho slammed home and Hojlund dinked delightfully. Turnaround complete.

There are still issues at play here. United's defence - hit by injuries at an unfortunate rate - is not one of a Champions League hopeful, let alone one actually ready to compete in the competition. A midfield pivot of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen will struggle against better opposition, and wastefulness in front of goal was let off.

However, Ten Hag got his side through a huge game and has earned himself more time when it looked likely to be lacking. He avoids going six without a win