Manchester United dressing room reaction leaves Erik ten Hag confident of energy levels

Eriik ten Hag is adamant Manchester United's energy levels will not drop in what could be one of the club's most taxing seasons.

United have already played 40 games and could play up to 25 more if they progress to the finals of the FA Cup and the Europa League.

Under Sir Alex Ferguson, United played 66 times in the 2008-09 season when they won the Club World Cup, the League Cup and the Premier League, and reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup and the Champions League final.

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United played 64 games in the 2016-17 campaign under Jose Mourinho while they competed in 63 fixtures during the Treble-winning season in 1998-99. They also played 63 times in 1993-94 and 2002-03.

United resume their Europa League campaign in the round-of-16 against Real Betis next week and Ten Hag highlighted the importance of remaining in Europe, having experienced disappointingly early eliminations with Ajax.

Ten Hag guided Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals in 2018-19 but they were eliminated at the group stage in the next two seasons and ejected by Benfica at the last 16 stage last term.

"It’s true. In my experience in Ajax, when we dropped out of Europe the levels went down and when you are in it gives energy," Ten Hag said. "Yes, I think [the United squad can cope with the demands]. Until now, we have managed it quite well and I think we can do it also until the end of the season. I'm happy. Except Anthony Martial, the availability from all the players is there.

"Mentally, they are really ambitious, that is one thing and that gives energy. Second, we have the type of players who can handle the load, the physical load.

"Of course, the players have to take responsibility for that