Michael Carrick might have shown Manchester United how to play Casemiro and Scott McTominay

Standards have dropped at Old Trafford since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 and Manchester United sunk to new lows post-Fergie time last season. Change was demanded and the early signs from Erik ten Hag have been more than encouraging, with a brighter future seemingly on the horizon.

From the moment Ten Hag arrived, hope was restored, but there was still a collective understanding it would take time for the Dutchman to instil his philosophy, and play catch-up at the Premier League summit. That would be the case on the training ground and in the transfer market, as well.

Having pursued Declan Rice for considerable time, even with alarm bells ringing when it came to a valuation, focus turned to Frenkie de Jong when Ten Hag was appointed. In truth, it didn't really matter who that priority target was, United addressed the elephant in the (engine) room to improve on the 'McFred' axis.

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Of course, that is the nickname given to the midfield double act Scott McTominay and Fred who have done their utmost to carry the fight for United in recent seasons, without being able to match rivals at the pinnacle. Something had to give this summer and the garishly public chase for De Jong underlined it.

With a new defensive midfielder on the radar and Fred a rare shining light under Ralf Rangnick after his appointment as interim manager, McTominay was favourite to line-up on the bench more regularly even before Ten Hag made his move for Casemiro. And then came another wildcard.

Few believed Christian Eriksen would become a regular starter after signing on a free for United, let alone complete an effective midfield partnership with McTominay. In tandem they have consigned Brazilian