Three reasons for Manchester United supporters to stay positive amid early season concerns

Could that Brentford win prove the catalyst for meant Erik ten Hag to turn the club's fortunes around? It will be the question many a Manchester United fan will be asking over the international break.

Erik ten Hag's side are in need of a lift. Four wins and four defeats from their opening eight Premier League games is hardly a dream start. Throw in the two Champions League losses and it is easy to understand why United fans are concerned.

But plenty of reasons to stay positive remain. A stoppage-time win last weekend was a throwback to yesteryear when Sir Alex Ferguson’s sides would never quit and often snatch a result at the final whistle. While not suggesting that win will inspire years of dominance, it does build a foundation to stay optimistic. MEN Sport has profiled three reasons for United supporters to stay positive despite the underwhelming start.

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Reflect on this time last year

A year ago, United also suffered a poor start. For context, they were just three points better off at this stage in 2022-23. It was after this international break when Ten Hag’s side really clicked into gear. A run of just one defeat in 12 top-flight fixtures - winning eight - provided the backbone of United’s rebuild and new-found optimism under the Dutchman.

Another slow start appears to have been met with more concern. Kicking on after this international break is important to rebuilding that positivity from supporters.

Injury boosts

In fairness to Ten Hag, his treatment room - especially as far as the defence is concerned - has been busy. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez missing is a crucial blow, while the