What Erik ten Hag said in Manchester United dressing room at half-time vs Aston Villa

Erik ten Hag discussed the number of chances Manchester United had created and reiterated the importance of having belief until the final whistle during half-time against Aston Villa.

United were trailing 2-0 at the break after quick-fire goals from John McGinn and Leander Dendoncker and supporters expressed their discontent at the performance by booing.

A huge improvement was required in the second half but Ten Hag's message at half-time inspired exactly that, with United completing a stunning comeback to win the game.

ALSO READ: United player ratings as Garnacho and Evans superb

ALSO READ: How United dressing room reacted to Ratcliffe minority takeover

Alejandro Garnacho scored a brace and Rasmus Hojlund produced the matchwinner with his first goal in the Premier League.

Hojlund's goal at the Stretford End sparked wild celebrations and it secured an important three points after defeat against West Ham just two days before Christmas.

Ten Hag spoke to MUTV after the victory and he was asked what his half-time message was. "I didn't say Merry Christmas," he responded. "I said keep believing. I said I want to see the team, from the first whistle to the final whistle, with spirit and belief to win that game. No matter what happens.

"At half-time, I repeated that message and it was also justified as we created four or five really good chances but didn't take them. Straight after half-time, another disappointment and it tells the story of the season so far. We've had so many setbacks but I see the character of this team."

Ten Hag continued: "Keep believing. I think our fans, they deserved it. They are always behind us and we've had so many setbacks. I'm really pleased with the performance from my team. What can the