Erik ten Hag has issued a rallying cry to both players and fans alike ahead of the blockbuster “do-or-die” FA Cup tie against Liverpool this Sunday.
The Dutch manager emphasized the pivotal role of Old Trafford’s unwavering support in propelling the team towards victory and securing a last-four berth at the expense of a high-flying Liverpool. Highlighting the historical dominance of United at home against Liverpool in the FA Cup, with no losses recorded for over a century, Ten Hag tried to instil confidence in the Red Devils’ ability to triumph once again.
In his column for the matchday programme, United Review, Ten Hag wrote: “Just as we need our players on top form, the same is true of our fans. The challenge to you is to help us make the most of our home advantage in the last cup game to be played at Old Trafford this season. Cup games are do-or-die and we need the players and fans to give energy to each other if we are to progress to the semi-finals. The prizes on offer today are huge: a return to Wembley, a step closer to a major trophy and a win over our biggest rivals. To achieve those goals, everybody inside Old Trafford has a part to play, working as one big team. Together, we are a formidable force.”
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Ten Hag also invoked the memorable 2-1 triumph in the previous Premier League season at Old Trafford to further boost the morale of his troops.
“This fixture always demands concentration, calm and confidence,” he explained.
“Every player, whether in the starting XI or on the bench, has a job to do and has to take responsibility for doing it correctly.
“We also had incredible support from the stands when we beat Liverpool at Old Trafford last season and we know, from that experience and other big games, what a difference the fans can make when we really bring the noise.
“I don’t need to explain to anybody the significance and size of this game. We have the two greatest clubs in English football, with the greatest pedigree and the greatest rivalry, facing each other in a knockout tie in the world’s greatest cup competition. When you are a child watching football, these are the games that make you fall in love with the sport; how could anybody not be excited to be a part of this spectacle?”
As United prepare to face their fiercest rivals in a high-stakes encounter, Ten Hag’s rallying cry serves as a powerful reminder of the magnitude of the encounter. With players and fans united in purpose, Old Trafford is poised to exhibit an electrifying atmosphere. Whether it will be enough remains to be seen.
