Man Utd's epic FA Cup win over Liverpool could be defining for Erik ten Hag - FA Cup and Premier League hits and misses
Erik ten Hag suggested the first 35 minutes of this match was the best his team have played this season. There's an argument it was the best United have played during Ten Hag's tenure. The double blow of Liverpool goals just before half-time undermined it. But when you combine the late rallies - including the equaliser from Ten Hag's transfer pick Antony and the outrageous pay off from his all-or-nothing tactics in extra-time - this all adds up to a special day for the United boss.
Finally, the progress he has long talked up was there to be seen. "You can see the potential," he said afterwards. United are a flawed team and there were plenty of examples of their shortcomings against Liverpool. But this was a win to build upon. A reference point for what could be achieved with the Dutchman in charge. A semi-final draw with Coventry can help the momentum. Consecutive FA Cup finals beckon.
Of course, United, it feels, are never more than one defeat away from a crisis. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the new investment team watching on, it seems every move from Ten Hag is being scrutinised. Failure at home to Liverpool in this FA Cup quarter-final would have been a potentially damning blow for the under pressure head coach.
That blow could still come in the final weeks of the season. Champions League qualification, for instance, is imperative and missing out could cost Ten Hag his job. But this unforgettable FA Cup win will add fuel to the fire of Ten Hag's optimism he can yet be the man to deliver major success at Old Trafford.
