EXCLUSIVE; Ten Hang sets a challenge for his “Exciting” young players

Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo posed for iconic photo during win over West Ham – but can rising stars maintain high levels to boost United’s top-four hopes? Watch Aston Villa vs Manchester United live on Sky Sports Premier League from 4pm on Sunday; kick-off 4.30pm.

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It is an image which will be referenced and reused in years to come.

Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, sat on the advertising boards at Old Trafford in celebration at the Argentine’s first goal in the win over West Ham, immediately struck as an iconic moment.

But whether it will be looked back on as the dawning of a new era of success for United or a brief flash of promise which faded away will be down to that talented trio, the group around them and the work of head coach Erik ten Hag.

Promise is one thing but at United results are demanded right now.

That was the message emphasised by Ten Hag as he sat down with Sky Sports at United’s training ground, still warming up after a session out in the sleet and wind at Carrington. They were tough conditions, he says, but these are the decisive days – and even in February, United are in must-win mode.

Back-to-back victories last week against Wolves and West Ham have boosted the mood – “It gives confidence,” says the Dutchman – but if the team are to achieve Champions League qualification, the eight-point gap to fourth-placed Aston Villa must be closed when United go to play Unai Emery’s men on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.

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