United View: Can United keep their run going?

2024 has seen a turnaround in fortunes for Manchester United, going unbeaten since the turn of the year, winning six and drawing one.

Sunday’s 2-1 win against Luton saw the Reds win for a fifth successive game, their best run of the season. But for how long can Erik ten Hag’s continue this impressive form?

Kenilworth Road has been a difficult place for any visiting team in the Premier League. Still, after seven minutes United found themselves two goals up thanks to the ever-improving Rasmus Hojlund. It was the sixth successive game he’d scored in, a feat only matched by Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona and Ruud Van Nistelrooy.

It isn’t just the number of goals the Dane has been scoring but also the variety of them. His first came from great anticipation, gambling on a Luton defensive mistake, whereas his second was brilliant improvisation, redirecting a wayward shot onto goal with his chest.

However, as shown on numerous occasions this season, United made hard work of a two-goal lead. Within ten minutes, Luton had pulled one back with their first shot on target. The Reds were caught overplaying in the centre of the pitch and were made to pay through Clinton Morris.

The game evolved into a fast-paced, end-to-end contest, with both teams registering over 20 shots. This prompts further scrutiny regarding United’s ability to control games effectively when in a winning position.

To be fair, despite a nervy first half, which saw Casemiro and Harry Maguire both substituted at halftime, United looked more assured after the break. Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes both had golden opportunities to make it 3-1 but were unable to convert.

United’s attacking play has undoubtedly improved. Attacking space and playing over Luton’s press rather than through it, similar to the win against Aston Villa. However, it would be pleasing if the Reds could show greater composure more frequently.

A clear example of this was in the 92nd minute. A short corner had been played to Bruno Fernandes, who then shot from a difficult angle rather than keeping the ball in the corner and running down the clock.

One player who cannot be accused of lacking composure or game intelligence is Kobbie Mainoo, who was the youngest player on the pitch. The 18-year-old was pure class once again, gliding past players and offering so much coverage in midfield.

Whether United can continue this winning run is unforeseen, however, they do take on Fulham next in their next game. The Reds won 1-0 in the reverse fixture back in November, which was the last time Bruno Fernandes scored in the league.

Should the Reds win that game, they’ll go into the Manchester Derby in an encouraging condition. City haven’t been as defensively impressive as they were last season and it’s something United’s front line should look to exploit.

However, with Luke Shaw again being brought off at halftime on Sunday, United could potentially be without a key player. Victor Lindelof being utilised as a left-back prompts further bewilderment on loaning out young talent Alvaro Fernandes and the expiration of Sergio Reguilon’s loan. And with Tyrell Malacia’s mysterious absence, it appears Lindelof will continue at fullback.

If United are to stretch their winning run even further, they’ll need to continue their clinical nature in front of goal. They’ve scored 14 league goals in 2024, just seven less than they had achieved in their first 20 games.

Some more controlled passing would be a bonus, but given how chaotic United have been this season, it might be naïve to suggest the Reds will behave any differently soon.