Manchester United went into Saturday’s game against Bournemouth needing a win. Liverpool has been snapping at United’s heels after a seven-game winning run, putting the pressure back on Ten Hag’s men and reigniting the race for top four.

The Reds were winless in three on the road and even though the Cherries were mathematically safe they’ve shown themselves to be tough opposition at the Vitality Stadium. And with a Champions League spot on the line, this was a must-win game for United.

Thankfully they didn’t have to wait long to find the opener after a sublime improvised finish from Casemiro. His strike in the 9th minute was all that was needed for a 1-0 win.

Not only did he score but Casemiro was easily man of the match too. With 11 recoveries and 92 touches the Brazilian was everywhere and it’s no surprise that his arrival has seen United significantly improve defensively.

David De Gea also deserves credit for making an important save late on to deny Kieffer Moore an equaliser. He’s made mistakes recently but it’s hard to deny that there are points when the Spanish keeper is a match-winner for United.

He also recorded his 17th clean sheet in this game, meaning he will now win the Golden Glove Award. United have the second-best defence in the league with 41 goals conceded, only bettered by Manchester City with 31 goals conceded. Additionally, Chelsea is third with 42 goals conceded which is almost hard to believe.

Ten Hag didn’t arrive at Manchester United as a defensive-minded coach, but he’s had to adapt and turned the Reds into a team capable of grinding out results when needs be. Although he will likely want to see his team become more expansive and attacking next season.

Despite another defiant defensive display, United once again left a lot to be desired up top. The Reds created only one big chance which they scored but did little to trouble Bournemouth’s goal.

It’s been a recurring problem for United and especially in the absence of Marcus Rashford, who himself has been on a dry spell in recent weeks. United’s top scorer has missed the last two games through injury and illness but is in fighting to make himself available for Thursday’s match.

The front three of Anthony Martial, Jadon Sancho and Antony struggled to cause any serious danger but thankfully United did just enough to come away with maximum points.

For next season, United really need to invest in a goal scorer and for me, it has to be Harry Kane. Forget his age the man is world-class, scoring 28 league goals in a turbulent Spurs side. There are other options such as Napoli’s Victor Osimhen but if you want proven Premier League quality Kane is your man.

The win at Bournemouth leaves United within touching distance of a top-four finish and following Newcastle’s draw against Leicester third place is also up for grabs.

A late Liverpool equaliser delayed the confirmation of Champions League football for next season, but the Reds need only one point from their remaining two games against Chelsea and Fulham.

It’s felt as though United have been stumbling towards the finishing line and some poor results have opened the door for a late Liverpool resurgence. The defeats to West Ham and Brighton could have sabotaged a season of good work for Ten Hag’s side.

However, it seems as though United have weathered the storm and has done just enough to earn themselves a seat amongst the European elite. Hopefully, they do the business against Chelsea and allow for a stress-free final day. Then again this is United we’re talking about.

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