Ralf: We’re improving and future is in our own hands

MANCHESTER UNITED are back in control of their own destiny, according to boss Ralf Rangnick.

The Reds have climbed back into the Premier League top four under the German, despite strong criticism of the team in recent times.

“I think we have shown some improvement in the weeks and months, but there is still space for more in the future. We just need to play continuously, to stick to a game plan even if a game doesn’t go well. This is the thing we have to get better on.”

Rangnick is particularly pleased with his team’s growing tendency to control games. He also cited the midweek home win over 10-man Brighton as a big step forward.

He added: “Since the defeat to Wolves in January it’s obvious that the team has developed, that we control, not for 90 minutes, but for larger parts of the game. I think we did that better than before the Wolves game.

“And, since the Wolves game, to me it’s obvious speaking regularly to the players that they feel confident and they feel strong on the pitch as a team.

“And again when things happen like against Brighton.

Control

“When we realised in the first half that it was difficult to intercept and take the ball away from them, then it’s our job again to make some changes.”

Despite their improving results, the 63-year-old Rangnick admitted there is no guarantee they will stay in the top four. “Everybody wants to play in the Champions League every season, but we have to be realistic,” he added.

“It isn’t an issue. My full focus right now is on developing the team’s performances and hopefully winning as many games as we can.”

And Rangnick is happy with how his inherited squad are adapting to his methods. He said: “The challenge for me was in coming mid-season at a time when the team was lacking confidence and not doing well.

“Of course, to work with a group that was not put together by me. That’s not alibis or excuses, just a fact.”