Dread it. Run from it. But giddy optimism will get you all the same.
All it takes is a whisper. A slight suggestion. A brief thought of: 'eh, wouldn't you look at the table! Manchester United aren't far off the top at all!' and then all of a sudden the title challengers tag is attached. No matter what you do.
The 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Tuesday means it's now six wins on the bounce in all competitions and four wins without even conceding a goal since club football restarted. United are now just a point behind neighbours Manchester City and if they're in the title race then surely they are too? Not on Erik ten Hag's watch.
