Chelsea might have been disappointed to have to settle for a point at Old Trafford, but as Thomas Tuchel was serenaded by the away end at full-time it was a reminder of the impact a sharp coach and clever tactician can have on the fortunes of a team.
The Blues are transformed from the days under Frank Lampard and this fixture was brought forward 17 days because they will contest a sixth final in Tuchel's 15 months in charge in the middle of May.
When Roman Abramovich was hit by sanctions from the UK government in March, United explored the possibility of prising Tuchel away from Stamford Bridge. When it was clear that wasn’t going to happen they settled for Erik ten Hag and how badly this squad needs his influence now.
