Erik ten Hag has challenged his players to prove they belong at Manchester United over the final weeks of the season after a disastrous defeat to Sevilla wrecked their European hopes. United were beaten 3-0 in the second leg of the Europa League quarter-final and Ten Hag slammed the performance as "unacceptable".
The Reds must now bounce back at short notice ahead of Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Brighton at Wembley and with Ten Hag keen to raise funds by selling players this summer, there are some in the squad who will be fighting for their future.
Up to 15 players could be made available this summer and Ten Hag has questioned the desire and mentality of his squad at times this season, but with plenty still to play for he has called for his players to step up between now and the end of the campaign.
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"I think we always playing for our future as professional players," said Ten Hag. Every game is a test, every season is a test, you have to earn the right to wear the shirt. It’s [the same] for me as a manager. We are in the same boat.
"During the season we make huge progress. We have the experience but we have a way to go. A good thing is Sunday is a huge opportunity, semi-final of the FA Cup, a better event you can’t imagine, after that a lot of great games to go.
"We have to prove it and this group of players has to prove it."
Ten Hag has raised the issue of matching the expectations at United this season and he believes his players are aware of the standards required at the club.
"I think they understand, but if not it’s time to be aware of it, it’s great to be part of Manchester United, to be part of this football club, but the flip side is you have to prove it every game," he said.
"That’s what we have to acknowledge and be aware of it, you need to prepare every game for the fight."
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