Ten Hag gives behind the scenes info on Rashford after Man Utd win

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has insisted Marcus Rashford is always happy at Carrington these days following the 24-year-old’s winner against West Ham on Sunday. The England international headed home the only goal of the game at Old Trafford to give his side all three points. And he’s now on seven goals for the season, more than any other player at the club’s disposal.Manchester United weren’t at their best against West Ham, relying on defenders such as Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martinez – as well as goalkeeper David De Gea – to claim victory.But Rashford secured a vital win for the hosts, heading home in the 38th minute after a pinpoint cross from Christian Eriksen.West Ham huffed and puffed right until the end yet United were able to hold firm and dig deep, ensuring they rise to fifth in the league table in the process.And Ten Hag, speaking after the game, hailed Rashford and insisted the United star was always smiling at Carrington – in stark contrast to last year.Like many of his team-mates the forward, who turns 25 today, struggled last term as the club toiled under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.Yet Ten Hag sees an attacker who is operating at the peak of his powers and was delighted with his goalscoring contribution.Man Utd transfers: Plans for next three signings are damning on Solskjaer Man Utd news: Erik ten Hag heaped praise on Marcus Rashford after West Ham win (Image: GETTY) Man Utd news: Erik ten Hag and Marcus Rashford want trophies after West Ham win (Image: GETTY) Man Utd news: Marcus Rashford celebrates with his team-mates after West Ham winner (Image: GETTY)’Then we survive. He was magnificent in protecting the box. He’s a great player, a really good defender and we have seen that and how important he is for the squad.’I think he showed good attitude, I think he showed good resilience, I think he showed a bit of confidence and that’s good to see.”Another change this season is Old Trafford itself.The stadium swelled with noise as United dug deep to see off David Moyes’ side, in stark contrast to 12 months ago where it would often go quiet in fear or panic.And Ten Hag thinks his players are beginning to repair their relationship with fans, many of which felt they downed tools last season.WIN A FREE ENGLAND SHIRT FOR THE WORLD CUP! Man Utd news: David De Gea also stood tall for Erik ten Hag in West Ham win (Image: GETTY)”It was a great atmosphere again and I think you see there is a bond between the team – the players and the fans,’ he said.’We have to keep going with that and keep building that and strengthen that.’It’s hard work and investment as a team, have the right approach, attitude and co-operation. You can see it’s growing game to game and you can have success.”Next up for United is Real Sociedad in the Europa League on Thursday night (5.45pm).They’ll need to win by two clear goals in Spain to top their group and avoid facing a heavyweight such as Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the next round of the competition.Want the latest football news? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here