Erik ten Hag explains exactly what he wants to see from his players to ensure United make FA Cup final

Manchester United are undergoing their final preparations at Wembley ahead of the 3.30pm kick-off in the FA Cup semi-final.

A repeat of last season’s final could well be on the cards for the Red Devils, as fierce rivals Manchester City advanced last night after defeating Chelsea with a narrow 1-0 win.

First though, United must overturn the Championship outfit, and they’ll have to perform significantly better than they have done in recent weeks in order to advance this afternoon; Ten Hag’s men are on a four-game winless streak in the Premier League.

As has been the case for the majority of the campaign thus far, the manager is navigating an injury-plagued squad. The defence has undoubtedly suffered the most, with all of Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof unavailable for extended periods.

It was confirmed on Saturday that Willy Kambwala had also sustained an issue, leaving only Harry Maguire as the last remaining fit centre-back. As such, he will be partnered by midfielder Casemiro from the offset in today’s clash.

Ten Hag’s demands for semi-final tie

Speaking to MUTV pre-match, Ten Hag had his say on the high-stakes fixture.

“Young soldiers have to step in and are [be] brave players. We know that they will give absolutely 100 per cent their best,” he explained. “But, first of all, I think we have enough experience as well, with Casemiro [and] Harry Maguire leading from the centre. Scott McTominay [and] Bruno [Fernandes] in the midfield, so we have experience around the young players as well.”

“Today, we need players with a big heart and who are determined, who are resilient, who can suffer, who can sacrifice all the things… that is what you need in a cup.”