Manchester United recorded their biggest victory under Erik ten Hag to cruise into the EFL Cup last-16 at the expense of hapless League One outfit Barnsley.
Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and veteran midfielder Christian Eriksen all scored twice, while Brazilian winger Antony converted a first-half spot-kick in what turned into a rout by the end.
It was United’s biggest win since they hammered Southampton 9-0 in February 2021 when the stands were still empty due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was certainly a night to remember as far as Ten Hag’s tenure is concerned. United had not previously scored five under the Dutchman and the goals that got them there before Eriksen’s late brace was even more reason for celebration.
It was the perfect game for £50.5m midfielder Manuel Ugarte to make his first start.
The Uruguayan largely cruised through proceedings but looked composed when he was extended in a display that will give Ten Hag belief the team he has wanted virtually since his arrival at the club from Ajax in 2022 is close to completion.
Although the visiting supporters were noisy in their backing of Barnsley, Darrell Clarke’s side were completely outclassed. Their most notable moment came in the first-half when Clarke himself produced a brilliant piece of skill to control a ball that had been fizzed towards the touchline after the whistle had gone. Even the home fans applauded that.