Dalot hits out at 'killing machine' against Man Utd after slow start to season

24 September 2023 , 13:09

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Diogo Dalot helped United to a clean sheet at Burnley

Diogo Dalot said Manchester United hit back at the “killing machine” after ending a run of three straight defeats.

United were far from convincing at Turf Moor, but a stunning first-half volley from Bruno Fernandes was enough to end their losing streak. Full-back Dalot hit back at United's critics after the game, but admitted Erik ten Hag's players had fallen short of the standard expected of them on their recent losing run.

"We're playing for Manchester United and we have to be consistent in every game," said Dalot. "They will kill you in every direction if you don’t win games. You could see, in these last couple of weeks, it was another killing machine against us, but we fought hard.

"When we get into Carrington [United's training ground], the noise stays outside and we work hard. We were rewarded with three points, but we want to keep going."

Dalot added: "Apart from the three points, I think the clean sheet brings us a little bit of extra confidence to go to the next games.

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"We needed it after these last couple of games when we conceded a lot of goals and this has to build a foundation now for the next game. I think we showed a proper compact team, aggressively defending the box, with everybody supporting each other. This is the standard we need to have for the rest of the season."

United were by no means unworthy of their win, but it was hardly a vintage performance against the Clarets. Burnley enjoyed plenty of possession, but their lack of killer edge meant Dalot and co. were rarely truly threatened.

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Diogo Dalot has lashed out at the "killing machine" criticising Man Utd

It was a hard-fought victory for the Red Devils and manager Ten Hag could barely hide his delight at the fact his side got the all important three points. It marked a rare away win, with United coming into the game having lost four of their previous five league games on the road.

"It was clear," Ten Hag told BBC Sport. "Of course we needed that win. We had a tough run of games against good opponents. It wasn’t necessary to lose those games. Today was must-win.

"The team spirit and how they fight together [was impressive]. It was a team attacking with 11 and defending with 11. They supported each other.

"A lot has been against us, like injuries and decisions. Like tonight. Murphy’s Law where everything goes against us. You have to fight and find a turning point. It shows the dressing room is together. They fight together."

David McDonnell