Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag is confident that Jadon Sancho will build on a positive campaign, as the attacker looks to fully establish himself at Old Trafford.
Much was expected of the England international when he arrived at Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund in July 2021, but the forward found it difficult to show his best form last season, only managing five goals and three assists in 38 appearances.
Sancho has scored six goals and registered three assists in 39 outings at club level this term, with the 23-year-old becoming an important player for the Red Devils in the second half of the season.
The Englishman was not involved in the latter stages of 2022 and early stages of this year due to fitness and personal problems, but he returned against Leeds United on February 8 and has featured in all but one of Man United's league games since.
Sancho put in arguably his best performance of the campaign against Chelsea on Thursday night, providing an assist in a 4-1 success for Man United at Old Trafford.
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Ten Hag was asked about the forward following the clash with Frank Lampard's side, and he was full of praise for the former Manchester City youngster.
"He did very well on the right side, and I think he played a very good game," Ten Hag told reporters.
"I think Jadon Sancho was one of the players who [has made good] progress in this season. And there were many players in our squad who made good progress. I think it's a good base to build further on."
Ten Hag also believes that the attacker is capable of featuring on both wings despite largely playing on the left for Man United this season.
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"He can do both [wings], but I think he prefers to play on the left. But we have seen [that] he is very good on the right as well," added the Dutchman.
Sancho was moved to the right when Antony went off injured against Chelsea, and he could now keep his spot in that area for Sunday's clash with Fulham.
The Englishman will also be hoping to retain his position for the FA Cup final against Manchester City on June 3, with Antony expected to miss the rest of the campaign with an ankle issue.
Man United secured a top-four spot in the Premier League table by beating Chelsea, and a win over Fulham on Sunday would guarantee third position ahead of Newcastle United.
Matt Law
