Missing out on European football this season has fuelled the desire to return Manchester United to the Champions League, says full-back Diogo Dalot.
The comeback victory over 10-man Crystal Palace at Old Trafford strengthened United’s chances of finishing in the top five, which would almost certainly be enough, as they are now six points ahead of Chelsea with 10 games remaining.
Dalot says it is campaigns like this one, when United have no European distractions for only the second time since 1990 and were also beaten at the first stage of both domestic cups, that provide a sharp reminder of what is being missed.
“Seasons like this are good for you to know that when you’re playing Europa League, and especially Champions League, those are the best years, those are best seasons,” said the Portugal defender.
“This year, we play a maximum of 40 games because we came out of the cups at an early stage. That is nowhere near what the club should be, and the competitions that we should play in.
“It [Champions League qualification] is the main goal and I really believe we’re going to do it – but we cannot take it for granted. We need to put the club back in there.”
United go to Newcastle on 4 March and then have a crucial game against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on 15 March.