Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd host Crystal Palace on Saturday (Photo: Getty)

Erik ten Hag has hailed the efforts of Hannibal Mejbri, saying the youngster is sending a message to the rest of the Manchester United squad.

Hannibal was not expected to play a huge part in United’s season but over the past few games has grown into an important player for Ten Hag.

He came off the bench to score a stunning goal in the defeat to Brighton – his first for the club – before starting the wins against Burnley and Crystal Palace last week.

In both victories, the 20-year-old performed very well, showcasing the raw talent he demonstrated while on loan at Birmingham last season as well as in his fleeting appearances for United beforehand.
Given his form, Hannibal could be in to start again on Saturday when the Red Devils host the Eagles in the Premier League, but there is plenty of competition in the midfield area from Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Casemiro, Sofyan Amrabat, Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay.

But despite his inexperience compared to his peers, the Tunisian international has the backing of his manager.

‘I think he [Hannibal] gives a very good message to the rest of the squad, that this is the demand and this has to be the standard,’ Ten Hag said in his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Hannibal Mejbri has started Man Utd’s last two games (Photo: Getty)

‘When you are playing that position, [this is] what you have to brin...