‘We have a system’ – Victor Lindelof with other players explains why Manchester United have improved with Erik ten Hag.

Man United comfortably defeated Chelsea 4-1 on Thursday to confirm a return to the Champions League next season.

Victor Lindelof has praised Erik ten Hag’s tactical system and admitted that Manchester United’s players now know their exact roles on the pitch.

United needed just a point against Chelsea to qualify for the Champions League on Thursday night and they started the match in the perfect fashion when taking the lead in just the sixth minute thanks to a brilliant header from Casemiro.

Although Chelsea have spent £600million this season, the London club are guaranteed to finish in the bottom half of the table and their woeful performance throughout the game at Old Trafford showed why.

Chelsea created chances, but they were vulnerable at the back and Anthony Martial made it 2-0 just before half-time. Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford also got on the scoresheet in the second half to make sure of the result.

Joao Felix scored a consolation goal in the dying moments and the game ended 4-1. The stylish victory confirmed the return of Champions League football next season and Lindelof reflected on the display after the final whistle.

“That was always the target for us, so I’m very pleased we achieved that today,” Lindelof told MUTV. “I mean we knew we could secure the spot and we went out there and won the game. I think everyone is very happy.

“I think the mentality and effort everyone puts in [has been the difference]. Everyone knows exactly what to do on the pitch, we have a system and everyone knows their roles out there, so we’ve played some great football this season.

“We deserve this spot in the Champions League. I think I’ve been performing well and when I’m on the pitch, I just want to help my teammates to perform and to win the game. I think I’ve done that, so I’m pleased.”

When asked about the FA Cup final, Lindelof added: “We were just thinking about Chelsea today, but we have another big match on Sunday. We want to perform, keep a good home record and then after that, we can focus on what’s next.”