Erik ten Hag explains how Amad and Sofyan Amrabat improved Manchester United

Erik ten Hag said Manchester United players are competing for FA Cup final places after their morale-boosting 3-2 victory over Newcastle.

United won only their third Premier League game in the past 12 in their final game of the campaign at Old Trafford, where Kobbie Mainoo, Amad and substitute Rasmus Hojlund were on target.

Amad started successive United games for the first time nearly four years on from signing for the club and he is poised to keep his place for the final league game of the season away to Brighton.

READ MORE: Player ratings vs Newcastle

READ MORE: United stance on Bruno Fernandes future after interview

United have struggled to settle on a consistent and long-term option on the right-hand side for more than a decade but the 21-year-old Ivory Coast international excelled against Newcastle and Arsenal.

"I think every player in lines for himself," Ten Hag responded to the query about cup final places. "Amad has had a difficult season because of a worse injury, he fought back and then he had to wait a long [time].

"His performances in training and progression in training was very good to see. Now he got his chance and he has taken his opportunity and that is how it should work.

"There is always internal competition and I am very pleased with his level at this moment and it can be a foundation to improve more and go to higher levels."

Sofyan Amrabat has also impressed since his recall against Arsenal at the weekend. Amrabat had not started a league game since the goalless draw with Liverpool at Anfield but the Moroccan have provided balance in midfield next to Mainoo.

"I think he was playing a very good game," Ten Hag said of Amrabat, "very important in pressing and counter-pressing, a really good job.

"Keeping the team together, keeping the team compact and good moments to press so we can control the game more."