United Fans Can Enjoy Christmas Cheer

'Jingle Bells' got many an airing at Selhurst Park and The Hawthorns from the visiting supporters as it really was fun to watch Manchester United win away.

There is a growing feeling that a team, in every sense of the word, is forming under Jose Mourinho, who has recently been adamant that things were starting to click into place – even when our luck was out and draws were acquired from matches we clearly deserved to win.

In a footballing world where virtually every response is a knee-jerk one – witness how the narrative changed from Manchester City being in turmoil to Arsenal engulfed by crisis within the space of one half last Sunday – there appears no place for patience. Some newspapers even reported Antonio Conte's job was under threat before he took Chelsea on a winning streak that sees them top of the tree at Christmas.

The table does not lie but there must be conviction in the belief that United can make up ground on the leaders. The bond between fans and players was evident after the West Brom game, one that was won in the manner in which Mourinho has made his hallmark: completely controlling events from start to finish.

It bodes well ahead of three Premier League games over the festive period, before the FA Cup third-round tie with Reading. Sunderland and Middlesbrough both visit Old Trafford – two North-East sides towards the bottom of the league who are battling for every point. The fact they both won their last fixture suggests things may not be straightforward, as is often the case in this most competitive of divisions.

However, there is a sense of anticipation around these games and a real expectation that United will attack and entertain. Perhaps at this time of the year more than any other, such excitement is greatly appreciated. Many fans will break up their holidays and time with families to attend both fixtures, and it can be a long journey home if things do not go our way.

That said, there is a time-honoured tradition to the festive football programme and much to relish. We can expect the Black Cats and Boro to set out their stall to frustrate but are confident in the prospect of this attacking side breaking down their defences, with our incisive style paying off in the last four wins in all competitions and promising more goals.

There is great optimism for the end of 2016 and the hope that next year will bring only more improvement and cohesion as the boss continues to exert his influence and stamp his own identity on the side. Following the two home games in five days, 2017 begins with a first trip to West Ham's London Stadium. The FA Cup and EFL Cup – with the Reds one hurdle away from another visit to Wembley that always goes down well with the supporters – then provide more entertainment.

Our first home game of the new year is the small matter of United versus Liverpool; a chance to beat the Merseysiders and show we can finish above them. It's enough to fill any Red with Christmas cheer as we anticipate watching Mourinho's United play the kind of football we have all come to love so dearly. 

The views expressed in this article are personal to the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Manchester United Football Club.

Credit: Manutd.com