Erik ten Hag understands Everton’s players and fans would be “mad” about the 10-point penalty placed on the club and has dared Manchester United to meet fire with fire at Goodison Park on Sunday.

United head to Everton to face a team filled with resentment after an independent committee sanctioned the club a week ago for violating Premier League profitability and sustainability criteria.

“I can see the opposition and I can see they are mad, but then finally it’s about us,” Ten Hag went on to say. “If they are insane and that is their fuel, we must meet those standards.” We have a very good chance of winning the game if we match the criteria.”

United come into the game having won four of their last five Premier League games. They have been bolstered by the return of Luke Shaw from a thigh muscle injury that has kept him out since August. André Onana has recovered from a knock suffered in Cameroon, but Rasmus Hjlund’s availability will be decided on Saturday.

When asked about the significance of Shaw’s return, Ten Hag stated, “You can mention many things: his physical and technical ability, his leadership.” It’s evident that we didn’t have a left full-back for a long period this season, so we’re glad he’s back. That’s a fantastic sign, and he’ll assist us in becoming more steady.”

There have been reports of a rift between Ten Hag and Raphael Varane, which is said to have sprung from the manager’s decision to select Jonny Evans ahead of him for the Manchester derby last month for tactical reasons. Ten Hag denied any problem, adding, “I’m not sure what you’re talking about [with these rumors].” He’s a key player, but there’s internal competition, which is how it should be at a good club like ours. Internal competition exists.

“When you have to decide on two players, who do brilliant – Rapha Varane and Harry Maguire – you have to make a choice for the position.”