In a week where Manchester United's Under-18s took another step towards an invincible season, it was to be a pertinent reminder of the value of the club's academy.
And despite the riches spent by Ten Hag on his, at times ailing, front line, it is two of the finest Carrington graduates, along with an in-form 21-year-old, that are proving to be the formula for success right now.
It was to be Scott McTominay's day at Aston Villa, another product of the club's famed youth development, but, for the first half at Villa Park when United were at full complement, this was another reminder that Ten Hag finally has a front three he can depend on.