Legendary former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane is convinced a top-four finish is in sight, while manager Erik ten Hag has growing belief.
In points terms, United may only be three closer to the coveted top four following their win at Aston Villa on Sunday than they were after losing at Nottingham Forest on 30 December.
But the optics are with them.
Three Premier League victories in a row, including late winners at Wolves and now Villa Park after Scott McTominay settled a game United could easily have lost. Four successive triumphs in all competitions for the first time this season and winnable matches against Luton and Fulham to come.