“Really appreciates…” – What Erik ten Hag has done to impress Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Man United

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been impressed by manager Erik ten Hag in the early days of his tenure at Manchester United.

Ten Hag has experienced a difficult second season at United but could save the campaign with success in the FA Cup and a late drive for the Champions League spots for next term.

The Reds were knocked out of the European competition in the group stages before exiting the Carabao Cup in the quarter-finals as well. Performances have been very inconsistent as well.

However, various reports in recent days have suggested that the Dutch manager has impressed the new INEOS regime so far and Graeme Bailey has pinpointed one of the main reasons behind this.

The journalist detailed the use and development of young players such as Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho this season under difficult circumstances as a ‘real plus’ for Ten Hag.

As quoted by UnitedInFocus, he said: “Ten Hag has got a real feather in his cap at the moment because these young players love playing for him, they love the way he works.

“So I think that’s a real plus for him, I know Ratcliffe really appreciates the way Ten Hag is using the young players.”

Mainoo has made 21 appearances for the Old Trafford side this season and quickly emerged as one of the most important players in the team.

His excellent performances have now led to the teenager being rewarded with an England call-up from Gareth Southgate.

Meanwhile, Garnacho has taken major strides in his development – moving from an impact substitute to one of the first names on the teamsheet at United.