Sir Alex Ferguson’s backing of Erik ten Hag may backfire against the Dutchman.
United claimed a crucial 1-0 win over Fulham at the weekend, which served as much-needed respite for Ten Hag with the club having previously endured their worst start to a campaign in 61 years.
United’s dismal form led to speculation Ten Hag could lose his job, with former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane and Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim tipped as potential replacements.
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However, Ferguson, the club’s most decorated manager, has allegedly thrown his support behind Ten Hag, insisting he is the right man to lead United.
A source told The Sun: "Erik has Sir Alex's unwavering support. He's been hugely supportive of Erik since he arrived at the club. He's impressed at the job he is doing and, in particular, the way he has taken on big decisions.
"Sir Alex, like everyone else, wishes results were better this season. But he thinks those pointing at the manager and calling for a change are wrong.
“[Ferguson] thinks he’s shown the kind of character and mentality required to turn the club around - and he firmly believes Erik deserves time, like he got, to make a success of things at the club.
"If consulted, that's a position he would be prepared to make clear to any new investors who come into the football club."
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While Ferguson is a useful ally to have at United, the Scotsman’s endorsement is not necessarily an indication of future success.
Back in November 2013, months after announcing his retirement, Ferguson backed his successor David Moyes to retain the Premier League title, despite the ex-Everton boss having endured a difficult start.
“We can come from behind and win the league, there’s no doubt about that. When we’re on the charge we can be unstoppable. History shows us that,” said Ferguson via the Metro.
“We’ve got an inner strength – we can come from behind. We’ve done it many times in the past.
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“He’s [Moyes] doing great. It’s not easy – he’s building up a squad and he’s come to the right club at the right time.
“He’s got great backing. Yes, he’s lost a couple of games but people forget I lost a lot of games in October too.”
Ultimately, Moyes was in charge of United for 10 months, the third-shortest managerial stint in United history and the shortest in 82 years.
Meanwhile, Ten Hag turns his attention to a Champions League clash against Copenhagen on Wednesday night.
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Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Football, Sir Alex Ferguson, Erik Ten Hag, David Moyes, Manchester United