Departing Man Utd player makes Erik ten Hag prediction as he announces his next club

Jack Butland has said Manchester United are ‘going places’ under Erik ten Hag, as he announced his departure from the club.

The goalkeeper joined United on loan from Crystal Palace in January but didn’t make a single appearance before the end of the season. With the goalkeeper’s deal up at Selhurst Park at the end of the season, it was announced on Tuesday that he is set to join Rangers.

But in a farewell message to United, Butland tweeted to thank his boyhood club and said fans should ‘be excited’ about the direction the team are going under Ten Hag’s stewardship.

“It was short and sweet, but an unreal experience being with the team I’ve supported since a young boy,” wrote the 30-year-old. “The staff, players, fans & everyone involved with the club are another level. Disappointing to end the season like we did but this team is going places once again & everyone should be excited. Thank you @ManUtd.”

Butland joined United as a replacement for Martin Dubravka, another loanee, who returned to his parent club Newcastle United in January. After initially playing a role as third-choice in the squad, the former Stoke City man was on the bench for the Red Devils’ final 12 matches of the season as Tom Heaton picked up an injury in March.

“We would like to thank Jack for all of his efforts as a Red and wish him the very best of luck for the future,” United said on their website as they announced the players’ departure.

Butland will officially join Rangers on 1 July and has signed a four-year deal with the Glasgow club. “Delighted and honoured to have joined such a special and successful club,” he tweeted. “Already counting the days to pull on the shirt in-front of a packed Ibrox @RangersFC. Exciting times ahead.”