Manchester United uncertainty explains Erik ten Hag manager stance

Erik ten Hag is expected to remain in charge of Manchester United until at least the end of season, with no decision yet to be made on his long-term future at the club.

The Dutchman has come under fire during a largely disappointing second season at Old Trafford, yet he still retains the large support of his squad and there is some sympathy for the injury situation he has had to contend with this campaign.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Ineos group are yet to decide what to do with the managerial situation beyond this season but are understood to admire Ten Hag and the work he has done at the club so far.

Ten Hag, 53, finally ended the club's trophy drought last season with victory in the League Cup and he has restored a sense of authority to the managerial position. However, he has also faced plenty of valid criticism for the lacklustre manner of performances for much of the campaign.

The situation is further complicated by the fact United could yet finish the season with an FA Cup victory and qualification for the Champions League, though it is far easier said than done. United's dramatic FA Cup comeback win over fierce rivals Liverpool sparked fresh life into their season and means they have now won eight of their last 10 matches across all competitions.

A successful end to the season could certainly earn Ten Hag more time in the job for now, but it would not be certain to save him from the sack if indeed Ineos decide there is a better candidate for the role.

The Ineos group are overhauling the club's football structure with plans for an industry leading transfer committee, meaning the first-team manager would have less control over recruitment. That could prove a sticking point for Ten Hag, who typically demands a say in all transfer decisions.

Should they decide to make a change, Gareth Southgate has been linked with the role, but his international commitments with England could rule him out of the job given he wouldn't be available until after this summer's European Championship. Ineos are also understood to be fond admirers of former Chelsea boss Graham Potter as well as his successor at Brighton, Roberto De Zerbi.