Erik ten Hag admits it is vital for Manchester United to appoint the right director of football following the departure of his close ally John Murtough.
United announced this week that Murtough was stepping down as director of football after 11 years at Old Trafford in a variety of roles.
With INEOS in control of United’s football operations since Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner in February, the British billionaire is considering moves for Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth and Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox.
United manager Ten Hag recognized the importance of finding the ideal candidate for the role.
“You mention the new season, it is very important, the new ownership is working on it and we have to replace this role to go into the new season,” Ten Hag told reporters on Friday.
“At the moment, of course I miss his support, but he has moved on, there have been choices made. We work really well together, so I thank John and wish him all the best for the future.
“I also work very well and closely with the new ownership and that will not change. It has no impact on how I can work here.
“The conditions were perfect and remain perfect, so I’m happy about that, but we want to create the right conditions to be successful.”
United travel to Bournemouth this weekend looking to avenge a 3-0 home defeat in December.
Sixth-placed Ten Hag have little chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League if they finish in the top four.
And a repeat of that dismal defeat to the Cherries would further increase the pressure on the anguished Dutch manager.
“Tomorrow will be no different, that’s how they play, they want to fight you. So it’s a matter of making sure that you go into this fight, have the belief and need to support each other to win the battles, to beat them. and overtake them,” said Ten Hag.
United are assessing Marcus Rashford’s fitness after the England striker picked up a problem in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool last weekend.
Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay, absent from this game, is also being examined by United’s medical staff ahead of Saturday’s clash at the Vitality Stadium.
United have also suffered a series of defensive injuries to Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
“It’s very difficult. Everyone who has a little knowledge about football knows that it will affect their results and performance,” said Ten Hag.
“The defense is always a basis for achieving results and we didn’t have that.
“But still, we have to win and we know that. Others have to take responsibility. But when you supervise, you know it also has a negative impact.”
smg/kca/nr
