Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag insists he’s not concerned about losing his job following their recent poor run and he’s instead focused on reversing their inconsistency.
United crashed out of Europe in midweek after a 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich at Old Trafford and are languishing in sixth in the Premier League, 10 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
United have opportunities over the next few weeks to make amends for their dismal start to the season and it starts on Sunday at Anfield when they take on rivals Liverpool, with United also hoping that they can make a valiant push for silverware in the FA Cup.
Erik ten Hag’s job is not necessarily in jeopardy, but reports have circulated that the Dutchman is under pressure to provide an imminent response to the team’s decline – with Sky Sports reporting that Graham Potter is potentially lined up as a replacement should ten Hag fail to get a response from his players.
However, the United manager believes he has the full backing of the board and is not focused on speculation surrounding his future ahead of Sunday’s game.
He said in regards to the board having his back: “I feel that. They tell me. That’s fine and that is OK. I am focusing on the process, I am focusing on making this team play better and making the individuals play better.
“That is my concern and what I am focusing on. No [I can’t get distracted about talk of me losing my job]. That is of no concern.
“Now we are inconsistent and I have to work on making a squad that is going to play for longer periods at a higher level.
Reflecting on last season’s 7-0 trouncing, ten Hag said United must learn from that disastrous day at Anfield and use it as motivation moving into Sunday.
“I think everyone is highly motivated when you go to Anfield. You know it is going to be tough. That is everything a top footballer wants; they want the challenge.
“You have to look forward. We take last year in our memory, but you have to take the benefit from it and learn from it. On Sunday we can prove that.”
