Ande Cole backs Erik Ten Hag amidst severe criticism

Manchester United boss, Erik Ten Hag has come under severe criticism for the club’s recent performances this season. Manchester United have only managed to secure three wins in 11 matches played across competitions. 

The fans have continued to express disappointment with United’s performance and reports of sacking Ten Hag have resurfaced. Amidst that, Manchester United’s former striker, Andy Cole has come to his defence and backed him to continue for the role. 

Andre Cole hailed Erik Ten Hag for leading Manchester United to two titles in two seasons. He even drew his comparison with legendary Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. 

"Sir Alex Ferguson, the greatest manager in the club's history, didn't win a trophy in his first three years at Manchester United," Cole said about Ten Hag (as per ESPN UK). 

"Winning two cups in two seasons isn't easy to do, regardless of what others say. If it was easy to do, then everyone would." he added. 

Manchester United sit at 14th on the Premier League table 

Erik Ten Hag’s side has made an underwhelming start to the season. Manchester United are languishing at 14th spot on the Premier League table and need to turn the table around at the earliest. In seven matches, they have only managed to secure wins on two occasions. 

As per a report by The Times (via 90 min), a long six-hour board meeting took place at United’s minority owners INEOS’ office in London and it was decided that Ten Hag would continue to manage proceedings at the club. 

Manchester United’s last Premier League game resulted in a goalless draw against Ashton Villa. Manchester United’s legend Paul Scholes was unimpressed with Manchester United’s attackers in the final third. Rasmus Hojlund played for 64 minutes before being replaced by Joshua Zirkzee. 

The latter dished out an underwhelming performance against Villa. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund has scored once in five games across competitions. He also missed the opening of the 2024-25 campaign owing to an injury.