Steve Bruce is adamant Erik ten Hag should remain manager regardless of their result at Aston Villa.
The Red Devils head to Villa Park following a run of poor results and performances that have seen the pressure ramp up on their Dutch coach. Now into his third season, there has been a lack of progression from last term as questions are asked about his future.
A week ago United were humiliated at home, losing 3-0 to . That left them with seven points from six games, their lowest ever total in the . Since then they've gone to Porto in the and seen their defensive flaws exposed, .
Bruce was present for a game at Villa 25 years ago when Sir , prior to his first title win, was under pressure to keep his job. They lost that day as fans called for the Scot to be sacked - but time proved key and Bruce wants Ten Hag to keep the same treatment.
READ MORE:
READ MORE:
He told : “Alex got time to turn things around and look what happened next. The same should go for Ten Hag. Of course fans are desperate for success — but so were they then, too. United this summer decided to stick with Erik. They made their decision and should stick to it now because, as we found under Fergie, things can and do turn around. Just give the guy a bit of time.”
Ten Hag has managed to claim trophies in his first two seasons, which have played a major role in him retaining his job. Back in the summer he survived a review as the club considered changing their manager, but eventually stuck with the former Ajax boss.
He's been backed again in the market despite a chequered record when it comes to transfer successes. Several of his new recruits have underwhelmed thus far but Ten Hag has maintained that he and his team shouldn't be judged on their current displays.
He said during the week: "We will get there. Don't judge us in this moment, judge us at the end of the season. We are in the process, we will improve. We have two seasons now where we achieve finals, (so) just wait. We have to develop and progress this team. We will work and continue and we will fight."
Last term United secured the double over Villa. Unai Emery's team were a tough nut to crack on their own patch but the Red Devils produced an impressive performance to down them in February with the now departed Scott McTominay scoring the winner.
and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our
