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Man United news: Pundit baffled as Erik ten Hag closes in on behind-the-scenes appointment
Kevin Phillips has claimed he can’t understand why Man United chiefs would push back on Erik ten Hag’s appointment of Steve McClaren.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 52-year-old must be allowed to bring “all his own staff” to Old Trafford.
According to The Telegraph (21 April), new boss Ten Hag is set to “win his battle” with Man United decision-makers and bring former coach McClaren back to the club as his number two.
The report claims the Red Devils hierarchy initially pushed back on the decision – preferring the Dutchman utilised the existing backroom setup.
Mitchell van der Gaag, Ten Hag’s current assistant at Ajax, will reportedly also be appointed.
Phillips suggested the incoming boss must be allowed to conduct business as he sees fit.
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“Ten Hag is the manager they really wanted,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“It speaks volumes on how Man United are run that they’re still having a say in who he brings in.
“It’s tough when you try and bring someone back who has had success at the club, especially almost 25 years ago.
“But the manager dictates who he brings in, or at least they usually do. Ten Hag will want all his own staff involved.
“I don’t understand why they would push back on something like that.”
Man United are unlikely to have Champions League football next season after Saturday’s (23 April) 3-1 loss against Arsenal.
The Red Devils are six points adrift of the fourth-placed Gunners.
In other news, Kieran Maguire issues “£92m” reveal as Cristiano Ronaldo payout explained.