Ralf Rangnick may not be sexy enough for Manchester United fans, but Graham Potter reckons all his Old Trafford dirty work WILL result in a happy ending.
Rangnick has copped flak from critics with United failing to win their last two Premier League games and crashing out of the FA Cup at home to Middlesbrough.
And full-back Luke Shaw admits United players could feel the tension in the stands from supporters yet to be charmed by Rangnick as they drew at home to Southampton.
But despite growing problems behind the scenes and Rangnick's low-key demeanour and hang-dog expression, Brighton boss Potter reckons he is on the right track.
Ahead of Tuesday night's clash between the teams, Potter said: "They've only lost one game in the Premier League since he's been in.
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"The games they've drawn they could easily have won. There was a managerial change in halfway through the season, which generally suggests something's happened.
"Society thinks somebody's going to come in and there's going to be a massive step change and everything's going to be loads better. But the reality is small changes over time.
"It doesn't sound too sexy but the reality of it is, that's what it is, and I think they're in the process of that.
"They're a fantastic club with fantastic players and a really experienced football man in charge, so we know it's going to be a tough game."
Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl raised eyebrows by suggesting United don't have the "reverse gears" needed to track back when they lose the ball, or the stamina to press for "more than 40 minutes."
Now, they face an Albion team only seven points behind them and flying high on a seven-match unbeaten run.
But Potter claims Brighton won't be targeting any particular weakness in Unted's games after Shaw's comments about players feeling the nerves and tension from the fans.
Asked whether what the England star said will affect his gameplan, Potter said: "Not really, because sometimes people say things after a game without the total picture. You've got to take it with a pinch of salt.
"We have to make sure we respect our opponent as we always do. Regardless of the narrative around United you only have to look at the players they have.
"And going to Old Trafford in itself is a huge challenge because the crowd are so powerful there. They've got world class players and the game can change in a moment.
"We have to maintain that humility and respect for the opponent and try our best to play the football we want to play."
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