Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen admits that he has been 'impressed' by Erik ten Hag's start to life in charge at Old Trafford - but warns there is still plenty of improvements that can be made.
The Dutchman, who was appointed as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's permanent successor back in April, has overseen a steady start to life in M16, watching his side go from strength-to-strength in recent weeks. After losing his opening two games at the helm, which included a 4-0 mauling at the hands of Brentford, United have started to turn things around, producing much more competitive and encouraging performances.
As well as leading United to within touching distance of the top-four after his first ten Premier League matches in charge, Ten Hag has also guided the Reds to three wins from their first four Europa League group games, meaning they are in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stages. They face Real Sociedad in what could be a winner-takes-all tie to decide who wins Group E next month.
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Ten Hag, right from the outset of his rein, has made it clear that he will not settle for second best and that he wants his team to win every game at all costs. And it is his approach to discipline that has also caught Owen's eye.
"Yes, I have been impressed," Owen told the Manchester Evening News, in partnership with aceodds.com. "I think people can clearly say he's got rules and regulations and a way that he wants to play.
"It might not be the way he wants to play in the future, but he knows how to get a result. So I've been quite impressed with him so far."
Although Ten Hag needs time to try and transform United's fortunes, Owen believes the Dutchman will, potentially, have to ride a wave of criticism until he guides the Reds to their first trophy since winning the Europa League back in 2017.
Owen added: "The jury will probably be out until Manchester United start winning things and challenging at the top. But I think so far so good for him. And as I say, there will be bumps in the road like they had against Manchester City.
"But apart from that, the last five, ten games have been pretty impressive from Manchester United and it looks like he's on the right path. But a lot of work to do."
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