Steven Gerrard has told Manchester United they have a "fantastic manager" in Erik ten Hag – although he joked that none of the club’s fans will listen to him.
Ten Hag has been officially confirmed as United’s new boss, with the 52-year-old set to take over at the end of the season following Thursday’s announcement. The Dutchman becomes the club’s fifth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
He’ll have a huge task on his hands when he does arrive at Old Trafford as he picks up the pieces following a dismal campaign for United. Ten Hag will be tasked with a major rebuild during the summer, with a number of players set to leave while new additions are needed in a number of areas.
ALSO READ: Manchester United set to advance with transfer negotiations after Erik ten Hag appointment
Ten Hag’s arrival has received the approval of a number of Premier League managers as United look to finally rediscover their former glories. Gerrard became the latest to add his thoughts when asked about the Ajax boss at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
The Aston Villa manager gave a glowing review of the incoming United boss. However, given his Liverpool roots, he’s not entirely sure what impact his comments will have.
“Manchester United’s a very big football club, and obviously the project he’s got there, where they are at the moment, the current form, of course it’s going to be huge,” Gerrard said. “But it’s none of my business, and I’ve got my hands full here with the project and the challenge here, I’m very excited about that.
“Obviously there’s a lot of football to be played before he comes in the door. He’s a fantastic manager, a fantastic CV, obviously been very successful at Ajax. I like the style, I’ve followed him for many years, I’ve seen him do really well in European cup competitions as well.
“Obviously it’s a very positive appointment from their point of view. But no one in Manchester will care what I say about Manchester United, as you know!”
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
