Erik ten Hag wasn’t drawn into commenting on a possible Manchester United transfer for Harry Kane, but did speak about the striker’s obvious threat ahead of their clash with Tottenham.
Kane has enjoyed another stellar season for Spurs, hitting 26 goals – 24 in the Premier League – although his future is likely to be up in the air once more this summer. United are possible suitors for the England captain, who turns 30 in July and has less than 18 months remaining on his current contract.
Ten Hag’s team travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday night, looking to press home their advantage in the race for Champions League qualification. United are currently six points ahead of a beleaguered Spurs side, who sacked interim manager Cristian Stellini this week, and have played two games more. Ryan Mason will take charge on Thursday.
Ten Hag was asked about Kane’s qualities at his pre-match press conference. He said: “It’s quite clear, his impact on the game from Spurs, we have a plan for that and [in the] home game we did very well, so for tomorrow [Thursday] we need a very good plan as well.
“You have to defend as a team, he’s a clever player, don’t allow him to come into the situations, he can have a big impact on the game.”
It also appears United are refusing to get complacent despite their huge points advantage over Spurs, with Ten Hag adamant the game is vital to the top-four race.
He added: “Very important. You see the table. It’s quite clear but the approach, our approach will not change.”
Reports on Wednesday suggested United might be reluctant to enter into talks with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy for Kane. Levy is a notoriously tough negotiator, though Kane himself might push for the move if Tottenham aren’t playing in the Champions League – as looks likely – next season. He’s also been linked heavily with Bayern Munich.
