Man Utd icon says Red Devils should stick with Erik ten Hag whatever happens at Villa Park
Sir Alex Ferguson previously survived the sack after losing at Aston Villa and Steve Bruce believes Erik ten Hag should remain despite the team's poor current form
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorSteve Bruce is adamant Erik ten Hag should remain Manchester United manager regardless of their result at Aston Villa.
The Red Devils head to Villa Park following a run of poor results and performances that have seen the pressure ramp up on their Dutch coach. Now into his third season, there has been a lack of progression from last term as questions are asked about his future.
A week ago United were humiliated at home, losing 3-0 to Tottenham. That left them with seven points from six games, their lowest ever total in the Premier League. Since then they've gone to Porto in the Europa League and seen their defensive flaws exposed, surrendering a 2-0 lead to draw 3-3.
Bruce was present for a game at Villa 25 years ago when Sir Alex Ferguson, prior to his first title win, was under pressure to keep his job. They lost that day as fans called for the Scot to be sacked - but time proved key and Bruce wants Ten Hag to keep the same treatment.
He told The Sun: “Alex got time to turn things around and look what happened next. The same should go for Ten Hag. Of course fans are desperate for success — but so were they then, too. United this summer decided to stick with Erik. They made their decision and should stick to it now because, as we found under Fergie, things can and do turn around. Just give the guy a bit of time.”
Ten Hag has managed to claim trophies in his first two seasons, which have played a major role in him retaining his job. Back in the summer he survived a review as the club considered changing their manager, but eventually stuck with the former Ajax boss.
He's been backed again in the market despite a chequered record when it comes to transfer successes. Several of his new recruits have underwhelmed thus far but Ten Hag has maintained that he and his team shouldn't be judged on their current displays.
He said during the week: "We will get there. Don't judge us in this moment, judge us at the end of the season. We are in the process, we will improve. We have two seasons now where we achieve finals, (so) just wait. We have to develop and progress this team. We will work and continue and we will fight."
Last term United secured the double over Villa. Unai Emery's team were a tough nut to crack on their own patch but the Red Devils produced an impressive performance to down them in February with the now departed Scott McTominay scoring the winner.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches 'lowest price' Premier League package
£43 (was £52)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £216 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
With Ultra HD included at no extra cost, football fans can enjoy the 2024/25 season with crystal clear picture quality.