Erik ten Hag told what he must do to keep Man United job ahead of West Ham clash

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly been told that he does not necessarily have to win silverware or finish in the top four to keep his job at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag found himself under huge scrutiny earlier this month following the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. This was followed with draws against Porto and Aston Villa in the run-up to the October international break, which were seen by supporters as fine at best.

During the break, MEN Sport reported that Thomas Tuchel was being lined up to replace Ten Hag should they choose to sack him. The next day, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other members of Ineos and the United boardroom met in London to discuss first team matters, including the manager's performance.

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Following that meeting, it was assumed that Ten Hag would keep his job for now with no further word coming from the club on his future. Last Saturday, United returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a 2-1 win over Brentford, followed by a draw at Fenerbahce in the Europa League.

On Sunday, they travel to West Ham for a clash that remains pivotal for both clubs after poor starts to the season. Speculation still persists around Ten Hag's future considering results so far this campaign, but according to GiveMeSport, defeat in the capital will not spell the end for the Dutchman.

It is believed that Ratcliffe and Ineos are looking out for considered improvements, but that does not necessarily mean United need to finish in the top four or win silverware. They want to see the Reds follow the long-term plan that Ten Hag has referenced and avoid any high-profile dramas that have plagued his United career to date.