HAG CALL TO MAKE

Now Pep gives his backing to Erik

- HARRY PRATT

PEP GUARDIOLA reckons the Manchester United board have a "decision" to make after his City's shock defeat at Wembley.

Few predicted a remarkable 2-1 victory for Erik ten Hag's side.

Not least the Old Trafford football hierarchy after it was leaked on Friday they intended to fire him no matter what happened in yesterday's final.

But having seen his English champions denied a second successive League and Cup Double by the neighbours, City boss Guardiola cranked up the pressure on new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co.

The Spaniard, who embraced Ten Hag warmly at the final whistle, said: "They have to take a decision. He's a lovely person and an extraordinary manager.

"Winning the FA Cup is important for them... like it was for us last season."

Ten Hag played dumb with regards to his future but slammed the critics who suggest finishing eighth in the league with a negative goal difference is unacceptable, given their injury woes.