HUNDRED AND TEN PER CENT

United boss demands improved standards

- DAVID McDONNELL

ERIK TEN HAG has warned his Manchester United players they cannot allow their standards to drop or they will be “killed” next season.

Ten Hag raised standards on and off the pitch in his first season at United, taking them to third place in the Premier League and ending their six-year wait for a trophy with the Carabao Cup.

But the United boss has told his players they cannot sit still if they are serious about taking the next step and competing with Treble winners Manchester City.

During a break from United’s US tour, the Dutchman spoke candidly about the mess he inherited when he took charge and the culture change he had to instil to turn the club around.

“When I came in, the standards were not right,” said Ten Hag. “That’s true. I demand the highest standards in sleep, recovery and nutrition, because that makes the difference if you have to perform every third or fourth day.

“That is the demand for every top football player and at Manchester United we demand the highest standards.