“I think the lack of identity and style” – Gary Neville reveals reason for Erik Ten Hag’s sacking

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville feels the lack of identity and playing style led to Erik Ten Hag’s sacking. The Dutchman was fired by the management on Monday after poor returns in the recent past.

Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken over as interim coach of the team. Meanwhile, the Red Devils have managed only four wins out of the 13 they have played in the ongoing season across competitions. They are lingering at the 14th place with only three wins in nine games in the Premier League.

Manchester United had also finished in eighth place in the Premier League in the previous season under Ten Hag’s tutelage.

“I think the lack of identity and style is something that has been a mystery for the last two-and-a-half seasons,” Neville told Sky Sports News.

“The recruitment has been awful at times but I believe there are a group of players who can play better than they are.

“Lack of style has been the biggest problem. It is a real struggle watching them play and it hasn’t changed in the last 18 months. That has been as bad as the results.”

Neville reckons Ten Hag’s sacking was always on the cards after United suffered a 3-0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur.

“I suspect the Tottenham game was probably a catalyst for them to start thinking about a new manager,” said Neville.

“You look at who is available then you try to think of the timing. You are half hoping the manager can turn it around but, 99 times out of 100, the tide is against you and continues to do so.

“They have chosen a moment that was decided a few weeks ago. That has come yesterday (Sunday).

“They would have started the process of finding Erik ten Hag’s successor.

“Looking at that Tottenham game a few weeks ago I felt I had seen this before. It was a bad day for Manchester United and a bad day for Erik ten Hag.

“It’s got worse from then. On Sunday the missed chances were unacceptable, they should have been two or three up at half-time.

“Overall, the challenges of the results and performances have meant that the owners have decided to sack him. I don’t think anybody will be truly shocked.”

Manchester United will be next in action in the Carabao Cup tie against Leicester City at Old Trafford on Wednesday.