Erik ten Hag gives brilliant answer when asked about Manchester United's recruitment strategy

Erik ten Hag explained about Manchester United's long term recruitment strategy in his latest press conference and it was brilliant.

The United manager spoke to journalists ahead of a visit to Southampton in the Premier League, where the Reds will be looking to win their second game in a row.

Victory against Liverpool on Monday produced some much needed enthusiasm and Ten Hag will be keen to turn that in some serious momentum in order to climb the Premier League table.

After entering the press room, the manager's authority was shown as he refused to answer a question from a Sky Sports reporter.

But then, he was able to go into detail on various different aspects in the club.

Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford were mentioned and the Dutchman detailed how he will attempt to get the best out of the English pair.

The current midfield personnel was also brought to Ten Hag's attention, as he was asked if the balance has improved with signings of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.

“We have many options there now," he explained. "With Fred, with Scott [McTominay], Christian, Casemiro, Bruno, Donny [van de Beek], so we now have options there how we can outbalance the midfield, yeah.”

However, he was then quizzed whether there are more additions needed in that department.

There are many who believe that another signing in the engine room is necessary if United are to challenge for the top four.

Ten Hag explained that he is always looking to improve his team, and that is how United should operate if they are aiming to return to the summit of English football.

“I think when you want to be – I know in this moment we are not the world’s top [team], that is clear – but the intention always has to be for Man United to look for better.

Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford (Alamy)

"So, good is not good enough, always go for better. That has to be the culture in all the club.

"Of course, on the pitch, that is the demand on the players but also in every department of the club.”

“That has to be the standard, this is the demand, we have to go that way.”

This is the kind of approach that every top club needs to have and it is one that United have lacked in recent years.

Whether this is possible under the current regime is a valid question, with hatred towards the Glazer family at an all-time high within the fanbase.

However, it seems clear that if it is possible, Ten Hag being at the helm will be key.