Ex-Man Utd star Ashley Young makes pointed remark after Erik ten Hag hits back at sack fears

Erik ten Hag saw his Manchester United side get well beaten at Crystal Palace as questions were, once again, asked of the Dutchman as talk of the sack continues

Ashley Young insists the Manchester United players "have to stand and be counted" as the pressure ramped up on Erik ten Hag following their hammering at Crystal Palace.

The Red Devils put out a makeshift back four as their defensive issue continue to hamper their season, but they produced a poor showing at Selhurst Park. Palace scored twice in both halves as they made light work of United, who could now miss out on European football next season.

Ten Hag is into his second year as manager but has overseen a major decline in results. The Dutchman's future continues to be the subject of speculation, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe now making the major decisions at Old Trafford, with a call expected to be made this summer on his position.

Young, a former skipper for the Red Devils, insists that the players must take responsibility as they fail to produce the necessary performances. He said on Sky Sports: "A lot has been said about the manager and what he's been doing. The players performing how they are tonight, and how they've been this season, have to stand and be counted. It's about working hard for the badge, run for the badge. Everybody is expecting to seeing attacking football, it's just not there."

There is already talk of a shortlist being drawn up of possible candidates who can replace Ten Hag. Ratcliffe is determined to restore United to their success of yesteryear but may have to make some ruthless decisions in pursuit of that goal.

Ten Hag though maintained he is the man to lead the Red Devils forward, especially if he has a fully fit squad. He said: "Absolutely. If the right players are available, we have a good squad. We miss almost the whole backline and then we have problems."

The Dutchman also added: "I will keep fighting. I prepared the team in the best way I could do. It was not good enough, I have to take responsibility for that but I will find energy and prepare them for Sunday's game."

Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)

Opinions are divided when it comes to Ten Hag's future. The ex-Ajax boss was able to end the club's wait for a trophy when he claimed the Carabao Cup last term. He's also led United to the final of the FA Cup, where Manchester City lie in wait.

Despite that Ten Hag has been unable to implement a clear style of play at Old Trafford. The team have also been prone to heavy defeats, famously conceding seven and six at Liverpool and Manchester City last term.

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