Brighton will offer Manchester United biggest hint yet on Erik ten Hag future

Even the staunchest Brighton supporter must still be pinching themselves that the plucky Seagulls are on the same playing field as Manchester United - the glorious three-time European champions - as those two sides get ready for yet another Premier League meeting on Saturday afternoon (5.30pm).

With no disrespect intended, 'little old Brighton' represent a mere drop in the ocean when compared to United and that rich, rich history that right now seems very much like a thing of the past. However, with every respect intended, Brighton and United represent polar opposites when maximising their potential in the current day.

A quick glance through the history books would render this a mismatch comparable to world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury pitting his wits against a domestic flyweight challenger, but there is every chance the Seagulls can land one final knock-out blow on United before their (latest) new era begins.

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Erik ten Hag will be sworn in as manager after first chasing down a third Eredivisie title with Ajax and his impending arrival marks a further shake-up behind the scenes. Ed Woodward and Matt Judge are among those in the process of clearing their desks. There will be further office manoeuvring to follow.

One in-house appointment has been made with Richard Arnold replacing Woodward - although United have yet to formalise a replacement for departing transfer negotiator Judge. While much of the hierarchy shuffle remains up in the air, it's clear that Woodward and Judge will not assume an active role in the upcoming recruitment drive.

Ultimately, as all United match-goers and supporters from afar should know, success will not