Dan Ashworth's philosophy and what it means for Erik ten Hag's future at Manchester United

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment in Manchester United has been given Premier League approval, and it could be given Dan Ashworth's seal of approval too.

The Manchester Evening News revealed two months ago that Ineos had a preference to appoint Ashworth and view him as the best-in-class for a sporting director role.

It now looks increasingly likely the 52-year-old will be the latest addition to United's hierarchy, which would signal another significant coup following the capture of Omar Berrada from Man City.

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Ashworth and Berrada would both form a key part of United's new-look football board, though it is understood they will also look to hire a recruitment specialist to help the new team and ensure individuals are given the resources to focus on their own areas of expertise.

A key component in all that would be Ashworth, whose primary job will be to ensure that all areas of the club are streamlined and focused on the same common goal of making United the best in the world again.

The elephant in the room is what it means for those already employed. Ratcliffe has held three rounds of meetings in Manchester, and United staff have also travelled to his home in Monaco as Ineos continue their audit of the club.

Erik ten Hag insists he is 'looking forward' to working with Ineos, and if he ends the season on a high by returning the club to Champions League football, then it is difficult to see why they wouldn't want to work with him.

Despite some obvious flaws, Ten Hag has restored authority to the managerial role and has cultivated a sense of togetherness in the dressing room. His transfer dealings have been