Erik ten Hag does not believe Newcastle game will be his Old Trafford farewell

Under-fire Erik ten Hag does not believe Manchester United’s match against Newcastle will prove his last in the Old Trafford dugout.

The 54-year-old’s future is subject of widespread speculation given the way things have dramatically gone off course following a promising first season in the hotseat.

Ten Hag has managed to lead injury-ravaged United to another FA Cup final against Manchester City, but their wretched league form has seen doubts over his future as Ineos makes sweeping changes.

Their worst Premier League finish and points tally could be confirmed when the eighth-placed Red Devils host Newcastle on Wednesday, when a traditional lap of honour is planned after their final home game.

“Yeah, we will do,” Ten Hag said. “Yes, of course (we will show our appreciation to the fans).

“In good times, in bad times we are together, and the fans are showing that we are together, so, yeah, a lap of honour we will do.”

Quite what appetite there will be from supporters for that remains to be seen, especially if United fall to a club record 10th home defeat in a season.

The lap of honour will allow Raphael Varane to say goodbye after the defender confirmed he will leave at the end of his contract, but Ten Hag was taken aback when asked if it could also be his Old Trafford farewell.

“Goodbye for?” Ten Hag asked the reporter, who clarified he meant him.

“For me?! It’s not how I feel it and how I see it. That’s not the way I go to start that lap of honour for the fans, no.”

Ten Hag dismissed a follow-up question about the future having last week said he was confident “common sense” will prevail as the club’s decision-makers consider his future.

Importantly, the Dutchman also believes he still has the United fanbase onside.

“Actua