Erik ten Hag has given Manchester United fans something Man City and Liverpool already have

Manchester United's worst season for decades is now firmly behind the club. Erik ten Hag's tenure is well under way and the Dutchman has made a strong impression during his first weeks in charge, impressing on this summer's pre-season tour.

Ten Hag has been straight talking in press conferences and that approach has extended to the training pitch. Although one source described some of his communication in training as 'blunt', the players are responding to his methods.

The distraction of Cristiano Ronaldo's future has threatened to derail Ten Hag's first summer in charge, but he couldn't be handling the situation much better, which has eased concerns over his suitability to manage a club with the stature of United.

ALSO READ: Where Manchester United stand in the transfer window.

Ten Hag has managed Go Ahead Eagles, Bayern Munich II, Utrecht and Ajax. That's not the ordinary path to managing at Old Trafford and United are hoping Ten Hag is far from an ordinary manager, as the size of the challenge ahead should not be underestimated.

United have signed Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez this summer, while they remain in talks with Barcelona for Frenkie de Jong. The midfielder is Ten Hag's priority target, but talks have stalled due to a wage deferral issue.

Although supporters have been frustrated with United's transfer business, there is a tangible feeling of hope around the club, which was painfully absent last season. United fans are optimistic for the new campaign but they certainly aren't naive.

Ten Hag deserves credit for raising morale, but there is still palpable anger at the Glazer's ownership and doubts over the club's hierarchy. United fans are due to protest before the Reds' match against