Erik ten Hag sends Man United message Sir Jim Ratcliffe can't ignore

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe arrived at Old Trafford on Sunday for the first time this season after his maiden transfer window was completed.

In many ways, the Ineos founder will be pleased with the work done by his recruitment team over the summer. Additions were added to the core of the team with the defence particularly stronger than it was before the window.

United also managed to part ways with players who were firmly out of favour at Old Trafford. Donny van de Beek was an essential sale while ending the saga around Jadon Sancho was best for all involved.

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Sadly though, Ratcliffe should have realised before a ball was kicked in anger that the work is not done to rebuild this squad. United's starting XI was nearly as strong as it could possibly be for the clash with Liverpool - Matthijs de Ligt partnering Lisandro Martinez, Joshua Zirkzee leading the line, Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo all involved.

However, the weaknesses of the team were self-evident when looking at the bench. Ten Hag had nine subs to choose from and picked two goalkeepers, two academy players still in transition from the U23s to the first team, two centre-backs, two wingers and a central midfielder likely to depart in 2025.

When looking for game-changers on the bench Ten Hag would be found wanting. It is clear injuries remain a huge problem at United with Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw among those with issues.

Despite this consideration, it feels United's squad is still wafer thin and it will only take further injuries or suspensions before the club is down to bare bones again. Nobody is