Gary Lineker trolls Erik ten Hag with parting shot – 'Could they not wait?'

Gary Lineker has cheekily asked why the Manchester United hierarchy couldn't have waited until later in the week to sack Erik ten Hag – so his beloved Leicester City would stand a better chance of beating them in the Carabao Cup.

The Dutchman was given his marching orders at United on Monday, after their crushing last-minute defeat to West Ham on Sunday put the final nail in the coffin for Ten Hag's departure. The Old Trafford side are currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table, with just three wins out of nine so far this campaign.

After Matthjis de Ligt conceded a controversial late penalty against the Hammers to allow them to make it 2-1, it looked like the writing was on the wall for Ten Hag. And sure enough, United's statement was blunt and succinct on Monday as they confirmed his departure from the club after a spell of just over two years at the helm.

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The statement read: "Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager. Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.

"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future. Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."

When speaking on a special live episode of The Rest is Football podcast, ex-Foxes striker Lineker couldn't help but aim a sly joke at Ten Hag, as he discussed the 54-year-old's exit alongside Alan Shearer and