Gary Neville's Scott McTominay transfer claim is a far cry from Ralf Rangnick Manchester United prediction

Erik ten Hag's refusal to introduce Scott McTominay during Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Tottenham caught Gary Neville's attention and his claim that the Scot is being 'managed out of the club' typifies a fall in status over the last 12 months.

United endured another dismal display away from home against top opposition, with Tottenham's second-half dominance yielding the two decisive goals. Pape Sarr fired home shortly after half-time before Lisandro Martinez stabbed the ball into his own net with seven minutes to go.

Midfield was a particular point of concern for Ten Hag, with summer signing Mason Mount unable to find a balance alongside Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes. Yves Bissouma and James Maddison went through the gears after the break but were allowed to by a Reds trio lacking any bite.

Want to join our MUFC Pro club for a totally ad-free version of the MEN’s Man United app packed with premium features? Click here

ALSO READ: 'They look like schoolboys!' - Keane slams two United players after Tottenham defeat

McTominay's game is by no means perfect and Ten Hag has made an effort to move towards a more technical trio, but the second half of Saturday's game couldn't have been more perfect for his introduction. However, none of Ten Hag's five changes called on the 26-year-old and Neville claimed a message was sent.

"What's clear is that Manchester United's midfield needs bolstering," Neville told Sky Sports during Saturday's defeat. "Ten Hag wants a number six who can play alongside Casemiro and, at the moment, the club can't get players out to be able to fund that.

"If they look at the first two weeks, they have to fund it or there will be a big problems. What is clear is that Ten Hag doesn't want to revert back