Harry Kane and Erik ten Hag can give each other what they want with Manchester United switch

Harry Kane is at a crossroads in his career while Manchester United can see nothing but tarmac when looking straight ahead towards the glistening horizon, but will their paths now intertwine?

Barring one or two early-season speedbumps, it has been nothing but smooth transition for United since Erik ten Hag was sworn in as their manager. Despite working under three top-level coaches at Tottenham - namely Mauricio Pochettino, Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte - Kane is no closer to his destination.

Back to Premier League action over the next 48 hours, the dust has yet to settle on a midweek FA Cup round which showcased the full range of emotions. For that man Kane, it is a golden chance to weigh up what might have been against what might be in the not-too-distant future.

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Within minutes at three far-ranging destinations, Grimsby conjured up unthinkable magic against Southampton and United underlined their new-found mettle under Ten Hag to progress into the quarter finals without being at their best. Up in Sheffield, meanwhile, Kane ran into a dead end, indicative of now-fading dreams he has with his beloved North London employers.

Kane has made no secret of his desire to win trophies. But while Tottenham remain in the Champions League this season, they have serious work to do against last-16 opponents AC Milan and the FA Cup was, realistically, their best chance to satisfy the stand-in captain.

Despite that opportunity, Tottenham named Kane on their bench against Sheffield United and the England striker was powerless to stop the Blades from cutting his silverware hopes. His bewildered expression when the final whistle sounded at Bramall Lane said everything while he was left