How Erik ten Hag's first Manchester United squad could look with signings

Brighton beach is an idyllic 'staycation' and several Manchester United players seemed to have their minds on it at the Amex Stadium.

Some left the stadium separately - although security staff in the tunnel were only discussing Cristiano Ronaldo's exit strategy - and headed abroad. Others have had all the get-up of a sunbather in their deckchair this season.

Staff at United who were pitchside for the FA Youth Cup celebrations spoke of drawing a line under the season even with one fixture remaining. Now Erik ten Hag is speaking as the United manager, supporters must hope there is some reaction from the players.

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Ralf Rangnick recommended open-heart surgery, although there would have to be a heart. This bloated United squad has flatlined and the player turnover has to be high.

Before United players embark on their summer holidays or report for international duty, Ten Hag has to provide some players with clarity. Six contracts are scheduled to be shredded once they expire on June 30 but there is a long queue of players uncertain whether to call the estate agents.

Dean Henderson, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, Brandon Williams, Andreas Pereira, Donny van de Beek, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford face uncertain futures. It is feasible United could start next season without one or both of their best players this season, should Ten Hag decide David de Gea has stood still while other goalkeepers have developed or Ronaldo, on the Mottram Hall golf course with a Real Madrid cheerleader on Sunday, changes clubs.

In a season of European football on Thursday nights, a 25-man squad of seniors (excluding the third-choice goalkeeper) is essential, with allowances for