Manchester United and Erik ten Hag have perfect chance to test Donny van de Beek theory

Manchester United might finally have the perfect chance to test out a theory on Donny van de Beek.

Joining for £35million from Ajax two summers ago, the Netherlands midfielder was seldom used by the manager who signed him, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, while Ralf Rangnick allowed him to head to Everton on loan during the January window. In came Erik ten Hag and, with that, fresh hope for Van de Beek.

However, six weeks into the campaign and the 25-year-old has only played 19 minutes in the Premier League while also suffering an injury setback. Heading into October, though, the midfielder could finally be handed the golden opportunity he has been waiting for ever since completing his dream move.

READ MORE: Injury round-up and return dates

Following two postponements due to the Queen's death and funeral, United return from the international break to nine fixtures across two competitions next month. Ten Hag will almost certainly have to shuffle his pack, not only to appease Van de Beek but simply to ease the workload on his engine room.

Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes have excelled in recent outings. However, while Casemiro and Fred have to be factored in, former Ajax prospect Van de Beek will also need to lace up his boots and that may even see him play more than one position.

Speaking about his compatriot during the pre-season tour, newly-appointed manager Ten Hag said: "It's the same for every player; he has to do it by himself. Me as manager and the coaching staff around him can do everything to set the right conditions so he can perform but, in the end, the player has to do it himself.

"They have to take responsibility for their performance. Donny has the capability and I have seen it [when at Ajax], but