Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has blueprint for Jadon Sancho resolution

Four matches into Manchester United's new season and already Erik ten Hag is having to deal with a situation which could undermine his authority.

Whether Ten Hag wanted to or not, his comments about Jadon Sancho following the defeat to Arsenal in his post-match press conference were always going to elicit a response from the player. What he would not have wanted is for the winger to go public with his disapproval.

Sancho claims he is being made into a scapegoat and went nearly as far as to call Ten Hag a liar when he deemed his performances in training to have been good enough. Now all eyes are on the Dutchman to see how he responds.

MEN Sport understands Ten Hag sticks by his words in the press conference and does not feel he needs to elaborate or take them back. But, he must now choose carefully how he approaches dealing with Sancho.

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Fortunately, the manager has previous experience of dealing with this type of scenario. When Cristiano Ronaldo went to Piers Morgan to discuss his issues with the boss, Ten Hag acted swiftly and decisively.

In fact, in an interview with ESPN, Ten Hag highlighted the approach he is likely to take with Sancho when it comes to making a final decision on how best to handle the forward's comments. He explained: "I had my reasons [for Ronaldo's exit].

"They were obvious, and I also knew the consequences. It could have had a negative outcome.

"That is always possible in football. But I am not worrying. I sleep well also, even during those nights."

He continued: "I have to take decisions in respect of advancing the club and the team. That is my job and that is the responsibility I have—and I have to stand by those