Ralf Rangnick refuses to be drawn on Ten Hag rumours

Ralf Rangnick has declined to address reports that Erik ten Hag is set to land the Manchester United job on a permanent basis.

Speaking in a press conference before Saturday's match against Everton, Rangnick said: "I think this press conference is for tomorrow's game. I don't tend to speak about any new possible manager.

"What I know about all the managers the club has spoken to so far are top managers, top coaches, and if this includes Erik ten Hag it is also true of him.

"That's all I can say about that at this stage. For me it's about preparing for tomorrow's game."

With their own top four chances on the line, United will face an Everton team fighting for survival at Goodison Park and Rangnick said he expected the most committed side to prevail.

"Tomorrow definitely the most important part will be character and energy, commitment to winning the game in that atmosphere which will probably be pretty similar to the one at Leeds," he said.

"We are well aware of the importance of that game for both sides, for them it has high importance and for us as well. Game plan and tactics is one thing but what is most important is mentality, attitude and physicality and this will probably decide it."

Rangnick revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo was available after missing last week's draw with Leicester through illness, but several others are still out.

Luke Shaw is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks as he has an operation to remove metal bolts from his leg, while Edinson Cavani, Raphael Varane and Scott McTominay are still injured.