Rangnick: Ronaldo back for Everton | No comment on Ten Hag

Ralf Rangnick refused to be drawn on reports Manchester United are set to appoint Erik ten Hag as manager, but confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo would return for Saturday's Premier League match at Everton.

United are reportedly close to finalising the appointment of their new manager, with Ajax boss Ten Hag expected to be the club's chosen candidate.

Sources from Ajax and the Dutchman's camp have told Sky Sports News talks over compensation and how to handle a formal announcement had taken place, after he impressed in his interview.

United denied having official discussions, calling such an advanced reading of the situation "premature", and interim boss Rangnick declined to comment on reports regarding his potential successor.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's match against Everton, Rangnick said on Friday: "This is the press conference for tomorrow's game. I don't intend to speak about any possible new managers.

"From what I know, all the managers the club has so far spoken to are top managers, top coaches. If this includes Erik ten Hag, it is also true with him. That is all I can say at this stage."

Asked whether he was consulted during the club's pursuit of a new manager, Rangnick added: "I know which coaches they have spoken to so far and can say they are top coaches."

United head to Goodison Park on Saturday lunchtime looking to resurrect their top-four challenge after losing further ground in last weekend's 1-1 draw with Leicester at Old Trafford.

Rangnick confirmed Ronaldo, who missed the game with Leicester due to illness, was available for Saturday's trip to Merseyside, but revealed United would be without several others.

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