Raphael Varane told what to do next at Manchester United as Erik ten Hag responds to sale rumours

Former Premier League defender William Gallas says Raphael Varane should fight for his place at Manchester United amid Erik ten Hag clarifying there are no intentions to sell the World Cup winner.

Reports suggested that Varane and Casemiro both face the chop when Sir Jim Ratcliffe comes in and takes control of sporting matters at the club upon his 25 per cent stake investment.

Rumours also claimed that there was an emerging rift between Varane and Ten Hag amid his starting line-up omissions - although the United boss has denied such talk. He is unaware of the speculation around Varane's future, branding him as a "very important player".

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Varane has struggled to get back into the starting XI amid the form of Harry Maguire, having not started a Premier League game since September.

Erik ten Hag says that while Maguire and Varane can play together on occasion, he prefers having someone who is comfortable playing as the left-sided centre-back.

Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans have played there in recent matches while Luke Shaw, back from injury, also has the capability to operate in the role. Varane, 30, will have 12 months left on his contract by next summer with centre-back one of the areas Erik ten Hag is looking to improve.

Gallas says Varane “has not been at his best” in recent weeks but says he must stay the course and show he can fight place to regain his spot having rarely been in this position throughout his career.

“When you play for a top club like United, you have to put in really good performances in every single game,” former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Gallas told Genting Casino