Rio Ferdinand's verdict on Erik ten Hag's Manchester United job security amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe investment

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes Erik ten Hag's job is not in danger at Old Trafford even if Sir Jim Ratcliffe is to join the board.

Earlier this month the INEOS founder moved into pole position to invest in United after his takeover rival Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani withdrew from the race citing the Glazers' valuation of the club as a contributing factor to the decision. It is widely expected Ratcliffe will secure a minority stake in the Reds worth 25 per cent in the coming weeks.

This decision has proved unpopular with most of the fanbase as it would almost guarantee the current American owners will remain at the club. Nevertheless, thoughts have turned to what changes Ratcliffe may wish to make when he eventually completes a deal to invest in the club.

READ MORE: Who is Paul Mitchell? The frontrunner to become sporting director

READ MORE: Ratcliffe cannot ignore Rangnick warning

Reports in The Sun this week claimed Ratcliffe had earmarked former Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter as a replacement for Ten Hag should the Dutchman, for whatever reason, leave United. This has led some to question whether the current boss' days are numbered once INEOS arrive.

However, speaking to TNT Sports, Ferdinand is confident Ten Hag has nothing to fear. He explained: "There’s going to be work to be done behind the scenes, they’ve got to do a lot of due diligence to work out what needs changing and what doesn’t.

"It’s a big job but I’m sure he [Ratcliffe] understands that. There’s no way he’s [Ten Hag] under any pressure. They’ve backed him, he’s still got a lot of time to go on and try and achieve something big at the club."

TNT Sports gives you access to games across the