Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a simple decision to make on Manchester United and Gareth Southgate

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has said all the right things since becoming Manchester United co-owner.

Ratcliffe's sit-down with journalists in London last month provided a fascinating insight into his plans and he's already established a task force to address Old Trafford's future.

The British billionaire has made an excellent first impression, but there is a decision to be made on Erik ten Hag's future and that could muddy the waters, especially after a report emerged suggesting Gareth Southgate is INEOS' prime target for the position.

The timing of the report is peculiar given United's 4-3 win over Liverpool was just a few days ago, a result which represented the greatest victory of Ten Hag's time in Manchester so far.

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However, a single result in isolation will not influence Ratcliffe's decision-making and Ten Hag's future will be decided by over 18 months of evidence during his time in charge.

Ten Hag enjoyed an excellent first season, winning a trophy and securing a top four finish, but this season has been disappointing, albeit it could be salvaged in the coming weeks.

The team has gone backwards, although Ten Hag could still argue the season has been an improvement if United win the FA Cup and qualify for the Champions League again.

The FA Cup is a more desirable trophy than the Carabao Cup, which was won last year, and fans still have hope of a strong end to the campaign after Sunday's win against Liverpool.

Regardless, there is a feeling there will be a managerial change before the new season and Southgate is the latest name to be linked to becoming Ten Hag's successor.

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