Ten Hag faces Man Utd investigation over training methods as Sir Jim Ratcliffe leaves no stone unturned

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly launched an investigation into the brutal injury crisis that has cost Manchester United big-time this season - and it will include close scrutiny of Erik ten Hag's training methods.

Ten Hag has been plagued with absences with upwards of 60 separate injuries or illnesses limiting his selections this season. It's been no more prominent than in defence - United had to play with Casemiro and Jonny Evans at centre-back and Aaron Wan-Bissaka out of position on the left against Crystal Palace on Monday, and lost 4-0.

Amazingly that makeshift combination was the 31st unique defensive lineup he has used this term in just 48 games, and they are now at grave risk of missing out on Europe altogether, which would be the worst possible start to the Ratcliffe era. And the new billionaire part-owner, who is in charge of the football operation, is getting ready to crack the whip.

On Wednesday it was reported that the INEOS chief cracked down on staff working from home to increase productivity, and now it seems he has the injury situation in his sights. The Mirror say Ratcliffe is ready to launch a 'forenstic investigation' into what is really behind the dire injury situation. United already conducted an internal review, but Ratcliffe wants his own fresh look at the issue.

And it's claimed his new investigation will include close 'scrutiny' of Ten Hag's training methods and how intense the sessions have been. If it's found that his management has been a factor then it's likely to be another black mark against his name - with Ten Hag's position already thought to be under consideration.