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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Steven Railston

Wayne Rooney reveals conversations with Manchester United players about Erik ten Hag

Wayne Rooney has revealed that he knows Manchester United players are enjoying working for a 'demanding' Erik ten Hag, having spoken to some of them during visits to Carrington this season.

Ten Hag was appointed on the back of the worst season at Old Trafford for decades, but he's managed to inspire a remarkable change of fortunes, which has seen the club reach the Carabao Cup final and move to third in the Premier League.

Although there were doubts about whether the dressing room would respond to his disciplinarian approach, Ten Hag is getting the best out of each player and a feeling of genuine togetherness has been created at Carrington.

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Rooney now manages DC United in the MLS but he remains a follower of United and he's been impressed with Ten Hag.

The United legend lauded the improvements the Dutchman has made so far this season and he also revealed he's had conversations with players at the club who say they enjoy working for him.

"He (Ten Hag) is what Manchester United have needed for a few years now," Rooney told ESPN. "I've been down to the training ground quite a few times, especially in the [MLS] offseason when I was back home in England, and spoke to quite a few of the players.

"I know the players are enjoying working under him, which is always important, but he demands a lot of his players. I think he's changed the mindset and the confidence and belief of the players, that they're actually a good team

"And I think people are starting to see that this season and they're in a good position. They're five points off the top spot, you know there's still a lot of games to go, so you never know.

"Ten Hag is changing the culture at Manchester United and finally looks as the best possible candidate to regenerate the legacy of Ferguson. The main component, the need to establish a competitive, nurturing and disciplined culture, is finally back.

"I think it's important for any coach to create a good environment. Sometimes it's more difficult to do than it seems. I think Ten Hag has managed to keep all the players engaged, and players coming off the bench are having an impact as well, so the culture and the character he's getting off the players is what's been needed for a while."

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