He will help Erik ten Hag understand the ethos of Manchester United – Teddy Sheringham reveals
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham believes Steve McClaren‘s knowledge of Manchester United’s history and culture will be a massive help for new boss Erik ten Hag.
Sheringham played for United during McClaren’s first stint at Old Trafford, in which he was assistant to legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson and knows all about McClaren.
Former Ajax assistant Mitchell van der Gaag will also be working alongside McClaren to provide support for Ten Hag.
“McClaren will help him understand the ethos of Manchester United and its history,” Teddy Sheringham told Lord Ping.
“While also leaning into his experiences of winning things alongside Sir Alex.
“Sir Alex always let his players know that it was an honour for them to play for United and what United means to the people and the city of Manchester.
“He would speak about the Busby Babes, the legends that played for the club. These are powerful things and bring people together.
“United runs deep and Steve understands that. And he will make sure that the players, if they don’t already, understand that too.
“It’s hard for Ten Hag to understand that right away. Steve will help him — he has been part of United’s history.”
Sheringham has also revealed the number of signings Ten Hag must make this summer in order to improve on last season’s disappointment.
Teddy Sheringham told Lord Ping: “United need reinforcements across the pitch. In particular centre midfield, centre forward and on the wings.
“We’re looking at five or six top players needing to come in. You need players to come in with the right character who appreciate the size of the task and are ready to get United back to where they should be.
“It’s a massive challenge. From a player’s point of view, if you were to pick between City or United, then you’re going to pick City every time at the moment.
“As a player, you want to play with the best players. Top players would love to slot in alongside [Kevin] De Bruyne or any of the world class players City have, the list is endless.
“They are the champions and they will be challenging for everything next season.
“When you look at Manchester United, you don’t see that. There isn’t anyone there performing at the moment. It’s such a despairing thought.
“If Ten Hag goes in there and turns things around, everything can change very quickly.”