Why under-fire Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag could be offered a reprieve by Sir Jim Ratcliffe & INEOS amid calls for sacking - explained

England legends, Michael Owen and Paul Scholes, have publicly called for Ten Hag's head after the 4-0 humiliation at Crystal Palace. Yet, there remains a glimmer of hope for Ten Hag as he might be deemed indispensable by Ratlicliffe and Co. due to a lack of promising alternatives in the market - a candidate who can potentially repair a sinking ship and help it cruise along the rough waters, according to The Guardian. Ten Hag's two years of experience at the helm may provide him with a valuable advantage over potential replacements.

Nonetheless, the United management have reportedly drawn up a shortlist to replace Ten Hag - a decision that they would ponder upon after the FA Cup final on May 25. Among the potential candidates are Thomas Tuchel, the outgoing Bayern Munich manager, Gareth Southgate, who may be available post England's Euro 2024 campaign, and Graham Potter, currently seeking employment after his tenure at Chelsea ended in April 2023.

Tuchel emerges as a strong contender given his impressive track record, including the 2021 Champions League triumph with Chelsea. However, recent setbacks with Bayern Munich and concerns over his squad management skills may affect his candidacy.

Southgate garners admiration for his transformative work with the England national team. His calm demeanour could be an asset in the demanding role of a United manager. Yet, his cautious style may not align with the club's tradition of bold and attacking football.

Meanwhile, Potter presents an intriguing option with his progressive playing style and success with Brighton in the Premier League. However, his dismal performance with Chelsea raises more questions than answers about his credentials.

While Potter, Tuchel, and Southgate are credible candidates, they are not elite options which will convince Ratcliffe to swing the axe on Ten Hag. The manager has had to work with over 60 injuries during the campaign and Ratcliffe might be inclined to offer him more time to prove his mettle - unless the Red Devils suffer an embarrassing defeat to City in the Cup final at Wembley.