Is Erik ten Hag in trouble? Incoming Man Utd sporting director Dan Ashworth holds 'secret meeting' with ex-Chelsea & Brighton boss Graham Potter

According to The Sun, Dan Ashworth, potentially United's next sporting director, was spotted meeting the former Chelsea and Brighton manager. Ashworth and Potter worked together very successfully at the Amex Stadium and the pair have remained close since. Potter has been linked with the United job and the Red Devils' new decision-makers may look to reunite the pair in Manchester.

Following another season of lacklustre performances and a weakdefence, huge pressure is mounting on Ten Hag to improve the side's performances. The Dutchman has struggled to impose his identity on the team and if United fail to qualify for the Champions League, the United hierarchy may look elsewhere - if they aren't already.

United have struggled in restricting opposition attacks this season. In just their last five games (against Fulham, Luton, Aston Villa, West Ham and Wolves) United have conceded 100 shots. This is not a new phenomenon either, with the Red Devils' backline among the leakiest defences in the league.

Whether Ashworth has offered Potter the keys to Old Trafford or not, Ten Hag will be looking over his shoulder. If Potter is set to be the new United manager, he will be watching as the Red Devils travel to the Etihad hoping to avoid another hammering by their city rivals on Sunday.