Ferdinand says sacked Ten Hag like a 'boxer knocked down'

United boss Ten Hag was sacked on Monday as they called time on the Dutchman's two-year reign after Sunday's 2-1 defeat by West Ham - the club's fourth Premier League loss this season - left the Red Devils a lowly 14th in the table.

Ten Hag's position had been repeatedly called into question in recent weeks following several lacklustre results, with United also confirming Monday that Ruud van Nistelrooy will take interim charge. Rio Ferdinand, a former Manchester United defender, said Ten Hag's position had become akin to that of a beaten-up boxer.

"It was like a boxer getting hit and knocked down in the third round and never recovering and getting knocked out, knocked down, every single round on the way to the 12th round," Ferdinand told his YouTube channel.

"And finally, we're here. The fight's been called off in the last round for the manager, and I think now we're going to go for a new direction."

Former United captain Gary Neville believes Ten Hag paid the price for an "unacceptable" Premier League position.

"The big shock for me is how bad they've been with the new signings that have come in," said Neville, who added: "The fact that they are 14th is unacceptable. You can't be in 14th after nine or 10 games with the level of spend that's occurred without being under significant pressure - and that's what's happened."

United captain Bruno Fernandes thanked Ten Hag for the "trust" he had shown him at Old Trafford. In an Instagram post showing Fernandes lifting the FA Cup with Ten Hag, the skipper said: "Thanks for everything boss.

"I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future. Even knowing the last period hasn't been great from all of us I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager has done for our club!"

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