Erik ten Hag has hailed Alex Ferguson’s legacy of a winning culture at Manchester United, saying that is the greatest influence the legendary manager has on the current side.
The current Red Devils manager appears to have an excellent relationship with the club legend, with Ferguson impressed by the work the Dutchman has done early in his career at Old Trafford.
The pair were recently spotted enjoying dinner together in Manchester, with the Scot imparting some of his wisdom on Ten Hag, who is still competing on four fronts this season, with the Carabao Cup final on Sunday afternoon against Newcastle.
Asked what has been the most pertinent message received from Ferguson, Ten Hag said it was not one piece of advice, but just the example he set as United manager, which continues to influence the club.
‘He is by doing (not words),’ Ten Hag told Sky Sports. ‘I think he left a legacy and that is Manchester United stands for winning and a winning culture.
‘I think he’s such a great example for all of us, for humanity, but for all of us around and in Manchester United, he’s such a big example and we hope that we can make him proud on Sunday.’
Ten Hag and Ferguson were dining together earlier this week before United knocked Barcelona out of the Europa League on Thursday night with a rousing win at Old Trafford.
Of the meeting, which warmed the hearts of Red Devils fans, the former Ajax manager said: ‘It is massive. I always enjoy it, speaking with people with a lot of knowledge and experience.
‘He was to share it, he wants to help and support and you feel this is his club. He is so committed. He wants us to do well. It was a great night and I’m looking forward to the next one with him.’
However, he ruled out a post-match meal with the Scot on Sunday, whether Manchester United are League Cup winners or not.
‘We unfortunately don’t have time for that because the time is too short,’ Ten Hag said of a Sunday night meeting with Ferguson.
The former Manchester United manager won four League Cups during his epic reign at Old Trafford, with Ten Hag able to win his first when he takes on Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United at 4.30pm on Sunday.
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