Dan Ashworth under pressure at Manchester United - Newcastle set for last laugh?

Ultimately, the decision lies with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who gained control of on-field affairs at Old Trafford once he became a minority owner earlier this year. But as sporting director, Ashworth will be tasked with finding a new manager should Ten Hag face the chop.

This would be the 53-year-old’s first major decision since jumping ship from Newcastle United. Toon fans were incensed when Ashworth sought new pastures less than two years after arriving - despite promising a long-term project.

A four-month battle to prise Ashworth from St James’ Park played out in public, with Newcastle even called “silly” by Ratcliffe. He eventually joined the Red Devils in July as part of a hierarchical overhaul, with Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox joining from Manchester City and Southampton. 

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Ashworth was part of the sporting setup that gave Ten Hag a new contract until 2026 despite finishing eighth last season. However, just two wins from the opening six Premier League games has heightened calls for the Dutchman’s departure.

Man United’s 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur has placed Old Trafford officials under the spotlight for handing Ten Hag a new deal. The 54-year-old is now the bookmakers’ favourite to be the next top-flight manager sacked.

Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter have been linked with the job given their close ties to Ashworth. The latter opened up about his relationship with the former Newcastle man when the two worked together at Brighton.

"He (Ashworth) will want to support and help, that's my experience working with him,” he told Sky Sports on Monday. “I don't know the context of Manchester United, but my experience with him at Brighton is that he was very supportive. 

“He knew how to challenge at the right time, but he also wanted to help you and be there for you. Clubs have to create the conditions for managers to succeed, and that's what he'll try to do."