While Erik ten Hag was an embracive positive aura in his first press conference, history shows the Dutchman can also be ruthless in his examinations.
08.05.2022 - 19:27 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Incoming Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has refused to get too downbeat after Ajax missed out on the chance to take a giant stride towards securing their latest Eredivisie title.
The Dutch giants secured a late 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar away from home on Sunday afternoon, meaning they have been forced to put the champagne on ice for just a little bit longer. Ten Hag's troops, who will have to familiarise themselves with a new manager next season, took a first-half lead through Brian Brobbey, but saw the game turned on its head in the second half after Vangelis Pavlidis and Hakon Evjen scored for the hosts.
However, Edson Alvarez netted an 86th-minute equaliser for Ajax to ensure they remain in charge of their own destiny. As things currently stand, they are two points clear of second-placed PSV Eindhoven.
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During the contest at the AFAS Stadion, Ten Hag lost his cool for a brief moment with the fourth official on the touchline. The incoming United chief snapped at him when making a point about some poor decisions that he was not impressed with.
But despite his frustrations, and his side requiring a late equaliser to extend their unbeaten run in the league to eight games, the Dutchman insisted he was satisfied with the outcome. Their destiny remains in their own hands with two games to go and Ten Hag has made it clear that he will be remaining positive.
"A 2-2 result away against AZ is a good result," said Ten Hag. "We had things in our own hand and we still have things in our own hand.
"We will watch the game between Feyenoord & PSV in the bus on our way home."
Should Ajax win their two remaining matches, they will be
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