Ex-Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley believes that the departures of Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill have caused the Reds' demise.
24.09.2022 - 21:21 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Erik ten Hag's long-term vision is for the playing style of Manchester United first team to ultimately be replicated lower down the age groups.
That is according to Tom Huddlestone, one of the men tasked with developing the next generation of players at Old Trafford. Huddlestone was appointed player-coach for the Under-21s in the summer and a large part of his role is aiming to pass on his experience and guide the youngsters towards what is hopefully a long and successful career.
He has also given a small glimpse into what the Dutchman wants to see from the development section of the club. Ten Hag was recently seen pictured overseeing the Premier League 2 game against West Ham.
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Speaking on Sky Sports' Soccer AM, former England midfielder Huddlestone said: "I think he (Ten Hag) had meetings with the staff prior to me coming into the club. He sort of set out his blueprint with four or five fundamentals (he wants) in and out of possession.
"The under-21s and under-18s are trying to implement those ideas alongside their own. I think that will be the process going forward, definitely with the under-21s the aim is to play in a similar mould to the first team."
Huddlestone is the latest high-profile professional to take up the 'hybrid' role of combining coaching with sporadic appearances in under-21 league games and EFL Trophy matches. Other examples include Jay Spearing at Liverpool and Olly Lancashire at Southampton.
Huddlestone also spoke about his relationship with the young players and how he earned their respect.
He added: "Because it's younger players and there's a 15-year age discrepancy then it's not too bad. I think if it was a player-coach role
Ex-Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley believes that the departures of Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill have caused the Reds' demise.
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