ERIK TEN HAG insisted the Manchester United fans were firmly behind his team – despite more protests against the Glazer family ownership.
Man Utd defeated Aston Villa 1-0 thanks to a goal from Bruno Fernandes.
But ahead of the game against Unai Emery’s side, around 1000 supporters gathered in the city centre and marched towards Old Trafford.
The 1958 Group asked those involved to wait outside for the first 18 minutes – to signify the 18 years under the ownership of the Americans.
At full-time Ten Hag picked up a green and gold scarf that had been thrown from the stands – and waved it at supporters.
Those colours have traditionally been worn by United fans as part of the protests as a nod to the origins and values of United.
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Supporters hope the Glazer ownership could soon be coming to an end as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Qatar based Sheikh Jassim battle to buy the club.
But there are fresh concerns the family could stay on with a minority stake – particularly if Ratcliffe’s Ineos bid is successful.
Asked if the protests had affected his team, Ten Hag said: “We felt the fans were behind us.
“We have to focus to be successful because that’s what the fans expect, they have to rely on us, we will focus on that.
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“When we keep performances like we do all season the fans are behind us, there’s lot of energy, a strong.”
Man Utd face Brighton next in a repeat of the FA Cup semi-final before an away trip to West Ham next weekend.
They will be hoping to tighten their grip on a top four finish with Liverpool currently in fifth.
They are nine points behind the Red Devils.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
