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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Isaac Johnson

Manchester United fans divided after Steve McClaren linked with return

Manchester United fans have been reacting to reports that Steve McClaren is being considered as Erik ten Hag’s number two, should he be appointed as the club’s next boss.

McClaren was Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant between 1999 and 2001, helping the club to the famous Treble in his debut year. The 60-year-old also guided FC Twente to their only Dutch title in their professional history in the 2009/10 season, in which ten Hag was his assistant.

He was handed the England manager’s job in 2006 but was quickly removed the following year after the Three Lions failed to qualify for Euro 2008. McClaren subsequently went on to have two stints at Derby County, and tenures with Newcastle and QPR.

READ MORE: Gary Neville perfectly sums up Manchester United managerial problem ahead of Erik ten Hag decision

Ten Hag has already held talks with the United hierarchy over the permanent manager’s position. The Manchester Evening News understands he the frontrunner for the role and has been marked by most club fans as their preferred choice.

McClaren’s potential return to Old Trafford, as reported by the Guardian , would see roles reversed with former prodigy ten Hag. He speaks fluent Dutch which would greatly help in communication with his colleague and the backroom staff ten Hag decides to take with him from Ajax.

Steve McClaren spent two years as assistant manager to Sir Alex between 1999 and 2001 (Stu Forster /Allsport)

United supporters have been airing their thoughts on McClaren’s possible return, with reactions mixed and varied. Some on Twitter liked the prospect…

@Josh@_G2: Won the Eredivisie with FC Twente and was assistant in the treble side.

@UtdSamm: Big Steve McClaren back at OT? Yes please.

@RangnickBall: Worked together in the past tbf.

@FtblObs: I’d love it.

@MaracasFlute: Yes please.

@20Paw7: Wouldn’t be against this…

However, others weren’t so keen on the idea, expressing their uncertainty on what kind of impact he could have on the United squad in the current modern day game.

@RAK8419: Just what we need. Another old boy. Steve McClaren left United 20 years ago. He is out of touch.

@zhashank: Is this a wind up?

@aaroniswinning: Man Utd is like a bad dream I can't wake up from.

@girishtripurana: That is stupidity.

@azzamufc96: Bit sceptical of Steve McLaren. Had a successful stint in Holland but his managerial record in England is horrendous.

@PaulTay31664305: Steve McClaren has been past it for years.

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