I spotted Erik ten Hag's subtle message to Sir Jim Ratcliffe that may save his Man United job

Erik ten Hag applauds the Manchester United fans after the victory over Newcastle
Erik ten Hag applauds the Manchester United fans after the victory over Newcastle -Credit:Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images


Manchester United ended their home campaign at Old Trafford on a high note as they defeated Newcastle 3-2 in the Premier League.

The Reds took the lead on the half-hour mark as Kobbie Mainoo expertly steered the ball underneath Martin Dubravka. Anthony Gordon restored parity shortly after the restart but Amad's excellent first Premier League goal moved United back ahead on 57 minutes.

With six minutes remaining, Rasmus Hojlund put the result beyond doubt but Lewis Hall's stoppage time strike ensured a nervy end to a thrilling clash at the Theatre of Dreams. As United's hopes of finishing 7th remain alive, MEN Sport takes a look at the moments you may have missed from the victory.

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Ten Hag's indirect message to Ratcliffe

It was clear that Ten Hag was on the charm offensive with the United fanbase with pressure mounting on him in the boardroom. The Dutchman spent a prolonged period applauding the Stretford End when he came out before kick-off and spent some time shaking hands with fans behind the dugout before the first whistle was blown.

However, what may have been missed was his pre-match notes in the programme. Ten Hag pointed to the job done by Mikel Arteta at Old Trafford as a reason why United should stick with him ahead of next season.

"Arsenal's strength is the result of years of continuity and process," he wrote. "I think our supporters understand that we are still undergoing our own development and that there will be positive times to come if we all continue pulling in the same direction."

Ratcliffe may not have been in Manchester on Wednesday night but it is clear Ten Hag was sending a subtle message to his boss.

Martial gets Old Trafford send-off

Anthony Martial's United career is set to end with a whimper after he was not fit enough to feature against Newcastle. He did get a send-off from the home fans though who were chanting his name as he left the pitch one last time after doing a lap of honour with his teammates.

Martial's last appearance at Old Trafford for United came in December against AFC Bournemouth.

Newcastle fans mock Old Trafford leaks

Newcastle fans were in a buoyant mood before kick-off and they came prepared to mock their hosts in midweek. At the weekend, the Theatre of Dreams resembled the Theatre of Streams as a flash storm caused the roof to leak spectacularly.

In preparation for any further leaks, some Newcastle fans came prepared with supporters spotted wearing goggles and umbrella hats to protect themselves.