Steve McClaren ‘to SURVIVE Man Utd clearout even if Ten Hag is sacked due to little known friendship with Ineos chief’

STEVE MCCLAREN could avoid the axe this summer even if Erik ten Hag is sacked, according to reports.

The coach returned to Manchester United in the summer of 2022 alongside Ten Hag.

He previously acted as assistant boss under Sir Alex Ferguson between 1999-2001.

And he could remain at Old Trafford even if Ten Hag is relieved of his duties, according to The Mirror.

That is because he is close friends with Ineos chief Sir Dave Brailsford, who is set to play a key role in restructuring the club under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

He may be keen for McClaren to stay in his post as he has years of experience and knows the club.

The former England boss is viewed as someone who can work with any manager that is brought in.

It is believed McClaren and Brailsford share the same philosophy, with Brailsford being invited to speak to the Derby squad about his marginal gains ideas when the 63-year-old was in charge of the Rams.

He would also be able to provide continuity if a new manager is appointed, and former United star Paul Scholes believes he should be given greater influence on the team.

Scholes said of his former coach: “He is not touching that team.

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“The manager must not be letting him touch that team because everyone thinks we were a great team that attacked everybody but sometimes we played better teams and Steve McClaren put sessions on to make sure you stopped other teams.

“Getting distances and angles right, especially across midfield.

“He has got no impression on that team. He’s the best coach I ever had.”