'Ten Hag's fate is likely sealed'

It’s the morning after the night before. Crystal Palace 4-0 Manchester United felt like the end for Erik ten Hag.

Like Watford 4-1 Manchester United did for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Like Liverpool 3-1 Manchester United did for Jose Mourinho. Like that four-game losing stream in December 2015 did for Louis van Gaal. And like Everton 2-0 Manchester United did for David Moyes.

Ten Hag’s players surrendered at Selhurst Park. Only 12 senior outfield names travelled but there is no excuse for what became a Bank Holiday battering in the capital.

The squad’s under-performers can’t escape criticism. They should’ve been embarrassed to receive an incredible ovation from United’s first-class away support, who had been disregarded by more scheduling.

But the worry for Ten Hag is that eight of the players who were ripped apart by Palace were his signings across the last two years.

Jonny Evans wasn’t fully fit and has earned respect for stepping in as United’s only available centre-back.

But along with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Antony and Sofyan Amrabat, he shouldn’t be at the club next season.

Ten Hag’s fate is likely sealed, now. But Ineos must be just as ruthless with their squad clearout.

Alex Turk can be found at Stretford Paddock