Ten Hag: Premier League is really strong

The Reds have just three games remaining in the 2022/23 campaign, with Frank Lampard's Chelsea the next side to arrive in M16 this Thursday evening.

Needing just one point from our final two league games - with Fulham still to come on Sunday - United will ensure qualification to next year's Champions League with a draw against the Blues at Old Trafford.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference earlier today, the boss reflected on how many teams in the top flight have impressed him this term.

“I think there are many teams in the Premier League who are really strong,’’ said Erik.

“I am talking about Aston Villa, talking about Brighton and talking about Brentford now.

“I think there are many more teams who are really strong and tough and it's not only the top six clubs.”

When asked whether he expects qualifying for the top four to be even tougher next season, Erik replied:

“It could be. But there is a summer in between, a lot of things can happen.

“In this moment we know there is a balance in the league, but over the summer things can change.”

With Chelsea enduring a difficult campaign, they currently sit in 12th position heading into the clash at the Theatre of Dreams, with Frank Lampard being the third manager to have occupied the Blues' hot seat this season.

When asked if the recent struggles at Stamford Bridge serve as a cautionary tale, Ten Hag replied: “Oh, absolutely. At this moment, the Premier League is the centralisation of good players and the best managers.

“Also [it’s about] the money. It's all here in the UK. That makes a great competition but a tough competition and you have to do the right things.

“You can have money, but you have to spend it in a smart way. You need the right strategy behind it because otherwise money doesn't work.”