Erik ten Hag can prove he disagrees with Jose Mourinho by making Man United transfer decision

Jose Mourinho suggested Marcus Rashford would be better served sticking to the flanks with Manchester United moving forward - but Erik ten Hag can show he disagrees with that assessment when making his next big decision in the transfer market.

Rashford has rediscovered his mojo under Ten Hag this season after going through a dismal spell last term. His form has been a major plus point for the Dutchman and - better still - his impressive displays have come in two positions with six goals and three assists to show from 14 outings in all competitions.

His latest strike against FC Sheriff took his United tally to 99 and one away from an important milestone, while also underlining his versatility. The 24-year-old was on target from the left-hand side, though he has often been deployed in central areas by Ten Hag since his appointment.

According to Mourinho, this was not necessarily the best action plan for Rashford in his career. However, as Ten Hag also has one eye on future recruits, the next deal he gets across the line could speak volumes about his thoughts on the rejuvenated England international.

With question marks over five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo and his place at the club moving forward, United continue to be linked with PSV starlet Cody Gakpo - a fleet-footed attacker who operates from the left in a similar manner to Rashford.

Mourinho was pressed on Rashford after leaving his position as manager. Speaking in 2019, he said: "I am not going to say that he cannot ever be a number nine, he can be a dangerous number nine especially if the opposition is not pragmatic, is not close and is giving spaces to attack. He can be dangerous in transitions.

"But when Manchester United is a team that normally play teams who go to Old Trafford and close the door, bring the bus, bring the double bus, he is not a striker to play with his back to the goal. He is not the target man, because he doesn't score as many goals as a striker should do."

Mourinho added: "From the sides you will get him to numbers of 10-12 goals per season. He is very professional, he works for the team, he understands what you tell him to do from the defensive point of view.

"Playing from the sides, he can be a very good player, probably better than at nine. But he feels he is a number nine and I think the club and manager [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] feel he is."

Should Ronaldo leave Old Trafford, United would have Antony, Jadon Sancho, Anthony Martial, Rashford and possibly Gakpo - not to mention rising stars such as Alejandro Garnacho - competing for realistically three positions in the starting XI. Crucially, that would leave Rashford as one of only two players capable of leading their line.

If Gakpo does arrive at United, it may indicate that Ten Hag is keen to see more of Rashford in the central areas and thus suggest he disagrees with Mourinho's assessment of the England international.