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Erik ten Hag was the 'standout choice' to be named Man United's new boss, says John Murtough... with club's football director convinced by Dutchman's 'passion, energy and enthusiasm for the challenge'

Manchester United's football director John Murtough insists new permanent boss Erik ten Hag was the 'standout choice' for the job from the candidates interviewed.

The Dutchman was appointed as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's permanent successor last month having moved ahead of PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino in a long interview process.

The former Ajax boss faced the media for the first time in his new post earlier this week in which he outlined his vision of the players 'always dictating the way of play.'

John Murtough (R) insists Erik ten Hag (L) was the 'standout choice' as Man United's new boss
The Dutchman moved ahead of PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino (above) to take the United job

And speaking at a fans' forum - prior to ten Hag's unveiling in his press conference - Murtough has revealed the reasons behind the hierarchy's decision to appoint the 52-year-old.