Ten Hag opens up on trios future and why Varane is the reason behind Harry Maguire's lack of game time

 As he considers what to do next in his encouraging Old Trafford renovation, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag thinks David de Gea has occasionally displayed 'progression' with his footwork this season.

De Gea, 32, only has one month left on his contract, but the parties involved are in negotiations as speculation about his future grows. The veteran United goalie is not the only one in doubt, though.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, on the other hand, has revived his United career after it appeared almost certain that he would leave the club after making just one appearance in the first few months of the season, according to reports. Captain Harry Maguire is reportedly one of the players who will be made available for transfer when the market reopens.

In a lengthy interview with The Times conducted before United's FA Cup final match against Manchester City on Saturday afternoon at Wembley, Ten Hag was pressed about that specific trio.

In response to a query regarding contemporary goalkeepers, Ten Hag stated: "It's not what I want [top footwork], it's more what top football demands nowadays."

"If you observe teams, you have to be capable of playing from the back and use your keeper as a plus one. Otherwise it's simple for opponents to put you under pressure. He [De Gea] had to step up. In a number of games, he showed progression."

The former Ajax boss also addressed Harry Maguire's situation. The 30 year old is rumored to be heading for the exit due to lack of regular starting berth under the Dutch tactician.

"He has high competition there with Raphael Varane, who's fantastic," Ten Hag explained.

"That describes everything [winning the Champions League five times with former club Real Madrid]. No one would be happy with this situation [not playing]."

"He's not as well. He trains always on best levels, with 100 per cent effort. So he handles that situation well and he's in that manner and in his captaincy he's important for the squad."

"Let's say I'm happy he's here and when we needed him he did his job, but it's also a decision he has to make (over whether he wants to leave)."

Regarding, Aaron Wan-Bissaka: "We make an effort in going in his character, we got a relationship, and from there he got motivation, got his chance, he performed, and from there on he got more belief."