Sir Jim Ratcliffe's four Man Utd decisions early in transfer window explain his blueprint

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has wasted no time in asserting his authority at Manchester United, even if it is only from behind the scenes.

The billionaire is now in charge of the club's football operations and has brought some of his trusted lieutenants on board to aid him. United are in dire need of some direction with their failings over the past decade underlining their issues.

Their activity in the market has perhaps served to highlight, more than anywhere else, how short they are, especially when compared to their rivals. Recruitment, scouting and their contract decisions have all been open to criticism after continuous poor decision making.

One of Ratcliffe's main aims has been to improve that area of United, which will be crucial if they are to close the gap on the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal. Already that has been evident with the Ineos chief making it clear when he arrived that he would have overall say and sign off on any deal.

In the opening weeks that authority has been evident and offered an insight into how the billionaire, who has enjoyed success in other sports, will run United.

Whilst Erik ten Hag's future at Old Trafford is by no means guaranteed given the sustained level of poor results, for as long as he remains in the hot seat, Ratcliffe is prepared to back him. The Jadon Sancho saga is another modern day situation of player vs manager.

Increasingly the player is winning out, but Ratcliffe has been prepared to back the manager. A social media post earlier this season caused Ten Hag to isolate Sancho, who has not appeared for months, nor is he allowed to train with the first-team.

Now the player will be moved on as Borussia Dortmund look to bring him back to Germany. That may not be a permanent