Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag says he can take the club back to the top - if he's supported in the transfer market.

After several years of intense competition between Manchester City and Liverpool, the table has a different look this season, with Arsenal top and Newcastle in the top four.

United are within seven points of the Gunners, but Ten Hag knows his squad still needs more investment, particularly when it comes to improving the depth available to him.

“We want to restore Manchester United, we need top players but also double (in) the position because we want to act in so many leagues, so many competitions," he said. “We have certain positions we have a lack of quality and that can't be, if you want to compete for the highest."

Ten Hag insists the uncertainty around the Glazers' future stewardship of the club has had no impact on his role and that he is focusing on signing the best players he can.

“I'm here to manage the team, to get the best out of them, and of course I have a job in bringing the right players in," he said.

“Of course I have to be in debate with the management of the club, the board of the club, and we have a lot of communication about that. But I'm not here for the finance, I'm here to achieve the sporting aims and goals.

“I'm planning, I always go for the highest, so we go for the best, the best we can get, but also we have plan B."