Erik ten Hag is the tactician Manchester United ‘need’, insists Joel Veltman, as Brighton star explains what makes Graham Potter so special

Brighton defender Joel Veltman has worked under two of the most sought-after coaches in the game: Erik ten Hag and Graham Potter. 

His former Ajax boss, Ten Hag, has been announced as the next Manchester United manager, while Seagulls boss Potter is being linked with Tottenham, should Antonio Conte leave this summer. 

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The size of the task facing Ten Hag at United was made clearer than ever as Potter’s Brighton hit them for four in a humiliating defeat at the Amex Stadium on Saturday. 

Veltman, who played in that game, believes the Red Devils need somebody who can organise them tactically - and backs Ten Hag to thrive at Old Trafford.  

“It’s going to be a challenge for him, but that’s what he loves,” the Dutchman told talkSPORT.

“Ajax is big in the world of football but Manchester United is the next level - because of the media, fans and all the things around the club.

“But I think he will do alright. They need a gaffer who is tactically really good. So I think he will do a great job there.”

Not only did Brighton’s stunning victory emphasise the problems at United, it also shone more light on Potter’s exceptional work with the Seagulls. 

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Brighton are now ninth in the Premier League table, 11 points behind the Red Devils in sixth, and their stylish brand of football has earned many plaudits. 

Potter has been tipped to land one of the nation’s top jobs in the future - and Veltman explains what make the Englishman such a special manager. 

He said: “Most of the time, the gaffers who are good tactically are not so good socially. He is both and that’s what I really love. 

“On the pitch and the training ground, he is amazing. 

“But when you talk to him about something personal, in a one-v-one conversation, you can have a chat about the weather or golfing - I love that.”