Manchester United icon ‘open to any role’ at Old Trafford

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has admitted he would be ‘open to any role’ at Old Trafford should the club approach him.

Stam spent just over three seasons with the club, helping them to three Premier League titles, a Champions League title and FA Cup glory during his time in Manchester.

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He departed the club, somewhat surprisingly, in 2001 to join Italian side Lazio but could make a surprise return to the club this summer.

The Dutchman has been linked with a potential role on the coaching staff of Erik Ten Hag, should be be appointed the club’s next permanent manager.

Ajax boss Ten Hag is reportedly keen on bringing some coaching staff with him to Old Trafford who know the club. Ex-United striker and fellow Dutchman Robin van Persie has been linked, alongside Stam.

And it would now appear that Stam is keen a role at his old side, after he told Voetbal Primeur (via Manchester Evening News): “In principle, I am open to any role at Manchester United. I have enjoyed working and living there, and I owe a lot to the club.

“If I can help Manchester United in any way, I’m open to it, provided it’s in a role that suits me.”

Stam is currently without a job after leaving MLS side FC Cinncinati in September. He also has coaching experience with Championship outfit Reading and Dutch sides PEC Zwolle and Feyenoord.

Meanwhile, another former United star, Dimitar Berbatov had admitted the club need to score more goals, but he is happy with the work of Cristiano Ronaldo. 

“I can agree we’re not scoring enough goals to win the games,” Berbatov told the Debate on MUTV (via the Daily Mirror).

“I can clearly remember, when winning 1-0, 1-0, 1-0 down the road was enough to get three points. Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen at the moment and, because of that, we’re suffering and losing points where we should win points.

“I think it’s a bit short of options. Ronaldo still can score goals and I’m pleased with everything he’s doing so far. Anthony Elanga is emerging on the scene and he’s a great talent. I hope Marcus Rashford can find his footing and get into the form we know he has. He can score goals and terrorise defences.”