Man Utd's first exit confirmed in ruthless shake-up after Ratcliffe's approval

25 January 2024 , 11:39

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe is overseeing an overhaul of Man Utd's football operations (Image: PA)

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given the green light for a major shake-up of Manchester United’s medical department.

United doctor Gary O’Driscoll, the club’s head of sports medicine, is overseeing a full scale review of the set-up at Old Trafford. That has led to the departure of a physio from the first team set-up which is happening on amicable basis with more changes to follow.

O’Driscoll was brought in from Arsenal and his first remit was to carry out a review to try and improve United’s record on injuries and losing players to lay-offs. United boss Erik ten Hag has been without key players like Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez this season and they are all keen to reduce the injury absences.

It was always part of the long-term strategy but Ratcliffe and the INEOS group have been hugely supportive of the club trying to improve in various departments. Ratcliffe, whose purchase of 25 percent of the club is expected to be approved early next month, is backing the overhaul with his lieutenant Dave Brailsford highly regarded within sport for his expertise on performance.

Ten Hag was also consulted and again is keen to ensure the players are given the best possible support and backing with the backroom and medical set-up. Ratcliffe’s new regime have already made a strong statement after announcing Omar Berrada as their new chief executive from this summer after managing to poach him from Manchester City.

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United declined to comment on the change in the medical set-up. United’s interim chief executive Patrick Stewart held a staff call with employees this week to underline some plans for the club both on and off the pitch.

John Cross