Ten Hag insists he's 'happy' for former Man Utd star who left Old Trafford without speaking to him

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has said he is 'happy' for Fulham star Andreas Pereira after impressing during his first season at his new club.

Pereira, who came through the youth academy at United, left Old Trafford after eight years as a senior player last summer.

His destination was Marco Silva's Cottagers, where he quickly developed into a key player for the club.

The Brazilian has two goals and six assists to his name this season in 27 league appearances, and has helped to steer Fulham well clear of relegation trouble with 11 games still to play.

They sit in ninth place on 39 points, and still have the opportunity of qualifying for European football for next season.

Now, his former manager Ten Hag has reacted to his success at Fulham.

Ten Hag on Pereira

Speaking prior to United's FA Cup quarter-final against the Cottagers at Old Trafford this weekend, Ten Hag said (quotes via the club's official website): "Andreas Pereira is a really good player. I have known him for a long time.

"I had him in the youth team at PSV, before he transferred to Manchester United.

"I am really happy for him and that he is progressing well. I think it was the right step for him as I think he has to play on a regular basis."

Pereira departed United without speaking to Ten Hag, the Brazilian told ESPN earlier this week, but added that he was 'determined' to leave the club for pastures new anyway.

He explained: "At United I had a lot of memories; good memories, bad memories.

"It's been 10 years at the club. I arrived when I was 16 so, you know, a young boy. It was an amazing ride but I got to the stage where I thought maybe it was best not to stay.

"I wanted to feel more loved and I wanted to play every game. What Fulham offered me and what Marco offered me, it was the perfect opportunity."