Transfer notebook: Ten Hag's relationship with Rashford 'frosty', Sterling to reject Saudi Arabia offer, Newcastle and West Ham target Championship star

Erik ten Hag desperately needs his own Mark Robins moment when Manchester United travel to Nottingham Forest on Wednesday.

Robins' goal that won the FA Cup third round at the City Ground in January 1990 is widely said to have been the goal that saved Sir Alex Ferguson from the sack.

United won the cup, the first cup of what would prove to be a trophy-laden period under Fergie that lasted more than two decades.

With the Red Devils eight points out of the top four of the Premier League after Saturday's game Depressing 2-1 home defeat to Fulhamthe FA Cup – United vs Forest is live on talkSPORT – appears to be Ten Hag's only route to salvage a terrible season.

While the new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe Not believed to be in a rush to make a change on the bench, Ten Hag can expect to come under increased scrutiny between now and the end of the season.

As well as being his eyes at matches, Ratcliffe's right-hand man, Sir David Brailsford He is a regular visitor to United's training ground in Carrington.

Brailsford will pay close attention to the connection between Ten Hag and his players, and a well-placed source suggested to talkSPORT that relations between the Dutchman and the Marcus Rashford out of form in particular they are frosty.

If Ratcliffe decided to leave Ten Hag, it is known that he is an admirer of Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi, as well as the Italian's predecessor, Graham Potter.

Sterling stays still

Raheem Sterling is willing to reject a big-money move to Saudi Arabia to stay in ChelseatalkSPORT understands this.

England international Sterling is among several Premier League stars on the Saudi Pro League target list.

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However, Sterling is under contract at Stamford Bridge until at least the summer of 2027 and remains committed to helping the Blues get back into contention for top honours.

Sterling, 29, has scored eight goals in 32 games this season and is seen by Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino as a leader in a young dressing room.

The return of the former Villa star?

Cameron Archer is ready to quickly return to Aston Villa unless Sheffield United miraculously escape relegation.

England under-21 striker Archer only joined the Blades in the summer in an £18million deal as Villa cashed in on their academy graduate to help them stay in line with the Premier's spending rules. League.

However, talkSPORT can confirm that the Champions League hopefuls inserted a smart clause into the contract that means they can buy Archer back for a reduced fee if United are relegated.

Walsall-born Archer scored four goals in 14 senior appearances for Villa before moving to Bramall Lane.

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Championship star wanted

West Ham and Newcastle are keeping an eye on Ipswich defender Leif Davis.

Davis has been one of the stars of Ipswich's unexpected push for promotion to the Premier League and since the start of last season has scored 26 goals.

West Ham are searching for a new left-back as they look to replace veteran Aaron Cresswell, while Newcastle have also struggled on that side of their back four.

Davis, who cost Ipswich a bargain £1.2m from Leeds in 2021, will surely be wanted if Ipswich fall short in their bid to reach the top flight.