Manchester United Women: What’s going on?

Many hoped Ratcliffe’s arrival would lead to increased focus on the women’s team.

However, he was absent from their Women’s FA Cup final victory and there was controversy in the summer when the women were moved out of their training facilities to make way for the men.

They are now at a refurbished training site, while money was spent in the transfer window – but Ratcliffe’s comments this week have “disappointed” some fans.

In his interview with United We Stand,, external Ratcliffe said: “There’s only so much that you can do and our focus has been on the men’s team. If not, you get spread too thinly.

“We need to sort out the main issue – the men’s team. The women’s team is an opportunity. Women’s football is growing really quickly in popularity and size.”

His comments came at a bad time for Skinner, who as well as criticism of his team’s performances has faced regular questions about the state of the club.

“What I know about the club is that it has a love and affinity with our women’s team,” said Skinner. “I know that and I sense it every day I go into the training ground.

“I want us to focus on what we can control, which is the football. Away from it, I know we can be a massive part – and we are a massive part – of this football club.”

Deborah Henry, who chairs the Manchester United Women’s Supporters’ Club, told BBC Sport the “comments are consistent” from the club but she hoped for more positive messages in the future.

“It’s disappointing in that we want to hear more keenness to support the team in the way we, as fans, want it to be supported,” she said.

“There is an understanding the men’s team are the major money-makers and have to be prioritised. However, I think there is room for both to be looked at at the same time.”