McDermott has who overseen the rise of Kaneamong other players at Tottenham

Manchester United have been dealt a blow after John McDermott, Tottenham Hotspur’s highly regarded head of coaching and player development, rebuffed an approach to join the club as part of a planned overhaul of their academy.

The Times reported last week that United had earmarked him for a key role in revamping their youth set-up.

It is understood that McDermott rejected the opportunity in order to stay with Tottenham, where he has a strong working relationship with Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach.

United are believed to have made their initial approach for McDermott, who oversaw the rise of Harry Kane, Ryan Mason and Tom Carroll, among others, before Christmas.

United are expected to implement wide-ranging changes to their academy, which they recognise needs to be