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    Gainsborough’s own Jamie Vardy swapped Hollywood for non-league and hopes to land dream FA Cup tie with DONCASTER ROVERS

    GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY’S very own Jamie Vardy may have swapped Hollywood for non-league but is still desperate to see his name up in lights on the big screen tonight.Only it is Doncaster Rovers rather than Manchester United or Arsenal that striker Declan Howe, 26, is dreaming about facing in the FA Cup third round.Dec Howe is hoping to shine on the big screen against HarrogateCredit: Heather King PhotographyPitchingIn Northern Premier League Trinity, the lowest-ranked team left in the competition, are into the second round for the first time in 72 years and head to Harrogate Town.And they go into their clash with the League Two outfit full of confidence – particularly hotshot Howe.The ace, a sales consultant by day, moved to the Kal Group Stadium last September with the club down the bottom.However, his 21 goals helped them to finish eighth and secured him the golden boot and he is already on 18 this term.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut his scoring exploits are a far cry from his days swanning about alongside movie stars after moving to live with his brother, who is now a manager of team operations at LA Galaxy II, in California to coach football.He told SunSport: “I went over there just as I was turning 21 and spent a couple of years in California coaching.“You’d see a few famous people about and if you went over to Hollywood then you’d see some faces.“I remember seeing Adam Sandler at an LA Lakers basketball game, which was a bit surreal.Most read in FA CupFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I had to come back every year to renew my visa, but in 2020 the embassy was shut because of Covid when I came home and that was the main reason I never went back out.“Then I got back into football and rediscovered my love for it again, started scoring goals and it’s taken off from there.”Ex-PE teacher deemed ‘too small’ eyeing legendary third promotion at Harrogate Town after help from former England bossHowe was on the books of both Scunthorpe United and Doncaster, where he grew up, as a YTS before being released and dipping his toe into non-league and then heading Stateside.Despite leaving the glitz and glamour of Tinsel Town, Howe has now become a star in his own right at Trinity following spells at Staveley MW, Darlington, Cleethorpes Town, Alfreton and Ilkeston.And while he knows not even Hollywood’s boldest writers could get away with a story that ended in Trinity going all the way to Wembley, he still could.Eliminated Ashford United’s Gary Lockyer, on ten, tops the race for the Mitre Golden Ball as top scorer in the FA Cup.But Howe, currently on eight, knows a hat-trick on Friday would see him surpass that tally and put him in pole position to collect his award and land a VIP day out at the final in May.He said: “That would be lovely. I’ve spoken to a couple of people related to the Mitre Golden Ball award and they mentioned how last year a trip to Wembley was involved. So it’s definitely an aim for me to try and be at the top of those goalscoring charts.“We all wanted the TV fixture for the great exposure. There’ll be a lot of people watching with it being on a Friday night and family and friends who weren’t able to get a ticket will be able to tune in.“We can’t let any of that get to us, it’s just got to be a normal day at the office and go out to try and get out there.The hotshot is dreaming of a Doncaster FA Cup tie in the third roundCredit: Heather King Photography“It’s been a long time since we reached the third round and it’s a great opportunity to put our names in the history books of the club.”However, rather than one of the giants, Howe would be just as happy to land Doncaster, the team he used to watch from the stands, in the next round if they get past Harrogate. He said: “I was surprised we didn’t get them in this round with both names still being in the hat. All my friends are Doncaster supporters and they were convinced that it was destined to happen.“Obviously if you get through you want a Premier League team, but if it isn’t then Doncaster would be a nice one.”And it is not just his goals that have made him a huge hit with supporters. His tireless running and work-rate has also seen him being compared by fans to Vardy.The Leicester legend, 37, went from non-league to Premier League and FA Cup winner in his own fairytale story.And Howe admits he has still not given up on his dream of turning pro – and he knows there is no better stage than to show what he’s capable of than in front of the cameras later.He added: “At the start of the season I said to my girlfriend that promotion was obviously the target but the one thing I’d always wanted to have was a nice FA Cup run and here we are.“Growing up it was every kid’s dream to be pro and I think that it is maybe getting a bit more reachable to myself now.I’ve definitely been thinking over the past couple of years that is where I want to end up and you never know.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Jamie Vardy himself didn’t breakthrough as a pro until late and he’s had an incredible career since and that is still a huge ambition of mine.“The Hollywood script ending for me and the club would be a dream. You just never know what’s in store.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Ruben Amorim picks out flaw in Rasmus Hojlund’s game despite Man Utd striker scoring twice against Bodo/Glimt

    RASMUS HOJLUND might have thought he could bask at least overnight in the glory of a match-winning double.After all, it was not only Ruben Amorim’s first home game in charge of Manchester United but also a 3-2 comeback victory packed with attacks.Rasmus Hojlund was told to get better despite a match-winning doubleCredit: RexRuben Amorim explained the improvements Hojlund needsCredit: GettyBut instead Amorim clinically dissected the striker’s game following an absorbing Europa League group triumph over Norwegians Bodo/Glimt.And the new manager’s killer line was: “He has to improve.”The Red Devils had trailed 2-1, despite notching a first-minute lead through Alejandro Garnacho’s tap-in.It was even Hojlund who provided the assist for that, although the main cause was a horrendous error from keeper Nikita Haikin.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe 21-year-old Norwegian then fired a brilliant leveller just before half-time.And he turned in Manuel Ugarte’s cross from close-in soon after the break to complete a terrific turnaround.Hojlund had celebrated his spectacular first strike in glorious Gladiator style.But some might say Amorim’s verdict was as brutal as anything Roman.Most read in Europa LeagueHojlund’s possession was mainly down the middleFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Portuguese chief said of the £72million ex-Atalanta ace: “He has to improve more. He takes too many touches when he holds the ball.”However, Amorim also pointed out two resounding pluses for the 6ft 3ins frontman – as well as giving a positive overall assessment.Ruben Amorim bizarrely SLAPS Man Utd stars in training as fans joke ‘I hope Luke Shaw doesn’t get injured’The former Sporting Lisbon boss stressed: “He connected in transitions very well. He was aggressive in the box for the goals. He is a quality player.”  However, many fans were still shocked by Amorim delivering such an outspoken opinion so early in his reign.One posted: “Chill out Ruben, it’s the first game he’s got any service and he scored twice!!!! Focus on Rashford and Antony.”Another one partially agreed with Amorim as he reckons Hojlund “just holds the ball too long”.But the fan added: “If he can change that and not always be on the floor he will be top.”  And there was plenty more backing for Hojlund – especially under a new coaching regime.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne supporter wrote: “Amorim is going to make him a diamond.”And a second said: “Hojlund is a quality player with immense potential.”Hojlund completed his decisive double with this simple goalCredit: AFP More

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    Rasmus Hojlund’s celebration for Man Utd against Bodo/Glimt in Europa League explained

    RASMUS HOJLUND debuted a new celebration after scoring for Manchester United against Bodo/Glimt.The Danish forward, 21, bagged a brace to inspire the Red Devils to come from 2-1 down and claim a 3-2 victory in the Europa League.Rasmus Hojlund performed a new celebration after scoring against Bodo/GlimtCredit: RexFilm fans may have spotted where the celebration is fromCredit: RexHojlund’s first goal came on the stroke of half-time as he levelled with a superb finish, looping his effort into the bottom corner.He then ran to the fans and gave them a thumbs up, before he turned it to a thumbs down.And the Man Utd attacker then capped the celebration with a throat-slitting gesture.Many fans will have been confused by Hojlund’s actions.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHowever, those who have seen the new Hollywood film “Gladiator II” will have recognised it from the movie.Emperor Geta, played by Joseph Quinn, does it when deciding whether or not someone should die in the colosseum.When they are summoned to death, he turns his thumb down to signify they must be murdered by their opponent.Reacting to Hojlund’s celebration, one fan said: “Gladiator Hojlund, he’s such a mood 😭😭🤣🤣.”Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSJoseph Quinn’s character Emperor Geta performs the thumbs up and down gesture in Gladiator IICredit: AlamyWhile another added: “Whether you like it or not👍👎aura.”A third replied: “The Danish blood ♥️.”Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?And a fourth responded: “Didn’t think there’d be a Gladiator I’d fancy more than Paul Mescal but Rasmus Hojlund has proven me wrong 😍.”Hojlund had scored just two goals in 13 games in all competitions prior to his brace on Thursday night.But he will now be pushing for a starting place against Everton on Sunday.Marcus Rashford started through the middle of Man Utd’s attack in the 1-1 draw against Ipswich last weekend.Man Utd ratings vs Bodo/Glimt More

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    Van Nistelrooy’s Leicester appointment must have lower-league bosses fuming – he comes with a red flag or two

    RUUD VAN NISTELROOY walking into the Leicester job must have managers further down the leagues tearing their hair out.This week at the Northwest Football Awards, for example, Dave Challinor of Stockport was named manager of the year ahead of Pep Guardiola.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s selection for the King Powercould be seen as another blow to high-achieving EFL bossesCredit: PADave Challinor has transformed Stockport in under three yearsCredit: RexNow that may be because organisers felt he would probably turn up to get his gong, unlike Guardiola.Still, two promotions in 2½  years to lift the area’s poor relation from the National League to League One — where they sit fourth — is incredible.Yet that and a managerial background  at Colwyn Bay, AFC Fylde and Hartlepool would sadly never put him on a Premier League club’s radar.It never does.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVan Nistelrooy was on that radar at the Foxes in the summer after one season managing at PSV Eindhoven before they went for Steve Cooper.Now after a further four games as interim Manchester United boss and he is in at the King Power and Cooper is out.To be fair, Michael Carrick did not do too badly on the back of his three games as caretaker at Old Trafford in 2021.He racked up two wins and a draw and, by the next October, was manager of Middlesbrough.Most read in FootballMichael Carrick has thrived as Middlesbrough chief after his brief stint as Red Devils’ interim bossCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBig names excite fans and Van Nistelrooy has one, literally.At PSV, he won the 2023 Dutch Cup and was runner-up in the league  but walked out amid a dispute with the board over lack of backing in the transfer market — an early red flag.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureAfter a year out, this summer he became part of a coaching set-up with Erik ten Hag that oversaw the club’s worst-ever start to a Premier League season.Then came those four games as caretaker.Coincidentally, the first was a 5-2 Carabao Cup win over Leicester.Except it was the Foxes’ second team as Cooper prioritised that  weekend’s relegation six-pointer at Ipswich, which they  drew 1-1.Van Nistelrooy followed it with a creditable 1-1 draw against Chelsea, a 2-0 victory over PAOK in the Europa League,  then a 3-0 win over — guess who? — Leicester again.So hardly the most taxing run of games and that draw with Chelsea was an absolute shocker of a game. Still, he briefly lifted the club  and the reception he got from the United faithful obviously struck a chord with the Foxes hierarchy watching from the directors’ box.That love-in was more to do with his 150 goals for the club way back when, rather than any managerial masterpiece.At a time when image is everything, however, the Dutchman  comes across very well.Van Nistelrooy showed his fiery side to Alex FergusonCredit: GettyJust look at how  Lee Carsley was dismissed  as a potential England boss because of how he handled the media glare.If Van Nistelrooy turned on the charm — like he did in his United press conferences — during his  interview for the Foxes job, you can see why  he got it.That is not to say the  ex-striker, 48, will not do well —  as he leans on the experience of  working with some greats.Like the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, who he gave a volley of abuse to when his boss did not bring him on  in the 2006 League Cup final.There is clearly a fiery side to the man.Worryingly for Foxes chiefs, the story goes that it was not just down to  a lack of support from above that saw Van Nistelrooy leave PSV just before the season ended.Stories in Holland claim  there was  a player revolt behind the scenes…If all the paperwork is done, his first  game as Foxes gaffer  could be at Brentford on Saturday.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Challinor, 49, is set to host Brackley in the FA Cup.It seems if he wants to manage in the top flight, he will have to get there with Stockport. More

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    Man Utd player ratings: Gladiator Hojlund gets a big thumbs up but Malacia is hauled off vs Bodo/Glimt

    MANCHESTER UNITED beat Bodo/Glimt 3-2 as Ruben Amorim made his Old Trafford bow. The Red Devils made the dream start as Alejandro Garnacho scored after just 48 seconds.Rasmus Hojlund scored twice as Ruben Amorim got his first win as bossCredit: EPATyrell Malacia struggled on his return from injuryCredit: GettyBut Bodo/Glimt hit back with two quick-fire goals before a Rasmus Hojlund double saw the Norwegians off.Here is how SunSport rated the players’ performances as they continue to adjust to Amorim’s system.ANDRE ONANA – 6Lucky to stay on after his mad dash out of the area ended with the ball striking his hand – a relieved man when VAR let him off. READ MORE ON MAN UTDNOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7Asked to play a more central role than he was under Erik ten Hag. Vital contribution to United’s equaliser MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6 Could have got across quicker for the visitors second or maybe he was caught in two minds. Hauled off midway through second half. Most read in Europa LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Back after injury and may need time to adapt to Amorim’s new system. Replaced by Shaw on the hour. Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?ANTONY – 5A fresh start under the new boss but he will have to do more than this if he is to force his way back into the reckoning. MANUEL UGARTE – 7 Uruguayan has played under Amorim before and looks comfortable in the new system. Teed up Hojlund’s second of the night.BRUNO FERNANDES – 6 Denied with a couple of efforts but the Portuguese has the quality to thrive under the new boss.  TYRELL MALACIA – 5 Back after 17 month injury nightmare and totally outpaced for the second goal. Did not reappear for the second half. MASON MOUNT – 7 Super curler against the bar early in second half – and a delightful flick in build up to United’s third. More like it from the ex-England man. ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7The easiest goal he will ever score to give United early lead and should have had a couple more at least. RASMUS HOJLUND – 8Harried the keeper to set up the early goal and then scored a couple himself – with his first one a real beauty. Nice Gladiator celebration too. A big thumbs up. SUBS:DALOT for Malacia 46 – 6Made the home side more comfortable defensively. RASHFORD for Mount 59 – 5Blazed one decent effort wide when United just wanted to finish the tie. SHAW for Martinez 60 – 5Second appearance off the bench as he feels his way back to fitness. AMAD for Antony 59 – 5Denied by the visitors keeper on a couple of occasions. READ MORE SUN STORIESCASEMIRO for De Ligt 66 – 5Asked to drop into the backline and had a testing end to the game. More

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    Tottenham 2 Roma 2: Mats Hummels scores stoppage-time equaliser as Spurs denied victory despite Son and Johnson goals

    MATS HUMMELS netted a last-gasp leveller on his first European game since the Champions League final to come to Claudio Ranieri’s rescue.The German veteran, 35, turned home ex-Manchester City man Angelino’s cross in stoppage time to break Spurs’ resistance.Mats Hummels, right, had the final say with a late equaliserCredit: GettySon Heung-min gave Tottenham an early lead from the penalty spotCredit: RexEvan Ndicka levelled for Roma when his header came off his shoulder and looped inCredit: RexBrennan Johnson put Spurs back ahead with a sweeping finishCredit: AFPHummels stabbed home to level things up in stoppage timeCredit: ReutersHe had not featured in Europe since losing to Real Madrid in the biggest club game in European football at the end of last season.Spurs had hoped to close out a vital three points in their bid to seal automatic qualification for the Europa League knockouts stages.Son Heung-min’s penalty and a Brennan Johnson strike, either side of an Evan N’Dicka header, were looking like they would be enough to do exactly that.But in a game full of chances for both sides, Ranieri marked his return to England with a precious point thanks to Hummels.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe ex-Chelsea and Leicester boss, now 73, had only taken charge of Roma – for the third time – earlier this month.Everyone was wondering which Spurs would turn up after their wildly inconsistent displays this season.Would it be the one who battered Manchester City 4-0 at the Etihad in the last game, or the one that handed Ipswich their first Prem win of the season the match before?At least with Postecoglou’s Tottenham you know it is always going to be an entertaining experience and this was no different.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Spurs skipper dispatched from 12 yards to put the hosts in frontCredit: AlamyThe Aussie’s side were handed the chance for a perfect start when Hummels tripped the excellent Pape Matar Sarr in the box inside three minutes.It looked a stonewall spotkick but bizarrely ref Glenn Nyberg did not give it – until VAR told him to take another look on the pitchside monitor and he promptly reversed his decision.Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsCaptain Son did the business from 12 yards, sending keeper Mile Svilar the wrong way.This was only Ranieri’s second game in charge with his first coming in a 1-0 defeat at Serie A leaders Napoli, bossed by ex-Spurs chief Antonio Conte.Paulo Dybala impressed and had a shot well-blocked by Fraser Forster in what was a confidence-building early moment for the big man, deputising for the foreseeable due to Guglielmo Vicario’s broken ankle.Yet there was nothing the England international could do about Roma’s leveller soon after, as N’Dicka rose highest to crash Dybala’s free-kick off the bar and in.Ranieri thought his side had scored a brilliant second moments later – but Stephan El Shaarawy’s thunderbolt volley was chalked off for the narrowest of offsides.Spurs stepped it up from there and had a Johnson shot was cleared off the line by ex-Manchester City man Angelino.Then, on 34 minutes, the hosts retook the lead via a blistering counter-attack.The Welshman already has nine goals for Tottenham this seasonCredit: GettySarr fired a perfectly-weighted ball into space up the pitch which Dejan Kulusevski hared onto, before crossing for Johnson to strike home first time.Postecoglou’s punched the air in delight as the Welshman wheeled away to celebrate his ninth goal in 19 Spurs games this season.It really should have been more before the break but when the ball rebounded back to Son after Kulusevski had struck the post, the South Korean somehow blazed over.Ranieri’s side had the ball in the net twice early in the second half but both were chalked off because striker Artem Dovbyk was offside.Pedro Porro then diverted an Angelino volley onto the crossbar – before hitting the Roma woodwork himself with a dangerous free-kick.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpurs struck the upright for a third time when Dominic Solanke headed onto it.It would prove to be costly because after Forster had made two excellent stops late on, Roma would not be denied when Hummels converted at the death.Ange Postecoglou and Claudio Ranieri shared the points in LondonCredit: AFP More

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    Man Utd 3 Bodo/Glimt 2: Hojlund scores double as Red Devils fight from 2-1 down to seal Amorim’s first home win

    RASMUS HOJLUND borrowed a scene from The Gladiator as he put Bodo Glimt to the sword.When the Danish striker equalised to make it 2-2 at halftime, he ran to the legions of fans in the East Stand, put his thumb up, and then turned it down, adding a cut-throat gesture.Rasmus Hojlund dropped a Gladiator inspired celebration after scoring his first of the eveningAlejandro Garnacho has scored the opener inside 48 secondsIt saw Ruben Amorim break United’s 33-year duck in his home debut – as the last time they scored inside 60 seconds in Europe was 1991But Hakon Evjen humbled the home crowd with a 19th minute stunner before Bodo/Glimt made it 2-1 four minutes laterHojlund levelled things for United on the brink of half-time with an excellent volleyHojlund then put United in front in the 50th minuteThe signal replicated that from a Roman Emperor for an opponent to be finished off.Hojlund did just that when he added his second in the 50th minute as the invaders from Norway who had been so vocal at 2-1 up found their team slain by the end.”Are you not entertained? Is this not why you are here?”, Hojlund might have cried to The Stretford End at the close of a thrilling contest.It was a much-needed night for Hojlund, who could easily have been hailed as ‘Maxuimus Misses’ during his time at Old Trafford.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut on night’s like this you can see why Erik ten Hag bought him, and pleaded for patience.In his first two games in charge of Manchester United new boss Ruben Amorim has ordered his troops to “unleash hell.”They did just that after 80 seconds to lead at Ipswich and it took just 48 seconds to do just that in this contest that saw United’s hopes of automatic qualification for the Europa knockout stages revived.Credit Hojlund for chasing down Jostein Gundersen’s back pass as he was alert from the first trumpet.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd ratings vs Bodo/GlimtGoalkeeper Nikita Haikin casually let the ball run across him and Hojlund slid in to to wrestle it free and Garnacho fired home.What a start for United – who are now 12th and one point away from eighth in their European league phase standings.Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?But as at Ipswich it did not lead to a dominant first half display.In fact, on both occasions, the impetus gained from the early boost was immediately lost as the intensity dropped.It was like the days of Louis van Gaal, as the ball was slowly swapped between players without a lot happening.The visitors were happy to wait and pounce.They did that in the 19th minute as they won possession from Matthijs De Ligt’s hurried clearance.In a blur of yellow the Bodo players swarmed forward and Sondre Brunstad Fet pulled the ball back for Hakon Evjen who released a stunning shot from the edge of the area into the far top corner.The away end of nearly 7,000 fans who made the journey here were delirious.They could not quite believe it four minutes later when their side took the lead.The wisdom of giving fit again Tyrell Malacia his first football in 550 days, having not even had a subs appearance, was called into question in the build-up.When Patrick Berg fired a ball down the right flank the United wing back had a yard start, but in a flash was two paces behind, as Philip Zinckermagel went past him like road runner.All Malacia could do was fling out a hopeful arm to try and knock him off his stride.The Bodo player was too fast, too strong, powering his way into the box before firing low past Andre Onana into the far bottom corner.It could have been three when Evjen was teed up once more but fired over.Then United dug deep to earn an equaliser right on half time.United made it difficult for themselves at times but the forwards finally came throughAndre Onana handled the ball outside the box in the 75th minuteAmad Diallo mimicked his run against Ipswich but Garnacho couldn’t put it awayNoussair Mazraoui did well to win possession and then chip a cross into the area.Hojlund flicked the ball up with his left foot and fired a volley home with his right, before setting off in celebration.United maintained the momentum from that as the returning Mason Mount hit the bar shortly after the restart.Then the Red Devils took the lead as Hojliund finished off a great move.Mazraoui was involved against playing the ball forward for the returning Mount whose clever flick rolled into the path of Bruno Fernandes.And Manuel Ugarte’s square ball was perfectly waited to beat a VAR check as Hojlund suck out a foot and turned it in.But it was a nervy finish as the visitors earned a free-kick on the edge of the box after a clever foul from Casemiro.Berg fired the ball over the wall but Onana dive to his right to push the ball away to safety with a quick VAR quick cleared.So victory for Amorim in his first game in charge at Old Trafford.Much to be positive about too.It was not just Hojlund’s goals but the performances of Mazraoui and Mount.Garnacho was all action again, he missed alot of chances but he scores too and never stops.It is something to build on.READ MORE SUN STORIESAll Hail Ruben the sixth…manager since Fergie.Hopefully his campaign will last a bit longer than the rest who tried to replicate the triumphs of English football’s great conqueror.Amorim endured a topsy-turvy nightA mouse is seen on Old Trafford pitch More

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    Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/Glimt LIVE RESULT: Hojlund fires Red Devils to victory in Europa League as Amorim claims first win

    MANCHESTER UNITED have beaten Bodo/Glimt 3-2 to secure back-to-back wins in the Europa League – but it wasn’t all plain sailing.Ruben Amorim received a warm welcome as he led the Red Devils out for the first time at Old Trafford.And he was once again greeted to a fast start after Alejandro Garnacho pounced on a defensive error from the visitors to make it 1-0 after just 48 seconds.But on 19 minutes, Hakon Evjen’s screamer stunned Old Trafford and got Bodo/Glimt on level terms.Things went from bad to worse for Man Utd after Philip Zinckernagel fired the visitors ahead just four minutes later.Just before half-time, Rasmus Hojlund’s superb finish made the tie 2-2 to spare the hosts’ blushes at the interval.Minutes into the second half, the Dane doubled his tally from close range, which turned out to be the match-winner as Amorim claimed his first win as Man Utd manager.Match result: Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtMan Utd team: Onana, Malacia, Martinez, De Ligt, Mazraoui, Antony, Fernandes, Ugarte, Mount, Garnacho, HojlundBodo/Glimt team: Haikin, Wembangomo, Gundersen, Bjortuft, Bjorkan, Evjen, Berg, Fet, Zinckernagel, Helmersen, HaugeFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Match reportBy SunSport’s Neil CustisRasmus Hojlund borrowed a scene from The Gladiator as he put Bodo Glimt to the sword.When the Danish striker equalised to make it 2-2 at halftime, he ran to the legions of fans in the East Stand, put his thumb up, and then turned it down, adding a cut-throat gesture.The signal replicated that from a Roman Emperor for an opponent to be finished off.Hojlund did just that when he added his second in the 50th minute as the invaders from Norway who had been so vocal at 2-1 up found their team slain by the end.‘Are you not entertained? Is this not why you are here?’, Hojlund might have cried to The Stretford End at the close of a thrilling contest.It was a much-needed night for Hojlund, who could easily have been hailed as ‘Maxuimus Misses’ during his time at Old Trafford.But on night’s like this you can see why Erik ten Hag bought him, and pleaded for patience.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd fixturesUnited’s next game is at home to Everton on Sunday in the Premier League.In this competition they face an away trip to Plzen in a fortnight as part of a ridiculously, hectic festive schedule.Everton (H) – Dec 1Arsenal (A) – Dec 4Nottm Forest (H) – Dec 7Plzen (A) – Dec 12Man City (A) – Dec 15Tottenham (A) Dec 19Bournemouth (H) – Dec 22Wolves (A) – Dec 26Newcastle (H) – Dec 30Copy linkCopiedHow we standA look at the Europa League table after tonight’s results.United in 12th spot, just a point outside the automatic qualifying spots.Tottenham a few places ahead – while Rangers are the highest ranked British side…Credit: UefaCopy linkCopiedAmorim reactsRuben Amorim admits there were good and bad moments in tonight’s victory.But he was full of praise for his side for the way they stuck at the game plan and reckons they deserved the win.He told TNT Sports, per BBC: “Of course, I see what what everybody sees, good moments, difficult moments.”There was some confusion in the end trying to hold the result, but the lads did a great job. They ran, they pressed, they tried to do the things we have worked on in the last three days and we won!”Half of the stadium doesn’t know me, I came from Portugal and I did nothing for this club. Yet the way they make me feel at home is special.”I will keep this to the end of my career.””Like a real ride. We started well, but then suffered two goals in two transitions. I like the way the players tried to play our game.”Sometimes we won the ball and have had problems in the past giving the ball away too much – the mindset is keeping the ball.”They are really trying and I think we deserved the win.”Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim interviewed following the UEFA Europa League, league stage match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture date: Thursday November 28, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER Man Utd. Photo credit should read: Martin Rickett/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to restrictions. Editorial use only, no commercial use without prior consent from rights holder.Copy linkCopiedCharacter shownRasmus Hojlund said it’s all about the three points and wants United’s games to be less exciting by killing teams off.He told TNT Sports: “It was a little bit of a bad start but we came back and showed character. “We want to make sure these games don’t get too exciting. But it’s all about the three points, innit?””He [Ruben Amorim] told me not to think too much about the guys behind me and just work on what I can see in front of me. We saw that with the first goal.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratingsSunsport’s Martin Blackburn was inside Old Trafford for tonight’s game.He runs the rule over tonight’s team and picks his star man.ANDRE ONANA – 6NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 7MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6  ANTONY – 5MANUEL UGARTE – 7BRUNO FERNANDES – 6TYRELL MALACIA – 5MASON MOUNT – 7ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7  RASMUS HOJLUND – 8*SUBSDALOT – 6RASHFORD – 5SHAW– 5AMAD – 5CASEMIRO – 5Read on to find out why they were rated as they were….Copy linkCopiedFull time numbersOver three times as many completed passes for United than their Norwegian opponents tonight.A cracking 20 shots at goal too for the hosts with just six on target.Three corners? That’s a low count here.Copy linkCopiedFull time view from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at Old TraffordThumbs up in the end – but for a while it was thumbs down. Match-winner Rasmus Hojlund scored twice to clinch the tie and unveiled his Gladiator style celebration – but the jury is still out. Norwegian champions elect Bodo Glimt turned the tie around to lead in the first half and that will be a worry for new boss Amorim. Even so it was a win in his first home game for the Portuguese.Copy linkCopiedStickyIt wasn’t pretty for much of the first half but in the end it was a rather comfortable second 45 minutes for Manchester United.That tweak at half time working wonders – maybe this manager is decent after all?Two goals for Rasmus Hojlund too, how much good will that do him?Copy linkCopiedFULL TIMERuben Amorim’s first win as Manchester United manager in his first taste of Old Trafford.Three goals and three points in the Europa League.Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtCopy linkCopied90+2 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtGREAT SAVE!It’s curled over the wall towards the top corner and Onana again gets across to keep it out well!Half-hearted appeals for a handball which are checked and cleared.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtUh oh…Casemiro gives away a free kick, just a yard outside the penalty area on the right of centre.What a chance this is for Bodo/Glimt to snatch a point.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtHogh rises highest inside the box and powers a header at goal.Onana at full stretch keeps it out superbly. But the Bodo/Glimt man was offside anyway.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtThree minutes added!Copy linkCopiedTaking the mickeySome spot from a cameraman to spot a MOUSE on the Old Trafford pitch while the game’s going on.Looks like Hojlund’s winning some stars for camp in this Bushtucker trial.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied87 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtA rare attack for the visitors, who manage to work their way into United’s half and up to the edge of the box.The shot comes in from 20 yards out but Casemiro’s frame gets in the way to block it before Hojlund wins a free kick.Copy linkCopied82 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtHe looks far more pleased at the minute, Amorim.But he knows the slender lead can disappear at any moment.As it stands, they’re dominating the ball and looking most likely to score next.Copy linkCopied80 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtGreat chance for Rashford to kill it off.Mazraoui curls a fantastic ball over the top of the Norwegian’s defence, sending Rashford clear down the right.He looks up for Garnacho in the middle but he can’t keep up, so he strikes low across goal, missing by a couple of feet in the end.Copy linkCopied76 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtWhat an incredible 30 seconds!Onana is well, well outside his area when he’s almost dispossessed and ends up on his backside.Bodo/Glimt just can’t get a shot away and United break at incredible speed.Diallo charges down the right and they’re 4v2 when he picks out Garnacho on the edge of the box. His curled attempt goes well, well over. Poor finish given the good opportunity to finish this one off.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at Old TraffordRasmus Hojlund launched a ‘Gladiator’ style celebration as he put his thumbs up and then down after his two goals. The Danish forward had certainly put Bodo Glimt to the sword – as the Norwegian’s dream of a historic night at Old Trafford was halted by goals either side of the break by Hojlund. He seems to be enjoying life under the new boss. Copy linkCopied66 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtBetter from Bodo/Glimt as the play completely opens up for them.A driving run through the middle comes to an end with a through-ball cut out by the retreating Garnacho putting in the hard yards.Jens Petter Hauge follows up with a shot at goal but Onana saves comfortably.Copy linkCopied66 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtMore United changes as Casemiro readies himself to come on.It looks like he’ll come on as the centre back here.OFF: De LigtON: CasemiroCopy linkCopied62 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtStop-start at the minute as the visitors go to their bench too.Bodo/Glimt haven’t really got going in an attacking sense in this second half.In truth, they haven’t actually made many passes in United’s half.Copy linkCopiedChangesJust as the clock ticks to the hour-mark, Amorim has opted to make a triple change.OFF: Mount, Antony & MartinezON: Diallo, Rashford & ShawCopy linkCopied53 – Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/GlimtNearly a fourth!Garnacho has ACRES of room as he’s sent clear down the left. He drives in towards goal, inside the defender and bends it towards the far corner but the keeper keeps it out.Hojlund can’t keep his feet for the rebound and a hat trick attempt goes begging.Copy linkCopied More