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    ‘If he wants to pay’: Roy Keane accepts Ruben Amorim’s offer to meet Man Utd legend live on TV

    ROY KEANE accepted Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s offer to take him out for dinner… but insisted the Portuguese coach will be paying.The new Red Devils boss, 39, revealed earlier this week some of the club legends he would love to spend some time with.Roy Keane accepted Ruben Amorim’s dinner offer live on Sky SportsCredit: Sky SportsAmorim took charge of his first game as Manchester United boss on SundayCredit: APAs well as Keane, they also included Eric Cantona, Rio Ferdinand and Sir Alex Ferguson.Amorim then elaborated on his admiration for legendary Man Utd midfielder Keane in an interview with Gary Neville.He said: “He was a player that I really liked. I know he’s a little bit crazy!”But he was a massive player, and I like players with character.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It was not just what Roy Keane did on the pitch; it was the way he influenced the others. I think that is very important.”You must have this kind of player in the big clubs and I hope we’ll have, in the future, players like Roy Keane.”Keane was asked about Amorim’s proposal live on Sky Sports ahead of Man Utd’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich on Sunday afternoon.To which he replied: “If he wants to take me out for dinner and he wants to pay for it, that is well and good!”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMan Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5Earlier this month, Keane, who won seven Premier League titles at Old Trafford, cited the lack of running as the biggest issue Amorim needs to address as Erik ten Hag’s successor.He said: “People look at the manager, but I don’t care if you’re playing in front of 80,000 or 80 people – you run – you’ve got to run in this game.Awkward moment Ed Sheeran politely asked to leave after gatecrashing Ruben Amorim interview live on Sky Sports”This team doesn’t run, that’s a big problem – lack of talent as well – but we sit here all the time saying they’ve really talented players.”But if you’re not going to run, you’re going to get nowhere fast.”Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More

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    Eagle-eyed fans spot Ruben Amorim’s ice cold reaction to Marcus Rashford’s opening goal in Ipswich clash

    EAGLE-EYED fans loved Ruben Amorim’s ice cold reaction to Marcus Rashford’s rapid goal against Ipswich.The Manchester United forward netted 81 seconds into Amorim’s reign as manager.Ruben Amorim had a muted reaction to Manchester United’s first goalMarcus Rashford scored after just 81 secondsCredit: RexRashford, 27, tapped home after he was found by Amad Diallo’s cross to give the Red Devils a dream start under their new manager.While the players were overjoyed in celebrations of the goal, Amorim had a different reaction.The manager was caught on camera having a very muted reaction to taking the early lead.And fans have hailed the former Sporting boss’ ice-cold demeanour on social media.READ MORE ON MAN UTDOne posted: “No celebration from Amorim, so cold.”A second commented: “Amorim’s reaction to the goal omg he’s so cold.”A third wrote: “Ice cold Amorim.”A fourth said: “No reaction from Amorim. My manager is cold as ice.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA fifth declared: “Amorim doesn’t celebrate goals – man is too cold!”Another added: “Amorim is so cold, man didn’t even celebrate.”Man Utd hardman Roy Keane and Sky Sports presenter blind rank BISCUITS before Ruben Amorim’s first match_1Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury.Despite the early positivity from Man United the rest of the match was far from perfect for Amorim.Ipswich grew into the game and looked the better side.Liam Delap was denied an equaliser by a brilliant save from Andre Onana in the 40th minute.Omari Hutchinson then fired the Tractor Boys level with a curling effort into the top corner after a deflection.And it was Ipswich who looked by far the likeliest to get a winner after the break.But Onana proved to be the hero for United with more saves to earn his side a point.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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    Arsenal fans demand Gunners ‘throw money’ at Southampton star after he ‘sends Andy Robertson into retirement’

    ARSENAL fans have demanded the club “throw money” at Southampton star Tyler Dibling after he “sent Andy Robertson into retirement.”Dibling lined up for the Saints in their 3-2 defeat to Liverpool at St Mary’s on Sunday.Arsenal fans urged their club to splash out on Tyler Dibling after he ran rings around Andy RobertsonCredit: APThe ace won a penalty as Southampton lost 3-2 to LiverpoolCredit: APThe visitors started well when Dominik Szoboszlai fired them ahead after 30 minutes.But Southampton pegged the Reds back just before half-time when Adam Armstrong fired home the rebound from a missed penalty.The spot-kick was won against the grain when teen ace Dibling showed off his incredible pace and dribbling.The 18-year-old left Robertson for dead as he jinked his way into Liverpool’s box before being hacked down by the Scot.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd one Arsenal fan urged Mikel Arteta to pull out all the stops for Dibling this summer.They said: “Arsenal need to throw whatever money at Southampton for Dibling. He’s so f*****g good.”Another declared: “Dibling is actually sending Robertson into retirement.”One noted: “Dibling needs to be spoken about after the way he was moving against Liverpool.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnother added: “This Dibling guy is actually a baller.”Southampton ended up going 2-1 ahead against Liverpool.Arsenal player ratings: Martin Odegaard a class above as Jorgino hooked at half-time after needless yellow vs Nottingham ForestBut their efforts ultimately proved to be fruitless as the Reds netted a late winner to extend their lead at the top of the table.Dibling has so far racked up 18 games for boyhood club Southampton, making his debut in the Championship last season against Gillingham.The ace came up through the ranks at St Mary’s but actually ended up at Chelsea for a brief period of time.The Blues signed him in July 2022 and even agreed a future senior contract with Dibling.But the winger failed to settle in London and quickly returned to Southampton after just TWO months.Dibling is now making waves in the top flight with Saints, and has even become renowned for playing with his ultra-low socks. More

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    Ipswich and Man Utd forced to play WITHOUT VAR after fire alarm at Stockley Park

    VAR was not in operation during some of Ipswich’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United after a fire alarm at Stockley Park.Sky Sports confirmed the incident during coverage of the first half when the Red Devils led 1-0 thanks to an early Marcus Rashford strike.VAR was not in operation following the fire alarmThe fourth official appeared to be telling managers Kieran McKenna and Ruben Amorim of the situation at Stockley Park.Premier League Match Centre tweeted: “The match will be operating without VAR until further notice due to a fire alarm at the VAR Hub at Stockley Park.”VAR resumed before the end of the first half.Reacting to the mishap, one fan said: “Can we do this every week?”While another added: “Fire alarm at VAR loool what the hell man 😭.”And a third replied: “VAR turned off? Nice one.”Man Utd had made the perfect start to the Amorim era with a goal in just 81 seconds.Amad Diallo found Rashford who tapped home from close range for his second Premier League goal of the season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Ipswich got on top before the break and equalised in the 43rd minute thanks to a deflected effort from Omari Hutchinson.Amorim lined up in his familiar 3-4-3 formation with Noussair Mazraoui in a back three alongside Matthijs de Ligt and Jonny Evans.Man Utd hardman Roy Keane and Sky Sports presenter blind rank BISCUITS before Ruben Amorim’s first match_1Yet it was a largely disappointing display from Man Utd as Ipswich overwhelmed them. More

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    Alex Scott reveals vile trolls threatened to throw ACID in her face after BBC star rumoured to replace national treasure

    ALEX Scott has revealed how vile trolls threatened to throw acid in her face, after she was rumoured to replace a national treasure on a popular TV show.The BBC star and ex England footballer shared how the online threats had stopped her leaving her house.Alex regularly appears on BBC SportCredit: GettyShe is currently dating popstar Jess GlynneCredit: GettyAlex speaking prior to during the Barclays FA Women’s Super League match between Manchester United Women and Manchester City WomenCredit: GettyWriting for The Times about the time she was rumoured to be taking over from Sue Barker as host of A Question of Sport, she said: “I was scared to go out of the house because these trolls were saying they were going to throw acid in my face.”These rumours turned out to be false, with Paddy McGuinness eventually taking over.The 40-year-old added: “There are negatives to fame. I’ve had plenty of racism, abuse and even death threats.”She explained that many people were not happy to see her on major TV channels following her career as a player.Read more Football NewsShe said: “People were saying, ‘She’s only on TV because she’s black, female and younger. She’s just ticking boxes’.However, looking on the bright side, she said she was grateful for those who had kept her positive through the difficult time.She said: “Luckily there are other people who keep me smiling. They’ll come up to me in my local shop and say, ‘Keep going,’ and that’s what I do.”Rumours have been swirling recently that Alex may succeed Gary Lineker as presenter of Match of the Day.Most read in FootballLast year, controversial comments by Gary, comparing government legislation to that seen in 1930s Germany saw the footballing legend taken off air.Alex stood with Gary by refusing to appear on the show in his place.Similar action by other broadcasters saw the show pulled off schedule.Alex Scott has spoken out about her experience with trollsCredit: Getty More

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    Marcus Rashford needs just 81 SECONDS to get Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd reign off to perfect start

    MARCUS RASHFORD got the Ruben Amorim era at Manchester United off to the perfect start by scoring after just 81 SECONDS.Amorim’s side went down to Ipswich for the first game in charge since the former Sporting Lisbon boss took over.Marcus Rashford scored just 81 seconds into Ruben Amorim’s reign at Man UtdCredit: PAMuch had been made about Amorim’s proposed switch to a back three with wing-backs.But with only two natural centre-backs named in the starting XI for the Ipswich clash there was concern over how it might work.However, those questions were dismissed as right wing-back Amad Diallo burst through the Tractor Boys defence and towards the penalty area.He then whipped a cross into the penalty area which found Rashford who was playing at centre-forward.read more in footballThe 27-year-old was then able to sidefoot the ball into the back of the net with a deft touch past goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.SunSport had taken a look at how Rashford might rediscover his goalscoring touch under Amorim as a central striker or on the left-side of the front three.And the decision to play him ahead of Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee provided early vindication for Amorim and his coaches.Before the game against Ipswich, Rashford had scored just one in the Premier League – coming against Southampton in September.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe had bagged three more in the Europa League and League Cup, but had generally been asked to play in a more creative role that had yielded three assists in all competitions.The move to centre-forward puts Rashford into more dangerous areas where he will be able to impact the game in the most decisive way.Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich (1)Elsewhere in the team, Diogo Dalot lined up at left wing-back, with Jonny Evans, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui named as the three centre-backs.Christian Eriksen and Casemiro played as the two central midfielders in the system, while Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho starred as the two 10s behind Rashford.However, after the goal United struggled to match Ipswich throughout the game.Andre Onana was in top form to keep Liam Delap at bay from close range either side of half-time.But he could nothing when Omari Hutchinson’s long-range strike took a deflection off of Mazraoui and spun into the top corner.The Red Devils hardly had a sniff even at the Ipswich goal even with second half changes seeing Luke Shaw, Manuel Ugarte, Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount introduced.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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    Roy Keane furious as Adam Lallana escapes red card for challenge Man Utd legend ‘would’ve been sent off’ for

    ROY KEANE was left fuming after Adam Lallana escaped a red card against Liverpool.The Southampton midfielder caught Reds star Ryan Gravenberch high on his shin with his studs at St Mary’s.Adam Lallana escaped a red card against LiverpoolCredit: Sky SportsRoy Keane claimed he would have been sent off for the challengeCredit: Sky SportsLallana, 36, was not sent off for the challenge by referee Sam Barrott nor did VAR intervene with the onfield decision.He was only shown a yellow card as a result of the tackle.The decision to leave the former Liverpool star on the pitch left Keane fuming in the Sky Sports studio.He said: “I think so, he is not in control, he is not even looking at the ball.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I would have been sent off here. I would have been 100 per cent. I would have had no complaints.”They have looked at the player there and thought he is not really a nasty type, none of the Liverpool players are after him.”He is an ex-team-mate. I think he has got away with one. I think it is a red.”Keane recieved 13 red cards during his career which is the joint record in English football.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe decision did not majorly impact the match as Liverpool still finished as winners on the South Coast.Liverpool took the lead in the match after Dominik Szoboszlai made the hosts pay for some sloppy play in the defence.Man Utd hardman Roy Keane and Sky Sports presenter blind rank BISCUITS before Ruben Amorim’s first match_1Southampton then set themselves up for a shock win as Adam Armstrong and Mateus Fernandes fired them ahead.However, it was not enough to stop Arne Slot’s Liverpool as Mohamed Salah netted a brace to restore their lead.The 3-2 victory now puts Liverpool eight points clear of Manchester City in the Premier League table.Tyler Dibling was a bright spark for Southampton as he impressed so much so Arsenal fans called for the club to sign him up.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Southampton 2 Liverpool 3: Reds go EIGHT points clear at top of Premier League after Salah penalty and McCarthy howler

    ANYONE who suggested last summer might have been the time for Mohammed Salah to move on must be hoping they never actually said as much.Liverpool’s Egyptian King delivered a brace to send the Reds eight points clear and keep their foot firmly on the throat of a struggling Manchester City.Mohamed Salah scored twice to guide Liverpool to a narrow win over SouthamptonCredit: ReutersDominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a stunning curlerCredit: GettySaints fought back with Adam Armstong scoring and assistingCredit: GettyBut Salah was on hand to score past blundering Alex McCarthyCredit: PAHe was needed too.Rock bottom Southampton were not supposed to be a problem – but they caused no end of issues against a somewhat out of sorts Liverpool.You would have been forgiven for thinking Storm Bert and getting to the south coast would be Slot’s biggest concern this weekend.But goals from Adam Armstrong and Mateus Fernandes, after Dominik Szoboszlai’s opener, had Saints ahead and Liverpool worried they had blown a brilliant chance.Until Salah turned up. One delicate and delightful finish before a clinical penalty. He should have grabbed a third, too, but that does not matter right now.If there were still doubts about securing his new deal within the club, anyone harbouring them should be removed from their post.Russell Martin, spared the sack during the international break, named a team which appeared to have been selected with the help of a blindfold and a darts board.Towering Paul Onuachu returned from the cold up front for his first Premier League start since May 2023, the day Southampton were relegated.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWith defender Jan Bednarek injured midfielder Flynn Downes dropped into a defence which included winger Ryan Fraser at left-back against Salah.Both experiments largely failed, though Southampton were improved from recent performances.Mo Salah appears to confirm Liverpool transfer exit live on Sky Sports after ripping Man Utd to shredsMartin’s concern will be that they only seem to turn up against teams they have little chance of beating.Liverpool had their own injury issues, with Trent Alexander-Arnold injured, but they were solved in a much more straightforward manner as Conor Bradley stepped in.Despite being the lowest scorers in the league the Saints had Liverpool concerned early on, Fernandes and Adam Armstrong causing trouble.Off the ball, they were very content to sit deep, Onuachu back defending 25 yards from goal with a bank of four and then five behind him.While Alex McCarthy, in for the injured Aaron Ramsdale, had to stop Salah twice at his near post, Liverpool were largely restricted to shots from range – Szboszlai and Cody Gakpo both trying their luck and seeing efforts saved.The league leaders were pinning Southampton back but they were holding firm. What a moment, then, for Downes to inflict the weekly act of self-harm.After McCarthy saved a soft effort from Bradley, he rolled the ball to Fernandes on the edge of the box.Under pressure from Curtis Jones the young midfielder played back to Downes who, without as much as a glance up, hacked the ball to the feet of Szoboszlai and watched him curl a left-foot finish off the inside of the post.Downes came close to making up for his error but was denied by Kelleher.The goal had caused a shift, though. Liverpool looked unsure of themselves.Teen Tyler Dibling was causing issues down the right, snatching possession and driving forwards.There must be something about St. Mary’s which renders defenders incompetent. It has troubled Southampton all season and Liverpool now seemed to have been infected.They were inviting the Saints onto them before a sloppy challenge from Andy Robertson, bringing down Dibling on the 12-yard line after Virgil van Dijk had conceded possession, gave the hosts a penalty and their way back in.After a shocking spot kick, Armstrong was sharp enough to beat everyone to the rebound and tap in just an eighth goal of the Premier League season for Southampton.Given mistakes at the back have gifted so many goals to opponents this season, it was about time one went Southampton’s way.McCarthy spilled the ball from a corner, but luckily it was prodded away to Fraser. The Scot moved forwards and clipped the ball ahead for Dibling who took one touch before lifting it over the Liverpool defence and into Armstrong.After turning and sorting his feet out, Armstrong squared for Fernandes who grabbed his first Premier League goal with a cool first time finish.Fans were delirious in the wind and rain and those on the pitch looked to be keeping their cool and, more importantly, the ball.But if there is any team you would be confident of coming from behind to beat it is Martin’s Southampton.Their under-pressure manager cannot be too downbeat about conceding against Liverpool, but he must just wish they did not make it so easy.Ryan Gravenberch, reinvented under Slot, lifted a ball from deep to set Salah racing away one-on-one.McCarthy got his angles all wrong, meaning a delightful cushioned touch was all it took to send the ball slowly rolling over the line. He had done well in Ramsdale’s place to that point, but the ex-Arsenal man would have been sharper here.READ MORE SUN STORIESSouthampton were hanging on well, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jack Stephens with brave challenges, but another sloppy mistake cost them.Sub Yuki Suguwara, defending a Salah cross at the far post all but caught the ball with his right hand. There was no hesitation from ref Sam Barrott and no VAR to rescue the Saints, while the outcome was inevitable with Salah standing over it. More