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    Former EFL and international star, 35, victim of brutal assault and rushed to hospital after suffering fractured skull

    AUSTRIA international and former EFL footballer Guido Burgstaller has been rushed to hospital after an alleged savage attack left him with a fractured skull.It’s feared he will never play again after the attack in the streets of Vienna. Guido Burgstaller has been taken to hospital following an alleged assault on SundayCredit: GettyBurgstaller played for Cardiff in 2014Credit: GettyA statement from his club side Rapid Vienna announced that the 35-year-old had been the victim of a physical attack on Sunday.Burgstaller, who has been capped 26 times by Austria, is said to have suffered “significant head injuries”.The attack took place in the city centre in view of witnesses.Burgstaller had announced he would be retiring next summer, but Rapid now fear he will not play for them again following the shocking attack.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA club statement said: “Burgstaller was immediately examined and treated in detail in a Viennese hospital. “Unfortunately, he will have to spend the coming days there and the fact is that he will not be able to practice his profession for several months.”SK Rapid wishes its deserving player a speedy and uncomplicated recovery and trusts in the responsible authorities that the hitherto unknown perpetrator will be brought to justice quickly.”Burgstaller has played 203 times for the Austrian side, scoring 69 goals and adding 41 assists across two spells at the club.Most read in FootballHis second spell began in 2022 after he joined from St. Pauli.Burgstaller also played for German clubs Schalke and Nuremberg and had a short spell with Cardiff in 2014.He joined the Bluebirds straight after their relegation from the Premier League before departing in January 2015, having scored one goal in five games. He was suspended for the club’s most recent league game against RB Salzburg, but did star in their midweek Europa League clash with Omonoia.His last international cap came in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Azerbaijan in October 2023.The club statement added: “We ask you to respect the privacy of Guido Burgstaller and his family. “If there is any news in the next few days, SK Rapid will announce it in consultation with its medical department and Guido Burgstaller. “SK Rapid will of course fully support Guido Burgstaller on his way to a complete and hopefully quick recovery.”A statement from Schalke on social media said: “S04 is sickened by the news of the assault on Guido Burgstaller.”Our thoughts are with you and we wish you all the best for a speedy recovery, Burgi.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFK Austria Wien said: “This news is shocking and affects us deeply.”We wish Guido Burgstaller all the best and a full recovery!” More

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    Joshua Zirkzee has to be pulled away after running back to GOAD crowd as Man Utd fans say ‘I love you so much for this’

    JOSHUA ZIRKZEE sparked a furious reaction from Manchester City fans by goading them after Manchester United’s dramatic derby win.United clinched a shock 2-1 win over their neighbours at the Etihad on Sunday.Joshua Zirkzee celebrated directly in front of the Man City fansCredit: x/ aadamp9The striker had to be pulled awayCredit: x/ aadamp9Amad Diallo scored a last-minute winner for United at the EtihadCredit: EPAWith City 1-0 up in the final stages, Matheus Nunes gave away a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Amad Diallo.Bruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick to equalise, leaving Pep Guardiola furious.And just two minutes later, Amad broke through again, this time poking the ball over Ederson before slotting it into the bottom-right corner.Man City fans at the Etihad were left in complete disbelief, with many quick to make a beeline for the exits.Read More on Man UtdBut those who stayed after the final whistle were taunted by a very smug Zirkzee.The Dutchman walked over to the home supporters behind the dugout before pumping his fists in celebration.It sparked a furious reaction from the fans, who shouted back at him.Zirkzee was then pulled away by United staff members before things escalated.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans took to social media to react to the incident, with one person writing: “ZIRKZEE, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS.”Another commented: “This level of petty is what I love to see.”Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim says he has no disciplinary issues with Rashford and Garnacho While a third said: “Bringing back the proper way the game is played!”Amorim was thrilled with his team’s performance after the match.He said: “It was incredible. I think we deserved it. It was a very tough match but we believe until the end.”We managed to score, we needed that win, it was important for us and for our fans.”We were in the game for 90 minutes and that is very good. We talk about the Arsenal game, we played well in the first half but they were not believing that we could win. Today was so much more different.”I also believe. Then we have Fergie time and we put the things together and something magic happened. It was a good day for us.”Meanwhile, Guardiola sensationally claimed “I’m not good enough” in the wake of his team’s latest defeat.He said: “I’m the boss, I’m the manager, I have to find solutions but I don’t find solutions.READ MORE SUN STORIES”This is a big club and when you lose eight of (11) something is wrong. You can say the schedule is tough or the injuries to players, but no.”I’m the manager and I’m not good enough, simple as that. I have to find a way to talk to them, to train them in the way we need to play, to press the way we need to press. I’m not good enough. I’m not doing well. That is the truth.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. 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    Bristol Rovers sack manager Matt Taylor weeks after he was forced to step away due to ‘ongoing family emergency’

    BRISTOL ROVERS have sacked manager Matt Taylor following Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Birmingham.Taylor’s assistant, Wayne Carlisle, has also been relieved of his duties amid the staff shake-up.Matt Taylor has been sacked by Bristol RoversCredit: GettyFormer Sunderland star Lee Cattermole has been announced as one of two interim replacementsCredit: Getty – ContributorA statement from Bristol Rovers on Monday morning read: “Bristol Rovers FC can confirm that Manager Matt Taylor and Assistant Manager Wayne Carlisle have been relieved of their first team duties.”The Club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Matt and Wayne for all their hard work during their time with Bristol Rovers, and we wish them both every success in their respective future careers.”David Horseman and Lee Cattermole will take interim responsibility for first-team football duties while the Club undertakes a thorough recruitment process for a new first-team manager.”Taylor joined Bristol just over one year ago following spells in charge of Rotherham United and Exeter City.READ MORE FOOTBALLDuring his time at the club, the 42-year-old took charge of 57 games.Out of those he won 19, drew seven and suffered 31 defeats.Bristol Rovers now sit 20th in the League One table following a 2-0 loss to Birmingham at the weekend.After the match, Taylor admitted he had concerns about the future of his job.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe told BBC Radio Bristol: “I can’t control that. Whoever is in charge of this football team the same patterns will occur.”The manager went on to add: “People will say ‘Just kick it and chase it’ but we haven’t got the physicality to do that.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex “So in terms of the plan at the start – slightly younger profile, slightly different in terms of using the ball and manipulating the ball – we have to believe they can still improve.”Confidence is now a big factor and you can’t hide away from it, so you need the ones who will stand up and be counted.”It’s my team and results haven’t been good enough. There are players coming back but something has to change in our direction.”Taylor was forced to temporarily step away from the job last month due to a family emergency.He went on to miss two fixtures before returning.Former Premier League star Lee Cattermole will take charge on an interim basis following Taylor’s departure, alongside David Horseman.Cattermole joined the club’s coaching staff just last week.Upon his arrival, he said: “I am delighted to join the coaching team at Bristol Rovers.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Having spoken to the guys here and George Friend, I very quickly got excited about the project being developed here at the Club.”Everything I’ve heard about Bristol Rovers tells me it’s an exciting time to be part of things here, and I’m looking forward to getting going.” More

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    Man Utd star Harry Maguire admits he’s had ‘really positive’ contract talks as he eyes future at club under Ruben Amorim

    HARRY MAGUIRE revealed he has held ‘positive’ talks with Manchester United about his future.The former Red Devils captain is out of contract at the end of the season, though the club have an option to extend his stay by a year.Harry Maguire revealed he has held talks with the club over his futureCredit: GettyMaguire has struggled with injuries in recent months but his performances have improved, and he played 90 minutes in the derby win over Manchester City.His future at Old Trafford is still unclear but Maguire said he has held positive talks with club chiefs.He said: “I haven’t really thought about it. I’ve still got this year to go with an option in their hands.“But, yeah, all the signs are positive at the moment and the chat that I’m having is really positive.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDMaguire appears to have turned a corner since being made available for transfer in the summer of 2023.West Ham had a bid accepted for the centre-back but Maguire turned it down as he wanted to stay and fight for his place at United.Maguire is now being picked by new boss Ruben Amorim, who has deployed a back three since taking the reigns.Speaking of his adjusted role, Maguire added: “I’ve been injured when he first joined, so I’ve just got buy myself a bit of time and they’re looking after my minutes, so I haven’t been able to play back-to-back games yet.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMan Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.“Hopefully with 90 minutes under my belt for the first time in two, three months, really.“It’s nice, it feels good. Obviously playing the back three, I’ve played in numerous times in my career – generally played on the left, but obviously playing in the middle at the moment.Gary Neville hits out at ‘Moping’ Rashford and Garnacho and has heated argument with Micah Richards live on Sky Sports “It feels good, we feel solid. There’s still, like I say, so much more improvement we need to do.”Speaking of Amorim’s impact, Maguire continued: “I think you can see we have a good structure, a good style of play, the way that he wants us to work.“But, yeah, I think his demands, he’s tactically very good. He’s proven that he’s a winner.“And, look, we’re still pretty new. I think he’s been here a month now or so, and we’re really looking forward to where we can go and where we can take this club, and I’m sure he’ll take it in a positive way.” More

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    Gary Neville hits out at ‘MOPING’ Rashford and Garnacho and has heated argument with Micah Richards live on Sky Sports

    GARY NEVILLE wants “moping” Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho to use being dropped as motivation to raise their standards.The Manchester United duo were axed from Ruben Amorim’s matchday squad for yesterday’s trip to the Etihad.Gary Neville and Micah Richards debated the situationCredit: X @SkySportsPLMarcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were dropped for yesterday’s matchCredit: APFollowing the Red Devils’ dramatic 2-1 triumph, Sky Sports pundits Neville, Roy Keane and Micah Richards debated Rashford and Garnacho’s situations.Neville, 49, said: “I don’t know about their long term future, but what is really clear is that [Amorim] mentioned engaging with team-mates, he’s mentioned standards.”He’s giving us clues, in fact, emphatic clues, about the last few days that they’re moping and not doing their bit around the training ground.”It’s standards in training and he’s thought ‘no, I’m not having it, I’m not accepting it’. Good on him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”For far too long we’ve seen players mope around that pitch and still continue to get a game or on the bench. No.”It’s got to be non-negotiable. If you don’t give your all in your job, you’re gone, you’re out. That’s it.”Neville went on to add that he hopes the pair can use this as fuel to raise their levels and improve.He continued: “We’ve been sat in this studio for years as ex-Man United players saying ‘give your absolute all’ and players haven’t been running back.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRoy Keane also had his sayCredit: X @SkySportsPLAmad Diallo fired home Man Utd’s late winnerCredit: Getty”We’ve seen Rashford and Garnacho stand on that left and right wing and not chase back when full-backs have gone past them and still stay on the pitch. No more.”I want Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho to come back stronger, take the message that they’ve been given by training at the training ground this morning on a Sunday with no-one else there.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim says he has no disciplinary issues with Rashford and Garnacho “I want them to take this in the right spirit and become the very best players for Manchester United.”I don’t care who you are, whether you’re Andrei Kanchelskis or Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Nani, whoever you are as a wide player at Manchester United you’ve got to run this way [forward] as fast as you can and run that way [backwards] as fast as you can.”They have got the talent, they’ve got the ability, but if they don’t do that there is no place for you in the club, there is no place for you in the team.”Richards, meanwhile, attempted to defend Rashford.’THE WEIGHT OF THE WORLD’After Neville compared the forward’s application to that of Amad Diallo, Richards, 36, said: “It’s different though, for Rashford.”He’s got the weight of the world on his shoulders, it’s pressure.”You know what it’s like. Coming into the team as a kid, you run around.”For me it just looks like Rashford’s got the world on his shoulders. It seems to me like there’s a bigger problem than just football.”You have to earn the right to win football matchesRoy KeaneExasperated, Neville responded: “Micah, I played with David Beckham, with Wayne Rooney, with Roy Keane…”The pressure that Marcus Rashford is under is nothing like the pressure that David Beckham and Roy Keane were under.”Richards then hit back: “But look at your squad. The names you’ve just reeled off. All serial winners. This Man United team are not all serial winners.”As Neville reached for his glass of water, Keane responded to Richards: “We weren’t winners at the start Micah, you have to earn the right to win football matches.”Rashford watched the match from home, and after the game posted a picture of his TV with the caption: “Yesssssssss! Love it lads.”‘IT’S A SIMPLE SELECTION’Explaining his selection decisions, Amorim said: “We try to evaluate everything training performance, game performances, engagement with team-mates, push their team-mates up.”Everything is on the line when we analyse and try to choose the players. It is my selection. Simple.“I don’t want to send a message it is simply an evaluation and they know it. The players are really, really smart.”Everybody understands my decision and I have to choose. It is simple selection.“Of course the context is difficult because we have to win games and we have a difficult situation now.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I pay attention to everything, the way you eat, the way you put your clothes to go to a game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I decide.”Man Utd will next be in action on Thursday when they travel to Tottenham for their League Cup quarter-final.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90’ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. More

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    ‘We played like under-15s,’ fumes Bernardo Silva as angry Man City ace admits ‘we deserved’ Man Utd loss

    BERNARDO SILVA has slammed Manchester City for “playing like under-15s” in their defeat to Manchester United.Despite taking a one-nil lead through Josko Gvardiol in the first half, City were undone by two late goals from their cross-town rivals.Bernardo Silva had harsh words for his team-mates after Man City’s late collapse against Man CityCredit: X @SkySportsPLThe late defeat saw City move to just one win from their last 11Credit: GettyIt saw Pep Guardiola’s side record fall to just one win in their last 11 games.And speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Silva, 30, said City “deserved” the result.He said: “We deserved what happened. At this level a game or two is unlucky. We can’t say this is lucky or unlucky — 10 games it’s not about that.“Minute 87 in a derby, winning 1-0 and our corner ends in a penalty for them, if we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go you deserve to pay for that. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Looking at the game I think there was only one team that could win the game, but at the end we lost. It’s not one game, it’s a lot of games lately. “We have to look at ourselves. You can say ‘oh that’s a bit unlucky’, no. It’s the decisions you make. Today in the last minute we played like Under-15s.”On the “stupid” decisions City have been making, Silva continued: “We don’t want them to happen. “It’s a bit frustrating because if you look at the game until [the] 86th minute there was only one team that could win the game. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Then from a corner for Man City, you leave a centre-back, Ruben stayed, but we end up with the ball at our keeper. There’s no excuse for that.”Silva, who has been around for six Premier League titles, did not have any qualms about naming and shaming team-mates either.Pep Guardiola says ‘I’m the manager and I’m not good enough’ as Man City lose again He added: “When it happens in 10 games, we have to look at ourselves and see what we can do better.”There needs to be communication for us to play short or to keep the ball in the corner or something.”At least if the ball ends up with one of our midfielders, just put it in the corner. Not put yourself under pressure. It’s not just the pass from Matheus to the keeper. “It’s everything, how the ball ends up from Ruben [Dias] to Matheus [Nunes] and Kyle [Walker] we have to do better. “Be more experienced, smarter, at this level even if you’re better than the opponent. You deserve to lose the game.”It’s quite normal that we’re not very happy at the minute. Not just this game but the last month. We have to do better individually and collectively because it’s not the standards of Manchester City.”The defeat saw City drop outside of the top four, with City travelling to Aston Villa for their next game.Pep Guardiola’s horror Man City runPEP GUARDIOLA admitted he is having sleepless nights as he endures his worst-ever spell as a manager.Here are the three-time defending Premier League champions’ nightmare last 10 games…Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 23 – Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEATNov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAWDec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATDec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest – WINDec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAWDec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATTOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7 More

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    Gareth Southgate’s former England assistant Steve Holland set to land first manager job in 17 years

    FORMER England assistant manager Steve Holland will be named the new head coach of Yokohama F-Marinos this week.Gareth Southgate’s No 2 flew to Japan for contract talks last week and has agreed to take charge for the new J1 League season, which starts in February.Gareth Southgate’s former England assistant Steven Holland is set for a managerial job in JapanCredit: GettyHolland won numerous trophies as a No2 at ChelseaCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHolland, 54, has not had a managerial role since an 18-month spell in charge of Crewe in League One 17 years ago.But he has been one of England’s most successful coaches over the past two decades.He helped Chelsea win two Premier League titles and the Champions League during eight years as an assistant coach at Stamford Bridge.After leaving the Blues to join the FA, he helped Southgate lead England to a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals before standing down last summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThomas Tuchel, another Champions League winner with Chelsea, is now at the helm of the national team.He officially starts his new role next month.And Tuchel now knows that his first match will be against Albania at Wembley on March 21.England have been drawn against the Balkan side in a tasty World Cup 2026 qualifying group.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSerbia, Latvia and Andorra make up the other teams in Group K.Fans are already eagerly awaiting Tuchel’s first England squad after his recent praise for Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.The Sun’s Charlie Wyett reacts to World Cup 2026 qualifying draw as Thomas Tuchel’s England are placed in group full of controversyWhile the German has even extended an olive branch to Three Lions rebel Ben White.Speaking about the Arsenal defender, Tuchel said: “It should be a clean start and clear narrative, I will be in the stadiums from January.“Yes, I will reach out to him (White).” More

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    Amorim could have made up an excuse for dropping Rashford but didn’t, and now he is on his final chance at Man Utd

    ALL the talk before this game was about Marcus Rashford.By the end, the delirious Manchester United fans did not give their former hero a second thought.Marcus Rashford is on his final warning at Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyHe was axed by Ruben Amorim for United’s 2-1 win at Man CityCredit: PAThey had done very nicely without him, thank you, a point new Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim made quite forcibly afterwards.Rashford’s ability meant he should have been here — he should have been centre stage, he should have had the spotlight following him.But the forward’s application means the floodlights are fading very fast and he needs to be very careful if he is going to have a United career beyond the New Year.This was a big statement from Amorim to leave Rashford, 27, and the 20-year-old Alejandro Garnacho out of the squad altogether.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn the morning of the game, they were ordered to train with Jonny Evans and Toby Collyer, while the rest of the squad prepared for the trip to the Etihad.Amorim has simply not been happy with the pair in training, in games or, it appears, off the pitch either.The fall from grace for Rashford has been dramatic.From being a shining example to all kids who dream of becoming a football star for the club they grew up supporting.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe trip from Withington to Buckingham Palace and an MBE in recognition of his fantastic work in ensuring this country’s poor and hungry children are looked after should never be forgotten.On the pitch two seasons ago, Rashford also posted the career-best figures of 30 goals for a campaign.’It doesn’t look good’ – Roy Keane tips Marcus Rashford for Man Utd transfer exit after he is DROPPED for City clashRashford has split up with partner Lucia LoiCredit: GettyHe made a surprise appearance at the NBA last monthCredit: GettyThe world then was at his feet . . . and then it all seemed to become too much.The attention, the celebrity, the fame, the riches, the nightlife — all those temptations that come with being a modern-day Premier League star were there and he  welcomed them.Suddenly, a shy lad who used to stay under the radar off the field with his childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi was enjoying the trappings.That relationship with Loi has been a casualty of it all, too.Amorim could easily have used the excuse of rotation, tiredness, a tweak or whatever for his and Garnacho’s absence — but he was not going to. He wanted people to know why they were out. Not good enough.Rashford’s form began to slide last season as he went from that remarkable 30-goal campaign in 2022-23 to scoring just eight times.He lost his place not only in United’s first team but in the England squad for the summer’s Euros in Germany.Former Old Trafford chief Erik ten Hag had protected him. The Dutchman warned him and he was still let down on — and notably off — the pitch.Rashford’s amazing charity work can’t be forgottenCredit: PAFirst, when Rashford partied in the city centre following United’s 3-0 home derby defeat to Pep Guardiola’s men in October of last year.Ten Hag said that was “unacceptable”.It was his birthday and it was a quiet family affair, his PR guru tried to trot out. It was anything but.Then Rashford was partying until the early hours of Friday, January 26, in Belfast, when he was meant to be training later that day ahead of a Sunday trip to Newport in the FA Cup.He got a private jet back but rang in sick.When former Ajax chief Ten Hag found out why, he was beyond angry.The manager later confided that he wanted to freeze him out in United’s reserves but just did not have enough players.The pair barely talked again.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.It takes a lot for the Red Devils supporters to turn on one of their own — but that is what has happened with Rashford.The fans see a lack of application, slumped shoulders, an unforgivable lack of effort on the pitch.His United team-mates see it, too, and there have been verbal altercations on the pitch.Amorim’s arrival from Sporting Lisbon last month offered new hope.So what on earth was he doing  spending the weekend before the new boss arrived courtside at an NBA game in New York, sporting a  Louis Vuitton coat and glitzy grillz on his teeth?Perhaps it was this that Amorim was referring to when he said it was “important how people dressed”.There were so many withdrawals from the England squad at that time that anyone in a replica shirt had a chance of a call-up, but Rashford did not get one.That is how far he has slipped down the ladder with the Three Lions.He scored in the opening two minutes of Amorim’s first game in charge away to Ipswich.And another pair followed in the 4-0 win over Everton.But he started on the bench for the Arsenal and Nottingham Forest defeats.He was then hooked after 56 minutes away to Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. Amorim has seen enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Portuguese says the player will get another chance — it will be his last.And one day Rashford is really going to regret it . . . More