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      Man Utd chief tasked with choosing Ten Hag replacement has incredible hit-rate – with two of his picks in running

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      MANCHESTER UNITED chief Dan Ashworth has the tough job of picking the club’s new manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked.The Dutchman’s reign at Old Trafford comes to an end after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham yesterday left them languishing in 14th in the Premier League table.Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Man Utd managerCredit: ReutersDan Ashworth will lead the search for a new bossCredit: PAGareth Southgate has worked with Dan Ashworth before when he was England gafferCredit: GettyGraham Potter has also had success alongside AshworthCredit: PAAfter a poor season last term that saw United finish eighth and crash out the Champions League in the group stage, Ten Hag saved his job by winning the FA Cup.But just 14 games after being handed a new contract in the summer, Man Utd are on the lookout for a new boss.The task falls on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new chiefs – sporting director Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada.Ashworth is set to lead the search and he boasts an impressive CV when it comes to appointing the right managers for the right teams.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 53-year-old previously worked for the FA and played a huge role in giving Gareth Southgate the England job in 2016.He revolutionised the team and guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals that ended in heartbreak.Ashworth then worked at Brighton, where he appointed Graham Potter as boss.He implemented an attractive style of play and took them from near the bottom of the league to European contenders. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAshworth then moved to Newcastle and he gave Eddie Howe the job, who led the Toon into the Champions League for the first time in two decades.Interestingly, Unai Emery was supposedly his first-choice at St James’ Park, but the Spaniard instead went on to oversee Aston Villa’s remarkable rise from relegation candidates to matching Europe’s elite.Gary Neville predicts exact date Erik ten Hag will be sacked as he rants Man Utd ‘can’t be 14th after nine games’ Due to Ashworth’s history with Southgate, he finds himself in the running for the United job.But it is unclear whether he would want the role after previously saying he wants a year out of football following the pressures of being the England boss.Meanwhile, Potter is also thought to be a potential option for the Red Devils.He has been out of the dugout for a year-and-a-half since being sacked by Chelsea, seemingly biding his time for the right opportunity.Ex-Barcelona boss Xavi and Sporting Lisbon gaffer Ruben Amorim are among the other names being linked with the job.But for now, club legend and Ten Hag’s assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy will lead Man Utd as interim manager.Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part. More

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      Inside Erik ten Hag’s sacking as reasons Man Utd finally pulled the trigger revealed following dismal start to season

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      ERIK TEN HAG has finally been sacked by Manchester United – and SunSport can reveal the reasons why.The Dutch boss, 54, was axed just hours after the Red Devils’ 2-1 defeat at West Ham as the club released a blunt 87-word statement.Erik ten Hag has been sacked by Man Utd with Ruud van Nistelrooy replacing him on an interim basisCredit: AlamyMan Utd chiefs were keen to give Ten Hag time in the new regime under Sir Jim Ratcliffe but felt their hand was forced amid a horror run of formCredit: GettyMan Utd are 14th in the Premier League and winless in Europe after a shocking start to 2024-25Credit: PAThe result leaves Man Utd 14th in the Premier League – with the club also winless in all three of their Europa League matches.Ten Hag was under serious pressure in the summer after guiding United to a record-worst eighth placed finish.But ultimately the ex-Ajax boss escaped the axe and was handed an improved contract on the back of his side’s FA Cup win.However, SunSport can now reveal why United chiefs performed a U-turn just nine games into the Premier League season.READ MORE SPORT STORIESWhile Red Devils chiefs found the decision difficult, they were unanimous in their decision to move on from Ten Hag.The United boardroom were keen to give the Dutchman a chance to work under the new structure put in place by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.United bosses were keen to keep Ten Hag in a bid to find continuity in their leadership for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012-13 season.However, they were left disappointed by both the results AND the performances on the pitch and feared the lack of momentum could only cause United to fall further.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSChiefs felt there were no excuses for the shoddy form and poor results both in the Premier League and Europa League – especially the manner in which the side have dropped points from winning positions.Having put things in place to watch the team develop, the shocking start to 2024-25 left them with no option but to sack Ten Hag.Man Utd ratings vs West Ham: Bruno Fernandes causes endless problems but Marcus Rashford entirely absentWhy NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part.Ruud van Nistelrooy – brought in to help Ten Hag in the summer – has replaced his old boss on an interim basis.And he is one of many names in the running to take over at Old Trafford permanently.Edin Terzic is the club’s favourite having led Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last term.Thomas Tuchel is no longer an option after the former Chelsea chief took the England job.But his Three Lions predecessor, Gareth Southgate, has long been linked with the job – despite suggesting he would take a year out after guiding the nation to the Euro 2024 crown.Ex-United Under-18s coach Kieran McKenna has also been suggested, along with former Chelsea boss Graham Potter and Brentford boss Thomas Frank.Ruben Amorim and ex-Barcelona chief Xavi are also big name options.Who could replace Ten Hag at Man Utd?ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?Ruud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.The striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Edin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Kieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.The big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running. More

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      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ‘under consideration’ for bombshell Man Utd return after Erik ten Hag sacked as manager

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      FORMER Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is being linked with a stunning Old Trafford return.The Red Devils are searching for a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been linked with a stunning move back to Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyThe Red Devils sacked Erik ten Hag on Monday following a dismal run of formCredit: PATen Hag leaves the club with United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. He was given his marching orders following a dismal run of just 4 wins in 14 games across all competitions. Ex-United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been put in temporary charge and is currently favourite to take over full-time. But it’s reportedly another blast from the past who may be back in the dugout long-term. READ MORE ON MAN UTDSolskjaer – who has been a free agent since United dismissed him in November 2021 – could benefit from the awkward timing of the dismissal. Ten Hag is due a whopping £17million in compensation with United having to buy him out of his huge contract.Cost-cutting is already underway at Old Trafford and club bosses are reportedly scouring cheaper options. According to the Manchester Evening News, free agent Solskjaer is therefore “under consideration for a return.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe report adds it is unclear if he is viewed as a” serious long-term option as manager or a backroom staff member.”Solskjaer, 51, cemented his place as a Red Devils legend during his playing days. Man Utd ratings vs West Ham: Bruno Fernandes causes endless problems but Marcus Rashford entirely absentHe spent nine seasons with United, winning six Premier League titles and scoring over 100 goals. The former super sub took on the manager’s role at the Theatre of Dreams in 2018 after a successful spell in interim charge.But despite leading United to a Europa League final, he was sacked by the club in November 2021.Ten Hag’s five worst defeatsERIK TEN HAG has suffered some heavy defeats during his tenure as Manchester United manager.5. Copenhagen 4-3 Man Utd, November 2023The damaging defeat saw the Red Devils dumped out of the Champions League.4. Man Utd 0-3 Bournemouth, December 2023It was the first time the Cherries had ever won at Old Trafford with the players being booed off.3. Brentford 4-0 Man Utd, August 2022Perhaps a sign of things to come, in Ten Hag’s second Premier League game, his side was dismantled by the Bees.2. Crystal Palace 4-0 Man Utd, May 2024The heavy defeat to the Eagles saw the Dutchman edge ever closer to the sack.1. Liverpool 7-0 Man Utd, March 2023Man Utd were embarrassed at the hands of their bitter rivals as they crumbled at Anfield as it was the club’s worst defeat in 92 years.Ole recently revealed he would be open to a shock return to Manchester. When asked about taking the United job, he told Norweigan outlet NRK in September: “If your family needs you, then of course they will help. “I would say ‘yes’ any day of the week. “It feels wrong to sit and talk about jobs that other people have. But of course, yes.”Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part.United chose to move on from Ten Hag on Monday following weeks of speculation. The Dutchman had signed a one-year contract extension over the summer after securing an unexpected FA Cup title. However, United released a short 87-word statement on Monday to confirm they were parting ways.It read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.” More

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      Out-of-work ex-Dortmund boss with Premier League experience shoots to top of Man Utd wishlist after Ten Hag sacking

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      EDIN TERZIC has rocketed to the top of Manchester United’s wishlist as they target replacements for sacked Erik Ten Hag. The Dutchman was axed with the club languishing in 14th following a shocking 2-1 defeat at West Ham – with the club also winless in their three Europa League matches.Edin Terzic if Man Utd’s favoured choice to replace Erik ten HagCredit: GettyErik ten Hag has finally been sacked by Man Utd after a tough spell as managerCredit: AlamyTen Hag was under serious pressure in the summer after guiding United to a worst-ever Premier League finish of eighth.However, United’s FA Cup victory – combined with a lack of obvious options to replace him – saw Ten Hag handed an improved contract.The club reportedly scouted out options, but decided to give Ten Hag time to build on his success.But after a miserable start to the season, the ex-Ajax chief lasted just nine Premier League games – with the club releasing a blunt 87-word statement.READ MORE SPORT STORIESThomas Tuchel had been top of the the shortlist to replace Ten Hag. But the former Dortmund, PSG, Bayern Munich and Chelsea manager is no longer available after the FA swooped to name him England manager. Gareth Southgate was also a favoured candidate, but he recently suggested he didn’t want to rush back into management and could take a full year off.So United are now focusing on Edin Terzic – after SunSport exclusively revealed he was a new favourite earlier this month.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe German is out of work after leaving Borussia Dortmund over the summer despite taking them into the Champions League final against Real Madrid.United’s board believe he has the pedigree to guide the club back towards success.Man Utd ratings vs West Ham: Bruno Fernandes causes endless problems but Marcus Rashford entirely absentAnd he also has Premier League experience having worked alongside Slaven Bilic in the past. Terzic has previously been linked with AC Milan and West Ham.But he’s believed to be holding out for United.And sources close to Terzic he’d welcome the challenge of helping to rebuild the club.Man Utd ratings vs West HamTHE LONDON STADIUM was the venue for the latest defeat in a shocker of a season.To be fair, it was a hugely controversial VAR call in the dying moments that handed West Ham a 2-1 win.And the first half from the Red Devils was impressive.Here’s how SunSport’s Jack Rosser rated the players…Andre Onana – 6Very loose with the ball at his feet early on but soon settled.Manchester United conceded from West Ham’s first shot on target, though given Ings’ deflected strike there was little Onana could have done about it.Diogo Dalot – 5Delivered one of the most entertaining missed chances you will see all season – doing so well to clip the ball past Lukasz Fabianski before smashing the ball high and wide of an open goal.Despite that, had little trouble from those in claret and blue attacking down his side until Summerville was introduced. The former Leeds man tested Dalot a number of times with his pace.Redeemed himself a touch with the header back in ahead of Casemiro’s equaliser.Matthijs de Ligt – 6Hard done by in conceding the penalty for what looked a soft challenge on Hammers striker Ings.Restricted West Ham well for the most part but United never looked entirely comfortable at the back and a more potent attack could have caused much more trouble.Lisandro Martinez – 6Struggled at times to deal with the strength and direct nature of Michail Antonio, who tested all across United’s back line well until he was replaced by Ings.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Struggled to keep a handle on both Bowen and former Manchester United man Aaron Wan-Bissaka for the most part and was thrown around by Michail Antonio at times.Having looked soft at the back he also offered very little going forwards down the left.Casemiro – 6Started strongly dominating in the middle but struggled to wrestle that back when West Ham picked up.Was denied a first half goal by Fabianski’s superb save but got one eventually as he refused to give up and made sure the ball.Christian Eriksen – 5Some flashes of creativity in the first half but could not help United keep control in the second after West Ham perked up.Marcus Rashford – 4Entirely absent throughout the hour he was on the pitch. Played down the right he was easily managed by Emerson Palmieri who had little of note to do before the winger went off.Bruno Fernandes – 7Caused huge problems for West Ham and created plenty of chances which his teammates put to waste.Fernandes made a fine run to meet a Casemiro cross but headed over the bar and had to watch both Garnacho and Dalot pass up huge chances after his good work to set them up – especially the latter, a wonderful looped ball to cut out the entire West Ham defence.Alejandro Garnacho – 5The young winger should have had two goals inside the opening eight minutes. One chance was rattled against the bar before a poor finish sent the second wide of the far post.He continued to cause trouble down the left but faded as the game went on and crucially gave the ball away in the build-up to Summerville’s goal.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Drew a couple of saves from Hammers keeper Fabianski but neither looked too difficult.The Dane was rather comfortably dealt with by West Ham’s central defenders and never looked too much of a threat.SubstitutesAmad Diallo – 6Added some life and threat to a forward line which had offered little after the break and lifted a clever ball over to Dalot in the build-up to Casemiro’s goal.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Claimed an assist but did not know a lot about it and struggled to have an impact from there on.Victor Lindelof – n/aUnused subs: Altay Bayindir, Manuel Ugarte, Jonny Evans, Ethan Wheatley, Harry Amass, Jack Fletcher. More

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      Ballon d’Or 2024: Date, FREE stream, TV, nominees as Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr eye prestigious prize

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      EVERY footballer dreams of helping their club win trophies – but lifting the Ballon d’Or is the one individual award that tops all and the winner will be revealed TONIGHT!Lionel Messi picked up his eighth gong last year after leading Argentina to their first World Cup title win since 1986 during the 2022 competition.Lionel Messi won his eighth Ballon d’Or last yearCredit: APHowever, it was seen as a controversial decision due to Messi’s underwhelming season at club level compared to Erling Haaland who fired Manchester City to an incredible Treble.Organisers are set to have an even tougher task in choosing the winners this time round with the likes of Real Madrid duo Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr having outstanding seasons for their club.Also, there a massive shouts for Rodri to get his hands on the after playing a vital role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.Either way, SunSport has all the information on when the Ballon d’Or 2024 winner will be announced.Read more on Ballon d’OrAnd you can keep scrolling to find out.When is the Ballon d’Or 2024 winner announced?The Ballon d’Or 2024 winner will be announced on Monday, October 28.It is scheduled to get underway at 7pm GMT, 2pm ET and 8pm local time.Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France is the allocated arena for this huge ceremony and it can host approximately 2,500 spectators.Where can I watch the Ballon d’Or 2024 for FREE?The Ballon d’Or 2024 awards ceremony will be streamed live for FREE on L’Equipe’s YouTube channel.What are the Ballon d’Or 2024 nominees?Below are the 30 players who have been nominated for this year’s Ballon d’Or.Most read in FootballJude Bellingham (England and Real Madrid)Ruben Dias (Portugal and Manchester City)Phil Foden (England and Manchester City)Federico Valverde (Uruguay and Real Madrid)Emiliano Martinez (Argentina and Aston Villa)Erling Haaland (Norway and Manchester City)Nico Williams (Spain and Athletic Bilbao)Granit Xhaka (Switzerland and Bayer Leverkusen)Artem Dovbyk (Ukraine and Roma)Toni Kroos (former Germany and Real Madrid)Vinicius Jr (Brazil and Real Madrid)Dani Olmo (Spain and Barcelona)Florian Wirtz (Germany and Bayer Leverkusen)Martin Odegaard (Norway and Arsenal)Mats Hummels (Germany, free agent)Rodri (Spain and Manchester City)Harry Kane (England and Bayern Munich)Declan Rice (England and Arsenal)Vitinha (Portugal and Paris St-Germain)Cole Palmer (England and Chelsea)Dani Carvajal (Spain and Real Madrid)Lamine Yamal (Spain and Barcelona)Bukayo Saka (England and Arsenal)Hakan Calhanoglu (Turkey and Inter Milan)William Saliba (France and Arsenal)Kylian Mbappe (France and Real Madrid)Lautaro Martinez (Argentina and Inter Milan)Ademola Lookman (Nigeria and Atalanta)Antonio Rudiger (Germany and Real Madrid)Alejandro Grimaldo (Spain and Bayer Leverkusen)What has been said?Real Madrid star Rodrygo is not happy with the nominations despite seeing his teammates selected to potentially win the Ballon d’Or.Rodrygo told ESPN regarding his snub: “I was upset, I think I deserved it. I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise… But there’s not much I can do, I’m not the one who decides these things.”Who has won the most Ballon d’Ors?Here is a list of all the multiple-time Ballon d’Or winners:Lionel Messi – 8 (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)Cristiano Ronaldo – 5 (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)Michel Platini – 3 (1983, 1984, 1985)Johan Cruyff – 3 (1971, 1971, 1974)Marco van Basten – 3 (1988, 1989, 1992)Franz Beckenbauer – 2 (1972, 1976)Ronaldo – 2 (1997, 2002)Alfredo Di Stefano – 2 (1957, 1959)Kevin Keegan – 2 (1978, 1979)Karl-Heinz Rummenigge – 2 (1980, 1981) More

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      The Sun’s brilliant Footie for All campaign up for award after being hailed by Harry Redknapp & Olly Murs

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      THE Sun’s brilliant Footie for All campaign has been nominated for a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalism.Our brilliant campaign which ran during the last football season in partnership with Tesco gave grants totalling £300k to hundreds of grassroots kids’ football clubs across Britain.Olly Murs hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign, which funds grassroots clubs across the countryCredit: Paul EdwardsHarry with young Milford footballer Jack Gunner after joining kids on the pitch in April this yearCredit: Chris Balcombe – Commissioned by The SunNow it is up for the ‘Making a Difference’ Award as part of Journalism Matters week – and you can VOTE NOW.England football stars including Phil Foden, John Stones and Harry McGuire backed our drive to fund kids football.We launched our ‘Footie for All Fund’ after a Sun investigation found financial pressures triggered by the Cost of Living Crisis were forcing kids to ditch recreational football.Tesco provided our Footie for All grants through its Stronger Starts programme which funds healthy activities for kids.Celebrities and stars of the game dropped in on our grant recipients for suprise training sessions and to find out how funds were being used.Harry Redknapp,77,  visited Milford-on-Sea Youth Football club in Hants, which was awarded one of our Footie for All grants.He said: “I saw The Sun’s Footie for All campaign in action and it has done so much good.”It has provided much-needed funding to grassroots kids football during a tough time. Most read in Football”Making sure all kids get the chance to play is massively important and has so many benefits.”Meanwhile, singer Olly Murs, who played semi-professional football before becoming a singer, also hailed our campaign.Olly Murs supports The Sun’s Footie For All campaignOlly, 40, visited Crown & Manor football club in Hackney.He said: “In 2024 the cost of living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco did this will help families to get their children playing football. “That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”The Making a Difference Award, organised by News Media Association, highlights how journalism benefits society.One grant recipient Mike Smith, 54, who runs Curzon Ashton FC in Ashton-Under-Lyne promises income is no barrier to playing with the club. They also take children with disabilities. Mike used the club’s Footie for All grant to start a new girls team. He said: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTo vote for our Footie for All campaign visit here and click on option two: Vote for your favourite national media campaign. You can then select The Sun’s Footie for All campaign. Voting close 5pm on Wednesday 30th October.The 77-year-old former Premier League manager visited Milford-on-Sea Youth Football Club in HantsCredit: Chris Balcombe – Commissioned by The SunOlly enjoyed a kickabout with young players from Crown and Manor football club in Hackney earlier this yearCredit: Paul Edwards More

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      Why NOBODY is right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man Utd with Tuchel already gone and best bosses certain to snub them

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      MANCHESTER UNITED sacking Erik ten Hag, at last, was the easy part.Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham – leaving the Red Devils FOURTEENTH in the Premier League, with just 11 points from nine games – proved to be the final straw.Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is facing the axe after another miserable lossCredit: GettyTen Hag risks turning Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s famous Tottenham team talk on its headCredit: GettyTen Hag’s United didn’t just lose consistently, they were thrashed consistently.Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brighton and Brentford are among the teams to have demolished his outfit.Sir Alex Ferguson’s most famous three-word team talk — “Lads, it’s Tottenham” — could now be turned on its head by Ange Postecoglou or several other Premier League bosses.“Lads, it’s Man United.”Read More on Man UtdFacing United hasn’t held a fear factor for many years.Now, it is a fixture openly relished by many — a big-name scalp which is relatively easy to come by.There has been a regular cycle of doom around Old Trafford for the last 11 years, under six different managers.United are trounced on a Sunday afternoon, Gary Neville and Roy Keane rant on the telly, everyone speculates on the manager’s future on a Monday.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSManagers come and go, many players linger for too long, and United continue to be largely terrible.Yet under Ten Hag — who offered little as a coach or man-manager — the bad days got even worse.Gary Neville predicts exact date Erik ten Hag will be sacked as he rants Man Utd ‘can’t be 14th after nine games’ It was the wrong decision for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos crew to keep faith with the former Ajax boss after last season’s FA Cup win.And then to have signed another tranche of overpriced Dutch players.At last, Ratcliffe and his fellow Old Trafford chiefs have seen sense.So now for the hard part. Who, realistically, takes over?And, more pertinently, who would want to?This is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.Emery wouldn’t take United job – he’s not stark raving madAnd Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Who could replace Ten Hag at Man Utd?ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?Ruud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.The striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Edin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Kieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.The big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running.Not many optionsEmery would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Gareth Southgate concernYet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the  equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel was talked about at United’s top target, and would have been a popular and gettable option, but the FA have already beaten United to the German.Despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Replacement needs to succeed Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a “figurehead” manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer, will take the reins at interim boss, but surely lacks the experience to take the job full-time.And United would be wise to avoid another Ole Gunnar Solskjaer situation.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag was the easy part.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor Ratcliffe, Ashworth and the rest of United’s new management structure, the hard part is what happens next.And it is a decision they desperately need to nail.Thomas Tuchel would have been a popular replacement for Ten Hag but the FA got him for EnglandCredit: GettyMan Utd assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken over as interim bossCredit: GettySouthgate is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by Man Utd last springCredit: Getty More

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      Next Man Utd manager: Five favourites to replace axed Erik ten Hag including Gareth Southgate and ex-Dortmund boss

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      ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?The Dutch boss, 54, was only appointed in the summer of 2022, replacing Ralf Rangnick.Erik ten Hag has finally been sacked by Man Utd – but who will permanently replace him?Credit: AlamyTen Hag was even handed an improved contract in the summer on the back of United’s FA Cup win – despite finishing a record-worst EIGHTH in the Premier League.But on Monday, with United languishing in 14th place following the 2-1 defeat at West Ham – and with ZERO wins from their first three Europa League games – Ten Hag was sacked in a blunt statement.A Man Utd statement read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.READ MORE SPORT STORIES”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.”Van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team in the short team, but it could it lead to a full-time position?SunSport takes a look at the five top candidates to land the job full-time.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRuud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.Man Utd ratings vs West Ham: Bruno Fernandes causes endless problems but Marcus Rashford entirely absentThe striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Ruud van Nistelrooy has replaced Erik ten Hag on an interim basis – but can he land the job full time?Credit: AlamyGareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Gareth Southgate has long been linked with the Man Utd job and has been unemployed since leaving England in the summerCredit: AlamyEdin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Edin Terzic is a surprise name on the shortlist to replace Ten Hag at Man UtdCredit: AFPGraham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Graham Potter has been without a job since being sacked by Chelsea in April 2023 and is another to have been linked with the Old Trafford jobCredit: ReutersKieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running.Kieran McKenna was once Man Utd’s U18s coach and fans are keen to have him back at the club as senior chief after his success with IpswichCredit: Getty More