More stories

  • in

    Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd tactics broken down after Ipswich clash with clear No10 issue and striker dilemma

    RUBEN AMORIM promised in his first press conference that we would see ‘an idea’ of his methods and approach at Ipswich – and it took just 81 seconds! Marcus Rashford may have got the manager off to a flier, but there is clearly lots more work to do.Here, presenter of our brilliant new YouTube show Tactics Exposed, Dean Scoggins gives a tactical rundown of Amorim’s first game.Ruben Amorim took charge of his first Man Utd game on SundayCredit: PAThe Red Devils were held to a 1-1 draw by IpswichCredit: GettyFORMATION CLEARAs expected, Amorim went for his tried and tested 3-4-3 formation. Rashford led the line with two ‘inside forwards’ playing around him. The three defenders were very much centre-backs and were very structured – especially when playing out from the back.Amorim opted for a 3-4-3 formationIt was the team’s first time using the formationThe system relies on a huge amount of running from the wing-backs and midfield two. Read More on Man UtdPerhaps surprisingly, it was Noussair Mazraoui chosen in defence with Diogo Dalot then at left wing-back.It is obvious this is the system Amorim believes in.Despite the early goal, there was still a lack of creativity but he has had just a week on the training ground.Amorim said: “The system is not the concern, everyone is talking about it – but it’s the players understanding how were are going to play, not their positions.”Most read in FootballMIDFIELD STRUGGLESAmorim started with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen in the centre of the field. Despite them clearly being drilled to stay close and work together, they were caught numerous times in transition and looked short of legs to play in these roles.Casemiro looked unsure alongside Christian Eriksen in midfieldCredit: GettyThe two experienced players looked unsure if they were pushing up behind their attacking players, or sitting deep in front of the defence and Ipswich’s best moments in the first half came from those two being neither up or back.It looked far more natural when Manuel Ugarte came on and was later partnered by Bruno Fernandes, they worked better as a pair and pressed higher to put more pressure on the Town midfield.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAmorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury.IMPERFECT 10sThe role Amorim wants his ‘inside forwards’ to play is not quite as a No10.. but these are the playmakers. Four players got the chance to be in those positions and none of them really made an impact on the game.Amorim said his players were ‘thinking too much’ and that was clear as they didn’t have an instinctive view on when to run in behind and when to drop deep to receive the ball.Roy Keane tells fan ‘I’ll wait in the car park’ after furious pitchside confrontation following Ipswich vs Man UtdBruno Fernandes started as a second No10 but would drop deepThe Portuguese coach likes these players to be ‘different’ in that one is more of a traditional No10 and the other makes runs in behind. Garnacho made lots of runs but was barely found, Bruno linked play well in the early stages but was often touching the ball in deep areas that gave no danger to Ipswich.Amorim brought on Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount as fresh legs in these positions but with little joy. It will be these positions that take the most work.AMAD WORLDIvorian winger Amad got a new position at right wing-back. Again, Amorim likes to have different profiles of player on each side and Amad is the direct runner, whilst Dalot is more of a traditional full-back and cuts inside on his right foot from left wing-back.Amad Diallo played as a right wing-backAmad started the game superbly with the bursting run to set up Rashford for the goal – and it is this type of direct running that Amorim loves.But the intensity dropped and Amad spent more time in a traditional right-back position and lots of time defending rather than attacking. He had some bursts in the second half, but it was from far too deep to create any more clear chances.HOJLUND v RASHFORDThe No9 position is going to be hotly debated, it’s clear that this player has to work VERY hard, running the channels and creating space for the other forwards around him.Marcus Rashford broke the deadlock for United within the opening two minutesObviously Rashford got the dream start – but it went quickly downhill from there and he struggled physically and to get back into the game. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe press looked disorganised too – but Amorim has had only a couple of days on the training ground.Hojlund looked a far more natural fit for what Amorim wants.. this player must come to feet, be physical with centre-backs and then spin and get in the box for crosses.. more of an old-school No9.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

  • in

    Mo Salah admits he’s ‘more OUT than in’ as he piles pressure on Liverpool to offer him a new contract

    MOHAMED SALAH has piled the pressure on Liverpool to offer him a new deal, saying he is “more out than in”.The Reds great, 32, revealed he is yet to be offered a new contract, with his current deal up in the summer.Mohamed Salah’s contract with Liverpool comes to an end next summerCredit: GETTYThe Egyptian has piled on the pressure for the Reds to offer him a deal by admitting he’s “more out than in”Credit: NBCSalah scored a brace at Southampton on Sunday to send Liverpool eight points clear at the top of the table before revealing his disappointment at not being offered a deal.He said: “Well, we are almost in December and I haven’t received any offers yet to stay in the club. I’m probably more out than in.”I’m not going to retire soon so I’m just playing, focusing on the season and I’m trying to win the Premier League and hopefully the Champions League as well. “I’m disappointed but we will see.”READ MORE ON SALAHSalah added: “I love the fans. The fans love me. In the end it is not in my hands or the fans’ hands. Let’s wait and see.”You know I have been in the club for many years. There is no club like this.”But in the end, it is not in my hands.”It is December and I haven’t received anything yet about my future.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFive Mo Salah strops at LiverpoolFive times things have got heated during Mo Salah’s Liverpool career.West Ham 2 Liverpool 2 – April 28, 2024Salah gets into a heated argument with Klopp as he refuses to shake the manager’s hand before coming on at the London Stadium.Liverpool 3 Sheffield United 1 – April 4, 2024Salah shakes his head as he is subbed off during Liverpool’s 3-1 win over the basement club.Chelsea 1 Liverpool 1 – August 13, 2023Salah storms off the pitch after being replaced on 77 minutes on the first day of the season.Brighton 1 Liverpool 1 – November 28, 2020Salah throws his arms up in the air and barely looks at Klopp after being subbed off. Brighton go on to equalise with a last minute penalty.Burnley 0 Liverpool 3 – August 31, 2019Salah gets in a public spat with Sadio Mane after failing to pass to the winger. Team-mate Roberto Firmino says the row had been brewing for some time.Read the full article from Jack RosserThere is huge interest in the Egypt international from the Saudi Pro League, with Liverpool having rejected bids of up to £150million in the past.Asked about the prospect of moving to the Middle East, he said: “I don’t want to speak about that. Mo Salah appears to confirm Liverpool transfer exit live on Sky Sports after ripping Man Utd to shreds”I am focused with the team now.”I’m very professional. Everybody can see my work ethic.”I’m just trying to enjoy my football and I will play at the top level as long as possible.”I’m just doing my best because this is who I am and I try to give it all for myself and for the club. Mohamed Salah claims the Reds have yet to offer him a new dealCredit: REX”We will see what happens next.”Salah is one of three key men out of contract at Anfield in the summer, alongside Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.READ MORE SUN STORIESVan Dijk revealed recently that talks had started over a new contract, while Alexander-Arnold has remained silent ahead of interest from Real Madrid – who visit Merseyside in the Champions League this week.Salah has a staggering 223 goals and 99 assists in 367 appearances for Liverpool.Mohamed Salah bagged a brace in Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Southampton last weekendCredit: AFP More

  • in

    Owen Hargreaves names two Man Utd stars who ‘won’t be playing in three weeks’ after feeling Ruben Amorim’s wrath

    OWEN HARGREAVES believes that several Manchester United stars will find themselves dropped in the coming weeks.The Red Devils have endured an awful start to the season and sit 12th in the Premier League table.Owen Hargreaves had his say on his former sideCredit: GettyRuben Amorim’s side drew 1-1 with Ipswich in his first game at the helmCredit: PAMan Utd’s poor form ultimately cost former boss Erik ten Hag his job, with new manager Ruben Amorim taking charge for the first time in yesterday’s clash with Ipswich.Following the 1-1 draw, ex-United midfielder Hargreaves, 43, gave a frank assessment of his former side.The ex-England ace picked out Diogo Dalot and substitute Joshua Zirkzee for criticism.Hargreaves said of Amorim: “He was in front of me, and he was really frustrated, I’m not going to lie.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He wasn’t happy with Dalot’s positioning in the first half. Zirkzee’s positioning in the second half made him a bit frustrated as well.””Many of these players won’t be playing in three, four, or five weeks time.”Dalot, 25, was asked about how things have changed under his Portuguese compatriot.The full-back said: “He has impacted straight away. The way he transmits ideas is really clear. We just need to put it into practice now.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”We just need to be ready. For the standard of this club we have to get information really quick.”We have only been together with the international players for two or three days, so you have to give credit to everyone.”Amorim’s reality check after first match as Man Utd & Ipswich draw 1-1After the game, Amorim took a swipe at Zirkzee’s movement.The Dutchman, 23, replaced Christian Eriksen in the 68th minute and played off fellow substitute Rasmus Hojlund.Amorim said: “I think that [decision-making] is a concern, you don’t need to coach them at this level.”You have to keep the ball and know the momentum to put the ball in front. Sometimes you feel that you can’t keep the ball and you [have to] put the ball in front.”Then you have like we are in the end of the game, we were around the box with two strikers. Josh has to understand that he has to go to the box to have the crosses.”So we are doing some things that were not at the right moment, so that is something we have to address.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sometimes people talk about the 3-4-3, that is not the concern, the system is the system but the understanding of the game is what we have to improve a lot in this area.”Amorim will take charge of his first game at Old Trafford on Thursday as United host Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

  • in

    Ruben Amorim gives instant verdict on Bruno Fernandes, Garnacho and Zirkzee in revealing Sky Sports interview

    RUBEN AMORIM discussed Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho and Joshua Zirkzee following his first game in charge of Manchester United.The Portuguese, 39, was in the dugout as the Red Devils were held 1-1 by Ipswich at Portman Road.Ruebn Amorim gave his assessment of Man Utd’s performanceCredit: Sky SportsBrino Fernandes skippered the Red Devils at Portman RoadCredit: GettyMan Utd had gotten off to the perfect start when Marcus Rashford turned in Amad Diallo’s cross after just 81 seconds.But Amorim’s side were pegged back by Omari Hutchinson’s deflected strike prior to half-time.After the game, United’s new boss admitted that his players will take time to adapt to his ideas, claiming that they will have to “suffer”.Chatting to Sky Sports, he also discussed several of his players individually.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn his skipper, he said: “Bruno Fernandes, I think he improved his game by playing nearer the ball, feeling the ball, so he can give us sometimes the long pass.”But you can not put him there all the time because he wants the long pass all the time.”So we try to find things about the players, we will need a lot of time to work out these things.”He then claimed to have immediately learned new things about winger Garnacho.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlejandro Garnacho endured some frustrating moments against IpswichCredit: RexJoshua Zirkzee was introduced from the bench during the second halfCredit: GettyAmorim added: “You start discovering things that you didn’t know like Garna, can hold the ball between lines.”You can understand that by seeing the games because he’s always open so you try to find these things.”Roy Keane tells fan ‘I’ll wait in the car park’ after furious pitchside confrontation following Ipswich vs Man UtdAmorim left summer signing Zirkzee out of his first starting XI, instead opting to deploy Rashford up front.He summoned the forward in the 68th minute, bringing him on for Christian Eriksen.Zirkzee, 23, played off fellow substitute Rasmus Hojlund after being introduced.But boss Amorim wasn’t fully satisfied with his display.’HAS TO UNDERSTAND’He said: “I think that [decision-making] is a concern, you don’t need to coach them at this level.”You have to keep the ball and know the momentum to put the ball in front. Sometimes you feel that you can’t keep the ball and you [have to] put the ball in front.”Then you have like we are in the end of the game, we were around the box with two strikers. Josh has to understand that he has to go to the box to have the crosses.”So we are doing some things that were not at the right moment, so that is something we have to address.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sometimes people talk about the 3-4-3, that is not the concern, the system is the system but the understanding of the game is what we have to improve a lot in this area.”Man Utd return to action on Thursday evening, when they host Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

  • in

    Ruben Amorim warns Man Utd fans to expect MORE suffering as he admits his ‘confused’ stars must improve EVERYTHING

    RUBEN AMORIM has warned Manchester United’s supporters to expect even MORE suffering.The new Red Devils boss had to settle for a scrappy point in his first game in charge against relegation battlers Ipswich.Ruben Amorim’s side were made to battle at Portman RoadCredit: PAMan Utd scored after 81 seconds before being pegged back by the Tractor BoysCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford’s strike after just 81 seconds was cancelled out by a deflected Omari Hutchinson effort.It leaves United 12th in the Premier League table — a massive 15 points behind leaders Liverpool.Frustrated Amorim admitted his “confused” players must improve EVERY aspect of their game.The Portuguese said: “They are very good players but we have to improve physically, technically and tactically and we need time to do that.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“We are going to suffer for a long period and we will try to win games — but this will take time.“Decision-making is a concern, you don’t need to coach them at this level. We are doing some things not in the right moment and that’s what we have to address.“In the first half they were a little bit afraid. We only had two days so they are confused. We have to be so much better physically to cope.“It’s hard to expect anything now. But by this time next year, I promise we won’t have the same struggles.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“It was a tough match. We started very well but then we should have had more of the ball, we gave it away too much.“The second half, we didn’t play very well but we controlled the game better. We created better chances than Ipswich but we have to find more time to work with the players because we can do much better.”Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich (1)United, who have won just four league games all season, needed keeper Andre Onana to twice deny Liam Delap to avoid suffering a shock defeat at Portman Road. And Amorim added: “We have to win games but we could have lost if it was not for Onana, so we have to understand that and be pragmatic.“These guys had just two days to train to change so much.“It’s so clear for everybody that he saved us two times.“One important thing is he did long balls and tried to connect with players, that was good. He understood the idea. He did a great job.”Cameroonian stopper Onana, 28, said: “We are such a big club so there is no time to cry, we have to move on. Better days will come, it will not rain forever here.”’WE NEED TO ROTATE’Next up for Amorim are Norwegian minnows Bodo/Glimt at home in the Europa League on Thursday, which kicks off a run of ten games in just 32 days across three competitions.The 39-year-old’s first Premier League game at Old Trafford is Everton on Sunday lunchtime.Amorim is aware of United’s busy schedule in the next month and said: “Everybody is going to play, everybody is going to be on the bench.“With this schedule, we need to rotate the team.”On his first experience of the English top-flight, Amorim said: “You are lucky guys. You have the best by far — the best league in the world. And you see this every weekend.“But to tell the truth, when the game starts it’s the same thing since I was in the third division.“I’m so focused on the game and I’m playing with my players inside the pitch. But yes, you do have the best league in the world.”Asked about how Amorim has changed things since Erik ten Hag’s axing, Portugal defender Diogo Dalot, 25, said: “He has impacted straight away. The way he transmits ideas is really clear. We just need to put it into practice now.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We just need to be ready. For the standard of this club we have to get information really quick.“We have only been together with the international players for two or three days, so you have to give credit to everyone.”Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

  • in

    Bompastor hails Chelsea’s ‘perfect start’ but says team ‘still have a lot of improvement’ to make

    SONIA BOMPASTOR wants Chelsea to stay focused on reality in their title hunt despite their flawless record so far this term. And the Blues boss thinks there is more room for improvement from her undefeated side who beat Manchester United 1-0.Guro Reiten netted the only goal of the game with a spot-kick for Chelsea in the 17th minuteCredit: ReutersBlues forward Sandi Baltimore was named player of the match after another a solid shift as a full-backCredit: GettyChelsea’s win increased their advantage at the top of the table with Man City trailing them by six pointsCredit: PAGuro Reiten’s sixth top-flight goal this season kept the title chase on target for the league leaders at their Kingsmeadow fortress. Melvine Malard came close to snatching a dramatic late away leveller for Man United with her thunderous shot bouncing off the crossbar. But Chelsea did enough to protect their lead and open a five-point gap on Man City, who are second. And the loss for the Red Devils in the WSL leaves the Blues as the only side unbeaten so far this term after eight top-flight games. Read More Football StoriesBompastor said: “In terms of results it’s a perfect start and a 100 per cent win record. But it’s important to stay in mind with reality. “This is really good in terms of confidence, but the reality is even if we beat Man City, Arsenal and Man United, we haven’t won anything yet. “We need to keep a good balance between having the confidence from getting these good results against the best teams in the league. “But we must also make sure we keep our mentality focused on working hard.Most read in Football”We need to progress and the good point is we are winning games and getting points. “But we still have a lot of improvement, especially when we have possession of the ball, being able to hold the ball more under pressure.”Coming into the game United’s attacking ranks had been dealt a fitness blow with Ella Toone and striker Elisabeth Terland both injured. Starting in their place were veteran forward Rachel Williams and Brazil winger Geyse who was the Red Devils’ most dangerous attacking threat. Man United began brightly with forward Geyse leading the way with some powerful runs and decent crosses into the box. But it was the hosts who would break the deadlock after United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce brought Mayra Ramirez down in the box. The game’s only goal was scored with Reiten rifling home from the penalty spot in the 17th minute despite Tullis-Joyce guessing the right way. United came close to equalising in the second half with Geyse forcing Hannah Hampton to parry away her shot away from the top corner And Malard struck the woodwork in the 90th minute. Man United were limited to one shot on target with their strongest attacking threat coming from Geyse (pictured) and Melvine MalardCredit: PABut their hosts held out with loss likely to see Marc Skinner’s side now nine points behind the league leaders. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Red Devils boss said: “Chelsea are running away with it. “All we can do is get closer, try and finish as high as we possibly can, and try and finish in those Champions League places.” More

  • in

    Bobby Moore’s lost 1966 World Cup shirt worth £1m tracked down to Wales after going missing for 30 years

    ENGLAND skipper Bobby Moore’s missing 1966 World Cup-winning shirt has turned up in Wales, it was claimed last night.The red No6 jersey, worth £1million-plus, was last seen at ex-wife Tina’s Essex home 30 years ago and she wants it returned.Bobby Moore’s missing 1966 World Cup-winning shirt ‘has turned up in Wales’Credit: GettyMoore’s red No6 jersey, worth £1million-plus, was last seen at ex-wife Tina’s Essex home 30 years agoCredit: OffsideA source says Britain’s biggest collector of footie memorabilia told a relative: “I have it”.Skipper Bobby wore the red No6 top as he lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy at Wembley.It was last seen in Tina’s Essex attic 30 years ago and is now said to be worth more than £1million.The source told us a relative of tyre tycoon Neville Evans, 61, had confided four months ago that the jersey is part of his National Football Shirt Collection.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThey added the relative has seen the shirt.They said: “He showed me a clipping of a Sun article about the shirt last year (April 2023), and he said ‘Neville has got that shirt’.”Tina, wed to Bobby from 1962-86, and daughter Roberta said: “We are incredibly grateful to The Sun for taking up the challenge. “It seems Mr Evans is likely to have it or know where it is. Most read in Football“We’d implore him to tell us what he knows.”Evans, who lives in a £2m mansion in West Wales, co-authored a book last year, Three Lions on a Shirt: The Official History of the England Football Jersey.West Ham unveil statue of Bobby Moore, Martin Peters and Geoff Hurst and intern Peters’ ashes at London StadiumMany pictures were taken from shirts in his collection.Before publishing, the FA contacted Tina to say Bobby’s shirt would be pictured.But it set off legal letters from Bobby’s family and the jersey was replaced in the book with Sir Geoff Hurst’s No10 jersey.Co-author Daren Burney said at the time: “We are saddened our discovery of Bobby’s shirt has caused the Moore family distress.”He added cryptically that the shirt “is no longer under the same ownership and we can categorically state we have no idea where the shirt is now or who owns it”.But there was never any record of a sale or auction.Evans is a well-respected dealer of sporting memorabilia and there is no suggestion he acquired the shirt illegally.A female employee at his office gave no comment.Evans said the same at his home the next day.Tina added: “Bobby’s shirt may be one of the most iconic in British sporting history, but for Roberta and me it is an intensely personal reminder of the Bobby we loved deeply and everything he stood for.“He was a loving husband and father, a gentleman as well as a leader.“He wore the shirt on that unforgettable day having fought his own private battle with testicular cancer. “Very few people realised the agony he had been through.“He became a national hero that day, but he was already our hero and our Bobby. READ MORE SUN STORIES“Bobby gave it to me along with all his memorabilia.“It was a truly special gift and it clearly meant a lot to him that I should have it.”Tina was wed to Bobby from 1962-86Credit: RexNeville Evans is a well-respected dealer of sporting memorabilia and there is no suggestion he acquired Bobby’s shirt illegallyBobby wore the top as he lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy at WembleyCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Awkward moment Ed Sheeran politely asked to leave after gatecrashing Ruben Amorim interview live on Sky Sports

    ED SHEERAN was awkwardly asked to LEAVE Sky Sports’ live coverage after gatecrashing their interview with new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.Singer-songwriter Sheeran, 33, is a minority owner of his hometown club Ipswich and watched the newly-promoted side draw 1-1 with the Red Devils at Portman Road on Sunday.Ed Sheeran crashed the Sky Sports panel during their interview with Ruben AmorimCredit: Sky SportsSheeran embraced former Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie RedknappCredit: Sky SportsThe singer-songwriter is a minority owner of IpswichCredit: Sky SportsBut he was politely told by Redknapp to move out of shot during the Amorim interviewCredit: Sky SportsAfter the game, Amorim faced the Sky Sports panel following his first match in charge of Man Utd.Kelly Cates, Roy Keane, Izzy Christiansen and Jamie Redknapp were putting questions to the Portuguese coach when Sheeran came into shot in his Ipswich jacket.Cates said: “Ed Sheeran has come to join us. Ed we’re just chatting to Ruben Amorim who may not want to talk to an Ipswich fan.”Sheeran gave Amorim a brief wave as he hugged a beaming Redknapp.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCates added: “But from an Ipswich perspective it was almost perfect,” referencing his hit-single “Perfect”.Sheeran replied: “I love it. I love being back in the Premier League.”Cates then added: “We’re really glad to hear from you,” before Redknapp politely said to Sheeran: “You gonna come and say hello in a minute?”Sheeran proceeded to shake hands with Redknapp before he sheepishly walked out of shot.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd Cates ended the spontaneous segment by saying: “Thanks very much, Ed.”Sheeran, who owns 1.4 per cent of Ipswich, has watched his side take four points from games against Tottenham and Man Utd.Roy Keane tells fan ‘I’ll wait in the car park’ after furious pitchside confrontation following Ipswich vs Man UtdKieran McKenna’s men sit 18th in the Premier League – their first top-flight season since 2002.They are only in the relegation zone on goal difference, with crunch games against fellow strugglers Crystal Palace and Wolves coming up in the next three weeks.Next up for The Tractor Boys is a trip to Nottingham Forest on Saturday.Meanwhile, drama ensued with Sky Sports pundit Keane at Portman Road after he had a furious confrontation with a fan and told the supporter “I’ll wait for you in the car park”. More