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    ‘Ten times the player’ – Paul Scholes bows before Kobbie Mainoo as Man Utd legend compares himself to starlet

    PAUL SCHOLES has claimed that Kobbie Mainoo is “ten times the player” he was at 19.The Manchester United legend watched on as his old club beat Man City 2-1 to win the FA Cup at Wembley this afternoon.Kobbie Mainoo fired Man Utd to FA Cup glory at WembleyCredit: RexPaul Scholes posted this message on Instagram about the teen afterwardsCredit: InstagramDespite losing the experienced Casemiro from the subs bench due to an injury and all the pre-match speculation regarding Erik ten Hag’s imminent sacking, United prevailed.Alejandro Garnacho, 19, pounced on a defensive mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol to deservedly break the deadlock on half-hour.Things got even better before the break as United doubled their lead courtesy of a fine finish from Mainoo after a superb assist from Bruno Fernandes.Jeremy Doku set-up a nervy finish as he pulled one back in the final stages but – after some ‘s***housery’ from Scott McTominay – the Red Devils held firm to secure the trophy. READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSTen Hag embraced both of his teenage goalscorers like a “proud father” after the final whistle.And soon Mainoo, who has burst on the scene this season and earned himself a place in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 provisional England squad, was receiving more praise from one of the greatest to ever pull on a United jersey.Scholes was one of the members of United’s famed Class of ‘92 alongside the Neville brothers, David Beckham, Nicky Butt and Ryan Giggs.He scored over 150 goals in more than 700 appearances for the club he spent his whole career at and won it all.Most read in FA CupBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSScholes lifted 25 trophies, including 11 Premier League titles, three FA Cups and two Champions League titles.Many regard him as one of, if not the, best midfielder of his generation.Fans hail Erik ten Hag as ‘like a father’ after what Man Utd boss did to Mainoo and Garnacho after stunning FA Cup winBut the 49-year-old former England international is adamant that he was not a patch on United’s Wembley matchwinner at the same age.He shared an image of Mainoo slotting past Ortega on his Instagram story.And that came with a message that read: “Read a few comparisons between me and this kid last week… don’t waste your time, he is 10 times the player I was at 19,” wrote Scholes.“Just love the way he receives the ball, the calmness, the awareness of what’s around him and of course big goals in big games.”Scholes finished off by saying: “This boy is special… and he’s a f***ing red.”Meanwhile, United’s all-time record goalscorer also hailed Mainoo’s performance against City.Wayne Rooney, who has just been named as Plymouth manager, was working for BBC at the final.He said: “Mainoo, Kobbie Mainoo, for such a young lad, take his goal out of it, the composure he has shown on the ball for such a young lad has been excellent.“Incredible. It’s so good to see a player from the Academy coming through and dictating the games for Manchester United.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He’s had some moments when he’s struggled as well since he’s been in the first team, but I think this afternoon he’s been absolutely [brilliant].“You look at his composure on the ball, little passes, little one-twos, playing people in behind – I think he’s been incredible.”Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd recordHere is a look at Erik ten Hag’s record in charge of Manchester United.
    Games: 114
    Wins: 68
    Draws: 15
    Losses: 31
    Goals scored: 207
    Goals conceded: 156
    Points per game: 1.92
    Honours: EFL Cup x1 (2023), FA Cup x1 (2024) More

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    ‘We played s***’ – Erik ten Hag drops X-rated bomb to describe Man Utd performance as he hails response

    ERIK TEN HAG gave an X-rated answer as he spoke following Manchester United’s FA Cup victory.The Red Devils boss did not hold back as he described a previous performance from his side.Erik ten Hag gave an X-rated answer as he hailed his side’s response in recent weeksCredit: MUTVUnited were thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace earlier this month on their way to an eight placed finish in the Premier League.However, he hailed his team’s response since that defeat after United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday.Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo sealed a 2-1 victory at Wembley Stadium.Following the win, Ten Hag spoke to MUTV and was asked about his players’ “brilliant” display against City.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSIn response, he said: “I’m proud as well, firstly for the players, the staff, they did an incredible job, and the fans. The whole season.”I remember Crystal Palace a couple of weeks ago when we played s*** and they backed us.”They backed us and they are incredible. I said last week after Newcastle, they are the best fans in the world so I am really grateful.”Caused the presenter to apologise for Ten Hag’s language following his X-rated response.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe United boss also hit back at reports surrounding his future during his post-match press conference.Ten Hag threatened to go and win trophies elsewhere after rumours ahead of the final claimed he would be sacked regardless of the result.Awkward moment Gary Lineker asks Erik ten Hag if it his last game in tense interview after Man Utd’s stunning FA Cup winInstead, he has now won two trophies since joining United in 2022 after last season’s Carabao Cup triumph.The Red Devils will also be in Europe again as their cup victory sealed a spot in the Europa League next term. More

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    Man Utd boss Ten Hag fires defiant response over future after FA Cup win amid rumours Sir Jim Ratcliffe will SACK him

    ERIK TEN HAG has issued a defiant response to rumours he could be sacked by Manchester United.The Red Devils boss’ future has been in doubt for several weeks following their disappointing season.Erik ten Hag has issued a defiant response to rumours he could be sacked by Manchester UnitedCredit: AlamyIt was even claimed he would be dismissed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe regardless of the result in Saturday’s FA Cup final.However, Ten Hag has now hit back at the reports following United’s 2-1 win over Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.Speaking during his post-match press conference, he explained: “Two trophies in two seasons and three finals. That’s not bad.”If they don’t want me any more I go somewhere else to win trophies. That is what I do.”READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHe added: “I am here to win and I want to build a team. My whole managerial career I have won games and trophies.”As for the success he has brought to Old Trafford compared to those before him, he said: “When you see the last decade, there were not so many finals and trophies for this club.”United’s FA Cup triumph is their second trophy since Ten Hag’s arrival in 2022 following last season’s Carabao Cup win.First half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were enough to see off their bitter cross-city rivals.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe cup win also sees United into next season’s Europa League having initially missed out on Europe through their league finish.Poor results in the Premier League and Champions League this term had seen Ten Hag linked with an exit.Man City 1 Man Utd 2: Garnacho and Mainoo stun title winners in FA Cup final to give Ten Hag perfect send-offMeanwhile, it has been claimed the Red Devils are eyeing Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna to replace him.United chief Ratcliffe even refused to back his manager following the win over City.The British billionaire failed to answer when asked “is Erik staying?” after the match.Ten Hag, who has now won eight major trophies as a manager, still has another year remaining on his current deal. More

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    Man Utd chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe REFUSES to back manager Erik ten Hag just moments after stunning FA Cup win

    SIR JIM RATCLIFFE refused to back Erik ten Hag following Manchester United’s FA Cup triumph.The Red Devils beat rivals Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on Saturday to lift the trophy for the first time since 2016.Sir Jim Ratcliffe refused to back Erik ten Hag after Manchester United’s FA Cup winCredit: X / @BradJCoxThe United chief did not answer after being asked ‘is Erik staying?’Credit: X / @BradJCoxGoals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were enough to seal a 2-1 victory.United chief Ratcliffe was present in the stands and was spotted walking through the media mixed zone after the match.However, he failed to back Ten Hag after being asked about his future.As Ratcliffe walked through with INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, a reporter asked: “Is Erik staying?”READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSRatcliffe turned to acknowledge the media member but did not answer the question.He then turned his head away and continued to walk before heading out the room through a door.Ten Hag’s future has been in doubt for a number of weeks after a disappointing second campaign at Old Trafford.United’s eighth place finish in the Premier League was their lowest since 1990.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA series of poor results have also seen the club linked with a move for Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna.Meanwhile, Ten Hag insisted the club want him to lead next season’s rebuild ahead of the FA Cup triumph.Man City 1 Man Utd 2: Garnacho and Mainoo stun title winners in FA Cup final to give Ten Hag perfect send-offAsked before the match if the talk regarding his future had affected preparations, he said: “[It has] not. I am focused on the game and the team.”I don’t talk about my future. It’s not about me, it’s about the team and winning the cup.”The Dutchman has now secured European football for next season, with the cup win booking United’s place in the Europa League.In turn, Chelsea have been demoted to the Conference League, whilst Newcastle are out of Europe altogether as a result.Ten Hag is also a two-time trophy winner since joining United following last year’s Carabao Cup victory. More

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    Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford burst into tears after FA Cup final win as Man Utd fans say ‘please don’t go’

    MARCUS RASHFORD and Bruno Fernandes proved how much winning the FA Cup meant to Manchester United.Both stars played a massive role in a magnificent 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley.Marcus Rashford was emotional after the final whistleThe academy graduate gave his all on the fieldCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes gave a tearful post-match interviewWith United leading 1-0, Rashford pinged a brilliant ball out to Alejandro Garnacho, who picked out Fernandes to tee up Kobbie Mainoo for the second.As the final whistle rang, the local lad broke down in tears.And after he came under fire for his performances, fans took to social media to highlight the academy graduate’s pass.Rashford has been linked with an exit this summer but there were plenty of calls for him to stay.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSOne user said: “Rashford crying I love him smmmm he better not leave.”Another added: “Rashford better not leave.”I hope rashford don’t leave,” posted a third.Manager Erik ten Hag is expected to be axed despite his victory.Most read in FA CupBut captain Fernandes came out in support of the Dutchman in an emotional interview.He told the BBC: “We know the manager has been under too much scrutiny, but that’s part of being at Manchester United. He deserves this.Man City 1 Man Utd 2: Garnacho and Mainoo stun title winners in FA Cup final to give Ten Hag perfect send-off”It’s a long season. It was difficult. It was our last chance to get something positive from the season. “We were here last year and we were not good enough to lift the trophy.”This season it is the other way around.” United skipper Fernandes lifts the FA CupCredit: GettyUnited took the lead as Garnacho pounced on a terrible error by Josko Gvardiol.Mainoo’s second stunned the Premier League champions before the break with the Red Devils fully deserving to be in front.Jeremy Doku scored a late goal to give City a lifeline but United held on to win Ten Hag a trophy in what could be his final game in charge.Erik ten Hag may leave United on a highCredit: Getty More

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    Man Utd fans fall in love with ‘subtle s***houser’ Scott McTominay after noticing stoppage time antics

    MANCHESTER UNITED hailed Scott McTominay after noticing his “subtle s***house” tactics to help them clinch the FA Cup.Erik ten Hag, who looks set to be sacked, watched his team produce a brilliant display to deny Premier League champions Man City a double, double as they won 2-1 at Wembley.Man Utd fans loved a moment of ‘s***housery’ from Scott McTominay at WembleyCredit: PAThe midfielder threw an extra ball on the pitch to delay Stefan Ortega taking a goal kickCredit: BBCHis actions helped United hold on and claim a 2-1 victory over the CityzensCredit: GettyMcTominay screams with delight as he lifts the FA Cup trophy aloftCredit: GettyThe Red Devils lost Casemiro from the subs bench due to an injury in the warm-up before Ten Hag broke his silence regarding his imminent sacking.But his players put all of that drama and their miserable campaign behind them to lift the cup and stun City.And it also means that they will be in the Europa League next season after relegating Chelsea to the Europa Conference League, while Newcastle miss out completely.Alejandro Garnacho pounced on a defensive mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol to deservedly give them the lead on the half hour.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt got even better before the break as United doubled their lead courtesy of a fine finish from Kobbie Mainoo.Speedster Jeremy Doku replaced Matteo Kovacic at half time before Kevin De Bruyne was hauled off and replaced by Julian Alvarez as Pep Guardiola tried everything to get back into it.They huffed and puffed to find a way back as Erling Haaland thundered an effort off the crossbar but the United defence looked unbreakable.Finally, with just three minutes of normal time remaining, City’s pressure told as Doku’s low drive from the edge of the area squeezed past the outstanding Andre Onana to set up a frantic finish.Most read in FA CupBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFears of a City comeback escalated when the board went up for seven minutes additional time.United bravely hung on as their fans in Wembley anxiously watched the seconds agonisingly tick by.Awkward moment Gary Lineker asks Erik ten Hag if it his last game in tense interview after Man Utd’s stunning FA Cup winBut they absolutely loved one moment of time-wasting by McTominay as he made his way off the bench in the dying seconds.Mason Mount took his place on the pitch while the midfielder trudged his way back to the dug-out the long way, going behind City’s goal.But he spotted an opportunity to waste some vital seconds after the ball had been kicked out for a City goal kick.Goalie Stefan Ortega raced after the ball in order to restart play quickly, but by the time he got it, McTominay had already kicked another one on to the field to delay him.His actions earned him a yellow card from the whistle but it mattered little as City were denied a double, double as United got exactly what their performance deserved.A host of stars secured themselves hero status with the Old Trafford faithful with their performances at Wembley.However, several were quick to hail McTominay on X after watching his time-wasting antics.One wrote: “Scott McTominay is such a streetwise footballer and a subtle s***houser, love it.”Another said: “McTominay throwing the ball back on the pitch is top tier intelligence.”A third commented: “Nah McTominay that was really intelligent throwing the ball inside.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSeconds before going up to lift the trophy, Mctominay then took part in a number of flash interviews.And right at the end of it he showed his backing for under-pressure boss Ten Hag by saying: “We are delighted for the manager.”SunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
    Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
    Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
    Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
    Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
    Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
    Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
    Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
    Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
    Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
    Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
    Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
    Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
    Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
    Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
    Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
    Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
    Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
    Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
    Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
    Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
    Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
    Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
    Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
    Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
    Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season. More

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    Man Utd fans say ‘this is so nuts’ as Garnacho and Mainoo emulate Cristiano Ronaldo achievement not matched in 20 years

    MANCHESTER UNITED duo Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo have emulated a Red Devils legend.The pair both found the back of the net in the first half of today’s FA Cup final between United and neighbours Man City as United lifted the trophy.Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho both scored for Man Utd in the FA Cup final todayCredit: GettyBoth Garnacho and Mainoo are 19 years old, making them the first teenagers to net in an FA Cup final for 20 YEARS.The last teen to score in the historic competition’s final was Cristiano Ronaldo in 2004 – a fellow Man Utd star.Ronaldo opened the scoring that day at the age of 19 as United went on to beat Millwall 3-0 at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.And Man Utd fans have been left stunned by the incredible fact – with many hoping it’s a sign of things to come for Mainoo and Garnacho.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSOn social media one fan wrote: “This is so nuts!”While another added: “The future is scary, but not for Manchester United.”A third commented: “Carrington has done it again.”And a fourth chimed in, writing: “We only breed generational talent around here.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCristiano Ronaldo was the last teenager to score in an FA Cup final before Mainoo and GarnachoCredit: GettyRonaldo’s record was held for so long that neither Garnacho or Mainoo were born when the Portuguese superstar set it in 2004.But their age wasn’t evident when they both took full advantage of their opportunities under the arch this afternoon.Erik ten Hag in blunt three-word response as Man Utd boss is asked whether he’s been treated unfairlyBoth rising stars showed they have a calm head on their young shoulders and they tucked the ball away and gave Erik ten Hag’s team a crucial two-goal cushion.Garnacho had done well not to panic after a blunder from Man City pairing Josko Gvardiol and Stefan Ortega had handed him an opportunity on a plate.While Mainoo superbly placed his chance into the bottom corner when a moment of brilliance from Bruno Fernandes teed him up inside the box.Despite being underdogs for the game, United were able to dig in and hold on to the lead their academy graduates had given them to lift the FA Cup They fought off a late scare in the form of a Jeremy Doku consolation goal to win the game 2-1. More

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    Man Utd ratings: Garnacho shows United’s future is safe as Onana ruins commanding display with absolute howler

    MANCHESTER UNITED defied the odds to get the better of their imperious neighbours Manchester City and lift the FA Cup aloft.The Red Devils were written off before a ball had even been kicked and thanks to a teenage double from Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho in the first half, they pulled off a 2-1 win.Manchester United won the FA CupCredit: GettyManchester City were taught a lesson by their neighboursCredit: ReutersErik ten Hag may be leaving, but his players gave him some send off under the arch.United looked by far and away the better team in the first half as they pounced on City’s mistakes and gave the Red side of Manchetser something to sing about.And despite a late goal from Jeremy Doku to try and pull things back at 2-0, Ten Hag’s men were able to dig in and get over the line.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated each Man Utd player’s performance… READ MORE ON MAN UTDANDRE ONANA – 5Was looking the commanding presence he has struggled to be so often this season and then… Absolute howler to give City hope late on as he let the ball squirm through his fingers from Jeremy Doku’s shot.AARON WAN-BISSAKA – 7Can we see this every week? Calm and composed in defence, he was strong and disciplined with every challenge and kept both hil Foden and then Jeremy Doku quiet.RAPHAEL VARANE – 8Back and fit for his farewell performance and looked a calming presence at the back. Shame it has taken a Cup Final to get both an appearance and performance from him in what will be his United farewell.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 8You cannot underestimate what a miss the little Argentine has been for United. It’s not just his ability to keep giants like Erling Haaland quiet but that spirit he gives the team.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDIOGO DALOT – 7Voted Players’ Player of the Year by his Manchester United teammates last week and deservedly so. What a ball from deep to set the move going that lead to their second goal.All 16 of Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd signings rankedDIOGO DALOT – 7Got the nod ahead of Casemiro for what will be his last game of a loan spell with the Red Devils. He repaid the faith shown in him by the boss with a solid display in front of the back four.KOBBIE MAINOO – 8What a season it has been for the 19-year-old midfielder. This time last year he was just a spectator, now one of the stars of the show as he slotted home United’s vital second.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 9When Erik ten Hag talks about the future being bright at Old Trafford he is talking about players like Garnacho. An inspirational figure on the day. Scorer of the first and helped set up the second. A player who draws you to the edge of your seat.BRUNO FERNANDES – 9Playing as one of two false nines with Scott McTomninay, City simply could not pick him up. He was here, there and everywhere. His awareness and touch off to Mainoo for the second goal was superb.SCOTT MCTOMINAY – 7He is too often the fall guy when others are injured but on this huge occasion he had the trust of the boss and responded with a strong display up front while regularly retreating to help his teammates at the back. 7.MARCUS RASHFORD – 7Dumped by England after a poor season for United but he was back for this Wembley showpiece an proved that he still suits the big stage. Great crossfield pass to Garnacho in lead up to second goal.SUBSTITUTESJONNY EVANS: (for Martinez 74) What a way to bring down the second coming of his United career. 6.RASMUS HOJLUND: (for Rashford 74) A roller coaster of a first season but he needs the right service. 6.READ MORE SUN STORIESVICTOR LINDELOF: (for Garnacho 90+3) On top help see the game out as United tired. 6.MASON MOUNT: (For McTominay 90+3) On for the injured McTominay. He will be hoping for an injury free season himself from next August. 6. More