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      If a picture is worth 1,000 words, then what does this photo say about shambolic state of Man Utd?

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      HAVE A LOOK at this picture and what are your first thoughts?What would be your assumption if you did not know what preceded it?Rasmus Hojlund was alone after the penalty shootout victory against CoventryShootout winner Hojlund was the only player to celebrate the winThat Rasmus Hojlund had just missed the decisive penalty in a shoot-out and was about to be consoled by a team-mate, in this case the distant Christian Eriksen?The player himself has his shoulders hunched, looking downcast and in need of a hug.Yet this was supposedly a moment of celebration.What it is, in fact, is a still shot that sums up the current state of Manchester United – embarrassing.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAll players will look forward to that moment when their intervention proves the last and most crucial in a contest.When all their team-mates charge towards them. No matter what has gone before you are the hero for that final decisive kick or save.Remember Edwin van der Sar when he stopped Nicolas Anelka’s penalty in the 2008 Champions League final and a 100m sprint ensued in the teeming rain to reach him in joyous celebration?Not on this occasion.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERHojlund had slammed the ball home to complete a 4-2 FA Cup semi-final penalty shoot-out win after the game had finished 3-3.United had surrendered a 3-0 lead and only the tip of a toenail had denied Championship side Coventry ultimate victory.Fans spot Man Utd players are ‘too ashamed to celebrate’ as even Roy Keane claims they were ’embarrassed to win’So while Hojlund ran to the United fans shouting and punching the air, his team-mates’ response was lukewarm.It was like that cringeworthy moment at the same venue last season when Wout Weghorst, the bloke who won a raffle to play for United, ran the length of the pitch and slid in front of the Red Devils fans after a run-of-the-mill win over Newcastle.Hojlund turned to see that nobody was coming, bar Eriksen with Antony trailing along.Yes that big money Brazilian flop who had already added a distasteful footnote to the final act by goading the brave Coventry players in the moment of victory, cupping his ears to them.Thankfully United had players of class like Harry Maguire who turned straight to those in Sky Blue to offer his hand.So where does it all leave this hapless bunch and a club in reverse.TEN HAG’S FUTURE?Erik ten Hag’s chancea of staying at Man Utd appear to diminish by the dayCredit: AlamyThat is the immediate question and for many United fans who had stuck behind him, this was the final straw.The Dutchman had an admirable first season, finishing third and winning the Carabao Cup while reaching the FA Cup Final.This was when they were supposed to push on and they have gone into reverse.It is on his watch that United fans have witnessed a calamitous Champions League campaign.Pundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      A title bid has turned into a scramble to get in the UEFA conference.Increasingly his words and excuses seem desperate.His declaration that Sunday was a great achievement as they reached a second successive FA Cup Final just added to the feeling of embarrassment.His days are numbered, the clock is ticking.ARE INJURIES A VALID EXCUSE?Man Utd have been blighted by injury this season, but is that enough to justify performances?Credit: PAEvery team seems to be struggling and a stronger look behind the scenes as to why so many are in the treatment room at United might help.As it was, only the lack of a recognised central defender to partner Maguire on Sunday should have been seen as a weakness in this line-up.This was a good enough team to get 3-0 up, so it should have been good enough to see the job out with ease.Injuries are not the reason this team capitulates so often.They don’t have the ability to concentrate for 90 minutes.Whatever the manager is saying, they are not listening.FANS TURNING ON PLAYERSThis is not a regular thing at United, but it is starting to creep in more and more.It may not have been heard on TV, but when Marcus Rashford was subbed off in the 89th minute, he was booed by many United fans.They have grown sick of his lacklustre performances with no end product.If United get a bid, they need to take it.He is not alone with Antony another who the faithful have long since lost patience with.If he thinks cupping his ears to the Coventry players in celebration will have endeared himself to those who filled one end of the ground then he can think again.He might just find out how far it went when his name is read out on Wednesday night for the visit of Sheffield United to Old Trafford.RECRUITMENTErik ten Hag has been backed to the tune of £400million and what is the result?Antony at £85million tops the list of the most expensive flops in United’s history, surely he is not Brazilian.Pundit and former Aston Villa star Gabriel Agbonlahor, used the words “shamelss” and “prat” to describe him on Sunday.Bruno Fernandes should be embarrassed by this… United fans were, says Neil CustisBy Neil Custis
      BRUNO FERNANDES ended the FA Cup semi-final a man bemused as to what he had been a part of.
      No doubt knowing it would be he would have to try and explain it all again.
      Rarely have a team slunk away from this stadium with a feeling of embarrassment having just reach an FA Cup Final.
      The next time Fernandes turns up at the home of football he wants to be heading up those metal steps and picking up silverware.
      Nothing less will do for the captain of Manchester United.
      But he knows they have not got a hope of gaining revenge on this cross town rivals Manchester City if this is what they are going to deliver.
      This was an embarrassment, plain and simple, for Ten Hag, for Fernandes, for every player in red.
      After the skipper finished his TV interview he turned around to the end that had housed the United fans to clap them in thanks.
      There was barely anyone left.
      Read Neil Custis’ opinion in full here.
      Or click here to read all of Neil’s article.

      Look elsewhere and what has goalkeeper Andre Onana brought that David De Gea didn’t have. He has been a downgrade if anything.Hojlund? Unless you had been watching closely you could have been forgiven for wondering If his penalty kick was indeed his first touch on Sunday.Casemiro was described by pundit and former Arsenal player Lee Dixon yesterday as looking like someone who was toeing a caravan.As for Mason Mount? Why did they buy him again?WHAT IS UNITED’S STYLE UNDER TEN HAG?It is a question that has been asked from the start and met with curious answers.When you bring a man in from Ajax you expect the beautiful game to follow. Yet Ten Hag claims he can’t play it because he hasn’t got the right men. So why didn’t he buy the right ones?United’s style is based on “rope-a-dope” as they take punishment with shot after shot heading their way before hoping for joy on the break.Victories come by chance, or through a piece of individual brilliance. There is no plan.DOES THE FUTURE LOOK BRIGHT?Not right now it doesn’t. But there is undoubted young talent in this squad in the form of Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and most notably Alejandro Garnacho. Hojlund… we remain to be convinced.On Garnacho, what on earth is Ten Hag doing constantly subbing a 19-year-old when the teenager’s speed and trickery can unlock a door when everyone else is tiring and he isn’t?Man Utd are LUCKY to be seventh in the table… one particular stat is terrible, say Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      THE frightening thing about Manchester United’s season is that they should really be LOWER than seventh in the Premier League.
      Even during their current run of one win in seven league matches, United’s results have been better than their performances.
      Erik ten Hag’s team deserved to lose each of their last three drawn games against Brentford, Liverpool and Bournemouth.
      On goal difference, United are ninth in the league, while only seven teams have scored fewer than their 47 goals.
      And if we give any credence to ‘expected points’, then that stat would have them 15th in the table.
      If Ten Hag’s men lose Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final to Championship side Coventry, it should not come as a major surprise.
      Click here to read Dave Kidd’s column in full.
      To read more from Dave Kidd, click here.

      He is someone who can take the ball upfield and relieve the pressure on his defence if the tide is turning.Subbed in the 86th minute at Chelsea with United 3-2 up and they lose 4-3.Subbed in the 80th minute at home to Liverpool with United 2-1 up and they draw 2-2.Subbed in the 66th minute at Wembley against Coventry, for the hapless Antony, with United 3-0 up and they draw 3-3 before penalties.IS SIR JIM RATCLIFFE THE SAVIOUR?Well, the new part owner put the idea of a swift change in fortunes under his watch to bed after finishing the London marathon ahead of this semi-final marathon.Sir Jim Ratcliffe said: “The fans are impatient. It’s a journey, they have to be patient. It’s not a light switch. We will turn it around.”Patience has long since run out.As for complaining about Newcastle putting incoming CEO Dan Ashworth on gardening leave, well, sorry the Magpies didn’t bow down to your every whim, and why should they?There was a moment during yesterday’s game as United imploded when Ratcliffe turned round to new technical director Jason Wilcox sat alongside former chief executive David Gill.READ MORE SUN STORIESYou can only guess what he might have been saying but a speech bubble with the words “what on earth is going on, this is embarrassing” might have been one version.Embarrassing it was, just have another look at that picture for proof. More

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      Diogo Dalot has gone under radar as Man Utd’s player of the year and is living up to Cristiano Ronaldo’s expectations

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      DIOGO DALOT has been a rare point of stability amid a turbulent season for Manchester United.The 25-year-old has stood out as a soild performer at right-back this season, with a string of consistent displays.Diogo Dalot put in another solid display for Man Utd against CoventryCredit: GettyHe has been one of the club’s most consistent players this seasonCredit: GettyOn a relatively humble £85,000-a-week wages, Dalot is far from the most glamorous player in team. Yet what he offers is certainly worth the price.He shifts between being an anchor point in build up play by moving into midfield to offer a passing option and then providing an option out wide with an overlapping run.His durability has also been a key factor for Erik ten Hag this season, with just two Premier League games missed – one for being an unused sub and the other being down to suspension.Only Bruno Fernandes can boast more league minutes than Dalot among outfielders at the club, while he has started 41 of his 43 games in all competitions.READ MORE ON MAN UTDFans have now highlighted Dalot’s efforts after another reliable display amid a shocking collapse against Coventry in the FA Cup semi-final.An assist for Scott McTominay’s opener and a crucial block at the far post to prevent a first-half equaliser for Coventry saw one fan label him: “One of the players of the season.”He was also the star in earlier rounds, being the pick of the bunch when Man Utd beat Newport 4-2 in the FA Cup fourth round.While some players have blown hot and cold throughout the season, looking at Dalot’s league numbers it is hard to disagree with the “Mr consistent” tag.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDalot ranks fifth among defenders in the Premier League for tackles won. He is also sixth overall for tackles in the defensive third and for tackles against dribblers, even if his success rate (68.3 per cent) is not as high as team-mate Aaron Wan-Bissaka (72.7 per cent)The Portuguese defender also has 91 clearances, 35 interceptions and 41 blocks made this season, all while having no errors made. Diogo Dalot shows his skills in football tennis in Man Utd trainingGoing forwards, Dalot has also proven to be a valuable asset.He has managed 100 progressive passes (bettered only by Fernandes), 16 completed crosses into the penalty area (sixth highest among PL defenders) and a total pass completion percentage of 80.6 per cent.It is not just his performances and numbers which separate him from his peers, but also his mentality.Bruno Fernandes should be embarrassed by this… United fans were, says Neil CustisBy Neil Custis
      BRUNO FERNANDES ended the FA Cup semi-final a man bemused as to what he had been a part of.
      No doubt knowing it would be he would have to try and explain it all again.
      Rarely have a team slunk away from this stadium with a feeling of embarrassment having just reach an FA Cup Final.
      The next time Fernandes turns up at the home of football he wants to be heading up those metal steps and picking up silverware.
      Nothing less will do for the captain of Manchester United.
      But he knows they have not got a hope of gaining revenge on this cross town rivals Manchester City if this is what they are going to deliver.
      This was an embarrassment, plain and simple, for Ten Hag, for Fernandes, for every player in red.
      After the skipper finished his TV interview he turned around to the end that had housed the United fans to clap them in thanks.
      There was barely anyone left.
      Read Neil Custis’ opinion in full here.
      Or click here to read all of Neil’s article.

      Moments before kick-off in the FA Cup semi-final Dalot was seen hyping up Red Devils wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo.Following a win over Aston Villa in February, Ten Hag highlighted Dalot as a “fantastic player who is developing well”.He added: “He can play in so many positions and he is improving on crosses. He can score and his defending is improving so I am very pleased with him.”Dalot has been a consistent performer throughout the season for Man UtdDalot has also earned the praise of Man Utd legend Gary Neville, who made the right-back position his own with two decades of consistent displays for the club, and suggested he may be the long term player for the position.In February he said: “Dalot is someone that people say about [when they discuss] the right-back for the future for Manchester United. They might have the right-back for the future there. “There is a lot there: he’s six foot; he’s strong, he’s powerful, he’s good on the ball, he’s not a bad defender. I think he defends his back post really well. He opens up his shoulders.”I think if he can start playing in a really confident back four and a settled back four [then he could be the right-back for the future]…”It’s (the back four) always changing, and he’s never really got a constant presence outside him on that right-hand side. I had that for years, where I could build a relationship.”It’s an assessment likely backed by Cristiano Ronaldo, with Dalot being one of the few players to earn praise from him in his interview slamming the club before his unceremonious exit.Dalot has become an all rounder at right-back for the Red DevilsHe proved a valuable asset down the right wing as Man Utd beat Coventry in the FA Cup semi-finalAsked which players he admired at the time, he said: “In Manchester United I can mention Dalot.”He’s young, but very professional but I don’t doubt that he’s going to have longevity in football because he’s young, he’s smart, intelligent and he’s very professional. “Probably [Lisandro] Martinez, Casemiro is in his 30s, but I will say Dalot.”Dalot is tied down until 2028 after signing his latest Man Utd contract last summer.The ex-Porto star made his Red Devils debut under Jose Mourinho back in 2018.After a 2019 match in the Champions League, Mourinho declared Dalot can be a player who “has more than ten years to play for Manchester United”.READ MORE SUN STORIESSix years into his Man Utd career, Dalot has played 150 times for the club and gone from strength to strength, and still has his best years ahead of him.While all the talk for Man Utd’s Player of the Season is about the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Mainoo, Dalot certainly deserves to be in the conversation.Cristiano Ronaldo named Dalot as one of the few ‘professional’ players at the clubCredit: ReutersGary Neville said Dalot may be the ‘long term’ solution for Man Utd at right backCredit: Getty More

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      How Man Utd limped into FA Cup final after dressing-room speech from club legend

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has revealed that Manchester United legend Darren Fletcher helped inspire them to reach the FA Cup final.United threw away a 3-0 lead against Coventry at Wembley on Sunday and were lucky a late extra-time winner for the Championship side was chalked off for offside.Bruno Fernandes revealed a Manchester United legend issued a team talkCredit: RexDarren Fletcher joined Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag for a team talk against CoventryCredit: AFPMan Utd punched their ticket to the FA Cup Final after beating Coventry on penaltiesCredit: AFPThe Red Devils managed to edge through on penalties to set up a Manchester derby against Manchester City in the final for the second year running on May 25.Pep Guardiola’s men won at Wembley last year 2-1 – a game that saw Fernandes level from the spot at 1-1.And the Portuguese midfielder – who scored United’s third goal against Coventry – said five-time Premier League winner Fletcher gave a team talk in the Wembley dressing room before the game.He said: “We were told to believe we can get into the final.Read More on Man Utd“It’s about pride and getting into another FA Cup final.“You don’t get here often. We had Fletch speaking before the game and he played in one of the best Manchester United teams in their history.“He has been here three times at Wembley for the FA Cup. He played 12 years at the club.“He was in the most successful period of the club and it shows how big it is to be in the FA Cup and how difficult it is.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER“We have to be frustrated with the way the game ended up. At the same time we ended in the FA Cup final and hopefully we can do it differently to last season.”Fernandes insists United players are not affected by mounting speculation surrounding the future of Erik ten Hag.Arsenal fans say they ‘live rent free in Ten Hag’s head’ after watching video of Man Utd boss’ FA Cup press conferenceThe Dutchman is under further pressure after United’s collapse against a Championship side.Ten Hag’s side were spared the humiliation of being on the wrong end of the greatest FA Cup comeback by a marginal VAR decision that ruled out what would have been a Viktor Torp winner for the Midlanders.But Haji Wright’s toe was a CENTIMETRE offside – and United went on to win the tie on penalties to set up a second consecutive Manchester derby FA Cup final.United had only won one of their previous seven games before taking on Coventry.’NOT OUR JOB TO WORRY’And asked if uncertainty over Ten Hag’s future was weighing down on the players, Fernandes said: “That doesn’t have to affect anyone because we must focus on everything we want to do this season.“We still have chances to get into European positions in the league, we must finish as high as possible and have an FA Cup final to look forward to.“It’s not our job to worry about these things that come from the outside or inside or whatever. We have the owners and directors to take care of that and it’s about us performing on the pitch and giving our best.”Fernandes claims Coventry got “lucky” with their comeback but deserve credit for taking the game to the wire.He said: “We relaxed a little bit and didn’t make the pressure as much as we should.”Then the game became more split and there were more spaces.’MIXED EMOTIONS'”Sometimes we had to get deeper and more compact to not give much space to them.”We felt we could press them. We had good moments of pressure and they used some long balls and we had Harry Maguire and Casemiro winning a lot of duels for us.”I think it was better for us to press high which we did. But they got lucky with some of their goals but we must give credit to them.”Fernandes though was relieved United got the job done – even though it was far closer than it should have been.He said: “Obviously, we have mixed emotions. It’s been two years in a row we’ve reached the final, we know how difficult it is to get to the final of the FA Cup.”Obviously we wanted to get there in a different way, we know the result was in our hands.READ MORE SUN STORIES”For the first 70 minutes, we were so good, we controlled the game and then obviously well done from them, they believed, they gave everything they could to get back to the game and they did it.”We have respect for what Coventry did today but we had everything on our side to get a comfortable result – so that was disappointing.”Victory his never been less glorious than this for Man Utd, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      PROBABLY only Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United could book a place in an FA Cup final while hanging their heads in shame.
      Minutes after the final whistle of this ridiculous semi-final, Coventry’s magnificent underdogs were performing a lap of honour to their cheering fans — while most of United’s players and supporters had disappeared.
      Then the Wembley PA system started blaring out ‘Glory, Glory Man United!’ and everybody started laughing out loud.
      Victory has never been less glorious.
      As a party-starter it, fell flat. As a stab at dark humour, it was sensational.
      Even by United’s standards of low farce this was ridiculous.
      Now even the unlikely scenario of a final victory over City is unlikely to save Ten Hag’s job.
      After all, Louis van Gaal was axed days after United last won this competition in 2016 and his side were never as bad as this current lot.
      Read Dave Kidd’s thoughts on the game in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      FA Cup final kick-off time ‘revealed’ but ITV face clash with another major sporting fixture

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      THE FA Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United will kick off at 3pm on Saturday, May 25.But it is not good news for fans of rugby and football as it is set to clash with the European Champions Cup final.The FA Cup final will kick off at 3pm on Saturday, May 25Credit: APThe kick-off time will replicate last year’s final between the two sides – which was brought forward from 5.15pm to 3pm.This year’s Carabao Cup final between Liverpool and Chelsea also kicked off at 3pm.According to The Mail, the Metropolitan Police do not want it to be any later due to the risk of crowd trouble at Wembley.The FA are keen for the final to be played in the evening as this would generate a larger TV audience in both the UK and US.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, it is now understood 3pm is set to be confirmed as the kick-off time later this week following talks between the FA, Met Police, Brent Council, BBC, and ITV.This will come as a blow to ITV as they are also showing the European Champions Cup final on the same afternoon.The match, which is being hosted at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, will kick off at 2.45pm.One of Toulouse and Harlequins will face off against Leinster or Northampton Saints for the trophy.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBruno Fernandes should be embarrassed by this… United fans were, says Neil CustisBy Neil Custis
      BRUNO FERNANDES ended the FA Cup semi-final a man bemused as to what he had been a part of.
      No doubt knowing it would be he would have to try and explain it all again.
      Rarely have a team slunk away from this stadium with a feeling of embarrassment having just reach an FA Cup Final.
      The next time Fernandes turns up at the home of football he wants to be heading up those metal steps and picking up silverware.
      Nothing less will do for the captain of Manchester United.
      But he knows they have not got a hope of gaining revenge on this cross town rivals Manchester City if this is what they are going to deliver.
      This was an embarrassment, plain and simple, for Ten Hag, for Fernandes, for every player in red.
      After the skipper finished his TV interview he turned around to the end that had housed the United fans to clap them in thanks.
      There was barely anyone left.
      Read Neil Custis’ opinion in full here.
      Or click here to read all of Neil’s article.

      It is likely the match will now be shown on ITV4.And rugby authorities are said to be disgruntled as the FA Cup final is set to diminish coverage of the European Champions Cup final.’I don’t like what I see’ – Disgusted Roy Keane blasts Man Utd and says they ‘looked like the Championship team’But they will not change their own kick-off time as they had already selected it to avoid clashing with the Cannes Film Festival and Coupe de France final.No concerns have been raised by the police about both finals taking place in London at the same time.Man City beat Man Utd 2-1 to win the FA Cup last year. More

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      Arsenal fans say they ‘live rent free in Ten Hag’s head’ after watching video of Man Utd boss’ FA Cup press conference

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      ARSENAL fans mocked Erik ten Hag after he referenced Manchester United’s defeat at the Emirates during his post-match press conference on Sunday.The Red Devils boss, 54, watched his side give up a three-goal lead in their FA Cup semi-final with second-tier side Coventry, before they eventually won on penalties.Erik ten Hag bizarrely brought up Manchester United’s defeat to Arsenal back in SeptemberCredit: XArsenal came from behind to beat Man Utd 3-1 earlier this seasonCredit: Sunday TimesThe victory sets up a repeat of last year’s final between Man Utd and Manchester City – which ended in a 2-1 win for Pep Guardiola’s men.And Ten Hag bizarrely referenced his team’s 3-1 loss to Arsenal back in September when listing times they have shown they can compete with the big teams.He said: “We have to go to that cup final and have the belief we can win. We can do it.”We showed lately at the Emirates where we put ourselves also in a winning position where we could have scored a second goal.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”We showed last season in this cup final that we had a really good opportunity to win this cup final.”But we play against probably the best team in the world so you have to play 90 minutes and extra time to your highest levels, otherwise you don’t have a chance.”So we need to put a team out who is taking that responsibility. We have the players to do it but they have to believe from the first whistle to the final whistle.”Marcus Rashford gave Man Utd a 1-0 lead at the Emirates earlier this season, before Martin Odegaard equalised just one minute later.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus then went on to score stoppage-time goals to seal the victory.And Arsenal supporters believe Ten Hag is still rattled by that result after he brought it up on Sunday evening.Ertik ten Hag will be sacked by Man Utd even if he WINS FA Cup, say pundits after ‘embarrassing’ victory over CoventryOne said: “Arsenal lives rent free in this man’s head.”Another added: “I genuinely want this man to stay at Man Utd for 6 years… what a clown 😂.”A third replied: “I don’t blame the man, when you’re good, people will talk about you.”While a fourth responded: “This guy not gonna ever forget arsenal 😂😂😂😂 just like the rest of them.” More

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      Fans claim FA Cup semi-final was ‘fixed’ as they spot ‘issue’ with VAR review that ruled out Coventry goal vs Man Utd

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      FOOTBALL fans have accused Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final of being “fixed” after spotting what they believe is a major VAR blunder.Some think there was an error in the decision to disallow Coventry’s last-minute extra-time goal against Manchester United.This was the offside that saw Coventry’s dramatic late goal disallowedCredit: ITVFans have claimed the line goes through Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s footCredit: ITVCoventry’s Haji Wright was ruled offside following this VAR reviewCredit: Twitter / @Leaked_FPLReferee Robert Jones disallowed the goal for offsideCredit: GettyThe Championship side thought they had completed a remarkable comeback in stoppage time at the end of extra time when Victor Torp poked home to hand them what looked to be a stunning 4-3 win.But moments later the goal was ruled out for an offside in the build-up as Haji Wright was adjudged to be marginally ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.It was subsequently disallowed as Coventry, who were 3-0 down with 20 minutes of normal time remaining, went on to lose on penalties.Yet some on social media are now disputing the validity of the decision after zooming in on the lines drawn by the VAR.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThey believe the line drawn for Wan-Bissaka actually went through part of his boot, rather than being at the end of his foot.Reacting to a still image of the offside, one person said: “He’s offside because they’ve drawn the line half way up Wan Bissaka’s boot.”While another added: “I don’t think he is offside. Look at where the line goes on Wan-Bissaka. It’s not on the end of his foot like the Coventry player.”A third replied: “The line runs over the United player’s foot… if it’s where it should be that goal is good… Coventry were robbed!”Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      And another fan took umbrage with the frame used for the offside, saying: “And they did the line at the wrong point…. This is when he passed [showing a frame just after the one used]. It’s a FIX!”There is no evidence to suggest the match was fixed.And the confusion over the line and Wan-Bissaka’s boot could be explained by the fact his boot is in the air. This means there is also a vertical line down to the ground drawn on, making the blue line appear thicker, according to ESPN’s Dale Johnson.Erik ten Hag admits Manchester United ‘got away with it’ in shootout win over CoventryCoventry boss Mark Robins felt aggrieved about the decision in the wake of his side’s heartbreaking defeat to Man Utd.Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “Bitterly disappointed, I’m proud as well.“Someone said to me I don’t think any team have been as close to a final without getting there.“We deserved to go through, we were 20 seconds away and a toenail offside, it’s ridiculous.”Victory his never been less glorious than this for Man Utd, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      PROBABLY only Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United could book a place in an FA Cup final while hanging their heads in shame.
      Minutes after the final whistle of this ridiculous semi-final, Coventry’s magnificent underdogs were performing a lap of honour to their cheering fans — while most of United’s players and supporters had disappeared.
      Then the Wembley PA system started blaring out ‘Glory, Glory Man United!’ and everybody started laughing out loud.
      Victory has never been less glorious.
      As a party-starter, it fell flat. As a stab at dark humour, it was sensational.
      Even by United’s standards of low farce this was ridiculous.
      Now even the unlikely scenario of a final victory over City is unlikely to save Ten Hag’s job.
      After all, Louis van Gaal was axed days after United last won this competition in 2016 and his side were never as bad as this current lot.
      Read Dave Kidd’s thoughts on the game in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.

      Coventry were left heartbroken following their astonishing FA Cup semi-finalCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd’s ridiculous penalty shootout win over Coventry in FA Cup semi-final breaks 139-year-old record

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’s stunning penalty win over Coventry in the FA Cup final broke a 139 year old record.The Red Devils were 3-0 up against the Championship side before they suffered a stunning collapse to take the game into extra-time and penalties.Man Utd secured passage into the FA Cup final for the second year runningCredit: AlamyThey will face Man City at Wembley for the second year runningCredit: RexMan Utd broke a 139-year record by securing their spotCredit: GettyErik ten Hag’s side held their nerve in the shootout to reach the final, although pundits believe the clock is ticking over his future regardless.Amidst the chaos at Wembley, Man Utd did manage to break a long standing record with their win.The record is also held by Manchester City, who United meet in the final after they overcame Chelsea on Saturday.For the first time in 139 years, we will see two sides compete in back-to-back FA Cup finals.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Manchester derby rivals will square up on May 25 for a rematch of their Wembley clash last season, which Pep Guardiola’s side won 2-1 on the way to landing themselves a Treble.It is only the second time in the competition’s history this has happened.The last time – all the way back in 1884 and 1885 – saw Blackburn taking on Queen’s Park Rangers at the Kennington Oval in London.Blackburn won the first match up 2-1, with goals from Joe Sowerbutts and Jimmy Forrest landing them their first FA Cup gong despite Robert M Chrsitie’s goal for QPR.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBlackburn also ran out 2-0 winners against QPR on the second occasion in 1885 courtesy of goals from Forrest and James Brown.And it may be a bad omen for Man Utd as history threatens to repeat itself.’I don’t like what I see’ – Disgusted Roy Keane blasts Man Utd and says they ‘looked like the Championship team’The Red Devils, who are 12 time winners of the oldest cup competition in the world, have not lifted the FA Cup since 2016 under Louis van Gaal.They have made two finals since then; with Jose Mourinho in 2018 when they lost 1-0 to Chelsea and with Ten Hag last year.Man City meanwhile have won it seven times, with three of them coming since 2011.It was announced ahead of the semi-finals that replays after the first round proper would be getting scrapped, much to the dismay of furious clubs in the lower leagues.Why FA Cup changes are GOOD NEWSBy Martin Lipton
      THE FA and Premier League should have done the deal to scrap FA Cup replays years ago.
      No doubt traditionalists will moan but it is right that the competition has finally been brought into the 21st century.
      Ending replays will bring extra sharpness and excitement to the ties, with the knowledge that there will be a winner, whether in 90 minutes, extra-time or penalties.
      If big guns have a bad day, they are more likely to pay the price. Replays after draws give them a fall-back they do not deserve.
      Giving the FA Cup total and absolute priority over four weekends – and ensuring there is no competing match on the day of the Final – will enhance the profile of a competition that was in danger of falling out of the spotlight.
      And as long as the FA ensures a better split of the prize money fund, weighting it more towards the earlier rounds, and potentially a similar move with  TV match money, there should be few losers.
      Read more on the FA Cup by clicking here. More

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      Man Utd stars accused of playing up to ITV cameras with ‘classy’ gesture after FA Cup penalty shootout win over Coventry

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      MICAH RICHARDS praised Manchester United’s players for showing their “class” with a gesture immediately after their dramatic FA Cup win over Coventry.But the ex-Manchester City defender also questioned whether the act was “strategic” and for the cameras.Very few of the Manchester United players went to celebrate with Rasmis Hojlund after their penalty shootout winCredit: GettyHarry Maguire was seen going over to the Coventry players to console themCredit: ITVMan Utd spurned a three-goal lead in their FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Sunday, before eventually seeing off their Championship counterparts on penalties.Rasmus Hojlund scored the winning spot kick to book their place in the final against Man City on May 25.However, many of the Red Devils players did not bother celebrating with him after he converted his penalty, such was the manner of the win.And centre-back Harry Maguire was seen going straight over to the Coventry players to console them.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThis was picked up by Richards who gave Man Utd props for the gesture.However, he also subtly questioned their reason for doing so. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, he said: “When they won the penalties there was only really Hojlund celebrating.”They all just went back to the Coventry players and said how well they’ve done which showed a little bit of class, I would say.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Even if it was strategic. They know the cameras are going to be on them.”Man Utd legend Roy Keane also addressed the players’ reactions to Hojlund’s penalty and insisted the reason for them not celebrating was because they were “embarrassed”.Erik ten Hag admits Manchester United ‘got away with it’ in shootout win over CoventryHe told ITV: “I think from the United players and the supporters they weren’t really going over the top with the celebrations because they know that they were quite lucky today.”They had the game won at 3-0 and they are almost embarrassed to win in the end.”Not every United player showed their class however, with Antony being slammed for how he celebrated the shoot out win.The Brazilian winger was spotted goading the Coventry players by cupping his ears to towards their distraught players.NOT KEANEKeane went on to add: “Every time I see this United team I don’t like what I see. They are hard to like and they just play in moments.”We keep talking about leadership and characters – I don’t see any of that in this United group.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The team management when you’re 3-0 up… you don’t give a Championship team any sort of hope that they can get back in the game.”But that’s what they do, they give up chances, they give up goals. We’ve seen it all season so I don’t know why we’re that surprised, but my goodness they rode their luck in the end.”Pundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      Micah Richards believes the Man Utd players carried out the gesture for the camerasCredit: Getty More