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      Chelsea are ‘horrible’ and ’embarrassing’ and the ‘players think they’re better than they are’, fumes club legend

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      RUUD GULLIT has slammed “horrible” and “embarrassing” Chelsea and claimed: “The players think they are better than they actually are.”Gullit began Chelsea’s glory era with an FA Cup triumph in 1997 – making him the first foreign boss to lift the trophy.Ruud Gullit claims Chelsea are a ‘mess’Credit: GettyThe Blues suffered a 1-0 defeat to Man City in the semi-final of the FA Cup at the weekendCredit: AlamyBut the Dutch legend was left stunned and outraged by last week’s antics by Mauricio Pochettino’s team, both in their win over Everton and the Wembley semi-final defeat by a “f*****” Manchester City.Gullit said: “When I watch this Chelsea, it is not going to work.“They signed too many players and it is a mess.“When you bring in so many new players like that, it’s almost impossible.Read More on Chelsea“But Pochettino knew this was the case when he took the job. So he has to take responsibility for that.“Do I blame him? No. But he is responsible for it.”Gullit, a member of the Laureus World Sports Academy, added: “There really is a lack of quality.“You see that in the important moments, when the pressure is on.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSChelsea’s penalty chaosMAURICIO POCHETTINO has been tearing his hair out watching Chelsea’s stars fight over penalties again and again. Here are all their spot kick lowlights

      CHELSEA 2-2 ARSENAL (23rd October, 2023)GOAL Raheem Sterling immediately picks up the ball to take Chelsea’s spot kick before Cole Palmer approaches. Enzo Fernandez intervenes to give the ball to Palmer, who sends David Raya the wrong way to score.
      CHELSEA 4 LEICESTER CITY 2 (17th March, 2024)MISS Raheem Sterling wins a penalty and this time is handed the ball by Palmer. However, he fires it down the middle and sees his kick comfortably saved. Leicester later recover to 2-2 from 2-0 down and Sterling is booed every time he touches the ball by a section of the home crowd.
      CHELSEA 4 MANCHESTER UNITED 3 (4th April, 2024)GOAL Noni Madueke makes an audacious attempt to take the ball off Palmer after winning a 98th minute penalty with the Blues 3-2 down but is pulled away by Trevoh Chalobah. Palmer sends Andre Onana the wrong way before scoring a winner two minutes later.
      CHELSEA 6 EVERTON 0 (15th April, 2024)GOAL Madueke picks up the ball immediately after Chelsea are awarded a penalty at 4-0 up, but a furious Nicolas Jackson rushes in wanting to take the kick and shoves the winger. Captain Conor Gallagher has to intervene to give the ball to Palmer, who scores. Pochettino blasts his team’s behaviour as “like being at school”.

      “Then they can’t pass the ball quickly enough, taking an extra touch every time, so that it’s too late when they finally play the pass.“Too often, they don’t seem to see the danger from the opponents. You have to see them coming and make that pass early.Thiago Silva breaks down in tears on Wembley pitch after Blues crumble against Man City“But if you keep on taking the extra touch, that chance is gone – and that is a lack of quality.“If there was a moment when they could beat City, it was on Saturday, because you could see they were f*****, they were gone.“They were making mistakes they wouldn’t normally make because they were tired.“And if you are Chelsea and you can’t take advantage of that – my God! It was horrible.”Gullit was dismayed by Mykhailo Mudryk’s overshot free kick deep into stoppage time, asking: “How was it possible he could do it that badly?“Of course it p***** off the Chelsea fans. And I think you have to name it as it is, to tell the truth.“Because if you go around it and make excuses, that’s no good. You have to say it’s a lack of quality and and then they know it.“They can be p***** off with it but this is what people think. Then they can work on it. They can do something about it.“So that was bad enough but it was off the back of what we saw in the Everton game, the fight over the penalty.“It was like watching kids, children. In a proper team that doesn’t happen. It’s embarrassing.For Pochettino it’s embarrassing. For the board, it’s embarrassing.“Can you imagine me having a fight with Marco van Basten, on the pitch? That’s crazy? Or someone at United having a fight with Roy Keane?READ MORE SUN STORIES“What are you doing? Ridiculous.“And they ALL think they are better than they are. And that’s the worst thing of all. They have too many players who think they are better than they really are.”Gullit played for Chelsea and is a real cult hero at Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty More

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      Why Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s post-London Marathon ice bath could cost Ten Hag dearly as Man Utd limp to FA Cup final

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE didn’t watch Manchester United’s entire FA Cup semi-final nail-biter against Coventry at Wembley.United escaped a massive upset that would have forever lived in infamy as the Sky Blues came from 3-0 down to level things up at the death.Sir Ji Ratcliffe had an ice bath after completing the London Marathon and was late at WembleyCredit: GettyManchester United boss Erik ten Hag missed the chance to impress Ratcliffe with a stunning startCredit: RexThe Championship outfit also came agonisingly close from snatching victory when a last-gasp goal by Victor Torp was denied by VAR as Haji Wright was caught just inches offside during the buildup.Ratcliffe, 71, saw all of Coventry’s goals and was left fretting just like every other Man Utd fan until VAR saved the Manchester giants’ blushes.According to The Mail, Sir Jim arrived late at Wembley after completing the London Marathon with an impressive 4hr 30min 52sec finish.The Red Devils’ minority shareholder, who is in charge of all sporting operations at Old Trafford, didn’t appear until the second half as he was delayed by an ice bath he had at the RAC Club after the race.Read More on Man UtdThe bath didn’t allow the British businessman to watch Erik ten Hag’s side fly in the first half.United led 2-0 at half-time thanks to goals by Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire.It is not yet known if Ratcliffe got the chance to see Bruno Fernandes hitting the back of the net later on in the 58th minute.That strong start could have done wonders in the INEOS chairman’s eyes while he continues to assess Ten Hag’s future at the helm.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHowever, the United supremo was there for his team’s late capitulation that saw Ellis Simms, Callum O’Hare and Wright hitting the target.Ten Hag’s position has come under fire amid a turbulent campaign that has been marred by hapless performances and disappointing results.Bruno Fernandes reveals Man Utd legend Darren Fletcher inspired FA Cup final qualification with powerful speechHowever, the Dutch tactician avoided another heartbreak as he just managed to lead his team to a second consecutive FA Cup final against Manchester City after beating Coventry 4-2 on penalties. More

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      Former Premier League star calls Bruno Fernandes a ‘c***’ and blasts Man Utd ‘rat’ for FA Cup penalty shootout antics

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      FORMER Premier League goalkeeper Jimmy Walker has slammed Bruno Fernandes for his antics against Coventry City.The Manchester United captain was spotted exchanging words with Coventry keeper Bradley Collins after he dispatched United’s fourth penalty.Bruno Fernandes stared Bradley Collins down after scoring past himCredit: RexJimmy Walker was unhappy with Fernandes having words with the Coventry keeperCredit: 2008 Getty ImagesAnd his antics did not go down with former West Ham goalkeeper Jimmy Walker, 50.Walker, who played 20 games for West Ham, took to X to denounce the United star.He wrote: “If I’m Cov gk I’m finding this rat down the tunnel #bigtimep**ck”His critical post was accompanied by a photo of Fernandes doing a post-match interview after the final.READ MORE ON MAN UTDA confused fan asked Walker if it’s because the United player “stood up for himself”.Walker quoted that post and responded: “No coz he’s a c***.”West Ham fans loved the outburst with one replying: “Jimmy Walker for West Ham manager.”Another said: “Walker well and truly on the money with that one.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third wrote: “This wins X. Well done.”Fernandes’ penalty helped United reach the FA Cup final in the most embarrassing way possible.Bruno Fernandes reveals Man Utd legend Darren Fletcher inspired FA Cup final qualification with powerful speechThe Red Devils were cruising at 3-0 up before an almighty collapse saw Coventry score three late goals to force extra time.The Sky Blues then looked to have won it when they scored with what could have been the last kick of the game.The goal was ruled out, however, for a “toenail offside” call on Haji Wright.After surviving thanks to VAR intervention, United went on to win the game after Rasmus Hojlund’s winner in the shootout.And while he was buzzing to have put United into a cup final, his fellow players appeared to be too embarrassed to celebrate with him after surviving the game by the skin of their teeth.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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      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