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      ‘I had an offer’ – Bruno Fernandes reveals he nearly quit Man Utd in showdown talks over total rebuild

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has revealed he had an offer to LEAVE Manchester United last summer – but chose to stay after hearing the club’s vision for the future.The Red Devils captain, 30, was the star of the show as United beat Real Sociedad 4-1 on Thursday night. Bruno Fernandes has revealed there was an offer for him to leave Man Utd last summerCredit: GettyThe Red Devils captain netted a hat-trick on Thursday as United beat Real Sociedad 4-1Credit: PABruno netted a hat-trick as Ruben Amorim’s men booked their place in the Europa League quarter finals. The win came among a turbulent week for the club off the field.Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe admitted on Monday that United would have “run out of money by Christmas” without his £300m cash injection.But he also singled out Fernandes for praise after blasting a section of United’s on-field flops. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLClub captain Bruno spoke with reporters following the win at Old Trafford.And he revealed he had an offer to leave the Theatre of Dreams in the summer. Fernandes said: “I sat with the club because I had an offer to leave, we talked about the possibility of me leaving the club or staying. “They said what they wanted from me. Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”I just asked if they still see me as part of the future of the club or not.”Fernandes is seen by United as key to any rebuild, with then-manager Erik ten Hag instrumental in keeping him at the club. Sir Jim Ratcliffe launches scathing attack on struggling Man Utd squad saying some ‘not good enough’ and ‘overpaid’He continued: “I heard what they had to tell me. I thought that we could be successful. “Unfortunately, we didn’t start the season very well. “Erik had to lose his job by the results we had and the performance we had, but the fault was on everyone and everyone together with the manager.”Ratcliffe didn’t hold back in a bombshell interview with the BBC, slamming some flops as “overpaid” and “not good enough”.Fernandes said: “We need to prove ourselves every day in training, every day that we have a game. We can’t relax at this club. “You know that there’s a big standard, a big attention that you get from the media, from everywhere. Man Utd player ratingsCAPTAIN Fantastic rescued Manchester United once again – scoring a hat-trick as the Red Devils overcame an early scare to beat Real Sociedad and advance in the Europa League.He was the coolest man inside Old Trafford twice as he slotted home penalties either side of half-time to put his side in control against the Spaniards.Joshua Zirkzee was another who impressed as Manchester United secured a tie against Lyon in the quarter-finals.But it wasn’t all positive.Rasmus Hojlund drew a blank yet again. That’s now 21 games and no goals – the equivalent of over THIRTY HOURS without the £72m striker hitting the net.Check out our full Man Utd player ratings.”You need to realise that sometimes you need to put your focus on your game, trying to improve yourself. It’s not nice to hear certain things obviously. “I don’t think that any player likes to hear criticism or things that are talked about to you, that you’re not good enough or you’re overpaid or whatever. “Everyone has their own contract.”The club agrees to do the contracts at the time you come here or at the time you do a new contract or whatever and it’s about yourself proving that you can be important for the club.”After committing his future to the United project, Fernandes admits he told the club he wants to get his hands on silverware. He added: “I’m very happy at the club. Man Utd squad transfer verdictSunSport gives its verdict on what Man Utd stars should stay or go in the first phase of Ruben Amorim’s squad rebuild:Andre Onana – StayDespite being guilty of some erratic performances, Andre Onana remains a world-class goalkeeper and United would struggle to find better in the market.The defence has begun to look more solid in recent weeks now Amorim has had time to coach the structure into the team, and hopefully, that will be converted into clean sheets going forward.Noussair Mazraoui – StayThe best signing from the summer window so far, Noussair Mazraoui has proven to be everything Man Utd needed and more.Versatile, reliable and passionate no matter whether he plays at wing-back or centre-back, it is a no-brainer to keep the Moroccan.Leny Yoro – StayAfter a pre-season injury, Leny Yoro has taken some time to bed in but he has shown some superb moments in a Man Utd shirt already like his lung-busting run to block a Liverpool shot in the 2-2 draw at Anfield earlier this month.At the age of 19 he will only get better and while too much expectation should not be thrust on him just yet, the early signs suggest he could be a mainstay in defence for years to come.Harry Maguire – GoThe last time we did this list Harry Maguire was one of our main defensive options to be sold, but since Amorim has come with the back three the England international has barely put a foot wrong.The issue with Maguire is that while he is perfectly suited to a back three, he will be 32 in the summer and has just one year left on his contract, so if a serious offer comes in he should regrettably be sold.Matthijs de Ligt – StayMatthijs de Ligt has been very hit or miss since arriving in the summer. Capable of heroic last-ditch tackles like he did at Arsenal and also capable of some very silly passages of play like his handball against Liverpool.In many ways, the Dutchman seems like a younger version of Maguire and given some more time to bed in he should improve even more.Lisandro Martinez – StayHas really started to grow into the Amorim system in recent games after a very sticky patch of form.He is one of the team’s best progressive passers in the build-up phase and has the dogged mentality this team will need to improve and claw its way up the table.Luke Shaw – GoIt’s been said that one of the best abilities is availability, and that rings incredibly true for Luke Shaw.World class on his day and is clearly still capable of finding those levels, as seen at less than full fitness with England at the Euros. But he is simply not available often enough to warrant keeping.Tyrell Malacia – GoTyrell Malacia is still recovering his match sharpness from his two-year injury layoff, so it is a bit harsh to make a verdict on him so soon.The current concern is that United will need to aggressively recruit specialist left wing-backs in the summer, and Malacia so far has not looked totally comfortable playing there.Manuel Ugarte – StayQuestion marks were being raised about him after his first few games. But under Amorim, Manuel Ugarte has once again become the lynchpin of his midfield.He knows the system inside out and is one of the Premier League’s most proficient ball winners. It would be madness to consider his sale next summer.Kobbie Mainoo – StayDespite reports that Chelsea and Bayern Munich want to sign the 19-year-old, Kobbie Mainoo should be one of the few genuinely untouchable stars at the club and his contract situation needs sorting ASAP.He has quality and aspects to his game not possessed by many other midfielders, and with improvements to the stars around him, he and Ugarte should be able to form an effective partnership for many years to come.Casemiro – GoCasemiro unfortunately seemed to lose his legs going into his second season at Man Utd. And with the 3-4-3 system demanding even more running from him, it is clear he simply does not fit the bill for what the club need going forward.It would also help the club’s financial goals to see him sold due to his massive £375,000-a-week wages being taken off the books.Bruno Fernandes – StayThe club captain, Bruno Fernandes has faced a lot of criticism since taking the armband for his erratic decisions and losing his temper.Yet he remains the best player in the squad by some distance and shows the mentality the squad needs to improve. Besides it’s not like United’s most famous captain of the Premier League era, Roy Keane, was exactly cool-headed.Antony – GoThere’s a definite case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history, with games too often passing him by and lacking quality when he is involved.That being said, he has improved in a number of brief cameos when featuring as a wing-back under Amorim. But unless there is a plan for him to learn the position and become a specialist he should be moved on.Marcus Rashford – GoIt was not supposed to end like this. Once the darling of Old Trafford and Carrington, Marcus Rashford’s comments admitting he wanted a new challenge were probably the final nail in the coffin for his Man Utd future.There is a classy player in there if he can find the motivation to love his football again. A sale to a rival should be ruled out for fear of exactly that, while a sale overseas should be targeted and pushed by the club.Amad Diallo – StayHas taken a real liking to his role as either the right No.10 in the 3-4-3 or as the right wing-back.Amad Diallo has been one of the team’s best players this season and was rewarded with a new deal as a result.Alejandro Garnacho – GoArguably the trickiest star on the list, Alejandro Garnacho has bags of raw talent to elevate him to being world-class. But recent off-field issues and poor form have doubt cast on his future.If, as reports suggest, a major bid of £60m from the likes of Napoli comes in there will be a tough decision to make. Though it may be the financial situation of the club which ultimately tips the scale.Joshua Zirkzee – GoJoshua Zirkzee has certainly been hit-and-miss at United so far. He has had some games and moments where he has looked very impressive, and others where he is simply not good enough.He has a very unique profile which makes him top drawer in the right system, it is just United will probably never play the right way for him to truly excel.Read our verdict on the full Man Utd squad here.”Obviously, I want to win trophies. I’m not stupid, I won’t say that I don’t want to win trophies. “I want to be in the biggest competitions, I want to fight for the big trophies. “That’s what I said to the club. That’s what the club said to me that they want to do.”Then it’s about the players going on the pitch and try to do it is about the club to do the investments to bring players, take players or whatever they want to do It’s not my part to say who’s good to come, that has to be the manager and the board. “They have to decide themselves. I just want to do everything I can to to help the club to succeed.”How Bruno Fernandes’ ‘Steven Gerrard syndrome’ spoils Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd systemAnd Fernandes also had a measured response to United legend Roy Keane, who last month unleashed a furious tirade towards the club captain.Keane branded United’s stars “f**ing imposters” and accused Fernandes of “pretending to close players down.”Fernandes responded: “Roy Keane was an amazing captain for the club, one of the best as everyone says. “I didn’t have the chance to see much from him, only last few years, but was a great player that won everything for the club. He’s massively respected from everyone and has all my respect. “He has to give his opinion in a programme and this is what he thinks about me.READ MORE SUN STORIES”What I’m doing on the pitch to try to change his mind, or trying to do something that he probably sees as a good thing. “Obviously, I do it in my own way, I don’t want to copy anyone.” More

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      Antony’s incredible career revival goes on as Man Utd flop scores fourth Real Betis goal in ten games

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      ANTONY continued his incredible career revival by netting once again for Real Betis.The 25-year-old was in action for his club in the Europa Conference League for their second leg against Vitoria Guimarães. Antony continued his resurgence with a goal and assist for Real Betis in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: GettyIt is now eight goal contributions in ten gamesCredit: GettyAntony had chipped in with an assist in a 2-2 draw last week during the first leg.But in the second leg he turned on the style by scoring his fourth goal in ten games before later putting the cherry on top with an assist.Betis took a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to a brace from Cedric Bakambu, who, like Antony, joined the club in January.After the interval, Antony raced down the right, smashing a shot to the near post to make it 3-0.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAntony was assisted for his goal by ex-Real Madrid star Isco, who later got on the scoresheet himself after Antony repaid the favour by grabbing an assist on his own.His goal and assist in Portugal last night brought his Betis tally to four goals and four assists.This tally already surpasses his output from his last 52 games with parent club Manchester United.Antony signed for the Red Devils for £85.5million in 2022 and had an electric start to life in Manchester as he became the first player in 50 years to score in each of his first three Premier League games for them.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSOverall, he managed four goals inside his first ten appearances in all competitions for then boss Erik ten Hag following his arrival from Ajax.But his performances began to wane as the season went on, and he never managed to find this purple patch before he was sent on loan to Betis in January to recapture his best.Moment Antony told red card has been OVERTURNED and he can play Real Madrid as Man Utd flop celebrates with team-matesVictory in the last-16 has seen Betis drawn against Polish outfit Jagiellonia Białystok in the quarter-finals.Other big names left in the competition include Chelsea, Fiorentina and Rapid Wien.Antony’s parent club Man Utd also enjoyed a strong night against European opposition, smashing Real Sociedad 4-1 at Old Trafford led by a Bruno Fernandes hat-trick.It was arguably the team’s best performance since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, with the team registering 25 shots. Their last-16 victory means they will face Lyon in the quarter-finals.Meanwhile, Antony’s next game will see him return to La Liga to face Leganes as Betis aim to break into the top five of the Spanish league – with Betis losing just once since Antony’s arrival.Betis do not have a transfer clause in the loan deal with Antony, but it is hoped his strong performances will bump up his price tag for an expected sale in the summer. Man Utd player ratingsCAPTAIN Fantastic rescued Manchester United once again – scoring a hat-trick as the Red Devils overcame an early scare to beat Real Sociedad and advance in the Europa League.He was the coolest man inside Old Trafford twice as he slotted home penalties either side of half-time to put his side in control against the Spaniards.Joshua Zirkzee was another who impressed as Manchester United secured a tie against Lyon in the quarter-finals.But it wasn’t all positive.Rasmus Hojlund drew a blank yet again. That’s now 21 games and no goals – the equivalent of over THIRTY HOURS without the £72m striker hitting the net.Check out our full Man Utd player ratings. More

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      Fenerbahce fans tear seats to shreds at Ibrox in loss to Rangers as shock images emerge

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      DOZENS of Ibrox seats were smashed to pieces by frustrated Fenerbahce fans after they saw their team crash out of the Europa League to Rangers.The Scottish Premiership side marched into the quarter-finals of the Europa League with a dramatic penalty shootout win in Glasgow.The damage at Ibrox was significantCredit: WILLIE VASSSeveral chairs were ripped apart in the away sectionCredit: WILLIE VASSAround 2,000 Fenerbahce fans were in attendance at the gameCredit: WILLIE VASSGers lost 2-0 on the night to the Turkish giants after a 3-1 win in Istanbul but triumphed in the end thanks to two spot kick saves by Jack Butland and a howler from Mert Hakan Yandaş.For most of the night in the stands the relationship between the two sets of supporters was cordial.Both home and away fans joined together in a minute’s applause for tragic Gers supporter Chris Potter, who died in a car accident in Istanbul last week.Rangers had erected segregation netting inside the stadium for the first time.It will be in use again for the home tie against Athletic Bilbao and the next Old Firm game against Celtic.However towards the end of the match, things turned sour.Contentious decisions on the pitch – including three penalty claims for Fenerbahce – led to some unsavoury scenes in the stands.Fenerbahce goalkeeper İrfan Can Eğribayat was targeted by a missile thrown from the crowd during extra-time.Most read in FootballThe keeper picked up a vape and handed it to referee Espen Eskas, who disposed of it beside the pitch.Meanwhile at the other end of the stadium in the Broomloan Stand (the incident involving Eğribayat happened down towards the Copland Stand), images show the damage caused to seats at Ibrox by some Fenerbahce louts.Celtic ultras spray paint train green and white as Rangers build-up begins Several of the chairs had the backs and/or the seat ripped from its hinges.The vandalism took place in the lower tier of the stand, nearest to the goal.Ibrox won’t host another match until April 5, when Gers welcome Hibs, allowing for repairs to be carried out.Ferguson hails heroesBy BILL LECKIEAfter the game, Barry Ferguson hailed his Rangers heroes for riding a rollercoaster to Euro glory.The caretaker Ibrox boss went through every emotion as his leg-weary side clung on to win a nerve-shredding penalty shootout after throwing away a two-goal first leg led.And a drained Ferguson said: “This team has been fine when they’ve gone ahead, but when something goes against them they go into their shells.“But this time, they didn’t. They kept driving on, they kept running themselves into the ground. They didn’t feel sorry for themselves, they showed character – and maybe some people will now start to think these guys have got something about them. “This was definitely one of the longest rollercoaster rides you’ll ever be on. I mean, where do you start? We played well, we could have done better on their two goals, then we handled the penalties situation really well.“I’m delighted for Jack. I’ve known him since he was a young boy at Birmingham when I played there and he’s a great lad. He’s taken a lot of flak recently, but he’s been brilliant here.“I’m delighted for all the players, for the board of directors and most of all for the supporters, who now get another great away day.”But Ferguson refused to rate his side’s chances against Athletic Bilbao in the last eight – because all he wants to think about is facing Celtic two days from now.He said: “As soon as I ran on the park and jumped on Jack’s back, all that was in my head was who’d be ready for Sunday.“It’s about who’s going to walk into the  training centre in half-decent condition, that’s all I’m thinking just now. We’ll take care of the Bilbao situation after we play another few games.“The most important thing for me here was just to get into the last eight. It gets the club a couple of pounds, but also it gives my group of players to go and showcase their talents against really top opposition. “We need to go and show what it means to play at this club. It’s a long shot in terms of getting to the final, but we’re going to give it our best shot.”Meanwhile, gutted Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho – who swears his side should have had a penalty for a Nico Raskin tackle on Hakan Yandas in the last minute of extra time – says it will be a PHENOMENAL result if Rangers knock out Bilbao.The Spaniards beat his former club Roma earlier in the evening and he smiled: “I see Roma played with ten men from the tenth minute. And the final is in Bilbao.“It’s the Road to Bilbao, yes?“So it will be phenomenal if Rangers beat them. I played against Bilbao in the group stage and they are a stronger side than Rangers, but anything is possible.“As for us, we won tonight. We won 2-0. Only one team scored, only one team deserved to score more, only one team deserved to win after 90 minutes, after 120 minutes. READ MORE SUN STORIES“On 120 minutes, we should have had a penalty – though maybe we would have missed it.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      ‘It’s a shame this is so rare in football’ – Fans spot Patrick Dorgu’s incredibly classy gesture in Man Utd win

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      FANS hailed Patrick Dorgu after spotting the Manchester United star’s incredibly classy gesture against Real Sociedad.The Red Devils cruised into the quarter-finals of the Europa League with a 4-1 win over their Spanish opponents on Thursday night.Fans loved Patrick Dorgu’s incredible gesture after winning a penalty for Man UtdThe ace went down as his side smashed Real Sociedad 4-1Credit: RexBruno Fernandes netted a hat-trick at Old Trafford, with two of his goals coming from the penalty spot.Diogo Dalot put the finishing touches on a wonderful result as United sealed a 5-2 aggregate win to set up a final eight tie against French giants Lyon.Meanwhile, Sociedad’s sole goal in the second leg also came via a penalty, making it three successful spot-kicks on the night.But there were actually FOUR penalties given at the Theatre of Dreams.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFernandes looked set for a stunning spot-kick treble against 10-man Sociedad when referee Benoit Bastien awarded United their third of the game.January arrival Dorgu looked to have been fouled in the box by Hamari Traore.But the left-back immediately made a classy gesture as he went over to the official to insist he had NOT been fouled.VAR then got involved, with video replays showing Traore had indeed made contact with the ball during his challenge.Most read in Europa LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThe slow-motion action, along with Dorgu’s incredible sportsmanship, saw Bastien overturn his original decision.And despite United missing out on the chance to score yet another penalty, fans revealed they were incredibly proud of Dorgu’s brilliant gesture.Paul Scholes says ‘it’s about time Manchester United caught up’Man Utd player ratingsCAPTAIN Fantastic rescued Manchester United once again – scoring a hat-trick as the Red Devils overcame an early scare to beat Real Sociedad and advance in the Europa League.He was the coolest man inside Old Trafford twice as he slotted home penalties either side of half-time to put his side in control against the Spaniards.Joshua Zirkzee was another who impressed as Manchester United secured a tie against Lyon in the quarter-finals.But it wasn’t all positive.Rasmus Hojlund drew a blank yet again. That’s now 21 games and no goals – the equivalent of over THIRTY HOURS without the £72m striker hitting the net.Check out our full Man Utd player ratings.One said: “It’s a shame this kind of thing is so rare in football, brilliant sportsmanship.”Another declared: “Great sportsmanship, good kid.”One noted: “At least bro is honest.”Another added: “Great show of sportsmanship in a game that doesn’t have a lot of it, well done Dorgu.”Boss Ruben Amorim was also pleased with Dorgu’s behaviour.He said: “It is the right thing to do so I am quite proud of him but I cannot say if it is 0-0 or we are losing that I’d have the same response.” More

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      BBC Sport make major change to when Premier League highlights will be shown in move that will impact Match of the Day

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      THE BBC will show Premier League highlights much earlier on Saturday nights – amid a shake-up of their weekend football coverage.Presenters like Alan Shearer, Joe Hart and Alex Scott were among 200 people at a summit at Gary Neville’s Hotel Football to discuss changes.Gary Lineker is departing MOTD at the end of the seasonCredit: ReutersAlex Scott is one of three presenters replacing LinekerCredit: GettyThe Mail say from next season a new TV deal means highlights and analysis from Saturday action will be available from 8pm online and via the iPlayer.Flagship show Match of the Day will escape much of the Beeb’s revamp – apart from the long-known exit of Gary Lineker as host after 26 years.Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will instead share the MOTD helm from 2025-26.It’s understood the hotel meeting heard the programme will stick to its tried and tested format of highlights and pundits’ assessments.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNonetheless, BBC chairman Samir Shah has hinted that won’t last for too much longer.The Manchester United fan told the Times MOTD “should not be built around highlights”.Shah added: “It should be built around analysis and examination of the match to give viewers a deeper insight.” But Saturday lunchtime programme Football Focus WILL get an overhaul next term.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe hotel summit, headed by BBC director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski, was told the pre-match show would get a sharper edge.That includes players facing tougher interviews, with more sparring between pundits and fewer softer features.’I don’t like it’ – Gary Lineker has wild reaction after spotting ex-Match of the Day star at Baller League launchThe announcements came a day after the BBC offered voluntary redundancy to most of the staff in their sports department.That’s seen as part of a move towards focusing more on online output. More

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      Chelsea player ratings: Dewsbury-Hall proves he does belong in Blues midfield but struggling Sancho just not good enough

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      ENZO MARESCA’S Chelsea showed they can more than cope with the Conference League as they sailed past FC Copenhagen into the quarter-finals.The first half was described by many as the most boring of the Blues’ season, as they failed to register a shot against a team that finished 18th in a below-par group phase.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored as Chelsea beat Copenhagen 3-1 on aggregateCredit: GettyThe result saw the Blues reach the quarters of the Conference LeagueCredit: GettyIn fact, the most interesting part of the first 45 minutes was probably the exceptional travelling support, who got more excited for the warm-ups than the home fans did all night.Thankfully, it didn’t stay that way for long, with a rare moment of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall magic and two half-time subs igniting the game and the crowd as he evaded a number of challenges before slotting the ball home and opening the scoring.Cole Palmer’s half-time introduction alongside Marc Cucurella certainly injected some energy into the Chelsea attack, but he was still unable to break his run of poor form in this one.Maresca and his men will be hoping that small issue is fixed before they face Legia Warsaw in the next round.This is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…Filip Jorgensen – 8His performance was everything it needed to be tonight.While the Dane wasn’t tested all that much in goal he saved anything that came his way and was commanding of his box with the Copenhagen crosses coming flying in.His distribution was also pretty good, with a long throw out to Pedro Neto on the right side of attack being the best example of that.Cheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsTrevoh Chalobah –  6Solid for the Blues at right back tonight.Didn’t blow any socks off as he went about his business.Cole Palmer branded ‘gift that keeps on giving’ after Chelsea star reveals his meal deal sandwich But Chalobah was entirely dependable and a strong presence in Enzo Maresca’s side.A slight knock on his performance was that he did give the ball away a few times for a player of his quality on the ball.Tosin Adarabioyo – 7Being an ‘old head’ in the side at just 27 years of age must be a strange feeling for Tosin, but that’s what he has been this season and was again tonight.In the game against Leicester I praised him for his leadership skills and taking on the role of organising the defence and he did that once more in this game, albeit with a group of defenders he won’t have been used to playing matches with.His physical presence in the side is much needed and appreciated, and he always seemed pretty composed on the ball too. Chelsea’s best defender on the night.Tosin had a strong game at the heart of defenceCredit: PABenoit Badiashile – 4The Frenchman recently returned from a lengthy hamstring injury and gave a bit of added depth to Chelsea’s defence while allowing Levi Colwill to get a rest.It was his only his second game since the Blues beat Tottenham 4-3 back in December, and he looked a bit rusty from the off with a few lousy passes and a missed opportunity to attack the box and get a goal early on.You could sense the other players getting frustrated with his passing, Sancho in particular who would drop short only for the defender to loop it over his head and out of play.Josh Acheampong – 7With Player of the Season contender Marc Cucurella starting on the bench, Cobham graduate Josh Acheampong had big boots to fill playing in his inverted full-back role.He did it brilliantly though, while looking 10 years his senior and it was a mature, strong and controlled performance from the youngster.He was an attacking threat when progressing the ball, but also came up with some vital bits of defensive play including a huge first half block to stop Copenhagen levelling the tie.Was probably deserving of playing the second half, but was replaced by Cucurella.Josh Acheampong impressed but was hauled off at the breakCredit: GettyMoises Caicedo – 7You get the sense he was waiting an age for the chance to put in a big tackle as he has been walking a yellow card tightrope in the Premier League of late.He enjoyed it when he did, and was his usual combative self while showing flashes of the player we know he can be with the ball at his feet and linking up well with those around him.Was given a standing ovation for his performance when he was replaced by Reece James for the final 10 minutes.Enzo Fernandez (c)  – 5Was often on the ball in the first half, but not at his brilliant best with a few passes going astray as he looked to create attacks and progress the ball as we have seen him do this season.Nonetheless, was always an option in midfield and is a player that youngsters like Josh Acheampong will really appreciate as something of a safety net, knowing how technically secure he is.Was subbed at half-time for Cole Palmer after struggling to find his feet a bit in midfield.Enzo Fernandez failed to get a hold on the midfield battleCredit: GettyTyrique George – 5Tyrique is starting to look like he’s really settling in here, and with each passing game he seems to be growing in confidence and showing the fans here more of the brilliant player we saw in the academy.Was intelligent and bright on the right-hand side, not looking out of place one bit and causing some real problems with his rapid feet and dribbling ability.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 8One fan I spoke to at half-time referred to him as ‘Kiernan the friendly ghost’ and it was pretty tough to argue with him…But it was he who came to the fore when Chelsea needed a goal to put their nerves at ease, jinking through the Copenhagen defence and slotting the ball into the net with aplomb.What followed was actually a very good second half performance, in which he looked far more composed and confident on the ball.Jadon Sancho – 2Chelsea’s on-loan winger from Man Utd was back in his preferred position on the left tonight, having played the last few games on the right with Nkunku in his place.As much as his playing style can be entertaining and he has proven already this season he has been a real creative asset, bagging five assists in his first six games, he has not been good enough of late and you sense he is really missing Nicolas Jackson or Marc Guiu as a target for him to aim at.It’s been far too long since he added a goal or assist to his tally, and was a pretty early substitute with Nkunku coming on in his place.His highlight was a shot on target before coming off, which believe it or not was his FIRST of 2025. It’s March…Jadon Sancho had a stinker on the wingCredit: EPAPedro Neto – 4For my money was pretty unfortunate not to win a penalty in the first half, but it was much the same story for Pedro that we saw against Leicester at the weekend.A lot of hard work and no just reward was the tale of the game for the Portuguese winger deputising as Chelsea’s number nine, it would’ve been nice to see him let a shot or two loose from the edge of the box.Enzo Maresca will almost certainly be counting down the days to have Nicolas Jackson back it his disposal, which will also give him the option of playing Neto out wide where he is undoubtedly best suited.SUBS:Cole Palmer (Enzo Fernandez, HT) – 5It was more of the same of what we have seen from Cole Palmer this season when he was introduced at half-time for Enzo Fernandez.His quality is undeniable, there is no doubt in my mind the sun will shine on him again soon, but for now it’s more good touches with no end product.That’s 10 games without a goal or assist for a player who would usually accrue about one, if not more, per GAME before this spell.Some would argue he was a little selfish at the end of the game as he could’ve passed the ball off to Genesis Antwi, but you can understand his desire to break this duck.Cole Palmer endured a frustrating second halfCredit: GettyMarc Cucurella (Josh Acheampong, HT) – 6Was his usual self when he came on to replace the youngster, offering a bit more dynamism to the Blues and a bit more of a goal threat.Always offers a run from deep and creates chaos when his side attack on the left.Christopher Nkunku (Jadon Sancho, 65) – 5Didn’t make a massive impact after his introduction, but did create a few chances and offered more of a threat to Copenhagen than what Sancho did, though he also played a more central role.He is another of Chelsea’s front line that would be more effective with Nicolas Jackson or Marc Guiu fit and available for selection.Reece James (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Came on to a loud ovation from the home support after scoring in the first leg of this tie to help send Chelsea through.He didn’t have an awful lot of time to make a real difference, but looked comfortable going both ways in the Blues’ midfield.It will be interesting to see if both he and Marc Cucurella start the game vs Arsenal at the weekend.Genesis Antwi (Pedro Neto, 89) – 5Came on in the right side of attack as the fourth officials board went up to signal he’d get five minutes of playing time.Made a great run down the right giving an option to Cole Palmer who could’ve teed him up for a go at goal, but Chelsea’s main man went for the confidence boosting goal and failed to beat the keeper.Don’t think he actually touched the ball after coming on, but good for a young lad to get on the pitch nonetheless. 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      Man Utd player ratings: Bruno Fernandes a true leader, Zirkzee is excellent but Hojlund a tough watch vs Real Sociedad

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      CAPTAIN Fantastic rescued Manchester United once again – scoring a hat-trick as the Red Devils overcame an early scare.Bruno Fernandes has hit goalscoring form in recent weeks and has dragged his side to points and crucial victories.Captain Fantastic Fernandes scored a hat-trickCredit: GettyDiogo Dalot added a fourth late onCredit: GettyJoshua Zirkzee had one of his best games in a United shirtCredit: APHe was the coolest man inside Old Trafford twice as he slotted home penalties either side of half-time to put his side in control against Real Sociedad.Then he raced through late on to smash the ball into the bottom corner – his second Man Utd hat-trick sealed the tie.United suffered an early scare as the Spaniards went in front with a penalty after five minutes, but they recovered brilliantly.From that point on it was all United and they were quickly back level after Rasmus Hojlund was felled in the box.The striker once again struggled in front of goal but for once it did not cost his team, who threatened throughout.Joshua Zirkzee was the best of the bunch and his trickery teed up Hojlund for a certain goal – only for him to fluff his lines from five yards.Patrick Dorgu also got forward well and forced a red card for defender Jon Aramburu, who dragged him down as last man.The left-back won his side a penalty and would have earned a second if he had not told the ref to overturn his decision.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHere is how SunSport’s Ken Lawrence rated the Red Devils display…ANDRE ONANA – 6No doubt one of those £1.3bn part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe “inherited” and declared as “overpaid”.In other words the goalkeeper bought for £43.8m from Inter Milan under ex-boss Erik ten Hag and on at least £175,000 a week will almost certainly feel his Old Trafford days are numbered if Ratcliffe has his way.But the goalkeeper had no chance with Mikel Oyarzabal’s early VAR penalty and this was one of his calmer, more steadfast performances, although not over-worked.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6United don’t usually do bargain buys but the wing-back forced into the back three due to lack of available numbers has proved himself to be exactly that at £12.7m from Bayern Munich.Last summer’s arrival, as ever, hardly looked like Mr. Personality but he was solid and reliable, as ever, even if he wasn’t playing in the position he was bought to fill.His steadying influence was most notable amidst a Sociedad maelstrom as the Basque side complained bitterly over the award of United’s first penalty as he pushed the mob away.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7The Dutchman has had his doubters since his arrival from Bayern Munich at the start of the season and it’s taken him time to settle in.But settle in he has and in the first half, playing in the middle or Rubin Amorim’s makeshift back three, was a real leader and especially dominant in the air and was victim of a ridiculous penalty decision.He’s not the quickest but he is very good at holding a line – as he showed in the first half when Sociedad were throwing everything at the United box – the 25-year-old’s on the way to becoming a fan favourite.AYDEN HEAVEN – 7The 18-year-old’s only senior action for Arsenal before being persuaded to head north was the last ten minutes of a 3-0 Carabao Cup win over Preston in October.Yet here he was as injured Leny Yoro’s deputy making his European debut and the centre-back did himself proud.One challenge on the incoming Takefusa Kubo thirty yards out mid-way through the first half was exceptional and spoke volumes for his potential as a top centre-half.DIOGO DALOT – 5 Portuguese played in his favourite right wing-back position and you can never say he doesn’t give it everything.It just that what he does give can be a bit predictable and that showed even as United recovered from their early fright and began scaring the Spaniards witless.Dependable enough, committed enough and at the moment almost certainly a must–pick given United’s injury problems at the back – but one with questions marks over his long–term future, although he did bag United’s late fourth.CASEMIRO – 7He may be ageing before our very eyes even if he is only 33 but even if the legs are going the football brain is still very sharp.Maybe he does have old legs but that old brain of his was crucial before the break when Sociedad were moving forward in numbers and in confidence.Produced a fine 19th-minute right footer that only just skipped wide before producing a brilliant display of ball skills near the end of the first half, a juggling act that got his team out of deep trouble.BRUNO FERNANDES – 9Brilliant free kick from that so–called dodgy 11.2 yards for the equaliser in Sunday’s 1 – 1 draw with Arsenal and just carried on in style again.Cool spot kick equaliser in the 16th minute and ditto for the spot kick that sent United ahead five minutes after the break.Sometimes tried the impossible – one shot from almost 40 yards out surprised only someone in the Stretford End but he’s become a true Red leader and capped off his performance with a stunning hat–trick clincher.PATRICK DORGU – 7 Beginning to show why Ruben Amorim was so keen on him and that £25.15m outlay to Lecce is beginning to pay off.He was slow to release the ball and got caught in possession at the start of the build-up that ended in the penalty for Sociedad.But he started gaining plenty of momentum from that early moment on and produced a proper wing-back performance, forging repeatedly up the left flank and twice almost finding the net.Patrick Dorgu was a key threatCredit: GettyJOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 7 Got last week’s opener in the 1-1 first-leg clash in San Sebastian although it was still only his sixth since arriving in summer.Another who Ratcliffe will believe isn’t giving value for money and nobody could blame him for that given his goal ratio.But there’s definitely a player in there, just not a striker for some of his running and passing was excellent – he got a rousing reception when he was replaced near the end from fans who are really backing him.RASMUS HOJLUND – 4That’s now 21 games and no goals – the equivalent of over THIRTY HOURS without the £72m striker hitting the net.Seeing the young Dane going through continuing agony in front of goal is a tough watch because, no question, he’s giving his all but his confidence is completely shredded.Was brought down for Fernandes to score the second of his two penalties but he was only eight yards out and was so slow in reacting to his captain’s pass that Igor Zubeldia bundled into him from behind.Rasmus Hojlund fluffed his lines againCredit: EPAALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6 Good early strike cutting in from the right but the Argentinian can be a really greedy kid.Could easily have laid the ball back for the waiting Fernandes when the chips were down in the first half but went for the Hollywood strike himself and smashed the ball into a forest of Basque legs.But he is learning to work harder for the team defensively at least – producing one tremendous pressing block near a Sociedad corner flag that brought a punch of delight from him and a roar of approval from the home fans.SUBSTOBY COLLYER (for Casemiro 78) – 5Ran around energetically as usual and made some nice passes.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN ( for Zirkzee 87) – 5One tame effort from outside the box that did not trouble the keeper. 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      Premier League star, 32, set for first England call-up after 197 top-flight appearances without Three Lions cap

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      DAN BURN is set to be named in his first-ever England squad at the age of 32.Thomas Tuchel names his maiden Three Lions squad on Friday morning.Dan Burn is set to be handed his first-ever England call-up aged 32Credit: AlamyThomas Tuchel names his first England squad on FridayCredit: GettyAnd the in-form Newcastle defender is set to be named part of the German’s group for the World Cup qualifying matches against Albania and Latvia, according to the Mail.Burn has been a key man in Eddie Howe’s Toon machine which is gunning for a top-four spot and a Carabao Cup trophy.The defender – who can play in the middle or on the left – is expecting to play against Liverpool at Wembley as the Magpies aim to end a 70-year major trophy drought.Tuchel watched Burn in Newcastle’s 1-0 win over West Ham at the London Stadium on Monday.READ MORE SPORT STORIESAnd despite his excellent form this season, the call would still be considered a major shock after 197 Premier League appearances and no international caps to his name.Burn, who lost the ring finger on his right hand in a freak accident aged 13, has also played for Darlington, Fulham and Wigan, prior to his Toon move.He’s played in all but one of Newcastle’s 28 league games this term with the St James’ Park giants level on points with City and just two points off fourth-placed Chelsea.Tuchel – who has received the royal seal of approval from Prince William – has touched base with 55 players ahead of tomorrow’s announcement.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsAnd another star who has made his way into the group is Aston Villa ace Morgan Rogers.The Telegraph claims he will be announced with other England stars on Friday.’I’m not playing for you’ – Wayne Rooney could’ve played for different country before breaking England goal recordMorgan Rogers is also set to get the nod from TuchelCredit: GettyAnd Rogers, 22, could end up being an important player in Tuchel’s Three Lions system.The £8million signing from Middlesbrough one year ago has quickly blossomed into a key figure at Villa.He has 12 goals and seven assists under Unai Emery this season.And Tuchel has been left extremely impressed by Rogers’ eye for goal.The versatile forward already has two England caps under his belt having been called up by interim boss Lee Carsley.ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More