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      Premier League cult hero Mario Balotelli angrily says ‘I’ll f***ing smash Serie A’ in fiery live stream argument

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      MARIO BALOTELLI asserted that he is still capable of tearing up Serie A in an impassioned rant.The veteran striker is on the search for the 12th club of his career after leaving Turkish side Adana Demirspor in the summer.Mario Balotelli claims he could still ‘smash up’ Serie AThe striker is unemployed after leaving Adana Demirspor in the summerCredit: GettyHe has been linked with several moves including the Spanish third-tier side Alicante.While Torino were tipped to snap up the former Manchester City star this week as a replacement for the injured Duvan Zapata.Balotelli would likely be keen to return to playing in his native Italy and he is confident he would score goals in Serie A.He appeared on a stream where the host compared him to Venezia frontman Joel Pohjanpalo, which Balotelli took exception to.READ MORE IN FOOTBALThe former Liverpool man said: “What the f*** are you saying?”Just because I wasn’t in Serie A (in recent years), what I did doesn’t count? F*** off, you and Serie A.”It’s a promise, I’ll smash Serie A when I sign (for a new club), I’ll smash this f***ing Serie A.”Balotelli, 34, has also been linked with a move to Serie A strugglers Genoa, who are managed by former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey could become the 12th different club of his career, having previously played in Serie A for Inter, AC Milan, Brescia and Monza.Capped 36 times, Balotelli has been linked with clubs in Brazil, India and Spain since returning home from Turkey.Footage of Mario Balotelli falling in street during boozy night out with palsBut he has chosen to bide his time, recently stating his intent to play in Italy once more.The frontman has trained by himself in Brescia to keep up his fitness. More

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      George Baldock’s old club hold emotional minute’s applause for tragic star before FA Cup clash vs Wayne Rooney’s brother

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      GEORGE BALDOCK’S former club Tamworth paid a touching tribute to the late Greece, Premier League and EFL hero after his tragic death.Baldock was found dead on Wednesday night at his home in Athens after drowning in his swimming pool at the age of 31.Tamworth held a minute’s applause for ex-player George Baldock before their FA Cup matchBaldock was found dead at his home on Wednesday at the age of 31Credit: APThis tragic loss has seen the British and Greek football community come together in mourning with tributes pouring in for the popular full-back, who moved from Sheffield United to Panathinaikos last summer.National League side Tamworth also paid their respects to the Greece international and his family ahead of Saturday’s fourth qualifying round match in the FA Cup at The Lamb Ground.The Lambs lined up in the centre of the pitch along with opponents Macclesfield, where Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney’s younger brother John, 33, plays.The two teams and the crowd then held an emotional minute’s applause for Baldock, who played for Tamworth on loan from MK Dons in 2012.Read More on FootballThat moment of solidarity moved the fans, who took to social media to also pay tribute to the defender.One fan tweeted: “For you, George Baldock.”Another commented: “Once a Lamb, always a Lamb.”A third wrote: “That’s for George.”Most read in FA CupThis fan said: “Dedicating it to George.”And that one stated: “That’s for you George.”Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Baldock made 18 appearances during his brief stint with Tamworth, where he also scored a goal.The Sheffield United legend then moved to Bramall Lane in 2017 and enjoyed tremendous success as he amassed 219 appearances and helped the team reach two Premier League promotions.The Buckingham-born ace also played a big part in the Blades’ stunning 2019-20 campaign that saw them finishing in the top half of the Prem table in their return to the top flight after 12 years.Ex-Sheffield United team-mate David McGoldrick didn’t forget that as he pointed to the heavens to dedicate his dramatic late equaliser for Notts County during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Chesterfield.Baldock died the day before Greece, which is the homeland of his late grandmother, faced England, the country of his birth, at Wembley in the Nations League.The Greek national team went on to pick up an upset 2-1 win over the Three Lions and his team-mates dedicated the victory to their fallen brother in arms and his family.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Brazil stars including Vinicius Jr and Raphinha face ban from national team in bizarre proposal

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      BRAZIL’S Europe-based heroes  would be banned from international football under a radical idea from the country’s president.Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva claims “there are no stars” abroad – which might surprise fans of Vinicius Junior, Endrick, Ederson and Co.Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr would be among a string or Europe-based superstars affected by the type of ban Brazil president Lula wantsCredit: GettyMan Utd duo Casemiro and Antony are others that would be shut outCredit: GettyThe Brazilian president says he’s discussed the idea with his nation’s football chief.And if such a proposal was ever activated it would mean the end of World Cup dreams for a host of top performers in Europe’s major leagues.Arsenal have three leading Brazilians – all Gabriels – in Magalhaes, Jesus and Martinelli.Two come from Manchester United, although Casemiro and Antony have been under almost as much pressure for their efforts as their struggling Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag.READ MORE TOP STORIESMeanwhile, a couple of the world’s best goalkeepers are with the Prem’s top two sides.Alisson is currently out injured for leaders Liverpool, while fellow stopper Ederson has won six titles in seven seasons with champs Manchester City, who now also have compatriot Savinho in their bulging squad.Spain offer arguably Brazil’s hottest talent in Vinicius Jr, as well as the brightest prospect in 18-year-old Real Madrid team-mate Endrick.And don’t forget Barcelona wideman Raphinha.Most read in FootballArsenal have three top Brazilians in their squad, including attackers Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel JesusCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLula was emboldened to speak out on his hopes after Botafogo duo Igor Jesus and Luiz Henrique netted in Friday’s vital 2-1 comeback win in a World Cup qualifier away to Chile.It means Dorival Junior’s Brazil have edged up to fourth after disappointing performances in the South American group.Vinicius Jr breaks down in tears in emotional moment during press conference after three questions about racismLula argued Brazil lack overseas players as good as legends like “Garrincha or Romario”.He insisted their contingent abroad instead contains just “a bunch of young players who are not yet stars”.Lula added: “In Brazil, there are good players of the same quality (as those abroad). So [the national team should] give opportunities to those who are here.”However, even if his proposal gained any traction in Brazil, it would almost certainly get nowhere thanks to Fifa rules.Football’s global chiefs ban political interference in team matters.Lula has reportedly mentioned his beliefs to Brazilian Football Confederation president Alejandro Dominguez.But any political attempts to formally stop overseas stars from playing for the country could even lead to Dominguez being suspended.And other possible sanctions include what would surely be the greatest one for the country’s football supporters – being banned from the World Cup.However, Lula’s leap into the country’s main sport did lead to an equally bizarre but more light-hearted suggestion.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne fan on X reckons the 78-year-old is a dead ringer for one of Britain’s most famous businessmen, a former Tottenham co-owner of The Apprentice fame, who is 18 months younger.He posted: “Sir Alan Sugar needs to leave the Brazilians to it.”Brazilian president Lula da Silva has been compared to Sir Alan SugarCredit: ReutersLondon entrepreneur Alan Sugar has a famous Brazilian look-alikeCredit: BBCWho are these famous footballers? More

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      I played for England alongside Eze, James and Ramsdale – now I play in Azerbaijan and captain a different country

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      STRAPPING centre-back Easah Suliman was a regular in the England age groups during a distinguished youth careerThe Brummie-born defender was also a star within Aston Villa’s academy, first appearing in a first-team matchday squad aged just 17.Easah Suliman was a regular for England youth sidesCredit: GettySuliman, front left, played for England up to Under-20 levelCredit: GettyHis one and only senior appearance for the Villans then came under Steve Bruce in August 2017, when he replaced Scott Hogan for the final nine minutes of a League Cup tie against Wigan.While attempting to make his way at club level, Suliman was marking himself out as a leader in the making on the international stage, wearing the captain’s armband for England from Under-16 to Under-20 level.He played alongside several stars of the future within the Three Lions set-up, including the likes of Eberechi Eze, Reece James, Aaron Ramsdale and Trent Alexander-Arnold, to name just a few.Now 26, the 6ft 2in centre-back’s career has gone in directions he may never have imagined.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFollowing loan spells at Cheltenham, Grimsby and FC Emmen, Suliman left Villa Park permanently in January 2020.At the time he wrote on his Instagram account: “Thank you to everyone at Aston Villa for supporting me and helping me develop as a player and a person since I started at 8 years old.”It has been a great 13 years and I wish the club all the best in the future.”Like many talented young English footballers, Suliman opted to take his chances overseas – moving to Portuguese side Vitoria.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSuliman made one first team appearance for Aston VillaCredit: GettyThe defender went on loan spells during his time in PortugalCredit: GettySuliman was joined in Portugal by two fellow England youth starlets, ex-Chelsea midfielder Jacob Maddox, now of Forest Green, and former Tottenham stand-out Marcus Edwards, who now excels for Sporting Lisbon.As he continued to adjust to men’s football, Suliman headed on further loans to second tier sides Nacional and Vilafranquense.Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer George Baldock caught on live TV after shock win over England During his youth career at Villa, Suliman spoke of how he was inspired by England cricketer Moeen Ali, who like him is a proud Brummie of Pakistani descent.Having worn the Three Lions at youth level, Suliman would switch his international allegiances to Pakistan last year.Suliman now appears to have found some stability in men’s football, having signed for Azerbaijan side Sumgayit last summer, for whom he was a regular last season.He has so far earned nine caps for Pakistan, and has already worn the captain’s armband on five occasions.Suliman, now 26, has captained PakistanCredit: GettyTAKING INSPIRATIONNow representing the South Asian nation, Suliman continues to be inspired by Ali.”I have met him many times and we are quite close,” Suliman said of the cricket icon in a conversation with The Hindu last year. “Anyone who plays sport in our city looks up to him.”He was part of the IPL-winning team recently and is back in the Ashes team.”It shows that irrespective of your origin, you can achieve at the highest level.”Suliman has taken inspiration from England cricket star Moeen AliCredit: GettyFURTHER CHALLENGES AHEADSuliman had plenty to look back on with pride last season, and he wrote on Instagram back in May: “End of a memorable season.”Perfect way to finish with securing european positions with @sumqayitfc_official 🟣⚪️ thanks to the fans for all the support throughout the season.”And not forgetting what we achieved with the national team earlier in the season by making history @pakistanffofficial”.Unfortunately, Suliman’s unusual career path will now face a major obstacle.READ MORE SUN STORIESAccording to Pakistan Football Mania, the former Villa youngster is nursing a torn ACL suffered in pre-season, and will face 8-9 months on the sidelines.With the character and resolve he has already shown in his career, however, he is bound to return next season stronger for the setback. More

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      AFC Wimbledon’s incredible pitch transformation revealed as club play at home 20 days after massive sinkhole opened up

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      AFC Wimbledon returned to action in League One on their OWN pitch.The Dons were in action against Carlisle – just 20 days after a SINKHOLE destroyed a part of their pitch.AFC Wimbledon returned to action 19 days after a sinkhole ruined their pitchBack in September, they were forced to postpone their Carabao Cup third round clash with Newcastle due to flooding.Adverse weather conditions in the area caused “significant damage” to both the stadium itself and the pitch.A sinkhole formed by the corner flag, prompting the fan-owned club to start a fundraiser to pay for the damage.An area behind the stands where fans would usually congregate is also completely underwater.Read more football newsBut, there was no sign of damage as AFC Wimbledon returned to action against the Cumbrians.Ground staff had worked tirelessly to ensure the club could return to action.Home matches against Accrington Stanley and Crewe Alexandra were also postponed, leaving AFC Wimbledon having to play catch up in the league.Their match against Newcastle was switched to St James’ Park, where they lost 1-0.Most read in FootballWork began on the pitch the morning after the floods, with significant progress made in just a matter of hours.Watch AFC Wimbledon begin work fixing sinkhole on pitch after pumping more than 100,000 LITRES of water out of stadiumFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDiscussing the impact of the storm, a statement read: “Staff encountered significant flooding of the ground level of the stadium, affecting our offices, the shop and museum, reception areas, lifts, and tunnel area, as well as all concourse areas at ground level.”This afternoon, several independent contractors have visited the site and conducted surface level investigations.”More investigations are required in the coming days in order to plan for repair works to the pitch as a priority, and we are in regular contact with our insurers.”We have overcome many setbacks by working together and this one will be no different.”We genuinely appreciate all the messages of support and offers from volunteers and members to help us fix the damage.  “We ask for some patience whilst we complete our investigations and formulate our plans before getting to work.”We will advise further what supporters can do to help us soon; thank you.”AFC Wimbledon shared a before and after clip of the work on social media to their followers.Who are these famous footballers?An aerial view shows the damage done by severe flooding in the areaThe Cherry Red Records was out of bounds for three homes gamesIt showed the first steps of the pitch being evened out to repair the huge sinkhole.READ MORE SUN STORIESWimbledon managed to raise over £100,000 for repairs by Wednesday afternoon.Newcastle donated £15,000 following the match postponement. More

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      Chelsea legend’s daughter opens up on feeling ‘at her lowest’ as she poses in lingerie to celebrate ‘inner strong woman’

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      JADE LEBOEUF has opened up on feeling at her “lowest” as she shared stunning pictures of herself.The daughter of Chelsea legend Frank has amassed a huge following of people interested in her glamorous lifestyle.Jade, 33, has almost a quarter of a million followers on Instagram as she shares pictures as an influencer and model. However, despite her apparent glam life she does not always feel on top of the world.In her latest collection of snaps, she admitted that they were taken when she felt low.The pictures showed her in a multiple series of poses in a set of black lingerie.READ MORE ON SPORTJade insisted that they were captured so she could feel the “strong women” inside herself.She wrote: “I made this series of photos at a time when I was at my lowest emotionally, and I needed to awaken the strong woman in me.”I assure you that it did me a world of good to feel beautiful and sensual.”It allowed me to reconnect with myself, with my identity, and with who I really am.”Most read in FootballFans loved the post as they hailed her honesty in sharing them.One posted: “I hope you get much better very quickly. Courage.”Chelsea legend’s daughter cheekily shows off her bum in bold outfit as stunned fans say ‘excuse me?’ She is the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: PAA second wrote: “Very beautiful Jade.”A third commented: “Beautiful! And I find your way of facing challenges very inspiring because when you are underwater it is difficult to find a way to get back up.”A fourth said: “You are radiant!”Another added: “The most beautiful.”She is married to French reality TV personality Stephane Rodrigues and the pair have a three-year-old son together.Her father established himself as a Blues legend during his spell at the club between 1996 and 2001.Leboeuf, 56, played 203 times for Chelsea and scored 24 goals as he helped the club win the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000.Take a look inside Jade’s glamorous life…Jade has built up a loyal following on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe French national works as a modelCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufJade is now making her own wayCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More

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      Female ref banned for life over sex tape scandal claims video was made with AI and ‘malicious intentions’

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      THE Turkish referee at the centre of a sex tape scandal has claimed that the X-rated video was faked using AI.Elif Karaarslan, 24, was this week banned from officiating after a video was alleged to have shown her having sex with referees’ observer Orhan Erdemir, 61.Elif Karaarslan has been officiating since 2020Credit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17The Turkish official has found herself at the centre of a sex tape scandalCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Karaarslan denies being the woman in an X-rated video circulating onlineCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Karaarslan, who played for Besiktas before having her career cut short by injuries, has denied being in the video.She said: “I will have a long road ahead legally, but will overcome in the strongest and most robust way.”I look forward to your full support and love in this process. Crying, screaming and being sad are not things I would do. That is not me.”I will stand by my cause until the end. I am just one of many who are being harmed – I hope I am the last.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHer legal team have claimed that her alleged role in the video, which has circulated online, has been fabricated by technology.Their statement claimed: “A montaged video was published on social media, created entirely through AI from someone else’s social media account.”Taking into consideration this montage video, created with malicious and deliberate intentions, poses a threat to anyone facing similar accusations in the future.”Erdemir, meanwhile, has confessed to being the male in the video.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “My honour in my family, my social circle and the refereeing community has been blown away.”In addition to my financial losses, the emotional damage I have suffered is indescribable.”How Arsenal and Liverpool benefitted from VAR failures AGAIN | Ex-Premier League referee reactsLike Karaarslan, Erdemir has also received a lifetime ban from the TFF, Turkey’s FA.Karaarslan debuted as an assistant referee back in 2020.She has since gone on to take charge of the country’s biggest clubs at Under-17s level.And she has also gathered a big social media following, with 462,000 on Instagram.Karaarslan has a large social media followingCredit: INSTAGRAM @elifkaraarslan_17Orhan Erdemir has confessed to being the man in the video More

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      A day in the life of workaholic Ten Hag revealed by ex-Man Utd coach who jokes ‘his wife is on verge of divorcing him’

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      WORKAHOLIC Erik ten Hag is leaving no page unturned to fix the problems at Manchester United.And that includes regularly staying up until 4am in an attempt to find the tiny details he is missing.Erik ten Hag is feeling the heat as Manchester United managerCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeBenni McCarthy worked with Ten Hag for two seasonsCredit: GettyTen Hag remains under constant pressure as Red Devils boss.The shock FA Cup final win over Manchester City ensured he kept his job beyond last season.But five matches without a victory following earlier defeats to Brighton and Liverpool mean the Dutchman is just about hanging on again.And that means long, gruelling days at Carrington and at home.READ MORE ON MAN UTDTen Hag’s former assistant Benni McCarthy, 46, revealed just how much work Ten Hag is putting in – joking that it is to the detriment of his marriage with wife Bianca.Asked what is going wrong at Old Trafford, McCarthy, who left in the summer, told SuperSport: “That’s the million-dollar question, that’s the question for everyone. If they knew, they could fix it.”There’s nothing wrong there, it’s just missing [a piece] in the puzzle, I don’t even think they know what it is, they’ve not found that missing puzzle piece. “What is it? Is it the mentality shift? Is it the mindset? Is it working on more specifics? It could be anything. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”When you’re there, you see the work that goes into training and how the players are. I was like, ‘My God, we would ruin any team,’ with the way we trained.”When you are there, you see this is high-level stuff.’He’s done!’ | How woeful tactics & Dalot shocker saw Spurs smash Man Utd to spell end for Ten Hag”We were not fearful of anyone, the team is incredible with quality. Then come matchday, it’s like we get a massive shock in the back.”I can imagine how frustrating it is for Erik because he’s probably one of the hardest-working managers I’ve come across.”His attention to detail, that man goes to sleep at 3am, 4am in the morning.”The analysts get it at all angles, even if he thinks of something at 2am.”I’m sure his wife must be on the verge of divorcing him because that’s his life. It’s non-stop.”He works tirelessly and when you put that much work in, you expect things to go well, but that’s why I’m saying there’s something [that’s not right].”McCarthy worked under Ten Hag during his first two seasons at Old Trafford – with the objective of contending for titles again.He revealed the coaches arrived at Carrington around 7.15am ahead of a meeting 15 minutes later with the manager and his staff to discuss the training session.The players get to the training ground at 8am and soon head for training – likely a warm-up in the gym before going outside on the grass. McCarthy then said the likes of “special” Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Hojlund, Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro then stay out for extra training and competitions. Nine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages.After lunch, there was a training debrief among the coaches and then from 2pm, they would use the video analysis to give personal feedback to the players. But despite being popular with the first-team stars, especially Rashford, Fernandes and Casemiro, McCarthy departed in the summer.He has not been afraid to speak his mind with some strong words about his former boss, suggesting Ten Hag “lacks fire”. However, he still backs Ten Hag to be the man to get United ticking again – and suggested only one man would be a better option.Ex-Ajax, Porto, Blackburn and West Ham striker McCarthy added: “People always look for answers like replacing the coach.”Who are you replacing him with? Who else is better than what they have? READ MORE SUN STORIES”You’re not going to get many managers – unless Pep [Guardiola] decides to change from City to United then maybe you might have a change in fortunes. “But other than that I can’t really see there’s better than Ten Hag.”Time could be ticking on Ten Hag’s reign at Old TraffordCredit: GettyThe Dutchman gets in early to prepare for the dayCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMcCarthy was at Old Trafford for two years and proved popular with the playersCredit: GettyThe former coach reckons only Pep Guardiola would be a better fit than Ten HagCredit: Sunday Times More