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      Premier League legend, 46, looks like he hasn’t aged a day as he scores screamer in charity match

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      A PREMIER LEAGUE legend rolled back the years to score a screamer in a charity match.James Beattie was joined by ex-Prem stars Theo Walcott, Morgan Schneiderlin and Matt Le Tissier in the Southampton Legends game against current boss Russell Martin’s XI.Former Premier League striker James Beattie bagged a worldie at St Mary’sThe 46-year-old hardly celebrated after proving age is just a number before the Saints Legends went on to lose on penaltiesSt Mary’s played host to two teams of former footballing stars, pulled together by the likes of Glenn Cockerill – and current gaffer Martin himself. But Martin’s XI, mostly made up of retired Norwich City stars, needed penalties to beat the Saints Legends following a 4-4 draw on Sunday.And Southampton icon Beattie proved he’s still got it after hammering a sublime strike into the top corner from 20 yards.The ex-Stoke City striker – wearing the same No9 he donned as a Saint – patiently waited for Shane Long to offload it.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe 46-year-old then perfectly curled the ball into the net past 51-year-old Jimmy Walker, who had earlier saved a Rickie Lambert penalty, with 15 minutes remaining.Fans were left stunned as one said: “Class is permanent 😇”Beattie briefly reduced the deficit to 3-2 before competition winner Craig Swanborough had his big moment, scoring from close range to restore the two-goal advantage for Martin’s XI.Andrew Surman pulled another one back before spot-kick specialist Le Tissier scored a contentious 91st minute penalty to bring penalties.Most read in FootballBeattie spent eight years at Southampton, scoring 68 goalsFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWalcott, who retired in 2023 after departing St Mary’s, scored an unstoppable equaliser with his own first-half wonder goal from 30 yards.The former Arsenal star then whipped out Marcus Rashford’s signature celebration – where he points to his temple – after promising a local child he’d do so.BBC pundit comes dressed as Gareth Southgate for England’s Euro 2024 clash against SwitzerlandWhen visiting a local school in Southampton, Walcott asked the youngster, after inviting him to the charity game: “When I score, and I will score, what do you want me to do?”To which the schoolboy named Cam responded: “The Marcus Rashford.”The former England international was named Man of the Match as he rolled back the years in front of 7,000 fans.The game was played to raise funds for various charities, including the Saints Foundation.Walcott pulled out Marcus Rashford’s signature celebration in dedication to a local fanIn the shootout, Saints boss Martin stepped up first and scored, setting the tone for his team.Before heroes Walcott and Beattie both missed their penalties in the shootout to give the away side a 4-2 shootout victory.Martin, 38, actually started the game himself from centre-back.The Prem manager played the pantomime villain as he was booed every time he touched it in the early stages, which peaked when he slipped over less than five minutes in. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was hauled off after 60 minutes and limped across the dugout to meet young fans, who rapidly amassed an army on the advertising boards.Martin will return to manage Southampton against Leicester when the Prem returns on Saturday.Russell Martin acted as a player-coach for his side that beat the Saints Legends on penalties over the weekend More

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      Former Chelsea star plots raid on old club for two stars including audacious Barcelona loan swoop for £58m ace

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      BARCELONA chief Deco is plotting to raid former club Chelsea for two stars this winter.The Portuguese ace is sporting director at the Nou Camp after a glittering playing career.Barcelona chief Deco is targeting two signings from Chelsea this winterCredit: GettyThe ace won two FA Cups and a title as a Chelsea playerCredit: PA:Press AssociationDeco won five titles and two Champions Leagues with Porto and Barcelona.He then moved to Chelsea in 2008 and played 58 times while leading the Blues to two FA Cups and a Premier League.After hanging up his boots in 2013 following a spell with Fluminense, the 75-time Portugal international took time out of the game before becoming an agent.But Deco returned to the biggest stage of all when he was named Barcelona’s new sporting director last year.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has already helped his former club seal some big deals, including £55million summer signing Dani Olmo.And now, Deco is reportedly lining up a double raid on Chelsea for two midfielders.Football Espana claims the Nou Camp chief is first confident of tying up a loan deal for Carney Chukwuemeka.It’s reckoned the ex-Aston Villa man was an option for Barcelona over the summer, but doubts over his fitness following a long-term injury scuppered the deal.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSChukwuemeka is now fit and ready to fire.But he is way down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, making him a viable target for Barcelona in January.Chelsea fans love Cole Palmer’s reaction to huge brawl – but work out clever reason why he didn’t get involvedCarney Chukwuemeka is one of Barca’s top targetsCredit: GettyThe Spaniards would also a loan deal for Romeo LaviaCredit: AlamyDeco’s other target at Chelsea is less realistic though.He is said to be a huge fan of Romeo Lavia, who has barely featured for the Blues following a £58m move from Southampton last year.Deco would love to take the former Man City holding midfielder to the Nou Camp.But Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen to get Lavia into his starting XI and is extremely unlikely to sanction an exit, even on a short-term basis.Players signed under Boehly at ChelseaRaheem Sterling – £50mKalidou Koulibaly £33mGabriel Slonina – £8mCarney Chukweumeka – £20mMarc Cucurella – £57.5mCesare Casadei – £13.3mWesley Fofana – £70mPierre-Emerick Aubameyang – £10.3mDenis Zakaria – £2.7m (Loan fee)David Datro Fofana – £10.6mBenoit Badiashile – £33.7mAndrey Santos – £11.1mJoao Felix – £9.7m (Loan fee)Mykhailo Mudryk – £62m Noni Madueke – £30mMalo Gusto – £26.75mEnzo Fernandez – £107.8mChristopher Nkunku – £52mDiego Moreira – FREENicolas Jackson – £31.5mAngelo Gabriel – £13mLesley Ugochukwu – £23.3mAxel Disasi – £38.9mRobert Sanchez – £20mMoises Caicedo – £115mRomeo Lavia – £53.2mDeivid Washington – £13.7mCole Palmer – £40.1mDjordje Petrovic – £13.6mTosin Adarabioyo – FREEMarc Guiu – £5.1mCaleb Wiley – £8.63mRenato Veiga – £12mAarón Anselmino – £14mOmari Kellyman – £19.2mFilip Jorgensen – £21mKiernan Dewsbury-Hall – £30.2mPedro Neto – £51mJoao Felix – £42.6mMike Penders – £17m More

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      Man Utd could be about to pull off controversial transfer they have never done in Premier League era

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S shock raid of Bayern Munich could see them complete a rare deal that has never been seen in the Premier League era.The Red Devils are reportedly targeting Leroy Sane, Leon Goretzka and Alphonso Davies in a triple January swoop.Peter Barnes was the last player to make the controversial moveCredit: RexLeroy Sane won two Premier League titles at Man CityCredit: PASane is now on Man Utd’s radarCredit: GettySane, 28, could be available this winter after falling down the pecking order under Vincent Kompany.Having recovered from an injury that ruled him out the start of the season, the winger has played just 78 minutes across four games.And the German sees his contract expire at Bayern next summer.Should Sane join Man Utd, he will become the first player in the Premier League era to move to Old Trafford after a spell at City. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe last player represent the red half of Manchester after blue was Peter Barnes.He played for City from 1974 to 1979 and then had a three-year spell at United a decade later.Legend Denis Law and Wyn Davies both saw their careers go down the same path in the 60s and 70s respectively.Many players have played for both Manchester clubs in the Prem like Peter Schmeichel, Andrei Kanchelskis, Andy Cole, Carlos Tevez and Owen Hargreaves.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut all of them played for United before their bitter rivals.Jadon Sancho did come through the City academy before joining Erik ten Hag’s side – but he never played a senior game for them. Along with Sane on United’s radar is left-back Davies, 23, who also sees his Bayern deal expire in 2025.Leroy Sane PUNCHES TV camera after Bayern Munich concede third goal in devastating defeat to Bayer LeverkusenAs for Goretzka, 29, he has seen his minutes restricted this term, playing just once in six Bundesliga games.Man Utd are used to negotiations with Bayern as they signed Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui in a £60m double deal in the summer.Alphonso Davies could quit Bayern with his deal up in the summerCredit: RexLeon Goretzka may also depart after a lack of game timeCredit: RexWhy NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Emery may well deliver the coup de grace to Ten Hag on Sunday — especially with Bruno Fernandes suspended and Kobbie Mainoo an injury doubt.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would be a popular and gettable option but, despite being a fine coach and a very engaging man, he is considered something of a loose cannon.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part. More

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      France coach Didier Deschamps responds to Mbappe ‘rape’ claim after Real Madrid star accused of ‘sex assault at hotel’

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      FRENCH football coach Didier Deschamps has spoken out on the shock Kylian Mbappe rape allegations.Real Madrid’s star man has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a Swedish hotel room but has since slammed the serious claims against him as “fake news”.Real Madrid star man Kylian Mbappe has been accused of rape but has denied the allegationsCredit: RexFrance head coach Didier Deschamps has responded to the allegations against his captainMbappe leaving the Bank hotel in Stockholm where the alleged sexual assault is said to have taken placeCredit: RexMbappe responded on X, slamming the report as ‘fake news’Credit: XFrance’s manager Deschamps, 56, responded to the allegations against his captain as he warned people to avoid spreading “anything and everything” in regards to Mbappe.He told reporters after France’s clash with Belgium on Monday night that the reports have led to a “negative atmosphere” in the dressing room.It comes despite Mbappe, 25, not being in the squad for this round of Nations League fixtures due to a lack of fitness.After being quizzed on the allegations at the post match press conference Deschamps said: “Everyone is free to write what they want but there is a negative atmosphere around the French team.”read more in MbappeBefore he warned: “Be careful when you pick things up.”You had better take a bit of a step back before publishing anything and everything, but these things happen so often.”There are things that are not difficult to verify, but if you credit any old thing…”In any case I am not going to talk to him about it. He is big enough to know how to communicate.”Most read in FootballSwedish newspaper Aftonbladet first reported that the French forward is being investigated by cops over the allegations of sexual abuse last week.A complaint was reportedly made to police on Saturday after the alleged victim sought medical attention.Kylian Mbappe unveiled as Real Madrid player after historic transfer as he signs contract and poses with new shirt Expressen reported that Mbappe on Thursday dined at the Chez Jolie restaurant and went to the V nightclub in Stockholm with pals.He and his entourage then went back to the Bank Hotel where he was staying, it is reported.The outlet reports police are investigating an alleged rape at the Bank Hotel that night.Police spokeswoman Carina Skagerlind said: “In general, if we have received a complaint and decided to conduct interviews and we make it known (to the public), those involved in the case may take actions that delay and complicate the investigation.”Mbappe flew out of the Sweden Friday on a private jet just before the complaint had been filed.These accusations are completely false and irresponsible, and their propagation is unacceptableMbappe entourageMbappe’s entourage has since shot back in a statement sent to AFP saying: “Today, a new slanderous rumour is starting to spread across the web from the Swedish media Aftonbladet.”These accusations are completely false and irresponsible, and their propagation is unacceptable.”In order to put an end to this methodical destruction all necessary legal actions will be taken to re-establish the truth and pursue any person or media involved in the moral harassment and defamatory treatment that Kylian Mbappe is suffering repeatedly.”The former Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco ace later addressed the report himself as he scolded the Swedish news outlets for allegedly spreading “fake news”.He put out a statement on X saying: “FAKE NEWS !!!! It’s becoming so predictable, just before the hearing as if by chance.” Mbappe also included a winking emoji at the end of the message.The tweet seemingly referred to a hearing Mbappe is set to face over unpaid wages he is disputably owed by PSG.Honestly, it’s a shame. PSG is responsible for everything with himsource close to PSGMbappe claims he deserves 55million Euros (£45million) by his former club in unpaid wages from his seven-year stint at the club.The footballer was also due to get a signing bonus in February but PSG have refused to pay up and follow the ruling by France’s football governing body LFP, according to the claims.A source close to PSG hit back at Mbappe by telling French newspaper L’Equipe they would “ignore” his claims the two incidents may be linked.The source said: “Honestly, it’s a shame. PSG is responsible for everything with him.”He didn’t score any goals (apart from penalties) for Madrid? It’s PSG.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He missed the French national team matches even though he says he did, but he’s not injured? It’s PSG.”PSG are now making up stories in Sweden. We will ignore it and keep our class.”Mbappe in Stockholm last week with his entourageCredit: RexMbappe is currently embroiled in a legal battle over unpaid wages with his former club PSGCredit: AFPThe Bank Hotel where Mbappe was staying with his entourageCredit: EPA More

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      Arsenal Women’s head coach Jonas Eidevall RESIGNS with immediate effect after loss to Chelsea and Bayern thrashing

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      ARSENAL WOMEN have announced the departure of head coach Jonas Eidevall.The 41-year-old leaves following a poor start to the season, with Arsenal sixth in the Women’s Super League table.Jonas Eidevall has left ArsenalCredit: ReutersThe Gunners suffered a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at the weekendCredit: GettyFans were left furious last week after the Gunners suffered a 5-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.And matters were made worse on Saturday when they lost 2-1 to London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.Eidevall was booed at the full-time whistle, with thousands of fans expressing their discontent.One person even created a giant P45 to wave in the stands, while another wrote ‘Jonas Out’ in bold letters on Hornsey Road.Read More on ArsenalAssistant coach Renée Slegers will take charge of the Gunners as interim boss while a full-time replacement is appointed.Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar said: “We thank Jonas for his commitment to the club and achievements here since joining us in 2021.”We have great respect for the dedication and commitment he showed to our women’s first team and recognise the role he has played in the growth and development of Arsenal Women.  We all wish him the very best for the future.”Our focus will now turn to the process of appointing a new Head Coach, and in the meantime, supporting Renée, as she takes interim charge of the team starting with two important fixtures this week.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans expressed their discontent with the manager at the weekendCredit: X / @laythy29One supporter even took a giant P45 to the Emirates StadiumCredit: X / @mybadwosotakesClare Wheatley, the club’s director of women’s football, went on to add: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Jonas for his hard work and dedication to Arsenal Football Club over the past three years.”Jonas has brought us back-to-back trophies in the last two seasons, together with many memorable moments on the pitch.Watch Ireland captain Katie McCabe star in hilarious Adidas ad ahead of new WSL season with Arsenal”We wish Jonas and his family the best of health, happiness and success for the future.”We have full confidence in Renée to take responsibility for the team in the interim period.”Eidevall, who took charge of the team in 2021, guided Arsenal to two Women’s League Cup triumphs and a Champions League semi-final in 2023.Arsenal return to Champions League action on Wednesday when they face Norwegian side Vålerenga.The team will be looking to pick up their first win in the tournament’s group stage after being trounced by Bayern last time out. The Gunners then face West Ham on Saturday.Who could replace Eidevall?By Sandra BrobbeyCasey Stoney:The ex-San Diego Wave boss, who is currently without a managerial role, has been heavily linked with the now-vacant women’s head coach job at Arsenal. Stoney, who was at the Emirates last Saturday to watch the Gunners’ 2-1 loss to Chelsea, has ties with the club having played for them for two spells from 1999 to 2002 and from 2014 to 2016. Having begun her coaching career as a player-manager at Chelsea in 2009, Stoney has since become a highly-rated coach within the sport having guided American side San Diego to National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup win in March, and an NWSL Shield triumph last year. The former Man United Women’s boss, managed the Red Devils for three years from 2021 guiding them to WSL promotion. She also helped to nurture the careers of several United aces, past and present, including Ella Toone, Lauren James and Alessia Russo. Jack Wilshere:The Arsenal Under-18s men’s coach would be a wildcard for this role having started his current job two years ago and having never worked in the elite women’s game. The former Gunners playmaker led the team to the finals of the 2022-23 FA Youth Cup, during his first season in charge. where they were beaten by West Ham. A top-level WSL side hiring a men’s academy coach wouldn’t be an entirely new thing.Manchester City Women’s boss Gareth was employed as the club’s Under-16 head coach before taking on his current role.  More

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      Two iconic ex-Premier League ‘Barclaysmen’, 43 and 39, score within hours of each other as fans gush ‘game’s not gone’

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      HUGO RODALLEGA and Roque Santa Cruz both sent fans wild by scoring over the weekend.Rodallega, 39, is still going strong in his native Colombia – nine years after leaving the Premier League.Hugo Rodallega was on the scoresheet on SundayCredit: X @SantaFeRoque Santa Cruz was also in action over the weekendCredit: Club LibertadWhile Santa Cruz plays in Paraguay at the age of 43, having left Manchester City in 2013.Both strikers played a prominent role in the “Barclaysmen” trend that swept social media during the September international break, started by the Cultras Football Podcast.So when it emerged that they are still doing the business, fans on social media were left thrilled.Rodallega has played for Santa Fe since 2022 and frequently captains them.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe notched his 14th goal of the season on Sunday during his side’s 2-1 win over Patriotas.Pointing out his goal, a social media user wrote: “We’re in 2024 and Hugo Rodallega is still banging them in. Great to see.”To which a second gushed: “The games not gone.”And a third joked: “wigan legend. now where tf is maynor figueroa, emerson boyce and jordi gomez.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWho are these famous footballers?Amazingly, it was then pointed out that Santa Cruz had scored as well.On Saturday, the ex-Blackburn goal-getter was on the scoresheet as Libertad lost 2-1 against Trinidense.I’m a former Premier League and England star and I have to pay price of Tesco meal deal for lunch at my club Despite his advancing years he has played 35 times this season, scoring six goals.Remarkably, he is not the only veteran striker to play for Libertad.He is joined up top by Benfica and Paraguay legend Oscar Cardozo, who is two years his junior at 41.When Cardozo rose off the bench on Saturday, Libertad’s striker duo had a combined age of 83 – along with 44 goals for their country.Hugo Rodallega gained Premier League cult hero status at WiganCredit: Mark Robinson – The SunSanta Cruz starred for Blackburn and Man City in the PremCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      I never understood Cristiano Ronaldo’s seven-word piece of advice to me – it’s taken me four years but now I get it

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      DEJAN KULUSEVSKI has revealed the advice Cristiano Ronaldo gave him — which has only just sunk in four years later.Tottenham star Kulusevski and Al-Nassr ace Ronaldo graced the pitch together for Juventus during a brief spell in the 2020/21 campaign.Dejan Kulusevski has revealed the piece of advice given to him at Juventus by Cristiano RonaldoCredit: AFPThe pair spent a season together in ItalyCredit: GettyWinger Kulusevski was hailed as Juve’s next bright spark.While Ronaldo, who is still starring for club and country, continued to bang in the goals as their striker ahead of a shock return to Manchester United.Both men are now continuing to forge their own path, with Kulusevski eager to replicate Ronnie’s success in the Premier League.And he is now taking to heart a piece of advice given to him by the Portuguese great all those years ago.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRonaldo loves dishing out tips and tricks to talented youngsters, having been one himself at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson.And he gave Kulusevski a seven-word hint that the Swede is only now beginning to understand.Tottenham’s midfield ace said: “To not be satisfied with being good, but to be the best every day. That’s the only thing that matters. As hard as it is to try to be the best.”I think that you learn over time, that you begin to understand much more about how the world and the brain work. You can’t be 17 and know everything.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Yes, I always change. I’m starting to get to know my body. When I was younger, I didn’t understand when Ronaldo told me: ‘You will get to know your body’. Because I didn’t know my body then.”But now I’m starting to understand my strengths and weaknesses, how I can improve. So I feel like everything is getting easier.Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag steals famous Cristiano Ronaldo quote but refuses to name him as furious spat rages onTottenham ace Kulusevski admits it’s taken a while for the message to sink inCredit: AlamyRonaldo previously criticised Man Utd youngsters for not listening to himCredit: Reuters”I know how to train the day before a match, two days before a match, what to do when I’m tired and so on. All the little details that in the end make a big difference.”However, not all future footballers have taken Ronaldo’s words of wisdom on board.After leaving United two years ago, he famously blasted their current crop of youngsters for not listening to him during his second spell.He told Piers Morgan: “It’s a little bit of a shame because they have the best examples in front of their eyes, and they don’t at least copy what you did.“For me it’s weird because I always looked to see the best players in Ruud van Nistelrooy, Roy Keane, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs — that is why I have the success that I have and the longevity.“They don’t care, some of them yes but most of them no. They’re not going to have longevity, it’s impossible.”Ronaldo also told ex-teammate Ferdinand for that reason, he has no intention of becoming a coach.He said last month: “For me it will be difficult one day to be a coach, because I don’t have passions for this generation.“It’s difficult, especially in football, because they don’t take advice by our experience.“They think they know everything, they think the phones will give you good education, TikTok, Instagram.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I have other things to worry about, another chapter of my life that is a business part that I’m excited about.“It will be a challenge to me and learn other areas I don’t know, be more involved in my business and I think will be good.” More

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      Man Utd STOP paying Sir Alex Ferguson’s multi-million pound salary as Sir Jim Ratcliffe cuts costs

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have stopped paying legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year salary.Red Devils co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has cut costs by removing Fergie from his ambassadorial role.Manchester United will no longer pay Sir Alex Ferguson his £2million per yearCredit: PASir Jim Ratcliffe and Sir Alex in the directors’ box ahead of the home loss to Spurs this seasonHe will still act as a non-executive member of the board and be welcome at games.Ferguson, 82, won 38 trophies including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues during his 27 years as Man Utd manager.Just five months after leaving in 2013, he signed a deal to become a global ambassador worth £2.16m per year.Now that deal has been torn up as Ferguson steps away from his time-consuming ambassadorial duties.It was an amicable decision between both parties.It is claimed Ratcliffe met with Ferguson in person to tell him cost-cutting measures will include no longer paying him his seven-figure salary.Man Utd will continue to employ him as a non-executive director – and he will always be welcome at matches.Ferguson, who turns 83 in December, will not receive payments from the club beyond the end of the season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSir Alex Ferguson’s trophy haul at Man UtdAll the trophies Sir Alex Ferguson won as Manchester United manager:Premier League x13FA Cup x5League Cup x4Champions League x2European Cuper Winners’ CupEuropean Super CupIntercontinental CupClub World CupIt is the latest attempt from Ratcliffe to reduce costs after a number of other cutbacks – which also reportedly includes cancelling the Christmas party. Last month, it was revealed he is letting go of 250 employees at the club.I didn’t like Sir Alex Ferguson – but what legendary Man Utd boss did after I quit football will never leave meHe has also cancelled senior Man Utd staff’s private cars and reduced lunch privileges on match-days.The decision to cut Fergie’s salary comes after Ratcliffe was pictured sat alongside the iconic manager when he attended his first Man Utd game as co-owner back in January.Ratcliffe later said: “He [Fergie] was the first person I met when I went up there which I think was the second week of January and I had a meeting from 9am to 10am at his house and I left at 1pm.”He never stopped. He’s got a lot of experience, a lot of stories to tell and a lot of thoughts about the club.”Meanwhile, Thomas Tuchel is being linked with succeeding Ten Hag should the Dutchman be sacked.However, The Telegraph understand the German coach is also in talks to become the next England manager. More