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      Sir Alex Ferguson sacrificed values to sign deadly Van Persie and Chelsea will win nothing until they make similar move

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      IT was a signing that went against his entire transfer ethos — yet was arguably  the biggest no-brainer of the 105 he made at Old Trafford.Sir Alex Ferguson was never scared to splash cash as he built, strengthened or restructured his all-conquering, title-winning teams.Chelsea and boss Enzo Maresca must abandon their principles if they want to win proper trophiesCredit: PASir Alex Ferguson sacrificed his values to sign Robin van Persie but instantly won the titleCredit: GettyYet as a shrewd old Scot, value for money was also a prime factor.Very rarely did a new face arrive at Manchester United without a potential sell-on fee and the chance to recoup losses if it didn’t work out.This one, though, was different. If it went wrong, there would be no move-him-on safety net.Only Sir Alex knew it wouldn’t go wrong — and Sir Alex wasn’t usually wrong.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo when, in the summer of 2012, Arsenal agreed to sell Robin van Persie, he didn’t pause for breath, even with a £24million price tag.That fee may be a drop in the ocean now but back then it was huge for a player nearing 30. Yet to Fergie it was a bargain.Three months earlier, when THAT Aguerooooo goal meant Manchester City were champions by the  narrowest of margins, Sir Alex had vowed never to lose the title on goal difference again.And with Van Persie as the new attacking spearhead, there was never a chance of it. United were champions by 11 points.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe crown was back at Old Trafford, their Dutch striker topped the scoring charts and Fergie headed into retirement with a 13th Premier League title in the bag,Van Persie’s goals sealed no fewer than 11 United wins that season. But the manager always did know the difference a proven big-game goalscorer can make.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyStars like Cole Palmer are great but should not be relied upon to score like a proper strikerCredit: GettyAn assassin-eyed striker who — even if they didn’t end the season as the Prem’s top marksman — would get you over the line when the stakes were highest, the competition fiercest.Most champion teams over the years have had that one man they can rely on. Didier Drogba at Chelsea, Alan Shearer at Blackburn, Jamie Vardy in that astonishing Leicester triumph.Liverpool had Mo Salah AND Sadio Mane when they won the Prem. For two years Erling Haaland has banged them in for fun at City.Just like Aguero back in 2012 — only third highest over the season, but the saviour when it mattered most. Never more than on the most dramatic final day ever.Very rarely do you lift silver without a striker of pure gold.It’s why they cost so much. It’s why the best teams always have at least one.And also why it’s so remarkable that, despite splashing out more than £1billion, there is still a glaring gap in the Chelsea ranks.Of course, there are those who will point to Thursday’s 8-0 Europa Conference League rampage and wonder what all the fuss is about. And they will be showing their ignorance.It wasn’t Real Madrid or Barcelona who were put to the sword. Not a Manchester City or Liverpool. It was Noah. The Armenian equivalent of the Red Lion.For a relevant reference point, look to the 1-1 draw with United four days earlier. A game Chelsea dominated but could not kill off.Don’t buy that bull about a point at Old Trafford always being a decent result. It’s not when there’s such a chasm between the two sides as last weekend.Chelsea, as they have so often this season, played some marvellous stuff. But once again there was no one to put the ball in the net. United weren’t praying for the whistle.With a Drogba or Diego Costa in a blue shirt, they were breathing-space winners. Like City or Liverpool would have been. Like Spurs were with Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson.Match winners who can make the difference in any season. Yet this time, when it’s shaping up to be the most open in the Prem era, potential title winners as well.Yes, I know Chelsea have Cole Palmer, but he’s no attacking spearhead. He should be a great addition alongside your top dog.And who in the current squad would that be? Not Nicolas Jackson, who misses too many chances. Not Christopher Nkunku, who’s never fit for long enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn a season of so many contenders, the title could be won by one flash of goalscoring genius. Yet until Chelsea find that man, it won’t be them.Running riot against Noah is one thing but without a top   finisher, they’ll be sunk when it really matters. More

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      Ruud van Nistelrooy reveals exact moment he realised how big Man Utd are and says ‘that’s when I thought ‘ooh!”

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      RUUD VAN NISTELROOY faces a crunch meeting tomorrow that may decide his Old Trafford future.And the Manchester United legend hopes his CV of handling life with two world giants of football will seal a place on Ruben Amorim’s new-look backroom team.Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed when he realised how big the Man Utd job wasCredit: GettyVan Nistelrooy declared he wants to help bring back the glory daysCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdVan Nistelrooy’s four-game spell as interim chief ends after today’s home clash with Leicester, when he is set to return to the coaching role he held under Erik ten Hag.He signed a two-year deal this  summer to rejoin the club where he is a goalscoring legend but there has still been no contact from the incoming Portuguese head coach.It means the Dutch cult hero is only likely to discover if Amorim wants to keep him on when the SIXTH manager in the decade since Sir Alex Ferguson retired starts work in the morning.And Van Nistelrooy, 48, will head to United’s Carrington training ground expecting to pick up where he left off in the backroom set-up — unless Amorim decides otherwise.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVan Nistelrooy certainly expects it to be business as usual tomorrow. He admitted: “As it is, definitely, so let’s wait and see how that goes.“I am calm to be fair, trusting in the process and believing the outcome will be good. I am here at Manchester United and that is my  focus.“Whenever the communication takes place, I will see. But obviously we also know what the time frames are, so I am aware.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhether Amorim is equally aware is doubtful and the spotlight of two title wins with Sporting Lisbon is nothing compared to the glare he will be under at Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy knows all about that, after five years with United, followed by four with Real Madrid, when every move at both clubs was headline news.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyHe remembers realising life would never be the same on a pre-season tour to the Far East after signing from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven — and the chaotic scenes that greeted him. Van Nistelrooy revealed: “For me it was when we landed in Bangkok in 2001 and I saw 100,000 people at the airport. That’s when I thought ‘ooh!’“That’s when you realise what it is on a worldwide scale and, at Real Madrid, it’s similar — wherever you go, the attention.“In Madrid, I experienced microscopic views and intensity, 20 pages in the papers every day, radio stations, social media…“When you go to manage or play for the biggest clubs that’s part of it. All over the world really, United is there.“But that’s also the challenge — to play and manage this club is a  huge responsibility and I see that as a challenge whoever is here.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.It is a gauntlet and a glare which has seen the back of managerial giants like Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho in the post-Fergie era.Van Nistelrooy says the key to success is not a big-name reputation but raw talent and making sure the spotlight does not affect your focus on the job.He added: “It’s about the talent of a person that is the most important thing. “Big name, small name, call it anything you want… in the end it’s the person.“In the end, you learn to bring it down to focusing on the job,  performing as a player or coach and dealing with those circumstances.“That’s a big responsibility — we  are all aware of it, but it’s also a challenge.”READ MORE SUN STORIESVan Nistelrooy won one Premier League title in his Old Trafford days, before heading for Spain in 2006, and would love to help bring the glory days back to the red half of Manchester.He added: “The target is clear, to improve from where we are now. That will take time and hard work but that is the challenge for me.”Man Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/A More

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      Man City plan £50m transfer swoop for LaLiga star and Euros winner – six months after he snubbed Liverpool move

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      MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January swoop for Martin Zubimendi — six months after he turned his back on Liverpool.The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s summer hitlist  and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn meant he stayed put.Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a transfer target for Man City in JanuaryCredit: GettySpain’s Euros winner also insisted last month he wanted to remain at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is staying. “I want to grow and develop here.”But sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all. And that has put City on high alert.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTheir failure to cope with the long-term absence of crocked Ballon d’Or winner Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton — their fourth loss in a row. And Zubimendi — who came on for Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 Euros final win over England — would be an ideal replacement.Rodri, 28, is out for the season after rupturing his ACL during September’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.The pair have played together for their nation, giving City the potential of a mouthwatering defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe release clause in Zubimendi’s contract would not be a problem, although manager Pep Guardiola was initially not keen on making any major moves in the January market.City’s injury pile-up and dismal form could signal a rethink, as Guardiola is equally reluctant to pile too much pressure on his younger players.Top 10 best paid managers in world as sacked Roberto Mancini is knocked off No1 spotOne potential stumbling block could be ongoing uncertainty about the Spaniard’s own future.There is still no sign of a definite decision over his plans beyond the summer. More

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      Liverpool vs Aston Villa LIVE SCORE: Darwin and Salah score but Trent INJURED as Reds capitalise on Man City loss

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      LIVERPOOL opened up a five point gap at the top of the Premier League after cruising to a comfortable win against Aston Villa.Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah were on target – but Trent Alexander-Arnold did limp off with an apparent hamstring injury.Earlier, Brighton secured a brilliant comeback win against Man City – with Joao Pedro and Matt O’Riley scoring in an epic 2-1 win – as Pep Guardiola lost a fourth consecutive game for the FIRST TIME in his career.In the 3pm matches, Fulham dominated Crystal Palace, Brentford were involved in another thriller and Wolves beat struggling Southampton, while West Ham and Everton were involved in a goalless draw.SCORES…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from around the grounds with our live blog below…Salah’s recordWe mentioned earlier that Salah has hit double figures in goals and assists in each of his last four seasons.We’d like to apologise to Mo as his record is MUCH more impressive than that. He’s actually hit double figure goals and assists in seven out of eight seasons (and the one he didn’t he still managed 31 goals).Here’s his record in full:2017/18: 44G, 15A2018/19: 27G, 10A2019/20: 23G, 13A2020/21: 31G, 6A2021/22: 31G, 15A2023/24: 30G, 16A2023/24: 25G, 14A2024/25: 10G, 10ACopy linkCopiedMcManaman confidentLiverpool legend Steve McManaman is confident these players can go all the way – as they have done before.Speaking on TNT, he said: “This group of players have been long into a campaign, some of them have won the Premier League and the Champions League so of course they can sustain it.”If they stay fit and roll that starting eleven out and the five or six from the bench then of course they will go all the way.”Copy linkCopied’Keep working hard’Slot was also asked about already being five points clear at the top of the table – but brushed it off.He said: “As a manager if you come into a new club you don’t think about how many points after how many games. “You think about changing the style or keeping it as it was. To change the style you have to do a lot of things on the training ground and in meetings. “The only thing I have thought about is how to implement the playing style and how to make sure the players keep working as hard as they can.”Copy linkCopiedSlot hails work rateArne Slot was also speaking to Match of the Day and said: “Three home games [this week] and that always helps when you play in front of these fans. Tough opponent today, it wasn’t an easy one.”I think it was [even]. They threatened us mainly with their set-pieces which is a big strength for them. They were waiting and waiting for us to lose our patience and then to hurt us on the counter-attack. “The funny thing is we had so much possession and scored our goals from counter-attacks. It was an even game when it comes to chances but we dominated the ball more than they did.”He added: “It’s not the first time we see this [defensive energy]. The team that won the Premier League the last four years has shown us how important work-rate is.”Copy linkCopiedMo goals, Mo assistsOptaJoe has revealed that Mo Salah is the first player in Europe’s top five leagues to reach double figures in goals and assists this season.He has 10 of each and has also achieved double figures in both in each of the last four seasons.Copy linkCopiedTrent update?No big update on Trent Alexander-Arnold as yet, with Slot saying they will have to “wait and see” on an update.He said: “We are really happy that most of our players have stayed fit through this tough run. “We have to wait and see how Trent is doing. If I look at the games that are ahead they are tough. It will be a tough season in general.”Margins are small, we have a margin but it is small. Many challenges to come for us.”Copy linkCopiedMore from SlotOn Salah: “I think he has the best numbers from all our attackers. All our attackers have great numbers but Mo stands out in that aspect.”On counter-attacking goals: “The set-pieces are for someone else. It is not the first time Liverpool score from breaks like that because we have players who are so fast.”On Darwin Nunez: “I wondered what would happen if he wasn’t there because Mo was through on goal. Darwin was there and he scored and that’s good for him. With players around him who score so many goals it’s always good as a striker to get on the scoresheet.”Copy linkCopied’It wasn’t easy’Arne Slot has given his verdict of the match on TNT Sports.He said: “It wasn’t easy like most of our games have been now. Aston Villa were maybe not as aggressive as we thought they would be. “We were patient. One thing they are very good at is set-pieces. “In general we had control over the game and scored from two counter-attacks which is maybe not what we would expect.”Copy linkCopiedMore from EmeryThe Spaniard added: “This year a lot of players have come back from long injuries. “We have to try to keep the same positive attitude and mentality and try to accept sometimes results that we have had this week happen.”Copy linkCopied’We are under our level’Aston Villa boss Unai Emery said his team played the way he wanted “more or less” but lamented players who are not the same level as they were last season.He said: “Liverpool dominated sometimes but they did not have a lot of clear chances to score. We did our work and we had the chances to score in the first half, in the second half, and we played more or less in the way I wanted.”We have to keep improving, recover some players who have just come back after long injuries. Some players are not in the same performance level as last year but today they were a bit better.”The league is tight, there are a lot of teams performing very well and we have to accept that we need to improve. We are under our level from last year a little bit but I am still confident.”Copy linkCopiedArne’s strengthMuch has been made of Liverpool’s attacking form this season – with Mo Salah now top of the goal contributions charts after an assist and a goal against Villa.But it is the defensive record that could prove the difference come the end of the season.Liverpool have now kept NINE clean sheets in 17 matches this season, conceding just 10 goals in total.Copy linkCopiedMatch reportHere’s how Phil Thomas saw the game…Copy linkCopied’We were watching the game’In a rare move for a footballer, Alexis Mac Allister revealed that Liverpool were watching his former club Brighton beat title rivals Man City.He added: “I did know, we were watching the game. I am happy for Brighton. I have special feelings for them, I am very grateful. They beat one of the best teams in the world right now but we are not thinking about other teams.”Speaking about Mo Salah, Mac Allister said: “He is so good and so important for the team. He is a legend here. Happy for him and when you have him you know he is going to deliver and get the numbers.”Copy linkCopiedTitle contendersAlexis Mac Allister admits the place Liverpool find themselves in at the minute means they can count themselves as title contenders.He told TNT Sports: “Very big win against a very good team. The goals came in counter-attacks but overall the team played a very good game. “We are happy with it. We know we’re top of the league but there are a lot of teams so we take it step by step.”If we are top of the league by five points then it means something. But we have to go step by step. If you asked me before the season started I would not say we were candidates but now it looks like it.”Copy linkCopiedWhere we standThey had a one-point lead heading into the October break.Now that lead is FIVE for Liverpool going into the November stop.No matter how title rivals Nottingham Forest do tomorrow, they cannot close that gap.Chelsea and Arsenal have a chance to close the gap on Forest and Man City tomorrow when they play one another.Villa in a struggle at the minute.Copy linkCopiedCopying PepUnai Emery is looking to emulate fellow Spaniard Pep Guardiola.Winning European trophies, playing out from the back.And now also, losing four games on the spin. Uh oh….Copy linkCopiedTop of the pile’Liverpool, top of the league. Liverpool, Liverpool top of the league’.That’s the chant around Anfield as the Liverpool players take their acclaim.A huge noise around, they know tonight could be significant.Massive buzz around.Copy linkCopiedFT!Liverpool move FIVE POINTS clear at the top of the Premier League!Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah on the scoresheet in a huge night at Anfield.Liverpool 2-0 Aston VillaCopy linkCopied90 – Liverpool 2-0 Aston VillaFour minutes added on as Villa get themselves a string of set pieces but make a mess of the lot of them.Kelleher claiming the latest under zero pressure.Copy linkCopiedMo of the sameOne assistOne goalOne hell of a playerCopy linkCopied84 – GOAL! LIVERPOOL 2-0 Aston VillaThe Reds are moving five points clear!Pau Torres throws himself to ground in the Liverpool box in frighteningly embarrassing fashion for a centre back.Cringing watching it back for him. Liverpool then clear it into Villa’s half and Diego Carlos as the last man heads it off Salah who bursts clean through.He has two men to square it to for a tap-in, but MO SALAH drives at Martinez and waits for the keeper to sit down before cheekily dinking it over him into the net.Torres still looking for a penalty. The only one he should get is a fine from his manager for that.Three points staying in Merseyside.Copy linkCopied82 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaAgain, nothing comes of the corner.Copy linkCopied81 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaLiverpool break in a 4v1 scenario to kill the game, but that one is Ezri Konsa and he does superbly well to win it.He even falls over and keeps possession to kick it forward.Villa then come forward on the counter again where Duran wins another corner.Copy linkCopiedSeeking the spotlightAustin MacPhee one of several set piece coaches in this division absolutely desperate to show he does something.He’s jumping up and down, waving his arms as Villa get ready to take a corner.The first one they take short and make a mess of it and are lucky to win another.The second time it doesn’t beat the first man. Austin quickly retreats to his seat, and rightfully so…Copy linkCopied76 – Liverpool 1-0 Aston VillaVilla become the counter side this time as Liverpool press for a second.Duran and Maatsen combine to get Philogene away in a 1v1 with Robertson. The defender stands up the Villa man and Diaz works back tirelessly to nick it off his toe.Excellent tracking back and something Liverpool have done ever so well to put themselves in this place at the summit.Copy linkCopied More

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      Newcastle ace Kieran Trippier enjoys night out with stunning group of party girls amid marriage woes

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      NEWCASTLE United’s Kieran Trippier has a night out on the Toon after his team’s win over Arsenal.The footie star, 34, chatted to four women but seemed more sedate than on a previous night out, when he was seen hoisting a blonde girl aloft. Kieran Trippier was seen with a group of party girls in a Newcastle bar, who were hanging on his every wordCredit: XTrippier wore the same jacket earlier in the day as he embraced Arsenal pals at matchCredit: Wife Charlotte has since moved out and the pair do not wear their wedding ringsCredit: GettyThat outing — in May last year — fuelled rumours about his marriage to wife Charlotte. She has since moved 200 miles away and the pair have ditched their wedding rings.Kieran is pictured at Newcastle’s Stack bar last Saturday wearing the same £2,000 Gucci jacket he wore pitchside on TV while greeting Arsenal pals just hours earlier.A fan who was in the bar said of the footie star: “He wasn’t in the VIP area. READ MORE ON KIERAN TRIPPIER”He looked relaxed and was enjoying the attention.“He was deep in conversation. There was lots of laughing and joking.”They appeared to be hanging on his every word.”Earlier in the day Newcastle had beaten Arsenal 1-0, with a goal from striker Alexander Isak.Most read in FootballStunning party girl caught up in Newcastle ace Kieran Trippier’s marriage riddle revealed as tattooed call centre workerNewcastle United star Trippier looked relaxed as he laughed and joked with the girls, a fan saidCredit: EPA More

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      Andy Carroll puts £8.5m mansion up for sale amid fury from wife Billi Mucklow as he moves on with new love

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      FOOTIE’S Andy Carroll has put his £8.5million house up for sale amid fury from estranged wife Billi Mucklow.Billi, 36, has told pals she does not want him turning up unannounced since he moved out.Andy Carroll has put his £8.5million house up for sale amid fury from estranged wife Billi MucklowCredit: GettyAndy has moved on with celebrity make-up artist Lou TeasdaleShe is also angry at how he has moved on with celebrity make-up artist Lou Teasdale, 42 — and feels he is flaunting their romance.Carroll, now with French side Bordeaux, bought the six-bed house in Essex from singer Sir Rod Stewart five years ago for £4.1million.A source said: “Billi has been left hurt and blind-sided that Andy appears to have moved on so quickly with Lou. It feels very public and embarrassing, especially as they only split in summer.“Billi has a close-knit family and they have been left livid with Andy over his lack of loyalty, but are rallying around her to support her.Read More on Sport“Billi wants to cut ties but she doesn’t like the idea that Andy can come and go as he pleases.”She realises the house is part of their divorce discussions, but she doesn’t want him turning up unannounced, particularly with his new girlfriend.”The house is set in 25 acres and boasts a pool, tennis court, boating lake and football pitch. We told how the couple, who have three children aged nine, six, and four, had split in September. Most read in FootballHe was pictured with Lou soon after.  Ex-Liverpool, Newcastle and England striker Carroll got engaged to Billi in 2014 and they married in 2022.Billi’s fury over Carroll’s girlThe wedding was almost called off after a picture emerged of him passed out in bed with two women on his stag do.Billi forgave him when one of the women insisted nothing sexual happened. More

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      Thomas Tuchel in talks with Marcus Rashford over England lifeline and says ace could have helped Three Lions WIN Euros

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      NEW England boss Thomas Tuchel has handed Marcus Rashford an olive branch.The German told the Manchester United forward that he wants him  in his Three Lions squad  — as long as he keeps his form up.Marcus Rashford has a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad – as long as he performs for Man UtdCredit: AFPTuchel reckons England lost Euro 2024 because Gareth Southgate axed Rashford from his squadCredit: GettyThe left-sider has not played for England since March’s friendly defeat to BrazilCredit: GettyTuchel, who starts work in January, made contact with Rashford’s camp and confirmed he is a huge admirer of the striker.A source revealed: “Tuchel contacted Marcus and his representatives and told them he saw Marcus as an essential part of the England squad.“He said he believed a big part of England’s failure to win Euro 2024 was not having Marcus as an option.“Other teams fear his abilities and Tuchel said he believed without Rashford, England didn’t offer a strong attacking threat on the left and that made them easier to play against as a lot of the ball came down the right.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“Tuchel is a huge admirer of Marcus. It’s a great boost for him and another encouragement to try and get back to his best.”Rashford, 27, was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad after scoring just eight times last season. But the striker has already bagged four goals and three assists in a struggling United team this term.And he is doing extra one-to-one training in an effort to regain his form and fitness.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRashford is likely to get the chance to impress Tuchel when United take on Leicester on Sunday.His last appearance came from the bench in Thursday’s Europa League win over PAOK.Thomas Tuchel ‘was NOT England’s first choice and Pep Guardiola could still get the job’Southgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Rashford has four goals in 17 games this season, with just one strike coming in the Premier League.And he was left out of Lee Carsley’s final England squad for the upcoming Nations League games with Greece and the Republic of Ireland.Rashford has 17 goals in 60 caps for England after making his debut in 2016.But he has played just once for his country this year, with his last appearance coming in March’s friendly defeat to Brazil.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel. More

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      Liverpool 2 Aston Villa 0: Reds march on in huge clash but win marred by worrying Alexander-Arnold blow

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      ARNE SLOT insisted the era of heavy metal football was over – yet for two madcap, marauding moments the speakers went back on.For no more than a flash and a flicker…but still enough to send Liverpool five points clear after a Red arrows raid that had all the hallmarks of the previous Anfield gaffer.Liverpool continued their fine form with a 2-0 win over Aston VillaCredit: GettyThe Reds are now five points clear at the top of the tableCredit: AFPArne Slot brought back memories of heavy metal football to AnfieldCredit: PAUnai Emery saw Villa rack up their fourth defeat in a rowCredit: GettyA couple of rampant end-to-end counter thrusts served up every week under Jurgen Klopp, finished by a Darwin Nunez piledriver and a magical Mo Salah clip for a 2-0 win.Ever since Slot stepped into Klopp’s shoes, the gameplan has been more methodical than mayhem. The days of 100mph, in-your-face football aren’t the Dutchman’s style.How ironic, then, that it took a breakaway goal straight from the Klopp handbook for them to find a way to break the deadlock.A length-of-the-field assault stemming from a Villa corner, and a finish which threatened to take the net from its moorings.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt was certainly enough to send Anfield wild. Although to be fair, that stunning Brighton win had got this place buzzing half an hour before they even kicked off on Merseyside.You know those famous European evenings they speak of so fondly here? Well there was a very similar air to events last night, thanks to that result at the Amex Stadium.It was as though every Kopite realised that what they initially felt would be just one more step down a nine-month journey, could actually be a giant stride instead.Make no mistake, there was that feel about it all. Knowing this was a chance to open up daylight on City going into the international break.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAgainst a side whose form as they arrived in town couldn’t have offered a starker contrast to the Reds, either after four games without a win – the last three of them losses.The perfect setting for an Anfield onslaught, you thought. For Liverpool to tear out of the traps and put their opponents on the canvas before they know it.Liverpool have put Jurgen Klopp’s sprawling £4million home for sale – after Anfield successor Arne Slot turned it down.Only the 2024-25 version doesn’t tend to do that. It is a more measured, pick-your-moments one.Mind you, when those moments arrive, the end product is just as devastating as any of those blow-your-socks off days under Klopp. As we saw after 20 minutes.Liverpool were actually defending a corner when it broke to Virgil van Dijk a couple of yards outside his own box.The Reds skipper didn’t need to pause, didn’t need to look up. He knew Mo Salah would be on his bike and clipped the most measured of balls for the Egyptian.Darwin Nunez opened the scoring after 20 minutesCredit: EPAHe put the finishing touches on a counter-attack reminiscent of the Jurgen Klopp daysCredit: PASalah went stumbling courtesy of the backtracking Leon Bailey…but not before he had slid a pass forward to Darwin Nunez.And although a rather hefty first touch initially seemed to have taken him too wide as he rounded keeper Emi Martinez, Nunez spun and smashed in the opener.In a nano-second yells for Bailey to be sent off turned to screams of celebration at the breakthrough.And credit to referee David Coote as well, for letting play continue when Bailey laid a hand on Salah’s back.Although perhaps that is being a little kind to the official, as it was hard to say whether he was waving play on or to signal there had been no foul by the Villa man.Thank Heavens, then, that Nunez buried the chance. No case to answer…and no chance of keeping out a thunderbolt that nearly took the net from its moorings.Only a second Prem goal of the season for the Uruguayan forward – and ten minutes later he really should have been celebrating a third.Again it stemmed from a Villa corner, and again they were sliced open by a lightning strike. Excusable once, but a second time? No wonder manager Emery looked ready to explode.Mo Salah made sure of the result with a strike in the 84th minuteCredit: GettyHe celebrated with Reds fans after sending his side well clear of Man CityCredit: GettyHe surely would have done if the finish from Nunez had been as deadly as his first, too, when Salah once more sent him scooting clear.But this time, for all it was a far kinder angle to the left of the penalty spot, he blazed over and Villa breathed again.You still never really felt it would come back to haunt Liverpool. Yet minutes later it so very nearly did.Again it was a Villa corner, but this time Lucas Digne’s delivery found Amadou Onana’s head, and Caoimhin Kelleher produced a fine reaction save to tip it over.Trent Alexander-Arnold hobbled off with an injuryCredit: RexHe is now a doubt for England’s upcoming Nations League matchesCredit: AFPAnd the Liverpool keeper did the same again soon after, when Digne whipped over another that would have gone in without a touch had he not been so alert.Just as Ryan Gravenberch was when he threw himself to block Ollie Watkins when he seemed certain to bury the follow-up.The lead remained intact – but not until four minutes from time could they ever relax. And wouldn’t you know, it took another full length raid to bring it about.There was a hefty slice of luck when Diego Carlos headed against Salah on halfway, and the Kop striker went streaking through.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was a bad night at the office for Aston VillaCredit: ReutersEmi Martinez and Co have now lost four on the bounceCredit: AFPBut there was nothing fortunate about his finish, waiting for Martinez to commit before dinking into the far corner.Job done – once it was confirmed, with Pau Torres laughingly trying to claim a penalty at the other end – and five points clear. More