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    Meet £25m Man Utd target Lorenzo Lucca who’s dubbed ‘Tower of Pisa’ at 6ft 7in and annoyed team-mates with selfish act

    HE is the giant striker known as the “Tower of Pisa” who grew up idolising TWO Manchester United strikers.And while Lorenzo Lucca might have shown he knows how to Pisa-off ALL his team-mates with one act of selfishness this season, he could yet prove to be the answer to Ruben Amorim’s problems up front.Man Utd have made 6ft 7in striker Lorenzo Lucca one of their top targets for the summerCredit: GettyThe Udinese frontman would be a steal at £25mCredit: GettyThe 6ft 7in Lucca, 24, has emerged as a prime candidate as United plan for a cost-efficient summer refit, with a £25m fee mooted.With 12 goals for Udinese this season, catapulting him into the Italy squad for the first time, Lucca has shown he can stand out for more than just his Peter Crouch-like height.And now the boy who had pictures of both Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic on his bedroom wall is in line to become the next Old Trafford totem.In Italy, there is excitement about what Lucca can achieve.Italian football expert Tancredi Palmeri told Sun Sport: “What fans like about Lucca is that we don’t produce strikers of his type any more.“He has exploded onto the scene over the past two seasons because he is seen as a classic centre-forward, old school. There is nobody here like him.”Born on the outskirts of Turin, Lucca joined Torino’s set-up at the age of eight, leaving after seven years before returning to the club in 2018, before a prolific loan spell in Brescia’s youth team.A free transfer to Palermo, relegated to Serie D after financial chaos but swiftly ascending the Italian pyramid, was the launchpad – not that he needs one to be noticed.Lucca’s Serie A stats this seasonCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLucca scored 13 goals in Serie C to earn a £2m move to Pisa, where his frame brought the nickname comparison with the city’s world-renowned landmark.While Lucca only scored six in his first Serie B season, he caught the eye of Ajax, becoming the first Italian to ever play for the Amsterdam giants.Ruben Amorim’s Garnacho dilemma explained ahead of Manchester derbyLucca scored 13 goals in Serie C to earn a £2m move to Pisa in 2021Credit: GettyIt was, in truth, a mixed stay. Lucca struggled to make an impact under Erik ten Hag’s replacement Alfred Schreuder, making just 16 appearances.Frustrated at one point, Lucca posted – and then swiftly deleted – a photo of him giving a two-fingered salute that was interpreted as a message aimed at the coach.Looking back, Lucca admitted: “Maybe I arrived at the wrong time.It was cold, it rained often. The culture is very different. You eat early. People are closed.”Preparation for Manchester, possibly? But there was a positive impact, too. He added: “Having lived in Amsterdam for a year, I understand English well. And I also learned to speak Spanish.”Lucca spent the 2022/2023 season on loan with AjaxCredit: GettyDespite scoring just twice, Udinese pounced, taking him on an initial one year loan with an £8m option that they took up after eight goals last season, his first in the top flight.Lucca took to the responsibilities, becoming an aerial threat upsetting Serie A defenders but also with the pace to get away from his markers.Palmeri explained: “Lucca had nearly moved to Sassuolo before he went to Ajax but they argued over £2m, when Pisa asked for £12m and they didn’t want to pay that much.“But as soon as he arrived at Udinese people started noticing. He got into the under-21 side and this January he was on the radar of both Juventus and Milan.“They didn’t go for him in the end because Juve signed Randal Kolo Muani and Milan took Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord but Italian clubs will be keen again this summer.”That is despite the moment of notoriety that saw Lucca’s image going viral.It came in a match with Lecce, when Udinese were awarded a first half penalty.Skipper and former France winger Florian Thauvin was the club’s designated penalty taker but Lucca, looking for his 10th Serie A goal of the campaign, took hold of the ball and refused to let go, much to the disbelief and anger of his team-mates.While Lucca smashed into the top corner, none of his team-mates joined his celebrations, with Thauvin ripping off his armband and asking to be taken off.Palmeri added: “It was clear how angry everyone was with him.“Almost instantly, there was a counter-attack chance but the Udinese players simply refused to pass the ball to him.“That was enough for the coach, who took him off when the ball went out of play. Lucca looked like a guilty kid.”Lorenzo Lucca stole a penalty from designated taker and club captain Florian Thauvin in FebruaryThe striker was booked during the incidentIt was a sliding doors moment, with the coach, Kosta Runjaic, making an example of his top scorer.Runjaic recalled: “Sometimes you need rule-breakers – but not at that moment, in that situation.“He didn’t follow the rules, so I took him off. Then, afterwards, we had a very good discussion. He told me how sorry he felt and he’s shown that since.”Lucca did exactly that, making a public apology to Thauvin and his team-mates with a social media post that read: “I wanted to be tough but, on my own, I’m nobody..”There was genuine repentance, demonstrated when, in Udinese’s next game, another spot-kick was awarded.This time, Lucca got involved in a spat with the Parma defenders who were trying to get into Thauvin’s head, forcing them away before the skipper netted and joining in a genuine team celebration.Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic forced Lucca off after he defied the captain’s ordersCredit: RexLucca maintains: “During the games there is so much adrenaline.“I was excited. In that moment I felt like going to the spot and I did it, scored and we brought home the three points.”I’m a striker. I always want to score. If I don’t score, I’m in a bad mood all week.“But before Parma, I spoke to the coach and we cleared things up. I recognised that when it came to penalties, Thauvin had priority.”Runjaic, too, is aware that he must make the most of Lucca before his inevitable departure.He said: “Any coach of any team at a high level would like to have a striker with his profile.“He is so dangerous in the box, great in the air – maybe the best header of a ball in football.“But he is equally good on the ground, too. And he keeps on improving.”Yet still with a mind on those idols of his youth.Lucca idolised Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic growing upCredit: GettyLucca admitted: “In life I would ask to take a photo with only two people, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic.“What I always loved with both of them was their charisma. I would like that to be the way I play as well.“I know what people say about me because of my size but I don’t see myself as a rare pearl.“At the same time, compared to many others, I have a particular physique and technical and aerial qualities.“I am convinced that I can do great things.“For now my priority is Udinese. But I know that if I keep working and scoring goals, opportunities will come. After all, who doesn’t aim for a big team?”READ MORE MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWSUnited need new strikers just two years after signing Rasmus Hojlund from Serie A side Atlanta in 2023 More

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    ‘I thought you were 40’ – Filip Hrgovic in hilarious back and forth over Joe Joyce’s age as he vows to KO ‘old’ Brit

    JOE JOYCE is out to prove that age is just a number – after Filip Hrgovic tried to put years on him. Joyce returns on Saturday in Manchester in a make-or-break clash with his career on the line. Filip Hrgovic had a hilarious exchange over Joe Joyce’s ageCredit: GettyJoyce fights Hrgovic in ManchesterCredit: GettyAnd he does so against Hrgovic – who was beaten by Joyce in a 2013 amateur bout. The two go way back, but still the travelling Croatian still does not know how old his British rival is. Hrgovic said: “Man’s, he’s 40 years old.”But Joyce hit back: “Actually, 39. But near enough.”READ MORE IN BOXINGHrgovic, 32, said with a smile: “Okay, I didn’t know. If he’s 39 then he’s young. “I thought you were 40. But, look, he’s definitely not at the peak of his career and fighters get old and that’s just the reality. “I’m seven years younger and I think it’s going to play a role in this fight.”Hrgovic returns as a beaten fighter for the first time having been stopped in eight rounds by Daniel Dubois, 27, last June. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSJoyce meanwhile lost a punishing points decision to Derek Chisora, 41, a month later to leave his career in the balance. But he looks to KO any retirement talk by getting back to winning ways against Hrgovic. Boxer flips table as Joe Joyce vs Filip Hrgovic press conference descends into chaos Joyce said: “It’s a good fight. It’s good to share the ring with Hrgovic again – we had a good scrap last time, 12 years ago. “The same result is going to happen. I’m going to win and then get elevated back to the top of the sport.”Hrgovic stepped in for Dillian Whyte, 36, who pulled out with an injured finger. He said: “It was short notice. I had just a few weeks. But I was already in good shape. That is why I accepted this fight. “I think it’s a good opportunity for me and this win will hopefully bring me back to the top. “I’m looking forward to winning on Saturday, knocking him out, and getting back to the top. That’s the plan.” Joyce facing off with HrgovicCredit: Getty More

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    World Cup 2030 stadium that will rival Bernabeu and Nou Camp looks unrecognisable during major refurbishment

    A FLAGSHIP World Cup 2030 venue is poised to complete an incredible transformation.Barcelona and Real Madrid will open the new-look La Cartuja Stadium on April 26.La Cartuja stadium has had its famous athletics track removedRenovation is now in its final stages ahead of an April 26 re-openingThe capacity of the venue in Seville will swell by more than 15,000 seats to 72kThe site in Seville was built for the 1999 World Athletics Championships.But there will be few signs of its famous track and field pedigree once the revamp is finished.The athletics track has been ditched – as just one of several major changes.The stand-out development is an increase in capacity by more than 15,000 to 72k.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd a new ring of stands has been installed to underline the dramatic re-think.Spain’s sporting chiefs reckon it will be their third main venue at the World Cup in five years’ time, behind only the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.La Cartuja was also a key part of Seville’s bid to host the summer Olympics in 2004 and 2008.The area in southern Spain is often called “Europe’s hottest city”.Most read in FootballUS sprinter Michael Johnson set a staggering world 400m record at the venue in 1999 and returned here in 2019 for the anniversaryCredit: RexBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut although athletics has warmed to the venue, La Cartuja’s stature was not enough to win the Games for Seville.However, it did host a thrilling 2003 Uefa Cup final, in which Porto beat Celtic 3-2 – when a little-known and now-abandoned rule came into play.Arteta gives worrying Gabriel injury update as Arsenal sweat on four defenders ahead of Real Madrid clashEntering extra time at 2-2, the Scottish giants then had notorious hardman Bobo Balde sent off.It gave Porto hope of triumphing with a “silver goal” – whereby the team leading after the first additional 15 minutes takes the trophy.But the Portuguese club failed to net in that quarter of an hour.Instead Porto went on to win 3-2, thanks to Derlei hitting his second goal of the night shortly before the end of the second added period.Seville boasts two LaLiga clubs in Sevilla and Real Betis, but both use their own grounds.Nonetheless, La Cartuja is Spain’s fifth largest sports stadium and the national team occasionally play there.And when Betis were banned from their Manuel Ruiz de Lopera stadium in 2007, they switched to the bigger venue for a game against Villarreal.Not only that, Betis will temporarily use the ground again while their own Benito Villamarín stadium is redeveloped later this year.La Cartuja has hosted two Davis Cup finals in tennis, four Copa del Rey finals from 2020 to 2023 and was used at Euro 2020.And it was there that athletics saw one of the great world records of modern time.Read More on The SunAmerican legend Michael Johnson clocked 43.18 seconds for the 400m in 1999, a time unsurpassed until South African Wayde van Niekerk ran 43.03 in Rio 17 years later. But the finest hour for La Cartuja is scheduled to arrive a decade after that – when the World Cup comes to Spain for only the second time ever.A new ring of stands has been added to the 26-year-old groundThe stadium is on the the island of La Cartuja More

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    I won a major trophy with Chelsea and got sacked months later… nothing has changed in 27 years

    THE HEAT is on Enzo Maresca at Chelsea.And Ruud Gullit knows what that is like when a manager is under pressure.Ruud Gullit won the FA Cup with Chelsea – only to get the boot months laterCredit: PA:Empics SportEnzo Maresca is feeling the heat at Chelsea in the run-inCredit: PAGullit gave Chelsea their first major trophy in 26 years but things unraveled at speedCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe former Chelsea and Newcastle boss left both jobs against his will, when results, players and fans turned against him.Gullit was sacked by former chairman Ken Bates in February 1998, despite winning the FA Cup the previous year- the club’s first major trophy for 26 long years.And he fears nothing much has changed at Chelsea in the 27 years since, despite changes in ownership and years of success.The Dutch legend is unconvinced that Maresca and the Stamford Bridge hierarchy are aligned.Today’s home clash with Spurs, the one club Chelsea fans HAVE to beat, could develop into a tipping point moment.In a wide-ranging interview, Gullit, now a member of the Laureus Academy, questioned the direction of his former club.And Gullit, 62, also told Sun Sport he feels Ruben Amorim needs time at Manchester United, that the Marcus Rashford “backlash” explains why players do not speak out on social issues and how he cannot understand Liverpool fans piling in on Trent Alexander-Arnold.GULLIT ON…….CHELSEAChelsea to me, still, is a little bit of an enigma. I don’t know really how good they are or how bad they are.They are looking for their identity a little bit.They are trying to creep up the table and maybe in the long term they will be contenders for the title.Chelsea legend Gullit becomes ‘instant meme’ as video of him staring at wine drinker who shakes waiter’s hand goes viral But I don’t know yet where they are exactly.People tell me that one of the problems with Chelsea is that they change the manager all the time – so tell me something new!I don’t get it. I don’t get what they really, really want. Even if they are successful, they still sack you as a coach.So I don’t know. That’s why I say Chelsea’s still an enigma. I try to find out what they stand for, what is their philosophy and what is the football they want us to watch?They haven’t got that yet, they just don’t have it.A lot of things start with your roots.You cannot always buy success. It’s very difficult to buy success and you have to sometimes wait and retain a certain philosophy.Maybe Chelsea just started with this philosophy, because now they want young players.But they aren’t players coming from the academy. They have been bought and you need to have patience.At least when Mourinho was there, you knew what was going on. You could love it or you could hate it, but at least you knew what you’re going to confront.They had a fantastic and very successful team.But now we don’t know what the way up is. Still, we don’t know.MANCHESTER UNITEDGullit believes United should give Ruben Amorim a full season to show his credentialsCredit: AlamyThe most difficult job for any manager is if you come in half-way through a season, like Ruben Amorim did at United.Especially if you arrive when the team is already in difficulty.I understand that you don’t know if that train will come by again, so you think ‘Okay, I have to step onto the train now – it’s Manchester United and I might not get the chance again’.But coming in half way through has been very difficult and to be fair to Ruben we have to judge him next season, when he has the chance to do his preparation, can buy the players he wants and get rid of the players he doesn’t like.It’s been tough. The reality is that you can ruin your reputation coming in at the point he did with a team in trouble.So it’s hard to make any real difference – although you do get exceptions, like the job David Moyes has done at Everton – but most of the time you can’t make a lot of difference.He hasn’t had the chance to really show what he can do there.He needs to have another season, from the summer, to work on the things that he needs to work on, get the players that he needs to play. Then we can really judge him.SPANISH DOMINATIONReal Madrid could win yet another Champions League crown this seasonCredit: AlamyThe two best teams in football are from Spain – the national team and Real Madrid.They are both exceptional and that’s why they are the big contenders for the Laureus World Sports Team of the Year Award.We saw Spain in the Euros, how good they were, especially Lamine Yamal, who is another nominee and is an unbelievable talent.It is why I see Spanish football is dominating again. They are incredible.But what I do like about Real Madrid is how they can transform themselves in the course of a season.Before Christmas, they looked like they might go out of the Champions League early.Now you look at them and think they will win it AGAIN.MARCUS RASHFORDMarcus Rashford is hoping to kickstart his career at Aston VillaCredit: RexOne of the problems with being a sportsman is that you only have a short career. You have maybe 16 years and you have to live for that.You can’t be a sportsman and a politician or an activist.Look at Marcus Rashford. He did a great job in England with his project on school meals. He was leading a very good cause, helping the kids in schools.But he suffered the backlash, where he was accused of being too busy with other things to concentrate on his football.That was ridiculous, awful, horrible.It just shows that sportsmen to talk about politics or human rights is so difficult, because of what follows, even when you are doing something for all the right reasons.All the time the criticism is that footballers have nothing to say. But this is why – because if you do say something your words get used against you. So you can never win.LIVERPOOLArne Slot’s Liverpool are marching towards the Premier League titleCredit: EPAI didn’t anticipate Arne Slot would be so successful.But one of the reasons he has done so well is the set-up he walked into at Liverpool.Liverpool knew exactly what Jurgen Klopp was about and what he would do.He was hired because he would bring a certain way of playing football. They played four-three-three, attacking football, and were very successful.And when Jurgen said he was leaving, they went out to get a new coach who does exactly the same.’A brilliant failure’ – Incredible footage of Arne Slot’s craziest coaching idea resurfaces from his playing daysYes, a few of the small details are a bit different, but most of the things are just exactly the same.That should be done by a lot of clubs.First, decide your DNA as a club, how you want to play and then put the right coaches in place. That’s exactly what Liverpool did.Arne has done exceptionally well. I didn’t know if he was going to do this, and the majority of people are surprised that it’s gone well.But if you know Slot, and I do, he’s a nice guy. He’s very educated, talks well, speaks perfect English, so he doesn’t have to translate from Dutch to English.He’s just a good guy. Psychologically, he’s very good with the team. So I’m very happy for him.TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLDTrent Alexander-Arnold is preparing to swap Merseyside for the Spanish capitalCredit: GettyThe reaction to him moving to Real Madrid is strange to me – something I don’t understand.Maybe it’s me but I just don’t get why there’s been so much criticism on him.Look – the biggest club in the world wants him, simple as that.You can also say to him, ‘You’ve been great for us but congratulations, go and do well there’.Why is that not possible? Why is that so strange?After all, it was only a few months ago that he wasn’t in the team and everybody wanted to see Conor Bradley playing at right-back.Now, all of a sudden, because Alexander-Arnold wants to go to Real Madrid, everybody is upset.I don’t understand that.We are talking Real Madrid, the best club in the world. It’s a fantastic move for him. Be happy for him.I just don’t get all the fuss. If he was leaving for a lesser club than Liverpool, just for the money, then maybe. But it’s Real Madrid. Real Madrid!*Ruud Gullit is a member of the Laureus Sports Academy and speaking ahead of the Laureus World Sports Awards, the “Oscars of Sport” taking place in Madrid next month More

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    Gary Lineker reveals plans for life after Match of the Day with just nine shows left until he steps down

    GARY LINEKER outlined his plans after rolling credits on his glittering 26-year run as Match of the Day presenter.Lineker, 64, will step down from MOTD in May and will leave the Beeb altogether in 2026 after next season’s FA Cup and World Cup.Gary Lineker outlined his plans after leaving Match of the Day in MayCredit: YOUTUBE / The Rest Is FootballLineker wants to travel and focus on his podcasts after leaving TVCredit: AlamyThere was speculation suggesting the famous host would be switching to Sky Sports but he recently quashed those rumours.The England legend was asked again about his future plans on the latest episode of The Rest is Football pod where he teamed up with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.A viewer sent a cheeky question to the Leicester hero asking him if he was planning to cover the Championship in a MOTD-style show while his favourite Premier League team is fighting to avoid relegation.Lineker was asked: “Gary, would you do a MOTD style show for the Championship next season so you can finally enjoy Leicester again?”Read More on FootballBut the Tottenham legend proved to be a good sport once more as he laughed it off.Lineker responded: “Alright, we’re not relegated yet, thanks. Well – one – we don’t have the rights on the BBC to show the Championship. And secondly, no thanks.”Shearer and Richards, though, had a follow-up question as they asked their fellow host what he will be doing with his weekends now that he will finally have Saturdays and Sundays off.And the ex-Barcelona star revealed he is planning to enjoy his free time by travelling.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLineker replied: “I was thinking the same thing because I’ve never really had weekends off in my adult life.”So I think I’ll be alright. I will go out to eat on Saturday night, have dinner. I’ll have little weekend trips away, possibly some places. Lots of places to go to – food trips, all that sort of stuff. I think I’ll be alright.”‘I don’t like it’ – Gary Lineker has wild reaction after spotting ex-Match of the Day star at Baller League launchShearer asked if he will continue working on TV but Lineker insists he is done with that outlet as there’s nothing better than Match of the Day and echoed his plans to focus on his podcasts.Lineker joked: “No, I’ve got a podcast to do with a couple of clowns and I’m obviously a podcast magnet. It’s not just this podcast, we’ve got lots of others as well.”I’m stepping away from Match of the Day. I mean, where do you go from there? So I think, that’ll do. Thank you very much.”I mean, never say never. Who knows what might pop. But at the moment I’m thinking, ‘No, that’s it. Television’s done’.” More

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    ‘Horrible’ – Christian Horner reveals heartache at ‘cruel’ sacking of F1 star and ‘taking away his dreams’

    RED BULL team principal Christian Horner has admitted that he found it “horrible” axing Liam Lawson after just two races.Lawson replaced Sergio Perez at Red Bull in December after finishing the 2024 season with Racing Bulls, the constructor’s sister team.Christian Horner has opened up about his decision to axe Liam LawsonCredit: GettyLawson was demoted from Red Bull to Racing Bulls just two races into the seasonCredit: AFPHowever, the 23-year-old found himself out of the seat last week after being axed just two races into the current campaign.He will swap places with Yuki Tsunoda from this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix and return to Racing Bulls where he will partner rookie Isack Hadjar.Horner, the chief decision maker at Red Bull, has admitted it was “cruel” demoting Lawson but claims it was for the driver’s own good.The Brit told Sky Sports: “Of course, it’s horrible because you’re taking away someone’s dreams and aspirations, but sometimes you’ve got to be cruel to be kind, and I think that in this instance, this is not the end for Liam.READ MORE ON F1″I was very clear with him, is that it’s a sample of two races. I think that we’ve asked too much of you too soon.”We have to accept, I think we were asking too much of him too soon.”And so this is for him to, again, nurture that talent that we know that he has, back in the Racing Bulls seat, whilst giving Yuki the opportunity and looking to make use of the experience that he has.”Horner went on to reveal that both he and the engineers at Red Bull were “concerned” about how much Lawson appeared to be struggling throughout the opening two race weekends.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe continued: “I think with everything that we saw in Australia and China, you could see that it was really affecting Liam quite badly.”We could have left it, and I think that Liam is a driver with talent.Max Verstappen takes to the stage at F1 launch event at the O2 “Maybe within half a season he would have got there, but we just don’t have that amount of time.”It was something that was very clear to the engineering side within the team, just how much Liam was struggling with it all, and you could see that weight upon his shoulders.”The engineers were coming to me very concerned about it, and at the end of the day, I think it was the logical thing to do.”Lawson, meanwhile, didn’t expect the decision to be made so soon.He said: “It was definitely a shock, honestly. It’s not something that I saw coming.”The discussions we were having as well, I think, weren’t really leaning in this direction, so it was definitely not something that I sort of expected.Lawson admitted he didn’t see it comingCredit: AP”Obviously, I would have loved more time.”And I felt like with more time, especially going to places that I’d been before… it was a tough start.”We had a rocky testing. We had a rocky first weekend in Melbourne with practice. And then obviously China was a Sprint.Read More on The Sun”I think going to places that I’d been before with the way the car was quite tricky, I think that would have helped and I would have loved that opportunity.”But obviously, it’s not my decision, so I’m here to make the most of this one.” More

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    Forgotten man Mason Mount’s timely Man Utd return ahead of summer cull could make him perfect answer for two managers

    MASON Mount may have become something of a forgotten man in the minds of many Manchester United fans.But the returning midfielder is firmly at the forefront of the thinking of the two managers he needs to impress.Mason Mount won his first minutes since December on Tuesday nightMount replaced Joshua Zirkzee in the 78th minuteThe 26-year-old midfielder almost made it 1-1 within minutesRuben Amorim has spoken about his ‘love’ for MountMount returned to pitch for the first time in THREE months in the dying embers of United’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Tuesday night.The 26-year-old replaced Joshua Zirkzee in the 78th minute – and was inches away from finding an equaliser almost instantly.He was involved in United’s flurry of chances in the final ten minutes, including Harry Maguire’s effort that was cleared off the line by Murillo in the last kick of the game.And Mount’s return couldn’t have come at a better time, or under a better manager, who is still juggling and shifting his 4-3-3 system.With United set to make sweeping squad changes in the summer, the once-loved England star has a great chance to stake his claim to a place as one of Amorim’s No 10s.In fact, the former Sporting Lisbon manager adores Mount – he said so himself.Amorim revealed: “I really love Mason because I have seen how much he suffers, but also how he does everything right…how he eats, how he lives.“When a player does that, they will always have the support of everyone at the club – and you must remember, he was a European champion and very talented.”And if Mount can prove his injury woes are finally behind him, you will not see anyone outside his immediate family smile wider than Thomas Tuchel.As Tuchel gathered his first England squad at St George’s Park last month, ahead of the World Cup qualifying wins over Albania and Latvia, the absence of Mount was hardly a shock.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim hails ‘perfect captain’ Bruno Fernandes after hat-trick heroics against Real Sociedad Indeed, his last appearance in an England shirt came more than two and a half years ago.While everybody recalls Harry Kane blazing his second penalty against France over Hugo Lloris’ bar in the final moments of the World Cup quarter-final defeat in Doha, only a few will remember how it was a VAR review for Theo Hernandez’s barge on Mount that led to the spot-kick being awarded.Mount had made himself an England regular, starting the group games against Iran and USA and with 36 caps and five goals to his name before his 24th birthday.He also started the Euro 2020 final against Italy, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat at Wembley.Since then, his career has stalled, a pubic bone issue curtailing the final half-season in SW6 before his £55m move to United, where he has made just NINE Prem starts in 20 months.Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford in November could have been a springboard and Mount played the final four minutes of the 1-1 draw at Ipswich in the Portuguese manager’s first game.But Mount lasted just 14 minutes of the 2-1 Manchester derby win at City before Christmas, his last taste of action.United have played 98 games since Mount signed but he has missed more than half of them, leading to a feeling from many that, if there has to be a cull of the squad to fund a rebuild this summer, he will be among those considered dispensable.Mount lasted just 14 minutes of the Manchester derby win in DecemberThe midfielder was devastated after only just returning from injury a week priorNot so. Indeed, Amorim was thrilled to have Mount – unused – back on the bench at Leicester before the international break.The United boss said: “The fact is we need players like him. Maybe he can’t play too much, too soon – but even five minutes of Mason Mount is perfect.”Such words can only help Mount on a personal as well as a footballing level. And it will be a similar situation with the new England boss.Tuchel’s praise of Mount during their Champions League-winning time together at Chelsea signalled a bond of trust.The German said: “Mason has the full package mentally, in terms of talent and physically. And the most important part is his character. “He has both feet on the ground and he’s a nice guy. He came to training every day to learn something new and have a new experience.“Mason is a guy who can recover very fast. He is a very physical player, who has self-confidence but in a positive way.“It was a pleasure to have him, to be at his side and guide and support him.“The most important part was that he was not affected by all the praise. He feels an obligation to make the most of himself and wants it absolutely badly. It’s a top mix.”That relationship was fostered from an unpromising beginning – when the first interaction between the pair was a ruck over team selection.Even five minutes of Mason Mount is perfect.Ruben AmorimWhen Tuchel arrived at Chelsea he wanted the reassurance of more experience in his team. That meant players like veteran Cesar Azpilicueta who had not played much under previous manager Frank Lampard, and midfielder Jorginho.Mount was having none of it and pointedly told his manager so. Adding that in previous weeks he had been Man of the Match on a couple of occasions and that Tammy Abraham had recently scored a hat trick.It could have backfired explosively but instead Tuchel embraced the fire in Mount’s belly and admired his passion – a trait he shares.Mount didn’t step back on his principles and became the first name on Tuchel’s Chelsea team-sheet. Mount became a staple under Thomas Tuchel at ChelseaWith some other bosses it might not have gone down well and could have meant curtains for him at a young age at Stamford Bridge.Instead, Tuchel harnessed Mount’s energy and enthusiasm and the pair went on to forge a now concrete-like relationship.The Cobham academy graduate would play in various positions for Tuchel at his manager’s command. As a wide player, as a number ten, holding midfielder.Mason has the full package mentally, in terms of talent and physically. And the most important part is his character. Thomas TuchelHe was named Chelsea Player of the Year for consecutive years between 2021 and 2022.Mount, too, was grateful for Tuchel’s input, recalling: “He was so clear on what he wanted and how he would like us to play, very clear on the roles and responsibilities, that it made it very easy for us to transition.“From day one, as players we realised how he gives his game plan. It made it easy for us to go onto the pitch and do it. “Under him I played a little bit higher than I was used to – as a kind of forward 10, or sometimes a winger or a false 9. “I had to adapt a bit but that gave me more opportunity to get into the box and have the opportunities to score and create.”A goalscorer who is versatile and adaptable, able to change positions at the drop of a hat, and who wants to repay his managers for their faith.For club, and country, a born-again Mount could be the perfect answer. The next few months will show whether he is able to thrust himself back into the limelight.Man Utd player ratings vs Nottingham ForestMANCHESTER UNITED’S woes continue after another disappointing loss to Nottingham Forest.Forest picked up a 1-0 victory at the City Ground thanks to ex-United ace Anthony Elanga’s winner after just five minutes.United remain 13th in the Premier League table and look set for their worst ever Premier League finish.That is at least what their performance at Forest showed, as Ruben Amorim’s men don’t show signs of really understanding the Portuguese tactician’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.But who stood out for a poor United’s side? And who was the biggest disappointment?Check out Kostas Lianos’ players ratings below and find out…Andre Onana – 5Can’t blame him for Nottingham Forest’s winner as Anthony Elanga’s shot was too good. Made a stunning save to deny Ryan Yates’ header without knowing the Forest ace was offside.Leny Yoro – 5Should have been more aware before Elanga’s goal that came straight after a Man Utd corner-kick in which he had moved forward.One could argue Yoro made up for it when he stopped a fine run by Elanga in the second half with an amazing and well-timed challenge to save United from a second.Matthijs de Ligt – 4The centre-back was also nowhere to be seen before Elanga’s goal. No other major errors but should have done better on the rebound after Diogo Dalot’s header hit the crossbar.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Completely hopeless during Elanga’s run that led to the goal and struggled in his defensive duties, especially in the first half. Not sure if the full-back fits in a defensive trio as part of Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation…Diogo Dalot – 6A strong performance down the right wing with some fine runs and good crosses. Registered United’s best chance in the first half when his header rattled Forest’s crossbar.Casemiro – 4At fault for Elanga’s goal as there was absolutely no midfield presence during Forest’s counter.Loads of inaccurate passes and got booked for a reckless challenge on Yates before complaining in a very unjust way. Registered three shots but didn’t cause concern for Matz Sels.Manuel Ugarte – 4Cut a rather anonymous figure, among the guilty parties for Elanga’s goal as Man Utd’s midfield was caught sleeping. Rightly substituted at half-time.Patrick Dorgu – 5A fine display during the first half as he cut a strong presence down the left flank, even though he was completely outrun by Elanga before the goal.But the versatile full-back was the complete opposite in the second half with a series of errors against a stunning Neco Williams.Bruno Fernandes – 6Registered the game’s first shot on target with a powerful effort that required a lunge from Sels, and that was basically United’s best shot throughout the entire match.Fernandes produced some fine long balls and upgraded Man Utd’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exits.Alejandro Garnacho – 2Very disappointing performance from the winger. Completely hopeless before Elanga’s goal with a desperate tackle and was lucky to avoid a booking for a ridiculous challenge on Yates while the Argentina international was on the attack.A game riddled with heavy touches, failed dribbles, wrong passes, blocked shots and a silly yellow card as he kicked the ball away in frustration. Had a good shot on 69 minutes as a saving grace.Joshua Zirkzee – 3Was supposed to be a striker but was often seen playing too deep and didn’t register a chance in front of Forest’s goal. Didn’t inspire any danger even after Rasmus Hojlund came on to help him up front.SUBSRasmus Hojlund – 5Was much better than a woeful Zirkzee up front for Man Utd. But didn’t cause any significant danger and never looked like a goalscoring threat. Harry Maguire looked far more lethal as a false nine after he entered the pitch with a lot more presence inside the box.Christian Eriksen – 4Didn’t really elevate United’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exit. The sort of performance that makes one wonder about his Old Trafford future…Harry Maguire – 5Only played nine minutes as a false nine and was by far Man Utd’s best forward. Brought on as a desperation move that almost paid off with the best chance of the match as his last-gasp effort was cleared by Murillo just off the line.Mason Mount – N/A More

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    Logan and Jake Paul’s dad feared sons would resort to PORN after moving to LA… before making $50MILLION in just one year

    GREG PAUL feared his sons Logan and Jake would have to resort to doing PORN when they first moved to Los Angeles. But instead, they became multimillionaire social media sensations. Jake Paul with his dad Greg and brother LoganCredit: RexThe pair were teenagers when they moved from their family home in Cleveland, Ohio to pursue a showbiz lifestyle in 2014. It left dad Greg imagining the worst when his two boys flew the nest – as revealed on the family’s new reality TV show called Paul American streaming on Max. Greg said: “Those guys moving to LA, we were like, f*** they are gonna end up doing porn because their s*** didn’t work out.”You know, you’re thinking all the worst things.”But it did not take long for his sons to put him at ease – as they raked in huge sums after becoming stars on YouTube. READ MORE IN BOXINGLogan, now 29, said: “The views are increasing, the attention is increasing. “I’m making money. Bro, when I started making merch, f*** me! We grossed $50million in 2017. Fifty f***ing million dollars.”As the fight for fame ensued, it caused civil war between Logan and his younger brother Jake. Jake, 28, said: “Logan’s at his house with his friends doing crazy s*** everyday.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I had my whole squad called Team 10. At some point we just kind of started talking about who gets more views, who gets more subscribers and it manifested into this real life thing.”Logan admitted: “People liked this rivalry that we had and the line between reality and content starts to get blurred especially in your early 20s when content is your entire life.Jake Paul says having children will prolong his boxing career and wants them to be best friends with brother Logan’s kids”How can I get the most views and attention possible? So virtue, which is normally important in family, in brotherhood, was thrown out the window.”The brothers’ rivalry intensified with a series of diss tracks made against each other – with one of Logan’s songs reaching nearly 300MILLION views. It caused huge strain for their mum Pam, who opened up in episode one of the series: “I was calling, going mostly after Logan because he’s the older brother. “You’re supposed to be taking care of your younger brother. But why would thy listen to me? “They’re making much more money than I’ve ever made and what am I gonna do?”Logan said: “I look back now and I’m ashamed. I’m truly ashamed of whatever version of myself that was.”Since then, Jake and myself have got into a bit of a better place.”Logan and Jake moved to LA in 2014Credit: Getty – ContributorJake celebrates a boxing win with Logan in 2020Credit: GettyThe brothers have reconciled in recent yearsCredit: GettyThe brothers soon reconciled after starting their journeys as boxers together. Jake revealed: “It was a long process to go from being pitted against each other in front of the whole world to where we are today.”But I think around that time we slowly realised that we were going to be the only people there for each other.”When we both started training with each other, I think that was so healthy for our relationship because we were doing things together.”The brothers started boxing together on the same card in 2018, with Logan drawing to KSI and Jake beating the Brit’s brother Deji. In the near decade since, Jake has focussed solely on boxing and now has an 11-1 record while Logan is signed to the WWE. And Logan said: “Admittedly, things aren’t always perfect between Jake and I. Read More on The Sun”We’re always finding ways to one up each other but I call it inspiration. We both just want to be at the top of our sport. “I want to be the biggest WWE star in the world, Jake has found a serious calling to boxing.”Logan and Jake and the Paul American premiereCredit: The Mega Agency More