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      Man Utd ratings: Alejandro Garnacho scores at Wembley again in stunning cameo but Mason Mount fails to make an impact

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      MANCHESTER UNITED weren’t able to hold onto their lead in the Community Shield as they lost 7-6 on penalties to Manchester City.Alejandro Garnacho – who put United up in the FA Cup final – did so again with 10 minutes of normal time remaining, before Bernardo Silva’s 89th minute header brought a penalty shootout.Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring for United with 10 minutes of normal time remainingCredit: GettyMason Mount struggled to make an impact on the gameCredit: GettyManuel Akanji converted the winning penalty as Man City beat United at WembleyCredit: GettyPep Guardiola’s side started off the better team and were unlucky not to go ahead, with Oscar Bobb curling over and James McAtee striking against the post.Bruno Fernandes scored the best disallowed goal in recent memory in the 53rd minute, after smashing a 20 yard shot top bins before the linesman waved his flag for offside. Marcus Rashford missed two sitters after the ball clashed with his shin and bounced off the post, before Scott McTominay kicked air from five yards out.But Garnacho put United 1-0 up with a fantastic finish past Ederson in the 80th minute.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSilva – who had only been on the pitch six minutes, but later missed a penalty in the shootout – brought things level nine minutes later with a header from a brilliant Bobb assist.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated every Man Utd performance…Manchester City lifted the Community Shield for the first time since 2019Credit: GettyANDRE ONANA – 6A steady performance from the Man Utd stopper.But he couldn’t get near any of Man City’s penalties after Silva missed the first kick.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDrew criticism from fans for his antics in the shootout, after pointing to the side Erling Haaland should shoot, before diving the other way.Andre Onana was up to his usual antics in the shootoutCredit: GettyDIOGO DALOT – 7Defended really well against a dangerous Jeremy Doku for large parts of the game, but failed to make a real impact on the attacking side of the game where we know he can be a threat. Harsh result for Man Utd but Marcus Rashford misses a concernMoved to left back in the second half, where the cross came from for Man City’s equaliser, but it was more Bobb’s brilliance than Dalot’s negligence. HARRY MAGUIRE – 6A solid first game back for Man Utd’s number five. Dealt with the physicality of Haaland well and refused to be overpowered at the back – passed out well when required and made some crucial blocks too. JONNY EVANS – 6Led by example at the back, and did a solid job for his team. Struggled to cope with the pace of the City attack at times, but ultimately limited Haaland to another goalless display at Wembley. Was left embarrassed later after shockingly blazing his penalty over the bar, to put City in prime position.LISANDRO MARTINEZDidn’t offer anything going forwards, and Man Utd missed Luke Shaw’s threat on the left-hand side. Bobb gave him a run for his money, and his mistake could have had United 1-0 down at half-time but for the woodwork. CASEMIRO – 6Was solid in midfield and almost got himself a great assist with a neat pass to Marcus Rashford in the first half, but was let down by the finish. Didn’t control the game in the way we have seen him do in his golden years, but put in a decent display nonetheless. Scored his penalty in the shootout.Casemiro was delighted with Garnacho before Man City equalisedCredit: ReutersKOBBIE MAINOO – 7Looked composed as ever on the ball and was United’s best operator in midfield on the day, as we have got used to him being.Man Utd look a better team with him in the side. AMAD DIALLO – 6Looked the most dangerous of United’s attackers in the first half, but was let down by poor finishing and decision making at the vital moments. MASON MOUNT – 4Failed to really do anything of note. Showed good energy and pressing, but his passes were often over or undercooked and it was more of what we have seen from him since leaving Chelsea. MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Had a big chance to open the scoring in both halves leaving fans frustrated, on another day he would have had a brace. Did pose a threat on the left hand side, but really missed his shooting boots – Garnacho may have been better placed in his position from the off. It was another disappointing afternoon for RashfordCredit: AFPBRUNO FERNANDES – 8His disallowed goal would have been the perfect curtain raiser, but it wasn’t to be. Still, he did a fantastic job in the false nine role for his club, and put in a captain’s performance playing out-of-position.He was central to everything good done by his side, and was rewarded with an assist in the second half. Subs: GARNACHO (DIALLO, 59 – 8Was Man Utd’s best player since he came on for Amad Diallo, and re-created his FA Cup final moment with a great finish at the near post. He really is excitement personified, what a player. Garnacho shined again in United defeat to their city rivalsCredit: PASCOTT MCTOMINAY  (MOUNT, 59) – 5Made a few good runs but didn’t make a massive impact as a target man in the box. SANCHO (RASHFORD, 83) – 5Didn’t inject the same level of energy as Garnacho on the opposing side, but didn’t have much time to impact the game. Was unlucky to miss his penalty.Jadon Sancho missed another penalty at WembleyCredit: GettyFACUNDO PELLISTRI  (MAGUIRE, 59) – 5Was caused trouble by Man City new boy Savinho, but ultimately limited him to a few good touches and nothing more than that, solid shift from a winger at full-back.  READ MORE SUN STORIESTOBY COLLYER (MAINOO, 59) – 6A pretty good debut performance from the young lad who has been touted for big things. Neat passing combinations, a good first touch and made things difficult for Rico Lewis. You’ve got to love those low socks too.  More

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      Heartbroken Millwall stars and staff pay emotional tribute to tragic Matija Sarkic after goalkeeper, 26, passed away

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      HEARTBROKEN Millwall players, staff and fans will pay a touching tribute to their much-loved keeper Matija Sarkic this weekend.The 26-year-old tragically passed away after suffering heart failure in June while on holiday with partner Phoebe in his dad’s native Montenegro.Matija Sarkic died earlier this yearCredit: GettyAndy Marshall worked with the goalkeeper at Millwall and Aston VillaCredit: RexJoe Bryan hailed Sarkic as an ‘incredible person’Credit: RexHis untimely death left the whole Millwall community stunned — just one year after their American owner John Berylson died in a car crash and two years since lifelong fan and SunSport journalist Paul Jiggins passed away suddenly, aged 50.Ahead of their Championship opener against Watford, the club will unveil a mural in Sarkic’s honour, funded by the Millwall Supporters’ Club.The Lions are also retiring his No 20 shirt and a new gong called the Matija Sarkic Save of the Season Award will be competed for across the first team, academy and Lionesses.A memorial tree is being planted at the players’ entrance at the request of the squad and Sarkic’s family will be welcomed pitchside pre-match.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGoalkeeper coach Andy Marshall, 49, worked closely with Grimsby-born Sarkic, first at Aston Villa nine years ago, before linking up again at The Den.Marshall told SunSport: “I met Mati when he was 17 and brought him over to the UK from Belgium.“He was a smart young man and that was the first thing that hit me about him — always eager to learn. He was desperate to absorb all the information you could give him.“And it was that, along with his work-rate and determination to succeed that made me think, ‘this lad is going all the way to the very top’.Most read in Football“He had everything you wanted. The size of the lad, determination but the best thing about him was that he had the ability to have a fun side towards it.“He enjoyed what he was doing. He realised how to become successful and what was needed to become successful plus he could enjoy himself at the same time.”Emotional moment Millwall manager Neil Harris chokes back tears as he reveals heartbreak over death of Matija SarkicMatija Sarkic career statsMillwall: 33 games, 12 clean sheetsShrewsbury: 29 games, 11 clean sheetsBirmingham: 23 games, 10 clean sheetsLivingston: 18 games, nine clean sheetsStoke: Eight games, three clean sheetsWigan: Three gamesHavant & Waterlooville: One gameMarshall will never forget the early morning phone call that broke his heart, from Sarkic’s grieving father Bojan.The Lions coach said: “There are poignant moments in people’s lives when certain things happen and people remember. I was laying at home in bed and at exactly 6.57am my phone rang and I saw it was Bojan.“I didn’t quite get to the phone in time to answer but text to ask him if everything was OK, because when someone calls you just before 7am you know something’s not right.“He called straight back and as I picked the phone up, I knew Mati had died and that was tough. It was awful.“I’ll forever remember the conversation, what he said to me, that Mati had died and that was very, very tough to hear. I had to take ten to 15 minutes to try to absorb it, which was impossible.“I was thinking he was a 26-year-old man who four weeks earlier I had been in Turkey and also in Spain training him.“I also drove over to Belgium to watch him play for Montenegro just ten days before his death.“Matija was like a son to me. I was close to his family, too.“So when I found out this after all the years I have spent with him, it hit me like a juggernaut. I was extremely emotional for a long time after.“It’s hard to accept someone so young has passed away.”Lions defender Joe Bryan, 30, was close friends with Sarkic.He said: “As is often the case in tragic circumstances, you hear people talking about a wonderful, incredible person — and with Mati that is true. He was a happy, smiley, wonderful person.“He was always the first one in to the training ground every morning and had a big smile on his face.  He loved his coffee. I’m also into coffee and he was telling me about all the places that he and Phoebe were going to visit.“He loved his cortado. He always said, ‘The shorter the coffee, the more sophisticated the man’. We’d always laugh about that.“Mati had this Pilates machine in the canteen that he used to always be sitting on doing his hamstring stretches.“Whenever I think about it, it makes me laugh. It looked so out of place in the canteen under the darts board.“It’s been so difficult for us all. We’re just used to seeing him wandering around here with a coffee in his hand smiling. That’s the Mati I remember and it’s difficult moving forward to come to terms with the fact we’ll not see him again.”Millwall boss Neil Harris believes Sarkic had all the talent to reach the very highest level and would have played a key role this season.But he said Sarkic’s sad passing has brought everyone even closer together in what was already a tight-knit dressing room.He said: “When we came back into the building, the first couple of days we started to use it as a mourning period for Mati.“It gave us a chance to laugh, shed a tear, to remember, to talk.“We had a group meeting, which I led, and then had a minute’s silence out on the pitch in the goal area. It felt right to do it in the goal area rather than anywhere else — that helped, it gave us a chance to reflect.“This isn’t about being a professional footballer, this is about being a human being and how you deal with adversity and difficult moments in your life.“We’re here to help, the club have been hugely supportive to everybody but the players have also been exceptional and continue to be exceptional.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s been a difficult couple of years with Jiggo, who was a good friend of mine, passing and then John, who was also a mate as well as my boss.“We will always remember these great people and it’s fitting that the club are doing so much to pay tribute to Mati. He deserves that.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Arsenal chief Edu opens up on ‘unpopular’ transfers and reveals three factors which kill a player’s Gunners career

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      EDU believes a series of “unpopular decisions” have transformed Arsenal from pretenders to championship contenders.The Gunners’ squad has undergone a massive face-lift since their former midfielder was appointed the club’s technical director in July 2019.Edu joined Arsenal in 2019 as the club’s technical directorCredit: GETTYThe Brazilian was promoted to the club’s sporting director in November 2022Credit: GETTYEdu oversaw a major shakeup of the squad and helped get rid of high earners Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut OzilCredit: GETTYEdu, Sporting director of Arsenal FA Cup 3rd Round Oxford United v Arsenal Kassam Stadium 09.01.2023 Photograph By Marc Aspland The TimesCredit: MARC ASPLANDHe was promoted to sporting director in November 2022 and subsequently took a more hands-on role with the comings and goings at the club.Former fan favourites like Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have all departed the Emirates since Edu was appointed sporting director.Arsenal’s fortunes on the pitch have simultaneously improved since the Brazilian has been at the helm of the transfer ship, with the club narrowly missing out on the Premier League title in the last two seasons.And Edu believes there has been a correlation between the club’s uptake in recent years and the clearing of the deadwood.READ MORE ON ARSENALHe told the Men in Blazers podcast: “When you live in the football world, sometimes you have to make decisions simple and sometimes you have to make decisions even if it is not popular. “You have to be very strong on your ideas, what you believe, what is good for the club, what is good for the future of the club.”For me, there are some elements in football which I will always give a lot of attention. “When I joined, I looked at the squad balance, the positions, the age of the group.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal have a tricky start to the season”There are three elements that you have to be really aware of.”First of all, we have to see the age of the player. Then you have to see the salary of the player. Three reasons Arsenal’s new signing Riccardo Calafiori is a huge upgrade “And third you have to see the performance of the player.”If you have a player over 26 or 27 years, you need attention. If his salary is high, you need attention. And if he is not performing, you are dead.”Let’s come back… If you have a player, 27 years old or 28, on a big salary, but he is performing, you can accept it. “What you cannot accept is if you have those three elements and the player is over 28.”You start to become uncomfortable and it is better for you to move them on – because maybe this player is blocking someone younger, an asset who could help you.”When I came to Arsenal, I saw all the squad, with respect, almost everyone was over 26, 27, on big salaries and not performing.”If you have those three elements, which club in the world wants to come here and buy one of our players? No-one.”So how do you deal with that situation? You have to be strong and sometimes you have to make decisions. “You can go strong and try to let those players go or your project is going to take, instead of three or four years, maybe seven, eight or nine.”Unpopular decisions started to come.EduOn Arsenal’s transfer policyEdu continued: “Then unpopular decisions started to come. Because most of the players that have those elements, they have a fanbase and a media that love them.”But for the club, it is not healthy sometimes to keep the player in that situation.’ “When I started I saw every single player in the squad with those three characteristics.”Then I said: ‘Guys, we have to clean this squad, with all my respect, to build a new foundation here.'”From that foundation, we need to sign younger players, on lower salaries, with better futures, who are hungry to take us where we want to go.'”READ MORE SUN STORIESEdu would have played a key role in Arsenal’s two signings of the summer, the permanent acquisition of David Raya from Brentford and the £42million arrival of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.Arsenal kick off their Premier League campaign a week on Saturday, welcoming Wolves to the Emirates.Edu and Mikel Arteta have worked synergistically to improve Arsenal’s form on the pitchCredit: Getty More

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      Mikel Arteta was happy to axe Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil but Granit Xhaka’s Arsenal goodbye was different

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      REGRETS? Mikel Arteta has had very few during his Arsenal tenure – especially when it comes to moving on players.Bad eggs have had their contracts ripped up. Think Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil.Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil were booted out by Mikel ArtetaCredit: ReutersArteta had a close bond with Granit Xhaka before last summer’s departureCredit: GettyAgeing stars have been allowed to leave on a free. Think Willian, David Luiz, Alexandre Lacazette and Sead Kolasinac.Money has also been made to make way for the future. Think Emiliano Martinez, Bernd Leno, Folarin Balogun and Emile Smith Rowe.And yet, there is perhaps one goodbye that is still on the mind of Arteta on the eve of an intriguing North London reunion this week – Granit Xhaka.Ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s Emirates Cup clash with the Gunners tomorrow, the Switzerland international will play at his old stomping ground for the first time since last summer’s £21.4m move back to Germany.read more arsenalXhaka – who signed for Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in May 2016 for £30m – returns with a Bundesliga title to his name having played a starring role in an unbeaten domestic campaign under boss Xabi Alonso.In contrast, Arteta’s Arsenal fell short in their Premier League title push for a second successive term behind Manchester City – the most recent without Xhaka in their ranks.Would Xhaka’s leadership and experience have made the difference?It has hard to say, but it is a debate that has gained momentum following his stunning performances for the Swiss at the Euros that had German outlets calling for a Ballon d’Or nomination.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThere is no doubt that Arteta lost one of his most important dressing room generals, one that demanded excellence, acted as a perfect go-between from dug-out to pitch, and one whose own renaissance in an Arsenal shirt sums up the Spanish coach’s impact at the club.Arteta and Arsenal were torn over the future of Xhaka towards the end of the 2022/23 season – a player who had transformed into an integral cog in a more advanced midfield role.They did not want him to leave, but unwilling to hand a long-term deal to a 30-year-old as they planned for a window that included the £105m capture of a 24-year-old Declan Rice.With 12 months left on his deal, with a club-option to extend, Arsenal and Xhaka decided to part ways after a sit-down chat with sporting director Edu.The midfielder said recently: “I was a bit sad, but also quite happy because I didn’t like that uncertainty.“The length of the Leverkusen contract [five years] gives me security. I’m not someone who likes to play poker… I like peace and order.”Xhaka was booed off by Arsenal fans in October 2019Credit: ReutersArsenal could put out as strong starting XI to face Bayer Leverkusen-Xhaka will likely receive a grand reception back at the Emirates, much like the one he had on his 297th and final appearance for the club, scoring twice in a 5-0 victory over Wolves in May 2023 before being subbed to a standing ovation.Four years earlier, those same fans had booed him off in the 61st minute of a draw at home to Crystal Palace in October 2019.Upon leaving the pitch, Xhaka told them to “f**k off” and stormed down the tunnel, an incident that saw him stripped of the captaincy by then-manager Unai Emery.Two months later, Emery was sacked and Arteta was in, with convincing Xhaka to stay one of the first tasks the former midfielder set himself.Xhaka explained: “When I met [Mikel] for the first time, my bags were already packed and I was about to hop on a plane. With my heart and soul, I had already left the club.“The club showed me little respect even though I was the captain. It was clear they wanted to get rid of me as quickly as possible, apart from one person: Mikel Arteta.”Ignoring the advice of his friends and family, Xhaka stayed.Arteta would then bring about a career revival that no one saw coming, not least the Arsenal faithful.Xhaka added: “Arsenal supporters sometimes can take a bit of persuading to change their minds. But at the end, I won them around.”Arteta also owes much to Xhaka, a player he could rely on during the tough times and who stepped up and raised his game in the good times.It could be argued that Arsenal’s midfield is all the better for Xhaka leaving. Rice and skipper Martin Odegaard are a formidable pair with Jorginho and Thomas Partey adding the extras.But Arteta had a bond with Xhaka that is hard to replace. How he would love to still be able to call upon his services, even if the player himself would not accept a role from the bench.Of all the players he has let go, Arteta has rarely issued an emotional farewell statement, but for Xhaka he did, saying: “We are saying goodbye to a fantastic player and person loved by all of us. “It has been an incredible journey for him and he has given absolutely everything.“We cannot thank Granit enough for his service and contribution to this club over the years.”Xhaka returned to the Emirates as a supporter last December to witness Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to West Ham, signing autographs from his car on arrival.Yet this time, he will be granted a welcome home from out of the shadows, even after a recent cheeky remark where he stated leaving Arsenal was a “step forward” in his career.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe still is an avid watcher of Arsenal games, and remains in contact with assistant coach Carlos Cuesta and old teammates Partey, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus.Expect a warm embrace of Arteta tomorrow too – the man who no doubt wishes Xhaka’s Arsenal story did not have to end so soon. More

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      I worked at Man Utd during their glory days…Keane & Fergie were forces of nature but today’s players are too WOKE to win

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      A FORMER member of the backroom team at Old Trafford during the club’s glory years fears the current crop of players are too woke to win.The club stalwart, who worked closely with the first team for over a decade, witnessed the club transform from the world of the Fergie hair dryer to a much more touchy feely environment.Manchester United’s legendary former boss Alex Ferguson arrives at the Cliff Training Ground following the arrest of captain Roy KeaneCredit: PA:Press AssociationManchester United captain Roy Keane celebrates winning the FA CupCredit: Times Newspapers LtdDavid Beckham is mobbed by fans at Barcelona airport ahead of the Champions League final with Bayern Munich in May 1999Credit: AP:Associated PressAlex Ferguson with captain Roy Keane during a training session at Carrington in September 2005Credit: PA:Press AssociationThe respected professional, who asked not be named, remembers a changing room packed with larger than life characters such as Roy Keane.The dad, who spent years in top flight Premier League football, said: “I remember Keano in his pomp and he was something else. A real force of nature, on the pitch and off it.”Keano liked things to be right first time, whether it was on the pitch or training ground.”But he walked it liked he talked it – he did the things on the pitch few others wanted to do.Read more in football “So yes he would blow up now and again but it was because he actually cared if we won or lost.”The man, an expert in his chosen field, said that the club had come on light years since the days of the Cliff training ground in Salford.He said: “In my last few years at the club I really noticed the culture change. “Yoga, psychology, mindfulness. I am not sure how Keano and Lee Sharpe would have coped with all that.Most read in FootballInside the SoFi Stadium as Man Utd look for inspiration for new Old Trafford “Diet is another area that has been transformed. When I arrived they had started to shift away from the old fashioned steak dinner. That just seems like the stone age now.”The dad said he remembers when Fergie and Keane would use “tough love” to keep younger players on the right path.He said: “So if a young player was a bit lippy or disrespected the boss, they would deal with Keano. He would have a quiet word. “The issue is that if you let young players take liberties they will lose all respect for the club over time. It happens little by little.”The former club employee remembers Gary Neville and Roy Keane as very much enforcers of the manager’s will.He said: “For me Gary and Roy made sure the manager’s wishes were carried out. “That could be on the pitch, in the changing room or in the hotel the night before the game. And that was a good thing.”He said that he thought big personalities were fading out of the modern game. He said: “I remember when I started some of the players had more about them. “You had Roy and Gary at United. And then at Arsenal you had Tony Adams who was a natural leader. “Patrick Viera, who we had problems with, was another big personality. “And then you had Dennis Wise and John Terry at Chelsea who people respected. “To me all that is fading away a bit now. The game is a lot more technical and the passion seems to have faded a bit.”He recalled the now infamous incident when Fergie kicked a boot and it hit Beckham in the face.He said: “To me that was all about two people who both wanted to win. Sometimes things happen like that. “In more recent years I have seen players laughing with their mates after losing a key game. I know which approach I prefer.”He remembers the era when United players would go out drinking in posh pubs and bars dotted around north Cheshire.He said: “Yes there was Brasingamens in Wilmslow and the Griffin and Stamford in Bowdon. “I remember hearing lots of stories about that era. And reading about them too. Again that is all gone now. “The current crop do not go out drinking on a Friday night . I think they are all at home watching Netflix, which is probably a good thing.”Sometimes in training you could tell the lads had been out the night before. They would just burn it off and go for a Macciesafter training. Marcus Rashford has a huge following on social media which has transformed the way footballers communicateCredit: instagramFormer Man United player Jesse Lingard was active on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jesselingard”But again it was a different era. I am not sure a hangover would be tolerated these days.”The retired expert remembers the United team as a “fleet of Rolls Royce.” He said: “Looking back they had some dream players. Ryan Giggs was the dream – he had everything. “I actually preferred him when his game started to slow a bit and he played through the middle.”Becks was a Rolls Royce footballer . He was just the perfect complement to Giggs.”I think Scholes was underrated and I saw him put Steven Gerrard in his pocket quite a few times, which was no mean feat.”For me Keano was the best pound for pound competitor in the history of the Premier League.”The Neville brothers were perfectionists and Nicky Butt was better than you think. When Keano left Old Trafford Roy lifted the lid on how Sir Alex Ferguson told him he’d be leaving Manchester United.The Irishman departed Old Trafford after 12 years in November 2005.Keane had sparked controversy with an appearance on MUTV earlier that season.The former skipper had criticised a number of his team-mates’ performances, while he also admitted he’d be “prepared to play elsewhere”.Describing the meeting that confirmed his departure on Stick to Football in association with SkyBet, Keane said: “I generally have no problem when a club tells a player [to leave the club] – it’s the game we’re in.For you [Ian Wright], they sat you down and had a chat – to me, at least, that’s kind of respectful.”I’m getting called into a meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill, and before I sat down, they’d already prepared a statement.”This is my issue – they already prepared a statement, and they had the years wrong!”Despite his frosty exit, Keane still felt a sense of loyalty when picking his next club.He continued: “I spoke to Everton, Bolton and a couple of other teams.”I had that mindset which is crazy, when a club is forcing you out the door and you can’t sign for other teams.”Everton would’ve been a good move at the time – the location, and I had huge respect for David Moyes – but I felt I couldn’t go to another English team.”Four weeks after his Man Utd departure Keane signed for boyhood club Celtic.”The problem for Nicky was that the centre mid spots were taken by two world class players. But he always played a blinder when he came in.READ MORE SUN STORIES”You see Fergie drummed it into us all that the team was bigger than any person. It was all about the team.”The Sun approached Manchester United for comment.Man United’s new stadium plans The club will build a brand new £2billion Old Trafford rather than redevelop their current ground, writes Neil Custis.They plan to make an announcement in December about the new stadium which will have a 100,000 capacity and be built right next to the current ground.The club has been on fact-finding missions to other grounds, including The Bernabeu and Nou Camp in Spain, both of which have undergone huge renovations.Officials have also been studying the SoFi Stadium while in Los Angeles – where United played Arsenal – to assess how the area around the ground has been regenerated.The stadium was completed in 2020 and was part of a £4bn “Hollywood Complex” to regenerate a major area of Inglewood.It was all funded by Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke, and the 70,000 stadium will host six World Cup games in 2026 including the competition’s opener.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground – set to be completed by 2030 -will stand.The Old Trafford task force was set up when Sir Jim Ratcliffe became a part owner of United and had looked hard at regenerating the current ground.However, a number of logistical problems could have made the cost even higher than a new build while reducing the capacity as work was being done or even requiring the team to temporarily move.Also, it is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.They are mindful of maintaining the club’s identity in the new stadium, which will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910 and has undergone various extensions.The club have consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The project’s funding is still being discussed, with the idea of a mixture of public and private funding.United have already contacted the new Labour Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, who is said to be open to government support for wider transport links as part of the project.Ferguson shakes hands with Wayne Rooney as he comes off the pitch in 2005Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdRoy Keane, Steve Bruce and Paul Scholes celebrate with a few cans in the dressing roomCredit: GettyTeddy Sheringham and David Beckham lift the UEFA Champions League trophy after beating Bayern Munich in May 1999Credit: AFP More

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      Terence Crawford beats Israil Madrimov to become four-weight world champ and opens door to Canelo Alvarez super-fight

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      TERENCE CRAWFORD became a four-weight world champion after victory over Israil Madrimov – and opened the door to fighting Canelo Alvarez. Crawford, who has won titles from 135lb to 154lb now, was last year accompanied to the ring by rap icon Eminem before he beat Errol Spence Jr. Terence Crawford defeated Israil MadrimovCredit: GettyCrawford became a four-weight champCredit: GettyAnd Slim Shady – real name Marshall Mathers – performed to the Los Angeles crowd. What proceeded were 12 gruelling rounds as Crawford was made to work to retain his undefeated record and belt in a new weight class. He said after victory: “I knew he was going to be tough. “Like I said, I knew all about him when I went to Uzbekistan and they were telling me so much about him. READ MORE IN BOXING”He’s real strong, he’s durable, he took a lot of good shots and he got me to round 12.” Saudi boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh revealed an offer is on the table for Mexican superstar Canelo to face Crawford. Canelo first returns in September against Edgar Berlanga while Crawford would need to jump another two divisions and 14lb. But he said: “You know what I say, if the money’s right, we gotta fight.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”But, at the same time he’s got a fight that he’s focussed on I’m going to go back to my family, relax and enjoy this win and enjoy all the accomplishments that I’ve made in the sport of boxing.” Madrimov, beaten for the first time in 13 professional bouts, called for a rematch after his first defeat.Eddie Hearn hints at shock career change as boxing promoter says ‘I’ve been thinking about this for ages’He said: “I fought the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world and I believe that I did enough because I was the champion I was defending the belt. “I was controlling the riddim and felt very comfortable in the ring. I felt like I did very well and at least deserve the rematch.” More

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      Lucy Pinder joins the Premier League manager’s Wags club that includes a CSI: Miami actress and a fashion designer

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      AS they say, behind every successful man is a stronger woman – and these Premier league bosses are just the sameWhile they may rule the roost over their squads of players, when it comes to home life you can bet their partners have the final say.Spanish actress Lorena Bernal is married to a top Premier League bossGlamour girl Lucy Pinder has now joined the Premier League manager’s Wags clubThe latest Wag to join the manager’s club of England’s top league is stunning glamour model Lucy Pinder.As The Sun exclusively reported, the former Nuts and FHM staple is dating Southampton boss Russell Martin.The ‘besotted’ couple have grown close in recent months, and she accompanied him to Brighton University where he was handed an honorary degree.Here’s who she will be joining in the Prem.Read more football newsLorena BernalMikel Arteta has been married to beautiful actress and TV host Lorena since 2010.Born in Argentina, she moved to Spain when she was one-years-old. By seven she was modelling, and at 13 began to take drama classes in Saint Sebastién.In 1999, aged just 17, Bernal was crowned Miss Spain.In 2007, she appeared on popular shows Chuck as an international arms dealer and in an episode of CSI: Miami as a nanny.Most read in FootballBeautiful Lorena appeared on CSI:Miami and is a TV hostMikel Arteta and Lorena have been married since 2010Credit: GettyCristina SerraCristina, who is the wife of Pep Guardiola, comes from a fashion family dynasty.Her family own a fashion store called Serra Claret in Barcelona, and it was here that she met her husband when he was just 18.Mikel Arteta’s wife Lorena beams with pride as he wins Best Premier League Manager at Globe Soccer AwardsGuardiola was doing some modelling for designer Antonio Miro in Serra’s shop when he first locked eyes on Cristina.Pep once said of his missus: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion.Cristina Serra is the very fashionable wife of Pep GuardiolaCredit: Bongarts – GettyGuardiola met his wife when he was just 18Credit: SplashGuardiola believes Cristina is the ‘best in the world’ at fashionCredit: GettyBianca Ten HagBianca and Man Utd coach Erik Ten Hag have already got into the swing of living in Manchester.The pair are regularly seen cycling on bikes around Altrincham and checking out the best restaurants in Hale Village.Ten Hag has never spoken about his personal life, which he keeps very private.However, it was reported in his native Netherlands that he and Bianca are childhood sweethearts.The active pair are also said to play golf together.The Ten Hags enjoy taking their bikes for a ride around AltrinchamCredit: ZenpixErik and Bianca have also enjoyed dining in Hale VillageCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMirjam SlotLike Ten Hag, new Liverpool boss Arne Slot also keeps his personal life private.However. wife Mirjam was thrust into the media spotlight in 2022 when she joined him on the pitch after Feyenoord reached the Europa League Conference final.Photographers captured the pair sharing a kiss as they embraced during the celebrations.The pair share two children together.Arne Slot’s private wife Mirjam gives him a kiss after success at Feyenoord in 2022Credit: GettyGeorgia PostecoglouGeorgia met Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou in the 1990s, when he coached South Melbourne Soccer Club and she was the marketing manager.But in ABC documentary The Australian Story: The Age of Ange, she revealed she failed to see his charm at first.She said: “Initially I wondered why everyone around him and around the club were so fascinated by and respected him, as he is not someone I would describe as charismatic or a charmer. I didn’t get it.”However, Ange soon won Georgie around and he is adamant he is where he is because of her and her support, after he was sacked as Australia’s youth coach.He said: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Georgia.”Through that tough time without her by my side I don’t know where I’d have ended up.”Georgia Postecoglou revealed she fail to see husband Ange’s charm at firstCredit: GettyAnge and Georgie Postecoglou met in the 1990’s at South Melbourne Soccer ClubCredit: GettyThe Postecoglous shares two sons together, James and MaxCredit: Kenny Ramsayread more sport featuresMaria Jesus ParienteNew Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca’s greatest success as a player happened at Sevilla.It was also in Seville where he met his wife, Maria and they have since had four children together.According to reports online, the Spanish beauty manages a resort in Ibiza.However, she prefers to keep a low-profile.Enzo Maresca’s wife Maria, centre, keeps a low profile and is believed to manage a resort in IbizaCredit: GettyVicky HoweA humble and devoted mother, Vicky is the wife of Eddie Howe.A former hairstylist, it is believed she met the Newcastle supremo when he was playing for AFC Bournemouth in the 1990’s.As a football manager, when you are away from family for sustained periods, you need the support of your wife.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s something Eddie has spoken about in the past.He revealed: “You have to have an understanding family behind you and this is where both myself and Jason (Tindall) are extremely fortunate.”Vicky Howe is the glam wife of Newcastle boss EddieCredit: AlamyEddie Howe revealed he is lucky to have the support of his wife with his job More

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      Lucy Pinder’s glam life from lads mags cover girl and topless modelling to dating Captain America and now a top manager

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      SHE was the lads’ mag pin-up that defined the noughties, and now she’s dating a Premier League manager.With her voluptuous curves and girl-next door charm, stunning Lucy Pinder, 40, made her name as a cover star for FHM, Loaded, and Nuts.Lucy Pinder is the former lads’ mag pin-up who has stolen a Prem manager’s heartCredit: PA:Press AssociationStunning Pinder was a staple of men’s lifestyle titles in the early 2000’sCredit: AlamyPinder has gone public with Saints boss Russell MartinAustralian men’s lifestyle title Ralph once declared that she had the “Best Breasts in the World’.Now, she has gone public with Southampton boss Russell Martin.Martin, 38, has grown close to Lucy in recent months and the “besotted” pair were recently turning heads at a Sky Sports function.The Premier League manager received an honorary degree from the University of Brighton yesterday for his charity work after setting up the Russell Martin Foundation to help young people’s lives in Sussex.Read more football newsLucy, 40, was with him as he was presented with his award and the duo posed for a snap on the seafront.The Saints supporting beauty posted the picture on her Instagram story to make their relationship public.Pinder knows a thing or two about celebrity romances having reportedly dated Captain America star in the past.Aside from her glam photoshoots, the brunette stunner also appeared in Hollywood movie Sharknado 5.Most read in FootballRepresenting Southampton on the Sky’s Soccer AM as a Soccerette was another career high.But away from her showbiz lifestyle, Pinder has also been known to do her bit for charity.England’s WAGs: The Real Stars of Euro 2024 Cover starMen of a certain vintage will remember Pinder as one of the defining lads’ mags cover girls.She frequently appeared in FHM, Nuts and Loaded – often topless – helping those titles sell hundreds of thousands of copies.Her amazing looks coupled with her relatability made her the ideal woman to date.Pinder’s modelling career began in 2003, when she was discovered by a photographer on Bournemouth beach.After that, she graced the pages of the Daily Star where she got her big break.In 2005, as the magazine shoots began to take off, she showed her love for the Saints – wearing their jersey for the famous Soccerettes sketch alongside regular host Tim Lovejoy.That TV appearance paved the way for more opportunities on the small screen.Pinder’s curves were well known to readers of Nuts, FHM and LoadedCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlongside pal Michelle Marsh, the buxom pair were readers’ favouritesPinder’s modelling career began in 2003Pinder’s often topless shoots helped shift hundreds of thousands of magazinesCredit: PA:Press AssociationTV and film workLads’ mags died a death – with Nuts closing in 2014 and featuring a tearful Pinder on their final cover.But the gorgeous Hampshire-born football fan had the foresight to explore other opportunities before their demise.The explosion of reality TV on our shores benefitted Pinder, who found new audience.In 2007, she appeared on The Weakest Link and didn’t wilt under Anne Robinson’s barbs.Then, she starred on Celebrity Big Brother where she was the first contestant to leave the houseHighlights included her revealing she hated “thick” people and her annoyance at Coolio’s constant rapping in the house, which amusingly forced her out.Her film career began in 2012, when she played her first supporting role in the comedy horror Strippers vs Werewolves.Pinder pictured leaving the Big Brother house in 2009In 2017, Pinder starred in Sharnado 5: Global SwarmingSouthampton fan Pinder also appeared as a Soccerette on Sky’s Soccer AMread more sport featuresShe then became a Bollywood star in action flick Waarrior Savitri, while a TV movie role came calling in 2017 with a cameo in Sharknado 5: Global Swarming as a Swedish ambassador.Celebrity romanceIt was around this time Pinder began dabbling with living in Los Angeles.Her counterparts, including Leilani and Keeley Hazell have all made a living there.But she reportedly found romance with a Hollywood A-lister instead.In 2015, Pinder was spotted with Captain America star Chris Evans enjoying a date at Disneyworld.They were all smiles as they on the Grizzly Rapids ride at the Californian theme park.It was believed they were smitten with each other, however the relationship soon fizzled out.Pinder’s charms soon attracted a Hollywood film starIn 2015 it was reported Pinder was dating Captain America star Chris EvansCredit: SplashGiving something backAs busy as Pinder is, she has always made time for charity.She has a passion for animals, which has seen her work with a variety of wildlife charities.Those include getting involved in fundraising for TigerTime, the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, International Animal Rescue, and Cats Protection.Pinder also got involved with Help for Heroes – a charity that aids the British Armed Forces community with their physical and mental health, as well as their financial, social and welfare needs.Famously, she shot the Hot Shots Calendar in 2011 and 2014 with  fifty-percent of the money made from sales going towards UK and US military charities.READ MORE SUN STORIESPinder has been known to support several military charitiesGlam Pinder also supports various charities for wildlife and animalsPinder is ready to dazzle in the PremCredit: PA:Press AssociationFurthermore, she supported Male Cancer Awareness Campaign by taking part in a five-mile run with fellow glamour girl Rhian Sugden.So, she’s beautiful, talented, and an all-round good egg. Lucky Russell Martin. More