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      Man Utd outcast Van de Beek fails to take his chance as McTominay shows him up in FA Cup win against Watford

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      DONNY VAN DE BEEK had the stage to show Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the world that he can cut it at Manchester United.
      But he was ultimately upstaged by his midfield partner on the night as United progressed into the FA Cup fourth round by beating Watford 1-0.

      Donny van de Beek failed to impose himself on the gameCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Scott McTominay headed United ahead with just five minutes on the clock – and for the rest of the game he was the all-action heroic captain for the night.
      Van de Beek was just… nothing special.
      United legend Dimitar Berbatov said in the week that the Dutchman should be ‘banging on Solskjaer’s door’ as to why he isn’t playing more regularly.
      The Bulgarian even hinted that the player could look for a move if he continues to be on the fringes.

      So all eyes were on the 23-year-old as Watford came to Old Trafford for the third round tie.
      United fans went crazy for a pair of first half flicks to set up a chance for Juan Mata.
      But, in truth, he failed to stamp any kind of authority on the game. He wasn’t terrible, he wasn’t good, he was just there.
      McTominay himself has had his doubters, but he turned in a performance that belied his 24 years.

      Not only did he end up the matchwinner, but he covered every blade of grass out there, often spotted outmuscling Watford attackers towards his own goal.
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      Scott McTominay put in a man-of-the-match performanceCredit: PA:Press Association

      Bruno Fernandes is the shoe-in, McTominay probably is too. And if he puts an end to constant transfer speculation, Paul Pogba should be the other to bag a midfield spot.
      Van de Beek is far from a lost cause – he only signed for United in the summer and seems keen to learn off his peers.
      But even he will admit his big move has not panned out anywhere near how he had hoped.
      Perhaps a blessing in disguise, Pogba’s name is rarely out of the headlines – no thanks to his controversial agent Mino Raiola constantly insisting his player will leave Old Trafford for a second time.

      Van de Beek didn’t do enough to prove he deserves a regular starting spotCredit: EPA
      Maybe Van de Beek needs that to happen for his own development and game time.
      But at least the speculation over the Frenchman’s future keeps the critics off Van de Beek’s back – for now.
      The former Ajax star will more than likely be back warming the bench when United travel to take on Burnley on Tuesday in the Premier League.
      And while McTominay will see the armband fly back to Harry Maguire, at least he has what Van de Beek craves – a spot in central midfield.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

      Donny van de Beek denies being unhappy at Man Utd saying he knows he can give the team something extra More

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      Man Utd 1 Watford 0: McTominay scores early as Solskjaer begins latest push for first trophy

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      SO ANOTHER Cup journey begins for Manchester United.
      The last four over a year have ended at the semi-final stage so what will the 2020-21 FA Cup hold in store?

      Scott McTominay scored early for Manchester United on Saturday nightCredit: PA:Press Association

      The fifth-minute header was enough to secure passage to the fourth roundCredit: AFP or licensors

      Well, their first hurdle in this third round has been cleared for the ten time winners, most recently lifting the trophy back in 2016.
      That was under Louis van Gaal when the Red Devils football was a painful watch.
      Not so much now, despite the disappointment last week of that fourth consecutive semi-final defeat, this time to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.
      Solskjaer says there is no mental problem when his team gets too close to glory.

      Still he would love to prove it and club football’s oldest competition offers another chance for the manager who twice lifted it as a player.
      Victory was secured with a goal in just the fifth minute from the head of Scott McTominay.
      With nine changes to their team they could not find their usual rhythm, however Watford made seven and rattled the home side.
      Despite the lip service that is paid to this competition, all those changes proved once more that the league is simply more important.

      Particularly when United have the chance to go top of the table on Tuesday if they avoid defeat at Turf Moor when they take on Burnley.
      For Championship side Watford, FA Cup finalists in 2019, the aim is simply to get back into the top-flight at the first attempt after going down last season.
      Xisco Munoz is the latest incumbent in the Hornets’ hotseat but after three games must already be fearing for his job following this second successive defeat – well it is Watford.
      Still his side could be proud of their efforts.
      Despite the changes Solskjaer made this was still a strong United side and one that had the confidence boost of that early lead.
      McTominay met Alex Telles outswinging corner with a downward header that bounced up off the turf into the top corner beyond Daniel Rachmann’s despairing dive.
      You might have expected the floodgates to then open.
      But Watford steadied, stayed in the game and only an excellent save by Dean Henderson on 16 minutes denied them an equaliser.
      Adam Masina had a close-range shot from an angle but Henderson made himself big and saved with his leg before Axel Tuanzebe cleared from in front of his own line.
      Watford’s defending from corners was leaving something to be desired.
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      Eric Bailly was forced off after a first-half head injuryCredit: Reuters

      The Ivorian became entangled in a high battle for the ballCredit: Reuters
      McTominay had already scored from one when Eric Bailly was given plenty of space in the box to meet another Telles out swinger but this time the header went just wide of the far post.
      Donny van de Beek was given a rare chance to shine from the start.
      There has been much consternation back in Holland as to why the £40million signing from Ajax has been afforded so little game time.
      This was only his ninth start.
      Solskjaer clearly feels he needs more time to adapt to the English game.
      Still there is no doubting his talent as was showcased in the 43rd minute when a clever flick with his instep gave Juan Mata a free hit from an angle which Bachmann denied him with an outstretched leg.
      There was a worrying moment right at the end of the first half when Henderson came off his line and jumped to punch clear kneeing Eric Bailly in the head on the way.
      He was attended too and taken off looking dazed with Harry Maguire coming on to replace him.

      Bailly had been at the centre of the games only controversial moment before that which left Watford could understandably aggrieved going at not being awarded a penalty.
      It was the 32 minute when the ball bounced off Alex Tuanzebe and up onto the arm of Bailly.
      The centre-half had lifted his arm up, so it could have been deemed to be in an unnatural position but both referee Andrew Madley and VAR Peter Bankes gave him the benefit of the doubt.
      The changes made by Solskjaer afforded some the chance to make the boss have a rethink when it came to league games, but they weren’t all taken.
      Certainly not by Mason Greenwood to lay claim for the central striker’s role.
      His spark has gone since his antics in Iceland saw him kicked out of the England camp.
      And what has happened to Jesse Lingard, not long ago a regular for Red Devils and Three Lions, now unable to sting The Hornets?
      This was only his second start of the season and the rustiness showed.

      The Red Devils were unable to grab a second to kill the tieCredit: AFP or licensors

      Jesse Lingard featured for a much-changed United sideCredit: AFP or licensors

      Solskjaer had been hoping to keep his main frontmen Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial on the bench ahead of the Burnley game.
      But such was the precarious look of the scoreboard he had to bring both into the action on 68 minutes.
      James and the ineffective Greenwood making way.
      Rashford would have a chance to seal the deal when he charged into the box but Bachmann again came to the rescue.
      It would not prove costly. United through.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

      Solskjaer confirms Man Utd will not extend Rojo and Romero’s contracts More

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      Donny van de Beek reassured Man Utd ‘rate him’ despite lack of starts by boss Solskjaer

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER spoke to Donny van de Beek to reassure him of his Manchester United future.
      The Dutchman has made just eight starts, only two in the league, since his £40million move from Ajax.

      Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has assured Donny van de Beek that he and the club ‘rate him’Credit: EPA

      His agent and Dutch icon Ronald De Boer have both voiced concerns over the midfielder’s situation.
      But Van de Beek, 23, will start Saturday’s FA Cup tie against Watford.
      United boss Solskjaer said: “I’ve spoken to him and made him aware of how much we rate him.
      “There’s many examples of players needing a bit of time, quality players.

      “You don’t expect people who care for him to be quiet at times.
      “Donny will play against Watford, it’s another chance for him to kick on.”
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      How Manchester United could line up versus Watford
      More forgotten Red Devils are set to feature — including full-back Brandon Williams, 20, and former Watford striker Odion Ighalo, 31.

      Having only made two Carabao Cup starts and a pair of brief appearances off the bench this season, the Nigerian appears to be surplus to requirements.
      United are set to wave off Ighalo at the end of the month, when his loan move from Shanghai Shenhua ends.
      Solskjaer said: “He’s been training really well.
      “I don’t know how many goals be scored, but he was the top scorer by a mile in round robin we just had in training.
      “So he’s not lost any of his sharpness or his quality. It’s been difficult for him to be out of the squad as many times of course, because he did really well up to the summer.

      “This season he’s not had as many opportunities, but he’s never let himself down as a professional and a human being.
      “In training he always works hard and he’s been a positive influence in the dressing room.
      “He’s in the squad and hopefully I don’t need to put him on that we need goals, but hopefully he can join in.”
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

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      Solskjaer confirms Man Utd will NOT extend Rojo and Romero’s contracts with pair available for FREE transfer in summer

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has confirmed the imminent exits of Marcos Rojo and Sergio Romero from Manchester United.
      The Argentine duo have been allowed to return home over Christmas having failed to make an appearance all season.

      Marcos Rojo has been training with the first-team squad but recently returned to ArgentinaCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Sergio Romero has also been told he can leave Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      The Red Devils have asked both players to find moves away in January, ahead of their contracts expiring in the summer.
      Speaking on Friday, Solskjaer confirmed that the club will not be renewing either players’ deals.
      He told reporters: “Both of them have contracts until the summer and they’re not going to be extended.
      “We’re looking for them to find clubs.

      “Marcos has been given time to go home, so he’s still in Argentina.
      “Sergio has been back home as well to see his family but they’re pros, working hard and ready if they call in for us.

      “Marcos will have to travel and do the quarantine before.”
      Goalkeeper Romero, 33, was told to find a new club in the autumn having failed to make United’s 25-man Premier League and Champions League squads.

      Everton were linked in a deadline day deal that failed to come off.
      The collapse infuriated Romero’s wife, Eliana, who fumed on Instagram that the club had shown a lack of ‘respect’ after his five years of service.
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      Boca Juniors and Brighton are both reportedly chasing the World Cup finalist this month.
      Meanwhile, centre-back Rojo is also touted for a return to Argentina with Boca.
      The 30-year-old, who joined for £16million in 2014, spent much of last year on loan at Estudiantes but has been recovering from a calf injury in recent weeks.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

      Man Utd’s Sergio Romero’s wife Eliana Guercio says he deserved the opportunity to go to another club More

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      How Man Utd could line up vs Watford with Odion Ighalo CONFIRMED to play against old club in FA Cup clash

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER will hand Odion Ighalo an outing against old club Watford in the FA Cup this weekend.
      The Hornets travel to Old Trafford for a third-round tie kicking off at 8pm on Saturday.

      Odion Ighalo could make his last appearance for Manchester United on SaturdayCredit: PA:Press Association

      Former Watford striker Ighalo was a shock signing for the Red Devils last season and his loan move from Shanghai Shenhua is set to expire at the end of the month.
      And Solskjaer has vowed to give the Nigerian a runout in what may be his farewell appearance for the club.
      The United boss said: “Odion, it’s special for him against Watford. He will be involved; he’s in the squad.
      “He’s been training really well. I was just saying before, I don’t know how many goals be scored, but he was the top scorer by a mile in round robin we just had in training.

      “So he’s not lost any of his sharpness or his quality. It’s been difficult for him to be out of the squad as many times of course, because he did really well up to the summer.
      “This season he’s not had as many opportunities, but he’s never let himself down as a professional and a human being.

      “In training he always works hard and he’s been a positive influence in the dressing room.
      “He’s in the squad and hopefully I don’t need to put him on that we need goals, but hopefully he can join in.”

      Ighalo has started just two Carabao Cup games this season with a further pair of appearances off the bench.
      Fighting with the forward for a place in the line-up are Mason Greenwood, Donny van de Beek and Anthony Martial.
      All three will be keen to impress ahead of a crunch week for United, which features a trip to Burnley and a crunch meeting with Liverpool.
      The busy fixture schedule means Solskjaer is likely to rotate his side on Saturday, with Alex Telles, Axel Tuanzebe, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard ready for an opening.

      New signing Amad Diallo will not feature while the final documents are completed for his move from Atalanta.
      Facundo Pellistri is also unavailable for a debut after testing positive for coronavirus.
      Edinson Cavani serves the final game of a three-match ban for breaching FA social media rules, while Marcos Rojo and Phi Jones are injured.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

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      FA release statement on why Man Utd star Edinson Cavani was banned for ‘negrito’ post but admit he was NOT racist

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      EDINSON CAVANI was NOT racist when he wrote the ‘negrito’ comment that earned him a three-match ban.
      But FA disciplinary beaks agreed they had no option other than to impose the minimum sanction available to them – and suggested Manchester United should have warned Cavani about unacceptable language.

      Edinson Cavani was punished over an Instagram post made in NovemberCredit: PA:Press Association

      South American football chiefs have rushed to Cavani’s defence after the Uruguay striker was banned last week, demanding the FA rescind his three-match ban and £100,000 fine.
      The charge came after Cavani’s response to an Instagram congratulatory message from a friend, Pablo Fernandez, after his match-winning contribution off the bench at Southampton on November 29.
      While Cavani and Manchester United said they accepted the ban, the Old Trafford outfit insisted they expected the FA to state the striker’s comments carried no racist intent.
      And in the full written reasons for the commission decision, published by Wembley chiefs, it emerged that the FA made clear it was NEVER their case to question Cavani’s intent.

      However, the three-man commission, which included former Aston Villa and Bolton midfielder turned lawyer Gareth Farrelly, did suggest United should have explained the regulations that were brought in by English football in August.
      And United’s decision to initially deny a charge which they later accepted was implicitly criticised.

      We were satisfied that the player wrote his reply in affectionate appreciation of a message from his Uruguayan friend.
      FA Commission

      It was the new guidelines, agreed by all clubs and the PFA, which gave the commission no option once Cavani had admitted the offence.
      In the reasons, the commission said: “On December 3, Manchester United asserted the circumstances were such that disciplinary action was not warranted, and that the Player’s conduct did not amount to a breach of FA Rules.

      “However, upon being charged the Player admitted the allegation and expressed his wish that these proceedings be determined without the necessity of a personal hearing.”
      A Latin American expert witness, called by the FA, confirmed: “Someone familiar with South American culture and language could also have understood that in the context of friends it was not used with the intention to be racist, insulting or offensive.”
      The commission added: “We were satisfied that the Player wrote his reply in affectionate appreciation of a message from his Uruguayan friend.
      “It was not designed or intended to be racist or offensive either to his friend or others reading the content of the Instagram post.

      “It was no part of the case presented by the FA that the Player deliberately acted with racist or offensive intent. That was an approach and understanding with which the Commission agreed.
      “When translated in a foreseeable way, the FA submitted that a follower of English Premier League football would have understandably concluded that the words used were racially offensive.
      “The player submitted that he was simply spontaneously responding affectionately to a good friend by his nickname.
      “At the time the message was posted the Player had no idea that the term used could be construed as offensive in this country.
      ““Negrito” was not used in reference to his friend’s colour, but simply because that was the nickname Mr Fernandez had been known by since childhood.
      “So it was that the Player deleted the post and apologised as soon as he became aware of the potentially offensive connotations of that which he had innocently said.”
      Cavani admitted to what was a strict liability offence, although, the commission added: “The player could not reasonably have known that any such offence would be caused.
      “He had only been in this country for some two months, did not speak English and had not previously lived in an English-speaking country.

      “It would not be proper to infer he had been sufficiently exposed to the language and culture of this country so as to allow him to have understood that words that were affectionate and unoffensive in his native language, were unquestionably offensive in this country.
      “He had also received no media training upon his arrival in England to enable him to be better placed to understand the cultural differences that might give rise to issues with a foreign player posting information on a social media platform.
      “In light of the Player’s high profile in the game, his inability to speak English and the fact that he had approaching 8 million Instagram followers, the Commission were surprised that no such ‘training’ had been specifically put in place for the Player by his club.”
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

      Solskjaer hints Edinson Cavani will get new Man Utd contract as he claims veteran striker has a few years left in him More

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      How Man Utd could line up against Man City with Paul Pogba, Marcus Greenwood and Axel Tuanzebe in Carabao Cup semi-final

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER could start Mason Greenwood for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City.
      Manchester United host their rivals in a one-legged shoot-out for a place in the Wembley final.

      Since the two teams played out a Premier League stalemate in December, the Red Devils have been on a fine run.
      Five wins in six have elevated United to second in the league with some promoting Solskjaer’s side to the rare status of ‘favourites’ for this derby meeting.
      Going into the game, the Norwegian has no major injury concerns to contend with, aside from the long-term absences of Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo.
      Edinson Cavani will miss the game due to a suspension for a ‘racist’ Instagram post.

      With at least eight games in January following nine last month, some rotation is expected from the United boss.
      Dean Henderson should come in between the posts with Axel Tuanzebe and Greenwood primed for a role.

      Paul Pogba may keep his spot in the midfield with Donny van de Beek, Daniel James and Juan Mata ready if called upon.
      The Spaniard remains the only player to have ever knocked Pep Guardiola out of the Carabao Cup.

      An October 2016 fourth-round derby, in which Mata scored the only goal, is the only blemish on the City boss’ perfect record in a competition he has won three years running.
      In fact, United are on a bit of a run themselves when it comes to derby days.

      Mason Greenwood is set to feature against Manchester City in the 7.45pm kick-offCredit: Guardian News & Media

      The last three meetings between these two clubs have seen City pick up only a draw, falling to two defeats without scoring.
      Ahead of the game, Solskjaer stated his hope that the Red Devils have progressed since falling to their rivals at this stage last season.
      He noted: “We are happy to be in a semi-final and of course a semi-final is a chance to go to the final.
      “Last year we were just not capable of going through. I think we’ve improved since then and we are going to give it a go.”
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news from Old Trafford

      Solskjaer to hold transfer talks with Man Utd fringe stars over January plans with up to six players set to be axed More

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      Tommy Docherty dead at 92: Tributes paid to former Man Utd, Chelsea and Scotland boss after long illness

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      TOMMY DOCHERTY, the former manager of Manchester United and Chelsea, has died aged 92.
      The former Scotland boss passed away on December 31 at his home in the North West following a long battle with illness.

      Former Manchester United, Chelsea and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty has passed away aged 92Credit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow

      Tommy Docherty celebrates after guiding Manchester United to FA Cup glory against LiverpoolCredit: PA

      The FA Cup win stopped Liverpool from completing the TrebleCredit: Rex Features

      His family said in a statement: “Tommy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home. He was a much-loved husband, father and papa and will be terribly missed.
      “We ask that our privacy be respected at this time.”
      The Scot famously oversaw United’s relegation to the second division in 1974, although he brought them back up as champions the following year.
      He also guided United to an FA Cup final win over Bob Paisley’s Liverpool in 1977 – famously denying the Reds a Treble.

      Docherty’s managerial career spanned over 30 years and saw him coach Aston Villa, Derby County, Porto and a host of other teams.
      During his playing career, Docherty made his name at Preston North End, whom he made over 300 appearances for.
      He also spent three years at Arsenal. He joined Chelsea late on in his career, but played just a handful of games before taking over as manager.

      Everyone at Preston North End is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player and manager Tommy Docherty, who made over 300 appearances for the club. 🤍Our thoughts are with Tommy’s loved ones at this sad time. #pnefc pic.twitter.com/Kb0PdpkU2r
      — Preston North End FC (@pnefc) December 31, 2020

      We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tommy Docherty, who led us to FA Cup victory in 1977 with a thrilling, attacking team in the best traditions of Manchester United.Everyone at the club sends sincere condolences to Tommy’s loved ones. pic.twitter.com/KLRsRJwIIv
      — Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 31, 2020

      Everybody at Chelsea Football Club is very saddened to learn of the death of our former player and manager Tommy Docherty.Tommy was a legend of our game and our thoughts are with his family and close friends at this time. 💙 pic.twitter.com/pFEESAb5DI
      — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 31, 2020

      “Football has lost a tremendous personality in Tommy Docherty. He was tenacious on the park and a great leader off it.”Everyone at the Scottish FA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Scotland manager Tommy Docherty. https://t.co/pKSGYS6K99
      — Scottish FA (@ScottishFA) December 31, 2020

      Docherty won the League Cup with the Blues in 1965 and led them to the 1967 FA Cup final, although they lost to Tottenham.

      Despite having a distinguished playing career, Docherty was most well known for being in charge of United.
      And it was his former club that led the tributes to the man often referred to as ‘The Doc’.
      A United tweet read: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tommy Docherty, who led us to FA Cup victory in 1977 with a thrilling, attacking team in the best traditions of Manchester United.
      “Everyone at the club sends sincere condolences to Tommy’s loved ones.”

      Tommy Docherty oversaw Manchester United’s relegation to the second division but guided them in 1974 back to the top-flight the following yearCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Queens Park Rangers, who Docherty managed in 1968, also extended their thoughts to late Scotsman on Twitter.
      They tweeted: “It is with great sadness the club has learned of the passing of former QPR manager Tommy Docherty.
      “Our thoughts are with his family at this time. May he rest in peace.”
      Preston North End echoed QPR’s sentiment, saying: “Everyone at Preston North End is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player and manager Tommy Docherty, who made over 300 appearances for the club.
      “Our thoughts are with Tommy’s loved ones at this sad time.”

      Tommy Docherty was inducted into the SFA Hall of Fame in 2013Credit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow

      The beloved Docherty also had a stint in charge of Altrincham in the 1987/88 season, which ultimately proved to be his final campaign as a manager.
      The Robins tweeted: “Altrincham FC are saddened to learn of the passing of Tommy Docherty, who managed the Robins during the 1987/88 season.
      “This was his final managerial role. Our thoughts are with his friends and family. RIP.”
      Match of the Day presenter Dan Walker also paid a touching tribute to the late Docherty, tweeting: “One of my first jobs was working on a football phone-in with Tommy Docherty & Malcolm Allison.
      “The Doc was always kind & took great care of Malcolm.
      “He was full of quips but behind the humour was a deep love and understanding of the game. My thoughts are with his family.”

      Doherty (left) won the 1965 League Cup with Chelsea but lost the 1967 FA Cup final to Tottenham (pictured)Credit: PA:Press Association More