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    Manchester United ace Ella Toone pays tribute to late father and reflects on grieving his passing

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    ELLA TOONE has opened up on her grief following the death of her father Nick who passed away in September last year. The Manchester United midfielder, 25, paid an emotional tribute to her dad in a candid piece written for the Players Tribune. On the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast Ella Toone revealed she returned to training the day after her father Nick passed awayCredit: ReutersThe Man Utd midfielder hopes that by opening up on her grief, she can help others going through a similar experienceCredit: PAToone has been in clinical form for the Red Devils netting four goals in their last two WSL gamesCredit: AlamyNick Toone had been a huge influence on the Women’s Super League ace on and off the pitch. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer the day after watching the Lioness star score in the 2022 Euros final with England defeating Germany 2-1 at Wembley And Toone wrote of her Dad informing her in May last year that the cancer had returned.This was soon after the midfielder helped Man United make history scoring her team’s 4-0 triumph over Tottenham in their first Women’s FA Cup final appearance. Read More Football Stories Last September her father passed away three days before his 60th birthday.Toone wrote: “We win the FA Cup, last May. Dad texted after the game. “When I went to the house, everyone sat down in the living room, and Dad said, ‘I’m doing some tests. And I’m not well.'”I just remember thinking: ‘Tests? What tests? What?Most read in Football”It’s come back. I’ve got cancer.” “I said, ‘What do you mean it’s come back?’ “And he said the day after we won the Euros, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. “He’d fought it for a whole year without telling us, and it had gone. And then it came back.”But he didn’t let on how bad it was. I tried to ask questions, but he’d just palm it off.”In a way, I totally get it because I’m exactly like that. “I’ll sit in a room, and someone will be talking to me, and I’ll just shut down. “And when it came to talking about the diagnosis, that was Dad.”He didn’t want anything to be different. He didn’t want people to mither about him, none of that. “So he went about it the way he wanted, and that was that. “I feel like he kissed me and hugged me more. He became a bit softer, which was sweet. “But other than that, he was just the same really.”Toone, who like her father, is a lifelong Man United started her football journey at Astley and Tyldesley Girls’ team at age five.Two years later she joined Manchester United’s Centre of Excellence at seven. Following senior club career stints at Blackburn Rovers and Man City from 2015 to 2018, the midfielder returned to the Red Devils.On the international stage Toone helped England win the Euros for the first time in 2022 and started for the Lionesses in the 2023 World Cup final which they narrowly lost 1-0 to Spain.The midfielder, who hopes to help England retain their Euros crown this summer, has fond memories of her father taking her to watch their local team Hindsford FC during her childhood. In July 2022, Toone told England.com: “I just used to play all day with the lads. “I have loads of cousins and me and my brother would play with them all day on the sidelines while the club were playing. “Those were my first footballing memories when I was really young.”Toone, who has been in fine form for second–placed Man United this month, described her father as the person who always kept her “grounded”. She admits writing about the feelings that followed his passing was also about helping “anyone grieving and feeling alone”. The 53-capped England midfielder wrote: “When he passed, it was a big shock, even to some of the people closest to him, because no one hardly knew he was ill. “I’m still processing. This is my first try at really talking about it. Like Dad said, The Toones are not great at feelings. “But I wanted to write this, for anyone grieving and feeling alone.“Friends who also have experienced the uniquely awful feeling of losing a parent have helped me massively in the worst part of my life. “Now, when people ask, “Who do you look up to?” I say it’s people like Beth Mead and Rach Daly, who’ve continued to play football and be an inspiration after losing someone they love.”They’ve helped me, massively. I hope that in the future I can do the same for people in my life who might be going through the same thing. Toone and her Man United team-mates are currently second in the WSL and seven points behind leaders ChelseaCredit: Alamy“Grief takes a different shape for everyone. READ MORE SUN STORIES”But maybe if someone sees me sharing a small piece of my own grief, it might make it a tiny bit easier for them to know that I know what they’re going through is brutal. “It’s messy. And that’s alright. Trust me, it’s alright.” More

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      ‘He’s let a lot of people down’ – Marcus Rashford should be ‘BANISHED’ from Man Utd dressing room, slams Paul Scholes

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Paul Scholes claims wantaway star Marcus Rashford should be “banished” from the dressing room amid the ongoing saga regarding his future.Rashford, 27, hasn’t played for United since December 12 and admitted last month he is “ready for a new challenge”.Manchester United legend Paul Scholes slammed Marcus RashfordCredit: YouTube / The OverlapMan Utd boss Ruben Amorim suggested he’s unhappy with the way Rashford trainsCredit: AlamyMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim has left him out of the squad for every game since his last appearance apart from one, in which he was an unused substitute.Amorim also omitted the forward from Sunday’s 1-0 victory at Fulham suggesting he is so unhappy with the way he trains he would rather pick 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital ahead of him.Scholes addressed the ongoing drama and criticised the England international’s attitude as he “let a lot of people down”.The United legend warned Rashford that he’s making the same mistake he committed years ago when he asked Sir Alex Ferguson not to play in a cup game against Arsenal.Read More on Man UtdThe ex-England international believes he should be banned from the dressing room as he sets the wrong example for younger players.Scholes told Sky Bet’s The Overlap: “I think Marcus has let a lot of people down with his attitude and I think that’s what the manager is trying to say.”You think of the young players coming through the team and think of [Alejandro] Garnacho.”They’re looking up to people like Marcus now and he’s 27, he’s clearly not training properly, he’s not living his life properly. They’re the examples these people should look at.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”I remember years ago when I told the manager [Ferguson] I didn’t want to play in that Arsenal cup game. “The meeting we had afterwards, I thought I was going to get a right b********g here, he said to me, ‘The worst thing you did was let your teammates down’. And that really stuck with me.Rashford admitted last month he is ‘ready for a new challenge’Credit: RexScholes insists Rashford should be ‘banished’ from the Man Utd dressing roomCredit: GettyRuben Amorim has pulled out the nine-millimetre revolver, there’s no way back for Marcus Rashford at Man Utd”Because I wasn’t really thinking about that and now I think Marcus Rashford is doing exactly the same. “Ok, he’s not refusing to play, but in the way he is behaving and the way he’s training…”In a way, he’s saying he doesn’t want to be involved with the team and the fact of letting his teammates down, he should be banished from the dressing room. “If he’s in and around that and young people are seeing that as an example, the sooner he’s gone the better.”England striker Rashford has been offered to clubs all over Europe this January.But only Barcelona remain in the race as teams struggle to take on Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wage packet.Dortmund, AC Milan, and Napoli have all enquired about taking the unsettled star this January.But all have found his wages to be a stumbling block in negotiations.His situation hit a new low last weekend when Amorim claimed he would rather name goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital, 63, on the bench than Rashford.Asked directly about Rashford’s absence against Fulham, Amorim said: “I’d put Vital on the bench before a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day. I’ll not change in that department.“It’s always the same reason. The reason is the training. The way that I see what a footballer should do in training,  in life, every day.  If things don’t change, I will not change.”Rashford’s showdown with Amorim began in December when he was left out of the squad for Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe then gave an interview saying he is ready for a “new challenge”.He told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.” More

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      Ruben Amorim ‘seals first Man Utd signing as club reach agreement for immediate transfer of Patrick Dorgu’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have reached an agreement to sign Patrick Dorgu, according to reports.And the left-back will become Ruben Amorim’s first signing as Red Devils boss – unless Ayden Heaven arrives from Arsenal before the paperwork is completed.Patrick Dorgu looks set to join Manchester United from LecceCredit: SplashAmorim has been keen to bolster his faltering squad during the January transfer window.And the Portuguese chief identified the full-back area as a key place to strengthen.His 3-4-3 formation relies on wing-backs – and he hopes Dorgu can make an immediate impact on the left.As reported by news outlets in Italy including SoloLecce, the deal between United and Lecce is “done”. READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt is claimed Dorgu will make an immediate switch to Old Trafford for an initial £29million – with a further £4m in possible add-ons. Those add-ons are said to be certainly achievable and include Champions League qualification and a set number of Premier League appearances for the youngster. Dorgu, 20, joined Lecce in 2022 and made his senior debut at the beginning of last season.He has racked up 57 appearances for the Serie A club, chipping in with five goals, too.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe 6ft 2ins star – who can play at left-back, wing-back or even as a winger – also has four caps and one goal for Denmark having come through all the youth teams from Under-18s. However, his former manager urged the rising star to SNUB a move to United. Man Utd’s Player Ratings vs FulhamJens Fonnskov Olsen managed Dorgu when he was part of Denmark’s U19s setup.He told Tipsbladet: “If I have to be a little cheeky, I hope he chooses something other than Manchester United right now.”I don’t know if it’s a bad fit, but they’re just in a period where… I don’t know if you can afford to say no to United, but maybe somewhere where there’s a little more structure and where things fit in with his pace.”Sometimes things have to go in the right order, if you can say it like that.”The thing is that there are many paths to the goal.”On what Red Devils fans can expect from Dorgu as a player, though, Olsen added: “Patrick is fast, he is forward-thinking, he can head both offensively and defensively, and he has a very, very good left foot.”He has been really well-educated [at Lecce], especially in the defensive part of the game, where he may have lacked something.”He is a creative player. I am incredibly happy that I brought him in and just believed in him.”I am really happy for him, in terms of how his career has developed.”Dorgu could make his debut in Sunday’s home clash with Crystal Palace – with Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui likely making way should he come into the starting XI.And the expected incoming could spell the end for both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia at the club.Heaven, meanwhile, is set to join in a shock swoop.The 18-year-old centre-back is ready to leave Arsenal after rejecting their latest contract offer.And despite interest from Eintracht Frankfurt, Fabrizio Romano reckons an agreement is all sorted for the teenager’s Old Trafford switch – with a medical already booked. Premier League teams have until Monday night to complete their transfer activity.So far, United’s only business has been to send various youth players and winger Antony out on loan.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford could both make significant exits from Old Trafford.Chelsea and Napoli are seemingly battling it out for £60m winger Garnacho while finding a club to take Rashford and his mammoth wages could prove tricky. Ayden Heaven is set to swap Arsenal for UnitedCredit: ReutersAlejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford could both be on their way out of Old Trafford by MondayCredit: Getty More

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      Rio Ferdinand claims he would threaten to SUE Ruben Amorim if Man Utd boss made Rashford-style comments about him

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Rio Ferdinand said he would threaten to sue manager Ruben Amorim if he talked about him the same way he did with Marcus Rashford.Rashford, 27, has not played for United since December 12, with Amorim, 40, leaving him out of the squad for every game since apart from one, in which he was an unused substitute.Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand addressed Ruben Amorim’s comments about Marcus RashfordCredit: GettyAmorim would rather pick his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach ahead of RashfordCredit: AlamyFerdinand suggested he would sue Amorim if he spoke about him the same way he did with RashfordCredit: GettyThe star forward was once again omitted on Sunday when Man Utd won 1-0 at Fulham and the Portuguese tactician was then quizzed about the player’s situation at Old Trafford.The ex-Sporting Lisbon boss stated he would prefer to have 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital on his bench ahead of the out-of-favour England international.Amorim said: “The reason [why Rashford is not playing] is the training, what I think a footballer should do in training, in life and every day.”I will put [in] Vital before I put [in] a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day.”Read More on Man UtdFerdinand, 46, insists he would be furious if a manager ever spoke about him like that.The ex-England international is adamant he would hold a press conference to bash those claims, if they were indeed baseless.The popular pundit even suggested he would sue the head coach for questioning his “effort” if he was in Rashford’s shoes.Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the former United defender said: “If it isn’t true and it was me he said that about, I am coming out all guns blazing.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives“I’m holding a press conference, I’m coming out and saying, ‘I’m having no one chat about me like that in the media’. “But you only come out if you’re 100 per cent sure that nobody can say you take the shortcuts.Amorim fires extraordinary blast at Rashford and says he’d rather put 63-YEAR-OLD coach on Man Utd bench ahead of him“Sometimes I think in these situations, if you’re doing things right, communicate it.“Because the manager can question how well or bad I’m playing, or my form, but if he’s questioning my effort, I’m sorry, I’m coming back out, next time I’m around any press people – ‘the effort, he needs to take that back or I’m suing him’.“I would love to sit across the table from Marcus, look in his eyes and go, ‘Can you say that? Could you be confident enough to go out and do that? Because if you can’t, look at yourself’.” More

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      I’m Patrick Dorgu’s former manager, he’s an exciting player but he should NOT join Man Utd

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      PATRICK DORGU’S former manager has urged him to reject Manchester United.The 20-year-old star is a target for Ruben Amorim and talks have reportedly begun over a potential deal.Patrick Dorgu has been urged to not sign for Man UtdCredit: GettySerie A side Lecce are thought to be holding out for a fee of £33.7million for their versatile youngster.United could make a bid for him should they sell Alejandro Garnacho to Napoli for £60m in the final days of the January transfer window.Jens Fonnskov Olsen managed Dorgu when he was part of Denmark’s Under-19s setup.And the player’s old boss has shockingly encouraged him not to join United. READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHe told Tipsbladet: “If I have to be a little cheeky, I hope he chooses something other than Manchester United right now. “I don’t know if it’s a bad fit, but they’re just in a period where… I don’t know if you can afford to say no to United, but maybe somewhere where there’s a little more structure and where things fit in with his pace.”Sometimes things have to go in the right order, if you can say it like that.”The thing is that there are many paths to the goal.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDorgu has featured at full-back and on the wing for Lecce, with Amorim believing he will suit his 3-4-3 system.Explaining what type of player he is, Olsen said: “Patrick left and went to a slightly smaller side in Italy and took the chance there.Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager'”He has been really well-educated, especially in the defensive part of the game, where he may have lacked something.”I was really happy with him. I think he had some exciting skills. “Patrick is fast, he is forward-thinking, he can head both offensively and defensively, and he has a very, very good left foot.””He is a creative player. I am incredibly happy that I brought him in and just believed in him. “I am really happy for him, in terms of how his career has developed.”MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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      Man Utd Supporters Trust release public warning to Sir Jim Ratcliffe about ticket price hikes at ‘worst possible time’

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      THE MANCHESTER UNITED SUPPORTERS’ TRUST (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe following the controversial rise in ticket prices.Britain’s richest man Ratcliffe, 72, angered United fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66.The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) issued an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: GettyRatcliffe angered Man Utd fans last month by raising Old Trafford ticket prices to £66Credit: GettySir Jim insisted Man Utd should not charge less than Premier League opponents, such as Fulham.That led to an X-rated chant against him and the unpopular Glazers regime by the Red Devils faithful when he was spotted at Craven Cottage watching Sunday’s scrappy 1-0 victory over the Cottagers.United fans were heard chanting: “Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t. Just like the Glazers, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c**t.”MUST then shared an open letter calling on Ratcliffe to freeze ticket prices and end “the war on season ticket holders”.Read More on Man UtdThe Trust insists this was the “worst possible time” to raise ticket prices.They cite the impact on fan sentiment, the negative affect on “atmosphere and team performance” and how wrong policies which do not engage properly with supporters can “trigger huge reactions”.United fans were initially desperate for Sir Jim and his Ineos company to take over sporting operations from the Glazers, which they finally did in 2023.But recent cut-backs have helped send relations between Ratcliffe and supporters plummeting.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis comes after some other brutal cuts as 250 staff members were made redundant.In addition, club legends and ambassadors saw their wages getting reduced, while Sir Alex Ferguson was axed.Paul Scholes lays into Sir Jim Ratcliffe for ‘having the cheek’ to introduce ‘ridiculous’ Man Utd’s ticket prices SunSport also exclusively revealed the club slashed funding for a charity helping former players.United chiefs say the changes will put the club “on a stronger financial footing” after making a total loss of more than £300million over the past three years.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet.Man Utd fans’ open letter to Sir Jim RatcliffeThe Manchester United Supporters Trust issued the following open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding the rise of ticket prices:We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too.Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.WHY THIS IS THE WRONG TIMEFan Sentiment:A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans’ discretionary spend too.And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.THE VALUE OF SUPPORTIVE FANSHow much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?)The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.A BETTER WAY FORWARDInstead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach – work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.Hold Fire for This Season:Be bold – freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.Rally the Fans and Club Together:Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.Consider Alternative Funding Options:If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.Preserve the Club’s Legacy:Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.THE BUSINESS CASE FOR A BOLD APPROACHThis is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.Yours sincerely,The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) More

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      ‘They have to do better’ – Martinez blames Man Utd stars’ tactic for Hojlund and Zirkzee struggles but sends warning

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      LISANDRO MARTINEZ claims Manchester United have to stop playing long balls to the strikers.The United defender admits that the team have to do more to help forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee who are both struggling up front for Ruben Amorim’s side.Lisandro Martinez hopes a change of approach can see Man Utd turn their fortunes aroundCredit: AlamyThe Red Devils are looking to get Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee firingCredit: ReutersMartinez, who scored the winner in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Fulham to ease the pressure on Amorim, accepted that the service to Hojlund and Zirkzee has been poor.He said: “We take the responsibility. “I think we played many long balls to them [against Fulham] and for them it was really tough. “They fight against two centre-backs and the centre-backs here in the Premier League are really difficult if you are trying to win the ball.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”But they have to do better as well. They are really good players but we have to contribute more and put them in better space or places on the pitch. “We have to find them in the right places and dangerous places to make them score.”Hojlund, on target seven times this season, has failed to score in his last 11 matches. Zirkzee has only four goals following his summer move from Bologna.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut United are now preparing for Thursday’s Europa League game against FCSB in Romania looking for a third successive win under Amorim.Martinez added: “We have to keep this momentum for sure. Amorim fires extraordinary blast at Rashford and says he’d rather put 63-YEAR-OLD coach on Man Utd bench ahead of him”It’s an amazing feeling when you win, but we have to be humble.”Asked about the confidence in the dressing room, the Argentine star did not want to go overboard. He said: “We’re ok. I’m not going to talk about confidence and that kind of thing.”Beating Fulham was really important because we hadn’t got the best results in the Premier League.”MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet.United picked up their first clean sheet since December 1 in the win.Amorim’s side hadn’t stopped a team from scoring since a 4-0 victory over Everton 14 games ago. 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      Why Man Utd were forced into nightmare journey back from Fulham with miserable stars arriving in Manchester at 1.30am

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      MANCHESTER UNITED stars had to be driven back home by coach after their Premier League match at Fulham.United defeated the Cottagers 1-0 on Sunday thanks to Lisandro Martinez’s winner at Craven Cottage.Manuel Ugarte was visibily upset after Manchester United’s hellacious trip backCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeAlejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo had to endure a three-and-a-half-hour coach trip back to ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeRasmus Hojlund saw Man Utd’s flight back from London getting cancelledCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMatthijs de Ligt and co couldn’t board the plane due to problems with the airlineCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Red Devils were scheduled to fly back to Manchester Airport but the flight was cancelled.Problems with the airline meant going back home by plane was no longer an option.And so Man Utd had to endure a THREE-AND-A-HALF-HOUR coach journey to Manchester.Ruben Amorim’s men faced Fulham at 7pm and the manager finished his post-match press conference at about 9.40pm.Read More on Man UtdThe team arrived back at Manchester Airport at about 1.30AM to get on their cars that they had parked nearby anticipating a flight back.Some players, such as Manuel Ugarte, seemed visibly frustrated after the horrendous ordeal.United are training on Monday despite the horrible journey, but have Tuesday off.Amorim will hold practice again on Wednesday morning before the three-hour flight to Romania.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThat is where they will take on FCSB on Thursday’s crunch Europa League clash as they look to seal a place in the top eight.That leads straight to the Last 16, which is quite important for United amid their ongoing woes in the Premier League.Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager’The Red Devils have plunged down to 12th place in the table, which means winning the Europa League poses as their best chance of gaining Champions League qualification next season.The club has dealt with off-field woes as well with fans furious following the rise in ticket prices.That led to the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust issuing an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe warning him about the negative effects of that decision.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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      Inside Lisandro Martinez and Adama Traore’s heated feud as Fulham star carries on row after defeat to Man Utd

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      THE HEATED feud between Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez and Fulham ace Adama Traore continues.Martinez, 27, and Traore, 29, locked horns in Sunday’s Premier League clash between United and the Cottagers at Craven Cottage.Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez and Fulham ace Adama Traore extended their rivalryCredit: APMartinez trolled Traore in August when he overpowered him in their first meetingCredit: PATraore caught wind of Martinez’s comments and vowed revengeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/adamatrd37/It was the second meeting between the two teams after August’s Prem opener at Old Trafford that saw Man Utd prevail 1-0 thanks to Joshua Zirkzee’s winner.Martinez and Traore were locked in some intense challenges on the pitch during that season opening fixture.At some point the centre-back’s 5’9″ frame somehow managed to overpower his heavyweight Fulham opponent.The Argentina international went on to rub it in with a cheeky statement during a post-match interview.Read More on Man UtdMartinez, who’s nicknamed ‘The Butcher’, said: “I sent him back to the gym. I learned from the first one where he killed me, I killed him back. He is difficult to play against and I learned from the first situation.”Traore caught wind of the Argentine’s comments and hit back on social media.The winger posted a pic of himself training and tagged Martinez with an ominous warning and a winky-face emoji.Traore posted: “Don’t worry we will meet again.”Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThe ex-Wolves star kept his promise as he got the better of some intense challenges with Martinez during Sunday’s meeting.Things looked at risk of boiling over when Martinez went in two footed on his much larger opponent.Fulham boss Marco Silva regrets ‘cruel’ loss to Man Utd Bizarrely, it was Martinez who crumpled to the floor following the dangerous tackle.Traore took a swipe out of the defender on social media after the match by sharing a cheeky snap.It showed the forward walking back to his half with the Man Utd ace left on the floor writhing in pain following the clash between them.Traore posted the following casual caption on Instagram: “Tough loss. We deserved more, but we will keep working hard and improving.”Nevertheless, Martinez got the last laugh during the latest chapter of their saga as he scored the winner on 78 minutes to lead United to an important 1-0 victory in west London.Martinez celebrates after his winning goal gave Man Utd a 1-0 winCredit: GettyMAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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