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      Ruben Amorim bizarrely SLAPS Man Utd stars in training as fans joke ‘I hope Luke Shaw doesn’t get injured’

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      RUBEN AMORIM was caught playfully SLAPPING Manchester United players in a bizarre training session ahead of his Old Trafford debut.But United fans were excited to finally see some joy return to Carrington – while many begged the new boss to go “easy on Luke Shaw” after he made his long-awaited return from injury at the weekend.Ruben Amorim was spotted joking around with his players on WednesdayFans have hailed the carnage as team bondingAfter a disappointing 1-1 draw at Ipswich, Amorim told Sky Sports on Sunday: “I just want to spend time with my players.”And the Portuguese tactician is clearly fitting into his new role at United, as Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire returned to training.Amorim and his coaching staff were waiting for his first team squad to arrive on the training pitches in the winter cold on Wednesday.The players, who smiled as they entered the gates, then gathered to form a tunnel to create room for their team-mates to run through.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe group could be seen laughing and joking before Amorim turned to push Kobbie Mainoo backwards. The former Sporting manager then lovingly launched at Martinez – who was darting away for cover.A beaming Shaw appeared to joke with his new boss before Amorim lovingly urged him off to join Martinez at the start of the line.It seems as though Amorim was getting his long-term injured players to run through the group as a sort-of initiation to welcome them back into the fold.Most read in FootballMartinez, Shaw, Maguire and a host of players began running through the man-made tunnel as their team-mates in line jokingly slapped them.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSShaw played his first United minutes since February against Ipswich after he replaced Jonny Evans at left centre-back on 59 minutes.Martinez suffered a knock during Ruud van Nistelrooy’s final game in charge, and Maguire has been out since leaving Villa Park in a plastic boot when Erik ten Hag was still at the helm.Ruben Amorim takes brutal swipe at Ed Sheeran as Man Utd boss admits Sky Sports pundit ‘is the real star’ But fans were quick to spot how close the group have become ahead of United’s Europa League tie with Bodo/Glimt on Thursday.One wrote: “Needs to be careful with Luke Shaw, could put him out for the rest of the season with those shoves 🤣.”A second said: “I’m definitely feeling he’s going to bond the squad stronger here.”Another added: “Amorim’s more connected with the players due to his younger age.”While a fourth wrote: “Stop pushing Shaw, he’s gonna get hurt!🤣🤣”A fifth replied: “This club needs more chemistry, and he is trying to build it.”One more wrote: “It’s heartwarming to watch.”Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury.United will welcome 12 per cent of an entire town’s population on Thursday.The away side, who were beaten twice by Arsenal in 2022, are bringing 6,500 fans to the ground for the huge clash.That is out of the town’s 53,000 population, meaning one eighth of everyone living there will be attending the match.While Maguire isn’t considered fit enough to get straight back into playing after a longer absence, Martinez could feature.Amorim said: “Licha is ready. He didn’t stop playing for too much time so I feel he is ready.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It is a different situation with Harry, we need them both but they are in a different situation. “They are both training, Harry soon will be on the pitch also.”Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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      Onana once looked like another Man Utd flop but is now one of Prem’s best keepers and making huge difference off pitch

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      FROM looking like just another expensive flop to one of the best goalkeepers in the Prem.It has been some year for Andre Onana, arguably Manchester United’s most improved player.Andre Onana has stepped up his game after a difficult debut season at Man UtdOnana kept out Liam Delap on several occasions on SundayOnana became the subject of scrutiny after several high profile howlers last seasonIn fact, Onana is leading the race for the Golden Glove with five clean sheets in 12 Prem games this season,.This is one more than Liverpool’s Alisson, Everton’s Jordan Pickford, Arsenal’s David Raya and Nottingham Forest stopper Matz Sels.Although Onana, 28, saw Ipswich’s Omari Hutchinson find a way past him to level in Sunday’s 1-1 draw, Ruben Amorim would have been staring at defeat in his first game as United boss but for his keeper.The Cameroonian made two brilliant saves to deny Liam Delap.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAt one time you only needed to get it on target to beat Onana, signed in a £47.2million deal. He arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2023 with a big reputation having just reached the Champions League final with Inter Milan, losing 1-0 to Manchester City.But eyebrows were already being raised in pre-season when he called out former skipper Harry Maguire after conceding a goal in a friendly with Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas.United were quickly looking like they had gambled and lost, having let David de Gea leave when his deal ran out.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn Onana’s first outing at Old Trafford in a pre-season game against French club Lens he was lobbed from 50 yards.Then in the opening match of that Prem season he was very lucky not to concede a late penalty after clearing out Wolves’ Sasa Kalajdzic.Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich The next month Onana allowed a weak shot from Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane to crawl under him in a 4-3 Champions League defeat in Germany. He was recruited for his distribution skills as well as his shot-stopping but a hospital pass to Casemiro led to a red card for the Brazilian in a 3-2 home defeat to Galatasaray.He conceded two savable free-kicks in the 3-3 return against the Turkish side, having let another shot squirm under his body against Brentford.Onana admitted he found the switch to a different country, league and team a problem at first. But United fans would eventually see why Erik ten Hag signed his former Ajax No 1.By the end of his debut campaign he had made more saves than any other keeper in the Premier League with 149.United are a lowly 12th now after the Portman Road draw but Onana boasts the most league shut-outs.Onana has the most clean sheets in the Prem this season as United sit 12thHe looks more like an athlete than when he arrived and has grown into someone United can rely on.Onana has been achieving things off the field, too — yesterday the international players’ union Fifpro gave him the Player Impact Award.That is for setting up the Andre Onana Foundation, which provides free medical care and surgeries for underprivileged children and adults in his native Cameroon and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.Doctors have performed more than 1,200 operations since 2021. The foundation also provides schools for orphans.Onana said: “The foundation means a lot to me. It makes me see things differently.READ MORE SUN STORIES“You see people who have nothing, yet they look happier than people who have everything. “They didn’t want to be in that position but destiny made it that way and they are making the best out of that situation.”Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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      Man Utd make history with major change to Old Trafford in ‘fantastic step forward’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have made history after becoming the first Premier League club to offer male sanitary facilities.The Red Devils will provide designated bins and products such as pads for men at Old Trafford.Manchester United have made history by becoming the first club to offer male sanitary facilities to match-going fansThe decision came after a fresh study from Prostate Cancer UK and phs GroupIt comes after a study found that 50 per cent of those with male bladder weakness attend fewer games due to a lack of facilities and anxiety about leaks.While one in seven (14 per cent) said they had stopped going to games altogether, according to Prostate Cancer UK.But United have now set the benchmark after becoming the first top-flight club to commit to Gold BOG STANDARD accreditation – the minimum requirements that charities are asking organisations to implement to support men with incontinence.Nick Ridgman, head of support services at Prostate Cancer UK, praised the Red Devils for their initiative. READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “Manchester United’s commitment to supporting men with incontinence is a fantastic step forward.”And we hope their action will inspire change across the whole football community, from the top of the Premier League to local non-league games.”The report was published last week came from Prostate Cancer UK and phs Group.United, who sit 12th in the Prem after drawing at Ipswich, are leading the charge by providing designated bins and essential products such as pads.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFormer BBC sports presenter Steve Rider, who has battled prostate cancer himself, remarked: “Incontinence can become a real social barrier.”Imagine going to watch your local football team, you’re halfway through the second half and suddenly you feel the need to get rid of something a bit more substantial than your season ticket.Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?”The ability to do that hygienically, with security and dignity, is so important. “And that’s why I’m a strong supporter of the Back in the Game initiative to get clubs up to the BOG STANDARD, to enable men to live a better life.”The next phase of plans to re-build Old Trafford and redevelop the surrounding area has been launched.United’s proposed regeneration of Trafford Park could boost the UK economy by up to £7.3billion.While United are consulting with the local community, they have NOT ruled out building a brand new 100,000-seater stadium away from the Theatre of Dreams.Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to build a new ground on the land adjacent to Old Trafford and pics of what the stadium could look like have been released.The Red Devils distributed a survey to season ticket holders and club members and received more than 50,000 responses.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club have confirmed that 52 per cent of respondents are in favour of demolishing Old Trafford and building an entirely new stadium.While 31 per cent would rather redevelop the current ground, and 17 per cent are unsure.Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More

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      Man Utd draw up four-man striker transfer shortlist for January including Osimhen and Boniface but fans fume at omission

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have four strikers on their shortlist ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored fewer goals than the Red Devils in the Premier League, with new boss Ruben Amorim identifying the position as a problem area.Victor Boniface is highly-rated by Man Utd chiefsCredit: GettyVictor Osimhen is also on United’s shortlist with Napoli star currently on loan at GalatasarayCredit: ReutersRandal Kolo Muani is set to be made available in JanuaryCredit: GettyOmar Marmoush is also on the Red Devils’ radarCredit: APSummer signing Joshua Zirkzee has scored just one goal in all competitions and Rasmus Hojlund has found the back of the net twice this season.Marcus Rashford scored as the striker against Ipswich, but Amorim is still keen on getting in a new No9.Sky Germany report that United have drawn up a four-man shortlist for moves in January.Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface is admired by Man Utd after he fired Xabi Alonso’s side to an undefeated domestic double last season.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut Boniface, 23, who has struggled with injuries, could prove too expensive and would only become available in the summer.His Nigerian compatriot Victor Osimhen is another being talked about at Old Trafford.He is on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli after his move to Chelsea collapsed before the start of the season.Osimhen, 25, has a £110million release clause, though clubs could get him for less as the Italian giants want to sell. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd’s four-man striker shortlist Stats this season:Victor Boniface: 15 games, eight goals, one assist (Bayer Leverkusen)Victor Osimhen: 10 games, eight goals, four assists (Galatasaray)Randal Kolo Muani: 13 games, two goals, one assist (PSG)Omar Marmoush: 17 games, 14 goals, ten assists (Eintracht Frankfurt) PSG star Randal Kolo Muani is also on Man Utd’s shortlist after struggling in the French capital.He has found the back of the net 11 times in 53 games since his £77million deal from Eintracht Frankfurt.Gary Neville admits he ‘can’t see what’s going to happen’ with Man Utd conundrum as he names likely winners under Amorim Kolo Muani, 25, could be open to a move to the Premier League, having started just two PSG games this term.A January loan is seen as realistic and a permanent move possible if United can find the cash.His replacement at Frankfurt was Omar Marmoush, who is second at the top of the Bundesliga goalscoring charts behind only Harry Kane.The versatile Egyptian has eleven goals and seven assists this season and his contract expires in 2027.Marmoush, 25, is rumoured to be available for between £42m to £50m.Man Utd fans have been left baffled by the omission of Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres, with many hoping the Swede follows Amorim to Manchester. One supporter said: “Why is Gyokeres not on the list? He would suit us perfectly.Another added: “Gyokeres is still the best striker in the market.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is not just a striker the new manager wants as he also has his eye on a new left-back.Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies is reportedly first choice, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez the alternatives. Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Manchester United’s Gabby George opens up on England call-up joy following the ‘difficult moment’ of her knee injury

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      HAVING space to rant at Manchester United during the toughest days of her knee injury, helped spur Gabby George’s fight back to fitness. Now the defender, 27, is relishing her return to England duty 14 months after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament. Gabby George has joined up with her England team-mates this week for the first time since November 2022The defender’s Lionesses call-up follows her making a return to WSL match action in October following an ACL injuryGeorge, who has two senior England caps, hopes to impress Sarina Wiegman whose team are due to play the USA and SwitzerlandIt was in October last year, a month after sealing a permanent move to United from Everton that George’s season was cut short.Four games into the 2023-24 campaign, the full-back tore her ACL during the club’s 1-1 draw with Leicester in the top-flight. The twice-capped Manchester-born player did not return to WSL action until this September when her side beat West Ham 3-0 at Old Trafford. And the full-back intends to enjoy her football after coming through this “difficult moment”. Read More Football Stories Speaking at England’s base, yesterday she said: “I’d just signed for Manchester United.”I had so many dreams and ambitions that I wanted to achieve, and it was all taken away from me within four games. “The hardest part of an injury is understanding why and you never know why, that’s the toughest part. “It was a difficult moment and I’m happy to have come through it with the help of Manchester United. Most read in Football”On the days that were tough I was able to go into the changing room and if I needed to cry, I could cry, and if I needed to rant, I could rant to them. “They always listened and never made me feel like I was a burden and that was the key thing. “We have a great squad and staff and I was able to speak to all of the staff.”But it’s behind me now and I’m just happy and I’m in a position where I can play again.”George, whose knee injuries kept her out of two FA Cup finals with Everton and United, could be set to feature for England this Saturday. When you’ve been through so much and you get those little wins, it’s a big thing.Gabby GeorgeAlthough her club are fifth in the league, her call-up follows her contribution to United keeping five clean sheets in eight games. The Lionesses take on Emma Hayes’s Olympic gold medal-winning USA stars at Wembley at 5:45pm this Saturday. George’s last call-up for England was before their November 2022 campThe full-back was named on the bench ahead of a 4-0 friendly defeat of Japan and a 1-1 draw with Norway. George, whose cousin is ex-Man United winger Jesse Lingard, adds: “I’ve come back this season and I’ve wanted to enjoy my football. Wherever that takes me, it takes me. “Luckily I was able to get an England call-up but I want to continue enjoying my football because that’s when I play my best.”Of her call-up conversation with Lioness boss Sarina Wiegman, George said: “I was stuttering on the phone and I’m never lost for words! I was buzzing for it. “When you’ve been through so much and you get those little wins, it’s a big thing for you. I’m all about celebrating those wins.”England’s duels with the USA and with Switzerland next Tuesday, will serve as prep for their two upcoming Nations League games.Aside from Portugal, the Lionesses will play World Cup champions Spain next February. It will be the first game between the sides since England’s 1-0 loss to their rivals in last August’s Women’s World Cup final in Australia. And George hopes to make her mark before Wiegman’s squad selection for both fixtures.The USA will take on England for the first time since Emma Hayes took charge of the team this summerShe said: “Sarina knows what she’s doing. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I feel like, us training and being in this environment, we have a chance to showcase ourselves and if we get minutes, we get minutes. “If we don’t, we’re just going to have to keep pushing and working hard.” More

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      Ruben Amorim hints at part of Man Utd job he already hates in tense statement at end of Sky Sports interview

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      RUBEN AMORIM jokingly admitted that he’s struggling to come to terms with one key aspect of being the manager of Manchester United.The Portuguese tactician bemoaned the intense media spotlight that comes with being the Red Devils gaffer.Ruben Amorim already hates one aspect of the PremThe 39-year-old said he’s already done more interviews at United than he did during four years at SportingAmorim’s first game in charge was a largely underwhelming affair with United sharing the points with dominant Ipswich at Portman Road.Marcus Rashford got his new boss off to a perfect start when he opened the scoring inside 81 seconds.But Man of the Match Omari Hutchinson’s brilliant strike levelled the scores with the scrappy encounter going on to finish 1-1.Amorim joined pundits after the match and discussed the differences between managing United and his former club Sporting.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “This week I spoke more to the media than I did in four years at Sporting. I just want to work with my players. Nothing more.”It came after host Kelly Cates said: “One of the things you are going to learn as Manchester United manager is the number of media commitments that you have after a game.”Amorim shook his head and said: “This is the last time. When you speak too much and don’t win it’s really hard for everybody.”It’s one week. And only one week. I just want to work with my players and nothing more but I understand it’s a different game here.”Most read in FootballThe Amorim era got off to the perfect start when Marcus Rashford scored inside two minutesBefore Omari Hutchinson’s stunner pegged Amorim’s side backUnited were dominated by Ipswich in large parts of their 1-1 drawFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the 39-year-old was the picture of respect as his comments came after the interview was over.Amorim had no complaints with regards to the effort of his new group of players but accepted it will take time to improve. Ruben Amorim gives instant verdict on Bruno Fernandes, Garnacho and Zirkzee in revealing Sky Sports interviewHe added: “It is hard to expect anything now. It is not a surprise but you have to see it in the game. “That is why I was a little bit anxious, because you cannot understand what will happen in the game. I felt that.”What I understood today is that they are trying, they are really trying. “They stay in the positions, they receive information and they try to use it in the game. That is very important.”Even in the difficult moments, I felt they were doing the things we said for them to do.Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury.”I know it is frustrating for the fans, but we are changing so much in this moment with a lot of games. “We are going to suffer for a long period and we will try to win games. This will take time, but I know we have to win games.”United – who sit 12th in the Prem – face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday before hosting Everton on Sunday.Former United captain Roy Keane expressed his concerns about the lack of quality at Old Trafford.He told Sky: “We saw the shape of the team but it is the same players and the same problems.”We talk about leopards and spots. Lack of goals and a lack of quality in the second half. Ipswich looked the better team.”It’s his first game. A lot to take in and it has been a mental week for him but ultimately he will be disappointed.”Keane also got into a furious bust-up with Ipswich fan after the game.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Irishman, who previously spent time as Ipswich manager, could be seen exchanging words with a group of home supporters.He appeared to tell one individual that he would “wait for him in the car park”.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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      Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim planning shock transfer swoop for Wolves star Rayan Ait-Nouri

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      WOLVES star Rayan Ait-Nouri is high on the wishlist of new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.The Algerian’s contract expires in the summer of 2026 and he is believed to be eyeing a move away from Molineux.Rayan Ait-Nouri is wanted by Man UtdCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim believes he perfectly suits his style of playCredit: GettyThat has put United are on red alert for a player as Amorim has made signing a left-back a priority. He wants to boost his options give Luke Shaw’s injury record. Shaw could also eventually move into the back-three once the former Sporting Lisbon manager fully instils his 3-4-3 system at Old Trafford.Ait-Nouri, an attacking wing-back, ticks all of the boxes for Amorim and the style of the football he likes to play.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 23-year-old has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, but United will be keen to ensure Amorim’s wishes are met.Ait-Nouri is currently on a deal of £33,000-a-week at Wolves and the Red Devils would be able to tempt him with a substantial uplift in his wages.The fan favourite has plenty of Premier League experience under his belt, making more than 100 appearances since joining from French side Angers in 2020. He has found the back of the net eight times and registered a further six assists along the way.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWolves are likely to want to keep the him until the summer amid the threat of relegation.United may have to wait until the end of the season to get their man.Ruben Amorim hints at part of Man Utd job he already hates in tense statement at end of Sky Sports interview Amorim could also go shopping back at Sporting and he is thought to be keen on striker Viktor Gyokeres and midfielder Morten Hjulmand.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Who is Godwill Kukonki? Meet Man Utd’s towering 16-year-old defender who is set to be in Ruben Amorim’s first squad

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      TEEN sensation Godwill Kukonki looks destined for a future in Manchester United’s first-team after Ruben Amorim included him in his first matchday squad.The Portuguese gaffer’s first match in charge of the club sees his troops take on Ipswich Town at Portman Road this afternoon.Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first Manchester United game this afternoonCredit: GETTYThe Portuguese gaffer took charge of his first training session earlier this weekCredit: GETTYAnd he included 16-year-old defender Godwill Kukonki in his match-day squad for today’s clash with IpswichCredit: GETTYKukonki was called up to train with the first team this weekCredit: MANCHESTER UNITEDUnited fans around the world have been wondering what Amorim’s first starting XI will look like.And some have been left gobsmacked by the match day inclusion of teenager Kukonki, despite his recent training with the first team.But who is the teenager that is currently the talk of the Old Trafford faithful?SunSport is on hand to shed some light on the starlet, whom many believe has a bright future at the club.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHow long has Kukonki been at Manchester United?The 16-year-old defender, who was born in Stoke On Trent, joined United at the tender age of five after being discovered by their scouts.He’s been an ever-present in the club’s youth teams over the years and has stood out as of late due to his incredible stature.Kukonki stands at a whopping 6ft 5in and has shown no signs of slowing down when it comes to his growth.His incredible build has served him well over the years, but it hasn’t been the sole reason for his success.Most read in FootballGodwill Kukonki stands at a whopping 6ft 5in at the tender age of 16Credit: GETTYThe defender has been heralded for his ability on the ballCredit: GETTYHow Kukonki fared so far?The left-sided centre-back has shown defensive prowess well beyond his years during his time at the club.Gary Neville admits ‘I got it wrong’ and apologises over Rashford criticism as Amorim demands Man Utd ‘change standards’ And they have played a major factor in his recent graduation to the club’s Under-18s squad.Kukonki has well and truly risen to the challenge this season, showcasing great ability on and off the ball in addition to his physical qualities.His ability to play out from the back, in particular, has been repeatedly heralded.Kukonki has nine appearances for United’s Under-18s to his name so far this season, in which he’s scored one goal and bagged one assist.And his impressive displays must have been relayed to Amorim, who has made the bold decision to include him in today’s matchday squad.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.What’s Kukonki said?Kukonki, unsurprisingly, has yet to conduct any interviews.He has, however, reflected on his brief United career on his Instagram account – which only includes four posts.Late last month, he shared a series of snaps from his Uefa Youth League debut against Lithuanian ZK Zalgiris.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlong with a praying hands emoji, he wrote #UYL debut.”He’ll no doubt post a similar photo if and when he makes his first-team debut.Godwill Kukonki has been tipped by many to have a bright future at Old TraffordCredit: GETTY More