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      Man Utd 3 Bodo/Glimt 2: Hojlund scores double as Red Devils fight from 2-1 down to seal Amorim’s first home win

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      RASMUS HOJLUND borrowed a scene from The Gladiator as he put Bodo Glimt to the sword.When the Danish striker equalised to make it 2-2 at halftime, he ran to the legions of fans in the East Stand, put his thumb up, and then turned it down, adding a cut-throat gesture.Rasmus Hojlund dropped a Gladiator inspired celebration after scoring his first of the eveningAlejandro Garnacho has scored the opener inside 48 secondsIt saw Ruben Amorim break United’s 33-year duck in his home debut – as the last time they scored inside 60 seconds in Europe was 1991But Hakon Evjen humbled the home crowd with a 19th minute stunner before Bodo/Glimt made it 2-1 four minutes laterHojlund levelled things for United on the brink of half-time with an excellent volleyHojlund then put United in front in the 50th minuteThe signal replicated that from a Roman Emperor for an opponent to be finished off.Hojlund did just that when he added his second in the 50th minute as the invaders from Norway who had been so vocal at 2-1 up found their team slain by the end.”Are you not entertained? Is this not why you are here?”, Hojlund might have cried to The Stretford End at the close of a thrilling contest.It was a much-needed night for Hojlund, who could easily have been hailed as ‘Maxuimus Misses’ during his time at Old Trafford.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut on night’s like this you can see why Erik ten Hag bought him, and pleaded for patience.In his first two games in charge of Manchester United new boss Ruben Amorim has ordered his troops to “unleash hell.”They did just that after 80 seconds to lead at Ipswich and it took just 48 seconds to do just that in this contest that saw United’s hopes of automatic qualification for the Europa knockout stages revived.Credit Hojlund for chasing down Jostein Gundersen’s back pass as he was alert from the first trumpet.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd ratings vs Bodo/GlimtGoalkeeper Nikita Haikin casually let the ball run across him and Hojlund slid in to to wrestle it free and Garnacho fired home.What a start for United – who are now 12th and one point away from eighth in their European league phase standings.Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?But as at Ipswich it did not lead to a dominant first half display.In fact, on both occasions, the impetus gained from the early boost was immediately lost as the intensity dropped.It was like the days of Louis van Gaal, as the ball was slowly swapped between players without a lot happening.The visitors were happy to wait and pounce.They did that in the 19th minute as they won possession from Matthijs De Ligt’s hurried clearance.In a blur of yellow the Bodo players swarmed forward and Sondre Brunstad Fet pulled the ball back for Hakon Evjen who released a stunning shot from the edge of the area into the far top corner.The away end of nearly 7,000 fans who made the journey here were delirious.They could not quite believe it four minutes later when their side took the lead.The wisdom of giving fit again Tyrell Malacia his first football in 550 days, having not even had a subs appearance, was called into question in the build-up.When Patrick Berg fired a ball down the right flank the United wing back had a yard start, but in a flash was two paces behind, as Philip Zinckermagel went past him like road runner.All Malacia could do was fling out a hopeful arm to try and knock him off his stride.The Bodo player was too fast, too strong, powering his way into the box before firing low past Andre Onana into the far bottom corner.It could have been three when Evjen was teed up once more but fired over.Then United dug deep to earn an equaliser right on half time.United made it difficult for themselves at times but the forwards finally came throughAndre Onana handled the ball outside the box in the 75th minuteAmad Diallo mimicked his run against Ipswich but Garnacho couldn’t put it awayNoussair Mazraoui did well to win possession and then chip a cross into the area.Hojlund flicked the ball up with his left foot and fired a volley home with his right, before setting off in celebration.United maintained the momentum from that as the returning Mason Mount hit the bar shortly after the restart.Then the Red Devils took the lead as Hojliund finished off a great move.Mazraoui was involved against playing the ball forward for the returning Mount whose clever flick rolled into the path of Bruno Fernandes.And Manuel Ugarte’s square ball was perfectly waited to beat a VAR check as Hojlund suck out a foot and turned it in.But it was a nervy finish as the visitors earned a free-kick on the edge of the box after a clever foul from Casemiro.Berg fired the ball over the wall but Onana dive to his right to push the ball away to safety with a quick VAR quick cleared.So victory for Amorim in his first game in charge at Old Trafford.Much to be positive about too.It was not just Hojlund’s goals but the performances of Mazraoui and Mount.Garnacho was all action again, he missed alot of chances but he scores too and never stops.It is something to build on.READ MORE SUN STORIESAll Hail Ruben the sixth…manager since Fergie.Hopefully his campaign will last a bit longer than the rest who tried to replicate the triumphs of English football’s great conqueror.Amorim endured a topsy-turvy nightA mouse is seen on Old Trafford pitch More

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      Ruben Amorim breaks Man Utd’s 33-year duck in just 48 SECONDS during Bodo/Glimt clash

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      IT took Ruben Amorim’s side just 48 SECONDS to break Manchester United’s 33-year duck in his home debut.It was the first time since 1991 that the Red Devils have scored in the opening minute of a major European game.The Ruben Amorim Old Trafford era got off to a perfect startAlejandro Garnacho broke a 33-year record after he scored inside 48 secondsUnited face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Europa LeagueAmorim picked a much changed side for his mid-week tieThe last time United put one in during the first 60 seconds of a European clash was during Sir Alex Ferguson’s fifth season.It was Brian McClair – now 60 – who opened the scoring against Montpellier in a Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup tie. Jonny Evans was just three years old. Casemiro wasn’t even born. But it was now Alejandro Garnacho, 20, who got United off to their dream start – albeit from a Bodo/Glimt goalkeeping howler.READ MORE ON MAN UTDGarnacho was the one to put the ball in the back of the net – but the goal was all about the hard work of Rasmus Hojlund.He dispossessed the Bodo/Glimt stopper, who took far too long on the ball in his own box before trying to wrestle Hojlund down.It was another fast-start under Amorim, just as we saw at Ipswich.But that quickly unravelled 19 minutes later when the visitors – from Norway’s top division – pegged one back through an absolute screamer.Most read in FootballIt was blow for Amorim, who you could see becoming frustrated that his side couldn’t capitalise on their dominance.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd ratings vs Bodo/GlimtAnd Bodo/Glimt incredibly turned the game on its head just four minutes later as the Norwegian outfit went 2-1 up.Forest winger Zinckernagel outpaced Tyrell Malacia, who looked every bit a player who hasn’t taken to the pitch for 550 days.Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich Malacia, who was later hauled off at half-time, had a headstart but you wouldn’t have known it as Zinckernagel fired in a low effort that squirmed in under the legs of Andre Onana.Goalscorer Garnacho continued to work as part of the front three – a a shift from his wing-back position during Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Portman Road.Hojlund levelled the scores on the brink of half-time with a superb right-footed volley – his best goal in a United shirt.And it took just five minutes after the break for the Dane, 21, to put the home side back in front with a sliding finish.United are up to 12th in their European league phase table, with three games remaining.Ferguson was in attendance at Old Trafford for Amorim’s first home game as Erik ten Hag’s replacement.The cinema quickly panned to the Scot, 82, after Garnacho’s opener.Meanwhile, Amorim slashed two names off his United team-sheet for their Europa League clash.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe only named 10 players on the bench – two fewer than United’s last European game against PAOK.Teams are permitted 12 substitutes – with Bodo/Glimt opting to fill their bench.Ruben Amorim played his signature 3-4-3 More

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      Ruben Amorim plotting shock £50m transfer raid on Sporting’s biggest rivals as he lines up first Man Utd signing

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      RUBEN AMORIM is already working on bolstering his Manchester United defence.The new United boss wants Benfica’s rising star Tomas Araujo, 22, and could push for a £50million deal for the central defender when the transfer window opens in January.Man Utd are lining up a £50m January swoop for Benfica defender Tomas AraujoCredit: RexRuben Amorim managed Benfica’s rivals Sporting Lisbon before joining UnitedCredit: PAAmorim has a meeting with Old Trafford decision makers on Friday and will discuss a move for Araujo.Araujo has been a pillar of the Portuguese giant’s team this season, partnering with former Manchester City stopper Nicolas Otamendi in the backline.The Red Devils have been dealing with substantial injury issues at the back this season, and Amorim has instantly set his sights on his compatriot, who won his first international cap only last week.A product of the Benfica academy, Araujo was targeted by Crystal Palace and Paris Saint-Germain last summer. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLStill, Benfica’s bosses rejected the moves, although some of Europe’s top clubs are closely monitoring the situation.He’s started eight games in the Portuguese league this season, with one assist, helping Bruno Lage’s team bounce back after Roger Schmidt’s firing in October.Benfica have only lost one game since Araujo began getting a regular run of games – he has also started in the last four games in the Champions League.SunSport understands that new Old Trafford chief Amorim has placed Araujo on his wanted list as he begins his United rebuilding job.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAraujo has all the attributes Amorim is after — he is 6 ft 2, a good passer of the ball, and physically strong, with plenty of room for improvement.He can play centrally or on the right side of the defence and is considered the best prospect to come out of Portugal’s most productive academy since current Manchester City star Ruben Dias.Ruben Amorim takes brutal swipe at Ed Sheeran as Man Utd boss admits Sky Sports pundit ‘is the real star’ Super agent Jorge Mendes is looking to establish a working relationship with AmorimCredit: ReutersThe Portuguese rising star has a release clause of 100million euros, as Benfica consider him one of their most significant assets.SunSport understands super agent Jorge Mendes, who has guided Cristiano Ronaldo’s and Jose Mourinho’s careers, is trying to establish a close working relationship with Amorim.The Old Trafford boss, however, is doing things his way.A source close to Amorim told SunSport: “Ruben wants everyone to be on the same page. He won’t change the way he works.”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 legend Sir Alex Ferguson, 82, finally loses long-standing Champions League record

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson has finally lost his long-standing Champions League record.Real Madrid gaffer Carlo Ancelotti took charge of a record 215th game in Europe’s top-flight – surpassing Ferguson’s tally of 214 managed.Sir Alex Ferguson has lost his long-running record for the most games managed in the Champions LeagueCarlo Ancelotti has now managed a record 215 games in Europe’s top-flightAncelotti – who holds the record for most Champions League titles won – has now eclipsed Fergie’s 11-year record.Of Ferguson’s 214 European nights, 194 came in the main competition – in other words from the group or beyond. The Scot, now 82, also oversaw eight qualifying ties and 12 European Cup games, winning 115, losing 50 and drawing 49 across the board.Ferguson first triumphed when United won England’s first Treble in 1999 – as the Red Devils produced a late stoppage-time comeback against Bayern.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe second came nine years later in Moscow, with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Chelsea in 2008.But many would argue that winning the 1983 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup with Aberdeen was an even greater achievement.Meanwhile, it was another record-breaking night for Ancelotti before kick-off, but he won’t be too excited as his side were comfortably beaten 2-0 at Anfield.The great Italian is the most successful manager in Champions League history, having won the trophy a record five times as boss plus twice more as a player.Most read in Champions LeagueSir Alex Ferguson won the Treble with United in 1999FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAncelotti was also the one to surpass Ferguson’s previous record for the most games won as manager in Europe’s most-loved competition.The Madrid boss won his 116th European game against in the group stage against Braga last October.Man Utd legend Ryan Giggs talks about his relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson He is also the only manager to take part in six Champions League finals, losing only once when his AC Milan team blew a 3-0 lead against Liverpool in 2005.Liverpool’s statement victory on Wednesday night sees new boss Arne Slot again achieve a feat that Jurgen Klopp never did.Klopp, who quit Anfield in May, NEVER beat Los Blancos during his nine year spell in charge of Liverpool – including two finals.But Slot managed to overcome the club’s hoodoo in his first attempt.But it ended up being a rather forgettable night for AncelottiGoals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo saw the Reds keep their 100 per cent record in Europe this season.Anfield erupted when Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty at 1-0, while Mo Salah’s head briefly went down when he put his own wide with the game still on a kinfe-edge.The win means Liverpool extend their perfect start and remain top of the competition’s new 36-team league, while holders Madrid suffered their third defeat in five games and now face a battle to qualify. More

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      Man Utd legend Ruud van Nistelrooy set to be named Leicester manager in swift return to Premier League

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      RUUD VAN NISTELROOY is close to making a swift Premier League return as the manager of Leicester City.The Manchester United legend has been in talks with the Foxes since they sacked Steve Cooper after Sunday’s 2-1 home defeat to Chelsea.Ruud van Nistelrooy looks set to be named as Steve Cooper’s replacement at LeicesterThe Foxes axed Steve Cooper within five months after he replaced Enzo MarescaDuring his brief spell at Old Trafford, Van Nistelrooy guided United to two dominant victories over Leicester – putting eight goals past them in total.But now he set to be confirmed as the replacement for Cooper, who was dismissed after five dismal months at the King Power Stadium.Cooper, who previously managed now high-flying Nottingham Forest, won just TWO of his 12 Prem games at as Leicester manager.Talks have taken place this week with Leicester conscious that SV Hamburg were also keen on recruiting Van Nistelrooy.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Dutchman is available with no compensation after being axed from his Carrington assistant post by incoming United boss Ruben Amorim.Leicester currently face Profit and Sustainability issues and, with cash short, they targeted an out of work boss who would not incur a large fee.The 48-year-old was unbeaten during his four interim matches in charge after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.Leicester, who sit 16th in the Prem, could appoint the former Netherlands international before their trip to Brentford on Saturday.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOther possible candidates have reportedly been ruled out by sources close to Leicester, who sit one point above the relegation zone.Those include former Chelsea manager Graham Potter and ex-West Ham boss David Moyes, who are no longer in the running.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyVan Nistelrooy may be considered a gamble, but he has management experience with PSV Eindhoven.In his first season in charge, PSV finished second in Eredivisie to new Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s Feyenoord but won the Dutch Cup, beating Ajax on penalties in the final. A week before the end of the campaign, Van Nistelrooy stepped down. In a statement put out by PSV, it was said that the former striker believed “there was not enough support within the club to continue longer”.Van Nistelrooy then spent a year out of work, but was desperate to return to the dugout.He said in the summer: “I would really like to work in Spain and I have had conversations with Spanish clubs. “But also the other leagues in which I have played, I want to coach there too – in the Premier League.”Now following his brief stint at United, he appears to have been granted his wish at struggling Leicester, whose last victory came on October 19 against Southampton.The Prem legend also appeared to form a brilliant relationship with players at United, with many of them sorry to see him earlier this month.He has been a Uefa Pro-License holder for more than two years.Foxes’ owner Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha gave the green light to recruit Van NistelrooyVan Nistelrooy previously coached the Netherlands team as an assistant to Ronald Koeman at Euro 2020.He returned to Old Trafford this summer as part of a shake-up of the club’s coaching staff under Ten Hag with Rene Hake also arriving as assistant, but all three left when Amorim was appointed. Van Nistelrooy lifted a Premier League title, FA Cup and League Cup in a glittering five-year spell at United under Sir Alex Ferguson.But this time round will be different for the Dutchman, as he’ll be asked to save Leicester from relegation.The 2015–16 Prem champions were promoted back to the top flight under Enzo Maresca after winning the Championship last season.But Southampton and Wolves are the only teams to have conceded more goals than the squad at the King Power Stadium.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfter Saturday’s match at Brentford, they face West Ham, Brighton, Newcastle and Wolves before Christmas.It’s then league leaders Liverpool on Boxing Day and Manchester City on December 29.Van Nistelrooy was given a standing ovation after United beat Leicester 3-0 in his last game in chargeLeicester were playing for Premier League survival More

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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