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      Man Utd ratings: Improved Rashford stakes England claim in front of Lee Carsley as Zirkzee is hooked again

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start with a miserable 1-1 draw against Twente at Old Trafford.Christian Eriksen opened the scoring after 35 minutes to show why United are among the favourites to win the competition this season.Manchester United ace Christian Eriksen opened the scoring with a fantastic strikeCredit: GettyBut Man Utd’s were unable to secure victory over FC TwenteCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford was a bag of tricks and lookedCredit: GettyJoshua Zirkzee struggled for Man Utd against TwenteCredit: AlamyHowever, the visitors became the latest side to shock Erik ten Hag’s on 68 minutes when Sam Lammers equalised.The result deals a blow in the Red Devils’ hopes of finishing in the top eight of the League Phase, which would guarantee a place in the Last 16 of the Europa League and save them playing two extra fixtures.But who stood out for Man Utd? Who failed to live up to expectation? Here’s how Martin Blackburn rates each of Ten Hag’s players:ANDRE ONANA – 6Good save to push a free-kick from Sem Steijn to safety but might be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for Twente’s goal.Read More on Man UtdDIOGO DALOT – 6 Early mistake near the corner flag could have been costly but he caused problems at the other end in build up to Christian Eriksen goal.HARRY MAGUIRE – 6 Missed his tackle to put United on the back foot for the equaliser but almost won it late on with header cleared off line. LISANDRO MARTINEZ –  7Made several important clearances but one wild challenge on edge of his box could have proven costly.  NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6New boy looks solid. Vital early tackle and another one later to stop Twente going in front. Most read in Europa LeagueFurious Man Utd boss Ten Hag tells Jamie Redknapp ‘as a person you’re not OK’ as he slams pundit’s Rashford speculationCHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 7Fourth successive start – and the veteran still looked sprightly. What a strike to give United the lead but then spoiled it with mistake for equaliser. MANUEL UGARTE – 6A few good tackles from the new boy but might be disappointed not to clear his lines as Twente broke away for equaliser. MARCUS RASHFORD – 8Much improved display in front of watching England interim boss Lee Carsley. Full of energy, a few tricks and a couple of dangerous crosses. More like his old self. BRUNO FERNANDES – 6Skipper had a hand in the opening goal and was so close to winning it with curler from the edge of the box.AMAD DIALLO – 6His pace was too much to handle for the visitors at times but not much of an end product this time and made way for Alejandro Garnacho midway through the second half. JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 5A few good moments and forced a flying save from the visitors’ keeper after nice link up with Diogo Dalot – but then hooked for the fit-again Rasmus Hojlund. SUBSALEJANDRO GARNACHO for Diallo 67 – 6 Got an earful off Erik ten Hag for not doing his bit defensively.KOBBIE MAINOO for Eriksen 78 – 5 Went to ground too easily as he got a  sight of goal. READ MORE SUN STORIESMASON MOUNT for Zirkzee 79 – 5 Teed up a late chance for Garnacho RASMUS HOJLUND for Rashford 79 – 5 Still working his way back to fitness after injury. Martinez dominated in Man Utd’s defenceMan Utd failed to kill the game against Twente More

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      Man Utd 1 FC Twente 1: Erik ten Hag let down by flops once again as Christian Eriksen goes from hero to zero

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      ERIK TEN HAG was left frustrated as Manchester United failed to kill off a game again.It has become a recurring theme under the boss.Christian Eriksen was the Jekyll and Hyde double act for Man Utd against FC TwenteCredit: EPAEriksen rifled home the opener near the end of the first halfCredit: GettySam Lammers slotted home a second-half equaliserCredit: GettyBefore the game he had urged his players to find that lethal touch in the box to finish teams off.But despite having 19 efforts at goal only five were on target and one of them was from a Twente playerThey had failed to take chances in the goalless draw at Crystal Palace at the weekend too.New coach Ruud van Nistelrooy is still to work his magic on the Carrington training pitches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn top from a Christian Eriksen strike on 35 minutes, it seemed they were going to have the perfect start against Ten Hag’s former club in this Europa League opener.He had said before the game “it is not nice to have to hurt something you love” as he sensed victory against the team he played for in three spells and still supports.But they were the one’s breaking his heart with a second-half equaliser to share the points through Sam Lammers.There was a nice touch before the game when Steve McClaren was presented with a commemorative plaque on the pitch by Sir Alex Ferguson.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMcClaren was of course Ferguson’s assistant in that amazing treble season of 1998-99 and has just left the club after his second spell to become boss of Jamaica.More importantly for the lively visiting fans, he was FC Twente coach when they won their first and only Dutch title in 2009-10.Man Utd fans hail boss Erik ten Hag for having ‘a better touch than Hojlund’ after spotting mad ball skills in trainingHe was given a rousing reception by them as they chanted his name.They very nearly had something else to celebrate early in the game when Diogo Dalot lost out to Bart van Rooij, who crossed into the six yard box.Lammers got the slightest of touches to deflect wide and beyond Andre Onana but the ball ran just wide of the far post.Marcus Rashford was back in the team after being left out the starting line up for the game at Selhurst Park.It was a surprise move given that he had scored three goals in two games.And it brought much comment from pundit’s to the annoyance of Erik ten Hag, who has emphasised his need to rotate with so many games coming thick and fast.Rashford showed that he felt he had a point to prove not just to Ten Hag but interim England boss Lee Carsley, who was in the stands.His form last season saw him lose out on a place in Gareth Southgate’s Euros squad, but Carsley has already proved he is prepared to give players another chance.The forward looked lively from the start, tearing down the left flank as Amad Diallo did likewise down the right.Marcus Rashford looked bright throughoutCredit: AlamyWhile Joshua Zirkzee struggled to have a huge influence on the gameCredit: PAHe was full of tricks, with one nutmeg drawing huge cheers.In the 26th minute, there was very nearly a bizarre own goal in United’s favour.When Lisandro Martinez thumped a header across goal towards Zirkzee, Mees Hilgers intervened with a flick.But it forced his goalkeeper Lars Unnerstall into an incredible save to prevent the ball nestling in his top corner.The Red Devils then took the lead through a fabulous strike from Eriksen.Bruno Fernandes played the ball into the box for Diogo Dalot and, when he was challenged, it broke loose.Eriksen was first on the scene with a first-time drive that flew into the far top corner.United were in the ascendancy but Ten Hag will have wanted them to press that advantage home.Diallo tried to do just that as he turned on the afterburners and tore into the box to win a corner soon after the break.Lammers thundered an effort past Andre OnanaCredit: APThere were jubilant celebrations from the Dutch sideCredit: GettyEriksen swung it over and, when Harry Maguire met it with his head, the ball was blocked and fell back to the United centre-back whose volley was straight at the goalkeeper.Rashford was having a good night and went on to dispossess Youri Regeer and run half the length of the pitch before he found Eriksen, who fed Noussair Mazraoui.The move broke down, however, as United’s new full-back played a chipped cross that found nobody. Too many moves broke down.Lisandro Martinez reminded everybody why he was nicknamed ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’ in his time at Ajax when he took out Sam Steijn 30 yards from United’s goal.It earned him a booking and the visitors a free kick.Steijn picked himself up to take it and his low shot around the wall almost crept into the far corner, but was kept out by Onana’s finger tips.However, United failed to heed the warning and Twente drew level in the 67th minute.Bart Van Rooij charged through the United ranks before an interception from Manuel Ugarte.The ball broke to Eriksen, who thought he had more time than he did.The Dane then saw his pocket picked by Lammers, who charged into the box and fired home at Onana’s near post.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn injury time, a Maguire header was saved brilliantly on the line by UnnerstallBack to the drawing board, again.Kobbie Mainoo had a late penalty appeal waved awayCredit: ReutersHarry Maguire forced a late scare with an injury time headerCredit: PAMan Utd player ratings vs FC TwenteMANCHESTER UNITED’S Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start with a miserable 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford.That result dealt a big blow to their chances of finishing in the top eight and avoiding two extra fixtures.See how the players rated on an underwhelming night at Old Trafford.Andre Onana – 6Good save to push a free-kick from Sem Steijn to safety but might be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for Twente’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 6Early mistake near the corner flag could have been costly but he caused problems at the other end in build up to Christian Eriksen goal.Harry Maguire – 6Missed his tackle to put United on the back foot for the equaliser but almost won it late on with a header cleared off the line.Lisandro Martinez – 7Made several important clearances but one wild challenge on edge of his box could have proven costly.Noussair Mazraoui – 6New boy looks solid. Vital early tackle and another one later to stop Twente going in front.Christian Eriksen – 7Fourth successive start – and the veteran still looked sprightly. What a strike to give United the lead but then spoiled it with mistake for equaliser.Manuel Ugarte – 6A few good tackles from the new boy but might be disappointed not to clear his lines as Twente broke away for equaliser.Marcus Rashford – 8Much improved display in front of watching England interim boss Lee Carsley. Full of energy, a few tricks and a couple of dangerous crosses. More like his old self.Bruno Fernandes – 6Skipper had a hand in the opening goal and was so close to winning it with curler from the edge of the box.Amad Diallo – 6His pace was too much to handle for the visitors at times but not much of an end product this time and made way for Alejandro Garnacho midway through the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A few good moments and forced a flying save from the visitors’ keeper after nice link up with Diogo Dalot – but then hooked for the fit-again Rasmus Hojlund.Find out how the Man Utd subs rated here More

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      Man Utd legend Gordon McQueen left huge sum to his family including Sky Sports presenter daughter after tragic death

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Gordon McQueen left £320,000 to his family —  with a chunk going to Sky Sports presenter daughter Hayley, documents show.The 1970s Man Utd and Leeds defender died last year aged 70 following dementia thought to have been caused by heading the ball.Gordon McQueen died in June 2023Credit: PAHe won the league with Leeds during his careerCredit: PAHe also played for Manchester United during his careerCredit: AlamyHe made more than 300 appearances for the two clubs and played 30 times for Scotland.Probate documents reveal his estate was worth £326,272.He and widow Yvonne lived in a £400,000 house in Hutton Rudby, Yorks.He named her and their three children — Hayley, 44, Anna Forbes and Edward McQueen as executors of his will.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAll four will share his estate and the proceeds of any house sale.The family is selling some mementos including cup medals.They donated his brain to aid sports injury research.McQueen started his career at St Mirren before moving to Leeds.Most read in FootballDuring his time in Yorkshire, he played alongside club greats, including Billy Bremner, Johnny Giles and Norman Hunter.He was also featured under legendary manager Don Revie on the famous Leeds side, which won the league in 1974.His daughter is Hayley McQueenThe Scot later joined United in 1978 and went on to make 184 appearances for the club, winning the FA Cup in 1983.McQueen also finished as a runner-up in the cup in 1975 and again in 1979, and twice was selected in the PFA Team of the Year.He won 30 caps for Scotland and was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2012.His daughter Hayley has also enjoyed a successful career in sport and is a regular broadcaster on Sky Sports.She is a presenter on Sky SportsCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Man Utd star, 37, BANNED by his own club and issues grovelling apology after furious confrontation with supporter

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      FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper Sergio Romero was slapped with a two-game suspension by current club Boca Juniors and issued a groveling apology after “losing his mind” with a fan.Romero, 37, was involved in an altercation after Boca’s 1-0 loss at home to bitter rivals River Plate, which saw ex-West Ham ace Manuel Lanzini scoring the winner.Sergio Romero had a heated confrontation with a Boca Juniors fanRomero had to be restrained by Boca officials and team-matesEx-Man Utd ace Romero was slapped with a two-game ban by BocaRomero apologised to Boca and the fan after the loss to River PlateCredit: ReutersThe heated Superclasico saw a total of nine yellow cards being shown by referee Nicolas Ramirez, while Cristian Lema was sent off in the 12th minute of stoppage time when wild scenes ensued.Lema was given a second yellow card for dissent after Boca’s late equaliser was cancelled out by a VAR check that concluded the ball touched Milton Gimenez’s hand before crossing the line.But it was Romero who made headlines after the full-time whistle due to a furious confrontation with a home fan.The ex-Argentina international had to be restrained by club officials after he exchanged heated words with the Boca supporter, who expressed his frustration.Read More on FootballTeam-mate Leandro Brey eventually managed to pull Romero away as fans continued to hurl abuse at the team and missiles in his direction.That didn’t sit well with the Argentinian giants as they banned the ex-Man Utd player for the next two games against Cordoba and Argentinos Juniors, while a fine also looks imminent.Boca issued the following statement: “The decision has been made that our player Sergio Romero will not be called up for the next two matches we have to play (against Belgrano and Argentinos Juniors).”We also want to let you know that the three supporters who caused the aforementioned incident have been identified and that the corresponding measures will be applied to them.”Most read in FootballBoca added: “Our Club must be a big family, made up of fans, players, employees and directors. “Therefore, we all owe each other mutual respect at all times and be united for the good of the Club, enjoying sport and the competitions in which Boca participates, encouraging and participating together, in peace and harmony.”Video emerges of Roy Keane throwing ball at Alan Shearer’s head amid Erling Haaland debateRomero claims the fan swore at him but apologised to both the club as well as the supporter.However, the Argentine insists he was “wrong” as the audience have the “right to express themselves”.Romero said: “I want to offer my apologies to the Boca fans for the situation at the end.”When the guy was swearing at me, I lost my mind. “None of us go out to play a game to lose it, we wanted to win it as much as they did and it didn’t happen. I couldn’t think at that moment, I lost my mind.”I apologise to the Boca fan, I was wrong with my reaction, I should have let it go and left. They have the right to express themselves.” More

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      Erik ten Hag ‘couldn’t wait to drop’ Man Utd starter for player who ‘isn’t much of an upgrade’, says Paul Scholes

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      ERIK TEN HAG was champing at the bit to ditch Harry Maguire and replace him with Matthijs de Ligt, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has claimed.Maguire’s long-term future at Old Trafford has been up in the air for the last two years due to a string of inconsistent displays.Matthijs de Ligt has been thrown into the deep end at Manchester UnitedCredit: REXErik ten Hag’s immediate inclusion of his summer signing has come at the expense of Harry MaguireCredit: REXPaul Scholes reckons Ten Hag couldn’t wait to bin off MaguireCredit: REXThe world’s most defensive defender’s struggles prompted a £43million summer swoop for De Ligt, who has been thrown in at the deep end this campaign.And Scholes can’t help but feel De Ligt’s almost immediate inclusion in the starting XI is a telltale sign that binning off Maguire has been on Ten Hag’s mind for some time.During the latest Overlap Fan Debate: ‘He couldn’t wait to get de Ligt straight in ahead of Maguire, he was just waiting for the opportunity.”De Ligt has yet to convince Scholes that he deserves to be in the heart of United’s defence over Maguire, who vowed last year to fight tooth and nail for his place in the team.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe 49-year-old said: “And look, in all honestly, I’m not sure it is that much of an upgrade.”He might be slightly better but he is not a massive improvement where you think, ‘Wow.'”Ten Hag’s decision to integrate De Ligt and his former Bayern Munich team Noussair Mazraoui into the starting XI so quickly has come as a surprise to Scholes.He said: “Manuel Ugarte was announced on the pitch for the Liverpool game.Most read in Football”And then he went away with Uruguay.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”And with the South Americans, they don’t come back until a Friday sometimes and then they played at 12:30pm on a Saturday at Southampton.“[Erik] ten Hag’s a bit like that with his new players, he seems to take a little bit of time to bring them in.I was Man Utd ‘teacher’s pet’ but Ferguson told me I’d never play for him again “[Matthijs] de Ligt was the same.”The only one who has come straight in is [Noussair] Mazraoui.”Manchester United will be back in action this evening, welcoming Dutch giants FC Twente to Old Trafford.Paul Scholes was speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, brought to you by Sky Bet. More

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      Rio Ferdinand slams Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag for ‘confusing’ Marcus Rashford with shock decision

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      RIO FERDINAND has criticised Erik ten Hag for “confusing” Marcus Rashford.After the Manchester United boss benched Rashford against Crystal Palace – just when the 26-year-old was starting to find some form again.Rio Ferdinand has called out Ten Hag for confusing RashfordMarcus Rashford was benched for United’s trip to Crystal PalaceBut Erik Ten Hag got United playing well at PalaceRashford has endured a difficult period at Old Trafford but found the back of the net for the first time in since March in United’s 3-0 win at Southampton.He then bagged a brace as United thumped Barnsley 7-0 in the midweek Carabao Cup clash, with many believing the forward had been reignited. But Rashford was subsequently left out of United’s starting XI for their 0-0 trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday, with Alejandro Garnacho instead getting a start.When quizzed before the game Ten Hag insisted the decision was just to “rotate” his players.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut club legend Ferdinand was baffled by the decision and accused Ten Hag of confusing Rashford by naming him among the subs.On Rio Ferdinand Presents, he said: “Talking of rotation, following the game against Palace.”United are third in terms of xG, only bettered by Man City and Liverpool. So they’re creating the chances but not scoring the goals. “When you’ve got a man in form like Marcus Rashford, who’s coming into a bit of form and momentum which is key for any player and their confidence, I’m thinking is it the right time now to rotate?Most read in FootballRashford looked on from the bench as United missed glorious first half chancesHe was introduced for Joshua Zirkzee in the 61st minuteIt’s the first time Rashford has been benched since last seasonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”We’re creating chances and you take out the guy who is actually starting to score. I just look at that and think, wow.”It was pleasing to see the manager come out and say it was rotation, nothing else, because there was some murmurings around it.”Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to replace Old Trafford with a ‘Wembley of the North’He added: “But Marcus Rashford man, I think he will be sitting there thinking ‘I’ve just hit a bit of form and they’ve taken me out.’ That confuses me, it’s confusing.”But then again Garnacho has been one of the most productive players and has been causing havoc. And Amad Diallo is playing well. So it’s a hard one.”Rashford, who was linked with a move away during the summer, was introduced in the 61st minute after United dominated Palace early on by couldn’t score.Before kick-off Ten Hag said: “It is not a difficult decision, we have to rotate. We have so many games.”We also have to give Garnacho games. He has so many goals and assists off the bench, but only has one start this season.”The Dutchman also hit out at Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp post-match for assuming “obviously something’s happened”.Ten Hag said: “I heard already speculation from some pundits. That is crazy.“I would almost say that, as a person, you are not OK when you bring such speculation if you don’t know. This has nothing to do with it.“I’m very happy with Marcus, with everything.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe pair fell out last term over mid-season partying incidents, one of which caused Rashford to ring in sick and miss training before an FA Cup tie.United are back in action against Dutch outfit Twente at Old Trafford in the Europa League on Wednesday.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal 250-man axe list includes Man Utd-mad comms officer, club historian & kit man of 40 years

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      IT all got a bit emotional down at Carrington last week.While there is talk about a reboot of Manchester United under Sir Jim Ratcliffe there are things going on behind the scenes which are genuinely affecting morale.Mann Utd comms officer John Allen got a shirt and a goodbye speech from Erik ten Hag but just wanted to stay at the club he lovesCredit: SuppliedUnited’s minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is making brutal decisionsCredit: GettyStaff are being fired left, right and centre, 250 of them.It has been talked about in this column before but it deserves a revisit following the exit of a good guy called John Allen from the communications team.John is 40 and has worked for United for 25 years, starting in the ticket office before moving into the media department in 2011.He is United through and through. Something he inadvertently showed when he amusingly failed to keep his emotions in check after the Red Devils completed a 3-2 derby day comeback from 2-0 down at the Etihad in April 2018.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe press seats are just behind City fans and they were less than impressed with his reaction to Chris Smalling’s winner as he let out a cheer.Still, that is John.So on Thursday,  at his last press conference, he was understandably struggling to keep his emotions in check for a very different reason as he said goodbye.Manager Erik ten Hag gave him a team shirt with the No 25 on the back representing his years at the club and made a little speech thanking him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “John, 25 years is a very long time. You are proud of this club and proud that you worked here. You feel so connected with this club. It is a difficult moment to say goodbye.“I know you as a good colleague and a very good support for me.“I wish you all the best for what is coming, it will be great for you because you are so competent.Inside Man Utd’s wild two-day bender after winning Champions League as Paul Scholes admits he didn’t sleep for 48 hours“I wish you all the best in your work but also for your family, too.”The regular United press pack also gave him a present. It all had the air of a happy retirement but it wasn’t, this bloke was getting the shove and he didn’t want to go.Pausing to hold back the tears, John said: “It has been the biggest honour coming from Manchester to work with all these managers.“This is my club and to be able to do this, I am very lucky.”John doesn’t know why he has to leave, he is just one of those 250 Ratcliffe’s new broom is sweeping out to trim the wage bill.Also out this week was club historian Cliff Butler after 40 years working at United and Alex Wylie after the same time as kitman.Emotional goodbyes are being replicated all over the club while other members of staff are having their workloads, in some cases, doubled.That’s business, the new minority shareholder might say.But these are people’s lives.What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. Ed Woodward, right, was seen as the Glazers’ man but wanted the bestCredit: AFPWith all the money that swills around football it all seems a drop in the ocean compared to the size of players’ contracts. But it is a drop which is continuing to have serious ripples.How can you aim to be the biggest and the best again when so many corners are now being cut?The man who used to run the club, Ed Woodward, came in for plenty of stick as he was seen as the Glazers’ man.But members of staff were well looked after under him. It may have been seen as largesse but it was Manchester United and he wanted everything to be the best.It was why so much money was spent on the pitch as well, not always on the best recruits in what was seen as a scattergun approach.Still, they showed the world they remained a major name.Of course the new financial rules are restricting everyone and things have to change.READ MORE SUN STORIESI’m not sure John’s departure was necessary in the grand scheme of things.And that can be said for plenty more at the self-proclaimed ‘biggest club in the world’.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      I was dubbed Man Utd’s ‘secret weapon’ under Solskjaer and Ten Hag… now I’m 4,000 miles away in crazy new job

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      IMAGINE being a history-making coach on the way up at Manchester United – then deciding the job wasn’t “crazy” enough for you.That was pretty much the dilemma facing a multi-lingual master tactician – labelled an Old Trafford “secret weapon” for his set-piece planning.Eric Ramsay rejected Championship sides then switched to MinnesotaCredit: GettyRamsay left Man Utd for the MLS in FebruaryCredit: ReutersHe explained the strain facing Erik ten Hag and ex-Man Utd bossesCredit: AlamyEric Ramsay now 33, was also the youngest ever Brit to get the Uefa Pro Licence – all of five years ago.He was as highly valued by Red Devils’ boss Erik ten Hag as he was by the Dutchman’s predecessors Ole Gunner Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.Ramsay, however, craved to be the main man himself.Such offers arrived from the Championship – reportedly Barnsley, Blackpool and Swansea.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut the former Wales assistant coach instead opted to take over Major League Soccer club Minnesota United in February this year.Ramsay has now explained why he believes it’s the perfect fit – despite some bizarre regulations – along with praising United’s recent procession of under-fire managers.He told The Times: “I don’t think you can really grasp that until you’re inside a club like that, the level of pressure that brings.”Turning to Solskjaer, Rangnick and Ten Hag, he added: “I’ve really learnt across all three of them.Most read in FootballHe spent three years coaching at Old TraffordCredit: PAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“The reason these guys get to this level is real conviction in their ideas, they are incredibly good communicators, very comfortable being guys at the front of organisations with millions of eyes turned their way all the time.”I think that takes real weight, real strength and an absolutely unwavering conviction.”Fans all spot Wright’s reaction to Hart screaming in his face after Man City goal against Arsenal But if the strain of Old Trafford is intense, Ramsay revealed “really crazy stuff” in the MLS.Teams play on through international breaks, even though academy players not on the “main roster” can only play TWICE for the senior side.Ramsay said: “In England, if you had an injury crisis over a prolonged period, you’d be able to draw upon your best under-23 players. “Here, that can only happen up to two games because the players’ union feels like it’s exploitative to not give the player a first-team contract but for him to be playing for next to no money.”That issue, however, is only the start.Ramsay added: “The travel is lengthy. Every away game is a chartered flight and you’re often going to somewhere like Colorado where you’ve got a unique climate issue to deal with — you’re playing at altitude. “We really suffered there. It was far more marked than I’d expect it to be in terms of how it influenced the performance.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer rated Ramsay highly“Everybody’s exact salary is well known… designated players can be paid beyond the salary cap and everybody else at a rate relative to their position in the squad.“It’s for all this that I wanted to come. I knew it would be a real challenge. “It would be something very different to going into the Championship in England as a head coach for your first role.”Minnesota are still challenging for a Western Conference play-off spot – after Ramsay’s instant success was followed by a poor run and then a revival.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut asked if he eventually expected to return to Britain, he replied: “Of course”.For now, though, he is “just taking it (the MLS) for what it is and enjoying it in its entirety”.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More