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      ‘Bring back Dave,’ fumes Luke Littler as he demands Man Utd re-sign De Gea after Andre Onana’s horror blunder

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      LUKE LITTLER has pleaded for David de Gea to return to Manchester United after Andre Onana’s howler against Viktoria Plzen.The Cameroonian was at fault as the Czechs took the lead at the Doosan Arena before the Red Devils fought back to win.Andre Onana was at fault for Man United conceding against Viktoria PlzenCredit: AFPLuke Littler reacted to the error on InstagramCredit: Luke Littler / instagramHe revealed he wants David de Gea to return to the clubCredit: PAThe Spaniard is currently playing for Fiorentina in ItalyCredit: GettyOnana, 28, was trying to pass out from the back, but his ball to Matthijs de Ligt was too short.Pavel Sulc collected the ball and squared it to former Watford and Burnley ace Matej Vydra to score.The mistake left Man United fan Littler seething as he reacted on social media.The darts star posted a picture of his television showing the match with the caption: “Bring back Dave”. He has since deleted the post on X.READ MORE ON MAN UTDLittler, 17, was referring to goalkeeper David de Gea, who left at the end of his contract in 2023.The Spaniard was out of football for a whole season but is now playing in Italy for Fiorentina.Stats have even suggested that the De Gea is performing as one of the best stoppers in Europe.It is the latest error in Onana’s catalogue since joining Manchester United to replace De Gea.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEarlier in the same game, he clattered into Casemiro, leaving the Brazilian in pain on the ground.In the Red Devils, defeat to Nottingham Forest, Onana was beaten by an effort from Morgan Gibbs-White despite it being down the middle of the goal.Man Utd team-mates in furious on-pitch argument at final whistle after Red Devils scrape past Viktoria PlzenOnana struggled throughout against PlzenCredit: ReutersRasmus Hojlund netted twice to spare Onana’s blushesCredit: EPABruno Fernandes defended Onana after the gameCredit: GettyFortunately, Onana was bailed out by his teammates on this occasion.Substitute Rasmus Hojlund netted twice in order to turn the match on its head.The striker benefitted after good work from Amad Diallo as he tapped into an empty net to score the equaliser.He then latched onto a clever pass from Bruno Fernandes to fire home the winner in the 88th minute.After the win, Fernandes came out in defence of Onana and insisted his error should not be “focused on”.He told TNT Sports: “We want to play from the back. Everyone knows we have to make the right decision. “Andre missed the pass, but there is nothing we should focus on. It’s not about Andre [Onana] making a mistake, we don’t look at individuals here.”It’s about all the players involved, and we have huge belief in Andre. “He knows he made a mistake, he’s a clever guy, we don’t need to tell him. He’s going to help us when playing out from the back – we trust his qualities on the ball.Man Utd ratings vs Plzen as Hojlund and Amad spare Onana’s blushes are horror showANDRE ONANA had his blushes spared by Rasmus Hojlund as Manchester United fought back to win against Viktoria Plzen.Here’s how SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson rated the Red Devils stars…Andre Onana – 4It was a very shaky start to the game in which Onana hurt Casemiro and failed to deal with the host’s crosses convincingly.He made a massive error that led to Plzen taking the lead with his poor pass, leaving his defenders with no chance of bailing him out.Diogo Dalot – 6Dalot made some decent runs forward to join in with the attacks.Defensively was fairly solid and was not often caught out.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Playing a bit more central, Mazraoui used his pace well to help out at the back.Matthijs de Ligt – 6He was sold short by Onana’s pass that led to the opener but otherwise was fine during the 90 minutes.Lisandro Martinez – 6Made himself available when Man United got forward but struggled with the physicality of the Plzen attackers.Tyrell Malacia – 6He offered very little going forward in the wing-back role as he struggled to combine with Marcus Rashford.Casemiro – 6He moved the ball forward when he could and recovered from an early blow from Onana.Bruno Fernandes – 7He was lucky to have escaped an early yellow card. Stung the goalkeeper’s gloves in the first half with a good effort.His quick thinking set up Rasmus Hojlund to fire in a late winner.Amad Diallo – 8Diallo was a rare bright spark in Man United’s attack against Plzen.It was his run that led to the equaliser, and he used his pace and skill to get past his defender.Marcus Rashford – 4Rashford was often loose on the ball and surrendered possession in the attacking third.He received the first booking of the game for a needless foul and was lucky not to be sent off in the second half before being hooked by Ruben Amorim.Joshua Zirkzee – 6Took on the centre-forward role well, held the ball up and linked up play well enough.SubsRasmus Hojlund 55′ – 8Hojlund showed his striker instincts by being in the right position to grab Man United’s equaliser.He then latched onto Fernandes’ clever pass to score the winner.Antony 60′ – 6He was involved in the equaliser by linking up with Diallo.Mason Mount 60′ – 7Made a positive impact after coming on and was unlucky not to score as he was denied twice by the goalkeeper after coming into the action.Alejandro Garnacho 80′ – N/AFailed to make a positive impact on his short spell on the pitch.Manuel Ugarte 80′ – N/AHe slotted into the midfield as he replaced Casemiro late on.”The most important thing is we had the resilience and fight to come back.”It’s something we’ve been doing for a long time. We know the goalkeepers are good on the ball, they can play. “We normally do it. It didn’t work this time but on many occasions it works.”We trust Andre to keep doing the things he thinks are best. Mistakes happen, and if mistakes happen, goals can happen.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOnana’s questionable form has even seen Man United be linked with potential replacements.AC Milan’s Mike Maignan has been tipped to be a target, but he is also liked by rivals Manchester City. More

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      I was sad watching Newcastle’s thriller vs Liverpool – Toon fans should have been loving it but all they feel is despair

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      GOING back home to Newcastle and St James’ Park is always special for me, having grown up in the city.But last week’s trip to cover the Liverpool match at the great  Cathedral on the hill was tinged with sadness.Amanda Staveley and husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi welcomed Eddie Howe as manager three years ago at the peak of Toon fans’ optimismCredit: AFPStar striker Alexander Isak and Co should have more reasons to be cheerfulCredit: GettyThe game was fabulous, as it swung one way and then the other.Mo Salah looked like he had won it for Arne Slot’s table toppers with his second goal in the 83rd minute to cap a fantastic performance.Then, in the very last minute of normal time, Fabian Schar grabbed an equaliser to end it all square at 3-3.Few places in football match St James’ Park for atmosphere on a night like that.READ MORE TOP STORIESYet it comes against a backdrop of some despair.The night before, I had met two of my oldest friends from school — one of whom is a lifelong season-ticket holder.Talk immediately turned to football over a pint in The County on Gosforth High Street.The absolute despair being felt by Newcastle fans hit me during the conversation.Most read in FootballIt’s gone wrong for Pep Guardiola this season and Man City await the FFP case verdict but their football in recent years has thrilled the worldCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSYou see, it was not that long ago that the miserable years under Mike Ashley finally came to an end.There was obvious controversy over the Saudi takeover but it offered Newcastle fans hope, having seen what similar investment from the Middle East had done at a club like Manchester City.Eddie Howe reveals worst part of being a manager that Newcastle boss has made ‘non-negotiable’ since first dayFrom perennial punchline to headline, City had torn themselves from  Manchester United’s shadow and shone bright at the summit of English football.Now it was Newcastle’s turn as the Saudis moved in just over three years ago.Under bright young coach Eddie Howe, the club finished its first full season under Saudi ownership in fourth and were runners-up in the Carabao Cup to Manchester United.I remember speaking to Amanda Staveley, who helped drive through the takeover, not long after that disappointment at Wembley.She was not down about it but saw it as the first step towards something much bigger.Few places in football match St James’ Park for atmosphere on a night like that. Yet it comes against a backdrop of some despair.Neil CustisYet a year on and a cruel reality began to hit home and still does.That the hope of smashing back through that glass ceiling, as they had done in the nineties under Sir John Hall, was going to be a short-lived dream.The ridiculous financial constraints placed on clubs, which means the game is played out as much in boardrooms and before lawyers as on the pitches, is really ruining the game.Plenty of clubs have fallen foul when, in many cases, they are only trying to further their prospects with generous benefactors’ cash.How can the Glazers be allowed to do what they have done to Manchester United and get away scot free, while City wait to hear the outcome of their trial over 115 charges for alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules.Fabian Schar nicked Newcastle a late point against LiverpoolCredit: GettyUnder Sheikh Mansour’s ownership a club has been raised up, an area revived, the country’s best training ground has emerged from rubble.And that club has given us some of the greatest football we have ever seen.They also gave every other club the hope that one day it could be them.Newcastle had that hope and how briefly it has flickered and died is truly sad. There is a cartel who always wanted it their own way. It was nothing to do with protecting clubs from going skint.How are Newcastle or City ever going to go skint?Yet isn’t it ironic that one of the old order in Manchester United, who wanted the status quo of clubs that attracted the biggest crowds and sponsorship deals to win the biggest prizes, are also one of those suffering as well.Luke to LittlerTHE Sports Personality of the Year awards are here again with less and less interest in it by the year.Part of the problem is that the BBC monopoly on a number of sports is long since over, and the annual package of highlights that was genuinely something to look forward to no longer has  a uniqueness about it.Luke Littler has transformed the popularity and appeal of dartsCredit: PAHowever, there remain a number of very worthy names up for the award and my choice is not in any way meant to disrespect any of them.But  Luke Littler, 17, is there and for me no sportsman has had a greater impact on his chosen profession in the last 12 months.What?! I hear you cry. But think about it.Kids are taking up darts because of him.He’s convinced every teenager not interested in more traditional sports that there is a route into the headlines elsewhere.What Barry Hearn has done to elevate the sport is remarkable but the emergence of Littler has taken it to another level.Darts boards used to be just found in pubs and clubs around the country.In my daughter’s student house in Leeds one of the lads who lives there is called Presley.He has a brand new one taking pride of place in the living room as he hones his skills for the university darts team while his housemates duck and try to watch TV.A university darts team? Have you ever heard anything like it?Rocky roadsLegend Ayrton Senna died in a crash at the San Marino Gp in may 1994Credit: GettyTHE new Netflix series about the life of Ayrton Senna should be well worth a watch.Can’t imagine the drama can get close to the incredible documentary film in 2010 which had a tear running down my face.But early clips suggest it captures the drama of how the brilliant Formula One drivers rise from humble racing beginnings to the  very top.READ MORE SUN STORIESDuring the early 80s Senna lived in a bungalow in Eaton, near Norwich, so he could race at the  famous Snetterton circuit — where we see the Brazilian mastering his craft.However, those who live in that area of Norfolk are a little curious as to where the snowcapped mountains in the background have exactly risen from. More

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      Viktoria Plzen 1 Man Utd 2: Hojlund scores twice off bench to rescue Amorim’s Red Devils after Onana horror show

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      RASMUS HOJLUND produced a dramatic second-half double to dig Manchester United out of trouble and give them victory in the Europa League.United had gone behind just three minutes after the break thanks to another Andre Onana howler.Manchester United came back to beat Viktoria PlzenCredit: ReutersViktoria Plzen opened the scoring against Man Utd with Matej VydraCredit: APVydra was aided by Man Utd goalkeeper Andre Onana’s howlerBut after coming on as a 56th-minute sub, Hojlund scored in the 62nd and 88th to give the Red Devils their first away win in Europe since March 2023.Hojlund’s Premier League record may not be one to shout about for United but he loves it in Europe.This pair makes it 10 goals in 12 appearances, plus an assist.It lifted some of the gloom hanging over the club and also means they have a foot in the next stage of the Europa League.Read More on Man UtdThings changed after a raft of substitutions early in the second half for United, which gave them a much-needed confidence boost ahead of Sunday’s derby at The Etihad.Hojlund has to start that one, Joshua Zirkzee will need to stay on the bench and was rightly hooked a minute before United had equalised.Zirkzee was certainly doing himself few favours once again here in the Doosan Arena.For every decent piece of work there are at least two glaring first touches that immediately give possession back to the opposition.Most read in Europa LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe certainly wasn’t having any chances on goal in the first period.United have been a hard watch at the moment and the first half in minus three degrees here in Plzen was taking it to another level.Ruben Amorim tells Man Utd stars they are all on trial ahead of January transfer window with no player safe from axe The 640 loyal followers from Manchester in one corner of the ground must have been longing for a warm fire at their local.Still they come and they were rewarded with that second-half comeback.In the first period United didn’t look in particular danger but then again didn’t look dangerous either.It looked like being that sort of game.The only effort of note before the break came from captain Bruno Fernandes, who, with Amad Diallo, was the only player worthy of some praise before the break.Casemiro played the ball out from the back to Zirkzee who for once found his man in Fernandes and he charged forward before having a shot towards the far bottom corner.Rasmus Hojlund equalised for Man Utd soon afterCredit: ReutersMan Utd ace Hojlund turned the game around close to full-timeCredit: GettyMan Utd ratings vs Plzen as Hojlund and Amad spare Onana’s blushes are horror showANDRE ONANA had his blushes spared by Rasmus Hojlund as Manchester United fought back to win against Viktoria Plzen.Here’s how SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson rated the Red Devils stars…Andre Onana – 4It was a very shaky start to the game in which Onana hurt Casemiro and failed to deal with the host’s crosses convincingly.He made a massive error that led to Plzen taking the lead with his poor pass, leaving his defenders with no chance of bailing him out.Diogo Dalot – 6Dalot made some decent runs forward to join in with the attacks.Defensively was fairly solid and was not often caught out.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Playing a bit more central, Mazraoui used his pace well to help out at the back.Matthijs de Ligt – 6He was sold short by Onana’s pass that led to the opener but otherwise was fine during the 90 minutes.Lisandro Martinez – 6Made himself available when Man United got forward but struggled with the physicality of the Plzen attackers.Tyrell Malacia – 6He offered very little going forward in the wing-back role as he struggled to combine with Marcus Rashford.Casemiro – 6He moved the ball forward when he could and recovered from an early blow from Onana.Bruno Fernandes – 7He was lucky to have escaped an early yellow card. Stung the goalkeeper’s gloves in the first half with a good effort.His quick thinking set up Rasmus Hojlund to fire in a late winner.Amad Diallo – 8Diallo was a rare bright spark in Man United’s attack against Plzen.It was his run that led to the equaliser, and he used his pace and skill to get past his defender.Marcus Rashford – 4Rashford was often loose on the ball and surrendered possession in the attacking third.He received the first booking of the game for a needless foul and was lucky not to be sent off in the second half before being hooked by Ruben Amorim.Joshua Zirkzee – 6Took on the centre-forward role well, held the ball up and linked up play well enough.SubsRasmus Hojlund 55′ – 8Hojlund showed his striker instincts by being in the right position to grab Man United’s equaliser.He then latched onto Fernandes’ clever pass to score the winner.Antony 60′ – 6He was involved in the equaliser by linking up with Diallo.Mason Mount 60′ – 7Made a positive impact after coming on and was unlucky not to score as he was denied twice by the goalkeeper after coming into the action.Alejandro Garnacho 80′ – N/AFailed to make a positive impact on his short spell on the pitch.Manuel Ugarte 80′ – N/AHe slotted into the midfield as he replaced Casemiro late on.Andre Onana howlerIt was a decent effort but goalkeeper Martin Jedlicka had it covered and palmed the ball away with a full-length save.Plzen’s best hope of scoring looked like it would come through United keeper Onana.He had let a shot that was virtually straight at him go into the net in United’s last game against Nottingham Forest that resulted in a 3-2 home defeat.Here he was flapping early on from a free-kick and corner as he came to punch with little conviction.It would get worse for him when he gifted Plzen the lead just three minutes after the break.No alarm bells were ringing when Lisandro Martinez laid the ball back to him.Ruben Amorim’s changesBut as he dithered in deciding what to do they sounded.He chose a pass that was no longer on out to Matthijs De Ligt and Pavel Sulc had already anticipated the error.In he charged to be first to the ball and square it for a grateful Matej Vydra to side foot home.It was a special moment for the former Burnley player while the man who assisted him had grown up a United fan.Amorim needed to make changes and off first was Marcus Rashford with no acknowledgement between player or manager as he made his way to the bench.Hojlund was on, and Mason Mount as well as Antony would soon join him in action, and moments later United were level.Man Utd equaliseAntony found Amad who produced a great little run, turn and shot that was blocked but Hojlund followed up to finish.It was Amad’s eighth goal assist in United’s last eight games.United were now looking the more dangerous and when Fernandes whipped a ball across the six-yard box, Hojlund somehow failed to connect for his second.Plzen were not finished and Vydra nearly had a second when he fired a volley just wide of the near post.United should have been ahead in the 77th minute when a good break finished with Amad teeing the ball up for Mount but his weak shot was straight at the goalkeeper.But Hojliund would grab another set up by Fernandes to turn and fire back across the goalkeeper.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis time when the United players went over to the away fans to applaud their support there was every reason to clap them back.Hojlund had made sure of that, he is ready for the derby. 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      Real Madrid ‘interested in TWO Man Utd defenders’ with Ruben Amorim ‘willing to allow fan favourite to leave’

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      REAL MADRID are reportedly keeping tabs on TWO Manchester United defenders ahead of the January transfer window.Real have endured a mixed start this season after winning LaLiga and the Champions League titles last term.Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Manchester United fan favourite Lisandro MartinezCredit: AlamyReal are also targeting Diogo Dalot after an impressive season with Man UtdCredit: AlamyMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim is willing to let Martinez goCredit: GettyAnd their plight has has not been helped by a defensive injury crisis, with Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy and Eder Militao all out.Carlo Ancelotti is already looking for ways to reinstate Los Blancos as the team to beat in the coming transfer window.And, according to talkSPORT, he has, for some reason, set his sights on Old Trafford.The Madrid boss is said to be keeping tabs on United’s defensive duo Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot.Read More on Man UtdMartinez, 26, has been one of the Red Devils’ biggest fan favourites since his arrival from Ajax in 2022 thanks to his talent and passion.Nevertheless, new Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim would be open to letting the centre-back go as he looks to impose his own philosophy.Real also appear impressed with Dalot, 25, who enjoyed an impressive campaign at Old Trafford last season and was voted as the Players’ Player of the Year.The full-back stood out by showing his ability to cover both flanks amid the Manchester giants’ injury crisis, before struggling to match that form so far this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSReal would find that useful with ageing right-back Carvajal suffering a devastating injury that ruled him out for the season.Ancelotti has also been unable to find the right man to cover at left-back.Awkward Alexander-Arnold billboard showing Liverpool star posing with ex is erected in MilanThe same report claims the Italian tactician has set his sights on other Premier League targets as well.One of them of course is Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract runs out in June.Tottenham ace Cristian Romero is also being monitored by the Spanish giants.Real manager Carlo Ancelotti has set his sights on the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex More

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      Man Utd legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer REJECTS emotional return to former club three years since Old Trafford axe

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has rejected the chance to return to management, according to reports in Norway.Solskjaer, 51, has been out of work since his dismissal by United in 2021.Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been offered a return to MoldeCredit: EPASolskjaer isn’t keen to return to Molde after leaving Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Norwegian tactician, who enjoyed tremendous success with the Red Devils as a player, earned the full-time job at Old Trafford after a stint as interim manager in 2018.However, despite a promising start with United, the former striker was axed after two-and-a-half seasons.Now, according to VG, Solskjaer has been offered the chance to take over another former club, Molde.Solskjaer kicked off his coaching career with the Norwegian giants in 2011, after a stint in charge of United’s reserves.Read More on Man UtdHe then had a short spell in charge of Cardiff in 2014 before returning to Molde a year later and ultimately leaving to take over United.Molde recently sacked their manager Erling Moe after a disappointing fifth-placed finish, with Norway’s domestic league finishing last month.And chairman Leif-Arne Langoy is said to have immediately called Solskjaer in a bid to convince him to come back.However, Solskjaer is not interested in a third spell and turned the opportunity down.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis was not the first offer the ex-United boss rejects as he was also approached and asked to take over as Denmark’s head coach.However, he did express an interest to work as Norway’s manager if the opportunity ever arose.‘Don’t tell anyone!’, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reveals what Sir Alex Ferguson said to make him stay at Man UtdSolskjaer said: “I am a proud Norwegian, and of course if the question arises, when Stale [Solbakken] decides to give up, I will happily engage in discussions.”I am a proud Norwegian and proud of where I come from.” More

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      Ruben Amorim tells Man Utd stars they are ALL on trial ahead of January transfer window with no player safe from axe

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      RUBEN AMORIM told Manchester United’s stars they are ALL on trial before the January transfer window.Erik ten Hag and sporting director Dan Ashworth have already been axed this season — and new boss Amorim admits more exits will follow if results do not improve.Ruben Amorim is willing to play the pantomime villain by axing some the failing Man Utd castCredit: GettyHe has warned that every player is on trial and could leave as soon as January if results do not improveCredit: ReutersAhead of taking on Viktoria Plzen this evening in the Europa League, he said: “We have good players, we need time to teach them our ideas and then we’ll see because this is a massive club.“If we don’t win, the coach goes, the player goes — so you have to know that.”Hit-or-miss opening results for the Old Trafford faithful have also left Amorim with no qualms about playing the pantomime villain as he considers changing the cast.The problem is that, after a £660million splurge under Ten Hag in just over two years, there are just beans rather than gold coins left to work with.READ MORE IN MAN UTDAmorim is ready to search in the land of the giants to start with, believing that the squad is just too short to deal with set-pieces at both ends of the pitch.United have conceded three goals from corners in the last two games, as well as a looping header from Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood.And if United’s players rest for a minute in Amorim’s set-up, it is worth reminding them: “He’s behind you!”Amorim said: “I’m really focused to see my players and to understand my players.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“We have to focus on what we have. We have to focus on the academy and to have a clear profile of the players. So it’s a lot of details you have to manage.“You can see at set-pieces, sometimes you look at our team, we are a small team compared to others.Dan Ashworth leaves Man Utd after just five months with Sir Jim Ratcliffe ordering shock boardroom shake-up“Every detail counts and we have to be very clear in the profiles, arrange all the process and go to that phase of buying and selling players.“We have to improve as a team, we have to arrange a lot of things in our club before thinking just about buying or selling players.”If anyone thought Amorim was a modern-day footballing Merlin who could immediately magic better performances out of this team, two successive defeats have suggested otherwise.The limitations seen under Ten Hag were evident away to Arsenal and at home to Forest.Amorim said that against title-chasing Arsenal in particular, you could see how far behind a team of that calibre United were. It got no better against Forest — and Amorim has no time on the training pitch to try to change things with games coming thick and fast.The Red Devils travelled to the Czech Republic yesterday ahead of tonight’s Europa League game against Viktoria Plzen. And on Sunday it is the Manchester derby at the Etihad.Amorim said: “I know it’s a big job. It’s really tough to win in our league. We have to improve. There’s a lot at stake in this moment — we have a lot to do, a lot of games. We don’t have time to train.Inside Man Utd chaos with Dan Ashworth axed just five months into jobBy Neil CustisThe blame game has another victim as things go from bad to worse at Old Trafford.Manchester United’s first sporting director, Dan Ashworth, arrived in the summer and is gone before Christmas.SunSport exclusively revealed in November that there was trouble at mill.That the new senior management team were already blaming each other for the mess the club were in.Chief executive Omar Berrada and Ashworth were trying to wash their hands of it all, claiming they had arrived too late after serving their gardening leave.New part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said making decisions was all down to them.Meanwhile, Jason Wilcox thought it was all a mess under previous boss Erik ten Hag but was part of the team that encouraged him to stay after every other candidate ran for cover.Defeat Nottingham Forest in December, after their second-half capitulation at Arsenal a few days previously, proved too much.READ MORE ON MAN UTD’S CHAOS “Sometimes I have one idea in the first week, second week I have a different idea and then we have to see what happens as everything is so close, all the games before what is happening in the window in January.”United currently stand 13th in the Premier League but Amorim already has his sights set on the ultimate goal of winning the title during his time in charge.He said: “We want to take this club to win the Premier League and be an elite club, like this club should be.”For now he understands that this season, reaching the Champions League has to be a realistic target.To do that, it could be easier to do so by winning the Europa League, as Jose Mourinho accepted back in 2017 and achieved that by beating Ajax in the final in Stockholm.Amorim said: “You can do the maths and understand what is needed for the Champions League and look at the table and see that the Europa League is easier.”United are currently 12th in the Europa League standings on the same points as tonight opponents Viktoria Plzen in the Doosan Arena.The top eight qualify automatically for the knockout stage and Amorim says it is vital they do that to avoid a two-legged play-off in February.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “It’s really important to go to the next stage. We need to win this game because of all of that.“If you pass to the next stage without the play-off, we take off two games.”Man Utd ratings vs Nottingham ForestMANCHESTER UNTED slipped to another defeat under Ruben Amorim after being shocked 3-2 at Old Trafford by Nottingham Forest.Here’s how Neil Custis rated the players…ANDRE ONANA – 3Had an absolute shocker. For the second Forest goal Morgan Gibbs-White shot is straight down the middle along the floor.It maybe swerves a foot at most and he somehow couldn’t stop it. For the third he just let it loop over his head. He cannot command his area.LENY YORO – 6The 19-year-old was making his first start for United and immediately looked unphased. Ruben Amorim has high hopes for someone he calls ‘a special talent’.He is easing him into the team after his summer injury and subbed him just past the hour.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Amorim has tasked him with bringing the ball out from the back to set United moves going.Looked good in the first balf but what was he doing for Forest’s third as he let Chris Wood’s header go thinking it was going wide.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 4It was said his lack of height would not be a problem but it was after 80 seconds here as Nikola Milenkovic headed home on 80 seconds.Then for Forest’s third he didn’t known what to do as the ball went over him at the far post.AMAD DIALLO – 7Looking more and more like a United star with his positive forward runs from his new wing-back role.Had a couple of good chances himself but shots were weak, then made a great run and cut back before setting up Fernandes for United’s second.MANUEL UGARTE – 7Looked constantly concerned with his defensive duties and understandably.Is a solid presence on the pitch though and a decent buy compared to plenty of others.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Ugarte was having a good game in front of the back three allowing Mainoo to get further forward in the second-half when he became more of a threat.DIOGO DALOT – 6Compared to Amad on the opposite flank did not have much of an influence. Got forward a lot more in the second-half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Was always involved. But does the captain really have to contest every single decision the referee makes against his team.Made up for his loose pass that gave away possession for Forest’s second by scoring a fine goal himself.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6That’s three goals in three games after his pair against Bodo Glimt but there is still not enough movement from the front man.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Not his best game and looked far from happy when he was hauled off early in the second-half for Marcus Rashford.SUBSTITUTIONS…MARCUS RASHFORD (for Garnacho, 58) – 6These are the games he should be starting and starring in but that’s just not the case.MAZRAOUI (for Yoro 66) – 6One of those the recruitment team did at least get right.HARRY MAGUIRE (for De Ligt 65) – 6When Amorim decides on his best starting eleven Maguire should be in it.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (for Ugarte 76) – 5Not surprisingly failed to have an impact.MASON MOUNT (for Fernandes 76) – 6Amorim has high hopes for him but he is still to convince the United faithful. Needs a long injury free run. More

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      Inside the Qataris’ ‘Project Ruby’ plan that ‘would have fixed Man Utd in THREE DAYS’ as fans turn on Ratcliffe

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      IT’S taken just 11 months for some Manchester United fans to turn on minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.And doubters in the Old Trafford faithful will no doubt be left even more frustrated when they find out what could’ve been under the Qatari administration, who had plans to revolutionise the club in just THREE DAYS.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has endured a pitiful start to life at Man UtdOther bidder Sheikh Jassim’s concrete plans have been revealedPlans were put in place for a brand new stadiumUnited fans staged a protest against RatcliffeFan pressure and soaring costs saw the majority owning Glazer family announce that they were open to selling United in November 2022.And Qatari billionaire banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, entered the race to buy Britain’s biggest football club. After months of speculation, Sheikh Jassim’s final £4.5billion offer for full control was shunned by the Glazers, in favour of Britain’s richest man Ratcliffe.Ratcliffe’s own £1.2bn offer for a 27.7 per cent stake was accepted, and the 72-year-old, a life long fan, was effectively given the keys, taking control of all operations.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut things haven’t gone to plan, with sporting director Dan Ashworth leaving the club after just five months in his role in the latest of a string of PR disasters.Almost 12 months on, the ‘new’ United lurches from horror show to another under Ratcliffe and his Ineos officers.Ahead of Sunday’s derby at Man City they find themselves in a lowly 13th place in the Premier League.After 15 games they are 16 points behind Liverpool, who spanked them 3-0 at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the Mail have now revealed an inside swoop into what could’ve happened in M16 if the Qatari’s were allowed to buy the club outright.Plans for a United rebirth, fuelled by vast wealth and some of the finest sporting and finance brains on earth, had already been carefully drafted. Dan Ashworth leaves Man Utd after just five months with Sir Jim Ratcliffe ordering shock boardroom shake-upThe strategy for ‘Project Ruby’ saw the Qatari’s pledge to announce the takeover on the first day.The removal of ALL of the club’s debt would come on the second day.And United would be taken off the New York Stock Exchange and no longer answerable to far-away stakeholders.By day three, Sheikh Jassim would reveal plans for a brand new state-of-the-art stadium.That’s it, a clean break in three days to change the club’s history and current predicament.As for Old Trafford, there would be no attempt to grab any money from the taxpayer, or confusion over whether this would be a refurbishment or a rebuild. Ratcliffe was reportedly lobbying the government’s “Levelling Up” plan to give the north of England a venue to rival Wembley.And the iconic ground continues to rot away, hampered by an embarrassing leaky roof and dead RATS under seats.Under Sheikh Jassim this would have been a more straightforward process.A supporter posted a picture of a dead rat at Old TraffordA senior adviser to the Qatari group told the Mail: “The b****y thing would have been fully in-motion now.”A stadium for a football club paid for by a football club and nobody else. And as for the staff Ratcliffe is firing – we would have been hiring.”None of the above will be of solace to the United fans – and the large numbers of staff – who had wanted the Sheikh Jassim bid to succeed.Populous, the designers responsible for many of the venues at the 2022 World Cup, had already drawn up plans, which were shared with bidders for United.It can now be disclosed that an ‘adaptable’ stadium was being seriously considered, with a capacity of between 90,000 and 100,000.A banner saying ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’ was held up inside and outside Old Trafford last weekAI images have been mocked up to show what Old Trafford could look like under RatcliffeLeading commercial property company JLL, based in Manchester city centre, had already been signed up to work on the project.And there was a separate fund planned for the women’s team, who would’ve had their own training centre in Manchester.Leading commercial property company JLL, based in Manchester city centre, had already been signed up to work on the project.Far from being given the sack, Sir Alex Ferguson was to be cherished and invited onto an advisory board. Others, including Class of ’92 members David Beckham and Gary Neville, were also being lined up to add their input.But the opposite has come true.Ratcliffe’s hated cost-cutting campaign has seen 250 redundancies made and tickets were hiked to £66 for kids and pensioners.He’s even turned into the grinch and replaced the £100 staff Christmas bonus with a £40 M&S voucher in his latest money-saving measure.Fans have already protested outside Old Trafford begging to stop being “exploited”.But it might not be the end of the story.The advisor told the Mail: “Sheikh Jassim is still a rich guy. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He is still a United fan. He is not going to rush off and try another Premier League club.’If the opportunity to buy the whole of Manchester United arose again at some point in the future it is hard to see there not being a big level of interest. The plans are still there.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucher More

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      Man Utd ‘identify £4m star from little-known league’ as Ruben Amorim’s first signing but he can’t join in January

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have identified their first signing under new manager Ruben Amorim ahead of the January transfer window.According to talkSPORT, United are are in talks to sign Cerro Porteno’s teenage star Diego Leon, who plays in Costa Rica’s first division and is valued at around £4million.Manchester United are are in talks to sign Cerro Porteno’s teenage star Diego LeonCredit: Instagram @ccp1912oficialLeon is valued at around £4m but Man Utd can’t sign him until he turns 18Credit: Tigo SportsNegotiations are being led by Man Utd technical director Jason Wilcox after Dan Ashworth’s shock exit as sporting director just five months into the job.However, Leon, 17, won’t be able to move to Old Trafford during the winter market.That is because the left-back is under 18 and thus the Red Devils will have to wait until at least April.FA and Premier League rules do not allow clubs to sign players based abroad before their 18th birthday.Read More on Man UtdHowever, the rules do not prevent teams from agreeing deals for underaged players.The Paraguayan ace stood out last season in Costa Rica with 19 appearances, which saw him score twice.United have struggled at the left-back position with both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia being stricken by injury.Shaw recently returned from a calf strain but suffered a setback and immediately returned to the treatment room.Most read in FootballInside Man Utd chaos amid Ashworth departureTHE blame game has another victim as things go from bad to worse at Old Trafford.Manchester United’s first sporting director, Dan Ashworth, arrived in the summer and is gone before Christmas.SunSport exclusively revealed last month that there was trouble at mill.That the new senior management team were already blaming each other for the mess the club were in.Chief executive Omar Berrada and Ashworth were trying to wash their hands of it all, claiming they had arrived too late after serving their gardening leave.New part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said making decisions was all down to them. Meanwhile, Jason Wilcox thought it was all a mess under previous boss Erik ten Hag but was part of the team that encouraged him to stay after every other candidate ran for cover.There is word Ashworth did not favour appointing his successor and new head coach Ruben Amorim, preferring an English manager with more experience in our game. Perhaps that was why ex-England gaffer Gareth Southgate’s name was always mentioned after they worked together at the FA.Either way, Saturday’s showing against Nottingham Forest, after their second-half capitulation at Arsenal a few days previously, proved too much.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis comes after reports suggesting new manager Amorim will work on a much smaller budget than predecessor Erik ten Hag.During Ten Hag’s two-and-a-half years in charge, the Manchester giants splashed more than £600million.Ruben Amorim discusses defensive strategy against Arsenal scoring from corners That included £86m on Antony, £70m on Casemiro, £72m on Rasmus Hojlund and £60m on Mason Mount.However, Amorim will have to work with less amid the growing PSR theat.Ten Hag’s Man Utd signingsThe Dutchman has brought in 21 players since moving to Old Trafford in 20222022-23:Antony, (Ajax) £86mCasemiro, (Real Madrid) £70mLisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46mTyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13mChristian Eriksen, (Brentford) freeMartin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loanWout Weghorst, (Burnley) loanJack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loanMarcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan2023-24:Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72mMason Mount, (Chelsea) £60mAndre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47mSofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loanAltay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3mJonny Evans, (Leicester) freeSergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan2024-25:Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52mManuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50mMatthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45mJoshua Zirkee, (Bologna) £36.5mNoussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m More