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      Chelsea star Jadon Sancho takes just 49 minutes to match feat that took him SEVEN MONTHS at Man Utd

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      JADON SANCHO has taken just 49 minutes to match a feat that took him SEVEN MONTHS to achieve at Manchester United.Sancho, 24, is on loan at Chelsea from the Red Devils.In 49 minutes for Chelsea Jadon Sancho has matched a feat that took seven months to get at Man UtdCredit: ReutersSancho did not get his first league assists for Man Utd until FebruaryCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunHe put in a Man of the Match debut after coming on off the bench at half-time against Bournemouth to provide the match-winning assist.Enzo Maresca consequently awarded Sancho with a start against West Ham.And once again he has paid back his manager’s faith by contributing an assist to Nicolas Jackson’s clever opening goal just four minutes in.This put Sancho on two league assists for the Blues.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, at previous club Man Utd, where Sancho never truly never managed to bed in, it took him an astonishing seven months to match the same league numbers. Sancho joined United in the summer of 2021 from Borussia Dortmund in a transfer deal worth £73million.However, following a stop-start season for him personally amid the struggles the club faced, Sancho did not register his first assists until February against Leeds. That game, a 4-2 win for Ralf Rangnick’s side, saw him register two assists.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe would add a third assist of the season against Tottenham three games later before his season was prematurely ended by injury.Meanwhile, it took him until his 10th game to score his first United goal, ironically against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.Jadon Sancho compared to Brazil football legend by excited Chelsea fans as ex-Man Utd star has first training session, ChelseaFC.mp4Overall, Sancho hit 12 goals and six assists for United but saw himself sidelined for much of last season following a falling out with Erik ten Hag where the Dutchman criticised his training performances. A public rebuttal from Sancho with no apology prompted Ten Hag to freeze him out of first-team training before the winger was sent on loan to former club Borussia Dortmund, where he had a mixed spell.After apparently burying the hatchet with Ten Hag this season, Sancho missed a crucial penalty in the Community Shield penalty shootout against Manchester City.He then sealed a deadline day loan move to Stamford Bridge, where the early indicators are he has captured his old form in Germany. More

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      Erik ten Hag hails major change that’s transformed Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd fortunes and got him firing again

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      THE smile is back on the face of Marcus Rashford.For too long last season the Manchester United striker had stopped enjoying his football.Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag praised Marcus Rashford’s return to goalscoring formCredit: GettyRashford struggled last season under Ten Hag following a glittering campaignCredit: GettyHe looked like he had the weight of the world on his shoulders as his form slumped and even the Old Trafford crowd started to turn against him.In truth he had lost focus and started enjoying the lifestyle that comes with being a footballer rather than the game itself.But the emotions on his face as he shed tears in front of the Red Devils fans following their 2-1 FA Cup final victory over neighbours Manchester City told you that the club still meant everything to him.Now after a summer’s rest he is looking back to the man who chalked up career-best figures two seasons ago of 30 goals.Read More on Man UtdBoss Erik ten Hag never lost faith in the player, despite having his patience tested, because he knew the talent he still had. A talent that has been evident again in the last two games with a goal against Southampton and two in the 7-0 Carabao Cup thrashing of League One outfit Barnsley.Now as the club prepare for Saturday’s tea-time kick-off away to Crystal Palace, Ten Hag has praised Rashford, 26, for showing the strength of character to bounce back.The Dutchman said: “I think every player who plays in the Premier League, but definitely in this club, you need some resilience.Most read in Football“Not any football career is only the way up, you always go down. You have to deal with it.“Marcus has experienced it and knows when there are setbacks how to fight back, how to set his career, his performance.Chelsea boss Maresca aims cheeky dig at Erik ten Hag after Jadon Sancho makes dazzling debut after Man Utd transfer“He took control of it and I think he is on the way back. He started the season very good, now he has to continue and to progress.”There is no doubt that the arrival of United scoring legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, 48, on to the coaching staff has helped Rashford refocus.Ten Hag added: “Probably he needed some help, by backing him for instance.”Which is what the gaffer did through the tough times.Although there is little doubt that had it not been for an injury crisis at the club last term, Rashford would have been staring at a prolonged time on the sidelines after one particular misdemeanour.He had already been warned about his off-field behaviour when he celebrated his birthday on the evening after United had been stuffed 3-0 at home in the derby against City last October.Off-field issuesThen he was out partying until the early hours of a Friday in January when United were training ahead of an FA Cup game away to Newport.That is now in the past and Rashford appears to have a new focus, one which Ten Hag believes could lead to a recall to the England squad having missed out on the Euros.Ten Hag said: “I think he will always be an option for every manager but it is not up to me.”There was a lot of social media chatter about Rashford not really celebrating his goals against Barnsley, suggesting all is not well.Perhaps he is just keeping it under wraps while he builds his reputation again, and the opponent was a side being dominated where he was player-of-the-match.United boss Ten Hag was in an upbeat mood on Friday with a near fully fit squad to pick from for a change after the injury problems of last season, which he has always said led to their terrible eighth-place finish.Injury returnsBoth Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount returned to full training this week and are in consideration for Saturday’s squad.Striker Hojlund, 21, has been out with a hamstring injury suffered during pre-season in the US.Midfielder Mount, 25, had his first season with United decimated by injury after his move from Chelsea.Then after starting in the Community Shield loss to City and both the opening two Premier league games of the season he was subbed at half-time at Brighton after feeling his hamstring.After his £55million switch — rising to £60m — Mount is desperate to prove he is not another expensive mistake at Old Trafford and Ten Hag is sure he will prove himself.Ten Hag said: “We have already seen glimpses in the start of the season, what he is capable of.“What he needs is a longer period where he can train fully with the team and play with the team.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Then he can come up to speed and then everyone will see his qualities.“I am totally convinced, I have seen in the start of the season what he can bring to the team. I am sure once he is in a longer run he will really improve.”Rashford scored for Man Utd against Southampton and Barnsley More

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      Maya Le Tissier reflects on Manchester United captaincy chat with Sir Alex Ferguson that left her speechless

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      MAYA LE TISSIER joked that Sir Alex Ferguson left her speechless when the pair chatted about her Manchester United captaincy.And the Red Devils ace wants to be a skipper who wears her heart on her sleeve with her team ready to take down their WSL title rivals.Maya Le Tissier will skipper Man United at Old Trafford when they face West Ham in their first WSL game this seasonCredit: GettyThe Red Devils defender (left) intends to continue giving her all in her new roleCredit: GettyTomorrow Le Tissier, 22, will lead her team-mates out as captain for the first time at Old Trafford. Marc Skinner’s side will face West Ham in the opening fixture of the new Women’s Super League season.The 12midday clash comes 19 days after the England defender spoke with Sir Alex about what it means to be a Man United captain. The duo were watching Erik ten Hag’s men’s side take on Liverpool at Old Trafford, a Prem clash that United lost 3-0.Read More Football StoriesLe Tissier recalled: “It was unbelievable. There are not many people who leave me speechless and I didn’t know what to say to him.”It was at half time when they (the men’s team) played Liverpool. “They were losing at that point and I was thinking I don’t know what mood he’s going to be in. “But he was so nice and it was so surreal and he spoke to me about the responsibility of being captain. It was great to meet him.”Most read in FootballSince her July 2022 Manchester move from Brighton, Le Tissier has become a first team regular appearing in every single one of United’s league games in the past two seasons.The defender, whose side finished fifth last term, hopes to bring consistency on the pitch as captain and good vibes off it. She added: “It’s definitely about consistency first of all, and to make myself available for every game. “I think that’s the best thing you can give to your team-mates and to staff.”That’s my job to be there ready and to help the team.”On the pitch I wear my heart on my sleeve. “People know I’m with them, committed to them and will fight for them every single time.”Now there’s a bit more responsibility on the pitch to make things a little bit calmer. “It’s not something that I’ve had to really do, so I’ll make sure that I can really improve that.”Off the pitch, I’m just a sociable person. “I like to chat to anyone to be fair, unless it’s Sir Alex and then I don’t know what to say!”Le Tissier receiving the skipper’s armband this month, coincided with her United and England team-mate Ella Toone, 25, being named vice-captain.The Euros-winning midfielder, who scored in her side’s first-ever FA Cup final win in May, has made more than 150 United appearances .Le Tissier added: “Ella has been in so many finals and delivered in every single big moment.”It’s amazing to be on the same journey with her and to work together.”We’ve made it really clear that it’s not just being captain. “It’s me, her and the rest of the team and the leadership group as well.”It means a lot for me and Toons to be a part of it, especially her being a United fan who is from Manchester.”Since beginning her senior career five years ago at Albion, Le Tissier has emerged as one of the biggest football talents to come from Guernsey.If I can give the next generation a bit more support, I’ll feel like I’ve done my job.Maya Le Tissier Another star from the island who took the sport by storm is Southampton icon Matt Le Tissier, although the pair are not related.Like her namesake the defender, whose football journey began at a boys’ team called St Martins, hopes to be an inspiration for young players back home.Le Tissier said: “It means a lot to me to show them that you can do it, you can get to the top. “That’s not to say that I’m there now, but I’m on my way.”If I can create some here and there and give the next generation a bit more support, I’ll feel like I’ve done my job.””I remember (when I was living in Guernsey) I just wanted go over to the Women’s Super League and play as a pro. “That was the only thing I had in my mind.”When I went to Brighton, I thought (to myself), ‘I’m just going to go all the way now’. Le Tissier, Toone and their team-mates hope to put in a solid challenge for this term’s WSL titleCredit: Getty”I’m in it for the long run so I’m just going to do as best as I can.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And that’s brought me here today as captain”I’m really appreciative of the opportunities that have come my way and I can’t wait to see what else comes.” More

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      Three Champions League giants ‘already tracking Mason Greenwood’ with Man Utd set to cash in again

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      MASON GREENWOOD is being tracked by three Champions League clubs, transfer reports say. Greenwood has five goals in just four games since signing for Marseille in France in the summer. Mason Greenwood has made a good start to life in MarseilleCredit: AFPAnd his form has seen the likes of Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich all register interest, according to talkSPORT.Scouts from all three are said to have watched Greenwood in action for Marseille.It comes after the forward scored ten in 36 games on loan for Getafe in Spain last season. Greenwood was banished from Manchester United from January 2022 after being charged with attempted rape and assault, which he denied.READ MORE IN football The criminal charges were dropped 12 months later.Following an investigation by United, he spent last season away before joining Marseille for £30million in a permanent deal this summer.Greenwood, 22, also has no way back into the England set up and now looks to switch allegiances to Jamaica. As revealed by SunSport, the FA have been approached by the Jamaican Football Federation with a formal request to transfer Greenwood’s international registration. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe process is already underway with Greenwood looking to end his near-four year international exile.Jamaica first tried to get Greenwood to switch his international allegiance after the criminal charges were dropped last February.But he initially declined as he wanted to revive his career with England – although that was ruled out by interim boss Lee Carsley.’I miss it sometimes,’ says Sir Alex Ferguson as former Man Utd manager opens up in rare interview More

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      Michael Carrick calls on fellow Manchester United legend to help plot Sunderland’s derby downfall to Middlesbrough

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      MICHAEL CARRICK is calling on the help of Wayne Rooney to help claim derby bragging rights.The Middlesbrough boss takes his side 31 miles up the A19 on Saturday to face North East rivals Sunderland.Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth inflicted a first defeat of the season on Sunderland last weekCredit: RexMichael Carrick revealed he’s already spoken to the legend ahead of the Wear-Tees derbyCredit: PAThe Stadium of Light holds both painful and fond memories for Carrick after leading Boro to a 4-0 win there last year.He was also part of the Manchester United side that suffered title agony on the final day of the 2012 Premier League campaign there.Rooney secured the Red Devils a 1-0 victory, but Sergio Aguero’s famous last-ditch strike took the title to the Cityzens from United’s clutches.As news of City’s winner spread amongst the ground and the United players on the pitch, the home supporters went berserk with delight and even performed a ‘Poznan’.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRooney has since spoken of his bemusement and anger towards Sunderland fans for doing that.The England legend got some revenge last week when his Plymouth beat the Black Cats 3-2 courtesy of a 93rd-minute effort from Joe Edwards.That was his first Championship win since taking over the Pilgrims and it also brought an abrupt end to Sunderland’s 100 per cent start.Now Carrick has confirmed that Rooney has been helping him to secure Wear-Tees bragging rights.Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “We’ve exchanged a couple of messages and I’ll speak to him more at some point.“It was a big result for them, so I was pleased for Wayne. It was an important result for them.Brutal Wayne Rooney reveals he became Plymouth manager because he ‘doesn’t want to be the next Gary Neville’“In terms of what we take from it, Sunderland have largely been consistent in the games they’ve played and you can see how they’re trying to play – the patterns and consistencies within the game.“We’ve got a decent idea of how they approach things, but it doesn’t mean that makes it any easier to play against.”Fergie’s Man utd famously lost out on the title in 2012 to the delight of the Sunderland fansCredit: AFPRooney and Carrick became close friends during their together at Old TraffordCredit: Reuters More

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      Top 10 most memorable Premier League moments ever revealed from Eric Cantona’s kung fu kick to Leicester title win

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      THE PREMIER LEAGUE has had some incredibly memorable moments since its inception in 1992.The competition replaced the old First Division and was made up of the teams that competed in it.The Premier League has produced some iconic moments since its inception in 1992Credit: GettyEngland’s top flight has grown immensely since the 90s and is now one of the highest-rated in the world.The Premier League has featured some of the best players and teams of the last 30 years in world football, earning it a reputation like no other across Europe.Manchester United are still the most successful club in the new era with an astounding 13 titles won.While there has also been some brilliant teams assembled in more recent years such as the Manchester City side that earned 100 points in the 2017/18 season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLArsenal’s “Invincibles” that won the title unbeaten in 2003/04 remain one of a kind in Prem history.Here are the top 10 moments since the Premier League began…10. Liverpool 4 Newcastle 3 in April 1996Liverpool and Newcastle are among the most passionately supported clubs in the country, and when they came to head in 1996 the game didn’t disappoint.Both sides had lost their previous matches and trailed Manchester United in a three-way race for the Premier League title.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWith both keen to close the gap on the Red Devils, victory could be vital.The match itself was filled with drama as both sides gave it their all to stay withing touching distance of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelLiverpool beat Newcastle 4-3 in one of the most iconic matches in the Premier LeagueCredit: PA:Press AssociationLiverpool took the lead just two minutes in as Robbie Fowler netted the opener.The Magpies then hit back as Les Ferdinand and David Ginola put them ahead before half-time.Fowler scored an equaliser in the 55th minute before Faustino Asprilla restored the visitor’s lead.The Reds were then cheered on by the Anfield crowd as Stan Collymore netted a brace to win the match.9. Jose Mourinho’s introductionJose Mourinho will always be one of the most recognisable faces of the PremCredit: EPAJose Mourinho arrived on English shores for the first time back in 2004, when he was made Chelsea manager after his success at Porto.The Portuguese manager did not disappoint as in his first press conference, he insisted that he was “not arrogant” but referred to himself as “The Special One”.The nickname has stuck by Mourinho as he has gone on to win three Premier League titles across two spells at the Blues.8. Hansen’s “can’t win with kids” commentAlan Hansen lived to regret his words on Match of theDay in 1995Credit: CollectAlan Hansen built his reputation as a brilliant defender at Liverpool and helped the team win eight First Division titles and three European Cups.He retired in 1991 and pursued a career in the media, leading to an iconic moment in 1995.After Manchester United were beaten by Aston Villa on the opening day of the season, Hansen claimed that the club cannot “win anything with kids”.The comment came as the Red Devils let Paul Ince, Mark Hughes and Andrei Kanchelskis leave and introduced youngsters in their place.Those youngsters included Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and David Beckham – better known as “The Class of 92”.Sir Alex Ferguson’s side went on to win the league that season and dominate football for many years to come – Oh how wrong you were Alan.7. Aguerooooooooooo!!!Sergio Aguero scored a memorable winner to give Manchester City their first Premier League titleCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe seventh most memorable moment in the league’s history came from Sergio Aguero.The striker scored Manchester City’s title-winning goal against QPR back in 2012.The Argentine’s strike came at 93.20 and gave Roberto Mancini’s side a 3-2 victory over the London-based side.The win meant Sir Alex Ferguson and his Manchester United players were left heartbroken in Sunderland after their victory was put in vein.The goal has always been remembered for Martin Tyler’s iconic commentary as he screamed: “Aguerooooooooo” as the striker scored.That day marked City’s first ever Premier League title, staring a period of domination that has seen them win another SEVEN titles since that day.6. Steven Gerrard’s slipSteven Gerrard’s slip cost Liverpool the Prem title in 2014Credit: Sky SportsLiverpool have only won one Premier League title in their history but could have had two if not for a fateful slip.The Reds were the favourites to lift the title under Brendan Rodgers in 2014 as they sat a comfortable five points ahead of rivals Man City with three games to go.A home win against Chelsea would have put the title in their grasp, but with the game at 0-0, disaster struck.Steven Gerrard, captain and leader, slipped on the ball, which allowed Demba Ba to race through and score.The game ended in a 2-0 defeat, and Liverpool’s following collapse at Crystal Palace saw the title won by City.5. Wayne Rooney’s overhead kickWayne Rooney caused shockwaves with his overhead kick against Man City in 2011Credit: GettyThe Manchester derby has always been one of the most exciting fixtures in the Premier League.It has thrown up some incredible moments, such as City’s 6-1 win at Old Trafford.However, one goal stands above all others in the fixture and it came from the legend that is Wayne Rooney.In 2011, the derby was underway and looked set for a 1-1 draw after goals from Nani and David Silva cancelled each other out.That was until Rooney pulled off an amazing overhead kick in the 78th minute to win the match.The goal has often been proclaimed as the best in the history of the Premier League.4. Kevin Keegan’s ‘love it’ rantKevin Keegan pulled off a famous rant during Newcastle’s title battle with Man UnitedCredit: PA:Press AssociationClub managers have been a key part of creating Premier League folklore.One boss, Kevin Keegan, stands out for his incredible rant during the 1995/96 title race.Newcastle were going head-to-head with the Red Devils, and Keegan’s side faced Leeds, who had three games to go.The Magpies won 1-0 and the manager had an outburst after the game as he reacted to Ferguson’s doubts over the club’s title credentials.He ranted: “I’ll tell you, you can tell him [Ferguson] now if you’re watching it, we’re still fighting for this title, and he’s got to go to Middlesbrough and get something, and… and… I’ll tell you, honestly, I will love it if we beat them, love it!”However, it was not the dream end for Keegan as Newcastle drew their next two games against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham.Man United beat Middlesborough and won the title.3. Foxes do the impossibleLeicester City completed a Cinderella story by winning the Premier League in 2016Credit: PAFor most of its history, the Premier League has often been dominated by the biggest clubs.However, in the 2015/16 season, one side seemed to do what many thought was impossible.Leicester City scrapped to Premier League survival the season before, and Nigel Pearson was controversially replaced by Claudio Ranieri.The Italian, along with summer signings N’Golo Kante, Robert Huth and Shinji Okazaki improved the team that already included Jamie Vardy and Riyad Marhez.The East Midlands side then managed to defy the odds and win the whole division despite many backing them for relegation at the start of the season.Leicester’s achievement was incredibly improbable as they had been given odds of 5000-1 to win the Prem at the start of the campaign.2. Beckham’s halfway line screamerDavid Beckham scored a goal that will always be remembered in Premier League historyCredit: Action ImagesDavid Beckham is known for many things. From his free-kick against Greece in and England shirt to his superstar status off the pitch.But when it comes to the Premier League, his greatest moment will always be considered as his stunning goal against Wimbledon.Just 21 years old at the time, a fresh-faced Beckham etched his name into the brains of football fans up and down the country.United were leading Wimbledon 2-0 when Beckham spotted that opposition keeper Neil Sullivan was off his line.The midfielder let fly from the halfway line, clearing Sullivan and seeing his long-range effort hit the back of the net.Some players have scored similar efforts in the years since, but Beckham will forever be the benchmark for which halfway line goals are measured.1. Cantona’s Kung Fu kickEric Cantona lost his head and Kung Fu kicked a fan in the standsCredit: RexIf this was a list of the Premier League’s most iconic characters Eric Cantona would be at the top, so it’s no surprise that his most famous moment tops the list of the league’s most memorable moments too.During a game against Crystal Palace in 1995, Cantona was berated by a fan in the stands – sparking a reaction from the Frenchman.Cantona didn’t take kindly to the choice words and leapt into the crowd feet first to kick the fan directly in the chest.Naturally, Cantona was shown red for his unbelievable outburst.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut his punishment didn’t stop there, Cantona was banned from football for NINE MONTHS and fined £20,000.While the courts handed him a two-week prison sentence, which was later reduced to 120 hours of community service after an appeal.Top 10 most memorable Premier League momentsHere is the full list of the ten most memorable moments in the history of the Prem..10. Liverpool 4, Newcastle 3 in April 19969. Mourinho – ‘I think I am the special one’ – his introduction to the Premier League8. Alan Hansen’s ‘You can’t win anything with kids’ line in 19957. Aguerooo – Man City’s title winning goal against QPR in 20126. Steven Gerrard’s fateful slip in the Chelsea match in April 20145. Wayne Rooney’s bicycle kick against Man City in 20114. Kevin Keegan’s ‘I’d love it’ moment when Newcastle and Man Utd were battling for the Premier League title in 1995/963. Leicester City winning the Premier League in 2015/162. David Beckham’s goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon on the opening day of the 1995/96 season1. Eric Cantona’s Kung Fu kick against a Crystal Palace fan in 1995 More

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      What happened to eight stars who left Man Utd in summer including crocked legend and unemployed ‘Luke Shaw replacement’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED allowed eight players to leave on free transfers at the end of last season.After winning the FA Cup against Manchester City, boss Erik ten Hag clung on to his job at Old Trafford.Manchester United won the FA Cup last termCredit: RexAs he began preparations for his third season in charge, the Dutchman set about reshaping his squad.In doing so, United did not renew the contracts of eight pro players.These included two first-team stalwarts, as well as some promising youngsters… and one England international many may not have even realised was there.Those to leave have experienced mixed fortunes since departing United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSome have gone on to exciting new projects, one has retired, and others are still without a club.Without further ado, let’s take a look at where each player to leave on a free transfer ended up.RAPHAEL VARANEFrench defender Varane suffered an injury-hit third and final season at Old Trafford.He was limited to just 22 Premier League outings last term, but did help his side win the FA Cup in his final game for the club.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOn that occasion at Wembley, it was already known that he would be leaving.He went on to sign for Como in July, linking up with boss Cesc Fabregas – but he has so far played just 23 minutes of football for the Italian side due to further injury issues. Raphael Varane removed from Como’s Serie A squad as Man Utd flop’s transfer turns into nightmare after nasty injuryANTHONY MARTIALForward Martial’s nine-year Man Utd career came to an end in underwhelming fashion last season.The last of his 317 appearances for the club came last December, as an illness followed by groin surgery prematurely ended his campaign.Martial, 28, spent much of the summer looking for a new team.And he was given a hero’s reception when he finally signed for one, sealing a shock move to Greek side AEK Athens this week.Anthony Martial endured a low-key final season at UnitedCredit: GettyTOM HUDDLESTONE Former Tottenham and England midfielder Huddlestone joined Man Utd as a player-academy coach in 2022.During two seasons at United the midfielder provided invaluable guidance to the club’s youngsters, while now and then featuring alongside them.Following nine appearances for United’s Under-21s last season, the 37-year-old retired from football in July.He initially joined Wigan as a first team coach for the start of pre-season, but this week departed for a similar role at Birmingham after receiving what the Latics called “an offer he simply could not refuse”.Tom Huddlestone played for Man Utd’s Under-21s last seasonCredit: GettyCHARLIE MCNEILLAcademy graduate McNeill left United after four years with his boyhood club.The forward, 21, made one first team appearance for the Red Devils – coming in a Europa League clash early in Ten Hag’s first season at the club.Having been on loan spells with Newport and Stevenage during his Man Utd stint – McNeill signed permanently for Sheffield Wednesday upon leaving Old Trafford.He is yet to appear in the Championship for his new club, but has scored two goals in three League Cup outings to date.McNeill is congratulated by Owls team-mate Barry BannanCredit: GettyMARCUS LAWRENCELocal lad Lawrence left United having never come close to reaching their first team.The full-back, 19, was born in Stretford, a stone’s throw from Old Trafford.He featured periodically for the club’s Under-18s before departing.Lawrence is still looking for a new club.BRANDON WILLIAMSFull-back Williams had once been thought of as the club’s best left sided defender, even usurping England regular Luke Shaw in the eyes of former United executive Ed Woodward.He played 51 times for United’s first team, including 36 appearances during the 2019-20 campaign under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Having previously been on loan at Norwich, Williams spent the final year of his United contract on loan at Ipswich.He remains without a club, and is set to go on trial for dangerous driving next March, a charge he denies.Having been working on his fitness after not playing since last December, Williams is hoping to find a club by the end of January.Brandon Williams spent last season on loan at IpswichCredit: PAKIE PLUMLEYMan Utd somewhat surprisingly signed goalkeeper Kie Plumley last September, following his release by Oxford United.During his time at Old Trafford, Plumley played the role of No2 keeper for their Under-21 side – making one appearance in the PL2.Following his United release, Plumley signed for eighth-tier side Hartley Wintney.He has since debuted for his new team, helping them beat East Grinstead Town 2-1 in the FA Cup.Kie Plumley surprisingly joined Man Utd after being released by OxfordCredit: GettyOMARI FORSONDespite being offered a new deal to stay at United, winger Forson opted to leave on a free transfer at the end of last season.Forson, 20, had begun to break through under Ten Hag, appearing seven times for United’s first team last season.READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite this, he decided to move on – signing for Serie A side Monza.After beginning the season with a muscular issue he is yet to make an appearance for his new club, but he has been named as a substitute in their last three games.Omari Forson left United to sign for MonzaCredit: Rex More

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      Man Utd cult hero and former England star appointed as Ashley Cole’s replacement as Birmingham coach

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      BIRMINGHAM have announced Ashley Cole’s replacement as assistant coach. The Premier League winner joined the set-up under Wayne Rooney and remained even after the Manchester United legend was sacked in January. Tom Huddlestone has joined Birmingham’s coaching staffCredit: GettyBut now, Cole has taken up a full-time role with interim England manager Lee Carsley. Birmingham said: “Everyone at Blues wishes Ashley the best of luck for the future.”And the League One club have acted by bringing in Tom Huddlestone to replace Cole after he left Wigan. Manager Chris Davies, said: “Tom is an excellent coach and a great addition to our First Team Staff as we look to build on our start to the 2024/25 season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“He has vast playing experience, which has been added to by coaching roles he has held with both club and international teams.”This will provide a different dynamic to the group and I expect the squad to feed off his knowledge of the game.“We are all looking forward to working with him and wish him every success at Birmingham City.”Huddlestone, 37, played for Derby, Tottenham, Wolves, Hull, and United before hanging up his boots. Most read in FootballHuddlestone formerly played for EnglandCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHuddlestone played for United’s U21 sideCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe former midfielder won the League Cup with Spurs in 2008 and helped Hull get promoted in 2016.For England, Huddlestone made only four appearances due to the competition he was competing with in the squad.He was a player-coach with United’s Under-21 side before joining Wigan’s coaching staff.Birmingham were relegated from the Championship last season but sit second behind Wrexham in League One. Watch Ashley Cole’s inspirational speech as presents England new boys Gomes and Gibbs-White with legacy caps More