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      I’m a Ballon d’Or winner who had the world at my feet but I lost control of my career after bold transfer

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      MICHAEL OWEN believes he “lost control” of his career the moment he left Liverpool for Real Madrid.The former England international swapped Merseyside for Madrid in the summer of 2004 after eight goal-filled seasons with the Reds.Michael Owen joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2004 after eight seasons with LiverpoolCredit: PA:Empics SportSome of the Anfield faithful turned on the former academy star after his departureCredit: GETTYOwen believes his departure from the club was the moment he ‘lost control’ of his careerCredit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTDThe stunning move to the Bernabeu, however, didn’t go to plan as he failed to win a trophy in his sole season with the Galacticos, in which he scored 16 goals in 45 appearances.He returned to England the following summer for a four-season stint with Newcastle before a shock move to Liverpool’s bitter rivals Manchester United in July 2009.Some of the Kop faithful still resent Owen for joining the Red Devils, although the 44-year-old believes their resentment originally stemmed from him leaving Anfield in the first place.He told The Telegraph: “The moment I chose to go to Real Madrid I lost control of my career and what the perceptions of it are.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“I don’t love going to Anfield now because I know I am not loved back.”I tend to only go when I am working. It’s not that I dread going, but for a long time I used to bury my head when driving back to the academy to see friends.”I have told myself since, ‘I should not have been feeling like that.'”People say now, ‘It was because he signed for Manchester United.’ Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMichael Owen’s career statsLiverpool: 297 appearances – 158 goals & 49 assistsReal Madrid: 45 appearances – 16 goals & four assistsNewcastle United: 79 appearances – 30 goals & 2 assistsManchester United: 52 appearances – 17 goals & three assistsStoke City: Nine appearances – One goalClub Total: 483 appearances – 223 goals & 58 assistsEngland: 89 appearances: 40 goals & 12 assists”But the whole world knows there has been some history rewritten there.”There was resentment directed at me before then when I played for Newcastle, even though I had a clause in my Newcastle contract that I could re-sign for Liverpool every summer.Michael Owen heartbreakingly admits he prays every single night for cure for rare disease that has blinded his son James“The Manchester United aspect is now an easier stick to beat me with.”But when I came back to Anfield for the first time as a Newcastle player, there were a few hundred, possibly a thousand supporters, booing me.”I can’t forget how I, my parents, and my former Liverpool team-mates felt.”Everyone who understood and appreciated the reality of the situation was disappointed on my behalf.”Owen never had any ambitions of leaving Liverpool, let alone playing abroad, when he was at the peak of his powers.But he would have kicked himself had he not taken the opportunity to play for the European giants.The 2001 Ballon d’Or winner admitted: “I never had big ambitions to play abroad. “Really, but I fit the bill as the type of player they pursued.”If you are scoring goals, are a creative midfielder, or an amazing, unique type of right-back like Trent, you are seen as a marquee signing.“They wanted me with [Luís] Figo, [Zinedine] Zidane, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I looked at that and thought it would have been harder not to score.”I thought long and hard about leaving Liverpool, but in the end something inside told me I would regret it if I didn’t give it a go.”Michael Owen doesn’t ‘love going to Anfield’ any moreCredit: GETTY More

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      Ruben Amorim singles out key Man Utd star who was ‘dead’ as he explains changes in 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt

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      RUBEN AMORIM singled out Rasmus Hojlund for praise after his match-winning performance against Bodo/Glimt but revealed the ace was “dead” at full-time.Manchester United emerged as victors from the 3-2 thriller at Old Trafford, with Hojlund scoring twice and proving pivotal to Alejandro Garnacho’s opener.Rasmus Hojlund was ‘dead’ after his match-winning display against Bodo/GlimtCredit: GettyRuben Amorim has said he needs to build the fitness of his playersCredit: RexHojlund, 21, played the full length of the Europa League clash, which is only the second time this season he has completed a match.However, speaking to TNT Sports, Amorim admitted: “We had more chances [than against Ipswich] and were more dangerous. “But we will have to change players.”I felt that Rasmus was dead. Some [players] were really, really tired.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We made four substitutions because of the fitness of the players, not because of what was best for the game. “We are in that moment. We need the squad all together and fit.”Amorim was full of praise for the “quality” forward, but had some pointers on where he will need to improve going forward.On the ex-Atalanta star, he said: “He has to improve more. He takes too many touches when he holds the ball.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”He connected in transitions very well. He was aggressive in the box for the goals. He is a quality player.”Amorim, 39, confessed to being taken aback by the support he had received from supporters during his first home game in charge of the Red Devils.Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt: Player RatingsThe ex-Sporting Lisbon boss said: “The first thing is that half of the stadium doesn’t really know me.”I came from Portugal and I have done nothing for this club yet, so the way they make me feel at home is so special.”It’s not after something, it’s before something.”This is something special and I will keep this to the end of my career.”Amorim went bold with his tactics against the Norwegian side, even playing without any recognised centre-backs in the latter stages.He will be hoping to land his first Premier League win next when his team host Everton on Sunday.Man Utd ratings vs Bodo/Glimt More

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      Man Utd ‘send scouts to watch £50million-rated Egypt star’ who Mo Salah ‘recommended Liverpool should sign’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are interested in signing Eintracht Frankfurt star Omar Marmoush, according to reports.The Egyptian, 25, has been in excellent form for the Bundesliga side this term.Omar Marmoush has impressed for Eintracht FrankfurtCredit: RexMarmoush has already attracted interest from Liverpool, with his international team-mate Mo Salah reportedly having recommended him to Anfield chiefs.According to Sky Sports Germany, however, Man Utd could swoop in ahead of the Reds.They claim that United chiefs have been keeping an eye on Marmoush, and that they could even make a move in January.New boss Ruben Amorim is not expected to have as much money to spend on reinforcements as predecessor Erik ten Hag.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut January recruits are possible, with Viktor Gyokeres a potential target.With Sporting set to demand £83million for the Swede, United could turn towards £50m-rated Marmoush as a cheaper alternative.The forward signed for Eintracht from Wolfsburg in 2023.Having scored 12 Bundesliga goals during his first campaign in Frankfurt, Marmoush has already nearly matched that tally this term.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe has netted 11 goals in as many games, also adding a further three in the Europa League.While Salah is claimed to have recommended his pal to Anfield bosses, Marmoush could even replace him at Liverpool.Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt: Player RatingsThe winger’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and last weekend he claimed that he’s “more out than in” as he waits to be offered a new deal.Marmoush is able to play across the front line, a versatility that could appeal to both United and Liverpool.In addition to a forward, Amorim is also believed to covet a wing-back in January.The Red Devils have been linked with Wolves ace Rayan Ait-Nouri.Man Utd ratings vs Bodo/Glimt More

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      Man Utd fans praise forgotten star’s ‘redemption arc’ after performance vs Bodo/Glimt and interaction with Ruben Amorim

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      MASON MOUNT was showered with praise from Manchester United fans following his display against Bodo/Glimt.The £55million signing made only his fourth start of the season in United’s 3-2 Europa League win over the Norwegian minnows on Thursday night.Manchester United picked up their first win under Ruben Amorim against Bodo/GlimtCredit: REXMason Mount showed glimpses of his old self in the 3-2 win at Old TraffordCredit: EPAUnited fans are excited by the prospect of Mount rediscovering his form of oldCredit: GETTYMount pulled off a neat flick in the build-up to Rasmus Hojlund’s second goalCredit: TNT SPORTSMount looked like a shell of the player he was at Chelsea last season but showed signs of a potential resurgence in Ruben Amorim’s first win in charge of the Red Devils.He produced a beautiful flick to Manuel Ugarte in the build-up to Rasmus Hojlund’s second goal of the matchAnd the Old Trafford faithful believe Amorim may be the man to get the best out of the England international.One wrote on X: “Mount standing ovation, what a performance.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnother said: “Is this the Mason Mount redemption arc? He’s played well.”And another said: “If that was Mason Mount’s first proper minutes under Amorim, can’t wait to see what’s to come.”One remarked: “IF we can keep Mount fit he’ll be one of Amorim’s key players, he’s one of the only ones who knows the 3-4-2-1 system inside out & he should thrive under him.”Another chimed in: “Solid performance, Mason Mount.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne over-the-moon United supporter said: “Mason Mount, I bloody love you.”Mount was substituted just before the hour mark and received a warm embrace from his new manager, who chest-bumped him before he sat on the bench.Ruben Amorim bizarrely SLAPS Man Utd stars in training as fans joke ‘I hope Luke Shaw doesn’t get injured’The Manchester Evening News pointed out: “A bullish chest bump and pat from Amorim for Mount.”Given his work-rate off the ball, easy to see why Amorim has a lot of time for him.”Another said: “Love to see that kind of respect and connection between coach and player!”A first-half strike from Alejandro Garnacho and second-half goals from Hojlund secured Amorim his first win as Red Devils boss.The Portuguese gaffer said of the game: “Like a real ride, we started very well then we suffered two goals in two transitions.United fans believe Ruben Amorim could get the best out of Mason MountCredit: PA“I liked the way the players continued to play our game.”I could feel the crowd when it was 2-1, sometimes we won the ball and we had problems in the past where we give the ball [away] too much.”So the mindset now is to keep the ball and sometimes they have to go forward, they are really trying but i think we deserved the win.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Of course, I see what everybody sees, good moments, difficult moments, some confusion in the end trying to hold the result.”But the lads did a great job, they ran, they pressed, they tried to do the things we worked on these three days and we won.” More

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      ‘I’ll keep this with me for the rest of my career’ – Ruben Amorim stunned by Man Utd fans’ ‘special’ gesture

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      RUBEN AMORIM revealed he’ll cherish a “special” gesture from Manchester United fans for the rest of his life.The Portuguese oversaw his first win as Red Devils boss on Thursday night as his troops ran out 3-2 winners over Bodo/Glimt in their Europa League clash at Old Trafford.Manchester United ran out 3-2 winners of Bodo/Glimt to secure Ruben Amorim’s first winCredit: GETTYThe Portuguese gaffer received an incredible reception from the Old Trafford faithfulCredit: GETTYAmorim was blown away by the reception he receivedCredit: GETTYHe received a raucous reception from the Theatre of Dreams faithful before and after the final whistle, something he’ll remember for the rest of his days.The 39-year-old – who admitted he is a “bit of a dreamer” himself when previously asked about his Man Utd prospects – told TNT Sports: “The first thing is that half of the stadium doesn’t really know me.”I came from Portugal and I have done nothing for this club yet, so the way they make me feel at home is so special.”It’s not after something, it’s before something. READ MORE ON AMORIM”This is something special and I will keep this to the end of my career.”Alejandro Garnacho lit the blue touch paper in the first minute before goals from Hakon Evjen and Philip Zinckernagel gave the visitors an unlikely lead.But a brace from Rasmus Hojlund either side of half time turned things around and saw Amorim pick up his first win since replacing Erik ten Hag in the Old Trafford dugout.Amorim said of the game: “Like a real ride, we started very well then we suffered two goals in two transitions.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMan Utd ratings vs Bodo/Glimt“I liked the way the players continued to play our game.”I could feel the crowd when it was 2-1, sometimes we won the ball and we had problems in the past where we give the ball [away] too much.Ruben Amorim bizarrely SLAPS Man Utd stars in training as fans joke ‘I hope Luke Shaw doesn’t get injured'”So the mindset now is to keep the ball and sometimes they have to go forward, they are really trying but i think we deserved the win.”Of course, I see what everybody sees, good moments, difficult moments, some confusion in the end trying to hold the result.”But the lads did a great job, they ran, they pressed, they tried to do the things we worked on these three days and we won.”Manchester United will be back in action on Sunday afternoon, welcoming Everton to Old Trafford. More

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

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

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

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

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

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      RUBEN AMORIM is already working on bolstering his Manchester United defence.The new United boss wants Benfica’s rising star Tomas Araujo, 22, and could push for a £50million deal for the central defender when the transfer window opens in January.Man Utd are lining up a £50m January swoop for Benfica defender Tomas AraujoCredit: RexRuben Amorim managed Benfica’s rivals Sporting Lisbon before joining UnitedCredit: PAAmorim has a meeting with Old Trafford decision makers on Friday and will discuss a move for Araujo.Araujo has been a pillar of the Portuguese giant’s team this season, partnering with former Manchester City stopper Nicolas Otamendi in the backline.The Red Devils have been dealing with substantial injury issues at the back this season, and Amorim has instantly set his sights on his compatriot, who won his first international cap only last week.A product of the Benfica academy, Araujo was targeted by Crystal Palace and Paris Saint-Germain last summer. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLStill, Benfica’s bosses rejected the moves, although some of Europe’s top clubs are closely monitoring the situation.He’s started eight games in the Portuguese league this season, with one assist, helping Bruno Lage’s team bounce back after Roger Schmidt’s firing in October.Benfica have only lost one game since Araujo began getting a regular run of games – he has also started in the last four games in the Champions League.SunSport understands that new Old Trafford chief Amorim has placed Araujo on his wanted list as he begins his United rebuilding job.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAraujo has all the attributes Amorim is after — he is 6 ft 2, a good passer of the ball, and physically strong, with plenty of room for improvement.He can play centrally or on the right side of the defence and is considered the best prospect to come out of Portugal’s most productive academy since current Manchester City star Ruben Dias.Ruben Amorim takes brutal swipe at Ed Sheeran as Man Utd boss admits Sky Sports pundit ‘is the real star’ Super agent Jorge Mendes is looking to establish a working relationship with AmorimCredit: ReutersThe Portuguese rising star has a release clause of 100million euros, as Benfica consider him one of their most significant assets.SunSport understands super agent Jorge Mendes, who has guided Cristiano Ronaldo’s and Jose Mourinho’s careers, is trying to establish a close working relationship with Amorim.The Old Trafford boss, however, is doing things his way.A source close to Amorim told SunSport: “Ruben wants everyone to be on the same page. He won’t change the way he works.”Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More