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      Man Utd ratings: Alejandro Garnacho scores at Wembley again in stunning cameo but Mason Mount fails to make an impact

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      MANCHESTER UNITED weren’t able to hold onto their lead in the Community Shield as they lost 7-6 on penalties to Manchester City.Alejandro Garnacho – who put United up in the FA Cup final – did so again with 10 minutes of normal time remaining, before Bernardo Silva’s 89th minute header brought a penalty shootout.Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring for United with 10 minutes of normal time remainingCredit: GettyMason Mount struggled to make an impact on the gameCredit: GettyManuel Akanji converted the winning penalty as Man City beat United at WembleyCredit: GettyPep Guardiola’s side started off the better team and were unlucky not to go ahead, with Oscar Bobb curling over and James McAtee striking against the post.Bruno Fernandes scored the best disallowed goal in recent memory in the 53rd minute, after smashing a 20 yard shot top bins before the linesman waved his flag for offside. Marcus Rashford missed two sitters after the ball clashed with his shin and bounced off the post, before Scott McTominay kicked air from five yards out.But Garnacho put United 1-0 up with a fantastic finish past Ederson in the 80th minute.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSilva – who had only been on the pitch six minutes, but later missed a penalty in the shootout – brought things level nine minutes later with a header from a brilliant Bobb assist.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated every Man Utd performance…Manchester City lifted the Community Shield for the first time since 2019Credit: GettyANDRE ONANA – 6A steady performance from the Man Utd stopper.But he couldn’t get near any of Man City’s penalties after Silva missed the first kick.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDrew criticism from fans for his antics in the shootout, after pointing to the side Erling Haaland should shoot, before diving the other way.Andre Onana was up to his usual antics in the shootoutCredit: GettyDIOGO DALOT – 7Defended really well against a dangerous Jeremy Doku for large parts of the game, but failed to make a real impact on the attacking side of the game where we know he can be a threat. Harsh result for Man Utd but Marcus Rashford misses a concernMoved to left back in the second half, where the cross came from for Man City’s equaliser, but it was more Bobb’s brilliance than Dalot’s negligence. HARRY MAGUIRE – 6A solid first game back for Man Utd’s number five. Dealt with the physicality of Haaland well and refused to be overpowered at the back – passed out well when required and made some crucial blocks too. JONNY EVANS – 6Led by example at the back, and did a solid job for his team. Struggled to cope with the pace of the City attack at times, but ultimately limited Haaland to another goalless display at Wembley. Was left embarrassed later after shockingly blazing his penalty over the bar, to put City in prime position.LISANDRO MARTINEZDidn’t offer anything going forwards, and Man Utd missed Luke Shaw’s threat on the left-hand side. Bobb gave him a run for his money, and his mistake could have had United 1-0 down at half-time but for the woodwork. CASEMIRO – 6Was solid in midfield and almost got himself a great assist with a neat pass to Marcus Rashford in the first half, but was let down by the finish. Didn’t control the game in the way we have seen him do in his golden years, but put in a decent display nonetheless. Scored his penalty in the shootout.Casemiro was delighted with Garnacho before Man City equalisedCredit: ReutersKOBBIE MAINOO – 7Looked composed as ever on the ball and was United’s best operator in midfield on the day, as we have got used to him being.Man Utd look a better team with him in the side. AMAD DIALLO – 6Looked the most dangerous of United’s attackers in the first half, but was let down by poor finishing and decision making at the vital moments. MASON MOUNT – 4Failed to really do anything of note. Showed good energy and pressing, but his passes were often over or undercooked and it was more of what we have seen from him since leaving Chelsea. MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Had a big chance to open the scoring in both halves leaving fans frustrated, on another day he would have had a brace. Did pose a threat on the left hand side, but really missed his shooting boots – Garnacho may have been better placed in his position from the off. It was another disappointing afternoon for RashfordCredit: AFPBRUNO FERNANDES – 8His disallowed goal would have been the perfect curtain raiser, but it wasn’t to be. Still, he did a fantastic job in the false nine role for his club, and put in a captain’s performance playing out-of-position.He was central to everything good done by his side, and was rewarded with an assist in the second half. Subs: GARNACHO (DIALLO, 59 – 8Was Man Utd’s best player since he came on for Amad Diallo, and re-created his FA Cup final moment with a great finish at the near post. He really is excitement personified, what a player. Garnacho shined again in United defeat to their city rivalsCredit: PASCOTT MCTOMINAY  (MOUNT, 59) – 5Made a few good runs but didn’t make a massive impact as a target man in the box. SANCHO (RASHFORD, 83) – 5Didn’t inject the same level of energy as Garnacho on the opposing side, but didn’t have much time to impact the game. Was unlucky to miss his penalty.Jadon Sancho missed another penalty at WembleyCredit: GettyFACUNDO PELLISTRI  (MAGUIRE, 59) – 5Was caused trouble by Man City new boy Savinho, but ultimately limited him to a few good touches and nothing more than that, solid shift from a winger at full-back.  READ MORE SUN STORIESTOBY COLLYER (MAINOO, 59) – 6A pretty good debut performance from the young lad who has been touted for big things. Neat passing combinations, a good first touch and made things difficult for Rico Lewis. You’ve got to love those low socks too.  More

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      Man Utd AGREE De Ligt transfer with Bayern Munich AND have Noussair Mazraoui bid accepted – but it rests on star leaving

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have agreed a deal to sign Matthijs de Ligt – and have moved a step closer to bringing in Noussair Mazraoui. United have looked to bolster their defence this summer after Raphael Varane’s exit and Harry Maguire’s future looking in doubt. Matthijs de Ligt is close to joining Man UtdCredit: GettyThey have also abid for Noussair MazraouiCredit: RexThey signed Leny Yoro for £52million from Lille but the 18-year-old faces three months out after picking up a pre-season foot injury. De Ligt has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester and now they have moved a step closer to striking a deal. Because the Red Devils have agreed an initial £38.5million with Bayern Munich for De Ligt – with a further £4.2m in add ons.De Ligt is now set for a medical before signing a five-year deal that includes the option to extend by an additional 12 months.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe centre-back won the Dutch title with Ajax before making a move to Juventus in 2019 where he also lifted the Serie A. After 117 appearances in Italy, De Ligt moved to Bayern in 2022 and also has a Bundesliga winners medal to his name. But the German giants are ready to offload De Ligt and full-back Mazraoui.Bayern also accepted a separate £16.8m proposal from United for Noussair Mazraoui in a piece of double business worth nearly £60m. Most read in FootballWhy De Ligt is the perfect Man Utd signing By Lee Scott One of Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag’s biggest headaches has been fixing their leaky defence.Despite still not being anywhere near his peak years De Ligt has built considerable experience so far in his career with Ajax, Juventus and Bayern Munich and he has 45 caps at senior level for the Dutch national team.While he is not necessarily a highly modern ball playing type of defensive player he is a player with the defensive strengths and instincts to help shore up a United defence that was, at best, leaky last season.He has a great ability to read the game which was one of the biggest issues that we saw from the United defensive unit last season.De Ligt is also a master in one-on-one situations, who shows strength and intensity in his duels.The Dutch star does a good job in keeping things simple and tends to make good decisions in possession.The pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt makes perfect sense for United and for Ten Hag as a young defender who is still to reach his peak.He has considerable experience at a high level and he understands the game model and system of play of the manager.Click here to read our full analysis on De Ligt joining Manchester United.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA deal for the Moroccan – which will see them pay around £12.8m up front – has been in place for some weeks.But it depends on Aaron Wan-Bissaka agreeing an exit after United accepted West Ham’s £15m offer. Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to replace Old Trafford with a ‘Wembley of the North’Wan-Bissaka needs to finalise his termination at United but a medical with the Hammers is set for Sunday or Monday. The Londoner made 22 appearances last season for United but has fallen out of favour with boss Erik ten Hag.And as revealed by SunSport, he wants a multi-million pound pay-off from United to leave this summer. The 26-year-old has less than 12 months left on his contract at Old Trafford.And he could bank a huge signing-on fee by staying put and leaving on a free transfer next summer.Wan-Bissaka’s representatives are pushing for United to give the player a chunk of the £18m fee they will receive from West Ham in order to get the deal done this summer.The former Crystal Palace defender has been on the same £90,000-a-week contract at United since he joined the club five years ago.United’s double swoop of Bayern will take summer spending to around the £150million mark – with Joshua Zirkzee and Yoro already in place.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd it suggests they have given up on their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite – who is valued at around £70m.De Ligt and Mazraoui were both named on Bayern’s bench for a pre-season friendly at Tottenham despite closing in on exits. More

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      Rasmus Hojlund hailed for opening up on acne issue as Man Utd striker shows before and after pics after laser treatment

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      MANCHESTER UNITED ace Rasmus Hojlund has bravely shown off his stunning transformation after undergoing acne treatment.Hojlund, 21, has been sidelined until September after suffering a hamstring injury during a pre-season friendly against Premier League rivals Arsenal last month.Manchester United ace Rasmus Hojlund underwent an incredible transformationCredit: RexHojlund had been dealing with an acne problem ever since his arrival at Man UtdCredit: Instagram @drroshofficialHojlund underwent treatment following an injury in pre-seasonCredit: Instagram @drroshofficialAnd the striker decided to make the most of his free time by treating a long-suffering acne problem.The Denmark international got help from a cosmetic expert who gave him laser treatment and completely transformed him.Dr Rosh shared before-and-after pictures of Hojlund in a video showing the entire procedure with fans hailing the footballer for sharing the issue.One United supporter tweeted: “Fair play to him for being open about it.”Read More on Man UtdAnother commented: “Good on him, he’s like 21 or something it’s very normal but he wants that poster boy clear skin fair play.”A third wrote: “Acne is a b***h, good for him for getting his treatment.”This fan said: “The results speak for themselves.”And that one gushed: “Unreal results.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDr Rosh gave a detailed account of Hojlund’s procedure, which started in January.He explained on Instagram: “We crafted a personalised treatment plan to address his acne and scarring…Sun Sport’s Neil Custis finds two reasons for Man Utd fans to be cheerful after Hojlund injured in Arsenal loss”…The results speak for themselves! “I am sure you will agree the skin transformation from January to now is truly remarkable.”Even Hojlund was left ecstatic as he commented under the video with a “raising hands” emoji.The treatment would normally cost around £1,400.Hojlund joined Manchester United from Atalanta last summer and scored 16 goals in his debut campaign. More

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      Man Utd should sign Dutch star Matthijs de Ligt for these three reasons to shore up their leaky defence

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      ONE of Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag’s biggest headaches has been fixing their leaky defence.Argentine World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez missed most of the season with injury, which left the team bereft of dominant players.Matthijs de Ligt could be heading to Old TraffordCredit: GettyRaphael Varane, for all of his experience, never really rose to the challenge of the Premier League, Harry Maguire fell out of favour and Jonny Evans is very much in the twilight of his career. Young French defender Willy Kambwala was given his opportunities but he has since moved to Villarreal this summer. No surprise then that United moved quickly to secure one of the most promising young central defenders in football with the signing of Lenny Yoro for £62mfrom Lille. Unfortunately Yoro has already picked up an injury in preseason read more on footballHe has been ruled out for three months after undergoing surgery on his left foot. Signing one player, even one with the potential of Yoro, will not be enough for United in this window, however, and they have been highly linked with the 24-year-old Dutch international Matthijs de Ligt. Despite still not being anywhere near his peak years De Ligt has built considerable experience so far in his career with Ajax, Juventus and Bayern Munich and he has 45 caps at senior level for the Dutch national team. While he is not necessarily a highly modern ball playing type of defensive player he is a player with the defensive strengths and instincts to help shore up a United defence that was, at best, leaky last season.Most read in FootballIn this article we will break down some of the key aspects of De Ligt’s game.Reading of the gameOne of the biggest issues that we saw from the United defensive unit last season was that they were constantly having to react to threats. They struggled to be proactive and aggressive defensively and their reading of the game, of lack of it, meant that they were constantly trying to recover their position and defend at the last minute. SunSport’s Latest Transfer HeadlinesThis form of defending terms to be last ditch and not organised and as a result it will increase the chance that you concede a goal.De Ligt is a defender with very good defensive instincts. He isn’t a player that will dribble out from the back line or routinely play ‘flashy’ diagonal passes to switch the play but defensively he will read the threat and react in terms of his positioning before the opposition can take advantage of any spaces in the defensive line. In this sense he is something of a throwback as a young central defender with the capacity to defend proactively and solidly.De Ligt is the last defender as his partner has jumped higher to press for the ball. But he remains composed and reads the threat and extinguishes the dangerDe Ligt is comfortable being a defenderThe fact that De Ligt moved from Ajax to Juventus, for £85m in 2019, allowed him to further learn and develop the defensive side of his game. He developed his ability to play effectively as a defender in a set defensive block either deep or medium and he became stronger in direct defensive duels in 1v1 situations.Having a defender that is comfortable and capable of either defending in space when he is isolated or as part of a set defensive block. This kind of flexibility and ability to quickly adapt to different situations defensively is something that was sorely missing from the defensive unit that United had last season without Martinez, who has a similar profile and skill set to De Ligt.Bayern keeper Sommer loses the ball in possession but as the ball breaks to the striker it is de Ligt who reacts quickest to block the shotThe signing of a player like De Ligt would improve the defensive unit at United without a doubt.1v1 DefendingWhile De Ligt is a player with good defensive instincts he is also a defender who shows strength and intensity in his duels. This is, in part, due to his ability to read the game and understand where the threat is likely to come from.But from a technical perspective his defending is very good and he plays with a real sense of strength and intensity against the ball.De Ligt is especially strong when it comes to using his size, strength and frame, to challenge in direct 1v1 duels as the opposition player is about to receive the ball. He is very difficult to play against when a player is trying to receive the ball back to goal, he will use his strength to prevent the receiving player from being able to play on the turn.De Ligt is strong in the air, here winning a heading duel at the near post using his height and strengthHe is strong in the tackle and he will challenge for and win aerial duels to prevent the opposition from being able to attack and create chances. As a defender his positioning in deeper defensive positions also sees him effectively cover the penalty area and he defends the near post very well when the opposition are attacking down his side of the pitch.This is another area in which United struggled last season. Having a defender who not only thrives but enjoys the defensive side of the game would be a big upgrade for themDe Ligt defends centrally despite having no defensive cover around him. As the ball is played into the feet of the striker the Dutch defender is quick to react and challenge to deal with the threat.The signing of De Ligt, whether paired with Yoro or Martinez, would bring strength and consistency to the defensive unit for United.Keeping things simpleAs a central defender in the modern game there is a tendency to focus on ball playing ability. The likes of John Stones, who steps into the midfield is seen as a profile and role that will bring a lot to your team. The Dutch star tends to keep it simple with his passingIn truth, however, the best sides at the moment in the Premier League have defenders who are comfortable defending and keeping things relatively simply. Think the likes of William Saliba, at Arsenal, Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk, at Liverpool or even Ruben Dias at Manchester City. De Ligt is a defender that has more in common with these players that he does with the likes of Stones.This is not to say, however, that De Ligt is not a good player in possession of the ball. He is comfortable with the ball at his feet, as we might expect from a player that developed and came through at Ajax, but he is a defender who is better when receiving the ball and keeping the game simple. He tends to make good decisions in possession.Instead of trying to force the ball into the centre or play a more high risk long pass to the left-hand side we see De Ligt play the correct and safe pass to the near side.De Ligt is a good passer of the ball but he will not typically try to force the issue and instead he will keep the game simple.He tends to move the ball safely to players who bring more in terms of creativity with their passing. The same is true when it comes to carrying the ball. De Ligt is comfortable enough when stepping forward in possession but he will not make long runs carrying the ball through traffic into the midfield. Again, his decision-making is key.De Ligt receives the pass with the opposition in a compact block. He passes at tempo to shift the angle of the attack and allow his teammates to step into the game.We also have to acknowledge the fact that De Ligt has played for the United coach Eric ten Hag before, at Ajax, and as such Ten Hag will know that his fellow countryman is more than capable of playing and building the attack in the way that the coaching staff wantREAD MORE SUN STORIESConclusionThe pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt makes perfect sense for United and for Ten Hag as a young defender who is still to reach his peak. He has considerable experience at a high level and he understands the game model and system of play of the manager. More

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      Premier League legend immortalised in ‘shambolic’ waxwork sculpture leaving fans lost for words

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      A PREMIER LEAGUE legend was immortalised in “shambolic” waxwork – leaving fans lost for words. Several sports stars have been sculptured over the years for the likes of Madame Tussauds.This waxwork of a Prem legend left fans horrifiedCredit: Reddit u/No-Philosopher5239Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham are among those with celebrated wax figures. But sometimes, they do not always go to plan. Ronaldo infamously had a disastrous statue unveiled during his time with Real Madrid. But perhaps this waxwork of Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney in Gdansk tops the lot. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe model Rooney – wearing a red and black Adidas tracksuit – bares little resemblance to the former England captain. Fans were left in bemusement as one said: “This isn’t just bad. Bad is too good of a word to explain this. “Tragic is getting closer to the mark. Horrific might be better yet. But I think I’m going to go with shambolic. “Yes, shambolic is a good word for this.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “I love bad waxworks.”One joked: “That is sensational.”Rooney, 38, won the Champions League and five Prem titles with United and retired from playing in 2021. He has since moved into management and has taken charge of Championship Plymouth Argyle ahead of the new season. Wayne Rooney reveals gruelling weight loss technique he would do after turning up at Man Utd pre-season 7lbs too heavy More

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      Man Utd transfer target De Ligt being investigated by police for ‘hit-and-run’ and could face prison if found guilty

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      BAYERN MUNICH star Matthijs de Ligt is reportedly being investigated for a “hit-and-run”.That’s according to German outlet Bild, who claim that the police are looking into an incident that occurred on Wednesday morning.Matthijs de Ligt is reportedly being investigated for a ‘hit-and-run’Credit: GettyIt was said to have taken place near to Bayern Munich’s Sabener Strasse training ground.Reportedly, De Ligt “rammed a parked car” before he “simply drove away” from the scene.It is claimed that De Ligt, 24, was recognised by witnesses, who subsequently called the police.The Dutch international’s £63,000 Audi Q8 e-tron was reportedly then towed away from the scene and impounded.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDe Ligt could now face prison if he is found guilty of the hit-and-run.A specialist lawyer from Munich told Bild that: “If convicted you could face up to three years in prison or a fine.”Fines are often imposed when people are convicted of such crimes.”De Ligt has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer as the Red Devils look to bolster their defence.Most read in FootballUnited have already splashed £52million on 18-year-old centre-back Leny Yoro, but have since lost the teenager to a pre-season injury.De Ligt has fallen out of favour at Bayern, where he only made 16 league starts for the Bavarians last term.SunSport’s Latest Transfer HeadlinesUnited aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket, however.Erik ten Hag’s side are also still keen on signing Everton and England centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, after having a bid for the 21-year-old rebuffed earlier in the window. SunSport understands that Man Utd a plotting a fresh bid for Branthwaite in the wake of Yoro’s injury.United already have an injury crisis at the centre of defence going into the new season, with only two fit senior centre-backs available for their Community Shield clash with Man City tomorrow.Ten Hag will be without Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Yoro for the curtain raiser at Wembley.The Dutchman could be forced to rely on Lisandro Martinez and Jonny Evans to face fierce rivals City. More

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      Fans say ‘pray for Man Utd and Chelsea’ as West Ham agree deal for Todibo in latest incredible summer transfer

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      WEST HAM are set to sign Jean-Clair Todibo – after Manchester United were BLOCKED from signing the Nice star. Todibo was linked with a move to United earlier in the window but it was ruled out by Uefa due to Ineos’ control over both teams.West Ham are set to sign Jean-Clair TodiboCredit: AFPSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos are the majority owners of the French club, but have now also taken control of United’s football operation.Uefa had to run the rule on the clubs after both qualified for the Europa League, with fears over a potential breach of multi-club rules.So United looked elsewhere in the market and signed Leny Yoro from Lille for £52million. Meanwhile, West Ham and Juventus battled it out for Todibo. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd according to The Athletic, the Hammers won the race after agreeing a season-long loan with the option to buy. Personal terms have also been struck with a medical now set. Todibo emerged as a prime target for West Ham with the futures of Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma uncertain.Zouma is now close to completing a move to Shabab Al-Ahli.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTodibo first joined Nice on loan from Barcelona in January 2021 and made the move permanent later that year. He has since made 119 appearances, scoring one goal while emerging as a top defensive talent in Europe.Todibo will be West Ham’s sixth signing of the summer. Niclas Fullkrug, Max Kilman, Crysencio Summerville and Luis Guilherme have all come in for big money – leaving fans in awe. One said: “West Ham are moving mad, pray for Chelsea and Manchester United.”Another added: “West Ham are having a ridiculously good summer.”Jean-Clair Todibo shows his talents at Nice More

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      Ex-Man Utd star and Premier League winner’s boxing debut REVEALED as he joins KSI Misfits card

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      PREMIER LEAGUE winner Danny Simpson is set for his boxing debut after joining KSI’s Misfits league. As first revealed by SunSport, the former Manchester United and Leicester star has been in talks for his first bout. Alan Smith, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Danny Simpson and Jonny Evans in 2007Credit: GettySimpson won the Premier League with LeicesterCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe has since retired from footballCredit: Richard WalkerAnd it has now been announced that he will take on YouTuber Danny Aarons on August 31 in Dublin. Aarons was due to fight TikToker Brandon “Beavo” Beavis – known for filming himself swallowing food whole. But Beavis pulled out with an injury allowing Simpson to step in as replacement. YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI and music mogul Mams Taylor co-founded the Misfits platform as a home to celeb-style crossover bouts.READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd promoter Taylor talked up the possibility of welcoming footballers into the Misfits scene.Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney admitted he was even in talks to do so – before turning it down to focus on management.But his former United team-mate Simpson becomes the first to take the step into the ring. The event was due to be headlined by KSI – until hand injury also forced him to withdraw. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSInstead, KSI will perform to the sold-out 3Arena crowd with a new main-event to be announced. Simpson, 37, recently confirmed his retirement from football to now focus on his first fight. Jake Paul reveals stunning three-fight plan including Tommy Fury rematch before shock cruiserweight WORLD TITLE shotAs of last year, he was training with non-league Macclesfield while also returning to United to work on his coaching badges.He is a regular on MUTV having come through their academy before spending four years there as a professional between 2006–2010.In that period under the great Sir Alex Ferguson, the full-back only made eight appearances and spent time out on loan.But Simpson was part of the famous Leicester side that beat 5,000-1 odds to win the Premier League title in 2016.The defender was playing for Bristol City until his contract was ripped up by mutual consent in March 2022.Misfits have had stars from the social media, MMA and boxing world compete on their showsAnd Simpson will not be the first to trade the pitch for the ring.Curtis Woodhouse played in the Prem but switched to boxing in 2006 despite having no amateur background.He had 31 pro bouts – even winning the English and British light-welterweight titles – while playing football part-time.Footballers-turned-boxers Woodhouse’s last fight was in 2017 beating renowned and celebrated journeyman Lewis van Poetsch.Leon McKenzie was another to have played in the English top-flight for the likes of Crystal Palace and Norwich.McKenzie is the son of British and European title holder Clinton and nephew of three-time world champ Duke.So after his playing days stopped in 2013, he also moved into boxing making his super-middleweight debut that year.McKenzie amassed a record of eight wins, two losses and one draw before hanging up the gloves in 2017 aged 39.Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing currently have former Accrington Stanley midfielder Paddy Lacey signed.Lacey still plays for Welsh top-tier side Flint Town United but is 10-0 as a middleweight boxer.Despite the successful switches – it does not work out for everyone.Rio Ferdinand infamously tried to turn pro aged 39 but was denied a British Boxing Board of Control licence in 2018.Ferdinand’s former team-mates Wes Brown and Simpson both train at the same Punchline Boxing Gym in Macclesfield.READ MORE SUN STORIESSimpson has been in boxing training as far back as 2020 with his eyes on a debut bout. More