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    ‘That’s a matter of time’ – Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney still lined up for stunning boxing fight after shock talks

    WAYNE ROONEY is still being tipped for a sensational debut fight in boxing – and it is only “a matter of time” before he enters the ring.The Manchester United legend – who boxed growing up on Merseyside – was linked with a shock boxing switch this year. Wayne Rooney is still lined up for a sensational boxing switchCredit: FACEBOOK.COM/WAYNEROONEYRooney’s infamous boxing celebrationCredit: Mark Robinson – The SunRooney is now in charge at PlymouthCredit: GettyHe held talks with Misfits Boxing, the home of celebrity-style crossover bouts headed up by KSI and his manager Mams Taylor. Rooney admitted the talks were ongoing but instead decided to focus on football management – soon after taking the Plymouth job. But music mogul and Misfits head honcho Taylor believes Rooney stepping into the ring is a case of “when” not “if”.He told SunSport: “We know that there’s been conversations with Wayne Rooney. READ MORE IN BOXING”He’s expressed interest. I think that’s a matter of time and it’s on his timeline, not on mine.”When he’s ready to do it, then then we’ll get there. There’s also been a couple of others who I’d really like.”Rooney was once knocked out in a famous drunken sparring session by Phil Bardsley. And their ex-United team-mate Danny Simpson became the first footballer to cross over to the Misfits ring. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSimpson – who won the Premier League title with Leicester in 2016 – drew over four rounds with YouTuber Danny Simpson. And now the retired defender has inspired others to lace up the gloves with Taylor expecting more Prem players to fight. Joey Essex postpones boxing debut as fight with KSI’s brother collapses but TV ‘villain’ still in talks with Misfits He said: “I’m not going to give you any names because I’ll ruin the surprise. “But definitely there’s some really big names and some very credible footballers, ex-footballers who have expressed interest.”So I think that’s gonna unfold in its own time.”Not only are footballers speaking with Taylor to make the move to boxing but several other famous sports stars. He said: “I’m not too pushy. I know how it goes with first-timers boxing. If you push too much, you scare them away, you know? “So you want to make sure that they’re mentally in the right place and actually take that chance of getting in the ring.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And if you haven’t been brought up as a fighter, it’s a very different experience and everyone who does it, though, after they do it like Danny Simpson says, ‘That was the best experience I’ve ever had in my life.'”There’s nothing like it. So I expect more athletes from across the board for next year.”Danny Simpson crossed over from football to boxing to fight YouTuber Danny AaronsCredit: Sportsfile More

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    Man Utd 2 Brentford 1: Hojlund and Garnacho stage comeback to ease Ten Hag pressure after controversial Pinnock goal

    MANCHESTER UNITED turned fury over Brentford’s opener into a storming comeback win.Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund fired excellent goals after Ethan Pinnock headed the Bees in front amid first-half stoppage time.Rasmus Hojlund leads celebrations after his Man Utd comeback winnerCredit: ReutersHojlund lifted United’s second classy goal of the second periodCredit: GettyAlejandro Garnacho angled the Red Devils levelCredit: AFPPinnock struck after ref Samuel Barrott forced United defender Matthijs de Ligt off the pitch when defending a corner due to a bleeding head injury.But the Red Devils used their rage to good effect after the break.Garnacho soon slotted a brilliant equaliser.And Hojlund deftly clipped the home side in front midway through the second period.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat underlined the way United had transformed the contest after the break, with Garnacho influential.Ethan Pinnock nodded a controversial opener for BrentfordCredit: ReutersFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSErik ten Hag slams reports he’s set to be sacked as ‘fairytales’ but admits Man Utd ‘have a mountain to climb’ More

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    Man Utd touchline MELTDOWN as De Ligt boots ball and Van Nistelrooy screams at official after Brentford controversy

    MANCHESTER UNITED’s bench went into total meltdown after Brentford’s controversial first-half opener.The Bees opened the scoring in the fifth minute of stoppage time through Ethan Pinnock after a corner-kick that saw United defending while a man down at Old Trafford.Man Utd’s bench exploded after Brentford’s controversial openerCredit: XMatthijs de Ligt kicked a ball away in anger at Old TraffordMan Utd assistant boss Ruud van Nistelrooy lashed out at the fourth officialCredit: XThat is because a bloodied Matthijs de Ligt was ordered to leave the pitch by referee Samuel Barrott as his head was busted open after a collision earlier in the match.De Ligt, 25, had first gone off for medical attention due to a gash to his head on the brink of first-half stoppage time.It appeared the Red Devils tried to patch the centre-back up three times.But the Netherlands international still appeared to be bleeding when he returned four minutes later.Read More on Man UtdAnd the ex-Bayern Munich star was promptly told to leave the pitch for more treatment.That was when Brentford scored, leading to an explosive reaction on the United bench.An enraged De Ligt kicked a ball away as he vented his frustrations at the late goal.And United assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy lashed out at the fourth official presumably for allowing the set-piece to go ahead while one of his defenders was receiving treatment for a head injury.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUnited manager Erik ten Hag was also shown a yellow card for his protests.However, the hosts fought back just two minutes into the second half as they equalised with Alejandro Garnacho.Erik ten Hag slams reports he’s set to be sacked as ‘fairytales’ but admits Man Utd ‘have a mountain to climb’ And Rasmus Hojlund turned the game on it head on 62 minutes to restore confidence at the Theatre of Dreams.Man Utd ace De Ligt was ordered to leave the pitch after he was busted openCredit: EPAMan Utd conceded a late goal by Brentford while defending with 10 menMan Utd boss Erik ten Hag was booked for protestingCredit: Getty More

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    Man Utd star Rasmus Hojlund slammed as ‘rubbish’ and ‘poor’ by Ben Foster for injuring team-mate in training

    MANCHESTER UNITED ace Rasmus Hojlund was dubbed “rubbish” and “poor” by ex-England goalkeeper Ben Foster after breaking a team-mate’s tooth during training.The incident took place last summer before Euro 2024 when Hojlund, 21, linked up with Denmark to prepare for the tournament in Germany.Man Utd ace Rasmus Hojlund knocked a team-mate’s tooth out during trainingCredit: GettyLeicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen was injured by Hojlund during training with DenmarkCredit: RexEx-Man Utd keeper Ben Foster branded Hojlund ‘rubbish’ and ‘poor’ after the incidentCredit: AlamyThe Danish national team organised an “optional” set-piece training that would see them working on corner-kicks with Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, 24, between the sticks.A cross was whipped in from the corner and Hermansen was set to pick the ball up in the air.However, Hojlund got a little overzealous as he went for the ball with full force and accidentally elbowed the keeper in the mouth.That led to the Leicester ace losing a tooth just before the European Championship.Read More on Man UtdHermansen discussed the incident in Foster’s Fozcast podcast: “You know as a goalkeeper sometimes when you have set-piece practice. It’s like, ‘Are we going 100 per cent? Are we just a bit easy?'”So we were with the national team just before the Euros, it was optional training, you could come in and train if you want. “So let’s do some corners. I go: ‘Keepers!’ And he just comes in with everything, elbow straight to my tooth.”Foster, 41, was not at all impressed with Hojlund after hearing the story and didn’t hold back on his assessment as he insisted the striker should have “taken it easy” considering it was just a training session.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ex-United goalkeeper responded: “Cheers Rasmus, appreciate that. That’s rubbish that. I’m not having that, it’s poor.”When you’re doing it in a bit of practice set-piece thing, you’ve got to take it easy. You can’t go full blooded like that.”Rasmus Hojlund hailed for opening up on acne issue as Man Utd striker shows before and after pics after laser treatmentHowever, Hermansen defended Hojlund and insisted he is a real “professional”.The Danish shot stopper replied: “He is that kind of guy and I love that about him.”He’s giving everything, always. He’s just got an exceptional way of being a professional.” More

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    Zlatan Ibrahimovic teased for sensational boxing switch as ex-Man Utd star’s shock talks revealed

    ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC has been lined up for a sensational boxing switch after holding secret talks over FaceTime.The former Manchester United striker has a martial arts background with a black belt in taekwondo. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is being lined up for a shock boxing matchCredit: Instagram @iamzlatanibrahimovicIbrahimovic is still at AC Milan in an advisory roleCredit: GettyThese days, he is overseeing operations at ex-club AC Milan after hanging up his boots last year following a glittering 24-year career. His old United team-mate Wayne Rooney moved into management following retirement but was linked with a stunning boxing fight. Rooney even held talks with Misfits Boxing – home to celebrity-style crossover bouts – before deciding to take on the Plymouth job. And Misfits head honcho Mams Taylor revealed he has even tried to talk Ibrahimovic, 43, into lacing up the gloves and stepping into the ring. READ MORE IN BOXINGTaylor told SunSport: “I’ve tried to convince Zlatan and he can fight. I’m good friends with his manager and we had a FaceTime, the three of us.”It was really cool because he’s seen a lot of Misfits fights and he’s followed it. He was a kickboxer, he’d be a good one as well. “But yeah, there’s other names that aren’t quite as big as these guys that are but still very respected and have achieved a lot that are interested. “And because it’s so realistic that those guys are going to fight, I’m not gonna give you their names. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”But, I will say that Zlatan and Wayne Rooney, there’ve been conversations and I think it’s a matter of time. At some point it will materialise.”Rooney’s former United colleague Danny Simpson became the first footballer on the Misfits circuit in August. Joey Essex postpones boxing debut as fight with KSI’s brother collapses but TV ‘villain’ still in talks with Misfits He faced YouTuber Danny Aarons over four rounds with the bout ending in a controversial draw. Simpson’s step into the ring has helped inspire others to take the leap with Taylor in talks with more ex-Premier League stars to fight.But the promoter remained coy on the details as he said: “I’m not going to give you any names because I’ll ruin the surprise. “But definitely there’s some really big names and some very credible footballers, ex-footballers who have expressed interest.”So I think that’s gonna unfold in its own time.”KSI with manager and Misfits co-founder Mams TaylorCredit: Leigh Dawney/Misfits Boxing More

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    Ex-Man Utd star Mason Greenwood set to welcome second child with partner after starting new life in France

    FORMER Man United star Mason Greenwood is to become a dad again.He is expecting a second child in the new year with his partner Harriet Robson.Ex-Man Utd star Mason Greenwood is set to welcome his second child with partner Harriet RobinsonCredit: FacebookMason and Harriet welcomed daughter Summer last JulyCredit: instagramThe couple welcomed their daughter Summer in July last year.Greenwood, 23, signed a five-year deal with Marseille in July after the French club agreed a £26million fee with Manchester United.The forward had spent the previous season on loan at Spanish side Getafe.Old Trafford bosses decided he had to leave following his arrest in January 2022.READ MORE ON Mason GreenwoodGreenwood was later charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour but the prosecution was dropped when witnesses withdrew their evidence.A source said yesterday: “Mason has done a lot of growing up in the last couple of years, especially since he has become a father.“He and Harriet are enjoying life out of the intense spotlight that comes with being a United player and is much more settled off the pitch, which means he can concentrate on his football.”Greenwood scored ten goals in 36 games at Getafe and was named player of the season.Most read in FootballSince moving to France on a £70,000-a-week deal, he has netted five times, attracting interest from Barcelona. Before the move he was being watched by Juventus, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and at least two Premier League clubs.Mason Greenwood to switch allegiance to JamaicaGreenwood scored 35 goals in 129 appearances for United.To celebrate Summer’s first birthday, Harriet posted a video montage of him with his daughter.He was approached for comment. More

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    Arsenal tipped to sign former Man Utd star, 24, they could get on a free transfer next summer

    ARSENAL legend Lee Dixon tipped his former club to sign ex-Manchester United ace Angel Gomes, whom they could get for free in the summer.Gomes, 24, has been turning heads ever since rolling credits on his 11-year stint at United where he started out at the age of 6 in the academy.Arsenal legend Lee Dixon tipped his former club to sign Lille star Angel GomesCredit: GettyDixon predicted Arsenal could get ex-Manchester United ace Gomes for free in JuneCredit: AFP or licensorsDixon insists England star Gomes would be a ‘superb’ fit for Arsenal boss Mikel ArtetaCredit: GettyThe versatile midfielder moved to France in 2020 and has since amassed a staggering 123 appearances, despite spending a season on loan at Boavista.That earned the defensive midfielder an England call-up by interim boss Lee Carsley and he proved he can play an integral part in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.Gomes has been so good he left United fans scratching their heads and wondering why he was let go.Dixon, 60, urged his former club to capitalise on the Red Devils’ inability to hold on to the England international, whom he described as a “superb” fit and the perfect partner for Declan Rice in midfield.Read More on ArsenalThe former full-back predicted the North Londoners could indeed sign the United academy graduate for next season as his contract with Lille runs out in June.Dixon told plejmo.com: “I think Angel Gomes would fit in at Arsenal superbly.”His qualities are clear to see, he’s a very good link-up player and we’ve seen that he can play alongside Declan Rice.”He’s got a lot of potential and although there will be plenty of clubs looking at him, I could see him at Arsenal next season.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal keep strengthening in their bid to win their first Premier League title since the Invincibles’ campaign in 2004.Dixon believes it is important to end that duck and urged his former club to also work on finally winning their first ever Champions League title.Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal’s win over PSG The England international is adamant that titles need to be won and even claimed that manager Mikel Arteta would be deemed a “failure” if he failed to win any major trophies at the Emirates.Dixon added: “If Mikel Arteta leaves Arsenal without winning the Premier League or Champions League at Arsenal you’d have to say it’s been a failure because that’s what he is there to do, to win the biggest trophies.”He would be the first to say that and of course we don’t know how long he will be in the job, but not winning one of those would be a massive disappointment.”It’s a tough competition to win of course, but Arsenal’s defence could be the key to winning the Champions League for the first time.”It’s so tough to win, as Arsenal have proved over the years since they got to the final, they haven’t come anywhere close since.”It’s tough with all the big teams and you do need a bit of luck, but you have to have a firm base and they have got that with their defence now.”They’ve got that solidarity to build on and they need to get through the winter months with few injuries, that is the challenge for all the clubs in Europe.”Arsenal legend Dixon believes Gomes would be a stunning partner for Declan Rice in midfieldCredit: Getty More

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    ‘You’ve got to earn it’ – Ex-Man Utd star who played for two foreign England managers brushes off Tuchel criticism

    MICHAEL CARRICK insists the pathway for English coaches isn’t broken and does not care if it’s a German or not in charge of the Three Lions as long as they “earned it”.Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as England manager on an 18-month deal has caused huge debate amongst former players and supporters.Michael Carrick believes the pathway for English coaches is not brokenCredit: AlamyGerman Thomas Tuchel was named England’s new manager this weekCredit: PAMiddlesbrough boss Carrick’s ex-Manchester United team-mate Gary Neville believes it will have a damaging impact for our homegrown coaches and says there are “difficult questions for the FA to answer”.When asked what he thought the problem was regarding a so-called lack of English candidates for the role, Carrick said:  “I don’t think that anything has gone wrong particularly.“It’s not for me to really say. As an Englishman I fully support the team and the manager and I hope that he does really well.“The FA have had a decision to make, they’ve made that and good luck to them.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLCarrick continued: “It’s just like playing being a coach, whatever it is it comes down to what you are achieving really.“What’s right or wrong? There’s not a duty really.“It’s up to every club really to pick who they want as players and managers. In the end, you have to be good enough.“It would be nice if there were more [English coaches] at the top level for sure and over time hopefully that will happen. But you’ve got to earn it.”Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSInside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.Carrick played under England’s first two foreign coaches, the late Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello, and says having someone from overseas in charge made no difference.The 43-year-old, who celebrates two years in charge of Boro next week, added: “I played under two. Sven gave me my debut and Fabio after that.Five things you may not know about Thomas Tuchel from younger Brazilian girlfriend to former modelling career“From a players point of view, when you play for your country and you are representing yourself, your family and your nation and you give what you can.“I think that there is a respect for the coach and staff but then you’ve got your own responsibility and duty to try and perform, and I don’t think that really changes [whoever is in charge].”ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More