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      Sir Alex Ferguson ‘recommends six-time league-winning manager’ to succeed under-fire Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON has recommended a six-time title-winning manager to be Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United replacement, according to reports.Ten Hag, 54, has faced increased scrutiny following the Red Devils’ 3-0 defeat at home to Tottenham last Sunday.Erik ten Hag has come under increasing pressureCredit: PAReports in Italy claim that Sir Alex Ferguson has recommended a new bossCredit: AlamyMan Utd’s Ineos chiefs have so far opted to stick with the Dutchman.But bad results in upcoming matches against Porto and Aston Villa could seal Ten Hag’s fate.With pressure growing on their manager, United chiefs may already be looking elsewhere at potential replacements.And reports in Italy claim that they have identified a former Juventus manager.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAccording to Gazzetta dello Sport, Massimiliano Allegri has emerged as a key contender to land the role, should Ten Hag be axed.They claim that the Italian, 57, has even been recommended by Ferguson – ahead of another contender like Thomas Tuchel.Allegri has been out of work since being sacked just two days after winning the Coppa Italia with Juve back in May.It’s claimed that he was involved in angry exchanges with officials, a reporter and sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli after the 1-0 win over Atalanta – which largely contributed to him receiving the boot.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMassimiliano Allegri left Juventus at the end of last seasonCredit: RexAllegri managed AC Milan between 2010 and 2014, winning Serie A in the 2010-11 season.He then coached Juventus between 2014 and 2019, before returning in 2021 to manage them for a further three years.Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag speaks after his side’s 3-0 Premier League loss at home to Tottenham Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Emery may well deliver the coup de grace to Ten Hag on Sunday — especially with Bruno Fernandes suspended and Kobbie Mainoo an injury doubt.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would be a popular and gettable option but, despite being a fine coach and a very engaging man, he is considered something of a loose cannon.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part.The decorated coach won five Serie A titles with Juve, as well as five Coppa Italias.He also reached two Champions League finals during his first stint in charge.Gazzetta’s report also claims that Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi could be in the frame.Inzaghi, 48, has managed Inter since 2021, winning the Serie A title last term to add to two Coppa Italia triumphs.He also won the Coppa Italia during his previous term with Lazio.’I’M NOT ANXIOUS’Ten Hag, meanwhile, has defiantly defended his position as United boss.Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of tomorrow’s Europa League trip to Porto, Ten Hag said of his future: “I’m not thinking about it, I’m not anxious.”We created a togetherness in the summer with the ownership and the leadership.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We made this agreement, and we were all behind it. We know the strategy [is to bring in] young players in a transition period.”They also know in May in all my last six seasons there were always trophies and that is what we are aiming for.”Ten Hag’s five worst defeatsERIK TEN HAG has suffered some heavy defeats during his tenure as Manchester United manager.5. Copenhagen 4-3 Man Utd, November 2023The damaging defeat saw the Red Devils dumped out of the Champions League.4. Man Utd 0-3 Bournemouth, December 2023It was the first time the Cherries had ever won at Old Trafford with the players being booed off.3. Brentford 4-0 Man Utd, August 2022Perhaps a sign of things to come, in Ten Hag’s second Premier League game, his side was dismantled by the Bees.2. Crystal Palace 4-0 Man Utd, May 2024The heavy defeat to the Eagles saw the Dutchman edge ever closer to the sack.1. Liverpool 7-0 Man Utd, March 2023Man Utd were embarrassed at the hands of their bitter rivals as they crumbled at Anfield as it was the club’s worst defeat in 92 years.Ten Hag, 54, defended his position at Man UtdCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd Women’s boss says WSL game postponement is ‘right decision’ whilst sympathising with fans

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      MARC SKINNER insists postponing Chelsea’s WSL clash with Manchester United was the right move in terms of player welfare.However, the Red Devils chief also sympathised with fans who planned to attend the match with United thought to have sold all their away tickets.Chelsea’s next WSL game will be against Arsenal on October 12 with their game against Man United postponedCredit: AlamyMan United take on Liverpool in a Women’s League Cup fixture on October 2 before hosting Tottenham in the WSL 11 days laterCredit: GettySkinner, whose team host Liverpool tomorrow in a Women’s League Cup group stage game, was reflecting on his side’s top-flight away clash with the Blues being temporarily shelved.The highly anticipated fixture was due to take place on Sunday October 6, but was postponed by the Women’s Professional League Limited last Sunday.The decision was motivated by Chelsea’s opening Women’s Champions League group game being pencilled in two nights later, with the team having 48 hours between the duels.And the WPLL (previously known as NewCo), which runs the top two tiers of the women’s domestic game, stated they were putting “player welfare first”.Read More Football Stories This follows concern across the sport, particularly from elite footballers themselves, around match congestion, its effect on player loads and the potential for increased risk of injury.Man United boss Skinner said: “For me most importantly it’s affected the fans, which is something we clearly don’t want to happen.”But I think from a playing perspective, for both Chelsea welfare and our welfare players-wise, it’s the right decision, because the game is not going to be moved from the Champions League.”We don’t want any more injuries. We’ve seen Everton potentially take an injury again at the weekend.Most read in Football”We don’t want that. So I think from a player welfare (perspective), it’s the right thing.”According to BBC Sport, the WPLL had asked that no English sides had their Women’s Champions Leagues arranged for Tuesday 8 October.However, the organisation’s request was unsuccessful.And Uefa are said to have made their schedule for tournament fixtures available to clubs over a year ago.Following the WSL game postponement ahead of their side’s first European match this term, a Blues fan association said the club had to protect its players.The Chelsea Women’s Supporters Group also sympathised with fans who had forked out on travel and hotel bookings ahead of the Kingsmeadow clash.In a post shared via its X account, the Group wrote: “We feel for all the supporters who have lost money on transport and hotels. “It shouldn’t have got to this situation.”The Manchester United Women’s Supporters Club says it is currently “in dialogue in regard to next course of action” with Red Devils officials in regard to costs incurred by away fans.Skinner said: “Wherever we fit the game in, let’s make sure it’s accessible to the fans and that they are well looked-after. That’s the most important thing.”I think it was sold out, our end, the away end. So we just need to make sure it favours them as well, I think that’s really key.“But the reality is, for the quick turnaround, which would have been for us or for Chelsea.”It would have put the players at risk and I don’t think we need to do that this early in the season.”United’s League Cup duel with Liverpool tomorrow will see them begin their quest to win the contest a season on from lifting the Women’s FA Cup for the first time.And Skinner says the competition is a top priority for the Red Devils who missed out on a knockout spot last season.This was due to their group stage rival Aston Villa being docked points which were awarded to Sunderland.The Man United boss added: “I felt last year, we were very, very unfortunate to not progress to the knockout stages. Liverpool have drawn their first two WSL games this season ahead of their League Cup group stage duel with Man UnitedCredit: Getty”Not only did we have a very difficult group, we were then unfortunate that a decision is made elsewhere that affects us and we can’t go through. READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s a priority for us, it’s an opportunity to win a cup, but it’s also an opportunity for players to show and claim their stake for starting.”We need a competitive game, a competitive team, a competitive environment.” More

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      Man Utd set to be hijacked by Liverpool in £70million transfer for top target – but move would be full of controversy

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      LIVERPOOL are reportedly ready to hijack Man Utd’s move for Jarrad Branthwaite – by swooping in January. The Red Devils saw a £50million approach for the Everton defender rejected over the summer.Jarrad Branthwaite is a target for both Man Utd and LiverpoolCredit: AlamyArne Slot’s Reds are reportedly planning to hijack the move with a January bidCredit: GettyUnited brought in Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt for a combined £100million after missing out on the Three Lions star.De Ligt has struggled for form since making the switch from Bayern Munich, while £52m teenager Yoro remains sidelined until 2025 through injury. According to The Daily Mail, United are likely to focus on bolstering their attacking options in January.That leaves the door open for Liverpool – long-time admirers of Branthwaite – to offer closer to Everton’s £70m valuation. READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe report adds that Branthwaite “is unlikely to sign an extension to his contract,” which expires in June 2027. Branthwaite, 22, enjoyed a breakout campaign last season. He was included in Gareth Southgate’s provisional England squad for Euro 2024, but didn’t make the cut. Branthwaite made his first appearance of the new season last Saturday against Crystal Palace.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSReturning from a hernia operation, the youngster helped Sean Dyche’s side to their first win of the campaign. Down the M62, De Ligt has struggled since arriving at Old Trafford in a £43m deal.’He’s done!’ | How woeful tactics & Dalot shocker saw Spurs smash Man Utd to spell end for Ten HagSky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher slammed the Dutchman following Sunday’s calamitous 3-0 loss to Tottenham.Carragher said: “The rest of the defence is awful, it always has been when they lose possession.”But where’s De Ligt? The right-back has come out here but look where De Ligt is! You’ve got to get over.Matthijs de Ligt has endured a torrid start to life at Old TraffordCredit: GettyMan Utd ratings vs TottenhamMANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 3-0 thrashing against Tottenham at Old Trafford.Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the first half for fouling James Maddison, forcing Erik Ten Hag’s side to play with 10 men against Ange Postecoglou’s team.After back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and FC Twente fans hoped United would redeem themselves against Spurs.However, the match at Old Trafford quickly turned sour. Brennan Johnson scored early and things worsened when Fernandes was sent off allowing Spurs to extend their lead to 3-0.And here is how SunSports Charlie Wyett rated the Manchester United stars.Andre Onana – 5Stood his ground to deliver a good save from Timo Werner who was clean through – no chance for either goal.Noussair Mazraoui – 5First in the refs’ book for chopping down Destiny Udogie. Could also have blocked Micky van de Ven for the goal. Just watched Solanke make it 3-0.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Shocking first half. Failed to cut out the cross from Micky van de Ven which led to the first goal.Lisandro Martinez – 5Switched off for the Spurs goal and was drawn to the ball and Johnson was left unmarked.Diogo Dalot – 5Gave the ball away in dangerous areas and struggled against Johnson.Manuel Ugarte – 5Suffered a stinker and was lucky to last until the 73rd minute.Kobbie Mainoo – 5Not one of his better performances and was taken off just before half-time following Fernandes’ sending-off.Marcus Rashford – 5Over-ran the ball for Tottenham’s first. Way off the pace.Bruno Fernandes – 4Arguably the worst captain in United’s history. Deserved red card for his challenge on James Maddison.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Had United’s only chance in the first half but hit the outside of the post. Improved in the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Looked completely lost up front – threatening to be another poor Erik ten Hag signing. Replaced at half-time.Subs:Mount (for Mainoo 45)  5, Casemiro (for Zirkzee 46) 7, Hojlund (for Rashford 73) 5, Eriksen (for Ugarte 73) 5.”Two massive chances and the goal, De Ligt, a player they brought in for huge money, is completely out of position all the time.”So he ends up having to go flying into challenge and then you leave yourself in a situation where you can get yellow cards and red cards.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited boss Erik ten Hag is now the bookies’ favourite to be the next Premier League manager sacked.He faces two huge games this week – first against Porto in the Champions League, before Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa. More

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      Man Utd stars ‘failed to back Erik ten Hag just moments after winning the FA Cup’ with ‘clear issues among squad’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED stars were not in full support of Erik ten Hag even after their FA Cup final victory, reports suggest.Pressure is mounting on Ten Hag following a poor start to the season that has seen the Red Devils win just three of their first eight games in all competitions.Man Utd players were not in complete support of Erik ten Hag even after the FA Cup finalCredit: GettyThe latest defeat, a 3-0 drubbing at home to Tottenham, was the latest evidence of a team flat on its back.It follows a continuously concerning trend stretching back to last season, when the team recorded the club’s lowest finish in Premier League history.Winning the FA Cup ultimately proved to be Ten Hag’s salvation from almost certainly being sacked in June, with new club bosses Ineos instead opting to keep faith with the Dutchman for the new season.However, it has now been revealed that United players had their issues with the former Ajax manager’s set-up even in the aftermath of that famous triumph over Man City at Wembley.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAccording to The Athletic, who claim to have spoken to half a dozen players following the final, some stars had issues with the approach in certain matches throughout the season.While the report stipulated that no player definitively called for the manager to be sacked, no star definitively backed him to stay either.Players had a critical opinion of some of the tactics used during the season – ultimately with a change of approach in the Wembley final against Manchester City proving beneficial.It quotes one anonymous player as saying: “You cannot have teams in the relegation zone like Sheffield United and Burnley coming to Old Trafford and carving us open.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSReporter Andy Mitten adds that following the final, while “all the players respected Ten Hag as a person and coach, the mood was far from harmonious”.Though he caveats this by explaining how stars both respected and feared Sir Alex Ferguson.Erik ten Hag criticises Man Utd’s desire in Twente draw SunSport today reported that Ten Hag’s potential exit is being discussed openly by Manchester United players.We understand the vast majority of United’s stars are behind the beleaguered manager.But there has been much talk among the squad over how much longer he will remain in charge with the club floundering in the Prem. Games this week against Porto and Aston Villa could prove pivotal in deciding whether he remains in the job after the international break.Ineos – who now run the sporting operation at the club – handed Ten Hag a contract extension in July.It would have reportedly cost £10million to sack Ten Hag in the summer, but will now set them back £17.5m.Man Utd face four away games in their next five fixturesA number of managers have been linked with the Old Trafford gig in the event that Ten Hag is sacked, with Joe Cole believing that former England boss Gareth Southgate is the “obvious choice” to step in.READ MORE SUN STORIESElsewhere, ex-Chelsea boss Graham Potter and Inter Milan gaffer Simone Inzaghi have both emerged as potential candidates.Assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy could also be appointed to the role given his previous, albeit brief, success with PSV.Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Emery may well deliver the coup de grace to Ten Hag on Sunday — especially with Bruno Fernandes suspended and Kobbie Mainoo an injury doubt.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would be a popular and gettable option but, despite being a fine coach and a very engaging man, he is considered something of a loose cannon.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part. More

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      Man Utd face paying £10million penalty and financial black hole if they miss out on Champions League again

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      MANCHESTER UNITED risk facing huge financial challenges if they go another season without Champions League football.The Red Devils failed to earn a spot in Europe’s elite competition last season after finishing eighth in the Premier League table.Man Utd face losing a huge chunk of money if they do not qualify for the Champions LeagueCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe is in charge of football operations at Old TraffordCredit: AlamyDespite enduring one of their worst campaigns, they managed to earn Europa League qualification by winning the FA Cup.However, securing Champions League football this time around will be imperative for the club’s financial status.Failing to finish in the top four would result in a £10million penalty clause being invoked ahead of the 2025-26 season.When Man Utd penned a 10-year partnership extension with Adidas last summer, it was agreed that failure to qualify for the Champions League on two consecutive occasions would lead to a 30 per cent reduction in annual payments.Read More in FootballUnited will also be penalised for every other season they fail to earn a spot.On top of that, tens of millions more will be lost in broadcasting deals and match day revenue.The Red Devils earned £93.1m from their 2018-19 Champions League run, which ended in the quarter-finals.That figure dropped to £37.5m during the 2022-23 campaign, when they were in the Europa League.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSUnited’s latest annual report reads: “Failure to qualify for the Champions League would result in a material reduction in revenue for each season in which our men’s first team did not participate.”To help mitigate this impact, the majority of playing contracts for our men’s first team include step-ups in remuneration which are contingent on participation in the group stage of the Champions League.Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag speaks after his side’s 3-0 Premier League loss at home to Tottenham “Moreover, because of the prestige associated with participating in the European competitions, particularly the Champions League, failure to qualify for any European competition could negatively affect our ability to attract and retain talented players and coaching staff, as well as supporters, sponsors and other commercial partners.”Man Utd reported a net loss of £113.2m for the 2023/24 financial year.It takes the club’s losses over three years to £254.7m.While the Red Devils have to qualify for the Champions League next season, they face a huge uphill battle.Erik ten Hag and his players have endured a poor start to the season and sit 12th in the table.The Dutchman’s future is now in doubt, with two huge fixtures against Porto and Aston Villa scheduled for this week.Man Utd face four away games in their next five fixtures More

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      Why Gareth Southgate is perfect fit for Man Utd if they sack Erik ten Hag with former England boss ‘obvious choice’

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE is the “obvious choice” to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United if he is sacked.That is the opinion of former Chelsea and England star Joe Cole.Gareth Southgate is the ‘obvious choice’ to be the next Man Utd managerCredit: GettyJoe Cole outlined his reasons why the ex-England boss should be the next manager of UnitedCredit: AlamyBut Cole believes Erik ten Hag can leave with his head held highCredit: GettyCole, 42, believes Southgate’s previous links with new Man Utd sporting director Dan Ashworth will help “steady the waters” at the creaking Old Trafford outfit.Speaking to PaddyPower, ahead of United’s trip to Porto this Thursday, Cole said: “Gareth Southgate is the obvious choice for Man Utd. “If you look at the ownership group, with Dan Ashworth – he worked with Southgate at the FA and it actually reminds me a lot with when Gareth took over at England and having to steady the waters.  “The fans weren’t happy, and he managed to galvanise them and it might be the right place at the right time for Gareth.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I hate talking about next managers when the manager is still in play but it’s really tough to look at Man Utd and – knowing how football is – know that they must be thinking about doing something. “Erik ten Hag is a top manager, and he’d walk away with his head high and silverware on the table – like he did at Ajax. “He’ll get another job and that might suit his style a bit better.”United have scored just five Premier League goals so far this season to eight conceded, with a record of two wins, one draw and three defeats.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey also failed to beat FC Twente in their opening Europa League match, and now face a tough away test at Porto before travelling to Aston Villa before the international break.Cole reckons that should the axe come down on Ten Hag, the Dutchman will be able to walk away with his head held high.Gareth Southgate drops biggest hint yet over next job amid Man Utd links after stepping down as England managerCole said: “It could be a blessing that Manchester United are playing away from Old Trafford on Thursday [against Porto] in a game when not much will be expected of them.“It’s a really tough part of our job because Erik ten Hag comes to speak to us and he’s always very respectful, he answers the questions, and he doesn’t shy away. But ultimately, it’s just not happening [for him].“If he walks away he walks away from Manchester United in the next few months, he walks with his head held high. “He won silverware and is part of the history but I think the players look like they need a new voice around them.Man Utd ratings vs TottenhamMANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 3-0 thrashing against Tottenham at Old Trafford.Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the first half for fouling James Maddison, forcing Erik Ten Hag’s side to play with 10 men against Ange Postecoglou’s team.After back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and FC Twente fans hoped United would redeem themselves against Spurs.However, the match at Old Trafford quickly turned sour. Brennan Johnson scored early and things worsened when Fernandes was sent off allowing Spurs to extend their lead to 3-0.And here is how SunSports Charlie Wyett rated the Manchester United stars.Andre Onana – 5Stood his ground to deliver a good save from Timo Werner who was clean through – no chance for either goal.Noussair Mazraoui – 5First in the refs’ book for chopping down Destiny Udogie. Could also have blocked Micky van de Ven for the goal. Just watched Solanke make it 3-0.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Shocking first half. Failed to cut out the cross from Micky van de Ven which led to the first goal.Lisandro Martinez – 5Switched off for the Spurs goal and was drawn to the ball and Johnson was left unmarked.Diogo Dalot – 5Gave the ball away in dangerous areas and struggled against Johnson.Manuel Ugarte – 5Suffered a stinker and was lucky to last until the 73rd minute.Kobbie Mainoo – 5Not one of his better performances and was taken off just before half-time following Fernandes’ sending-off.Marcus Rashford – 5Over-ran the ball for Tottenham’s first. Way off the pace.Bruno Fernandes – 4Arguably the worst captain in United’s history. Deserved red card for his challenge on James Maddison.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Had United’s only chance in the first half but hit the outside of the post. Improved in the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Looked completely lost up front – threatening to be another poor Erik ten Hag signing. Replaced at half-time.Subs:Mount (for Mainoo 45)  5, Casemiro (for Zirkzee 46) 7, Hojlund (for Rashford 73) 5, Eriksen (for Ugarte 73) 5.“It’s really tough but I’m only going off what I see and how the players are reacting. “The body language, they look lost and it’s hard because it’s Erik ten Hag’s team not doing well. “He’s got a fantastic but tough job and he’s a nice guy but I just think it may have run its course.”On the game against Porto this week, Cole added: “The problem with Manchester United coming to town, is when they’re a wounded animal, the name is still Manchester United. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The Porto players will be up for it, the manager and fans will be too and the whole place will be a cauldron. “I’ve played there and it’s a tough place and I can only see a Porto win, I really can. I’d go with 3-1 Porto.”Southgate turned England from deluded group of individuals into heroes who love pulling on white shirt, writes Charlie WyettGARETH SOUTHGATE won nothing but changed everything, writes Charlie Wyett.The decision for him to resign is the correct one but Southgate leaves a legacy which will hugely benefit his successor.So how will he be viewed in history? It might be kinder in a few years’ time.At the moment, there is still so much frustration at the way it all ended in Berlin.Yet Southgate is second only to Sir Alf Ramsey in terms of overall success and no other manager gets close.To get to two major finals — one on foreign soil for the first time — was a huge achievement.So was the overhaul of a dysfunctional football team which had just lost to Iceland at Euro 2016.The players were so paranoid they even refused to tell us in France who was the best at playing table tennis.That deluded group of individuals thought everyone was against them — and they weren’t.Southgate changed all that with a far more grown-up approach.He encouraged the players to tell their own story, to express themselves, and he got rid of a siege mentality that did not need to exist.Former manager Fabio Capello used to moan that the England team played with fear.Under Southgate, players loved pulling on that white shirt.There were no more cliques, no more egos and no more pulling out of squads with dubious injuries which then cleared up by the next Prem game.Southgate created a club atmosphere within the England team and now you only have to look at the pictures each time the players greet each other at St George’s Park.They are all mates, pulling together in the same direction, as it should be.Southgate has been a class act and he leaves with his head held high.England just fell short with him in charge. There’s no denying that.But let’s hope Southgate will still get the respect he deserves and is remembered as the man who did, indeed, change everything.Read Charlie Wyett’s full article on Gareth Southgate.Or check out all of Charlie’s Euro 2024 columns. More

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      Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi emerges as shock contender to replace Erik Ten Hag with Man Utd chief two games from axe

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      INTER MILAN boss Simone Inzaghi has reportedly emerged as a “serious contender” to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.The Dutchman will have two away games to save his job against Porto on Thursday and Aston Villa on Sunday.Simone Inzaghi is on Man Utd’s radar should Erik ten Hag be sackedThe pressure is mounting on the Man Utd boss after another poor start to the seasonThe Man Utd manager’s future has been called into question following a dismal display in a humiliating 3-0 home loss to Tottenham.Ten Hag said he was not concerned about losing his job, claiming the club are backing him, after he signed a contract extension over the summer.But there remains uncertainty around his position.Sir Jim Ratcliffe will reportedly consider Ten Hag’s Man Utd future during the October international break.READ MORE ON MAN UTDOld Trafford chiefs are interested in securing Inzaghi from Italian side Inter Milan, according to The Star.Inzaghi guided Inter to Serie A glory last season and he is widely considered to be one of the best coaches in world football.The 48-year-old has won nine trophies during his managerial career so far, with both Lazio and Inter.Inter reached the Champions League final under his tutelage in 2022-23 but lost 1-0 to treble winners Manchester City.Most read in FootballInzaghi (centre) celebrating with his team as they secured their 20th Scudetto with five matches remaining in April 2024FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe former Lazio forward has guided his side to fourth place this term, with three wins and two draws among their opening six fixtures.Inzaghi held Pep Guardiola to a 0-0 draw at the Etihad in early September.Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag speaks after his side’s 3-0 Premier League loss at home to Tottenham He is also the current holder of the Enzo Bearzot Award, given to the best Italian manager each year.The Star report states that former England boss Gareth Southgate could also come in for Ten Hag should he be sacked.Meanwhile Ruud van Nistelrooy will also be considered after returning to Old Trafford as an assistant in the summer.Southgate remains without a job after quitting England following England’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.Meanwhile Man Utd have only won six of their last 18 Premier League games and have already lost three of their six matches this season.Ten Hag could therefore be axed before the Red Devils face Brentford on October 19.Man Utd face four away games in their next five fixturesWhy NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Emery may well deliver the coup de grace to Ten Hag on Sunday — especially with Bruno Fernandes suspended and Kobbie Mainoo an injury doubt.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would be a popular and gettable option but, despite being a fine coach and a very engaging man, he is considered something of a loose cannon.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part. More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo agreed to rejoin Man Utd in 2013 with Real Madrid star in £200m deal before cash row, club icon claims

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO and Gareth Bale both agreed to join Manchester United in 2013 – but the club wouldn’t cough up £200m.United legend Patrice Evra revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson believed Ronaldo’s return was nearly 100 per cent agreed, four years after the Portugal star left for Real Madrid in a then-record £80m deal.Cristiano Ronaldo agreed to rejoin Manchester United in 2013, according to Patrice EvraAs did then Tottenham prodigy Gareth BaleFormer United star Evra revealed the information during a recent podcast appearanceAnd the legendary Red Devils boss also worked on trying to land Bale from Tottenham at the same time.But then Ferguson – who had just won the Premier League title – was forced to confirm to his players that he would in fact be retiring.Former left-back Evra said on The Obi One podcast: “It was one of the most sad days. I didn’t cry, I was in shock. “The reason why, is two weeks before, he brought me into his office and said: “Look at those people, they think I am going to retire, I am going to be here another 10 years but we need to win more Champions Leagues.”read more football news”He said: ‘Patrice, Cristiano has agreed 99 per cent to come back and Gareth Bale.’ He needed £200m and the club refused. Now they have spent a billion, whatever.”I remembered when I got out of his office, I was like, ‘Cristiano is back, Gareth Bale, we are back in business’. Imagine. That’s what he said.”Since then, United have spent a record £1.19bn on transfers and £40m on managers while running up a debt of nearly £1bn. Still no title, though.As a result Bale, who was flying at Spurs, instead joined Madrid in the summer of 2013 for an updated world record fee of £86m.Most read in FootballRonaldo scored 450 goals in 438 games for MadridBale scored a spectacular bicycle kick in the 2018 Champions League final win over LiverpoolFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDavid Moyes came in at Old Trafford and signed Marouane Fellaini instead.Ronaldo would go on to stay at Los Blancos until 2018, winning four more Champions League titles.Gary Neville’s sheepish reaction after Jamie Carragher says Cristiano Ronaldo has ‘pied two of us off’Wanting a new challenge, he joined Italian giants Juventus and picked up back-to-back Serie A titles in 2019 and 2020.He would eventually get his comeback move to Old Trafford in 2021, where he was named in the Premier League Team of the Year, scoring 16 goals in an otherwise underwhelming campaign for United.But Ronaldo left for Al-Nassr just over a year later after launching a verbal attack on the club in a tell-all explosive interview with Piers Morgan.Bale himself returned to Tottenham on a season-long loan in 2020 before returning to Madrid for a term.The Welsh star joined Los Angeles in 2022 and announced his retirement a year later.Ronaldo and Bale were both nominated for Europe’s Best Player award in 2016Ronaldo won his first Champions League with United under Fergie in 2008 More