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    Meet Randal Kolo Muani, the Tottenham and Man Utd target who’ll forever be haunted by the goal he DIDN’T score

    EVEN Randal Kolo Muani admits that his World Cup final miss will haunt him forever.But a move to the Premier League could be a big step in burying that memory and reigniting his career after he was frozen out at Paris Saint-Germain.Randal Kolo Muani has been out of favour at PSGCredit: GettyKolo Muani was thwarted by Emi Martinez in the World Cup finalCredit: EPATottenham are leading the chase for the France international, 26, with Manchester United also in the hunt.And they hope RKM can reproduce the form that made him a star at Eintracht Frankfurt, rather than the moment that he is best remembered for outside Germany.It was 3-3 in stoppage time at the end of extra-time in the most incredible World Cup final of all time when Kolo Muani had the chance to win it for France.As he bore down on Argentina’s goal, he had captain Kylian Mbappe to his left, ready to become the first player to score four times in the biggest game in international football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Kolo Muani went for goal himself and Emi Martinez kept the ball out with the left leg, earning his team a penalty shootout which they won to clinch the trophy for the third time.RKM said: “I could have lobbed him, I could have given the ball to Kylian, but in the moment, I didn’t see him.“After when you see the video, you see that there were other options, but it’s too late, you cannot do anything. It still sticks it in my throat and it’ll be there for life.”To be fair to Kolo Muani, he didn’t seem to allow the disappointment to affect the rest of his breakout season for Eintracht.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHaving been signed on a free transfer from French club Nantes in the summer of 2022, he returned from Qatar and picked up where he had left off.Kolo Muani racked up 10 more goals and three more assists in the Bundesliga and fired Eintracht to the German cup final, ending the campaign with 23 goals and 17 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.Spain star Nacho smashes France ace Kolo Muani’s head to the ground in Euro 2024 semi-finalErik Peters, who covers Eintracht for leading German media outlet Bild, said: “Kolo Muani had an incredible season.“From his very first game, when he came on as a substitute and scored against Bayern Munich, he looked special.“He was so quick, with his long legs, and had great skills.”.One of Kolo Muani’s standout moments is a painful memory for one of the managers who could soon be in charge of him.Ruben Amorim was boss of Sporting Lisbon when Eintracht came to Portugal in December for a winner-takes-all clash in the final round of Champions League group games.And it was Kolo Muani who grabbed the winner as the German side came from behind to win 2-1, thus clinching a place in the last 16 and sending Sporting into the Europa League.You can make a good argument that Kolo Muani would be better suited to Amorim’s system of play at United than Ange Postecoglou’s set-up at Spurs.Kolo Muani previously starred for Eintracht FrankfurtCredit: GettyAt Eintracht, he was mainly used as the front man in a 3-4-2-1 formation.And if Postecoglou sees the Frenchman more as an option out wide, he will be making a mistake – according to Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner.The Palace head coach left Eintracht at the end of 2022-23.Shortly after Kolo Muani made his own move to PSG, Glasner still gave him a glowing reference – but warned he would be wasted if played on the wing.Glasner said: “For me, he isn’t a wide player.“I needed to see a Kolo Muani who scored goals, and out wide, he made lots of assists, but he scored very little.“So he needed to be in the middle.“Kolo Muani was also our No9, but he had a lot of freedom. I couldn’t ask for him to wait in the box for the ball to come. He needed to find spaces in the defence.”BITTER FAREWELLBut the happy memories that Eintracht fans have of Kolo Muani were overshadowed by the manner of his departure to PSG.To some, it was understandable that the Frenchman wanted to play for one of the biggest clubs in Europe in the city of birth – he, Arsenal’s William Saliba and Mbappe are all from the French capital’s north-east suburbs.But the way he forced the move left a bad taste in the mouth.After returning from the World Cup, Kolo Muani had changed his agent and teamed up with Moussa Sissoko, whose client roster included Ousmane Dembele.Back in 2017, Dembele went on strike at Borussia Dortmund before moving to Barcelona.Kolo Muani did the same when PSG, having already signed Dembele, stepped up their efforts to sign him as well.The transfer went right to the wire on deadline day in September 2023, but in the end Eintracht were able to squeeze 95m Euros (nearly £80m) out of PSG.It was an incredible fee but little compensation at the time for the Eintracht fans, who branded Kolo Muani greedy.’Cash doesn’t change character, it just makes it visible’At the first game after his rancorous exit, they displayed a banner that read: Kohle Muani (Kohle is German for money) – cash doesn’t change character, it just makes it visible.”Some still feel that Kolo Muani is a decent bloke who was just badly advised.But it’s fair to say that there is plenty of schadenfreude in Frankfurt that things have not worked out for him at PSG.Boss Luis Enrique repeatedly defended Kolo Muani as he struggled to gel with Mbappe and Dembele, despite them being established as France’s front three.But with RKM being shifted out wide at times and amid rumours of a row with Mbappe, the big-money signing’s form flatlined, with the last of his six Ligue 1 goals in 2023-24 coming on February 10.NOT A ONE-HIT WONDEREnrique seems to have given up on Kolo Muani this season, giving him just two starts in the league before leaving him out of the squad completely and making him available for transfer.Anyone who takes him will want to see the frontman who scored three times as France topped their Nations League A group – and who looked like one of the hottest talents in the world in 2022-23.Peters said: “In Frankfurt, they know that the price they got for Muani was inflated because PSG wanted him so badly.“But they don’t think he is a one-hit wonder.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The Premier League, with the pace of the game and the importance of transitions, could be the perfect place for him.”But even if Kolo Muani ends up scoring past Villa goalkeeper Martinez, it won’t make up for that World Cup final moment.Kolo Muani could bring his skills to the Premier League soonCredit: Getty More

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    Man Utd will listen to serious transfer offers for EVERY player including trio made untouchable barely a year ago

    MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly listen to serious transfer offers for their ENTIRE squad – including a trio who were untouchable under former boss Erik ten Hag.The Red Devils have struggled to make progress since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority takeover a year ago.Sir Jim Ratcliffe will listen to offers for every single player at Manchester UnitedCredit: AlamyHe is ready to raise funds and build a team for Ruben AmorimCredit: GettyUnited endured a dismal start to the current term under Ten Hag, despite the Dutchman being backed with £200million-worth of summer signings.And replacement Ruben Amorim is also struggling to get a tune out of the club’s players.Many do not fit his high-intensity 3-4-3 system.And the Guardian claims Ratcliffe is ready to back the Portuguese gaffer by making every single senior star available for sale.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile United are not actively looking to offload players, offers for each one will now be considered.It means the likes of Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes could be sold for the right price.While summer signings including Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Manuel Ugarte may be shown the door after just six months.It’s even suggested that Ten Hag’s untouchable trio Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo can go should suitable bids arrive.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe latter is understood to be a major target for United’s rivals Chelsea, who are already set to sign loanee Jadon Sancho for a cut-price £20million this summer.United have been hit hard by Financial Fair Play restrictions after years of heavy spending.Man Utd fans say ‘I will never hate this man’ as Lisandro Martinez’s interview after Liverpool draw goes viral Former untouchables Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo can goCredit: EPASummer signings Manuel Ugarte and Leny Yoro could also attract attentionCredit: AFPOffloading several big earns will go some way to balancing the books while allowing Amorim to bring in players better suited to his tactics.Sales of academy graduates like Mainoo, Garnacho and Marcus Rashford would also be counted as 100 per cent profit – crucial for Profit and Sustainability Rules compliance.Rashford is seen as one of the most likely exits this month, although it could only be on loan until the summer.AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund have both expressed serious interest in signing the wantaway forward.Fellow striker Joshua Zirkzee is a target for Juventus, while midfielder Casemiro continues to be monitored by teams in Saudi Arabia.Man Utd player ratings vs Liverpool By Gary Stonehouse Andre Onana – 7Saved well from Alexis Mac Allister early on and looked strong on set-pieces – could do nothing about either goal and almost stopped Mo Salah’s penalty.Another two saves right at the death helped his men earn a point.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Strong performance to help frustrate Liverpool and produced important interceptions and tackles to clear danger.Matthijs de Ligt – 7The Dutchman was another impressive member of the back three and seemed on a mission not to leave Anfield without a share of the spoils.Harry Maguire – 7Marshalled the defence well and won several big tackles and clearances.Had his day spoiled by a yellow card for what looked to a be another great challenge and then blazed over right at the death.Lisandro Martinez – 7Excellent alongside the rest of the back three and finished his strike like a seasoned striker.Diogo Dalot – 7Played on the front foot and was an attacking threat throughout but landed himself a booking for a needless and blatant foul on Mo Salah.Kobbie Mainoo – 7Great defensive and compact display as he got the better of his England rival Curtis Jones in front of Thomas Tuchel.Was only taken off after United fell behind as his manager went more offensive. Manuel Ugarte – 6Just got caught out of position and was punished for Cody Gakpo’s goal, which marred an otherwise hard-fought and disciplined display.Amad Diallo – 7Turning into a man capable of producing big moments after another crucial strike. Had messed up twice in two earlier attacks but took his goal superbly.Bruno Fernandes – 8The skipper was on top form for the Red Devils both defensively and with the ball. Led his team well and fully deserved at least a point.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Came underfire for slack marking from Fernandes early doors then blew a big chance after beating the offside trap – a chance you NEED to take at Anfield.Struggled to make much of an impact with the ball. More

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    Wayne Rooney tipped for Man Utd job he would be ‘absolutely brilliant at’ after Plymouth exit

    WAYNE Rooney has been told he would be “absolutely brilliant” in a coaching role at Manchester United.It comes just seven days after he left Championship side Plymouth Argyle by mutual agreement after seven months in charge.Wayne Rooney has been told he would be ‘absolutely brilliant’ in a coaching role at his former club Man UtdRooney, 39, won just four of his 23 league games in charge of the Pilgrims and left with Plymouth sitting rock bottom of the Championship.Six defeats and three draws since November put the final nail in Rooney’s coffin as his latest management tenure fell apart quickly.But former Old Trafford team-mate Wes Brown has urged Rooney to return to Carrington.Ex-defender Brown believes Wazza would be “absolutely brilliant” helping those back in their old stomping ground.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBrown, 45, told The Sports Daily: “If Wayne wanted to spend time as a striking coach he would be absolutely brilliant at it.”He was one of the best goalscorers we’ve ever seen and was a top playmaker as well.”If he wanted to do that he would be very good on movement and things like that, he was one of the best to do it. “Could he help Rasmus Hojlund at Manchester United? I think all young strikers would love to listen to Wayne and his knowledge.Most read in FootballFormer Old Trafford team-mate Wes Brown has urged Rooney to return to CarringtonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”When I was a young player I remember getting a few tips from Laurent Blanc and the little things like that can really help. “If Wayne was on hand to give out some advice [at United] I’m sure everyone would be willing to listen.”Luke Littlers’ brilliant reaction to hearing he won £500k after thrashing Van Gerwen in PDC World Championship finalWes Brown and Rooney watched Man Utd win the FA Cup against Man City last MayGoals are hard to come for United, who languish down in 13th in the Prem as they endured their worst-ever start to a campaign.But the Red Devils showed promising signs on Sunday as they held Prem leaders and arch-rivals Liverpool to a 2-2 draw at Anfield.And new boss Ruben Amorim has already assembled his own coaching staff to help him solve the chaos in M16.Former United captain Rooney spent a similarly disastrous 84 day spell in charge of Birmingham City before his stint at Plymouth.At the start of his coaching career, Rooney managed Derby County as well as MLS side DC United.He entered the world of management after a sensational playing career that saw him lift five Premier League titles.Rooney also added the 2008 Champions League to his 16 major trophies. He is widely regarded one of the Prem’s greatest ever players.READ MORE SUN STORIESWazza is still United’s all-time record goalscorer and also held the record for England before Harry Kane surpassed his tally in 2023.He is unlikely to secure an immediate return to management and has already been offered the chance to return to TV screens in a punditry role.Wayne Rooney’s record-breaking careerWAYNE Rooney took the football world by storm when he made his debut for 2002 with Everton.He quickly became the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer aged 16 years and 342 days and was named the BBC’s Young Sports Personality of the Year.The striker joined Manchester United in 2004 and spent 13 years at Old Trafford. He went on to make 559 appearances for the Red Devils and scored 253 goals. To this day he is still the club’s all-time leading goalscorer.Following his spell with United, Rooney returned to Everton for a season. He also spent one-season stints with D.C. United and Derby County at the end of his career.As well as his impressive club career, Rooney is also England’s second-highest goalscorer with 53 goals in 120 appearances, behind only Harry Kane.After hanging up his boots, the England icon turned to a career in management.He took charge of Derby County in 2020 and managed to just about save the club from relegation from the Championship at the end of his first season.However, with Derby handed a 21-point deduction the following campaign, he was unable to keep them up again and subsequently left.Then came a 15-month spell in charge of MLS side D.C. United. He failed to impress during his time in Washington and parted ways with the club at the end of the 2023 regular season.Rooney was controversially handed the Birmingham job in October 2023, replacing John Eustace with the club doing well and sixth in the Championship table.However, in 15 games he suffered nine defeats and managed just two wins. He was sacked in January 2024 with Birmingham down in 20th. The club were relegated to League One at the end of the campaign.He returned to management in May with Plymouth Argyle but managed just five wins in 25 games. The United legend now finds himself out of work once again. More

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    Casemiro ‘willing to leave Man Utd this month’ with Saudi club offering £650k-a-week transfer

    MANCHESTER UNITED star Casemiro could leave this month after being offered a whopping £650,000-a-week deal by a major Saudi club.United landed the midfielder from Real Madrid in 2022 following a staggering £70million deal but he has had mixed fortunes since his move to the Premier League.Al-Nassr are offering Manchester United star Casemiro a £650,000-a-week dealCredit: GettyCasemiro has told Man Utd he is ready to leave the clubCredit: RexAccording to Give Me Sport, the 32-year-old has been offered a way out of Manchester that would see him becoming one of the top five highest earners in Saudi Arabia.Al-Nassr are keeping tabs on the Brazil international, who could reunite with fellow Real legend Cristiano Ronaldo if he moves to Riyadh.Casemiro has been attracting interest from the Middle Eastern nation for quite some time amid his uncertain future at Man Utd under manager Ruben Amorim.Al-Nassr’s interest is so intense that Saudi Pro League sporting director Michael Emenalo is driving the move himself.Read More on Man UtdHowever, there has been no contact between the Saudi outfit and United so far.The defensive midfielder has a contract with the Manchester giants until 2026.And according to The Times, he has informed his club he is ready to leave.And Amorim’s side is willing to sell with a significant price cut as they rate the ex-Real star at about £25m.Most read in FootballCasemiro appears likelier to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.However, Al-Nassr want to fast-track things and seal a deal during the January transfer window.Gary Neville tells Jamie Carragher to ‘f off’ after Liverpool legend performs incredible U-turn on ‘selfish’ SalahCasemiro has struggled to impress this term despite amassing a total of 22 appearances across all competitions.United have been enduring a tumultuous campaign across all fronts as they have tumbled down to 13th place in the Premier League table. More

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    David Beckham reveals unlikely Man Utd idol and admits mum Sandra couldn’t get enough of his thighs

    DAVID BECKHAM has revealed the highly contrasting reasons he and his mum idolized the same Manchester United legend.Becks as a kid had his eyes on his hero’s technique – while Sandra’s eyes were on the player’s thighs!David Beckham and mum Sandra, seen at Wimbledon last summer, both had their eyes fixed on the treats served up by a Man Utd legend in his pompCredit: GettyThe ex-England skipper “always waited outside” Old Trafford – to get the icon’s autograph.But when it came to watching on the pitch he regularly shared moments of awestruck wonder with his mum.The former Red Devils midfielder, 49, named ex-striker Mark Hughes as the object of his obsession.BBC Wales showed a clip of Becks as a wide-eyed child explaining to an interviewer: “I’m looking forward to seeing Mark Hughes and the stadium.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFast forward four decades, and the 49-year-old Inter Miami co-owner told the TV channel how his admiration for the Welshman, now 61, grew.Becks said: “I was always one of those little fans that used to wait outside and get Mark’s and all their autographs.”Mark did things that not many players can do.”The goalkeeper would kick it 50, 60, 70 yards up and it would just stop dead on those thighs of his.”Most read in FootballMark Hughes impressed Becks with his control and big-game scoringCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd it’s that memory that caused Beckham’s eyes to sparkle – as he a wider family interest in Hughes’ attributes sprung to his mind.The ex-Real Madrid star burst into a smile as he added: “My mum loved his thighs!”How Luke Littler celebrated incredible World Darts Championship win as he beams at message from hero David BeckhamFormer Barcelona and Chelsea ace Hughes spent 13 years with United over two spells, also playing for and managing his country.But his seventh and last stint so far as a club boss ended with Bradford sacking him in October 2023.However, Beckham is clear why Hughes was and still is an icon with United supporters.He said: “He was one of those players that always scored great goals in big games. That’s why Mark was so special. “There’s certain players that played for United over the years that set the tone of the club. We were able to learn from players like Mark.”In fact, the occasion Alex Ferguson first handed Becks the shirt number Hughes had worn remains an electric memory.The one-time PSG wideman said: “The boss turned round to me and he said, ‘Son you’re going to wear No 10 this year’. And I was like, ‘That’s Mark’s number!'”Becks spoke on Hughes for a BBC Wales ‘Legends of Welsh Sport’ showCredit: Getty More

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    Chelsea ‘leading shock transfer race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man Utd’, according to bombshell reports

    CHELSEA are reportedly leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo after talks over a new Manchester United deal reached a stalemate.The Mail sensationally claims that United’s young midfielder could be on his way to Stamford Bridge despite his starring role in Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Liverpool.Chelsea are leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man UtdCredit: RexThe Red Devils are eager to tie Mainoo down to a new contract, despite his current run not expiring until summer 2027.But talks over an extension have apparently hit a dead end.It’s reckoned FFP constraints mean United are unable to offer Mainoo similar terms to some of their top earners and no longer see him as untouchable.While the player himself is alleged to have “concerns” over the direction of the club and their lack of challenge for Champions League football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt reportedly means Mainoo is facing an uncertain long-term future at Old Trafford.And Chelsea are now said to be plotting a move to bring Mainoo to London.Todd Boehly has made it his business to snap up the brightest talents in football.Mainoo is already an important fixture for club and country despite not turning 20 years old until April.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd he fits the profile of a modern-day Chelsea signing.Mainoo has already made 52 appearances for United since his debut two years ago.Watch Kobbie Mainoo leave three young Man Utd fans stunned with gift in wholesome hidden camera video He’s also played 10 times for England and was a key figure in their run to last summer’s Euros final.Should he join Chelsea, Mainoo would compete for a starting spot against Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia.The Blues also have Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka in their squad.While Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are away on loan. More

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    Marcus Rashford targeted by Man Utd’s Premier League rivals in shock transfer with Dortmund also joining race

    MARCUS RASHFORD is being eyed by multiple Premier League clubs, it’s been claimed.Borussia Dortmund are also reported to be in the hunt for the Manchester United striker.Marcus Rashford is on course to leave Manchester United next summerCredit: GETTYSeveral Premier League clubs are said to be keen on signing the England internationalCredit: AFPThe Man Utd hitman sensationally revealed last month that he’s looking for a “new challenge”.Rashford was immediately linked with several clubs abroad, including Paris Saint-Germain and Italian duo AC Milan and Juventus.But Prem teams are now said to also be interested in him.The Athletic claim “Premier League suitors are weighing up” a winter bid for the wantaway striker.They also claim United’s domestic rivals will have to battle German giants Borussia Dortmund to land the England international.Rashford, 27, stunned the Old Trafford faithful by revealing his intention to leave the club in an unauthorised interview.The striker dropped the bombshell after being exiled by new Red Devils gaffer Ruben Amorim.He told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”When I leave it’s going to be, ‘No hard feelings.'”You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.Former Man Utd star slams Rashford and says he should move to MLS “If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse.”I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.”When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me.”Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by LaLiga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert. Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time.Amorim bears no ill will towards Rashford but believes his stunning interview was ill-advised.He told Sky Sports: “It is a hard situation.”I understand these players have a lot of people around them, making choices that are not the first idea from the player. “They chose to do the interview as it is not just Marcus.”The Portuguese added: “At the moment I’m focused on improving Marcus.”We need a talented guy like Marcus. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I forget the interview now and see what I see on the pitch.”United will be back in action on Sunday, travelling to the Emirates to take on Arsenal in their FA Cup third-round clash. More

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    Diogo Dalot reveals what motivated Man Utd flops to stand up and be counted in thrilling Anfield clash against Liverpool

    RUBEN AMORIM’S moaning about Manchester United being ‘starved of leaders’ spurred senior players to step up at Anfield.The new Red Devils head coach called on his experienced stars to stand up and be counted in their hour of need.Ruben Amorim found that Man Utd were ‘starved of leaders’Credit: GettyDiogo Dalot has revealed that Amorim’s harsh words spurred a reaction from the squadCredit: GettyAnd that sparked a response on Sunday as United earned a deserved 2-2 draw against the runaway Premier League leaders — and could have had more.Diogo Dalot was their stand-out performer on Merseyside and said Amorim’s words hit home.The Portugal star, 25, said: “It pinched me. I think that’s what he wanted for every player.“I’ve been here a while. I know I can step up more as well and I’m going to try to help my team-mates.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“On and off the pitch I’ll try to help them.“You saw that we were more of a team. That was the biggest difference.”Amorim felt his team’s slump — which saw them lose four games in a row either side of Christmas — was due to a lack of time on the training pitch.Having taken over in mid- November, he faced matches in all the midweeks so wanted to make the most of a six-day break before facing Liverpool.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDalot, who shone at left wing-back, believes that was crucial in  getting United’s squad  “on the same page” as their new boss.The defender, a £19million buy from Porto in 2018, added: “We  had  time to get to know  what the manager wants us to do.Man Utd’s mentality praised by Amorim after draw with Liverpool “It’s time on the pitch, knowing what everybody wants to do.“It put everybody a bit more on the same page. We showed we can be a really good team.“It’s trusting ourselves that everybody will be in the right position in every aspect of the game, in every inch of the pitch. So I think that’s it. “When you have time to know what to do, it becomes more natural. And at Liverpool, you saw the structure was more compact.”United have another blank week to prepare for Sunday’s FA Cup third-round trip to Arsenal — and they will need to make the most of it.Midweek fixtures will come thick and fast again after that, starting against basement boys Southampton at Old Trafford next Thursday.Lisandro Martinez, who netted a stunning opener on Sunday, says United showed what they are capable of by winning 2-1 at Manchester City in mid- December and then earning this draw at Anfield.But the Argentine defender, 26,  warned his team-mates they must now build on it.He said: “We showed against City and Liverpool we have the right players but have to believe.READ MORE SUN STORIES“A few matches ago we were thinking too much and played with  restraint. Now we have to play with more personality.“I believe a lot in this team. If you see the Liverpool game,  compared to the last few games, it’s a completely different team.”Man Utd player ratings vs Liverpool By Gary Stonehouse Andre Onana – 7Saved well from Alexis Mac Allister early on and looked strong on set-pieces – could do nothing about either goal and almost stopped Mo Salah’s penalty.Another two saves right at the death helped his men earn a point.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Strong performance to help frustrate Liverpool and produced important interceptions and tackles to clear danger.Matthijs de Ligt – 7The Dutchman was another impressive member of the back three and seemed on a mission not to leave Anfield without a share of the spoils.Harry Maguire – 7Marshalled the defence well and won several big tackles and clearances.Had his day spoiled by a yellow card for what looked to a be another great challenge and then blazed over right at the death.Lisandro Martinez – 7Excellent alongside the rest of the back three and finished his strike like a seasoned striker.Diogo Dalot – 7Played on the front foot and was an attacking threat throughout but landed himself a booking for a needless and blatant foul on Mo Salah.Kobbie Mainoo – 7Great defensive and compact display as he got the better of his England rival Curtis Jones in front of Thomas Tuchel.Was only taken off after United fell behind as his manager went more offensive. Manuel Ugarte – 6Just got caught out of position and was punished for Cody Gakpo’s goal, which marred an otherwise hard-fought and disciplined display.Amad Diallo – 7Turning into a man capable of producing big moments after another crucial strike. Had messed up twice in two earlier attacks but took his goal superbly.Bruno Fernandes – 8The skipper was on top form for the Red Devils both defensively and with the ball. Led his team well and fully deserved at least a point.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Came underfire for slack marking from Fernandes early doors then blew a big chance after beating the offside trap – a chance you NEED to take at Anfield.Struggled to make much of an impact with the ball. More