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      Man Utd staring at £100m black hole after season of hell as they face selling off best stars and being stuck with flops

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      MANCHESTER United are staring at a £100million-plus black hole as the cost of their season of Hell is laid bare.Boss Ruben Amorim was left powerless as his side crashed out of the FA Cup in Sunday’s penalty shoot-out defeat by Fulham.Ruben Amorim faces a make-or-break tie with Real Sociedad later this weekCredit: PAThe form of Rasmus Hojlund is a huge concern to the Man Utd bossCredit: ReutersAmorim could be forced into selling his young stars in the summer to meet PSR rulesCredit: AlamyWith United currently on course for their all-time worst PL finish, their only chance of salvation is from the Europa League.United travel to Spain to face Real Sociedad in the first leg of the last 16 on Thursday, aiming to give Amorim, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos and the increasingly unhappy fans something positive to work with.But failure to emerge through three knock-out rounds and lift the trophy in Bilbao on May 21 will have a dramatic effect on Amorim’s summer funds and potential spending plans.Qualification for the Champions League would be worth around £50m for United without kicking a ball, with a further £30m in bonus and prize money for reaching the last 16.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat does not take into account around £25m in gate receipts from four home games in the league phase and one knock-out tie.United’s new kit sponsorship deal with Adidas includes a £10m penalty clause for each season they are not in the Champions League.And with United currently 14th, they are on course to drop another £31m from the amount they would have earned from the Prem by making the top four.It all adds up to a huge headache for Amorim and the club – which has already announced that ticket price increases and a major cost-cutting programme is required as the Old Trafford hierarchy conjure with looming Profitability and Sustainability Rules issues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe confirmation from Prem chiefs that PSR will still apply next season, with clubs only allowed to make “permitted losses” of £105m over three years, will plunge United into further financial concerns.But PSR requirements and the impact of this season’s failures on the club’s income stream may now force Amorim to sell the family silver in this summer’s transfer market – and prevent him getting rid of some of the under-achieving players.Joshua Zirkzee breaks down in tears and is consoled by Man Utd and Fulham stars after penalty shootout missDanish striker Rasmus Hojlund endured another horror outing against Fulham, having just nine touches and completing a mere two passes in his 68 minutes on the pitch.Hojlund has scored just twice in the Prem this season and has only five top-flight goals in 32 appearances over the past 12 months.United paid Atalanta an up-front £64m – potentially rising to £72m – two years ago, with the striker signing a five-year deal.Man Utd ratings vs FulhamMANCHESTER UNITED crashed out the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham.Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee had poor spot-kicks saved as the Red Devils slipped to their sixth home defeat under Ruben Amorim.Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked corner.Antonee Robinson darted to the near post and flicked it onto Calvin Bassey who directed his header into the bottom corner brilliantly.Just as United’s frustrations were brewing, Bruno Fernandes was the saviour yet again.He picked up Diogo Dalot’s perfect cut back and fired it beyond the stretch of Bernd Leno.United had chances towards the end of the second-half, with subs Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi unable to finish.There was nothing to separate the sides in extra-time and penalties were needed.Despite well-taken kicks from Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Casemiro, Lindelof and Zirkzee woefully fired directly at Fulham hero Leno.But which Man Utd players could hold their heads up and which flopped?Here, SunSport’s Ken Lawrence reveals his player ratings.That means he has an “amortisation” cost of £38.4m – the transfer sale value below which it would NEGATIVELY impact United’s finances – at the end of the season. United also need to get in £34.4m for Brazilian flop Antony – currently on loan at Real Betis – or £29.2m for struggling Joshua Zirkzee to start to “make” money on a sale. By contrast, any funds raised by selling on-loan Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho or skipper Bruno Fernandes could be calculated at the full value of the deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd that financial reality is one that could lead to big decisions being made if Ratcliffe and Ineos are prepared to build a squad designed to play in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.It all adds up to a major nightmare off the pitch in addition to the clear problems facing United on it. More

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      ‘They had problems’ – Gary Lineker blames Sir Alex Ferguson for Man Utd’s decline as he points to ‘state’ club left in

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      GARY LINEKER believes Manchester United’s current struggles can be traced back to Sir Alex Ferguson. The Red Devils crashed out of the FA Cup on Sunday following a penalty shootout defeat to Fulham.Gary Lineker has given his thoughts on the current stage of Manchester UnitedCredit: ReutersThe FA Cup holders crashed out following a penalty shootout loss to FulhamCredit: PALineker believes Sir Alex Ferguson left the club in a “state” when he quit in 2013Credit: ReutersCurrent boss Ruben Amorim has been backed by ex-United striker Wayne RooneyCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim’s men are enduring a disastrous season, currently languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League. Off the field, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been criticised for a swathe of redundancies and cost-cutting measures.Following Sunday’s defeat at Old Trafford, BBC pundit and ex-England striker Lineker discussed United’s plight. And he believes the structure left in place when Ferguson left the club in 2013 was not adequate. READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “If you look at Liverpool now, they’ve got a new manager in Arne Slot, and it’s testament to how Jurgen Klopp left the club in a really good state.”So the structure is really good. That probably wasn’t the case at the end of Sir Alex Ferguson’s [time at Old Trafford].”Ferguson won the Prem a record 13 times with United, including in 2012/13 despite an ageing squad. Lineker continued: “I know they won the league that season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”But it wasn’t their best side, and a lot of their great players were coming to the end of their careers. “I think from there they had problems. The academy wasn’t delivering the players that they were before.”Wayne Rooney puffs out cheeks after ‘easy’ question live on BBC ahead of Man Utd’s FA Cup clash vs FulhamLineker was joined on the panel at Old Trafford by Wayne Rooney, Danny Murphy and Micah Richards.And former United striker Rooney admitted the club no longer have the pulling power that tempted him from Everton as a teenager in 2004.The 39-year-old said: “You need to be in a stable position to bring the best players in.”If I’m a player playing in a different country or a different club, Man United come to me, and I’m looking thinking, ‘You know, I’m not sure’. “The top players want Champions League football. And unfortunately, that’s not where the club is.”Man Utd ratings vs FulhamMANCHESTER UNITED crashed out the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham.Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee had poor spot-kicks saved as the Red Devils slipped to their sixth home defeat under Ruben Amorim.Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked corner.Antonee Robinson darted to the near post and flicked it onto Calvin Bassey who directed his header into the bottom corner brilliantly.Just as United’s frustrations were brewing, Bruno Fernandes was the saviour yet again.He picked up Diogo Dalot’s perfect cut back and fired it beyond the stretch of Bernd Leno.United had chances towards the end of the second-half, with subs Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi unable to finish.There was nothing to separate the sides in extra-time and penalties were needed.Despite well-taken kicks from Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Casemiro, Lindelof and Zirkzee woefully fired directly at Fulham hero Leno.But which Man Utd players could hold their heads up and which flopped?Here, SunSport’s Ken Lawrence reveals his player ratings.Despite United’s turmoil, Roo believes Amorim can be the man to turn things around – but admits challenging for a title is a long way off.He added: I do think [Amorim] will get [time]. “It’s not a free hit because I think you’d expect a bit more from Manchester United than what we’re seeing since he’s been in.”It’s very difficult to come in during the season and not have the pre-season to implement his plans with the team. “He has to look to the future moving forward.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He says [he wants to] win the Premier League but how can they compete to get a bit further up the table, I think that’s the next step for them.”I think it’s a little bit naive to say ‘We’re looking to win the Premier League’ because, from where they are now, they’re a long way off that.” More

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      ‘That’s why I’m the manager’ – Ruben Amorim hits back at Wayne Rooney as Man Utd boss aims to win Premier League

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      RUBEN AMORIM hit back at Wayne Rooney for branding his Prem title ambitions as ‘naive’.Fulham dumped out FA Cup holders Manchester United as keeper Bernd Leno saved penalties from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee in a shootout.Ruben Amorim believes it’s never too early to mention his title dreamCredit: PAEx-Man Utd striker Wayne Rooney fears stars might be reluctant to join Man Utd because they want Champions League footballCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCMOTDFulham relished their FA Cup shootout victory over the Red Devils at Old Trafford, with a quarter-final against Crystal Palace the rewardCredit: PABut United boss Amorim says his real goal is to become league champions.The Red Devils’ 253-goal top scorer Rooney, who turns 40 in October, claims that will not happen until top players want to sign for the club.In a dig at Rooney, who was axed as Plymouth boss in December, Amorim blasted: “I’m not naive. We know we are in a difficult time.” I knew that before I came and I know that now – maybe that’s why I am the manager of Manchester United at 40 years of age.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS“It’s really easy to be a pundit. I was a pundit for a time in Portugal and I know it’s easy and everybody knows everything.“Winning the league again at this club is the goal.“Being ‘naive’ is thinking we are going to do it this season or being the best contender next season.”Amorim’s blast at Rooney is the second time in three days that he has called out a club icon.Most read in FootballThe next three matches might be especially crucial to the mood around the clubBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe Portuguese bit back at Roy Keane on Friday over the former Red Devils skipper’s criticism of current captain Bruno Fernandes, saying “my opinion is more important”.TV pundit Rooney took aim at Amorim for earlier saying in a post-match ITV interview that “the goal is to win the Premier League”.Joshua Zirkzee breaks down in tears and is consoled by Man Utd and Fulham stars after penalty shootout missRooney said: “It’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now, they’re a long way off that.“If I’m a player at a different club and Manchester United try to sign me, I’m thinking ‘I’m not sure’. The top players want Champions League.“United were in transition when I signed and a big reason I signed was Sir Alex Ferguson because you knew he’d get it right and build that team again. It’s hard to see that now.”Amorim was appointed United boss on November 1 after Erik ten Hag was sacked — five months after the Dutchman won the FA Cup.The former Sporting Lisbon manager has lost ten of 24 matches across all competitions since taking over. Ten Hag took 55 matches to lose ten games.This defeat — earning Fulham a home quarter-final with Crystal Palace — came in a shootout after Fernandes levelled Calvin Bassey’s opener.Rooney added: “He’ll get time but it’s not a free hit and managers aren’t getting that time over the last ten to 15 years.“You have to be selfish as a manager and say ‘okay, if I don’t do it now I might not get that time’.Amorim says he always knew bossing the Red Devils would be ‘difficult’Credit: Rex“There has been a slow decline of the club. They need to get some consistency and then they will move forward.”Fernandes suggested his team were not fit enough to see off Fulham in extra-time.He said: “We were out of legs and we couldn’t keep the ball. It’s just tiredness.“It’s very disappointing. We’ve been struggling in the Premier League so this was one of our aims, getting to Wembley again like last season and two seasons before.“Fulham were more relaxed on the ball with more patience.”Fulham have never won a major trophy but qualified for the quarter-finals for the second season in three.Boss Marco Silva said: “We were brave and we were the better team.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It was a moment for Bernd Leno to show that he is one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.“We really want to get to Wembley this time – this competition is so important to this club.”Amorim must lift Joshua Zirkzee & Co after penalties woeCredit: PA More

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      Wayne Rooney puffs out cheeks at ‘easy’ question live on BBC ahead of Man Utd’s FA Cup clash vs Fulham

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      IT’S the question all Manchester United fans are asking.And when Gary Lineker put it to Wayne Rooney live on BBC before the FA Cup tie with Fulham, the United legend needed a deep intake of breath.Former Man Utd striker Wayne Rooney might have guessed the question was coming but still found it difficultCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCMOTDRooney’s face said it all when asked about Ruben AmorimCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCMOTDMatch of the Day host Lineker turned to the pundit and said: “Nice easy question for you. What have you made of Ruben Amorim’s tenure so far?”Rooney puffed out his cheeks as he prepared to reply – four months after Amorim was appointed boss and with United now 14th in the Prem.Ex-England skipper Roo raised an eyebrow and smiled as he joked: “Good, easy one!”The ex-Everton striker, who was sacked as Plymouth manager in December, added: “It’s been a difficult start of course with results.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”But I think we’ve seen what he’s trying to do, with players going out on loan, and I think there’s a lot of players who need to leave the football club and I think he’s slowly trying to do that.”Really think his time will start next season.”Rooney also argued: “I think they have to find a way to get through this season. “I think the FA Cup there is still a chance of going and trying to win a trophy.Most read in FA CupRuben Amorim saw United fall behind on Sunday vs FulhamCredit: GettyBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”But I think there’s big changes at Manchester United on and off the pitch.”I think from next season we’ll start seeing the real change.”Ruben Amorim hits back at Roy Keane after Man Utd legend’s explosive Bruno Fernandes rant Less than an hour later, Rooney was contemplating another awkward situation.Calvin Bassey nodded the only goal of the first half for Fulham in stoppage time at Old Trafford.And yet again it came from woeful United defending.Rooney called that opening period of Sunday’s fifth-round clash a “tough watch”.He claimed there were stars “playing in the wrong positions” – labelling that a key problem for Amorim to solve in the summer transfer window. More

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      Scott McTominay is perfect solution to Man Utd’s midfield dilemma – he dominates rivals, works hard and scores goals

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      SCOTT McTominay is the perfect man to solve Manchester United’s midfield dilemma – if only they hadn’t sold him last summer.None of Ruben Amorim’s current midfielders fit his profile or provide goals (except Bruno Fernandes) and can offer something at both ends of the pitch.Scott McTominay has excelled at NapoliCredit: ReutersMcTominay left Man United for Serie A side Napoli for £30million in the summer, and the transfer split the fanbase.Some fans felt that McTominay was short of the level required at the club.Others, however, were adamant that his blend of physicality and aggression in the central areas were just what the current squad was missing.With the benefit of hindsight, the latter group of fans look to have won the argument.read more in footballNapoli has become home to McTominay, and the fans love him.Napoli sit second in Serie A, one point behind leaders Inter Milan, and the midfielder has played 23 matches so far with six goals and three assists.Contrast this with the ongoing misery at United.Amorim is missing a player in the midfield with the profile of McTominay.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThey are missing his blend of power and aggression, and someone who is equally at home in the attacking or defensive roles.Here Chris Beaumont of We Scout Strikers explains why Man United are missing the Scottish international.Ability to drive through the midfieldAs a rule, Amorim’s midfielders do not typically take the responsibility to move through the zones while in possession of the ball.Ruben Amorim blames results on the pitch for Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal Man Utd cuts They are all neat and tidy technically, and Fernandes, when he gets on the ball in deeper positions, is an aggressive and progressive passer of the ball.But United are lacking a midfield player with the physical capacity to make repeated high-intensity runs through the thirds to link the defence and attack.This is one of McTominay’s biggest strengths, as he has shown so far during his time in Italy with Napoli.Indeed, there is an argument to be made that McTominay would be capable of playing either as one of the two deeper midfielders or as one of the two more advanced midfielders in Amorim’s system at Man United.Here, we see McTominay taking possession of the ball in deeper areas for Napoli. He moves into the final third before seeing the run of Romelu Lukaku ahead of him and playing through the last line.It is fair to say that McTominay is the kind of player who thrives on physical duels.He likes to take possession of the ball and drive forward into any space that the opposition are willing to give him.He is not a standout one-on-one attacker who uses deception and quick feet to outplay opposition defenders.But he does have the physical profile to be exceptionally dangerous once he begins to move with momentum.At the moment, Man Utd are missing a player who has the conditioning and capacity to be effective in both the defensive and attacking phases of the game.For as much as Amorim favours a structured midfield with two deeper players and two more advanced players, there is scope for players to be more fluid in moving towards those zones.This is where a more traditional box-to-box profile like McTominay would be helpful.McTominay takes the ball from just inside his own half and as the opposition backtrack he continues to take the space given to him before shooting from the edge of the areaEverything about the way that Man United play at the moment feels very structured.The would benefit from a player like McTominay who can inject some chaos to the game.McTominay can dominate duelsPart of what has made McTominay so effective since he moved to Napoli has been that his dominance in one-on-one duels, both defensive and attacking.He gives his team an effective platform that they can play into all over the pitch.Whether he is playing as a deeper or more advanced midfield player, his ability to receive the ball when under pressure and to shield the ball allows his team to move forward in a more secure manner.We often see McTominay in the opposition half in possession with multiple defenders around him.While he will never be the most silky smooth or technical of midfielders, he is effective at holding possession, and his physical attributes often allow him to play through pressure and get the ball to a teammate.This is another aspect of his profile that United are currently missing in midfield.McTominay takes the ball under intense pressure from opposition midfielders but because he can stay on the ball he then finds an angle to pass out from the pressure to find the free manMcTominay is so physically strong that he will often attract multiple defensive players over towards the ball as they look to regain possession.If he can then escape the press, he will create space that his teammates can look to exploit.Tactically, this means that Napoli often seem to have a spare man moving into space as they attack into the final third.This is also something that United are badly missing this season.They never seem to be able to create an overload in the attacking phase that they can exploit but having a physical player to hold the ball and bring others into the game would solve that issue.At the moment Man United would benefit from having one of their midfielders who could get on the ball and hold possession before bringing others into the game.Again, there are multiple opposition players looking to engage and close down McTominay as he is in possession of the ballGoalscoring threatMcTominay has developed into something of an underrated player in front of goal as his career has progressed.With his size and frame, he is a threat from set pieces in the area, but he is also underrated with his movement and the timing of his runs from deep.Often, he attacks space with late runs from outside the area, and he can shoot with accuracy and power when coming onto the ball in advanced areas of the pitch.While this has been a notable boost for Napoli this season, his goal contributions are one reason that the club’s fans have so quickly taken to the Scottish midfielder.This has been something that United have lacked from those who play in the deeper midfield positions.McTominay routinely makes good runs to support the attack from deeper positions. He occupies space around the edges of the area and when the ball is cut back into his path he is a dangerous finisher.It would be fair to say that McTominay is not the most natural or clean of finishers but there is no doubting the fact that he is effective in front of goal.He can finish off either foot or with his head and he is dangerous when attacking in transition.All of these are aspects of the game that United are currently severely lacking.There is a real argument that they would have been better served keeping the Scottish international in their midfield.At the moment, Man United are getting goals mainly from the likes of Amad Diallo or Bruno Fernandes, producing some magic.There is no doubt that a midfield player who is so powerful and effective in front of goal like McTominay would have brought something to Amorim’s team.McTominay makes a forward run to get beyond the striker and to get into a more central position. As he receives the pass he can drive through the last line and he goes on to finish the chanceConclusionThe decision to allow Scott McTominay to leave United in the summer is looking more and more like a poor one.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile the deal was beneficial as McTominay was an academy product who represented pure profit his profile is one that United appears to be missing.As the season progresses, his power and ability to affect the game centrally could have brought real value to Amorim’s United squad. More

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      Ruben Amorim ready to get ‘ruthless’ with Man Utd stars ‘harming the team’ as five in danger of axe

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      RUBEN AMORIM is ready to get ruthless in his efforts to make struggling Manchester United a major force once again.The Portuguese boss insists he will be brutally honest with those axed.Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim is about to get ruthless at Old TraffordCredit: ReutersCasemiro is one of the high-paid stars that could be facing the chopCredit: ALAMYUnited would love to get Casemiro’s huge wages off the books, sell loaned out Marcus Rashford and Antony for the right price, while even misfiring duo Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee could go.And Amorim, 40, insists he does not flex his muscles for the sake of it — but no one will doubt his ruthless streak when they see it.Ahead of hosting Fulham in the FA Cup, he said: “I don’t like to be like that just to show strength.“If the team is trying, and I understand that they are trying but they cannot do it, I am not ruthless.Read more Man Utd news“But when I feel that it is something which is going to harm the team, then I am quite ruthless.“Everybody understands that in football sometimes you stay, sometimes you have to move on.“If I know how to explain it, I will do so because I like to be clear.“I was a player and like to use that experience — when you are honest with someone, they can take it.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“In the beginning maybe it is hard but they will understand.“I’m quite honest with my players and sometimes they know they have to move on at the end of the season.Ruben Amorim hits back at Roy Keane after Man Utd legend’s explosive Bruno Fernandes rant “We can talk about that in the end — now there are still a lot of games to play. But that is clear and not a difficult situation.”Amorim’s first 16 Premier League games have yielded just five wins – and a whopping eight defeats.He also set the record for the fewest number of matches to reach five home Prem losses in United history after just seven – half the previous record of 14 set by David Moyes.Amorim knows it has not been good enough.Misfiring Rasmus Hojlund is not safe from the Old Trafford axeCredit: ALAMYWhile Joshua Zirkzee could also be deemed surplus to requirementsCredit: ALAMYBut despite the struggling start to life at Old Trafford and poor results so far, he still has the backing of the majority of fans and former United players alike.Speaking to Rio Ferdinand with TNT Sports, Amorim said: “I feel that [people believing in me].”At the same time, I’m embarrassed by that because if you look at our performance and you see our team sometimes on the pitch, it’s really hard for me as a coach to take a lot of positives.” More

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      ‘Antony’s aura is enough’ – Fans stunned as Real Madrid’s title challenge derailed at Man Utd loanee’s Real Betis side

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      FANS have hailed Antony’s “aura” after Real Betis dented Real Madrid’s title hopes.The LaLiga hopefuls were beaten 2-1 at the Benito Villamarin and missed out on the chance to go top of the table.Antony played all 90 minutes against Real MadridCredit: APReal Madrid missed out on the chance to go top of LaLigaCredit: GettyIsco netted the winning goal from the spot for the hostsCredit: EPAAntony, 25, played the full 90 minutes for Betis as he continued his impressive run of form.The Manchester United winger did not score or assist but proved to be a constant thorn in the visitors’ side.Brahim Diaz did fire Carlo Ancelotti’s side into the lead in the tenth minute.However, Antony’s team-mates Johnny Cardoso and former Real star Isco turned the match on its head.READ MORE ON ANTONYCardoso scored the equaliser before Isco converted from the spot after Antonio Rudiger brought down Jesus Rodriguez in the box.But fans on social media are convinced that the result was down to the “aura” of Antony.One posted: “Antony’s aura is enough for a victory.”A second commented: “Antony’s impact is strong.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third wrote: “Antony aura it is.”A fourth said: “Hail Lord Antony.”Antony shows his excitement as he joins Real Betis Antony is enjoying playing for Manuel PellegriniCredit: EPAHe has already scored twice in LaLigaCredit: ReutersAnother added: “Let’s all laugh at United for loaning out Antony.”The result leaves Real tied on 54 points with leaders Barcelona but the Catalonians have a crucial game in hand.Antony joined Betis on loan until the end of the season from the Red Devils.He has already made a good impression in Spain with two goals and two assists in his first five outings in LaLiga.His appearance against Getafe was cut short after he was sent off.But the suspension was then overturned – allowing him to play against Real.Old Trafford bosses will be hoping his good form continues so he can be sold for a hefty fee in the summer.Antony has admitted that he has regained his “confidence” since moving to Spain.He has also insisted playing under Betis boss and former Man City and West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has helped him.He told Estadio Deportivo: “The most important thing to regain my confidence was to reconnect with myself.”I found myself here and that’s why I’m very happy at Betis. Every day I feel more secure.”Pellegrini is very important to me. Before signing with Betis, I spoke with him, and he gave me a lot of confidence.”His experience and history give me energy every day to do well.”When I made the decision to come here, it was to find myself again, as I mentioned before.”There is always pressure, but the greatest pressure I felt was when I was living in the poor neighbourhoods of Brazil, thinking about my family and everything.”The club forked out an eye-watering £85.5million on the Brazilian back in the summer of 2023.Manager Ruben Amorim has been asked about the winger’s upturn in form since leaving Manchester.The Portuguese coach has insisted the different physicality level in Spain has helped Antony to shine.He told TNT Sports: “When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there.”If you don’t have physicality, you will struggle a lot.”Antony is so much better now in Spain. It’s [because of] a lot of factors but I guarantee you it’s physicality.”The former Ajax man has also revealed that he is “happy” in Betis but has remained coy on his future.Antony has been tipped to make a permanent exit from Old Trafford in the summer, but he is remaining tight-lipped on his future.He said: “I’m very happy here, but I don’t know what will happen in the future.”I always say that I enjoy every day with the club, the city and everything that surrounds me, and I give my best for the team.”It’s still too early to talk about my future.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I know how much money they paid for me.”I worked and continue to work hard to perform at the highest level, but I don’t focus on transfer prices, neither mine nor any other player’s.”Ruben Amorim has addressed Antony’s success since leaving on loanCredit: GettyHe is not concerned with his price tagCredit: Getty More

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      ‘Still a baller’ – Marcus Rashford equals Man Utd feat in 420 fewer games for Aston Villa as renaissance continues

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      FANS say an amazing stat shows Marcus Rashford has “turned into Pirlo”.The loanee created SIX chances for Aston Villa against Cardiff – equalling his highest tally in 426 matches for parent club Manchester United.Marcus Rashford has impressed in his first few weeks at VillaCredit: GettyThe striker was virtually frozen out at Old TraffordCredit: GettyThe England forward, 27, fell out of favour under Ruben Amorim at home-town club United this season.But since his February switch, fans reckon he’s transformed from rudderless Red Devil to venomous Villain in just six games.Rashford bagged 138 goals and 63 assists in nine years at Old Trafford.And in his month with Villa he’s notched three assists from just 285 minutes of action.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIndeed he teed up the first of two goals for fellow temporary signing Marco Asensio as Cardiff were KO’d 2-0 in the FA Cup on Friday.Fans then reacted with awe after learning the Mancunian had matched his career-best achievement of supplying half a dozen scoring opportunities in one game.One observer called it a “brutal stat” and added: “Rashford’s been having a nightmare season but this really puts into perspective how badly things have gone for him at United before he joined Aston Villa.”Another pointed out: “Rashford is still a baller.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd a third made a reference to an Italian pass master that even the 60-cap ace himself might never have imagined.The fan wrote: “Bro turned Pirlo overnight creating chances here and there…”Awkward moment Aston Villa keeper refuses to move out of net and let kids take penalties at half-time of Crystal Palace clash A fourth admirer insisted: “He’s on fire.”And as Rashford stews over his long-term future, another supporter urged him: “Cook Rash Cook.”SunSport revealed last month he has not written off his dream of joining Barcelona.But the Spanish giants’ sporting director Deco dented that hope by insisting Barca were not “desperate” to sign him. More