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      Rio Ferdinand slams Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag for ‘confusing’ Marcus Rashford with shock decision

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      RIO FERDINAND has criticised Erik ten Hag for “confusing” Marcus Rashford.After the Manchester United boss benched Rashford against Crystal Palace – just when the 26-year-old was starting to find some form again.Rio Ferdinand has called out Ten Hag for confusing RashfordMarcus Rashford was benched for United’s trip to Crystal PalaceBut Erik Ten Hag got United playing well at PalaceRashford has endured a difficult period at Old Trafford but found the back of the net for the first time in since March in United’s 3-0 win at Southampton.He then bagged a brace as United thumped Barnsley 7-0 in the midweek Carabao Cup clash, with many believing the forward had been reignited. But Rashford was subsequently left out of United’s starting XI for their 0-0 trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday, with Alejandro Garnacho instead getting a start.When quizzed before the game Ten Hag insisted the decision was just to “rotate” his players.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut club legend Ferdinand was baffled by the decision and accused Ten Hag of confusing Rashford by naming him among the subs.On Rio Ferdinand Presents, he said: “Talking of rotation, following the game against Palace.”United are third in terms of xG, only bettered by Man City and Liverpool. So they’re creating the chances but not scoring the goals. “When you’ve got a man in form like Marcus Rashford, who’s coming into a bit of form and momentum which is key for any player and their confidence, I’m thinking is it the right time now to rotate?Most read in FootballRashford looked on from the bench as United missed glorious first half chancesHe was introduced for Joshua Zirkzee in the 61st minuteIt’s the first time Rashford has been benched since last seasonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”We’re creating chances and you take out the guy who is actually starting to score. I just look at that and think, wow.”It was pleasing to see the manager come out and say it was rotation, nothing else, because there was some murmurings around it.”Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to replace Old Trafford with a ‘Wembley of the North’He added: “But Marcus Rashford man, I think he will be sitting there thinking ‘I’ve just hit a bit of form and they’ve taken me out.’ That confuses me, it’s confusing.”But then again Garnacho has been one of the most productive players and has been causing havoc. And Amad Diallo is playing well. So it’s a hard one.”Rashford, who was linked with a move away during the summer, was introduced in the 61st minute after United dominated Palace early on by couldn’t score.Before kick-off Ten Hag said: “It is not a difficult decision, we have to rotate. We have so many games.”We also have to give Garnacho games. He has so many goals and assists off the bench, but only has one start this season.”The Dutchman also hit out at Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp post-match for assuming “obviously something’s happened”.Ten Hag said: “I heard already speculation from some pundits. That is crazy.“I would almost say that, as a person, you are not OK when you bring such speculation if you don’t know. This has nothing to do with it.“I’m very happy with Marcus, with everything.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe pair fell out last term over mid-season partying incidents, one of which caused Rashford to ring in sick and miss training before an FA Cup tie.United are back in action against Dutch outfit Twente at Old Trafford in the Europa League on Wednesday.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal 250-man axe list includes Man Utd-mad comms officer, club historian & kit man of 40 years

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      IT all got a bit emotional down at Carrington last week.While there is talk about a reboot of Manchester United under Sir Jim Ratcliffe there are things going on behind the scenes which are genuinely affecting morale.Mann Utd comms officer John Allen got a shirt and a goodbye speech from Erik ten Hag but just wanted to stay at the club he lovesCredit: SuppliedUnited’s minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is making brutal decisionsCredit: GettyStaff are being fired left, right and centre, 250 of them.It has been talked about in this column before but it deserves a revisit following the exit of a good guy called John Allen from the communications team.John is 40 and has worked for United for 25 years, starting in the ticket office before moving into the media department in 2011.He is United through and through. Something he inadvertently showed when he amusingly failed to keep his emotions in check after the Red Devils completed a 3-2 derby day comeback from 2-0 down at the Etihad in April 2018.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe press seats are just behind City fans and they were less than impressed with his reaction to Chris Smalling’s winner as he let out a cheer.Still, that is John.So on Thursday,  at his last press conference, he was understandably struggling to keep his emotions in check for a very different reason as he said goodbye.Manager Erik ten Hag gave him a team shirt with the No 25 on the back representing his years at the club and made a little speech thanking him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “John, 25 years is a very long time. You are proud of this club and proud that you worked here. You feel so connected with this club. It is a difficult moment to say goodbye.“I know you as a good colleague and a very good support for me.“I wish you all the best for what is coming, it will be great for you because you are so competent.Inside Man Utd’s wild two-day bender after winning Champions League as Paul Scholes admits he didn’t sleep for 48 hours“I wish you all the best in your work but also for your family, too.”The regular United press pack also gave him a present. It all had the air of a happy retirement but it wasn’t, this bloke was getting the shove and he didn’t want to go.Pausing to hold back the tears, John said: “It has been the biggest honour coming from Manchester to work with all these managers.“This is my club and to be able to do this, I am very lucky.”John doesn’t know why he has to leave, he is just one of those 250 Ratcliffe’s new broom is sweeping out to trim the wage bill.Also out this week was club historian Cliff Butler after 40 years working at United and Alex Wylie after the same time as kitman.Emotional goodbyes are being replicated all over the club while other members of staff are having their workloads, in some cases, doubled.That’s business, the new minority shareholder might say.But these are people’s lives.What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. Ed Woodward, right, was seen as the Glazers’ man but wanted the bestCredit: AFPWith all the money that swills around football it all seems a drop in the ocean compared to the size of players’ contracts. But it is a drop which is continuing to have serious ripples.How can you aim to be the biggest and the best again when so many corners are now being cut?The man who used to run the club, Ed Woodward, came in for plenty of stick as he was seen as the Glazers’ man.But members of staff were well looked after under him. It may have been seen as largesse but it was Manchester United and he wanted everything to be the best.It was why so much money was spent on the pitch as well, not always on the best recruits in what was seen as a scattergun approach.Still, they showed the world they remained a major name.Of course the new financial rules are restricting everyone and things have to change.READ MORE SUN STORIESI’m not sure John’s departure was necessary in the grand scheme of things.And that can be said for plenty more at the self-proclaimed ‘biggest club in the world’.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      I was dubbed Man Utd’s ‘secret weapon’ under Solskjaer and Ten Hag… now I’m 4,000 miles away in crazy new job

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      IMAGINE being a history-making coach on the way up at Manchester United – then deciding the job wasn’t “crazy” enough for you.That was pretty much the dilemma facing a multi-lingual master tactician – labelled an Old Trafford “secret weapon” for his set-piece planning.Eric Ramsay rejected Championship sides then switched to MinnesotaCredit: GettyRamsay left Man Utd for the MLS in FebruaryCredit: ReutersHe explained the strain facing Erik ten Hag and ex-Man Utd bossesCredit: AlamyEric Ramsay now 33, was also the youngest ever Brit to get the Uefa Pro Licence – all of five years ago.He was as highly valued by Red Devils’ boss Erik ten Hag as he was by the Dutchman’s predecessors Ole Gunner Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.Ramsay, however, craved to be the main man himself.Such offers arrived from the Championship – reportedly Barnsley, Blackpool and Swansea.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut the former Wales assistant coach instead opted to take over Major League Soccer club Minnesota United in February this year.Ramsay has now explained why he believes it’s the perfect fit – despite some bizarre regulations – along with praising United’s recent procession of under-fire managers.He told The Times: “I don’t think you can really grasp that until you’re inside a club like that, the level of pressure that brings.”Turning to Solskjaer, Rangnick and Ten Hag, he added: “I’ve really learnt across all three of them.Most read in FootballHe spent three years coaching at Old TraffordCredit: PAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“The reason these guys get to this level is real conviction in their ideas, they are incredibly good communicators, very comfortable being guys at the front of organisations with millions of eyes turned their way all the time.”I think that takes real weight, real strength and an absolutely unwavering conviction.”Fans all spot Wright’s reaction to Hart screaming in his face after Man City goal against Arsenal But if the strain of Old Trafford is intense, Ramsay revealed “really crazy stuff” in the MLS.Teams play on through international breaks, even though academy players not on the “main roster” can only play TWICE for the senior side.Ramsay said: “In England, if you had an injury crisis over a prolonged period, you’d be able to draw upon your best under-23 players. “Here, that can only happen up to two games because the players’ union feels like it’s exploitative to not give the player a first-team contract but for him to be playing for next to no money.”That issue, however, is only the start.Ramsay added: “The travel is lengthy. Every away game is a chartered flight and you’re often going to somewhere like Colorado where you’ve got a unique climate issue to deal with — you’re playing at altitude. “We really suffered there. It was far more marked than I’d expect it to be in terms of how it influenced the performance.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer rated Ramsay highly“Everybody’s exact salary is well known… designated players can be paid beyond the salary cap and everybody else at a rate relative to their position in the squad.“It’s for all this that I wanted to come. I knew it would be a real challenge. “It would be something very different to going into the Championship in England as a head coach for your first role.”Minnesota are still challenging for a Western Conference play-off spot – after Ramsay’s instant success was followed by a poor run and then a revival.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut asked if he eventually expected to return to Britain, he replied: “Of course”.For now, though, he is “just taking it (the MLS) for what it is and enjoying it in its entirety”.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      Watch shocking moment ex-Man Utd star ‘almost sparks riot’ as he’s held back during wild argument with home fan

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      FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper Sergio Romero had to be restrained by club officials after he lost his temper with a fan.Romero confronted a Boca Juniors supporter in the aftermath of his side’s 1-0 defeat to bitter rivals River Plate in the Superclasico – Argentina’s biggest domestic clash.Former United keeper Sergio Romero had it out with a fan from his own teamThe goalkeeper had to be restrained by officials and team-matesThe confrontation almost sparked a mass brawl inside the The BomboneraFormer West Ham star Manuel Lanzini scored the only goal of the game in 20th minute and it ended with nine yellow cards across both sides.Boca’s 97th minute equaliser was cancelled out after VAR concluded the ball touched Milton Gimenez’s hand before crossing the line.As a result of the disallowed goal, chaos ensued with defender Cristian Lema sent off for his protests towards referee Nicolas Ramirez.But things really started to boil over after the full-time whistle was blown.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOne supporter in particular vented his frustrations toward Romero, who did not take the abuse lightly.The fan put his left hand on Romero’s chest as the 37-year-old lent over the fence and squared up him with spectators pulling them apart.And Romero had to be held back by a combination of Boca officials, fans and his fellow team-mates.Team-mate Leandro Brey eventually managed to pull Romero away as fans continued to hurl abuse at the team and missiles in his direction.Most read in FootballRomero spent six years at United, winning four major trophiesRomero apologised after retiring to the dressing room, telling a local broadcaster: “When the fan insulted me, I couldn’t think anymore and I lost my composure.”He cursed me so hard that I just snapped. I lost my cool and went back to confront him. Huge European derby descends into chaos with on-pitch RIOTS and fireworks hurled into stands”I sincerely apologise to that fan for my reaction, as it is only fair.”Romero was not the only United connection in the Boca Juniors side, with Edinson Cavani and Marcos Rojo also in the starting XI.The loss was Boca’s fourth of the season and left them in 11th place in the Argentinian Primera Division.Romero played the role of the back-up keeper behind David de Gea at United for six years between 2015-21, making 61 appearances.But he left after growing tired with a lack of first-team opportunities.He is the most capped goalkeeper in the history of the Argentina national team, playing over 90 times since his debut in 2009.Romero played back-up to David de Gea at United More

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      Former Man Utd star Scott McTominay ‘under observation’ over his diet after Napoli transfer

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      FORMER Manchester United star Scott McTominay is “under observation” over his diet at Napoli, according to reports in Italy.The 26-year-old midfielder left Old Trafford after 22 years to join the Serie A side for £25m this summer.Napoli are closely monitoring Scott McTominay’s dietThe Scot joined from Manchester United this summerNapoli have pledged to take extra care of McTominay’s nutrition, according to Italian news outlet Il Mattino.The reports states that boss Antonio Conte has specific staff to monitor the diet of certain players.And McTominay, who was among the fittest at United, has received special attention after arriving last month.Napoli want to make sure that he avoids the temptations of the Neapolitan culinary luxuries including pizza, pasta and dairy.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMcTominay left Carrington in tip-top shape and regularly shared pictures of his ripped abs on Instagram.He often placed high in United’s fittest tests and worked out in special pre-season training camps after Euro 2024.Former United team-mate and current Fulham star Andreas Pereira even coined a brilliant nickname for him – “The McTerminator”.McTominay impressed in his full debut in a goalless against Juventus, with Napoli sitting second in the Serie A.Most read in FootballMcTominay trained hard over the summerHe regularly posted pictures of his ripped physique on InstagramHe even posed with his eight-pack alongside a pal after CovidFans noted that the Scotland international put in a typically determined and hardworking performance.While media outlet Calcio Mercato wrote he was Napoli’s “next idol”, comparing him to the likes of Diego Maradona and Edinson Cavani.Man Utd fans sob ‘don’t make me cry’ as Scott McTominay gets emotional after he’s given parting gift by supporterHe scored ten goals for United in his final season with his boyhood club, with seven of them coming at crucial times in the Prem.Conte also brought in Billy Gilmour, Romelu Lukaku, David Neres and Leonardo Spinazzola.McTominay’s sale will go down as “pure profit” as he graduated from United’s academy in 2017, with Erik Ten Hag admitting he didn’t want to sell him.Manuel Ugarte the next Roy KeaneBy PHIL THOMASNEARLY two decades have passed since Roy Keane led Manchester United into battle for the final time.It left a gap in the engine room that the Red Devils have never really come close to filling in the 19 years that have followed.Many tried and some managed it in flashes and, although the trophies still rolled in for a time, there was no snarling, bring-it-on warrior prowling the midfield.Until now… until the imminent capture of a man who views a 50-50 challenge like a starving Labrador staring at a side of ham.For three months, United have licked their own lips at the prospect of a midfield marshalled by Uruguayan tough guy Manuel Ugarte.Finally, they have their man.Ugarte is pretty much a ball-winner pure and simple.Rarely will you see him pinging 40-yard passes to split a defence.But ending his days with half the reputation of Keane and a fraction of his silverware would still mean a hell of a career. More

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      Georgina Rodriguez says she was ‘so relieved’ Cristiano Ronaldo left Man Utd as she ‘really wanted to leave Manchester’

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      GEORGINA RODRIGUEZ admits she was “so relieved” Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United – for her sake as much as his.But the model also revealed early “ups and downs” in the couple’s life in Saudi Arabia – before the family moved into a mansion of their own.Georgina Rodriguez was ‘excited’ by their moveCredit: instagram @georginagioThe couple still get by OKCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9r-X6SNFff/?hl=en-gb&img_index=1The social media celebrity is a regular figure at the Cannes Film FestivalCredit: GettyRonaldo joined Al-Nassr in December 2022, soon after his Man Utd exitCredit: GettyPortugal icon Ronaldo’s second spell at United ended explosively in November 2022.The Portugal frontman, now 39, criticised Old Trafford manager Erik ten Hag in a tell-all interview with Piers Morgan.The Red Devils terminated his contract and he promptly joined Al-Nassr as the first and most famous mega-money mover to the Saudi Pro League.And in the third season of her Netflix show “I Am Georgina”, Rodriguez has opened up on the testing year back in EnglandREAD MORE TOP STORIESThe social media star, 30, said: “When Cris told me he was going to play for Al-Nassr, I was so relieved because I really wanted to leave Manchester.”I knew something big was waiting for us and we were highly motivated. I was very happy to come to Saudi Arabia.”But delight at such a radical new start was tempered by some of the sudden changes involved.The Spanish-Argentine influencer explained: “It all happened so quickly.Most read in FootballRonaldo’s second spell at Old Trafford ended in acrimonyCredit: PA”At the beginning, I had some ups and downs because we had never lived in a hotel for so long. “There were days when I didn’t want anyone to see me, but overall, I was very excited.”Moment naked couple pack on PDA sailing past Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina RodriguezThe family took up a suite across two floors at the Kingdom Tour, with the monthly bill for the 17-room entourage reportedly exceeding £250,000.But in February 2023 they swapped life in the skyscraper for a new home.Rodriguez first met Ronaldo in 2016 when she was working at Gucci as a sales assistant.They have two children together in Alana and Bella but tragically lost a baby boy in childbirth.Georgina also helps care for Ronaldo’s other three children – Cristiano Jr, Eva and Matteo.A glimpse at social media star Georgina’s life…Georgina lives a life to be enviedCredit: InstagramShe has over 50 million followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe met Ronaldo whilst working as a shop girl at DiorCredit: The Mega AgencyShe is the mother to his five children, two of which Georgina is the maternal mumCredit: EPAGeorgina now resides in the Middle EastCredit: Georgina Rodriguez/instagramGeorgina loves holidays and can often be seen on yachtsCredit: Instagram @georginagioBoats are a big love of hersCredit: Refer to CaptionShe travels almost exclusively by private jetCredit: Georgina RodríguezThe Argentine beauty is a regularly at the Venice film festival where she can be seen turning headsCredit: GettyGeorgina is loved by fashion magazines for her sense of styleCredit: AlamyShe models for a range of companiesCredit: georginagio/InstagramRodríguez has modelled for PrettyLittleThing lingerieCredit: Instagram More

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      Liverpool ready to battle Man Utd in transfer race for Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and could make January move

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      LIVERPOOL will battle Manchester United in the heavyweight race for Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson.Red Devils have USA star Robinson on their wishlist to fill a problem position in Erik ten Hag’s squad — possibly as early as January.Antonee Robinson is a target for Liverpool and Man UtdBut Kop spies are also on the trail of the one-time Everton prospect  who would be immediate cover and a possible long-term replacement for Andy Robertson.Anfield chiefs have looked at left-backs around the globe but may find the solution here in the Premier League.Robinson, 27, is only four years younger than Robertson and one of the few experienced men who can be mentioned in the same breath as the Scot.One snag for Robinson might be a lack of playing time at Liverpool while United have a greater need for a starter now.Most read in FootballFulham signed Ryan Sessegnon back from Tottenham in the summer and their old boy is looking good so far.Sessegnon, 24, can play a couple of roles but is ideally an attacking left-back.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.Last year, we reported how Man City were looking at making a move for the £35million-rated player.Robinson joined the Cottages in 2020 for a fee of around £2million from Wigan.Most read in FootballHe has gone on to make 155 appearances for the club across five seasons, and 46 appearances for his country.Did Mazraoui Just Solve Man Utd’s Attacking Problems? | Tactics Exposed More

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      Fans praise Sky Sports for getting Phil Jones in studio for Man Utd clash as they say ‘he’s a really interesting guy’

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      FANS praised Sky Sports for having Phil Jones in the studio for Manchester United’s 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace.The Red Devils travelled to Selhurst Park on Saturday hoping for three wins on the bounce.Fans praised Sky Sports as Phil Jones gave his thoughts on Man Utd’s draw with Crystal PalaceJones retired this summer after 229 games in 12 seasons for the Red DevilsCredit: GettyThere was already a major talking point before kick-off when Marcus Rashford was left out of the starting XI.But, after netting 10 goals in their previous two matches, United were unable to find a way past Palace in south London.Despite the result, Red Devils fans were still left smiling after a former favourite appeared on TV.Ex-England centre-back Jones was in the Sky Sports studio to deliver his views on United’s performance.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 32-year-old joined the Red Devils from Blackburn for £16.5million in 2011 and was hailed by Sir Alex Ferguson as a future club captain.Jones ended up spending 12 years at Old Trafford as he won a Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League.But his career was blighted by numerous injury setbacks before he was released last year.Jones failed to find a new club and retired in August after just 229 appearances, plus a further 27 for the Three Lions.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe is now working as a coach with United’s academy.And earlier this month Jones exclusively opened up to SunSport over his mental health trauma caused by vile trolls on social media.’Man Utd have wrong bald Dutch manager’ – how Slot schooled Ten Hag at Old TraffordMan Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.However, fans were loving his latest Sky Sports appearance as Jones gave some fascinating insights into United’s stalemate at Palace.One of Jones’ observations went down particularly well as he analysed United’s set-up.He said: “You can see Dalot coming on the inside in the no.6 and controlling the game from there“United have been really good in possession and created a lot of chances.“With Dalot coming inside, they’re creating overloads in midfield and causing Palace problems.”And reacting to Jones, one supporter said: “Well done Sky Sports for getting Jones as a pundit. He’s a really interesting guy to watch and listen to.”Another declared: “Well chuffed to see Jones on Sky Sports. Great player who doesn’t get the respect he deserves for putting his body on the line time and again.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “Phil Jones on Sky Sports doing well, come on.”Another added: “Phil (GOAT) Jones on Sky Sports. Class!” More