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    Sir Alex Ferguson tipped seven Man Utd kids for stardom, like Darren Fletcher to Luke Chadwick and what happened next

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    SIR ALEX FERGUSON is one of the greatest football managers of all time.From being one game from the sack at Old Trafford to transforming the club into a real European heavyweight, Fergie’s tenure will go down in history.
    Sir Alex Ferguson tipped big things from a few players who never quite reached that levelCredit: Reuters
    But the great man did make one or two mistakes along the way.
    From signing the likes of Bebe, Eric Djemba Djemba  and Gabriel Obertan to the infamous David Beckham boot-kicking episode, there were some colourful times during his 26 years at the club.
    After winning the Premier League in 2001, the boss was full of beans for the future.
    Fergie tipped seven youngsters from the United youth team that he predicted were destined for greatness.
    He said: “Darren Fletcher, who we hope will get over his broken leg, is good. Michael Stewart and Luke Chadwick are doing very well, and John O’Shea’s doing well too.
    “There’s a young left-back called Paul Tierney who’s doing well, as is Danny Pugh.

    “But there’s a young boy who has started now, he’s 16, called Kieran Richardson. He’s going to be a fantastic player.”
    Some lived up to his billing but sadly others failed to make the grade. We take a look at who was a hit and who missed the mark.John O’Shea
    Mr Versatile, O’Shea even played in goal during his time with United.
    Far from being a flop, O’Shea featured 256 times for the club between 1999 and 2011.
    The Irishman moved on to Sunderland where he captained the Mackems, but couldn’t stop their slide down the leagues.
    O’Shea joined Reading for one season in 2018 before retiring and joining their backroom staff, where he is currently first team coach.
    John O’Shea went on to have a decent Man Utd career without ever really bossing itCredit: Empics
    Darren Fletcher
    A capable midfielder who perhaps never got the credit he deserved for his workmanlike performances in the middle of the park.
    Incredibly the Scot managed to play at the top level while suffering from a serious bowel condition.
    He won five Premier League titles as well as the Champions League during his 342 appearances in 11 years for United.
    Fletcher went on to play for West Brom and Stoke before retiring at the age of 36. Now, he’s technical director at Old Trafford.
    Darren Fletcher did his job without too much fuss, and went on to become a Scotland internationalCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Luke Chadwick
    Once talked about as Beckham’s successor, it’s fair to say Chadwick failed to live up to even half of that billing.
    He did feature 38 times in United’s first-team, but that mostly came in cup competitions and coming off the bench.
    Chadwick went on to play for West Ham, Stoke, Norwich, MK Dons and Cambridge United before dropping into non-league to finish his career with Soham Town Rangers.
    The 40-year-old is now coaching in Cambridge’s academy but hit headlines after revealing his sadness at being mocked on the BBC quiz show They Think It’s All Over – earning an apology from presenters Nick Hancock and Gary Lineker.
    Luke Chadwick never quite filled David Beckham’s boots at Old TraffordCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Kieran Richardson
    Fergie described how Richardson would go on to become ‘a fantastic player’.
    Like O’Shea and Fletcher, Richardson can look back on a pretty successful career, even making eight England appearances and scoring twice.
    He made 81 appearances for United between 2002 and 2007, and went on to play for Sunderland, Fulham, Aston Villa and Cardiff.
    Kieran Richardson never really made it at Old Trafford, but did make eight England appearancesCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Danny Pugh
    Pugh had the honour of making his debut for United when he replaced the legend that is Ruud van Nistelrooy in a Champions League game against Maccabi Haifa in 2002.
    But he went on to feature only another six times before being shipped out to Leeds as part of the deal that took Alan Smith to Old Trafford.
    Pugh also played for Preston, Stoke, a second spell with Leeds before floating down the leagues.
    He last coached at Port Vale after finishing his playing career with the club, leaving in his position in May.
    Danny Pugh spent most of his career outside England’s top flight after leaving UnitedCredit: Action Images
    Michael Stewart
    A defensive midfielder in the time when Roy Keane was bossing the opposition as well as the dressing room, Stewart was always going to find it difficult to break through.
    The Scot made eight appearances for United between 1998 and 2005 before being moved on to Hibs permanently.
    He joined their great rivals Hearts in 2007 where he stayed for three season, before a spell with Genclerbirligi in Turkey and his career ended in 2011 after a nine-game stint at Charlton.
    Capped four times by Scotland, he later applied to be a candidate for the Scottish National Party in the 2015 general election – but failed to secure the nomination.
    Michael Stewart had the small matter of Roy Keane to try and displace from the midfield spotCredit: Eddie Keogh
    Paul Tierney
    After shining at youth levels at United, Tierney made only ONE first-team appearance – in the League Cup against West Brom in 2003.
    The right-back joined up with Scottish side Livingston in 2005 but was flogged on to Blackpool when they were relegated from the Scottish Premiership.
    After a loan spell with Stockport, he was released by the Seasiders. Tierney ended his career with a three-game stint with Altincham.
    Paul Tierney made a solitary appearance for United in the League Cup before moving to Livingston in 2005Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    Van de Beek can’t catch a break as tunnel cam shows Man Utd flop bumping into coach and spilling his tea on him More

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      Solskjaer sacked LIVE: Man Utd AXE club legend with Zidane and Pochettino sounded out as replacements – lates updates

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      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has been SACKED by Manchester United. United called an emergency board meeting following the 4-1 humiliation at Vicarage Road.
      Solskjaer said now his goodbyes to his staff and players following the defeat with club chiefs to sack him within 48 hours.
      The club won only once in their last seven matches after the 4-1 defeat at Watford today, and the meeting took place afterwards at 7pm.
      Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has been installed as the current bookies’ favourite to take over at Old Trafford.
      Follow all the latest Man Utd news, transfer and gossip from Old Trafford below…
      PROOF POINT
      Manchester United will live to regret missing out on Antonio Conte, pundit Micah Richards has claimed.
      The Italian was one of the favourites to take over as United officials spent the last few weeks mulling the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      Ex-Manchester City star Richards told Sky Sports: “Antonio Conte is a serial winner.
      “We talk about the Manchester United values, forget the values for just one minute. It is about winning games.
      “You’ve got (Cristiano) Ronaldo, (Paul) Pogba, (Bruno) Fernandes, (Jadon) Sancho and all those players.
      “Something has to give and Ole (Gunnar Solskjaer) was not getting the best out of those players.
      “Conte is proven. He is the Tottenham manager now but there was a window where they could have got him. I don’t understand it.”

      DE GEA DISMAY
      David De Gea was among the players paying tribute to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following his dismissal as Manchester United manager.
      United announced they parted ways with Solskjaer after Saturday’s 4-1 thrashing to Watford at Vicarage Road, which marked the final drop after seven losses in 13 games across all competitions.
      De Gea was among the players that expressed their appreciation for the Norwegian head coach’s contribution in the last three years.
      The star goalkeeper described the loss to the Hornets as a “nightmare” last night but now insists Solskjaer always “gave everything” for the Red Devils.
      De Gea tweeted: “You always gave everything and everyone knows you are a legend at [Man Utd].”
      CON SUPPORT
      MMA legend Conor McGregor has paid homage to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after he was sacked as Manchester United boss.
      I want to give a major shout out, and a huge thank you to the living legend that is Ole Gunnar Solskjær! Ole you are forever, Sir! Icon! Inspiration! Hero! Legend!Thank you Ole ❤️ @ManUtd— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) November 21, 2021

      MAN FOR THE JOB
      Gary Neville reckons Mauricio Pochettino would take over at Manchester United in a heartbeat despite the turmoil at Old Trafford.
      The United legend made the claim after previous boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was finally sacked following a shocking run of results.
      He said on Sky Sports: “I think Mauricio Pochettino – although he’d never say it – he’d leave to come to Man United on a five-year deal tomorrow.
      “He’d look at that group of players, he’d look at the club and he’d realise he’d probably be able to achieve more than he wants at Man United in terms of a project.
      “At PSG you are on season by season. ‘You’ve got to win the Champions League or you’re out’ type of model. I don’t think that suits Pochettino.
      “I think he would absolutely come to Man Utd on a five-year deal, with backing behind him. How he’d fit in with the current coaches who are still there and left, I’m not sure.”
      SWEET SUGAR
      Lord Alan Sugar expressed his delight at Tottenham’s appointment of Antonio Conte while taking a swipe at Arsenal and Manchester United in the process.
      Sugar reckons the Italian could’ve ended up at either United or Arsenal if Spurs didn’t bring him in last week following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal from Old Trafford and the Gunners 4-0 thumping at the hands of Liverpool yesterday.
      Smug Spurs fan Sugar wrote on Twitter: “I am please we got hold on Conte when we did as he would have been grabbed by Man U or Arsenal …..next week.”
      RED FACES
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has blasted naive Manchester United officials forever bothering to appoint Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager.
      The United legend was named caretaker back in 2018 before being given the reins full-time at Old Trafford.
      Things turned sour this season and the under-fire boss was finally given his marching orders after Saturday’s abject 4-1 defeat by Watford.
      And Sky Sports pundit Redknapp was far from impressed with United’s approach while their rivals appointed top-class managers around them.
      He said: “This hasn’t crept up on Man United, I’ve seen this for a long while.
      “When you look at what Liverpool have got – Klopp, Man City – Guardiola, Chelsea – Tuchel, and you’ve got a manager that’s managed at Molde and Cardiff – at one of the biggest clubs in the world, it isn’t right.
      “You’re almost fighting with one hand behind your back in the big occasions and I’ve never really felt he is the right fit.
      “I said at the time, one day it’s going to be like shooting Bambi and that’s what it feels like. This should have happened weeks ago.”
      SOL DESTROYING
      Manchester United have spent a staggering £38million on sacking managers since Sir Alex Ferguson left Old Trafford in 2013.
      The Scot, 79, provided the Red Devils with the ultimate stability during his 27 years at the helm.
      But the Theatre of Dreams has been anything but stable ever since.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer became the latest man to be sacked this morning – receiving a £7.5m payout in the process.
      The Norwegian was handed a new three-year deal in the summer.
      But terms of the contract stipulated that he need only be paid one year’s salary should he be relieved of his duties.
      NO NEED
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer turned down help to upgrade his backroom staff at Manchester United, reports suggest.
      That is according to ESPN, who claim that Solskjaer refused to make changes to his coaching team despite key players complaining that the training was “too British” and unsuited to the requirements of the modern game.
      Reports have now emerged of senior players losing faith in the former manager after last month’s 5-0 loss to Liverpool at Old Trafford.
      A section of the roster found the coaching to be too one-dimensional as it lacked imagination as well as creativity.
      The Red Devils’ hierarchy took those concerns on board and “offered Solskjaer every level of support and told him he could have whatever he needed to put it right.”
      However, the 48-year-old told executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward that he had full faith in his world-class coaching team.
      SOL BAD
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked by Manchester United after a horror run of five defeats in seven games.
      He becomes the FOURTH manager to try – and fail – to replace Sir Alex Ferguson after his retirement in 2013.
      David Moyes, Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho were all sacked in the past eight years, and now Solskjaer joins the gang.
      The bottom line is that he won no trophies, unlike his more recent predecessors
      Mourinho led United to a Europa League and EFL Cup double in 2017, while Van Gaal lifted the FA Cup in 2016 just days before he was sacked.
      However Solskjaer’s win percentage was surprisingly good.
      Solskjaer has the third-highest win percentage of ANY manager in United’s history.
      His record of 91 wins from his 168 games in charge across all competitions is second best in the post-Fergie era – behind only Mourinho.
      The Norwegian achieved a win rate of 54.2 per cent, behind Mourinho’s 58.3 per cent from 144 matches.
      THE RON FOR ME 
      Cristiano Ronaldo wants Luis Enrique to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Manchester United, according to reports.
      The Red Devils sacked Solskjaer this morning, following a dismal run of form that culminated in yesterday’s 4-1 defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road.
      United have been strongly linked with a move for Zinedine Zidane, with chiefs reportedly trying to convince the Frenchman to come to Old Trafford.
      According to Sky Sports, however, their biggest name player would rather play under Spain boss Enrique.
      They reckon that despite his old affiliation with Real Madrid legend Zizou, Ronaldo wants United to hire Enrique instead.
      The Red Devils are expected to consider the former Barcelona boss as they hunt for a new manager.

      BLANC CANVAS
      Manchester United could hire Laurent Blanc as interim manager following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking, reports suggest.
      United parted company with club legend Solskjaer after Saturday’s 4-1 thrashing to Watford at Vicarage Road, which marked the final drop after five defeats in seven Premier League matches.
      Michael Carrick has been put in charge for the time being while the Red Devils look for something more permanent.
      According to The Athletic, however, the Manchester giants may be unable to land their top targets before the summer, such as Zinedine Zidane, Erik ten Hag and Brendan Rodgers.
      Therefore, it is possible that they could turn to other options who are also going to be considered as temporary solutions.
      Former United ace Blanc has been touted as a candidate, which means he would get the same opportunity Solskjaer got when he replaced Jose Mourinho in 2018 before earning a long-term contract.
      The French head coach spent two years at Old Trafford where he retired in 2003 following 75 appearances across all competitions.
      BUDGET CUTS
      Manchester United will be forced to pay Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a hefty £7.5m after sacking him this morning.
      The Red Devils boss lost his job after suffering a humiliating 4-1 defeat at Watford.
      Man United chiefs met at 7pm last night to discuss sacking the Norwegian, who they’d handed a new three-year deal to in August.
      And SunSport understands he will have to be given a full year’s salary as a severance package by the club.
      This works out at around £7.5m, which puts him around fifth in the highest paid Premier League managers.
      That’s behind behind Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Brendan Rodgers and Marcelo Bielsa in the salary stakes.
      PIERS DIG
      Piers Morgan has taken his customary dig at Gary Neville following Solskjaer’s Man Utd sacking.

      NEV SUPPORT
      Gary Neville has sent out a message of support to his former team-mate Solskjaer following his sacking from the club.

      CARRICK TO TAKE OVER
      Michael Carrick will take over as United boss temporarily, but the club are looking for an interim boss to lead the side until the end of the season.
      Presumably, Zinedine Zidane will be sounded out in the summer.

      CLUB STATEMENT
      “Ole will always be a legend at Manchester United and it is with regret that we have reached this difficult decision,” a statement read.
      “While the past few weeks have been disappointing, they should not obscure all the work he has done over the past three years to rebuild the foundations for long-term success.
      “Ole leaves with our sincerest thanks for his tireless efforts as Manager and our very best wishes for the future.
      “His place in the club’s history will always be secure, not just for his story as a player, but as a great man and a Manager who gave us many great moments. He will forever be welcome back at Old Trafford as part of the Manchester United family.
      “Michael Carrick will now take charge of the team for forthcoming games, while the club looks to appoint an interim manager to the end of the season.”
      SACKED!
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been sacked as Man Utd boss after the club’s 4-1 loss to Watford in the Premier League on Saturday.

      SHORTLIST
      Here are a list of candidates so far rumoured to be in the frame to take over on a permanent basis at Old Trafford.

      Zinedine Zidane
      Erik ten Hag
      Brendan Rodgers
      Ralph Rangnick
      Laurent Blanc
      Julen Lopetegui

      Antonio Conte, of course, was United’s first choice, but ironically it was the Red Devils’ 3-0 win over Tottenham which pushed Spurs into appointing the Italian as their new boss.
      BRU-NO!
      After the game, Solskjaer went over to the United fans to clap them, only to be negatively received by a large portion of the support.
      Bruno Fernandes waved his finger at them and indicated the result came as a consequence of the team’s poor performance and not the manager.
      “In the Premier League it is not enough playing for just one half,” he said.
      “Watford has a good team. They are aggressive, they have quality up front, and if you give them chances you will concede goals.
      “And that has been a problem with us for many games.
      “I think the attitude in the second half was there. In the first half it was too sloppy from everyone.”
      Credit: Reuters
      NOT HAPPY
      David de Gea had some choice words after the game, letting everyone know what he thought of the performance.
      “There’s not much to say – it was embarrassing to see Man United play like we did today,” he explained.
      “It’s not acceptable – the way we were playing and doing things. It’s easy to blame the manager or the staff but sometimes it’s the players.
      “We need to show much more than we are doing. Embarrassing first half – we could’ve conceded four goals in 45 minutes.
      “It was hard to watch the team playing today – it was nightmare after nightmare. It’s not acceptable.
      “We are trying to give our best and fight for the team but for sure something is very wrong. You can see in the games – it’s very low level, very poor. Sorry to the fans, once again.”
      AWFUL RESULT
      United were trounced 4-1 by newly-promoted Watford on Saturday night, prompting calls from fans for Solskjaer’s time at the club to come to an end.
      Joshua King – a Red Devils academy product – smashed home the opener after 28 minutes before Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead just before the break.
      It could have been a lot worse for United at half time as Sarr missed TWO penalties in the space of a minute after having one saved before retaking it for encroachment and David De Gea denied him a second time.
      Half time sub Donny Van de Beek grabbed a goal back early in the second half, but skipper Harry Maguire’s red card in the 69th minute ended any hopes of an underserved comeback.
      Joao Pedro and Emmanuel Dennis added a third and fourth in injury time to really stick the knife into Ole.
      This was Watford’s first home win since the start of the season back in August, and are just four points behind United in seventh.
      MORNING, MAN UTD FANS
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has managed his final game in charge of Manchester United with the board finally deciding enough is enough.
      United called an emergency board meeting following the 4-1 humiliation at Vicarage Road.
      And Solskajer’s backroom staff started saying their goodbyes following the brutal defeat with club chiefs to sack him within 48 hours.Bruno Fernandes blamed ‘everyone’ at Manchester United after Watford’s 4-1 win rammed a huge nail in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coffin.
      Midfielder Fernandes was led away by team-mates after a heated row with United fans at Vicarage Road.
      Luke Shaw could be a doubt for Manchester United’s clash with Chelsea after appearing to suffer possible concussion against Watford.
      The left-back, 26, started in Saturday’s 4-1 horror defeat at Vicarage Road.
      But Shaw didn’t last the whole 90 minutes as he was flattened in a collision with an opponent.
      OUT WITH THE OLE
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looked glum as he drove home after Manchester United’s humiliating 4-1 defeat to Watford.
      SunSport understand the loss, which saw club captain Harry Maguire get sent off, is the last straw for the Norwegian.
      The players are also expecting Solskjaer to get the sack.
      Other reports claim players and staff were in tears after the thumping away defeat to the newly-promoted side.
      NEEDS A JI UP
      Ex-Man Utd star Ji-sung Park has backed underfire Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to keep his job till the end of the season.
      The Norwegian boss is on the brink of the sack after the Red Devils were humiliated 4-1 at Watford.
      But Park is backing Solskjaer until the end of the season.
      “It’s been three years for Solskjaer as a manager and I believe that this will be the defining season for him, in terms of whether he continues at the club,” Park told Goal.
      “I think that he deserves credit for what he’s done at United, and deserves to fight [for his job] until the end of the season, but he needs to show he can continue after that.
      “He did well to bring the old United spirit and culture back to us.”
      “Before him, we had Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, who had reputations as world-class coaches, but it didn’t work out, so I think that United learned from those experiences and that they were key in the decision to stick with Solskjaer (after the Liverpool and City defeats).
      “But the most important point is whether he can compete with Pep (Guardiola), (Jurgen) Klopp, (Thomas) Tuchel, the best coaches in the world.
      “Therefore, I believe we should wait until the end of this season and then see. But if he can’t show (he’s good enough), it will be difficult for him to continue.”
      JA RULES
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s pre-match words of advice to Jadon Sancho backfired as Manchester United were thrashed 4-1 by Watford.
      Sancho, 21, was handed a rare start against his former club despite failing to score or assist in his previous 13 appearances.
      And before kick-off, Ronaldo could be seen talking to Sancho, offering advice and undoubtedly trying to motivate him.
      But it didn’t go to plan as Watford went into the half-time break with a two-goal lead thanks to former United ace Josh King and Ismaila Sarr.
      Half-time substitute Donny van de Beek pulled one back for the visitors, offering a glimmer of hope of a comeback.
      But Harry Maguire made sure the points would stay at Vicarage Road as he was sent off for a rash challenge of Tom Cleverley.
      The double yellow on Saturday’s game guarantees Maguire’s absence for United’s big game against Chelsea next weekend.
      Joao Pedro and Emmanuel Bonaventure scored in added time to secure a historic victory against the Red Devils.
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      Gary Neville reveals Sir Alex Ferguson’s ‘slow conveyor belt’ transfer policy was based on three different players

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s transfer policy was like a “slow conveyor belt” according to his former defender Gary Neville.Unsurprisingly during his 26 years at Old Trafford the boss oversaw a whole host of big name incomings and departures.
      Gary Neville discussed Fergie’s ‘conveyor belt’ transfer policy
      Sir Alex Ferguson helped developed some of football’s best talents
      But there were methods behind the purchases, and evidently the system worked.
      Fergie won 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, and two Champions League titles during his legendary spell in the hotseat.
      And according to Neville, who was the first-choice right-back during his own trophy-laden 19-year spell at United, transfer policy was split into three categories.
      Speaking on the Sky Sports podcast, the 46-year-old footie pundit said: “His policy was to promote youth wherever possible, that was number one before he even looked at the external market.
      “Number two was to look at the best in the Premier League, those he could trust, and still have growth and be with the club for a long time.
      “Gary Pallister, Steve Bruce, Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Robin van Persie.
      “And then he always wanted emerging international talent that could come over to Manchester, that he could work with and develop into great players.
      “Nemanja Vidic, Peter Schmeichel, Patrice Evra, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      “He very rarely ventured into the world of buying the complete star, and it’s not far off Pep Guardiola’s tactic with Manchester City right now.”
      Wayne Rooney was bought by Fergie because the boss knew he would have a long and successful careerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Sir Alex was a fan of scouring Europe for top talent he could develop – like this manCredit: Reuters
      SunSport also revealed how Neville admits he regrets not heeding Sir Alex’s advice during his ill-fated spell as Valencia manager.
      Neville took charge of the Spanish club during the 2015/16 season.
      But he lasted just 28 games after picking up only 10 wins.
      Neville’s time at the Mestalla is now looked back on as a prime example of bad management.
      And Neville himself admits he should have paid closer attention to advice given by former Man Utd boss Fergie.

      Reflecting on his Valencia spell, Neville said: “Early on it was clear that some players were unhappy. I should have made big decisions on players that weren’t committed to the club at that point.
      “I remember speaking to Sir Alex early on and his advice was: ‘Just get rid of them and protect yourself. Only have people in the dressing room that are facing the same direction as you.’
      “But I didn’t listen. I tried talking some players round to staying until the end of the season. But they weren’t happy.
      “I ignored Sir Alex’s advice.”
      Alex Ferguson talks about trying to sign Paul Gascoigne for Man Utd More

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      Zlatan Ibrahimovic ‘hated’ Edinson Cavani and three others in his career, claims AC Milan star’s former team-mate

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      ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC has only hated four players throughout his career – and one of them is Edinson Cavani.Former LA Galaxy star Michael Ciani has revealed Ibrahimovic did not like people getting close to the Uruguayan.
      Edinson Cavani joined PSG one year after Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s arrivalCredit: EPA
      Ibrahimovic played alongside Cavani at Paris Saint-Germain from 2013 until 2016 before he joined Manchester United.
      The pair formed a formidable partnership on the pitch, but did not get along with each other on a personal level.
      Following his time with Ibrahimovic in America, Ciani has lifted the lid on the relationship between the pair.
      Speaking to RMC Sport, he said: “If you are close to Cavani, Ibra does not like it.
      “Either you are with Ibra, or you are against him.
      “He told me that everything was fine with Laurent Blanc at PSG.
      “The only person he did not get along with was Cavani.
      “He told me that he only hated three or four people in his career… and one of them was Cavani.”

      Cavani of course followed Ibrahimovic’s path to Old Trafford, and scored on his return to the team against Spurs last month.
      Despite only hating a handful of players, Ibrahimovic once threatened to kill whoever spoke to him after LA Galaxy lost.
      According to former team-mate Joao Pedro, he boasted about his wealth as he ripped into the players in the dressing room.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

      Zlatan Ibrahimovic makes his huge lion tattoo on his back ROAR in amazing party trick as he tenses muscles More

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      Man Utd youngster Marc Jurado holds record for fastest ever youth goal scored for Barcelona at just FIVE seconds

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      HE’S no slouch, that’s for sure.Manchester United have an exciting player on their hands in Marc Jurado, 17, who joined from Barcelona in a deal reported to be worth £1.5million back in 2020.
      Man Utd have announced the signing of wonderkid Marc Jurado from BarcelonaCredit: PA:Press Association
      Jurado famously scored the fastest ever goal at youth levelCredit: PA:Press Association
      Jurado confirmed the move on Instagram at the time, and has since been given international clearance, and plays regularly for the Red Devils’ U18s.
      The Catalans were sad to see him go, after it was said they offered the galloping right back a three-year contract, which he snubbed.
      And Red Devils fans will be licking their lips reliving this clip of the incredible talent scoring the fastest recorded youth goal ever – just five seconds after kick off!
      Meet the talent that could become a star at Old Trafford.
      QUICK OFF THE MARK
      Back in 2013, in a game against Viladecans, Jurado made a statement for Barcelona’s U10 side.
      From kick off, the electric defender was switched on to intercept a pass, before racing past two players and cooly slotting the ball past the keeper.

      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
      Not only did it get people talking about him, the strike earned him a place in the record books.
      Jurado’s goal was the fastest ever recorded at youth level – an impressive five seconds.
      WHO IS HE?
      Jurado was born in Sabadell, some 18 miles from Barcelona, in Catalunya.
      He showed promise playing for his local team, CFU Can Rull before he joined La Masia at the tender age of seven.
      Jurado was considered an important part of Barcelona’s future, and after tying down Ansu Fati and Ilaix Moriba to long-term contracts their hierarchy were hopeful Jurado would follow suit.
      But, it is believed that he feels he would have a better chance of first team football playing for United.
      After just five seconds from kick off Jurado scored in an U10 game for BarcelonaCredit: PA:Press Association
      WHAT KIND OF PLAYER IS HE?
      A modern full-back in the Spanish mould of Bellerin, Jurado does his best work going forward.
      Blessed with bags of pace, he constantly looks to overlap and provide an attacking threat on the right-hand side.
      He was one of the best players in Barcelona’s Cadet A team this season, and it was expected that he was going to promoted to their Juvenil B side.
      Jurado had been with Barcelona since he was sevenCredit: PA:Press Association
      HE’S GOT COMPETITION
      As good as Jurado is, he can’t expect to walk straight into United’s team anytime soon.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka, 22, has made the right back position his own after arriving from Crystal Palace in a £50million deal, and will take some shifting.
      However, Jurado will offer the England defender the healthy competition for places that every good side needs.
      And in a few years, we might just see a United team dominating again – like they did in the 90s and noughties.
      ⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      Man Utd hero Eric Cantona, 53, rolls back the years as he scores amazing volley after effortlessly performing keepy-ups More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo the best I played with, says Ryan Giggs as he picks dream Man Utd side WITHOUT Beckham and Cantona

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      RYAN GIGGS has picked his ultimate Manchester United six-a-side team – with Cristiano Ronaldo dubbed the best player he ever shared a pitch with.The Welshman had a glittering playing career at Old Trafford, winning 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues over a successful 24-year period.
      No room for Giggs in his dream team.. or Beckham, Neville and Cantona
      Despite that, there was no room for himself in his own team, with Class of 92 pals David Beckham and Gary Neville – as well as Eric Cantona – snubbed.
      Giggs named Man Utd legends Peter Schmeichel, Jaap Stam, Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney in his dream team.
      The Welshman revealed in 2020: “Schmeichel would be the goalkeeper, Jaap would be the whole back four, Keaney, then the rest are going to be forward players. Scholesy, Ronaldo and Rooney.”
      Despite being the club’s most decorated footballer, Giggs opted for Scholes and Ronaldo as his best-ever Old Trafford stars.
      Giggs told an MUTV group chat: “The best player I played with is Cristiano Ronaldo.
      “Obviously he was only there for a short space of time and he was brilliant for United and then went on to do even better elsewhere. Or not even better just as well as United.

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      “Scholesy is the best player I’ve played with at United, you’ve all seen it in training you couldn’t get near him.
      “His brain was just quicker than everyone else, his range of passing, nasty.
      “You think you’ve got him and he’ll just pop it off and give it the little feint. He was just brilliant in training.”
      Giggs, 47, also revealed his toughest opponent – Inter Milan and Argentina full-back Javier Zanetti.
      He added: “The hardest player I’ve played against was Zanetti for Inter Milan. He just ran all day. He used to play in midfield so he was comfortable on the ball.
      “He could defend, he was tough, he actually broke my nose once. Zanetti had everything as a defender.”
      Ryan Giggs also revealed who his toughest opponent wasCredit: PA
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Rio Ferdinand urges Man United to splash out £250m on Jadon Sancho, Kalidou Koulibaly and Saúl Ñíguez transfers this summer More

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      Man Utd boss Solskjaer ‘would be sacked before the game finishes’ if he drops Cristiano Ronaldo, says Agbonlahor

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      GABBY AGBONLAHOR joked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could face the chop should he start Edinson Cavani ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo against Liverpool.The former Aston Villa frontman was speaking on talkSPORT before Man United’s clash with their title-chasing rivals later.
      Gabby Agbonlahor believes there is ‘no chance’ of Ronaldo not starting against LiverpoolCredit: Rex
      And it could see Ronaldo or Cavani go up against Liverpool’s defensive duo of Virgil van Dyke and Joel Matip.
      When asked if he wanted to see Cavani in United’s starting 11 Agbonlahor, 35, told talkSPORT’s Hugh Woozencraft: “Where are you going to play him (Cavani) and where’s Ronaldo?
      “They will sack Ole (Gunnar Solskjaer) before the game is finished if he doesn’t start Ronaldo.
      “I agree though, I would play Cavani but there is no chance Ronaldo is not starting.”
      Ronaldo, 36, was instrumental in United’s Champions League group stage turnaround against Atalanta last time out.
      The former Real Madrid and Juve ace inspired the team’s fightback from a 2-0 deficit to a dramatic 3-2 win
      The Portugal skipper bagged the winning goal in addition to reportedly giving his team-mates the hairdryer treatment during half-time in that game.
      This month SunSport exclusively revealed the Portugal skipper had reportedly told Old Trafford boss Solskjaer he is ‘fit to start every single game’

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      And a club source says the all-time top scorer in the men’s international game wants to play as many Prem matches as possible.
      The official told SunSport: “Ronaldo was extremely disappointed for being benched (against Everton)
      “Ole presumed that he was tired after the Villarreal game, so he decided to only put him on early in the second half.
      “But Cristiano told him that he will tell him when he isn’t fit to play and that he wants to play in every single league game.
      “He also told him that he has come here to win trophies and that United need to play their most important players in all of the games.”
      Solskjaer and his side will be targeting a win against Liverpool after dropping points against Everton and Leicester CityCredit: AP
      United, who have dropped to seventh after a draw with Everton and shock 4-2 loss to Leicester, will be eager to return to winning ways in the Prem.
      And they are currently eight points behind league leaders Chelsea who crushed Norwich 7-0 on Saturday.
      A win against Liverpool would see them leapfrog Brighton and leave them five points behind Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead of their trip to Tottenham next.
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      Cristiano Ronaldo makes Fred’s son’s day by stopping for picture with him More

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      Inside Man Utd legend Roy Keane’s life – from 20-year marriage to wife Theresa to his controversial playing career

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      ON the pitch, he was the enforcer at Nottingham Forest, Man Utd and CelticOff it, he’s a milder family man, loyal husband of wife of 20-years Theresa, father of five kids and a generous son.
      Off the pitch, Roy Keane, pictured with wife of 20-years Theresa, is a mild family manCredit: Getty – Contributor
      On the pitch, Keane was the hardman of British football at Manchester UnitedCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      In recent years, Roy Keane, 50, has reinvented himself as a TV pundit on Sky Sports – championed for his sharp analysis, rapport with Micah Richards and wicked sense of humour.
      Although, he has made no secret that he would love to return to management, throwing his hat into the ring for the Celtic job back in April.
      But away from football, the Ireland legend lives a very private life.
      THERESA DOYLE
      This year, Keane surprised us all when he set up an Instagram page, where he’s uploaded pictures of his family, including his grandchildren.
      Still missing from it, though, is his wife of 20-years, Theresa Doyle.
      The pair met in 1992, when the midfielder was playing for Forest under Brian Clough.
      “I spotted a beautiful girl in a club in town. Her name was Theresa Doyle but she blanked me,” Keane once revealed of his encounter with the Nottingham-born beauty.
      “She was in a steady relationship and didn’t seem at all impressed by Roy Keane, the great footballer. In fact, I think my reputation was as a downer for all kinds of reasons.
      “From time to time we ran into each other around Nottingham. I knew some of her friends, who told me Theresa was a dentist’s assistant.
      Theresa Doyle, far right, has been married to Keane for 20-years and he describes her as his ‘rock’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Family man Keane joined Instagram and has been sharing pictures of his grandchildrenCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16
      Since setting up an Instagram account in February, Keane has amassed 1.7m followersCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16
      “Eventually, after her relationship broke up, she relented and we went out together. I was in love.”
      They got married in a private ceremony at the Church of Our Lady Crowned in Mayfield, Cork, where Keane is from.
      Keane rarely mentions his wife in public, but once opened up about their relationship in a revealing interview with the Sunday Times in the early 2000s.
      “I don’t really mention her in public, but in fairness to her, she has been a rock in my life. Just brilliant. She reads me better than I read myself,” Keane said.
      “I wouldn’t say Theresa likes every part of the package. She knows I haven’t got a halo over my head. Actually, that’s what she likes about me. She also knows I am not the nastiest person in the world.”
      FIVE CHILDREN
      Keane and Theresa have five children together, Shannon, Caragh, Aidan, Leah and Alanna.
      Even though the former footballer has tasted plenty of success on the football pitch, nothing comes close to spending time with his family.
      Even though he enjoyed plenty of success at Manchester United, Keane longed for family time instead of celebrating with team-matesCredit: Reuters
      Keane has five children with wife TheresaCredit: SNS
      In his autobiography, when writing about winning the Champions League in 1999, Keane said he “longed to go home to Theresa and the kids” and wasn’t interested in celebrating with his team-mates.
      However, despite his wish to spend more time with them after hanging up his boots, he previously admitted that they wanted him to get back to work after just two months.
      “My plan when I first stopped was, we’re going to go on some family trips, we’re going to be like the Waltons,” Keane joked.
      “We’re all going to spend time together, go walk in the park and after a month or two they didn’t have the same plan as me so I think they were kind of missing me going to work.
      “I got offered the job at Sunderland and I was away on a family holiday and my family were looking at me… not saying it directly but going we kind of enjoy your company but not too much of it so when the job came back up they were saying you should go for it.”
      MEET THE PARENTS
      Roy’s late father Maurice ‘Mossie’ Keane met his mum Marie at a local dance, and they married in 1963.
      They moved to the Mayfield suburb in Cork, where they raised five children, Denis, Johnson, Hilary, Roy and Pat.
      Keane shared a tight bond with his parents Maurice and MarieCredit: Sky
      Generous Keane bought his parents a home in the countryside in RathpeaconCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16
      Keane always shared a close bond with his parents and regularly made sure they had tickets to watch his games at Forest and United.
      The generous son also bought them a home in the countryside in nearby Rathpeacon.
      In 2019, Keane was devastated when Maurice passed away after battling illness. He was 79.
      AS A PLAYER
      When Keane was a schoolboy, he began playing football for local side Rockmount AFC.
      From there, he moved to Irish First Division team Cobh Ramblers of County Cork in 1989.
      Keane was spotted by ex-scout Noel McCabe, who immediately recommended the talent to Brian Clough.
      After impressing on trial, he moved to Nottingham in 1990 and blossomed into one of the best young midfielders in the country.
      At Nottingham Forest Keane blossomed into one of the country’s best midfieldersCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      In 1993 Manchester United paid a British transfer record fee of £3.75m to buy KeaneCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      Sir Alex Ferguson brought Keane to Manchester United in 1993 for a British transfer record fee of £3.75million.
      Keane went on to become one of the Premier League giants’ greatest captains – winning seven Premier League titles, a Champions League, as well as four FA Cups.
      He retired in 2006, after one season in Scotland at Celtic where he played 10 times.
      IRISH FALLOUT
      Keane’s career has been rocked by scandal over the years.
      But nothing hurt more than missing the greatest football competition in the world in 2002.
      Keane played 65 times for Ireland between 1991-2005, but his international career is unfortunately remembered for his fallout with Mick McCarthy before the 2002 World Cup.
      Keane wasn’t happy with the Irish team’s set-up ahead of the prestigious football tournament and left the training camp.
      Keane’s international career is best remembered for his epic fallout with Mick McCarthyCredit: Reuters
      After he returned home from the 2002 World Cup, Keane was seen walking his dogs nearby his homeCredit: Reuters
      After a confrontation with McCarthy at the team hotel, he flew home and was famously quizzed by reporters about his acrimonious exit while walking his dog near his home.
      Without him, Ireland managed to reach the last-16 before they were beaten by Spain on penalties.
      AS A MANAGER
      Most recently linked with Celtic, Keane previous experiences have been varied in terms of being a success.
      In his first job as Sunderland boss, you could actually say he did well. He took over the Mackems in 2006 when they were second bottom of the Championship.
      In his first season, they managed to win the league and gain promotion. But he stood down from his post before Christmas – with Sunderland struggling in 18th position in the Premier League.
      Keane has had mixed results as a manager, but could return to management one dayCredit: EPA

      Then came a spell at Ipswich, where he failed in a promotion bid and was sacked in 2011.
      Keane returned to the international fold as assistant manager to Martin O’Neill, and was a key member of the coaching set-up that saw Ireland qualify Euro 2016.
      O’Neill and Keane left their jobs after a series of inconsistent results left their jobs hanging by a thread – and reunited briefly at Forest in 2019.
      Niall Quinn says refs were ‘scared stiff’ of Roy Keane as he remembers Man Utd getting an undeserved penalty More

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      Ex-Man Utd star Eric Djemba-Djemba retires from football aged 40 having last played a professional match SIX YEARS ago

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      FORMER Manchester United star Eric Djemba-Djemba has officially announced his retirement aged 40.But the news won’t surprise many with the Cameroonian cult icon having not played for SIX YEARS.
      Eric Djemba-Djemba only played 20 games for United before moving onCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      The Cameroonian has announced his retirement from football – despite not playing for SIX YEARSCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      In a career that saw him play 34 times for his country, Djemba-Djemba’s last club side was Swiss team Football Club Vallorbe-Ballaigues.
      But he’s best known for his time at Manchester United, where he played 20 times – and was on the bench for Cristiano Ronaldo’s first debut.
      Djemba-Djemba is now focusing on his own academy in Cameroon.
      Talking about his decision to hang up the boots, Djemba-Djemba said: “I can say to you today, that I’m officially retiring from playing football.
      “I have an academy in Cameroon and I am going to focus on trying to help educate the young players there on how to become a footballer, and how to build a successful career as a footballer.
      “Today, I’m stopping playing football.”

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      Djemba-Djemba arrived at United with high hopes and then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson believed he had unearthed a real talent.
      But things just didn’t work out for the midfielder – but he is delighted he got the chance to run out at Old Trafford.
      He added: “I loved my team at Manchester United. But it was disappointing, it was difficult.
      “Everybody who has a career has a chance, and I have to say I was lucky to play with all of the players that I got to play with, and I loved having the experience of playing with those players at United.
      “It was hard leaving Manchester United, and it definitely affected my mental health.
      “I left because I didn’t get much time playing, so I went to Aston Villa, but it was so difficult to leave Manchester because United was like my second family.
      “They gave me everything. They gave me my career, so it was definitely difficult having to leave United.”
      WANTS TO HUG FERGIE
      And of the legendary Fergie, Djemba-Djemba added:” I think I could have played a big role if I had more time, but that is life.
      “But today, I’m happy. I’ll say thank-you to Alex Ferguson every single day, because he changed my life.
      “I’d love to see Ferguson to give him a hug. I saw him in Denmark in 2011 when I was playing there, and gave him a big hug when I saw him.”
      Djemba-Djemba’s full interview can be read on to BritishGambler.co.uk
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      Djemba-Djemba’s last side was Swiss outfit Football Club Vallorbe-Ballaigues.Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Former Manchester United star Eric Djemba Djemba celebrates a win with his FC Vallorbe-Ballaigues team mates More