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    ‘I didn’t think I’d make it – Stuart Pearce recalls harrowing brush with death as partner thought ‘he’d pegged it’

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    STUART PEARCE didn’t think he would “make it” and his partner believed “he’d pegged it” during his horrendous aeroplane health scare. The ex-England defender, 62, needed his heart restarting after his horror scare at 30,000ft. Stuart Pearce appeared on This Morning to discuss his health scareCredit: RexPearce told his wife he ‘didn’t think he would make it’ to HeathrowCredit: ITVVirgin cabin crew hero Zoe Anderson joined them in the ITV studioCredit: ITVSunSport revealed the football legend fell ill during a flight from Las Vegas to Heathrow.Pearce needed emergency medical treatment on the plane from first aiders and the flight was diverted to Newfoundland, Canada so he could be taken to hospital, where he was kept in for eight days.He has made a full recovery from the virus that affected his heart and returned to talkSPORT commentary duties for England’s win over Albania last Friday.And now he has appeared on This Morning to relive his ordeal – and be reunited with the woman who helped save his life. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPearce said: “At the airport my chest felt a little bit tight, a little heavy. “It felt like someone was sat on my chest and tried to sleep it off.”But after a couple of hours, and I should have picked my wording better, I said to Carol, ‘I don’t think I’m going to make Heathrow.'”I meant without telling the cabin crew. Carol thought, ‘He’s pegged it. He’s done.’Most read in Football”I was in and out of consciousness. I can’t speak highly enough of the crew. I thought an aeroplane was the worst place in the world to fall ill. “We can only as a pair say thank you very much. The professionalism was brilliant.” Football legend Stuart Pearce gives update after health scare on flight Pearce started wincing in pain in the economy section on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamline during the Virgin Atlantic Flight VS156 after attending the rugby league clash between Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors in Vegas.His wife Carol was alongside him during the worrying scenes as staff checked on him, gave him oxygen and hooked him up to an ECG machine.The cabin crew was in constant contact with a doctor, who monitored the readings on the ground.His resting heart rate was 155bpm and before flying for hours over sea, it was decided to land the plane in Newfoundland so he could receive specialist treatment.Pearce watched Forest’s 1-0 win over Manchester City from the hospital, including the fans’ tribute for him at the City Ground.The remaining 225 passengers arrived at Heathrow six hours later than scheduled – but Carol was scared her man would never make it back home. Sat alongside Pearce in the ITV studio, she said: “It was very unusual [for him to make a fuss about his health].”Other than man flu which is clearly a huge deal, for him to say he was in pain, that immediately made my blood run cold because you think this is serious.”Stuart doesn’t do being ill, doesn’t do pain. “He once played with a broken leg.”Zoe Anderson was leading the cabin crew on the Virgin flight and kept her composure to ensure Pearce got the help he needed.That even included giving them a care package with blankets as they got off the plane as the temperature in Canada was -11C – compared to 23C in Las Vegas. Stuart and Carol were joined by Anderson live on ITV as the Virgin staff member recalled the decision-making process in the air. Anderson said: “We are trained to deal with these situations – we are prepared. I did an initial assessment.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He said his pain was an eight out of ten so that rang some alarm bells. “We took a few different readings and they were all abnormal so we didn’t want to be over the Atlantic.”Pearce showed his appreciation to the staff memberCredit: ITVThe trio recalled the events on the flight from Las VegasCredit: RexPearce was in good spirits despite the recent ordealCredit: RexPearce said the diagnosis was a virus that affected his heartCredit: ITVPearce and Anderson pose together after being reunitedCredit: RexFans paid tribute to ‘Psycho’ during the Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City matchCredit: Getty More

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      Former Premier League striker Demba Ba lined up for shock job at top-flight club

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      PREMIER LEAGUE cult hero Demba Ba has been lined up for a sporting director’s job at a top-flight club in France.Stade Rennais are considering replacing their current director, Frederic Massara, with ex-Newcastle and Chelsea striker Ba. Demba Ba has been lined up for a sporting director’s job at a top-flight club in FranceCurrent Rennais sporting director Frederic Massara (left) is set to leave the club after one yearBa has kept busy since he hung up his boots in 2021. In 2023, he became a minority owner and director of football at Ligue 2 side USL Dunkerque. The club have been enjoying an impressive season, outperforming their sparse means. The fourth placed side are challenging for promotion to the top flight for the first time in their history.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the club have reached the Coupe de France semi-final, where they will face holders Paris Saint-Germain.And now it seems Ba’s work has been noticed by Ligue 1 side Rennais.It has been a disappointing stint in the north of France for former AC Milan director Massara, who only joined the club in early July. Massara has borne the brunt of a failed summer transfer window, which saw the club spend more than £66million on unproven players.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe signed a lot of young players, many of whom have since been moved on, such as Jota, Albert Gronbaek, and Glen Kamara. Gronbaek was shipped out to Prem strugglers Southampton in January.Chelsea transfer target gets instantly booked for pointless skill as all out brawl is sparked in derby clash And former Arsenal youth star Kamara was loaned to Saudi side Al Shabab after six months at the club.While Jota is currently starring for Celtic.Rennais sit 12th in Ligue 1, with nine wins from 26 games.Despite interest in Ba, RC Strasbourg Alsace’s Loic Desire remains the firm favourite to take over from Massara, according to L’Equipe. Ba spent one season with Chelsea in 2013-2014 and is remembered for his cool finish after Steven Gerrard’s infamous ‘slip’ at Anfield.The French-Senegalese star capitalised on Gerrard’s mistake to dent Liverpool’s title hopes in dramatic fashion.Ba spent one season with Chelsea in 2013-2014Ba’s first stint in the Prem was with West Ham, joining in January 2011 with the Hammers struggling against relegation.He scored seven goals in 12 league appearances for the club, including braces away at West Brom and Wigan, but he could not prevent them from the drop.READ MORE SUN STORIESDue to a clause in his contract, he was allowed to leave on a free at the end of the season.Newcastle ended up signing him on a free transfer in 2011, and he quickly made a name for himself as a deadly finisher. More

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      Stuart Pearce reveals cause of terrifying health scare at 30,000ft which led to his heart being ‘restarted’

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      ENGLAND icon Stuart Pearce has told how medical staff restarted his heart after his 30,000ft plane emergency.The Sun revealed how the football legend’s health scare this month led to his London-bound flight being diverted to Canada.England icon Stuart Pearce has told how medical staff restarted his heart after his 30,000ft plane emergencyCredit: The SunPearce made a full recovery and was commentating for TalkSport for England’s 2-0 win over AlbaniaThe Three Lions legend was taken to hospital after the plane made an emergency landing in CanadaCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe 62-year-old, nicknamed Psycho, said yesterday: “My heart was racing a little bit.“The medical staff on the plane were magnificent and they made the decision after three hours to drop me off in St John’s in Newfoundland.“The hospital staff there basically stopped my heart and restarted it again to put it back into a normal rhythm.”He told The Sunday Times: “I had five days there and another five days in a hotel waiting for the medical care, so an extra ten day’s holiday.READ MORE ON STUART PEARCE“They think it was caused by a virus.”The Three Lions ace had been travelling back from Las Vegas on March 2 after watching his beloved rugby league team Warrington Wolves play Wigan Warriors.After finally returning to the UK, the TalkSport pundit told the station: “I went to meet my maker last week . . . but he said your time’s not up big fella and sent me away.“But in all seriousness, I’m in good form.Most read in Football“On the flight I had chest pains but I was looked after fantastically.”The former left-back has made a full recovery and was commentating for England’s 2-0 win over Albania last Friday.Football legend Stuart Pearce gives update after health scare on flight More

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      Frank Bruno in mid-air emergency after falling ‘seriously ill’ on flight prompting docs to take drastic action

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      BOXING legend Frank Bruno was rushed to hospital after falling seriously ill on a long-haul flight.The former world heavyweight champ was left “in a really bad way” as he headed off on a speaking tour.Frank Bruno smiles for a photo on a plane before falling seriously illCredit: FacebookBoxing legend Frank was feverish and ‘in a really bad way’Credit: Louis WoodBruno retired from boxing after his 1996 defeat to Mike TysonCredit: GettyThe father of four, who was feverish, was treated by airport medics after landing in Doha, Qatar, before he was whisked to a hospital ten miles away for a series of urgent tests.Dad-of-four Frank, 63, had posed for a photo before the mid-air drama this month. Doctors eventually diagnosed him with a viral infection — and kept him in for nearly two weeks, taking his passport so he could not try to leave.Last night his manager said he was recovering and looking to return to work “as soon as possible”. Read more on Frank BrunoBruno had been due to talk at four events in Thailand so took a connecting Qatar Airways flight on March 3 from Heathrow to Doha.He posted a picture of himself in his seat, smiling with sunglasses perched on his head.He wrote: “Morning so the Frank Bruno World tour continues. Up early for a plane, I don’t sleep well on planes but trying to catch up on some zzzzzzzzzzzs.”But Bruno, travelling with his PA Paul Hunter, became ill soon after take-off, with crew alerted to his plight.Most read in BoxingA source said: “Frank was fine when he boarded the plane — but quickly went downhill during the flight. He was in a really bad way and they were unsure what the problem was.“It was extremely worrying as it was mid-flight so he was stuck on the plane.Boxing legend Frank Bruno trades blows with the mental health minister – as she visits him at his charity foundation“Paul and Frank thought it might be food poisoning, but it turned out to be worse than that.“Frank was in a bad way and was sweating profusely and had fever-like symptoms.“Paul was worried but was doing his best to keep him calm. He was treated on the flight to Doha, in the airport and then at the hospital.Frank was fine when he boarded the plane — but quickly went downhill during the flightA source“Doctors were really worried and carried out all sorts of tests, including for meningitis. They then diagnosed him with a viral infection, which at least meant they could start treating him.”Bruno — who recently starred in Amazon Prime documentary Four Kings alongside fellow Brit fighters Lennox Lewis, Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank — was due to start his Thailand tour on March 6.But he was forced to cancel as medics kept him at the Al Wakra Hospital until he improved.His PA — UB40’s former tour manager — stayed with him and kept loved ones informed.Boxing champ Frank with wife Laura in 1995, who he split from in 2001Credit: PA:Press AssociationThe boxing great was awarded an MBE for services to the sport in 1990Credit: Getty Images – GettyFrank took a connecting Qatar Airways flight on March 3 from Heathrow to DohaCredit: AlamyFrank — awarded an MBE for services to boxing in 1990 — is now “on the mend” and has returned to Britain. Our source went on: “Frank was severely ill but, thankfully, got good treatment in Doha.”The hospital he was at is very modern and the biggest in Qatar, and he was in good hands. He and Paul were grateful to the medics for the way they looked after him.“They had to monitor him really closely when he first came in, and that’s why they took his passport.“They feared Frank might think he was better before he was and try to discharge himself.“But Frank was too ill to leave anyway, as he battled the infection.“By the end of his time in Qatar, Frank was getting frustrated as he was bored and wanted to leave.“But they did not take any chances and let him leave only when his condition had improved.”Bruno’s Thailand tour was scheduled to kick off in Pattaya, before more dates with fans in Bangkok, Hua Hin and Koh Phangan.Our source said: “In typical Frank fashion, he was more worried about supposedly letting his fans down.By the end of his time in Qatar, Frank was getting frustrated as he was bored and wanted to leaveA source”He is massively popular in Thailand and a lot of expats go to his shows. But there was nothing he could do.“Thankfully he’s now on the mend.”However Bruno’s management has cancelled a scheduled appearance on Sunday at Manchester’s Hotel Football.It is hoped he will be able to fulfil UK tour commitments in May and June, including an “Evening With” bash at Birmingham City FC.Bruno hung up his gloves in 1996 after a defeat to Mike Tyson.He then struggled after quitting and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1998, before splitting with wife Laura in 2001.Bruno is now a mental health campaigner. He told The Sun in 2021 that he was sectioned — for a fifth time — during lockdown.He spent six weeks in hospital after family and friends feared for his safety — and Bruno bravely admitted: “I hit rock bottom.”Sources said his Qatar ordeal was not linked to mental health issues.His manager Dave Davies said: “Frank was flying out to work in Thailand when he was taken ill on the plane at Doha.”Medical crew attended Frank on the plane and at hospital. He’s now recovering and hopes to be back at work as soon as possible.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFrank’s scare came after England footie legend Stuart Pearce spent five days in hospital due to chest pains on a flight home from the US. Stuart is now “in good form” recovering.30YRS ON FROM EPIC WORLD WINBy Michael HamiltonFRANK Bruno’s planned UK tour this year will celebrate 30 years since his greatest achievement — beating Oliver McCall to land the WBC heavyweight title.He outpointed the American in front of a frenzied Wembley crowd in September 1995 — landing the world crown on his fourth attempt.Londoner Frank had made his professional debut in 1982 and became a fan favourite, winning 21 consecutive bouts by KO.He also enjoyed a long-standing TV double act with BBC boxing presenter Harry Carpenter.He popped up on TV shows, Comic Relief appeals and appeared in pantos, with the nation loving his “Know what I mean, ’Arry?” catchphrase.His first world title loss came against Tim Witherspoon in 1986, before defeats to Mike Tyson in 1989 and Lennox Lewis in 1993.After beating McCall, his first defence was against Tyson, who stopped him in round three.Bruno suffered eye damage in the 1996 fight and retired — with a career record of 40 wins from 45 bouts, 38 by knockout.The star has been open about his battles with mental health since quitting.He helps others via his charity The Frank Bruno Foundation, and his book 60 Years a Fighter was published to mark his birthday in 2021.The Sun was invited to the landmark bash, with tributes from stars including Tyson, Stephen Fry and Ricky Hatton. 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      Stuart Pearce reveals medics ‘shoved a tube down his throat’ as he relives horror health scare on trans-Atlantic jet

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      STUART Pearce has opened up about his health battle after falling ill during a transatlantic flight.The former England ace turned pundit described having chest pains on his way back from Las Vegas before doctors had to “stick a tube” down his throat and dramatically “reboot” his heart.Stuart Pearce on talkSPORT this afternoonPearce is in good spirits after he suffered a medical emergency on a plane at 30,000ftCredit: The SunThe Three Lions legend was taken to hospital after the plane made an emergency landing in CanadaCredit: PA:Press AssociationFans had been rooting for the hardman defender, nicknamed Psycho, since we told how he became ill during a Virgin Atlantic flight to Heathrow.The father-of-two, 62, appeared on talkSPORT today as he continues his recovery, having been discharged after spending five days in hospital.Speaking to Jim White and Simon Jordan at midday, he said: “I feel brilliant in myself and have done since probably mid last week, to be quite honest with you. “I’m in really good hands. The people in the hospital have been magnificent.”READ MORE ON THIS STORYHe said his insurers are looking at how to get him home to the UK, explaining he needs a “medical chaperone”.”Over the next day or so, hopefully,” he added.During the flight, Pearce was hooked up to a monitor as he began sweating profusely and struggling with acute pain on Flight VS156.First aiders treated Pearce, whose partner watched helplessly as the drama unfolded.Most read in FootballThe decision was made to divert the flight to St John’s on Newfoundland where the star was helped off the plane.Describing the health scare itself, Pearce told talkSPORT: “On the flight I had chest pains, so the crew on Virgin were brilliant and looked after me fantastically.”England great Stuart Pearce suffers health scare on trans-Atlantic flight forcing jet to make emergency landing in CanadaHe continued: “My heart rate was racing, my resting heart rate was anything above 155 bpm so that was ridiculous, really.”My heart wasn’t pumping enough blood around the system and had some swelling…”At the end of the week, on Friday, they said we’ll stick a tube down your throat, if there’s no swelling around your heart we’ll stop your heart and reboot again and that’s exactly what they did.”My heart went back to a normal rate and I left the next day.”He’s been able to watch some football as he recovers, saying: “I’ve been fortunate enough to watch a few games – the Forest game against Man City was very humbling.”Thank you to everyone who has sent messages of support.”The former full-back, who played for Nottingham Forest, West Ham and Man City, received 24/7 care but has been out of hospital now for several days.’IN GREAT SPIRITS’During Saturday’s Premier League game between Forest and City, supporters stood for a round of applause in the third minute. Pearce wore the number ‘3’.Sam Matterface, a talkSPORT colleague, told listeners: “I spoke to him yesterday and he was in great spirits.”He isn’t 100 per cent — that is definitely the case.”But he’s in the right place in the hospital. They’re dealing with it.“He’s a little bit disappointed about not being here today. He actually said to me, ‘I’ve got so much I’ve had to cancel. Great games and Mumford and Sons are playing next Wednesday night and I can’t go!'”Pearce, who won 78 England caps, had been flying home after watching Warrington Wolves play Wigan Warriors in Vegas in the first rugby league Super league match in the US.A source previously said: “Stuart’s pains appeared to be getting worse as the flight continued.“He was constantly shifting position in his seat to try and find some comfort.“It was very clear the situation was serious.“The crew and other passengers trained in first aid were marvellous.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He received the best available care in the circumstances and was so grateful to everyone involved, and for the plane diverting to Canada.”The remaining 225 passengers were later flown to Heathrow, arriving at 6.15pm on Monday — six hours later than scheduled.Pearce has opened up about his health scareCredit: GettyUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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      Stuart Pearce health update after England legend fell ill on LA flight forcing it to make emergency landing

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      LEGENDARY former footballer Stuart Pearce is in good spirits while he recovers from a recent health scare.The England icon and former gaffer fell ill during a flight from Las Vegas to London Heathrow on Monday.Stuart Pearce is reportedly in good spirits after he suffered a medical emergency on a plane at 30,000ftCredit: The SunTalksport’s chief football commentator Sam Matterface today provided an update on the charismatic hardman’s condition.“I spoke to him yesterday, he was in great spirits,” Matterface said.“He isn’t 100 per cent – that is definitely the case.“But he’s in the right place in the hospital. They’re dealing with it.read more in football“He’s a little bit disappointed about not being here today. He actually said to me, ‘I’ve got so much I’ve had to cancel. Great games and Mumford and Sons are playing next Wednesday night and I can’t go!’Stuart’s flight had to be diverted to St John’s in Canada where he was rushed to a nearby hospital after falling ill.Virgin Atlantic crew had hooked up the Three Lions hero and talkSPORT pundit, 62, to a monitor 10,000 feet as shocked passengers looked on.The 62-year-old had jetted into Vegas to watch his beloved Warrington Wolves play Wigan Warriors.Most read in FootballA source previously said: “Stuart’s pains appeared to be getting worse as the flight continued.“He was constantly shifting position in his seat to try and find some comfort.“It was very clear the situation was serious.“The crew and other passengers trained in first aid were marvellous.“He received the best available care in the circumstances and was so grateful to everyone involved, and for the plane diverting to Canada.”The remaining 225 passengers were later flown to Heathrow, arriving at 6.15pm on Monday — six hours later than scheduled. More

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      England great Stuart Pearce suffers health scare on trans-Atlantic jet forcing it to make emergency landing in Canada

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      ENGLAND football legend Stuart Pearce suffered a medical emergency on a plane at 30,000ft.Crew hooked up the Three Lions hero and talkSPORT pundit, 62, to a monitor as shocked passengers looked on. Stuart Pearce suffered a medical emergency on a plane at 30,000ftCredit: The SunThe talkSPORT pundit was hooked up to a monitor by the cabin crew as shocked passengers looked onCredit: TWITTER @talksportThe Three Lions legend was taken to hospital after the plane made an emergency landing in CanadaCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe Virgin Atlantic flight from Las Vegas to Heathrow was diverted to Canada where Pearce is said to be recovering in hospital.A source said: “He was clearly in a lot of pain.”The star’s worried partner and passengers spotted him wincing in pain several hours into the flight.Staff on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner checked him constantly and decided to change course to land at St John’s in Canada early on Monday.Read More on SportMedics rushed on board and took the former Nottingham Forest defender to hospital where he is recovering.He and his partner had been in the economy section of Flight VS156 that left the US at 8.45pm last Sunday.A source said: “Stuart’s pains appeared to be getting worse as the flight continued.“He was constantly shifting position in his seat to try and find some comfort. Most read in Football“It was very clear the situation was serious.“The crew and other passengers trained in first aid were marvellous. Tony Cascarino & Stuart Pearce recall hilarious memories during Irish Sun’s Goals Live event“He received the best available care in the circumstances and was so grateful to everyone involved, and for the plane diverting to Canada.”The remaining 225 passengers were later flown to Heathrow, arriving at 6.15pm on Monday — six hours later than scheduled.Pearce had flown to Vegas to watch his rugby league team Warrington Wolves play Wigan Warriors. He has been a fan since striking up a friendship with ex-Wolves coach Tony Smith.Pearce had been due to speak at Christ The King Parish Centre in Coventry last night.But the venue said that “due to unforeseen circumstances” he had been replaced by ex-England teammate John Barnes.Dad Pearce was an England favourite, earning the nickname Psycho for his ferocious tackling.He missed a penalty in the 1990 World Cup semi-final shootout with West Germany and left the pitch in tears.But at the 1996 Euros he smashed home his spot-kick in the quarter-final penalties win over Spain and roared in delight.He won 78 England caps and was briefly caretaker boss. He coached the U21s from 2007-13.He began his playing career at Wealdstone then Coventry, later signing for Forest, Newcastle, West Ham and Manchester City.READ MORE SUN STORIESA Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said last night: “Due to an unwell customer on board, the VS156 on March 2 flying from Las Vegas to London Heathrow diverted to St John’s International Airport, Canada, and was met by the medical services. “The safety and well-being of our customers and crew is always our number one priority and we apologise for the delay to our customers’ journey.”The Virgin Atlantic flight from Las Vegas to Heathrow was diverted to CanadaCredit: Getty More

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      Why Man Utd were forced into nightmare journey back from Fulham with miserable stars arriving in Manchester at 1.30am

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      MANCHESTER UNITED stars had to be driven back home by coach after their Premier League match at Fulham.United defeated the Cottagers 1-0 on Sunday thanks to Lisandro Martinez’s winner at Craven Cottage.Manuel Ugarte was visibily upset after Manchester United’s hellacious trip backCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeAlejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo had to endure a three-and-a-half-hour coach trip back to ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeRasmus Hojlund saw Man Utd’s flight back from London getting cancelledCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMatthijs de Ligt and co couldn’t board the plane due to problems with the airlineCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Red Devils were scheduled to fly back to Manchester Airport but the flight was cancelled.Problems with the airline meant going back home by plane was no longer an option.And so Man Utd had to endure a THREE-AND-A-HALF-HOUR coach journey to Manchester.Ruben Amorim’s men faced Fulham at 7pm and the manager finished his post-match press conference at about 9.40pm.Read More on Man UtdThe team arrived back at Manchester Airport at about 1.30AM to get on their cars that they had parked nearby anticipating a flight back.Some players, such as Manuel Ugarte, seemed visibly frustrated after the horrendous ordeal.United are training on Monday despite the horrible journey, but have Tuesday off.Amorim will hold practice again on Wednesday morning before the three-hour flight to Romania.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThat is where they will take on FCSB on Thursday’s crunch Europa League clash as they look to seal a place in the top eight.That leads straight to the Last 16, which is quite important for United amid their ongoing woes in the Premier League.Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager’The Red Devils have plunged down to 12th place in the table, which means winning the Europa League poses as their best chance of gaining Champions League qualification next season.The club has dealt with off-field woes as well with fans furious following the rise in ticket prices.That led to the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust issuing an open letter to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe warning him about the negative effects of that decision.MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Maguire puts in superb defensive display but Garnacho caught running into blind alleysMANCHESTER UNITED secured a hard-fought three points against Fulham.Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike proved to be the difference in what was the Red Devils’ only shot on target all game.Harry Maguire impressed but Alejandro Garnacho once again failed to impress in what could have been his Man Utd farewell amid rumours linking him with Napoli and Chelsea.Here is how SunSport rated the individual performances.Andre Onana – 7Good save low down to his left to keep out an Alex Iwobi shot early doors.Other than that he was barely tested but no glaring errors mean it is a step in the right direction for the Red Devils No1.Diogo Dalot – 6Had a difficult time in the first half up against Iwobi who was Fulham’s main attacking threat.Switched to the left flank in the second half and supported Garnacho without posing much of a threat.Matthijs de Ligt – 8Another strong showing at the back from the Dutchman. Without his support for Dalot, Fulham may have created a goal down United’s right-hand side.Harry Maguire – 9A superb defensive display from the England star who has been one of United’s best players since Amorim took charge.Pulled off a brilliant header at the back post to deny Rodrigo Muniz a certain goal.Lisandro Martinez – 8Superb last-ditch tackle to prevent Emile Smith Rowe from shooting as he burst through on goal.His goal had a big slice of luck as it was deflected past Bernd Leno but credit to him for having the audacity to shoot.Noussair Mazraoui – 7Solid at the back and tried to get forward when he could. United looked more balance with him on the left and Dalot on the right, although the pair swapped at half-time.Manuel Ugarte – 6Showed some nice touches and was a bit of a menace in the middle – in a positive and negative sense. Kept a close eye on Smith Rowe and allowed him no time on the ball.Booked for a foul on Adama Traore and was taken off shortly afterwards with an injury.Bruno Fernandes – 5Not at his best. Barely saw the ball in the first half and was not very effective when he did get it.Amad Diallo – 6Looked bright on the ball and United’s only real outlet going forward.He worked tirelessly and pressed really well – his hard work paid off when he found the back of the net in stoppage time but his effort was chalked off.Alejandro Garnacho – 3Was cautious on the ball and ran into blind alleys too often. Final ball let him down on the rare occasion he did manage to beat a defender.Rasmus Hojlund – 4His hold up play is nowhere near good enough for this system or for a club like United.He was too gung-ho at times and his erratic nature meant linking up with Amad and Garnacho proved difficult.Hauled off before the hour mark which says it all about his performance.Subs:Leny Yoro (for De Ligt, 58mins) – 6A more assured display given his shaky start to life in the Premier League.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 58mins) – 5Like Hojlund he had a difficult time holding the ball up but United improved with him on the pitch.Toby Collyer (for Ugarte, 76mins ) – 6Solid display again from the youngster who was often in the right position to clear, including one on the line to stop a Joachim Andersen header from going in.Kobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Provided energy in midfield and shored things up alongside Collyer.A brilliant one-two with Amad set up the winger to score before VAR ruled Amad offside.Tyrell Malacia (for Mazraoui, 80mins) – 6Brought on in an unfamiliar right wing-back role but did what was needed to see out the clean sheet. 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      Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes helps rescue stricken passenger while heading to Portugal international duty

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has been hailed as a “hero” after helping a passenger on a plane while heading to Portugal.Following his Man of the Match performance in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester on Sunday, Fernandes had began the journey to link up with Portugal over the international break.Bruno Fernandes remarkably helped an unwell passenger on an easyJet flightCredit: ReutersThe incident happened on an easyJet flight from Manchester to LisbonCredit: GettyThe Red Devils’ captain was taking an easyJet flight from Manchester to Lisbon with team-mate Diogo Dalot.However, the 30-year-old was quick to act when he noticed a man appearing to pass out at the back of the plane.As fellow passenger Susanna Lawson told Business Cloud, Fernandes was heard shouting: “Excuse me! We need help! Excuse me! We need help!”Lawson was heading to Web Summit – where Man Utd CEO Omar Berrada, runner Sir Mo Farah, Manchester City star Ruben Dias and Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy will be among those speaking – when the drama unfolded. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe said: “Bruno went to the loo at the back of the plane during the flight.”(We) suddenly heard a shout for assistance which those within hearing distance looked back, including us as we were toward the back.”Bruno was holding a gentleman who looked like he was passing out. “I don’t know if he lost consciousness or not.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Members of the crew rushed to the back to help. “There was a spare seat at the back which Bruno helped the gentleman to sit down on.What does Bruno Fernandes’ celebration mean ?”He stayed at the back with them and made sure he was OK. “It might have been about 5-10 minutes and then he made his way back to his seat but again very unassuming. “He wasn’t looking for any attention on himself.“He was very unassuming. “Unless you knew who he was you would never have known he was anyone special if you know what I mean.“We were not sure whether to ask him for a selfie because of that. “He didn’t mention Man Utd at all.”At the end of the flight, Lawson managed to grab a photo with Fernandes.Man Utd ratings v LeicesterHere’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the Red Devils.ANDRE ONANA – 7Stood tall when Ndidi went through on goal and a decent tip round the post from Ayew as Leicester tried to get back in it.NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 6Lucky to escape tackle on Buonanotte without any punishment. Supplied the cross from the left which led to United’s second goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Made a key second half clearance when the Foxes were trying to find their way back into the game. Fairly comfortable afternoon for home defenders.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Spent the first hour at centre half then showed his versatility by switching to left-back when Dalot was forced off.DIOGO DALOT – 6Did a steady job keeping the Foxes at bay but then taken off on the hour – presumably due to injury as United had to reshuffle their defence.CASEMIRO – 7Better from the veteran Brazilian who helped United take command of the game before getting the chance to put his feet up late on.MANUEL UGARTE – 6Great challenge on Soumare showed what he is all about and some signs he is finding his feet. Will be looking forward to arrival of former boss Amorim.AMAD DIALLO – 7Delightful backheel for Fernandes to curl home the opener and could have scored himself. The Ivorian has had a good week.  BRUNO FERNANDES – 8Presented with a shirt to mark his 250th appearance before the game and will be getting more plaudits for his performance here. Involved in all three goals.MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Given the nod to start ahead of Garnacho but did not do enough to justify the faith of Van Nistelrooy. No surprise when he was replaced by the Argentine on the hour.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5A largely ineffective afternoon for the Danish forward before he was subbed late on. Nothing wrong with his work-rate but does he have the quality Amorim will want?She added: “When I asked him politely for a selfie as we were leaving the plane he was absolutely lovely and actually took the selfie himself.”I praised him for looking after the ill passenger. “Honestly if you didn’t know who he was you would have just thought he was any other passenger.”Fernandes’ match-winning exploits at Old Trafford on Sunday marked his 250th appearance for the club.These 250 games have seen him score 83 goals and add 73 assists.When he returns to Carrington after international matches against Poland and Croatia in the Uefa Nations League, Fernandes will be greeted by a new head coach.Ruben Amorim has arrived in England to take over the Man Utd job after leaving his own role at Sporting Lisbon.The club’s last four games had been managed by Ruud van Nistelrooy on an interim basis, with three of those four games since Erik ten Hag’s sacking ending in victory and the other being a draw.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro.However, the Dutchman has now left the club with Amorim bringing his own backroom staff in to oversee his new squad.A statement from the club on Van Nistelrooy’s departure said: “Manchester United can confirm that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club. “Ruud rejoined in the summer and has taken charge of the team for the past four matches as interim head coach. Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.”We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.”Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel have also left the club.Before Amorim was announced as the new Man Utd coach, Fernandes tipped the 39-year-old to be a future Premier League manager. He said: “He is a coach who has shown that he is prepared. Being Sporting’s coach and winning championships is not easy. “Sporting went 20 years without winning a championship, and then Mr. Rúben came and won two. That in itself shows that his work is being done well.”Now, whether he can do the same in England or Spain or anywhere else, we will never know until we get there. But I am sure that Mr . Rúben Amorim’s qualities are there for all to see.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Since coach Rúben Amorim arrived at Sporting, I think they have been one of the teams playing the best football, they have been very consistent, the signings have been very successful. “They are in a very good moment. They have just become champions last year and this year they are already starting in the lead. They are a team that is very well prepared.”Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change. More