More stories

  • in

    Man Utd ‘in talks to sign Ipswich star Liam Delap but face FIVE-WAY fight’ for former City ace dubbed ‘Kane’s heir’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly held internal talks over a potential move for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.The 22-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Portman Road following his £20million move from Manchester City in July.Man Utd are reportedly targeting a move for Liam DelapCredit: ReutersIn 28 Premier League appearances, Delap has scored 10 goals and provided two assists.And with Ipswich facing relegation back to the Championship at the end of the campaign, he is being tipped for a move away.The Daily Mail claims that Man Utd are among the clubs interested.United officials held internal discussions over the potential transfer in recent weeks.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDelap is also being monitored by the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle and Man City, his former club.The reigning Prem champions allegedly have a buy-back clause for the striker, while United technical director Jason Wilcox knows him from his time at City’s academy.Delap, the son of Stoke City icon Rory Delap, joined Derby County’s academy at the age of six and spent 10 years at the club before moving to Man City.He made his first team debut in a Carabao Cup clash with Bournemouth in September 2020 and received praise from Pep Guardiola.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordBut the striker struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting line-up and was sent on loan to Stoke, Preston and Hull before joining Ipswich permanently.He is now being lined up for another transfer.Amorim says Man Utd ‘need to be better’ after 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest Man Utd are expected to prioritise signing new forward this summer.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to meet expectations this season.Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford could make his Aston Villa loan permanent for £40m at the end of the campaign.The Red Devils could also find themselves in a tricky situation with Jadon Sancho, who is currently on loan at Chelsea until June.The Blues have an obligation to buy the winger but could pay a fee of £5m to back out of the deal. More

  • in

    Former Premier League defender jailed after being found guilty of fraud – but fumes ‘I never robbed anyone’

    A FORMER Premier League defender has been sent to prison after being found guilty of fraud.Lucien Aubey spent four months at Portsmouth in early 2008 on loan from French club Lens.Ex-Portsmouth defender Lucien Aubey has been jailed for fraudCredit: AFPThe five-cap Congo international made three top-flight appearances for Harry Redknapp’s side – but missed out on Pompey’s FA Cup-winning campaign.Aubey, 40, also played for Toulouse, Rennes and Reims as well as clubs in Turkey and Cyprus.But a court in Toulouse handed him a two-year jail term, with 12 months suspended.The trial heard he conned a pal out of more than £120,000 in 2015 after persuading him to invest in founding a record label.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAubey and co-accused Mohamed Dia allegedly told the man he would earn £1million in three years’ time.The friend, named only as Sebastien, had previously landed a £170,000 payout following a road accident.However, Aubey had previously been declared bankrupt and disqualified from setting up a company.Shoe repairer Sebastien went to the police after never seeing his money again. Most read in FootballHe accused Aubey of threatening to harm his children after seeking repayment.Sebastien, 42, said: “I lost everything, and my wife wanted to commit suicide.  “I had to give up work.”We split up, and those two [Aubey and Dia] just had a good laugh about it all.”Aubey told the court: “My money was tied up in Cyprus, held by my club Olympiakos Nicosia.”This wasn’t a fraud – I never robbed anyone.”However, prosecutors revealed tapped phone conversations between the ex-footballer and Dia, which showed their intent to defraud Sebastien.On Monday, the court ordered Aubey to repay the 145,000 euros, and to not contact his victim.Clothes designer Dia, meanwhile, received a one-year suspended jail term for his part in the scam. More

  • in

    ‘I was on the point of doing something crazy’ – Liverpool legend admits VAR would have changed history in Everton clash

    LIVERPOOL icon Dirk Kuyt has admitted his infamous Merseyside derby tackle was “crazy” and he should have been sent off.The shocking challenge was made during an ill-tempered fixture in 2007.Dirk Kuyt avoided a red card for a reckless tackle on Phil NevilleCredit: Sky SportsKuyt then stepped up and scored a late winner from the spotCredit: PA:Press AssociationLiverpool beat Everton 2-1 as David Moyes’ side went down to nine-men after red cards to Tony Hibbert and Phil Neville.Kuyt scored both goals for the Reds, including a dramatic 92nd minute penalty to win it.The strike was highly controversial as the Dutchman somehow escaped an early bath for a reckless and wild lunge on Neville.Kuyt went in two-footed above the Everton skipper’s knee but was given just a yellow by referee Mark Clattenburg.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOpening up on the moment, Kuyt told The Telegraph: “I was very lucky to come away from that because if I had a red card, I would not have managed to score the winning goal. “It’s crazy when you play these kinds of games because there’s a lot of adrenaline, a lot of emotion.“I flew through the air and thank God there was no VAR there at the time. “When I was in the air, I knew I was way too late and I was on the point of doing something crazy. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”I tried to hold my legs inside me just to be lucky not to touch him. I think I was very lucky not to get the red card.”Liverpool face Everton tonight and tempers could flare again after a huge bust-up at the end of their 2-2 thriller just seven weeks ago.Everton and Liverpool stars sent off in post-match brawl as police intervene with Slot seeing red for handshake stuntKuyt, 44, is currently the manager of Belgian side Beerschot and it is his “dream” to one day fill Arne Slot’s shoes as Liverpool boss.Kuyt is now manager of Belgian outfit BeerschotCredit: AFP More

  • in

    ‘I could have done what he did’ – Martin O’Neill, 73, slams Man Utd star live on TNT Sports after Nottingham Forest loss

    PATRICK DORGU has been slammed by Martin O’Neill for his poor performance in Manchester United’s 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.Anthony Elanga scored a stunning solo goal to condemn his former team to their 13th defeat of the Premier League season on Tuesday night.Patrick Dorgu came under fire from Martin O’Neill for his performance at Nottingham ForestO’Neill, a Forest hero in the 70s, said he could have done Dorgu’s job even nowO’Neill, a double European champion with Forest, was delighted to see his old club tighten their grip on third in the Prem, as they bid to qualify for next year’s Champions League.Elanga flooded forward from his own penalty area in the fifth minute, covering 85m in the space of just nine seconds, to lash home the opener.United dominated the ball at 68 per cent possession and had 23 shots to Forest’s eight, but none of them too threatening for Matz Sels.While Ruben Amorim’s side showed signs of improving on the ball, individual mistakes and the lack of firepower up front were glaring.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd O’Neill was particularly scathing in his assessment of Dorgu, who was playing just his seventh match since arriving from Lecce for £29.4 million in January.Working as a pundit for TNT Sports, the 73-year-old said: “They had Dorgu playing tonight. I could have done what he did! “He’s wide left-hand side, he’s got the ball and you’re saying: ‘Come on! Your job is to take players on. Get at them!’ “He’s laid it inside three times in the first 10 minutes of the second half… to the opposition! Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford”Maybe it’s no confidence, I don’t know what it is. But these type of things are all over the field for Manchester United.”Rio Ferdinand highlighted that Dorgu was caught on the wrong side of Elanga, before he made his incredible game-winning run at the edge of Forest’s box early on.’That’s why I’m the manager’ – Ruben Amorim hits back at Wayne Rooney as Man Utd boss aims to win Premier LeagueAnd the 20-year-old regularly missed placed passes throughout his 90 minutes.But fans have also criticised Alejandro Garnacho – who skied several shots – for not passing to Dorgu, who was making well-meaning overlapping runs.Dorgu was coming off a stellar performance against Real Sociedad in the Europa League, where he had five shots on goal and won Bruno Fernandes’ game-leading penalty.The Dane was crucial to United winning 4-1 on aggregate and advancing to face Lyon in the quarter-finals.But the left-wing back hasn’t quite hit the ground running in his four Prem games.Forest was his first league game back since his three-match suspension for picking up a straight red for a ruthless challenge on Omari Hutchinson against Ipswich in February. Amorim was desperate to bolster his left-wing options in January with Diogo Dalot being forced to switch from the right side, Luke Shaw injured and Tyrell Malacia sent out on loan to PSV Eindhoven. O’Neill further suggested that the current United squad lacks the depth and quality to genuinely contend in the Prem.The Northern Irishman, whose last managerial job saw him sacked by Forest in 2019, added: “Man United have some really good players.”Obviously, Fernandes is a top-quality player. But they haven’t enough good players to be a threat in this league. Read More on The Sun”And when I say a threat for Manchester United, I’m talking about getting into the top four.”The gritty win marked the first league double over United for the Tricky Trees since 1992 when legendary boss Brian Clough was still in charge of the club.Man Utd player ratings vs Nottingham ForestMANCHESTER UNITED’S woes continue after another disappointing loss to Nottingham Forest.Forest picked up a 1-0 victory at the City Ground thanks to ex-United ace Anthony Elanga’s winner after just five minutes.United remain 13th in the Premier League table and look set for their worst ever Premier League finish.That is at least what their performance at Forest showed, as Ruben Amorim’s men don’t show signs of really understanding the Portuguese tactician’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.But who stood out for a poor United’s side? And who was the biggest disappointment?Check out Kostas Lianos’ players ratings below and find out…Andre Onana – 5Can’t blame him for Nottingham Forest’s winner as Anthony Elanga’s shot was too good. Made a stunning save to deny Ryan Yates’ header without knowing the Forest ace was offside.Leny Yoro – 5Should have been more aware before Elanga’s goal that came straight after a Man Utd corner-kick in which he had moved forward.One could argue Yoro made up for it when he stopped a fine run by Elanga in the second half with an amazing and well-timed challenge to save United from a second.Matthijs de Ligt – 4The centre-back was also nowhere to be seen before Elanga’s goal. No other major errors but should have done better on the rebound after Diogo Dalot’s header hit the crossbar.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Completely hopeless during Elanga’s run that led to the goal and struggled in his defensive duties, especially in the first half. Not sure if the full-back fits in a defensive trio as part of Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation…Diogo Dalot – 6A strong performance down the right wing with some fine runs and good crosses. Registered United’s best chance in the first half when his header rattled Forest’s crossbar.Casemiro – 4At fault for Elanga’s goal as there was absolutely no midfield presence during Forest’s counter.Loads of inaccurate passes and got booked for a reckless challenge on Yates before complaining in a very unjust way. Registered three shots but didn’t cause concern for Matz Sels.Manuel Ugarte – 4Cut a rather anonymous figure, among the guilty parties for Elanga’s goal as Man Utd’s midfield was caught sleeping. Rightly substituted at half-time.Patrick Dorgu – 5A fine display during the first half as he cut a strong presence down the left flank, even though he was completely outrun by Elanga before the goal.But the versatile full-back was the complete opposite in the second half with a series of errors against a stunning Neco Williams.Bruno Fernandes – 6Registered the game’s first shot on target with a powerful effort that required a lunge from Sels, and that was basically United’s best shot throughout the entire match.Fernandes produced some fine long balls and upgraded Man Utd’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exits.Alejandro Garnacho – 2Very disappointing performance from the winger. Completely hopeless before Elanga’s goal with a desperate tackle and was lucky to avoid a booking for a ridiculous challenge on Yates while the Argentina international was on the attack.A game riddled with heavy touches, failed dribbles, wrong passes, blocked shots and a silly yellow card as he kicked the ball away in frustration. Had a good shot on 69 minutes as a saving grace.Joshua Zirkzee – 3Was supposed to be a striker but was often seen playing too deep and didn’t register a chance in front of Forest’s goal. Didn’t inspire any danger even after Rasmus Hojlund came on to help him up front.SUBSRasmus Hojlund – 5Was much better than a woeful Zirkzee up front for Man Utd. But didn’t cause any significant danger and never looked like a goalscoring threat. Harry Maguire looked far more lethal as a false nine after he entered the pitch with a lot more presence inside the box.Christian Eriksen – 4Didn’t really elevate United’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exit. The sort of performance that makes one wonder about his Old Trafford future…Harry Maguire – 5Only played nine minutes as a false nine and was by far Man Utd’s best forward. Brought on as a desperation move that almost paid off with the best chance of the match as his last-gasp effort was cleared by Murillo just off the line.Mason Mount – N/A More

  • in

    Hollywood superstar Anne Hathaway sends clear message to Bukayo Saka as marks Arsenal return with winning goal

    ANNE HATHAWAY shared the delight of her fellow Arsenal fans after Bukayo Saka’s goalscoring return from injury.The winger made his long-awaited comeback from hamstring surgery in last night’s 2-1 win over Fulham.Anne Hathaway posted a snap of her in an Arsenal kit after victory over FulhamCredit: Instagram @annehathawayBukayo Saka was back amongst the goals on his return from injuryCredit: GettyThe Arsenal star celebrated his goal with those who have helped him recover from injuryCredit: GettySaka came on soon after the hour mark and it took him just seven minutes to find the back of the net, heading in from close range at the back post.It was a dream return for 23-year-old, who sprinted over to the dugout to celebrate with the Arsenal medical team.And they were not the only ones thrilled to see Saka back amongst the goals – with Hollywood megastar Hathaway equally glad.She took to Instagram after the game and posted a snap of herself in an Arsenal away kit.READ MORE ON ARSENALHathaway captioned the post “Welcome back #7” in reference to Saka.Her love for Arsenal first came to light after she celebrated a Leandro Trossard goal during an interview promoting movie “The Idea of You” alongside co-star Nicholas Galitzine last year.The Belgian then reached out to say he was aware of the video, with a star-struck Hathaway reacting: “Are you kidding? I’m shaking.”Galitzine later revealed: “Anne Hathaway is a massive Arsenal supporter. I’m in a group chat with her family, who are all Arsenal supporters. [They’re] obsessed.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe actress was not the only person joyed by Saka’s return, with Mikel Arteta saying: “I think it’s a beautiful moment to see how much our people love, respect and admire Bukayo.“He’s not a surprise to any of us and I think the best example is his reaction. Immediately after scoring a goal, what does he do?Arsenal star Leandro Trossard leaves Hollywood actress Anne Hathaway ‘shaking’ with excitement after live TV message“He goes and says thank you for all the hard work that all the sports science guys, physios and everybody involved in the recovery have done for him to be in the condition that he is.“I think he lifted the stadium, the energy and it’s great to have him back.”On his celebration, Arteta added: “We all love this kind of recognition and gestures because it goes beyond the professional side of it. “There is a connection there that is so necessary and to be able to appreciate as well the amount of work, stress and responsibility that they have to go through because they will be like this.“I hope everything goes well and the work that we’ve done is going to work. So I was very pleased with that.”Anne Hathaway is a huge Arsenal supporterCredit: GettyArsenal ratings v FulhamARSENAL had a night of mixed fortunes as they beat Fulham 2-1 at the Emirates.Bukayo Saka not only returned but also scored after 101 days out.But injuries to Gabriel and Jurrien Timber ahead of next week’s visit of Real Madrid took the gloss off the win.Here’s How SunSport’s Josh Hall rated Mikel Arteta’s men on the night.DAVID RAYA – 7Week by week Raya is staking a claim as one of the best goalkeepers in the league.He doesn’t have to face a barrage of shots as part of this Arsenal team, but rarely falters when he is called upon.His distribution and preventative high claims are also among the best around.There was little he could have done to stop Rodrigo Muniz’s deflected goal.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6It looked like the Dutchman’s night was going to be cut short around the half an hour mark when he went down clutching his knee.Fortunately, he was able to play on and even managed to test Bend Leno with a stinging effort in the second half.Unfortunately his earlier knock proved too much and he was taken off with a niggle in the 75th minute.Arsenal could now be without at least two starting defenders for their clash with Real Madrid.GABRIEL – N/AJust when Arsenal fans thought they were creeping out of their injury crisis with the return of Bukayo Saka, they lose another top star.Gabriel hobbled off after just 15 minutes to be replaced by Jakub Kiwior.Arteta – and every Arsenal fan up and down the country – will be hoping the wall at the back will be fighting fit for their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid next week.WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Stepped up to the plate in Gabriel’s absence and looked assured both on and off the ball.His frame did wonders to prevent Raul Jimenez from fashioning any chances in dangerous areas.However, he wasn’t able to do enough to stop Rodrigo Muniz from batting it against him to pull a late goal back for Fulham.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 7Every time you see Lewis-Skelly play you wonder how he’s only 18 and not a seasoned pro with years of experience at the top.He didn’t set the world alight against the Cottagers, but looked just as assured and comfortable as he always does – this time without Gabriel by his side.While he also made an important bloke to prevent Muniz after Fulham had pulled back a late goal.Mikel Arteta has splashed the cash to have a plethora of options at left-back, yet it seems like the Hale End academy graduate is now the number one choice for that position.THOMAS PARTEY – 7Almost gifted Fulham a golden opportunity with a loose header in the first half, but saw David Raya pop up to save the day.Despite a few loose touches he did enough to keep the ball moving in central areas.He’s become an important starter for Arsenal this season, yet still seems to be on his way out in the summer on the expiration of his deal.DECLAN RICE – 6He’s not a glamorous footballer, but he’s always going to give 100 per cent no matter what.Certainly not his worst game in an Arsenal shirt, but by no means his best.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Another frustrating night for the Arsenal captain who seems to have been unable to find the keys to unlock the low block his side faces each week.The Norwegian is certainly one of the best talents in the league, but has only shown it in glimpses this season.Arsenal as a whole looked a bit laboured and lacklustre at times, often that’s a result of the way Odegaard is playing. When he ticks, the whole team does too.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 9Regularly made Timothy Castagne look silly throughout the match and get into dangerous positions by the byline.But despite fashioning plenty of opportunities, the Brazilian was – as per usual – struggling with his end product in the first half.It almost seemed as if every shot or final pass was rushed or snatched at for the opening 45 minutes.That changed in the second half when his delightful flick perfectly teed up Bukayo Saka for a dream return to action.Finally looked like he had the goal to top off a spectacular performance in the dying moments, but was deemed to be marginally offside when his effort found the back of the net.ETHAN NWANERI – 7Bright spark in the opening exchanges and volleyed one right down the throat of Bernd Leno in the 21st minute as he looked the most likely to find the back of the net at first.Instead it was his cutback that helped open the scoring when he placed it on to the boot of Mikel Merino to poke home the first goal of the night.Replaced by Saka in the second half in perhaps a foreshadowing of what might happen to his role in the squad for the remainder of the season.MIKEL MERINO – 8Merino has stepped up the role of of make-shift striker with the sort of professionalism you would want from any player in your team.He might not make darting runs behind the back four, or curl delightful efforts round the keeper, but he’s certainly got a knack for goal.His punt towards goal took a healthy deflection off Jorge Cuenca to send it into the corner, but he won’t care – now netting an impressive five goals in eight games as a centre-forward.He almost made that six when he rifled another effort goalward from a corner in the 60th minute.SUBS: JAKUB KIWIOR – 4 (ON FOR GARBRIEL 15mins)Always a tough task to replace one of the best defenders in the league, but didn’t do enough to impress at all.Sloppily gave the ball away to gift a golden opportunity to Adama Traore in the second half, but was lucky to see the shot blazed wide.He was partly to blame for leaving Rodrigo Muniz wide open for his wayward header on the 80th minute mark – once again saved by sloppy finishing.With each game that passes it seems to be more obvious that the Polish international just isn’t at the required level.BUKAYO SAKA – 8 (ON FOR NWANERI 66mins)The Emirates erupted in its loudest cheer of the night when Saka made his return to action after 21 games and 101 days on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.That was until he nodded home the Gunners’ second just six minutes after crossing the line and an even louder roar bellowed around N5.Arsenal have missed him dearly, and a return right before perhaps the biggest European game in the Emirates era could be crucial for Mikel Arteta’s side.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5 (ON FOR TIMBER 77mins)Had very little impact on the match coming on so late, but did nick the ball off the foot of captain Odegaard who was lining up a thunderous effort. More

  • in

    ‘Fans have lost faith in me’ – Postecoglou lifts lid on ‘tough time’ as under-pressure Spurs boss makes bold prediction

    ANGE POSTECOGLOU admitted a large number of Spurs fans have lost faith in him — and confessed he would start the season differently if he could.Tottenham are languishing in the bottom half of the table, lost to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-finals and went out of the FA Cup after a fourth-round defeat to Aston Villa.Ange Postecoglou admitted poor form has led to fans no longer believing in himCredit: GettyTheir wretched, injury-hit campaign could still end gloriously, though, if they can win the Europa League, with a quarter-final first leg at home to Eintracht Frankfurt next Thursday.But boss Ange knows he no longer retains the full backing of many disillusioned supporters, despite the promise of his debut campaign last year.The 59-year-old said: “There’s no doubt there’s probably a large portion of Tottenham fans who have lost a bit of faith and belief in what we’re doing.“They were encouraged by what they saw last year but that certainly hasn’t manifested itself this year.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I still am really optimistic and bullish about the squad we’ve got. I think there will be enormous growth in them once we can navigate through this.“Surviving tough times can be such a strong uniter of people.”Postecoglou has had a crippling injury list to deal with, with a whole host of players suffering from muscle issues.And in an interview for Optus Sport, the Aussie told compatriot and former goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer that he wished he had not worked his players so hard at the start season.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe former Celtic chief explained: “We probably got the start of the year wrong. It’s becoming increasingly challenging for footballers these days, they don’t get the traditional break.“We went into the season really hard and we probably underestimated the challenges of Europe this year with the two extra games and us having a deep cup run.Fuming Ange Postecoglou covers face with hands as he loses it over reporter’s question after Tottenham’s FA Cup KO“You add to the mix that we lost some key players early on and it feels like we’ve been chasing our tails since then. We haven’t been able to get ahead of the challenge we’ve had.“Every time we try to get some steady ground, something else happens that shifts and a lot of that goes back to the start of the year.“We maybe would have taken a different approach knowing the season we had ahead.“I’ve been trying to mend things as we go along.“Probably in hindsight, with some better planning at the start of the year, I would have gone for a bit of a softer start to the season in terms of the way we tackled things.”Spurs travel across London to rivals Chelsea tomorrow, host basement boys Southampton on Sunday and then have their first leg at home to Frankfurt four days later.Read More on The SunPostecoglou added: “The Europa League is a massive opportunity. We’re one of eight clubs [still in it].“If you can go through what we’ve been through this year and come out the other side of it and have success, it’s a great builder for the future.” More

  • in

    ‘Not even an April Fools’ – Hojlund humiliated by damning Maguire stat as Man Utd fans demand centre-back plays up front

    HARRY MAGUIRE tormented Nottingham Forest with his late cameo – then did the same to team-mate Rasmus Hojlund with a shock stat.Boss Ruben Amorim brought on Maguire UP FRONT in the 88th minute as Manchester United battled in vain to cancel out Anthony Elanga’s brilliant winner.Harry Maguire caused late chaos but to no availCredit: AFPSub Maguire spent nearly all his time on the pitch in the boxCredit: GettyRasmus Hojlund looked suitably gloomy after firing blanks in a 1-0 lossCredit: GettyThe England centre-back caused moments of chaos as he planted himself in Forest’s box to help create a frantic finale.And although Maguire couldn’t find a leveller, he did enough for many Red Devils’ fans to claim he should stay in attack for the rest of the season.That was a damning indictment on two United strikers in particular.Joshua Zirkzee was hauled off after 66 minutes – replaced by forgotten midfielder Mason Mount.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd £72million buy Hojlund, a half-time replacement for Manuel Ugarte, fared equally poorly.Then came a statistic that might have left even Amorim open-mouthed with surprise.X account The xPhilosophy posted: “Harry Maguire accumulated more xG in Added Time against Nott’m Forest than Rasmus Hojlund has in his last 15 appearances.”XG means expected goals – so in other words Maguire got in more inviting positions in just a few minutes than natural forward Hojlund has in months.Most read in FootballStarting striker Joshua Zirkzee had few opportunities for UnitedCredit: RexAmazingly Maguire foused ALL his energy inside the Forest boxBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKOne fan responded: “Not even an April Fools.”Another said: “Keep Maguire up front until the end of the season. Better than our alternatives.”Man Utd treble winner looks unrecognisable with beard and new hair as he enjoys new life as a grandad Hojlund spent more time outside the box than in itAnd a third claimed: “(Alejandro) Garnacho was our only threat tonight. Maguire was more of a threat then Zirkzee and Hojlund combined.”A fourth argued: “Maguire has legit been the best striker we’ve had this game.”In fact, it was difficult to hear a word against Maguire – or any in favour of Hojlund or Zirkzee.”Maguire did more than our attackers,” one supporter insisted.Another found that thought distressing as he wrote: “Maguire being our best striker right now is hurting my soul.”And this viewer was just as critical of United’s normal strikeforce: “Maguire gave us more of an attacking threat in 6 mins than any of our forwards all game, that just shows you just how bad our attackers are.”Read More on The SunA few fans even resorted to sarcastic jibes at the toothless Red Devils.One posted: “United weren’t bad – apart from the minor detail of trying to score a goal. But when Harry Maguire comes on in stoppage time and looks like the biggest threat, that neatly sums it all up.”Joshua Zirkzee had few touches in the danger areaMan Utd player ratings vs Nottingham ForestMANCHESTER UNITED’S woes continue after another disappointing loss to Nottingham Forest.Forest picked up a 1-0 victory at the City Ground thanks to ex-United ace Anthony Elanga’s winner after just five minutes.United remain 13th in the Premier League table and look set for their worst ever Premier League finish.That is at least what their performance at Forest showed, as Ruben Amorim’s men don’t show signs of really understanding the Portuguese tactician’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.But who stood out for a poor United’s side? And who was the biggest disappointment?Check out Kostas Lianos’ players ratings below and find out…Andre Onana – 5Can’t blame him for Nottingham Forest’s winner as Anthony Elanga’s shot was too good. Made a stunning save to deny Ryan Yates’ header without knowing the Forest ace was offside.Leny Yoro – 5Should have been more aware before Elanga’s goal that came straight after a Man Utd corner-kick in which he had moved forward.One could argue Yoro made up for it when he stopped a fine run by Elanga in the second half with an amazing and well-timed challenge to save United from a second.Matthijs de Ligt – 4The centre-back was also nowhere to be seen before Elanga’s goal. No other major errors but should have done better on the rebound after Diogo Dalot’s header hit the crossbar.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Completely hopeless during Elanga’s run that led to the goal and struggled in his defensive duties, especially in the first half. Not sure if the full-back fits in a defensive trio as part of Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation…Diogo Dalot – 6A strong performance down the right wing with some fine runs and good crosses. Registered United’s best chance in the first half when his header rattled Forest’s crossbar.Casemiro – 4At fault for Elanga’s goal as there was absolutely no midfield presence during Forest’s counter.Loads of inaccurate passes and got booked for a reckless challenge on Yates before complaining in a very unjust way. Registered three shots but didn’t cause concern for Matz Sels.Manuel Ugarte – 4Cut a rather anonymous figure, among the guilty parties for Elanga’s goal as Man Utd’s midfield was caught sleeping. Rightly substituted at half-time.Patrick Dorgu – 5A fine display during the first half as he cut a strong presence down the left flank, even though he was completely outrun by Elanga before the goal.But the versatile full-back was the complete opposite in the second half with a series of errors against a stunning Neco Williams.Bruno Fernandes – 6Registered the game’s first shot on target with a powerful effort that required a lunge from Sels, and that was basically United’s best shot throughout the entire match.Fernandes produced some fine long balls and upgraded Man Utd’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exits.Alejandro Garnacho – 2Very disappointing performance from the winger. Completely hopeless before Elanga’s goal with a desperate tackle and was lucky to avoid a booking for a ridiculous challenge on Yates while the Argentina international was on the attack.A game riddled with heavy touches, failed dribbles, wrong passes, blocked shots and a silly yellow card as he kicked the ball away in frustration. Had a good shot on 69 minutes as a saving grace.Joshua Zirkzee – 3Was supposed to be a striker but was often seen playing too deep and didn’t register a chance in front of Forest’s goal. Didn’t inspire any danger even after Rasmus Hojlund came on to help him up front.SUBSRasmus Hojlund – 5Was much better than a woeful Zirkzee up front for Man Utd. But didn’t cause any significant danger and never looked like a goalscoring threat. Harry Maguire looked far more lethal as a false nine after he entered the pitch with a lot more presence inside the box.Christian Eriksen – 4Didn’t really elevate United’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exit. The sort of performance that makes one wonder about his Old Trafford future…Harry Maguire – 5Only played nine minutes as a false nine and was by far Man Utd’s best forward. Brought on as a desperation move that almost paid off with the best chance of the match as his last-gasp effort was cleared by Murillo just off the line.Mason Mount – N/A More

  • in

    Man Utd player ratings: Garnacho awful against Nottingham Forest as Bruno Fernandes is best of bad bunch

    MANCHESTER UNITED’S woes continue after another disappointing loss to Nottingham Forest.Forest picked up a 1-0 victory at the City Ground thanks to ex-United ace Anthony Elanga’s winner after just five minutes.Manchester United suffered another loss to Nottingham ForestCredit: GettyUnited remain 13th in the Premier League table and look set for their worst ever Premier League finish.That is at least what their performance at Forest showed, as Ruben Amorim’s men don’t show signs of really understanding the Portuguese tactician’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.But who stood out for a poor United’s side? And who was the biggest disappointment?Check out Kostas Lianos’ players ratings below and find out…Read More on Man UtdAndre Onana – 5Can’t blame him for Nottingham Forest’s winner as Anthony Elanga’s shot was too good. Made a stunning save to deny Ryan Yates’ header without knowing the Forest ace was offside.Leny Yoro – 5Should have been more aware before Elanga’s goal that came straight after a Man Utd corner-kick in which he had moved forward. One could argue Yoro made up for it when he stopped a fine run by Elanga in the second half with an amazing and well-timed challenge to save United from a second.Matthijs de Ligt – 4The centre-back was also nowhere to be seen before Elanga’s goal. No other major errors but should have done better on the rebound after Diogo Dalot’s header hit the crossbar.Most read in FootballNoussair Mazraoui – 4Completely hopeless during Elanga’s run that led to the goal and struggled in his defensive duties, especially in the first half. Not sure if the full-back fits in a defensive trio as part of Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation…Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordDiogo Dalot – 6A strong performance down the right wing with some fine runs and good crosses. Registered United’s best chance in the first half when his header rattled Forest’s crossbar.Casemiro – 4At fault for Elanga’s goal as there was absolutely no midfield presence during Forest’s counter. Loads of inaccurate passes and got booked for a reckless challenge on Yates before complaining in a very unjust way. Registered three shots but didn’t cause concern for Matz Sels.Manuel Ugarte – 4Cut a rather anonymous figure, among the guilty parties for Elanga’s goal as Man Utd’s midfield was caught sleeping. Rightly substituted at half-time.Patrick Dorgu – 5A fine display during the first half as he cut a strong presence down the left flank, even though he was completely outrun by Elanga before the goal.But the versatile full-back was the complete opposite in the second half with a series of errors against a stunning Neco Williams.Bruno Fernandes – 6Registered the game’s first shot on target with a powerful effort that required a lunge from Sels, and that was basically United’s best shot throughout the entire match. Fernandes produced some fine long balls and upgraded Man Utd’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exits.Man Utd ace Bruno Fernandes was the best of the worstCredit: ReutersAlejandro Garnacho – 2Very disappointing performance from the winger. Completely hopeless before Elanga’s goal with a desperate tackle and was lucky to avoid a booking for a ridiculous challenge on Yates while the Argentina international was on the attack.A game riddled with heavy touches, failed dribbles, wrong passes, blocked shots and a silly yellow card as he kicked the ball away in frustration. Had a good shot on 69 minutes as a saving grace.Alejandro Garnacho didn’t offer enough down the flanksCredit: AlamyJoshua Zirkzee – 3Was supposed to be a striker but was often seen playing too deep and didn’t register a chance in front of Forest’s goal. Didn’t inspire any danger even after Rasmus Hojlund came on to help him up front.Joshua Zirkzee had no presence in Man Utd’s attackCredit: RexSUBSRasmus Hojlund – 5Was much better than a woeful Zirkzee up front for Man Utd. But didn’t cause any significant danger and never looked like a goalscoring threat. Harry Maguire looked far more lethal as a false nine after he entered the pitch with a lot more presence inside the box.Read More on The SunChristian Eriksen – 4Didn’t really elevate United’s midfield after Ugarte and Casemiro’s exit. The sort of performance that makes one wonder about his Old Trafford future…Harry Maguire – 5Only played nine minutes as a false nine and was by far Man Utd’s best forward. Brought on as a desperation move that almost paid off with the best chance of the match as his last-gasp effort was cleared by Murillo just off the line.Mason Mount – N/A More