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      Man Utd players don’t trust Ruben Amorim’s tactics or each other – the utter humiliation by Brighton proved it 

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      MANCHESTER UNITED hit a new rock bottom on Sunday as Ruben Amorim labelled this current team the worst in the club’s history.A harrowing, humiliating 3-1 home defeat at the hands of Brighton sees the Red Devils slumped down in 13th in the Premier League table.Ruben Amorim’s stinker continued with a 3-1 defeat to BrightonCredit: PAThe manager labelled the current crop the worst team in United’s historyCredit: ReutersBrighton outclassed and tactically outdid the Red DevilsCredit: GettyAnd this is also the worst home start to a campaign for more than 130 YEARS. But exactly what went wrong against the Seagulls as United suffered their tenth league defeat of the season?SunSport’s tactical guru Dean Scoggins broke down the game in the latest episode of Tactics Exposed… 1. DE LIGT AND YORO WEL BEATENAt 34 years old, United could do with Danny Welbeck back at Old Trafford. How many strikers over a consistent period have done a good a job as him since he left in 2014?READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt was a great performance up front but it was also the way he and Joao Pedro absolutely led Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro on a merry dance.This is not the first time we’ve talked about defenders getting dragged out by a striker on a rope but this is the longest rope I’ve ever seen.It was absolutely ludicrous where they were going.Because both strikers dropped in, both defenders just decided to go with them which then left space for the really dangerous wingers Yankuba Minteh and Kaoru Mitoma to run into. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDanny Welbeck and Joao Pedro gave the United defenders the runaroundCredit: AlamyLeny Yoro followed Joao Pedro back into midfieldCredit: SunSportThe centre-backs were dragged out of positionCredit: SunSportThe space left allowed the Brighton wingers to run in behindCredit: SunSportKaoru Mitoma caused chaos at Old TraffordCredit: SunSportMatthijs de Ligt left Harry Maguire isolatedCredit: SunSportLeny Yoro ventured forward throughout the gameCredit: SunSportYoro is still getting used to his role in the Red Devils teamCredit: SunSportUnited’s defence was anything but a flat back five when out of possessionCredit: SunSportAs soon as you’ve got those two running in behind, then good luck. It was 4-4-2 demolishing 3-4-3. Ruben Amorim says his team could be the worst in the history of Man Utd It happened all day, not just once. Harry Maguire must have been absolutely doing his nut, ‘Just stay with me.’We’ve talked previously about the positives of a centre-back coming out of the line to meet the ball but that’s when you’re defending on the edge of the box and you go three or four yards to nick it when you’ve got cover behind you, not when you’ve got 50 yards of pitch behind you.The backline was not even a zigzag – that would be a compliment – it was just this higgledy-piggledy line. De Ligt and Yoro, Yoro particularly, didn’t know whether to stick or twist.He looked confused and as though the message of what they’re doing hasn’t got through.For the first goal, De Ligt, where are you going? If he sits, it’s a back pedal and header or a turn and hook clear over his shoulder. It was horrible. 2. WING-BACKS PINNED BACKBut we also have to give enormous credit to Brighton and Fabian Hurzeler. It really was virtually an old-school 4-4-2, albeit with the centre-backs dropping so that the wingers could go on.The United wing-backs don’t trust the centre-backs because they couldn’t afford to push on in case they lost possession as De Ligt and Yoro could not cover as they were occupied by the strikers.So Harry Maguire was kind of like not doing anything – and that’s not a criticism of Maguire – because there was no passing on of players to pick up.Consistently throughout the game, the wing-backs were deeper than the three centre-backs which is mad. Maybe Maguire is being told not to leave that central square and not dragged out of position whatsoever – but they’ve got to be more intelligent. Noussair Mazraoui struggled to cope with MitomaCredit: APUnited lined up in their 3-4-3 formationCredit: SunSportBrighton outplayed them with their own 4-4-2Credit: SunSportWelbeck and Pedro played as false No9s at timesCredit: SunSportThere are two solutions.Either the wing-backs are the ones who actually push on a little bit and invert to cover the space that those strikers are dropping into.The other option is Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo split out and pass the strikers on to them so the defenders can pick up the wingers flying forward. It wasn’t pretty, they were all over the place, and they didn’t solve it at half-time because it kept happening again in the second half.De Ligt and Yoro insisted on following the strikersCredit: SunSportMitoma and Yankuba Minteh exposed the United defenceCredit: SunSportThe Red Devils struggled to cope and did not find a solutionCredit: SunSportOne option could have been for De Ligt to leave Welbeck and pick up MitomaCredit: SunSportYoro could have sat in and retained his positionCredit: SunSportUnited should have been able to deal with Brighton’s two forwards with their three centre-backsCredit: SunSportAnother option would see the wing-backs invert or the midfielders pick up the strikersCredit: SunSportThe defenders could pick up the wingers as they pushed onCredit: SunSport3. I’M A BALEBAYes he gave away the penalty for United after Joshua Zirkzee did very well with his pressing but that was his only mistake because Carlos Baleba was excellent. He was the consistent one, the single pivot who Brighton played off. With the ball, he can drop in between the two centre-backs then without it, he sat in front and just mopped everything up. It was 2v1 – Ugarte and Mainoo against Baleba – but he bossed it. What I liked most was he knew when to go with that direct ball to the wingers and when to put his foot on the ball. Carlos Baleba put in an excellent performance in the heart of midfieldCredit: AFPJoshua Zirkzee’s intelligent pressing led to the United penaltyCredit: SunSportKaoru Mitoma scored and assisted – just like his other winger Yankuba MintehCredit: GettyIt was a top-class performance and how Manchester United fans wish he was in a red shirt.Would he make them better? Yes, I think he’s better than Ugarte but maybe not quite as technical a footballer as Mainoo but has other things. Plus United haven’t got many players in that position that Amorim trusts. Brighton have got a big job keeping hold of him.4. ONANA, OH-NO-NO!The horrible, horrible error was woeful and let’s not forget at that stage United were still in the game.The set-up looks good with one centre-back going into midfield with one of the two midfielders, usually Ugarte, while the other two centre-backs split and Mainoo can join Bruno Fernandes in the No10s with the wing-backs high and the centre forward.They get into a good position, Onana was brought in because he is good with his feet, but he doesn’t play it and I think it’s because he doesn’t trust the centre-backs to play the pass back.He looks a bit static and doesn’t seem to want to play those ten-yard passes to receive it back to draw the opposition out of position. Andre Onana had a shocker for the Georginio Rutter goalCredit: GettyMaybe it is time for back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to get a go in the Premier LeagueCredit: AlamyOnana does not look comfortable with the ball at his feetCredit: AlamyIt’s like he’s a bit spooked by the whole scenario and feels like the ball-playing goalkeeper has been stifled by the way that they want to play out. Maybe it’s time for Altay Bayindir to have a go because they’ve got to sort it out very, very quickly.United have done well when they can be a low block, they’ve done okay against teams with a very low block but have struggled against a mid-block. Man Utd ratings vs BrightonBy Ken LawrenceANDRE ONANA was back to his worst as Manchester United fell to another Old Trafford defeat.It appeared Ruben Amorim’s side had turned a corner in recent weeks with a draw at Anfield and an FA Cup penalty shoot-out win at Arsenal.But dreadful individual mistakes cost them yet again with Onana the chief culprit.The keeper dropped a huge clanger as he palmed a simple cross straight to Georginio Rutter under no pressure whatsoever.There were few positive notes for the Red Devils as Amad once again provided a spark.Here is how SunSport’s Ken Lawrence rated the United display…ANDRE ONANA: 2 – No chance with either of the Seagulls’ first two goals. But an awful howler to gift them their third.MATTHIJS DE LIGT: 5 – Certainly doesn’t look like he likes players running at him as Kaoru Mitoma constantly did. Looked unsure of himself throughout.HARRY MAGUIRE: 6 – The one member of United’s three-man central defence who looked like he knew what he was doing. Beginning to believe in himself again.LENY YORO: 5 – The £52m youngster is still settling into the Premier League to be fair to him. But he is certainly taking his time about it.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI: 4 – Has been one of the few consistent successes of Amorim’s tactical revolution. Yet he had a real shocker this time around.MANUEL UGARTE: 5 – Supposedly “tired” in the 3-1 win over Southampton the midfielder looked brighter here. Yet he still doesn’t look that switched on.KOBBIE MAINOO: 4 – Where is last season’s Kobbie? Looks nothing like the buzzing homegrown midfielder who burst on the scene last season.DIOGO DALOT: 5 – Did his duties as a left wing-back to the best of his abilities. Another United player, however, who looked nothing like sharp enough.AMAD DIALLO: 7 – Thursday night’s 12-minute treble hero on a high again – unlike, again, so many team-mates. Sometimes his footwork is just dazzling.BRUNO FERNANDES: 6 – Ultra-cool from the spot but that goal didn’t do much to raise his performance level. Had one of those days where nothing really clicked.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE: 5 – “Won” the penalty after being brought down although Carlos Baleba’s challenge would have looked good in a wrestling ring. There’s a footballer in there somewhere…SUBSALEJANDRO GARNACHO (for Mainoo 64): 5 – Struggled to make an impact in a team that was being taken apart.TOBY COLLYER (for Ugarte 64): 5 – Plenty of youthful commitment but still too inexperienced to lift a side as poor as Amorim’s.ANTONY (for Mazraoui 84): 4 – Talk about a last throw of the dice by Amorim…RASMUS HOJLUND (for Zirkzee 84): 4 – Given a thankless task in the closing moments of another depressing display.5. MISSING IN ACTIONThere’s a very, very high-end nerdy statistic about player positions under certain managers which is effectively worked out by if a player is a striker, where he goes other than that striker position – or how much he deviates from his position.Amorim’s teams – especially Sporting – are very focused and do not deviate much from a rigid structure of what he wants.It is different from average positions but is more similar to heat maps and how concentrated they are.This Manchester United team are all over the place. There was a moment against Southampton where there were seven players in shot and five of them are out of position.Kobbie Mainoo can find himself caught out of positionCredit: AlamyThe alarming lack of danger in the key area was clear to seeCredit: SunSportIt’s just wild that they’re that far out of position and that comes from earlier on in a move where you’ve been sucked out.Mainoo is not unfit or slow but sometimes makes these half-sprints, these jogs out, to the No10 position, doesn’t get there and is played around, leaving Ugarte on his own and he presses and the ball goes around him too then centre-backs are sucked out. They are just not in their positions at all. It just wasn’t very good and it looks like, from the shape, that they aren’t trying very hard. I think they are trying hard. They’re just getting sucked out of positions that they shouldn’t be in.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne mistake breeds the second one, then the dominoes go and then you’ve got five people out of seven out of position.The solution could be as simple as what a coach does with an Under-11s, Under-12s team and puts the cones out on the pitch and says, ‘You don’t leave your square.’United’s midfield were bypassed by SouthamptonCredit: SunSport / TNT SportsThis grab shows five of United’s seven players out of possessionCredit: SunSport / TNT SportsMainoo likes to go out and press into the No10 position but does not always win the ballCredit: SunSport / TNT Sports More

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      Chelsea 3 Wolves 1: Cucurella and Madueke spare Sanchez’s blushes after howler as Blues roar back into top four

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      NONI MADUEKE sent his popularity in Wolverhampton plummeting even further with his latest strike against the club.The Chelsea winger branded the Midlands city “s***” before bagging a hat-trick at Molineux last August.Noni Madueke enjoyed piling more misery on WolvesCredit: GettyThe winger headed in from on the goalline to put Chelsea 3-1 upCredit: GettyRobert Sanchez dropped a clanger to allow Wolves to levelCredit: RexHe was booed by the visiting fans all night in the return at Stamford Bridge but shrugged it off to score the crucial second-half goal that condemned them to a third straight Premier League defeat.His close-range header is also his fourth goal against them this season. For someone who dislikes the place so much he sure likes playing against them.Madueke’s 65th-minute goal added to earlier strikes by defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Marc Cucurella on what looks a convincing win for Chelsea but took far too long to get over the line.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt’s a first home win for them since mid-December even if it does take Enzo Maresca’s team back into the top four. They are four points off second place but still ten off the top.Although head coach Maresca will be relieved that his rejigged team managed to end a run of five games without a win in the league.With such a top-quality and expensive squad it is surprising how Chelsea are struggling to put a team together at the moment.But key injuries count. They haven’t looked the same since unlucky centre-back Wesley Fofana was effectively ruled out for the season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTrevoh Chalobah was forced into an emergency recall from loan at Crystal Palace late last week and immediately handed a start.Maresca also can’t make up his mind about experienced Tosin, who scored twice in the FA Cup against Morecambe only to be dropped for the next game.Jack Grealish’s reaction to Cole Palmer becoming a manager says it all as he and Maguire apologise to Chelsea starHe was back in the fold last night and repaid the decision by putting Chelsea ahead with a scrappy goal in a scrappy first half.An outswinging corner in the 24th minute eventually found Reece James waiting on the edge of the Wolves box. His low drive into the mix hit Tosin, who showed cool control then prodded the ball in from around eight yards out. It was initially ruled out for offside but the defender was convinced not as he wagged his finger towards the linesman and his raised flag.VAR made sure justice was served and Maresca’s team were ahead for the fourth match in a row. But it never looked solid. Chelsea’s manager insists he is happy with the amount of chances his team is creating and they did that but even when clear-cut opportunities came their way, the clinical touch is missing.Never more so than two minutes before the home side went ahead.Nicolas Jackson pickpocketed Matt Doherty in his own half and was clear through for a run at goal.But Chelsea’s striker who has a habit of missing almost as many as he scores, could not maintain the pace and was easily caught and stopped in his tracks by a muscly challenge from Emmanuel Agbadou.Had he followed through it could easily have been game over inside half an hour. But this is the story of Chelsea lately. A whole chapter could be devoted to the issue of the keepers. If it wasn’t Sanchez dropping a clanger it could just as easily have been his sidekick Filip Jorgensen. Neither of them make for the most reassuring night at Stamford Bridge although Sanchez’s latest clanger was a belter.Matheus Cunha’s corner swung into the box and Sanchez looked to have the danger covered only to lose control and lob it downwards towards the advancing Doherty.The Wolves defender bulldozed in and bundled a shot over the line in front of the away end.It goes down as Sanchez’s fourth mistake of the season, leaving him second only to struggling Ipswich’s Arijanet Muric for errors. Chelsea’s second goal was key and turned the tide bang on the hour mark. Cucurella started the move with a sideways pass to Cole Palmer, who then fed Madueke on the wing. His cross, flicked on by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, found the Spanish left-back arriving just in time to slot the ball home with his second touch.Cucurella’s goal celebration was the most significant aspect. READ MORE SUN STORIESAs he raced to the touchline he put one finger to his temple as a gesture to urge his team-mates to keep their heads from now on.Wolves were wilting having fought to get back in and their hopes of an unexpected point away from home were over when Madueke nodded in from close range when Chalobah’s header was already going in.Tosin Adarabioyo put Chelsea in frontCredit: GettyThe defender had to wait for VAR to award his goalCredit: GettyThe explanation for the decision was explained on the big screenCredit: GettyMatt Doherty pounced on Sanchez’s mistakeCredit: ReutersMarc Cucurella got in to restore the Blues’ advantageCredit: GettyThe left-back could not hide his delightCredit: GettyReece James lasted 77 minutes at right-backCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca saw his side leapfrog Manchester City into fourthCredit: ReutersWolves remain outside of the relegation zone on goal differenceCredit: ReutersChelsea ratings vs Wolves: Chalobah back with a bang but Sanchez drops 2/10 horror showBy Lloyd CanfielCHELSEA made sure to send their fans home happy on Blue Monday thanks to inspired performances from their defenders.Goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella and then a Noni Madueke finish created by the returning Trevoh Chalobah covered up a pretty quiet attacking display and a mistake from their goalkeeper.Lloyd Canfield rates how Blues’ stars got on against Wolves…Robert Sanchez – 2Up to his usual tricks when passing out from the back, gifting it to the Wolves attack waiting to pounce on a mistake.That was before he dropped an in-swinging corner, gifting Wolves an equaliser before half-time.Reece James – 9Was tasked with arguably the hardest job of the night, stopping Wolves’ threatening left side of Ait-Nouri and Cunha, the latter of whom he dominated throughout the game.Was strong defensively, always stepping in with a tackle at the crucial moment and drove the team forwards well too, always offering a shot with his lethal long-range efforts.Tosin Adarabioyo – 8Continued his impressive hot-streak in front of goal of late as he reacted first to a loose ball in the box and finished like a striker.The ‘Uncle’ of the Chelsea side at just 28-years-old had another game to be proud of.Trevoh Chalobah – 9His first game back in a Chelsea shirt after being recalled from his loan at Crystal Palace couldn’t have gone much better.The fans chanted his name throughout as he proved strong in the air and imperial across the ground.Slide tackles, blocks, headed assists, the lot. Trev had it all but a clean sheet tonight and a goal to his name tonight (Which he could’ve had as well).Marc Cucurella – 8Solid defensively and came up with a crucial goal to restore Chelsea’s lead.A great right-footed finish as he was falling to the floor saw the Spaniard prove why he is so good inverting from fullback.Moises Caicedo – 7Started brightly, putting a bad game last time out behind him and was back to the Caicedo that Chelsea fans have loved this season.Recovered well from what looked like a nasty tackle to put in a good a strong second-half performance too.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6A rare Premier League start offered KDH to show what he can do, and maybe put himself in the shop window for a January move.Was combative in midfield, and his flick for Marc Cucurella’s goal proved why he can be a threat in the Premier League as he was in a great position.Noni Madueke – 8A quiet first half was met by a wicked second half in which we saw the same Noni Madueke we saw in the reverse fixture after his infamous Instagram mistake.He was Chelsea’s most dangerous attacker on the night, with a great cross leading to Marc Cucurella’s goal, before stealing in to head home Chelsea’s third of the night.Cole Palmer – 4The ice cold superstar we’ve become accustomed to seeing seemed a bit off the boil tonight.He came under a few more nasty tackles and seemed a bit put off by that after carrying an injury in the week.Pedro Neto – 4Was jeered and booed by the visiting fans of his former club throughout the game.Despite some dangerous running, he failed to really create anything meaningful and looks better on the right-hand side.Nicolas Jackson – 5Had one good run in the first half, but was otherwise pretty quiet.He did improve in the second half, as his hard work won the free-kick which Chelsea added their third goal from and he did put the ball in the back of the net, only for the linesman to rule it out as offside.SUBSJadon Sancho (Pedro Neto, 62) – 6Chelsea instantly looked better when he came on.Just seems to add a layer of control to the Blues on the wing, and showed more of the flair and good feet we’ve been getting used to from him here.Axel Disasi (Reece James, 78) – 5Fans weren’t best pleased with him simply coming on, and would’ve preferred to see Josh Acheampong.That said, he did nothing wrong.Malo Gusto (Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, 78) – 6Did well in the few minutes he had to play, nothing spectacular but was solid on the left side.Tyrique George (Noni Madueke, 83) – 5Wasn’t given enough time to make a meaningful impact on the game.Joao Felix (Cole Palmer, 83) – 5Wasn’t given enough time to make a meaningful impact on the game. 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      Man City sign Abdukodir Khusanov, 20, in £34m deal with ‘tank’ as quick as Usain Bolt roped in to bolster Pep’s defence

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      MANCHESTER CITY have confirmed the signing of 20-year-old defender Abdukodir Khusanov.The rising star joins in a deal understood to be worth £34million – and he will become the first Uzbek to play in the Premier League.Abdukodir Khusanov has completed his £34m transfer from Lens to Manchester CityCredit: X/ ManCityThe defender put pen to paper on a deal until 2029Credit: X/ ManCityKhusanov will become the Premier League’s first Uzbek playerCredit: GettyKhusanov, 20, has enjoyed a stellar season in Ligue 1 and arrives at the Etihad to bolster Pep Guardiola’s back line. He put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year contract with City until 2029.The new No45 said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Manchester City, a club that I have enjoyed watching for a long time.“This squad is full of the best players in the world, and I can’t wait to meet them and play alongside them.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“And of course Pep Guardiola is one of the greatest coaches ever and I am so excited to learn from him and improve my game even more.“This is a very proud moment for me and my family to be joining a great club like Manchester City and I’m more than ready for this challenge.”Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “We are very happy that he has joined us and we are all very excited about what he will bring. “For such a young defender, Abdukodir is already very intelligent, as well as being strong, aggressive and extremely quick.  Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“Working with Pep will only make him better and, speaking to him, he is determined to keep improving. “He is a really exciting signing as we aim to keep progressing to maintain one of the best squads in Europe.”How Brighton proved Man Utd don’t trust Ruben Amorim’s tacticsKhusanov left his homeland aged 18 to join Belarusian club Energetik-BGU in 2022.Less than 18 months later, he signed for Lens in July 2023 for £84,000 – and has now moved on for 400 TIMES that figure, having only established himself as a first-team regular starter this season.Under Will Still’s management, the defender has shone as an aggressive centre-back – prompting his gaffer to declare: “Kodir is a tank.”A physical specimen, he is tall, powerful, strong and lightning quick.In fact, his top speed of 37km/h this season is only just shy of the 37.58km/h pace Usain Bolt averaged to set the 100m world record. He is not the best with the ball at his feet, does have a distinct lack of experience – just 24 Ligue 1 appearances and two in the Champions League – and the language could be a barrier as he settles into a new side desperate for him to hit the ground running. City – who have somewhat stopped the rot with a 6-0 thumping at Ipswich to go five unbeaten in the Premier League – find themselves 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool and seemingly well out of the title race.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey are still in the FA Cup, though, and will hope to scrape through into the play-off round of the Champions League.And Khusanov may not have to wait long to be thrown into the deep end, with City facing PSG and Chelsea this week. Khusanov will rival Micky van de Ven as one of the Prem’s quickest playersCredit: GettyHe will go up against the likes of Gabriel Martinelli againCredit: GettyKhusanov is not afraid to show his aggressive sideCredit: AFP More

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      Man Utd had a DIFFERENT NAME the last time they were this bad… and got relegated in same season

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      RUBEN AMORIM reckons his side are the “worst Manchester United team in history” – and he might be right.The Red Devils slumped to a woeful 3-1 defeat to Brighton on Sunday to leave them 13th in the table.Ruben Amorim says his team are the worst in Man Utd historyCredit: APThey broke an unwanted club record in the 3-1 loss to BrightonCredit: APUnited honoured Newton Heath by wearing their green and gold kit in 1993, seen here on Bryan Robson, 100 years after they wore itCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdIt was United’s fifth defeat – three of which were at home – in just eight games.And winning at Old Trafford is proving a huge problem.In 12 league matches, they have been beaten six times in front of their own fans.And that horror run has matched an unwanted club record set 131 years ago for most home league games lost after 12 outings.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBack then, in the 1893/94 season, United went by the name of Newton Heath.In their green and gold shirts, they ended up losing seven at home that year and got relegated.United were known as Newton Heath when they were founded in 1878 by the carriage and wagon department of the Lancashire and Yorkshire railway depot.They were re-branded as Manchester United in 1902 after the club ran into debts and changed ownership.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThis season is set to go down in history for all the wrong reasons and the defeat to Brighton set further shocking records.It was the Seagulls’ third straight win at Old Trafford to hand United their tenth Premier League loss in 22 games this season.Reasons to be positive under Ruben AmorimIt it the earliest they have hit double figures for defeats since 1989/90.Yankuba Minteh got the scoring underway for Brighton after just five minutes and it was the fifth time in a row they conceded the first goal at Old Trafford, their joint-longest ever run.These damming stats come after a woeful December that saw United lose three consecutive domestic games at home for the first time since 1979.And Amorim’s men suffered defeat on six occasions last month in all competitions, which was the most amount of losses in a single month since September 1930.United were last relegated at the end of the 1973/74 campaign and despite Amorim claiming going down is a “possibility”, they sit ten points above the drop zone.Man Utd ratings vs BrightonBy Ken LawrenceANDRE ONANA 4 – No chance with either of the Seagulls’ first two goals. But an awful howler to gift them their third.MATTHIJS DE LIGT 5 – Certainly doesn’t look like he likes players running at him as Kaoru Mitoma constantly did. Looked unsure of himself throughout.HARRY MAGUIRE 6 – The one member of United’s three-man central defence who looked like he knew what he was doing. Beginning to believe in himself again.LENY YORO 5 – The £52M youngster is still settling into the Premier League to be fair to him. But he is certainly taking his time about it.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI 4 – Has been one of the few consistent successes of Ruben Amorim’s tactical revolution. Yet he had a real shocker this time around.MANUEL UGARTE 5 – Supposedly “tired” in the 3 – 1 win over Southampton the midfielder looked brighter here. Yet he still doesn’t look that switched-onKOBBIE MAINOO 4 – Where is last season’s Kobbie? Looks nothing like the buzzing homegrown midfielder who burst on the scene last season.DIOGO DALOT 5 – Did his duties as a left wing-back to the best of his abilities. Another United player, however, who looked nothing like sharp enough.AMAD DIALLO 7 – Thursday night’s 12-minute treble hero on a high again – unlike, again, so many team-mates. Sometimes his footwork is just dazzling.BRUNO FERNANDES 6 – Ultra-cool from the spot but that goal didn’t do much to raise his performance level. Had one of those days where nothing really clicked.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE 5 – “Won” the penalty after being brought down although Carlos Baleba’s challenge would have looked good in a wrestling ring. There’s a footballer in there somewhere…SUBSALEJANDRO GARNACHO (for Mainoo 64) 5 – Struggled to make an impact in a team that was being taken apart.TOBY COLLYER (for Ugarte 64) 5 – Plenty of youthful commitment but still too inexperienced to lift a side as poor as Amorim’s.ANTONY (for Mazraoui 84) 4 – Talk about a last throw of the dice by Amorim???RASMUS HOIJLUND (for Zirkzee 84) 4: Given a thankless task in the closing moments of another depressing display. More

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      Chelsea vs Wolves LIVE SCORE: Cole Palmer injury latest with Blues superstar in race to be fit after missing training

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      CHELSEA host Wolves at Stamford Bridge for a huge Premier League clash TONIGHT.The Blues are winless in five Premier League matches and find themselves outside the top four ahead of kick-off and are facing an injury crisis. Enzo Maresca will have up to NINE Chelsea stars missing as they face a struggling Wolves side, with the likes of Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia among those who missed training on Friday.New Wolves boss Vitor Pereira had an enjoyable honeymoon period after Wanderers picked up seven points from his opening three points, but form has slumped in recent weeks following back-to-back 3-0 defeats in the Premier League.Kick off time: 8pm GMTTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Premier LeagueLive stream: NOW/Sky Sports appChelsea team: To follow…Wolves team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Wolves last 6 In contrast, Wolves have relatively picked up the pace since the appointment of their new head caoch Vítor Pereira. In their last six, they’ve been able to amass the same amount of wins (3) as they did in the 18 prior under predecessor Gary O’Neil. The stern start as tailed off in recent weeks with the three-game suspesion of Matheus Cunha proving noticable. Current form:Dec 22 – Leister City 0-3 WolvesDec 26 – Wolves 2-0 Mancheseter UnitedDec 29 – Tottenham 2-2 WolvesJan 6 – Wolves 0-3 Nottingham Foorrest Jan 11 – Bristol City 1-2 Wolves Jan 15 – Newcastle 3-0 WolvesCopy linkCopiedChelsea last 6This time last month Chelsea were being hailed as serious title contenders after five straight Premier League wins and nine in 10 matches in all competitions.While Chelsea were unbeatable at that stage, they haven’t been able to find a win since.The Blues now have just three points in their last five (very winnable) Premier League games and their only win since December 20 has been the 5-0 FA Cup win over League Two Morecambe.Current form: Dec 22 – Everton 0-0 ChelseaDec 26 – Chelsea 1-2 FulhamDec 30 – Ipswich 2-0 ChelseaJan 4 – Crystal Palace 1-1 ChelseaJan 11 – Chelsea 5-0 Morecambe (FA Cup)Jan 14 – Chelsea 2-2 BournemouthCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGood sistersChelsea have reportedly agreed to sign Mamadou Sarr from sister club Strasbourg. The Blues have spent £12.5million on the centre-back, 19, but RMC state he will stay in Ligue 1 until the summer.Chelsea already have three players on loan at the club – goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, defender Caleb Wiley and midfielder Andrey Santos.Terms on a contract are already said to have been agreed, but not yet signed.Copy linkCopiedNoni anniversaryToday marks the two year anniversary of Noni Madueke signing for Chelsea. The winger joined from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and has cemented himself as one of the better deals conducted during the chaotic wheeling and dealing period of the club.Madueke, 22, is Chelsea’s third most productive player in the league this season and will surely provide sufficient deputy for the absence of Cole Palmer this evening. Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedGittens enquiryAs for who could come in for the Blues, Jamie Gittens seems to be the main topic of interest. The Borussia Dortmund winger has been in electric form this season so far, with 11 goals and five assists, to the alert of top English clubs back home. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Chelsea made formal enquiry for the 20-year-old last week, while Liverpool also sent their scouts several times to follow his progress. One that will certainly rumble on. Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedItaly interest for Chillwell One player who will almost certainly not be featuring for Chelsea this weekend is outcast Ben Chilwell. The left-back hasn’t made a single Premier League or Europa League appearance under Enzo Maresca this season.And Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla claims Serie A giants Juventus have emerged as leading contenders.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedHow Chelsea could line up against WolvesChelsea are set to be forced into a makeshift starting XI when they take on Wolves tonight, with star man Cole Palmer set to miss out through injury.The Blues have been hit by a wave of injuries going into the crunch Premier League clash.With Chelsea missing up to nine players, SunSport have looked at the players available to Enzo Maresca. Here’s how the Blues could line up on Monday: Copy linkCopiedWolves worriesChelsea aren’t the only side with injury concerns, of course. Vitor Pereira could be without star man Matheus Cunha, who was ill at the end of last week.The Brazilian, who has 10 goals this season, was another player who missed training on Friday.Pereira said on Friday: “Today, he was out of the training because he got the flu. “He’s a bit sick, and I hope tomorrow he will be on the pitch. “Then, it’s a possibility to be in the next game.”Again, there has been no update since then from the club.Toti Gomes and Boubacar Traore are close to returning but aren’t expected to be fit for the Chelsea match.Sasa Kalajdzic, Yerson Mosquera and Enso Gonzalez aren’t due back for weeks.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedOthers missingIt’s not just Palmer that could miss the crunch clash against Wolves.Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile are both longer-term injury concerns, as is Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.Mykhailo Mudryk is out indefinitely due to his drug case.The more pressing concerns, alongside Palmer, are Levi Colewill, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia.All three started the draw with Bournemouth but we also left out of training on Friday.Maresca said: “[Along with Palmer] Levi was also not in the session today, Enzo wasn’t in the session today, Romeo wasn’t in the session today. “So, we have three or four players who are doubts for Monday’s game because of the last game.”We’ll bring you any and all updates on those players as soon as we hear them.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied’Cole is a doubt’Maresca revealed on Friday that Palmer had missed training and was unsure if he was going to train over the weekend.There has been no update from the club since.At the time, Maresca revealed: “Cole is a doubt.”The first half [of the last game] they kicked him so he didn’t train today.”We don’t know if he will train in the next two days.” Palmer has scored or assisted 20 of Chelsea’s 41 Premier League goals this season and leads his team-mates in both goals (14) and assists (6).”We rely on Cole because he’s a big player,” Maresca added. “We prefer to play with Cole but in case he has an injury or a problem, then we will find a solution.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGood morning!Hello and welcome to our (very) early coverage of Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Wolves.Kick-off is not until much later – 8pm – but with so much speculation surrounding Chelsea’s injury crisis, we thought we’d treat you all to an early start.Chelsea fans will know the trouble they are in by now, Enzo Maresca may have as many as NINE players missing. Cole Palmer is one of those and Blues supporters will be sweating on his fitness.The Chelsea star, as well as Levi Colwill, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia, were all held out of training on Friday and are facing late fitness tests.Credit: PACopy linkCopied More

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      How Chelsea could line up against Wolves with Cole Palmer injury fears and Enzo Maresca facing midfield crisis

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      CHELSEA are set to be forced into a makeshift starting XI when they take on Wolves tonight, with star man Cole Palmer set to miss out through injury.The Blues have been hit by a wave of injuries going into the crunch Premier League clash.Cole Palmer looks set to miss Chelsea’s clash with Wolves tonightCredit: RexTrevoh Chalobah is in line for an immediate startCredit: GettyAnd Enzo Maresca is likely to be without Palmer, who was injured in the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth and missed training on Friday.However, Maresca looks set to hand an immediate start to Trevoh Chalobah, who is in line for his first Chelsea appearance in 246 days.The versatile defender was brought back from Crystal Palace this month after the Blues were hit by a raft of absences.Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are all sidelined with issues.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile Mykhailo Mudryk remains unavailable as he awaits the B-sample of his failed drugs test.Now, Chelsea face an even bigger crisis with FOUR more stars now major doubts for tonight.Talisman Palmer, centre-back Levi Colwill, midfielder Romeo Lavia and vice-captain Enzo Fernandez all look set to miss out this evening.It means the Blues are set to be left seriously short on numbers, especially in midfield.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnd that could force boss Maresca to put Chalobah further forward alongside Moises Caicedo against a potent Wolves attack.Matheus Cunha alone has 10 goals and four assists in the league this season.Erling Haaland’s salary is only ninth biggest in football with Chelsea flop Koulibaly earning more than Man City starIt means Maresca is unlikely to want both Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku starting in the middle, as they did nine days ago in the FA Cup against minnows Morecambe.And Chalobah’s presence would shore up midfield while allowing Caicedo to push on further forward.Should Maresca plump for that option, it may also see Josh Acheampong hold down his spot in the XI alongside Tosin Adarabioyo.Spanish duo Marc Cucurella and Robert Sanchez are both nailed-on to start.While Reece James could yet muscle his way in at right-back ahead of Malo Gusto.Further up the pitch, Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho could play either side of Felix, in for Palmer as the Blues’ No10.And Nicolas Jackson is sure to keep his spot at striker ahead of Nkunku, who has been strongly linked with a move away. More

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      Why Man Utd legends seem destined to fail as managers as under-fire Van Nistelrooy suffers 7th straight league loss

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      JUST what is it about Manchester United legends and management?Ruud van Nistelrooy’s struggle at Leicester is an all-too-familiar story when it comes to players who had stellar careers at Old Trafford but found it a difficult transitioning to the dugout.Ruud van Nistelrooy’s struggle at Leicester is an all-too-familiar storyCredit: RexLeicester have suffered seven straight defeats in the PremCredit: PAWayne Rooney, Roy Keane, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes are among those who have all tried — and so far failed — to make that jump over the past two decades.None of them are currently in management.Ex-United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this month ended a three-year spell without a job when he became gaffer at Besiktas in Turkey.On paper, it really should not be happening.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAll of these players learnt from one of the most successful managers in the game, Sir Alex Ferguson.But it often does not translate when they look to build their own careers in the game, post-playing days.So what of Van Nistelrooy? He now finds himself heading down the same route, although he desperately wants to buck the trend of former Red Devils stars.RVN, only in the job for seven weeks, was on the end of criticism from the stands on Saturday — and will take a lot to come back from that.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhen the Dutchman arrived he was welcomed by fans after Steve Cooper’s spell came to an abrupt end.But the chants of “Rooood” have turned into “you don’t know what you’re doing”.Can you imagine how lucky I was-‘ says Van Nistelrooy as he opens up on being Denis Law’s neighbour in touching tributeThe jeers that accompanied the manager’s decision to take off Bilal El Khannouss — a 20-year-old Morocco international — just after the hour were impossible for him to ignore.One thing we do know about King Power Stadium fans is that if they do not like what they see, they will not hesitate to let you know about it.Until now, Van Nistelrooy has seen director of football Jon Rudkin take the flak. Cries of “sack the board” could be heard again on Saturday.But now, he is also feeling the heat from supporters who have seen their team win a Premier League title and the FA Cup over the past nine years.Ruud’s response of, “at this moment, I don’t have the answers for that” when asked why the team are so far off it right now, will not inspire confidence, nor will his refusal to explain the controversial substitution.Van Nistelrooy’s side are second from bottom having won just three games this seasonCredit: GettyVan Nistelrooy, 48, now faces the most important two weeks of his short spell at Leicester.He needs players in the January window who can somehow turn the Foxes’ season around. Full-back Woyo Coulibaly, the midweek arrival from Parma, could not play as his paperwork had not been completed in time.Van Nistelrooy says he has the board’s support this month and, when asked how many players he could sign, he said: “As many as we can.”But Leicester need someone who can stick the ball in the back of the net because if Jamie Vardy is off-form, there is nobody else to step up.A run of seven straight defeats is Leicester’s worst top-flight sequence in 24 years and they have not scored at home for their last four league games.Many who played under legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson have made a foray into management, however most ended up flopping.As RvN edges closer to joining an unwanted list of United legends who can’t do it in the dugout, SunSport runs the rule over the careers of 14 big former Old Trafford names.Steve BruceFormer United captain, Bruce is now somewhat of a journeyman gaffer, having managed 12 clubs with a 35.7 per cent win rate.Major honours have escaped him though, with FA Cup runner-up at Hull City in 2014 perhaps a highlight.Bruce, who now manages League One side Blackpool, spends around two years at clubs on average and was abused by Newcastle fans before he was axed in 2021.VERDICT: FLOP – MOST OF THE TIMEBruce is now somewhat of a journeyman gaffer, having managed 11 clubsCredit: RexBryan RobsonRobson, who was in the crowd at Old Trafford for Denis Law’s tribute on Sunday, hasn’t managed a team since 2011.He had a 17-year career as a manager, taking in jobs with the likes of Middlesbrough, Bradford City, West Brom, Sheffield United, Thailand, and then Thailand’s U23s.His most successful period came at Boro, who he helped gain promotion. Between 1994-2001, Robson also led the club to three Wembley cup final appearances, although they lost each one.VERDICT: FLOPBryan Robson managed between 1994 and 2011Credit: GettyMark HughesHughes appeared to be tailor-made to be boss – doing decent jobs with Wales and Blackburn.That scored him a big job at Manchester City in 2008, who were then taken over by Sheikh Mansour two months after he arrived.However, after spending a fortune, including signing the disastrous Robinho for £32million, he was sacked after 18 months with nothing to show but a 10th place finish.A falling out at Fulham and sackings at QPR, Stoke, Southampton and Bradford then followed. Officially, he’s the most sacked out of the United legends.VERDICT: BLACKBURN ROLE SAVES HIM Mark Hughes was sacked by Bradford last yearCredit: AlamyGary NevilleHaunted Neville often gets stick for his awful and short-lived tenure with LaLiga side Valencia, where he lasted just 28 games in 2015.The former right-back’s record of 10 wins in 28 games saw him earn a 35.7 per cent win rate. He’s never managed since.The biggest low including a 7-0 drubbing to rivals Barcelona.Neville said in 2019: “I never should have said yes to the job. I wasn’t qualified for the job and didn’t wake up every morning and think about coaching.”VERDICT: FLOP Gary Neville is haunted by his time with ValenciaCredit: Getty – ContributorRoy KeaneAs a fierce leader on the pitch, Keane appeared to be management material and things seemed to get off to a good start with Sunderland when they were promoted to the Prem.However, he stepped down in 2008 amidst a player mutiny and a dismal run of form.Worse was to follow at Ipswich Town, where Keane was sacked when The Tractor Boys dropped to 21st in the Championship in 2011.VERDICT: FLOPFormer United captain Roy Keane appeared to be management materialCredit: SportsfilePhil Neville Neville led England’s Lionesses to glory in the SheBelievesCup in 2018 but finished a disappointing fourth in the World Cup a year later.After stepping down from his role with the Three Lions, he was appointed as boss of David Beckham’s Inter Miami. But was sacked in June 2023 with the club rock bottom of the MLS.Neville joined MLS side Portland Timbers shortly after and guided them to a final series play-off.His hiring was criticised by fans due to past controversial tweets about women on social media.VERDICT: FLOP Phil Neville led England’s lionesses to glory in the SheBelievesCup in 2018Credit: Getty Images – GettyMark RobinsRobins was the EFL’s longest serving manager before he was brutally sacked by Coventry City in November 2024. He now manages Stoke.He oversaw the resurrection of Coventry from the depths of League Two, to the champions of League One in 2020.Robins was even on the cusp of bringing the West Midlands club to the Premier League when they lost the Championship play-off final on penalties to Luton in 2023.He memorably led them to the FA Cup semi-final last season, where they were unlucky to marginally lose out on pens to Man Utd after climbing back from 3-0 down in the second half.VERDICT: SUCCESSRobins was the EFL’s longest serving manager before he was brutally sacked by Coventry City in November 2024Credit: PAWayne RooneyManchester United’s all-time top scorer, Rooney was sacked by Plymouth Argyle on New Years Eve after five months in charge. Wazza has been axed by all four clubs he’s managed: Derby, D.C United, Birmingham City and Plymouth. The former striker has a 26 per cent win percentage – which accounts for 46 victories in 177 games.VERDICT: FLOPRooney was sacked by Plymouth Argyle on New Years Eve after five months in chargeCredit: RexPaul ScholesScholes’ first taste of being boss was as caretaker manager at Salford City, a club he now co-owns with most of the Class of 92.The legendary midfielder then spent just 31 days at crisis club Oldham between February and March 2019, until walking away following a disagreement with the owners.He was re-appointed as interim head coach of Salford for a month, following the departure of Graham Alexander.VERDICT: NEVER REALLY GOT STARTEDPaul Scholes twice took caretaker charge of SalfordCredit: Getty Images – GettyOle Gunnar Solskjaer Solskjaer has finally got a managerial job after spending FOUR YEARS away from the game following his Man Utd axe in 2021.But now Super Lig side Besiktas have confirmed a shock new job for the former Molde and Cardiff chief.The former Red Devils super-sub striker helped guide United to a second-place finish in the Premier League and reached a Europa League final during his near-three-year reign.VERDICT: A FLOP ON THESE SHORESSolskjaer joined Super Lig side BesiktasRyan GiggsIn 2014, after David Moyes was fired, Welsh legend Giggs was hired as United’s interim manager – winning two of his four games in charge.Following a stint as Louis van Gaal’s assistant, he took on the Wales national job in 2018 – leading his country to qualify for Euro 2020.But Giggs, who oversaw 24 games, was forced to take gardening leave in 2020 before stepping down amid investigations into domestic and coercive behaviour of an ex-girlfriend. The charges against him, which he denied, were dropped in 2023.VERDICT: NEVER REALLY GOT STARTEDRyan Giggs managed Wales between 2018-2020Credit: ReutersPaul InceIn the lower leagues, Ince did a stellar jobs at Macclesfield Town in a player-manager role, before then getting MK Dons promoted to League Two and winning the FA Trophy.In 2008, however, when Blackburn Rovers asked him to make the step up to the Premier League, Ince proved to be out of his depth.After three wins in 17 games, he was given the bullet before later managing Notts County.Ince left his first role at Blackpool in 2014, where he was once handed a five game ban for berating an official in the tunnel.But returned to the dugout EIGHT YEARS later to lead Reading for just over a year in the Championship.Ince’s managerial win rate was 39.2 per cent before Reading sacked him with the club sitting 22nd in April 2023.VERDICT: FLOPPaul Ince did a stellar job in the lower leaguesCredit: PAJaap StamStam said he’d happily join Ruben Amorim’s coaching staff at United last month.The 52-year-old is currently in charge of amateur team DOS Kampen, in the Dutch sixth tier.He was dismissed as boss of MLS team FC Cincinnati in 2021 having won four of just 25 games.Before that, he handed in his resignation with Feyenoord bosses after 4-0 thrashing to rivals Ajax.On our shores, Stam is remembered for his time at Reading. He enjoyed a successful first season, leading the Royals to the play offs.VERDICT: FLOPStam is currently in charge of amateur team DOS Kampen, in the Dutch sixth tierCredit: PA:Empics SportMichael CarrickCarrick remained at Carrington after retirement, having been handed a position on Jose Mourinho’s coaching staff, alongside Kieran McKenna.The ex-midfielder took caretaker charge after the Special One’s sacking in December 2018.He also stepped in for three games after Solskjaer’s dismissal, overseeing wins over Arsenal and Villarreal and a draw with Chelsea.Carrick, 43, walked away from United after Ralf Rangnick’s interim appointment and was appointed by Championship club Middlesbrough.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe won 16 of his first 23 Boro games as the club climbed from 21st to a play-off semi-final against Coventry. He signed a new three-year contract in June 2024. VERDICT: SUCCESS IN EARLY STAGE OF HIS CAREERMichael Carrick manages Championship side MiddlesbroughCredit: Rex More

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      Chelsea outcast Ben Chilwell ‘lined up for stunning Champions League transfer – but move could depend on Man City’

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      CHELSEA outcast Ben Chilwell has been lined up for a stunning transfer to Juventus.The left-back hasn’t made a single Premier League or Europa League appearance under Enzo Maresca this season.Juventus are lining up a winter move for Chelsea outcast Ben ChilwellCredit: PAChilwell was put up for sale last summer after being axed to Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad’ with the likes of Raheem Sterling and the recently-recalled Trevoh Chalobah.And his sole appearance of the season came from the bench in September’s Carabao Cup win over Barrow.Chilwell is now hoping to secure a move away from Stamford Bridge before deadline day.And Alfredo Pedulla claims Italian giants Juventus have emerged as leading contenders.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Serie A outfit remain unbeaten under Thiago Motta but have won just eight of their 21 matches so far, drawing an incredible 13 in the process.Juventus hope to add some ball-playing technicality to their backline by beating Borussia Dortmund to the loan signing of Chelsea’s versatile Portugal international Renato Veiga.But Chilwell has also emerged as a target due to strong interest from Manchester City in left-sider Andrea Cambiaso.Chiefs from Juventus are now set for a mega-meeting with Chelsea counterparts as they look to secure deals for both Veiga and Chilwell.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHowever, the latter’s exit likely rests on whether or not City make a big-enough bid to sign Cambiaso in the latter days of the window.Speaking this month, Chelsea boss Maresca admitted he felt “shame” at omitting Chilwell from his plans this season.Watch Enzo Maresca’s incredibly blunt response when asked if he has regrets about axing Chelsea star from squadHe said: “Players want to play more so there’s probably chances for them to leave.“But Ben has been top, I have to say that, he has been top. Very professional, works hard.“I feel shame because of that situation, but in terms of behaviour, he has been very good.” More