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      Ten Hag forced to give press conference for match he’ll never manage with Man Utd boss blissfully unaware he’d be sacked

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      ERIK TEN HAG gave a press conference to preview Manchester United’s Carabao Cup tie with Leicester on Wednesday – even though he was sacked today.The Dutchman spoke to the media directly after his press conference following Sunday’s controversial 2-1 loss away to West Ham.Erik ten Hag held a pre-match press conference for Wednesday’s match against Leicester BEFORE he was sackedTen Hag was let go by Man Utd on Monday morningYet bizarrely, Ten Hag found himself axed more than TWO DAYS before the Leicester game.Unfortunately, club staging press conferences directly after games – to preview a match a few days later – is something which has crept into the game.It is actually a bad idea.And it is only to save club media staff and the manager from staging a press conference the day before the game, which has always been the case.Read More on Man UtdBut if a manager attempts to preview a game three days later, there is always a danger that the situation could change such as a key player getting injured or something important happening at the club in general.Yet this situation was particularly unusual – and the manager who delivered a pre-match press conference ended up getting the boot.At the conference, which was due to be released at 1.30pm tomorrow, Ten Hag revealed his frustration with Luke Shaw’s injury nightmare.Ten Hag also stressed that he would consider it a success if he won the Carabao Cup for United, meaning he would have won a trophy for a third season in a row.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe stressed that the most important thing was to win silverware, above anything else – and pointed out the fact that United still had the chance of winning four trophies – even though he has been sacked with United 14th in the table.The Dutchman certainly did not come across like someone who knew they were about to lose their job.Erik ten Hag angry with VAR for ‘interfering’ as West Ham penalty wounds Man Utd Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part.Ten Hag’s final Man Utd press conference in full…QUESTION: Erik, do you expect any players to be available for Wednesday after coming back from injury?Ten Hag: “No, I don’t think so.”Q: Luke Shaw has been out for more than two months now. Originally it was suggested he was going to come back in September, then October and now November. Has he had setbacks?A: “The process is not going as we expected. That is the truth. But a setback, if you want to call it like this, yes, but we also want to do it carefully because we don’t.. when he is now dropping again and we have made the wrong process so we want to be very careful.”We know his past and we have to do things right because we want him to be available because he will have a big impact on our performances and so also our levels. So we cannot have it that he plays for some games and drops out again so we do it very carefully.”Q: You won the Carabao Cup a couple of years ago and you take great pride in winning trophies in both seasons. If you win a trophy in your third season, does it make this season a success again?A: “Definitely.  It is about trophies. I don’t want to go on about this debate again but I think it is the truth. There are not so many trophies you can win and if you win a trophy it tops them all.”That is the most important thing because that is what the fans expect and what we expect, to win the trophy and you have.. We have had five opportunities and one we missed but that was the Community Shield but there are still four to go.”Man Utd suffered a 2-1 defeat to West HamCredit: GettyQ: After the European game, you said Manuel Ugarte was still developing but there are still parts of the game model you are looking to build into his game. What are you looking for from your midfielder?A: “My midfielders…  I have different types and we have, of course, the holding midfielders, the box-to-box, the 10s.”Most of the time we have four midfielders there and we rotate them and specifically for Manuel Ugarte, most of the time he will be in a holding position and yes, what we expect from him is holding but also linking, building the attack and making the links into attack and then, very importantly, he is in the defensive position.”Q: Is this linking the build you want to build with him?A: “I think every player can do better but I was very happy with his performance in Fenerbahce. It was definitely a step forward.”Q: How do you think the players will respond to this setback today. They have obviously performed well  but not taken their chances and the injustice of the penalty call but if you look at the table, 14th in the Premier League. Do they look at that and think ‘this is not good enough, we need to be better.’READ MORE SUN STORIESA: “First of all, we have to do better. I will tell them the ranking is not reflecting our performance or levels but at the end of the season, we have to get this right but of course, it is not easy when you have so many setbacks at the start of the season and to overcome this but we have to fight back.”It will always help when you have a good start. You get motivation, you get belief. The confidence will grow and we are now in the process of the other side when we are disappointed but we have to deal with setbacks and now we have to find the fuel from setbacks and disappointments.”Who could replace Ten Hag at Man Utd?ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?Ruud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.The striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Edin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Kieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.The big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running. 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      Erik ten Hag LIVE: Man Utd sack Dutchman after shocking start to season as Red Devils search for new manager – updates

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.The Red Devils sacked Ten Hag on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on the weekend. The Premier League giants failed to find any consistency under the Dutchman, with speculation around his future starting at the backend of last season.Man Utd have put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge on an interim basis as the club begin their search for their seventh manager since Sir Alex Fergurson left the club.Names linked to the post include Gareth Southgate, Ruben Amorim and Graham Potter.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…Inside Erik ten Hag’s sacking as reasons Man Utd finally pulled the trigger revealedErik ten Hag has finally been sacked by Manchester United – and SunSport can reveal the reasons why.The Dutch boss, 54, was axed just hours after the Red Devils’ 2-1 defeat at West Ham as the club released a blunt 87-word statement.The result leaves Man Utd 14th in the Premier League – with the club also winless in all three of their Europa League matches.Ten Hag was under serious pressure in the summer after guiding United to a record-worst eighth placed finish.But ultimately the ex-Ajax boss escaped the axe and was handed an improved contract on the back of his side’s FA Cup win.However, SunSport can now reveal why United chiefs performed a U-turn just nine games into the Premier League season.While Red Devils chiefs found the decision difficult, they were unanimous in their decision to move on from Ten Hag.The United boardroom were keen to give the Dutchman a chance to work under the new structure put in place by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.United bosses were keen to keep Ten Hag in a bid to find continuity in their leadership for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012-13 season.However, they were left disappointed by both the results AND the performances on the pitch and feared the lack of momentum could only cause United to fall further.Chiefs felt there were no excuses for the shoddy form and poor results both in the Premier League and Europa League – especially the manner in which the side have dropped points from winning positions.Having put things in place to watch the team develop, the shocking start to 2024-25 left them with no option but to sack Ten Hag.Copy linkCopiedFrank speaks about Man Utd vacancySpeaking to the media ahead of Brentford’s Carabao Cup clash with Sheffield Wednesday, Frank said: “Of course, I feel for Erik. He is a great coach and has a great career. He did a good job at Man United, two trophies in two years.”It’s a non-stop developing world and that is more than acceptable. At these big clubs, there are massive expectations but there has to be a reality check… You feel for guys who lose their jobs and I’m sure Erik gave everything.”There are better people to judge that (improvement). He had a very good first season and had more than a few injury problems.”When asked if he wanted the Man Utd job, Frank said: “I’ve got a big responsibility to Brentford Football Club, the fans, the leadership, players and staff. One focus, to beat Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup.”I’m very happy here, one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future who knows, but I am very happy here.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLineker suggests ‘brilliant’ left-field coach Man Utd ‘probably won’t think about’ to replace Ten HagGary Lineker has thrown an unexpected name into the hat to replace Erik ten Hag.The Dutchman was sacked as Manchester United manager on Monday following weeks of speculation.Match of the Day host Lineker joined Micah Richards and Alan Shearer to discuss United’s next steps on their podcast The Rest Is Football.The panel speculated on who would come in to take over from Ten Hag long term.And Lineker put forward Lee Carsley, England’s current interim coach, as a surprise candidate.Lineker said: “I’m going to throw in a name here. I think it would be very interesting, he’s certainly a brilliant coach.”A certain Lee Carsley – who they probably won’t think about.”He’s a really imaginative coach, he plays attacking football.”From what I heard from England players, they thought he was really good. Really interesting and thoughtful on the game.”Copy linkCopiedZidane the fan favourite to replace Ten Hag as Manchester United managerA survey conducted by BetMGM, which polled 1,000 Manchester United supporters — found that over a quarter of fans (26%) would like to see the Frenchman take over at Old Trafford ahead of Ten Hag’s former assistant and current interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, at 20%.Gareth Southgate was also fancied by 20% of voters, while new England manager Thomas Tuchel was liked by 15%. Former United player and current Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick attracted 14% of votes — the same percentage as ex-Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Eddie Howe.Interestingly, Ruben Amorim, Xavi Hernandez and Julian Nagelsmann – all fancied in the betting to replace Ten Hag – were not picked by any fans.Copy linkCopiedMicah Richards reacts to Ten Hag sacking and next managerSpeaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards said: “You have to give them time. “They have got some good people in the backroom staff. I think all the noises coming out of Man United are not good, leaks to the press and all of that sort of thing.”They had the meeting the other week with Ten Hag. It looked like he was going to be sacked, it didn’t happen and then it happens today. I think they have the right pieces in play.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd chief tasked with choosing Ten Hag replacement has incredible hit-rateManchester United chief Dan Ashworth has the tough job of picking the club’s new manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked.Ashworth is set to lead the search and he boasts an impressive CV when it comes to appointing the right managers for the right teams.The 53-year-old previously worked for the FA and played a huge role in giving Gareth Southgate the England job in 2016.He revolutionised the team and guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals that ended in heartbreak.Ashworth then worked at Brighton, where he appointed Graham Potter as boss.He implemented an attractive style of play and took them from near the bottom of the league to European contenders.Ashworth then moved to Newcastle and he gave Eddie Howe the job, who led the Toon into the Champions League for the first time in two decades.Interestingly, Unai Emery was supposedly his first-choice at St James’ Park, but the Spaniard instead went on to oversee Aston Villa’s remarkable rise from relegation candidates to matching Europe’s elite.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s worst XI of Man Utd signings cost £300MILLIONErik ten Hag has been sacked with Manchester United 14th in the Premier League and £300MILLION out of pocket.The Dutchman was shown the exit door following 2-1 defeat at West Ham with club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge in the interim.Ten Hag leaves with an FA Cup and Carabao Cup to his name but in the league and Europe results were underwhelming.And so too was his transfer business.In his two seasons, Ten Hag signed 21 players costing over £545m.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING: Ten Hag seen for first time since Man Utd sackingThe Dutchman has been spotted for the first time since his dramatic Manchester United axing.Ten Hag was dismissed as Red Devils manager on Monday morning.Ten Hag was seen getting into the back of his car as he left his Cheshire home.The 54-year-old bowed his head as he prepared to travel back to the Netherlands.Man Utd released a blunt 87-word statement as the 54-year-old was relieved of his duties.It read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”Credit: ZenpixCopy linkCopiedHojlund reactsRasmus Hojlund has taken to Instagram to react to the sacking of Erik ten Hag.The forward was signed by the Dutchman in 2023, joining from Atalanta for an initial fee of £64million.Copy linkCopiedDamning numbersHere are Man Utd’s defensive numbers compared to other Premier League clubs under Ten Hag:Copy linkCopiedOle ‘under consideration’ for bombshell Man Utd returnFormer Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is being linked with a stunning Old Trafford return.The Red Devils are searching for a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday.Ten Hag leaves the club with United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.He was given his marching orders following a dismal run of just 4 wins in 14 games across all competitions.Ex-United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been put in temporary charge and is currently favourite to take over full-time.But it’s reportedly another blast from the past who may be back in the dugout long-term.Solskjaer – who has been a free agent since United dismissed him in November 2021 – could benefit from the awkward timing of the dismissal.Ten Hag is due a whopping £17million in compensation with United having to buy him out of his huge contract.Cost-cutting is already underway at Old Trafford and club bosses are reportedly scouring cheaper options.According to the Manchester Evening News, free agent Solskjaer is therefore “under consideration for a return.”The report adds it is unclear if he is viewed as a” serious long-term option as manager or a backroom staff member.”Copy linkCopiedHow much Man Utd will have to pay Ten Hag after sackingIt has been revealed how much Manchester United will have to pay up after sacking Erik ten Hag.According to reports, the Red Devils will have to pay up to £15million to the Dutchman.The former Ajax manager was reportedly earning £6.75m-per year with a contract until the summer of 2026.Ten Hag signed a contract extension at the start of July after winning the FA Cup with United.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedBiggest net spend since Ten Hag joined Man UtdHere is a list of the highest-spending Premier League clubs since Erik ten Hag was appointed Man Utd manager in 2022.Chelsea – £715mMan Utd – £400mTottenham – £310.5mArsenal – £285mNewcastle – £235mCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedFerdinand reacts to Ten Hag sackingFormer Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, spoke on his YouTube reacting to the breaking news regarding Ten Hag, he said: “I look at Ineos and I think about the way things panned out at the end of the season.”Did they back themselves into a corner, with the way that they handled stuff in the summer?”They’ll look back and go ‘we could have handled it better’. I think having a manager in place and actively looking for new managers and it becoming public knowledge, isn’t a great way to do it.”It isn’t a great way to advertise for the job. It’s hard for the guy coming in, to come in under that cloud.”It’s also even harder for the guy whose in the hot seat, still the manager and then they keep him as the manager and he has to face questions constantly about his standing within the organisation.”It’s not easy to navigate through a situation that is so public, a club the size of Manchester United but if they’re honest, Ineos – they could have done that in a better way.”Copy linkCopiedWhat did Ten Hag win during his time as Man Utd manager?The Dutchman was in charge of the Red Devils for two-and-a-half years.Ten Hag enjoyed a successful first season as United boss with a third-placed finish in the Premier League and his side won the EFL Cup – the club’s first major honour in six years.However, the Dutchman failed to build on the success of his opening season after a disappointed eighth-placed finish, United’s lowest in Prem history.United were also knocked out in the group stage of the Champions League.That said, the Red Devils did end the season on a high by winning the FA Cup, beating rivals Man City 2-1 at Wembley.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopied’Thanks for everything boss!’Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has had his say following Ten Hag’s sacking.He posted on Instagram: “Thanks for everything boss! I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future.”Even knowing the last period isn’t been great from all of us I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager as done for our club!”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedNeville on Ten Hag’s sackingGary Neville has had his say on Ten Hag’s sacking as Man Utd boss. “The big shock for me is just how bad they’ve been, with the new signings that have come in,” he told Sky Sports News. “I felt as though they would be able to get a decent level of performance together. The fact it was a smooth transfer window, the fact with Erik Ten Hag, there’s some stability.”But the fact they’re in 14th is unnacceptable. You can’t be in 14th after nearly nine or 10 games with the level of spend that’s occured.”I was hoping it would end differently, I think United fans were hoping that the manager could keep his job, but it’s just not been the case.”Copy linkCopiedMore potential candidatesEdin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him now they’ve sacked Ten Hag.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.He’s reportedly highly-thought of by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and likes to play attacking football.Credit: PAKieran McKennaMcKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.Copy linkCopiedRunners and ridersSo who could take over as permanent United boss following Ten Hag’s axing as manager?We know Ruud van Nistelrooy will take over on a permanent basis.But here’s who could take the post full-time.Ruud van NistelrooyVan Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts. How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateSouthgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Copy linkCopiedPiers Morgan has his sayPiers Morgan has made his feelings clear on Erik Ten Hag’s sacking. The Sun columnist has been staunch in his views that Ten Hag should’ve been sacked months ago. Copy linkCopiedNext up for UnitedThings weren’t going to get any easier for Erik Ten Hag, had he kept his position as manager. United take on Chelsea next in the Premier League in what will now be the all-important audition process for Van Nistelrooy. As a player, the former Real Madrid striker netted three times against the Blues in the Premier League. He’ll be desperate for one of his own strikers to try and do the same on Sunday night. Enzo Maresca’s Blues have enjoyed a good start to their campaign and currently sit fifth on 17 points. Copy linkCopiedGrim viewingJust three wins in the league this season, with one of those coming against 20th-place Southampton. Copy linkCopiedIt was comingThe fact of the matter is; this shouldn’t have been a surprise to Manchester United fans or Erik Ten Hag. Although the former Ajax man started well, winning a Carabao Cup and securing a Champions League spot in his first season, the club have dithered ever since. United finished eighth last season, their lowest ever league position, and even their FA Cup win over Manchester City looks to have papered over the cracks. The club are languishing in 14th after nine games this season. New owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS Group have ultimately decided that enough was enough. With a goal difference of -3, having picked up just three points from three games in Europe, they decided it was time for a change. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedResults this seasonThey simply haven’t been good enough this season. Man Utd 1-0 Fulham – WBrighton 2-1 Man Utd – LMan Utd 0-3 Liverpool – LSouthampton 0-3 Man Utd – WMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley – WPalace 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 1-1 Twente – DMan Utd 0-3 Tottenham – LMan Utd 3-3 Porto – DVilla 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 2-1 Brentford – WFenerbahce 1-1 Man Utd – DWest Ham 2-1 Man Utd – LCopy linkCopiedRuud awakeningRuud van Nistelrooy will take charge as manager on an interim basis.The former Red Devils striker only came in as Ten Hag’s assistant at the beginning of this season.And already he finds himself in one of the biggest jobs in football.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Ten Hag’s worst XI of Man Utd signings cost £300MILLION as manager is finally sacked with flops in 14th

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      ERIK TEN HAG has been sacked with Manchester United 14th in the Premier League and £300MILLION out of pocket. The Dutchman was shown the exit door following 2-1 defeat at West Ham with club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge in the interim. Ruud van Nistelrooy will take interim charge after Erik ten Hag’s sackingCredit: AlamyTen Hag leaves with an FA Cup and Carabao Cup to his name but in the league and Europe results were underwhelming. And so too was his transfer business. In his two seasons, Ten Hag signed 21 players costing over £545m. Perhaps the biggest disaster of them all was the £86m forked out to sign winger Antony, who previously played for Ten Hag at Ajax.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe has struggled to thrive since moving to Manchester – with just 12 goals over 87 games.Joshua Zirkzee joined from Bologna for £36.5m this season and got off to the perfect start by scoring on his debut. But it is his only goal in United red. Rasmus Hojlund is in his second season having been brought in for £72m from Atalanta but the Dane is showing signs of settling in. Most read in FootballAntony is still struggling for formCredit: GettyJoshua Zirkzee has just one goal for Man UtdCredit: GettySergio Reguilon had his loan cut shortCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThat does not compare to loanee Wout Weghorst, who left United after six months and just two goals.Hojlund arrived alongside Mason Mount, who joined in his own controversial £60m transfer from Chelsea, but has so far flopped. Roy Keane left red-faced after Sky Sports colleague tells Man Utd legend to ‘bring this look back’Mount has just a single goal for United since his move and missed chunks of both seasons out injured.Casemiro came in for £60m from Real Madrid and had an excellent first season under Ten Hag. But his form has taken a dip since and got so bad United were linked with selling him. Marcel Sabitzer and Sofyan Amrabat, who arrived with a hefty loan fee of £7.7m, have both failed to make an impact under Ten Hag. A big decision made under Ten Hag was to sign Andre Onana for £47m opposed to giving David de Gea a new deal. The stopper has performed both excellently and poorly at times – but it has been enough to keep £4.3m back-up Altay Bayindir out of the side.Bayindir starts in our flop XI after managing just two appearances – at Newport County and Barnsley in cup competition. Mason Mount has spent much of his Man Utd career injuredCredit: AlamyCasemiro has failed to follow up on his stellar first seasonCredit: PAJonny Evans featured far more than anticipatedCredit: GettyJonny Evans was signed on a free transfer, eight years after leaving United, raising eyebrows.The Northern Irishman initially penned a short-term deal but stayed all season and has seven appearances this campaign. Sergio Reguilon features after signing on loan from Tottenham, only to be sent back halfway through the season despite a lack of fit left-backs.Luke Shaw has struggled for fitness while his back-up Tyrell Malacia – another Ten Hag signing –  missed last season followingfollowing knee surgery.That’s enough to start at right-back in this XI, despite some positive performances for the Red Devils after signing for £13m.Matthijs de Ligt will go down as one of Ten Hag’s last big signings but the £42m paid to Bayern Munich has so far looked like money poorly spent. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe now-former Old Trafford boss was even forced to bench De Ligt amid a run of shaky starts. Ten Hag’s XI of underperformers cost over a staggering £300m and will be just one of several reasons for his sacking. More

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      Man Utd chief tasked with choosing Ten Hag replacement has incredible hit-rate – with two of his picks in running

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      MANCHESTER UNITED chief Dan Ashworth has the tough job of picking the club’s new manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked.The Dutchman’s reign at Old Trafford comes to an end after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham yesterday left them languishing in 14th in the Premier League table.Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Man Utd managerCredit: ReutersDan Ashworth will lead the search for a new bossCredit: PAGareth Southgate has worked with Dan Ashworth before when he was England gafferCredit: GettyGraham Potter has also had success alongside AshworthCredit: PAAfter a poor season last term that saw United finish eighth and crash out the Champions League in the group stage, Ten Hag saved his job by winning the FA Cup.But just 14 games after being handed a new contract in the summer, Man Utd are on the lookout for a new boss.The task falls on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new chiefs – sporting director Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada.Ashworth is set to lead the search and he boasts an impressive CV when it comes to appointing the right managers for the right teams.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 53-year-old previously worked for the FA and played a huge role in giving Gareth Southgate the England job in 2016.He revolutionised the team and guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals that ended in heartbreak.Ashworth then worked at Brighton, where he appointed Graham Potter as boss.He implemented an attractive style of play and took them from near the bottom of the league to European contenders. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAshworth then moved to Newcastle and he gave Eddie Howe the job, who led the Toon into the Champions League for the first time in two decades.Interestingly, Unai Emery was supposedly his first-choice at St James’ Park, but the Spaniard instead went on to oversee Aston Villa’s remarkable rise from relegation candidates to matching Europe’s elite.Gary Neville predicts exact date Erik ten Hag will be sacked as he rants Man Utd ‘can’t be 14th after nine games’ Due to Ashworth’s history with Southgate, he finds himself in the running for the United job.But it is unclear whether he would want the role after previously saying he wants a year out of football following the pressures of being the England boss.Meanwhile, Potter is also thought to be a potential option for the Red Devils.He has been out of the dugout for a year-and-a-half since being sacked by Chelsea, seemingly biding his time for the right opportunity.Ex-Barcelona boss Xavi and Sporting Lisbon gaffer Ruben Amorim are among the other names being linked with the job.But for now, club legend and Ten Hag’s assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy will lead Man Utd as interim manager.Why NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part. More

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      Why NOBODY is right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man Utd with Tuchel already gone and best bosses certain to snub them

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      MANCHESTER UNITED sacking Erik ten Hag, at last, was the easy part.Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham – leaving the Red Devils FOURTEENTH in the Premier League, with just 11 points from nine games – proved to be the final straw.Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is facing the axe after another miserable lossCredit: GettyTen Hag risks turning Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s famous Tottenham team talk on its headCredit: GettyTen Hag’s United didn’t just lose consistently, they were thrashed consistently.Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brighton and Brentford are among the teams to have demolished his outfit.Sir Alex Ferguson’s most famous three-word team talk — “Lads, it’s Tottenham” — could now be turned on its head by Ange Postecoglou or several other Premier League bosses.“Lads, it’s Man United.”Read More on Man UtdFacing United hasn’t held a fear factor for many years.Now, it is a fixture openly relished by many — a big-name scalp which is relatively easy to come by.There has been a regular cycle of doom around Old Trafford for the last 11 years, under six different managers.United are trounced on a Sunday afternoon, Gary Neville and Roy Keane rant on the telly, everyone speculates on the manager’s future on a Monday.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSManagers come and go, many players linger for too long, and United continue to be largely terrible.Yet under Ten Hag — who offered little as a coach or man-manager — the bad days got even worse.Gary Neville predicts exact date Erik ten Hag will be sacked as he rants Man Utd ‘can’t be 14th after nine games’ It was the wrong decision for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos crew to keep faith with the former Ajax boss after last season’s FA Cup win.And then to have signed another tranche of overpriced Dutch players.At last, Ratcliffe and his fellow Old Trafford chiefs have seen sense.So now for the hard part. Who, realistically, takes over?And, more pertinently, who would want to?This is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.Emery wouldn’t take United job – he’s not stark raving madAnd Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.Who could replace Ten Hag at Man Utd?ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?Ruud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.The striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Edin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Kieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.The big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running.Not many optionsEmery would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Gareth Southgate concernYet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the  equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel was talked about at United’s top target, and would have been a popular and gettable option, but the FA have already beaten United to the German.Despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Replacement needs to succeed Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a “figurehead” manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer, will take the reins at interim boss, but surely lacks the experience to take the job full-time.And United would be wise to avoid another Ole Gunnar Solskjaer situation.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag was the easy part.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor Ratcliffe, Ashworth and the rest of United’s new management structure, the hard part is what happens next.And it is a decision they desperately need to nail.Thomas Tuchel would have been a popular replacement for Ten Hag but the FA got him for EnglandCredit: GettyMan Utd assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken over as interim bossCredit: GettySouthgate is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by Man Utd last springCredit: Getty More

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      Erik ten Hag finally SACKED by Man Utd after dismal start with Ruud van Nistelrooy named interim

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have sacked manager Erik ten Hag.The Dutchman leaves Old Trafford with United 14th in the Premier League.Erik ten Hag has been sackedCredit: AlamyUnited suffered a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on SundayCredit: AlamyHis assistant, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will take over as interim manager while the recruitment process takes place.A statement from the club read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.Read More in Football”Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.”Man Utd suffered a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday, leaving them in the bottom half of the Prem table.The Red Devils have won just three out of nine league games so far this season, with four defeats and two draws.United representatives felt there was a lack of progression and momentum under the Dutchman, SunSport understands.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhy NOBODY is the right man to replace Erik ten Hag at Man UtdSunSport’s DAVE KIDD says Erik ten Hag’s time at Man Utd is up… and explains what’s wrong with all the potential candidates to replace him.THIS is a mid-table squad at an underachieving club, with a lot of unwanted players on big money.And Ratcliffe is an instinctive cost-cutter who may not pay top dollar to the next manager.If this club wasn’t called ‘Manchester United’, it wouldn’t be an especially desirable job.The good news for United is that their new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, is a very decent judge of a manager.He has been instrumental in three previous managerial appointments — Gareth Southgate for England, Graham Potter for Brighton and Eddie Howe for Newcastle.None were wildly popular at the time, all were conspicuous successes.Interestingly, Ashworth’s No 1 choice for the Newcastle job was Unai Emery, who turned him down to stay at Villarreal but has since proved that judgment right by excelling at Aston Villa.And the Spaniard would be an excellent fit for United — yet there is next to no chance that he would abandon Villa’s Champions League campaign to take the Old Trafford job, not least because he isn’t a stark raving madman.Howe would be another good candidate to succeed Ten Hag but, although he has become frustrated on Tyneside, the Saudis would surely not allow Ratcliffe to poach Howe, as they reluctantly did with Ashworth.Potter is available but his Chelsea experience and lack of charisma would make him a tough sell.Which brings us to Southgate, who remains close with Ashworth and is an excellent man-manager who was seriously considered by United last spring.Yet, despite having led England to two of their three major finals, Southgate’s reputation for over-caution was only enhanced during the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino, passed over twice by United, is out of the equation having taken the United States job.Thomas Tuchel would also have been a popular and gettable option – but England got in there first.Likewise, Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his brief Brighton stint sparkled then fizzled out.Kieran McKenna — a gifted former United coach who has won back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town — is an intriguing candidate but the imminent vacancy may come a year or so too soon.Marco Silva, the extremely under-rated Fulham boss, has been on United’s radar and should not be discounted.Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, last season’s ‘next big thing’, was passed over by West Ham as well as Liverpool this summer and is not an easy man to pin down.Zinedine Zidane, who has taken over from Alan Curbishley as a 20-1 shot for every Premier League job, is a ‘figurehead’ manager and not an Ashworth type.Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United goal machine who joined Ten Hag’s coaching team in the summer is the bookies’ favourite. Simply because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.So, yes, getting rid of Ten Hag is the easy part.They also believe results and performances have not been good enough over the last year.Doubts began to emerge over Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford earlier this year.Gary Neville predicts exact date Erik ten Hag will be sacked as he rants Man Utd ‘can’t be 14th after nine games’ But the 54-year-old was handed a one-year contract extension in July after leading United to FA Cup glory at Wembley Stadium.He subsequently spent almost £200million in the transfer market to strengthen his squad – only to endure the club’s worst start to a Premier League campaign.The Red Devils have also struggled in Europe this season.They currently sit 21st in the Europa League group stage table with three points from three games.Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been heavily linked with the job.Ten Hag won the FA Cup with Man Utd in MayCredit: ReutersBut he recently claimed he will not coach or manage another team in the next year.Ex-Barcelona boss Xavi has also been tipped to replace Ten Hag.Reports last week claimed Man Utd contacted him about the job.United chiefs initially made former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel their No1 target.But he was snapped up by the FA this month and appointed the next England boss.READ MORE SUN STORIESMan Utd next face Leicester City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.The Red Devils are then due to face Chelsea in a huge Prem clash at the weekend.Who will replace Ten Hag?ERIK TEN HAG has finally been put out of his Manchester United misery – but who will be the manager to lead them into the future?Ruud van NistelrooyThe Red Devils legend, 48, is no stranger to the pressures of Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy scored 150 goals in 219 games for Man Utd and helped them to the 2002-03 Premier League title.The striker also starred for another monster club, Real Madrid, as a player before going into coaching.The 70-cap ex-Holland international managed PSV’s youth team before landing the senior job for the 2022-23 season.Van Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts.How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateThe former England boss, 54, has long been linked with the Man Utd job.The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has gone on to enjoy great success as a manager – albeit without getting his hands on a major trophy.Southgate managed Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009 before taking on the England Under-21s job between 2013 and 2016.The 57-cap former Three Lions international then took the senior national job, replacing Roy Hodgson.Southgate brought the nation together as he led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, as well as the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.However, he left his role in the summer following the defeat to Spain and was replaced by Lee Carsley on an interim basis.Thomas Tuchel – another boss long linked with the Old Trafford job – will take over the reins in 2025.Southgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Edin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.Potter excited fans with his attacking approach at Brighton before he was poached by the Blues.However, he failed to lift Chelsea out of their funk and was given his marching orders.Potter’s fans include Manchester City mastermind Pep Guardiola.And there’s no doubt the ex-OstersundS FK and Swansea boss would get United playing on the front foot, something Old Trafford fans have long craved.Kieran McKennaCruelly denied a playing career due to injury, the former Tottenham youth prospect has excelled as a coach.McKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna was quickly added to a host of clubs’ wish-lists, including Man Utd, according to reports.But Ipswich reacted swiftly to offer him a new, long-term contract.However, his side are yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League games, with four wins and five defeats.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.The big question now is whether McKenna opts to jump ship or stay loyal.Ruben Amorim, Xavi and Thomas Frank are also three names very much believed to be in the running. More

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      Arsenal fan spotted eating BROCCOLI at the Emirates as supporters say ‘game’s gone, utter woke nonsense’

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      FANS have been left baffled after an Arsenal supporter was seen eating broccoli in the stands.Prior to the Gunners 2-2 draw with Liverpool, most people at the Emirates would have been enjoying a pre-match pie or pint.An Arsenal fan was seen eating broccoli at the EmiratesCredit: XThe supporter was OnlyFans star Leah RayCredit: XShe also brought along a booster seat to get a better viewCredit: @LeahRayAFCLeah is close pals with influencer Astrid WettCredit: Paul EdwardsBut one fan has gone viral as she was seen munching on broccoli while sat in her seat.Social media was left shocked, with one saying: “Game’s gone, utter woke nonsense.”Another joked: “Probably more entertaining than watching Arsenal.”More reacted: “I’ve seen it all now.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe fan in question turned out to be Arsenal supporter and OnlyFans star Leah Ray.She responded to a comment about her bizarre packed lunch, writing: “Can’t even eat broccoli in public anymore. Vegetables > Pukka Pies.”Leah, 21, has 475,000 followers on TikTok and is close pals with her Chelsea equivalent Astrid Wett.The pair released a song together to cheer on England at Euro 2024.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLeah eating broccoli was not her only unusual move yesterday after she posted snaps of her with a booster seat and binoculars inside the Emirates Stadium.But she is not the first to bring veg into the ground as a fan was once spotted with a bag of carrots also against Liverpool in 2017.Arsenal player ratings vs Liverpool: Saka brushes injury fears aside with sublime showing but Trossard quietLast night’s draw with Liverpool leaves Arsenal five points behind Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.Liverpool impressed at Arsenal, but it was a match Jurgen Klopp probably would’ve wonBy Jordan DaviesON the face of it, Liverpool continue to go from strength to strength with Arne Slot’s tenure still in its infancy.Away at Arsenal as title contenders — with a formidable record at the Emirates having won four of their last six there — the Reds fought back, not once, but twice to earn an impressive point to remain four clear of the Gunners.Nine games in, Liverpool have seven wins, 22 points collected and sit in second in what is one of the club’s best ever starts to a Prem campaign.Nothing to sniff at there, and that is without mentioning three straight wins in the Champions League and a 5-1 Carabao Cup third-round thumping of fellow top-flight side West Ham.So to even attempt to pick flaws in Slot’s start with a run that solid would come across needlessly pedantic, deliberately nit-picky.But, and there is a but, given the standards Liverpool have set in these early months, it needs to be said: this draw in North London was a massive missed opportunity.And to go one step further, maybe this is a game Jurgen Klopp would have found a way to win?It has been a long time since Arsenal have gone into a game feeling so vulnerable defensively with world-class centre-back William Saliba missing through suspension.Full-back Riccardo Calafiori was also out injured, usual right-back Ben White began the game at centre-half and midfielder Thomas Partey started on the far right side of the defence.And then, in a chaotic second half, both Jurrien Timber and Gabriel limped off, forcing Gunners boss Mikel Arteta to swap around his back line THREE times by the 76th minute.And yet, despite all of that, a Liverpool side boasting attacking talents like Mo Salah, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo were hardly making the home fans sweat with a peppering of the Arsenal goal.It was not until a Klopp-style counter-attack from back to front in the 81st minute did the visitors properly test the home defence.But even that finish was a tame one — Salah tapping in past David Raya into an almost empty net.And with nine minutes left plus seven minutes injury time, the expected onslaught for another, to nick all three points — the tally-ho approach — never came.Not Klopp’s heavy metal style, more pleasant folk music with a ukulele in a country pub.You get the impression that Slot was delighted with this outcome.For large parts, Liverpool were defensively sound, gave very little away and snuck away back to Merseyside with a point tucked under their arm and a bloody nose avoided.Yet it was in these sorts big blockbuster matches that Klopp and Liverpool thrived over their nine-year romance, full of excitement, thrills and last-gasp wins that earned them a Prem trophy in 2019-20 and plenty more down-to-the-wire chases with Manchester City.And with Arteta’s Arsenal on their knees — quite literally in some cases — and hanging on for dear life, these are the moments in title races that require a bit of crazy, not caution.A Klopp team of the past would have gone completely and totally Kloppy, throwing men forward at will, blasting their opponents away and forcing the ball into the net through passion and thunder alone, regardless of how open it left them at the back.Slot is not this sort of coach.He is measured, considerate, calm. Good qualities, but not always needed in do-or-die matches that ultimately determine where you finish in May.It is hard to say if this will come back to haunt Slot, who still insists on avoiding any use of the phrase ‘title contenders’ despite clearly being title contenders.With Aston Villa and Manchester City visiting Anfield over their next five Prem outings, we will see whether the Dutchman can loosen the leash and let his team grab games by the scruff of the neck instead of playing it safe.Because as we have seen in this league, going for broke often rewards you — just ask the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and Pep Guardiola.Fortune favours the brave.Slot needs to discover his own version of that if he is to truly emulate Klopp and transform this Liverpool side into one capable of seizing moments when they matter most. More

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      Cole Palmer’s reaction to being compared to Zola will make you feel old as fans say ‘he actually said that out loud?’

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      COLE PALMER left fans in disbelief after openly admitting that he only knew of Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola through a video game.The 22-year-old put on a fantastic display as Chelsea earned a 2-1 win over Newcastle at the weekend.Cole Palmer left fans shocked with his admission about Gianfranco ZolaCredit: Sky SportsPalmer was compared to Zola following his impressive performanceCredit: GettyHe drew comparisons to Blues icon Zola – who was at Stamford Bridge for the match – as a result.But asked about the Italian at full-time, Palmer was forced to admit that he’d never actually seen him play.He told Sky Sports: “I know he’s an icon on FIFA so he must have been good.”I didn’t really watch him play but everyone says he was a great player.”Read More in FootballFans were shocked by the midfielder’s admission, with one person taking to social media to write: “Jesus wept. He actually said those words out loud?”Another commented: “‘Icon on FIFA’ cringed just reading that.”A third said: “Respect the honesty tbh.”While another quipped: “I feel old.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSZola heaped praise on Palmer before the match at Stamford Bridge.He said: “When he receives the ball he already knows what he wants to do next.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca lauds Cole Palmer as the type of player supporters ‘pay to see’ “It’s a quality only a few players have.”Palmer played a crucial role in the build-up to Chelsea’s first goal, sending a stunning pass through to Pedro Neto on the left, who squared the ball across the box to goalscorer Nicolas Jackson.He then scored the winner just after half-time.Chelsea player ratings vs NewcastleCOLE PALMER was once again the star of the show.His perfect pass for Neto set up Nicolas Jackson’s opening goal and then he scored the second in a 2-1 win over Newcastle.He was class – but not all the Chelsea players were.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players at Stamford Bridge…Robert Sanchez – 3/10Pretty poor in all honesty.A liability in terms of distribution, and while a decent shot-stopper, he consistently seems to be a big question mark in this Chelsea eleven.Malo Gusto – 3It looks as though Chelsea may have to choose between Gusto and Reece James to start on the right with themFailed to impact the game much attacking-wise, and was bettered by Lewis Hall who crossed for Alexander Isak’s equaliser.Wesley Fofana – 6Picked up a knock early on and played the rest of the game with a strapped-up knee.Nonetheless, gave as good as he got against the powerful Alexander Isak for large parts of the game, and made some crucial blocks and tackles throughout.Levi Colwill – 6Was fortunate to get away with a clumsy tackle on Bruno Guimaraes early in the first half, but was still fairly solid.For a man with such an impressive passing range, it felt like he couldn’t quite put it to use today.Seemingly prevented Alexander Isak from levelling with his aura alone…Reece James – 2Playing as a left-centre back it’s hard to see how Chelsea will get the best out of what could be one of the finest attacking wing backs in the world.He didn’t look comfortable in that position, and let Alexander Isak run away from him for Newcastle’s equaliser.He came up with two crucial blocks in the second half to deny Isak from making it two or three, before giving him a golden chance to do so which was not taken.Romeo Lavia – 7Followed up a brilliant performance in the loss to Liverpool with another good showing in the middle of the park here.Starting to look like a bargain with performances like these if he can stay fit, as he claimed the assist for Cole Palmer’s fine finish.Moises Caicedo – 7Effective in breaking up play for the Blues, and it was a solid showing from a midfield player who has been so good this season.Steps into challenges nicely at just the right time, and is becoming a dependable figure in the same mould in which N’golo Kante and Claude Makelele were in their time here.Noni Madueke – 5Quiet in the first half, but better in the second as he looked to trouble Lewis Hall more.Was outshone by Pedro Neto on the opposite flank this time out, before being swapped out for Mykhailo Mudryk.Pedro Neto – 8So much pace down the left-hand side which was utilised perfectly to leave Livramento in the dust to set up Nicolas Jackson’s opening goal.Could have had a goal early in the second half as he rattled the post with a header after leaping like a salmon.Cole Palmer – 9Started the game well with a cracking finish which VAR ruled out, only to cook the Newcastle defence a matter of moments later with an incisive pass for Neto to set up the opener.Newcastle simply could not handle the midfield man, who lit up Stamford Bridge early in the second half to claim his sixth goal of the season.Nonchalance personified, cool Cole showed why he will attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony tomorrow night, and why he can win it in coming years.Nicolas Jackson – 8A superb first-time finish opened the scoring for the Blues, and the Senegalese forward did well with the little service he had in the first half – often needing to drop deep to pick up the ball and link up the play.14 goals in his last 14 Premier League games – leave the Didier Drogba comparisons at home, this is a superstar in his own right.SUBS:MYKHAILO MUDRYK (NONI MADUEKE, 67) – 5Had a big chance to add a third to Chelsea’s tally after replacing Madueke, but his left-footed strike was saved by Nick Pope, who didn’t have to move.ENZO FERNANDEZ (ROMEO LAVIA, 72) – 5Didn’t add anything which Lavia wasn’t already giving, but ultimately wasn’t given much time to really impact the game.MARC CUCURELLA (MALO GUSTO , 78) – 5Individually, didn’t have a lot of time to show what he’s made of, but Chelsea look like a better team with him in the side.He plays the inverted left-back role well, allowing Chelsea to get the most out of their right-side.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU ( NICOLAS JACKSON, 78) – 6Had a half-chance late on, which wasn’t taken as he dilly-dallied on the ball on the edge of the box.Thought he had won a penalty on the stroke of the 90th minute after going down under pressure from Dan Burn, but it was ruled out by VAR.Click here to read more on Chelsea. 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