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      Jadon Sancho told he is ‘far too easy to play against’ and warned he faces being dropped by ex-Chelsea star

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      JADON SANCHO has been warned that he could be dropped by Chelsea if he does not adapt his game.The winger, 24, was accused of being “too easy to play against” after he was watched at the weekend by a former Blues striker.Jadon Sancho struggled to make an impact vs Nottingham ForestCredit: RexSancho went into Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest having laid on an assist in each of his first three appearances for Chelsea.In his latest outing, however, he failed to make much of an impact before being replaced by Mykhailo Mudryk late on.Watching on for The Times was former Blue Tony Cascarino.In his subsequent column, the ex-striker claimed that he had been tasked with specifically watching out for Sancho – and that he came away not overly impressed.READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS”There were no big mistakes, everything was neat and tidy, he played short passes that were accurate,” Cascarino wrote of Sancho’s display. “There was nothing to complain about, or that a pundit could pull apart in analysis on television. “But he’s playing for Chelsea. This is a club that has high expectations of players, especially attacking ones. Being OK, which is what he was, is a problem. “The truth is that he made it easy for Nottingham Forest’s right-back Ola Aina to play against him. “There is no question Sancho is a good player, and his touch is almost always really sound, but he plays such a conservative game.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTony Cascarino had his say on Sancho’s performanceCredit: The SunSancho has laid on three assists so far this seasonCredit: Getty”He never got into a physical battle with Aina and never tried to take him on. Sancho is not slow but he doesn’t have that burst of acceleration to get at defenders.”Cascarino went on to compare Sancho’s performance with that of Noni Madueke, who scored Chelsea’s equaliser.Former Chelsea manager Potter weighs in on Postecoglou’s ‘shell-shocked’ interview after Brighton’s win over Spurs The former Republic of Ireland international felt that Madueke caused Forest far more problems due to his speed, directness and ability to get to the byline.He then added: “Cristiano Ronaldo, Eden Hazard, Gareth Bale and the other best wingers of recent times at the biggest teams in the Premier League have always wanted to overwhelm the full-back marking them, using power and speed to beat them physically. “Sancho needs to get a bit stronger, and try to develop so that he can have a more significant change of pace. “That will allow him to keep a defender guessing – at the moment, the full-back knows there is very little chance of him trying to get to the byline.”Cascarino also warned that Sancho could be dropped by Chelsea, given the other options they possess.He specifically named Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto and Mudryk as threats to his place in the starting XI.’A GREAT FEELING’Sancho arrived at Chelsea on a season-long loan deal from Manchester United on transfer deadline day.Enzo Maresca’s side have an obligation to buy Sancho for between £20-25million at the end of the season, provided that they finish in the top 14.Following the Blues’ recent 4-2 win over Brighton, Sancho lifted the lid on how he had been settling in at Chelsea.He said: “Overall, I was just happy to play at Stamford Bridge for the first time as a Chelsea player.”It was a great feeling and I really appreciated the reception I got from the fans.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was a great feeling [to get a standing ovation from the fans] and my family and friends were in the crowd for the game, so that made it extra special.”I’m happy to have been able to assist for goals in recent games, I’m settling in well here and I just want to keep this momentum going and keep being able to assist my team-mates. Or even get a first goal, that would be nice.”Chelsea player ratings vs Forest: Madueke shines again but hot-head Jackson too busy arguing CHELSEA were held by ten-man Nottingham Forest as frustration filled Stamford Bridge.Noni Madueke cancelled out Chris Wood’s opener but the Blues couldn’t find a winner.And frustrations boiled over with a mass brawl in added time.Here’s how SunSport’s Jack Figg rated the Blues stars.Robert Sanchez – 8Excellent positioning to snuff out Forest counter on hour mark and made two sensational late saves to deny the visitor’s a winner.Malo Gusto – 6Wasn’t able to prevent Nikola Milenkovic’s flick on to set up Wood’s opener but he produced a great block to deny Gibbs-White in the box.Wesley Fofana – 7Forming a good partnership at the back with Colwill. Finally some consistency at centre-half for Chelsea.Levi Colwill – 7Made a huge block to prevent Yates in the first half. John Terry-esque defending.Marc Cucurella – 5Lacked attacking creativity down the left having filled in at centre-back at times. Failed to form much of a threat with Sancho.Moises Caicedo – 6Agonisingly close to getting ahead of Wood to prevent the Forest opener. Took the role as deep-lying midfielder in front of back line.Enzo Fernandez – 5Still looks to be finding his best position under Maresca. Not a natural holding midfielder but denied preferred advanced role by Palmer.Cole Palmer – 6Looked lively when afforded space in the centre but the Chelsea superstar saw a huge chance saved thanks to Matz Sels double save.Noni Madueke – 8Constant threat down the right side with his goal well deserved. But the winger finds himself guilty of making the wrong choice in the final third.Jadon Sancho – 4Largely absent throughout the match with Aina doing a stellar job in keeping the tricky forward quiet. Lacked killer instinct going forward.Nicolas Jackson – 4Apart from pressing, quiet throughout. Slow to react in the box in a frustrating sign of inconsistency after recent goalscoring form. Spent more time arguing with team-mates at points.SubsJoao Felix (for Fernandez 80 mins) – 6Christopher Nkaunku (for Jackson 80 mins) – 6Mykhailo Mudryk (for Sancho 89 mins) -5Pedro Neto (for Madueke 89 mins) – 6Tosin Adarabioyo (for Colwill 90+3 mins) – 5 More

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      Premier League cult hero on brink of being SACKED with board meeting to decide his fate postponed

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      LIVERPOOL legend Dirk Kuyt is facing the the sack as Beerschot manager ahead of a crucial board meeting.Kuyt, 44, took over the Belgian outfit last year while they were playing in the second division and gained promotion at the first time of asking.Liverpool legend Dirk Kuyt could be sacked as Beerschot managerCredit: RexLiverpool hero Kuyt’s future will be decided in a rescheduled meetingCredit: Getty Images – GettyHowever, the Dutch tactician’s success hasn’t continued in the top flight as he is winless and bottom of the table after losing a staggering eight out of 10 matches.According to AD, a board meeting had been booked at Beerschot for Tuesday to discuss the former midfielder’s future.The same report claims that meeting, though, has been postponed at the request of lawyers.Meanwhile, the club’s majority shareholders, who are from Saudi Arabia, are said to be keen on keeping Kuyt in charge for at least the foreseeable future.Read More on FootballHowever, Beerschot’s recent run of results doesn’t make for pleasant reading.Nevertheless, if the ex-Netherlands international leaves then he could be paid the remainder of his contact, which runs until 2026 after penning fresh terms in the summer.Kuyt hasn’t had it easy in Belgium as he complained on Friday after his side’s 2-2 draw at Westerlo about the lack of a training ground.The Belgian side works out at the Olympic Stadium, which is now set to host more games and training.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat is after the Dutchman deemed the previous training ground unplayable.Kuyt joined Liverpool from Feyenoord in 2006 and went on to amass a total of 71 goals and 41 assists in 285 appearances.‘I’d hate to be Liverpool right now’, say fans after seeing what Bellingham did for Alexander-Arnold on England dutyThe former Den Haag boss won the League Cup and helped the Reds make it to the 2007 Champions League final, which they lost to AC Milan, during his six-year stint at Anfield. More

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      Txiki Begiristain to leave Man City as key Pep Guardiola ally makes decision with manager’s future up in the air

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      MANCHESTER City supremo Txiki Begiristain is leaving the Premier League champions.And the imminent departure of sporting director Begiristain will only increase speculation about the future of boss Pep Guardiola.Txiki Begiristain is set to depart the Etihad next summer after 13 yearsCredit: PAManager Pep Guardiola won’t have Begiristain’s assistance next seasonCredit: RexBegiristain, 60, joined City from Barcelona in 2012 and was instrumental in bringing Guardiola to the Etihad in 2015 to spark the most successful period in the club’s history.He has played a key role in identifying and appointing his replacement, who will start in the role in early 2025.The outgoing sporting director will spend six months helping the new man settle in before ending his association with City.The identity of the Etihad’s new football chief has not been revealed.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut Newcastle flop Hugo Viana, who is currently the director of football at Sporting Lisbon, is believed to be in the frame to take over.The Potuguese, who had an underwhelming four years with the Toon after joining for £8million from Sporting in 2002, had been linked with a job working in Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s backroom team at Manchester United.Begiristain was intending to quit five years ago, but stayed on to be part of the push for City to win their first Champions League – which they finally did when completing the Treble in 2022-23.The news comes shortly after positive noises emerged from City about the possibility of Guardiola extending his current deal beyond the end of this season.Most read in FootballGuadiola’s future is not necessarily tied in with that of Begiristain and the club would be very reluctant to say goodbye to the two most important people in their football operation in quick succession.But the prospect of losing key ally Begiristain, especially after a current season which will be dominated by off-field events, will surely be a factor in Guardiola’s decision.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe pair have known each other for more than 30 years after being team-mates in the Barcelona team that won the club’s first European title in 1992.Begiristain became director of football at the Camp Nou in 2003. Pep Guardiola breaks silence on Phil Foden situation after fans’ conspiracy theory over England star’s absence Under him, Guardiola was given the job of head coach in 2008 and they enjoyed two successful seasons together before Begiristain left in the wake of the departure of president Joan Laporta.Begiristain arrived at City a month after former Barcelona chief executive Ferran Soriano, who has held the same role at the Etihad for 12 years.Their long-term plan to reunite with Guardiola and build a dynasty at the Etihad came to fruition nine years ago.City have won 15 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the crowns of European and world champions with the three men at the helm.But the club has also found itself at the centre of the biggest row in Premier League history.READ MORE SUN STORIESA hearing is underway into allegations that City broke PL rules more than 100 times in relation to sponsorship deals, player and manager contracts and failure to cooperate with the investigation.City deny all the charges. An initial verdict is expected in the spring, but the saga is unlikely to end there and Begiristain will be gone before everything is resolved.Man City vs the Premier League: Q&ABy Martin LiptonBOTH Manchester City and the Premier League were claiming a win after their legal scrap over Associated Party Transactions.SunSport sifts the claims to try to explain the latest issues.What was the case about?City were furious that Prem bosses brought in new tougher regulations – by the smallest possible majority under League rules – in February. They were aimed at blocking clubs bypassing financial controls by earning “unfair” amounts via sponsorship from a company with the same owners, or selling players on the cheap to teams under the same ownership umbrella.Why were City so upset?The Etihad club argued that the rules were illegal and had been deliberately aimed at them by rivals and were both flawed and politically driven. They also branded the “two thirds support” rule that has been part of Prem regulations since its inception as a “tyranny of the majority”This was an Arbitration Tribunal – explain that?Under Prem rules, any club has the right to ask for Arbitration if they are unhappy about the regulations or due process. The three retired judges heard evidence in June and their full ruling was distributed to the 20 Prem clubs on Monday afternoon.And what did they say?Depending on who you listen to, they either totally vindicated one side or the other. The actual answer is that there were “wins” for both City and the Prem. But it’s your choice which ones meant more.OK, what were City’s wins?Maybe the most important one in terms of the repercussions. That both the new rules and the previous version – brought  in after Saudi Arabia’s PIF bought Newcastle in 2021 –  were “unlawful” as they exclude shareholder loans to clubs in any APT calculations.  City also won over their claims that the rulebook prevented them from responding to Prem decisions over whether two proposed deals with Abu Dhabi companies represented “Fair Market Value”, access to the “databank” of comparable deals and the time it took for decisions to be reached.That sounds pretty big. So what about the Prem’s side?The key finding as far as the League is concerned is that the Tribunal backed the concept of APT rules as well as the Fair Market Value tests. Additionally, City’s challenges to the actual decisions on the two proposed deals “failed”. Prem bosses insist the “rulebook has been found to comply with competition and public law standards and is an effective and necessary system”.Is that it, then?Of course not. That shareholder loan issue is a big deal, given that it is believed owners have loaned around £1.5bn at low or preferential rates across the Prem. Those loans will almost certainly have to be calculated at commercial rates now, unless the owners convert them into shares. But the League is convinced the main thrust of the rules remains valid.And what will be the impact on the “115 charges” case?Probably nothing. That is an allegation of breaking the rules, while this matter was City questioning whether one small element of the current rulebook was legitimate. But City are using the same legal team, headed by £10,000 per hour Lord Pannick KC. And the stakes on the bigger case are a great deal higher. More

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      Rio Ferdinand rang Wayne Rooney and asked ‘how are you allowing this?’ about two Man Utd stars’ behaviour

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      RIO FERDINAND once rang up Wayne Rooney to demand answers about the behaviour in the Manchester United dressing room.Ferdinand and Rooney won five Premier League titles together and a Champions League trophy under Sir Alex Ferguson. Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney in 2014Credit: GettyThe England defender left in 2014 but Rooney remained at Old Trafford as captain. Reminiscing on Ferdinand’s podcast, former team-mate Phil Jones said: “Back then, when you look at the dressing room we had…”We had so many incredible, powerful leaders that wouldn’t let anything get in the way of the team’s performance and the team winning.”That winning mentality was so strong and powerful that no one that came in could disrupt that.READ MORE IN football “I think now players maybe don’t have the ability to call people out anymore and the power to tell them, ‘That’s not what we do at this football club… don’t come in here and start acting like that, that doesn’t work here’.”I’m not saying that happens every single day at the club but if we lost a game, we’d have a meeting the next day, not even with the coaches. “The leaders would be saying, ‘this is not good enough’ after one loss.”Ferdinand pointed to a time he furiously phoned Rooney after seeing Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard dancing on social media as the club sat sixth. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe said: “I’ll tell you when it changed, from the outside at least.”I rang Wazza and said, ‘What’s going on here? How are you allowing this?’ And he said, ‘You can’t say nothing man, it’s not the same anymore’.Phil Jones reveals how Sir Alex Ferguson convinced him to sign for Man Utd “He said, ‘It’s not just those two, there would be a big group looking at me like I’m mad if I said anything’.”Lingard and Pogba are both no longer at United. Pogba has had an initial four-year doping ban changed to 18-months, allowing him to continue his football career in March. Meanwhile Lingard – who left United in 2022 – is now playing his football in South Korea with FC Seoul. Jones ended 12 years at Old Trafford in 2023 and announced his retirement a year later – with his eyes now set on coaching. Jesse Lingard and Paul Pogba dancing in the Man Utd dressing roomPhil Jones on Rio Ferdinand’s podcastCredit: @philjones_4 More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe leaves showdown talks over Ten Hag’s future after 8 HOURS without giving update as he uses rear exit

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE gave no update on Erik ten Hag’s future following a meeting with Manchester United bosses in London on Tuesday.The Red Devils’ co-owner held over seven hours of talks with club chiefs in the capital following a dismal start to the season.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has held crunch talks with Manchester United bossesCredit: AlamyHe was seen arriving at the London meeting on TuesdayCredit: X formerly Twitter / @itvnewsBut Ratcliffe gave no update on Erik ten Hag’s futureCredit: X formerly Twitter / @itvnewsTen Hag has overseen Man Utd’s worst ever start to a Premier League seasonCredit: GettyHe was seen arriving for the meeting, while Sir Dave Brailsford and sporting director Dan Ashworth were also spotted heading into the building.Man Utd have their worst ever return from the opening seven Premier League games, picking up just eight points and languishing in 14th place.Without a win in five matches in all competitions, Ten Hag heads into the international break with his future uncertain.However, Ratcliffe offered no insight into the manager’s position after the meeting.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Ineos chief, 71, left the venue via a rear exit.He then whizzed off in a car with blacked out windows, refusing to stop and answer questions.This leaves fans no closer to learning whether Ten Hag will still be in charge come their next game against Brentford at Old Trafford on October 19.If he is dismissed, he is set for a huge pay-off having penned a one-year extension in the summer.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRatcliffe’s right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford, right, was also in attendance at the meetingCredit: X formerly Twitter / @itvnewsSporting director Dan Ashworth was also at the showdown talksCredit: X formerly Twitter / @itvnewsHe will be entitled to a £17.5million pay-off, one of the biggest in Man Utd’s history.Ten Hag’s assistant and club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy is favourite to become the next Man Utd boss on an interim basis.‘I broke his glasses’, says Rooney as Man Utd icon lifts lid on tunnel celebrations after winner minutes after red card Former England boss Gareth Southgate, ex-Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel, former Chelsea head coach Graham Potter, Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna and former Liverpool target Ruben Amorim are among the other contenders.Man Utd considered replacing Ten Hag in the summer after the club finished eighth – their lowest-ever position in Premier League history.But a shock 2-1 FA Cup final win over rivals Manchester City, adding to his 2023 Carabao Cup, temporarily saved Ten Hag from the axe.Club officials held talks with Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Frank over replacing the 54-year-old while he travelled to the FA Cup final.Club chiefs also looked for alternatives during an end-of-season review in the summer, with Tuchel allegedly interviewed.But ultimately, United performed a dramatic U-turn in June as Brailsford flew to Ibiza to hold a four-hour meeting at Ten Hag’s home.READ MORE SUN STORIESNow, though, after a nightmare start to the season, the Dutchman’s time could finally be up.And Tuchel has again been mooted as his replacement as the out of work coach seeks a route back into football.Man Utd player ratings vs Villa: Evans rolls back the years with Garnacho let downMANCHESTER UNITED eased the pressure slightly on boss Erik ten Hag with a hard-grafted stalemate at in-form Aston Villa.United looked much more solid defensively after Ten Hag rung the changes – though the Red Devils still have just eight points from seven Prem games.Here’s how SunSport’s Graeme Bryce rated 14th-placed United rated at Villa Park on Sunday.ANDRE ONANA – 7Guilty of sloppy distribution once or twice but his hands were safe enough and he did well to beat away a piledriver from Youri Tielemans to keep United on level terms.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Managed to contain Jaden Philogene comfortably enough in the first 45 minutes but failed to appear for the second half and was replaced by Victor Lindelof.HARRY MAGUIRE – 6Booked for a high forearm challenge on Ollie Watkins but his afternoon ended at half-time after he appeared to jar his knee defending a corner.JONNY EVANS – 9Handled Ollie Watkins well in the first 45 and showed all his experience to deal with the twin threat of Watkins and Jhon Duran for the final half hour. Rolled back the years with a five-star display to earn his Man of the Match rating.DIOGO DALOT – 7Sat in and rarely got forward but snuffed out the threat of Leon Bailey and was tidy enough. Crucial block to deny Philogene a stoppage time winner.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 7Used all his experience to plug any gaps in United’s carefully constructed midfield. Dealt with the threat from Morgan Rogers well.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Nothing flashy from the England midfielder who had his work cut out preventing Youri Tielemans carrying out his magic.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Fired in a first-half shot which Emi Martinez dealt with comfortably but shot hopelessly wide a couple of times after the break. Sloppy finishing let him down. BRUNO FERNANDES – 8United’s skipper only played after his red card against Spurs was overturned on appeal.Kept his cool here to avoid a third red card in three games – came closest for United with a free kick which crashed off the Villa crossbar.MARCUS RASHFORD – 7Taken off at half-time in Oporto and taken off after 64 minutes to save himself a second yellow card here! Looked United’s likeliest match-winner after forcing an early save from Martinez before bringing the best out in the Argentine World Cup winner with a sizzling effort which the ‘keeper tipped over. Booked for a foul on Cash.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Put himself about and was involved in the clash which led to Ezri Konsa limping off. But lacked service and was replaced by Zirkzee just beyond the hour mark. Below par.SUBSMATTHIJS DE LIGT for Maguire (46 minutes) – 5 – Conceded a few fouls in dangerous areas. Still finding his feet.VICTOR LINDELOF for Mazraoui (46 mins) – 6 – First appearance since March but fitted in well as a stand-in right-back. Booked for a foul on Morgan Rogers.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE for Hojlund (64 mins) – 5 – Miles off the pace, failed to make any impact.ANTONY for Rashford (64 mins) – 6 – Brought out the best in Emi Martinez with a curler which was heading for the top bin until the keeper plucked it out of mid-air.CASEMIRO for Mainoo (85 mins) – 6 – Helped see out the match for United. More

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      Man Utd compared to ‘overcooked scrambled eggs’ in bizarre analogy by celeb chef Ainsley Harriott

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      CELEBRITY chef Ainsley Harriott has bizarrely compared Manchester United to “overcooked scrambled eggs”.The Red Devils are enduring a nightmare start to the season and boss Erik ten Hag is in danger of losing his job.Ainsley Harriott hilariously said Man Utd are like ‘overcooked scrambled eggs’Credit: GettyErik ten Hag is on the brink of losing his jobCredit: GettyHis recipe for success has been slammed by pundits, with his tactics and new signings questioned. United’s recent 0-0 draw with Aston Villa saw them slip to 14th in the table after eight games, which is their worst-ever start.And in a bizarre clip posted by the BBC, legendary chef Harriott was asked what food the Red Devils are like.The Ready Steady Cook presenter hilariously stuck the knife in, saying: “I think it would be overcooked scrambled eggs.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”A bit too heavy, not moving, it needs to be sort of remade.”Arsenal supporter Harriott then burst into laughter.Fans also found it hilarious, with one saying: “Spot on Ainsley.”Another added: “Some comparison that.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA United fan joked: “Get him in we need change.”More reacted: “We have been cooked.”What Ten Hag brings to the table has been discussed in a meeting between club chiefs like Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Joel Glazer in London today.The manager is confident he will not be axed and will take charge of his team against Brentford on October 19 after the international break.How Erik Ten Hag finally got something right at Man Utd but selfish runners may still get him sacked More

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      How Liverpool’s Bellingham transfer plan spectacularly backfired with Alexander-Arnold now on verge of Real Madrid move

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      TWO years ago, Liverpool hatched an elaborate plan to bring Jude Bellingham to Anfield.However, the idea could have spectacularly backfired amid rumours that Trent Alexander-Arnold could join Real Madrid.Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold have struck up a close friendshipCredit: APThe pair are inseparable off the pitchCredit: GettyAnd the tables have now turned, with Jude possibly trying to lure Trent to Real MadridCredit: GettyWhile at Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham had the world’s biggest teams chasing his signature.Liverpool were among them, with the club desperate to overhaul an ageing midfield that featured Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Thiago.The Reds knew they may not be able to match the financial strength and glamour of Real Madrid – but they offered Bellingham the chance to come home to England.They knew they needed to convince the midfielder that the right move was to Merseyside, so the club plotted a sensational plan to get him on side.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReports claim they told Liverpool and England stars Henderson and Alexander-Arnold to go on the charm offensive while they were together on international duty.Wherever Bellingham went, one of the duo seemed to be nearby as they tried to form a bromance.Fans noticed on social media that Trent had become especially close mates with Jude, only fuelling the conspiracy there was perhaps an ulterior motive.Bellingham chose Real Madrid and signed for the European giants for £115million in the summer of 2023 despite Liverpool’s interest.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe then fired Los Blancos to Champions League and La Liga glory last season, scoring 23 goals.And although he chose the Spanish sun over Liverpool, Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold struck up a true friendship.’It’s not fair’ says Jude Bellingham as Real Madrid and England star admits fear for younger brother JobeThe best mates performed a pre-planned celebration after Jude scored at Euro 2024, relating to the game Werewolf they often play.And the pair even holidayed together in the US over the summer.Now, the tables have spectacularly turned with Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract expiring at the end of the season.Real Madrid are keen to bring him to the Bernabeu and are ready to step up their interest as right-back Dani Carvajal has sustained a long-term ACL injury.The club reportedly also have plans to use him in midfield. In a spectacular U-turn, it is now Bellingham in the ear of Trent, trying to get them to team-up in Spain.The Birmingham-born star even made him a giant birthday card and hid inside it during the current England camp. Jude Bellingham surprised Trent Alexander-Arnold with a huge birthday cardCredit: GettyReal Madrid love to use their power as of one of the world’s biggest clubs to strike bargain transfers.They tell the player they want them but can only do a deal for free.Such is Real’s huge status, stars have been known to run their contract down to force a move to them.Look at Kylian Mbappe leaving PSG in the summer as a prime example.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot forgetting Antonio Rudiger ditching Chelsea and David Alaba running down his contract at Bayern Munich.The ploy has saved Real Madrid millions and perhaps “Agent Bellingham” will prove his worth by getting Alexander-Arnold to be the next in a long line of clever free transfers. More

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      Erik ten Hag updates: Man Utd board in crunch talks, Thomas Tuchel ‘lined up as replacement manager’ – latest

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      ERIK TEN HAG’S future as Manchester United manager continues to be in serious doubt despite the Red Devil holding Aston Villa to a draw on Sunday afternoon.United have made a shocking start to the new season, winning just two of their opening seven Premier League games.The Red Devils are also winless in the Europa League after draws with FC Twente and Porto.United’s hierarchy will undergo crunch talks today amid growing uncertainty around Ten Hag’s position at the club.Should the Dutchman lose his job, the likes of Gareth Southgate, Thomas Tuchel, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Graham Potter have been linked with the post.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKeep up to date with the latest from Old Trafford below…Great ScottJust weeks after leaving Man Utd, Scott McTominay is already the talk of Italy.The ex-Utd midfielder has made a superb start to life with Napoli.So much so, he’s even being compared to Diego Maradona in the Italian press.Football agent Christian Bosco has now gone even further with his assessment of the Scotland international.Discussing McTominay, Bosco told Canale 8: “You can be a winner even if you have different DNA. This Napoli is a cynical Napoli.”McTominay will still have to prove himself in Italy, but he is potentially one of the best midfielders in Napoli’s history.”Copy linkCopiedDepay on the move? Ex-United star Memphis Depay is at risk of having his Corinthians contract RIPPED UP just one month after joining the club.The winger joined the Brazilian outfit in September, having left Atletico Madrid in the summer.Depay, 30, signed a two-year contract with Corinthians but could see his time at the club come to an end 23 months early.He could leave the club and become a free agent due to doubts over his salary.This is down to his pay coming from one of Corinthian’s sponsors, a betting company called Esportes da Sorte.It has been reported that the company has been denied a state license, which would make their funding uncertain.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag suffers another blowMan Utd have been hit by injury crises often during Ten Hag’s tenure, and that is no different this season.Harry Maguire is the latest to be struck down and the defender could be out for four weeks.Maguire said: “Frustrated to pick up an injury at the weekend. Will be a few weeks on the sideline for me, but I’ll come back stronger.”Copy linkCopiedSchmeichel weighs in on Ten HagPeter Schmeichel has urged Manchester United to ‘stick with’ under-fire manager Erik ten Hag but insists Thomas Tuchel ‘fits the bill’ as a possible replacement.Schmeichel said on the Seaman Says podcast with Betway: “I like Thomas Tuchel, I really I like him. “Being around the Champions League, talking to him and interviewing him, listening to him talk to his players in the technical area, he just looks like someone who would be a good manager for Manchester United.”I don’t think he got his way at Chelsea and I know for sure he didn’t get his way at Bayern Munich. I just think he’s got such a great aura around him that he fits the bill for United.”But, Erik ten Hag is still the manager and I will support him because I want the club to do well. I don’t want United to be the club that changes the manager all the time.”I hope they stick with Erik because we need consistency now. Let him have a fair go at this.”He’s been hampered by a lot of things over the last two years, now he’s got his own players, let him show us what the plan is and what he can do with the football club. If that doesn’t work then maybe then we talk about a change.”Copy linkCopiedRooney shows Ten Hag supportMan Utd legend has shared his belief in Ten Hag, praising his trophy record.He said of the under fire Red Devils boss: “Well that’s obviously down to the owners of the football club to look at that. I’m sure Erik Ten Hag is a fantastic manager.”He’s won trophies wherever he’s been and won trophies at Manchester United as well. So yes, he’s going through a difficult period and I think he’d probably say that himself.”But you hope he can turn it around because too often managers lose their jobs and then it’s another rebuild with a different manager.”Copy linkCopiedCarragher shares Ten Hag verdictSky Sports pundit believes Ten Hag could be lucky to survive until the next international break next month.He told Sky Sports: “Probably find it tough to come out to the next international break.”Maybe he still is the manager. Listen, if the results turn, of course he will.”But with Man United, it’s not just about results actually. For a long time, it’s actually been about performances. A lot of the time, when they get results, it feels a bit fortunate in some ways.”Copy linkCopiedKeane speaks highly of TuchelRoy Keane has previously described Thomas Tuchel as a ‘top-quality manager’ as Manchester United line up the former Chelsea boss as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag.He said in 2022: “There has obviously been loads of uncertainty over the club the last few months, that has been sorted out now obviously with the new ownership coming in.”I’m pretty sure again he (Tuchel) will be able to bring some players in. He is a top-quality manager, he has dealt with a lot of issues over the last few months.”Ultimately it was a disappointing end to the season for them. But he is a top-quality manager.”Copy linkCopiedOne candidate ruled outFabrizio Romano says Manchester United have no chance of replacing Erik ten Hag with Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi in the middle of the season, as the Italian tactician remains focused on his job in Serie A.He said: “We had reports on Simone Inzaghi but, guys, Inzaghi never had any concrete conversations with Man United, and there is never going to be any chance of Inzaghi leaving Inter during the season to sign for any other club, even for a top club like Manchester United.“Inzagi is not leaving Inter during the season, forget about that.“So all the stories about Inzaghi going to Man United now are completely out of context and completely impossible. Then, in the future, we will see.“But as of today, no contacts for Inzaghi to Man United now and full focus for Inzaghi on Inter.”Copy linkCopiedLatest betting oddsIf Ten Hag is sacked Man Utd have a number of candidates in mind to replace him.Here are the favourites to replace the Dutchman, according to BetMGM.Thomas Tuchel – 2/1Ruud van Nistelrooy – 2/1Gareth Southgate – 3/1Graham Potter – 8/1Michael Carrick – 10/1Kieran McKenna – 11/1Copy linkCopiedMoyes gives Ten Hag backingDavid Moyes has left Manchester United fans baffled after giving his thoughts on Erik ten Hag.That is because Moyes thinks that Ten Hag has been “brilliant” since arriving in Manchester.He told the BBC: “I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”I think he’s shown brilliant resilience in the situation that he’s in and I think he should be credited for how well he’s conducted himself.”As far as I know, I don’t see him ducking any questions or any media interviews that you people [the media] put forward to him.”I think you have to give him great credit for that, but it’s a job that is going to attract immense pressure, with people talking, so I have to say that I think he’s doing a brilliant job.”Copy linkCopiedTen Hag confident he’ll stayErik ten Hag has whisked himself off on holiday believing he will not be axed as Man Utd boss.It’s understood Ten Hag spoke with United’s top brass in the wake of the draw against Aston Villa, and has no fear they will sack him during the international break.He has now taken a holiday with the bulk of United’s players away on international duty.Copy linkCopied’Ten Hag not to blame’Erik ten Hag is not solely to blame for Manchester United’s current crisis – according to their former striker Andy Cole.Cole told Betfred: “Whatever the people in charge decide to do, it will be done with the best interests of the club in mind. “However you look at it, for an individual to win two cup competitions in their first two seasons at Manchester United, that’s not lucky. You can’t be lucky two seasons on the bounce.“The club will do whatever they decide to do, but if you look at the bigger picture, you can’t just blame the manager. The manager picks the players, but the players are the ones that have to go out there and win football matches. That’s the way it is.”Copy linkCopiedDoc to hit Old Trafford?Man Utd have been swamped with offers to make a behind-the-scenes documentary of the club’s planned revival under new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, writes Matt Hughes.SunSport has learned that several production companies have made approaches on behalf of streaming giants Netflix, Amazon and Disney+.United have yet to enter serious negotiations, though, with their priority is improving performances on the pitch following another difficult start to the season.Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle have all made documentaries with Amazon in recent years.Meanwhile, Liverpool are in the process of selling a series on Jurgen Klopp’s final six months at Anfield.Copy linkCopiedTV chef has his sayIcon Ainsley Harriott was asked to compare Man Utd to a food and he came up with: Scrambled eggs.Harriott explained: “I think it would be overcooked scrambled eggs.”A bit too heavy, not moving. It needs to be…remade.”Copy linkCopiedUnited bosses will be “measured”Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford will be measured in their approach to Ten Hag’s future during discussions with Omar Berrada and Dan Ashworth, according to Sky Sports.Co-chairman Joel Glazer, chief operating officer Collette Roche and chief financial officer Roger Bell will also be present at the meeting.Technical director Jason Wilcox will also be there and he could have a big say in what happens to Ten Hag as he works closest with the United boss.The United hierarchy will assess the shortcomings and the reason behind Ten Hag’s failings – whether tactical or psychological.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag situation affecting squadThe scrutiny on Ten Hag is affecting the Man Utd squad, according to defender Jonny Evans.He said: “It does affect the players. It’s on our minds too. I think the more experience I’ve got in my career I’ve made sure I do everything to be ready and give everything I can to the team.“That was the important thing to show the spirit in the team. Everyone competed as much as they could. That’s a pleasing thing to see.”Copy linkCopiedCarragher has “sympathy” for Ten HagSky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has expressed sympathy for Erik ten Hag over the way he was treated in the summer.He said: “I have sympathy for him, I think he’s been left to hang out to dry on the back of what happened over the summer with the ownership speaking to other managers.“I feel for him. No manager or anyone in employment would want his bosses publicly speaking to lots of different people within the game. It’s going to be tough for him to see out the season.”Copy linkCopiedThe cost of firing Ten HagSacking Ten Hag could cost Man Utd more than they paid out to the likes of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.It would have cost the club £10million to get rid of Ten Hag in the summer, but his compensation package would now be worth around £15m after he penned a contract extension.Copy linkCopiedSupercomputer predicts Man Utd to have worst-ever finishManchester United have been tipped for their worst-ever Premier League finish by a supercomputer.The Red Devils have endured their worst start to the season after picking up just eight points from their opening seven games.They have broken the record they set only last year, and are 14th in the table following a 0-0 draw with Aston Villa.Erik ten Hag is under increasing pressure with United appearing to have got even worse after recording their worst-ever Prem finish last season.They finished eighth in the previous campaign with 60 points, yet look unlikely to even manage that this time around.A supercomputer run by Grosvenor Sport predicts United will be even worst this term and will end up ninth on just 55 points, behind the likes of Brentford.They are expected to lose an astonishing 15 games, managing just one win more to leave them a staggering 19 points off the top four.A predicted final goal difference of zero also reveals what a dire season United could be in for.Copy linkCopiedFlying DutchmanERIK TEN HAG has jetted off on holiday — as he is confident Manchester United will not sack him during the international break, writes Martin Blackburn.United are off to their worst start in 35 YEARS under the Dutchman, with just eight points from seven games to leave them 14th in the table.His future is certain to be discussed at the next meeting of United executives — including co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe — in London.But it is understood Ten Hag spoke to Old Trafford’s top brass following Sunday’s goalless draw at Aston Villa and did not get the impression he was facing the chop.Copy linkCopiedICYMI – ‘Tuchel would be perfect’BetMGM ambassador and renowned TV presenter Laura Woods believes Thomas Tuchel is the ideal replacement for Erik ten Hag should Manchester United choose to sack the Dutch coach.Woods said: “I don’t like calling for a manager’s head as we really don’t know what is going on behind the scenes at Old Trafford, but, if they did decide to move on from Ten Hag, then get Thomas Tuchel back in the Premier League!“It’s been too long. I love him as a coach and a character and I think he’d be perfect for Manchester United. “He’s a bit of a maverick and, although his appointment might not last more than a couple of seasons, I bet he’d get them closer to winning something than they currently are.”Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedICYMI – Ruud on ‘standby’Ruud van Nistelrooy is “on standby” to take over from Erik ten Hag as Man Utd caretaker boss, according to reports.The Dutchman, 48, joined Ten Hag’s coaching staff in the summer.According to The Guardian, Ten Hag’s fate will be decided at a routine board meeting in London later today.They add that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox will be present at the crucial meeting.Should they decide to sack Ten Hag, it’s claimed that Van Nistelrooy would be the prime candidate to take over as caretaker.Copy linkCopiedICYMI – United chiefs at OTManchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was spotted heading into Old Trafford with chairman Joel Glazer on Monday amid speculation over the future of manager Erik ten Hag.The Red Devils played out a goalless draw at Aston Villa on Sunday in their final match before a two-week international break – with Ratcliffe and other Man Utd bosses watching on from the stands.He is set for showdown talks with club chiefs, including co-chairman Glazer, in London later today.SunSport understands their trip today is for various meetings, with Glazer attending one with the Fans’ Advisory Board.Copy linkCopiedMore on Mainoo injuryKobbie Mainoo Ezri Konsa and Morgan Gibbs-White have all withdrawn from England’s upcoming Uefa Nations League squad.The Three Lions host Greece at Wembley on Thursday, before heading to Finland on Sunday, in Lee Carsley’s second round of fixtures.The trio drop out after sustaining injuries for their respective clubs over the weekend in what is a triple injury blow for Carsley’s new-look side.Konsa, 26, suffered a hamstring injury and left the pitch just 12 minutes into Villa’s goalless draw with Manchester United.And Gibbs-White, 24, was removed after 76 minutes of Nottingham Forest’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea.But Mainoo played 85 minutes at Old Trafford on Sunday before he was replaced by Casemiro.It comes as a further blow for under-fire boss Erik ten Hag who also lost the services of Harry Maguire, who left Villa Park in a plastic boot.Maguire was dropped from Carsley’s squad after featuring in September and Mainoo has been carrying a knock for some time.Copy linkCopiedNoussair Mazraoui latestAmid the speculation surrounding Erik ten Hag’s future, there has been an update on Noussair Mazraoui’s status.The full-back, 26, was withdrawn at half-time during Man Utd’s 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Sunday.After the game, Ten Hag admitted that’d be been forced to take the Moroccan off, and that there would be a further diagnosis on Monday.Following that diagnosis, Mazraoui has now withdrawn from the Morocco squad.He had been due to join up with his country for matches against the Central African Republic.United will now be sweating on Mazraoui’s fitness for their clash with Brentford after the international break.Copy linkCopied More