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      Former Man Utd star who replaced Cristiano Ronaldo on debut and regretted walking out on Sir Alex Ferguson retires at 37

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      FORMER Manchester United star Zoran Tosic has retired from football at the age of 37.The Serbian hangs up his boots after a spell at Greek side Lamia ended in the summer.Zoran Tosic played five times for Man UtdCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe joined in 2009 alongside Adem Ljajic who saw his transfer collapse over a work permitCredit: Getty – ContributorTosic became a CSKA Moscow iconCredit: @tosiczoran7Tosic announced his retirement on social media, saying in an emotional statement: “Unfortunately, everything good comes to an end.”I was hoping this moment would never come, but now I’m sure it’s time for me to end my football playing career.”As a child I dreamt of playing for Partizan, Serbia and Manchester United, and I was lucky enough to make my dreams come true at 21.”Many trophies, wins, ups and downs but the love was always there. Thanks to my family who made this trip possible. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Thank you to the coaches, my team-mates, and everyone who has been with me for the whole 20 years. I am especially proud of ten years of playing for my country Serbia.”Lastly, a big thank you to the fans of the clubs where I performed, I always felt genuine support.”Football still remains my greatest love and passion. See you in some other role.”Tosic caught the eye of United scouts while playing for homeland club Partizan Belgrade.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe moved to Old Trafford in January 2009 and made his debut soon after, replacing Cristiano Ronaldo as a substitute in a fourth round FA Cup win over Tottenham. The winger then made his Premier League debut a few days later, coming on for Dimitar Berbatov in a victory against West Brom.What happened to these five forgotten Manchester United wonderkidsOverall, he made just five appearances for Man Utd before moving on loan to German club Cologne.On his return, Tosic hoped to force his way into Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, but the legendary boss told him to be patient.He quit the Red Devils for CSKA Moscow in 2010 for more game time, in a transfer he now regrets.Tosic previously said: “I had grown up a United fan so to be working for the man who had brought so much success to the club was just unbelievable. “However, there is a big difference between the Serbian and English league and when I arrived in Manchester I discovered I was not yet ready for that level.“I spoke with Sir Alex many times and he kept telling me I had quality and just had to keep working hard.“But I wanted to play more games so went to Cologne in Germany on loan and had a great six months there.“When I came back to Manchester I was expecting to play more games for United but it didn’t happen.“In the end I wasn’t sure I was going to get the chance I felt I deserved so decided to change club.”Even now I am always thinking about that moment. Maybe I should not have been so quick and should have worked longer to show Sir Alex.“Maybe I should have stayed and fought for my place. This was Man United after all.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTosic went on to become a club legend at the CSKA Moscow, staying for seven years and winning three league titles.In recent years, the 76-timed capped Serbian international returned to Partizan and had spells in China, Kazakhstan and Greece. More

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      How Erik ten Hag finally got something right at Man Utd but selfish runners may still get under-fire boss sacked

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      MANCHESTER UNITED played out a cagey goalless draw with Aston Villa – but Erik Ten Hag’s set up was miles ahead from the Spurs hammering.But avoiding defeat to Bayern conquerors Villa has not necessarily saved Ten Hag’s job with United’s forward play still dire.Erik ten Hag is still in danger of losing his jobCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford was among the forward players who failed to penetrate VillaCredit: GettySunSport’s Dean Scoggins breaks down where it improved for UnitedIn a way, Ten Hag deserves his short holiday over the international break after avoiding the Unai Emery-inspired pasting that many thought was coming his way.But Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Joel Glazer are still set for showdown talks with club chiefs over Ten Hag’s future in London on Tuesday.The Dutchman’s set-up may have left United’s top brass and pundits applauding the defensive improvement, but the Red Devils still lacked a cutting edge going forward.Hojlund solves pressing issueMan Utd have somehow, for now, worked out their pressing conundrum – but Rasmus Hojlund must play.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHojlund’s first Prem start this term saw the striker lead a one man press – and he has a better understanding of when to chase than Joshua Zirkzee.The Red Devils were slaughtered for their poor 2 v 2 pressing up top against Spurs, where Rodrigo Bentancur had a field day.But this time Bruno Fernandes dropped back into his normal No10 role, having previously been asked to press alongside the striker.After playing a flat 4-4-2 press this season, Ten Hag switched things up with a 4-4-1-1 and it worked well as Fernandes was more disciplined.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKobbie Mainoo and surprise choice Christian Eriksen had a strong positional sense, and a tireless Alejandro Garnacho was more aware of his defensive role.The new pressing set-up did well to shut down the Villa midfield and was unrecognisable from the system that allowed Spurs the freedom of Old Trafford the week before.Rasmus Hojlund made a huge difference to United’s pressThe one-man press allowed Bruno Fernandes to drop into midfield with more disciplineMore worries for Erik ten Hag as Harry Maguire leaves Villa Park limping after Aston Villa vs Man Utd clash Selfish runners in attackWhile there were defensive improvements, Man Utd’s forward stars continued to perform as individuals against Villa.Hojlund, Fernandes, Garnacho and Marcus Rashford charged forward selfishly and failed to make runs that created space for their team-mates.Despite working hard, Garnacho’s efforts to get forward were often misguided runs at the penalty spot, which narrowed the space at the front post.The Argentine must make more back post runs, to force the opposing full-back to track him and get drawn away from the goal, thus opening space in the box for other players to attack.On one occasion, Rashford had the ball down the left wing, with five Villa defenders in front of him because his team-mates made selfish runs into a narrow space in the box.United need more sacrificial off-the-ball movement. It seems maybe they just don’t trust each other and would prefer to try to get on the end of every chance themselves.Selfish runs by United’s forward players hindered their attackBoth United wingers regularly made narrow runsOnana steps upAdopting more of a Pep Guardiola approach to playing out from the back, Andre Onana often stepped up into the back four.When the ball was on the left hand side, Diogo Dalot moved into midfield, a centre-half pulled wide and Onana went in as an extra centre-back.It gave United an extra man higher up the pitch in an almost 11 vs 10 scenario, with Emiliano Martinez stuck between the Villa sticks.This allowed United to play with more structure and confidence from the back, with Evans – who defended stoutly throughout – going on to win man of the match.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut fans need to see this on a more regular basis.Brighton have managed to adopt two distinct styles under two new managers since Ten Hag’s 2022 appointment – while the Dutchman’s identity is preferred way of playing is still impossible to fathom.Andre Onana was told to step up into the back lineOnana’s footwork was one of the main reasons he was brought to Old TraffordCredit: GettyRasmus Hojlund’s return marks positive news for Ten Hag More

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      Under-fire Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag believes he’s SAFE from sack and jets off on holiday amid Ratcliffe’s crunch talks

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      ERIK TEN HAG has jetted off on holiday — as he is confident Manchester United will not sack him during the international break.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. Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has gone on holiday despite coming under fireCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe and the rest of Man Utd’s executives are about to decide the manager’s fateCredit: PAHis 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.Sources stress the upcoming meeting is a regular monthly get-together and has not been arranged because of their recent poor form.Ratcliffe and Joel Glazer were both at the Theatre of Dreams and Carrington for meetings, along with club legend Gary Neville and also Sir Alex Ferguson.Read More on Man UtdFormer Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel — who was approached by United in the summer — is still available.And Ten Hag’s new sidekick Ruud van Nistelrooy is a hero to fans and could be asked to hold the fort if United do decide to make a change.The 54-year-old tactician is due back from his jollies at the weekend and the Red Devils do not have a game until they host Brentford a week on Saturday.United’s 250-goal record scorer Wayne Rooney wants the club to stick with Ten Hag for the Bees’ visit — and beyond.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPlymouth boss Rooney told talkSPORT: “I hope he’ll stay in charge. It’s been frustrating to see them 14th — that’s not where they want to be.”Ten Hag has defended his record by pointing to United lifting the Carabao Cup and FA Cup under him.Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy caught in heated conversation during Man Utd’s draw at Villa But Roo, 38, added: “Your season is the Prem, there’s no better feeling than winning it.“They have gone quite a few years without challenging. It’s important you don’t let that slide.” More

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      Arsenal and Chelsea to be dragged into Man City vs Premier League legal battle as landmark case leads to bitter war

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      MANCHESTER CITY’S legal brawl with the Prem is set to drag rivals, including Arsenal and Chelsea, into the fight.In what was hailed a landmark ruling, the Prem champs claimed victory as an element of the rules on commercial deals involving companies linked to clubs’ owners was judged “unlawful”.Manchester City claimed victory in a dispute with the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyMan City’s legal battle with the Prem is set to drag Arsenal and Chelsea inCredit: GettyArsenal and Chelsea are believed to have ploughed hundreds of millions into the club in loansCredit: AlamyIt related to shareholder loans not being included in the “Associated Party Transaction” calculation.Arsenal owners the Kroenkes are believed to have ploughed nearly £260million into the club in loans. Chelsea received £146m in the first year of their new ownership model.Brighton’s Tony Bloom has put £373m into the Seagulls, while Everton, who are subject to a takeover from The Friedkin Group, have the highest shareholder loans at £451m.That has been loaned at low or even zero interest and will almost certainly now need recalculating.Read More on FootballFormer Master of the Rolls — the country’s second most senior lawyer — Lord Dyson and two fellow judges agreed the rule preventing City from responding to the Prem over “Fair Market Value” of two proposed deals was “procedurally unfair”.But a number of City’s other claims against Prem rules “failed”, including that the League wrongly applied its regulations.Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Brentford, West Ham, Fulham, Wolves and Bournemouth gave evidence on behalf of the Prem.It has all left battle lines drawn even deeper — with the case into City’s alleged 115 financial breaches still being heard.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCity launched the case after tighter rules were voted in by Prem clubs at a meeting in February.The club said yesterday: “The Tribunal found both the original APT rules and the current (amended) APT Rules violate UK competition law and procedural fairness . . . ”Man City vs Fulham: Player Ratings Breakdown“The Premier League was specifically unfair in how it applied those rules to the Club in practice.“They deliberately excluded shareholder loans while the Premier League reached decisions in a procedurally unfair manner.”City’s case centred on two sponsorship proposals, with First Abu Dhabi Bank and Etihad Aviation Group.But while the Arbitration Tribunal — which heard evidence in June — did side with City on some matters, League bosses claimed THEY had won.A Prem spokesman said: “Manchester City brought a wholesale challenge to the APT Rules.“The club was unsuccessful in the majority of its challenge.“Significantly, the Tribunal determined the APT Rules are necessary.“It rejected Manchester City’s argument that APT Rules were to discriminate against clubs with ownership from the ‘Gulf region’.“Except in two respects, it found that Manchester City’s arguments were unfounded.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBut League chiefs believe they need only make minor changes — and new rules will be tabled for club chiefs to vote on as soon as next week.The spokesman added: “In the meantime, the Premier League will operate the existing APT system, taking into account the findings made by the Tribunal.”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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      ‘I’d hate to be Liverpool right now’, say fans after seeing what Bellingham did for Alexander-Arnold on England duty

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      ENGLAND superstar Jude Bellingham organised a surprise birthday present for team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold.And Liverpool fans are worried Bellingham, 21, is trying to lure Alexander-Arnold – now 26 – to join him at Real.England superstar Jude Bellingham got a special gift for Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: X @EnglandLiverpool fans worry this is Bellingham’s attempt to get Alexander-Arnold to join him at Real MadridCredit: X @EnglandTAA has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu the last few months, with his Anfield contract running out in June.The two stars – who are close pals and holidayed together in the summer – are now on international duty with England ahead of the Nations League clashes with Greece and Finland and reunited at St George’s Park.And Bellingham decided to commemorate Alexander-Arnold’s 26th birthday with a giant card that showed his team-mate with a caption that simply read: “Happy birthday, Trent.”But there was a catch as the star midfielder hid behind the present and waited for the full-back to finish with media duties.Read More on FootballAfter about 20 minutes of the ex-Borussia Dortmund star standing behind the board, Alexander-Anrold finally showed up.The versatile midfielder went to have a look and that was when Bellingham emerged from his hiding spot to scare the Liverpool star.The two team-mates went on to high-five each other, but many believe there is more than meets the eye.One fan tweeted: “I’d hate to be Liverpool right now.”Most read in FootballAnother commented: “It’s so over for Liverpool.”A third wrote: “Real Madrid connection.”‘It’s not fair’ says Jude Bellingham as Real Madrid and England star admits fear for younger brother JobeAnd a fourth stated: “Agent Jude.”Liverpool fans even went as far as to order Bellingham to “stay away” from Alexander-Arnold for the rest of the international break.One tweeted: “Separate these two immediately, none of that luring to Madrid act.”Another wrote: “STAY AWAY!”A third commented: “Cute idea.. but don’t you dare Jude.”Transfer rumours suggest Real see Alexander-Arnold as a replacement for Dani Carvajal at right-back.However, Los Blancos just extended Carvajal’s deal until 2026 despite him suffering a devastating injury last week that will sideline him for the rest of the season.Bellingham shared pictures of his US trip with TrentCredit: instagram More

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      Wayne Rooney poses with glam wife Coleen & Man Utd star son Kai, 14, as he wins award at ‘best night of social calendar’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Wayne Rooney has added yet another award to his illustrious legacy.Wayne, 38, is United’s all-time record goalscorer and also held the same status for England when he broke Sir Bobby Charlton’s record in 2015 before Harry Kane overtook him last year.Wayne Rooney attended an awards ceremony with his wife Coleen and son KaiCredit: GettyManchester United legend Rooney joins fellow winner Fara WilliamsCredit: GettyKai poses with his dad after he collected the prizeColeen looked like she was having a great night with her hubbyAnd now the legendary striker has been honoured by Legends of Football, an annual awards ceremony in conjunction with the Nordoff and Robbins music therapy charity that sees the worlds of football and music come together to honour the greatest names in the game.The event has been described as the “best night in the football social calendar” by Sir Alex Ferguson and this year’s ceremony honours the ex-Everton star and England’s most capped women’s player Fara Williams.The Plymouth manager attended the gala at Grosvenor House in London alongside his wife Coleen and their son Kai, who is following in his dad’s footsteps at United’s academy.Wayne said before he was presented with the gong: “I am delighted to receive the 2024 Legends of Football award.Read More on Man Utd”The award has been previously awarded to some of the biggest names in the game, to be recognised alongside all of them including some of my team-mates, opponents and footballing icons means a lot.”Throughout my life and career, music has always been a massive influence and inspiration for me, and to see how Nordoff and Robbins use music to help people connect and communicate is truly special.”I’m really looking forward to celebrating with Fara for a great night of football, music and fundraising.”Other stars at the event, whch was hosted by Kelly Cates and Geoff Shreeves, included former England boss Roy Hodgson, Everton manager Sean Dyche and Lionesses star turned I’m A Celeb winner Jill Scott.Most read in FootballRooney amassed a total of 253 goals and 139 assists in 559 appearances during his 13-year stint at United before his departure in 2017.Kelly Cates and Geoff Shreeves are joined by Williams and RooneyCredit: GettyEverton legend Rooney is joined by current boss Sean DycheCredit: GettyRoy Hodgson and wife Sheila were among the guestsCredit: GettyEngland icon Jill Scott glammed it up on the red carpetCredit: GettyBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe legendary forward also registered 53 goals in 120 England caps.And now Kai, 14, is winning over his dad’s fans after a series of impressive performances with the Red Devils’ youth sides.Watch Wayne Rooney’s son Kai score wondergoal as he nets eight in six games to win cup for Man Utd youth teamThe young forward is the eldest of Wayne’s four sons, with Klay, Kit and Cass his younger brothers. More

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      Chelsea legend Claude Makelele breaks silence on why he walked out of management job after just THREE games in charge

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      CHELSEA legend Claude Makelele walked out as manager of Greek outfit Asteras Tripolis after just three games in charge.Makelele, 51, claims his decision came after initial promises were not upheld and club chiefs began to interfere in team selection.Claude Makelele resigned as Asteras Tripolis manager after just three games in chargeCredit: AFPMakelele claims promises weren’t kept and Asteras club chiefs interfered in team selectionCredit: GettyThe French tactician crossed over to management after ending his 20-year career in 2011 and worked as a coach at the Blues, Swansea and Paris Saint-Germain as well as manager at Bastia and Eupen.The legendary midfielder had been a free agent since September 2023 when he left the West Londoners’ coaching staff but returned to the dugout for Asteras in the Greek Superleague.However, the Real Madrid great’s stint in Greece lasted barely two weeks and he left after just three games, in which he was undefeated.The former France international claimed club chiefs didn’t keep their word.Read More on FootballMakele told London World: “They promised me full control of the team. “It was my decision who played or didn’t play. Transfers were not my responsibility.”If you want to sack me because the results are not good, that’s fine. This is football. But I don’t want people telling me who should or shouldn’t play.”The final straw took place on Sunday when Asteras visited Kallithea at Leoforos.Most read in FootballMakelele picked up his first victory in charge of the Greek minnows, winning 3-1 thanks to a man-of-the-match performance by Darnell Bile, who registered two assists.The Chelsea icon claims club chiefs ordered him to bench a “key player” before the match because of his contract situation, but he disobeyed.Chelsea’s player ratings against GentMakelele added: “In the last game [at Kallithea], they insisted a key player should be benched. The player has a small amateur salary, but he’s the best player in the team. “I brought him on for just 20 minutes – he got two assists, and we won the game. But they didn’t want him [to play]. “They thought they could control whether he plays because he hadn’t signed a [new] contract [with the club]. I used him because of his quality.”Makelele has left Asteras undefeated having won one and drawing his other two games in charge.However, the ex-Premier League star insists the conditions didn’t allow him to focus on his duties.Makelele added: “They were used to long balls, second balls, but I made them understand that whether you win, lose, or draw, you need to learn to play football.”I’m a manager who looks forward. When I take responsibility for the players, I know what I can and cannot do. “I love the job, but I can’t accept when people interfere and tell me what I can or cannot do.READ MORE SUN STORIES”They know the name, but they don’t know the human being. You cannot lie with your principles. I built my career on honesty with players and the club. Always honest.“Football is about human beings, about connection, understanding movement, tactical awareness, technical skill – individually and collectively. We use data, sure, but football is more than that.” More

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      Next Man Utd manager: Southgate and Potter would be WORSE than Ten Hag as clear top candidate once eyed by rival emerges

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      THE best candidate for the Manchester United manager’s job has been identified.But top options Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter would both be WORSE than current boss Erik ten Hag.Erik ten Hag is only the seventh-best fit to be Manchester United managerCredit: ReutersHe pips Gareth Southgate on the list but both are well off the leaderCredit: GettyDutchman Ten Hag is clinging on to his position as Old Trafford chief after going five matches without a win.And now data gurus Carteret Analytics have crunched the numbers and worked out who would be the ideal fit to take the reins at United.And it is Ruben Amorim who comes out at the top of the pile.Ironically, the Sporting Lisbon boss was a target for arch rivals Liverpool when they replaced Jurgen Klopp before settling on Arne Slot.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut now, if United’s chiefs look at the numbers, he could be approached for the potential vacancy at Old Trafford.Amorim was handed a top score when the numbers were crunched.The data analysts show Amorim scoring extremely highly for ‘Strategic Intelligence’, a measure that looks at a manager’s ability to set their team up for victory. He also scored incredibly high for his ability to transform matches during games.Those attributes put him clear of Zinedine Zidane in second with the ex-Real Madrid boss pipping Simone Inzaghi on the podium.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThomas Tuchel has already been linked with replacing Ten Hag and the German comes up as the fourth best candidate for Manchester United in the data.Kieran McKenna – the Ipswich boss who was previously a coach at United – is fifth, just narrowly edging out Ten Hag’s current No2 Ruud van Nistelrooy.Erik ten Hag really did not help himself with what he said after Man Utd’s draw with Aston Villa, slams BBC pundit Interestingly, Ten Hag is said to be the seventh-best fit for the Red Devils.That places him directly above free agent Southgate, who is admired by the Ineos bosses and is available after quitting from his role as England gaffer following the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.Southgate scored particularly poorly in the ‘Tactical Command’ measure. This looks at a manager’s ability to transform a match during the game – something many England fans who felt he was too often tactically outwitted will concur with.Former Brighton and Chelsea boss Potter, still out of work and now starting life as a pundit, is next in ninth.Middlesbrough’s Michael Carrick, Roberto De Zerbi of Marseille and finally Brentford boss Thomas Frank complete the list of the 12 managers who were looked at.Carteret Analytics, quantitative analysis experts who have built a series of algorithms that utilise a huge amount of raw data, looked at a number of areas.Objective achievement, strategic intelligence, tactical command, attacking coefficient, shot creation and conversion, possession and formations over the past six seasons were all taken into consideration.When Ten Hag was first employed by Manchester United, their analysis correctly warned fans of the Red Devils not to expect all out attacking play, and that rather than have a specific style, he adapted his tactics match-by-match.Their latest number crunching now indicates where Manchester United should turn next.Amorim came out strongly across the board, particularly in strategic intelligence, tactical command, attacking coefficient and shot conversion. That relates to his ability to set up his teams to win matches and make transformations within games to impact results. His high attacking coefficient would tap into the United “attack, attack, attack” mantra.Incredibly, Ten Hag does not outperform Amorim in any one of the metrics that were analysed.Zidane presents the best option of the gaffers currently without a job while McKenna and Van Nistelrooy both have Old Trafford connections. And although Inzaghi is third on the list and largely beats Ten Hag in most areas, he does play a far more defensive style of football that may not be popular with the United hierarchy and fans. READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorin’s preferred 3-4-3 formation would be a shake-up from the 4-2-3-1 under Ten Hag.With the Manchester United hierarchy meeting this week to discuss their options, the data suggests they could improve on Ten Hag, but they must be careful because things could get even worse.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.Emery may well deliver the coup de grace to Ten Hag on Sunday — especially with Bruno Fernandes suspended and Kobbie Mainoo an injury doubt.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 be a popular and gettable option but, despite being a fine coach and a very engaging man, he is considered something of a loose cannon.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.Ruben Amorim is the top pick according to the statsCredit: ReutersZinedine Zidane could also be well suited to the Old Trafford jobCredit: ReutersGraham Potter was way down on the listCredit: Getty More