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      Man Utd stars ‘deliberately avoiding passing to struggling £72m transfer’ amid struggles for form

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      MANCHESTER UNITED players are reportedly avoiding passing to Rasmus Hojlund due to concerns over his form.The £72million striker, 21, has netted 14 goals in his debut season at Old Trafford.Credit: EPABut Hojlund has hit the target just once his last 10 outings.And his dip in form has coincided with a woeful run of results of United.Erik ten Hag’s side now look set to miss out on European football unless they triumph against Man City in the FA Cup final.A lack of firepower has seen them win just two of their last nine games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the Manchester Evening News claims some United players are now actively opting against passing to Hojlund in matches amid fears he will fumble in front of goal.There are no suggestions that the striker’s place is in doubt for Wednesday’s game against Newcastle.But the stats show that some players have indeed been playing less passes to Hojlund in recent games.Opta, via the Mail, revealed Alejandro Garnacho, Scott McTominay and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have all decreased their passes to Hojlund in the Dane’s last eight games compared to his first 20.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Sofyan Amrabat all appear to be actively trying to find Hojlund more than ever.Posting after Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal, Hojlund posted on Instagram: “Tough times at the moment. But we will grow from this.”Watch Antony’s reaction as footage of Man Utd star being moved to left-back vs Arsenal emerges after Liverpool meltdownMeanwhile, former United captain Wayne Rooney claimed some players are not putting in 100 per cent effort on the field.He said: “I think the players have to look at themselves, when you’ve got a manager talking about attitudes and players not being right to play for Manchester United, that’s a massive insult.“If I see my manager saying that, there’s no way I would let that ride and ride until the end of the season.”I think some players are just trying to get to the end of the season, that’s my opinion on it. So I feel for him, but that’s his job to make sure the players are right.”Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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      New pictures of Everton’s stunning £760million stadium emerge – but crisis club have no money to finish it

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      EVERTON are still trying to build their new state-of-the-art stadium despite financial difficulties.Toffees’ fans were treated with new photos of the £760million construction of their Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium which the club hopes will be ready in time for the 2025-26 campaign.Everton are still trying to build their new state-of-the-art stadiumCredit: AFPEverton are hoping to have the stadium ready in time for the 2025-26 campaignCredit: AFPHowever, the Merseysiders have failed to secure the funds for the next phase of the ground’s development.This comes after a run of bad news suggesting MSP Sports Capital may not be taking over and saving the Premier League club from the threat of administration.Everton majority owner Farhad Moshiri is on the verge of having to find another potential purchaser with the plug set to be pulled on his £500m deal with 777 Partners.SunSport understand that MSP do not have the finances in place to cover the £200m debt they would inherit if they took over the club.Read More on FootballAnd it leaves Moshiri’s side stuck in an even worse place as the threat of going into administration and an automatic nine-point deduction becomes increasingly stark.The Toffees’ total current debt is a staggering £583m, with New York-based investment company MSP owed £158m of that.If Everton go into administration then their squad would be decimated.The current value of the club’s players stands at around £350m.The likes of Jarrad Branthwaite, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jordan Pickford would be picked off on the cheap.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd manager Sean Dyche’s future would become uncertain as he has a contract until 2025.SunSport expert Martin Lipton reacts to shock new Premier League financial rulesEverton survived relegation and their turbulent season comes to an end on Sunday when they visit Premier League title-chasing Arsenal.West Ham have worst stadium in Premier LeagueBy Andy Dillon
      All that has been achieved under David Moyes has made West Ham forget that they have by far the worst home ground in the entire Prem.
      A stadium totally unfit for staging regular football matches.
      One that can work on big European nights when the fans have electrified their voices in the nearby Carpenters Arms before kick-off.
      But one which drains your soul during routine home games against the likes of Burnley or Everton.
      A home ground where giant trampolines separate fans from the action.
      With temporary seating and scaffolding trying to bring the players and crowd closer.
      When West Ham are playing badly but winning, issues with the rented stadium are pushed aside.
      If they are playing badly and losing, the whole festering sore surfaces and the frustration will be aimed once more at chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady.
      It wasn’t long ago that fans were invading the pitch, that 8,000 protested against the owners, that Sullivan was hit in the eye by a coin thrown from the crowd. Moyes has been an effective human shield with his consistent, if not entirely pretty, brand of success.
      This is what incoming boss Lopetegui has to contend with.
      Read Andy Dillon’s full column here. More

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      Amazing video shows Ian Wright was ‘ahead of the curve’ with prediction for Mikel Arteta as Arsenal manager

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      ARSENAL legend Ian Wright was praised by fans for his insight after a clip reemerged of him predicting Mikel Arteta’s success at the club.Arsene Wenger rolled credits on his glittering 22-year reign with the Gunners back in 2018 and the club was rigorously searching for the right successor that would carry them for the next years to come.Ian Wright predicted Mikel Arteta’s success at Arsenal six years agoWright was praised by Arsenal fans for his insight on ArtetaCredit: GettyArteta is now leading Arsenal in their bid to win the Premier League for the first time since 2004Credit: GettyThe job went to Unai Emery, but Arteta was already being eyed a year before he replaced his fellow Spaniard who failed to live up to expectations in north London.And Wright was adamant the former Arsenal player, who then worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, had what it took to carry on Wenger’s work at the Emirates.The legendary striker joined Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer on Match of the Day six years ago and insisted Arteta’s knowledge of the club as well as his experience under Guardiola made him the right option.Wright said: “I quite like the feel of Mikel Arteta. You need to take a chance on people, we took a chance on Wenger,Read More on Arsenal”I think he’s somebody who knows the club, he’s been under Pep for a couple of years seeing what he’s been doing.”I think those players need a bit of a kick up the backside and I think he might be the man to do it.”Wright’s analysis reemerged on Twitter and Arsenal fans praised the former England international for hitting the nail right on the head with his prediction.One fan tweeted: “This is the real ahead of the curve.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother commented: “Wrighty knew the move.”A third said: “Wrighty never misses.”Arsenal’s five season-defining momentsThis fan said: “He saw everything before anyone.”And that one stated: “He saw the future and it was bright.”Arteta swiftly changed the culture of the club by offloading heavy contracts of star players that caused tensions and replaced them with young as well as ambitious players who fit with his philosophy.And now the Spanish tactician is leading Arsenal in their bid to win their first Premier League title since the Invincibles’ triumph in 2004.Mikel Arteta’s striker shopping listBy Jordan Davies
      ARSENAL are stepping up plans to sign a world-class striker in the summer after their Champions League heartbreak.
      Mikel Arteta splashed out £204.5m last summer on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.
      But the Spanish manager accepts he needs a proven goalscorer to take the club to the next level.
      And here are the players he is looking at to get the Gunners firing:
      BENJAMIN SESKO (RB Leipzig, value £40m-£45m)
      One for the future at 20 years old. Scored 16 goals for RB Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga last season and the Slovenian has carried on that good form in Germany with Leipzig this campaign.
      VIKTOR GYOKERES (Sporting Lisbon, value £60m-£80m)
      Been scouted several times this season. The Swedish striker, 25, is more of a traditional No 9 so may not suit Arsenal’s demand for flexibility but would bring a physicality that boss Mikel Arteta craves.
      ALEXANDER ISAK (Newcastle, value £75m-£85m)
      Impressed in his first two seasons in English football. The Swede, 24, has the pace and finesse to match his finishing ability, and Eddie Howe’s Toon may need to sell to balance the books this summer.
      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (Bologna, value £45m-£50m)
      Dutch wonder  is attracting the attentions of clubs across Europe. At 6ft 4in the 22-year-old forward would have no trouble adapting to the Premier League and already has an eye for goal.
      XAVI SIMONS (RB Leipzig, value £70m-£80m)
      An incredible talent in the Bukayo Saka mould, currently on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. The future of the Dutch attacker, 20, depends on how much money his parent club want to make from him. More

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      Is Brighton vs Chelsea on TV? Blues continue late push for Europe with a tough Seagulls test – team news

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      CHELSEA make the trip to Brighton with a Europa League spot in their sights – but it won’t be easy.The Blues pulled off a late comeback last weekend against Nottingham Forest to earn all three points at the City Ground.Chelsea left it late to beat Nottingham Forest last weekendCredit: RexAnd as a result, they are now level on points with fifth-placed Newcastle who travel to Manchester United next.However, Mauricio Pochettino’s men will now ironically face a Brighton side who recently held the Blues’ Europa League rivals Newcastle to a 1-1 draw.But Chelsea will expect to get the job done, especially with April’s Premier League Player of the Month Cole Palmer firing them in left right, and centre.When is Brighton vs Chelsea?
      Brighton host Chelsea in a crucial Premier League match on Wednesday, May 15.
      It is scheduled to kick off at 7:45pm BST.
      AMEX Arena is the designated venue for this huge game and it can host approximately 31,876 fans.
      Chelsea came out on top in the reverse fixture despite being down to ten men for the entire second half.
      Read more on ChelseaIs Brighton vs Chelsea on TV and can it be live streamed?
      Brighton vs Chelsea will NOT be broadcast live on TV in the UK.
      This match was not selected for coverage.
      Fans can stream the highlights through the SkySports App or the Sky Sports YouTube channel.
      Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute action of the whole match.
      What is the team news?Roberto De Zerbi is expected to continue without a long list of key names for the Chelsea clash.Joao Pedro (ankle), Jan Paul van Hecke (hamstring), Joel Veltman (knock), Evan Ferguson (ankle), James Milner (thigh), Pervis Estupinan (calf), Jack Hinshelwood (foot), Kaoru Mitoma (back) and Solly March (knee) all look likely to miss the match.However, the Brighton boss would have been delighted to see Tariq Lamptey return from injury against Newcastle.Most read in FootballElsewhere, Chelsea captain Reece James made his return to the pitch after five months last weekend.Reece James returned to the pitch for the first time in five monthsCredit: RexBut, Pochettino will still have to manage without Enzo Fernandez (hernia), Ben Chilwell (knee), Robert Sanchez (muscle), Wesley Fofana (cruciate ligament), Romeo Lavia (thigh) and Carney Chukwuemeka (knee).What are the odds?
      Brighton to win 21/10
      Draw 29/10
      Chelsea 21/20
      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More

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      Man Utd star ‘has told Jason McAteer who will replace Erik ten Hag as manager’ as pundit reveals all on live TV

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      JASON MCATEER believes he knows who the next Manchester United manager will be.The former Liverpool star, 52, appeared on beIN SPORTS as a pundit during the Red Devils’ 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.Jason McAteer appeared on beIN SPORTS for yesterday’s matchCredit: X / @beINSPORTS_ENErik ten Hag has come under huge pressure at Old TraffordCredit: GettyErik ten Hag, 54, is under mounting pressure at Old Trafford.His side sit eighth in the Premier League, and will set their worst ever points tally in the competition if they lose at least one of their remaining matches.Ten Hag has been bullish over the prospects of his new Ineos bosses keeping him in charge, pointing to the number of injuries he has had to contend with.But after chatting with a Man Utd first team star, McAteer is not so sure.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAppearing on TV yesterday, the former Ireland international said of a Red Devils star: “He plays for Man United and I had a conversation with him on Friday, I bumped into him because I live just outside the area.”We got into conversation, great lad, and I asked him (about the) end of the season and what he thought and he gave me no inclination that the manager was there to stay.”In fact we spoke about different names and who we thought will be a good fit and I got no inclination from him.”Quizzed if Thomas Tuchel’s name came up, McAteer added that the player “smiled” – but that “wasn’t the name”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe then said “no” when asked if Jose Mourinho had been brought up.When England boss Gareth Southgate was mentioned, McAteer said: “Yes that was the name.Erik ten Hag in baffling tactical tweak as eight Man Utd stars appear to be asked to stop one Arsenal player, Ten Hag presser, Man Utd v. Arsenal”Footballers have an inclination when the manager’s job is on the line and they obviously know and I just got the feeling that it’s done, it’s done.”Southgate, 53, is under contract with the FA until December.He has been linked with the Man Utd job, but in an interview with ITV News over the weekend sought to distance himself… for now.He said: “I’ve got one thing to focus on.”That’s having as successful a tournament with England as possible. Everything else outside of that is a complete irrelevance to me.”Ten Hag, meanwhile, had it put to him on Friday that his compatriot Louis van Gaal was sacked after winning the FA Cup in 2016.Asked if he fears the same could happen to him, he said: “No, I think they (Ineos) have common sense.”They seen when you have 32 different back lines, when you lose eight centre backs, when we see we don’t have a left full-back, they know that will have a negative impact on results.”But we are still fighting and it’s a huge FA Cup final. We are still there, it can be a highlight of the season but we know why we are under-performing.”The Red Devils return to action on Wednesday night, when they host Newcastle in their final home match of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will then conclude their Premier League campaign with a trip to Brighton on Sunday.Ten Hag’s men will make the trip south to Wembley for the FA Cup final on May 25, when they take on rivals Manchester City in a repeat of last year’s showpiece.Gareth Southgate has been linked with the Man Utd jobCredit: GettyPundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?

      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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      Man Utd vs Newcastle: Red Devils host Toon in crucial Prem clash with both sides chasing Europe – stream, TV, team news

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      MANCHESTER UNITED host Newcastle in a mammoth Premier League battle for a European spot.The Red Devils have had a league campaign to forget – breaking all sorts of unwanted records such as most goals conceded since 1970/71.Manchester United lost to bitter rivals ArsenalCredit: GettyNewcastle have already beaten United twice this seasonCredit: GettyAnd Erik ten Hag’s side hit another bump in the road last Sunday having lost to bitter rivals Arsenal courtesy of a first-half Leandro Trossard strike.However, Newcastle haven’t exactly been firing on all cylinders and their 1-1 draw with Brighton last weekend was another example of this.The Magpies have already beaten United twice this season, including a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture in December.That win followed a 3-0 away triumph at Old Trafford in the Carabao Cup a month earlier.Read more on Man UtdSo with all that being said, it is set up to be an unpredictable match and SunSport can provide fans with all the information around the encounter below.What is their form like?United are winless in three following their loss to Arsenal, with the run also including a 4-0 thrashing by Crystal Palace.The Red Devils have lost just one of their 28 home Premier League meetings with Newcastle, though.They have also suffered just one defeat in their final home league match across the last 16 seasons.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHowever, United have already been beaten nine times at Old Trafford across all competitions this season and have never lost 10 in a single campaign.Newcastle are on a three-match winning run against United as well as losing just one of their last eight matches.Erik ten Hag in baffling tactical tweak as eight Man Utd stars appear to be asked to stop one Arsenal player, Ten Hag presser, Man Utd v. ArsenalOf those fixtures, Eddie Howe’s side have won five times including comfortable victories over Burnley, Tottenham and Sheffield United.What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?Amad Diallo is a doubt after suffering a knock against Arsenal, whilst Mason Mount missed the match through injury.Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes are currently being assessed and could return along with Anthony Martial and Lisandro Martinez.Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain ruled out.Amad Diallo picked up a knock against Arsenal on SundayCredit: AFPNewcastle’s injury concerns have eased in recent months but Howe remains without long-term absentees Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles.He could welcome back Fabian Schar from a thigh injury, though.Callum Wilson also missed the draw with Brighton due to a tight hamstring but could feature at Old Trafford.Who will be the star men?Kobbie Mainoo has been a rare bright spark for United this season after establishing himself in Ten Hag’s starting line-up.The midfielder has scored three goals in 29 appearances since returning from an ankle injury in November.He also made his England debut against Brazil in March before a man of the match display against Belgium.Just two players have scored more than Alexander Isak in the Premier League this season.The Sweden international’s 20 goals in 28 appearances has only been bettered by Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer.Isak is in fine form, with 10 goals in 11 matches since coming back from a groin injury in February.However, the 24-year-old has yet to score in five previous meetings with United for Newcastle and Real Sociedad.What have the managers said?On his defensive injuries, Ten Hag said on Sunday: “We’ve talked all season about this. To have a backline who play together regularly and have routines is obviously better.”You need players who have confidence to play there, we have players playing in positions who are not used to them and then you make mistakes.”At a high level you are punished. Or you have to play players who are not fit. That’s the situation we are in.”Howe praised the Newcastle fans after the clash with Brighton, explaining: “Without a doubt the scene, the environment created by the supporters [has contributed to good home record].”Even when Brighton scored they got right behind the team but we just couldn’t find that winning goal. They have made this place a really difficult place to play. This season the crowd have taken it to another level.”SunSport predictionUnited’s poor season is at risk of getting worse before the campaign ends as Newcastle look to pile on more misery.The Toon Army remain in control of their European destiny and are hopeful of Europa League qualification for next term.SunSport prediction – 1-3When is Man Utd vs Newcastle?
      Manchester United and Newcastle lock horns in a mouthwatering Premier League encounter on Wednesday, May 15.
      It is scheduled to kick off at 8pm BST.
      Old Trafford is the allocated arena for this huge match and it can host approximately 74,000 fans.
      Anthony Gordon’s strike helped the Magpies secure a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture.
      What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
      Manchester United vs Newcastle will be broadcast LIVE on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK.
      Coverage is expected to commence from 7:30pm BST on both channels – 30 mins before kick-off.
      Fans can stream the action on NOW TV through any tablet device or mobile.
      Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute action of the whole match.
      What is the team news?Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag will be hoping several key stars will return who missed out on the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.Mason Mount (muscle), Bruno Fernandes (unknown), Marcus Rashford (muscle), Harry Maguire (muscle), Victor Lindelof (hamstring), Luke Shaw (muscle) Lisandro Martinez (calf), Tyrrell Malacia (knee), Anthony Martial (groin) and Raphael Varane (unknown) were all unavailable.Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount were unavailable for the Arsenal clash despite returning to trainingCredit: GettyWhile Amad Diallo was forced off early with a knee issue.Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has also been struck with a lengthy list of injuries.Callum Wilson (thigh), Fabian Schar (hamstring), Lewis Miley (back), Joe Willock (ankle), Jamaal Lascelles (cruciate ligament), Matt Targett (achilies), Sven Botman (knee) are all likely to miss the trip to Old Trafford.And Sandro Tonali continues to serve his suspension for breaching betting rules.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhat are the odds?
      Man Utd to win 13/10
      Draw 3/1
      Newcastle to win 6/5
      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More

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      Man Utd scrap end of season awards dinner for second time in three years as ‘good but unfair’ decision is made

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have axed their annual awards dinner for the second time in three years.The Red Devils traditionally host an end of season get together at Old Trafford.Marcus Rashford won the Sir Matt Busby Award last yearCredit: GettyBut with manager Erik ten Hag in danger of losing his job and the club on course to end the season in their joint-lowest ever Premier League position of seventh, the celebrations have been cancelled.The dinner is usually attended by the men’s, women’s and academy teams, as well as coaches, sponsors and fans.During the awards, trophies like the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year are handed out to the season’s top performer.The dinner was scheduled for May 20 – just five days before United face Manchester City in the FA Cup final.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAnd to avoid distractions ahead of the huge clash, the awards ceremony has been axed.The decision was made following a meeting between Ten Hag and chiefs.Man Utd made the same move at the end of the 2021-22 season as they suffered a poor end to the campaign under Ralf Rangnick.This year’s winners are still set to receive their accolades.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFans believe the decision to scrap the ceremony is harsh on United’s women’s and youth sides.Their Under-18s won the league and cup double this season and the women’s team lifted the FA Cup yesterday as they beat Tottenham 4-0.Man Utd’s problems laid bare with WATERFALL flooding through Old Trafford’s leaky roof as heavens open vs ArsenalOne supporter said: “Good decision but it’s unfair for the women’s and the U18s who actually picked up silverware and deserve their recognition.”Another added: “Typical, the women have won a trophy for the first time, the academy lads are champions, but the because the men’s seniors have failed they cancel the awards. This club is a disgrace.”A third wrote: “So the men are s**t and everyone gets punished?”Marcus Rashford won the player of the year award last season.David De Gea and Cristiano Ronaldo have both lifted the gong four times. More

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      Paul Merson makes very early Premier League prediction live on TV as he promises to get multiple tattoos

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      PAUL MERSON has made a bold bet while making an early prediction for next season.The 56-year-old former Arsenal attacker was working for Sky Sports to watch the Gunners beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford.Man Utd were beaten at home by Arsenal on Sunday in another dismal displayCredit: GettyPaul Merson made an early prediction for the Red Devils ahead of next termCredit: Sky SportsThe home side have been decimated by injuries this term, with ten players unavailable for their latest defeat.That result left them stuck in eighth place and on course for their worst-ever Premier League finish.United are now at serious risk of missing out on European football altogether having lost 19 games in all-competitions – the most since the 1978/79 season.The defeat by Arsenal was also the club’s ninth at Old Trafford this campaign, the joint-most at home in a single season in their history.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDespite all the changes off the pitch under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and speculation over Ten Hag’s potential departure, Merson is not convinced it will be a quick fix.And he even vowed to get a Manchester United tattoo if they finish above Arsenal next season.“It was shocking,” said Merson to start his rant on Sky Sports.“It’s not good enough. You can’t lose nine games at home – this is Man Utd.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ex-England ace explained that United cannot blame their dire displays on injuries as he highlighted how Luton and Chelsea have had to deal with players sidelined as well this term.He continued: “I don’t care how many of those players get fit next season, there’s no way they are finishing above Arsenal next season. Not a chance.Where the Soccer Saturday stars are now“And I’ll have another tattoo as well. No chance. They are 30 points behind.”That came after Merson had earlier declared that he had zero faith in Tottenham doing Arsenal a favour by beating title rivals Manchester City on Tuesday.The Cityzens went top by thrashing Fulham 4-0 on Saturday, only for the Gunners to overtake them again with their win at Old Trafford.But Arsenal have played a match more, with City’s game in hand coming tomorrow against the Gunners’ neighbours in North London.And Merson made a wild bet live on TV as he insisted that Spurs have no chance of getting a result.He said: “Arsenal are probably going to finish second.READ MORE SUN STORIES“If you’re relying on Tottenham to win or draw a football match… yeah… no.“If they win that, I will have a Tottenham tattoo. I will. I’ll put it where you can’t see it!”Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More