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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Moment Nottingham Forest fans ‘try to bribe Anthony Taylor’ during VAR check as hilarious footage goes viral

    THIS it the hilarious moment Nottingham Forest fans jokingly tried to bribe ref Anthony Taylor during their win over Southampton.Forest moved level on points with second-place Arsenal thanks to a 3-2 victory at the City Ground on Sunday.Nottingham Forest fans jokingly attempted to bribe Anthony Taylor’s VAR decisionThe check ruled out Nikola Milenkovic’s goal in the 3-2 win over SouthamptonCredit: PAFirst-half goals from Elliot Anderson, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Chris Wood set Nuno Espirito Santo’s men on their way.And Forest showed their defensive grit as Southampton threatened a late comeback through strikes from Jan Bednarek and Paul Onuachu.However, at one stage the hosts looked to have been completely clear as they took a 4-1 lead through Nikola Milenkovic’s powerful header.Ref Taylor had originally let the goal stand before VAR intervened and advised a check at the pitch-side monitor.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut as the official went to watch the footage, Forest fans behind the screen hilariously waved credit cards and wallets at him in a jokey attempt to bribe and sway his decision.The clip of the moment quickly went viral, with one saying: “This is really funny.”Another declared: “He’s asking it to swipe.”One noted: “This country and banter.”Most read in FootballAnother added: “Insane.”Unfortunately for Forest fans, watching the VAR footage instead prompted Taylor to rule out Milenkovic’s goal.Fans hail ‘pure class’ Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis for what he did after Forest keep dream title hopes aliveThe decision was made due to teammate Wood interfering in play from an offside position.A statement from the Premier League Match Centre read: “The referee’s call of goal was checked by VAR, who deemed that Wood interfered with play after coming from an offside position.“After an on-field review, the referee overturned the original decision and the goal was disallowed.”Forest boss Santo also had his say on the strike being ruled out, adding: “I saw the image, VAR judge it, the law is clear.“If a player is offside, has contact and interferes, the goal should be disallowed. Nothing to say about that.” More

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    Seven reasons for Man Utd to be POSITIVE after Ruben Amorim blasts flops as ‘worst team in history’

    RUBEN AMORIM reckons this could be the worst team in Manchester United’s history.The Portuguese, 39, pulled no punches after the Red Devils’ 3-1 home defeat to Brighton.Ruben Amorim has failed to reserve Man Utd’s awful formCredit: GettyThe Red Devils have fallen to 13th in the Prem tableCredit: ReutersFollowing the loss, United’s sixth in 12 Prem home games this season, Amorim said: “We are being the worst team maybe in the history of Manchester United.“I know you want headlines but I am saying that because we have to acknowledge that and change that. So there you go, your headline.”These comments come barely two weeks after Amorim admitted that relegation this season is a “possibility”.So yes, things look pretty bleak for United fans – but fear not! Here are seven reasons to remain positive, as cobbled together by SunSport.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAMAD DIALLOThe Ivorian winger has unquestionably been United’s brightest spark this season.His performances since Amorim’s arrival have made it seem frankly laughable that he wasn’t a nailed-on starter under Erik ten Hag.Goals against Manchester City and Liverpool, as well as Thursday night’s hat-trick vs Southampton, act as clear evidence that the 22-year-old could become a special, special player for United.Amad Diallo has been a shining light for United this seasonCredit: RexOLD TRAFFORD’S NEW FUTUREOkay, so Old Trafford has clearly seen better days. It’s dated, it’s rusting, it has plumbing problems and fans keep spotting mice and rats hanging about.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYOld Trafford embarrassingly became home to one of England’s highest waterfalls when the roof leaked last seasonCredit: RexBut worry not, changes are around the corner! A Task Force set up by Sir Jim Ratcliffe has “completed its initial feasibility work into options for a new or redeveloped stadium” – brill!A decision on whether to give Old Trafford a significant face lift, or to build a new £2bn 100,000-seater stadium, is expected to be reached by the summer.Manchester United squad transfer verdict: stay or go? articleCHAMPIONS LEAGUE HOPES (YES, REALLY)Man Utd are 13th in the Prem table – 12th points behind rivals City in fourth.But the bookies reckon they have a great chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.That’s because incredibly, the Red Devils are joint-favourites to win the Europa League… alongside Tottenham, who are even lower in the Premier League at 15th.Man Utd are joint-favourites to win the Europa LeagueCredit: GettyBIG TIME CHARLIESMan Utd have failed to beat Ipswich, Wolves, West Ham, Crystal Palace and the aforementioned Spurs this season.But they have performed better against some of the bigger teams, which may bode well for big Europa League tests to come.The Red Devils recently dumped Arsenal out of the FA Cup at the Emirates, grabbed a very useful point against Liverpool at Anfield and beat Manchester City with two last gasp strikes at the Etihad.Man Utd celebrate winning at the Etihad last monthCredit: AFPRIGHTING WRONGSThe Red Devils have forked out astonishing sums of money in recent years; from handing Marcus Rashford a £325,000-a-week contract, to inexplicably spending £85.5million on Antony.Under their new Ineos overlords, however, the one accusation you can’t level at United is that they haven’t tried to tighten their purse-strings, often to the ire of their fans.With Antony reportedly nearing a loan exit, and Rashford potentially on his way, however, similar mistakes may be eradicated in future.Antony could be set to leave Old Trafford on loanCredit: RexSTICKING TO THE PLAN”Nobody panics if things are going according to plan, even if the plan is horrifying,” said The Joker in one of the most memorable Batman quotes.And Man Utd fans who panicked under the previous regime may be encouraged to hear the clarity with which Ruben Amorim said his team will stick to his style of play no matter how much the players “suffer”.That’s a stark contrast to Erik ten Hag, who didn’t take long to admit that the Red Devils flops could never play the style which earned him a glowing reputation at Ajax.Ruben Amorim believes he has a clear plan to rejuvenate Man UtdCredit: PAAGENT RUUDLast… and let’s face it, probably least, is the job that club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy is doing at Leicester, since being appointed there following his stint as Man Utd caretaker.READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorim admitted that relegation is a “possibility” for his side earlier this month.But with Leicester having lost seven games in a row under Van Nistelrooy, United being dragged into a dogfight looks unlikely!Ruud van Nistelrooy is having a nightmarish stint in charge of LeicesterCredit: PA More

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    I was Premier League club’s record scorer, then I went into local Government and formed a turf company

    JOHN RICHARDS has been front page news in Wolverhampton again this week after being awarded the freedom of the city.The former striker was rewarded for his outstanding contributions to Wolves, supporting ex-players and his charity work.    Wolves legend John Richards was awarded the freedom of the cityCredit: GettyRichards spent 14 years at Wolves and became their record scorer with 194 goalsCredit: Getty – ContributorWhen it comes to club legends, there are few greater than the man fans call ‘King John’ at Molineux.Richards spent 14 years at Wolves between 1969 and 1983 and became their record goalscorer with 194 until fellow forward Steve Bull passed his mark in 1992.He was the club’s leading scorer in eight out of nine seasons between 1972 and 1981, helped them to two League Cup wins — even scoring the Wembley winner in the 1974 final against Manchester City.After packing away his boots and going into local government in 1985, he returned to the club in 1995 during the Jack Hayward era, first as a non-executive director and then as the club’s managing director.Read More on FootballLast year he was named Wolves’ third vice-president alongside Bull and Robert Plant following the death of Ron Flowers.In his pomp, Richards was a match for any striker in English football.He was a ‘fox in the box’ with speed and pace but with an intelligence and sharp instinct of always being in the right place at the right time.Now 74, Richards takes a deep breath and says: “It’s 56 years ago when I first joined Wolves. Man was just walking on the moon in 1969 when I signed a contract here. There’s been a few steps taken since then!Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives“I am honoured to be back at the club as vice-president. It means the world to me.”Richards is also chairman of the Wolves Former Players Association, another role he talks about with great passion.Wolves boss Vitor Pereira reveals his difficulties with Mario Lemina He added: “It gives me the opportunity to be part of a group of players from different eras, who have become lifelong friends and, beyond that, an extended family for me.”For one of the most gifted scorers of his generation, it is baffling that Richards only ever played at Wembley twice in his 16-year career and won just one England cap.He said: “For me, playing at Wembley meant everything. In my era, so few games were played at the national stadium. There were a lot of wonderful players of my generation who never played there.“I consider myself very lucky that my two games at Wembley were both finals and we won them both.“Last year we had a reunion to mark the 50th anniversary of that 1974 League Cup victory against Manchester City, winning 2-1. I was grateful to score the winning goal with five minutes remaining.“It was a joy to share it with so many supporters, who wanted to tell me their stories of celebrating after the game and not getting back home until the Monday!How it started“In the end I was more absorbed by their anecdotes than what we did on the pitch.“Against Nottingham Forest six years later, we always found them tough to beat but to win it I still get goosebumps  reliving that day.“As for England, I played a few times at different levels but only had one senior cap. I never quite took the opportunity.”As a teenager, Richards was spotted playing for Lancashire Grammar School against a team who had a Wolves scout among their staff.He said: “He asked me if I was assigned to any club and offered me a trial. I went along and from there I was offered a one-year contract, moving up from the third team and then reserves before the first team in just over a year.”Richards made his debut for the black and gold at West Brom in February  1970.Successful debutHe recalled: “Derek Dougan was injured but I didn’t know until the Friday that I would be playing. I was so wet behind the ears I didn’t even know where West Bromwich was, let alone the rivalry between the  sides.“I soon found out as it was quite hostile. I thought I played okay, it was a 3-3 draw and I thought we were unlucky not to win.“I scored my opening first-team goal a year later against  Huddersfield. It wasn’t the best shot  but it went in and is one of those unforgettable moments.“That Wolves side in the early to mid seventies was exceptional and I was lucky to play with so many  talented players.”After 14 years he moved on loan to Derby in 1982 and then joined Portugal’s Maritimo for two seasons.He said: “I moved because at that time I wasn’t getting any minutes. Derby were struggling when I joined but I’m pleased to say they stayed up.“Playing abroad in Portugal was another great opportunity.”Despite scoring 23 league goals in 44 games for Maritimo, Richards and his family headed back to England in 1985, with his eldest daughter due to move into secondary school.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe became Wolves’ managing director in 1997, then from 2001  formed Pitchcare — a sports turf service provider — with Wolves groundsman Dave Saltman.They sold the business to Agro-vista UK in 2020 and Richards added: “It had been a richly rewarding 18 years. I think Dave felt it was the right time to step down and I felt exactly the same.” More

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    I called Sir Alex Ferguson for advice when we won promotion to the Premier League… I’ll never forget what he said

    MANCHESTER UNITED legend Sir Alex Ferguson issued some life-altering advice to former Premier League manager Tony Pulis after he led Stoke to promotion.Pulis, 67, took the Potters to the top flight in 2008 and called his Man Utd counterpart Ferguson, 83, to have a conversation that changed the Prem for the following five years.Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson shared life-altering advice for Tony PulisCredit: GettyPulis had a chat with Ferguson after leading Stoke to Premier League promotionCredit: GettyPulis turned Stoke into a mainstay in the Prem thanks to Ferguson’s adviceCredit: GettyThe Welshman sought Fergie’s advice and the legendary Scot simply told him to turn the bet365 Stadium – then Britannia Stadium – into a fortress for Stoke and a nightmare for the opposition.Pulis did just that as he added some muscle within his squad and set up the pitch in a way that would make even the biggest Premier League clubs fret a cold rainy night in Stoke.That saw the Potters turning into a mainstay in the Prem with the ex-Crystal Palace boss building a reputation as a manager who never gets relegated until his departure in 2013.Pulis said back in March: “When we got promoted at Stoke, I called Sir Alex Ferguson up. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He told me: ‘Your best chance is making the Britannia a place no one wants to go.”‘If any of the top teams go there and praise you, you’re not doing it right.”‘The bottom line is football is about winning and if you don’t win football matches you aren’t going to be in the job very long’.“I never forgot what he said, and as a result we narrowed the pitch in, grew the grass and brought Rory Delap into play. Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives”We found a way to win and it worked.”I don’t think I’ve ever been at a football stadium where the crowd and team were so together.”We used to play the top teams and the place used to light up.” More