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      Cole Palmer humiliates Chelsea team-mates in training ground fitness test despite fears England star could face burnout

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      COLE PALMER is used to mopping the floor with Premier League opponents.And the Chelsea star has been so angry with recent results that he is now taking his own team-mates to the cleaners – by dominating fitness tests at Cobham.Cole Palmer has consistently featured in Chelsea’s starting line-upCredit: RexThere were fears Chelsea star Palmer could be heading towards burnoutCredit: AlamyBut Palmer still aced a fitness test and did much better than Chelsea team-matesCredit: GettyThe Blues welcome struggling Southampton to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday needing to kick-start their Prem campaign back into life with Champions League qualification a priority.That ambition has been hampered by a stinking run of form – collecting NINE points from a possible 30 in the league since December 22 to leave them in seventh.Hope is not lost just yet, especially with fifth potentially earning a Champions League spot this year.Enzo Maresca’s men remain just four points off the top three with third-placed Nottingham Forest, fourth-placed Manchester City and sixth-placed Bournemouth all losing at the weekend.Read More on ChelseaAnd Palmer, 22 – goalless since drawing 2-2 with the Cherries on January 14 – is leading the way in training, to the delight of Maresca ahead of facing the Saints.Asked if Palmer trains harder when things aren’t going well, the Italian coach explained: “Yeah absolutely. I will tell you one detail that is very important.“Every six or seven months we do a physical test. So we did one in pre-season and we did another last week and [Palmer] was the strongest one. The one that won the test.“So that’s sure that he has desire not only on the ball, but he is working hard and he’s doing fantastic. I absolutely love that.Most read in Football“Every game, we expect a goal or assist from him. Because everyone relies on Cole, people see Cole as the solution. But the solution at the end has to be always the team.”Off the back of reaching – and scoring in – the Euros final 2-1 defeat to Spain for England last summer, Palmer has started all 26 of Chelsea’s Prem games this term.Chelsea ratings vs Aston Villa: Jorgensen howler, Rashford super-subWith 2,283 Prem minutes to his name – subbed off just seven times so far – no Blues player has featured more.It is no wonder then that Palmer has suffered a slight dip in form in recent weeks, without a Prem goal in five outings and without a league assist since December 1.With the score at 1-1 away to Aston Villa on Saturday night, Palmer missed a golden opportunity to score his 15th league goal of the season before the hosts grabbed a late winner through Marco Asensio thanks to a Filip Jorgensen goalkeeping howler.It was not the Palmer we are used to watching – one who notched a Chelsea-record 26 goals and 13 assists in the Prem in 2024.Whether he could do with a rest against relegation-bound Southampton, Maresca said: “No. Cole belongs to that kind of players that in some moment they can do something different.“For sure in terms of numbers, goal and assist is a moment where he struggles but at the end he had the chances. He was there, then he missed, OK, but he was there.Southampton game plan“The problem is when you are not there. But it’s not just about Cole. We have had more chances with different players but because it’s Cole, everyone is watching. That is OK.“From now on, we have 12 games to go and no doubt that all of them are a must win for us.“Probably in this moment it’s not enough, we need to find something extra to get results. But for sure we’re going to be there.”Despite letting Asensio’s shot wriggle under his body, Jorgensen is set to start in goal once more ahead of error-strewn Robert Sanchez, with Maresca explaining: “If we need to change players every time they make a mistake, we need to change players game by game, many players. But nothing has changed.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He feels a little bit sad or upset because he recognised that it has been a mistake but he’s ok.”Centre-back Trevoh Chalobah will miss the Southampton game and will be out for another week after being forced off against Villa – another defensive blow with Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana targeting a comeback next month.Chelsea player ratings vs Aston VillaBy Graham HillBLUES keeper Filip Jorgensen’s awful underarm howler saw Aston Villa come from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the Prem.Enzo Fernandez’s rapid opener inside nine minutes came from Pedro Neto’s stunning breeze past Ian Maatsen.But the Blues soon fell apart after Man Utd loanee Marcus Rashford’s blistering introduction at half-time.Rashford provided two assists for fellow January signing Marco Asensio to leave Chelsea in sixth with two Prem wins from nine games in 2025.FILIP JORGENSEN – 4Horrible error for Villa’s late winner as Asensio’s shot squirmed under his body and through his gloves- ironically he had made a crucial save before that.MALO GUSTO – 6 Failed to get a decent touch on Cash’s ball – and that led to Villa’s second half equaliser. Struggled to deal with Rashford’s presence.TREVOH CHALOBAH – 3The defender suffered a huge blow as he had to come off after just six minutes clutching his ribs following a challenge from Asensio.LEVI COLWILL – 6Found himself with a new central defensive partner early in the game and looked uncertain at times.MARC CUCURELLA – 6Defending Chelsea’s left flank was not as troublesome as the right hand side, and the Spaniard looked stylish as Villa applied more pressure.REECE JAMES – 6Stepped in for the injured Noni Madueke and took the captain’s armband, had a good battle with Cash.ENZO FERNANDEZ – 6Right place, right time to open the scoring, a real threat early on, took a booking for the team, lucky to escape a second.MOISES CAICEDO – 7Provided a strong presence in midfield, spotted danger early and halted a number of Villa raids.His second-half ball should have provided Chelsea with their winner.COLE PALMER – 6Largely quiet game but wasted his chance to win the game when he collected a Caicedo through ball – but stumbled – that allowed Konsa to clear the shot PEDRO NETO – 7Great work for the opening goal when he left Maatsen standing before crossing to find Fernandez.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU- 5Hugged the left touchline, should have been involved more, not as much of a threat as Neto, subbed with 14 minutes to go.SUBSTOSIN ADARABIOYO: (for Chalobah, 6mins) – 6Needed some time to fit in at the back after Chalobah’s injury.JADON SANCHO: (for Nkunku, 76mins) – 5Did little to affect the game after coming on for an ineffective Nkunku. 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      How Mo Salah bamboozled Man City with genius ‘back-pedal trick’ as Arne Slot perfectly outwitted Pep Guardiola

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      LIVERPOOL have one hand on the Premier League title after dismantling champions Manchester City on Sunday.The Reds put in a top away performance as they left the Etihad with a 2-0 win.Mo Salah’s magic saw Liverpool cruise to victory over Man CityCredit: PAAnd there was magic all over the pitch from Arne Slot’s men.But how did Mo Salah bamboozle City with a genius back-pedal trick?And which midfielder carried out Liverpool’s team’s instructions perfectly?SunSport’s tactical expert Dean Scoggins reveals all on our brilliant Tactics Exposed show…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMo Salah has enjoyed a stunning season so farONE MAN WENT TO MOMO SALAH is tactically brilliant. The first thing is this back-pedal thing he does. It sounds easy, but it’s the timing of it and when he does it. When Josko Gvardiol, the Man City left-back, pushes up the field, Salah waits for that to happen when he’s in a space close to Nathan Ake, the left centre-back.When he sees the ball go into a certain area, he back-pedals towards the touchline. He takes a few steps back.It means two things. He’s got the space in front to receive the ball to feet, and also Gvardiol is blindsided. He’s behind him and Ake’s stuck.Most read in FootballDoes Ake go all the way out, leaving space for other Liverpool stars to run? Or does he stay where he is and then give Salah that run?Salah’s roasted him on the outside. The other time Ake did the other option and Jones went bombing through the space, he can’t win.For Szoboszlai’s goal, Salah backs into that position and has Gvardiol with his back to him. If you see the number on the back of someone else’s shirt, you’re winning.Salah then runs into that space, then it’s all about timing. Amazing touch from the ball in the air, a little nudge on Gvardiol and then he backs in and plays it into Szboszlai who runs into the box.Salah’s clever positioning meant City struggled to pick him upHe exploited the space around Gvardiol and AkeWith the disallowed goal where Jones scored, Salah’s wide and Ryan Gravenberch plays a difficult pass.Saslah does the exact thing where he back-pedals into space, then as Gravenberch is about to play him the ball, Salah goes, “Not me, I don’t want it. Turn and play it in behind.”The City defence all come one way and it opens up that running channel for Szoboszlai. You can see those two vertical runners from midfield and in attack the two wide men dragging the defence out.You see Salah’s unbelievable tactical brain to see a situation unfold in front of him and his role in it. We’re talking Lionel Messi levels here, and that’s not an exaggeration.BLOCKERS IN THE SLOTTHIS is straight off the training ground for the first goal. Liverpool are going to take a free corner to the front post, and they’ve got a man running off the front to play the ball around the corner.What’s important here is Andy Robertson is a blocker at the front who stops Kevin De Bruyne getting the ball.There’s also three other blockers on the edge, and City are not marking Salah.Liverpool used clever blockers at set-piecesThis freed up space for Salah to make an impactLiverpool identified City sit just outside the six-yard box, so there’s a huge open space to the edge of the penalty area.Blockers stop the City players coming out, the ball is flicked round the corner, Salah is in loads of space.After the goal, it also created indecision from City so the rest of Liverpool’s set-pieces were very dangerous.City fell for it hook, line and sinker. A bit lucky with the deflection, but you earn your luck.SZO-BOSSING ITSZOBOSLAI was the best player on the pitch other than Salah. He’s the player who carries out the manager’s duties for him.The midfielder breaks from a third-man run. The ball gets played back into Salah’s feet.He pops it back to Trent Alexander-Arnold and they know the ball’s going over the top.Szoboszlai runs into that space for the trick. He’s offside and Ake’s left in there. The focus is on Szoboszlai.Szoboszlai tricked City’s defence with his runsThe ace made sure he was not offside, allowing Salah to sneak in behindThis is like a decoy runner in order for Salah to get in, a ghost run.Then the offside player joins in again. He’s in an offside position, but he’s not offside because he’s not touching the ball, he’s not impacting the play.But what he’s doing is impacting a defender’s ability to defend Salah. He goes into that space, Gvardiol turns his back and Ake comes across.They all think it’s offside and slow down, but as the ball’s in the air, Salah then runs.Salah’s onside and takes the ball, Szoboszlai peels off, gets into the space and Salah gives him the ball — goal.It’s a new phase of play, Salah’s not offside, City all drop off. There’s a big space in front and Jones also blocks Khusanov. Just brilliant.IT’S 4-4-2 AGAINOLD school stuff. A big reason Liverpool are top is Arne Slot can adapt his formation to play against whatever he’s facing.This was 4-4-2 out of possession, so no striker. Salah on the right, Diaz on the left.But with no striker they played Jones and Szboszlai as vertical runners, the two up front.Liverpool’s versatility saw them switch to a 4-4-2 shapeThey remained solid despite players changing positionsGravenberch and Mac Allister could then separate with Jones and Szoboszlai coming into the two.And it meant the attacking players then were the wingers. So four defensive players keeping it compact in the middle, with Diaz and Salah the outballs.It was lovely from Slot, Liverpool were so comfy out of possession and were actually more dangerous because they move out of their positions and then go. VAN DIJK STOPS CITY ATTACKYOU could see Van Dijk and Slot communicating early on.They know what they’re doing. There was a message from the bench, and it was as simple as: Virgil, you go.Phil Foden was kept far away from Liverpool’s goal by Virgil van DijkVan Dijk doesn’t normally do that. He marshals that back line and stays in it. But this time he was told to go out and engage Phil Foden.He was told: Don’t be frightened to go out and do it. Konate is going to cover the space for Omar Marmoush to run in behind.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt evolved into Mac Allister dropping into pockets that Foden was picking up, so Van Dijk’s coming one way and Mac Allister’s blocking the space.In the second half they even sacrificed Salah going forward for some defending as well. It was the perfect away performance. More

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      Chelsea star Marc Cucurella reveals he watches same classic film twice every single day

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      MARC CUCURELLA has revealed he watches the same classic film with his family TWICE a day, EVERY day.The Chelsea star, 26, has cemented himself as a key man under Enzo Maresca this season following a £62million move from Brighton in 2022.Marc Cucurella has revealed his favourite filmCredit: ReutersThe ace named a surprise flick that he watches with his young familyCredit: Instagram @cucurella3Cucurella has played 29 times for the Blues since leading Spain to Euros glory last summer.And he is determined to help Chelsea get back on track for a top four finish after a disastrous run of form.Off the pitch, Cucurella is just as committed to the cause, playing the role of doting dad and partner.The ex-Barcelona and Brighton man has been with girlfriend Claudio Rodriguez since 2018.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey met when Cucurella was still at the Nou Camp.And she moved with him to the UK when he joined Brighton in 2021.They share three children together in Mateo, Rio and Claudia.But looking after his young family means Cucurella has been left with a limited options of movies to watch.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd one classic film for kids gets played regularly in his household as a result.Speaking to TNT Sports, Cucurella revealed that his favourite film is none other than Disney epic The Lion King.Rapper Central Cee is lost for words when Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella serenades him The original Lion King came out in 1994, with its remake released in 2019Credit: RexThe original movie was released in 1994, four years before Cucurella was born, and follows lion Simba as he avenges his father’s death at the hands of his uncle Scar.And with his young children loving the movie too, Cucurella admits that The Lion King gets played several times a day in his house.The ace said: “(My favourite film?) The Lion King.“I watch it maybe twice each day, so I want to choose this one.” More

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      Man Utd fans fume ‘this is just embarrassing’ as cost of scrapping free lunches at Old Trafford is revealed

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans lambasted the club chiefs’ decision to scrap free lunches at Old Trafford following a second round of brutal cuts since the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos.Ratcliffe, 72, completed a minority takeover in 2023 and has since gained control over sporting operations at United, which led to some severe downsizing.Manchester United chiefs decided to scrap free lunches at Old TraffordCredit: GettyMan Utd fans were furious with that measure after finding out how much it savesCredit: GettyMan Utd minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s measure only saves £1m per yearCredit: GettyLast summer saw 250 staff made redundant in a heavy first wave to save costs under Sir Jim.But the list of casualties is now set to increase by between 150 and 200 job cuts amid the club’s transformation plan, which includes axing free lunches.SunSport exclusively revealed how lunches for all but the first team had been reduced to soup and sandwiches, and that included coaches and analysts, with a later report from The Guardian revealing the staff canteen was set to close altogether.According to Sky News, ending free lunches for staff is estimated to be saving the club £1million a year.Read More on Man UtdMan Utd fans didn’t take well to the news as that poses as a small fee in the grand scheme of things.The Red Devils faithful stormed social media to lash out against club bosses and that measure.One fan tweeted: “This is just embarrassing.”Another commented: “That’s a month of Mason Mount’s salary!”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third wrote: “This club nah.”This fan joked: “Problem solved then!”Fury as Sir Jim Ratcliffe cuts ties with charity helping Man Utd legendsAnd that one said: “Wohoo now we can sign [Kylian] Mbappe for 3 hours.”United chiefs claim these cuts will help them invest in both the men’s and women’s football team.An official statement read: “Manchester United is to transform its corporate structure as part of a series of additional measures to improve the club’s financial sustainability and enhance operational efficiency.”The transformation plan aims to return the club to profitability after five consecutive years of losses since 2019.”This will create a more solid financial platform from which the club can invest in men’s and women’s football success and improved infrastructure.”As part of these measures, the club anticipates that approximately 150-200 jobs may be made redundant, subject to a consultation process with employees. These would be in addition to the 250 roles removed last year.”READ MORE SUN STORIESClub chiefs aren’t planning on changing their donation of £40,000 per year to the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association.There are, however, talks over reducing funding for the Manchester United Foundation.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe ‘set to CLOSE Old Trafford canteen and replace free lunches with fruit’ in latest brutal Man Utd cuts

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE is set to close the staff canteen at Old Trafford and replace the free lunches with FRUIT, according to reports.The billionaire United shareholder is making controversial cuts to try and reduce the club’s spending.Sir Jim Ratcliffe is making controversial changes at Man UtdCredit: AlamyAnd in Ratcliffe’s latest move, he is poised to shut down United’s Old Trafford staff canteen, according to The Guardian. The canteen regularly opens from 11.30am to 1.30pm and staff are allowed free hot meals, tea and coffee.But instead, fruit will now be on offer for those working at the stadium – while casual matchday employees will continue to receive a packed lunch.SunSport revealed how similar measures have been taken at United’s Carrington training base.READ MORE IN football Lunch options in the Carrington canteen has been reduced to just soup and sandwiches for everybody except first-team players.It comes after over 250 staff members were axed, with many more set to follow in the coming weeks and months.Ratcliffe also cancelled the club’s annual Christmas party, raised ticket prices and cut funding for a charity helping former players.Furthermore, United’s Under-18s were denied the chance to play at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup fifth round.Most read in FootballSir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSUsually, the match would have been staged at the Theatre of Dreams.But instead it was played at the 12,000-capacity Leigh Sports Village, saving the club a total of £8,000.Erik ten Hag gives major update on future and reveals he ‘misses Old Trafford’ after Man Utd sacking United currently sit 15th in the Premier League table, only above West Ham on goal difference.Ruben Amorim recently admitted that he is managing the “worst team in the history of Manchester United.”The Red Devils salvaged a point at Goodison Park at the weekend after going 2-0 down against Everton.Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte struck in the second half to draw United level.After the match, head coach Amorim admitted he does not know how to fix the club’s current crisis.He said: “I don’t know what I need to do to bring more consistency. If I knew, I would change it.”We have to continue to think in the next game, everything we do in the week we have to use it in the game.”If we do that, we are near to winning games like we did in the second half. In this moment we need to focus on day by day. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We need to survive this season, and then to think ahead. We have so many problems.”Then when we go to the game and let the time pass, it’s really hard. I don’t want to just say the negative part, the second half was so much better in the belief. In the end we were near to winning this game.”Ruben Amorim says he has the ‘worst team in the history of Manchester United’Credit: Getty More

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      Supercomputer predicts final Premier League table as European race hots up with top four shock and Man Utd SIXTEENTH

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      A SUPERCOMPUTER has predicted the final Premier League table – and it’s terrible news for Manchester United.The Red Devils dropped points once again at the weekend against Everton.Man Utd have been tipped to finish the season just two places above the relegation zoneCredit: GettyLiverpool are expected to win the Premier League titleCredit: AFPGoals from Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte salvaged a draw for United at Goodison Park following first-half strikes from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure.But they were arguably lucky to avoid a loss after referee Andy Madley denied the Toffees a late penalty.The draw left Ruben Amorim and Co 15th in the Premier League table by the end of the weekend.However, they are now only ahead of West Ham on goal difference.Read More in FootballThe Hammers pulled off a shock victory over Arsenal on Saturday, putting a huge dent in the Gunners’ title hopes.Now, a supercomputer from Slingo has predicted that West Ham will surpass Man Utd before the end of the season.According to the simulation, Graham Potter and Co will finish 15th in the Premier League table, with United one spot lower in 16th.Separating the Red Devils from the relegation zone are Wolves with a total of 35 points.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe final Premier League table, according to a supercomputerBournemouth are predicted to qualify for the Champions LeagueCredit: GettyAnd the teams predicted to go back down to the Championship are Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton.At the other end of the table, Liverpool are expected to be crowned Premier League champions after beating Arsenal by 11 points.Mikel Arteta lays into Arsenal flops after defeat to West Ham derails Premier League title bidManchester City and Bournemouth have been tipped to complete the top four, with Chelsea in fifth.However, due to the success of English clubs in Europe this year, the Blues will also secure a Champions League place should they finish just outside of the top four.Nottingham Forest and Newcastle will just miss out on Champions League football this season, according to the supercomputer.Instead, they will qualify for the Europa League.Meanwhile, Brighton have been tipped to make the Europa Conference League.The supercomputer has also predicted that both Aston Villa and Tottenham will miss out on Europe entirely.Spurs remain in the Europa League currently, while Villa are in the Champions League knockout stages.Tottenham are set to miss out on EuropeCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd coaches ‘losing patience with Rasmus Hojlund’ as horror stats show Wan-Bissaka is better than £72m flop

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      MANCHESTER UNITED coaches are reportedly growing frustrated with £72million flop striker Rasmus Hojlund. The forward – signed from Atalanta in 2023 – has managed just TWO Premier League goals in 21 games this season with zero assists. Man Utd coaches are reportedly growing frustrated with Rasmus HojlundCredit: RexThese are Hojlund’s damning Prem stats this seasonEven Aaron Wan-Bissaka has provided more goalsMeanwhile right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka – who United sold for just £15m to West Ham – has two goals and two assists to his name. Hojlund is without a goal in 16 games and according to the Manchester Evening News, coaches are beginning to show frustration. One in particular was said to be fuming with the Dane’s performance in the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham earlier in February. With United 2-0 down at Everton last weekend – Hojlund was taken off for 17-year-old Chido Obi who made only his second senior appearance.READ MORE IN football There was a loud cheer from the away end when Hojlund was taken with 20 minutes to go. And United scored twice within ten minutes of Hojlund’s substitution to salvage a point at Goodison Park. United manager Ruben Amorim hooked Hojlund after he lost an aerial battle in the 3-1 comeback win against Southampton.But in January, Amorim refused to point the blame on Hojlund, instead suggesting it was a collective problem. Most read in FootballHojlund’s heat map against Everton made for tough viewingHis touch map wasn’t much betterCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “I think it’s a team problem. You can see it. It’s not just from now, it’s from the past. So we have clearly a lack of goals and a lack of threat. “When you threaten the opponents, the opponents maybe don’t press you so high. So everything is connected.Adorable moment Lisandro Martinez’s mum helps Man Utd star with rehab”All the players have moments in this season. I think when we started this journey together, Rasmus was the player that was always scoring.”So he can come back in the next game, we will see.”Hojlund – signed by ex-boss Erik ten Hag – scored 16 goals in his first season at Old Trafford. But he has only seven in all competitions this term – five in the Europa League. Ruben Amorim with HojlundCredit: Getty More

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      ‘It’s a fact’ – Jamie Carragher brutally shut down by Daniel Sturridge live on Sky Sports over controversial AFCON take

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      JAMIE CARRAGHER was shut down by both Daniel Sturridge and Micah Richards after disregarding the Africa Cup of Nations as a major tournament.The trio were covering Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City on Sky Sports when the topic of conversation turned to Mohamed Salah.Daniel Sturridge and Micah Richards were forced to step in after Jamie Carragher appeared to suggest that AFCON was not a major tournamentCredit: Sky SportsCarragher claimed that Salah needs to win a major tournament to be considered the best player in the worldCredit: GettyDebating whether or not he could win any individual awards – such as the Ballon d’Or – and become “the best in the world” this season, Carragher suggested there was one obstacle stopping him.The ex-defender claimed that Salah would have to win a major tournament with Egypt in order to be in the running.He said: “I think the problem (is) the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such, or maybe got a great chance of winning, I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament.”Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League. Read More in Football”Liverpool will be in that conversation, but right now (Real Madrid) are certainly the front runner.”Richards quickly chimed in to say: “Just saying, AFCON is a major tournament. Just so you know.”But Carragher responded: “Egypt aren’t going to win the World Cup, are they?”Richards reiterated his point, but the ex-Liverpool man appeared to disregard it before Sturridge joined in the conversation.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It’s a fact. It’s a fact. If you win the Euros or the Copa America it’s deemed to be big so the AFCON is the same level,” the ex-striker said.Carragher also received some backlash on social media, with one person writing: “The disrespect AFCON gets within pundits and even fans is disgusting. Equivalent of Euro/Copa America and these people are treating it like it’s the Carabao Cup. Nasty work from Jamie Carragher!” ‘Oh, God… did he say that?’ – Pep Guardiola left in disbelief at Jamie Carragher’s ‘not nice and not true’ claimAnother commented: “It’s the scoff, for me, when he is corrected. It’s just awful.”A third said: “I like the way both Daniel Sturridge & Micah Richards correct Carragher here. They don’t hesitate to provide him with the correct information.”SunSport has contacted Sky for comment.Salah scored the opening goal as Liverpool beat Man City 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium.Dominik Szoboszlai netted the second to secure the win and boost the club’s title hopes. More