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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe REFUSES to back under-fire Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag and reveals ‘it’s not my decision’ if he’s sacked

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has refused to back Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.Instead, the Red Devils co-owner has revealed “it’s not my decision” if the under-fire boss is sacked.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has revealed ‘it’s not my decision’ if Erik ten Hag is sackedCredit: GettyThe Manchester United manager is under mounting pressure already this seasonCredit: GettyTen Hag is under mounting pressure at Old Trafford following a slow start to the new season.His side are currently 13th in the Premier League after winning just two of their opening six matches.Sunday’s 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham added to his woes United suffered their third league defeat of the campaign.Meanwhile, a stoppage time header from Harry Maguire was needed to rescue a draw against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTen Hag, who had his contract extended in July, could now be the first managerial casualty of the season.However, Ratcliffe has admitted it will not be up to him if the Dutchman stays or goes.Asked if he has faith in Ten Hag, the British billionaire told BBC Sport: “I don’t want to answer that question…”I like Erik. I think he’s a very good coach but at the end of the day it’s not my call, it’s the management team that’s running Manchester United that have to decide how we best run the team in many different respects.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”But that team that’s running Manchester United has only been together since June or July.”They weren’t there in January, February, March or April – [CEO] Omar [Berrada], [sporting director] Dan Ashworth – they only arrived in July.Erik ten Hag bemoans defensive lapses as Man Utd waste flying start in Porto Man Utd ratings vs PortoMAN UTD ended up with a 3-3 draw after throwing away a 2-0 lead away to Porto.Here’s how SunSport’s Dylan Terry rated the Red Devils’ stars performances in PortugalAndre Onana – 6/10Reacted brilliantly the first time he was called into action with a flying save, only for Porto to score the rebound.Porto then scored with their next shot on target too – Omorodion’s header – and Onana could do little about the excellent finish for Porto’s third.Made two great stops to keep Man Utd in the game.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Looked fairly stable in the first 45 minutes but waned as the game went on.All at sea at the start of the second half as Porto cut through the right-hand side of Man Utd’s defence with ease.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Looked imposing in the air as he dealt with Porto’s crosses from both sides, but then failed to get in front of Omorodion for the hosts’ second goal.Like most of the Man Utd side, his performance dropped as the game went on and he was bullied by Porto’s No9.Lisandro Martinez – 4Should have reacted quicker for the first Porto goal as Pepe got ahead of him to nod into an empty net – with Martinez static on the six-yard box.There is clearly not much of a partnership with De Ligt as Porto pulled them apart all evening.Diogo Dalot – 4Porto enjoyed a lot of success down Man Utd’s left-hand side and Dalot looked all at sea on several occasions.Had little help from Martinez but still looked exposed.Casemiro – 3Anonymous yet again in Man Utd’s midfield – the ball just passes him by.Could not even manage one of his customary fouls.Christian Eriksen – 5Looked leggy out of possession but produced an impressive run before laying it off to Hojlund for Man Utd’s second goal.Then failed to make much more of an impact and his delivery from wide areas left a lot to be desired.Bruno Fernandes – 4A damning indictment of Man Utd’s current predicament as Fernandes was shown a red card for a second successive game.Two high boots, two yellow cards, and another early bath for the Portuguese playmaker – who had worked tirelessly prior to his dismissal.Amad Diallo – 5Very quiet aside from one burst through the middle as Rashford received all of the ball over the other side.Replaced by Antony who arguably created even less.Rasmus Hojlund – 7Made his case for starting ahead of Joshua Zirkzee with a goal, firing beyond Costa at the near post.Held it up and then showed his strength and pace to run at Porto before the break – showing little rustiness in his first start of the season.Marcus Rashford – 8Rashford showed his directness for the opening goal, driving at the Porto back line and forcing the error from Costa.A constant threat in the first half as he assisted Hojlund’s strike.But he was then surprisingly hooked at the break, a decision that will need an explanation from Ten Hag.See how the Man Utd subs rated here”They’ve only been there…you can count it in weeks almost – they’ve not been there a long time so they need to take stock and make some sensible decisions.”Our objective is very clear – we want to take Manchester United back to where it should be, and it’s not there yet, obviously – that’s very clear.”Ten Hag has been in charge since replacing interim boss Ralf Rangnick in the summer of 2022.As for Ratcliffe, he purchased a 27.7 per cent stake in the club back in February and has since overhauled the football operations at United.Newly-appointed CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth are now overseeing Ten Hag’s performance.The United boss’ next test comes on Sunday, when his side visit Aston Villa in their final match before the international break.Omar Berradea (centre) and Dan Ashworth (right) will decide the manager’s futureCredit: PATen Hag’s side have already lost three times in the league and are winless in EuropeCredit: Reuters More

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      Mikey Moore, 17, is Spurs’ own Grealish and has been tipped for stardom since age of 8 as coach credits BOXING for rise

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      THERE has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some time – and his full debut against Ferencvaros on Thursday showed why.Having only turned 17 in August, the South Londoner is viewed by many at Tottenham as the most exciting prospect to come through their academy since Harry Kane.There has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some timeCredit: AlamyMoore showed why Spurs fans are so excited in the Europa League win over FerencvarosCredit: GettyMoore played 90 minutes for Spurs in HungaryCredit: GettyWatching him tear around the Groupama Arena – where he played the full 90-plus minutes – backed up the hype.HOW DO THEY PLAY AND WHO DO THEY REMIND YOU OF?Moore can play across the front line from left wing, right wing, No10 and even No9.He started wide right in Budapest and caused the Hungarian side’s left-back all manner of problems with his mazy dribbles – before switching to the left in the second half.He reminds you of Jack Grealish, mainly because of his short-socked look, but also because of his excellent control of the ball when running forward.READ MORE IN footballMoore does not quite have Grealish’s physicality yet but to be fair, for one so young, he still has robustness and power that belies his tender years.As impressed team-mate James Maddison put it on Wednesday: “When he first came up (to the seniors) I had to remind myself how young he actually is.“He was 16 and more of like a man already.“When I watch him play, he’s very powerful, and he’s only going to get stronger as he develops into his body.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe is yet to score his first senior goal for Spurs but when he does, do not be surprised to see him nick Son Heung-min’s ‘taking a photograph’ celebration as that is what he has done at youth level.Spurs captain Son is a huge fan of the whizkid, who he has praised for his inquisitive nature and has tipped to be a “top player”.Transfer fees could be SCRAPPED forever after Lassana Diarra wins landmark court case against FifaThe South Korean icon said last month: “Mikey is coming to me most of the time and asking questions, which is very fun. I enjoy talking to him.“He’s a fantastic boy and I’m definitely sure that he can be a fantastic player. There’s no doubt because he has such amazing quality.”TELL US ABOUT THEIR RISEMoore first joined Tottenham at eight and instantly stood out because of his technical ability, his dribbling and ball-striking skills, his determination and enthusiasm.People at the club quickly took notice of his potential and he was involved in England’s youth set-up from Under-15 level.That physique Maddison referenced may well have been finessed thanks to another sport popular with many footballers such as Wayne Rooney.As Moore’s former youth coach Sam Cox revealed to SunSport: “He did a bit of boxing in his younger ages which probably helped his game.”Moore also impressed with his professional approach to his game from an early age, and has been supported by what Cox refers to as a “fantastic” family of his mum, dad and brothers.Moore came up through Spurs’ academyCredit: GettyHe is the most exciting Spurs graduate since Harry KaneCredit: RexHe helped Spurs to win the Premier League 2 title last season, often linking up with PL2 player of the year Will Lankshear, who also made his bow against Ferencvaros.The pair are close and it speaks to how young they are that they are that they still get changed in the academy section of the training ground as they are viewed as Under-21 players.His maturity when dealing with the few media duties he has had so far has been noted by his coaches.Moore expressed how he felt like he had not achieved anything yet when signing his first professional contract earlier this summer, underlining his level-headed attitude.WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?Cox, a former Tottenham academy product himself, worked in Spurs’ academy for a decade and has seen a lot of talent in that time.He first started working with Moore at Under-11 level, describing the youngster as “standing out from the pack”.Cox, who recently managed non-league Oxford City, believes the same reports that were being written about Moore then would bear a resemblance to the ones now: ie two-footed, being respectful and hungry to succeed.You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.Sam CoxThe 33-year-old added: “I’ve worked with a lot of young players over my years of Spurs and the ten years I was working in the academy and then previous to that my six years playing there, there’s been some super talent that’s come through.“You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.“Marcus Edwards was a phenomenal talent. Back in my day there was a young player called Terry Dixon, who was a phenomenal talent, and then obviously Harry Kane. I would quite confidently say Mikey is in and amongst that company.James Maddison with MooreCredit: Getty“There are probably two moments for me that stand out with Mikey, having worked with him across the age groups up to Under-16s.“One was Under-11s, we were playing a tournament over at Charlton and there was one incident where he dribbled past a couple of players and was near the halfway line and dinked the goalkeeper.“He’s always the youngest of the age group too which is always difficult because players are often physically better.”But Mikey had no fear and that tournament he went past a couple of players and lobbed the goalkeeper from the halfway line, I thought, ‘Wow, he’s a ten-year-old doing this. Unbelievable to have that kind of football IQ’.“The other moment was Under-14s. I used to join in training sometimes in games and in practice and I was marking Mikey. He was 14 and I was about 27.“He got the ball, he dropped the shoulder, jinked, ended up going past me and sticking it in the top bins and I thought, blimey he’s doing this at 14 to me and I’m supposed to be in the peak of my career.”Those little moments make you think this boy has got something.”WHAT DOES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD?Spurs fans were already serenading Moore with chants of “he’s one of our own” – just as they used to with Kane – before he made his full debut.So they were fully aware of his exciting potential.The question then was how quickly would Ange Postecoglou throw him in and the answer, at least in the Europa League, was pretty darn fast.Now the question has become is Moore ready to start a Premier League game at such a tender age.There is a chance it could happen this Sunday at Brighton, given captain Son is “unlikely” to be involved, though it is more probable Timo Werner gets the nod.But a first Prem start does not feel long away and there is an opportunity for him to stake a first-team claim over the next year under Postecoglou, who is unafraid of giving kids a shot.Moore heaped praise on his boss after his full debut in Budapest, commenting: “He is giving me little tips all the time, really.READ MORE SUN STORIES“To be fair him putting me in the team, you get the trust straight away so I am thankful for him starting me and putting his trust in me.”Spurs have done well not to block Moore’s development path and, in a similar manner to how Manchester City handled a young Phil Foden, you could see him slowly but surely becoming a key figure over the coming years.Moore announced himself against FerencvarosCredit: Rex More

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      Roy Keane was about to knock the c**p out of me at Man Utd training… I was only 17, but football gods spared me

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      GIUSEPPE ROSSI almost faced the wrath of Roy Keane during a Manchester United training session – but the football gods spared him. Rossi came up through the United ranks as a teenager before spending three years from 2004-2007 signed to the first team. Giuseppe Rossi came through Man Utd’s academyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdRoy Keane was Rossi’s captain with the Red DevilsCredit: PA:Press AssociationDuring that period, Keane was the Old Trafford captain under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. And Rossi only found out years later that he came within a whisker of getting on the wrong side of the Irish hardman. Rossi said at the launch of Ladbrokes’ ‘Gaffer of all Accas’: “I remember somebody telling me about something he wrote in his book; he talks about this 17-year-old kid who he’s training with one day. “Roy yells at this kid, and this kid turns around and gives him the meanest look ever, as if you say ‘go f*** yourself’. READ MORE IN football”So Roy says in his book that he was about to go and knock the living crap out of this kid, but he calmed himself, and said to himself, ‘Do you know what? I respect this kid.’ “And it turned out to be Giuseppe Rossi; it turned out to be me!”I never knew that I did something like that; looking back now I just feel like, on that day, the soccer Gods spared my life, basically! “I’ve seen Roy a couple of times over the years, and I remember he wanted me at Sunderland when he was their coach – I’ve got great memories of him.” Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRossi made only 14 appearances for United, with four goals before moving on to Villarreal. The striker would have successful stints in Spain and Italy, for the likes of Fiorentina before moving to MLS with Real Salt Lake. Football icons’ strange hobbiesRossi – who was born in New Jersey but raised in Italy – left America for SPAL in Italy before announcing his football retirement in 2023. Keane left United in 2005 after a falling out with manager Fergie – but Rossi has fond memories of his short time under the midfielder. He said: “Roy Keane is a legend. He was our leader. I loved playing with the guy, he was a really cool dude off the field too.Roy yells at this kid, and this kid turns around and gives him the meanest look ever, as if you say ‘go f*** yourself’.Giuseppe Rossi”He was just somebody who always wanted to make sure everything was going in the right direction, and sometimes that would rub off the wrong way. “But I just saw that as somebody who cared a lot, and I’m the same; I’m somebody who cares about their craft, about the character of the team, and making sure that we’re all on the same page and fighting for the same common goal. “That was Roy’s role at Man United, and he did it perfectly, to a tee.”Rossi and Sir Alex Ferguson in 2006Credit: Getty – ContributorRossi announced his football retirement in 2023Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      I’m mum of an Arsenal star – I have a side hustle to help parents of Premier League footballers

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      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY is making his mark after breaking into the Arsenal first team.But while the 18-year-old midfielder is helping Mikel Arteta in his quest for Premier League and Champions League glory, his mum is helping other parents get to grips with their children making it as professional footballers.Myles Lewis-Skelly’s mum has her own podcastCredit: Instagram @myleslewisskellyShe discusses what life is like as the parent of a footballerCredit: Instagram @no1fan.clubMarcia is a qualified Fifa agent after taking the examLewis-Skelly’s mum Marcia – who went viral with her reaction to her son’s European debut – launched her own podcast to give tips, advice and share her experiences of being a football parent. The Behind The Boots pod has also featured Alex Iwobi’s father Chuka and Georgia Stanway’s mother Joanne as guests.Arsenal academy boss and World Cup winner Per Mertesacker has also been on, too. The Gunners rising star told the club website: “My mum does a podcast to help parents in the industry who don’t have as much support from other clubs, just to help them through the journey.READ MORE ON ARSENAL”We’re the players but our parents have a big role to play as well.”They’re ultimately our number one fans so if they get help on their journey then they can support each other as well.”As well as the podcast, Marcia runs the No1 Fan Club.The online platform includes various resources, a community chat network, workshops and even a book club – all tailored towards providing wisdom, education and support for parents.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMarcia’s background is in investment banking where she led a technology training department.However, as her son rose through the ranks at Hale End, the attention of agents led to her wanting to find out more about the world of professional football.Watch Thierry Henry awkwardly admit ‘I saw Bukayo Saka at the Arsenal academy and didn’t think he’d be that good’So much so that she studied a master’s degree in football business and even took Fifa’s football agent exam, now representing her child. Speaking to The Athletic, Marcia said: “Football is a business. And, like any business, you have to understand it to be successful. “If we don’t understand it, we’re going to make the wrong decisions. We are expected to stay in our lane and let everyone else manage the limited flow of information for us.”At various points, I felt unprepared to make decisions that could impact Myles’ future.”There was no trusted advice, no network to consult, and no family connections in the football industry.“I wanted to understand the landscape of football.“There are plenty of great agents, but his dad and I needed more time to build those relationships — and to properly understand what agents do. It’s such a big decision that we wanted that extra time.“I took my exam, not really as a driver to represent Myles, but to gain that knowledge for us.”On the No1 Fan Club, she added: “There are over 3.5million kids playing organised football every week, and many of them want to be professional footballers.”We can give those parents and guardians a glimpse of the academy journey if they take it, and provide them with a range of insights from experts in areas such as getting scouted, nutrition, growth injuries, sleep, the impact of digital devices on performance, the overall wellbeing of our children — and ourselves! It’s a holistic approach.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAs for Lewis-Skelly, he made his first-team debut away at Manchester City last month – a year on from signing his first professional contract at the Emirates. Incredibly, though, the teenager was booked BEFORE taking to the field for Arsenal for the first time. Lewis-Skelly came on against Manchester City for his Arsenal debutCredit: GettyThe youngster came through the Gunners academyCredit: AlamyMarcia was at the Emirates when her son played in the Champions League for the first timeCredit: X/ footballontnt More

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      ‘It’s our home’ – Newcastle boss Eddie Howe opens up on stadium plans and admits moving would be ‘a betrayal’

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      EDDIE HOWE admits it would “feel a bit of betrayal” to leave St. James’ Park but says a decision on Newcastle’s new stadium must not be driven by romance.Plans have already been drawn up for a £1bn-plus rebuild of their current ground as well as for a new stadium in a location away from the city centre.Newcastle are exploring options to redevelop or leave St. James’ ParkCredit: GettyToon boss Eddie Howe has had his say on what he would like to happenCredit: PAChiefs and architects are still investigating which option would be best long-term and supporters will have to wait until next year to find out the decision.The stadium topic has left the Toon Army torn – but staying at their current “unique” home is the head coach’s preference if he’s thinking with his heart alone.Ahead of the trip to Everton, which Howe confirmed Alexander Isak (broken toe) will miss but goalie Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier will be fit for, he said: “I think my natural instinct was always to stay at St. James’ Park. It’s an incredible place to play football.“It’s our home, so to think about moving somewhere else feels a little bit of a betrayal to somewhere that has served us so well.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“But we are well aware that as a football club we need to increase our revenue so people with more brain cells will make the decision for the benefit of the long term future of the football club and that’s always the most important thing so I could be swayed but just my natural instinct is to want to stay.“It’s a massive decision because it will affect the next how many years of the football club.“It’s a decision where you won’t be able to please everybody. There will be different opinions.“It’s truly only the people assessing the pros and cons that can really make the decision.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne possible option for the club could be to build on Leazes Park, which is next to St. James’, meaning that the special location Howe loves would remain.He continued: “The positioning where it is in the city is totally unique.Kieran Trippier goes viral during Newcastle’s clash at Bournemouth after painful moment is caught on Sky Sports cameras“I’d hate to see the stadium move from its current position because it dominates the eyeline of the whole city and you can see it from miles around. That’s really inspiring.“Wherever you are in Newcastle, you get a glimpse and, personally, I always think to the next game where we are going to be there.“It’s not necessarily the biggest, there’s just something about the look of the stadium and the feel of it. When you’re there it’s just a great place to play football.“When you’re in it, I don’t know how it creates it, but the atmosphere, the look of the stadium, is a beautiful thing. I love being there, I love experiencing games there and I love winning there. That’s the best bit.”However, with PSR rules stunting their progress under the club’s Saudi owners, Howe knows a potential new super stadium could help them reach the summit in the long term.He added: “I think you have to also look at what you could gain, you can’t just look at what you’re going to lose.READ MORE SUN STORIES“What you could gain could be equally as special and the club has to move forward. It can’t be stuck in the past or be romantic to a degree.“There’s finances to think of and that will affect the long-term success of the club so that is why it’s not a clearcut decision.” More

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      Man Utd ‘only do stupid things & kill stars, someone should be arrested’, rants journalist amid McTominay’s red-hot form

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been slammed in response to Scott McTominay’s brilliant Napoli form.The midfielder was allowed to join the Serie A leaders for just £25million in the summer and he has hit the ground running.Scott McTominay has hit the ground running at NapoliCredit: AlamyHe has scored once in the cup and is unbeaten in his four appearances for his new club.McTominay, 27, has impressed the Italian press and one reporter blasted United in response to his performances, claiming they “kill” players.Reporter Riccardo Trevisani told Cronache di Spogliatoio: “McTominay scored goals, he carried the cross, he had determination and yet they kicked him out! “Nothing works at Manchester United, a club that only does stupid things, you can’t guess anything.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“They killed every player, Højlund, De Ligt, Antony, Rashford, now Zirkzee, even Casemiro, it’s a joke, there is no comparable team, they should be arrested. PSG are scientists in comparison! “They have thrown away managers, coaches and players in recent years. They have no idea what they are doing.”United’s summer signings have failed to hit the ground running, with new striker Joshua Zirkzee netting just once in nine games.While Manuel Ugarte was criticised after his full debut against Tottenham last weekend.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMany fans pointed out the shortcomings of Erik ten Hag’s signings following that defeat, while the likes of Dean Henderson and Jadon Sancho have done well since leaving Old Trafford.McTominay praised the tactical level players need to know in Serie A and hinted that could be a reason behind his upturn in form.Scott McTominay settles in with new team Napoli He said: “In Serie A I would say there is much more tactics that you need to know, your role within the team and with your teammates.”Physically you make your presence felt, the Premier League is very different but also Serie A.”The tactical work is more intense in Italy. I was very impressed by the level of the Italian championship, from England I wasn’t always able to realise how I can do it now.”I was impressed by the technical level of the teams but also of the players, starting with my teammates.” More

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      Real Madrid ‘open transfer talks with Trent Alexander-Arnold’ with Liverpool star’s contract expiring in the summer

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      REAL MADRID have made contact with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s representatives over a blockbuster free transfer, according to reports.Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract is set to expire at the end of the season.Trent Alexander-Arnold has been linked with Real MadridCredit: RexThe England full-back, 25, has not ruled out penning a new deal to extend his stay at Anfield.But Real Madrid chiefs are eager to lure him to Spain.According to Spanish outlet Relevo, the LaLiga giants have contacted Alexander-Arnold’s representatives on several occasions.Their report adds that Real bosses feel that Alexander-Arnold’s friendship with Jude Bellingham could work to their advantage.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe duo have developed a close bond while playing for England together.Alexander-Arnold has played 318 times for boyhood club Liverpool since debuting in 2016.Prior to this season, he had experienced his entire club career under Jurgen Klopp.He has started every Premier League and Champions League game so far under Klopp’s successor Arne Slot.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut in five of the eight contests, he has been substituted.Last month, Alexander-Arnold was quizzed regarding his future.Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Bold £84m Bid for NantesHe said: “Look, I have been at the club 20 years now.”I have signed four or five contract extensions and none of those have been played out in public – and this one won’t be either.”I have always said I want to captain the club – that is an aim and a goal of mine, whether that happens is out of my hands. I want to be a Liverpool player this season is what I will say.”The most important thing is always trophies if I am honest. This season we are looking really good.”Alexander-Arnold has so far won a Premier League title, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup and Club World Cup with the Reds.While he has also earned 31 England caps.The right-back isn’t the only Liverpool key man set to be out of contract next summer.Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah’s deals are also set to expire in June 2025.Slot, 46, was this morning asked about the contract statuses of his three key men.He said: “Contracts? I was hoping you didn’t use that word.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s the same boring answer as always and I could really understand if you ask me this every two weeks but every other day.”People think I am boring with the same answer. Try asking after the international break.”Arne Slot was tight-lipped when asked about Alexander-Arnold’s contract situationCredit: Reuters More

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      Retired Premier League cult hero, 37, slams £42.7m Man Utd star and says he’s better despite being ’20kg overweight’

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      FORMER Premier League star David Wheater last night claimed that he’s better than Matthijs de Ligt, despite being “20kg overweight”.De Ligt, 25, signed for Manchester United in a £60million summer double-deal alongside former Bayern Munich team-mate Noussair Mazraoui.Matthijs de Ligt endured a difficult night in PortugalCredit: RexDavid Wheater played more than 100 times in the Premier LeagueCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe Dutchman was in action last night as the Red Devils drew 3-3 with Porto in the Europa League.Erik ten Hag’s side surrendered a 2-0 lead to trail 3-2, with De Ligt particularly culpable for two of the three goals.The former Juventus and Bayern ace was replaced alongside defensive partner Lisandro Martinez in the 79th minute, with Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire coming on.It was the latter who salvaged a point for United with a late header, after Bruno Fernandes had been sent off for the second time in a week.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWatching on at home, Wheater was unimpressed with De Ligt’s display.The former Middlesbrough and Bolton man, 37, wrote on X: “I’m better than de ligt at this very moment and Im 20kg overweight and a dodgy ankle.”One fan brutally responded: “I watched you play at Hyde United 2 years ago mate you was horrific then so can’t imagine how bad you are now.”But Wheater hit back, with a smiling emoji: “That’s a lie, I was quality till I pulled my quad.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWheater, now 37, dropped down the leagues towards the end of his careerCredit: AlamyAnother of his followers joked: “You were 20kg overweight in your prime, Wheats.”To which Wheater replied: “Didn’t have to move cos I was always in the right position.”Erik ten Hag bemoans defensive lapses as Man Utd waste flying start in Porto Another United fan joked: “Give you £150k a week if you fancy signing pal.”And a Trotters fan chimed in: “Bolton legend.”Having come through Boro’s academy, Wheater went on to make 105 Premier League appearances in his career.He also earned 11 England Under-21 caps, and played more than 200 times in the Championship.Wheater most recently played for Darlington during the 2022-23 season, a club he had spent time with on loan in 2007.Following an injury-plagued spell, he announced his retirement in September last year.Man Utd ratings vs PortoMAN UTD ended up with a 3-3 draw after throwing away a 2-0 lead away to Porto.Here’s how SunSport’s Dylan Terry rated the Red Devils’ stars performances in PortugalAndre Onana – 6/10Reacted brilliantly the first time he was called into action with a flying save, only for Porto to score the rebound.Porto then scored with their next shot on target too – Omorodion’s header – and Onana could do little about the excellent finish for Porto’s third.Made two great stops to keep Man Utd in the game.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Looked fairly stable in the first 45 minutes but waned as the game went on.All at sea at the start of the second half as Porto cut through the right-hand side of Man Utd’s defence with ease.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Looked imposing in the air as he dealt with Porto’s crosses from both sides, but then failed to get in front of Omorodion for the hosts’ second goal.Like most of the Man Utd side, his performance dropped as the game went on and he was bullied by Porto’s No9.Lisandro Martinez – 4Should have reacted quicker for the first Porto goal as Pepe got ahead of him to nod into an empty net – with Martinez static on the six-yard box.There is clearly not much of a partnership with De Ligt as Porto pulled them apart all evening.Diogo Dalot – 4Porto enjoyed a lot of success down Man Utd’s left-hand side and Dalot looked all at sea on several occasions.Had little help from Martinez but still looked exposed.Casemiro – 3Anonymous yet again in Man Utd’s midfield – the ball just passes him by.Could not even manage one of his customary fouls.Christian Eriksen – 5Looked leggy out of possession but produced an impressive run before laying it off to Hojlund for Man Utd’s second goal.Then failed to make much more of an impact and his delivery from wide areas left a lot to be desired.Bruno Fernandes – 4A damning indictment of Man Utd’s current predicament as Fernandes was shown a red card for a second successive game.Two high boots, two yellow cards, and another early bath for the Portuguese playmaker – who had worked tirelessly prior to his dismissal.Amad Diallo – 5Very quiet aside from one burst through the middle as Rashford received all of the ball over the other side.Replaced by Antony who arguably created even less.Rasmus Hojlund – 7Made his case for starting ahead of Joshua Zirkzee with a goal, firing beyond Costa at the near post.Held it up and then showed his strength and pace to run at Porto before the break – showing little rustiness in his first start of the season.Marcus Rashford – 8Rashford showed his directness for the opening goal, driving at the Porto back line and forcing the error from Costa.A constant threat in the first half as he assisted Hojlund’s strike.But he was then surprisingly hooked at the break, a decision that will need an explanation from Ten Hag.See how the Man Utd subs rated hereMan Utd, meanwhile, will return to action this Sunday with a tricky trip to Aston Villa.Following last night’s chaotic draw, under-fire Ten Hag told TNT Sports: “We started the game very good, dominated. We scored two goals but then lost control.“The start was good, the middle part was not good, and then the end was very good.”We come back after 3-2. The team is willing, strong character. The middle part was not good.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We need to be better on the ball and keep switching. In the half-spaces we had players, so use them.”We had three clean sheets not long ago so we can defend very good but we have to go back to those habits. Only then can you win games.”Erik ten Hag assessed his side’s performanceCredit: Rex More