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    Leicester 1 Aston Villa 2: Traore scores stunning late winner to plunge ten-man Foxes deeper into relegation battle

    BERTRAND TRAORE’S last-gasp stunner means Adam Sadler’s Leicester City could be Going Overboard.Saturday’s defeat at Crystal Palace saw the Foxes slip into the bottom three, cost Brendan Rodgers his job and left the club desperate for a glimmer of hope tonight.
    Bertrand Traore curled in brilliantly to grab the winner for Aston VillaCredit: Getty
    The forward curled in beautifully to sink the FoxesCredit: Rex
    But that was smashed to smithereens after an almighty cock-up by Wilfred Ndidi gifted Traore the winner on 87 minutes.
    The sucker punch came after Harvey Barnes had looked like Leicester’s hero once again with a stunning 36th-minute equaliser to cancel out Ollie Watkins’ 24th-minute opener.
    There was chaos in the dying seconds when referee Graham Scott pointed to the spot for what looked like a penalty to Leicester after a tussle between Watkins on Patskon Daka.
    But a VAR check showed Daka had actually shoved the ex-Brentford striker and the decision was overturned after Scott checked the monitor.
    The result has plunged the Foxes further into the relegation mire in 19th place and just 25 points.
    For Villa, boss Unai Emery said he would have finally started dreaming about Europe if his side won here having now charged up the table into seventh and just two points off Brighton in sixth.
    And ex-Brentford striker Watkins has been the beating heart of Villa’s glittering run.
    He toasted his 100th Prem appearance with his eighth goal in ten games.
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    Only Christian Benteke (42), Dean Saunders (37) and John Carew (36) scored as many goals in their first 100 Premier League games for Villa as Watkins (36).
    All the headlines had been about Jamie Vardy, 36, making his first Prem start since 21 January.
    And he had a glint in his eye from the offset, making a crunch tackle on Ezri Konsa to set the tone.
    From then the hosts were building but Harry Souttar scuppered two golden chances to put them ahead following James Maddison’s inch-perfect delivery.
    Barnes then broke free with a blistering run and whipped a cross into the box but Vardy was unable to make the crucial touch.

    Ollie Watkins got his sixth in six on the road as he rolled inCredit: Rex
    Harvey Barnes levelled with a superb solo effortCredit: Reuters
    It had all been Leicester so it must have felt like a dagger in their heart when Villa were the ones to break the deadlock.
    Emiliano Buendia found Watkins with a cute through ball before the striker cheekily nudged the ball just beyond Daniel Iversen.
    There was a brief VAR check for offside but the goal stood meaning Watkins has now hit a whopping six goals in six games on the road.
    But Leicester were having none of it and hit back stronger than ever, finding the leveller 12 minutes later.
    Wout Faes sprayed a long ball out to Barnes who burst past Ashley Young and side-footed the ball across Emiliano Martinez and into the corner.
    Barnes may well be the reason the Foxes survive this season, with him hitting his best-ever Prem goal tally of ten and becoming the club’s top scorer this term.
    On 87 minutes Bertrand Traore came on for Leon Bailey and instantly won it for the visitors with his first goal for Villa since May 2021.
    Ndidi passed the ball straight to Traore 22 yards out and he curled a beauty into the top corner.
    Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, centre, was sent off for two bookingsCredit: Alamy
    Harry Souttar put his free header against the postCredit: Reuters
    Leicester thought they had an injury-time penalty before VAR intervenedCredit: Reuters
    James Maddison limped off after going downCredit: Alamy
    Here’s how the action unfolded at the King Power…

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    Leeds 2 Nottingham Forest 1: Steve Cooper on the brink after devastating defeat to relegation rivals

    STEVE COOPER’S job looked safe for all of eight minutes. Orel Mangala’s eighth-minute opener catapulted Nottingham Forest up to 13th, piling the pressure on to Leeds in this crunch relegation clash. 
    Steve Cooper cut a deflated figure after Nottingham Forest lost to LeedsCredit: PA
    Orel Mangala had given Forest the leadCredit: PA
    However Jack Harrison equalised eight minutes laterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Luis Sinisterra fired in the winning goal just before half timeCredit: Getty
    Yet the Forest boss is now praying for another stay of execution from owner Evangelos Marinakis after throwing this one away.  
    Goals from Jack Harrison and Luis Sinisterra leaves them 17th, without a win since February and with a pitiful six points on the road all season. 
    The volatile Greek’s show of loyalty back in October, handing Cooper a new contract instead of sacking him when the going got tough, was admired by all. 
    Marinakis stuck back then but with the threat of an immediate relegation looming larger than ever – and after splurging £160million on transfers – now could be the time to twist and make Cooper the 13th managerial casualty of this crazy campaign. 
    Leeds were good value for this priceless victory which leapfrogs them up five places from 18th to 13th. 
    Harrison started the comeback, firing through Keylor Navas after the keeper could only parry Marc Roca’s 25-yard effort. 
    But Sinisterra was the star – and how different their season might have been if the silky winger had stayed out of the treatment room.
    Providing a bit of X-factor in West Yorkshire, the Colombian trickster was a menace all night and his stunner could prove the final nail in Cooper’s coffin. 
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    Whatever happens, the Welshman will be a legend for life in Nottingham for taking over a ragtag bunch at the bottom of the Championship and ending their 23-year Prem exile eight months later. 
    And the travelling fans let their feelings known to Marinakis, singing Cooper’s name long before kick off. 
    They started the night one point above safety and it was almost a dream start, only for Emmanuel Dennis to stab a terribly cleared corner off the post from a couple of yards. 
    So woeful on the road all season, Cooper’s boys – set up to counter – started brilliantly and silenced Elland Road 12 minutes in. 
    Right back Luke Ayling was at fault, giving the ball away with an awful headed clearance. 
    Danilo fed Dennis down the left and he did brilliantly to tee up Mangala at the top of the box, with the Belgian midfielder taking one touch past Sinisterra’s weak challenge before burying in the bottom corner. 
    A great team goal – only their fifth on the road all campaign-  it was Mangala’s first since signing from Stuttgart last summer. 
    But the mardy Leeds supporters were smiling again just eight minutes later however when Harrison bagged his third in four games. 
    Emmanuel Dennis struck the post for ForstCredit: Getty
    The winger started it by darting in off the right and laying it off to Marc Roca 25 yards out. 
    His stinger proved too hot for Navas, who palmed it straight to the onrushing Harrison to bury. 
    It was all Leeds now in this error-strewn scrap as Forest stopped playing, and Sinisterra put the hosts ahead just before the break with a beauty.
    Twisting and turning as he came into the box from the left flank, Neco Williams was made to look like a Sunday league plodder as the South American did him all ends before and bent into the far corner.  
    Forest’s early swagger was clearly a flash in the pan as it was Leeds who continued to dominate. 
    Harrison and Sinisterra both flashed wide before Patrick Bamford butchered a huge chance from 12 yards. 
    Forest huffed and puffed but Whites keeper Illan Meslier was a bystander all second half. 
    Whites interim boss Javi Gracia is only here until the end of the season at present but he is making a strong case to be kept on next term too. 
    Javi Garcia and Leeds are now up to 14th placeCredit: Getty
    Steve Cooper is facing the sack from ForestCredit: Getty
    Cooper made five subs as the game ticked on, trying anything to save his – and Forest’s – skin. 
    Elland Road was nervy as hell whenever the visitors got near their box. 
    But the Reds never came close to scoring as Leeds held on to leave them outside of the bottom three only on goal difference and Cooper clinging on for dear life.
    Over to you, Evangelos. 
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    Bournemouth 0 Brighton 2: Ferguson scores again to boost Seagulls’ European hopes as Cherries’ relegation fears worsen

    EVAN FERGUSON looks like a striker destined for the Champions League – and he might just fire Brighton there.The 18-year-old looks full of confidence and dumped Bournemouth back into the bottom three with an inspired finish on a night that showed the true value of a natural goalscorer.
    Evan Ferguson is making a name for himself at BrightonCredit: Getty
    Bournemouth will have confidence they can get back out based on the fight showed here, though it was in vain as sub Julio Enciso killed off any comeback with his first Albion goal in added time.
    Brighton’s success this season, which sees them still truly in the hunt for a top four place, has been built on collective effort – a well-oiled machine.
    But with that not quite running smoothly here in the face of a bruising Bournemouth side, it was composure and calm finishing that got them through.
    Ferguson is somewhat of a throwback striker, a towering figure for his age who can do a bit of everything.
    Back in the starting XI after picking up a knock on international duty, the youngster was battling defenders, winning headers and then showing a superb touch in the six-yard box to open the scoring.
    Captain Dunk had them in behind Bournemouth with a superb outside of the boot ball down the left flank.
    Pervis Estupinan picked things up but saw his cross pushed back to the feet of Kaoru Mitoma.
    The Japan international sent a low ball into Ferguson, who clipped into the far corner with a cool backheel – showing the composure and nous of a centre forward ten years his senior.
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    It was the sort of clinical touch Gary O’Neil would love to have seen on display from Hamed Traore.
    The midfielder, wonderfully played through one-on-one by Jefferson Lerma, somehow managed to prod the ball wide from ten yards.
    Jason Steele had got away with one, but the Seagulls stopper was sharp when tested either side of Traore’s sitter by Dominic Solanke, palming away two powerful strikes.
    The second effort fell back to Traore, who was denied his redemption by Adam Webster throwing himself in front of goal.
    There was no let up after the break, Solanke firing agonisingly over at the far post before his own looping cross almost snuck in.
    They were certainly keeping Steele busy, Lerma’s dipping volley needing to be tipped over his bar.
    The energy and endeavour from a side scrapping at the bottom had the home support bouncing and is why, regardless of this result, there is plenty of hope here that they can end the season above the dotted line.
    Ferguson was doing his best to give Brighton a more comfortable cushion to ride out Bournemouth’s pressure on, but turned Solly March’s cross agonisingly over the bar.
    Still in it, O’Neil’s side refused to give up.
    Neto made fine saves from Pascal Gross and Danny Welbeck, but things were not falling their way at the other end – Solanke’s close range effort sent over the bar by the back of Dango Outtara’s head.
    Just as hope was building after six minutes of added time had been indicated, sub Enciso put the nail in the coffin.
    Moments after flaring up in the face of Jack Stephens, the Paraguayan kept a cool head to slot past Neto after a fine ball from Gross.
    Here is how the match unfolded…

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    Man Utd LIVE: Shaw signs new DEAL, Osimhen keen on Old Trafford move, Kane’s HUGE asking PRICE, takeover LATEST updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED and England left-back Luke Shaw has signed a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen is keen on a summer move to the Red Devils, according to reports.
    Elsewhere, Tottenham have slapped a huge £90million price tag on starman Harry Kane.
    And we’ve got the very latest on United’s takeover talks.
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    Mitrovic 8-game ban for Utd bust-up
    Aleksandar Mitrovic has been banned for EIGHT matches for his Old Trafford meltdown.
    The Fulham striker shoved and reacted angrily to referee Chris Kavanagh when he awarded a penalty and sent off team-mate Willian.
    Kavanagh showed the red card, meaning an automatic three-game ban.

    Now the FA have slapped him with an extra five matches and a £75,000 fine.
    Manager Marco Silva, also red carded in the flashpoint, got a two-game touchline ban and £40,000 fine for his behaviour and comments.
    Mitrovic served the first of those eight in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth.
    He will now miss Fulham’s next seven matches before returning for May’s trip to Southampton.
    The Serb is also available for the London derby at home to Crystal Palace and the away day back to the scene of the crime, Old Trafford, for the final game of the season.
    Red Devils to face Dortmund in Vegas
    United will play Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas in July as part of its summer tour of the US, bringing the most famous football club on the planet to the entertainment capital of the world, writes MARTIN BLACKBURN.
    The match at the Allegiant Stadium on Sunday July 30, is the second fixture of the Club’s Tour 23 to be announced, with more fixtures and locations to be revealed in the coming weeks.
    United have not met the Bundesliga side since a 2016 tour game in China and the pair have only played six competitive matches in their histories, – making this summer’s encounter a rare opportunity for US fans to see two of Europe’s leading football teams go head-to-head.
    Last week, United announced a game against Welsh side Wrexham at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, on 25th July. Tickets for this match have already sold out, with fans eager to see the Red Devils return to the US for the first time in five years.
    United Football Director, John Murtough said: “We have worked with the manager and his staff to provide a mix of competitive opponents to play during our tour of the US and we look forward to the match against Borussia Dortmund.
    “As well as gaining valuable playing time, the squad will also be participating in training camps within the best sporting facilities available, giving our players the opportunity to build fitness before the start of the new Premier League season.
    “The response we have received from fans since announcing we will be returning to the US has been incredible. We already have a full house for the match in San Diego and I am sure it will be the same for this fixture in Vegas.”
    Luke staying 4 more years
    Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has signed a new deal with the club.
    Shaw put pen to paper on a four-year extension with United after some impressive performances under manager Erik ten Hag.
    The left-back had a contract with the Red Devils until 2024, which has now been extended until 2028.
    United are hoping to tie some more superstars to a new contract by June
    Sancho future unclear
    Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is growing increasingly impatient with Jadon Sancho.
    According to Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag is losing patience with Sancho.
    So much so that the Dutch tactician could decide to let the winger leave at the end of the season.
    The England international, who has made just five appearances in the last five months, could be sold as part of Ten Hag’s proposed clearout and rebuild.
    Ten Hag’s five guys
    Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is ready to put five players on the chopping block this summer – including a favourite of co-owner Joel Glazer.
    According to Manchester Evening News, Harry Maguire, Brandon Williams, Alex Telles, Anthony Martial and Eric Bailly will all be up for sale this summer.
    Martial is believed to be Glazer’s favourite and he has intervened to stop the forward being sold previously.
    But the 27-year-old, who was signed with high expectations in 2015, has failed to convince over a sustained period and has been increasingly hampered by injury problems.
    Osimhen keen on United
    Napoli star Victor Osimhen is interested in a move to Manchester United.
    According to TeamTalk, the Osimhen is ‘eyeing up’ a move to United in the summer.
    This season the striker has excelled in Serie A and has provided plenty of goals in the club’s title charge.
    The Nigeria international has registered a staggering total of 25 goals and five assists in 29 appearances.
    Credit: Rex
    Ten Hag on Shaw
    Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag described Luke Shaw’s new contract as a “good message”.
    Shaw has been essential for United this season as he has stood out at left-back and also successfully filled in at centre-back.
    Ten hag said: “I think it’s a good message, any international is doing really well this season, really happy with them.
    “He’s a modern left back but can also play centre-back, he matches the standards we want to have, it sends a very good message.”
    Eriksen injury boost
    Manchester United have received a major injury boost regarding Christian Eriksen.
    United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed Eriksen has returned to full training.
    Ten Hag said: “Not for tomorrow [vs Brentford] but he’s returning on the pitch.
    “He’s returning into team training today, so we have to see now how quickly he can make the progress.”
    Sheikh Jassim snag
    The Manchester United ownership saga took a huge twist as it emerged there is serious Government concern about Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, writes Sun Sport’s Martin Lipton.
    Nearly five months after United was put on the market, bidders remain in the dark over whether the Glazers really want to sell the club.
    But the news that the Bank of England has flagged up previous regulatory failings at the UK branch of the Qatari Investment Bank headed up by Sheikh Jassim could prove a major turning point.
    Sheikh Jassim is the most likely to meet the Glazer family’s £6bn valuation but that could all be changed by the revelation of the issues being raised by senior Government officials.
    Those reservations are understood to relate to a £1.4m fine handed out to QIB’s UK unit by the Bank of England in 2016 for violating capital financial rules that left the bank exposed to high levels of risk.
    Regulators said QIB had “failed to meet some of the most basic regulatory standards”.
    More on Shaw
    Manchester United’s Football Director John Murtough described Luke Shaw as “one of the best defenders in the world” after he signed his contract extension.
    Murtough said: “Luke is a massively important player to the squad and has grown into one of the best defenders in the world.
    “He has been at the club for nearly a decade and understands the expectations for success, and the hard work, commitment and high standards required to achieve it.
    “He has added leadership to his other outstanding abilities, and we all look forward to seeing him in a Manchester United shirt for years to come.”
    Credit: Getty
    Shaw speaks out
    Manchester United ace Luke Shaw revealed he signed a new contract because he believes in the “journey” manager Erik ten Hag has taken the club.
    Shaw said: “Nine years ago, I signed for this amazing club, and I’m thrilled to be extending my stay.
    “I’ve grown immensely since coming to Manchester all those years ago, both as a person and as a player; I know what is needed to succeed at a club like this.
    “We’re at the beginning of our journey under the manager and his coaching staff.
    “We’ve been successful already this season, but we want much more. There’s a great opportunity to create something special here, and I’m going to give everything to be part of that.”
    Shaw signs new deal
    Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has signed a new deal with the club.
    Shaw put pen to paper on a four-year extension with United after some impressive performances under manager Erik ten Hag.
    The left-back had a contract with the Red Devils until 2024, which has now been extended until 2028.
    United are hoping to tie some more superstars to a new contract by June
    Harry Kane price
    Manchester United may have to splash the cash to sign long-term target and Tottenham superstar Harry Kane.
    And reports suggest Kane will cost a whopping £90million to price away from Spurs.
    The striker’s future in North London appears uncertain after Antonio Conte’s dismissal from the dugout.
    The England captain’s contract runs out next year, which means Tottenham run the risk of losing him for free if he doesn’t leave this summer
    Harry Kane bid
    Manchester United are ready to go after Tottenham superstar Harry Kane in the summer.
    United do not want to involve themselves in a saga like with Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong last summer.
    Therefore, the Red Devils are keen to find out whether the transfer is feasible from the player and Spurs’ perspective.
    The star striker is manager Erik ten Hag’s preferred choice to spearhead his frontline.
    Credit: Rex
    Declan Rice bidding war
    Arsenal will battle Manchester United for West Ham star Declan Rice.
    Rice is targeted by United with Scott McTominay heading for the exit door at Old Trafford.
    The Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta wants to bolster his midfield and the England international is high on the North Londoners’ summer wishlist.
    The Hammers may demand £100million, but the price is set to be affected if they get relegated to the Championship.
    Osimhen ‘eyes’ United
    Man United transfer target Victor Osimhen is reportedly interested in a move to the club.
    According to TeamTalk, the Napoli star is ‘eyeing up’ a move to the Red Devils.
    This season the Nigerian striker he excelled in Serie A and has provided plenty of goals in the club’s title charge.
    Frank expecting ‘difficult’ match
    Brentford manager Thomas Frank thinks Wednesday’s clash against Man United will be the hardest of the season.
    He said: “We are potentially going into the most difficult game of the season, with everything taken into consideration.
    “We are going away to the biggest away ground, with those fans, against a very good side that are much more stable.
    “Erik ten Hag and his staff have done a very good job. They’ve just won their first trophy and they’re fighting for a Champions League spot.
    “They lost (on Sunday) so they will want to bounce back. Plus, we beat them last time, so they’ll doubly want to bounce back. And they’re a very good team with top players.”
    Sabitzer boost
    Man United have reportedly been handed a massive boost in their hopes of signing Marcel Sabitzer this summer.
    According to Kerry Hau, Chief Reporter SPORT1, Bayern will allow the midfielder to join the Red Devils this summer.
    After the sacking of Julian Nagelsmann, there had been doubt over a permanent move, with Thomas Tuchel potentially wanting to keep hold of Sabitzer.
    Credit: Getty
    Henderson interest
    Aston Villa are the latest Premier League club to be linked with a move to sign Man United’s Dean Henderson.
    The goalkeeper is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, who will be in the hint for his signature should they beat the drop.
    But according to Football Insider, the Villans are also interested in signing the internationally capped stopper.
    Credit: Alamy
    Neville explains league prediction
    Gary Neville has taken to social media to explain his reasoning as to why he thought Man United would finish above Arsenal this season.
    When reminded of his take by an Arsenal fan, he wrote: “Relax it was 2.5 months ago. It’s a prediction.
    “I thought you would blow up! ( enough evidence of that in the last 15 years ).
    “You haven’t so well done.”
    Wout in
    The striker’s contract at Old Trafford expires at the end of the season and he would be expected to return to Burnley.
    However, Ten Hag has suggested that he would want to keep him beyond this season.
    When asked if Weghorst was potentially part of his long-term plans, the Red Devils boss said: “Of course.
    “I think he is doing a lot of elements of football really well.
    “Wout is doing a really good job for us.”
    JUST A MIN
    Former Man United defender Paul Parker believes the club should make a move to sign Napoli star Kim Min-jae.
    Parker told Kelbet: “Kim Min-jae has done excellent for Napoli this season and I would love to see him at Man United.
    “Raphael Varane can be a bit fragile sometimes so it would be good with a new player who can compete with him.
    “And then Kim Min-jae has to earn his spot in the starting XI. If he is willing to come here and fight for a spot that is not guaranteed, that would be amazing.”
    Credit: Alamy
    Weghorst not for Keys
    Former Sky Sports presenter Richards Keys has slammed Erik ten Hag’s defence of misfiring striker Wout Weghorst.
    Keys wrote in his blog: “Ten Hag justified his plans to sign him permanently by telling us that last week – and went on to add that Workhorse ‘creates space for players’. I’ll tell you what – he’d create more space if he wasn’t on the pitch.
    “The bottom line is that he’s a bang ordinary centre-forward who doesn’t score goals and isn’t good enough to play for United. Ten Hag sounds like a desperate man trying to justify a mistake every time he talks about him.
    “And when is ten Hag going to accept that his team don’t lack ‘passion, desire, hunger and attitude’ every time they get beaten? Or that ‘they didn’t stick to the game plan’.”
    FRIMP-ON
    Man United have expressed an interest in signing Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, according to reports.
    According to football journalist Patrick Berger, the Red Devils are keen on the prospect of signing the Dutchman.
    And Bayer Leverkusen could give him the green light to leave in the summer as they have already got his replacement.
    The Bundesliga side completed the signing of Brazilian full-back Arthur from America Mineiro on Monday.
    ‘Patience wearing thin’ with Sancho
    Erik ten Hag is reportedly growing ‘impatient’ with winger Jadon Sancho.
    The Dutch manager is expecting more from the former Borussia Dortmund and England star.
    According to MEN, Sancho could be one of the Man United players to be sold this summer.
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    Man Utd LIVE: Club ready to pursue £90m Kane, Bruno Fernandes orders players to clap fans, takeover latest updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to move for Harry Kane, according to reports. Kane is out of contract with Tottenham from the summer of 2024 and with his price-tag set to dwindle, United are said to be keen on making a move as soon as possible.
    Club captain Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after their 2-0 defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils were beaten comfortably at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.
    Elsewhere, manager Erik ten Hag is set to be offered a new contract by United regardless of whether a takeover is completed, according to reports.
    And we’ve got the very latest on United’s takeover talks.
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    Fergie time
    Sir Alex Ferguson will win ANOTHER medal to add to his giant collection – despite being retired for almost ten years.
    The 81-year-old Manchester United legend is the most decorated manager of all time, winning an incredible 49 trophies in his time in management.
    And now, FORTY YEARS on, he will secure a medal for a success not won with the Red Devils, but with Aberdeen.
    The Dons won the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1983 with a stunning 2-1 win against Real Madrid in Gothenburg.
    But only the players who started that game and the five substitutes won medals for the triumph.
    However, thanks to a campaign led by Chris Gavin on behalf of the AFC Heritage Trust Fergie, his No2 Archie Knox and midfielder Dougie Bell, who missed the final because of injury, will also be rewarded.
    Credit: Action Images – Reuters
    Eriksen recovering well
    Man Utd star Christian Eriksen’s recovery is going well.
    Erik ten Hag said: “Eriksen is back on the pitch, not yet in the team training but I expect him in the coming week, [or] weeks, back in team training so will be available for games again.”
    There were concerns he was going to miss the rest of the season but it seems he will feature again at some point this term.
    Eriksen sustained an ankle injury in January’s FA Cup win over Reading.
    Neville slams Ten Hag
    Man Utd legend Gary Neville has slammed Erik ten Hag’s tactics during the Newcastle game that resulted in a shattering 2-0 defeat.
    But Neville has laid the blame squarely at the manager’s door for Newcastle’s killer second goal that killed the game.
    And the error? Taking off BOTH starting centre-halves at 1-0 down.
    That saw United go to a back three, with Lindelof partnered by regular full-back Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot.
    Neville explained: “Once those changes were made this was the most predictable outcome. Manchester United just had no height in there.
    “You are better off having two with them both being centre-backs rather than three with two full-backs, you end up being really exposed.
    “Since the two centre backs went off it has been a mess, I didn’t like it.
    “I thought it might be like this. I never see one centre back working, it very rarely does.
    “Shaw is playing as a second centre-back anyway, you might as well have a proper one in there.”

    Sancho future unclear
    Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag is growing increasingly impatient with Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
    According to Manchester Evening News, the Dutchman is losing patience with Sancho – so much so that he could decide to let the winger leave at the end of the season.
    Sancho, who has made just five appearances in the last five months, could be sold as part of Ten Hag’s proposed clearout and rebuild.
    No CL, no problem
    Man Utd potential next owners Sheikh Jassim or Sir Jim Ratcliffe will both not be put off buying the club if Champions League football is again not secured.
    Man Utd dropped to fourth behind Newcastle after yesterday’s defeat.
    But the BBC claim that an on-field performance dip would lead to one of the parties pulling the plug.
    Shocking Stat
    Man Utd’s current goal difference of of +4 is the worst it has been after 27 games since 1989-90.
    They were on -3 after the same number of matches that season.
    Man Utd’s goal difference has been hit by shipping six to Man City, seven to Liverpool and four to Brentford amongst big defeats.
    Right-back update
    Plenty of news coming out of Man Utd around the right-back position… firstly, Diogo Dalot is close to agreeing a new contract at the club.
    Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag wants a new right-back if Aaron Wan-Bissaka is sold.
    Bayern Munich’s Benjamin Pavard has been linked with “exploratory talks” held.
    United begin Kane move
    Man Utd are ready to start their journey to sign Harry Kane, according to reports.
    The club do not want to involve themselves in a saga like with Frenkie de Jong last summer so are keen to find out whether the transfer is feasible from the player and Tottenham’s perspective.
    Kane is Erik ten Hag’s preferred choice.
    Credit: Reuters
    Players hold own inquest
    Man Utd players held their own dressing room inquest after their comprehensive 2-0 defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils managed just one shot on target as the Magpies easily earned revenge for their Carabao Cup final defeat at Wembley.
    And the Daily Mail claims the players resolved to work out among themselves how they had allowed themselves to be outworked by the Toon.
    McTominay’s future unclear
    Scott McTominay’s future at Man Utd is uncertain and he could leave this summer.
    The Scot’s contract does not expire until 2025, but he is concerned over his playing time.
    McTominay has attracted interest from Newcastle and West Ham in the past.
    However, Man Utd are supposedly proud of the progress the player has made since joining the club when he was just five-years-old and there is sensitivity towards getting rid of him.
    United chase three midfielders
    Man Utd are keen on the likes of Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong this summer, according to reports.
    Manager Erik ten Hag is keen to bolster his midfield options and is weighing up potential signings as well as exits.
    Jude Bellingham is wanted by United, but Borussia Dortmund could demand well over £100million.
    West Ham captain Declan Rice is also an option, with Arsenal joining them in the race to sign him.
    Man Utd are also expected to reignite their interest in Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong after their failed attempts to land him last year.
    The LaLiga side may be forced into selling the Dutchman due to a desperate need to balance the books amid financial troubles.
    Newcastle mocked for celebration
    Footie fans mocked Newcastle’s wild celebrations after being Manchester United – reminding them they lost the League Cup final against the Red Devils.
    There were joyous scenes in the Magpies’ changing room after the monumental result – which the club shared on its official Twitter account.
    Manager Eddie Howe was mobbed by his troops after congratulating them on their performance and they posed for photos inside the dressing room shortly after.
    But they were promptly trolled for excessively celebrating the win, with one person tweeting: “Congratulations on winning the World Cup.”
    Another said: “Enjoy the 3 pts, Newcastle. We’ll enjoy the trophy!”

    Greenwood to be given chance?
    Mason Greenwood could be handed a chance by Man Utd as he aims to rejuvenate his career after charges against him were dropped.
    Reports from journalist Graeme Bailey say that some of the 21-year-old’s team-mates are open to having him back.
    The club’s hierarchy are also not ruling out his return. But he is not expected back in training anytime soon.
    His potential comeback could lead to much criticism and some sponsors could question their deals with United.
    Rooney’s top four predictions
    Newcastle may have just moved above Man Utd in the table after their 2-0 win yesterday, but Wayne Rooney thinks the Toon won’t finish in the top four.
    The DC United boss thinks the Red Devils will come third and Liverpool will come fourth.
    Rooney said: “The top four? A few weeks ago, there looked a possibility Manchester United could challenge for the Premier League title.
    “Erik ten Hag’s team fell short, but they could still end up with three trophies, and I’m sure will finish in the top four, then kick on after he buys a few players to strengthen in the summer.
    “So Manchester United will be there but I have a suspicion that Liverpool might sneak into it, thanks to the quality of their squad and their experience.
    “They’re capable of going on a run. I see Newcastle, despite the great job Eddie has done, falling just a little short.”
    Credit: Reuters
    Rooney makes title predictions
    Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney has insisted that Arsenal are the favourites to win the Premier League this season.
    The Gunners restored their eight-point lead over Manchester City on Saturday following a 4-1 win over Leeds.
    In his column for The Times, Rooney wrote: “The title race? Nothing would surprise me from Manchester City.
    “They could put together an incredible run and still win it but you have to say Arsenal are favourites.
    “Everyone has been waiting for them to drop off but they’ve been top of the league for so many weeks and dealing with the pressure all season. I don’t see a collapse from them.”
    Fernandes orders players to fans
    Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils were beaten 2-0 at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.
    After the final whistle, a host of dejected United players started to trudge straight off towards the tunnel.
    But the raging Fernandes was spotted blasting his team-mates.
    And he ordered them to follow him and go and acknowledge the away end.
    Credit: Rex
    Neville on Weghorst
    Pundit Gary Neville believes that Wout Weghorst is not good enough to start for Man Utd but does not deserve to be slammed.
    Neville said: “He doesn’t deserve to be criticised, I think he is doing his very best.
    “He works as hard as he possibly can but he just lacks the quality that a player in that position should have at Manchester United.
    “He’s filling in obviously with Martial being injured. [Cristiano] Ronaldo’s left. [Edinson] Cavani left at the start of the season.
    “Manchester United don’t have a centre-forward, really. In order to play football really well, you have to have a good centre-forward. It’s a rule.”
    Good morning United fans
    Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after their defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils were beaten 2-0 at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.
    Lisandro Martinez fumed after being subbed in Manchester United’s defeat to Newcastle – but Red Devils fans directed their fury at manager Erik ten Hag instead.
    The Argentine centre-back was hooked for Facundo Pellistri in the 83rd minute of their defeat at St James’ Park.
    Martinez reacted angrily, slapping a chair as he went to take his seat.Ten Hag has torn into his Man Utd players, after their disappointing performance against Newcastle.
    Speaking after the game, Ten Hag told Sky Sports: “I hate to say it but they were better today – especially their determination, passion and desire. They wanted to win more so they won.
    “We had our opportunities but then you have to go for goal with the determination they did. It wasn’t good enough. We allowed them too many chances. You have to be hungry and give everything every game.
    “Our attacking game wasn’t good enough. I don’t want to focus on one person. It was a team performance.”
    Luke Shaw was convinced where the buck stopped after Man Utd were beaten easily 2-0 at Newcastle.
    “Not good enough,” Shaw told Sky Sports when asked about the team’s performance.
    “I feel like every time I speak after games I’m always honest. As a team we have to be honest.
    “I don’t think Newcastle won on quality today, they won on desire, passion, hunger, attitude. They had a higher motivation than we did.
    “That can’t be possible. I feel I say the same every time we lose. They wanted it more. At Man Utd that shouldn’t be possible.
    “It’s unacceptable. It’s not what we want to set out to be. In big games you need that hunger. We didn’t create too much.
    “Maybe you can say it’s been coming. Our levels dropped before the international break. We have three days to pick it back up.
    “The players had a chat in the changing room after with no staff round. It’s down to us. It was nowhere near good enough. We had to speak out in front of each other.
    “It’s important. We’re a team. When we go out onto the pitch, we have to fight for each other. Sometimes it hasn’t looked like that.
    “I’m sure we’ll speak again. We need to realise the problems quickly and change it round. We still can have a very good season but with results and performances like this we can’t.”
    Man Utd have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Kim Min-jae with Liverpool reportedly keen on the Napoli star.
    He has attracted interest from a host of European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain.
    Napoli are believed to be keen to tie him down to a new contract as a result, which could include increasing his buyout clause to £79million.United have been linked to the South Korea international throughout the season.
    But it seems rivals Liverpool have overtaken them in the race to sign the 26-year-old, according to Foot Mercato.
    Dalot echoes Shaw’s feelings
    Diogo Dalot has echoed Luke Shaw’s sentiments that Newcastle United’s stars wanted the win more than the Red Devils.
    “Disappointment I think is the word, we wanted to come here and do what we planned,” Dalot told MUTV.
    “We tried to find spaces and we knew they wanted to press high, even after that, we tried to play, but we could have been more patient.
    “Especially in the last third, we could have been a little bit more patient with the ball to find the spaces, to create more chances. We have to show desire, beat them in desire and beat them in every challenge we have.
    “I think they wanted that a little bit more than us today and that can not happen. If we want to fight for more, want to compete for the Premier League, we have to be more consistent, come here and dominate the game.
    “We knew they were going to be intense and press high, but we have to beat it and be more consistent.”
    Weghorst future
    Erik ten Hag has spoken about the possibility of Wout Weghorst staying at Man Utd.
    The Dutch striker is currently on loan with the Red Devils until the end of the season.
    “Of course [he could stay permanently] and I think he is doing a lot of elements of football [I like] – doing them really well. And he’s doing a really good job for us,” he said.
    “Pressing: he is the leader of the process in pressing, starts the press, very good in backward pressing. He is taking up positions, his link-up play he’s doing really well. He is making good movements, making space for others, so he’s also good in set-plays, so he is really contributing to this team.
    “I think after Christmas we play 25 games and we lost two and he played almost all of the games so he is really part of the success.”
    Shaw slams team mates
    Luke Shaw was convinced where the buck stopped after Man Utd were beaten easily 2-0 at Newcastle.
    “Not good enough,” Shaw told Sky Sports when asked about the team’s performance.
    “I feel like every time I speak after games I’m always honest. As a team we have to be honest.
    “I don’t think Newcastle won on quality today, they won on desire, passion, hunger, attitude. They had a higher motivation than we did.
    “That can’t be possible. I feel I say the same every time we lose. They wanted it more. At Man Utd that shouldn’t be possible.
    “It’s unacceptable. It’s not what we want to set out to be. In big games you need that hunger. We didn’t create too much.
    “Maybe you can say it’s been coming. Our levels dropped before the international break. We have three days to pick it back up.
    “The players had a chat in the changing room after with no staff round. It’s down to us. It was nowhere near good enough. We had to speak out in front of each other.
    “It’s important. We’re a team. When we go out onto the pitch, we have to fight for each other. Sometimes it hasn’t looked like that.
    “I’m sure we’ll speak again. We need to realise the problems quickly and change it round. We still can have a very good season but with results and performances like this we can’t.”
    Ten Hag tears into his flops
    Erik ten Hag has torn into his Man Utd players, after their disappointing performance against Newcastle.
    Speaking after the game, ten Hag told Sky Sports: “I hate to say it but they were better today – especially their determination, passion and desire. They wanted to win more so they won.
    “We had our opportunities but then you have to go for goal with the determination they did. It wasn’t good enough. We allowed them too many chances. You have to be hungry and give everything every game.
    “Our attacking game wasn’t good enough. I don’t want to focus on one person. It was a team performance.”
    Slap in the face
    Lisandro Martinez fumed after being subbed in Manchester United’s defeat to Newcastle – but Red Devils fans directed their fury at manager Erik ten Hag instead.
    The Argentine centre-back was hooked for Facundo Pellistri in the 83rd minute of their defeat at St James’ Park.
    Martinez reacted angrily, slapping a chair as he went to take his seat.
    Fans were quick to comment on Martinez’s tantrum, with one saying: “Who saw Martinez on the bench? GRRRRRR.”
    Another said: “Martinez slapping the bench chair!”
    The Old Trafford faithful, however, directed their anger at Ten Hag as he also subbed Rafael Varane for fellow defender Victor Lindelof as they were chasing an equaliser.
    Fernandes wants fans respect
    Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils were beaten 2-0 at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.

    Second half goals from Joe Willock and Callum Wilson condemned United to their latest disappointment in the Premier League.
    A 7-0 drubbing to Liverpool, a goalless draw at home to Southampton, and then this mauling which left Erik Ten Hag shellshocked.
    It was a miserable afternoon all-round for United, with many fans questioning Ten Hag’s decision to leave out Fred.
    Defender blow
    Man Utd have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Kim Min-jae with Liverpool reportedly keen on the Napoli star.
    He has attracted interest from a host of European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain.
    Napoli are believed to be keen to tie him down to a new contract as a result, which could include increasing his buyout clause to £79million.
    United have been linked to the South Korea international throughout the season.
    But it seems rivals Liverpool have overtaken them in the race to sign the 26-year-old, according to Foot Mercato.
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    Who is Chelsea interim boss Bruno Saltor? Ex-Brighton player and member of Graham Potter’s staff in charge

    CHELSEA have sacked manager Graham Potter, following a dismal run of results.The former Brighton manager, 47, was relieved of his duties by Toddy Boehly following a crisis meeting at the club’s training ground.
    Graham Potter’s assistant Bruno Saltor will take charge of Chelsea as interim coachCredit: Getty
    Bruno Saltor will take charge of the West Londoners until a permanent successor for Potter is appointed.
    A club statement read: “Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club. Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition.
    “In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter-final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid.
    “Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.”
    read more football news
    “Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach.”
    Potter was fired just six months into a five-year deal worth £12million, after a dismal 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa saw the Blues fall to 11th.
    Who is Bruno Saltor?
    Known simply as Bruno, the Spanish coach had an impressive career in LaLiga – playing right back for Espanyol, Almeria and Valencia.
    He also played over 200 games for Brighton – so was a firm fans’ favourite.
    Most read in Football
    In 2019, he became senior player development coach with the Seagulls, before moving to Stamford Bridge as part of Potter’s coaching team.
    He once told Sky Sports: “I never thought I was going to get into coaching this quickly.
    “The manager’s leadership is amazing as he allows every one of us the freedom to contribute whatever knowledge and experience we have.”
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    Graham Potter sacked LIVE – Julian Nagelsmann bookies’ FAVOURITE for Chelsea job, Todd Boehly latest

    GRAHAM POTTER has been sacked as Chelsea manager.Blues owner Todd Boehly has wielded the axe after a horror run of form despite spending over £330m.
    Potter moved from Brighton to Chelsea to take up the role last September, replacing Thomas Tuchel.
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
    Follow ALL of the latest reaction below…
    Exclusive – Chelsea no rush for new boss
    Chelsea are in no rush to appoint a new manager.
    Julian Nagelsmann is the early favourite for the Stamford Bridge hotseat after the Blues sacked Graham Potter on Sunday.
    But SunSport understands owner Todd Boehly is preparing for a long and thorough search for a new boss after seeing his first appointment flop inside seven months.
    The Blues sacked Graham Potter after just seven months in charge and £330million spent in the January transfer window on Sunday.
    Potter’s unwanted record
    Graham Potter leaves Chelsea with the joint-worst record of any manager in the club’s history during the Premier League era.
    Potter lasted just six months in charge having replaced Champions League winner Thomas Tuchel last September.
    Potter departs having won just SEVEN of his 22 league games in charge, drawing the same amount of times while losing eight.
    His last came on Saturday at home to Aston Villa, with the 2-0 defeat enough to seal his fait.
    With a 1.27 points per game rate, only Glenn Hoddle faired as badly as Potter, leaving with the same PPG.
    Remarkable Rodgers stat
    SUNDAY marked the first time in eight years that TWO Premier League managers lost their jobs on the same day.
    And remarkably Brendan Rodgers was involved in both.
    Rodgers and Potter are the first Premier League managers to lose their job on the same day mid-season since 4 October, 2015.
    Amazingly, Rodgers had been sacked on that day too by Liverpool while Dick Advocaat resigned from Sunderland.
    The Reds got rid of Rodgers, who had led them to a second-placed finish in 2014, after three and a half years in charge after dropping down to tenth in the table.
    Dutchman Advocaat kept Sunderland up the year prior and was declared a hero on Wearside but he walked away after failing to pick up a top-flight win in the first two months of the following campaign.
    Credit: Reuters
    What Chelsea’s statement said
    Chelsea announced Potter’s sacking in a statement on their website shortly after 8pm tonight.
    It read: “Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club.
    “Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition.
    “In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.”
    Bruno Saltor taking the reins
    Bruno Saltor will take interim charge of Chelsea after Graham Potter’s sacking.
    Saltor played under Potter at Brighton before joining him on the coaching staff at Chelsea.
    Credit: Getty
    Gary Lineker tweets
    Gary Lineker commented: “Another one bites the dust. Graham Potter the latest to be fired.”
    Chelsea sunk to a 2-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa on Saturday, their TENTH loss of the season.
    And despite the Stamford Bridge board showing faith to Potter and his project in the past, enough proved enough.

    Carragher reaction
    Jamie Carragher joined fans in trolling Todd Boehly after Graham Potter was sacked – with Chelsea called “the worst run club in world football.”
    Potter was only hired in September in replace of Champions League winner Thomas Tuchel.
    And the comparisons between ex-Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and Todd Boehly were quickly made by fans online.
    Liverpool legend Carragher tweeted: “Todd said he would be different to Roman.
    “I feel for Graham Potter, but it was inevitable. You don’t change Tuchel for Potter. Ridiculous decision to start with.”
    Credit: Alamy
    More on Nagelsmann
    Julian Nagelsmann made his name at RB Leipzig and was hired by Bayern after Hansi Flick left to take over at Germany.
    The young manager won the Bundesliga last season but was sacked this month due to off-field dillemas.
    Nagelsmann is a frontrunner to take over at Chelsea, with the Stamford Bridge board said to be admirers.
    Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    Todd Boehly’s statement
    Chelsea owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said: “On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea.
    “We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome.
    “Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season. We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high.”
    Next manager odds
    Julian Nagelsmann is favourite for the Chelsea job following the departure of Graham Potter.
    That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who believe Nagelsmann is the clear frontrunner for the vacant position having priced him at 10/11 to succeed Potter at Stamford Bridge.

    Julian Nagelsmann – 10/11
    Mauricio Pochettino – 7/2
    Zinedine Zidane – 6/1
    Pep Guardiola – 17/2
    Oliver Glasner – 10/1
    Ruben Amorim – 10/1
    Luis Enrique – 11/1
    Diego Simeone – 12/1
    Brendan Rodgers – 12/1
    Thomas Frank – 12/1
    Jose Mourinho – 14/1

    Talks took place today
    SunSport revealed this evening that Blues chief Todd Boehly had held crunch talks with Potter at the club’s Cobham training ground on Sunday afternoon.
    And the American ultimately decided to wield the axe for the second time this season as the club is currently toiling in 11th place in the Prem table.
    Julian Nagelsmann is the favourite
    The German is without a job having been surprisingly sacked by Bayern Munich and replaced by ex-Blues boss Tuchel.
    Nagelsmann made his name at RB Leipzig and was hired by Bayern after Hansi Flick left to take over at Germany.
    The young manager won the Bundesliga last season but was sacked this month due to off-field dillemas.
    Nagelsmann is a frontrunner to take over at Chelsea, with the Stamford Bridge board said to be admirers.
    Credit: PA
    Chelsea’s latest mangerial hunt
    Chelsea now face a hunt for a new manager, just a few months after sacking Thomas Tuchel, who led the Blues to the Champions League in 2021.
    Potter’s departure leaves Chelsea in chaos, less than a year after the takeover.
    The next manager is a huge appointment for the new owners.
    £330m investment
    Toddy Boehly and his fellow investors splashed £330m on new signings in January, taking their total spending well clear of £600m.
    Graham Potter however struggled to find the right blend for the new recruits including £107m star Enzo Fernandez and £88m winger Mykhailo Mudryk.
    Although they were understood to be backing Potter during a difficult transition period, they did want to see more bang for their buck.
    Bruno Saltor in charge
    Bruno Saltor will take interim charge of Chelsea after Graham Potter’s sacking.
    Saltor played under Potter at Brighton before joining him on the coaching staff at Chelsea.
    Credit: Getty
    Todd Boehly breaks silence
    Co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali added: “On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea. We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome.
    “Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season. We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high.”
    Credit: REX
    Breaking – Chelsea statement
    Chelsea have released a statement on Graham Potter.
    The Blues wrote: “Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club.
    “Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition.
    “In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.”
    Credit: Getty
    Who could replace Potter?
    After Julian Nagelsmann, other candidates include former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane, former Spain manager Luis Enrique, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Oliver Glasner, and even two-time former Blues boss Jose Mourinho.
    The Portuguese boss won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and three League Cups over two spells in West London.
    Potter’s sacking is a major U-turn for the new Chelsea board.
    Breaking – Potter sacked by Chelsea
    Chelsea have SACKED Graham Potter after just seven months in charge and £330million spent in the January transfer window.
    Potter was hired on a five-year deal worth £12m-a-year after Champions League-winning manager Thomas Tuchel was axed following a poor start to the season.
    However, ex-Brighton boss Potter has been unable to turn Chelsea’s fortunes around with the Blues sliding to 11th in the top-flight after their 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.
    The 47-year-old Englishman leaves Chelsea with the WORST record of any Blues manager in the Premier League era, being dismissed after a horror run.
    Former Spurs and PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino is one of the favourites for the Chelsea job now, with Julian Nagelsmann also available after his Bayern Munich sacking – himself replaced by ex-Blues man Thomas Tuchel.
    Pochettino, 50, remains a free agent having been sacked by Paris Saint-Germain in June 2022 despite leading them to the French title.
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    Man Utd LIVE: Takeover LATEST, Newcastle reaction, Ten Hag new deal EXCLUSIVE, Qataris bid TWIST – updates

    CAPTAIN Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after defeat at Newcastle.The Red Devils were beaten 2-0 at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.
    Elsewhere, manager Erik ten Hag is set to be offered a new contract by United regardless of whether a takeover is completed, according to reports.
    The Dutchman has made a huge impact in his first season at Old Trafford after joining from Ajax last summer.
    And we’ve got the very latest on United’s takeover talks.
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
    Dalot echoes Shaw’s feelings
    Diogo Dalot has echoed Luke Shaw’s sentiments that Newcastle United’s stars wanted the win more than the Red Devils.
    “Disappointment I think is the word, we wanted to come here and do what we planned,” Dalot told MUTV.
    “We tried to find spaces and we knew they wanted to press high, even after that, we tried to play, but we could have been more patient.
    “Especially in the last third, we could have been a little bit more patient with the ball to find the spaces, to create more chances. We have to show desire, beat them in desire and beat them in every challenge we have.
    “I think they wanted that a little bit more than us today and that can not happen. If we want to fight for more, want to compete for the Premier League, we have to be more consistent, come here and dominate the game.
    “We knew they were going to be intense and press high, but we have to beat it and be more consistent.”
    Weghorst future
    Erik ten Hag has spoken about the possibility of Wout Weghorst staying at Man Utd.
    The Dutch striker is currently on loan with the Red Devils until the end of the season.
    “Of course [he could stay permanently] and I think he is doing a lot of elements of football [I like] – doing them really well. And he’s doing a really good job for us,” he said.
    “Pressing: he is the leader of the process in pressing, starts the press, very good in backward pressing. He is taking up positions, his link-up play he’s doing really well. He is making good movements, making space for others, so he’s also good in set-plays, so he is really contributing to this team.
    “I think after Christmas we play 25 games and we lost two and he played almost all of the games so he is really part of the success.”
    Shaw slams team mates
    Luke Shaw was convinced where the buck stopped after Man Utd were beaten easily 2-0 at Newcastle.
    “Not good enough,” Shaw told Sky Sports when asked about the team’s performance.
    “I feel like every time I speak after games I’m always honest. As a team we have to be honest.
    “I don’t think Newcastle won on quality today, they won on desire, passion, hunger, attitude. They had a higher motivation than we did.
    “That can’t be possible. I feel I say the same every time we lose. They wanted it more. At Man Utd that shouldn’t be possible.
    “It’s unacceptable. It’s not what we want to set out to be. In big games you need that hunger. We didn’t create too much.
    “Maybe you can say it’s been coming. Our levels dropped before the international break. We have three days to pick it back up.
    “The players had a chat in the changing room after with no staff round. It’s down to us. It was nowhere near good enough. We had to speak out in front of each other.
    “It’s important. We’re a team. When we go out onto the pitch, we have to fight for each other. Sometimes it hasn’t looked like that.
    “I’m sure we’ll speak again. We need to realise the problems quickly and change it round. We still can have a very good season but with results and performances like this we can’t.”
    Ten Hag tears into his flops
    Erik ten Hag has torn into his Man Utd players, after their disappointing performance against Newcastle.
    Speaking after the game, ten Hag told Sky Sports: “I hate to say it but they were better today – especially their determination, passion and desire. They wanted to win more so they won.
    “We had our opportunities but then you have to go for goal with the determination they did. It wasn’t good enough. We allowed them too many chances. You have to be hungry and give everything every game.
    “Our attacking game wasn’t good enough. I don’t want to focus on one person. It was a team performance.”
    Slap in the face
    Lisandro Martinez fumed after being subbed in Manchester United’s defeat to Newcastle – but Red Devils fans directed their fury at manager Erik ten Hag instead.
    The Argentine centre-back was hooked for Facundo Pellistri in the 83rd minute of their defeat at St James’ Park.
    Martinez reacted angrily, slapping a chair as he went to take his seat.
    Fans were quick to comment on Martinez’s tantrum, with one saying: “Who saw Martinez on the bench? GRRRRRR.”
    Another said: “Martinez slapping the bench chair!”
    The Old Trafford faithful, however, directed their anger at Ten Hag as he also subbed Rafael Varane for fellow defender Victor Lindelof as they were chasing an equaliser.
    Fernandes wants fans respect
    Bruno Fernandes was spotted ordering his Manchester United team-mates to clap the travelling fans after defeat at Newcastle.
    The Red Devils were beaten 2-0 at St. James’ Park as the Magpies leapfrogged them into third.

    Second half goals from Joe Willock and Callum Wilson condemned United to their latest disappointment in the Premier League.
    A 7-0 drubbing to Liverpool, a goalless draw at home to Southampton, and then this mauling which left Erik Ten Hag shellshocked.
    It was a miserable afternoon all-round for United, with many fans questioning Ten Hag’s decision to leave out Fred.
    Defender blow
    Man Utd have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Kim Min-jae with Liverpool reportedly keen on the Napoli star.
    He has attracted interest from a host of European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain.
    Napoli are believed to be keen to tie him down to a new contract as a result, which could include increasing his buyout clause to £79million.
    United have been linked to the South Korea international throughout the season.
    But it seems rivals Liverpool have overtaken them in the race to sign the 26-year-old, according to Foot Mercato.
    Game over
    All over.
    Callum Wilson has put the game to bed with a header from a corner from Kieran Trippier.
    The Toon go wild.
    Ten Hag looks on. 2-0, all over.
    Goal!
    Newcastle United lead!
    It’s a header from ex-Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock – who heads home.
    The Toon deserve it. They have been the better team.
    Double save
    Man Utd have David De Gea to thank for the keeping the scores level.
    Take a bow, son.

    Bore draw
    We’re all square at Old Trafford at half-time.
    Not much to talk about, really. Game of a few chances, with Newcastle perhaps squandering the best.
    Man Utd will need to show a bit more in the second half if they have any designs of winning this game.
    Ten Hag’s role in takeover
    Erik ten Hag is distancing himself from Man Utd’s potential takeover.
    The Dutch tactician revealed he met one bidder Sir Jim Ratcliffe – but there was nothing more to their chance encounter.
    “They leave me [alone] which is fine because all the others have to decide, it’s not up to me, he told Sky Sports.
    “My job is to lead, to manage the first team, to let them perform and get the right results, that is what I have to focus on.
    “In a previous press conference I said Sir Jim Ratcliffe, I met him and we shook hands but that is all. It was a coincidence because we coincidentally met in the corridor so not officially, I was not in contact with anyone.”
    The opposition
    Newcastle are today’s opposition at Old Trafford.
    Here’s how they will line up.

    Three changes vs Newcastle
    Erik ten Hag has named his starting XI for the crunch clash at Newcastle.
    And he has made three changes as he hopes the Red Devils can strengthen their grip on the top four.
    Raphael Varane, Diogo Dalot and Antony all start.
    Marcus Rashford missed England duty but is deemed fit from the outset today while Casemiro is suspended.
    Credit: Twitter
    Red Devils to return?
    Two former Man Utd strikers are among the early contenders to replace Brendan Rodgers.
    Leicester announced this afternoon the Northern Irishman had left the club after four years in charge following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace.
    Ruud van Nistelrooy is 14-1 to take over at the King Power while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is at 16-1 with Betfair.
    Top if the pile, though, is Thomas Frank (5-1), Ange Postecoglou (17-2) and Rafa Benitez (9-1).
    ‘Tells you as it is’
    Hughes, 59, told the Mirror: “Erik ten Hag has come in and steadied the boat that was rocking from side to side.
    “He’s going to need to have time and he’s done the initial part of dealing with the demand that was on him as the manager of the club, stabilising everything.
    “He looks like he’s instilled discipline into the group and the club as a whole.
    “Playing under Sir Alex Ferguson, his standards for discipline and behaviour were strong, it was one of his mantras.
    “It looks like Ten Hag has taken a little bit of that on board and it seems like he is a very straightforward and structured guy who just tells you as it is.
    “Players can respond to that and maybe there were a few that were wavering or going on a different tangent – he’s managed to bring everyone together, which was required.
    “I hope Manchester United sticks with Erik ten Hag.”
    Erik making his Mark
    Mark Hughes believes Erik ten Hag is copying one key aspect of Sir Alex Ferguson’s managerial approach to help turn Manchester United around.
    The Dutchman took over at Old Trafford in the summer and, after a nightmare start, is helping transform the club.
    Ferguson led the club to a staggering 13 league crowns during his 26 years at the helm, often putting his no-nonsense approach into action with the infamous hairdryer treatment.
    The first two of those, in 1993 and 1994, he had Welsh star Hughes in his team.
    Now the Bradford manager is beginning to see small glimpses of Fergie’s success in the current Red Devils gaffer.
    Joao-ing around
    Man Utd hope to steal Joao Felix away from Chelsea in the summer.
    The striker joined the Blues on loan in January but it is believed they are seeking a permanent move.
    However Chelsea did not include a clause in the deal to make the move permanent, so other clubs can make an approach.
    United have been linked to Felix for some time and are monitoring his current situation, according to Mundo Deportivo.
    Erik ten Hag is reportedly prioritising a move for a striker when the summer transfer window re-opens.
    And it is believed Felix could be available for £88million, though the Red Devils are hopeful of a more “favourable deal”.
    Ten Hag on Weghorst transfer
    Erik ten Hag has hinted Man Utd could sign Wout Weghorst at the end of the season.
    The big forward has been a mainstay since joining on loan in January despite a lack of goals from him.
    However, Ten Hag suggested the club will sign him permanently after declaring he was part of his long-term plan.
    Asked about Weghorst being a long-term team member, he said: “Of course. I think he is doing a lot of elements of football really well.
    “Wout is doing a really good job for us. He is the leader of the process in pressing, he starts the press and is very good in backward pressing.
    “He is also taking up (good) positions and in his link-up play he’s doing really well.
    “He is making good movements, making space for others, so he’s also good in set-plays.
    “He is really contributing to this team. I think after Christmas we have played 25 games and we lost two – and Weghorst played almost all of the games so he is really part of the success.”
    Triple threat
    Man Utd have a three-man shortlist for their central midfield needs in the coming summer.
    According to the Daily Mail this list consists of Declan Rice, Frenkie de Jong and Jude Bellingham.
    It comes with United weighing up the future of Scott McTominay, who Erik ten Hag recently praised for his versatility.
    However, a lack of starting opportunities means he may look to go elsewhere, with today’s opponent Newcastle one team interested in his services in the summer.
    Bad losers
    Manchester United were the “worst losers” under Sir Alex Ferguson.
    That is according to Warren Barton, who recalled the 2001 4-3 classic which was headlined by a bust-up between Alan Shearer and Roy Keane.
    Barton said: “Shearer said ‘by the way, where were you lot when it all kicked off with Roy Keane at the end?’
    “The fact is, Big Al was very capable of looking after himself. He didn’t need anyone. It’s no secret that there was no love lost between the pair.
    “Shearer had just celebrated wildly around St James’ after his goalbound shot had been bungled in by Wes Brown for an own goal to put us 4-3 up.
    “Clearly it really wound up the opposition players. Keane and the rest of that United team were the worst losers.”
    You can read the full story here.
    Morning, United fans
    Marcus Rashford should return at Newcastle this afternoon – as United boss Erik ten Hag closes on a monster new contract.
    And Leicester want Harry Maguire back on loan, while Luke Shaw will “definitely” sign a new contract.
    That’s the pick of the talk around Old Trafford ahead of their first Premier League match after the international break.
    Newcastle will leapfrog third-placed United if they win today.
    So Ten Hag is especially keen for 27-goal frontman Rashford to be fit enough to start after missing England’s first two Euro 2024 qualifiers.
    The Dutchman said: “I have good hope. He trained but he had to do some treatment.
    “For me, it’s positive that he took that time to turn off from football [to go to New York].
    “I’ve seen him back this week and he showed a lot of energy, a lot of motivation.”
    Rashford’s strike partner Anthony Martial is also expected to return after injury.
    SunSport exclusively revealed last night that Ten Hag is poised for a £3million-a-year pay hike, courtesy of a new contract until 2028.
    And United chiefs want the deal to go ahead regardless of what happens over the club’s takeover saga.
    On the transfer front, Leicester have joined the hunt for central defender Maguire following reported interest from PSG and West Ham.
    Finally, left-back Shaw is expected to extend his Old Trafford stay, despite Ten Hag insisting he’s not been kept up to date with negotiations.
    ‘City eye United & Arsenal target Fati’
    Manchester City are tipped to join United and Arsenal in reportedly pursuing Barcelona striker Ansu Fati.
    The Spain whizkid has suddenly struggled for a first-choice spot with Barca this season.
    And  Football Insider suggest City are keen on the seven-cap ace, 20.
    The 20-year-old’s dad certainly seems happy for his son to move on.
    He said recently: “If it was up to me, I would take him [to another team].
    “As a dad, I am angry. Seeing Ansu play so little winds you up a little bit and sometimes I think as a father, not a coach.”
    Ten Hag ‘still keen on Sesko’
    Erik ten Hag is patiently monitoring Red Bull Salzburg striker Benjamin Šeško, reports say.
    Brighton’s Evan Ferguson and Atalanta star Rasmus Højlund have focused more in talk over a new striker for United this summer.
    But transfer insider Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT that Ten Hag is in no mood to drop his pursuit of Slovenia hero Sesko, 19.
    Ten Hag confident Rashford will be fit tomorrow
    United are optimistic 27-goal striker Marcus Rashford will return at Newcastle tomorrow – after he missed England’s two games last week with injury.
    Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag said: “I have good hope.
    “He trained but he had to do some treatment, he had to do some individual training and he joined in the group (on Friday).
    “For me, it’s positive that he took that time to turn off from football [to go to New York].
    I’ve seen him back this week and he showed a lot of energy, a lot of motivation.”
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