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MANCHESTER UNITED fans vented their anger against the board on Saturday for their European Super League blunder.Thousands of supporters were outside Old Trafford yesterday, burning an American flag as they protested against the Glazer family.
Meanwhile, we’ve the very latest on a potential swoop for keeper Tom Heaton and Luke Shaw is set for a bumper pay rise.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
SOLSKJAER REACTS
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is satisfied with his players’ performance even though they didn’t take their chances.
Solskjaer told Sky Sports: “There’s no guarantees in football that’s for sure.
“I thought we played well, really well, dominated the second half, just didn’t have the ball to fall correctly for us in the big moments we had. We had some decent chances but didn’t take them.
“When two teams meet you create problems, you solve problems, they give you things to think about and we made them adjust to us. They are a unique team. We put a really big shift down. I have seen Leeds run over teams in the second half and it was quite the opposite.
“You don’t lose momentum, we are disappointed not to win but the boys have a lot of respect for Leeds. This is not going to be something we look back on as derailing our season”
KEEPING THE GAR-D UP
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has warned that co-chairman Joel Glazer could attempt to impose the Super League model again and insisted his apology “doesn’t wash”.
Neville told Sky Sports: “Last week, I said it was an attempted murder of English football and ‘sorry’ doesn’t wash, it’s gone past sorry because it’s twice they’ve done it.
“If you were sorry the first time with Big Picture, then you wouldn’t have brought back this one, so you’re going to bring back another.
“[Florentino] Perez has told us, [Joan] Laporta has told us from Barcelona, two of the biggest clubs in the world – ‘We’re coming back for you’ – so this lot are not going away but they need to be stopped”
GETTY IMAGES
MAGUIRE REACTS
Manchester United star Harry Maguire claims his team didn’t take its chances to “punish” Leeds at Elland Road.
Maguire told Sky Sports: “It was tight. We had control of the game without punishing them.
“We knew how they would play, our attacking players love a one v one but today it wasn’t to be.
“It’s a big week for us and we must improve on what we showed today”
FULL-TIME
It’s full-time at Elland Road with Manchester United and Leeds enduring a goalless draw.
United remain second in the Premier League table with 10 points separating them from rivals Manchester City at the top.
But the Red Devils are enjoying a comfortable eight-point lead from third-placed Leicester.
Leeds have climbed up to ninth with six points separating them from seventh place, which usually leads to next season’s Europa League

LES MISERABLE
Luke Shaw’s new contract at Manchester United will raise doubts over Alex Telles’ future at the club.
Telles’ arrival from Porto last summer furthered speculation that Shaw was on his way out of United.
According to the Daily Star, however, the Brazil international may be the one to leave Old Trafford following the England defender’s impressive comeback.
The 28-year-old is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time and could force a move away from the Red Devils at the end of the season
SHAW-FIRE HIT
Manchester United ace Luke Shaw is set to be offered a new contract by the club.
According to the Daily Star, Shaw will be offered a contract extension along with a pay-rise by United.
The left-back has been enjoying a tremendous comeback under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after falling down the pecking order during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at the Red Devils’ helm.
The England international is likely to earn £190,000 a week until the end of the 2025-26 season, something that would make him the sixth highest-paid player at Old Trafford

H/T: LEEDS 0 MAN UTD 0
Man Utd’s pressure faded late in a scrappy first half.
For a blow-by-blow account of this Premier League clash at Old Trafford, click on our MATCH BLOG.
GLAZE OVER IT AND MOVE ON
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
PLANE ANGER
Furious Manchester United fans flew a ‘#GlazersOut’ banner over Elland Road in protest against their owners.
The Red Devils made the trip to Leeds on Sunday afternoon to continue their long-standing rivalry.
And before kick-off a place went over the stadium with a sign calling for the American family to sell the club. It read: “2bn stolen #GlazersOut.”
Already unpopular among United supporters, the Glazers infuriated fans even further last week by being conspirators in the breakaway European Super League plot.
Joel, one of the co-chairmen, did apologise in a statement after the club’s dramatic U-turn.
But his brother and fellow co-chairman Avram refused to say sorry for his involvement. And then made no comment when quizzed if he would sell the club.

‘EARN IT’
Leeds fans have savaged Manchester United with a brutal banner outside Elland Road this afternoon.
The banner, which describes the Red Devils as ‘plastic’ and ‘shallow’, is in response to the failed attempt at creating a European Super League.
The banner reads: “ESL and MUFC – just a tactical, temporary withdrawal, we see! Until your PR agents and media can reframe a package and construct an acceptable narrative and plan for your greedy, selfish followers to push this through in two years’ time. We know who you are! We know you from old!
“Manchester United! Nonsense! What a joke! Find a new, more appropriate name! This was always coming, given the soulless, win at all costs, plastic, shallow, selfish, worthless money monster you have made of yourselves!
“MUFC have fed off and divided, not United, football and communities. You are killing football! Children should be encouraged to support their community and play fairly and not bully people by exclusion!
“The Leeds family is fully United with and in full support of and shoulder to shoulder with all true LFC, MCFC, AFC, THFC, and with the few remaining genuine MUFC and CFC fans, whose clubs have been hijacked by power monger and shallow weak-minded glory hunters! And together we’re fans United, we’ll never be divided! Earn it on the pitch! Football is for the fans!”

KICK-OFF!
Leeds 0 – 0 Man Utd
The players are off and underway at Elland Road.
And you can follow SunSport’s LIVE kick-by-kick match blog HERE.
NO POG PROBLEM
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has left Paul Pogba on the bench against Leeds in order to manager his game time.
Dan James comes in to replace the Frenchman and the Norwegian admitted he has Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first-leg against Roma in mind.

I CAN SEE THE STARS
Manchester United’s players have arrived at Elland Road ready for this afternoon’s game against Leeds.
Victor Lindelof and Dean Henderson were among the Red Devils stars pictured making their way into the historic stadium.

TEAM NEWS IS IN!
Manchester United vs Leeds kicks-off at 2pm at Elland Road.
And this is how both teams will line up for the eagerly anticipated clash.
📋 Marcelo names an unchanged side to the one that drew against Liverpool, but Summerville and Greenwood feature on the bench— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 25, 2021

TELL ME MORENO
Manchester United target Pau Torres has been asking his teammates what it’s like to play for a big club – and one of them is Alberto Moreno.
The ex-Liverpool flop, who joined Torres at Villarreal in 2019, is one of three players to give the 24-year-old some much-needed advice.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Sport, Torres said: “Players who have gone through important clubs, when they talk about an experience they have had, I like to listen to them, both Paco Alcacer and Raul Albiol or Alberto Moreno.
“They tell you things that you have not yet experienced and that you think you would like to experience.”
The Red Devils are said to be keen on signing the centre back, with reports suggesting a £52million bid may be imminent.
Real Madrid, however, are also believed to interested in the Spain international and may challenge the Premier League side for his signature.

RED-DY TO GO!
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ready for a serious challenge at Leeds this afternoon.
Manchester United travel to Elland Road for the 2pm kick-off and the Norwegian warned his side they have to be prepared physically and mentally.

WAYNE LEFT ON BENCH – EXCLUSIVE
Wayne Rooney was consigned to the bench as he waited for his dinner with wife Coleen.
The Derby boss, 35, looked deep in thought while his other half, also 35, studied her phone.
The pair had popped out with their Pomeranian Pip to collect a food order from a café near their home in Prestbury, Cheshire.
It came as Wayne vowed to back Coleen ‘all the way’ in her Wagatha Christie court fight.
A source told The Sun Online last year: “Wayne and Coleen Rooney are stronger than ever after spending lockdown together.
“This is the longest time they have spent together uninterrupted since they got married, and Coleen has fallen in love with Wayne all over again. She says that she now remembers what a wonderful, caring companion he is – and an amazing dad to the boys.”

BLANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND – EXCLUSIVE
Thierry Henry hailed his ‘happiest moment’ as English football unites in a stand against racism and all online abuse.
The Prem, EFL and the women’s game will boycott Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over four days next weekend.
From 3pm on Friday, April 30, through to the end of Bank Holiday Monday on May 3, every club will switch off their social media accounts.
Prem legend Henry has been at the forefront of the fight after removing himself from social media last month.
He said: “English football coming off social media is a powerful statement. Everything that tries to destroy the beauty and the happiness of our game — we should fight it.
“This is my happiest moment. Football stands for something. Not only money. What happened with the European Super League was about standing up for values — and so is this.”

PREM PLEA
Manchester United and Arsenal are monitoring Borussia Monchengladbach striker Alassane Plea, according to reports.
The 28-year-old France international has scored five Bundesliga goals this term and will reportedly cost around £15million.
According to the Daily Mail, Plea wants to leave the German giants this summer and, with only one year left on his current deal, will be available for a relatively low price.
Gladbach paid £21m for the player back in 2018 when he arrived from Nice, having previously been linked with a move to Arsenal.
At the time there were also reports linking Plea with both West Ham and Tottenham. It is believed Arsenal are concerned about losing star strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer.
Plea has scored 27 goals in 87 Bundesliga games since leaving Nice three years ago. The versatile forward, who can be deployed out wide, picked up his one and only France cap in November 2018.

HEAT-ING UP – EXCLUSIVE
Manchester United will look to old boy Tom Heaton if Sam Johnstone does not fancy a return.
Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his Old Trafford transfer team are looking for an experienced cover keeper.
And West Brom’s Johnstone, 28 — who was registered with United from 2009 to 2018 — is their first choice. He would need to think he had a chance of playing regularly.
But while Johnstone is the clear number one target, United have also been checking out the interest and availability of another former employee who is out of favour just now and may be more keen.
Aston Villa’s Heaton, 35, is in the frame after losing his place to Emi Martinez. He is the type of solid pro who would fit the bill.
Like Johnstone, Heaton was a youth keeper at Old Trafford and stayed on their books until 2010. The new stopper would have to be happy as an understudy but with the ability to quickly step into the first team.

FOSTER CARE – EXCLUSIVE
Manchester City are looking for a new keeper to push Brazilian No 1 Ederson next season.
Ex-Manchester United stopper Ben Foster, 38, fits the bill but may take some persuading to move just to sit on the bench. Foster has played 22 times for the Hornets this season as they sealed their return to the Premier League on Saturday.
American Zack Steffen may be loaned out for experience after doubts crept in about whether he was ready to come in when top-choice Ederson was missing.
Those questions were raised before Steffen’s error in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea, which cost his club a chance of the Quadruple. The 26-year-old had previously prompted doubts about his consistency and maturity, so the search for another keeper was already up and running.
It is a hard vacancy to fill as most keepers want regular first-team action. City may go for an experienced option who is happy to wait for his turn.
Scott Carson, 35, is the club’s current third-choice stopper but will return to Derby at the end of the campaign.

LEEDING THE WAY
Man Utd head to Elland Road in the 2pm kick-off today.
The rivalry used to be fierce the last time the Whites were in the Premier League and both sets of fans will be desperate to win this one.
Coming off the back of a stunning win at Manchester City before a 1-1 draw with Liverpool, Marcelo Bielsa’s men will be hoping to avoid defeat once again against a member of the renegade six.
Leeds will leapfrog Arsenal into ninth with a win while United will all but confirm their Champions League spot next season if they pick up all three points.

BACK IN THE RED
The Glazers will accept no less than £4BILLION to sell Manchester United, according to reports.
The Super League debacle has already cost United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward his job – with the former JP Morgan banker leaving at the end of 2021.
But it will take more than fan protests – where Red Devils fans burned American flags – to get the Glazer brothers out of Old Trafford, according to the Mirror.
The Florida-based family want £4bn to even consider walking away – the figure they think they would have got if the Super League had gone ahead.
They only paid £790million for the Red Devils in 2005. And if they manage to find a buyer willing to match their asking price, they stand to make more than 400 per cent profit on their initial investment.
Throughout their unpopular reign, club debt has remained high while the brothers’ pocketed multi-million pound annual dividends. And that is why it would take such a staggering sum to make them sell up, according to city investors cited by the Mirror.

GOOD MORNING MAN UNITED FANS
Here are your main headlines this Sunday morning:
Thousands of United fans protested against the Glazers outside Old Trafford yesterday, burning an American flag at one stage.
Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has insisted the controversial owners will not sell the club – despite their embarrassing European Super League climbdown.
Avram Grant has refused to apologise for the affair – and his perceived lack of respect for the United faithful was certainly recognised in Manchester yesterday.
Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez has warned United and the rest of the so-called ‘Big Six’ they cannot leave the ESL and the competition still exists.
Although the ESL may not be coming to Old Trafford any time soon, Tom Heaton might as SunSport’s Alan Nixon understands the Red Devils have identified the Aston Villa goalkeeper as cover.
And Heaton isn’t the only Villa player linked with United as they are said to be tracking wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka.

GLAZER TAG
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford in a bid to remove club’s owners

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MANCHESTER UNITED fans are set to protest against the Glazer family ahead of their match against Liverpool on May 2.We’ve got an exclusive update on Tom Heaton’s return to Old Trafford, while Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes could be set for new deals.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
GLAZER TAG
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford in a bid to remove club’s owners

BLANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Thierry Henry hailed his ‘happiest moment’ as English football unites in a stand against racism and all online abuse.
The Prem, EFL and the women’s game will boycott Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over four days next weekend.
From 3pm on Friday, April 30, through to the end of Bank Holiday Monday on May 3, every club will switch off their social media accounts.
Prem legend Henry has been at the forefront of the fight after removing himself from social media last month.

GIGGS’ NEW LOVE
Ryan Giggs has found love with a lingerie model — as he waits to appear in court charged with assaulting two women, including his ex-girlfriend.
The former Manchester United star, 47, was seen out with Zara Charles, 33, in Hale, Cheshire, days before he was also charged with coercive and controlling behaviour against ex Kate Greville, 36.
A source said: “Zara has been supporting Ryan over the last few months.
“She’s a great, upbeat girl. Ryan has been completely open with her about his situation. They seem very strong together.”
Giggs was, on Friday, charged with assaulting two women.
One alleged victim is his ex Kate and the other — a woman in her twenties — is believed to be her younger sister.

MANCHESTER LADS
Could you imagine playing for United AND City?
Well, here are just a handful of players that have crossed the Manchester divide during their playing days – including legendary goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

KYL THE THREAT
United are the only team Kylian Mbappe has faced at least twice this season without managing to score.
Not a bad stat for the Red Devils…
Credit: Getty
SHAW TO GET MORE
Luke Shaw is set to receive a reported £40k pay rise.
According to the Daily Star, the United defender will be offered a new £190,000-a-week deal to keep him at Old Trafford until 2026.
Shaw has been one of the team’s best players this season, making 40 appearances in all competitions.
Gareth Southgate says Luke Shaw’s passes are beautiful after England win
SIX MORE?
The last time United played Leeds they hammered them 6-2 at Old Trafford.
Will we see a similar scoreline tomorrow?

THE FINAL SIX
United’s final Premier League fixtures are as follows:
Tomorrow: Leeds United (a)
Sunday, May 2: Liverpool (h)
Sunday, May 9: Aston Villa (a)
Tuesday, May 11: Leicester City (h)
Saturday, May 15 (TBC): Fulham (h)
Sunday, May 23: Wolves (a)
And here’s how they’ve performed in the league to date…

BIG WIN FOR YOUNGSTERS
United’s U18 have beaten Wolves 5-1 at Carrington.
Charlie McNeill and Zidane Iqbal both scored twice and there was also a goal for Dillon Hoogewerf.
The result puts United top of the U18 Premier League North table.
Here’s the best of the action…
🏁 FT — #MUAcademy U18s: #MUFC 5 Wolves 1.Neil Ryan’s side produce an emphatic response to last weekend’s defeat, with Charlie McNeill (2), Zidane Iqbal (2) and Dillon Hoogewerf all on the scoresheet for United. pic.twitter.com/pnNADpC387— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 24, 2021

SECOND PROTEST COMING
Today won’t be the last time we’ll see United fans complaining about the Glazers.
Rumours on Twitter suggest another protest is scheduled for next Sunday ahead of United’s home match against Liverpool.
And as Liverpool fans are also furious at their owners, could we see the two fan bases protesting together?
Stranger things have happened in the last week.
Here is SunSport’s report from today’s events at Old Trafford.
NEW ERROR
Thousands of ‘New Era’ Super League football shirts have been put on sale for just £2 after the competition’s calamitous collapse.
Last Sunday, it was revealed 12 clubs had signed up for the controversial breakaway tournament.
But by Tuesday, the European Super League was dead in the water after NINE clubs – including all of the Premier League’s Big Six – withdrew following an incredible fan backlash.
However, within that 48-hour window, a well-known high street store had designed a ‘New Era’ football shirt for each of the six English clubs involved.
The unnamed chain bought a staggering 70,000 tops and had planned to sell them for £29.99.
However, Wholesale Clearance UK have now decided to take the jerseys off their hands and try to sell them themselves for just £2, a sensational 93 per cent price slash.
Credit: NC
FAN OF THAT
Manchester United star Nemanja Matic has hailed his manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for showing ‘we respect our supporters’ by confronting angry protesters this week.
A group of fuming fans stormed Carrington on Thursday morning, in protest at the club’s decision to break away as part of the European Super League.
The fans brought banners with them, featuring anti-board messages including ‘Glazers Out’ and ’51 % MUFC 20′.
Matic and Solskjaer, as well as ex-players Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher confronted the angry supporters.
And the Serbian, 32, believes that the incident is a ‘positive thing’.
He told Sky Sports: “We saw the fans here in our training ground and that was very nice from our manager to decide to go out and speak to them.”
Credit: Getty
UNITED FANS BURN AMERICAN FLAG
The protest is in full flow at Old Trafford.
A video has emerged on Twitter of United fans burning the American flag.
The protesters are desperate to see the back of their American owners – the Glazers – following the failed European Super League plot.
Here’s the video…

COME HERE CHUK
Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring Aston Villa prodigy Carney Chukwuemeka, reports claim.
The midfielder, 17, is an emerging talent at Villa Park and is edging closer to first-team action, having featured on the bench against City on Wednesday.
And he is very highly rated by his current club, with chief executive Christian Purslow describing Chukwuemeka as ‘probably the best 16-year-old in England’ last year.
A number of clubs have now joined the Manchester clubs in taking an interest, The Guardian claims.
Monaco, PSV Eindhoven and RB Leipzig are all believed to be tracking the youngster, with the latter no strangers to pinching young English talent.
Juventus and Bayern Munich have also been linked to the wonderkid in the past.

39 YEARS OF WHITESIDE
It’s 39 years since Norman Whiteside made his Manchester United debut as a 16-year-old.
The Northern Ireland international went on to become a legend at Old Trafford, winning two FA Cups before joining Everton in 1989.
Injury forced him to retire aged just 26 – yet he remains a cult hero among United fans.
WOW on this day 39 years ago I was honoured as a 16 year old boy to make my debut for Man Utd the best football club in the world , a day I will never forget :)— Norman Whiteside (@NormanWhiteside) April 24, 2021

CROWD’S GROWING
Rumours are emerging on Twitter that more people have turned up to the protest.
As many as 5,000 people could be campaigning against the Glazers at Old Trafford.
And the crowd could get very big, very quickly.
Thousands of Arsenal fans protested against Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates last night.
Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
3,000 AT OLD TRAFFORD PROTEST
A video of this afternoon’s protest has emerged on Twitter, claiming ‘at least 3,000’ are currently in attendance.
The United Trinity statue of George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton has been covered by scarves and a sign that reads ‘GLAZERS OUT’.
Gold and green flares – an ode to the club’s original colours – have been lit and famous United chants can be heard.
Here’s the breaking news story.

SOL DESTROYING
Rio Ferdinand has opened up on the ribbing he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his £30million move to Manchester United in 2002.
The England star set a record as most expensive defender ever at the time as he swapped Leeds United for Old Trafford.
And the United dressing room, including current boss Solskjaer, demanded the highest standards immediately.
Speaking to the Mail, Ferdinand revealed that he immediately found passes being fired at his shins in training, as his new team-mates tested his skills. And when one didn’t stick, there was hell to pay.
Ferdinand, 42, said: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the one who immediately went, ’30mill? Really? Wow’.
“It was intimidating but you have to cope. I have seen players walk in for England or United and you can see the fear. They can’t deal with it.”

SEEING RED
Manchester United fans have headed to Old Trafford in their droves to protest against the club owners.
Supporters are furious following the foiled plans for the European Super League.
Red Devil fans arranged the protest on Twitter for 3pm on Saturday – exactly 123 years after the club was founded.
Manchester United even shut the Old Trafford megastore earlier in the afternoon ahead of the expected protests.
The loyal fanbase were vocal in their anger towards American owners The Glazers which was further fuelled following the fallout of the ESL.
They set off smoke bombs, chanted against the Glazers and held banners such as ‘Glazer Out Now’ and ‘Enough is Enough.’

KLOWNING AROUND
Gary Lineker has hit out at Jurgen Klopp for being ‘spectacularly tone deaf’ over the European Super League fallout.
The Liverpool boss was further asked his thoughts following the fierce backlash and collapse of the money-making farce.
A hundred or so angry Liverpool fans protested against their American owners before kick-off against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal and Chelsea supporters protested outside their stadiums while a group of Manchester United fans also blocked the player’s access to the Carrington training ground – all in protest against the ESL plans.
Klopp was eager to remind supporters that the blame lies only at the feet of the owners while asking the public to ‘calm down’ with their opinions.
Lineker was far from impressed with Klopp’s reasoning and believe the fans have every right to continue making their voices heard.

“You all have to calm down. It’s winding people up.””Nobody wanted it. Definitely. But now let’s deal with it.”A passionate Jurgen Klopp on dealing with, and moving forward from the European Super League fallout.🎙 @TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/2xMFzfIPUt— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

RAPH AND READY
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes always talks about rumoured target Raphinha, team-mate Fred has revealed.
The Leeds United winger is reportedly on the Red Devils’ radar, having impressed since joining Marcelo Bielsa’s side from Rennes. And having played alongside Raphinha at Sporting Lisbon, Fernandes hasn’t forgotten his talent.
Fred, who played for Raphinha’s boyhood club Internacional, told Man United’s official website: “Bruno’s been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived. They played together at Sporting.
“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him. I met him recently, great guy, excellent player but… I hope he won’t be lining up against us!
“I wish him a quick recovery and a lot of success in his career. He’s a stand-out star player for Leeds so, of course, it’s better for us if he’s not on the pitch.
“If he does play, we’ll look to mark him carefully and work on our game-plan as best as possible. We’ll try to nullify his threat to come out on top in this game.”
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes were team-mates at Sporting
‘NO TIME TO RELAX’
Mason Greenwood has lauded the impact Marcus Rashford and Edinson Cavani have had on him at Manchester United.
The young forward said: “You couldn’t ask for anyone better with Marcus being in a similar situation that I have, and then there’s Cavani who has won it all.
“He’s played for a number of years and it’s perfect timing for him to come into the club really at the time he did. He’s helped me a lot this season – he speaks to me sometimes and tries to help me work on my heading and stuff like that. He’s a nice lad and I’m very pleased that he’s here.
“You always need the older players in the team who have done it all and then you’ve got the younger players looking up to them and you feed on stuff they’ve done. You just watch them in training and you add it to your game.
“You’ve got the likes of Nemanja [Matic] who has won Premier Leagues with Chelsea, you’ve got Juan [Mata] who has played for many years. You’ve got Bruno [Fernandes] in behind you in that 10 position and he’s always talking, always giving me tips on playing. You’ve got a lot of older players you can just watch and take note of.
“We’re all good players here at United, so there is never time to relax because there could be that kid coming up who wants to take your position; you’ve got to always want to keep fighting. You’ve got to always want to play football and I always want to play for United, and be the player scoring goals for Manchester United.”

AV THAT UNITED
Avram Glazer refused to apologise to Manchester United fans over the European Super League plot.
And when asked whether he will sell the club, the Red Devils co-chairman ‘snapped’ in response. The Mirror tracked down the American near his £16million six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.
He was approached by a reporter as he visited a pharmacy in a black t-shirt, grey jeans and red trainers while driving his big, white Jeep Wrangler.
Glazer, 60, had not been seen since his club confirmed their intention to join the controversial breakaway competition last Sunday and subsequent withdrawal within 48 hours.
The Mirror reporter repeatedly asked him if he wanted to say sorry to fans – but he declined.
He was then asked if he would sell United following the debacle but the report adds he snapped back: “No comment.” Glazer got into his car alongside wife Jill and sped off and returned home.

‘READY TO FIGHT’
Manchester United star Mason Greenwood says there’s still more to come from him at Old Trafford.
The striker is enjoying an excellent run of form in the team of late, scoring four times in his last three Premier League games.
And he thanked former United academy graduates like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Jesse Lingard for their impact on his career.
He said: “I’ve come a long way really. I always knew I could take the pressure, take it into the first team.
“It’s been a good journey and there have been lots of ups and downs. But I’m only 19 and I’m ready to carry on fighting for the badge and for United. I had Marcus and Scott, Jesse and Paul [Pogba], the likes of them coming up through the academy.
“It’s them just leaving little footprints behind you that you’ve got to follow, do what they did and take it in your stride really and when you come up to the first team it’s like a family anyway, so you just do what you do.”

RED RAGE – BREAKING
Liverpool fans are the latest to launch a furious protest against their club’s owners amid the failed European Super League breakaway.
Supporters descended on Anfield on Saturday morning ahead of the lunchtime kick off against Newcastle.
Banners displaying messages such as ‘Spirit of Shanks, Not Greedy Yanks’ and ‘FSG rats’ were placed for the Reds’ team coach to see on route to the ground.
Liverpool’s American owner John W Henry is refusing to sell the club amid the European Super League fiasco despite widespread calls for him to get out.
Reds legend Jamie Carragher is one of thousands of Liverpool fans calling for the American to leave but the billionaire has dug his heels in and said: “My work is not done.”

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MANCHESTER UNITED fans are set to protest against the Glazer family ahead of their match against Liverpool on May 2.We’ve got an update on a potential swoop for Norwich full-back Max Aarons, while Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes could be set for new deals at Old Trafford.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
39 YEARS OF WHITESIDE
It’s 39 years since Norman Whiteside made his Manchester United debut as a 16-year-old.
The Northern Ireland international went on to become a legend at Old Trafford, winning two FA Cups before joining Everton in 1989.
Injury forced him to retire aged just 26 – yet he remains a cult hero among United fans.
WOW on this day 39 years ago I was honoured as a 16 year old boy to make my debut for Man Utd the best football club in the world , a day I will never forget :)— Norman Whiteside (@NormanWhiteside) April 24, 2021

CROWD’S GROWING
Rumours are emerging on Twitter that more people have turned up to the protest.
As many as 5,000 people could be campaigning against the Glazers at Old Trafford.
And the crowd could get very big, very quickly.
Thousands of Arsenal fans protested against Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates last night.
Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
3,000 AT OLD TRAFFORD PROTEST
A video of this afternoon’s protest has emerged on Twitter, claiming ‘at least 3,000’ are currently in attendance.
The United Trinity statue of George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton has been covered by scarves and a sign that reads ‘GLAZERS OUT’.
Gold and green flares – an ode to the club’s original colours – have been lit and famous United chants can be heard.
Here’s the breaking news story.

SOL DESTROYING
Rio Ferdinand has opened up on the ribbing he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his £30million move to Manchester United in 2002.
The England star set a record as most expensive defender ever at the time as he swapped Leeds United for Old Trafford.
And the United dressing room, including current boss Solskjaer, demanded the highest standards immediately.
Speaking to the Mail, Ferdinand revealed that he immediately found passes being fired at his shins in training, as his new team-mates tested his skills. And when one didn’t stick, there was hell to pay.
Ferdinand, 42, said: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the one who immediately went, ’30mill? Really? Wow’.
“It was intimidating but you have to cope. I have seen players walk in for England or United and you can see the fear. They can’t deal with it.”

SEEING RED
Manchester United fans have headed to Old Trafford in their droves to protest against the club owners.
Supporters are furious following the foiled plans for the European Super League.
Red Devil fans arranged the protest on Twitter for 3pm on Saturday – exactly 123 years after the club was founded.
Manchester United even shut the Old Trafford megastore earlier in the afternoon ahead of the expected protests.
The loyal fanbase were vocal in their anger towards American owners The Glazers which was further fuelled following the fallout of the ESL.
They set off smoke bombs, chanted against the Glazers and held banners such as ‘Glazer Out Now’ and ‘Enough is Enough.’

KLOWNING AROUND
Gary Lineker has hit out at Jurgen Klopp for being ‘spectacularly tone deaf’ over the European Super League fallout.
The Liverpool boss was further asked his thoughts following the fierce backlash and collapse of the money-making farce.
A hundred or so angry Liverpool fans protested against their American owners before kick-off against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal and Chelsea supporters protested outside their stadiums while a group of Manchester United fans also blocked the player’s access to the Carrington training ground – all in protest against the ESL plans.
Klopp was eager to remind supporters that the blame lies only at the feet of the owners while asking the public to ‘calm down’ with their opinions.
Lineker was far from impressed with Klopp’s reasoning and believe the fans have every right to continue making their voices heard.

“You all have to calm down. It’s winding people up.””Nobody wanted it. Definitely. But now let’s deal with it.”A passionate Jurgen Klopp on dealing with, and moving forward from the European Super League fallout.🎙 @TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/2xMFzfIPUt— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

RAPH AND READY
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes always talks about rumoured target Raphinha, team-mate Fred has revealed.
The Leeds United winger is reportedly on the Red Devils’ radar, having impressed since joining Marcelo Bielsa’s side from Rennes. And having played alongside Raphinha at Sporting Lisbon, Fernandes hasn’t forgotten his talent.
Fred, who played for Raphinha’s boyhood club Internacional, told Man United’s official website: “Bruno’s been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived. They played together at Sporting.
“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him. I met him recently, great guy, excellent player but… I hope he won’t be lining up against us!
“I wish him a quick recovery and a lot of success in his career. He’s a stand-out star player for Leeds so, of course, it’s better for us if he’s not on the pitch.
“If he does play, we’ll look to mark him carefully and work on our game-plan as best as possible. We’ll try to nullify his threat to come out on top in this game.”
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes were team-mates at Sporting
‘NO TIME TO RELAX’
Mason Greenwood has lauded the impact Marcus Rashford and Edinson Cavani have had on him at Manchester United.
The young forward said: “You couldn’t ask for anyone better with Marcus being in a similar situation that I have, and then there’s Cavani who has won it all.
“He’s played for a number of years and it’s perfect timing for him to come into the club really at the time he did. He’s helped me a lot this season – he speaks to me sometimes and tries to help me work on my heading and stuff like that. He’s a nice lad and I’m very pleased that he’s here.
“You always need the older players in the team who have done it all and then you’ve got the younger players looking up to them and you feed on stuff they’ve done. You just watch them in training and you add it to your game.
“You’ve got the likes of Nemanja [Matic] who has won Premier Leagues with Chelsea, you’ve got Juan [Mata] who has played for many years. You’ve got Bruno [Fernandes] in behind you in that 10 position and he’s always talking, always giving me tips on playing. You’ve got a lot of older players you can just watch and take note of.
“We’re all good players here at United, so there is never time to relax because there could be that kid coming up who wants to take your position; you’ve got to always want to keep fighting. You’ve got to always want to play football and I always want to play for United, and be the player scoring goals for Manchester United.”

AV THAT UNITED
Avram Glazer refused to apologise to Manchester United fans over the European Super League plot.
And when asked whether he will sell the club, the Red Devils co-chairman ‘snapped’ in response. The Mirror tracked down the American near his £16million six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.
He was approached by a reporter as he visited a pharmacy in a black t-shirt, grey jeans and red trainers while driving his big, white Jeep Wrangler.
Glazer, 60, had not been seen since his club confirmed their intention to join the controversial breakaway competition last Sunday and subsequent withdrawal within 48 hours.
The Mirror reporter repeatedly asked him if he wanted to say sorry to fans – but he declined.
He was then asked if he would sell United following the debacle but the report adds he snapped back: “No comment.” Glazer got into his car alongside wife Jill and sped off and returned home.

‘READY TO FIGHT’
Manchester United star Mason Greenwood says there’s still more to come from him at Old Trafford.
The striker is enjoying an excellent run of form in the team of late, scoring four times in his last three Premier League games.
And he thanked former United academy graduates like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Jesse Lingard for their impact on his career.
He said: “I’ve come a long way really. I always knew I could take the pressure, take it into the first team.
“It’s been a good journey and there have been lots of ups and downs. But I’m only 19 and I’m ready to carry on fighting for the badge and for United. I had Marcus and Scott, Jesse and Paul [Pogba], the likes of them coming up through the academy.
“It’s them just leaving little footprints behind you that you’ve got to follow, do what they did and take it in your stride really and when you come up to the first team it’s like a family anyway, so you just do what you do.”

RED RAGE – BREAKING
Liverpool fans are the latest to launch a furious protest against their club’s owners amid the failed European Super League breakaway.
Supporters descended on Anfield on Saturday morning ahead of the lunchtime kick off against Newcastle.
Banners displaying messages such as ‘Spirit of Shanks, Not Greedy Yanks’ and ‘FSG rats’ were placed for the Reds’ team coach to see on route to the ground.
Liverpool’s American owner John W Henry is refusing to sell the club amid the European Super League fiasco despite widespread calls for him to get out.
Reds legend Jamie Carragher is one of thousands of Liverpool fans calling for the American to leave but the billionaire has dug his heels in and said: “My work is not done.”

FLOR-GET ABOUT IT
Deluded Florentino Perez has warned the Premier League so-called ‘Big Six’ they cannot leave the European Super League.
And the Real Madrid chief continues to insist the widely-hated new breakaway franchise division ‘still exists’
The self-proclaimed ‘saviour of football’ Perez reiterated to AS that Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and the two Manchester clubs are legally tied into the plans and the ESL will go ahead in some format.
He said: “I’m not going to explain now what a binding contract is… But come on, the clubs can’t leave. Some of them, because of pressure, have had to say that they’re leaving.
“But this project or one like it will go forward, and I hope it’s soon. The Super League still exists, and the members are still in it.
“Now we have given ourselves some weeks to think, while we face the violence that some people, who don’t want to lose their privileges, have used to manipulate our project.”

SUN BACK PAGE – ICYMI
In case you missed it, here is today’s Sun back page.
We led of the chasm between West Ham and Chelsea as fallout from the money-grabbing Super League plot rumbles on.
And powerful images of thousands of Arsenal fans protesting against Stan Kroenke showed the strength of feeling among football fans across England.

NO SCORING – EXCLUSIVE
Football fans get less bedroom action when their team loses, research reveals.
Experts found birth rates plunged nine months after a shock defeat.
They think the unexpected losses can trigger changes in key hormones that result in lower libido. Being grumpy over a loss also reduces fans’ chances of getting frisky.
Poor results for a team saw birth rates locally down by 0.8 per cent nine months later. Researchers found the effect was even more dramatic if teams lost a relegation battle or a major European match.
In those cases, nine months later births were down by as much as 1.3 per cent. Scientists analysed 14 years’ worth of data and matched every result in Spain’s La Liga with local birth rates.
By comparing betting odds with actual scores, they could calculate whether or not the result was an upset.

ENA-MORR-ED
Former Manchester United wonderkid Ravel Morrison declared his love for Arsenal again – and is desperate to see them win the Premier League again.
The midfielder, 28, was born and bred in the Wythenshawe area of Manchester – just like fellow Mancunians Marcus Rashford and Tyson Fury.
He came through the youth ranks at United from nine alongside Jesse Lingard and Paul Pogba then went on to make three first-team appearances in the League Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson.
But while he still ‘appreciates’ the Red Devils and many fans still laud his talent, Morrison’s love lies solely with the Gunners.
Speaking to the United fan-run Stretford Paddock podcast, the former West Ham and Lazio man, now a free agent, said: “We’ve got a better team than you. I’m a Gunner. I’m a Gunner.
“I’m not a United fan. I would like United to come second in the league and Arsenal to win the league. I would always want United to be the second team, never to go lower than that. I will always appreciate Manchester United, but obviously, Arsenal would win the league.”

MASTER PLAN
Sir Alex Ferguson reckons Euro 2020-bound Scotland must IGNORE rivals England to storm into the last 16.
Former Scotland boss Fergie has warned Steve Clarke’s stars not to focus on the June 18 showdown with the Auld Enemy at Wembley.
Sir Alex said: “The one thing I would warn against is paying too much attention to the England match. If you get a result in every game, then you will give yourself a chance of qualifying.
“But the England game looks after itself. Getting a result against the Czechs is imperative. A win there and a win against Croatia — who were in the World Cup final — would be so important. I’m hopeful we can do well.
“I’m optimistic. The games coming up in the group will be very tough, you have got to recognise that.
“But the important thing about the home games is having fans back in, even if it’s just 12,000.”

‘LIED 100 TIMES’
Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin says Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli lied to him 100 times in the build up to the European Super League announcement.
He also revealed Ed Woodward called him the Thursday before the announcement to express his agreement with the new Champions League format.
“I can say that the world is flat, but it is not.””And if you think that a Super League of two clubs is a league then you can say that, but that’s quite funny.” UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin on the Super League. #SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/onqZVeX8sw— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) April 22, 2021

KARREN BRADY – EXCLUSIVE
Just in case you think the threat of the European Super League has scotched the privilege of football’s self-chosen few, it hasn’t — not yet.
Uefa, aware of the media-entitled Dirty Dozen’s greed for more, more, more, had taken this into account when they re-drew plans for the Champions League.
Announced the day after the short-lived Super League coup, their plan accepted the right of the dozen to special treatment giving ‘clubs with the highest club coefficient over the last five years’ two places among the 36 in the first round.
This means simply that should, say, Leicester finish sixth in the Premier League and Spurs tenth, then Spurs having the ‘coefficient’ — a coverall word for a decent record and a big reputation — could go through.
Leicester, by the way, have as many Premier League titles as Liverpool, and one more than Spurs. Anyone can see this is not fair. It is a further connivance at gross favouritism and, indeed, a suggestion from Uefa that there were grounds for the breakaway.
There aren’t. The way to win a place must be on the field not in a cabal of men in suits. I watched four of the six give apologies to their fans and players for being part of the money cartel and wondered where the apology was to their colleagues in the Premier League, as well as all our managers, players and fans.

GUN BLAZING
Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan has blasted Uefa and called the revamped Champions League the ‘lesser of two evils’ amid the collapse of the European Super League.
His club announced on Tuesday night they were pulling out of the controversial breakaway after backlash from fans and criticism from players.
And City boss Pep Guardiola even refused to call it sport when quizzed about it.
Two squad members of the Premier League leaders, Kevin De Bruyne and Aymeric Laporte, both used their social media platforms to publicly condemn the proposal earlier in the week.
Now Gundogan has become the latest City star to express his views as he also slammed Uefa’s new format for the Champions League.
The UCL format right now works great and that is why it’s the most popular club competition in the world – for us players and for the fans.— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) April 22, 2021

GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
Manchester United fans are planning a protest against the Glazers before the Liverpool match next month.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hit out at the botched Super League plan. 
The Red Devils beefed up their security after fans broke into the training base at Carrington. 
Former United winger Ryan Giggs has been charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend after a row. It has ruled him out of taking charge of Wales’ Euro 2020 campaign this summer.
United face competition from clubs including West Ham and Tottenham for Norwich defender Max Aarons.Former United striker Louis Saha believes the club need to sign Harry Kane or Erling Haaland to compete for the Premier League title.
Old Trafford missed out on potentially staging Euro 2020 matches because of summer pitch work planned for the ground. 
AMAD DELIVERS
Manchester United fans will be happy to see rising star Amad score during the Under-23s’ 4-2 win over Chelsea tonight.
The United winger netted a superb free-kick to help the side overcome Chelsea.
Shola Shoretire also continued his impressive progress with two goals in the Red Devils’ win.

EDIN OFF
A reminder that Edinson Cavani appears to have his heart set on moving on this summer and returning to South America.
Boca Juniors are reportedly in the driving seat to land the Manchester United striker.
Credit: Reuters
The 34-year-old is out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of the season and wants to be closer to his family.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer praised Cavani recently and opened up on his contract situation.
He said: “For a new lad who doesn’t speak English and not having his family over here, of course [returning to South America] is in the back of his head.
“If he decides it’s just the season then we’d be very happy to have had him here.
“We’ve had up front and honest meetings. It’s no secret we want to keep him. I don’t think it’s any secret too that this has been a difficult year for everyone.”
GREAT SCOT
Sir Alex Ferguson is a big fan of Manchester United’s Scott McTominay and has been delighted by his progress.
The former Red Devils manager revealed he was the man who brought the midfielder to Old Trafford, aged around seven or eight.
Credit: The Sun
Ferguson told the Scottish FA: “McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players.
“When you watch United pick a team for a big game, McTominay is in it.
“Good character, great trainer, I know a little bit about the boy.
“I signed him when he was seven or eight. He was actually a centre-forward as a kid. He has sprouted, a little bit like Darren [Fletcher] when he first came.
“McTominay is a similar type as Darren, long, lanky, good winner of the ball, good turn of pace going forward, great attitude to the game.”
GIGGS VOWS TO CLEAR NAME
Ryan Giggs has vowed to clear his name after being charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville after a row.
The former Man Utd star was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm against PR exec Kate.
He faces an additional charge of coercive and controlling behaviour between December 2017 and November 2020.
Giggs has also been charged with a second count of assault against another woman aged in her 20s following the alleged bust-up at his home.
In a statement, Giggs said: “I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations.
“I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name.
“I would like to wish Robert Page, the coaching staff, the players andthe supporters every success at the Euros this summer.”
Credit: Getty Images – Getty
WELSH CHAOS
Ryan Giggs will miss out on leading Wales at Euro 2020 after the former Manchester United star was charged with coercive control and assault on his ex-girlfriend.
The Crown Prosecution announced their decision this afternoon into the alleged incident at Giggs’ home in Manchester last November.
Robert Page will continue to take charge of Wales, on a temporary basis, with his role extending to the duration of this summer’s tournament.
The Welsh FA released a statement which said: “The Football Association of Wales has noted the decision of The Crown Prosecution Service to proceed with charging Ryan Giggs, the Men’s National Team Manager.
“In light of this decision, the FAW can confirm that Robert Page will assume the role of Cymru Men’s National Team manager for this summer’s EURO 2020 tournament and will be assisted by Albert Stuivenberg.
“An FAW Board meeting will be convened to discuss these developments and its impact on the Association and the National Team.”
Credit: AFP or licensors
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