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      Inside Marcus Rashford’s demise from one of football’s biggest stars to a £60m problem for Man Utd

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      EIGHTEEN months ago, having signed a contract worth £84.5million, it seemed Marcus Rashford could do no wrong.Now, with the transfer window closing on Monday night, the Manchester United striker faces being left out in the cold for the rest of the season — with only the size of his bank balance for comfort.Marcus Rashford faces being left out in the cold for the rest of the seasonCredit: BackGridVideo grabs show Rashford in Belfast heading into a nightclubRashford’s car crash after the Burnley game in 2023It’s a dramatic change of fortune for the former academy prodigy, who scored 30 goals in 56 games before signing a five-year deal in 2023.The life-changing contract guaranteed Rashford £325,000 a week if he stayed at Old Trafford until 2028 — and millions more in bonuses if he helped Manchester United back to its glory days by winning trophies.With 178 weeks left on his contract, he is guaranteed to earn £57.85million — unless he leaves the club.Off the pitch, his campaigning on child food poverty earned Marcus widespread plaudits and an MBE.Read More on SportThe footballer also became a bestselling children’s author too, with his Breakfast Club novels drawing on his own upbringing in Wythenshawe, Manchester.Not bad for a kid from a tough part of town who made his Old Trafford debut in 2016 aged just 18.But now Rashford, 27, has become a £60million problem for United.The Sun understands the multi-millionaire player may have met his match in the club’s billionaire minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who he feels wants him out as part of his cost-cutting regime.Most read in Football‘He feels picked on’And the speed of the star striker’s fall to persona non grata has left him “bewildered and devastated”, a source said.They added: “Marcus thinks Sir Jim wants him out of the club and has basically told head coach Ruben Amorim to get him out.’It must be embarrassing,’ says Wayne Rooney as he opens up on seeing Marcus Rashford on visit to Carrington“He might just have met his match with Sir Jim.”The England international has been bombed out of the team for the past 12 games under Amorim and is likely to miss a 13th on Sunday when United play Crystal Palace.The first signs of Rashford’s demise from one of football’s biggest stars to the founding member of United’s “Bomb squad” can be traced back well before Amorim’s recent arrival.Respected United We Stand fanzine editor Andy Mitten recently told TalkSport: “Every previous manager has had issues with Rashford. They’ve told me in confidence going back years and years and years.”Under Erik ten Hag, he was twice admonished by the Dutchman for nights out.He described Rashford enjoying himself at Manchester’s Chinawhite following a 3-0 defeat by Man City in October 2023 as “unacceptable”.Three months later, Rashford was fined two weeks’ wages after calling in sick for training after a tequila-fuelled two-night bender in Belfast.His career on the pitch has never recovered, while off it further problems have mounted up.In July he was given a six-month driving ban after being caught doing 104 mph on the M60 in December 2023.District judge Lucy Hogarth handed him six penalty points which saw him banned, as he had already been hit with six points in February 2023 after exceeding the 20mph limit in Manchester city centre.And in September 2023 his Rolls Royce was written off after he collided with a grandmother while driving home late at night.Work on a luxury mansion on a former golf course has also placed a strain on Rashford’s finances and appears to have ground to a halt, with the property lying empty.New Utd manager Ruben Amorim gives instructions to RashfordCredit: APRashford and his mum MelanieCredit: APPrince William awarded Rashford an MBE in 2021 for his work on child food povertyCredit: PAFamily relations have also been put under strain when his agent brother Dane was arrested — and later cleared — on suspicion of domestic assault while on holiday in Miami in November 2023.Marcus and his other brother and fellow agent Dwayne attempted to distance themselves from Dane before he was brought back into the fold ahead of a potential transfer.Rashford — awarded an MBE in 2021 for his work on child food poverty — has always maintained football always comes first.But his off-pitch distractions have coincided with an extended loss of form which has seen some fans turn on the star, posting videos on social media of him highlighting what they say is a lack of commitment. Portuguese manager Amorim this week warned: “Rashford has to change. We have to set some standards.“We are waiting for Marcus if he wants it really bad.”Rashford has to change. We have to set some standards. We are waiting for Marcus if he wants it really badRuben AmorimDays earlier, Amorim said he would rather pick his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach than a player “who doesn’t give the maximum every day”.The insider added: “Marcus feels like he is being picked on.“In the early days of training under Amorim, he was trying to learn new systems and other players were also struggling — but he was the one who was getting more vocal criticism.“He knows he needs to leave but he’s shocked that no big team has pulled out all the stops to get him. There’s been interest but financially it’s a complicated deal and that’s put quite a few teams off.“Marcus has been left bewildered by how quickly his relationship with Amorim has disintegrated.”Just 13 days after Amorim started at United in November, Rashford scored against Ipswich within two minutes of kick-off.Rashford teamed up with fashion house Burberry to get kids readingCredit: The Mega AgencyA source said: ‘Marcus thinks Sir Jim wants him out of the club and has basically told manager Ruben Amorim to get him out’Credit: PAHe got two more goals against Everton on December 1 and praised the new manager’s “exciting” ideas.The Sun can reveal problems between Amorim and Rashford came to a head when the manager accused him of going out two nights before the Everton game.During a tense conversation, Amorim accused Rashford of behaving unprofessionally. The source said: “Marcus got called in by the manager who said he believed he had breached discipline by going out.“Marcus denied it and was adamant he had done nothing wrong. He asked the manager to show him the proof he’d been out and said something along the lines of, ‘Are you calling me a liar?’“Their relationship has never recovered, and it’s hard to see how it ever will now.”The pair endured an uneasy truce before Amorim dropped Rashford — and winger Alejandro Garnacho — from the squad for the derby game against City on December 15, which United won 2-1.Their relationship has never recovered, and it’s hard to see how it ever will nowSun sourceAfterwards Amorim explained his decision, saying: “The performance in training, the way you eat, the way you push your team-mates — everything is important at the beginning of something.”Two days later, Rashford hit back with an unscheduled interview which caught the club by surprise.Visiting his former primary school to hand out Christmas presents, he told journalist Henry Winter: “I think I’m ready for a new challenge.“When I leave it’s going to be ‘no hard feelings’. You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United.“If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse.“I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person. When I leave I’ll make a statement and it will be from me. I don’t have any regrets from the last nine years.”This week Winter said: “Rashford is on a lot of money. For Amorim to invest in the squad and for the type of players he wants, they need to move some players out.”Rashford, who has few close friends in the dressing room, has been advised by United legend Wayne Rooney to find a new club.Rashford is on a lot of money. For Amorim to invest in the squad and for the type of players he wants, they need to move some players outHenry WinterWayne said on the Stick To Football podcast: “I’ve spoken to Marcus a couple of times.“For him to have a fresh start, he needs to leave the club. The fact that your manager is coming out and saying that you’re not training right is crazy.”The comments came after Rashford’s brothers Dwayne and Dane spent the last few weeks courting top European clubs including AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona in an attempt to strike a move away from Old Trafford.A £35million-a-year contract from an unnamed Saudi club has also been mooted but was turned down as Rashford still hopes to add to his 60 England international caps.Now the rumour mill is tipping him for a move to Aston Villa.‘I’ve made sacrifices’Understanding Rashford’s current mindset is difficult, with the player keeping his cards close to his chest and only trusting a small circle of mostly family members who help with his career.But in February 2024, the player gave a rare insight by penning an article for the Player’s Tribune.He said: “I’m a human being. I’ve made mistakes that a lot of lads in their 20s make, and I’ve tried to learn from them. But I’ve also made sacrifices that nobody sees.“Money is not what keeps you playing through the hard times. It’s the love of the game, plain and simple.“If you back me, good. If you doubt me, even better.”Rashford, who has won the FA Cup twice with United, is regarded by some at the club as a player who struggles to build relationships and lacks leadership skills.The disconnect was highlighted recently when pictures were released of Rashford greeting teammates in the dressing room ahead of United’s clash against Newcastle United on December 30 — while still wearing his headphones.Sir Jim and Rashford can only hope that over the next 48 hours, they can reach a mutually satisfactory conclusion, because rekindling the once-warm relationship between club and player seems unlikely.Our source said: “Marcus is determined that he’s not going to do what the club want to do unless it is the right thing for him.READ MORE SUN STORIES“There is no happiness any more. Marcus is a £60million problem for United. But the onus is on the club to solve it.”Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Rashford became a bestselling children’s author too, with his Breakfast Club novels drawing on his own upbringing in Wythenshawe, ManchesterCredit: Amazon More

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      I was on Jobseeker’s Allowance and earning £60 a week – I never thought I’d end up playing in the Premier League

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      JORDAN HUGILL used to sign on the dole and queue up every two weeks for his giro.And when he did get a job — pulling pints in a Middlesbrough boozer — the idea of becoming a professional footballer felt like a pipe dream.Jordan Hugill never thought he’d make it to the PremLittle did he expect he would rack up 412 appearances —  and 92 goals.Rotherham striker Hugill went from earning £120 a fortnight to a reported £30,000 a week.And he is proud of a career that saw him get a £10million move to West Ham and £5m switch to Norwich, play in the Prem and win promotion from the Championship with the Canaries as well as from League One with Preston.Now the 31-year-old has his heart set on helping the Millers return to the Championship and win the EFL Trophy.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHugill — who has appeared for 17 different clubs in his 15-year career — said: “When I was 19, I was on Jobseeker’s Allowance so I’ve been on one hell of a journey.“Back then I never thought I would be a footballer, let alone make it to the Premier League.“That’s something no one can take away from me. I’m proud of what I’ve done and achieved and I’d like to think I’ve still got a good number of years to go.”Hugill hit rock bottom after damaging his ACL while playing for non-league Whitby and was out for ten months. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd his gloom was only exasperated by being out of work.He added: “I didn’t have a job, was visiting an NHS physio and it was at that point I said, ‘I can’t do this any more’ so got a job behind the bar at The Dickens Inn in Middlesbrough.EFL star, 24, ‘REFUSES to show up for game’ over transfer speculation weeks after shocking Premier League side“I worked as a barman for two years before getting my big break at Port Vale.”But after playing for the Valiants and Preston — as well as doing the hard yards on loan at the likes of Tranmere and  Hartlepool — he got another massive opportunity thanks to David Moyes.Seven years ago yesterday Hugill completed his move to West Ham   during Moyes’ first spell with the club — a brief six-month relegation firefighting mission.Hugill said: “Moyes was brilliant with me. He understood I wasn’t a signing that was going to  light the world on fire.I didn’t have a job, was visiting an NHS physio and it was at that point I said, ‘I can’t do this any more’ so got a job behind the bar at The Dickens Inn in Middlesbrough.Jordan Hugill“He knew with time he was going to develop me, so I was working with him every day to improve, and I got to be the best I’ve ever been.“Then at the end of the season they didn’t renew his contract, and I was left in the dark when Manuel Pellegrini came in.”After loan spells with West Brom and Cardiff, Hugill joined Rotherham two years ago — and helped the club stay in the Championship before they eventually went down last summer.This season he has mainly been used as a sub in the league.Striker Hugill joined West Ham for £10million in 2018He has come off the bench 14 times while making four starts — managing  a single goal against Stevenage back in October.Hugill is expected to be on the bench again as the Millers travel to leaders Birmingham today, sitting seven points off the play-offs.However, he has featured prominently in the EFL Trophy games — scoring four goals from four starts.And he hopes to shoot Rotherham into the semi-finals by beating League Two opponents Bradford at New York Stadium on Tuesday.Hugill continued: “I’ve enjoyed playing in the trophy games because I’ve not only been starting, I’ve been scoring too.“When I look back on my career, I’ve achieved an awful lot.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve got a Championship winners medal, I’ve got a League One promotion medal, I’ve got a nice case with a ball in it  that says I’ve made a Premier League appearance.“It would be great to add another medal to that collection.”Hugill was given a chance by David Moyes during his first managerial stint at West Ham More

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      Watch as notorious Ferencvaros ultras disguise themselves as STEWARDS to launch brutal brawl on rival AZ Alkmaar fans

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      THIS is the shocking moment notorious Ferencvaros ultras disguise themselves as stewards and launch a surprise brawl against their European rivals.Ferencvaros, often dubbed Hungary’s most feared football fans, kicked off a huge melee with AZ Alkmaar supporters in their tense Europa League clash on Thursday. The fake security managed to get close enough to the AZ Alkmaar fans through teir high visibility jacketsCredit: X/@thecasualultraDrinks were thrown at the raging crowds from both sides of the standsCredit: X/@footbalIfightsThe hooligan security managed to mix in with the actual security teams to pull off the brazen planCredit: X/@thecasualultraRiot police ended up being called in to deal with the clashesCredit: X/@thecasualultraThe Hungarian champions narrowly won the game 4-3 despite a late AZ Alkmaar surge in extra time when they scored twice.But the action on the pitch was overshadowed by fighting up in the stands.Footage shows dozens of Ferencvaros ultras secretly dressed up in high visibility security jackets making their way down the stairs in Budapest’s Groupama Arena.Their sneaky plan saw them mix in with the actual security policing the away end to keep any trouble at bay between the two sets of supporters.read more in hooliganism The large group of men managed to get as close as possible to the AZ Alkmaar fans before punches were thrown – sparking chaos in the stands.Both sets of supporters then appear to start launching strikes at each other in the brutal brawl.Onlooking fans from either side of the railings quickly noticed the fighting with drinks soon flying in from several angles at the fiery crowd.The genuine security teams in place could be seen trying to break up the brawl as the melee continued on for some time.Most read in FootballRiot police equipped with protective visors and batons were soon forced to be drafted in as the fake security broke through into the stands.The Europa League game between Ferencvaros and AZ Alkmaar was always tipped to be a highly intense affair due to the history of both sides.Moment shocking brawl breaks out at Old Trafford as Rangers fans ‘infiltrate Man Utd end’ with club set to investigate Ferencvaros’ fans have long been considered one of the most violent teams in Central Europe over past altercations. Governing body UEFA have sanctioned the club on several occasions in the past.Hooligans linked to the club reportedly stabbed four Millwall fans in 2004 before a UEFA Cup match.Uefa also charged the club over crowd trouble and racist abuse directed towards Millwall players.Then in 2013, fans also fought with police after a friendly match against Leeds United.AZ Alkmaar away days are also known to English fans as a potentially volatile trip.In 2023, hooded AZ Alkmaar yobs smashed down barriers to storm their own main stand via two sets of stairs and attack West Ham supporters. Several West Ham players, including sporting director Mark Noble, rushed to help protect them from the thugs – who were dressed in black and wearing balaclavas.There were also clashes between West Ham and AZ fans ahead of kick-off, who again were masked as they caused mayhem on the streets of Alkmaar.A local news outlet described it being a “grim atmosphere” before and during the match.AZ’s hooliganism is said to stem from the club’s early days with a group known as the “Ben Side” supporters.The name refers to where the group sits in the Jan van der Ben stand, which was named after a predecessor club’s chairman.The group claims they “made their mark for the first time” during an away match at Feyenoord in 1977, according to an AZ supporter website.There they clashed with opposition fans, throwing beer bottles and cans at players.In another notorious meeting, the group clashed with Haarlem in June 1977.Riots ensued over the game, with many supporters brining knives, and cops later made several arrests.READ MORE SUN STORIESA 16-year-old was stabbed and around 28 people arrested during a particularly horrific altercation in March 1986 between AZ and PSV fans.The teenager, a PSV fan who was not identified, was rushed to hospital.AZ Alkmaar away days are also known to English fans as a potentially volatile trip after fights broke out in 2023 with West Ham supportersCredit: GettyThe AZ Alkmaar brawl saw masked and hoodied yobs attackCredit: Getty More

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      Arne Slot facing challenge to rebuild bridges with Darwin Nunez after Liverpool rejected mega-money Al Nassr bid

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      ARNE SLOT faces a challenge to build bridges with Darwin Nunez after Liverpool blocked a big-money transfer to Al Nassr this week.The Saudi Pro League club were keen on Nunez before finalising their £64million move for Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran, but Liverpool told them he was not for sale at any price.Liverpool rebuffed a possible big-money transfer for Darwin Nunez to Al NassrNunez has been out of Liverpool’s starting line-up for much of the season, and would have liked the chance to speak to Al Nassr.It was reported Liverpool rejected an initial £70m offer from a Saudi club earlier in the window.The Uruguayan striker – who Liverpool forked out £85m for from Benfica in 2022 – was left out of the squad for Liverpool’s Champions League defeat to PSV on Wednesday with Slot citing a minor illness.The 25-year-old was able to train yesterday and has travelled to Bournemouth with the rest of the squad ahead of Saturday’s Premier League fixture.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe is unlikely to start the game however, and his future at Anfield will be addressed in the summer.Nunez has scored six goals and provided four assists in 29 appearances in all competitions this season and speculation around a potential January exit has died down.Particularly since he came off the bench and scored a late double to guide Liverpool to a 2-0 stoppage time win at Brentford a fortnight ago.Squad depth is key as the Reds continue to pursue glory on all four fronts during Slot’s first season in charge.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMeanwhile Brighton rejected a whopping £75million bid from Al-Nassr for Kaoru Mitoma this week.Duran leaves Villa Park after two years with the Premier League club.Duran has struggled to nail down a regular starting berth at Villa since joining from Chicago Fire in 2023.PSV beat much-changed Liverpool as Arne Slot’s side lose perfect record He has netted 12 goals in 29 games for Villa this season, with the majority of those appearances from the bench.The 21-year-old joins Al Nassr with the club currently third in the Saudi Pro League.Alongside Ronaldo, Duran will play alongside former Premier League stars Sadio Mane and Aymeric Laporte.Duran’s departure leaves Ollie Watkins as Villa’s only main striker, with the England international the subject of a bid from Arsenal this week. More

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      Karren Brady: English football is NOT broken – Government are searching for problems and could get us BANNED

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      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE football on TV reached for the stars last Wednesday.Four English teams and one Scottish side featured on separate TNT screenings.Man City were one of five British teams involved in a brilliant Champions League nightCredit: RexMoving between four sets might have caused some confusion, dizzy spells and a little irritation at missing goals, but so what? It was live viewing at its best.All doubts about the complexity of the one division with 36 clubs were forgotten as the mind-provoking puzzle unravelled.The end result was a wonderful evening of entertainment.When I saw the first table I wondered if the compilers were bonkers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt would work financially for clubs and players but would it for spectators and, particularly, for neutrals?But it did for me. Channel juggling, I caught a number of spectacular goals and plenty of gaffes.Celtic’s comeback at Villa Park was thrilling and Manchester City needed a serious Pep-talk at half-time. As for Liverpool… cor blimey.And the overall result was a big win for European football and the Premier League.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYWhich is why I am so concerned about the letter Uefa sent to the Secretary of State Lisa Nandy raising their concerns about the creation of an Independent Football Regulator, as usually football regulation is managed by the national federation — the Football Association.One of Uefa’s fundamental requirements is that there should be no Government interference in the running of football.Government announces plans for new football regulatorThe proposal is not just to regulate football through the Bill but to actually take it over.From being able to define when a season is, to how money is distributed through the pyramid.To set up rigid financial systems, introduce new license conditions under which clubs can operate, and introduce subjective ownership and directors tests.Determine how revenues are allocated between and within divisions, whether parachute payments can exist and in what form, and what clubs can actually spend their money on.League One spent more on transfers this month than the 20 LaLiga clubs, including Barcelona and Real Madrid. The English pyramid is not broken or on the precipice in the slightest.Many fear this is largely a solution in search of a problem.Not a single club has gone into administration in more than three years since a fan-led review.League One spent more on transfers this month than the 20 LaLiga clubs, including Barcelona and Real Madrid.The English pyramid is not broken or on the precipice in the slightest.Which is why the Uefa statement is so alarming.If the autonomy of sport and fairness of competition is broken would “the ultimate sanction be excluding Premier League teams and the England team from Uefa and competitions”.READ MORE SUN STORIESFans will ask questions when there is no point in watching the Champions League on TV any more as the Premier League clubs are not playing in it, having been kicked out for introducing a regulator which has broken Uefa rules.But by then, of course, it will be too late.Lisa Nandy has been written a letter by UefaCredit: Getty More

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      Aston Villa confirm Jhon Duran’s £64million transfer to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr with blunt 58-word statement

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      JHON DURAN has completed his mega-money switch to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.The Colombian striker leaves Aston Villa after two years with the Premier League club.Aston Villa have confirmed striker Jhon Duran has left the clubCredit: GettyDuran has confirmed his transfer to Saudi club Al NassrCredit: Instagram / alnassrDuran has struggled to nail down a regular starting berth at Villa since joining from Chicago Fire in 2023. But he made an impact when he has featured, netting 12 goals in 29 games for Villa this season, with the majority of those appearances from the bench.The 21-year-old joins Al Nassr with the club currently third in the Saudi Pro League.Alongside Ronaldo, Duran will play alongside former Premier League stars Sadio Mane and Aymeric Laporte. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLConfirming the transfer, a 58-word statement from Villa read: “Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Durán has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee.”The striker moves to Saudi Arabia having scored 12 goals for Villa this term, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.”Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”Duran only signed a new contract with Villa in October.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollowing his exit, Unai Emery’s men have been linked with a late-window move for Marcus Rashford.The Manchester United striker has expressed his desire for a “new challenge.”Aston Villa star Jhon Duran kicks water bottle in fury after he is sent off against NewcastleRashford hasn’t been part of a United matchday squad since December 12. Reports suggest Villa are interested in bringing Rashford to the Midlands in a deal before Monday’s deadline.But the England striker is holding out for a move to Barcelona. Duran leaving means Ollie Watkins is Villa’s only out-and-out striker remaining at the club. Watkins was the subject of a £60million approach from Arsenal earlier this week.But after Villa rejected the offer out of hand, boss Emery was adamant Watkins would be staying put. Emery said on Wednesday: “I don’t want [to sell]. It is good news to have offers from other clubs. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We want to keep our sporting objective through the players we have in the squad.”Every player can be in the market if it is good for the player and the club. To get this deal we are going to be demanding. Watkins is our striker.” More

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      Kyle Walker facing AC Milan baptism of fire with Serie A giants in an even bigger mess than Man City

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      KYLE WALKER left a ­Manchester City team in a bit of a pickle — but nothing compared to the Milan mess he walked into.The England right-back faces a Serie A baptism of fire against city rivals Inter at the San Siro on Sunday.Kyle Walker is preparing to make his AC Milan debutCredit: GettyMilan consider the arrival of City skipper Walker, 34, a major coup and want him to bring leadership to a group that seems seriously flaky.Signed on loan with a view to a £4million summer move, he joins fellow Englishmen Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and on loan Tammy Abraham at the club.Walker watched from the San Siro stands on Sunday as new Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao and defender Davide Calabria had a heated exchange on the pitch after a 3-2 comeback win over Parma.Conceicao was appointed on December 30 after the sacking of Paulo Fonseca and is concerned by the squad’s attitude.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCalabria and Loftus-Cheek were among a group of players who went to see a rapper perform in Milan 48 hours before the game — and this has been seen as unprofessional.Although they are through to the Champions League play-off round, Milan are seventh in Serie A and facing a battle to qualify for Europe next season.To make matters worse, Inter are in a two-way title battle with Napoli.Milan’s ultras protested outside a private event marking the 125th anniversary of the club’s foundation — with much criticism of American owners RedBird Capital Partners.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYSergio Conceicao argued with Davide Calabria last weekendCredit: APClub legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic — now a senior advisor and operating partner — and president Gerry Cardinale had to enter through a side entrance.Ibra’s commitment has been questioned given the time he spends on Austria’s ski slopes.Kyle Walker takes England legend’s old shirt number after completing ‘incredible’ AC Milan loan transferCardinale is criticised for not being in Italy enough and caused uproar by selling Sandro Tonali to Newcastle in 2023.Ibrahimovic hosted a lengthy 40-minute unveiling press conference with Walker this week.He oddly said: “Kyle was not necessarily an objective we were looking at.“The opportunity arose, we had our fingers on the pulse and it was better having him than not having him.”Walker becomes the club’s SEVENTH right-back this term, including centre-half Tomori who struggled in that position in Wednesday’s 2-1 Champions League loss at Dinamo Zagreb.Although he has lost some of his pace and struggled for form and fitness over the last nine months, Milan officials believe Walker will be able to deal with Italian football.But Tomori, who has played 163 times for Milan since signing in 2021, has not been in good form. He is unlikely to play on Sunday and may be sold.The opportunity arose, we had our fingers on the pulse and it was better having him than not having him.Zlatan IbrahimovicThe same applies to Loftus-Cheek, who is sidelined with a hamstring problem.He enjoyed a good season last term, but is not suited to the attacking midfield role he has been asked to play.Abraham — on loan from Roma — has just six goals so far.Another Brit abroad to make Europe’s fashion capital his home is Walker’s mate Dele Alli, who joined nearby Como.English players have often found Italian football tough in the past although David Beckham is remembered fondly for his two loan spells at Milan.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd Walker has taken the same shirt number as Beckham wore at Milan – 32.Whether he will become as popular remains to be seen.Walker poses alongside Zlatan IbrahimovicCredit: Getty More

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      Wrexham sign one-cap former England star whose goal denied Man Utd a Premier League title

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      WREXHAM have signed Burnley’s Jay Rodriguez as they target a third-successive promotion. The 35-year-old former England striker has penned an 18-month deal with the League One side.Jay Rodriguez has joined Wrexham on a deal until the end of the seasonCredit: PAThe 35-year-old striker has signed a short-term deal until the summer of 2026Credit: Wrexham FCRodriguez won one solitary cap for England in 2013Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdRodriguez has spent more than a decade with the Clarets over two spells.He grew up in the town and has netted 76 goals since making his debut in 2007. Wrexham have brought the striker to North Wales as they look to continue their push for Championship football. Rodriguez told the club’s website: “I’m made up to join the Club. I can’t wait to get out on the training pitch and meet everyone.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”I hope I can use my experience to help every single player in the squad and gain something from the group as well.”To join the story that has evolved at Wrexham with clear targets is exciting for me.”Rodriguez arrives at Wrexham with vast experiences having played over 550 career games. He won his sole England cap against Chile in 2013. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWrexham boss Phil Parkison added: “I’m delighted to welcome Jay Rodriguez to the Club. “He’s an experienced striker with real quality and we’re looking forward to working with him.”Wrexham clash descends into huge brawl at full-time as tempers flare after fiery League One clashRodriguez is also remembered by Manchester United fans for being the player who denied them the Premier League title in 2018. The forward netted for West Brom at Old Trafford, sealing a 1-0 win for the Baggies and making Man City champions. How Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice.Wrexham are currently third in League One, six points behind Wycombe in the automatic promotions spots. They have won back-to-back promotions, with Hollywood duo Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds bankrolling the club’s rise back up the leagues. More