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      Footballer, 35, dies after suffering cardiac arrest on pitch just hours after sharing deep message about ‘soul and life’

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      A FOOTBALLER has died after collapsing on the pitch following a reported cardiac arrest – having shared a poignant message just hours earlier.Enzo Pittau, 35, the dad of a new baby girl, lost his footing several times before his collapse 41 minutes into a cup game.Argentinian football is in shock over Enzo Pittau’s deathCredit: Jam PressPittau had shared what now reads as a poignant messageCredit: TwitterHis passion for football was clear to seeCredit: Jam PressPittau was playing for Don Orione away to Club Union in Argentina’s Chaco Federation tournament.Witnesses say there was “chaos…screaming… and crying” as people in the venue saw his fall and realised how serious the situation was.Media outlet Hechos y Derecho say Pittau was taken in a private vehicle to a hospital, where he died.The Chaco League star had played for numerous teams in the area, also enjoying spells in Italy, Switzerland and Spain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFootball in the area, north of Argentina capital Buenos Aires, is in mourning and shock following his death.A few hours before the match Pittau posted a touching message and photo on social media.He wrote: “The faith and God in between. Today we play with soul and life.”Alongside those words was a picture of his football top and shin guards – which  had photos of his new daughter.Most read in SportHis club said: “With deep pain, we communicate the death of Enzo Pittau. We are shocked and affected by this loss. “We appreciate your solidarity and understanding in this difficult time for our club and Enzo Pittau’s family.”We were all in shock, the players and us in the stands. The match was stopped for a while and then suspended.WitnessA witness told Diario Chaco via Contexto Tucuman: “I was in the middle of the match and Pittau fell to the ground. It was as if he had fainted.”I can still see it, and it’s very painful. “Everything turned into chaos. People were running, screaming, crying, and yelling for help.”From the stands, we didn’t really know what had happened, but it was awful.”Another witness said: “I have this image of Pittau falling alone. I can’t get it out of my head. “We’re dismayed by what happened.  “It hurts quite a bit. We were all in shock, the players and us in the stands. The match was stopped for a while and then suspended.”Read More on The SunLocal media say Pittau had returned to Chaco to be near his family after his grandfather had health problems.Sunday’s tragic match was the return leg in the second phase of the Argentinian Federativo tournament.Family man Pittau has passed away tragicallyCredit: Jam Press More

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      in Soccer

      Germany vs Portugal Nations League clash DELAYED as players are forced to protect themselves from hailstones

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      THE NATIONS LEAGUE semi-final clash between Germany and Portugal was delayed by 10 minutes due to a HAILSTORM in Munich.The situation became so unbearable that players had to protect themselves.The Nations League semi-final clash between Germany and Portugal had to be delayed by 10 minutesPlayers had to protect themselves from hailstonesPlayers were overwhelmed by the weather conditionsUEFA warned match goers of possible thunderstormsThat match was initially expected to start at 8pm in Germany.But Cristiano Ronaldo and Co instead kicked off at ten past after ducking for cover.Earlier in the day, Uefa warned match goers of possible thunderstorms in the Bavarian capital forecast.Around an hour before the originally scheduled kick-off time, a storm swept across northern Munich.Read More on FootballAnd it lashed the stadium with rain, leaving the arena grass carpeted in hailstones.Goalkeepers from both sides had begun their warm-up when the storm hit.And the players ran for cover as the conditions got too much to handle.Nevertheless, the weather eased up soon after and the two teams took to the field.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPortugal went on to win 2-1 after Liverpool target Florian Wirtz’s opener was cancelled out by Francisco Conceicao’s equaliser before Ronaldo’s winner.Roberto Martinez’s side is now set to take on either Spain or France on Sunday’s Nations League final.England boss Thomas Tuchel explains Ivan Toney recallWhereas Julian Nagelsmann’s side will face the other semi-final’s defeated team in the third–place play-off that same day.The storm lashed the stadium with rainThe storm left the arena grass carpeted in hailstonesGoalkeepers from both sides had to interrupt their pre-match warm-up More

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      in Soccer

      Inside story of the ex-Man Utd wonderkid who retired in non-league that now helps clubs find the next gen of talent

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      FEBIAN BRANDY has gone from being one of the hottest young talents in English football to helping clubs unearth the next big thing.Brandy, 36, didn’t quite hit the heights after nearly 15 years on the books at Manchester United.Febian Brandy was one of Manchester United’s top-rated talents in the 2000sCredit: GettyNow Brandy is helping find the next batch of top talentCredit: X @febianbrandyThe tricky forward was thought of as one of the brightest sparks in the English game, lauded by team-mates and chased by the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.But injuries meant that Brandy never played a professional game for Man Utd.He instead had 16 different clubs across multiple countries before retiring in non-league.However, he has insisted that he has no regrets over how things worked out, after it was that journey that led him to create Skouted – an app that helps unsigned players find a club to give them an opportunity.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBrandy told SunSport: “I always saw myself playing for Manchester United, I didn’t really know anything else. “I only really knew Man Utd and England. So when it did come to an end it was hard, I was upset.“But I thought to myself, for my career, this has to happen. I didn’t want to be one of those players that was 23/24 and signing contracts just to be at a big club. “I wanted to go and make a name for myself elsewhere. I was obviously upset, but it was something that had to be done.Most read in FootballPeople ask, ‘Should I have signed for Barcelona?’ Don’t get me wrong, the weather would have been nicer, but I’ve got no regrets.Febian BrandyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“People ask, ‘Should I have signed for Barcelona?'”Don’t get me wrong, the weather would have been nicer, but I’ve got no regrets.”Brandy (bottom row, second on the left) played alongside the likes of Ryan Shawcross and Darron Gibson in United’s youth teamCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe forward also represented England at youth levelCredit: GettyMan Utd had turned down a £1million bid from Barca when Brandy was just a teenager, a deal rejected by Sir Alex Ferguson after the iconic manager asked Brandy if he wanted to stay put.Barcelona had come sniffing after he had impressed in a youth tournament involving the Catalan club, Real Madrid, PSG and Ajax.Brandy explained: “About two weeks after the tournament, some Spanish guy – I don’t know how he got the number – rang my mum and dad’s house phone. “My mum picked up and he said ‘we’re interested in your son Febian.’“Another two weeks later I went into training and Sir Alex Ferguson walked past me in the corridor and said ‘have you heard?’. “I had a feeling what he was talking about, but you have to be respectful so I played dumb. He said ‘Barcelona are interested in you, what are your thoughts?’“I said, ‘listen, boss. I’m a local lad. I’m from Manchester and I see my career here, this is the place that I want to be’. Then he just slapped me on the head, called me a good lad and walked away.“Things started to come to fruition in the weeks that followed, and I think they [Barca] made a £1m bid, which obviously Sir Alex rejected and I didn’t hear anything of it from then.”Manchester-born Brandy ultimately left United in 2010, where he had come up through the youth ranks alongside the likes of Ravel Morrison, Jonny Evans and Danny Welbeck.Just 22 at the time, Brandy had gone from training with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville – players he recalls being like “big brothers” to him – to trying to find his next club and the next step in his career in the lower leagues.Brandy had lined up a deal with Sheffield United in the Championship, but broke his metatarsal in the last minute of his last game for Man Utd’s reserves – scuppering the move.Brandy spent nearly 15 years on the books at Sir Alex Ferguson’s Man UtdCredit: Febian BrandyInstead, after seven months without a club, he found an opportunity with Notts County in League Two.From there injuries meant Brandy was never able to settle at one club, kickstarting a journeyman career that saw him play in Greece and Thailand as well as for the likes of Sheffield United, Rotherham and Rochdale.It was during that time of bouncing around from club to club and constantly battling injury that Brandy realised he had to start thinking about his future, which led to the idea for Skouted.He recalled: “When I was in my late 20s I had been battling with so many injuries and I started to think about my future.”I didn’t really want to be a coach or a manager. That’s when I started to put Skouted in place.“I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset and I think what really triggered it was that when I was at Man Utd, I was pretty fortunate to be there as long as I was. “I was fortunate to get a contract every year from the age of eight until I was 22.“I had friends that might not have been good enough to make it at Man Utd, but they might have been able to go and play at a lesser club. “But when they got released their parents or their guardians didn’t have the connections to pick up the phone to someone in the Championship or League One and ask for a trial.Brandy moved to Sheffield United later in his careerCredit: BladesHe also had a spell with WalsallCredit: PA:Empics Sport“That’s when I thought to myself, ‘I need to create something that’s going to bridge that gap between players and clubs’. “Something where football clubs can find these players and players have got a platform to present themselves in front of these football clubs.”That’s exactly what he did, launching Skouted after hanging up his boots at non-league Ebbsfleet in 2017 and turning his attention to helping the next generation of talent.The app allows young players to upload clips of themselves playing, with top clubs then browsing through the videos to see if there’s any potential there.While Brandy has also begun to organise showcase games where young stars train together and are invited to play in academy competitions in front of top-level scouts – including the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea.Everyone wants to sign a Messi or a Ronaldo, but the reality is that they’re rare gems. But my experience at Man Utd helps me know what level top clubs are still looking for.Febian BrandyIn fact, a recent entry into the SuperCup, formerly known as the Milk Cup, saw his side of hungry prospects grind out a 2-2 draw with Manchester United U16s with just four weeks of training – resulting in eight players being invited to trials at top clubs.It was that same competition that Brandy had played in as a teenager, winning player of the tournament over the likes of Sergio Busquets and Bojan – sparking interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona.Brandy doesn’t know exactly how many players he has helped get an opportunity, but estimated that Skouted has helped in excess of 300 club-less players earn professional trials across the globe.He wants Skouted to be seen as a “breeding ground” for talent, and can already point to players that are now tied down at the top level thanks to the app’s help.Arsenal youngster Louis Zecevic-John, who has signed a scholarship with the Gunners academy and represented both England and Serbia at youth level, found himself on the Skouted app before getting his shot.Arsenal youngster Louis Zecevic-John is an example of Skouted’s successCredit: GettyBrandy explained: “Louis was picked up by one of the Skouted scouts and we put him up with a Championship club, who ended up not being too keen on him. “But after that he was picked up by a Premier League side before signing a two-year contract with Arsenal.“He was actually on the Skouted app a few years ago, it just goes to show that we know what we’re talking about. “He went from Regents Park, to the Skouted App and now he’s gone on to sign for Arsenal”.Now Brandy is planning on expanding his platform for the women’s game too, with plans in place to put on a female showcase game this year.For the former England youth international and two-time Saint Kitts and Nevis cap, it’s all about getting talented players back on the pitch.He added: “Everyone wants to sign a Messi or a Ronaldo, but the reality is that they’re rare gems. But my experience at Man Utd helps me know what level top clubs are still looking for.Read More on The Sun“Some of these players don’t know what to do, and their parents don’t know what to do. In terms of how they can get involved in the football system. “We’re not saying we’re going to turn everyone into a Premier League footballer, but what we’re trying to say is there’s a level out there for people to play football.”Brandy knows better than most that not everyone will make it to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyBrandy wants Skouted to become a hotbed for talent around the globeCredit: X @febianbrandy More

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      in Soccer

      Championship club give update on new £3billion ‘spaceship’ stadium as incredible concept video is released

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      FANS are hailing “monumental” progress in a Championship club’s £3bililion scheme for a new 60,000-seat stadium and community hub.Birmingham released a concept video of a massive complex – as NFL legend Tom Brady’s majestic dreams leapt closer to reality.Supporters are even more excited after seeing the new imagesCredit: Youtube @BCFCThe club plan mega transport linksCredit: Youtube @BCFCA video gave an insight into the huge complexCredit: Youtube @BCFCBirmingham minority owner Tom Brady is one of the main people behind a revival on the pitch and spectacular plans off itCredit: ReutersMinority shareholder Brady and Blues’ owners Knighthead plan to follow an incredible season on the pitch with jaw-dropping developments off itBirmingham romped back to the second-tier by amassing 111 points as big-spending League One champions.That was 19 points clear of Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham in second place.Now the club have released a clip with awesome transport links to a futuristic venue likened in the past to a “spaceship”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne side of a blue-walled, smoothly-curved stadium is shown, with sweeping views of tree-lined walkways and rail links.One viewer claimed on X: “People will be coming from all corners of the country to take in the view.”Another veteran supporter posted: “After 70 years of suffering mainly heartache it’s just my luck to be on the downward slope now that #BCFC are finally on the way to the top with the best owners in its 150 year history. “Today’s funding confirmation has given me a purpose in life. Thanks TW.”Most read in ChampionshipThe sleek design impressed observersCredit: Youtube @BCFCBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThose initials are a reference to Knighthead’s co-founder and Blues’ chairman Tom Wagner, who has described the go-ahead for travel connections as a “huge step forward for the Sports Quarter”.An estimated £2.4bn Government investment in local transport will be used to extend the area’s Metro to the proposed new venue.Tom Brady tells owner rival Rob Mcelhenney ‘shame on you’ after giving away his touching giftThat’s kickstarted the whole £3bn scheme, with the first phase set to be finished by 2029. The club also say “the extension of Birmingham City Centre to East Birmingham will help unlock the future of the development” – including creating around 10,000 jobs. Fans seem thrilled by the transport links.And after seeing the club’s video, one supporter wrote: “Love the stadium design as well guys it’s gonna look mint.” Wagner said: “The Chancellor’s undertaking to upgrade transport links in East Birmingham is a huge step forward for the Sports Quarter. “It gives us the springboard we need to advance this transformative project at pace, bringing huge benefits to the people of East Birmingham and the wider region in the shape of jobs and opportunities, as well as economic growth that will be felt across the whole of the UK.”Last month Wagner had also unveiled plans to provide outstanding training facilities for academy players “unlike any other that exists in European football”.Read More on The SunAnd Blues’ interim CEO Jeremy Dale spoke of “creating jobs, building infrastructure for our local community, and creating a world-class sporting venue that will put Birmingham on the map”.The planned stadium would double Birmingham’s capacity of 29,409 at St. Andrew’s.  More

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      Sir Dave Brailsford ‘steps back from Man Utd’ as Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans major reshuffle after disastrous season

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      SIR DAVE BRAILSFORD is set to step back in his role at Manchester United.The move comes as part of a major reshuffle being planned by Ineos head honcho Sir Jim Ratcliffe.Sir Dave Brailsford is set to step back from his role at Man UtdCredit: GettyIt comes as part of a major reshuffle plan from Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: PABrailsford had been working alongside Man Utd chiefs like Jason WilcoxCredit: GettyAccording to The Times, Brailsford will be reducing his commitment to United and returning to his role as director of sport for Ineos.Brailsford, famed for his so-called “marginal gains” ideology brought from cycling, stood down as team principal of Ineos Grenadiers when Ratcliffe purchased his minority stake in the Red Devils.He then took charge of football operations at Old Trafford and has been in that role for a year trying to implement change at the club.However, the season has been a disaster after United finished a record-low 15th in the Premier League.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey will also be without European football for the first time in a decade next season after losing the Europa League final 1-0 to Tottenham.Despite this, Brailsford, 61, has been credited by British billionaire Ratcliffe in overhauling the performance set-up at United.He was also heavily involved in the £50million redevelopment plan for United’s Carrington training ground and setting the goals outlined in Mission 21 to get the club’s men and women winning league titles.The report adds that Geraint Thomas will be taking a senior leadership role at Ineos’ professional cycling team when he retires as a rider at the end of this season.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBrailsford’s step back comes at a time when Ineos is reducing its sporting commitments.In the last few months alone, the petrochemicals giant has terminated its sponsorship deal with the All Blacks, cut an advertising deal with Spurs and ending the pursuit of sailing’s America’s Cup.Bruno Fernandes reveals role his wife played in £200m Al-Hilal transfer snub even though Man Utd were ready to cash inThe Ineos Sport’s team unit led by Brailsford – in a reduced capacity since joining Man Utd – will once again be managing United’s sister club Nice after they failed to qualify for the Champions League.Nice had been placed in a so-called “blind trust” agreement by Uefa to ensure there was no breach of the organisation’s multi-club rules.United have had plenty of upheaval in the senior management since Ineos took over.Dan Ashworth was brought in to be the director of football but left after only five months in charge.In addition, around 450 staff have been axed as part of sweeping cuts.And this is not to mention the sacking of Erik ten Hag after initially backing him in their first summer running the club.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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      in Boxing

      Dillian Whyte fight CANCELLED just days before bout as Frank Warren releases statement

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      DILLIAN WHYTE has pulled out of his Saturday night UK comeback to secure a summer showdown with Lawrence Okolie.The Brixton Body Snatcher was scheduled for a Portman Road tune-up this weekend, against an unnamed opponent, on the undercard of his Ipswich protege Fabio Wardley’s clash with Justis Huni.Dillian Whyte’s latest fight has been cancelledCredit: GettyBut he has withdrawn himself from the card to focus on a grudge settler with his new nemesis.The 37-year-old was supposed to fight Joe Joyce in Manchester on April 5 but withdrew due to a finger injury.Juggernaut Joyce lost against stand-in opponent Filip Hrgovic, killing any chance of that rivalry being reignited.But Whyte has instead sparked up a war of words with Okolie, with sickening slurs being aimed at the 2016 Olympian.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOkolie labelled Whyte a coward for failing to face him. And Whyte fired back, labelling Okolie a “sub-human c***” and dared the former McDonald’s worker to repeat the insults to his face.Promoter Frank Warren – who has now lost two Whyte fights on the spin – explained: “He’s not going to be on the card now.”He’s had an opportunity for a big big fight in August and we’re looking to get that over the line.”That’s going to take priority.”Most read in BoxingBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKWhyte has not boxed in England since November 2022.He was supposed to have a rematch with Anthony Joshua in August 2023 but that O2 sell-out was scrapped when Whyte failed a doping test.Dillian Whyte shares gruesome picture of horror injury that forced cancellation of Joe Joyce fight Whyte has boxed in Gibraltar and Ireland since that big-money clash was binned, landing underwhelming wins.Whyte was previously adamant that his pencilled in June 7 bout would pave the way for a title fight, while also admitting that inactivity had “killed” his career.He told Ring Magazine: “Look, inactivity has basically killed my career in the last three years.”I am looking at having a big fight at the end of July or early August and I just thought I need some activity before heading into that.”I thought I need to get active as quickly as possible because I’m serious about having a last run at it again and possibly fighting for the world title. “So I want to put myself in the position that when it comes I’m not just there to take part but I’m going there with a high chance of winning because I will have some momentum behind me.”The only way to get that is by putting my pride to one side and saying, ‘You know what, I’ll take this opportunity.’ I’ve always done that in my career. “I fought Dereck Chisora as co-main event on a massive card and then in my next fight I boxed Malcolm Tann in an eight rounder at about 5pm.Read More on The Sun”So this is about staying busy to put myself in a better position to give the fans big fights.”Okolie, 32, lost his WBO cruiserweight world title to Chris Billam-Smith in May 2023 and is now looking for a marquee scalp in the heavyweight division. More

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      Matheus Cunha will be perfect for Man Utd and Bruno Fernandes – but only if Ruben Amorim makes crucial signing

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      IT is safe to say that Manchester United failed to live up to their supporters’ expectations last season.They finished in 15th place on just 42 points, lost the Europa League final to Tottenham to leave them trophy-less and without European football next term.Matheus Cunha could be the perfect addition to Man UtdCredit: GettyBut could depend on his relationship with Bruno FernandesCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim will also need another attacker to complete the jigsawCredit: Shutterstock EditorialUnited have backed new boss Ruben Amorim despite the historically bad results and that backing appears to have extended to the transfer market.Brazil star Matheus Cunha is already confirmed in a £62.5million arrival from Wolves.Meanwhile, club captain Bruno Fernandes has opted to stay at Old Trafford despite a mega £700,000-a-WEEK offer to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal.How Cunha will be used by Man Utd still remains to be seen.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has played as a striker at points for Wolves but he is not the type to make regular runs in behind, preferring to drop deeper in order to link play.He is arguably more effective in behind a main striker, which could create a clash of styles with Fernandes.Below, we break down the tactical fit of Cunha at Man Utd under Amorim.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIntelligent penalty area movement Towards the end of the season, Wolves typically played the same tactical shape as Man Utd did under Amorim.Most read in FootballTheir 3-4-2-1 shape saw Cunha used either as a No9 or as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the main striker.Bruno Fernandes reveals role his wife played in £200m Al-Hilal transfer snub even though Man Utd were ready to cash inIn these positions, Cunha’s intelligence and movement in the final third and around the penalty area helped Wolves create a lo.He easily finds little pockets of space to drop into and attack around the opposition defence.The Brazilian is also difficult to deal with because often opposing defenders be concentrating on defending the space between the ball and the goal.Cunha takes advantage of this with sharp movements to outwit defenders and create shooting opportunities.Here we see Cunha positioned outside of the box before he then takes a clever touch and bends the ball into the goalWe believe Cunha would be able to play in a similar kind of role to Fernandes.This would mean that Man Utd would still need to add a new forward to play ahead of him, assuming they decide Rasmus Hojlund is not the long-term solution.This could be an issue solved in the near future with the signing of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. The type of runs Mbeumo makes would be perfect to stretch the game and offer passing options or decoys for Cunha.Indeed, the Mbeumo’s movement is like Mohamed Salah’s at Liverpool and could benefit both Cunha and Fernandes.With Fernandes being more comfortable as a passer and creator from deeper areas, we should see Cunha acting as the link between the Portugal star and the main forward.Here Cunha is smart enough to check his run behind the back-pedalling defence before he gets the ball and is able to finishGiven Fernandes is well known as one of the most aggressive and creative passers in the league he will enjoy having a player like Cunha alongside him to find space in tight areas. While Cunha is not an out-and-out striker, his movement and intelligence of positioning around the area will create chances.Not just a finisherCunha finished with 15 league goals last season.But he has long been seen as more of a creative attacker than a true goalscorer, such as when he was at Hertha Berlin or Atletico Madrid.Cunha has always been great at spotting through balls.He is happy to drift the width of the penalty area in order to find pockets of space.Here Cunha has the ball in the left channel, drives at goal and then has the quality to slip the ball to a team-mate making a run beyond himIt will be interesting to see how Cunha interacts with Fernandes on the pitch.They could be hampered by the fact United don’t have many forwards looking to run beyond the ball. The issue United may have is they will essentially have two advanced midfielders without a proper striker.Here Cunha has the ball wide and has the quality to pick out the deep run from his team-mateIt is all very well for Amorim to add creativity – but he needs to also have players who take advantage of that vision.Decision making and intelligenceCunha is an hugely intelligent footballer.This is what makes him such a versatile attacker – so it would be wasteful to play him as the main striker.He is far better when allowed to play deeper behind a physical and aggressive No9.Cunha’s intelligent movement off the back of the opposition midfield gives a team-mate a passing options before another striker pins an opposition defenderEssentially, Man Utd should be looking to use a striker who can go in behind.This should force the opposition defensive line deeper and then we would see Cunha and Bruno with more space.The fact the Brazilian regularly picks the right option at the right time will help United unlock opponents.Here he drops off the highest line to come back in and occupy a pocket of space between defendersConclusionSigning a player like Cunha off the back of a terrible season will be a real boost for the Red Devils.It is vital Cunha is surrounded by more signings in key areas to make the most of his attacking and creative abilities.Read More on The SunGiven Man Utd are already looking to add Mbeumo to their ranks, it would suggest an awareness they need to add more attacking options. It will still be a long summer ahead for United’s recruitment team. More

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      Steve Cooper targeted for shock return to management eight months after being sacked by Leicester

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      STEVE COOPER tops the list of managerial targets Middlesbrough want to replace Michael Carrick.The Championship side announced on Wednesday that the ex-Manchester United and England midfielder had been axed.Steve Cooper has been linked with a shock return to management with MiddlesbroughMichael Carrick was sacked by Boro this weekCarrick, 43, and his assistants Jonathan Woodgate and Graeme Carrick – his younger brother – have also departed the club.That decision was made by chairman Steve Gibson following a four-week end-of-season review by the club’s hierarchy after their dismal second half of the campaign.Carrick, who was the division’s longest-serving manager, led Boro from the 21st in the table in October 2022 to the play-offs.That was followed by an eighth-placed finish and a run to the League Cup semi-finals but, despite a positive first half of this season, they eventually ended a disappointing tenth.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThat has been enough to convince the club to look elsewhere.SunSport understands that Cooper, out of work since he was sacked following a brief and ill-fated stint at Leicester in November, is among the top candidates Boro want to speak with.He shone in the Championship at Swansea City by leading them to consecutive play-off finishes.And he surpassed that at Nottingham Forest, achieving legendary status by guiding them back to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2022.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCooper was axed in December 2023 and replaced by Nuno Espirito Santo.Ex-Bournemouth and Wolves manager Gary O’Neil, who spent four years as a player at the Riverside, is another name among the favourites along with former Luton man Rob Edwards.Middlesbrough fans will agree with Carrick sacking and there’s a perfect man ready to replace him Expert’s viewBY GARY STONEHOUSE (North East Football Reporter and Boro season ticket holder)FINALLY the inevitable has happened – but what took Middlesbrough so long?The decision to sack Michael Carrick now – four weeks after the season finished – does feel a bit too little, too late.The ex-Manchester United man’s time at the Riverside should have been done back in February after a dire run of six defeats in seven games.At that point the prospect of going up through the play-offs was still a real possibility.Instead, Steve Gibson kept faith and, despite a brief little false dawn of results, we’ve allowed rivals Sunderland to take advantage of what was probably the best chance of achieving promotion out of this league that there will be for a while.For all of those pointing to the fact that he lost “his best player” Emmanuel Latte Lath in January – the striker’s exit was supposed to be last summer.That’s why they got Tommy Conway in early and, fair play, when Boro failed to get the money they wanted for Latte Lath they held on to him until the window.The loss of Ben Doak was also critical, and that coupled with the above sale meant all the pace was taken out of Carrick’s team.But that was his biggest problem, his stubbornness to have a Plan B. Pretty, boring, pass, pass, tip, tip – Middlesbrough became far too easy to play against.The panic stations started to ring when the Riverside was empty long before the final whistle in several home games – fans were seemingly even past the point of caring enough to boo at the final whistle following several disappointing displays and results.This is a move best for everybody – especially Carrick himself.He has done well, and the loss of experienced Aaron Danks as coach to Bayern Munich has maybe had a bigger impact than any of us thought.But once rumours of fall-outs over transfer targets etc began to surface in January there was only going to be one-way this ended if promotion wasn’t achieved.He can still leave with his reputation intact and will be in the running for plenty of other jobs – hopefully after a PR class or two.You always got the impression he didn’t think much of the media – except until the pressure was on in his final weeks and we finally got to see a little of his funny and warm character.But the place, and Carrick himself probably, needed something new. And for my money, the man to provide that lift that the whole club needs would be Steve Cooper. More