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    Last Christmas Man Utd fans gave Ratcliffe their hearts – this year he’s left them in tears after disastrous decisions

    LAST CHRISTMAS they gave him their heart.But the very next year many Manchester United fans are beginning to believe that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is giving it away.It has been a year since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Man Utd takeover and fans aren’t feeling the festive spiritCredit: PAThings have failed to improve since the Ineos chief took over football operations from the GlazersCredit: AFPIt is exactly 12 months since Ratcliffe and his Ineos Group announced they were taking control of football operations from the Glazers at Old Trafford.Ratcliffe made a bold statement following the initial £1.03billion buy-in, which secured a minority 25 per cent stake, but it sounds hollow and even embarrassing right now.Ratcliffe, a lifelong Red Devils fan from Failsworth, said: “Our shared ambition is clear: We all want to see Manchester United back where we belong, at the very top of English, European and world football.”Forget Europe and the world, 13th-placed United celebrated Christmas in the bottom half of the table for the first time in the Premier League era.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAll the fans’ hopes and dreams of ending almost a quarter of a century of dissent under the Glazers and bringing back the good old days of Premier League dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson still seem as far away as ever.Old Trafford booed the players off in Sunday’s 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth but it is not just the results on the pitch which have caused unrest.Ratcliffe’s ruthless cost–cutting saw 250 members of staff being axed to save around £45million  per year.On top of that, Ratcliffe also dropped Ferguson, who won a record 13 Premier League titles, from his £2m-a-year global ambassador role in October.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSUnited great Eric Cantona blasted his ex-former club, when the Frenchman fumed: “It’s totally scandalous. I will thrown them all in a big bag of s**t.”As public relations disasters go, the down-grading of the legendary Scot’s position — although still a non-executive director — was a belter.Man Utd hero Lee Sharpe warns Marcus Rashford potential exit could come back to haunt club if he joins Prem rivals The brutal axing of Sir Alex Ferguson went down like a lead balloonCredit: GettyEric Cantona lashed out at Ratcliffe over the decisionCredit: GettyUnited’s record since Ratcliffe took overThings look like they’ve got worseUnited have splashed out, but the jury’s out on their new signings… and their managerBut there have been plenty of them. The latest came after the loss to the Cherries when new boss Ruben Amorim had his post-match press conference delayed by a leaky roof.It was not a good optic yet there have been few, if any, good looks since United’s announcement of the Ineos takeover on December 24.Ratcliffe, alongside chief henchman Sir Dave Brailsford, he of “marginal gains” during his time as the head of British Cycling, did at least get to enjoy last season’s 2-1 FA Cup final triumph over noisy neighbours Manchester City.But that gain really was only marginal at best considering the turbulence around then manager Erik ten Hag before Wembley and the complete 360-degree turn to keep him afterwards.Just about everybody and his dog had been mentioned as his successor, not least former England chief Gareth Southgate, Graham Potter and Roberto De Zerbi.Ten Hag himself headed to Ibiza on holiday believing his two–year tenure was over.Then, having found nobody willing to replace him, Ratcliffe and Brailsford turned up on his Spanish doorstep to say that, after all, he could, after all, keep his job.Five months later, of course, he was sacked, complete with around £17m in pay–off money the pair had baulked at giving him to go in the first place.Erik ten Hag was given a vote of confidence before being firedCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is struggling to turn things aroundCredit: AlamyRatcliffe had battled hard and paid £3m to Newcastle for the transfer of Dan Ashworth as sporting director.He was supposed to be the top dog of a recruitment drive to bring in only top the best new stars.But he was gone after just 160 DAYS — just 27 days more than Ashworth had spent on gardening leave while waiting to exit the Toon Army.Having also brought in Omar Berrada from Manchester City as chief executive and Jason Wilcox as technical director it was decided that too many cooks were spoiling the broth by the time Ashworth was brutally dumped early this month.Yet Ratcliffe, Brailsford and Ineos are now supping from a  poisoned chalice. Old Trafford — even under bright new boss Amorim — is threatening to become as toxic as it ever has been since the Glazers took over in 2005 and dumped £660m of debt on the club.The hits on Britain’s richest man have just kept on coming with issues over a new stadium and ticket prices.Ratcliffe said in March he would build a “Wembley of the North” and increase Old Trafford’s capacity to 100,000.Even with his wealth, he wanted to go cap in hand to the government for Levelling Up money to fund the £2bn-plus project. But he was told swiftly that the taxpayers would not be having it.Dan Ashworth was fired after five monthsCredit: AFPOld Trafford continues to show its ageCredit: GettyThe future of the new stadium is due to be decided next summer.Meanwhile there has been outrage from supporters over members’  ticket prices increasing to £66 and  the removal of concessions for kids and pensioners.That led to demonstrations outside Old Trafford and the first signs of anti-Ratcliffe chants.Ratcliffe is also considering plans to half the annual £40,000 budget given to the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association.United’s defence was that they have to borrow the money after their latest financial results showed the club had eaten into £232.3m of their revolving credit facility by the end of September compared to £35.6m in June.One MUDSA (Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association) insider said: “The optics would be horrific — it feels like the club has lost touch with its soul.”Then there was Ratcliffe’s snub to the women’s team in the FA Cup final when they thrashed Tottenham 4-0 in May.The part-owner opted to stay in the North-West and watch the men’s side lose 1-0 to Arsenal. Ratcliffe claimed: “There’s only so much that you can do. And our focus has been on the men’s team.”United’s summer signings such as Joshua Zirkzee have failed to impressCredit: AlamyUnited’s poor form saw them beaten 3-0 at home by Bournemouth on SundayCredit: RexBeating Pep Guardiola’s City under the famous arch ended up a happy occasion.But United staff were told beforehand they would have to pay for their own food, hotel and transport in a break from tradition.Senior employees had their corporate credit cards withdrawn and lost the use of chauffeur-driven cars while match-day staff no longer get complimentary lunch boxes for their efforts.The staff’s Christmas party was also cancelled. Ratcliffe has complained about the facilities at the club’s Carrington HQ with the “mess” of an IT department branded a “disgrace”, while the “dressing rooms of the Under-18s and Under-21s were not much better”.Amorim also happens to have taken over a mess, too. The day before last December’s Ineos announcement, Ten Hag’s team lost at West Ham to lie in eighth.Now they are 13th and the £200m spent after keeping on Ten Hag on isn’t helping.Only Noussair Mazraoui’s arrival from German giants Bayern Munich could be considered worth his £12.8m initial fee. Leny Yoro’s start to his United career, after a £42m move, has been hampered by injury.The rest — £36.5m for Joshua Zirkzee, £38.5m for Matthijs  de Ligt   and £42.3m for Manuel Ugarte — is looking like a waste of the money Ratcliffe sees as so precious.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir presence represents another disaster for Ratcliffe as well as the recruitment team at the end of what has been little short of an annus horribilis.Oh and Jim, those leaks from the roofs around the ground at Old Trafford still need fixing . . . More

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    Premier League ref David Coote WON’T appeal sacking after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder

    SHAMED ref David Coote won’t appeal the decision to sack him, it emerged last night.Referees’ body the PGMOL gave him the boot this month after a probe into videos of him snorting white powder and a foul-mouthed rant about ex Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.Shamed ref David Coote won’t appeal the decision to sack him, it emerged last nightCredit: ReutersCoote was filmed branding ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a ‘German c**t’Credit: XThe top-flight ref was also filmed snorting white powder at Euro 2024Sources last night said the 42-year-old Premier League official had decided to accept his sacking – rather than fight to keep his old job, the Daily Mail reported.The PGMOL – Professional Game Match Officials Board – showed Coote the door after examining evidence provided by The Sun.We exclusively revealed a film of him snorting what appears to be cocaine during the Euros in Germany this summer.In the eight-second WhatsApp clip, he was wide-eyed as he used a rolled-up US banknote to snort a four-inch line of the substance in his Uefa-funded hotel room.READ MORE ON DAVID COOTEThe previous day, the official had acted as a VAR for France’s quarter-final shootout win over Portugal.Days before that exposé, footage emerged on social media showing him calling former Liverpool boss Klopp a “German c***”.Coote had also tried to arrange a drugs party during Tottenham’s win over Manchester City on October 30. He was the fourth official for the Carabao Cup clash.Most read in FootballOfficial body PGMOL said the ref – also subject of a separate betting probe – was sacked after his actions were found to be in breach of contract.In a statement, they said: “David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable. “Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare.”Moment scandal-hit Prem ref David Coote snorts white powder in shocking video during Euro 2024Coote has been lying low near his Midlands home since the video emerged.Referees body the PGMOL, who examined evidence provided by The Sun, sacked him on Monday following a probe into his sweary rants and white powder abuse.Coote was then the subject of a new probe over allegedly issuing a yellow card to order.The loss of Coote’s career is set to cost him £1m over the next few years in loss of earnings.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”Shamed ref David Coote was seen for the first time since his sacking, as he was pictured heading to the gymCredit: BackGrid More

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    England’s so-called elite would welcome an escape to a Euro Super League as their time ruling the Prem’s now over

    THERE’S a reason why the idea of a European super league has been floated again.And a reason why England’s wealthiest clubs won’t be running a mile from the plan.Manchester United were humiliated against BournemouthCredit: RexThe Cherries ripped the Red Devils apart 3-0 at Old TraffordCredit: GettyPep Guardiola has overseen an incredible run at Manchester CityCredit: PAThe Cityzens have lost nine of their last 12 gamesCredit: GettyBarcelona and Real Madrid are backing the latest edition of the Super League schemeCredit: GettyThat reason is: Manchester United 0 Bournemouth 3.The fact the ‘smallest’ club in the Premier League can crush England’s largest club on their own turf, not just in one fluke result but in two consecutive seasons, is definitive proof anything can happen in the world’s richest domestic competition.Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Fulham were promoted together in 2022 and all sit in the top half of the table because they have enough cash, and competence, to assemble squads with at least two very decent players in every position.Brighton and Brentford also sit above United, approaching the halfway point of the season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhich torpedoes the idea of the ‘rich getting rich and the poor getting poorer’. Because, in the Premier League, there is no poor.Real Madrid and Barcelona — who are backing the latest Super League scheme — are deeply envious of the Premier League because it’s basically bloody brilliant.United and the rest of the traditional English elite are tempted by a super league because they can no longer guarantee themselves European football — and because it would offer them more money to distance themselves from those well-run upstart clubs.On Sunday, I landed after a seven-hour flight from the Middle East, during which five Premier League games had been played.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTwo of the results — Tottenham 3 Liverpool 6, as well as Bournemouth’s latest drubbing of United — made me laugh out loud.And yet it’s not even all that surprising any more.Unify League explained after European Super League launches again in new format Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs haven’t had what you’d have once called a single bog-standard, easily predictable result, either positive or negative, in any domestic match since they beat Brentford 3-1 on September 21.Perhaps the 4-1 win over West Ham in October — but even that was the crushing of a local rival, involving a comeback, a red card and a mass brawl.And it’s not just Spurs, of course.A few weeks ago, I predicted, half-jokingly, that there might not be  Champions League football in Manchester next season for the first time in 30 years.Now there is nothing vaguely funny about that statement. In fact, it’s entirely likely.City’s phenomenal meltdown — one win and nine defeats from 12 games in all competitions — has been analysed until the cows come home.But if Real, Barca or any other European powerhouse had suffered similar issues to Pep Guardiola’s side — key injuries and a squad which has aged in fast-forward — their results wouldn’t have been nearly as bad because there’d have been a comfy win or two to pick up.Which would avert the complete confidence collapse  City have suffered.Instead, City lost to Bournemouth and Brighton and was drawn to Crystal Palace. Because they are all decent teams.Before City’s horror run, their previous three league games were single-goal victories over Fulham, Wolves and Southampton.Fulham had a superior ‘expected goals’ count to City at the Etihad. It took a controversial 95th-minute winner to defeat Wolves.Guardiola caused much amusement at the time by praising Russell Martin’s Saints to the hilt after City’s 1-0 home win.Pep wasn’t being patronising. He was being serious.He knew that even the bottom team could visit the champions and cause serious problems.So even City’s 12-game run does not represent such a sudden fall off a cliff edge. It was coming — because the Premier League is too bloody brilliant.United’s crisis has been dragging on for 11 years but the depths of their fall couldn’t be replicated by the richest clubs in Spain, Germany, Italy, France or anywhere else.In 55 league games since the start of last season, United have a goal difference of -2.A decade or so ago, England’s leading clubs were protected against such failures by a Champions League income which gave them a substantial and meaningful wealth gap over the smaller clubs.That has now been negated. The Premier League is so wealthy, so competitive, that the biggest clubs need a bigger cushion to protect themselves from their own failings.In Europe’s other major leagues, that buffer still exists. But Real, Barca and other major Continental clubs know that, as the global fascination with the Premier League grows, the more gloriously unpredictable it becomes.And so, another imaginary super league.This one, laughably called the Unify League because the ‘Ripping Everything To Shreds League’ would sound too obvious, and it would supposedly be based on merit with promotion and relegation and no automatic membership for the elite.Which makes it more palatable than the previous imaginary European super league – which England’s erstwhile ‘Big Six’ all signed up to.The 96-team Unify League would consist of a Star League, a Gold League, a Blue League and a Union League — making it sound as if the whole thing has been concocted by a bored nine-year-old boy in his bedroom.And yet it is backed by Real chief Florentino Perez, substantially more powerful than a bored nine-year-old boy in his bedroom.It has been dreamt up out of fear and envy by those who can’t hack the fact that the Premier League is so bloody brilliant.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd at some point, whether in this decade or the next, one of these imaginary European super leagues — perhaps a worldwide super league involving the Saudis and others — will come to fruition.So, for now, enjoy Tottenham’s lunacy, relish City’s meltdown and savour United’s prolonged crisis. Because the Premier League, in all its current glory, is too good to last. 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    Michael Owen names ‘the sad thing about Man Utd these days’ as ex-Old Trafford hero slams ‘stupid’ new signing

    MICHAEL OWEN has named “the sad thing about Manchester United these days” while slamming “stupid” new signing Noussair Mazraoui.The Red Devils are on a dire run under new boss Ruben Amorim that has seen them lose four of the last six games.Michael Owen has pointed out ‘the sad thing about Man Utd these days’Credit: GettyHe also blasted Noussair Mazraoui for his ‘stupid’ lunge against BournemouthCredit: AFPUnited have conceded 14 goals in that time too.And their latest loss came on Sunday as Bournemouth ran riot at Old Trafford in a 3-0 win.The Cherries took advantage of United’s typically slack defending to claim back-to-back victories at the Theatre of Dreams.Amorim’s men were once again lacking at set pieces as they conceded an easy opener.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it was a penalty for Bournemouth’s second which really frustrated pundit Owen.The former United man was left fuming when defender Mazraoui hacked down Justin Kluivert to give away a spot-kick.And afterwards, he branded the new signing’s decision to lunge as “stupid”, while also lamenting United’s inability to fight back when going a goal down.Owen told Premier League Productions: “A little rash? A little stupid, more like. What on earth are you doing?Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“Two players are waiting for him, he’s not going to score from there and he dives in.“Just stay on your feet and usher him away. It’s just a poor, poor decision. The sad thing about Manchester United these days is they go 1-0 down and you never really think they’re going to come back.Old Trafford starts LEAKING midway through Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd press conference as fans say ‘perfect metaphor’“They’re not a good team. Ruben Amorim needs to be watching that game and ensure these players that are not performing do not put on the shirt again. “He needs to be that brutal and that ruthless.”Mazraoui, 27, joined United in the summer from Bayern Munich for just over £12million.He has already played 25 times in all competitions for his new side and been hailed as the best bit of business the club has done for some time.But it remains unclear where he fits in to Amorim’s system.Mazraoui, a right-back in a four-man defence by trade, has been utilised as both a wing-back and a centre-half in United’s 3-4-3 formation.Yet it was Erik ten Hag who really tried to prove Mazraoui’s versatility by using his former Ajax star as an attacking No10 playmaker in United’s 1-1 Europa League draw at Fenerbahce in October.Man Utd ratings vs Bournemouth as Malacia is hooked after horror first halfRUBEN AMORIM suffered his worst defeat of his short reign as Man Utd boss with a shocking 3-0 loss to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.And his flops were easily second best all over the park to Andoni Iraola’s Cherries. SunSport’s Ian Whittell has provided his ratings of the Man United squad…Andre Onana – 5Shaky on ball and his nervousness in holding it too long was transmitted to United supporters.Bad conditions for a keeper but there were also some uncertain moments when he needed two attempts to grasp on to long shots.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Complained bitterly about the penalty he gave away but it was hard to make a case in his defence.Caught out, then panicked and tripped Justin Kluivert from behind to cap what was already an uninspiring display.Harry Maguire – 4All too often was second to the ball or simply failed to get hold of his man, with Evanilson too elusive for the United defender to shackle.Ruben Amorim believes Maguire is perfect for his three-at-the-back formation but the jury is still out on that one.Lisandro Martinez – 5Stood watching as Semenyo swept in Bournemouth’s third goal, the latest in a long line of defensive embarrassments from United.Seems to be struggling, like most of his defensive team mates, with the new system and incapable of doing even the basics.Diogo Dalot – 6Made a couple of good blocks and tried to become involved in attacking moments from wing-back, without having a huge impact.On a day when United’s defence was again found wanting, however, he was not the worst culprit.Manuel UgarteBooked for a cynical foul on Kluivert and too often struggled to cope with Bournemouth runners.Too much of the game passed him by and did not last even the hour as United chased the game.Kobbie Mainoo 6Like most of his team, guilty of some unforced errors but there was no faulting his work rate or drive.Created a great chance when he hounded Dean Huijsen off the ball and set up Bruno Fernandes but gave up the ball for Bournemouth’s third.Tyrell Malacia 3Terrible touch early on drew groans from the home fans, the first of a number of sloppy moments from the fit-again full-back.Predictable that he should give away the free-kick from which the visitors opened the scoring and hooked at half-time.Amad Diallo 7The big winner from the Rashford controversy and could have lit up Old Trafford early on but placed a good chance straight at the keeper.Not a performance on a par with his derby exploits but still looked United’s best hope of carving out a goal.Bruno Fernandes 8Playing higher, and wider, up the field these days and maybe there is a debate over whether that is the best use of his undoubted talents.But in the last five minutes of the first half alone, he had three good chances which might have brought an equaliser.Joshua Zirkzee 5Given the nod ahead of Rasmus Hojlund, a reward for some decent recent performances under his new manager but this was not one of them.Was the closest Red to Dean Huijsen as he headed Bournemouth in front though United’s defending was such a mess, it was not clear whether he was Zirkzee’s responsibility.SubstitutesLeny Yoro (for Malacia, 46) 4Came on as part of a much-needed half-time defensive reshuffle by Amorim but failed to add stability.Alejandro Garnacho (for Ugarte, 54) 5Had a chance when clean through just after Bournemouth’s third but hit it straight at Kepa.Rasmus Hojlund (for Zirkzee, 54) 6Looked like he might have a goal in him and at least forced Kepa into one good stop.Substitutes (not used): Altay Bayindir, Casemiro, Toby Collyer, Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, Antony. 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    Marcus Rashford named Mr January for Man United’s 2025 calendar – despite departure rumours

    MAN United picked Marcus Rashford as their 2025 calendar’s face of January — when he may be leaving the club.The forward, 27, has been left out of their last three squads by boss Ruben Amorim.Man United picked Marcus Rashford as their 2025 calendar’s face of January — when he may be leaving the clubThe Old Trafford club is understood to be open to offers and has valued Rashford at £40millionCredit: GettyRashford said last week he was “ready for a new challenge”. But he will be staring out from United supporters’ walls all next month — when the transfer window is open.A source said: “Rashford’s future at the club remains uncertain.“He may not be here after the transfer window opens in just over a week’s time. At least he’s the face of January — it’s likely he won’t be around much longer.”Fans have not been put off, as the £12 calendar has already sold out on United’s website.read more on Marcus RashfordThe Old Trafford club is understood to be open to offers and has valued Rashford at £40million.He has previously been linked with Barcelona while several top Prem clubs want a striker, Reds’ great Gary Neville believes Rashford — who joined United aged seven — may have played his last game for the club.He said: “He probably has to leave and the club want him to leave.”Most read in FootballRashford has also been dumped by Love Island girlfriend Grace Jackson.Ruben Amorim defends Marcus Rashford omission after Man Utd exit against Tottenham More

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    ‘Not just Marcus’ – Ruben Amorim has theory on who’s behind bombshell Rashford interview and will ‘forget it.. for now’

    RUBEN AMORIM has a theory on who was behind Marcus Rashford’s bombshell transfer interview — but the Manchester United boss will “forget it… for now.”Rashford declared he is “ready for a new challenge” after being axed from Amorim’s squad for the 2-1 win over Man City.Ruben Amorim has a theory over Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer exit commentsRashford declared he is seeking a ‘new challenge’ after being droppedThe forward has since failed to feature in United’s following two matches, a 4-3 Carabao Cup defeat to Spurs and Sunday’s 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League.And Amorim, who is being backed by United’s board, has given no guarantee that Rashford will be involved for the tricky Boxing Day trip to Wolves either.It’s led to speculation that United’s academy product could be sold when the January transfer window opens.Yet Amorim reckons there could be other forces at play.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking to Sky Sports, the Portuguese boss hinted that Rashford’s comments about leaving United may have actually stemmed from the player’s camp.Amorim said: “It is a hard situation. I understand that these players have a lot of people around them, making choices that are not the first idea from the player.“I am always here to help Marcus as another player. I have to do what I have to do.“They chose to do the interview as it is not just Marcus. I have understood that.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“As a coach I focus on performance and the way you train. The rest, it is better for me and the club to deal with that when the time comes.”Amorim did offer an olive branch to Rashford though, insisting he will “forget the interview now.”Man Utd hero Lee Sharpe warns Marcus Rashford potential exit could come back to haunt club if he joins Prem rivals He added: “At the moment I focus on improving Marcus and we need a talented guy like Marcus.“I forget the interview now and see what I see on the pitch.”It remains to be seen if Rashford features again for United, with the forward having scored just four times in 15 league outings this season.Speaking to journalist Henry Winter earlier this month, the England ace revealed the time felt right to pack his bags and quit Old Trafford for a fresh start elsewhere.Rashford said: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.“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. That’s me as a person.“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. It’s disheartening to be left out of a derby, but it’s happened, we won the game so let’s move on.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s disappointing but I’m also someone as I’ve got older I can deal with setbacks.“What am I going to do about it? Sit there and cry about it? Or do my best the next time I’m available?”Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time. 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    Premier League legend takes over as Northampton Town boss as he returns to management after six years out

    KEVIN NOLAN has been named the new manager of Northampton Town – six years after his last managerial role.The Premier League legend has been out of work since leaving West Ham at the end of last season.Kevin Nolan has made his return to the dugoutCredit: PAHe will be the new manager of Northampton Town in League OneCredit: GettyNorthampton are currently 20th in the tableCredit: GoogleNolan, 42, was working as a coach at the Hammers under David Moyes but was surplus to requirements following the arrival of Julen Lopetegui.During his time at West Ham, where he also played, he helped the side win the European Conference League in 2023.He will now return to the dugout as the manager of Northampton Town – who are 20th in the table – having replaced Jon Brady.He has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the League One strugglers.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe said: “I am delighted to be appointed the new manager of Northampton Town and I cannot wait to get going.”We have a busy schedule over the Christmas and New Year period so the challenge is to hit the ground running as best we can.”The club has a fine reputation in the game as being a well run club and it is clear it has moved forward on and off the pitch over the last few seasons.”I am proud and honoured to be given the chance to try and continue and develop that work.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I believe the squad can make progress up the table and I am determined to repay the faith that the board of directors have shown in me.”We don’t have any time to lose, it might be Christmas but we have a lot of work to do in a short space of time and I hope the supporters will come with us as we start our journey.Kevin Nolan remembers the lost talent of Ravel Morrison Chairman’s view on Nolan appointmentNorthampton chairman Kelvin Thomas shared his views on Nolan’s appointment… He said: “Kevin was very impressive through the process and showed a real desire for the job.”He has done well in difficult circumstances in both of his previous managerial jobs and he impressed us with his knowledge, his energy, his experience and his passion. He showed a real desire and enthusiasm for the role, he couldn’t wait to get started and he has already taken charge of training for the first time.”He has been a leader throughout his career. Whether that be as a player where he was a Premier League captain of some distinction, to his managerial career where he enjoyed success at both of his previous clubs in difficult circumstances, to being a successful coach back in the Premier League, he has a hugely impressive CV. “He is also very well connected and respected throughout the game. He has a fine record of working with players at all levels and of all ages and we are excited to welcome Kevin to the club.”Kevin has been held in high esteem by both players and supporters of his previous clubs and we are delighted to have been able to secure his services for Northampton Town.”Our immediate target is to try and move up the table and while we understand we have challenges to overcome, we believe Kevin is well placed to lead us forward on that.”He played for West Ham between 2011 and 2015Credit: GettyHe also featured for Bolton and Newcastle during his careerCredit: AFP“We will need their backing and I can promise them we will be doing all we can to turn the results around.”Nolan does bring managerial experience with him to the Sixfields Stadium.He started his managerial career with Leyton Orient as a player-manager, in which he won seven of 15 matches.He was named the manager of Notts County in January 2017.The former midfielder lifted the club away from the threat of relegation in his first season before a play-off finish in his second.During his playing days, he turned out for the likes of Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle, West Ham and Leyton Orient.He made 401 appearances in the Premier League and scored 69 goals. Nolan’s playing career Here is a look at Kevion Nolan’s playign career…Bolton Wanderers – 1999-2009Appearances: 342Newcastle United – 2006-2011Appearances: 91West Ham United – 2011-2015Appearances: 157Leyton Orient – 2016Appearances: 14 More

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    Lewis Hamilton learning to speak ITALIAN after Ferrari move following stark warning from F1 chief

    LEWIS HAMILTON is learning to speak Italian ahead of his move to Ferrari.The F1 star is joining the Italian team for the 2025 season after finally calling time on his career at Mercedes.Lewis Hamilton is learning to speak Italian ahead of his switch to FerrariCredit: GettyHamilton, 39, signed a two-year deal with Ferrari worth £100million.The team activated a clause in his Mercedes contract to bring an end to his time there after 11 years.Ahead of joining Ferrari, the British driver is learning Italian to help him adapt to his new team.F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has insisted that the seven-time world champion needs to speak the language in order to “integrate”.READ MORE ON F1As quoted by Autoracer, he said: “He will bring great interest.”He is learning to speak Italian and understand how to integrate into our culture.“I told him, it is also essential for him to be able to do this. In Ferrari, he will find a different environment than before.” Hamilton will be the team-mate of Charles Leclerc when he finally joins Ferrari.Most read in MotorsportHe will be the third team-mate of the Monégasque driver after the stints of Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDomenicali has insisted that the two drivers share a mutual respect for each other.He added: “Charles will, of course, have to accept that someone like Lewis is not an easy team-mate.Lewis Hamilton demands to RETIRE in meltdown at Qatar Grand Prix as time at Mercedes heads for sad ending”Lewis will definitely have the ability to convey his positivity in his efforts to achieve his record.”They respect each other a lot, and I hope they will continue to do so at the end of the year.”It is believed that Hamilton has been granted permission to live in Enzo Ferrari’s old house while he stays at Maranello, Italy.Earlier this month, Ferrari were urged to RIP UP Hamilton’s contract by ex-F1 team owner Eddie Jordan.Jordan’s call came after Hamilton made the admission that he is “not fast anymore”.F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam LawsonFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel BortoletoAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack HadjarHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon More