themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Guardiola dreams of signing Juventus defender and more rumours

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will attempt to sign Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci in the next transfer window , according to reports .
City have seen their Premier League title all but slip through their fingers this season and a major factor in their drop off in form has been the instability of the back-line .
The Blues were already short on options following the departure of Vincent Kompany but injuries at varying points to Aymeric Laporte , John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi has forced Guardiola to adapt midfielders Fernandinho and Rodri into makeshift defenders .
The lack of coherence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proved costly and as a result defence is being touted as one of the areas Guardiola will look to strengthen when he rebuilds the squad .
According to Goal , Guardiola dreams of adding Juventus stalwart Bonucci to his defence as his ability on the ball would make him a perfect fit in the side .
However , the Italian extended his contract to 2024 in November and it 's reported that he has no desire to leave Turin after becoming one of the senior leaders in the dressing room .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sell Bonucci for a second time and see him as vital in helping the development of the young centre-backs at the club .
Benfica star Ruben Dias is another defender who is contracted until 2024 but , according to reports in Portugal , City are rivalling Barcelona in the race to sign him .
According to Record , the two sides have not been put off by the Portuguese 's £87million buy-out clause as they look to reinforce their back-lines .
Meanwhile , City are competing with Paris Saint-Germain for AC Milan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
City have also struggled at left-back this season due to injury problems to Aleks Zinchenko and Benjamin Mendy and it could be another area which Guardiola looks to improve .
According to CalcioMercato , via SempreMilan , the Frenchman is in high demand after an impressive season in Serie A in which he has netted eight goals from the back .
It 's claimed that it would take upwards of €55million for Milan to consider letting Hernandez leave the San Siro .

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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will attempt to sign Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci in the next transfer window, according to reports.
City have seen their Premier League title all but slip through their fingers this season and a major factor in their drop off in form has been the instability of the back-line.
The Blues were already short on options following the departure of Vincent Kompany but injuries at varying points to Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi has forced Guardiola to adapt midfielders Fernandinho and Rodri into makeshift defenders.
The lack of coherence and consistency at the back has often proved costly and as a result defence is being touted as one of the areas Guardiola will look to strengthen when he rebuilds the squad.
According to Goal, Guardiola dreams of adding Juventus stalwart Bonucci to his defence as his ability on the ball would make him a perfect fit in the side.
However, the Italian extended his contract to 2024 in November and it's reported that he has no desire to leave Turin after becoming one of the senior leaders in the dressing room.
It's also claimed that Juve have no desire to sell Bonucci for a second time and see him as vital in helping the development of the young centre-backs at the club.
Benfica star Ruben Dias is another defender who is contracted until 2024 but, according to reports in Portugal, City are rivalling Barcelona in the race to sign him.
According to Record, the two sides have not been put off by the Portuguese's £87million buy-out clause as they look to reinforce their back-lines.
Meanwhile, City are competing with Paris Saint-Germain for AC Milan left-back Theo Hernandez, according to reports.
City have also struggled at left-back this season due to injury problems to Aleks Zinchenko and Benjamin Mendy and it could be another area which Guardiola looks to improve.
According to CalcioMercato, via SempreMilan, the Frenchman is in high demand after an impressive season in Serie A in which he has netted eight goals from the back.
It's claimed that it would take upwards of €55million for Milan to consider letting Hernandez leave the San Siro.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Kids choir behind Sainsbury's plug boy Christmas advert returned for BGT

A group of children took centre stage on tonight 's Britain 's Got Talent with a strong anti-bullying message .
The choir of young singers wowed the judges and audiences on BGT - and this is n't the first time that the choir has warmed the nation 's hearts .
Class Dynamix is the team from the famous Sainsbury 's advert which added sparkle to Christmas 2018 .
The ad , directed by The Greatest Showman director Michael Gracey , memorably featured cast of children playing a host of Christmas characters including a plug that launched himself into a socket @ @ @ @ @ @ @ film captured genuine reactions as some of the cast 's parents in the audience were captured seeing their children perform to the New Radicals song You Get What You Give for the first time .
The cast featured 14 children from Class Dynamix at the Windmill and Low Road Music Federation in Leeds who sang the choir parts throughout the adorable ad .
Led by founder Danny Gough , the choir returned to the stage with their mission to help young people expand in confidence and self-esteem .
They were unaware that Danny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the ITV talent show and show boss Simon Cowell paid them a visit to reveal they would be auditioning in Manchester .
Performing for Simon and fellow judges Amanda Holden , Alesha Dixon and David Walliams they took a stand against bullies and sang : `` B-U-L-L-Y-I-N-G. Stop bullies . ''
And their catchy song received a standing ovation from the judges , sending them sailing through to the next round .
`` Every child in the world should be singing that song , '' praised judge Alesha Dixon .

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A group of children took centre stage on tonight's Britain's Got Talent with a strong anti-bullying message.
The choir of young singers wowed the judges and audiences on BGT - and this isn't the first time that the choir has warmed the nation's hearts.
Class Dynamix is the team from the famous Sainsbury's advert which added sparkle to Christmas 2018.
The ad, directed by The Greatest Showman director Michael Gracey, memorably featured cast of children playing a host of Christmas characters including a plug that launched himself into a socket to light up the tree.
The film captured genuine reactions as some of the cast's parents in the audience were captured seeing their children perform to the New Radicals song You Get What You Give for the first time.
The cast featured 14 children from Class Dynamix at the Windmill and Low Road Music Federation in Leeds who sang the choir parts throughout the adorable ad.
Led by founder Danny Gough, the choir returned to the stage with their mission to help young people expand in confidence and self-esteem.
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They were unaware that Danny had signed the choir up for auditions for the ITV talent show and show boss Simon Cowell paid them a visit to reveal they would be auditioning in Manchester.
Performing for Simon and fellow judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and David Walliams they took a stand against bullies and sang: "B-U-L-L-Y-I-N-G. Stop bullies."
And their catchy song received a standing ovation from the judges, sending them sailing through to the next round.
"Every child in the world should be singing that song," praised judge Alesha Dixon.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Freddie Flintoff slams lockdown rule-breakers as he cycles through Hale

TV star Freddie Flintoff has slammed lockdown rule-breakers after he saw 'people gathering all over the place ' while he cycled through Hale .
Taking to Twitter , the former international cricketer said the culprits 'must be under the impression pr**ks are immune to Carona ( sic ) ' .
In the tongue-in-cheek post , put up on Saturday afternoon , he asked 'whether the lockdown had been lifted ' in the wealthy Trafford village due to the amount of people gathering in groups .
He wrote : `` Just cycled through Hale village .
Has the lockdown been lifted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the place , must be under the impression pr**ks are immune to Carona ( sic ) # StayHome . ''
The unseasonable weather has caused scores of Brits up and down the country to flout the social distancing rules in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
Last weekend , Greater Manchester Police said they were called to 432 reports of house parties across the region .
A total of 97 fixed penalty notices have been issued across Greater Manchester , five of which were issued last weekend .
Earlier this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK risks a second lockdown if people do n't stick to the social distancing rules .
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference , Home secretary Priti Patel said the figures were 'tragic ' .
She said : `` The nation today will be deeply moved by the figures of the number of people who have died .
Every death is a tragedy .
`` But there is a very strong message here .
We 've made a great deal of progress but actually we 're not out of the woods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more that we can all do as responsible individuals in the way we follow these measures . ''
She added : `` This is a deeply tragic and moving moment .
All our thoughts and sympathies are with those individuals who have lost family members through this horrendous and absolutely appalling virus . ''

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TV star Freddie Flintoff has slammed lockdown rule-breakers after he saw 'people gathering all over the place' while he cycled through Hale.
Taking to Twitter, the former international cricketer said the culprits 'must be under the impression pr**ks are immune to Carona(sic)'.
In the tongue-in-cheek post, put up on Saturday afternoon, he asked 'whether the lockdown had been lifted' in the wealthy Trafford village due to the amount of people gathering in groups.
He wrote: "Just cycled through Hale village. Has the lockdown been lifted there?
"People gathering all over the place, must be under the impression pr**ks are immune to Carona(sic) #StayHome."
The unseasonable weather has caused scores of Brits up and down the country to flout the social distancing rules in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
(Image: DAILY MIRROR)
Last weekend, Greater Manchester Police said they were called to 432 reports of house parties across the region.
A total of 97 fixed penalty notices have been issued across Greater Manchester, five of which were issued last weekend.
Earlier this week, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab warned that the UK risks a second lockdown if people don't stick to the social distancing rules.
On Saturday, the UK coronavirus death toll passed 20,000.
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, Home secretary Priti Patel said the figures were 'tragic'.
(Image: Getty Images)
She said: "The nation today will be deeply moved by the figures of the number of people who have died. Every death is a tragedy.
"But there is a very strong message here. We've made a great deal of progress but actually we're not out of the woods yet.
"There is a lot more that we can all do as responsible individuals in the way we follow these measures."
She added: "This is a deeply tragic and moving moment. All our thoughts and sympathies are with those individuals who have lost family members through this horrendous and absolutely appalling virus."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--'A deeply tragic and moving moment' - UK passes tragic death toll milestone

The UK hospital death toll passing 20,000 is a `` deeply tragic and moving moment '' , the home secretary has said .
Speaking at today 's daily coronavirus press briefing , Priti Patel addressed the devastating milestone and warned that the country was `` not out of the woods yet '' .
Her comments came after Professor Stephen Powis , medical director of NHS England was asked about a remark he made at the end of March in which he claimed the UK will have done 'very well ' if fewer than 20,000 people died during the pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... that would be a good result though every death is a tragedy , but we should not be complacent about that , ” he had told a Downing Street press briefing on March 28 .
Addressing his previous claim , Prof Powis told the press conference it was a `` very sad day for the nation '' .
`` Twenty thousands deaths is clearly 20,000 too many , '' he said .
“ When Sir Patrick Vallance [ the government 's chief scientific adviser ] and I made that comment a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emphasising is that this is a new virus , a global pandemic , a once-in-a-century global health crisis .
“ And this was going to be a huge challenge not just for the UK , but for every country.
” He said that even in countries that were `` on top of this early on '' were beginning to see new infections , and warned that the pandemic was not something that could be overcome `` in the next few weeks '' .
“ This is something we are going to have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months ahead – as I have said before this is not a sprint , this will be a marathon , ” he said .
“ I think moving past 20,000 deaths just reminds everybody that it is still absolutely critical that we continue to follow the social distancing guidelines , '' he added .
“ We are seeing the benefits and we will only continue to see the benefits and we will only continue to see a reduction in deaths if we all continue to do that.
” Home secretary Ms Patel said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deeply moved by the figures of the number of people who have died .
Every death is a tragedy .
`` But there is a very strong message here .
We 've made a great deal of progress but actually we 're not out of the woods yet .
`` There is a lot more that we can all do as responsible individuals in the way we follow these measures . ''
She added : `` This is a deeply tragic and moving moment .
All our thoughts and sympathies are with those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this horrendous and absolutely appalling virus . ''
According to the latest official figures , a total of 20,319 patients had died in hospital after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday – up by 813 from the previous day .
It meant the UK has become the fifth country to pass 20,000 coronavirus deaths , behind the US , Italy , Spain and France .
That figure does not include deaths in the wider community , such as in care homes , which means the true toll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least .

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The UK hospital death toll passing 20,000 is a "deeply tragic and moving moment", the home secretary has said.
Speaking at today's daily coronavirus press briefing, Priti Patel addressed the devastating milestone and warned that the country was "not out of the woods yet".
Her comments came after Professor Stephen Powis, medical director of NHS England was asked about a remark he made at the end of March in which he claimed the UK will have done 'very well' if fewer than 20,000 people died during the pandemic.
“If it is less than 20,000... that would be a good result though every death is a tragedy, but we should not be complacent about that,” he had told a Downing Street press briefing on March 28.
Addressing his previous claim, Prof Powis told the press conference it was a "very sad day for the nation".
"Twenty thousands deaths is clearly 20,000 too many," he said.
“When Sir Patrick Vallance [the government's chief scientific adviser] and I made that comment a number of weeks ago, what we were emphasising is that this is a new virus, a global pandemic, a once-in-a-century global health crisis.
“And this was going to be a huge challenge not just for the UK, but for every country.”
(Image: PA)
He said that even in countries that were "on top of this early on" were beginning to see new infections, and warned that the pandemic was not something that could be overcome "in the next few weeks".
“This is something we are going to have to continue working our way through over the months ahead – as I have said before this is not a sprint, this will be a marathon,” he said.
“I think moving past 20,000 deaths just reminds everybody that it is still absolutely critical that we continue to follow the social distancing guidelines," he added.
“We are seeing the benefits and we will only continue to see the benefits and we will only continue to see a reduction in deaths if we all continue to do that.”
Home secretary Ms Patel said: "The nation today will be deeply moved by the figures of the number of people who have died. Every death is a tragedy.
"But there is a very strong message here. We've made a great deal of progress but actually we're not out of the woods yet.
"There is a lot more that we can all do as responsible individuals in the way we follow these measures."
She added: "This is a deeply tragic and moving moment. All our thoughts and sympathies are with those individuals who have lost family members through this horrendous and absolutely appalling virus."
According to the latest official figures, a total of 20,319 patients had died in hospital after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday – up by 813 from the previous day.
It meant the UK has become the fifth country to pass 20,000 coronavirus deaths, behind the US, Italy, Spain and France.
That figure does not include deaths in the wider community, such as in care homes, which means the true toll will be higher by several thousand at least.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--BBC presenter had perfect comeback after being criticised for wearing heels

She 's a favourite with viewers of BBC Breakfast , and Naga Munchetty had fans cheering with a perfect clapback to some unwarranted criticism .
TV presenter Naga sparked shoe envy when she was spotted sporting a fabulous pair of high heels as she sat on the famous sofa at MediaCityUK , Salford Quays .
But the heels did n't go down well with one viewer who felt compelled tweet their thoughts and asked for a discussion on the matter .
`` I ’ m not known for my own sartorial elegance but why would anyone like Naga Munchetty feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these on a BBC TV breakfast news programme ?
Discuss ... '' they wrote .
But Naga , 45 , shut them down by replying simply : `` Because I want to . ''
The response was applauded by her supportive followers .
Ex Welsh rugby captain Gareth Thomas said : `` If I could pull em off then I would deffo wear them !
!
!
Plus she looks amazing , plus so many other things , I ’ m not understanding this mans point.. '' '' I wish I could wear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said another .
Another said : `` It was pretty much the first coherent thing I said to my husband this morning when I woke up - ( yawn ) wow Naga ’ s boots are incredible !
” '' Why the hell wouldn ’ t you want to wear fabulous heels like that ?
!
?
! ''
commented another .
And another fan pointed out : `` Funnily enough I paid more attention to her insightful brilliance , as lovely as Naga ’ s heels are .
`` P.s .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bikini top this afternoon because I want to . ''

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She's a favourite with viewers of BBC Breakfast, and Naga Munchetty had fans cheering with a perfect clapback to some unwarranted criticism.
TV presenter Naga sparked shoe envy when she was spotted sporting a fabulous pair of high heels as she sat on the famous sofa at MediaCityUK, Salford Quays.
But the heels didn't go down well with one viewer who felt compelled tweet their thoughts and asked for a discussion on the matter.
"I’m not known for my own sartorial elegance but why would anyone like Naga Munchetty feel the need to wear high-heeled shoes like these on a BBC TV breakfast news programme? Discuss..." they wrote.
But Naga, 45, shut them down by replying simply: "Because I want to."
The response was applauded by her supportive followers.
Ex Welsh rugby captain Gareth Thomas said: "If I could pull em off then I would deffo wear them!!! Plus she looks amazing, plus so many other things, I’m not understanding this mans point.."
(Image: BBC / Steve Schofield)
"A perfect answer," said another follower.
"I wish I could wear them they’re fabulous!" said another.
Another said: "It was pretty much the first coherent thing I said to my husband this morning when I woke up - (yawn) wow Naga’s boots are incredible!”
"Why the hell wouldn’t you want to wear fabulous heels like that?!?!" commented another.
And another fan pointed out: "Funnily enough I paid more attention to her insightful brilliance, as lovely as Naga’s heels are.
"P.s. I’m in my tracksuit bottoms and bikini top this afternoon because I want to."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Premier League set to stage regular meetings with government officials

The Premier League is set to begin regular meetings with the government and senior medical directors about restarting the Premier League as soon as possible .
According to the BBC , the Premier League is “ quickening the pace ” and intend to resume the league season where it left off at some stage during the coming weeks .
Boris Johnson is said to have been briefed on the meetings and the government 's chief medical officer Chris Whitty will allow his staff to be involved in the weekly meetings But a return to action will depend on an increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restart and strict social distancing measures between players .
The Times report that the Premier League is working with a host of other sports to help bring the action back to our living rooms .
The plan , thrashed out over a number of meetings , will see games staged behind closed doors in a small number of ‘ approved ’ stadiums .
That will allow the cross-sport project to squeeze the very maximum from a finite number of medical staff , police and other essential workers required to stage a top-level sporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League revealed the plan to shareholders last week with June 8 labelled as the ideal return date .
That starting date would see the campaign completed on July 27 , allowing until late August to start the new season .
But the FA is said to be concerned that time is running out of time to complete the current season before the 2020/21 campaign is set to get underway .

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The Premier League is set to begin regular meetings with the government and senior medical directors about restarting the Premier League as soon as possible.
According to the BBC, the Premier League is “quickening the pace” and intend to resume the league season where it left off at some stage during the coming weeks.
Boris Johnson is said to have been briefed on the meetings and the government's chief medical officer Chris Whitty will allow his staff to be involved in the weekly meetings
But a return to action will depend on an increase in testing for those involved in the restart and strict social distancing measures between players.
The Times report that the Premier League is working with a host of other sports to help bring the action back to our living rooms.
The plan, thrashed out over a number of meetings, will see games staged behind closed doors in a small number of ‘approved’ stadiums.
That will allow the cross-sport project to squeeze the very maximum from a finite number of medical staff, police and other essential workers required to stage a top-level sporting event.
The Times say the Premier League revealed the plan to shareholders last week with June 8 labelled as the ideal return date.
That starting date would see the campaign completed on July 27, allowing until late August to start the new season.
But the FA is said to be concerned that time is running out of time to complete the current season before the 2020/21 campaign is set to get underway.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Inside the designer apartment block where the kitchens are painted black

With just a short glance over Manchester 's skyline you 'll spot crane after crane as developments continue to pop up .
While there are plenty of new apartment blocks for city dwellers , the latest addition offers slick and minimalist design with an edgier feel than usual .
The aesthetic is hues of grey , with kitchens painted black .
Excelsior Works in Castlefield has been transformed by the award-winning residential developer Mulbury City , and designed by renowned Manchester architect Tim Groom , with interiors from YOUTH Studio .
Now home to 108 premium one , two , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the building was home to the largest printing and bookbinding factory of its kind in the late 19th century .
YOUTH said they wanted to 'respect the site ’ s heritage , whilst avoiding design that strays into clichéd historical references that are being replicated across the city time and time again . '
Instead , the team has drawn influence from ink and the neighbouring canal , playing on the idea of dark liquids .
This informed the ink-stained oaks throughout the apartments , dark mesh ceilings to mimic its industrial nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ represent the fluidity of the nearby canals .
Each apartment has a state-of-the-art Siematic kitchen and entertaining space , fitted with Bosch appliances and soft-close drawers , along with Cavalio flooring .
YOUTH are also the designers behind the KAMPUS complex - Manchester 's new garden neighbourhood - boasting 570 apartments alongside independent shops and cafes .
Co-director Liam McGroarty said : “ It was a privilege to be able to take Excelsior Works from concept to completion .
`` It had to become something more than a development clinging on to its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the developers , we created something totally different from what people expected in a residential scheme .
`` We focused upon creating a brand and lifestyle complementary to the location ’ s surroundings and future residents . ''
Full information on Excelsior Works is available here : https : //www.excelsior-works.co.uk/

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With just a short glance over Manchester's skyline you'll spot crane after crane as developments continue to pop up.
While there are plenty of new apartment blocks for city dwellers, the latest addition offers slick and minimalist design with an edgier feel than usual.
The aesthetic is hues of grey, with kitchens painted black.
(Image: Ill Times)
Excelsior Works in Castlefield has been transformed by the award-winning residential developer Mulbury City, and designed by renowned Manchester architect Tim Groom, with interiors from YOUTH Studio.
Now home to 108 premium one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across eight floors, the building was home to the largest printing and bookbinding factory of its kind in the late 19th century.
(Image: Ill Times)
YOUTH said they wanted to 'respect the site’s heritage, whilst avoiding design that strays into clichéd historical references that are being replicated across the city time and time again.'
Instead, the team has drawn influence from ink and the neighbouring canal, playing on the idea of dark liquids.
This informed the ink-stained oaks throughout the apartments, dark mesh ceilings to mimic its industrial nature and a bespoke LED lighting feature to represent the fluidity of the nearby canals.
(Image: Ill Times)
Each apartment has a state-of-the-art Siematic kitchen and entertaining space, fitted with Bosch appliances and soft-close drawers, along with Cavalio flooring.
YOUTH are also the designers behind the KAMPUS complex - Manchester's new garden neighbourhood - boasting 570 apartments alongside independent shops and cafes.
(Image: Ill Times)
Co-director Liam McGroarty said: “It was a privilege to be able to take Excelsior Works from concept to completion.
"It had to become something more than a development clinging on to its past, and thanks to the belief of the developers, we created something totally different from what people expected in a residential scheme.
"We focused upon creating a brand and lifestyle complementary to the location’s surroundings and future residents."
Full information on Excelsior Works is available here: https://www.excelsior-works.co.uk/


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Lockdown has talent: Watch Stockport comedian's stand up routine for MEN readers

Now ’ s the perfect time to brush up on some long-forgotten talent while we endure another few weeks of lockdown .
And hoping to inspire some wannabe singers , dancers , musicians and stand-up acts to revisit their flair for performance is Stockport Darren Watson , from Offerton , who is a plumber by day , and a comedian well… pretty much all of the time .
You see , he ’ s a walking , talking 'dad joke ' - you know , the kind that make your eyes roll back into your head .
We introduced the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weekend ahead of his appearance on ITV 's Ninja Warrior , where he caught the attention of producers with his witty one-liners .
He said : “ I love the old classic comics , like Tommy Cooper and Les Dawson .
I used to watch them all the time as I was growing up .
I definitely get my inspiration from them .
“ Everyone says my jokes are terrible and I know they ’ re not the best , they ’ re like dad jokes .
But they ’ re all clean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I think it ’ s not necessarily about the jokes , it ’ s the delivery .
I just like making people laugh.
” If you have a talent you 'd like to share with M.E.N .
readers , email vickie.scullard @ reachplc.com , or contact us on Facebook .

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Now’s the perfect time to brush up on some long-forgotten talent while we endure another few weeks of lockdown.
And hoping to inspire some wannabe singers, dancers, musicians and stand-up acts to revisit their flair for performance is Stockport Darren Watson, from Offerton, who is a plumber by day, and a comedian well… pretty much all of the time.
You see, he’s a walking, talking 'dad joke' - you know, the kind that make your eyes roll back into your head.
We introduced the 44-year-old - stage name DarrenJoe - last weekend ahead of his appearance on ITV's Ninja Warrior, where he caught the attention of producers with his witty one-liners.
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He said: “I love the old classic comics, like Tommy Cooper and Les Dawson. I used to watch them all the time as I was growing up. I definitely get my inspiration from them.
“Everyone says my jokes are terrible and I know they’re not the best, they’re like dad jokes. But they’re all clean, quick and to the point.
“I think it’s not necessarily about the jokes, it’s the delivery. I just like making people laugh.”
If you have a talent you'd like to share with M.E.N. readers, email vickie.scullard@reachplc.com, or contact us on Facebook.
Check out DarrenJoe Watson on YouTube.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Man United evening headlines as fans react to Di Maria rumours

Here are your Manchester United evening headlines for Saturday , April 25 .
Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan has heaped praise on youngster Brandon Williams after being asked who the most talented academy player is at the club .
Williams ’ form in the academy has prompted Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to reward him with 12 Premier League appearances this season .
Phelan was asked on who the most talented youngster United currently have in their ranks , and he said Williams stands out .
“ We ’ re tremendously proud of our academy , ” Phelan said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have opened up for the young lads more than they have done for a long time .
“ Brandon really stands out – he has blossomed into a first-team player rapidly.
” Former United midfielder Angel Di Maria has been linked with a potential move back to Old Trafford .
Italian publication claim Paris Saint-Germain have offered United cash plus Julian Draxler and Di Maria as they try to sign Paul Pogba .
Di Maria had a poor spell at United and left the club in 2015 , and his former team-mate Marcin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now .
One United supporter tweeted : “ Calciomercato are saying that PSG have offered Man Utd Julian Draxler & Angel Di Maria as part of a swap deal for Paul Pogba .
Worst rumour I ’ ve ever seen.
” One replied : “ That ’ s a horrible offer in what world would we want that fraud back anyway ?
” And another fan tweeted : “ Would rather give them Pogba for free than have Di Maria back.
” United assistant manager Mike Phelan believes the 4-3-3 formation suits the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experimented with several different systems this season – with the 3-5-2 being used at times – but the 4-3-3 has been the most common formation .
Phelan was asked on which formation he thinks suits this United , but also mentioned the 3-4-3 as a possible future avenue .
“ I like the 3-4-3 , which is unusual in the game at the moment , ” the United assistant boss said .
“ But the 4-3-3 we ’ re using at the moment suits us quite well , given the players we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to be flexible to understand a system – and knowing when to change it .
”

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Here are your Manchester United evening headlines for Saturday, April 25.
Phelan singles out Williams
Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan has heaped praise on youngster Brandon Williams after being asked who the most talented academy player is at the club.
Williams’ form in the academy has prompted Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to reward him with 12 Premier League appearances this season.
Phelan was asked on Twitter who the most talented youngster United currently have in their ranks, and he said Williams stands out.
“We’re tremendously proud of our academy,” Phelan said.
“Over the last 18 months, chances have opened up for the young lads more than they have done for a long time.
“Brandon really stands out – he has blossomed into a first-team player rapidly.”
United fans can’t believe Di Maria rumour
Former United midfielder Angel Di Maria has been linked with a potential move back to Old Trafford.
Italian publication Calciomercato claim Paris Saint-Germain have offered United cash plus Julian Draxler and Di Maria as they try to sign Paul Pogba.
Di Maria had a poor spell at United and left the club in 2015, and his former team-mate Marcin Bulka revealed recently that the PSG winger hates his former club now.
One United supporter tweeted: “Calciomercato are saying that PSG have offered Man Utd Julian Draxler & Angel Di Maria as part of a swap deal for Paul Pogba. Worst rumour I’ve ever seen.”
One replied: “That’s a horrible offer in what world would we want that fraud back anyway?”
And another fan tweeted: “Would rather give them Pogba for free than have Di Maria back.”
Phelan explains formation changes
United assistant manager Mike Phelan believes the 4-3-3 formation suits the current squad the best.
Solskjaer has experimented with several different systems this season – with the 3-5-2 being used at times – but the 4-3-3 has been the most common formation.
Phelan was asked on Twitter which formation he thinks suits this United, but also mentioned the 3-4-3 as a possible future avenue.
“I like the 3-4-3, which is unusual in the game at the moment,” the United assistant boss said.
“But the 4-3-3 we’re using at the moment suits us quite well, given the players we have at the club.
“Coaches always have to be flexible to understand a system – and knowing when to change it.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--When to see the Starlink satellites flying over Greater Manchester

Stargazers will get another chance to see the starlink satellites in the skies over Greater Manchester again this weekend .
They are the brainchild of technology entrepreneur Elon Musk and his SpaceX company and are designed to provide internet service to remote locations across the world .
Each Starlink satellite is about the size of a car and they move in a very distinct line across the night sky .
They have already proved a hit with star watchers who managed to get clear views this week .
And they are again due to pass over the UK on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the clouds but with largely clear skies forecast for Saturday , and some sunny spells expected despite rain on Sunday , you may still be able to catch a glimpse of them .
The satellites are so bright they can be seen without binoculars or a telescope .
Here are the times you may be able to see them : 9.45pm : Starlink-5,6 will be visible for six minutes , travelling from the west to the east ( bright ) 4.49am : Starlink-3 will be visible for six minutes , travelling from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approximate optimum times for the north west of England and timings in other parts of the UK may vary by a few minutes .
However if you miss them there will be plenty of other chances to see them as they are expected to be visible for the foreseeable future .
SpaceX has already launched 422 of its satellites into low orbit around the Earth .
The US firm has been granted permission to fly 12,000 satellites as part of the project - a number that could eventually be increased to 30,000 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who believe they could interfere with ground-based observations into space .
You can enter your location here to find the days and times they 'll be most visible in your area .
You can also track the satellites using the dedicated Starlink app , which automatically calculates when the SpaceX satellites are expected to be visible above your current location .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Chris Slater, Emily Heward)

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Stargazers will get another chance to see the starlink satellites in the skies over Greater Manchester again this weekend.
They are the brainchild of technology entrepreneur Elon Musk and his SpaceX company and are designed to provide internet service to remote locations across the world.
Each Starlink satellite is about the size of a car and they move in a very distinct line across the night sky.
They have already proved a hit with star watchers who managed to get clear views this week.
(Image: AP)
And they are again due to pass over the UK on Saturday and Sunday.
Views can be obscured by the clouds but with largely clear skies forecast for Saturday, and some sunny spells expected despite rain on Sunday, you may still be able to catch a glimpse of them.
The satellites are so bright they can be seen without binoculars or a telescope.
Here are the times you may be able to see them:
Saturday April 25
9.45pm: Starlink-5,6 will be visible for six minutes, travelling from the west to the east (bright)
Sunday April 26
4.49am: Starlink-3 will be visible for six minutes, travelling from the west to the southeast
These are approximate optimum times for the north west of England and timings in other parts of the UK may vary by a few minutes.
However if you miss them there will be plenty of other chances to see them as they are expected to be visible for the foreseeable future.
SpaceX has already launched 422 of its satellites into low orbit around the Earth.
The US firm has been granted permission to fly 12,000 satellites as part of the project - a number that could eventually be increased to 30,000.
However there has been opposition from astronomers who believe they could interfere with ground-based observations into space.
You can enter your location here to find the days and times they'll be most visible in your area.
You can also track the satellites using the dedicated Starlink app, which automatically calculates when the SpaceX satellites are expected to be visible above your current location.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Raheem Sterling pays tribute to Man City great David Silva

Raheem Sterling has paid tribute to his Manchester City teammate David Silva , labelling him the most humble player in football .
The Spaniard 's contract is up at the end of this season and will leave the Premier League champions after 10 years in Manchester .
Asked how much he has learnt from Silva , Sterling paid testament to his teammate 's character , as well as his obvious talents on the pitch .
`` One thing I 've definitely learned from David is to be humble , '' Sterling told BBC Radio 5 live .
`` He is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever meet in your life and the trophies he has behind him to back him up , it just shows you , when you go to the next level and you 're winning all these things , to keep that humility about yourself and carry yourself in a decent way .
`` He 's a perfect example of how to be a great professional and a top player , with many , many trophies behind him .
If it is his last season ( in English football ) , he 'll be sorely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the club and if you want to follow in his example it is always to keep that humility . ''
Asked if he is likely to be one of the best players he will ever play alongside , he added : `` For sure , most definitely .
I 'll have a couple of his shirts on my wall in my house in Jamaica . ''

Raheem Sterling has paid tribute to his Manchester City teammate David Silva, labelling him the most humble player in football.
The Spaniard's contract is up at the end of this season and will leave the Premier League champions after 10 years in Manchester.
Asked how much he has learnt from Silva, Sterling paid testament to his teammate's character, as well as his obvious talents on the pitch.
"One thing I've definitely learned from David is to be humble," Sterling told BBC Radio 5 live.
"He is the most humble football player you will ever meet in your life and the trophies he has behind him to back him up, it just shows you, when you go to the next level and you're winning all these things, to keep that humility about yourself and carry yourself in a decent way.
"He's a perfect example of how to be a great professional and a top player, with many, many trophies behind him. If it is his last season (in English football), he'll be sorely missed because he brings so much to the club and if you want to follow in his example it is always to keep that humility."
Asked if he is likely to be one of the best players he will ever play alongside, he added: "For sure, most definitely. I'll have a couple of his shirts on my wall in my house in Jamaica."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Man City evening headlines as Sadio Mane verdict explained

Here are your Manchester City evening headlines on Saturday , April 25 .
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said Liverpool ’ s Sadio Mane would have earned his vote if the PFA Player of the Year award had taken place as originally planned .
The prestigious award recognises the best player from the Premier League but this weekend ’ s ceremony has been postponed due to the continued suspension of football .
No matches have been played since mid-March and doubt still remains over when , or if , the season will finish .
Despite the break in football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward would have earned his vote due to the 28-year-old ’ s overall importance .
`` If I had to vote , I would say Mane , '' .
`` I think he 's been the total package this year for Liverpool and he 's been important .
I think if i had to choose somebody I would choose Mane . ''
David Silva has named Yorkshire duo John Stones and Kyle Walker as the funniest players at the club .
As one of the longest-serving players at City , Silva is set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season when his contract expires .
`` It ’ s hard to pinpoint one because I ’ ve played with a lot of players , '' the Spaniard said during a Reddit when asked to name the funniest teammate he has played with .
`` But I think right now at City Kyle Walker and John Stones are some of the funniest , and before , in Spain too , Capdevila , who played on the national team with me , and Santi Cazorla and Nolito . ''
Silva also named former Real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Spain ’ s past that he would have loved to play alongside .
Patrick Roberts has been told that a switch back to Celtic would be a “ good move ” for himself and the club .
The 23-year-old joined City in 2015 from Fulham but has spent the majority of his City career on loan - including a spell with Norwich City this season , but soon returned after making just three appearances in East Anglia .
Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has said that a move to the Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward ’ s career .
“ Sometimes you need to go away to get better and if you do come back , you come back more of a mature player , you ’ ve progressed your career and maybe hit the heights that you expected beforehand .
“ I think it would be a good move .
I think he ’ d be relishing the chance to show what he can do after being away .
I think that would be a good opportunity , ” he told .

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Here are your Manchester City evening headlines on Saturday, April 25.
De Bruyne explains Mane verdict
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said Liverpool’s Sadio Mane would have earned his vote if the PFA Player of the Year award had taken place as originally planned.
The prestigious award recognises the best player from the Premier League but this weekend’s ceremony has been postponed due to the continued suspension of football. No matches have been played since mid-March and doubt still remains over when, or if, the season will finish.
Despite the break in football, De Bruyne noted that the Liverpool forward would have earned his vote due to the 28-year-old’s overall importance.
"If I had to vote, I would say Mane," he told BT Sport .
"I think he's been the total package this year for Liverpool and he's been important. I think if i had to choose somebody I would choose Mane."
David Silva names funniest City teammates
David Silva has named Yorkshire duo John Stones and Kyle Walker as the funniest players at the club.
As one of the longest-serving players at City, Silva is set to depart at the end of this season when his contract expires.
"It’s hard to pinpoint one because I’ve played with a lot of players," the Spaniard said during a Reddit Q&A when asked to name the funniest teammate he has played with.
"But I think right now at City Kyle Walker and John Stones are some of the funniest, and before, in Spain too, Capdevila, who played on the national team with me, and Santi Cazorla and Nolito."
Silva also named former Real Madrid striker Raul as the one player from Spain’s past that he would have loved to play alongside.
Forgotten City man sent transfer message
Patrick Roberts has been told that a switch back to Celtic would be a “good move” for himself and the club.
The 23-year-old joined City in 2015 from Fulham but has spent the majority of his City career on loan - including a spell with Norwich City this season, but soon returned after making just three appearances in East Anglia.
Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has said that a move to the Scottish champions could be the best for the forward’s career.
“Sometimes you need to go away to get better and if you do come back, you come back more of a mature player, you’ve progressed your career and maybe hit the heights that you expected beforehand.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Manchester United vs Southampton simulated on FIFA 20

With the UK lockdown still in force due to the coronavirus pandemic , it 's going to be a while yet until Manchester United fans will get to see their team in action , with their planned fixture against Southampton at Old Trafford this weekend rightly postponed , with the safety of fans , players and staff paramount .
But with fans having no football to look forward to watching this weekend , we decided to play the game anyway using FIFA 20 , to see what the score could have been had the game taken place .
So , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
What team would Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have gone with against the Saints ?
We used FIFA 20 to find out - just for fun .
To set up this simulation , we used kick-off mode within FIFA 20 but did n't select a team to control ; we then selected the teams and watched the match play out by itself , to give us a unique prediction .
The AI difficulty was set to legendary , with the line-up updated with the latest transfers , injuries and suspensions .
We predict that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 4-3-3 formation , with their line-up as follows : De Gea ; Wan-Bissaka , Lindelof , Maguire , Shaw ; Fred , Pogba , Fernandes ; Greenwood , Martial , James .
We predict that Southampton could have set up in a 4-4-2 formation , with the line-up as follows : McCarthy ; Walker-Peters , Stephens , Bednarek , Bertrand ; Armstrong , Ward-Prowse , Hojbjerg , Redmond ; Ings , Long .
FIFA 20 predicts that United would have dominated their game against Southampton , with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Old Trafford .
United took just 21 minutes to open the scoring , with Mason Greenwood threading a brilliant pass into the path of Anthony Martial , who fired home at the near post from inside the area .
The home side continued to dominate , but it took until just after half-time for United to double their lead , and it took a moment of real magic .
Bruno Fernandes controlled a loose ball just outside the area , before unleashing a fierce shot with the outside of his foot , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top corner .
An awesome goal .
And with just under ten minutes to go , Harry Maguire rose well in the area and headed the ball into the net to put some extra gloss on the scoreline .
A match that United dominated , putting in an impressive performance .
Here are the full-time match stats .
United had more shots and loads more possession , with Southampton outclassed at Old Trafford .
This FIFA 20 simulation predicts that United would have beaten Southampton 3-0 at Old Trafford this weekend , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maguire all finding the net in a commanding performance .
What do you think the score would have been ?
When real-life football is n't possible , football on the virtual pitch is the next best thing .

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With the UK lockdown still in force due to the coronavirus pandemic, it's going to be a while yet until Manchester United fans will get to see their team in action, with their planned fixture against Southampton at Old Trafford this weekend rightly postponed, with the safety of fans, players and staff paramount.
But with fans having no football to look forward to watching this weekend, we decided to play the game anyway using FIFA 20, to see what the score could have been had the game taken place.
So, what would the final score have been? What team would Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have gone with against the Saints?
We used FIFA 20 to find out - just for fun.
Manchester United vs Southampton on FIFA 20
To set up this simulation, we used kick-off mode within FIFA 20 but didn't select a team to control; we then selected the teams and watched the match play out by itself, to give us a unique prediction.
The AI difficulty was set to legendary, with the line-up updated with the latest transfers, injuries and suspensions.
We predict that Manchester United could have set up in a 4-3-3 formation, with their line-up as follows: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw; Fred, Pogba, Fernandes; Greenwood, Martial, James.
We predict that Southampton could have set up in a 4-4-2 formation, with the line-up as follows: McCarthy; Walker-Peters, Stephens, Bednarek, Bertrand; Armstrong, Ward-Prowse, Hojbjerg, Redmond; Ings, Long.
FIFA 20 predicts that United would have dominated their game against Southampton, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side coming away with all three points at Old Trafford.
United took just 21 minutes to open the scoring, with Mason Greenwood threading a brilliant pass into the path of Anthony Martial, who fired home at the near post from inside the area.
The home side continued to dominate, but it took until just after half-time for United to double their lead, and it took a moment of real magic.
Bruno Fernandes controlled a loose ball just outside the area, before unleashing a fierce shot with the outside of his foot, which curled round Alex McCarthy and into the top corner. An awesome goal.
And with just under ten minutes to go, Harry Maguire rose well in the area and headed the ball into the net to put some extra gloss on the scoreline.
A match that United dominated, putting in an impressive performance.
Follow Esports and gaming writer Nathan Bliss on social media To follow Nathan on Twitter, click here. To follow Reach Gaming on Twitter, click here. To follow Nathan on Facebook, click here.
Full-time score: Manchester United 3-0 Southampton
Here are the full-time match stats.
United had more shots and loads more possession, with Southampton outclassed at Old Trafford.
This FIFA 20 simulation predicts that United would have beaten Southampton 3-0 at Old Trafford this weekend, with Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire all finding the net in a commanding performance.
What do you think the score would have been?
When real-life football isn't possible, football on the virtual pitch is the next best thing.
Stay safe everyone.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Man United might have to change approach to next shirt sponsorship deal

Manchester United might have to consider a change of approach when it comes to their next shirt sponsorship deal , according to an expert in the field of football finance .
United 's seven-year deal with Chevrolet expires at the end of next season and no new partnership has yet been announced , despite links at the back end of 2019 that a record deal with Chinese firm Haier was close .
The coronavirus pandemic might now force United to reconsider plans , with the sponsorship market likely to be affected as a result of the economic downturn that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
United have historically signed long-term deals with shirt sponsors and Chevrolet is only the fifth company to adorn the front of club shirts since Sharp became the first sponsor back in 1982 .
But Rob Wilson , a football finance expert from Sheffield Hallam University , believes now might be the time to consider a short-term deal instead .
`` Part of me wonders whether they 'll look at a shorter deal to try and ride it out , and I think in some ways that will be easier to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` What you find is sponsors want to associate themselves with particular brands and United have always been playing this attractive , exciting , winning football when they 've signed these previous deals , so it 's been in the interests of their partners to sign up to these long-term deals .
“ But when you do that you limit your options because not every organisation out there is going to be able to commit to £750million of spending over a 10-year period for example .
`` It could be they look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , maybe linked to playing performance or revenues , that might be quite innovative , but I think they might end up with a shorter deal that might be of equivalent value , as they might get a handful of organisations thinking £40m to £60m for a year , we could probably do that , and that might help us turn our business around if we 're struggling.
” With United in form under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before the football season was suspended , Wilson believes some companies might still see a link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially if they return to the top of the table in the next few years .
Trying to strike a deal in China also remains a possibility , depending on the economic situation in the country where the coronavirus outbreak began , with no football club yet taking a stranglehold of what remains a hugely lucrative market .
`` What they 've done previously is to try and get into North America quite aggressively , you think back to the AIG deal and that was part of that , and China has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has really cracked the Chinese market , no club has a proper foothold in that territory , so there is certainly big potential there , '' said Wilson .
United 's response to the COVID-19 outbreak has led the way in the Premier League , with the club refusing to furlough staff and taking numerous measures to support employees , both permanent and casual .
They also paid fans who had travelled to Linz £350 when the game was moved behind closed doors and last week lit up Old Trafford blue as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carers .
Wilson has been hugely impressed with the decision making at United during this period , and doing the right thing might well have a benefit when it comes to strengthening community links and social capital .
He sees the backlash to Newcastle ’ s Saudi takeover as a sign that people ’ s focus on “ social capital ” is sharpening amid the pandemic , which would position United strongly in that area .
That could also present an option for the front of the shirts for 2021/22 , with Wilson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them free to a charity or good cause for a season , '' They 've taken some steps that you look at and think 'fair play , I would n't have expected that from a giant like Manchester United ' , it 's like they 've not even thought twice about it , they 've just done it because it 's the right thing to do , '' he said .
`` So tying the sponsorship of the shirt into that equation and the lack of economic activity going on and the recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give it away ?
Instead of taking a smaller sum from a sponsor they do n't feel is aligned to us and our values , do something else with it .
It 's certainly a potential option and it 's all about doing the right thing , which they 've been doing a lot recently . ''

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Manchester United might have to consider a change of approach when it comes to their next shirt sponsorship deal, according to an expert in the field of football finance.
United's seven-year deal with Chevrolet expires at the end of next season and no new partnership has yet been announced, despite links at the back end of 2019 that a record deal with Chinese firm Haier was close.
The coronavirus pandemic might now force United to reconsider plans, with the sponsorship market likely to be affected as a result of the economic downturn that will be a side effect of the COVID-19 outbreak.
United have historically signed long-term deals with shirt sponsors and Chevrolet is only the fifth company to adorn the front of club shirts since Sharp became the first sponsor back in 1982.
But Rob Wilson, a football finance expert from Sheffield Hallam University, believes now might be the time to consider a short-term deal instead.
"Part of me wonders whether they'll look at a shorter deal to try and ride it out, and I think in some ways that will be easier to get more people interested,” he explained.
"What you find is sponsors want to associate themselves with particular brands and United have always been playing this attractive, exciting, winning football when they've signed these previous deals, so it's been in the interests of their partners to sign up to these long-term deals.
“But when you do that you limit your options because not every organisation out there is going to be able to commit to £750million of spending over a 10-year period for example.
"It could be they look at a long-term deal that ramps up, maybe linked to playing performance or revenues, that might be quite innovative, but I think they might end up with a shorter deal that might be of equivalent value, as they might get a handful of organisations thinking £40m to £60m for a year, we could probably do that, and that might help us turn our business around if we're struggling.”
With United in form under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before the football season was suspended, Wilson believes some companies might still see a link with United now as an opportunity, especially if they return to the top of the table in the next few years.
Trying to strike a deal in China also remains a possibility, depending on the economic situation in the country where the coronavirus outbreak began, with no football club yet taking a stranglehold of what remains a hugely lucrative market.
"What they've done previously is to try and get into North America quite aggressively, you think back to the AIG deal and that was part of that, and China has been there for them, but no club has really cracked the Chinese market, no club has a proper foothold in that territory, so there is certainly big potential there," said Wilson.
United's response to the COVID-19 outbreak has led the way in the Premier League, with the club refusing to furlough staff and taking numerous measures to support employees, both permanent and casual. They also paid fans who had travelled to Linz £350 when the game was moved behind closed doors and last week lit up Old Trafford blue as a show of support for the NHS and carers.
Wilson has been hugely impressed with the decision making at United during this period, and doing the right thing might well have a benefit when it comes to strengthening community links and social capital.
He sees the backlash to Newcastle’s Saudi takeover as a sign that people’s focus on “social capital” is sharpening amid the pandemic, which would position United strongly in that area.
That could also present an option for the front of the shirts for 2021/22, with Wilson highlighting the possibility that United could offer them free to a charity or good cause for a season,
"They've taken some steps that you look at and think 'fair play, I wouldn't have expected that from a giant like Manchester United', it's like they've not even thought twice about it, they've just done it because it's the right thing to do," he said.
"So tying the sponsorship of the shirt into that equation and the lack of economic activity going on and the recovery that will take place, why not give it away? Instead of taking a smaller sum from a sponsor they don't feel is aligned to us and our values, do something else with it. It's certainly a potential option and it's all about doing the right thing, which they've been doing a lot recently."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Mother-in-law has a meltdown over 'sexy' see-through wedding dress

It 's the bride 's prerogative to have all eyes on her on her big day , but when it came to choosing the right gown one horrified future mother-in-law was determined to have her input .
Bride Mel stunned her groom-to-be 's mum Denise when she made a beeline for a 'super-sexy ' gown .
Mel was all smiles as she stepped out of the dressing room in a revealing white lace number .
Clearly delighted with the figure-hugging choice of gown , she said it was her 'story dress . '
But it showed a little too much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the £2,499 gown 'vile . '
When Mel appeared she clapped her hands over her mouth and cried `` Oh no ! ''
`` Olly 's mam 's face went bright red , I think she wanted to cry , '' said Mel about the moment .
Denise then went on to tell Mel exactly what she thought on the TLC show Say Yes To The Dress Lancashire screened last night .
`` I 've got a lot of respect for you and I know you 've come a long way , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she told her .
`` It 's not you my darling and it 's making me feel quite ill looking at it .
`` I really do n't like it , it 's vile . ''
She continued : `` I ca n't see the softer Mel in that .
You could maybe wear it for bed or something . ''
`` That 's a really expensive nightie , '' laughed stylist Gok Wan who was enlisted with helping Mel .
`` It 's doing nothing for your tats '' she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ knickers with diamantes ' underneath .
But her best friend backed up Denise and also told Mel she did n't like anything about it .
Mel had asked for a 'super-sexy ' gown to show off her figure .
Asked by Gok what she thought , she said : `` I love it , I do .
I absolutely love it .
It 's me .
`` I feel proud of my body , I feel proud of what I achieved . ''
And viewers were left wondering if she would stick to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take this where I 'm going to go with it , '' she said .

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It's the bride's prerogative to have all eyes on her on her big day, but when it came to choosing the right gown one horrified future mother-in-law was determined to have her input.
Bride Mel stunned her groom-to-be's mum Denise when she made a beeline for a 'super-sexy' gown.
Mel was all smiles as she stepped out of the dressing room in a revealing white lace number.
Clearly delighted with the figure-hugging choice of gown, she said it was her 'story dress.'
But it showed a little too much for Denise's liking and she branded the £2,499 gown 'vile.'
When Mel appeared she clapped her hands over her mouth and cried "Oh no!"
"Olly's mam's face went bright red, I think she wanted to cry," said Mel about the moment.
(Image: TLC)
Denise then went on to tell Mel exactly what she thought on the TLC show Say Yes To The Dress Lancashire screened last night.
"I've got a lot of respect for you and I know you've come a long way, but that is definitely a no," she told her.
"It's not you my darling and it's making me feel quite ill looking at it.
"I really don't like it, it's vile."
(Image: TLC)
She continued: "I can't see the softer Mel in that. You could maybe wear it for bed or something."
"That's a really expensive nightie," laughed stylist Gok Wan who was enlisted with helping Mel.
But Denise wasn't finished yet.
(Image: TLC)
"It's doing nothing for your tats" she said.
Mel suggested that she could wear 'white knickers with diamantes' underneath.
But her best friend backed up Denise and also told Mel she didn't like anything about it.
Mel had asked for a 'super-sexy' gown to show off her figure.
Asked by Gok what she thought, she said: "I love it, I do. I absolutely love it. It's me.
"I feel proud of my body, I feel proud of what I achieved."
And viewers were left wondering if she would stick to her guns.
"I'm going to take this where I'm going to go with it," she said.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--William Roache amazes fans by looking ageless as he celebrates 88th birthday

Corrie legend William Roache has been celebrating his 88th birthday in lockdown with his family .
The actor , who plays Coronation Street patriarch Ken Barlow , looked like he was having a great time in snaps shared by the soap to mark the occasion .
The photos show William smiling as he opened gifts with his children James and Verity , wearing a smart pair of navy shorts .
`` Sending a massive thank you for all your warm wishes from Bill , who 's celebrating his 88th birthday in lockdown at home with his family ! ''
tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get over how ageless birthday boy William looks .
`` 88 ?
No way !
!
Happy Birthday to you , '' gasped another .
`` How does he still look so well at 88 ? ''
asked another fan .
And another said : `` We should all dream to look as fit and healthy and happy as Bill does ! ''
William has been in the world 's longest-running soap since the very first episode screened on December 9 1960 .
He is listed in the Guinness World Records as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role .
His character Ken recently stunned fans by doing an about-turn on his decision to move away from 1 Coronation Street to start a new life at Still Waters retirement complex with girlfriend Claudia Colby .
Ken left Claudia and headed back to the cobbles after admitting that he missed his real home .
Viewers are now wondering what will happen after he had agreed to sell his house to his daughter Tracy who lives there with husband Steve and daughter Amy .

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Corrie legend William Roache has been celebrating his 88th birthday in lockdown with his family.
The actor, who plays Coronation Street patriarch Ken Barlow, looked like he was having a great time in snaps shared by the soap to mark the occasion.
The photos show William smiling as he opened gifts with his children James and Verity, wearing a smart pair of navy shorts.
"Sending a massive thank you for all your warm wishes from Bill, who's celebrating his 88th birthday in lockdown at home with his family!" tweeted Coronation Street.
(Image: Coronation Street)
They added the hashtags: "#WilliamRoache #KenBarlow #HappyBirthday #Corrie."
And fans couldn't get over how ageless birthday boy William looks.
"Happy birthday Bill! Forever young," said one fan.
"88? No way!! Happy Birthday to you," gasped another.
"How does he still look so well at 88?" asked another fan.
(Image: Coronation Street/ITV)
"Fair dos to the bloke! Happy Birthday, Bill."
"Looking good Bill" commented another.
And another said: "We should all dream to look as fit and healthy and happy as Bill does!"
William has been in the world's longest-running soap since the very first episode screened on December 9 1960.
He is listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest-serving male television star in a continuous role.
His character Ken recently stunned fans by doing an about-turn on his decision to move away from 1 Coronation Street to start a new life at Still Waters retirement complex with girlfriend Claudia Colby.
Ken left Claudia and headed back to the cobbles after admitting that he missed his real home.
Viewers are now wondering what will happen after he had agreed to sell his house to his daughter Tracy who lives there with husband Steve and daughter Amy.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Man United fans send three word message about Hannibal Mejbri

Manchester United fans have tipped 17-year-old wonderkid Hannibal Mejbri to break into the first team in the coming years .
The youngster joined United from Monaco last August , with the Reds forking out an initial £5million in order to secure his signature and fend off competition from Liverpool , Barcelona and Arsenal , though the fee could rise to £9m .
After impressing in the U18 side , it was no surprise to see Mejbri fast-tracked to the U23s to play under Neil Wood .
With football on hold due to the ongoing global crisis , United posted a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showing off his skills at home .
United fans were left seriously impressed and responded with a simple three word message - remember the name .
Many believe the France youth international has what it takes to break into the first team at Old Trafford .
Here is a selection of their replies on social media : Prior to United 's Youth Cup win against Leeds earlier this year , Nicky Butt said that Mejbri is a different type of player to Paul Pogba and stressed patience when discussing his development .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different to Paul when Paul was a youth team player .
`` He 's not as powerful as Paul , he is n't as dominant as him , he 's a different kind of player to Paul but we all know about the talent he 's got .
It 's been written out there in the press many times with the signing and the fee .
`` But he 's a young man who 's come to a new country who needs a bit of time .
He 's a very , very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immature .
He 's still a baby , he 's just 17 .
He 's not got anything on him just yet , he needs to build up his size and build up his physicality .
Talent-wise , he 's got such an immense talent to go on and play at a high level but there 's a long way to go yet . ''

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Manchester United fans have tipped 17-year-old wonderkid Hannibal Mejbri to break into the first team in the coming years.
The youngster joined United from Monaco last August, with the Reds forking out an initial £5million in order to secure his signature and fend off competition from Liverpool, Barcelona and Arsenal, though the fee could rise to £9m.
After impressing in the U18 side, it was no surprise to see Mejbri fast-tracked to the U23s to play under Neil Wood.
With football on hold due to the ongoing global crisis, United posted a video from earlier this month of Mejbri showing off his skills at home.
United fans were left seriously impressed and responded with a simple three word message - remember the name.
Many believe the France youth international has what it takes to break into the first team at Old Trafford.
Here is a selection of their replies on social media:
Prior to United's Youth Cup win against Leeds earlier this year, Nicky Butt said that Mejbri is a different type of player to Paul Pogba and stressed patience when discussing his development.
He told the MEN: "Hannibal is different to Paul when Paul was a youth team player.
"He's not as powerful as Paul, he isn't as dominant as him, he's a different kind of player to Paul but we all know about the talent he's got. It's been written out there in the press many times with the signing and the fee.
"But he's a young man who's come to a new country who needs a bit of time. He's a very, very talented boy but he's still very immature. He's still a baby, he's just 17. He's not got anything on him just yet, he needs to build up his size and build up his physicality. Talent-wise, he's got such an immense talent to go on and play at a high level but there's a long way to go yet."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-25--Firefighters are spending a third day tackling huge moor fire in Derybshire

Firefighters including some from Greater Manchester have spent a third day tackling a huge moor fire in Derbyshire .
The fire first broke out at Rakes Moss just off the stretch of the A628 Woodhead Pass between Glossop and Crowden just after 10am on Thursday .
It saw huge plumes of smoke drift over Manchester with people across the city reporting the smell of burning near their homes .
More than 50 firefighters from Derbyshire are currently involved in the operation and they are being supported by crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service as well as local landowners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Two helicopters have also now been drafted in to dump water from above .
This evening Derbyshire Fire and Rescue service ( DFRS ) `` the fire is now surrounded '' and that crews were now working to prevent it spreading any further .
Crews will remain at the scene , but as they have done on the previous two evenings , they will leave at sunset for their own safety and return at 6am on Sunday morning .
In a statement DFRS said : `` The fire is now surrounded and Firefighters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and prevent any further spread .
`` Work will continue until early evening when firefighting operations will cease and for safety , Firefighters will withdraw from the moors .
`` Firefighters will return to the scene at 6am on Sunday morning .
`` Throughout the incident volunteers from the Salvation Army have been in attendance , providing much needed food and refreshments to the crews working in the heat and challenging conditions .
`` A huge thank you goes out to the Salvation Army for providing this support .
In a seperate call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Derbyshire , Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire attend a grassland fire on an embankment off the A628 near Crowden .
An area of grass approximately 200 x 50 meters was well alight .
DFRS said Group Manager Paul Hawker said : “ I ’ d like to remind people to adhere to current government Covid-19 advice , to stay at home except for essential journeys .
“ I ’ d also appeal to people to consider how dry grass and vegetation is the moment .
`` A discarded cigarette , glass bottle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hot coals from a portable barbecue can easily cause a fire .
`` Please dispose of your cigarettes and rubbish responsibly and please do not go into the countryside to have a barbecue – stay at home and save lives .
”

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Firefighters including some from Greater Manchester have spent a third day tackling a huge moor fire in Derbyshire.
The fire first broke out at Rakes Moss just off the stretch of the A628 Woodhead Pass between Glossop and Crowden just after 10am on Thursday.
It saw huge plumes of smoke drift over Manchester with people across the city reporting the smell of burning near their homes.
More than 50 firefighters from Derbyshire are currently involved in the operation and they are being supported by crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service as well as local landowners and the water company United Utilities.
Two helicopters have also now been drafted in to dump water from above.
(Image: Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service)
This evening Derbyshire Fire and Rescue service (DFRS) "the fire is now surrounded" and that crews were now working to prevent it spreading any further.
Crews will remain at the scene, but as they have done on the previous two evenings, they will leave at sunset for their own safety and return at 6am on Sunday morning.
In a statement DFRS said: "The fire is now surrounded and Firefighters are continuing to damp down hot spots and prevent any further spread.
"Work will continue until early evening when firefighting operations will cease and for safety, Firefighters will withdraw from the moors.
(Image: Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service)
"Firefighters will return to the scene at 6am on Sunday morning.
"Throughout the incident volunteers from the Salvation Army have been in attendance, providing much needed food and refreshments to the crews working in the heat and challenging conditions.
"A huge thank you goes out to the Salvation Army for providing this support.
In a seperate call just after 10pm on Friday night firefighters from Derbyshire, Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire attend a grassland fire on an embankment off the A628 near Crowden.
An area of grass approximately 200 x 50 meters was well alight.
DFRS said Group Manager Paul Hawker said: “I’d like to remind people to adhere to current government Covid-19 advice, to stay at home except for essential journeys.
“I’d also appeal to people to consider how dry grass and vegetation is the moment.
"A discarded cigarette, glass bottle that the sun can magnify through, and hot coals from a portable barbecue can easily cause a fire.
"Please dispose of your cigarettes and rubbish responsibly and please do not go into the countryside to have a barbecue – stay at home and save lives.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-26--Man tries to drag teenage girl into his car in attempted abduction

A man has been arrested after an attempt to kidnap a woman in Salford .
The incident happened in Park Lane , Broughton Park , at the heart of the Orthodox Jewish community .
A man tried to drag a teenager into his car .
The 18-year-old victim managed to get free after shouting for help from passers by .
Police were called just after 7.15pm last night after being alerted to the incident .
Park Lane runs between Upper Park Road and Bury New Road .
In a statement Greater Manchester Police said : `` An 18-year-old woman had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend when a silver car pulled up alongside them .
The driver approached the woman and attempted to drag her into the car .
`` The woman managed to alert a number of passers-by and the man fled in the car towards Bury New Road .
`` A 47-year-old man was arrested nearby on suspicion of attempted abduction .
He remains in custody for questioning . ''
Superintendent Rick Jackson said : “ Following the quick and diligent work of officers , a man was arrested and he will be interviewed by officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman was not physically injured but she has been left incredibly shaken as a result of this incident and officers are continuing to support her .
“ There is not believed to be any wider threat to the community at this time but you will see increased patrols in the local area throughout the next few days so please approach them with any questions or concerns you may have .
“ Whilst we have a man in custody , our investigation does not stop here and I would ask any witnesses or anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us.
” Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4592 or 101 quoting incident number 2591 of 25/04/2020 , or the independent charity Crimestoppers , anonymously , on 0800 555 111 .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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A man has been arrested after an attempt to kidnap a woman in Salford.
The incident happened in Park Lane, Broughton Park, at the heart of the Orthodox Jewish community.
A man tried to drag a teenager into his car.
The 18-year-old victim managed to get free after shouting for help from passers by.
Police were called just after 7.15pm last night after being alerted to the incident.
Park Lane runs between Upper Park Road and Bury New Road.
In a statement Greater Manchester Police said: " An 18-year-old woman had been walking along the road with a friend when a silver car pulled up alongside them. The driver approached the woman and attempted to drag her into the car.
"The woman managed to alert a number of passers-by and the man fled in the car towards Bury New Road.
"A 47-year-old man was arrested nearby on suspicion of attempted abduction. He remains in custody for questioning."
Superintendent Rick Jackson said: “Following the quick and diligent work of officers, a man was arrested and he will be interviewed by officers throughout the day.
“Thankfully the woman was not physically injured but she has been left incredibly shaken as a result of this incident and officers are continuing to support her.
“There is not believed to be any wider threat to the community at this time but you will see increased patrols in the local area throughout the next few days so please approach them with any questions or concerns you may have.
“Whilst we have a man in custody, our investigation does not stop here and I would ask any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch with us.”
Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4592 or 101 quoting incident number 2591 of 25/04/2020, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here. And you can follow us on Facebook here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-26--Raheem Sterling lifts lid on Man City dressing room when they lose

Raheem Sterling has learnt the importance of winning under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City .
The Blues set a Premier League record of 18 consecutive victories in the 2017/18 campaign on their stroll to the title and then won 14 straight games the following year to pip Liverpool to the crown and defend their trophy in thrilling style .
This season has seen far more defeats as Guardiola 's side have struggled for consistency , although the team have not dropped points in consecutive league games .
Sterling is in his fifth season at the club and has become an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important goals and growing into a leadership role .
The 25-year-old believes that his mindset has shifted over the last five years to care more about winning to the point that being in a losing dressing room is `` like the worst thing in the world '' .
“ During my time at City , the most important thing I have learnt is the value of winning .
Before it was , if I won a game then it was good and if I lost a game , I was disappointed , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much , '' he said .
`` Now , if we lose one game in 15 at City you wouldn ’ t like to be in the dressing room , it is like the worst thing in the world has happened .
I think that is a great surrounding and thing to be in , that nobody wants to lose or accepts losing .
`` I think that is the biggest thing I have learnt since I have been there and is something that I carry with me , not just in football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that winning mentality to constantly want to win and to not take defeat for an answer.
” City pay great attention to the characters and personalities of players that they bring into the club as well as their football ability in order to keep the right balance in the squad .
Sterling is an example of a player that is hugely driven to better himself individually .
As much as Guardiola , Mikel Arteta , and other figures have helped oversee the improvement in finishing of the England international , the forward has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credits the manager for helping everyone adjust their mentalities and points to the back end of of the 2017/18 campaign as evidence of how they were all pushed to do better .
“ I think that is the most important thing that I have learnt from him , the winning mentality .
That is his number one thing that I have taken from him , his winning mentality .
`` I remember not last season but the season before , we were so far clear , but he still wanted to get 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him .
It is not just to do well but do it to the maximum that you can , and I think that is a massive thing I have learnt from him .
”

Raheem Sterling has learnt the importance of winning under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The Blues set a Premier League record of 18 consecutive victories in the 2017/18 campaign on their stroll to the title and then won 14 straight games the following year to pip Liverpool to the crown and defend their trophy in thrilling style. This season has seen far more defeats as Guardiola's side have struggled for consistency, although the team have not dropped points in consecutive league games.
Sterling is in his fifth season at the club and has become an essential first-team member under Guardiola, scoring important goals and growing into a leadership role. The 25-year-old believes that his mindset has shifted over the last five years to care more about winning to the point that being in a losing dressing room is "like the worst thing in the world".
“During my time at City, the most important thing I have learnt is the value of winning. Before it was, if I won a game then it was good and if I lost a game, I was disappointed, but it doesn’t burn you as much," he said.
"Now, if we lose one game in 15 at City you wouldn’t like to be in the dressing room, it is like the worst thing in the world has happened. I think that is a great surrounding and thing to be in, that nobody wants to lose or accepts losing.
"I think that is the biggest thing I have learnt since I have been there and is something that I carry with me, not just in football but in anything I do, just that winning mentality to constantly want to win and to not take defeat for an answer.”
City pay great attention to the characters and personalities of players that they bring into the club as well as their football ability in order to keep the right balance in the squad.
Sterling is an example of a player that is hugely driven to better himself individually. As much as Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, and other figures have helped oversee the improvement in finishing of the England international, the forward has driven the change.
However, Sterling credits the manager for helping everyone adjust their mentalities and points to the back end of of the 2017/18 campaign as evidence of how they were all pushed to do better.
“I think that is the most important thing that I have learnt from him, the winning mentality. That is his number one thing that I have taken from him, his winning mentality.
"I remember not last season but the season before, we were so far clear, but he still wanted to get 100 points and that just shows everything about him. It is not just to do well but do it to the maximum that you can, and I think that is a massive thing I have learnt from him.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-26--Rafael blames Man United transfer strategy for club failings

Rafael da Silva believes Manchester United 's flawed transfer strategy has been to blame for seven years without winning the Premier League .
The former United full-back was part of the last team which won the English top-flight under Sir Alex Ferguson during his last season at the club .
Since the legendary Scot left Old Trafford the club have failed to truly challenge for the title while they have also struggled to qualify for the Champions League on several occasions .
United are currently on the back of two trophyless seasons and Rafael believes this is mainly down to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target big names as opposed to the right ones .
`` It has taken too long to get back on track , '' Rafael told ESPN .
`` It 's been seven years [ without a Premier League title ] .
We did some things wrong .
We started signing expensive players and giving them a lot of money .
I do n't agree with that .
Just because a player costs £150 million does not mean he 's good for the team .
It depends on the character of the player .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ made mistakes , we start to just buy players .
I think it has to be a mix .
You have to buy some expensive players but not all .
I am a supporter too and I know they want the best players but let 's see if he 's the best player for Manchester United , let 's see if he is going to work . ''

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Rafael da Silva believes Manchester United's flawed transfer strategy has been to blame for seven years without winning the Premier League.
The former United full-back was part of the last team which won the English top-flight under Sir Alex Ferguson during his last season at the club.
Since the legendary Scot left Old Trafford the club have failed to truly challenge for the title while they have also struggled to qualify for the Champions League on several occasions.
United are currently on the back of two trophyless seasons and Rafael believes this is mainly down to a flawed transfer strategy which saw them target big names as opposed to the right ones.
"It has taken too long to get back on track," Rafael told ESPN.
"It's been seven years [without a Premier League title]. We did some things wrong. We started signing expensive players and giving them a lot of money. I don't agree with that. Just because a player costs £150 million does not mean he's good for the team. It depends on the character of the player.
"I think that's where we made mistakes, we start to just buy players. I think it has to be a mix. You have to buy some expensive players but not all. I am a supporter too and I know they want the best players but let's see if he's the best player for Manchester United, let's see if he is going to work."