themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-02--Henderson vs de Gea - stats behind battle to be Man United number one

“ I 'm sick to death of this goalkeeper , ” a characteristically irate Roy Keane fumed on Sky Sports after a David de Gea mistake had put Manchester United behind in their clash with Tottenham Hotspur .
`` I would be fining him at half-time , there is no getting away from that .
I would be swinging punches at that guy .
That is a standard save for an established international goalkeeper .
I am flabbergasted.
” It ’ s difficult to truly judge United legend Keane ’ s strength of feeling because he ’ s become a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an angry headline-generating , player-berating machine .
Yet underneath his vitriol , the former United captain raised a valid point : a goalkeeper of De Gea ’ s calibre should have saved Steven Bergwijn ’ s low drive .
Were this a one-off error , it would have been forgiven .
But De Gea ’ s form has dipped over the past two years .
Mistakes have become more common .
And that ’ s why , for the first time in eight years , there is genuine discussion over who should hold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the 2020/21 campaign .
Dean Henderson is the pretender to De Gea ’ s throne .
The 23-year-old has impressed over the course of a two-season loan at Sheffield United and earned a call-up to the England squad in October .
`` I think Dean has had a fantastic couple of years at Sheffield United and I think eventually he will end up as England number one and Man United number one , '' United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said last week .
`` But he ’ s got the best goalkeeper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place and , for me , David is still developing and still getting better and better .
`` We ’ re going to make a decision on Dean as it comes .
We ’ ll have a sit-down with him . ''
It shouldn ’ t be forgotten that De Gea is only 29 years old .
If he is able to rediscover his best form , he could theoretically be United ’ s first-choice stopper for at least another six years .
Henderson wouldn ’ t be prepared to wait that long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given there is already reported interest in him from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain .
But is he truly ready to usurp De Gea at Old Trafford ?
Can he make the sizable jump from Sheffield United to Manchester United this summer ?
This season , Henderson has kept 11 clean sheets in 29 top-flight appearances .
It ’ s an impressive return , especially given this is his debut Premier League campaign .
Yet being stationed behind a well-organised defence , which Henderson is at Bramall Lane , can skew a goalkeeper ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t concede high-quality chances , they won ’ t concede many goals .
So let ’ s look a little deeper .
In the 29 Premier League appearances Henderson has made , the Blades have an expected goals conceded figure of 29.67 .
Yet they ’ ve only actually been breached on 25 occasions .
Henderson will not be solely responsible for that - gilt-edged chances will have been missed and last-ditch clearances made - but he will be a big factor as his brilliant triple save against Norwich City earlier in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find the net was a De Gea specialty for several seasons - no more so than in 2017/18 .
It ’ s very important that Henderson can do the same if he is to pick up the number one shirt at Old Trafford .
But what of De Gea ?
Is he still breaking expected goals models ?
This term , United ’ s expected goals conceded is 31.2 .
And that is bang in line with their actual goals conceded of 31 .
So De Gea has been solid , but not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving a plethora of high-quality chances .
There will be the odd wonder save , of course , but these will and have been balanced out by the odd mistake .
That is perhaps why Solskjaer has been cautious when discussing Henderson ’ s return to United this summer .
He will know de Gea is far from finished , that a new first-choice goalkeeper isn ’ t required ASAP .
Henderson has performed excellently for Sheffield United , but the demands that would be placed upon him at Old Trafford would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to stop attacks , he would have to build them , something he isn ’ t tasked with at Bramall Lane – his pass completion rate this season is 72.03 per cent , compared to de Gea ’ s 86.04 .
Then there is the intangible and immeasurable pressure of simply being Manchester United ’ s goalkeeper .
De Gea struggled with the mantle early on while the likes of Ben Foster and Tim Howard , who both went on to have long Premier League careers , crumbled under it .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sky Sports , has warned of .
The former United captain said : `` What I do n't buy into is the idea that Dean Henderson can just go in that goalmouth area at the Stretford End and adapt to the demands of being a Man United goalkeeper .
It takes a special character .
`` What I think De Gea has done over a four or five-year period before this last 18 months is build up a lot of credit where he deserves a break ; where he 's given an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's shown he can be world-class .
`` When you go through a difficult period as a goalkeeper it 's mentally tough ; the scrutiny is on you constantly .
There 's no escape at this club and that 's why I 'd just be a little bit cautious over Dean Henderson .
`` With respect to Sheffield United , it 's very different making a mistake for Manchester United.
” Solskjaer has intimated that Henderson could return for a third loan spell at Sheffield United this summer .
And that , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for all parties .
Henderson would gain another year of Premier League experience and could claim the England number one shirt , something which would help prepare him for the pressure of Old Trafford .
De Gea , meanwhile , would have the chance to prove that his recent slip in form is a blip and nothing more .
That he can remain the Reds ’ goalkeeper for years to come .
And United can sit back and make a more informed decision in 12 months time depending on how both players fare @

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“I'm sick to death of this goalkeeper,” a characteristically irate Roy Keane fumed on Sky Sports after a David de Gea mistake had put Manchester United behind in their clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
"I would be fining him at half-time, there is no getting away from that. I would be swinging punches at that guy. That is a standard save for an established international goalkeeper. I am flabbergasted.”
It’s difficult to truly judge United legend Keane’s strength of feeling because he’s become a parody of himself in recent years; an angry headline-generating, player-berating machine.
Yet underneath his vitriol, the former United captain raised a valid point: a goalkeeper of De Gea’s calibre should have saved Steven Bergwijn’s low drive.
Were this a one-off error, it would have been forgiven. But De Gea’s form has dipped over the past two years. Mistakes have become more common.
And that’s why, for the first time in eight years, there is genuine discussion over who should hold the Manchester United number one shirt going into the 2020/21 campaign.
Dean Henderson is the pretender to De Gea’s throne. The 23-year-old has impressed over the course of a two-season loan at Sheffield United and earned a call-up to the England squad in October.
"I think Dean has had a fantastic couple of years at Sheffield United and I think eventually he will end up as England number one and Man United number one," United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said last week.
"But he’s got the best goalkeeper in the world to tip off his place and, for me, David is still developing and still getting better and better.
"We’re going to make a decision on Dean as it comes. We’ll have a sit-down with him."
(Image: Getty Images)
It shouldn’t be forgotten that De Gea is only 29 years old. If he is able to rediscover his best form, he could theoretically be United’s first-choice stopper for at least another six years.
Henderson wouldn’t be prepared to wait that long for his chance, and understandably so given there is already reported interest in him from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
But is he truly ready to usurp De Gea at Old Trafford? Can he make the sizable jump from Sheffield United to Manchester United this summer?
This season, Henderson has kept 11 clean sheets in 29 top-flight appearances. It’s an impressive return, especially given this is his debut Premier League campaign.
Yet being stationed behind a well-organised defence, which Henderson is at Bramall Lane, can skew a goalkeeper’s influence – if they don’t concede high-quality chances, they won’t concede many goals.
So let’s look a little deeper. In the 29 Premier League appearances Henderson has made, the Blades have an expected goals conceded figure of 29.67. Yet they’ve only actually been breached on 25 occasions.
Henderson will not be solely responsible for that - gilt-edged chances will have been missed and last-ditch clearances made - but he will be a big factor as his brilliant triple save against Norwich City earlier in the campaign proved.
Saving shots expected to find the net was a De Gea specialty for several seasons - no more so than in 2017/18. It’s very important that Henderson can do the same if he is to pick up the number one shirt at Old Trafford.
But what of De Gea? Is he still breaking expected goals models?
This term, United’s expected goals conceded is 31.2. And that is bang in line with their actual goals conceded of 31. So De Gea has been solid, but not spectacular.
The Spaniard is no longer saving a plethora of high-quality chances. There will be the odd wonder save, of course, but these will and have been balanced out by the odd mistake.
That is perhaps why Solskjaer has been cautious when discussing Henderson’s return to United this summer. He will know de Gea is far from finished, that a new first-choice goalkeeper isn’t required ASAP.
Henderson has performed excellently for Sheffield United, but the demands that would be placed upon him at Old Trafford would be very different.
Not only would he need to stop attacks, he would have to build them, something he isn’t tasked with at Bramall Lane – his pass completion rate this season is 72.03 per cent, compared to de Gea’s 86.04.
Then there is the intangible and immeasurable pressure of simply being Manchester United’s goalkeeper. De Gea struggled with the mantle early on while the likes of Ben Foster and Tim Howard, who both went on to have long Premier League careers, crumbled under it.
And that is something Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, has warned of.
poll loading Who should be the Man United number one? 500+ VOTES SO FAR David de Gea Dean Henderson
The former United captain said: "What I don't buy into is the idea that Dean Henderson can just go in that goalmouth area at the Stretford End and adapt to the demands of being a Man United goalkeeper. It takes a special character.
"What I think De Gea has done over a four or five-year period before this last 18 months is build up a lot of credit where he deserves a break; where he's given an opportunity to correct his form. He's shown he can be world-class.
"When you go through a difficult period as a goalkeeper it's mentally tough; the scrutiny is on you constantly. There's no escape at this club and that's why I'd just be a little bit cautious over Dean Henderson.
"With respect to Sheffield United, it's very different making a mistake for Manchester United.”
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Solskjaer has intimated that Henderson could return for a third loan spell at Sheffield United this summer. And that, in truth, may be the smartest option for all parties.
Henderson would gain another year of Premier League experience and could claim the England number one shirt, something which would help prepare him for the pressure of Old Trafford.
De Gea, meanwhile, would have the chance to prove that his recent slip in form is a blip and nothing more. That he can remain the Reds’ goalkeeper for years to come.
And United can sit back and make a more informed decision in 12 months time depending on how both players fare.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Pep Guardiola says Man City rebuild is needed

Pep Guardiola is unsure whether club legends Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho will stay beyond next summer .
But the Manchester City boss is committed to a rebuild of the squad which will begin this summer .
The departures of David Silva , Claudio Bravo and Leroy Sane this year , just 12 months after Vincent Kompany departed , has continued the break-up of the sensational squad which won successive Premier League titles .
But by next summer Aguero – the biggest name of all – will be 33 , while midfielder Fernandinho will be 36 .
Both will be out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The club ’ s priority has to be to replace Kompany this summer , arguably 12 months too late , and Guardiola has repeatedly said they have no intention of buying anyone in place of Sane .
The arrival of 18-year-old Pablo Moreno for £9million is clearly borne out of hope that he will mature quickly enough to step into Aguero ’ s boots – but the hunt for a new striker over the next 12 months is sure to step up .
Guardiola also hinted that City will be seeking to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this will be his final season .
It had been expected that the development of Phil Foden , plus the signing of Bernardo Silva , would cover for the departing Spaniard .
But with Sane also going , there is clearly a need for one new body , at least – and City see no need for another left-sided player .
Despite lagging a long way behind Liverpool , Guardiola said the re-build is all about keeping up squad numbers rather than improving the standard of players .
“ It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the absence of Vinny and David , ” he said .
“ Dinho and Sergio have one year left , but I don ’ t know if they will extend or not .
“ Some players have to be replaced .
But it ’ s not a disaster thing , or bad thing , it ’ s part of football for the age , for the normal situation and circumstances .
“ It happens in other clubs and players who are considered important players for the club decide to leave .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and that was the case for Jadon Sancho and Leroy ( Sane ) , especially Leroy because Jadon Sancho was in the academy .
“ We can not do anything else , as a club , if guys don ’ t want to stay .
They have to leave , we are not getting the best of these players if in their mind they are not happy here .
“ This is the first thing and the second is with the age .
But it happened and we have to rebuild it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world , you never can be eternal , and we have to accept it and try to take the right decisions as a club to try to maintain the level that we have .
”

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Pep Guardiola is unsure whether club legends Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho will stay beyond next summer.
But the Manchester City boss is committed to a rebuild of the squad which will begin this summer.
The departures of David Silva, Claudio Bravo and Leroy Sane this year, just 12 months after Vincent Kompany departed, has continued the break-up of the sensational squad which won successive Premier League titles.
But by next summer Aguero – the biggest name of all – will be 33, while midfielder Fernandinho will be 36. Both will be out of contract unless they agree new terms.
The club’s priority has to be to replace Kompany this summer, arguably 12 months too late, and Guardiola has repeatedly said they have no intention of buying anyone in place of Sane.
The arrival of 18-year-old Pablo Moreno for £9million is clearly borne out of hope that he will mature quickly enough to step into Aguero’s boots – but the hunt for a new striker over the next 12 months is sure to step up.
Guardiola also hinted that City will be seeking to replace Silva, who announced last year that this will be his final season.
It had been expected that the development of Phil Foden, plus the signing of Bernardo Silva, would cover for the departing Spaniard.
But with Sane also going, there is clearly a need for one new body, at least – and City see no need for another left-sided player.
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Despite lagging a long way behind Liverpool, Guardiola said the re-build is all about keeping up squad numbers rather than improving the standard of players.
“It’s not for the lack of quality but for the absence of Vinny and David,” he said. “Dinho and Sergio have one year left, but I don’t know if they will extend or not.
“Some players have to be replaced. But it’s not a disaster thing, or bad thing, it’s part of football for the age, for the normal situation and circumstances.
“It happens in other clubs and players who are considered important players for the club decide to leave. They don’t want to be here - and that was the case for Jadon Sancho and Leroy (Sane), especially Leroy because Jadon Sancho was in the academy.
“We cannot do anything else, as a club, if guys don’t want to stay. They have to leave, we are not getting the best of these players if in their mind they are not happy here.
“This is the first thing and the second is with the age. But it happened and we have to rebuild it. It happens at clubs around the world, you never can be eternal, and we have to accept it and try to take the right decisions as a club to try to maintain the level that we have.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Guardiola gives Man City stance on Man United target Jadon Sancho

Pep Guardiola has dismissed the idea of Manchester City bringing Jadon Sancho back to the Etihad to replace Leroy Sane .
City have agreed a £55m deal with Bayern Munich for the 2018 PFA Young Player of the Year to move to the Bundesliga champions at the end of the season .
Having paid the price for failing to replace Vincent Kompany this season , all eyes are on the Blues to see how they will deal with losing Sane and David Silva this summer .
One option could be Sancho , the 20-year-old England international who left City in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to first-team football .
City have the option to match any bids that come in for the Dortmund forward as part of that sale , and could compete with neighbours United for his signature .
However , Guardiola had previously suggested the club 's priorities lie in other positions and cited Phil Foden , Riyad Mahrez , Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling as potential options on the left .
When asked directly about the player on Wednesday the coach said that he does not expect Sancho to return to a club that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` No , no .
No , he decided to leave , why should he decide to come back ? ''
he said .
`` We wanted him to stay like Eric Garcia and Phil now .
He decided like Leroy now , so when he decided to move to Dortmund it ’ s not because he is going to decide to come back one year later .
It would make no sense .
`` He didn ’ t want to be here , so that is why I think he doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

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Pep Guardiola has dismissed the idea of Manchester City bringing Jadon Sancho back to the Etihad to replace Leroy Sane.
City have agreed a £55m deal with Bayern Munich for the 2018 PFA Young Player of the Year to move to the Bundesliga champions at the end of the season. Having paid the price for failing to replace Vincent Kompany this season, all eyes are on the Blues to see how they will deal with losing Sane and David Silva this summer.
One option could be Sancho, the 20-year-old England international who left City in 2017 in search of a clearer path to first-team football. City have the option to match any bids that come in for the Dortmund forward as part of that sale, and could compete with neighbours United for his signature.
However, Guardiola had previously suggested the club's priorities lie in other positions and cited Phil Foden, Riyad Mahrez, Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling as potential options on the left.
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When asked directly about the player on Wednesday the coach said that he does not expect Sancho to return to a club that he decided to leave three years ago.
"No, no. No, he decided to leave, why should he decide to come back?" he said.
"We wanted him to stay like Eric Garcia and Phil now. He decided like Leroy now, so when he decided to move to Dortmund it’s not because he is going to decide to come back one year later. It would make no sense.
"He didn’t want to be here, so that is why I think he doesn’t want to come back here."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Man arrested on suspicion of criminal damage after Edward Colston statue toppled

A man has been arrested after a statue of 17th Century slave trader Edward Colston was torn down during a protest in Bristol .
Avon and Somerset Police say they have arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage following the incident .
The bronze memorial , which has been in the city centre since 1985 , was toppled during a Black Lives Matter protest on June 7 , and dumped in Bristol Harbour .
No arrests were made at the time but the force previously said it would be reviewing footage of a `` small group of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statue with ropes .
Avon and Somerset Police say their investigation is ongoing .
At least 5,000 people packed into the College Green area of Bristol last month to protest in light of the death of George Floyd in the USA .
Protesters held an eight-minute silence - the length of time Mr Floyd was restrained during an arrest in Minneapolis , which led to his death .
During the protests , demonstrators pulled down the controversial statue of Edward Colston , which had been the subject of an 11,000-strong petition to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a merchant in the Royal African Company , which held a monopoly in England in the West African slave trade .
During Colston 's time at the company it is estimated to have transported around 84,000 African men women and children as slaves .
Images and video from the city saw demonstrators attach ropes to the statue before easily pulling it down to delight from the gathering crowds .
It was then thrown into Bristol harbour .
Bristol City Council , who have since recovered the statue , said it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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A man has been arrested after a statue of 17th Century slave trader Edward Colston was torn down during a protest in Bristol.
Avon and Somerset Police say they have arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage following the incident.
The bronze memorial, which has been in the city centre since 1985, was toppled during a Black Lives Matter protest on June 7, and dumped in Bristol Harbour.
No arrests were made at the time but the force previously said it would be reviewing footage of a "small group of people" who were filmed pulling down the statue with ropes.
Avon and Somerset Police say their investigation is ongoing.
(Image: PA)
At least 5,000 people packed into the College Green area of Bristol last month to protest in light of the death of George Floyd in the USA.
Protesters held an eight-minute silence - the length of time Mr Floyd was restrained during an arrest in Minneapolis, which led to his death.
During the protests, demonstrators pulled down the controversial statue of Edward Colston, which had been the subject of an 11,000-strong petition to have it removed.
Edward Colston was said to be a merchant in the Royal African Company, which held a monopoly in England in the West African slave trade.
During Colston's time at the company it is estimated to have transported around 84,000 African men women and children as slaves.
Images and video from the city saw demonstrators attach ropes to the statue before easily pulling it down to delight from the gathering crowds. It was then thrown into Bristol harbour.
Bristol City Council, who have since recovered the statue, said it will now form part of their museums collection.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--In Wigan the stunned fans are distraught - and it's about more than football

Dave Whelan 's statue beams as he holds the FA Cup trophy aloft in the afternoon sun .
But the mood of those gathered by the monument to Wigan Athletic 's former owner is far from celebratory .
A handful of supporters are outside the DW Stadium as they try to come to terms with their beloved club having entered administration .
Less than 24 hours earlier , those same fans were celebrating as the Latics swept aside Stoke City just yards from where they are now standing .
It was the club 's third win in as many matches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following a recent takeover , spirits were high .
So when the news that Wigan Athletic had gone into administration broke at lunchtime today , its loyal fan base was left stunned .
As those charged with helping save the club held a pitch side press conference on Wednesday afternoon , devastated supporters descended on the ground .
The mood was sombre as people wearing club colours spent time reflecting ; their fear for the Latics ' future plain to see .
Among those who made the trip was 16-year-old Kristian Lewis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his home in Platt Bridge , wearing his blue replica shirt .
The youngster was visibly distraught about the prospect of losing his club .
`` I 've supported Wigan all my life , '' he said .
`` It means everything to me .
`` I went to watch them in the FA Cup Final and that was the best day of my life . ''
`` I would lose everything if they went under . ''
Kristian was delighted when the Latics ' season resumed last month , and the team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good times to come .
He says today 's news came 'out of the blue ' .
`` We have been doing so well recently and we were only taken over a month ago , '' Kristian added .
`` The owners just treat it like a business , but it is more than that .
It 's a family . ''
Fellow Latics fan , and club employee , Ryan Ingram , said : `` I 'm devastated .
I did n't see this coming at all .
`` This club has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
While administrators Begbies Traynor 'urgently ' attempt to find a buyer , the Latics ' current plight has prompted fears of a repeat of what happened a few miles down the road at Bury .
When the Shakers were thrown out of the Football League last August , bereft supporters likened it to losing a close friend or loved one .
But , in the months that have followed , the impact has also extended beyond the club ’ s fan base to the wider community .
Pubs , takeaways and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matchday income , have struggled as Bury continues to mourn the loss of its football club .
Wigan , like Bury , is a proud club at the heart of a proud town .
And while traditionally viewed as a rugby town , Wigan 's football club has long been an integral part of its fabric .
Founded in 1932 , the Latics were a non-league outfit before they were voted into the Football League in 1978 .
When Whelan , the Wigan-raised owner of JJB Sports , took over in 1995 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Interest grew as the Latics reached English football 's top flight in 2005 .
The club 's finest day came in May 2013 when they lifted the FA Cup after a shock win over Manchester City .
But there was always a core following , long before then .
Terry Knowles , 59 , was one of those who fondly recalls the days at Springfield Park , the Latics ' home before they moved to the DW Stadium in 1999 .
The ramshackle old stadium was just a five-minute walk from his childhood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but his love for the club has n't .
`` It means everything to me , '' he said .
`` I 'm absolutely gutted .
Since the restart we 've won three out of three and not conceded a goal , then you get battered back to the bottom .
`` We all know there are highs and lows in football but it ca n't get much lower than being taken into administration by a group of people who have never been to the club .
`` I hope someone comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be soul-destroying for the town .
`` It 's one of Wigan 's focal points . ''
In Wigan town centre , things are only just returning to something resembling normality .
Businesses are still reopening months after they were forced to close in March due to the coronavirus pandemic .
On a balmy afternoon , shoppers queue along the busy high street while friends chat from a distance on benches in the town ’ s main square .
Some are discussing the situation at Wigan Athletic .
Lifelong fan and club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the shock he felt upon hearing the news , but he remains hopeful that his club will be saved .
The 43-year-old said : `` I thought we were safe after the takeover last month .
`` I think we will be all right in the end .
Teams have been in worse positions and come back from it .
`` I hope Dave Whelan will come back and save the day . ''
After more than 20 years at the helm , Whelan departed his hometown club in November 2018 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Hong Kong-based International Entertainment Corporation ( IEC ) .
There was a further change of ownership on May 29 of this year , when IEC divested its ownership to Next Leader Fund , with formal completion of the move being announced on June 4 .
But administrators say the new owners are no longer willing to invest money in the club .
It means the Latics now face the prospect of a points deduction and a relegation battle , despite having climbed to 14th in the Championship due to their recent form @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been watching the club for decades and worries about the impact of losing the club on the rest of the town .
`` It would be a big blow to Wigan , '' the 73-year-old said .
`` It 's a sad day for the town .
`` I did n't expect it at all , I had no idea they were in trouble .
`` They have won the last six matches but I 'm worried they might get relegated .
The players and fans do n't deserve this at all .
@

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Dave Whelan's statue beams as he holds the FA Cup trophy aloft in the afternoon sun.
But the mood of those gathered by the monument to Wigan Athletic's former owner is far from celebratory.
A handful of supporters are outside the DW Stadium as they try to come to terms with their beloved club having entered administration.
Less than 24 hours earlier, those same fans were celebrating as the Latics swept aside Stoke City just yards from where they are now standing.
It was the club's third win in as many matches since the Championship season resumed and, following a recent takeover, spirits were high.
So when the news that Wigan Athletic had gone into administration broke at lunchtime today, its loyal fan base was left stunned.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
As those charged with helping save the club held a pitch side press conference on Wednesday afternoon, devastated supporters descended on the ground.
The mood was sombre as people wearing club colours spent time reflecting; their fear for the Latics' future plain to see.
Among those who made the trip was 16-year-old Kristian Lewis, who cycled to the DW Stadium from his home in Platt Bridge, wearing his blue replica shirt.
The youngster was visibly distraught about the prospect of losing his club.
"I've supported Wigan all my life," he said. "It means everything to me.
"I went to watch them in the FA Cup Final and that was the best day of my life."
"I would lose everything if they went under."
Kristian was delighted when the Latics' season resumed last month, and the team's fine form had him dreaming of good times to come.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
He says today's news came 'out of the blue'.
"We have been doing so well recently and we were only taken over a month ago," Kristian added.
"The owners just treat it like a business, but it is more than that. It's a family."
Fellow Latics fan, and club employee, Ryan Ingram, said: "I'm devastated. I didn't see this coming at all.
"This club has been my life for over 20 years."
While administrators Begbies Traynor 'urgently' attempt to find a buyer, the Latics' current plight has prompted fears of a repeat of what happened a few miles down the road at Bury.
When the Shakers were thrown out of the Football League last August, bereft supporters likened it to losing a close friend or loved one.
But, in the months that have followed, the impact has also extended beyond the club’s fan base to the wider community.
Pubs, takeaways and cafes, which were once reliant on matchday income, have struggled as Bury continues to mourn the loss of its football club.
Wigan, like Bury, is a proud club at the heart of a proud town.
And while traditionally viewed as a rugby town, Wigan's football club has long been an integral part of its fabric.
Founded in 1932, the Latics were a non-league outfit before they were voted into the Football League in 1978.
(Image: Getty Images)
When Whelan, the Wigan-raised owner of JJB Sports, took over in 1995, the club's fortunes were transformed.
Interest grew as the Latics reached English football's top flight in 2005.
The club's finest day came in May 2013 when they lifted the FA Cup after a shock win over Manchester City.
But there was always a core following, long before then.
Terry Knowles, 59, was one of those who fondly recalls the days at Springfield Park, the Latics' home before they moved to the DW Stadium in 1999.
The ramshackle old stadium was just a five-minute walk from his childhood home.
Things have changed since then, but his love for the club hasn't.
"It means everything to me," he said.
"I'm absolutely gutted. Since the restart we've won three out of three and not conceded a goal, then you get battered back to the bottom.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
"We all know there are highs and lows in football but it can't get much lower than being taken into administration by a group of people who have never been to the club.
"I hope someone comes and buys us because losing the club would be soul-destroying for the town.
"It's one of Wigan's focal points."
In Wigan town centre, things are only just returning to something resembling normality.
Businesses are still reopening months after they were forced to close in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
On a balmy afternoon, shoppers queue along the busy high street while friends chat from a distance on benches in the town’s main square.
Some are discussing the situation at Wigan Athletic.
Lifelong fan and club steward Steven Smith is another who speaks of the shock he felt upon hearing the news, but he remains hopeful that his club will be saved.
The 43-year-old said: "I thought we were safe after the takeover last month.
"I think we will be all right in the end. Teams have been in worse positions and come back from it.
"I hope Dave Whelan will come back and save the day."
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
After more than 20 years at the helm, Whelan departed his hometown club in November 2018, when he and his family sold to the Hong Kong-based International Entertainment Corporation (IEC).
There was a further change of ownership on May 29 of this year, when IEC divested its ownership to Next Leader Fund, with formal completion of the move being announced on June 4.
But administrators say the new owners are no longer willing to invest money in the club.
It means the Latics now face the prospect of a points deduction and a relegation battle, despite having climbed to 14th in the Championship due to their recent form.
Former school caretaker John Pilkington has been watching the club for decades and worries about the impact of losing the club on the rest of the town.
"It would be a big blow to Wigan," the 73-year-old said.
"It's a sad day for the town.
"I didn't expect it at all, I had no idea they were in trouble.
"They have won the last six matches but I'm worried they might get relegated. The players and fans don't deserve this at all."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Manchester United fans have new target after another Leicester City defeat

Manchester United fans believe the club should be aiming for third , let alone fourth , in the Premier League after Leicester City 's poor form continued against Everton .
Leicester are yet to win in any competition since the resumption of football in England and slipped to another defeat on Wednesday , as they lost 2-1 at Everton .
The Foxes were n't in good form before the break either , winning just twice in their eight league matches before the league had to be suspended as a result of the coronavirus pandemic .
It was expected that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be contested between United and Chelsea but Leicester 's massive drop off in form has meant that their once almost guaranteed top four finish is now looking in doubt .
They are now just three points ahead of United , who sit in fifth place , with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side in much better form and enjoying a 15-game unbeaten streak .
Leicester 's remaining fixtures look tough as well , with Crystal Palace , Arsenal , Sheffield United and Tottenham all still to come as well as United themselves on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' contrasting fortunes since the restart , United fans now have their eyes set on third place - a position which was unthinkable at the turn of the year - and see Champions League qualification as an absolute must .
You can see a selection of their reactions below : United will be aiming to close the gap further on Saturday when they take on relegation strugglers Bournemouth at Old Trafford , who have also had a horrible time since the restart and were beaten 4-1 by Newcastle on Wednesday .
Leicester will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crystal Palace at the King Power Stadium and could , although it would take a nine goal swing , find themselves out of the top four if they lose and United win .

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Manchester United fans believe the club should be aiming for third, let alone fourth, in the Premier League after Leicester City's poor form continued against Everton.
Leicester are yet to win in any competition since the resumption of football in England and slipped to another defeat on Wednesday, as they lost 2-1 at Everton.
The Foxes weren't in good form before the break either, winning just twice in their eight league matches before the league had to be suspended as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
It was expected that the fourth and final Champions League spot would be contested between United and Chelsea but Leicester's massive drop off in form has meant that their once almost guaranteed top four finish is now looking in doubt.
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They are now just three points ahead of United, who sit in fifth place, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side in much better form and enjoying a 15-game unbeaten streak.
Leicester's remaining fixtures look tough as well, with Crystal Palace, Arsenal, Sheffield United and Tottenham all still to come as well as United themselves on the final day.
Considering the two sides' contrasting fortunes since the restart, United fans now have their eyes set on third place - a position which was unthinkable at the turn of the year - and see Champions League qualification as an absolute must.
You can see a selection of their reactions below:
United will be aiming to close the gap further on Saturday when they take on relegation strugglers Bournemouth at Old Trafford, who have also had a horrible time since the restart and were beaten 4-1 by Newcastle on Wednesday.
Leicester will face tricky opposition in the form of Crystal Palace at the King Power Stadium and could, although it would take a nine goal swing, find themselves out of the top four if they lose and United win.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Man City evening headlines as Pep Guardiola makes Leroy Sane admission

Here are your Manchester City evening headlines for Wednesday , July 1 .
Pep Guardiola has admitted he would have `` loved '' for Leroy Sane to have stayed at Manchester City .
But the Blues boss says that the Germany international had made up his mind that he would be better off at Bayern Munich .
The 24-year-old is set to join the Bundesliga outfit in the next 24 hours after the clubs agreed a deal worth £54.8million .
The move came after Sane turned down a new contract at City and doubled his money by moving to Bayern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is not already done , '' he said of the deal , with Sane due in Munich in the next day or two , ” Guardiola said .
`` There are some little issues but it looks like he is going to go to Munich .
We wish him all the best and big thanks for our years together .
`` He will have another chapter at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich .
`` He wanted to leave .
Everyone has their own life and he decided to move on .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay but he believed he would be better and happier there . ''
Manchester City 's FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal will take place on Saturday July 18 , it has been confirmed .
City comfortably beat Newcastle in the quarter-finals to set up a meeting with Mikel Arteta 's Gunners - the last side to beat City in the competition back in the same stage in 2017 .
The game will be played behind closed doors at Wembley , and kick off at 7.45pm .
It means that City 's Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Saturday , will have to be rearranged .
The final is scheduled for Saturday August 1 , one week after the Premier League concludes .
City 's Champions League fixture with Real Madrid is then scheduled for the following week .
Pep Guardiola has pinpointed the main lesson his side can learn from rivals Liverpool .
The Blues will give the new Premier League champions a guard of honour before the teams meet at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow night .
Jurgen Klopp ’ s team took the title in record time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spare , after City had won it two years on the bounce .
Guardiola was today asked what City have learned from the way they were left standing by a breathtaking run from the Mersysiders He replied : “ First of all , that a team was better , who play at an outstanding level in every single game - and we have to do more .
“ Football helps you to understand an incredible education that another one was better and you have to try to reduce this gap .
“ From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and in the future , to work harder and do better .
”

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Here are your Manchester City evening headlines for Wednesday, July 1.
Guardiola makes Sane admission
Pep Guardiola has admitted he would have "loved" for Leroy Sane to have stayed at Manchester City.
But the Blues boss says that the Germany international had made up his mind that he would be better off at Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old is set to join the Bundesliga outfit in the next 24 hours after the clubs agreed a deal worth £54.8million.
The move came after Sane turned down a new contract at City and doubled his money by moving to Bayern.
"It looks like it but it is not already done," he said of the deal, with Sane due in Munich in the next day or two,” Guardiola said.
"There are some little issues but it looks like he is going to go to Munich. We wish him all the best and big thanks for our years together.
"He will have another chapter at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich.
"He wanted to leave. Everyone has their own life and he decided to move on. I would have loved for him to stay but he believed he would be better and happier there."
FA Cup date confirmed
Manchester City's FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal will take place on Saturday July 18, it has been confirmed.
City comfortably beat Newcastle in the quarter-finals to set up a meeting with Mikel Arteta's Gunners - the last side to beat City in the competition back in the same stage in 2017.
The game will be played behind closed doors at Wembley, and kick off at 7.45pm.
It means that City's Premier League fixture with Watford, provisionally scheduled for that Saturday, will have to be rearranged.
The final is scheduled for Saturday August 1, one week after the Premier League concludes. City's Champions League fixture with Real Madrid is then scheduled for the following week.
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Guardiola on lessons learnt
Pep Guardiola has pinpointed the main lesson his side can learn from rivals Liverpool.
The Blues will give the new Premier League champions a guard of honour before the teams meet at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow night.
Jurgen Klopp’s team took the title in record time, completing their triumph with seven games to spare, after City had won it two years on the bounce.
Guardiola was today asked what City have learned from the way they were left standing by a breathtaking run from the Mersysiders
He replied: “First of all, that a team was better, who play at an outstanding level in every single game - and we have to do more.
“Football helps you to understand an incredible education that another one was better and you have to try to reduce this gap.
“From the last game Newcastle, tomorrow, and in the future, to work harder and do better.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Major investigation launched after 'toxic' materials were taken from stolen van

Police have launched a major investigation after toxic materials were taken from a stolen van found in Manchester .
Lancashire Police were called on Monday 22 June to reports that a Ford Transit van containing hazardous materials had been stolen from the Darwen area .
The van was found by officers from GMP on Leconfield Drive in Blackley at 11.45am today ( Wednesday 1 July ) .
Police say the van contained Talunex - an Aluminium Phosphide-based chemical which is commonly used to control vermin .
The chemical has been described as 'very toxic ' if swallowed , and emits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with water and acids .
Police have warned the public that Talunex should only be handled by specially trained operators .
It is believed to be in tablet form , and the capsules are light grey , garden pea-sized spheres with a seam around the centre .
The tablets were last known to be stored in a grey aluminium box .
The van also contained petrol , fertiliser and pesticides .
No casualties have been reported and no arrests have been made .
Senior officers are appealing to members of the public to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which may be Talunex .
Superintendent Rebecca Boyce , of GMP 's City of Manchester district , said : `` The removal of these hazardous materials from the van is incredibly concerning but I would like to reassure members of the public that a major investigation is underway to find and safely recover them .
`` The person/ people who removed the Talunex from the van probably did not know how very toxic the chemical is , I appeal directly to them to contact us or Crimestoppers , anonymously , and share the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can safely recover it .
`` I must stress that the Talunex should not be touched , sniffed or eaten .
If this happens , please seek medical assistance immediately .
`` I also appeal to members of the public to be alert and to dial 999 immediately if they have seen or do see anything which may be the Talunex or any of the other hazardous materials which have been removed from the van .
Do not touch , sniff or eat it . ''
Anyone with information should contact police on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the independent charity - Crimestoppers , anonymously , on 0800 554 111 .

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Police have launched a major investigation after toxic materials were taken from a stolen van found in Manchester.
Lancashire Police were called on Monday 22 June to reports that a Ford Transit van containing hazardous materials had been stolen from the Darwen area.
The van was found by officers from GMP on Leconfield Drive in Blackley at 11.45am today (Wednesday 1 July).
Police say the van contained Talunex - an Aluminium Phosphide-based chemical which is commonly used to control vermin.
The chemical has been described as 'very toxic' if swallowed, and emits a toxic gas if placed in contact with water and acids.
Police have warned the public that Talunex should only be handled by specially trained operators.
(Image: Google)
It is believed to be in tablet form, and the capsules are light grey, garden pea-sized spheres with a seam around the centre.
The tablets were last known to be stored in a grey aluminium box. The van also contained petrol, fertiliser and pesticides.
No casualties have been reported and no arrests have been made.
Senior officers are appealing to members of the public to call 999 immediately if they see anything which may be Talunex.
Superintendent Rebecca Boyce, of GMP's City of Manchester district, said: "The removal of these hazardous materials from the van is incredibly concerning but I would like to reassure members of the public that a major investigation is underway to find and safely recover them.
(Image: GMP)
"The person/ people who removed the Talunex from the van probably did not know how very toxic the chemical is, I appeal directly to them to contact us or Crimestoppers, anonymously, and share the location of the Talunex so that specialists can safely recover it.
"I must stress that the Talunex should not be touched, sniffed or eaten. If this happens, please seek medical assistance immediately.
"I also appeal to members of the public to be alert and to dial 999 immediately if they have seen or do see anything which may be the Talunex or any of the other hazardous materials which have been removed from the van. Do not touch, sniff or eat it."
Anyone with information should contact police on 999 quoting log 943 of 01/07/20 or the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 554 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--A train driver was injured after a stone was thrown at his cab - police are now appealing for witnes

A train driver was injured after a stone was thrown at his cab - police are now appealing for witnesses

Police are appealing for witnesses after a stone was thrown at a moving train , injuring the driver .
Pictures released by British Transport Police show how the train 's windscreen was shattered in the attack .
The driver suffered cuts to his neck and arm , but did n't require medical treatment .
A man wearing a red hoody is believed to have thrown the stone at the train as it travelled between between Smithy Bridge and Rochdale stations .
The incident happened at 6.30pm on Monday , June 22 , as the train was approaching Clegg Hall Road @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed the offence .
Anyone with information can contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 , quoting reference number 2000041927 , or by calling call 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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Police are appealing for witnesses after a stone was thrown at a moving train, injuring the driver.
Pictures released by British Transport Police show how the train's windscreen was shattered in the attack.
The driver suffered cuts to his neck and arm, but didn't require medical treatment.
A man wearing a red hoody is believed to have thrown the stone at the train as it travelled between between Smithy Bridge and Rochdale stations.
The incident happened at 6.30pm on Monday, June 22, as the train was approaching Clegg Hall Road bridge, near Smithy Bridge.
Officers would like to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed the offence.
Anyone with information can contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference number 2000041927, or by calling call 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--2020-07-01--This is the reason people have been finding dead geese along the Ashton Canal

A number of dead geese were found along the Ashton canal this week - prompting concern from local residents .
The RSPCA recovered two dead and three sick geese , which later had to be put down , from the canal on Monday afternoon .
On Tuesday another three birds were found dead , and today , a further two .
Many people took to social media to say they had come across dead birds and fish , or seen them acting very strangely .
Speaking to the M.E.N , she said : `` Because of lockdown there are n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the water in the canal has less oxygen .
`` When you combine that with the intense hot weather we 've had , the bread and food that is getting thrown in goes rotten .
`` The geese eat the food and it causes something called Avian Botulism . ''
Jessica says the disease would explain why many people have seen the birds acting strangely , or looking 'dazed . '
`` It paralyses their legs and then their neck muscles and they become very unwell , '' Jessica explained .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ geese but I would advise not feeding them at the moment .
`` People feed them all sorts - I have seen people feed them curry and rice .
I would advise sticking to corn but they do have plenty of canal wildlife to feed on too .
`` I am hoping now we have had the rain there wo n't be a massive problem . ''
Jessica says she and her colleagues will be going out to the canal daily to check on the geese , as the paralysis can come on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ catch them early enough then sometimes we can treat it before it becomes fatal , '' she said .
Jessica saw the same thing last year at Boggart Clough in Blackley and at Alexandra Park the year before , where around 100 geese died .
She is urging anyone who sees the birds acting strangely to phone the RSPCA immediately .

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A number of dead geese were found along the Ashton canal this week - prompting concern from local residents.
The RSPCA recovered two dead and three sick geese, which later had to be put down, from the canal on Monday afternoon.
On Tuesday another three birds were found dead, and today, a further two.
Many people took to social media to say they had come across dead birds and fish, or seen them acting very strangely.
Animal Collection Officer, Jessica Pierce, says a deadly disease called Avian Botulism is responsible.
(Image: RSPCA)
Speaking to the M.E.N, she said: "Because of lockdown there aren't as many boats going through which means the water in the canal has less oxygen.
"When you combine that with the intense hot weather we've had, the bread and food that is getting thrown in goes rotten.
"The geese eat the food and it causes something called Avian Botulism."
Jessica says the disease would explain why many people have seen the birds acting strangely, or looking 'dazed.'
"It paralyses their legs and then their neck muscles and they become very unwell," Jessica explained.
"It is hard to say stop feeding the geese but I would advise not feeding them at the moment.
"People feed them all sorts - I have seen people feed them curry and rice. I would advise sticking to corn but they do have plenty of canal wildlife to feed on too.
"I am hoping now we have had the rain there won't be a massive problem."
Jessica says she and her colleagues will be going out to the canal daily to check on the geese, as the paralysis can come on very quickly.
"If we can catch them early enough then sometimes we can treat it before it becomes fatal," she said.
Jessica saw the same thing last year at Boggart Clough in Blackley and at Alexandra Park the year before, where around 100 geese died.
She is urging anyone who sees the birds acting strangely to phone the RSPCA immediately.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--National Lottery results draw LIVE: Winning Lotto numbers for Wednesday July 1

Wednesday is here again , which means you have another chance to win big in the National Lottery .
In @ @ @ @ @ draw you could be taking home a jackpot prize of £2 million .
To win @ @ @ @ @ need to match all six of the numbers on your card .
But even if @ @ @ @ @ the top prize , there 's still a lot of money to be won .
@ @ @ @ @ chance of bagging some cash you 'll need to purchase your ticket and pick your @ @ @ @ @ off point at 7.30pm .
You can play online on the National Lottery website for @ @ @ @ @ worry if you have missed your chance to play tonight because there will be another @ @ @ @ @ We will be announcing the numbers for tonight 's Lotto and Thunderball draw below as @ @ @ @ @ in .

Wednesday is here again, which means you have another chance to win big in the National Lottery.
In tonight's National Lottery Lotto draw you could be taking home a jackpot prize of £2 million.
To win tonight's jackpot you'll need to match all six of the numbers on your card.
But even if you don't take home the top prize, there's still a lot of money to be won.
To be in with the chance of bagging some cash you'll need to purchase your ticket and pick your lucky numbers before the cut off point at 7.30pm.
You can play online on the National Lottery website for £2.
But don't worry if you have missed your chance to play tonight because there will be another Lotto draw on Saturday.
We will be announcing the numbers for tonight's Lotto and Thunderball draw below as soon as the results are in.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--In Pictures: On board the first flight from Manchester Airport to London

In Pictures : On board the first flight from Manchester Airport to London These pictures show the strict Covid-19 measures @ @ @ @ @ Airways as they restart their flights from Manchester Airport

News gallery
In Pictures: On board the first flight from Manchester Airport to London
These pictures show the strict Covid-19 measures put in place by British Airways as they restart their flights from Manchester Airport
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themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--"Enjoy yourself, but respect those around you" - Weekend patrols will be increased as police gear up

"Enjoy yourself, but respect those around you" - Weekend patrols will be increased as police gear up for pubs opening

Weekend patrols will be increased as police gear up for pubs reopening .
Officers will be on the streets in all ten boroughs in Greater Manchester in a bid to quell any trouble .
GMP will continue to clamp down on illegal raves and there are concerns drinkers will spill onto the streets because of social distancing .
Pubs and clubs have been closed since lockdown just over three months ago and officers may get involved in marshalling customers and keeping order on the streets .
All venues will be operating in a different way .
Social distancing guidelines remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to gain entry and keeping a minimum of one metre apart inside the venues will see businesses introduce new measures to ensure compliance .
In a statement GMP said : `` There will be an increased police presence in city and town centres across Greater Manchester to ensure the smooth reopening of these venues , with officers taking a pragmatic approach to enforcement .
`` They will continue to engage with members of the public , explain the guidelines and encourage them to be followed before using enforcement as a last resort .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the course of the weekend police , alongside Local Authorities , will be working closely with the licensing industry across all areas of Greater Manchester .
This is to ensure all businesses are aware of the new licensing objectives and COVID guidelines to prevent a second spike of the virus . ''
Running in parallel to the operation for reopening licensed premises , GMP will continue to run an operation to prevent illegal raves from taking place across the region and encourage members of the public to report any relevant intelligence .
Superintendent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of business and venues within the licensing industry is possible thanks to the hard work of everyone who has listened to the guidelines .
It ’ s been a challenging few months for communities and I can understand the temptation of excessive celebrations in response to the new easing of lockdown .
“ However , there are still guidelines in place to prevent a second spike and it ’ s extremely important to continue to social distance and respect others .
“ We have a dedicated policing operation running and officers will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They will continue to engage with members of the public , explain the guidelines and encourage them to be followed before using enforcement as a last resort .
“ Enjoy yourself , but do this within the law and respect those around you .
If you do go out remember look after yourself by staying within your group and planning how you are getting home.
” Councillor John Warmisham , chairman of Salford council 's licensing panel , said : `` Personally I think the reopening of the pubs should have been on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a gradual build up to the weekend .
`` In Salford we have good relations with our licensees and 99 per cent are very sensible , looking after their customers safety .
They are all aware and compliant with the need for social distancing .
`` There will be doormen on many of the venues in Salford and Manchester which should help things too .
I would just encourage people to act sensibly , have a good time , but behave themselves .
`` We have our own licensing officer from GMP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation with our own officers . ''
Officers from Regulatory Services and GMP have been regularly patrolling across Salford since March , and are stepping up joint patrols in the lead up to 4 July on an intelligence led basis .
They are targeting premises with previous history of compliance issues ( Covid or otherwise ) as well as those whose locations may make managing outside drinking challenging .
An internal council memo says : `` We are continuing to work closely with colleagues who are leading on `` Re-opening the High Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the siting of chairs , tables , etc on the pavement .
`` We are continuing to pro-actively provide information and guidance to all licensed premises .
`` The general approach has been agreed at GM level - to engage , educate and encourage compliance and rely on enforcement only where really necessary .
`` License holders have been reminded of their responsibilities under licensing law and that significant or repeated breaches of those responsibilities will result in action including license reviews if appropriate .
We are also talking with GMP colleagues around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ASB and or public order that may arise . ''
Salford alone has 700 licensed premises in the city , of which approximately 180 are pubs , bars or clubs .
Proactive inspections of all is deemed to be impossible and the council and police will respond to concerns from members of the public as they arise .
The memo adds : `` The fact that government guidance is open to interpretation also adds to our challenges as landlords may be doing their best to comply but conditions in their premises could still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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Weekend patrols will be increased as police gear up for pubs reopening.
Officers will be on the streets in all ten boroughs in Greater Manchester in a bid to quell any trouble.
GMP will continue to clamp down on illegal raves and there are concerns drinkers will spill onto the streets because of social distancing.
Pubs and clubs have been closed since lockdown just over three months ago and officers may get involved in marshalling customers and keeping order on the streets.
All venues will be operating in a different way.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Social distancing guidelines remain in place, which means that queuing to gain entry and keeping a minimum of one metre apart inside the venues will see businesses introduce new measures to ensure compliance.
In a statement GMP said: "There will be an increased police presence in city and town centres across Greater Manchester to ensure the smooth reopening of these venues, with officers taking a pragmatic approach to enforcement.
"They will continue to engage with members of the public, explain the guidelines and encourage them to be followed before using enforcement as a last resort.
"In the run-up to and over the course of the weekend police, alongside Local Authorities, will be working closely with the licensing industry across all areas of Greater Manchester. This is to ensure all businesses are aware of the new licensing objectives and COVID guidelines to prevent a second spike of the virus."
Running in parallel to the operation for reopening licensed premises, GMP will continue to run an operation to prevent illegal raves from taking place across the region and encourage members of the public to report any relevant intelligence.
Superintendent Chris Hill said: “The reopening of business and venues within the licensing industry is possible thanks to the hard work of everyone who has listened to the guidelines. It’s been a challenging few months for communities and I can understand the temptation of excessive celebrations in response to the new easing of lockdown.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“However, there are still guidelines in place to prevent a second spike and it’s extremely important to continue to social distance and respect others.
“We have a dedicated policing operation running and officers will be taking a pragmatic approach to enforcement. They will continue to engage with members of the public, explain the guidelines and encourage them to be followed before using enforcement as a last resort.
“Enjoy yourself, but do this within the law and respect those around you. If you do go out remember look after yourself by staying within your group and planning how you are getting home.”
Councillor John Warmisham, chairman of Salford council's licensing panel, said: "Personally I think the reopening of the pubs should have been on a Wednesday or Thursday, to allow for a gradual build up to the weekend.
"In Salford we have good relations with our licensees and 99 per cent are very sensible, looking after their customers safety. They are all aware and compliant with the need for social distancing.
(Image: Steve Allen)
"There will be doormen on many of the venues in Salford and Manchester which should help things too. I would just encourage people to act sensibly, have a good time, but behave themselves.
"We have our own licensing officer from GMP for the city who will monitoring the situation with our own officers."
Officers from Regulatory Services and GMP have been regularly patrolling across Salford since March, and are stepping up joint patrols in the lead up to 4 July on an intelligence led basis.
They are targeting premises with previous history of compliance issues (Covid or otherwise) as well as those whose locations may make managing outside drinking challenging.
An internal council memo says: "We are continuing to work closely with colleagues who are leading on "Re-opening the High Street Safely" including Highways colleagues around permitting the siting of chairs, tables, etc on the pavement.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
"We are continuing to pro-actively provide information and guidance to all licensed premises.
"The general approach has been agreed at GM level - to engage, educate and encourage compliance and rely on enforcement only where really necessary.
"License holders have been reminded of their responsibilities under licensing law and that significant or repeated breaches of those responsibilities will result in action including license reviews if appropriate. We are also talking with GMP colleagues around the potential wider issues of nuisance, ASB and or public order that may arise."
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Salford alone has 700 licensed premises in the city, of which approximately 180 are pubs, bars or clubs.
Proactive inspections of all is deemed to be impossible and the council and police will respond to concerns from members of the public as they arise.
The memo adds: "The fact that government guidance is open to interpretation also adds to our challenges as landlords may be doing their best to comply but conditions in their premises could still cause concerns amongst customers regarding social distancing."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Man City's Leroy Sane arrives in Germany ahead of Bayern Munich transfer

Leroy Sane has arrived in Germany to complete his transfer from Manchester City to Bayern Munich .
After over a year of speculation and a brazen public pursuit from the German champions , Sane is finally set to complete his move to Bayern after the two clubs agreed a deal worth £54.8million .
City were keen to keep the 24-year-old but a new contract offer was rejected in favour of a return to his homeland , where he will also double his money by moving to the Allianz Arena .
The deal is expected to be completed within the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky Sports Germany , Sane has arrived in Munich to conduct his medical and ratify the transfer .
MEN Sport understand the Blues are delighted with the deal as they have made a sizeable profit on a player with a poor injury record who would have left for next summer for nothing , with his contract set to expire in 2021 .
However , Pep Guardiola has admitted he would have loved to have kept the winger but his mind was already made up .
`` It looks like it but it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the deal in his pre-Liverpool match press conference .
`` There are some little issues but it looks like he is going to go to Munich .
We wish him all the best and big thanks for our years together .
`` He will have another chapter at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich .
`` He wanted to leave .
Everyone has their own life and he decided to move on .
I would have loved for him to stay but he believed he would be better and happier there .
@

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Leroy Sane has arrived in Germany to complete his transfer from Manchester City to Bayern Munich.
After over a year of speculation and a brazen public pursuit from the German champions, Sane is finally set to complete his move to Bayern after the two clubs agreed a deal worth £54.8million.
City were keen to keep the 24-year-old but a new contract offer was rejected in favour of a return to his homeland, where he will also double his money by moving to the Allianz Arena.
The deal is expected to be completed within the next 24 hours and, as reported by Sky Sports Germany, Sane has arrived in Munich to conduct his medical and ratify the transfer.
MEN Sport understand the Blues are delighted with the deal as they have made a sizeable profit on a player with a poor injury record who would have left for next summer for nothing, with his contract set to expire in 2021.
However, Pep Guardiola has admitted he would have loved to have kept the winger but his mind was already made up.
"It looks like it but it is not already done," he said of the deal in his pre-Liverpool match press conference.
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"There are some little issues but it looks like he is going to go to Munich. We wish him all the best and big thanks for our years together.
"He will have another chapter at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich.
"He wanted to leave. Everyone has their own life and he decided to move on. I would have loved for him to stay but he believed he would be better and happier there."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Stam recalls conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson that saw him leave Man United

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has opened up on what happened between him and Sir Alex Ferguson and how he ended up leaving the club .
Stam was one of the best centre-backs in the world during his three-year spell at Old Trafford between 1998 and 2001 .
However , he was sold to Lazio just two years after United 's historic treble success of 1999 , after Ferguson had been angered by extracts from Stam ’ s book , Head-to-Head .
The former Dutch international implied in the book that he had been tapped up by the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although Ferguson would later go on to admit that letting Stam go was one of the biggest regrets of his 26 years in charge of the Reds .
And now Stam has recalled the first conversation he had with the legendary United boss after the book was released and how fast his departure happened .
“ The book got serialised in the week of an England-Holland friendly [ August 2001 ] .
” he told the latest edition of the Four Four Two magazine .
“ Initially , Ferguson had told me not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday – the morning of the match – I was informed that I should report for talks with him the next day , because he wasn ’ t happy about some of it .
“ After the game , I went home and reported the next morning at 8am , because I was keen to resolve the matter .
I said , “ You know what ’ s in the book – nothing bad.
” But he maintained that he wasn ’ t happy .
“ A week later , I was left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On the day , he called me to say I wasn ’ t in his squad because of the book hassle .
“ He felt it might calm down if I wasn ’ t playing .
We had a few conversations , although none of them were really satisfactory .
“ A bit later that week , I was driving home from training when my agent phoned , telling me I ’ d been sold .
I was like , “ What ?
!
” He said , “ Yeah , they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moments later , Ferguson called me and asked where I was .
“ We lived in the same area , and he told me to wait for him so that we could have a chat .
I pulled into a petrol station near a shopping centre and he met me there .
“ When he arrived , he got in my car and told me that the club had accepted an offer from Lazio .
He said that he wanted to continue with two other defenders , Wes Brown and Laurent Blanc , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bench .
“ I felt I ’ d be able to regain my place eventually , but in that short amount of time , our relationship was impacted in such a way that I felt as though I wanted to leave .
“ I think he anticipated it .
Within 24 hours , I ’ d gone to Rome and joined Lazio.
” The full version of the interview with Jaap Stam appears in the new issue of FourFourTwo - on sale now .
Also in the magazine : Rivelino on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1982 failure in Spain and an exclusive interview with Roberto Carlos plus features on Rivaldo , Robinho , Roberto Firmino and how Sócrates ended up at Garforth .
For an exclusive Reach subscription offer , which includes three issues of FourFourTwo for £3 and free download , go to : https : //www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/reach/

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Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has opened up on what happened between him and Sir Alex Ferguson and how he ended up leaving the club.
Stam was one of the best centre-backs in the world during his three-year spell at Old Trafford between 1998 and 2001.
However, he was sold to Lazio just two years after United's historic treble success of 1999, after Ferguson had been angered by extracts from Stam’s book, Head-to-Head.
The former Dutch international implied in the book that he had been tapped up by the United manager ahead of joining the club.
Although Ferguson would later go on to admit that letting Stam go was one of the biggest regrets of his 26 years in charge of the Reds.
And now Stam has recalled the first conversation he had with the legendary United boss after the book was released and how fast his departure happened.
“The book got serialised in the week of an England-Holland friendly [August 2001].” he told the latest edition of the Four Four Two magazine.
“Initially, Ferguson had told me not to worry about it, but on Wednesday – the morning of the match – I was informed that I should report for talks with him the next day, because he wasn’t happy about some of it.
“After the game, I went home and reported the next morning at 8am, because I was keen to resolve the matter. I said, “You know what’s in the book – nothing bad.” But he maintained that he wasn’t happy.
“A week later, I was left out for a game against Blackburn. On the day, he called me to say I wasn’t in his squad because of the book hassle.
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“He felt it might calm down if I wasn’t playing. We had a few conversations, although none of them were really satisfactory.
“A bit later that week, I was driving home from training when my agent phoned, telling me I’d been sold. I was like, “What?!” He said, “Yeah, they’ll contact you in a minute.” Moments later, Ferguson called me and asked where I was.
“We lived in the same area, and he told me to wait for him so that we could have a chat. I pulled into a petrol station near a shopping centre and he met me there.
“When he arrived, he got in my car and told me that the club had accepted an offer from Lazio. He said that he wanted to continue with two other defenders, Wes Brown and Laurent Blanc, which meant I’d be on the bench.
“I felt I’d be able to regain my place eventually, but in that short amount of time, our relationship was impacted in such a way that I felt as though I wanted to leave.
“I think he anticipated it. Within 24 hours, I’d gone to Rome and joined Lazio.”
The full version of the interview with Jaap Stam appears in the new issue of FourFourTwo - on sale now. Also in the magazine: Rivelino on the 1970 World Cup triumph, Zico on the 1982 failure in Spain and an exclusive interview with Roberto Carlos plus features on Rivaldo, Robinho, Roberto Firmino and how Sócrates ended up at Garforth. For an exclusive Reach subscription offer, which includes three issues of FourFourTwo for £3 and free download, go to: https://www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/reach/


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Gary Neville suggests new position for Scott McTominay at Man United

Gary Neville has questioned whether Scott McTominay could move to centre-back for Manchester United amid increasing competition in midfield .
Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes have emerged as two of the first names on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's team sheet during the Premier League restart .
The pair were both in fine form as Fernandes grabbed a brace during their 3-0 win over Brighton on Tuesday .
Nemanja Matic has started the last two matches as Solskjaer 's third midfield man to anchor the midfield , a role he has performed excellently in .
Fred and McTominay provide extra competition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both can offer added offensive support despite their industrious nature .
McTominay was previously used at centre-back by Jose Mourinho at Manchester United .
Neville believes the Scotsman has all the attributes to play in that position and wonders if the extra competition could force him into that role .
“ When I watch McTominay play and I think of all the competition in midfield and I wonder if he could be used as a centre-back , '' Neville said .
`` He ’ s got the aggression , the speed , his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he ’ s still young .
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Elliott Jackson, Bobby Vincent)

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Gary Neville has questioned whether Scott McTominay could move to centre-back for Manchester United amid increasing competition in midfield.
Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes have emerged as two of the first names on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team sheet during the Premier League restart.
The pair were both in fine form as Fernandes grabbed a brace during their 3-0 win over Brighton on Tuesday.
Nemanja Matic has started the last two matches as Solskjaer's third midfield man to anchor the midfield, a role he has performed excellently in.
Fred and McTominay provide extra competition for that third midfield spot, although both can offer added offensive support despite their industrious nature.
McTominay was previously used at centre-back by Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.
Neville believes the Scotsman has all the attributes to play in that position and wonders if the extra competition could force him into that role.
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“When I watch McTominay play and I think of all the competition in midfield and I wonder if he could be used as a centre-back," Neville said.
"He’s got the aggression, the speed, his understanding of the game is pretty good, he’s still young.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Manchester United evening headlines as ex-coach make transfer claim

Here are the Manchester United evening headlines on Wednesday , July 1 .
Neville explains how United were ‘ sanitised ’ in transfer market Manchester United legend Gary Neville has revealed how his former side have been “ sanitised ” of players who were at the club purely for financial reasons .
Neville explained how United are improving , and have got rid of players who were more focused on the money rather than playing football .
The former United defender said : “ There ’ s been a huge improvement .
The club has been sanitised from a point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for money .
“ When you look at the players out on the pitch there ’ s a mixture of players who weren ’ t working who are now working because they ’ re surrounded by better players , young players who are desperate to play for the club.
” Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Demetri Mitchell have both posted emotional farewell messages after leaving Manchester United .
The duo are among the 10 players who officially left Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’ s side on Tuesday with their contracts at Old Trafford expiring .
Borthwick-Jackson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a kid from Manchester , all I wanted to do was play for United .
To make my debut for the club I grew up supporting was a dream come true and a day that will stay in my heart forever.
” Mitchell , who played just the one time for the senior side , posted a simpler message : “ Thank you Manchester United family.
” Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen believes his old club should sign a new striker in the upcoming transfer window .
Solskjaer has already confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trafford is being considered .
Meulensteen believes United are missing a striker at the level of Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski .
He told talkSPORT : “ What I think Man United are missing is a striker of the calibre of Robert Lewandowski .
Somebody up there who can hold the line , link play , but when it comes to finishing chances in and outside the box , that sort of player , they are hard to come by .
“ Fifty million for Sancho , is that too much ?
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in those wide areas , is that where you want to strengthen ?
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Bobby Vincent )

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Here are the Manchester United evening headlines on Wednesday, July 1.
Neville explains how United were ‘sanitised’ in transfer market
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has revealed how his former side have been “sanitised” of players who were at the club purely for financial reasons.
Neville explained how United are improving, and have got rid of players who were more focused on the money rather than playing football.
The former United defender said: “There’s been a huge improvement. The club has been sanitised from a point of view players who were just coming for money.
“When you look at the players out on the pitch there’s a mixture of players who weren’t working who are now working because they’re surrounded by better players, young players who are desperate to play for the club.”
United players post goodbye messages after leaving club
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Demetri Mitchell have both posted emotional farewell messages after leaving Manchester United.
The duo are among the 10 players who officially left Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side on Tuesday with their contracts at Old Trafford expiring.
Borthwick-Jackson said on Instagram: “Growing up as a kid from Manchester, all I wanted to do was play for United. To make my debut for the club I grew up supporting was a dream come true and a day that will stay in my heart forever.”
Mitchell, who played just the one time for the senior side, posted a simpler message: “Thank you Manchester United family.”
Ex-United coach believes club should target striker
Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen believes his old club should sign a new striker in the upcoming transfer window.
Solskjaer has already confirmed that bringing a new striker to Old Trafford is being considered.
Meulensteen believes United are missing a striker at the level of Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski.
He told talkSPORT: “What I think Man United are missing is a striker of the calibre of Robert Lewandowski. Somebody up there who can hold the line, link play, but when it comes to finishing chances in and outside the box, that sort of player, they are hard to come by.
“Fifty million for Sancho, is that too much? For me, looking at what United have in those wide areas, is that where you want to strengthen?”
Read the full story here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-01--Anthony Martial's 'anger' will make him a real Manchester United number 9

Patrice Evra has hailed the difference shown by Anthony Martial since his time at Manchester United .
The French striker has been in superb form since the Premier League ’ s return to action , and was the pick of the bunch as he hit a hat-trick in United ’ s last league outing against Sheffield United .
Martial ’ s treble ended a long wait for the club , with the 24-year-old becoming the first player to score a hat-trick since Sir Alex Ferguson ’ s retirement in 2013 .
And Evra , speaking ahead to Sky Sports ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martial has shown great character up front , and looks a different player to the one he experienced towards the end of his time at Old Trafford .
On how United have responded since the Premier League ’ s return , Evra said : “ I think they ’ ve benefited a lot from the pause , especially Paul Pogba .
I was really surprised even when he came on against Tottenham .
“ Against Sheffield , I loved the way United played - the spirit , you could see their enthusiasm .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hat-trick .
I ’ m really happy .
“ Martial , pardon my French , needs someone to kick his… every game.
” Evra added : “ I think he had a brilliant start when he was playing under van Gaal .
“ I remember his one episode , unfortunately , he let him down when they swapped his shirt ( number ) with Zlatan .
“ When he came back , I remember we were in the national team , he received a call from the club and they said he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was like , ‘ No , absolutely not ’ .
“ But after , Mourinho contacted him and said Zlatan is going to take the No.9 and you ’ re going to take the No.11 .
“ It ’ s not like I ’ m going to say Martial had not been playing well because of that number shirt , but it started from there .
“ I remember at the beginning of the season , I went to Carrington and Martial was really upset and frustrated because he was injured .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last time I saw him , he didn ’ t have that enthusiasm and now you have the injury , you want to come back really fast to make sure you can help the team .
“ From now , I think Man United will get the best from Anthony Martial - not just because he scored his hat-trick , but his attitude .
He wants to play for Man United .
Martial can destroy any defender , if he decides .
“ That ’ s why he ’ s frustrating to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He ’ s one of the best No.9s , but he needs that aggression to score goals , the anger .
I think it ’ s more about his personality .
”

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Patrice Evra has hailed the difference shown by Anthony Martial since his time at Manchester United.
The French striker has been in superb form since the Premier League’s return to action, and was the pick of the bunch as he hit a hat-trick in United’s last league outing against Sheffield United.
Martial’s treble ended a long wait for the club, with the 24-year-old becoming the first player to score a hat-trick since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
And Evra, speaking ahead to Sky Sports ahead of the clash with Brighton, believes Martial has shown great character up front, and looks a different player to the one he experienced towards the end of his time at Old Trafford.
On how United have responded since the Premier League’s return, Evra said: “I think they’ve benefited a lot from the pause, especially Paul Pogba. I was really surprised even when he came on against Tottenham.
“Against Sheffield, I loved the way United played - the spirit, you could see their enthusiasm. Of course, Martial scored his first hat-trick. I’m really happy.
“Martial, pardon my French, needs someone to kick his… every game.”
Evra added: “I think he had a brilliant start when he was playing under van Gaal.
“I remember his one episode, unfortunately, he let him down when they swapped his shirt (number) with Zlatan.
“When he came back, I remember we were in the national team, he received a call from the club and they said he had to give his No.9 shirt, and he was like, ‘No, absolutely not’.
“But after, Mourinho contacted him and said Zlatan is going to take the No.9 and you’re going to take the No.11.
“It’s not like I’m going to say Martial had not been playing well because of that number shirt, but it started from there.
“I remember at the beginning of the season, I went to Carrington and Martial was really upset and frustrated because he was injured.
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“That’s really impressive because the last time I saw him, he didn’t have that enthusiasm and now you have the injury, you want to come back really fast to make sure you can help the team.
“From now, I think Man United will get the best from Anthony Martial - not just because he scored his hat-trick, but his attitude. He wants to play for Man United. Martial can destroy any defender, if he decides.
“That’s why he’s frustrating to many people because you know his talent. He’s one of the best No.9s, but he needs that aggression to score goals, the anger. I think it’s more about his personality.”