themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Manchester United transfer news LIVE Liverpool vs Man United news and Bruno Fernandes latest

Manchester United face Liverpool in a massive Premier League clash today but one man who wo n't be on the @ @ @ @ @ United are baffled that Sporting Lisbon have suddenly increased their valuation of the playmaker to @ @ @ @ @ MEN Sport understands Sporting raised the price of Fernandes , 25 , this week and @ @ @ @ @ for the sudden hike .
Sources say there is a huge difference in valuation and @ @ @ @ @ ' an agreement .
United are concerned about the ramifications a possible €80m Fernandes deal @ @ @ @ @ business .
They are conscious the Portugal international could present a benchmark issue in that @ @ @ @ @ , such as James Maddison and Jack Grealish , would inflate .
Fernandes signed a @ @ @ @ @ November until 2023 .
Meanwhile , Marcus Rashford remains a major doubt with a back @ @ @ @ @ at Anfield .
Follow below for the latest United news ahead of Liverpool .

Manchester United have reached a standstill in their negotiations to sign Portugal playmaker Bruno Fernandes.
United are baffled that Sporting Lisbon have suddenly increased their valuation of the playmaker to €80million (£68.24m) and may not sign the player this month after all.
MEN Sport understands Sporting raised the price of Fernandes, 25, this week and have offered United no explanation for the sudden hike. Sources say there is a huge difference in valuation and the clubs are 'nowhere near' an agreement.
United are concerned about the ramifications a possible €80m Fernandes deal could have on their summer business. They are conscious the Portugal international could present a benchmark issue in that the valuations of other targets, such as James Maddison and Jack Grealish, would inflate. Fernandes signed a new contract with Sporting in November until 2023.
United are also interested in England stars Jadon Sancho, Declan Rice and Ben Chilwell, though January moves are unlikely for the tiro.
Recap today's United headlines below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Two in hospital after firefighters cut them free from cars in serious crash on A555 Airport relief r

Two in hospital after firefighters cut them free from cars in serious crash on A555 Airport relief road

Two people were taken to hospital after a crash on the A555 in Stockport .
Two cars collided on the airport relief road at around 2.40am on Sunday .
Firefighters cut two people free from one of the vehicles .
The casualties were then taken to hospital via ambulance .
A photograph shows one of the crashed vehicles on the central reservation .
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said : `` We were called at about 2.40am .
`` Fire engines from Cheadle , Wilmslow and a technical response unit from Ashton attended an RTC on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment and hose reel was used at the scene .
`` Two people were removed from a vehicle and taken to hospital by the North West Ambulance Service . ''
The Manchester Evening News has contacted GMP for a response .
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 @ @ @ @ @

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Two people were taken to hospital after a crash on the A555 in Stockport.
Two cars collided on the airport relief road at around 2.40am on Sunday.
Firefighters cut two people free from one of the vehicles.
The casualties were then taken to hospital via ambulance.
A photograph shows one of the crashed vehicles on the central reservation.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called at about 2.40am.
(Image: ugc)
"Fire engines from Cheadle, Wilmslow and a technical response unit from Ashton attended an RTC on the A555 in Stockport.
"Cutting equipment and hose reel was used at the scene.
"Two people were removed from a vehicle and taken to hospital by the North West Ambulance Service."
The Manchester Evening News has contacted GMP for a response.
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--2020-01-19--Man 'disgusted' as Michelin star restaurant refuses to refund £660 reservation after his dad dies

A man and his friends have been left £660 out of pocket after his dad died and the Michelin-starred restaurant refused to move or refund their prepaid booking .
Martin O'Grady had been booked in with five others to celebrate his birthday on New Year 's Eve in the Fordwich Arms , near Canterbury in Kent , reports KentLive .
Tragically , though , his dad had been involved in an accident on December 27 and passed away four days later , on December 31 .
However , despite a friend phoning in advance to explain the group would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the tragedy , Martin was unable to move the reservation or get a full refund .
The party had prepaid for the special tasting menu at the restaurant , which had sold out for the evening .
A manager at the restaurant said they were `` sorry to hear of Mr O'Grady 's loss '' but that New Year 's Eve tickets were non-refundable due to `` premium expensive ingredients '' and bringing in extra staff .
As a result , they are now £660 out of pocket and they claim the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
The restaurant has one Michelin star and three rosettes in the AA Guide 2019 .
It said it was unable to fill the table and suggested to Mr O'Grady that he transferred the tickets to friends or they would refund the tickets of the couple whose father was ill .
But Mr O'Grady said he is `` utterly disgusted '' and felt `` compelled to share this horrifying story with anyone ever considering making a reservation at this establishment '' .
He posted on Facebook : `` A party of six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for my birthday on New Year 's Eve .
We paid a deposit of £660 .
`` Very sadly , my father had an accident on December 27 which led to his passing on New Year 's Eve , my birthday and the date of our booking .
`` One of our party called the restaurant on December 27 in advance to make the manager , Elliot , aware of what had happened and to request a postponement of our dinner date . ''
He received `` a recital of nonsense about terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could neither be refunded nor changed to a later date .
We were not seeking a refund . ''
He said they had been simply requesting a goodwill gesture when he had chance to return to the UK .
They asked again about extenuating circumstances but claimed the `` manager and owners neither cared nor wanted to hear anything about it . ''
He added : `` There are no words .
I just feel everyone should be aware of what kind of people run this place . ''
On Twitter , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the restaurant to refund the money .
In response to the post , Daniel Smith , one of the managers at the restaurant told KentLive : `` First of all I would like to say how sorry we are to hear of Mr O'Grady 's loss .
`` The first contact we had with this booking was a phone call on Saturday December 28 in which we were informed that one of the party 's relatives was unwell .
`` We informed the individual that unfortunately the tickets for our New Year 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` However , they were transferable to another person if they wished to pass them on or sell them on .
`` Once we had heard the news our manager immediately phoned the two tables on the waiting list .
However , at the late stage they had already made plans elsewhere .
`` Unfortunately due to the late stage we were unable to fill this particular table .
`` The manager also phoned them on the Monday which was his day off to inform them we had not yet been able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had any luck .
`` We also informed them that we would be happy to refund the two tickets of the couple whose father was unwell or put it towards drinks had the other four wished to attend the booking .
`` However , we were informed that none of the party of friends would be attending the booking .
`` May I state that the £660 was not a deposit but a pre-payment for the tasting menu we were offering that particular evening .
`` The reason we charge a pre-payment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food is bought in especially for the menus we offer which allows us to purchase exactly what we are going to use in the evening .
`` With it being New Year 's Eve , this particular menu utilised a lot of premium expensive ingredients which were purchased specifically for the event and ensures that no food is wasted .
`` On this evening we also had 16 members of staff to ensure we offered the best service we possibly could .
Again the cost of the ticket price to cover the large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added it is vital they take steps with pre-payments to `` protect our business . ''
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 .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Andy Robinson, Helen Carter)

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A man and his friends have been left £660 out of pocket after his dad died and the Michelin-starred restaurant refused to move or refund their prepaid booking.
Martin O'Grady had been booked in with five others to celebrate his birthday on New Year's Eve in the Fordwich Arms, near Canterbury in Kent, reports KentLive.
Tragically, though, his dad had been involved in an accident on December 27 and passed away four days later, on December 31.
However, despite a friend phoning in advance to explain the group would not be able to make the booking because of the tragedy, Martin was unable to move the reservation or get a full refund.
The party had prepaid for the special tasting menu at the restaurant, which had sold out for the evening.
A manager at the restaurant said they were "sorry to hear of Mr O'Grady's loss" but that New Year's Eve tickets were non-refundable due to "premium expensive ingredients" and bringing in extra staff.
As a result, they are now £660 out of pocket and they claim the restaurant's behaviour is "utterly inhumane".
The restaurant has one Michelin star and three rosettes in the AA Guide 2019.
It said it was unable to fill the table and suggested to Mr O'Grady that he transferred the tickets to friends or they would refund the tickets of the couple whose father was ill.
But Mr O'Grady said he is "utterly disgusted" and felt "compelled to share this horrifying story with anyone ever considering making a reservation at this establishment".
He posted on Facebook: "A party of six of us pre-booked a table this year for my birthday on New Year's Eve. We paid a deposit of £660.
"Very sadly, my father had an accident on December 27 which led to his passing on New Year's Eve, my birthday and the date of our booking.
"One of our party called the restaurant on December 27 in advance to make the manager, Elliot, aware of what had happened and to request a postponement of our dinner date."
He received "a recital of nonsense about terms and conditions and that our dinner date could neither be refunded nor changed to a later date. We were not seeking a refund."
He said they had been simply requesting a goodwill gesture when he had chance to return to the UK.
They asked again about extenuating circumstances but claimed the "manager and owners neither cared nor wanted to hear anything about it."
He added: "There are no words. I just feel everyone should be aware of what kind of people run this place."
On Twitter, a woman sympathised with his plight and urged the restaurant to refund the money.
In response to the post, Daniel Smith, one of the managers at the restaurant told KentLive: "First of all I would like to say how sorry we are to hear of Mr O'Grady's loss.
"The first contact we had with this booking was a phone call on Saturday December 28 in which we were informed that one of the party's relatives was unwell.
"We informed the individual that unfortunately the tickets for our New Year's Eve dinner menu were non refundable.
"However, they were transferable to another person if they wished to pass them on or sell them on.
"Once we had heard the news our manager immediately phoned the two tables on the waiting list. However, at the late stage they had already made plans elsewhere.
"Unfortunately due to the late stage we were unable to fill this particular table.
"The manager also phoned them on the Monday which was his day off to inform them we had not yet been able to sell the tickets and to see if they had any luck.
"We also informed them that we would be happy to refund the two tickets of the couple whose father was unwell or put it towards drinks had the other four wished to attend the booking.
"However, we were informed that none of the party of friends would be attending the booking.
"May I state that the £660 was not a deposit but a pre-payment for the tasting menu we were offering that particular evening.
"The reason we charge a pre-payment for these events is that all the food is bought in especially for the menus we offer which allows us to purchase exactly what we are going to use in the evening.
"With it being New Year's Eve, this particular menu utilised a lot of premium expensive ingredients which were purchased specifically for the event and ensures that no food is wasted.
"On this evening we also had 16 members of staff to ensure we offered the best service we possibly could. Again the cost of the ticket price to cover the large staff costs for the evening."
He added it is vital they take steps with pre-payments to "protect our business."
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--2020-01-19--Liverpool FC squad arrive before Manchester United fixture

Liverpool 's squad arrived at their city centre hotel last night ( Saturday ) ahead of the Sunday afternoon showdown with Manchester United .
Jurgen Klopp could well have some key players back for the derby at Anfield , with Joel Matip spotted by photographers checking into the Hope Street Hotel .
Fabinho is likely to be in the squad for the game , too , having recovered from an ankle injury .
James Milner , Dejan Lovren and Naby Keita are all sidelined .
Star men Mo Salah , Virgil van Dijk , Sadio Mane and Trent Alexander-Arnold were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While Liverpool stayed in their usual location for home games , United opted not to travel to Merseyside the night before the away fixture as they often do .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's squad will instead travel to Liverpool today ( Sunday ) after staying the night at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester .
It 's likely that United will be without key forward Marcus Rashford for the game .
He hobbled off with a back injury during United 's 1-0 FA Cup third round replay win over Wolves in midweek .

Liverpool's squad arrived at their city centre hotel last night (Saturday) ahead of the Sunday afternoon showdown with Manchester United.
Jurgen Klopp could well have some key players back for the derby at Anfield, with Joel Matip spotted by photographers checking into the Hope Street Hotel. Fabinho is likely to be in the squad for the game, too, having recovered from an ankle injury.
James Milner, Dejan Lovren and Naby Keita are all sidelined. Star men Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane and Trent Alexander-Arnold were all spotted and should start the game.
While Liverpool stayed in their usual location for home games, United opted not to travel to Merseyside the night before the away fixture as they often do.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad will instead travel to Liverpool today (Sunday) after staying the night at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester.
It's likely that United will be without key forward Marcus Rashford for the game. He hobbled off with a back injury during United's 1-0 FA Cup third round replay win over Wolves in midweek.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Beautiful woodland walks across Greater Manchester... they're right on your doorstep

Nestled in the corners of Greater Manchester sit stunningly beautiful woodlands untouched by modern development .
Stretches of green space filled with towering trees , wildflowers and whole communities of native wildlife , these gorgeous beauty spots are the perfect place to escape back to nature .
Talking the time to walk in nature , deep in the forest and away from the stresses of modern life can bring a whole host of health benefits .
In fact , even a small amount of time in nature can have an impact , from improved mental wellbeing to better fitness levels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the shelter of the tree canopy , taking solace from the sun on a hot summer 's day , exploring the pathways between ancient trees or discovering hidden thickets and clearings , a stroll in the woods is a fantastic way to make the most of the great outdoors without going too far .
Take a look at just some of the magnificent woodland walks you can enjoy in Greater Manchester , right on your doorstep .
Located on the outskirts of a residential area of Leigh just 10 miles from Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful mix of stunning woodland walks and open grassland views that are perfect for a day walking and exploring the site .
The woods are on former industrial land - what used to be a working coal mine .
There 's a massive 338 acres of woodland and meadows , with over 60,000 trees and 5km of footpaths to discover - all which offer opportunities to explore this gorgeous forest and discover the wealth of trees and wildlife .
This lesser-frequented area of ancient woodland is found tucked away in a corner of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a steep valley .
At just over 11 acres , it 's one of the smaller wooded areas in the region , but possibly one of the most beautiful , especially during the autumn months when the forest is a riot of changing colours .
A haven on the outskirts of a busy urban hub , this strip of nature is a haven for wildlife , and for those lucky to live close by .
You wo n't find landmarks or amenities here , just a well-maintained path through this untouched piece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park , Drinkwater Park , Waterdale and Prestwich Clough , there are plenty of places to explore .
These natural woodlands are in the grounds of the historic Abney Hall - a building that once hosted King Edward VII , Prince Albert , several prime ministers and even Agatha Christie .
There 's an abundance of hidden pathways leading through the trees and around the substantial 200-acre site .
Go deep into the wooded areas and you might just discover some of the wide variety of wildlife that calls Abney home , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even a pair of parakeets .
Found at the foothills of Winter Hill , on a clear day the woods at Horrocks Fold has panoramic views as far as Staffordshire and Wales .
A number of the paths at site link together areas of open grassland and young woodland across the hillside .
These open access routes , which include dedicated paths , tracks and nature trails run through the trees up the slopes and back down again .
Head there at dusk and you might be lucky enough to see one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the densely populated areas of Crumpsall and Higher Blackley and discover this stunning 50-acre site which features a thick forest of mixed deciduous ( flowering ) trees and open heathland that is unique to the Manchester region .
There are a number of waymarked paths through the woods and along the River Irk which passes through the site , all which weave through the trees , which are also home to 32 species of mammals and 180 species of birds .
In fact it 's so beautiful , it was once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognition of the huge improvements that have taken place within the reserve .
Found in the heart of Salford , this stunning nature reserve is home to a variety of spectacular wildlife such as deer , woodpeckers and kingfishers which can be regularly spotted along the river .
This 79 acre green space forms part of the Croal Irwell Valley .
The thick woodlands that run through the country park are connected to an area known as The Cliff , that has a variety of paths that lead past the remains of large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position overlooking the surrounding area .
The area is classed as a site of biological importance and around 70 per cent of the land is made up of woodland , with beautiful beech forests to amble through and the River Irwell to wander along .
Keep an eye out for the resident deer that can be spotted in the woodlands .
This beautiful stretch of nature is like a slice of tranquility in an urban jungle .
Despite being just a stone 's throw form the M60 ringroad , the nature reserve contains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 140 acres .
Chorlton Ees is designated as Site of Biological Importance with its mix of woodland and wildflower meadows being home to a wealth of flora and fauna .
There 's plenty of wooded hiking and biking paths to explore and it 's also conveniently close to the towns pubs and restaurants , perfect for refuelling after a day enjoying the outdoors .
The Phillips Park woodlands have been renowned since the Victorian era as a haven for wildlife .
The park consists of rich and diverse woodland and grassland habitat and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Covering 50 acres , the site is a great spot for nature lovers , families or those just looking for fresh air and exercise .
Recent development work has improved the paths and trails which lead through the woods to a variety of locations within the reserve - including over to the sculpture known as Our Seats are almost Touching - a set of benches by Paul Bradley which makes up part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail .
At around 65 acres , the ancient Great Wood is one of the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forest in Tameside .
It 's thought to be at least 400 years old , and while dominated mostly by large oak trees , there is also a mix of birch , alder , beech , willow , hazel and holly .
In the clearings in the wood you will find wildflowers like bluebells , red campion and wood sorrel .
There are paths running through the woods , or take the Great Wood Trail from Lymefield Visitor Centre .
There 's almost 270 acres of parkland over in the built-up residential area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woodlands to explore .
Made up of new , mature and ornamental woods , each contain a wide variety of different trees , alongside the herbaceous borders , formal bedding , open grassland and beautiful wildflower meadows .
The park itself is Green Flag awarded and also has a community farm , horticultural centre , sports facilities and several listed buildings to discover within its grounds .
Expect tall leafy trees and a thick canopy of trees in this 75 acres of pretty forests that stretch from the Bridgewater Canal to the East @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given how close it is to the M60 motorway .
There are many well maintained paths , some leading right into the wood and others linking to the Tyldesley Loopline or onwards to Beesley Green .
There are information boards to guide visitors around the site , with shady trails , streams , a lake , sculptures and a wild flower trail to enjoy if you take a circular route through the woods and into the town .
Nestled in the heart of the Medlock Valley , this country park has plenty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meadows and has lots of places of interest to discover while you 're there , including a river , canal and disused railway It 's also a great habitat for spotting wildlife - with an abundance of creatures from great-spotted woodpeckers and owls , to foxes and squirrels .
It 's a great spot for families too , with two play areas set among the 99 acre site .
Tandle Hill has magnificent beech and stunning mixed woodland paired open grassland and the added bonus of phenomenal panoramic views of the surrounding countryside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach the top of the hills .
The vast woodland is covered by a thick canopy from the tall eafy trees , making it the perfect escape to nature , despite being close to the busy town of Royton .
The woods at Tandle Hill are part of the larger Tandle Hill Country Park , which also has a dedicated countryside centre , picnic areas , play areas and two waymarked trails around the 110 acre beautyspot .
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When it's a sunny summer's day heading out into nature sounds like the best way to enjoy the glorious weather. But with the sun blazing down, you can often end up feeling a bit too hot.
A woodland walk is the perfect solution as you get be outside in the greenery while the tree canopy shelters you from the sun's rays. It's usually cooler among the trees making it more comfortable and offers you protection from the direct sun - although always make sure you wear sun cream just in case.
Not only do woodlands offer plenty of shade, they're also amazing green spaces full of towering trees, wildflowers and a huge variety of wildlife. A walk in the woods gives you the chance to escape the stresses of modern life and allows you to reconnect in nature.
READ MORE: Lidos and outdoor swimming pools near Greater Manchester
Throughout Greater Manchester there are stunningly beautiful woodlands, which feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city and provide you with a cool spot on a hot day. Here's a selection of some of the magnificent woodland walks available right on your doorstep.
(Image: DC Media)
Colliers Wood
Higher Folds, Leigh, WN7 2XT
Located on the outskirts of a residential area of Leigh just 10 miles from Manchester city centre, Colliers Wood is a beautiful mix of stunning woodland walks and open grassland views that are perfect for a day walking and exploring the site.
The woods are on former industrial land - what used to be a working coal mine. There's a massive 338 acres of woodland and meadows, with over 60,000 trees and 5km of footpaths to discover - all which offer opportunities to explore this gorgeous forest and discover the wealth of trees and wildlife.
Crookilley Wood
(Image: Huddersfield Daily Examiner)
Bredbury, Stockport, SK6 2DZ
This lesser-frequented area of ancient woodland is found tucked away in a corner of Lower Bredbury, located on the sides of a steep valley.
At just over 11 acres, it's one of the smaller wooded areas in the region, but possibly one of the most beautiful, especially during the autumn months when the forest is a riot of changing colours.
A haven on the outskirts of a busy urban hub, this strip of nature is a haven for wildlife, and for those lucky to live close by. You won't find landmarks or amenities here, just a well-maintained path through this untouched piece of local landscape.
Prestwich Forest Park
Rainsough Brow, Prestwich, M25 9XW
Prestwich Forest Park offers 200 hectares of woodland and open space.
Consisting of Philips Park, Drinkwater Park, Waterdale and Prestwich Clough, there are plenty of places to explore.
Abney Hall
(Image: Vincent Cole)
Manchester Road, Cheadle, Stockport, SK8 2PD
These natural woodlands are in the grounds of the historic Abney Hall - a building that once hosted King Edward VII, Prince Albert, several prime ministers and even Agatha Christie.
There's an abundance of hidden pathways leading through the trees and around the substantial 200-acre site.
Go deep into the wooded areas and you might just discover some of the wide variety of wildlife that calls Abney home, including waterfowl, kingfishers, woodpeckers - and even a pair of parakeets.
Horrocks Fold Wood
Horrocks Fold, Bolton, BL1 7BX
Found at the foothills of Winter Hill, on a clear day the woods at Horrocks Fold has panoramic views as far as Staffordshire and Wales. A number of the paths at site link together areas of open grassland and young woodland across the hillside.
These open access routes, which include dedicated paths, tracks and nature trails run through the trees up the slopes and back down again. Head there at dusk and you might be lucky enough to see one of the resident hunting barn owls.
Blackley Forest Nature Reserve
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Victoria Ave, Manchester M9 0PL
Step out of the densely populated areas of Crumpsall and Higher Blackley and discover this stunning 50-acre site which features a thick forest of mixed deciduous (flowering) trees and open heathland that is unique to the Manchester region.
There are a number of waymarked paths through the woods and along the River Irk which passes through the site, all which weave through the trees, which are also home to 32 species of mammals and 180 species of birds.
In fact it's so beautiful, it was once awarded the The Green Apple Award in recognition of the huge improvements that have taken place within the reserve.
Kersal Dale
(Image: © Copyright Carroll Pierce | Geograph.co.uk)
Access via Radford Street, Broughton, Salford, M7 3PG
Found in the heart of Salford, this stunning nature reserve is home to a variety of spectacular wildlife such as deer, woodpeckers and kingfishers which can be regularly spotted along the river.
This 79 acre green space forms part of the Croal Irwell Valley. The thick woodlands that run through the country park are connected to an area known as The Cliff, that has a variety of paths that lead past the remains of large houses that once stood in an imposing position overlooking the surrounding area.
The area is classed as a site of biological importance and around 70 per cent of the land is made up of woodland, with beautiful beech forests to amble through and the River Irwell to wander along.
Keep an eye out for the resident deer that can be spotted in the woodlands.
Ivy Green and Chorlton Ees
(Image: Sale and Altrincham Advertiser)
Mersey Rd, Sale, M33 6HL
This beautiful stretch of nature is like a slice of tranquillity in an urban jungle. Despite being just a stone's throw form the M60 ringroad, the nature reserve contains woodland and grassland which combined covers over 140 acres.
Chorlton Ees is designated as Site of Biological Importance with its mix of woodland and wildflower meadows being home to a wealth of flora and fauna.
There's plenty of wooded hiking and biking paths to explore and it's also conveniently close to the towns pubs and restaurants, perfect for refuelling after a day enjoying the outdoors.
Phillips Park Local Nature Reserve
(Image: Visit Bury)
Prestwich, Manchester M45 7HJ
The Phillips Park woodlands have been renowned since the Victorian era as a haven for wildlife. The park consists of rich and diverse woodland and grassland habitat and is home to an assortment of wildlife. Covering 50 acres, the site is a great spot for nature lovers, families or those just looking for fresh air and exercise.
Recent development work has improved the paths and trails which lead through the woods to a variety of locations within the reserve - including over to the sculpture known as Our Seats are almost Touching - a set of benches by Paul Bradley which makes up part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail.
Great Wood
(Image: Photo © Richard Mills (cc-by-sa/2.0))
Broadbottom, Hyde, SK14 6BN
At around 65 acres, the ancient Great Wood is one of the last remnants of Longdendale Forest and the largest forest in Tameside. It's thought to be at least 400 years old, and while dominated mostly by large oak trees, there is also a mix of birch, alder, beech, willow, hazel and holly. In the clearings in the wood you will find wildflowers like bluebells, red campion and wood sorrel.
There are paths running through the woods, or take the Great Wood Trail from Lymefield Visitor Centre.
Wythenshawe Park
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Wythenshawe Road, Manchester M23 0AB
There's almost 270 acres of parkland over in the built-up residential area of Wythenshawe, which boasts 13 separate woodlands to explore. Made up of new, mature and ornamental woods, each contain a wide variety of different trees, alongside the herbaceous borders, formal bedding, open grassland and beautiful wildflower meadows.
The park itself is Green Flag awarded and also has a community farm, horticultural centre, sports facilities and several listed buildings to discover within its grounds.
Worsley Woods
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Worsley, Manchester M28 2GD
Expect tall leafy trees and a thick canopy of trees in this 75 acres of pretty forests that stretch from the Bridgewater Canal to the East Lancashire Road. It's surprisingly peaceful given how close it is to the M60 motorway.
There are many well maintained paths, some leading right into the wood and others linking to the Tyldesley Loopline or onwards to Beesley Green. There are information boards to guide visitors around the site, with shady trails, streams, a lake, sculptures and a wild flower trail to enjoy if you take a circular route through the woods and into the town.
Daisy Nook
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Failsworth, Ashton-under-Lyne, M35 9WJ
Nestled in the heart of the Medlock Valley, this country park has plenty of beautifully wooded areas, adjoined by grassy meadows and has lots of places of interest to discover while you're there, including a river, canal and disused railway It's also a great habitat for spotting wildlife - with an abundance of creatures from great-spotted woodpeckers and owls, to foxes and squirrels. It's a great spot for families too, with two play areas set among the 99 acre site.
Tandle Hill woods
(Image: Middleton Guardian)
Royton, Oldham OL2 5UX
Tandle Hill has magnificent beech and stunning mixed woodland paired open grassland and the added bonus of phenomenal panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and across the Manchester Plain once you reach the top of the hills. The vast woodland is covered by a thick canopy from the tall leafy trees, making it the perfect escape to nature, despite being close to the busy town of Royton.
The woods at Tandle Hill are part of the larger Tandle Hill Country Park, which also has a dedicated countryside centre, picnic areas, play areas and two waymarked trails around the 110 acre beauty spot.
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themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Man City player ratings vs Crystal Palace: Ederson and Bernardo poor

Mad rush of blood almost cost Manchester City a goal in first half .
Has forgotten when to stay and when to go .
5 Good marking job on Zaha but sloppy passing and touch of theatrics let him down when he went on the front foot .
6 Looks so good in possession and played some smart passes between the lines - but did n't deal with Zaha .
6 In cruise control for most of the game but got in Stones ' way to allow Cahill a free header for the goal - own goal unlucky .
6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afternoon but his crosses kept foundering until he pulled out a beauty .
7 One deft pass which almost set Aguero free in the box , but again too much of his work was in ineffectual areas .
5 Hit the bar with a fine free kick but was strangely unable to influence the flow of the game - in fact he faded out of it .
6 Neat as ever , and found little pockets of space , but failed to utilise them to good effect - the brain not as sharp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saved at point blank but his usual brand of magic was left in the box and he was hauled off .
5 No room in which to operate for most of the game - but showed what he could do when given quality service .
8 One curling shot a yard wide was his only real threatening moment - badly needs to up his game again .
5 ( for Bernardo 73 ) went for glory .
5 ( for Sterling 89 ) Came on to secure the win but failed .
5

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Ederson
Mad rush of blood almost cost Manchester City a goal in first half. Has forgotten when to stay and when to go. 5
Joao Cancelo
Good marking job on Zaha but sloppy passing and touch of theatrics let him down when he went on the front foot. 6
John Stones
Looks so good in possession and played some smart passes between the lines - but didn't deal with Zaha. 6
Fernandinho
In cruise control for most of the game but got in Stones' way to allow Cahill a free header for the goal - own goal unlucky. 6
Benjamin Mendy
Worked up and down the left all afternoon but his crosses kept foundering until he pulled out a beauty. 7
Ilkay Gundogan
One deft pass which almost set Aguero free in the box, but again too much of his work was in ineffectual areas. 5
Kevin De Bruyne
Hit the bar with a fine free kick but was strangely unable to influence the flow of the game - in fact he faded out of it. 6
(Image: Getty Images)
David Silva
Neat as ever, and found little pockets of space, but failed to utilise them to good effect - the brain not as sharp as usual. 5
Bernardo Silva
Saw a shot saved at point blank but his usual brand of magic was left in the box and he was hauled off. 5
Sergio Aguero
No room in which to operate for most of the game - but showed what he could do when given quality service. 8
Raheem Sterling
One curling shot a yard wide was his only real threatening moment - badly needs to up his game again. 5
Subs
Gabriel Jesus
(for D. Silva 62) great assist. 7
Riyad Mahrez
(for Bernardo 73) went for glory. 5
Rodri
(for Sterling 89) Came on to secure the win but failed. 5
Not used: Bravo, Walker, Otamendi, Rodri, Foden


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Boy, 10, stabbed in random street attack as he walked with mum in Leicester

Police are searching for a man who stabbed a 10-year-old boy as he walked along a street in Leicester with his mum yesterday in a random attack .
The horrific attack happened at around 5.20pm on Saturday in Belper Street , Belgrave , when the boy and his mum were approached by a man - who stabbed him and ran off , LeicestershireLive reports .
A member of the public called emergency services and the boy was taken to the Queen 's Medical Centre in Nottingham , where his condition is described as none life-threatening .
His mother was thankfully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was very shaken .
The suspect is described as a light-skinned Asian man , in his mid-20s , around 5ft 10in tall , chubby and wearing a brown jacket .
A police cordon was in place in Belper Street but it has since been removed .
Detective Inspector Tim Lindley said : `` This was an act of violence against a young child who was out , in the street , with his mother .
`` It happened in a residential area at a time of day when there would have been people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through .
`` We need to find who was responsible for injuring this boy .
`` If you were in the area of Belper Street between the times of 4.30pm and 6.30pm and saw what happened or a man matching this description we want to hear from you .
`` Equally , if you have any dashcam footage or CCTV of the area please get in touch . ''
Call 101 if you can help .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Dave Harrison, Helen Carter)

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Police are searching for a man who stabbed a 10-year-old boy as he walked along a street in Leicester with his mum yesterday in a random attack.
The horrific attack happened at around 5.20pm on Saturday in Belper Street, Belgrave, when the boy and his mum were approached by a man - who stabbed him and ran off, LeicestershireLive reports.
A member of the public called emergency services and the boy was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, where his condition is described as none life-threatening.
His mother was thankfully unhurt in the incident, although she was very shaken.
The suspect is described as a light-skinned Asian man, in his mid-20s, around 5ft 10in tall, chubby and wearing a brown jacket.
A police cordon was in place in Belper Street but it has since been removed.
Detective Inspector Tim Lindley said: "This was an act of violence against a young child who was out, in the street, with his mother.
"It happened in a residential area at a time of day when there would have been people about, either on foot or driving through.
"We need to find who was responsible for injuring this boy.
"If you were in the area of Belper Street between the times of 4.30pm and 6.30pm and saw what happened or a man matching this description we want to hear from you.
"Equally, if you have any dashcam footage or CCTV of the area please get in touch."
Call 101 if you can help.
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--2020-01-19--Just before Christmas, Suzanne was given two weeks to live. Four weeks on, she's terrified - but sti

Just before Christmas, Suzanne was given two weeks to live. Four weeks on, she's terrified - but still fighting

Just before Christmas , Suzanne Shipley was given two weeks to live .
Four weeks on , she 's still fighting .
She 's had a tragic life .
The 34-year-old has lost her sister , father and brother in recent years .
Her own health issues have caused her misery .
Suzanne , from Warrington , has been through a lower leg amputation and a kidney transplant .
She says she 's 'terrified ' of dying and leaving behind her loved ones .
Despite the sheer heartbreak she 's faced , and the awful situation she finds herself in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and bravery , the Liverpool Echo reports .
Her courage has inspired people to raise nearly £8,000 - to ensure her mum Rose gets the support she needs and does n't have to worry about money when Suzanne is gone .
Friend Jo Tocher set up the GoFundMe page , so her pal could 'enjoy her last days worry free and at peace ' .
She 's thrilled at the amount raised in just three days .
Suzanne said it 's eased her mind .
She did n't want to burden her family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jo , 41 , said : `` They 're an amazing family .
I 've never met people with such strength .
`` Despite Suzanne 's situation , she 's still trying to help others .
She 's still answering messages and talking to people .
Suzanne was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of 14 .
Years of health problems followed .
She had her lower leg amputated after she contracted sepsis back in 2017 .
Due to her illness , she developed neuropathy and retinopathy and underwent a kidney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her organ .
In December , Suzanne received the devastating news that her kidneys were failing and that nothing more could be done .
`` Suzanne is one of the strongest people I know , '' Jo added .
`` The reality of the news that she only had a maximum of two weeks to live was difficult .
`` But , like a true Shipley , Suzanne has defied the odds .
`` Suzanne is terrified of dying .
I just want to take away all the financial worries from the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to have that time to grieve and for her mother to be able to do whatever she needs to do to help herself .
`` She 's spent so many years in such an awful place .
`` Suzanne said she feels overwhelmed by it .
The biggest worry she had was over the finances for the funeral and her mum 's financial situation .
`` This will help just give her that bit of relief to help at this difficult time . ''

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Max Clements, Todd Fitzgerald)

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Just before Christmas, Suzanne Shipley was given two weeks to live.
Four weeks on, she's still fighting.
She's had a tragic life. The 34-year-old has lost her sister, father and brother in recent years.
Her own health issues have caused her misery.
Suzanne, from Warrington, has been through a lower leg amputation and a kidney transplant.
She says she's 'terrified' of dying and leaving behind her loved ones.
Despite the sheer heartbreak she's faced, and the awful situation she finds herself in, Suzanne continues to show incredible strength and bravery, the Liverpool Echo reports.
Her courage has inspired people to raise nearly £8,000 - to ensure her mum Rose gets the support she needs and doesn't have to worry about money when Suzanne is gone.
(Image: Shipley family/GoFundMe)
Friend Jo Tocher set up the GoFundMe page, so her pal could 'enjoy her last days worry free and at peace'.
She's thrilled at the amount raised in just three days.
Suzanne said it's eased her mind. She didn't want to burden her family with the debt of her funeral.
Jo, 41, said: "They're an amazing family. I've never met people with such strength.
"Despite Suzanne's situation, she's still trying to help others. She's still answering messages and talking to people.
"She's amazing."
Suzanne was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of 14. Years of health problems followed.
She had her lower leg amputated after she contracted sepsis back in 2017.
Due to her illness, she developed neuropathy and retinopathy and underwent a kidney transplant - after her mum Rose donated her organ.
(Image: Shipley family/GoFundMe)
In December, Suzanne received the devastating news that her kidneys were failing and that nothing more could be done.
"Suzanne is one of the strongest people I know," Jo added.
"The reality of the news that she only had a maximum of two weeks to live was difficult.
"But, like a true Shipley, Suzanne has defied the odds.
"Suzanne is terrified of dying. I just want to take away all the financial worries from the family.
"I want them to be able to have that time to grieve and for her mother to be able to do whatever she needs to do to help herself.
(Image: Shipley family/GoFundMe)
"She's spent so many years in such an awful place.
"Suzanne said she feels overwhelmed by it. The biggest worry she had was over the finances for the funeral and her mum's financial situation.
"This will help just give her that bit of relief to help at this difficult time."
To donate, click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Solskjaer names five Manchester United leaders ahead of Liverpool FC game

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes his Manchester United squad has as many as five leaders after being asked about making Harry Maguire the club 's permanent captain .
Maguire replaces Ashley Young as skipper after the full-back completed a January transfer to Inter Milan .
It was a no-brainer for Solskjaer , despite the fact Maguire has only been at the club since his £80million transfer from Leicester in the summer , with the centre-back a natural leader .
Though the United boss added that there are other potential captains in his squad .
“ He ’ s had a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personality , '' Solskjaer told the club ’ s official website about Maguire .
`` He ’ s a leader - we ’ ve got leaders in the group , different types of leaders .
We ’ ve got Marcus Rashford , who ’ s a young boy showing leadership skills .
`` We ’ ve got Scott McTominay , David De Gea and Juan Mata , they ’ ve been around for so long now .
Harry has come in and he ’ s playing every game , he ’ s fit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room.
” Solskjaer then reflected on the decision to let Young go and the 34-year-old stellar United career .
He added : “ When this situation came up , and the options we ’ ve got at full-back - you ’ ve got Brandon Williams who has really come through and developed .
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been fantastic .
Luke Shaw is potentially one of the best left-backs in England , for me .
Then we ’ ve got Diogo Dalot and Tim Fosu-Mensah , they ’ re both fit .
You ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ashley ’ s mindset was that he wanted to try a new adventure and he he ’ s approaching 35 now .
He ’ s done a fantastic job and he ’ s served this club fantastically .
`` I think it was an opportunity for him that we had to say yes to .
We got a transfer fee for someone who ’ s been so loyal to the club .
Good luck .
That ’ s what Manchester United do , you have players for a long time and then they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes his Manchester United squad has as many as five leaders after being asked about making Harry Maguire the club's permanent captain.
Maguire replaces Ashley Young as skipper after the full-back completed a January transfer to Inter Milan.
It was a no-brainer for Solskjaer, despite the fact Maguire has only been at the club since his £80million transfer from Leicester in the summer, with the centre-back a natural leader. Though the United boss added that there are other potential captains in his squad.
“He’s had a great impact and he’s a great personality," Solskjaer told the club’s official website about Maguire.
"He’s a leader - we’ve got leaders in the group, different types of leaders. We’ve got Marcus Rashford, who’s a young boy showing leadership skills.
"We’ve got Scott McTominay, David De Gea and Juan Mata, they’ve been around for so long now. Harry has come in and he’s playing every game, he’s fit and he’s leading that dressing room.”
Solskjaer then reflected on the decision to let Young go and the 34-year-old stellar United career.
He added: “When this situation came up, and the options we’ve got at full-back - you’ve got Brandon Williams who has really come through and developed. Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been fantastic. Luke Shaw is potentially one of the best left-backs in England, for me. Then we’ve got Diogo Dalot and Tim Fosu-Mensah, they’re both fit. You’ve got loads of full-backs.
“Ashley’s mindset was that he wanted to try a new adventure and he he’s approaching 35 now. He’s done a fantastic job and he’s served this club fantastically.
"I think it was an opportunity for him that we had to say yes to. We got a transfer fee for someone who’s been so loyal to the club. Good luck. That’s what Manchester United do, you have players for a long time and then they move on and someone else steps in.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Benjamin Mendy makes Real Madrid vow as Man City falter again

Benjamin Mendy lashed out at the critics who say Manchester City are “ finished ” and predicted they will be “ on fire ” when they face Real Madrid .
The Blues defender also feels that the imminent return of Aymeric Laporte will make a big difference as City seek to hit back after a home draw with Crystal Palace handed Liverpool another big advantage in the Premier League .
Mendy ’ s cross for Sergio Aguero ’ s late goal seemed to have rescued three points but Fernandinho ’ s late own goal saw the Etihad Stadium clash finish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the Merseysiders , who have two games in hand before today ’ s Anfield meeting with Manchester United .
Mendy says that the slackening in City ’ s form this season is entirely natural , and that to have won it two years on the trot was phenomenal .
He also said you simply have to doff your cap to Liverpool , unbeaten and with only one draw to blot their record .
Asked how City ’ s dressing room is coping with the virtual end of the title race , Mendy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
When another team is doing well you can ’ t be upset or angry .
“ We know when you start the season , after winning the league , you have to win most of the games .
“ This is the truth , no-one can complain – they ( Liverpool ) are a good team , strong team who win , win and win , so in our dressing room we try to focus on us .
“ All the people say Man City are finished , that we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want – we will just keep focussing on us , play our football , win the games , to fight until the league is over .
“ When you have won two titles in a row , or even one , the next season is not easy .
“ We have seen that other teams who have won the title have not reached the Champions League the season after – they were in the Europa League .
“ We won our first title , and then won again , and are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s not easy in the Premier League – every team fights and believe they can do something .
“ That ’ s why this league is a dream , and we enjoy it so much .
“ We don ’ t have the answer of what happened , but every player tries to give everything for the team.
” City ’ s trophy hopes now lie with the two domestic cups and the Champions League , with the first leg against Real Madrid looming at the Bernabeu on February 26 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ them all season , and saw them give away a late goal against Palace .
But Mendy says the game against the Spanish aces will be different : “ That will be another kind of game – Champions League , big game .
“ Every game is big , but everyone knows that this game will be watched by everyone , so mentally you have a feeling , the atmosphere , how you come to the game puts you on fire , excited.
” City hope to have a fully fit Laporte back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make his return against Fulham in the FA Cup next Sunday .
And his fellow France international thinks Laporte ’ s left foot will give the Blues the balance they have lacked , both defensively and on the attack .
“ He is very important , ” said the left back .
“ The way we play , his left foot is needed , so it will be good to have him back central .
I think Man City will do much better .
”

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Benjamin Mendy lashed out at the critics who say Manchester City are “finished” and predicted they will be “on fire” when they face Real Madrid.
The Blues defender also feels that the imminent return of Aymeric Laporte will make a big difference as City seek to hit back after a home draw with Crystal Palace handed Liverpool another big advantage in the Premier League.
Mendy’s cross for Sergio Aguero’s late goal seemed to have rescued three points but Fernandinho’s late own goal saw the Etihad Stadium clash finish 2-2.
That left City 13 points behind the Merseysiders, who have two games in hand before today’s Anfield meeting with Manchester United.
Mendy says that the slackening in City’s form this season is entirely natural, and that to have won it two years on the trot was phenomenal.
He also said you simply have to doff your cap to Liverpool, unbeaten and with only one draw to blot their record.
Asked how City’s dressing room is coping with the virtual end of the title race, Mendy said: “We deal well with it. When another team is doing well you can’t be upset or angry.
“We know when you start the season, after winning the league, you have to win most of the games.
“This is the truth, no-one can complain – they (Liverpool) are a good team, strong team who win, win and win, so in our dressing room we try to focus on us.
“All the people say Man City are finished, that we’re finished. They can say what they want – we will just keep focussing on us, play our football, win the games, to fight until the league is over.
“When you have won two titles in a row, or even one, the next season is not easy.
“We have seen that other teams who have won the title have not reached the Champions League the season after – they were in the Europa League.
“We won our first title, and then won again, and are now we are still second or third. It’s not easy in the Premier League – every team fights and believe they can do something.
“That’s why this league is a dream, and we enjoy it so much.
“We don’t have the answer of what happened, but every player tries to give everything for the team.”
City’s trophy hopes now lie with the two domestic cups and the Champions League, with the first leg against Real Madrid looming at the Bernabeu on February 26.
City’s defensive difficulties have plagued them all season, and saw them give away a late goal against Palace.
But Mendy says the game against the Spanish aces will be different: “That will be another kind of game – Champions League, big game.
“Every game is big, but everyone knows that this game will be watched by everyone, so mentally you have a feeling, the atmosphere, how you come to the game puts you on fire, excited.”
City hope to have a fully fit Laporte back by then – he is pencilled to make his return against Fulham in the FA Cup next Sunday.
And his fellow France international thinks Laporte’s left foot will give the Blues the balance they have lacked, both defensively and on the attack.
“He is very important,” said the left back. “The way we play, his left foot is needed, so it will be good to have him back central. I think Man City will do much better.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Sir Alex Ferguson praises three Manchester United youngsters before Liverpool FC game

Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he 's been impressed by how Mason Greenwood , Brandon Williams and Scott McTominay have taken the opportunities given to them this season .
Manchester United have been heavily reliant on homegrown talent this season , with the trio — and others like Tahith Chong , Angel Gomes , Andreas Pereira and of course Marcus Rashford — continuing United 's proud tradition of blooding younsters .
Ferguson watches the majority of United games from the stands at Old Trafford and is often used by current boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as a sounding board .
He brought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his day .
And as the United legend attended the rugby clash between Sale Sharks and Glasgow Warriors on Saturday night , he was briefly asked about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side and the Liverpool game .
Speaking to his friend and Sale owner Ged Mason on behalf of Morson Group , Ferguson said : `` I think it 's the area in which United have always done well , giving young players an opportunity .
`` And you find that giving them an opportunity , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've shown that , The boy Brandon Williams and Greenwood and McTominay — they 've done exceptionally well . ''
Ferguson is likely to be in the stands at Anfield today ( Sunday ) when United taken on runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool .
United remain the only team in the league this season to take points off Jurgen Klopp 's unstoppable side , but will be huge underdogs .

Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he's been impressed by how Mason Greenwood, Brandon Williams and Scott McTominay have taken the opportunities given to them this season.
Manchester United have been heavily reliant on homegrown talent this season, with the trio — and others like Tahith Chong, Angel Gomes, Andreas Pereira and of course Marcus Rashford — continuing United's proud tradition of blooding younsters.
Ferguson watches the majority of United games from the stands at Old Trafford and is often used by current boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as a sounding board. He brought through iconic talents like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his day.
And as the United legend attended the rugby clash between Sale Sharks and Glasgow Warriors on Saturday night, he was briefly asked about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side and the Liverpool game.
Speaking to his friend and Sale owner Ged Mason on behalf of Morson Group , Ferguson said: "I think it's the area in which United have always done well, giving young players an opportunity.
"And you find that giving them an opportunity, they don't let you down and they've shown that, The boy Brandon Williams and Greenwood and McTominay — they've done exceptionally well."
Ferguson is likely to be in the stands at Anfield today (Sunday) when United taken on runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool. United remain the only team in the league this season to take points off Jurgen Klopp's unstoppable side, but will be huge underdogs.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Tom never thought he'd reach 30. When he did, he started planning his death. This is his story

Breathing is an integral part of staying alive .
It just happens .
We do n't think about it .
But for Tom Miller , breathing has been a struggle his entire life .
For him , he lives his life as though he 's 'breathing through a tiny straw ' .
The Oldham-born musician has cystic fibrosis ( CF ) - a hereditary disease that affects the lungs and digestive system .
It brings lung infections and painful physiotherapy to relieve the thick , mucus that can clog the lungs and obstruct the pancreas .
It also shortens your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he can remember , Tom had it in his head that he wouldn ’ t live past 30 ( the median life expectancy for CF sufferers now is around 37 , but back in 1990 it was in the late teens , according to the Child Life Society ) .
“ Thirty was my milestone , '' he told the Manchester Evening News .
`` I never thought I would get to that age .
“ I was never specifically told I wouldn ’ t live past 30 , but it was implied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That ’ s the age I always had my thoughts set on.
” Rather than celebrate the unexpected milestone , Tom started getting his affairs in order in preparation for the day his time finally runs out , with the help of the Cystic Fibrosis Care Team at Wythenshawe hospital .
`` When I turned 30 last year , I started planning my death , '' he said .
`` The unit at Wythenshawe has an advanced care plan that they help you with .
“ As morbid as it sounds , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makes sense .
People with CF can die a lot younger than that .
You always have it in your mind that it could happen this year , or next year , meaning you can ’ t plan long term for anything.
” Tom , now 31 , was diagnosed with CF as a baby .
As a child , he quickly got into the routine of regular visits to Booth Hall Children ’ s Hospital with mum Sally , 60 , and dad Bob , who passed away in 2011 aged 57 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memory of CF affecting me was being about seven getting chicken pox and it was so bad I was in hospital for two weeks .
I had a really high temperature and was hallucinating .
It was scary .
`` With CF , you produce a sticky mucus and it can take a long time for an infection to get out of your lungs.
” Growing up , the former Mossley Hollins pupil missed out on a lot due to his illness and being in and out of hospital .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” he said .
“ When I was at high school I couldn ’ t go on any trips and I was initially passed over to be a prefect because of my attendance record , although thankfully that decision was overturned once I spoke to the headteacher.
” Throughout his life Tom has endured nebulisers , medication and twice a day physio that his parents used to have to do to bring up all the mucus .
Tom said : “ CF is like breathing through a straw - those tiny ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sounds mad , but I don ’ t know any different .
Everyone has their own normal .
It ’ s all relative .
“ People do define you by it though .
When friends and family used to call my mum , it was always , ‘ how ’ s Tom ?
’ with the assumption I was probably unwell.
” One moment in his life that Tom didn ’ t plan for was when his dad died of cancer .
He said : “ I found that really tough .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might outlive him .
I always assumed I ’ d die first.
” Despite Tom ’ s positive outlook on life , there have been some low points that have been fuelled by the frustration of having such a debilitating illness .
“ CF has affected relationships in the past - I have lost a few girlfriends over it , ” he admitted .
“ It ’ s hard to sleep with CF because you cough a lot .
If you don ’ t you could choke to death .
Not exactly an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dark times when I have gone a bit crazy - I had a six month period of drinking way too much .
But I had to pick myself out of it because there could be serious consequences if I don ’ t .
“ What ’ s great about the CF unit is that they have psychotherapists for you to speak to .
You have to talk about stuff.
” Bass player Tom , who works in Forsyth Music Shop on Deansgate , is well versed in hospital visits .
He is usually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to an infection of some kind .
Tom said : “ Whenever you go in hospital , you see people sicker than you are and think , that could be me next time .
I have always been quite positive in my outlook on life and try to joke about stuff but I definitely do care about staying alive .
“ It ’ s terrifying when you ’ re hooked up to IVs and oxygen and you don ’ t know if there ’ s going to be long term effects on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the CF unit was , in his words , life-changing .
On January 6 , after a particularly bad stay , he was gifted triple combination therapy , aka Trikafta , from American drug company Vertex .
It is not available yet on the NHS but the Cystic Fibrosis Trust says that 90 per cent of people with CF stand to benefit from the drug once it is licensed and made available widely in the UK .
Trikafta is still going through a licensing process so is only available on compassionate use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ill. Tom said : “ I was 11 or 12 when they first started talking about gene therapy , so it ’ s taken another 20 years to get this far .
“ The drug offers a 14 per cent increase in lung capacity , which doesn ’ t sound like much , but when you function on around 25 to 30 per cent on a normal day , that ’ s a massive improvement.
” The first day after taking his new meds , Tom noticed an incredible difference in his breathing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve never been able to do stairs , I have to get a lift .
If I do one flight it will take me ages to recover .
I bought my flat because it is on the ground floor .
I can ’ t walk long distances .
“ But shortly after taking the new drug , I went for a walk around the hospital with my sister Katie .
We got to a flight of stairs and not only did I get up them without struggling , I beat her up them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for both of us - I even rang my mum to tell her.
” Tom always expected that he would need a lung transplant if he did reach his current age - but says with the help of this drug , it hopefully won ’ t be any time soon .
He said : “ I am feeling so much better - I am even planning on a hike in February .
I 'm going up to Scotland on my own to do a bit of walking , enjoy the countryside and also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I need to take it all in .
It ’ s like I am living a different life .
I am a new man .
“ I feel so grateful to be given these drugs - I just hope that it can be approved on the NHS so that more people like me can benefit from it.
” David Ramsden , chief executive of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust : “ It is fantastic to see the progress Tom has made since gaining access to Trikafta on compassionate grounds .
“ Tom ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this transformative drug , which stands to benefit up to 90 per cent of those with CF in the UK , is made available to all who are eligible as soon as possible.
” Vertex Pharmaceuticals are delighted to hear about Tom 's progress but are unable to comment until the drug is approved in the UK .
For more information from the Cystic Fibrosis Trust about triple combination therapy ( Trikafta ) , click here .
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest TV , entertainment and features @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep up to date with all that is happening , and to join in the discussion , follow the page here .

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Breathing is an integral part of staying alive.
It just happens. We don't think about it.
But for Tom Miller, breathing has been a struggle his entire life.
For him, he lives his life as though he's 'breathing through a tiny straw'.
The Oldham-born musician has cystic fibrosis (CF) - a hereditary disease that affects the lungs and digestive system.
It brings lung infections and painful physiotherapy to relieve the thick, mucus that can clog the lungs and obstruct the pancreas.
It also shortens your lifespan dramatically.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
For as long as he can remember, Tom had it in his head that he wouldn’t live past 30 (the median life expectancy for CF sufferers now is around 37, but back in 1990 it was in the late teens, according to the Child Life Society).
In January 2019, Tom made it.
“Thirty was my milestone," he told the Manchester Evening News.
"I never thought I would get to that age.
“I was never specifically told I wouldn’t live past 30, but it was implied due to the low life expectancy. That’s the age I always had my thoughts set on.”
Rather than celebrate the unexpected milestone,Tom started getting his affairs in order in preparation for the day his time finally runs out, with the help of the Cystic Fibrosis Care Team at Wythenshawe hospital.
"When I turned 30 last year, I started planning my death," he said.
"The unit at Wythenshawe has an advanced care plan that they help you with.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“As morbid as it sounds, you need to face it.
"It makes sense. People with CF can die a lot younger than that. You always have it in your mind that it could happen this year, or next year, meaning you can’t plan long term for anything.”
Tom, now 31, was diagnosed with CF as a baby.
As a child, he quickly got into the routine of regular visits to Booth Hall Children’s Hospital with mum Sally, 60, and dad Bob, who passed away in 2011 aged 57.
He said: “My earliest memory of CF affecting me was being about seven getting chicken pox and it was so bad I was in hospital for two weeks. I had a really high temperature and was hallucinating. It was scary.
"With CF, you produce a sticky mucus and it can take a long time for an infection to get out of your lungs.”
Growing up, the former Mossley Hollins pupil missed out on a lot due to his illness and being in and out of hospital.
“It’s stopping me from doing so much,” he said.
“When I was at high school I couldn’t go on any trips and I was initially passed over to be a prefect because of my attendance record, although thankfully that decision was overturned once I spoke to the headteacher.”
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Throughout his life Tom has endured nebulisers, medication and twice a day physio that his parents used to have to do to bring up all the mucus.
Tom said: “CF is like breathing through a straw - those tiny ones you get with cocktail drinks. It sounds mad, but I don’t know any different. Everyone has their own normal. It’s all relative.
“People do define you by it though. When friends and family used to call my mum, it was always, ‘how’s Tom?’ with the assumption I was probably unwell.”
One moment in his life that Tom didn’t plan for was when his dad died of cancer.
He said: “I found that really tough. I had never prepared for the fact I might outlive him. I always assumed I’d die first.”
Despite Tom’s positive outlook on life, there have been some low points that have been fuelled by the frustration of having such a debilitating illness.
(Image: Tom Miller/Facebook)
“CF has affected relationships in the past - I have lost a few girlfriends over it,” he admitted.
“It’s hard to sleep with CF because you cough a lot. If you don’t you could choke to death. Not exactly an attractive trait.
“There have been dark times when I have gone a bit crazy - I had a six month period of drinking way too much. But I had to pick myself out of it because there could be serious consequences if I don’t.
“What’s great about the CF unit is that they have psychotherapists for you to speak to. You have to talk about stuff.”
Bass player Tom, who works in Forsyth Music Shop on Deansgate, is well versed in hospital visits. He is usually admitted once a year for several weeks due to an infection of some kind.
Tom said: “Whenever you go in hospital, you see people sicker than you are and think, that could be me next time. I have always been quite positive in my outlook on life and try to joke about stuff but I definitely do care about staying alive.
“It’s terrifying when you’re hooked up to IVs and oxygen and you don’t know if there’s going to be long term effects on your health.”
His most recent trip to the CF unit was, in his words, life-changing.
On January 6, after a particularly bad stay, he was gifted triple combination therapy, aka Trikafta, from American drug company Vertex.
It is not available yet on the NHS but the Cystic Fibrosis Trust says that 90 per cent of people with CF stand to benefit from the drug once it is licensed and made available widely in the UK.
Trikafta is still going through a licensing process so is only available on compassionate use to people like Tom who are very ill.
Tom said: “I was 11 or 12 when they first started talking about gene therapy, so it’s taken another 20 years to get this far.
“The drug offers a 14 per cent increase in lung capacity, which doesn’t sound like much, but when you function on around 25 to 30 per cent on a normal day, that’s a massive improvement.”
(Image: Dan Wiebe Photography)
The first day after taking his new meds, Tom noticed an incredible difference in his breathing.
He explained: “I’ve never been able to do stairs, I have to get a lift. If I do one flight it will take me ages to recover. I bought my flat because it is on the ground floor. I can’t walk long distances.
“But shortly after taking the new drug, I went for a walk around the hospital with my sister Katie. We got to a flight of stairs and not only did I get up them without struggling, I beat her up them. It was a really emotional moment for both of us - I even rang my mum to tell her.”
Tom always expected that he would need a lung transplant if he did reach his current age - but says with the help of this drug, it hopefully won’t be any time soon.
He said: “I am feeling so much better - I am even planning on a hike in February. I'm going up to Scotland on my own to do a bit of walking, enjoy the countryside and also take stock of my life.
“I need to take it all in. It’s like I am living a different life. I am a new man.
“I feel so grateful to be given these drugs - I just hope that it can be approved on the NHS so that more people like me can benefit from it.”
David Ramsden, chief executive of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust: “It is fantastic to see the progress Tom has made since gaining access to Trikafta on compassionate grounds.
“Tom’s story highlights how important it is that this transformative drug, which stands to benefit up to 90 per cent of those with CF in the UK, is made available to all who are eligible as soon as possible.”
Vertex Pharmaceuticals are delighted to hear about Tom's progress but are unable to comment until the drug is approved in the UK.
For more information from the Cystic Fibrosis Trust about triple combination therapy (Trikafta), click here.
For more information on cystic fibrosis and to donate please visit - https://www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/
MANCHESTER ENTS
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest TV, entertainment and features from the Manchester Evening News.
To keep up to date with all that is happening, and to join in the discussion, follow the page here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Why Manchester United might have been right to pass on Erling Haaland transfer

As Erling Haaland registered a 20 minute hat-trick on his Borussia Dortmund debut on Saturday afternoon the memes on Twitter started .
One saw a mocked up Ole Gunnar Solskjaer retreating into a bush and there were a large number of angry comments at Ed Woodward as the teenager topped trends on the social media site .
It was inevitable it was going to happen .
United missed out on the opportunity of signing the former Salzburg forward and he moved to the Bundesliga and made an instant impact .
The script had been written when he signed and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was unavoidable .
And while fans are desperate for United to make a big signing during the winter transfer window the club were n't necessarily wrong to pass on the highly rated 19-year-old .
Solskjaer has a personal relationship with the teenager after managing him at Molde so it appeared that all the stars were aligning for the club to land the striker who has been in formidable form this season .
And then agents got involved .
Solskjaer was asked in his press conference just before Christmas if he had any issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agent who also represents Paul Pogba has a certain way of working which is n't to everyone 's taste .
But the Norwegian insisted he had no issue .
And low and behold it was Raiola and Haaland 's camps ' demands that led to the breakdown of any potential deal .
United baulked at the idea of any package which would have allowed Raiola and Haaland 's father , the former Manchester City player Alf-Inge Haaland , control of any future transfer through buy-out fees and sell-on clauses .
The understanding is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been bad for the industry and they stood firm and pulled out of any deal and the teenager was off to the Bundesliga .
It 's easy for online United fans to look on with envy at the 19-year-old scoring a hat-trick on his debut but United altering their stance could have set a dangerous precedent for deals going forward and a striker is n't the top of Solskjaer 's priority list .
Eyebrows were raised when Solskjaer decided not to replace Romelu Lukaku in the summer but the current statistics show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood are outscoring Liverpool 's formidable force of Mohamed Salah , Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane .
A trio deemed to be the most dangerous in Europe .
That 's not to say United could n't do with strengthening up front , they could .
But was a deal for Haaland really worth being held to ransom over by a super agent who has openly spoken about his other client ( Paul Pogba ) wanting to leave the club ?
There will come a point where moral stance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and if said player is really deemed to be a squad changer then there could be an argument for that but for now the hierarchy are standing firm and just as Haaland passed United by the same could be true of Bruno Fernandes .
The club find themselves in a slightly similar position but this time it 's not involving agents .
This time it 's that Sporting have drastically increased their valuation of the midfielder and it 's far from the price United are happy to pay .
It is understood the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's valuation which is understood to be around €80million and while they 're still in talks and interested in a deal for the 25-year-old they are not afraid to walk away from a potential deal .
Fan fury will escalate online if a deal is n't finalised and Woodward will again find himself at the centre of the anger .
But again , just as the case with Haaland why should the club pay over the odds for a player that they do n't think is worth the money ?
Fernandes has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midfield options on their target list who will be attainable in the summer and have already shown they can consistently perform at the top level .
The need for strengthening is obvious but the answer ca n't be being held to ransom by agents or paying over the odds for unproven players in the hope of securing top four next season .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk ( Charlotte Duncker)

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As Erling Haaland registered a 20 minute hat-trick on his Borussia Dortmund debut on Saturday afternoon the memes on Twitter started.
One saw a mocked up Ole Gunnar Solskjaer retreating into a bush and there were a large number of angry comments at Ed Woodward as the teenager topped trends on the social media site.
It was inevitable it was going to happen.
United missed out on the opportunity of signing the former Salzburg forward and he moved to the Bundesliga and made an instant impact. The script had been written when he signed and the United fan fury that was to follow was unavoidable.
And while fans are desperate for United to make a big signing during the winter transfer window the club weren't necessarily wrong to pass on the highly rated 19-year-old. Solskjaer has a personal relationship with the teenager after managing him at Molde so it appeared that all the stars were aligning for the club to land the striker who has been in formidable form this season. And then agents got involved.
Solskjaer was asked in his press conference just before Christmas if he had any issue dealing with Mino Raiola. The super agent who also represents Paul Pogba has a certain way of working which isn't to everyone's taste. But the Norwegian insisted he had no issue.
And low and behold it was Raiola and Haaland's camps' demands that led to the breakdown of any potential deal. United baulked at the idea of any package which would have allowed Raiola and Haaland's father, the former Manchester City player Alf-Inge Haaland, control of any future transfer through buy-out fees and sell-on clauses.
The understanding is senior club officials thought the agreement would have been bad for the industry and they stood firm and pulled out of any deal and the teenager was off to the Bundesliga.
It's easy for online United fans to look on with envy at the 19-year-old scoring a hat-trick on his debut but United altering their stance could have set a dangerous precedent for deals going forward and a striker isn't the top of Solskjaer's priority list.
Eyebrows were raised when Solskjaer decided not to replace Romelu Lukaku in the summer but the current statistics show United's front three of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood are outscoring Liverpool's formidable force of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane. A trio deemed to be the most dangerous in Europe.
That's not to say United couldn't do with strengthening up front, they could. But was a deal for Haaland really worth being held to ransom over by a super agent who has openly spoken about his other client (Paul Pogba) wanting to leave the club?
There will come a point where moral stance has to go out of the window and if said player is really deemed to be a squad changer then there could be an argument for that but for now the hierarchy are standing firm and just as Haaland passed United by the same could be true of Bruno Fernandes.
The club find themselves in a slightly similar position but this time it's not involving agents. This time it's that Sporting have drastically increased their valuation of the midfielder and it's far from the price United are happy to pay.
It is understood the club are baffled by the Portuguese club's valuation which is understood to be around €80million and while they're still in talks and interested in a deal for the 25-year-old they are not afraid to walk away from a potential deal.
Fan fury will escalate online if a deal isn't finalised and Woodward will again find himself at the centre of the anger. But again, just as the case with Haaland why should the club pay over the odds for a player that they don't think is worth the money?
Fernandes has a good scoring record but United have other midfield options on their target list who will be attainable in the summer and have already shown they can consistently perform at the top level.
The need for strengthening is obvious but the answer can't be being held to ransom by agents or paying over the odds for unproven players in the hope of securing top four next season.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-19--Manchester United squad vs Liverpool FC includes Eric Bailly but no Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford is not with the provisional Manchester United squad ahead of their Premier League trip to Liverpool tomorrow .
Rashford was forced off against Wolves in the FA Cup third round replay at Old Trafford on Wednesday after just 16 minutes with a recurring back problem .
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had rested Rashford but , with the tie goalless , decided to bring on the 22-year-old just after the hour mark .
Juan Mata secured United 's progression to the fourth round but the Norwegian admitted the decision to bring Rashford on backfired after he went down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replaced by Jesse Lingard .
The United manager said in his pre-match press conference that it was going to be a last-minute decision on whether or not Rashford would travel to Merseyside .
Rashford was not with the United squad that arrived at The Lowry Hotel on Saturday night , having reported at the club 's Carrington training complex in the morning .
`` I ca n't tell you now , '' Solskjaer said .
`` As I said with Harry [ Maguire ] a few weeks ago , of course we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of time to find out .
We 'll do some more checks and treatment with him today , yesterday , of course , was just a recovery day and some treatment for him .
I 've not see him this morning .
`` I 'm not going to hold my breath .
I would probably think he would n't be ready but let 's see .
it 's 48 hours [ away ] , more than that , so let 's see . ''
Solskjaer made changes to United 's usual pre-Liverpool preparations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city centre hotel in Liverpool the night before matches but opted to reside at their favoured Manchester city centre hotel and will travel to Anfield on Sunday .
Solskjaer has been given a defensive boost though with the return of Eric Bailly to the matchday squad .
The centre-back last played a first-team game for the club on their pre-season tour but made his playing comeback from a knee injury for the Under-23s a week last Friday .
Solskjaer said returning defenders Bailly and Timothy Fosu-Mensah will be important options for him for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Axel ( Tuanzebe ) had a setback but he ’ s working his way towards fitness , ” Solskajer explained .
“ Eric ( Bailly ) and Tim ( Fosu-Mensah ) are fit and available .
`` Luke Shaw is on the training pitch today [ Friday ] to see how he is .
He ’ s been ill and he ’ s had a little issue .
Diogo ( Dalot ) is back and Marcos ( Rojo ) is still not ready .
He had a bad calf injury that took longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game looking to become the first team to beat Liverpool in the league at Anfield since Crystal Palace in April 2017 .
United remain the only team to have taken points of Jurgen Klopp 's league leaders this season .
The point United secured at Old Trafford back in October has given United belief they can go to Anfield and cause an upset on Sunday afternoon .
`` We know if we perform at our best level , we can compete with them , like we did at Old Trafford , when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Juan Mata said after the win against Wolves on Wednesday night .
`` So from Thursday morning we will be 100 per cent focused on that game .
`` It 's a very special game for us , for all of the Manchester United fans and everyone in the club , so a big weekend ahead and hopefully we can bring with us this good moment of good football and results . ''

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Marcus Rashford is not with the provisional Manchester United squad ahead of their Premier League trip to Liverpool tomorrow.
Rashford was forced off against Wolves in the FA Cup third round replay at Old Trafford on Wednesday after just 16 minutes with a recurring back problem.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had rested Rashford but, with the tie goalless, decided to bring on the 22-year-old just after the hour mark. Juan Mata secured United's progression to the fourth round but the Norwegian admitted the decision to bring Rashford on backfired after he went down clutching his back and had to be replaced by Jesse Lingard.
The United manager said in his pre-match press conference that it was going to be a last-minute decision on whether or not Rashford would travel to Merseyside. Rashford was not with the United squad that arrived at The Lowry Hotel on Saturday night, having reported at the club's Carrington training complex in the morning.
"I can't tell you now," Solskjaer said. "As I said with Harry [Maguire] a few weeks ago, of course we're going to give him the absolute amount of time to find out. We'll do some more checks and treatment with him today, yesterday, of course, was just a recovery day and some treatment for him. I've not see him this morning.
"I'm not going to hold my breath. I would probably think he wouldn't be ready but let's see. it's 48 hours [away], more than that, so let's see."
Solskjaer made changes to United's usual pre-Liverpool preparations. The squad has stayed in a city centre hotel in Liverpool the night before matches but opted to reside at their favoured Manchester city centre hotel and will travel to Anfield on Sunday.
Solskjaer has been given a defensive boost though with the return of Eric Bailly to the matchday squad. The centre-back last played a first-team game for the club on their pre-season tour but made his playing comeback from a knee injury for the Under-23s a week last Friday. Solskjaer said returning defenders Bailly and Timothy Fosu-Mensah will be important options for him for the rest of the season.
“Axel (Tuanzebe) had a setback but he’s working his way towards fitness,” Solskajer explained. “Eric (Bailly) and Tim (Fosu-Mensah) are fit and available.
"Luke Shaw is on the training pitch today [Friday] to see how he is. He’s been ill and he’s had a little issue. Diogo (Dalot) is back and Marcos (Rojo) is still not ready. He had a bad calf injury that took longer than we expected.”
Manchester United squad vs Liverpool:
United go into the game looking to become the first team to beat Liverpool in the league at Anfield since Crystal Palace in April 2017. United remain the only team to have taken points of Jurgen Klopp's league leaders this season.
The point United secured at Old Trafford back in October has given United belief they can go to Anfield and cause an upset on Sunday afternoon.
"We know if we perform at our best level, we can compete with them, like we did at Old Trafford, when they got only one point," Juan Mata said after the win against Wolves on Wednesday night. "So from Thursday morning we will be 100 per cent focused on that game.
"It's a very special game for us, for all of the Manchester United fans and everyone in the club, so a big weekend ahead and hopefully we can bring with us this good moment of good football and results."
Confirmed Manchester United squad members to face Liverpool.
De Gea, Romero, Grant, Jones, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Williams, Bailly, Maguire, Dalot, Shaw, Lingard, Matic, Fred, Pereira, Gomes, Mata, Chong, James, Martial, Greenwood.