Pep Guardiola says he has "huge respect" for Erik ten Hag after a terrible season for Manchester United as the Manchester City boss eyes more history in Saturday's FA Cup final.

City are celebrating an unprecedented fourth straight English top-flight crown and will become the first team to win the league and FA Cup in successive seasons if they beat United at Wembley.

Guardiola's men will start as hot favourites against United, who have lost six out of their past seven meetings in all competitions against their fierce rivals and finished a lowly eighth in the Premier League.

Ten Hag is fighting to avoid the sack after United's woeful campaign, with England coach Gareth Southgate and Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna among a host of managers linked with the Old Trafford job in recent weeks.

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But Guardiola has sympathy for Ten Hag after his second season in charge was marred by injuries to a host of key players.

"In the big clubs like United and City, when you don't win you are always in trouble. That's not a secret," Guardiola said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "I have a huge respect for his job in the past, and now in United. I completely agree when I listen to him say they have not had a full squad -- lots of injuries.

"They have a lot of problems and when that happens the manager suffers a lot because the squad is really good. The problem when you are injured you cannot use them and this (is) a big, big disadvantage."

Guardiola said despite his team's recent impressive record against United, he would not take them lightly in a repeat of the FA Cup final won 2-1 by City last season.

"United is always United," he said. "Of course, in the Premier League, we have been better than them, we are more consistent than them.

"But one game, especially United this season against top six, important games, (they) always perform well so we spoke, the players feel it, the players know it -- that will be a completely different game."

Pep Guardiola says he has "huge respect" for Erik ten Hag after a terrible season for Manchester United as the Manchester City boss eyes more history in Saturday's FA Cup final.

Pep Guardiola says he has "huge respect" for Erik ten Hag after a terrible season for Manchester United as the Manchester City boss eyes more history in Saturday's FA Cup final. City are celebrating an unprecedented fourth straight English top-flight crown and will become the first team to win the league and FA Cup in successive seasons if they beat United at Wembley. Guardiola's men will start as hot favourites against United, who have lost six out of their past seven meetings in all competitions against their fierce rivals and finished a lowly eighth in the Premier League. Ten Hag is fighting to avoid the sack after United's woeful campaign, with England coach Gareth Southgate and Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna among a host of managers linked with the Old Trafford job in recent weeks. ALSO READ: Manchester United to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after FA Cup final - Reports But Guardiola has sympathy for Ten Hag after his second season in charge was marred by injuries to a host of key players. "In the big clubs like United and City, when you don't win you are always in trouble. That's not a secret," Guardiola said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "I have a huge respect for his job in the past, and now in United. I completely agree when I listen to him say they have not had a full squad -- lots of injuries. "They have a lot of problems and when that happens the manager suffers a lot because the squad is really good. The problem when you are injured you cannot use them and this (is) a big, big disadvantage." Guardiola said despite his team's recent impressive record against United, he would not take them lightly in a repeat of the FA Cup final won 2-1 by City last season. "United is always United," he said. "Of course, in the Premier League, we have been better than them, we are more consistent than them. "But one game, especially United this season against top six, important games, (they) always perform well so we spoke, the players feel it, the players know it -- that will be a completely different game."

FA Cup Final: Guardiola 'understands' Ten Hag's problems at United but backs City to complete domestic double

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a&nbsp;massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the&nbsp;club’s&nbsp;worst Premier League&nbsp;finish&nbsp;has urged players to keep&nbsp;on&nbsp;fighting while also matching his expectations. United will play arch-rivals Manchester City in&nbsp;the FA Cup final for the second consecutive season&nbsp;and will need to win if manager Erik ten Hag hopes to keep his job.

<h2>Fernandes urges United to fight</h2>

"I&nbsp;love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything&nbsp;in the world. I&nbsp;don't&nbsp;want to leave.&nbsp;This&nbsp;has always been my ultimate dream,"&nbsp;he wrote in a letter to fans in The&nbsp;Players'&nbsp;Tribune ahead of&nbsp;United's&nbsp;FA Cup final clash against Manchester City on Saturday.

"I&nbsp;just want my expectations to fit with the&nbsp;expectations of the club. If you&nbsp;go&nbsp;talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing.

"We want to compete for the league.&nbsp;We want to be playing Champions League football.&nbsp;We want to be in the cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.

The player made a massive statement on his future last week, suggesting he could be&nbsp;on his way&nbsp;out of the club if the management wants him to.&nbsp;Fernandes will have a huge role&nbsp;to play&nbsp;in&nbsp;Saturday’s&nbsp;clash as United&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for the do-or-die contest to end the season on a winning note.

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Manager Ten Hag&nbsp;is&nbsp;reported&nbsp;to be sacked by the club if he fails to deliver a trophy&nbsp;for the club&nbsp;this season.&nbsp;In his second season in charge, United finished eighth in the Premier League, the&nbsp;club’s&nbsp;lowest finish since the 1989-90 season. With new management at the club, Sir Jim Ratcliffe could pull the trigger to sack Ten Hag if the FA Cup final result goes against the Red Devils.

Fernandes&nbsp;on&nbsp;the other&nbsp;hand&nbsp;will look to give his best shot in the FA Cup final before joining the Portugal national side at the Euro 2024.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the club’s worst Premier League finish has urged players to keep on fighting while also matching his expectations.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the club’s worst Premier League finish has urged players to keep on fighting while also matching his expectations. United will play arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final for the second consecutive season and will need to win if manager Erik ten Hag hopes to keep his job. Fernandes urges United to fight "I love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything in the world. I don't want to leave. This has always been my ultimate dream," he wrote in a letter to fans in The Players' Tribune ahead of United's FA Cup final clash against Manchester City on Saturday. "I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club. If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. "We want to compete for the league. We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in the cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve. The player made a massive statement on his future last week, suggesting he could be on his way out of the club if the management wants him to. Fernandes will have a huge role to play in Saturday’s clash as United prepare for the do-or-die contest to end the season on a winning note. ALSO READ | Serie A: AC Milan sack title-winning coach Stefano Pioli despite finishing seventh; Fonseca likley to succeed Manager Ten Hag is reported to be sacked by the club if he fails to deliver a trophy for the club this season. In his second season in charge, United finished eighth in the Premier League, the club’s lowest finish since the 1989-90 season. With new management at the club, Sir Jim Ratcliffe could pull the trigger to sack Ten Hag if the FA Cup final result goes against the Red Devils. Fernandes on the other hand will look to give his best shot in the FA Cup final before joining the Portugal national side at the Euro 2024.

FA Cup Final: Bruno Fernandes urges Man Utd to keep on fighting, calls club to match his expectations

Manchester United’s youngster Amad Diallo might have scored the injury-time winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup quarters but still received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card conversion for taking off his shirt while celebrating. Earlier in the game, Diallo received his first yellow card warning for stopping Liverpool from taking a quick free kick right after coming onto the field.&nbsp;

At a time when the scorecard read 3-3, Diallo made the most of the counter in the last minutes of the game to send the ball into the net and Manchester United into the semis of the FA Cup, where they will face Coventry City. Manchester City will take on Chelsea in the other semi-final.

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Right after scoring the winner for the Reds, Diallo ran towards the Stretford End to celebrate by removing his jersey, with referee David Brooks showing him the second yellow card for the offense straightaway.

WATCH VIDEO -

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Amad Diallo scored in added time of extra-time to send Manchester United into the FA Cup semifinal. 
 
Afterwards, Diallo was shown a red card after receiving a second yellow for his celebration 🤷 
 
🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/EmiratesFACup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmiratesFACup</a><a href="https://t.co/EI98rJiVMP">pic.twitter.com/EI98rJiVMP</a>
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Speaking to the media after that incident, Diallo reflected on his match-winning performance and shared his thoughts on the whole episode.

"What a game. Today, we deserved this win. We played very well today," he said while speaking to ITV.&nbsp;

"One of the best games of the season, so I am very happy.

"I forgot the first yellow. I am very disappointed for the red card, but the most important thing for me is to win against a big team like Liverpool.

"Everyone came to me saying: 'Congratulations Amad, you deserve this'. I want to thank everyone,” he added.

<h2>Will Diallo play in the FA Cup semis?</h2>

Following his red-card incident, questions were raised about whether Diallo would play the semis against Coventry City. The answer to that is yes, he will remain available for selection, but the rookie striker will miss Manchester United’s next Premier League match against Brentford on March 30.&nbsp;

As things stand, United is placed in the sixth position on the points table with 47 points from 28 matches. While they have won 15 of those, the Red Devils have lost 11 while playing a draw in two games.

However, the PL’s title race is on with three teams - Arsenal (table-toppers), Manchester City and Liverpool fighting for the title. While Arsenal and Liverpool have 64 points each, City is placed third with one point less.&nbsp;

Manchester United’s youngster Amad Diallo might have scored the injury-time winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup quarters but still received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card conversion for taking off his shirt while celebrating.

Manchester United’s youngster Amad Diallo might have scored the injury-time winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup quarters but still received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card conversion for taking off his shirt while celebrating. Earlier in the game, Diallo received his first yellow card warning for stopping Liverpool from taking a quick free kick right after coming onto the field. At a time when the scorecard read 3-3, Diallo made the most of the counter in the last minutes of the game to send the ball into the net and Manchester United into the semis of the FA Cup, where they will face Coventry City. Manchester City will take on Chelsea in the other semi-final. ALSO READ: La Liga: Barcelona sink Atletico Madrid to climb second on points table Right after scoring the winner for the Reds, Diallo ran towards the Stretford End to celebrate by removing his jersey, with referee David Brooks showing him the second yellow card for the offense straightaway. WATCH VIDEO - Amad Diallo scored in added time of extra-time to send Manchester United into the FA Cup semifinal. Afterwards, Diallo was shown a red card after receiving a second yellow for his celebration 🤷 🎥 @EmiratesFACuppic.twitter.com/EI98rJiVMP — The Athletic (@TheAthletic) March 17, 2024 × Speaking to the media after that incident, Diallo reflected on his match-winning performance and shared his thoughts on the whole episode. "What a game. Today, we deserved this win. We played very well today," he said while speaking to ITV. "One of the best games of the season, so I am very happy. "I forgot the first yellow. I am very disappointed for the red card, but the most important thing for me is to win against a big team like Liverpool. "Everyone came to me saying: 'Congratulations Amad, you deserve this'. I want to thank everyone,” he added. Will Diallo play in the FA Cup semis? Following his red-card incident, questions were raised about whether Diallo would play the semis against Coventry City. The answer to that is yes, he will remain available for selection, but the rookie striker will miss Manchester United’s next Premier League match against Brentford on March 30. As things stand, United is placed in the sixth position on the points table with 47 points from 28 matches. While they have won 15 of those, the Red Devils have lost 11 while playing a draw in two games. However, the PL’s title race is on with three teams - Arsenal (table-toppers), Manchester City and Liverpool fighting for the title. While Arsenal and Liverpool have 64 points each, City is placed third with one point less.

FA Cup – Manchester United’s Amad Diallo shown red card after extra-time winner against Liverpool, here’s why

Chelsea substitutes Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke scored stoppage time goals to earn a thrilling 4-2 home victory over battling second-tier side Leicester City on Sunday and a place in a the FA Cup semi-finals.

The match had everything needed for a classic cup tie, including end-to-end action, a missed penalty, a red card, a howler of an own goal and some sumptuous strikes.

Chelsea had looked in full control at halftime after goals from Marc Cucurella and Cole Palmer, though Raheem Sterling also had a somewhat feeble penalty saved by Jakub Stolarczyk's legs.

However, a howler from Chelsea's France defender Axel Disasi gifted Leicester a goal in the 51st minute when his pass back from distance flew straight into his own goal.

Ten minutes later Stephy Malvididi produced a stunning individual goal, dribbling and sidestepping Malo Gusto before curling the ball into the top corner to put Leicester level.

In the 71st Leicester's Callum Doyle clipped Nicolas Jackson's heel as the striker raced towards goal.

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Referee Andy Madley signalled a penalty and a yellow card but after a VAR check he ruled that the foul had happened just outside the penalty area and changed the yellow to a red because Jackson had been clear on goal.

Chelsea besieged the Leicester area, producing a total of 26 shots to the Championship side's five, and it was the late substitutes who broke through.

With eight minutes added on, Chukwuemka turned Cole's expert back flick into the net and Madueke looped home a brilliant shot from distance to make it four just before the final whistle.

Chelsea, who lost the League Cup final to Liverpool last month, will be at Wembley again next month for their sixth FA Cup semi-final in eight years.

They will meet one of Coventry City, Manchester City or the winner of Sunday's late quarter-final tie between Manchester United and Liverpool.

Chelsea substitutes Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke scored stoppage time goals to earn a thrilling 4-2 home victory over battling second-tier side Leicester City on Sunday and a place in a the FA Cup semi-finals.

Chelsea substitutes Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke scored stoppage time goals to earn a thrilling 4-2 home victory over battling second-tier side Leicester City on Sunday and a place in a the FA Cup semi-finals. The match had everything needed for a classic cup tie, including end-to-end action, a missed penalty, a red card, a howler of an own goal and some sumptuous strikes. Chelsea had looked in full control at halftime after goals from Marc Cucurella and Cole Palmer, though Raheem Sterling also had a somewhat feeble penalty saved by Jakub Stolarczyk's legs. However, a howler from Chelsea's France defender Axel Disasi gifted Leicester a goal in the 51st minute when his pass back from distance flew straight into his own goal. Ten minutes later Stephy Malvididi produced a stunning individual goal, dribbling and sidestepping Malo Gusto before curling the ball into the top corner to put Leicester level. In the 71st Leicester's Callum Doyle clipped Nicolas Jackson's heel as the striker raced towards goal. ALSO READ: Only 40 Russian athletes could feature at Paris Olympics, says IOC’s John Coates Referee Andy Madley signalled a penalty and a yellow card but after a VAR check he ruled that the foul had happened just outside the penalty area and changed the yellow to a red because Jackson had been clear on goal. Chelsea besieged the Leicester area, producing a total of 26 shots to the Championship side's five, and it was the late substitutes who broke through. With eight minutes added on, Chukwuemka turned Cole's expert back flick into the net and Madueke looped home a brilliant shot from distance to make it four just before the final whistle. Chelsea, who lost the League Cup final to Liverpool last month, will be at Wembley again next month for their sixth FA Cup semi-final in eight years. They will meet one of Coventry City, Manchester City or the winner of Sunday's late quarter-final tie between Manchester United and Liverpool.

Stoppage time goals help Chelsea mat Leicester at home to book FA semis ticket

Wolves' FA Cup victory over local rivals West Bromwich Albion was held up as fans fought a bloody battle in the stands on Sunday.

Play was halted by referee Thomas Bramall late in the second half at the Hawthorns when fans spilled onto the pitch as fighting broke out in one corner of the stadium.

One supporter was escorted away with blood streaming from a head wound.

Play resumed after a delay of 38 minutes and the final 12 minutes of Wolves' 2-0 win were finished with no further incidents.

The ugly scenes came in the first meeting between the bitter rivals with fans allowed in 12 years.

Violence broke out on a large scale shortly after Matheus Cunha had given Wolves a two-goal lead over their 'Black Country' neighbours in the 78th minute of the fourth-round clash.

West Brom hooligans appeared to attack Wolves fans who were sitting in a section of the Hawthorns reserved for home supporters.

Police and stewards rushed to the disturbance as missiles and punches were thrown at both ends of the ground.

The teams left the pitch to return to the dressing rooms, with West Brom defender Kyle Bartley holding his child in his arms after taking him from an area near the trouble.

There had earlier been pockets of trouble in other parts of the ground.

Fans threw flares in the away section after Wolves opened the scoring in the first half. Objects were also thrown at Wolves' Tommy Doyle as he prepared to take a corner.

West Brom captain Jed Wallace admitted the shocking scenes had taken a toll on his side.

"You focus on the game and then it's kicking off. A lot of the players were distressed because that's where their families sit," he said.

"They were worried about their children, that's why you could see some of them running over. No-one wants to see that in football.&nbsp;

"They're two huge clubs with passionate supporters. You hope it keeps a lid on it at times.&nbsp;

"The game was played in a good spirit on the pitch. You fly into tackles and shake hands after."

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Speaking after his club's first win at the Hawthorns since 1996, Wolves goal-scorer Cunha insisted he never felt threatened by the violence.

"I'm from South America, this kind of thing happens, as long as everyone is safe," he said.&nbsp;

"It is bad when you see some children crying and things like that, but the most important thing is everyone is safe.&nbsp;

"Derby days are always incredible, the atmosphere is amazing. After 2-0 it was calm. We came back out for the final 10 minutes and got the win."

West Brom are certain to face a Football Association probe into their handling of the clashes, with questions set to be asked over how Wolves fans were able to get tickets in the home end.

Wolves' FA Cup victory over local rivals West Bromwich Albion was held up as fans fought a bloody battle in the stands on Sunday. Play was halted by referee Thomas Bramall late in the second half at the Hawthorns when fans spilled onto the pitch as fighting broke out in one corner of the stadium.

Wolves' FA Cup victory over local rivals West Bromwich Albion was held up as fans fought a bloody battle in the stands on Sunday. Play was halted by referee Thomas Bramall late in the second half at the Hawthorns when fans spilled onto the pitch as fighting broke out in one corner of the stadium. One supporter was escorted away with blood streaming from a head wound. Play resumed after a delay of 38 minutes and the final 12 minutes of Wolves' 2-0 win were finished with no further incidents. The ugly scenes came in the first meeting between the bitter rivals with fans allowed in 12 years. Violence broke out on a large scale shortly after Matheus Cunha had given Wolves a two-goal lead over their 'Black Country' neighbours in the 78th minute of the fourth-round clash. West Brom hooligans appeared to attack Wolves fans who were sitting in a section of the Hawthorns reserved for home supporters. Police and stewards rushed to the disturbance as missiles and punches were thrown at both ends of the ground. The teams left the pitch to return to the dressing rooms, with West Brom defender Kyle Bartley holding his child in his arms after taking him from an area near the trouble. There had earlier been pockets of trouble in other parts of the ground. Fans threw flares in the away section after Wolves opened the scoring in the first half. Objects were also thrown at Wolves' Tommy Doyle as he prepared to take a corner. West Brom captain Jed Wallace admitted the shocking scenes had taken a toll on his side. "You focus on the game and then it's kicking off. A lot of the players were distressed because that's where their families sit," he said. "They were worried about their children, that's why you could see some of them running over. No-one wants to see that in football. "They're two huge clubs with passionate supporters. You hope it keeps a lid on it at times. "The game was played in a good spirit on the pitch. You fly into tackles and shake hands after." ALSO READ | We're not pathetic: WI skipper Kraigg Brathwaite hits back at former Australia player after famous Gabba win Speaking after his club's first win at the Hawthorns since 1996, Wolves goal-scorer Cunha insisted he never felt threatened by the violence. "I'm from South America, this kind of thing happens, as long as everyone is safe," he said. "It is bad when you see some children crying and things like that, but the most important thing is everyone is safe. "Derby days are always incredible, the atmosphere is amazing. After 2-0 it was calm. We came back out for the final 10 minutes and got the win." West Brom are certain to face a Football Association probe into their handling of the clashes, with questions set to be asked over how Wolves fans were able to get tickets in the home end.

Wolves' FA Cup derby win over West Brom interrupted by crowd trouble

Manchester United eased the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag by ensuring there was no FA Cup third round shock in a 2-0 win at League One Wigan on Monday.

Diogo Dalot's first-half strike and a controversial penalty from Bruno Fernandes secured United's first away win since November.

The Red Devils were also handed a favourable fourth round draw against either non-league Eastleigh or Newport County of League Two in Monday's draw.

This competition represents United's final shot at silverware this season and could prove a lifeline for Ten Hag with his side struggling in the Premier League and already dumped out of Europe.

"The FA Cup is all about winning, it is knockout. You want to finish the job," said Ten Hag. "That is what I said in the dressing room: 'job done'."

The visitors were rarely troubled at the DW Stadium bar an early effort from Thelo Aasgaard that tested Andre Onana, who had stayed behind for two more United matches before heading off for Cameroon's Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

United slowly started to take control as Sam Tickle produced a brilliant save to deny Marcus Rashford before Scott McTominay prodded inches wide.

Rashford has shown flashes of finding his form in recent weeks and it was from the England international's pass that Dalot curled into the far corner on 22 minutes.

United should have had the tie wrapped up by half-time as Rasmus Hojlund thundered a header off the crossbar before Alejandro Garnacho's speculative effort also came back off the woodwork.

"In the first half I think we created five or six very good chances. I think it was very good football," added Ten Hag.

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"We should have taken more, but if you don't score you have to stay focused and I think we did that tonight."

When the second goal did finally come 16 minutes from time, Wigan felt aggrieved as Fernandes made the most of minimal contact from Liam Shaw.

Fernandes rubbed salt into the home side's wounds as he then coolly dispatched the resulting penalty to ward off any remaining hope of a giant killing.

Next up United will aim to take some positive momentum into their two-week Premier League winter break when Tottenham visit Old Trafford on Sunday.

Ten Hag's men desperately need to win to close a nine-point gap on the top four if they are to maintain aspirations of returning to the Champions League next season.

And the Dutch coach believes there is a fresh air of optimism around the club following British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe's acquisition of a 25 percent stake in the club.

"It is an inspiration. Everyone is optimistic. There is a lot of work to do," said Ten Hag.

"It is a journey, it is a project and now we have had to deal with some setbacks but we will keep alive, survive it and strike back."

Manchester United eased the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag by ensuring there was no FA Cup third round shock in a 2-0 win at League One Wigan on Monday. Diogo Dalot's first-half strike and a controversial penalty from Bruno Fernandes secured United's first away win since November.

Manchester United eased the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag by ensuring there was no FA Cup third round shock in a 2-0 win at League One Wigan on Monday. Diogo Dalot's first-half strike and a controversial penalty from Bruno Fernandes secured United's first away win since November. The Red Devils were also handed a favourable fourth round draw against either non-league Eastleigh or Newport County of League Two in Monday's draw. This competition represents United's final shot at silverware this season and could prove a lifeline for Ten Hag with his side struggling in the Premier League and already dumped out of Europe. "The FA Cup is all about winning, it is knockout. You want to finish the job," said Ten Hag. "That is what I said in the dressing room: 'job done'." The visitors were rarely troubled at the DW Stadium bar an early effort from Thelo Aasgaard that tested Andre Onana, who had stayed behind for two more United matches before heading off for Cameroon's Africa Cup of Nations campaign. United slowly started to take control as Sam Tickle produced a brilliant save to deny Marcus Rashford before Scott McTominay prodded inches wide. Rashford has shown flashes of finding his form in recent weeks and it was from the England international's pass that Dalot curled into the far corner on 22 minutes. United should have had the tie wrapped up by half-time as Rasmus Hojlund thundered a header off the crossbar before Alejandro Garnacho's speculative effort also came back off the woodwork. "In the first half I think we created five or six very good chances. I think it was very good football," added Ten Hag. ALSO READ | Germany’s World Cup winning captain Franz Beckenbauer passes away at 78 "We should have taken more, but if you don't score you have to stay focused and I think we did that tonight." When the second goal did finally come 16 minutes from time, Wigan felt aggrieved as Fernandes made the most of minimal contact from Liam Shaw. Fernandes rubbed salt into the home side's wounds as he then coolly dispatched the resulting penalty to ward off any remaining hope of a giant killing. Next up United will aim to take some positive momentum into their two-week Premier League winter break when Tottenham visit Old Trafford on Sunday. Ten Hag's men desperately need to win to close a nine-point gap on the top four if they are to maintain aspirations of returning to the Champions League next season. And the Dutch coach believes there is a fresh air of optimism around the club following British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe's acquisition of a 25 percent stake in the club. "It is an inspiration. Everyone is optimistic. There is a lot of work to do," said Ten Hag. "It is a journey, it is a project and now we have had to deal with some setbacks but we will keep alive, survive it and strike back."

FA Cup: Manchester United beat Wigan in third round, set to face Newport County or Eastleigh in next round

Newcastle ended their 13-year wait to beat bitter rivals Sunderland as Alexander Isak's double inspired a 3-0 win in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

In the first Tyne and Wear derby since 2016, Eddie Howe's side put their bitter local rivals to the sword thanks to Dan Ballard's first-half own goal and Isak's brace after the break at the Stadium of Light.

Newcastle had lost six of their previous seven clashes with Sunderland, but their composed display neutered the fired-up Black Cats and delivered a first derby success since a 1-0 victory in 2011.

After four successive defeats in all competitions, Howe hoped the derby would be a "season-changing" moment to salve the wounds from their Champions League exit and poor Premier League form.

Whether vanquishing second-tier opponents will prove transformative remains to be seen, but for now local pride was all that mattered to the 6,000 Newcastle fans who waved their black and white scarves in delight at the final whistle.

While the northeast rivalry might lack the glamour of the Manchester and north London derbies, there is no questioning the rivalry between clubs separated by just 14 miles.

Encapsulating the enmity was a bizarre incident this week when Sunderland were forced to apologise to furious fans after a stadium bar was redecorated with Newcastle colours in the corporate hospitality section of the visitors' support.

Newcastle's fans were taken to the stadium on buses in a huge police convoy, then given their tickets to the match, in a bid to avoid the violent scenes that have marred previous encounters.

Howe had enlisted the help of the few Geordies in Newcastle's squad to tell the rest of his globally assembled squad just how important the derby is.

The message clearly hit home as Newcastle dominated a frenetic encounter.

Responding to the sound and fury in the stands, tackles flew in with abandon from both teams.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/david-warner-looking-forward-to-his-new-role-as-commentator-during-india-test-series-677197">Retired David Warner 'looking forward' to his new role as commentator during India Test series</a>

<h2>Newcastle take derby spoils</h2>

Sunderland's Jobe Bellingham, brother of Real Madrid star Jude, caught Joelinton with a crude lunge before Jack Clarke pole-axed Sven Botman to the audible delight of the Black Cats fans.

Amid the maelstrom, Newcastle kept their nerve and snatched the lead in the 35th minute as Ballard stretched to block Joelinton's cross but only succeeded in diverting the ball into his own net.

Sunderland gifted Newcastle their second goal less than 60 seconds after the interval when Almiron robbed the dawdling Pierre Ekwah inside his own area and teed up Isak to fire home from 10 yards.

Ballard's 90th minute foul on Anthony Gordon conceded a penalty that Isak converted to cap the exclamation point on Newcastle's victory.

Non-league Maidstone United, the lowest ranked team left in the competition, clinched a surprise 1-0 win against Stevenage to reach the fourth round for the first time.

There is a 69-place gap between George Elkobi's Kent-based club and third-tier Stevenage.

But in their first third round appearance since 1988, the National League South minnows made history as Sam Corne netted a penalty in first half stoppage-time before fans flooded the pitch in celebration at the final whistle.

In Saturday's other early third round ties, Leicester took a break from their Championship promotion push to beat Millwall 3-2 at The Den.

Ten points clear at the top of the Championship, the 2021 FA Cup winners were able to rest several players and still saw off Millwall through goals from Cesare Casadei, Ricardo Pereira and Tom Cannon.

Ipswich, who are second to Leicester in the Championship, moved into the fourth round with a 3-1 win at League Two side AFC Wimbledon.

Later on Saturday, inconsistent Chelsea will look to avoid a shock at home to Championship side Preston, while surprise title chasers Aston Villa travel to second-tier Middlesbrough.

Newcastle ended their 13-year wait to beat bitter rivals Sunderland as Alexander Isak's double inspired a 3-0 win in the FA Cup third round on Saturday. In the first Tyne and Wear derby since 2016, Eddie Howe's side put their bitter local rivals to the sword thanks to Dan Ballard's first-half own goal and Isak's brace after the break at the Stadium of Light.

Newcastle ended their 13-year wait to beat bitter rivals Sunderland as Alexander Isak's double inspired a 3-0 win in the FA Cup third round on Saturday. In the first Tyne and Wear derby since 2016, Eddie Howe's side put their bitter local rivals to the sword thanks to Dan Ballard's first-half own goal and Isak's brace after the break at the Stadium of Light. Newcastle had lost six of their previous seven clashes with Sunderland, but their composed display neutered the fired-up Black Cats and delivered a first derby success since a 1-0 victory in 2011. After four successive defeats in all competitions, Howe hoped the derby would be a "season-changing" moment to salve the wounds from their Champions League exit and poor Premier League form. Whether vanquishing second-tier opponents will prove transformative remains to be seen, but for now local pride was all that mattered to the 6,000 Newcastle fans who waved their black and white scarves in delight at the final whistle. While the northeast rivalry might lack the glamour of the Manchester and north London derbies, there is no questioning the rivalry between clubs separated by just 14 miles. Encapsulating the enmity was a bizarre incident this week when Sunderland were forced to apologise to furious fans after a stadium bar was redecorated with Newcastle colours in the corporate hospitality section of the visitors' support. Newcastle's fans were taken to the stadium on buses in a huge police convoy, then given their tickets to the match, in a bid to avoid the violent scenes that have marred previous encounters. Howe had enlisted the help of the few Geordies in Newcastle's squad to tell the rest of his globally assembled squad just how important the derby is. The message clearly hit home as Newcastle dominated a frenetic encounter. Responding to the sound and fury in the stands, tackles flew in with abandon from both teams. ALSO READ | Retired David Warner 'looking forward' to his new role as commentator during India Test series Newcastle take derby spoils Sunderland's Jobe Bellingham, brother of Real Madrid star Jude, caught Joelinton with a crude lunge before Jack Clarke pole-axed Sven Botman to the audible delight of the Black Cats fans. Amid the maelstrom, Newcastle kept their nerve and snatched the lead in the 35th minute as Ballard stretched to block Joelinton's cross but only succeeded in diverting the ball into his own net. Sunderland gifted Newcastle their second goal less than 60 seconds after the interval when Almiron robbed the dawdling Pierre Ekwah inside his own area and teed up Isak to fire home from 10 yards. Ballard's 90th minute foul on Anthony Gordon conceded a penalty that Isak converted to cap the exclamation point on Newcastle's victory. Non-league Maidstone United, the lowest ranked team left in the competition, clinched a surprise 1-0 win against Stevenage to reach the fourth round for the first time. There is a 69-place gap between George Elkobi's Kent-based club and third-tier Stevenage. But in their first third round appearance since 1988, the National League South minnows made history as Sam Corne netted a penalty in first half stoppage-time before fans flooded the pitch in celebration at the final whistle. In Saturday's other early third round ties, Leicester took a break from their Championship promotion push to beat Millwall 3-2 at The Den. Ten points clear at the top of the Championship, the 2021 FA Cup winners were able to rest several players and still saw off Millwall through goals from Cesare Casadei, Ricardo Pereira and Tom Cannon. Ipswich, who are second to Leicester in the Championship, moved into the fourth round with a 3-1 win at League Two side AFC Wimbledon. Later on Saturday, inconsistent Chelsea will look to avoid a shock at home to Championship side Preston, while surprise title chasers Aston Villa travel to second-tier Middlesbrough.

FA Cup: Alexander Isak stars as Newcastle United beat bitter rivals Sunderland; Leicester beat Millwall

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