Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard took to social media platform to talk about his professional and personal struggles during the 2019-20 campaign. The player said that he was &nbsp;"lost as a player and person".&nbsp;

Lingard scored for first time in 18 months in the match against Leicester City on Sunday where Manchester United secured Champions League qualification after beating them 2-0.

Jesse Lingard has lost his regular first-team spot under United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after the poor display and had only nine league starts in 2019-20 season.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDMN93spoaE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Im starting with the man in the mirror im asking him to change his ways. This season has been difficult for so many reasons. I lost who I was as a player and person, but I never wanted to give up, I knew who I really was on and off the pitch and knew that having been there before I could get there again. This meant working harder than I’d ever done before and trusting in those around me that they knew how to best help me achieve that. I know the fans have been frustrated but in all this time my love for this club and everyone connected to it has never left me. This team, this club is my family and I will continue to keep working harder than ever to help this team achieve its goals. ❤️🔴🙏🏾 #MUFamily</a>

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"This season has been difficult for so many reasons," Lingard said in an Instagram post on Tuesday.

"I lost who I was as a player and person, but I never wanted to give up, I knew who I really was on and off the pitch and knew that having been there before I could get there again.

"This meant working harder than I'd ever done before and trusting in those around me that they knew how to best help me achieve that."&nbsp;

In December, during an interview with the Daily Mail, the 27-year-old talked about his younger sibling and the responsibility after his mother became unwell earlier in the season.

Lingard also feared for his future in the team after posting a bizarre video on social media with teammate Marcus Rashford before the start of the last campaign.

"I know the fans have been frustrated but in all this time my love for this club and everyone connected to it has never left me," Lingard, a United academy graduate, said.

"This team, this club is my family and I will continue to keep working harder than ever to help this team achieve its goals."

Lingard is being linked with clubs for the current transfer season. He has less than a year remaining on his contract.

Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard took to social media platform to talk about his professional and personal struggles during the 2019-20 campaign. The player said that he was "lost as a player and person".

Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard took to social media platform to talk about his professional and personal struggles during the 2019-20 campaign. The player said that he was "lost as a player and person". Lingard scored for first time in 18 months in the match against Leicester City on Sunday where Manchester United secured Champions League qualification after beating them 2-0. Jesse Lingard has lost his regular first-team spot under United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after the poor display and had only nine league starts in 2019-20 season. View this post on Instagram Im starting with the man in the mirror im asking him to change his ways. This season has been difficult for so many reasons. I lost who I was as a player and person, but I never wanted to give up, I knew who I really was on and off the pitch and knew that having been there before I could get there again. This meant working harder than I’d ever done before and trusting in those around me that they knew how to best help me achieve that. I know the fans have been frustrated but in all this time my love for this club and everyone connected to it has never left me. This team, this club is my family and I will continue to keep working harder than ever to help this team achieve its goals. ❤️🔴🙏🏾 #MUFamily A post shared by JLingz👑 (@jesselingard) on Jul 28, 2020 at 8:32am PDT × "This season has been difficult for so many reasons," Lingard said in an Instagram post on Tuesday. "I lost who I was as a player and person, but I never wanted to give up, I knew who I really was on and off the pitch and knew that having been there before I could get there again. "This meant working harder than I'd ever done before and trusting in those around me that they knew how to best help me achieve that." In December, during an interview with the Daily Mail, the 27-year-old talked about his younger sibling and the responsibility after his mother became unwell earlier in the season. Lingard also feared for his future in the team after posting a bizarre video on social media with teammate Marcus Rashford before the start of the last campaign. "I know the fans have been frustrated but in all this time my love for this club and everyone connected to it has never left me," Lingard, a United academy graduate, said. "This team, this club is my family and I will continue to keep working harder than ever to help this team achieve its goals." Lingard is being linked with clubs for the current transfer season. He has less than a year remaining on his contract.

'Lost as player and person': Jesse Lingard talks about his struggles during 2019-20 season

Chelsea held on to their place in the Premier League's top four by bouncing back to beat Watford 3-0 on Saturday after Manchester United briefly powered past with a 5-2 rout of struggling Bournemouth.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-ronaldo-and-dybala-star-as-juventus-beat-torina-4-1-buffon-hits-another-milestone-310821" hreflang="en">Serie A: Ronaldo and Dybala star as Juventus beat Torina 4-1; Buffon hits another milestone</a>

Third-placed Leicester also got back on track with Jamie Vardy reaching 100 top-flight goals in a comfortable 3-0 win against Crystal Palace, while Arsenal dealt a blow to Wolves' Champions League chase by winning 2-0 at Molineux on Saturday.

United's fearsome front four of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes and Mason Greenwood, who netted twice, were all on the scoresheet as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men hit five goals in a home Premier League game for the first time since 2011.

"Confidence is sky high. You get energy and confidence by performances and results and we are getting that at the minute," said Solskjaer, who is feeling the benefits of a 16-match unbeaten run.

"I have enjoyed the last few games to be honest and it is healthy. You don't age as quickly!"

Bournemouth are moving fast in the other direction as they remain second bottom and the Cherries' defensive problems were quickly exposed after they took a shock 16th-minute lead through Junior Stanislas.

Greenwood got the comeback started as he smashed home from Fernandes's pass before Rashford, from the penalty spot and Martial, with a stunning shot into the top corner, scored their 20th goals of the season,

"Mason is one of the best if not the best finisher I have worked with and seen," added Solskjaer. "He is so calm. He knows where to finish if it is on the training ground, here or in his garden at home."

Bournemouth were given hope when Josh King scored from the spot after Eric Bailly handled inside his own box just four minutes after coming on as a half-time substitute.

But there was no stopping Solskjaer's men going forward and Greenwood restored their two-goal cushion with another powerful drive, this time on his weaker right foot, before Fernandes then capped another influential display with a fine free-kick.

Chelsea shrugged off a shock 3-2 defeat at West Ham in midweek with a routine win at Stamford Bridge.

Olivier Giroud was recalled up front and repaid Frank Lampard with a smart finish to break the deadlock before Willian's penalty made it 2-0 before half-time.

Ross Barkley added the third in stoppage time to move Chelsea back two points ahead of fifth-placed United.

"We needed a result after the last game," said Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic. "I think there was an extra bit of energy because of that loss, we wanted to prove a point."

A third defeat in four games since the restart leaves Watford still just one point above Bournemouth and Aston Villa in the battle to beat the drop.

Arsenal kept their hopes of European football next season alive moved by ending Wolves' eight-game unbeaten run in impressive fashion to move up to seventh.

Bukayo Saka celebrated signing a new long-term deal this week by hooking in the opener just before half-time and Alexandre Lacazette came off the bench to seal all three points for Mikel Arteta's men four minutes from time.

"Every game you have no margin for error, we know that we try to win every game," said Arteta of Arsenal's top-four chances.

Defeat leaves Wolves five points behind Chelsea.

Arsenal face Leicester next on Tuesday, but the Foxes go into that game with a much-needed confidence boost after a first win in five games.

Leicester have struggled to score goals of late, but were helped back to winning ways by some calamitous Palace defending for Kelechi Iheanacho to open the scoring and Vardy to tap into an empty net for his Premier League century.

Vardy struck again in characteristic fashion in stoppage time, sprinting in behind before dinking the ball over the advancing Vicente Guaita.

"To get the two goals and the three points is all you can ask for," said Vardy. "We know it's down to us. We are in this position on merit and we have to keep going. If we play like that between now and the end of the season, we will pick up a quite a few points."

Norwich manager Daniel Farke conceded his side are heading for relegation after a 1-0 home defeat to Brighton left the Canaries still seven points.

"It was more or less our last chance to get back in the mix," said Farke.

"After a few losses, we don't have the right to make any fighting messages or to make any unrealistic claims."

Chelsea held on to their place in the Premier League's top four by bouncing back to beat Watford 3-0 on Saturday after Manchester United briefly powered past with a 5-2 rout of struggling Bournemouth.

Chelsea held on to their place in the Premier League's top four by bouncing back to beat Watford 3-0 on Saturday after Manchester United briefly powered past with a 5-2 rout of struggling Bournemouth. Also read: Serie A: Ronaldo and Dybala star as Juventus beat Torina 4-1; Buffon hits another milestone Third-placed Leicester also got back on track with Jamie Vardy reaching 100 top-flight goals in a comfortable 3-0 win against Crystal Palace, while Arsenal dealt a blow to Wolves' Champions League chase by winning 2-0 at Molineux on Saturday. United's fearsome front four of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes and Mason Greenwood, who netted twice, were all on the scoresheet as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men hit five goals in a home Premier League game for the first time since 2011. "Confidence is sky high. You get energy and confidence by performances and results and we are getting that at the minute," said Solskjaer, who is feeling the benefits of a 16-match unbeaten run. "I have enjoyed the last few games to be honest and it is healthy. You don't age as quickly!" Bournemouth are moving fast in the other direction as they remain second bottom and the Cherries' defensive problems were quickly exposed after they took a shock 16th-minute lead through Junior Stanislas. Greenwood got the comeback started as he smashed home from Fernandes's pass before Rashford, from the penalty spot and Martial, with a stunning shot into the top corner, scored their 20th goals of the season, "Mason is one of the best if not the best finisher I have worked with and seen," added Solskjaer. "He is so calm. He knows where to finish if it is on the training ground, here or in his garden at home." Bournemouth were given hope when Josh King scored from the spot after Eric Bailly handled inside his own box just four minutes after coming on as a half-time substitute. But there was no stopping Solskjaer's men going forward and Greenwood restored their two-goal cushion with another powerful drive, this time on his weaker right foot, before Fernandes then capped another influential display with a fine free-kick. Chelsea shrugged off a shock 3-2 defeat at West Ham in midweek with a routine win at Stamford Bridge. Olivier Giroud was recalled up front and repaid Frank Lampard with a smart finish to break the deadlock before Willian's penalty made it 2-0 before half-time. Ross Barkley added the third in stoppage time to move Chelsea back two points ahead of fifth-placed United. "We needed a result after the last game," said Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic. "I think there was an extra bit of energy because of that loss, we wanted to prove a point." A third defeat in four games since the restart leaves Watford still just one point above Bournemouth and Aston Villa in the battle to beat the drop. Arsenal kept their hopes of European football next season alive moved by ending Wolves' eight-game unbeaten run in impressive fashion to move up to seventh. Bukayo Saka celebrated signing a new long-term deal this week by hooking in the opener just before half-time and Alexandre Lacazette came off the bench to seal all three points for Mikel Arteta's men four minutes from time. "Every game you have no margin for error, we know that we try to win every game," said Arteta of Arsenal's top-four chances. Defeat leaves Wolves five points behind Chelsea. Arsenal face Leicester next on Tuesday, but the Foxes go into that game with a much-needed confidence boost after a first win in five games. Leicester have struggled to score goals of late, but were helped back to winning ways by some calamitous Palace defending for Kelechi Iheanacho to open the scoring and Vardy to tap into an empty net for his Premier League century. Vardy struck again in characteristic fashion in stoppage time, sprinting in behind before dinking the ball over the advancing Vicente Guaita. "To get the two goals and the three points is all you can ask for," said Vardy. "We know it's down to us. We are in this position on merit and we have to keep going. If we play like that between now and the end of the season, we will pick up a quite a few points." Norwich manager Daniel Farke conceded his side are heading for relegation after a 1-0 home defeat to Brighton left the Canaries still seven points. "It was more or less our last chance to get back in the mix," said Farke. "After a few losses, we don't have the right to make any fighting messages or to make any unrealistic claims."

Chelsea win holds off rampant Manchester United in race for Premier League top four

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes he can rekindle Paul Pogba's best form after the Frenchman made a big impact in his first appearance for six months in a 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Friday.

Solskjaer left the World Cup winner on the bench from the start, but Pogba won the penalty for United's equaliser, converted by Bruno Fernandes, with a sublime piece of skill to bamboozle Eric Dier.

Pogba has been beset by ankle injuries this season, making just nine appearances, and has been heavily linked with a move away from Manchester.&nbsp;

"Paul always has a point to prove because he wants to be the best," said Solskjaer. "He's had such a frustrating season with his injuries.

"For me Paul has shown today how he can contribute. I just look forward to getting him fitter so he can get back to his best."

A point does little for either side's chances of breaking into the top four.

United remain in fifth, two points behind Chelsea, but Spurs were even more desperate for the points as they remain in eighth, four points further back.

Jose Mourinho was on course to get the better of his former club when Steven Bergwijn's strike gave Spurs a half-time lead.

However, Mourinho was left frustrated when United's second half pressure finally told nine minutes from time when Fernandes converted from the spot.

Fernandes then thought he had won a second penalty, but a VAR review decided there was little contact as he went down under another challenge from Dier.

"We know Manchester United has an incredible record this season of penalties given, so we knew everything in the box was dangerous for us," said Mourinho.

"I think in the first penalty, the referee made this decision which I admit is difficult for referees, but then the VAR is a different story.

"Referees can make mistakes but I don't think VAR should make mistakes, then the second penalty is incredible for me."

In keeping with all matches since the Premier League's return earlier this week, all players and officials took a knee before kick in protest against racial injustice.

Once the action did get underway, United settled quickest to the eery surroundings of a 62,000 seater stadium draped in banners with the only fans appearing on giant video screens behind each goal.

Marcus Rashford has had a momentous week as the English international's campaign to ensure vulnerable children are not left without food vouchers during the English school holidays forced a government U-turn.

Solskjaer described the 22-year-old's action as far "more important than any game of football that he would probably play."

However, the England international admitted he was also desperate to get back to the day job after being sidelined since January with a back injury prior to the coronavirus-enforced shutdown of football for three months.

Rashford had the best chance to turn the visitors' early control into a goal as his low shot was beaten away by the legs of Hugo Lloris.

Prior to lockdown, Mourinho spoke of his desire to fast forward to the end of the season when he would have Harry Kane, Son Heung-min, Moussa Sissoko and Bergwijn fit again.

All four were fit to return to the starting line-up and it was an inspired moment from the Dutchman which opened the scoring.

Bergwijn surged past the leaden-footed Harry Maguire before David de Gea could only parry his powerful shot into the roof of the net.

Tottenham sat on their lead after the break and invited plenty of United pressure.

Lloris kept United at bay with an incredible save to deny compatriot Anthony Martial.

Pogba was then introduced from the bench and made an instant impact in his first appearance since December 26.

The midfielder's quick feet left Eric Dier in his wake and Dier then pushed Pogba over inside the box as he tried to recover.

Fernandes coolly sent Lloris the wrong way from the penalty spot to deservedly level and moments later went down himself inside the box.

Jon Moss pointed to the spot again, but Rashford's chance to score the winner was taken from him as this time the VAR call went Mourinho's way.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes he can rekindle Paul Pogba's best form after the Frenchman made a big impact in his first appearance for six months in a 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Friday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes he can rekindle Paul Pogba's best form after the Frenchman made a big impact in his first appearance for six months in a 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Friday. Solskjaer left the World Cup winner on the bench from the start, but Pogba won the penalty for United's equaliser, converted by Bruno Fernandes, with a sublime piece of skill to bamboozle Eric Dier. Pogba has been beset by ankle injuries this season, making just nine appearances, and has been heavily linked with a move away from Manchester. "Paul always has a point to prove because he wants to be the best," said Solskjaer. "He's had such a frustrating season with his injuries. "For me Paul has shown today how he can contribute. I just look forward to getting him fitter so he can get back to his best." A point does little for either side's chances of breaking into the top four. United remain in fifth, two points behind Chelsea, but Spurs were even more desperate for the points as they remain in eighth, four points further back. Jose Mourinho was on course to get the better of his former club when Steven Bergwijn's strike gave Spurs a half-time lead. However, Mourinho was left frustrated when United's second half pressure finally told nine minutes from time when Fernandes converted from the spot. Fernandes then thought he had won a second penalty, but a VAR review decided there was little contact as he went down under another challenge from Dier. "We know Manchester United has an incredible record this season of penalties given, so we knew everything in the box was dangerous for us," said Mourinho. "I think in the first penalty, the referee made this decision which I admit is difficult for referees, but then the VAR is a different story. "Referees can make mistakes but I don't think VAR should make mistakes, then the second penalty is incredible for me." In keeping with all matches since the Premier League's return earlier this week, all players and officials took a knee before kick in protest against racial injustice. Once the action did get underway, United settled quickest to the eery surroundings of a 62,000 seater stadium draped in banners with the only fans appearing on giant video screens behind each goal. Marcus Rashford has had a momentous week as the English international's campaign to ensure vulnerable children are not left without food vouchers during the English school holidays forced a government U-turn. Solskjaer described the 22-year-old's action as far "more important than any game of football that he would probably play." However, the England international admitted he was also desperate to get back to the day job after being sidelined since January with a back injury prior to the coronavirus-enforced shutdown of football for three months. Rashford had the best chance to turn the visitors' early control into a goal as his low shot was beaten away by the legs of Hugo Lloris. Prior to lockdown, Mourinho spoke of his desire to fast forward to the end of the season when he would have Harry Kane, Son Heung-min, Moussa Sissoko and Bergwijn fit again. All four were fit to return to the starting line-up and it was an inspired moment from the Dutchman which opened the scoring. Bergwijn surged past the leaden-footed Harry Maguire before David de Gea could only parry his powerful shot into the roof of the net. Tottenham sat on their lead after the break and invited plenty of United pressure. Lloris kept United at bay with an incredible save to deny compatriot Anthony Martial. Pogba was then introduced from the bench and made an instant impact in his first appearance since December 26. The midfielder's quick feet left Eric Dier in his wake and Dier then pushed Pogba over inside the box as he tried to recover. Fernandes coolly sent Lloris the wrong way from the penalty spot to deservedly level and moments later went down himself inside the box. Jon Moss pointed to the spot again, but Rashford's chance to score the winner was taken from him as this time the VAR call went Mourinho's way.

Solskjaer delighted by Pogba's impact as penalty drama denies Man Utd

Manchester United will refund supporters if they have to play their remaining home games of the season behind closed doors or if they are scrapped due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The deadline for season ticket renewals for next season has also been suspended, with no indication as to when the current campaign can re-start.

English football has been suspended until April 30, but a meeting of Premier League clubs next week is expected to push that date further back.

United would be one of the clubs worst affected should the 2019/20 season fail to be completed as they sit fifth in the Premier League, outside the Champions League places, and are still involved in the latter stages of the Europa League and FA Cup.

However, Manchester City's two-season ban from European competition could allow their city rivals to qualify for the Champions League if it is upheld for next season.&nbsp;

"The club&nbsp;fully&nbsp;supports the collective intent to complete the Premier League, FA Cup and the UEFA club competitions," United said in a statement on Friday.

"However, if&nbsp;it&nbsp;were&nbsp;decided that games cannot be played, or needed&nbsp;to be played behind closed doors, Manchester United&nbsp;confirms it&nbsp;will offer season ticket holders either a pro-rata rebate against their season tickets for next year, or a pro-rata cash refund based on the&nbsp;number of&nbsp;games still to be played.

"The&nbsp;season ticket&nbsp;renewal deadline, initially 1 May, has been suspended."

United have also committed to paying 3,000 casual staff for their remaining five home Premier League games even if they are cancelled or played behind closed doors.

Earlier this month, the Red Devils paid travelling fans £350 ($429) towards travel and accommodation costs when their Europa League last-16, first-leg match against LASK in Austria was forced behind closed doors at short notice.

"By pushing the season ticket&nbsp;renewal&nbsp;deadline back&nbsp;and&nbsp;confirming our policy&nbsp;if games were to be cancelled or played behind&nbsp;closed doors,&nbsp;we want to&nbsp;ease&nbsp;any&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;our&nbsp;loyal&nbsp;fans may have&nbsp;in the current circumstances," said Richard Arnold,&nbsp;United's Group&nbsp;Managing Director.

"They give Manchester United their support year after year, and at this time, we are committed to supporting them. &nbsp;Our message to them is clear -- we are all in this together."

Manchester United will refund supporters if they have to play their remaining home games of the season behind closed doors or if they are scrapped due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Manchester United will refund supporters if they have to play their remaining home games of the season behind closed doors or if they are scrapped due to the coronavirus pandemic. The deadline for season ticket renewals for next season has also been suspended, with no indication as to when the current campaign can re-start. English football has been suspended until April 30, but a meeting of Premier League clubs next week is expected to push that date further back. United would be one of the clubs worst affected should the 2019/20 season fail to be completed as they sit fifth in the Premier League, outside the Champions League places, and are still involved in the latter stages of the Europa League and FA Cup. However, Manchester City's two-season ban from European competition could allow their city rivals to qualify for the Champions League if it is upheld for next season. "The club fully supports the collective intent to complete the Premier League, FA Cup and the UEFA club competitions," United said in a statement on Friday. "However, if it were decided that games cannot be played, or needed to be played behind closed doors, Manchester United confirms it will offer season ticket holders either a pro-rata rebate against their season tickets for next year, or a pro-rata cash refund based on the number of games still to be played. "The season ticket renewal deadline, initially 1 May, has been suspended." United have also committed to paying 3,000 casual staff for their remaining five home Premier League games even if they are cancelled or played behind closed doors. Earlier this month, the Red Devils paid travelling fans £350 ($429) towards travel and accommodation costs when their Europa League last-16, first-leg match against LASK in Austria was forced behind closed doors at short notice. "By pushing the season ticket renewal deadline back and confirming our policy if games were to be cancelled or played behind closed doors, we want to ease any concerns our loyal fans may have in the current circumstances," said Richard Arnold, United's Group Managing Director. "They give Manchester United their support year after year, and at this time, we are committed to supporting them. Our message to them is clear -- we are all in this together."

Man Utd to offer refunds, season ticket delay to fans amid COVID-19 pandemic

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL).&nbsp;

The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test.

Fellaini has become the first player from CSL to be tested positive. He has a normal temperature and is feeling fine, Shandong said, but "is under observation and having treatment at a designated medical facility".

"The club will do its best... to help in the treatment and recovery of the player."

Fellaini joins the list of high profile footballers list who have been affected by the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Earlier, Juventus forward Paulo Dybala had finally admitted that he had been tested positive for the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Dybala took to twitter to make this announcement. In his tweet, he said that both he and his partner Oriana Sabatini were tested positive and the couple is currently in perfect condition as of now.

Milan legend Paolo Maldini was tested positive. The news was revealed by AC Milan. They tested Paolo on Saturday. His son, Daniel Maldini who is a striker in Milan's youth team tested positive of the global pandemic. Daniel was seen training with the first team a few weeks ago.&nbsp;

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL). The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test.

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL). The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test. Fellaini has become the first player from CSL to be tested positive. He has a normal temperature and is feeling fine, Shandong said, but "is under observation and having treatment at a designated medical facility". "The club will do its best... to help in the treatment and recovery of the player." Fellaini joins the list of high profile footballers list who have been affected by the novel coronavirus. Earlier, Juventus forward Paulo Dybala had finally admitted that he had been tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Dybala took to twitter to make this announcement. In his tweet, he said that both he and his partner Oriana Sabatini were tested positive and the couple is currently in perfect condition as of now. Milan legend Paolo Maldini was tested positive. The news was revealed by AC Milan. They tested Paolo on Saturday. His son, Daniel Maldini who is a striker in Milan's youth team tested positive of the global pandemic. Daniel was seen training with the first team a few weeks ago.

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive for coronavirus

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has challenged Manchester United to compete on three fronts after they moved into the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 win at Wayne Rooney's Derby on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-europa-league-martials-goal-helps-man-utd-draw-match-against-club-brugge-281960">UEFA Europa League: Martial's goal helps Man Utd draw match against Club Brugge</a>

Solskjaer's side were never in danger of a shock fifth-round exit against the second tier Rams as Luke Shaw's opener and Odion Ighalo's double booked a quarter-final trip to Norwich.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-lampard-asks-for-chelsea-fight-after-smash-and-grab-manchester-united-defeat-281237">Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat</a>

Rooney, United's record goalscorer, is back in English football after moving to Derby from DC United in January and he was twice denied by Sergio Romero in his first meeting with his old club since 2018.

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Presenting your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> Man of the Match... 
 
🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/ighalojude?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IghaloJude</a> 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/DRFtddnudb">pic.twitter.com/DRFtddnudb</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1235694986571677696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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But United were always on top and extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to nine games ahead of Sunday's derby showdown with Manchester City at Old Trafford.

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Catching up with old friends 🤗 
 
Great to see you, <a href="https://twitter.com/WayneRooney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WayneRooney</a> - good luck for the rest of the season 👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/4b1Jx1mBhZ">pic.twitter.com/4b1Jx1mBhZ</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1235685729466007553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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They remain in the hunt for the FA Cup, the Europa League and still have a chance of qualifying for the Champions League via the Premier League.

United are fifth, three points behind Chelsea, and Solskjaer has urged his players to keep their foot on the gas as they look to turn a troubled season into a memorable finale.

"Today was the highest priority because we're not going to pick and choose games or competitions. We have to go for everything, that's what it is to be at Manchester United," Solskjaer said.

"It's another away draw, we're use to that now. Is it a seventh in a row? We'll have to do it the hard way if want to go all the way. We've got a chance now.

"I'm very pleased with the performance and to go through. You never know, away from home, being the favourites and having City on Sunday how it'll affect their mindset, but it was professional.

"We've found form and defended well, we've had seven clean sheets in those nine games."

United are chasing a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph.

They took control at Pride Park after 33 minutes when Shaw scored just his second career goal, his volley bouncing over Kelle Roos via a deflection off Jesse Lingard.

Nigerian striker Ighalo, signed on loan from Shanghai Shenhua in January, got the second goal seven minutes later.

Martyn Waghorn went close for Derby after the break but Ighalo ended the contest when he fired home to complete his double with 20 minutes left.

"He's doing what he says on the tin and what we asked for when we signed him. I'm very happy with him. That type of striker is vital for a team.," Solskjaer said of former Watford forward Ighalo.

"There's more to come. He'll improve and get sharper and more used to us. I've got no doubt he'll only get better."

Former England star Rooney, who left United to rejoin Everton in 2017, almost grabbed a consolation but Romero produced an excellent stop to turn his late free-kick over.

Rams boss Phillip Cocu said: "If the first free-kick goes in, sometimes it defines a game.

"You have to be really effective and on that side, they were much better than we were.

"I'm quite satisfied with the performance."

&nbsp;

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has challenged Manchester United to compete on three fronts after they moved into the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 win at Wayne Rooney's Derby on Thursday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has challenged Manchester United to compete on three fronts after they moved into the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 win at Wayne Rooney's Derby on Thursday. Also read: UEFA Europa League: Martial's goal helps Man Utd draw match against Club Brugge Solskjaer's side were never in danger of a shock fifth-round exit against the second tier Rams as Luke Shaw's opener and Odion Ighalo's double booked a quarter-final trip to Norwich. Also read: Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat Rooney, United's record goalscorer, is back in English football after moving to Derby from DC United in January and he was twice denied by Sergio Romero in his first meeting with his old club since 2018. Presenting your #MUFC Man of the Match... 🔥 @IghaloJude 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DRFtddnudb — Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 5, 2020 × But United were always on top and extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to nine games ahead of Sunday's derby showdown with Manchester City at Old Trafford. Catching up with old friends 🤗 Great to see you, @WayneRooney - good luck for the rest of the season 👍#MUFC pic.twitter.com/4b1Jx1mBhZ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 5, 2020 × They remain in the hunt for the FA Cup, the Europa League and still have a chance of qualifying for the Champions League via the Premier League. United are fifth, three points behind Chelsea, and Solskjaer has urged his players to keep their foot on the gas as they look to turn a troubled season into a memorable finale. "Today was the highest priority because we're not going to pick and choose games or competitions. We have to go for everything, that's what it is to be at Manchester United," Solskjaer said. "It's another away draw, we're use to that now. Is it a seventh in a row? We'll have to do it the hard way if want to go all the way. We've got a chance now. "I'm very pleased with the performance and to go through. You never know, away from home, being the favourites and having City on Sunday how it'll affect their mindset, but it was professional. "We've found form and defended well, we've had seven clean sheets in those nine games." United are chasing a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph. They took control at Pride Park after 33 minutes when Shaw scored just his second career goal, his volley bouncing over Kelle Roos via a deflection off Jesse Lingard. Nigerian striker Ighalo, signed on loan from Shanghai Shenhua in January, got the second goal seven minutes later. Martyn Waghorn went close for Derby after the break but Ighalo ended the contest when he fired home to complete his double with 20 minutes left. "He's doing what he says on the tin and what we asked for when we signed him. I'm very happy with him. That type of striker is vital for a team.," Solskjaer said of former Watford forward Ighalo. "There's more to come. He'll improve and get sharper and more used to us. I've got no doubt he'll only get better." Former England star Rooney, who left United to rejoin Everton in 2017, almost grabbed a consolation but Romero produced an excellent stop to turn his late free-kick over. Rams boss Phillip Cocu said: "If the first free-kick goes in, sometimes it defines a game. "You have to be really effective and on that side, they were much better than we were. "I'm quite satisfied with the performance."

FA Cup: Ighalo double denies Rooney as Manchester United move into quarters

Manchester United midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-considering-january-reinforcements-with-pogba-mctominay-injured-271629">Paul Pogba</a> posted a series of bizarre videos on social media after undergoing ankle surgery on Tuesday before confirming the procedure had been successful.

Apparently still feeling the effects of the anaesthetic, Pogba posted videos on Instagram saying he was unsure if he was "high or sober" and that he was blessed to be alive, before talking about needing a haircut.

He later deleted the stories and replaced them with a shorter one in which he appeared less groggy.

"It's me I'm back. Everything went well. We have to keep the positive energy," the French World Cup winner said.

"You have to keep happy, so I'll put some music on and dance on one leg obviously... you know me you have to keep the smile."

Pogba, who has made only eight appearances in all competitions this season, has been repeatedly linked by British media with a move away from United but his agent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-must-put-his-head-down-focus-on-manchester-uniteds-pre-season-bryan-robson-236301">Mino Raiola</a> told Sky Sports last month that the midfielder would be staying at Old Trafford.

Pogba's recovery is expected to keep him out of action for up to four weeks. The 26-year-old was sidelined for three months earlier this season with another ankle injury.

United will host local rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester City</a> in the first leg of the League Cup semi-finals later on Tuesday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba posted a series of bizarre videos on social media after undergoing ankle surgery on Tuesday before confirming the procedure had been successful.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba posted a series of bizarre videos on social media after undergoing ankle surgery on Tuesday before confirming the procedure had been successful. Apparently still feeling the effects of the anaesthetic, Pogba posted videos on Instagram saying he was unsure if he was "high or sober" and that he was blessed to be alive, before talking about needing a haircut. He later deleted the stories and replaced them with a shorter one in which he appeared less groggy. "It's me I'm back. Everything went well. We have to keep the positive energy," the French World Cup winner said. "You have to keep happy, so I'll put some music on and dance on one leg obviously... you know me you have to keep the smile." Pogba, who has made only eight appearances in all competitions this season, has been repeatedly linked by British media with a move away from United but his agent Mino Raiola told Sky Sports last month that the midfielder would be staying at Old Trafford. Pogba's recovery is expected to keep him out of action for up to four weeks. The 26-year-old was sidelined for three months earlier this season with another ankle injury. United will host local rivals Manchester City in the first leg of the League Cup semi-finals later on Tuesday.

Manchester United's Pogba in high spirits after successful ankle surgery

Holders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester City</a> took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester United</a> in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat.

"We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva.

The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start.

City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-var-is-a-big-mess-says-guardiola-after-more-controversies-270921">Pep Guardiola</a> opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-de-bruyne-prefers-old-school-but-ok-with-var-243907">Kevin De Bruyne</a> and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally.

With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence.

It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner.

The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-helps-man-city-inflict-first-defeat-on-ancelotti-271641">City</a> then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes.

&nbsp;

More solid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">United</a> looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford.

The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo.

The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over.

"Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris St-Germain</a> in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris.

"They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal.

"From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Leicester City</a> face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday. City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat. "We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva. The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start. City manager Pep Guardiola opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally. With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence. It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner. The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home. City then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes. More solid United looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford. The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo. The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over. "Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by Paris St-Germain in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris. "They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal. "From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said. Leicester City face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

League Cup: Final in sight for Manchester City after 3-1 win against United

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-not-on-par-with-european-elite-says-guardiola-267118">City</a> warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford.

Leicester set up a semi-final meeting with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston Villa</a> after the Foxes survived a second-half fightback from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a> to secure their place in the last four 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.

City have won this competition for the past two seasons with Pep Guardiola's only defeat in the League Cup coming to United three years ago.

Guardiola's men will have a chance to avenge their 2-1 Premier League defeat to the Red Devils earlier this month when the sides clash over two legs in January.

"You always want to win trophies. We've got a nice little draw coming up, it'll be exciting times," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We've shown before we can do well against City."

City made eight changes for the trip to Oxford, but still named a strong side and went ahead through Joao Cancelo's first goal for the English champions midway through the first half.

However, Oxford went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors all night and levelled through Matty Taylor a minute into the second half.

Oxford even had more attempts on target than City but did not have the predatory instincts of Sterling on their side as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sterling-dropped-by-england-after-training-ground-disturbance-261542">England</a> international twice tapped home from close range to spare City's blushes.

"It was a tight game with the wind making things difficult but we did well," said Guardiola, who was accompanied by assistant Mikel Arteta despite speculation suggesting he is set to be announced as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-slump-to-first-home-defeat-by-brighton-266535">Arsenal</a>'s new manager.

"We suffered a lot in the second half. At 2-1 they play long balls with throw-ins, corners and we struggled but it's okay."

&nbsp;

United patience pays off&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-thrash-az-basaksehir-dump-moenchengladbach-out-of-europa-league-268032">Manchester United</a> had to be patient before seeing off Colchester, who had beaten Tottenham and Crystal Palace to make the last eight.

Marcus Rashford was guilty of missing a host of chances in a goalless first half.

However,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-rashford-double-as-united-spoil-mourinhos-return-266316">England forward</a> made amends six minutes into the second period with a calm finish to register a career-best 14th goal of the season.

Rashford was also the creator of United's other two goals as Ryan Jackson turned a cross into his own net before Anthony Martial stretched to convert at the back post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-break-club-record-with-4-1-win-at-villa-267125">Leicester</a>'s brilliant season continued as they held their nerve from the spot after blowing a comfortable lead at Everton.

The Foxes travel to City in the Premier League on Saturday, but Brendan Rodgers still named a near full-strength side and was rewarded when James Maddison and Jonny Evans struck in five first half minutes to give the visitors a 2-0 half-time lead.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-investigate-homophobic-chants-at-chelsea-fans-267115">Everton</a> are made of sterner stuff under caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson.

Ben Davies gave the Toffees hope 20 minutes from time and a sensational long-range strike from Leighton Baines sent the game to penalties.

Maddison then saw his spot-kick saved to start the shootout, but Kasper&nbsp;Schmeichel was Leicester's hero with saves from Cenk Tosun and Baines before Jamie Vardy scored the decisive penalty.

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured City warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford.

Raheem Sterling's second-half double ensured City warded off a shock to win 3-1 at League One Oxford, while United ended fourth-tier Colchester United's fairytale run with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford. Leicester set up a semi-final meeting with Aston Villa after the Foxes survived a second-half fightback from Everton to secure their place in the last four 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park. City have won this competition for the past two seasons with Pep Guardiola's only defeat in the League Cup coming to United three years ago. Guardiola's men will have a chance to avenge their 2-1 Premier League defeat to the Red Devils earlier this month when the sides clash over two legs in January. "You always want to win trophies. We've got a nice little draw coming up, it'll be exciting times," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We've shown before we can do well against City." City made eight changes for the trip to Oxford, but still named a strong side and went ahead through Joao Cancelo's first goal for the English champions midway through the first half. However, Oxford went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors all night and levelled through Matty Taylor a minute into the second half. Oxford even had more attempts on target than City but did not have the predatory instincts of Sterling on their side as the England international twice tapped home from close range to spare City's blushes. "It was a tight game with the wind making things difficult but we did well," said Guardiola, who was accompanied by assistant Mikel Arteta despite speculation suggesting he is set to be announced as Arsenal's new manager. "We suffered a lot in the second half. At 2-1 they play long balls with throw-ins, corners and we struggled but it's okay." United patience pays off Manchester United had to be patient before seeing off Colchester, who had beaten Tottenham and Crystal Palace to make the last eight. Marcus Rashford was guilty of missing a host of chances in a goalless first half. However, England forward made amends six minutes into the second period with a calm finish to register a career-best 14th goal of the season. Rashford was also the creator of United's other two goals as Ryan Jackson turned a cross into his own net before Anthony Martial stretched to convert at the back post. Leicester's brilliant season continued as they held their nerve from the spot after blowing a comfortable lead at Everton. The Foxes travel to City in the Premier League on Saturday, but Brendan Rodgers still named a near full-strength side and was rewarded when James Maddison and Jonny Evans struck in five first half minutes to give the visitors a 2-0 half-time lead. But Everton are made of sterner stuff under caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson. Ben Davies gave the Toffees hope 20 minutes from time and a sensational long-range strike from Leighton Baines sent the game to penalties. Maddison then saw his spot-kick saved to start the shootout, but Kasper Schmeichel was Leicester's hero with saves from Cenk Tosun and Baines before Jamie Vardy scored the decisive penalty.

Manchester City to compete Manchester United in League Cup semi-finals derby

West Ham inflicted more away-day pain on a poor Manchester United side on Sunday, lifting themselves to fourth in the Premier League with a comfortable 2-0 win at the London Stadium.

Andriy Yarmolenko's goal shortly before half-time and a wonderful late Aaron Cresswell free-kick extended United's barren run on the road.

United, who started the season by thumping Chelsea 4-0, have lost twice already in their opening six league games and lie seventh, without an away win in any competition since March.

Injury-hit United were without midfielder Paul Pogba and forward Anthony Martial and huffed and puffed but failed to break down their dogged opponents.

West Ham are riding high under Manuel Pellegrini, unbeaten since a 5-0 drubbing in the first match of the season and this victory followed a home win last season against United at the London Stadium.

But it was a chastening day for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men, just a day after champions Manchester City came close to matching United's Premier League record for margin of victory -- 9-0 against Ipswich in 1995.

Solskjaer played the same side that triumphed against Leicester last week while Pablo Fornals came in for the injured Manuel Lanzini for the home side.

Both sides were cagey at the start of the match, with neither side able to create clear-cut chances.

West Ham looked the more inventive team when they broke forward while United looked ponderous in attack and lacking in ideas, with Marcus Rashford isolated up front.

The match was drifting towards the interval before Felipe Anderson and Yarmolenko combined to sap United's confidence with a goal in the 44th minute.

United went close to an equaliser early in the second&nbsp;half as the rain came down in London, with Juan Mata missing from close range after an Andreas Pereira cross.

Already short of options up front and missing creators in midfield, they lost Rashford just before the hour mark, replaced by the out-of-form Jesse Lingard.

West Ham went close to doubling their lead shortly afterwards but David de Gea got down low to keep out an Anderson shot from a tight angle.

United upped the pressure and West Ham had goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski to thank for keeping out a Harry Maguire strike from close range.

But West Ham continued to look more dangerous on the break&nbsp;and made United pay when Ashley Young brought down Mark Noble on the edge of the penalty area.

De Gea was a bystander as Cresswell curled a free-kick into the top right-hand corner to add to United's pain.

West Ham inflicted more away-day pain on a poor Manchester United side on Sunday, lifting themselves to fourth in the Premier League with a comfortable 2-0 win at the London Stadium.

West Ham inflicted more away-day pain on a poor Manchester United side on Sunday, lifting themselves to fourth in the Premier League with a comfortable 2-0 win at the London Stadium. Andriy Yarmolenko's goal shortly before half-time and a wonderful late Aaron Cresswell free-kick extended United's barren run on the road. United, who started the season by thumping Chelsea 4-0, have lost twice already in their opening six league games and lie seventh, without an away win in any competition since March. Injury-hit United were without midfielder Paul Pogba and forward Anthony Martial and huffed and puffed but failed to break down their dogged opponents. West Ham are riding high under Manuel Pellegrini, unbeaten since a 5-0 drubbing in the first match of the season and this victory followed a home win last season against United at the London Stadium. But it was a chastening day for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men, just a day after champions Manchester City came close to matching United's Premier League record for margin of victory -- 9-0 against Ipswich in 1995. Solskjaer played the same side that triumphed against Leicester last week while Pablo Fornals came in for the injured Manuel Lanzini for the home side. Both sides were cagey at the start of the match, with neither side able to create clear-cut chances. West Ham looked the more inventive team when they broke forward while United looked ponderous in attack and lacking in ideas, with Marcus Rashford isolated up front. The match was drifting towards the interval before Felipe Anderson and Yarmolenko combined to sap United's confidence with a goal in the 44th minute. United went close to an equaliser early in the second half as the rain came down in London, with Juan Mata missing from close range after an Andreas Pereira cross. Already short of options up front and missing creators in midfield, they lost Rashford just before the hour mark, replaced by the out-of-form Jesse Lingard. West Ham went close to doubling their lead shortly afterwards but David de Gea got down low to keep out an Anderson shot from a tight angle. United upped the pressure and West Ham had goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski to thank for keeping out a Harry Maguire strike from close range. But West Ham continued to look more dangerous on the break and made United pay when Ashley Young brought down Mark Noble on the edge of the penalty area. De Gea was a bystander as Cresswell curled a free-kick into the top right-hand corner to add to United's pain.

West Ham extend away-day blues for pitiful Manchester United

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains confident that goalkeeper David de Gea will commit his future to the club despite entering the final year of his contract.

United hoped the Spanish international would sign a new deal before the season began, but are still waiting for De Gea to put pen to paper.

As it stands, the 28-year-old would be free to speak to any European clubs from January 1 and leave next summer on a free transfer.

United have reportedly offered a deal worth around £290,000-a-week ($363,000) to make De Gea the joint highest earner still at the club, alongside Paul Pogba, but still short of the £400,000-a-week Alexis Sanchez was earning at Old Trafford prior to his loan move to Inter Milan.

"I've obviously not been involved in all the discussions, but I'm pretty confident we'll get this sorted," said the Norwegian.

"David has never said anything else to me, other than that he loves this club, he wants to stay here and he's had a fantastic time.

"So let's hope we just get it over the line."

De Gea struggling

Protracted negotiations over De Gea's future were offered as a reason for his poor form towards the end of last season.

He was also at fault for Patrick van Aanholt's late winner as Crystal Palace won 2-1 at Old Trafford last month.

But the man crowned United's Player of the Year on four occasions during his eight years in Manchester retains the backing of Solskjaer.

"He has had a fantastic time here but of course whenever he concedes a goal, it's headlines, that he should have saved it.

"You have to be resilient and you need to have robust confidence and he's fine. I don't worry about David at all."

De Gea was part of the last United team to win the Premier League title in Alex Ferguson's final season in 2013.

Now Solskjaer wants the goalkeeper to be part of his plans as he tries to restore United to their former glory.

"My focus and the club's focus is to convince him to stay," he added. "He can see what we are doing and he knows what we're doing.

"We want the best players here and most of the time the ones we want, stay.

"There are not many that we want to keep that we don't manage to keep."

Solskjaer needs all the help he can get at the moment as United have won only one of their last nine league games stretching back to last season.

They are eighth after taking five points from the first four games and face unbeaten Leicester at Old Trafford.

With West Ham and Arsenal to come this month, it is a tricky run of league fixtures for United, but the manager is convinced the team are on the right track.

"There is always pressure here but of course I'm confident in what we are doing," said Solskjaer.&nbsp;

"We have a plan and the performances have not told me that we need to change direction. Results, now that is a different matter.

"We can control how we play, how we practice and how we prepare. But there is not a lot we can control when you concede four goals in six chances against us in the last three games.

"They are games we should have won and we know that. But we need to score the goals."

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains confident that goalkeeper David de Gea will commit his future to the club despite entering the final year of his contract.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains confident that goalkeeper David de Gea will commit his future to the club despite entering the final year of his contract. United hoped the Spanish international would sign a new deal before the season began, but are still waiting for De Gea to put pen to paper. As it stands, the 28-year-old would be free to speak to any European clubs from January 1 and leave next summer on a free transfer. United have reportedly offered a deal worth around £290,000-a-week ($363,000) to make De Gea the joint highest earner still at the club, alongside Paul Pogba, but still short of the £400,000-a-week Alexis Sanchez was earning at Old Trafford prior to his loan move to Inter Milan. "I've obviously not been involved in all the discussions, but I'm pretty confident we'll get this sorted," said the Norwegian. "David has never said anything else to me, other than that he loves this club, he wants to stay here and he's had a fantastic time. "So let's hope we just get it over the line." De Gea struggling Protracted negotiations over De Gea's future were offered as a reason for his poor form towards the end of last season. He was also at fault for Patrick van Aanholt's late winner as Crystal Palace won 2-1 at Old Trafford last month. But the man crowned United's Player of the Year on four occasions during his eight years in Manchester retains the backing of Solskjaer. "He has had a fantastic time here but of course whenever he concedes a goal, it's headlines, that he should have saved it. "You have to be resilient and you need to have robust confidence and he's fine. I don't worry about David at all." De Gea was part of the last United team to win the Premier League title in Alex Ferguson's final season in 2013. Now Solskjaer wants the goalkeeper to be part of his plans as he tries to restore United to their former glory. "My focus and the club's focus is to convince him to stay," he added. "He can see what we are doing and he knows what we're doing. "We want the best players here and most of the time the ones we want, stay. "There are not many that we want to keep that we don't manage to keep." Solskjaer needs all the help he can get at the moment as United have won only one of their last nine league games stretching back to last season. They are eighth after taking five points from the first four games and face unbeaten Leicester at Old Trafford. With West Ham and Arsenal to come this month, it is a tricky run of league fixtures for United, but the manager is convinced the team are on the right track. "There is always pressure here but of course I'm confident in what we are doing," said Solskjaer. "We have a plan and the performances have not told me that we need to change direction. Results, now that is a different matter. "We can control how we play, how we practice and how we prepare. But there is not a lot we can control when you concede four goals in six chances against us in the last three games. "They are games we should have won and we know that. But we need to score the goals."

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to resolve De Gea contract delay

Manchester United manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-to-give-paul-pogba-another-chance-from-the-penalty-spot-245053">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> said players need more protection from social media companies, describing racist abuse and death threats directed at them as "serious incidents."

United midfielder Paul Pogba was the target of online abuse after missing a penalty in Monday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers, prompting the club to issue a strong statement condemning the views.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard last week urged social media companies to take action after 21-year-old striker Tammy Abraham was targeted after the team's UEFA Super Cup loss to Liverpool.

"We need to protect individuals. When there's death threats and racism, it's serious allegations, serious incidents," Solskjaer told reporters on the eve of Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace.

"Sometimes you get annoyed, what can we do about it as Manchester United? We're not going to ban our players on social media, we have to spread the good word instead."

Solskjaer backed Frenchman Pogba to rise above the abuse and emerge stronger.

"Paul is fine, he's a strong character and it makes him stronger. I cannot believe we still sit here in 2019 taking about these instances," the Norwegian added.

"Social media is a place where people can hide behind fake identities. There's so many Ole Gunnar Solskjaers on social media that I know are not me.

"The authorities have got to do something about the ones who spread this hate. You feel sorry for them really -- they must have problems themselves."

Pogba will continue to share penalty duties with striker Marcus Rashford despite the miss against Wolves.

"I'm sure you're going to see Pogba score a penalty again for United. Let's see when we get the next one. We're practising penalties still," Solskjaer said.

"There's no fighting amongst them. We're disappointed that we didn't win the game, but the talk is always more difficult when you don't get a result."

United are holding talks with other clubs over the transfer of Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez, who played in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Sheffield United on Tuesday.

"There are still talks with some clubs but he played in that game and played well, he's working hard... let's see in September what's going to happen," Solskjaer added.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said players need more protection from social media companies, describing racist abuse and death threats directed at them as "serious incidents.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said players need more protection from social media companies, describing racist abuse and death threats directed at them as "serious incidents." United midfielder Paul Pogba was the target of online abuse after missing a penalty in Monday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers, prompting the club to issue a strong statement condemning the views. Chelsea manager Frank Lampard last week urged social media companies to take action after 21-year-old striker Tammy Abraham was targeted after the team's UEFA Super Cup loss to Liverpool. "We need to protect individuals. When there's death threats and racism, it's serious allegations, serious incidents," Solskjaer told reporters on the eve of Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace. "Sometimes you get annoyed, what can we do about it as Manchester United? We're not going to ban our players on social media, we have to spread the good word instead." Solskjaer backed Frenchman Pogba to rise above the abuse and emerge stronger. "Paul is fine, he's a strong character and it makes him stronger. I cannot believe we still sit here in 2019 taking about these instances," the Norwegian added. "Social media is a place where people can hide behind fake identities. There's so many Ole Gunnar Solskjaers on social media that I know are not me. "The authorities have got to do something about the ones who spread this hate. You feel sorry for them really -- they must have problems themselves." Pogba will continue to share penalty duties with striker Marcus Rashford despite the miss against Wolves. "I'm sure you're going to see Pogba score a penalty again for United. Let's see when we get the next one. We're practising penalties still," Solskjaer said. "There's no fighting amongst them. We're disappointed that we didn't win the game, but the talk is always more difficult when you don't get a result." United are holding talks with other clubs over the transfer of Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez, who played in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Sheffield United on Tuesday. "There are still talks with some clubs but he played in that game and played well, he's working hard... let's see in September what's going to happen," Solskjaer added.

Manchester United's Solskjaer urges crackdown on online abuse

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to blame Paul Pogba after the Manchester United star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-held-at-wolves-after-neves-strike-pogba-penalty-miss-244296">missed a penalty in Monday's 1-1 draw</a> at Wolves after taking spot-kick duties from Marcus Rashford.

Pogba wasted a chance to give United their second successive Premier League win when his penalty was saved by Wolves keeper Rui Patricio.

It was the fourth missed penalty by Pogba since the start of last season. The France midfielder appeared to tell Rashford that he wanted to take it, even though his United team-mate had scored from the spot against Chelsea last weekend.

United manager Solskjaer said he allows both Pogba and Rashford to take spot kicks.

"The two of them are designated the penalty shooters and it's up to them there and then who feels 'this is mine'," he said.

"Sometimes players just feel they are confident enough to score. Paul has scored so many penalties for us and today Rui Patricio made a good save.

"The two of them have been very confident. I like players with confidence and the feeling that 'I can do this'."

Former United star Gary Neville called on Solskjaer to resolve the issue before his team's next penalty.

"They should decide in the dressing room who is the penalty taker - it's embarrassing," Neville told Sky Sports.

"This is a Manchester United penalty, this not a tombola, this is not under-fives on the school field.

"Rashford scored last week - take the penalty. But there wasn't a leader out there. Something wasn't right."

'Sloppy' United

Rashford revealed Pogba had said he wanted to take the kick and, publicly at least, the England striker had no problem with that.

"Paul wanted to take it, it's that simple. Everybody can miss a penalty. He's scored countless penalties for us so it's normal to miss one.

"I took one last week so for me it's no problem for him to take one this week.&nbsp;

"It's unfortunate he didn't score but it's not on him, it's as a team and we take it forward to the next game."

It was a disappointing result for United after they dominated the opening period, with Solskjaer admitting they lost their way in a "sloppy" second half.

"First half was a mature performance. Second half was a bit sloppy. We are improving. We are a young team who will learn, we learned on the pitch today," Solskjaer said.

"Wolves probably got the goal they deserve. I thought we took control again and could have won it.

"We get a penalty that normally would get us another two points, sometimes the keeper makes a good save."

Solskjaer also refused to rule out Chile forward Alexis Sanchez leaving United before the close of the European transfer window.

Sanchez has been linked with a move to Inter Milan and was missing from United's matchday squad at Molineux.

"Well, there's still a couple of weeks left of the transfer window and there is a chance," Solskjaer said.

"Some clubs have shown interest in Alexis, so we'll see what happens. I can't update you more than that.

"There are a few weeks for international transfers to go through but at the moment he's our player."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to blame Paul Pogba after the Manchester United star missed a penalty in Monday's 1-1 draw at Wolves after taking spot-kick duties from Marcus Rashford.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to blame Paul Pogba after the Manchester United star missed a penalty in Monday's 1-1 draw at Wolves after taking spot-kick duties from Marcus Rashford. Pogba wasted a chance to give United their second successive Premier League win when his penalty was saved by Wolves keeper Rui Patricio. It was the fourth missed penalty by Pogba since the start of last season. The France midfielder appeared to tell Rashford that he wanted to take it, even though his United team-mate had scored from the spot against Chelsea last weekend. United manager Solskjaer said he allows both Pogba and Rashford to take spot kicks. "The two of them are designated the penalty shooters and it's up to them there and then who feels 'this is mine'," he said. "Sometimes players just feel they are confident enough to score. Paul has scored so many penalties for us and today Rui Patricio made a good save. "The two of them have been very confident. I like players with confidence and the feeling that 'I can do this'." Former United star Gary Neville called on Solskjaer to resolve the issue before his team's next penalty. "They should decide in the dressing room who is the penalty taker - it's embarrassing," Neville told Sky Sports. "This is a Manchester United penalty, this not a tombola, this is not under-fives on the school field. "Rashford scored last week - take the penalty. But there wasn't a leader out there. Something wasn't right." 'Sloppy' United Rashford revealed Pogba had said he wanted to take the kick and, publicly at least, the England striker had no problem with that. "Paul wanted to take it, it's that simple. Everybody can miss a penalty. He's scored countless penalties for us so it's normal to miss one. "I took one last week so for me it's no problem for him to take one this week. "It's unfortunate he didn't score but it's not on him, it's as a team and we take it forward to the next game." It was a disappointing result for United after they dominated the opening period, with Solskjaer admitting they lost their way in a "sloppy" second half. "First half was a mature performance. Second half was a bit sloppy. We are improving. We are a young team who will learn, we learned on the pitch today," Solskjaer said. "Wolves probably got the goal they deserve. I thought we took control again and could have won it. "We get a penalty that normally would get us another two points, sometimes the keeper makes a good save." Solskjaer also refused to rule out Chile forward Alexis Sanchez leaving United before the close of the European transfer window. Sanchez has been linked with a move to Inter Milan and was missing from United's matchday squad at Molineux. "Well, there's still a couple of weeks left of the transfer window and there is a chance," Solskjaer said. "Some clubs have shown interest in Alexis, so we'll see what happens. I can't update you more than that. "There are a few weeks for international transfers to go through but at the moment he's our player."

'It's up to them': Solskjaer refuses to blame Paul Pogba after penalty miss

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is a positive influence in the dressing room and must extend his stay at the club to help bring trophies back to Old Trafford, teammate Juan Mata said.

Pogba said last month that he could seek a new challenge after three years at United, while his agent recently told The Times that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club amid reports linking him to Juventus and Real Madrid.

However, Mata wants Pogba's future to include United winning "big trophies" in 2019-20 campaign, having failed to lift a major trophy since their Europa League triumph in May 2017.

"We all know Paul and he is a fantastic midfielder, and a very good guy, very positive, and a good influence for everyone," Spanish midfielder Mata told Sky Sports.

"As a teammate and a friend I would like him to stay and be happy because he is a very good player for us.

"We know we have to do better than last season. This club has won more trophies than any other club in England. We want to win big trophies again."

In Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first full season as United manager, the club will be aiming to improve on last term's sixth-placed finish in the Premier League, when they ended up 32 points behind champions and local rivals Manchester City.

Mata agreed a contract extension at United last month, and fellow Spaniard, goalkeeper David de Gea, is also closing in on a new long-term deal, according to reports in the British media.

"David is the best or one of the best goalkeepers in the world, for sure," Mata said.

"He is one of my best friends, so I want him to stay. On a professional level, it will be great for us if he stays because he will give us many points over the next seasons."

United open their 2019-20 league campaign against Chelsea on Aug. 11.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is a positive influence in the dressing room and must extend his stay at the club to help bring trophies back to Old Trafford, teammate Juan Mata said.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is a positive influence in the dressing room and must extend his stay at the club to help bring trophies back to Old Trafford, teammate Juan Mata said. Pogba said last month that he could seek a new challenge after three years at United, while his agent recently told The Times that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club amid reports linking him to Juventus and Real Madrid. However, Mata wants Pogba's future to include United winning "big trophies" in 2019-20 campaign, having failed to lift a major trophy since their Europa League triumph in May 2017. "We all know Paul and he is a fantastic midfielder, and a very good guy, very positive, and a good influence for everyone," Spanish midfielder Mata told Sky Sports. "As a teammate and a friend I would like him to stay and be happy because he is a very good player for us. "We know we have to do better than last season. This club has won more trophies than any other club in England. We want to win big trophies again." In Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first full season as United manager, the club will be aiming to improve on last term's sixth-placed finish in the Premier League, when they ended up 32 points behind champions and local rivals Manchester City. Mata agreed a contract extension at United last month, and fellow Spaniard, goalkeeper David de Gea, is also closing in on a new long-term deal, according to reports in the British media. "David is the best or one of the best goalkeepers in the world, for sure," Mata said. "He is one of my best friends, so I want him to stay. On a professional level, it will be great for us if he stays because he will give us many points over the next seasons." United open their 2019-20 league campaign against Chelsea on Aug. 11.

Paul Pogba must stay at Manchester United, says Juan Mata

The twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup is over but Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still affected by the frenzy as he enjoyed playing cricket during United's&nbsp;pre-season friendly tour in Australia.&nbsp;

In Australia, Manchester United played two matches against Perth&nbsp;Glory and Leeds. In the first match, Marcus Rashford and James Garner scored as Solskjaer's side defeated Perth&nbsp;2-0. In the second match, the Red Devils thrashed their arch-rivals Leeds 4-0.&nbsp;

The matches during Australia tour were played at the Optus Stadium in Perth, which is quite close to the WACA — the Western Australian Cricket Association stadium, where Solskjaer tried his hands on the game of cricket.&nbsp;

In a video uploaded by Manchester United's Twitter handle, Solskjaer can be seen taking the strike. He lost&nbsp;his wicket on the first ball he faced.

Watch the video:

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We couldn't leave the WACA without playing cricket! 🏏 
 
Any tips for the boss, <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EnglandCricket</a>? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUTOUR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUTOUR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/k0bXVu4eJw">pic.twitter.com/k0bXVu4eJw</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1152055274963783680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Fresh from his catch, see how Carras impressed at the crease too... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUTOUR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUTOUR</a> <a href="https://t.co/sNExBvqIdB">https://t.co/sNExBvqIdB</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1152062119019347969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Now, Manchester United will continue their further pre-season games in Singapore and China and will face&nbsp;Inter Milan in Singapore on Saturday.&nbsp;

United kick off their new league season against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August&nbsp;11.

The twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup is over but Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still affected by the frenzy as he enjoyed playing cricket during United's pre-season friendly tour in Australia.

The twelfth edition of Cricket World Cup is over but Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still affected by the frenzy as he enjoyed playing cricket during United's pre-season friendly tour in Australia. In Australia, Manchester United played two matches against Perth Glory and Leeds. In the first match, Marcus Rashford and James Garner scored as Solskjaer's side defeated Perth 2-0. In the second match, the Red Devils thrashed their arch-rivals Leeds 4-0. The matches during Australia tour were played at the Optus Stadium in Perth, which is quite close to the WACA — the Western Australian Cricket Association stadium, where Solskjaer tried his hands on the game of cricket. In a video uploaded by Manchester United's Twitter handle, Solskjaer can be seen taking the strike. He lost his wicket on the first ball he faced. Watch the video: We couldn't leave the WACA without playing cricket! 🏏 Any tips for the boss, @EnglandCricket? #MUTOUR #MUFC pic.twitter.com/k0bXVu4eJw — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 19, 2019 × Fresh from his catch, see how Carras impressed at the crease too... #MUTOUR https://t.co/sNExBvqIdB — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 19, 2019 × Now, Manchester United will continue their further pre-season games in Singapore and China and will face Inter Milan in Singapore on Saturday. United kick off their new league season against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August 11.

Watch: Manchester United's boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plays cricket at Australia's WACA

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".&nbsp;

"I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

"It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result."&nbsp;

United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0.&nbsp;

"With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP.&nbsp;

"Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home.

"The players they've got are suited to playing away from home.&nbsp;

"It's a tough ask, but not impossible."

Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales.

Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013.

When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal.

'Football has a big responsibility'

Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time".&nbsp;

"There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said.

"If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus.

"I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team."&nbsp;

Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue".

Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months.

"Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said.

Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League.

"There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said.

"But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)."

The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask". "I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg. "It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result." United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0. "With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP. "Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home. "The players they've got are suited to playing away from home. "It's a tough ask, but not impossible." Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales. Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013. When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal. 'Football has a big responsibility' Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time". "There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said. "If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus. "I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team." Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue". Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months. "Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said. Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League. "There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said. "But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)." The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Ryan Giggs backs Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to stay on at Manchester United

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Manchester+United">Manchester United</a>'s strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.&nbsp;

Liverpool handed United a 3-1 defeat in their last meeting at Anfield in December which led to former manager Jose Mourinho's dismissal and Solskjaer's appointment.&nbsp;

Solskjaer has since turned United's bleak season around with 11 wins in last 13 games in all competitions, losing just once to Paris St Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie.&nbsp;

"Suddenly we are not underdogs any more, suddenly people praise us, they think now is the time to play them," Solskjaer told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to perform better than we did against PSG. We have got to learn from that experience. It's a big game, a big team.&nbsp;

"It's not about emotions. I understand that emotion can be brought into it, but we have to stay focused and controlled, but with some fight in us as well."&nbsp;

Solskjaer said the injured pair of Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard would be assessed over the next two days before he takes a call on their participation, with the Norwegian hopeful Martial would make the squad.&nbsp;

"I hope Jesse will be OK, I hope and think Anthony will be OK," Solskjaer added. "But we have two more days, they have to get through these two sessions. They have not been part of it yet but they have been doing some recovery work.&nbsp;

"Anthony's was a different muscle so we think that he might be ready and hope that Jesse will."&nbsp;

Manchester United's strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United's strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. Liverpool handed United a 3-1 defeat in their last meeting at Anfield in December which led to former manager Jose Mourinho's dismissal and Solskjaer's appointment. Solskjaer has since turned United's bleak season around with 11 wins in last 13 games in all competitions, losing just once to Paris St Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie. "Suddenly we are not underdogs any more, suddenly people praise us, they think now is the time to play them," Solskjaer told reporters. "We have to perform better than we did against PSG. We have got to learn from that experience. It's a big game, a big team. "It's not about emotions. I understand that emotion can be brought into it, but we have to stay focused and controlled, but with some fight in us as well." Solskjaer said the injured pair of Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard would be assessed over the next two days before he takes a call on their participation, with the Norwegian hopeful Martial would make the squad. "I hope Jesse will be OK, I hope and think Anthony will be OK," Solskjaer added. "But we have two more days, they have to get through these two sessions. They have not been part of it yet but they have been doing some recovery work. "Anthony's was a different muscle so we think that he might be ready and hope that Jesse will."

Man United no longer 'underdogs' against Liverpool: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Jose Mourinho said he could see himself coaching in France as he attended Sunday's 0-0 draw between Lille and Montpellier to reportedly cast an eye over Ivorian star Nicolas Pepe.

Mourinho was sacked by Manchester United in December in a move that cost the Premier League club £19.6 million ($25 million) in severance pay for the Portuguese boss and members of his staff.

He has since taken on a punditry role with beIN Sports, and was pictured sitting alongside Lille sporting advisor Luis Campos at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Sunday.

"I can imagine (coaching) in France one day," Mourinho said. "I'm a man who's worked in four different countries, who likes that, who likes to know other cultures."

"I like to learn all the time, to work in a different league would be a fantastic experience. (At the moment) I'm calm, I'm trying to enjoy life with family and friends and calmly working to hopefully find another opportunity in football."

Campos is a friend of Mourinho's and served as chief scout when the latter was in charge at Real Madrid.

A source told AFP Mourinho had come to Lille to watch Pepe and Brazilian midfielder Thiago Mendes.

Pepe, 23, is the third leading scorer in France this season with 16 goals, trailing only Paris Saint-Germain duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, and also has eight assists for second-placed Lille.

United replaced Mourinho with former striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer halfway through his third season at Old Trafford with the club languishing in sixth and 19 points off the pace.

He has pledged to return to "top-level football" with Real Madrid, the club he coached from 2010 to 2013, touted a possible landing spot for the 56-year-old.

Jose Mourinho said he could see himself coaching in France as he attended Sunday's 0-0 draw between Lille and Montpellier to reportedly cast an eye over Ivorian star Nicolas Pepe.

Jose Mourinho said he could see himself coaching in France as he attended Sunday's 0-0 draw between Lille and Montpellier to reportedly cast an eye over Ivorian star Nicolas Pepe. Mourinho was sacked by Manchester United in December in a move that cost the Premier League club £19.6 million ($25 million) in severance pay for the Portuguese boss and members of his staff. He has since taken on a punditry role with beIN Sports, and was pictured sitting alongside Lille sporting advisor Luis Campos at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Sunday. "I can imagine (coaching) in France one day," Mourinho said. "I'm a man who's worked in four different countries, who likes that, who likes to know other cultures." "I like to learn all the time, to work in a different league would be a fantastic experience. (At the moment) I'm calm, I'm trying to enjoy life with family and friends and calmly working to hopefully find another opportunity in football." Campos is a friend of Mourinho's and served as chief scout when the latter was in charge at Real Madrid. A source told AFP Mourinho had come to Lille to watch Pepe and Brazilian midfielder Thiago Mendes. Pepe, 23, is the third leading scorer in France this season with 16 goals, trailing only Paris Saint-Germain duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, and also has eight assists for second-placed Lille. United replaced Mourinho with former striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer halfway through his third season at Old Trafford with the club languishing in sixth and 19 points off the pace. He has pledged to return to "top-level football" with Real Madrid, the club he coached from 2010 to 2013, touted a possible landing spot for the 56-year-old.

Jose Mourinho open to working in France

Alexis Sanchez said Monday he was &quot;thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world&quot; as he moved to Manchester United from Arsenal in a swap deal with Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

The 29-year-old Chile striker, who came close to joining Manchester City last summer, has signed what is believed to be a four-and-a-half-year contract that will make him the highest-paid player in the Premier League.

It has been widely reported that Sanchez will earn a pre-tax salary of &pound;500,000 ($695,000, 567,000 euros) a week.

Armenia international winger Mkhitaryan, also 29, will head to the Emirates after he fell out of favour with United manager Jose Mourinho during 18 months at Old Trafford.

Sanchez joined Arsenal for &pound;31.7 million in 2014 after three years at Barcelona but his relationship with the Gunners soured after he tried to orchestrate a move to City last year.

Hit back at criticism

In an Instagram post, he took a parting shot at ex-Arsenal players who have criticised his attitude.

&quot;There are people (former club players) who have spoken with no knowledge of what happens inside the club and cause damage,&quot; Sanchez wrote.

&quot;I must say I always gave 100%, until the last day, when I asked the Mister (Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger) to be in the team because I wanted to be a contribution.&quot;

Last week, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown called Sanchez &quot;football&#39;s biggest mercenary&quot;.

In a statement issued by United, Sanchez said he had spent &quot;three-and-a-half wonderful years&quot; at Arsenal &quot;and I bring with me very positive memories of that great club and its fans&quot;.

Referring to Old Trafford, he said: &quot;The chance to play in this historic stadium and to work with Jose Mourinho was something I could not turn down.

&quot;I am very proud to be the first Chilean player ever to play for United&#39;s first team and I hope I can show our fans all around the world why the club wanted to bring me here.&quot;

&#39;One of world&#39;s best&#39;

United will be hoping their substantial investment helps close the gap on their Emirati-backed cross-city rivals Manchester City, who are streaking away with the Premier League title this season.&nbsp;

Sanchez will partner Romelu Lukaku in the United forward line, with England strikers Marcus Rashford, 20, and the in-form Jesse Lingard, 25, forced to fight for their places.

Mourinho said: &quot;Alexis is one of the best-attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players.&quot;

Sanchez spent three years at Barcelona, winning La Liga in 2013. At Arsenal, he twice lifted the FA Cup, but did not come close to a Premier League title and his frustration has been evident this season amid reports of rows with teammates.

He has played 119 times for Chile and helped his nation win back-to-back Copa America titles in 2015 and 2016, although they failed to qualify for next year&#39;s World Cup in Russia.

His move to United was celebrated in his homeland, where fans on social media lauded the Red Devils&#39; &quot;winning&quot; mentality, in contrast to the paucity of recent success at Arsenal.

&quot;The golden destiny of Alexis,&quot; said daily newspaper La Tercera.

Mkhitaryan joined United for around &pound;30 million in 2016 after three years at Borussia Dortmund.

The highlight of his stay in Manchester was scoring in the Europa League final victory over Ajax last season and he also helped United win the League Cup.

&quot;I would like to wish Henrikh all the success and happiness that I am sure he is going to get. He is a player that we will not forget, especially for his contribution to our Europa League victory,&quot; added Mourinho.

Mkhitaryan told the Arsenal website he had &quot;always dreamed of playing for Arsenal&quot;.

&quot;Now that I&#39;m here, I&#39;ll do my best for this club to create history,&quot; he said.

Arsenal boss Wenger said he was happy to acquire Mkhitaryan in the deal.

&quot;Henrikh is a complete player. He creates chances, he defends well, he can absorb distances and he&#39;s very committed as well.

&quot;I must say he&#39;s a player who has all the attributes.&quot;

The Sanchez-Mkhitaryan deal is the latest move of a January transfer window during which Liverpool sold Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for 160 million euros and signed central defender Virgil Van Dijk from Southampton for &pound;75 million (85.5 million euros).

Reports in Germany say striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could be on his way to Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund.

 
&nbsp;

Alexis Sanchez signs for Man Utd, Henrikh Mkhitaryan joins Arsenal

Alexis Sanchez said Monday he was "thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world" as he moved to Manchester United from Arsenal in a swap deal with Henrikh Mkhitaryan. The 29-year-old Chile striker, who came close to joining Manchester City last summer, has signed what is believed to be a four-and-a-half-year contract that will make him the highest-paid player in the Premier League. It has been widely reported that Sanchez will earn a pre-tax salary of £500,000 ($695,000, 567,000 euros) a week. Armenia international winger Mkhitaryan, also 29, will head to the Emirates after he fell out of favour with United manager Jose Mourinho during 18 months at Old Trafford. Sanchez joined Arsenal for £31.7 million in 2014 after three years at Barcelona but his relationship with the Gunners soured after he tried to orchestrate a move to City last year. Hit back at criticism In an Instagram post, he took a parting shot at ex-Arsenal players who have criticised his attitude. "There are people (former club players) who have spoken with no knowledge of what happens inside the club and cause damage," Sanchez wrote. "I must say I always gave 100%, until the last day, when I asked the Mister (Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger) to be in the team because I wanted to be a contribution." Last week, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown called Sanchez "football's biggest mercenary". In a statement issued by United, Sanchez said he had spent "three-and-a-half wonderful years" at Arsenal "and I bring with me very positive memories of that great club and its fans". Referring to Old Trafford, he said: "The chance to play in this historic stadium and to work with Jose Mourinho was something I could not turn down. "I am very proud to be the first Chilean player ever to play for United's first team and I hope I can show our fans all around the world why the club wanted to bring me here." 'One of world's best' United will be hoping their substantial investment helps close the gap on their Emirati-backed cross-city rivals Manchester City, who are streaking away with the Premier League title this season. Sanchez will partner Romelu Lukaku in the United forward line, with England strikers Marcus Rashford, 20, and the in-form Jesse Lingard, 25, forced to fight for their places. Mourinho said: "Alexis is one of the best-attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players." Sanchez spent three years at Barcelona, winning La Liga in 2013. At Arsenal, he twice lifted the FA Cup, but did not come close to a Premier League title and his frustration has been evident this season amid reports of rows with teammates. He has played 119 times for Chile and helped his nation win back-to-back Copa America titles in 2015 and 2016, although they failed to qualify for next year's World Cup in Russia. His move to United was celebrated in his homeland, where fans on social media lauded the Red Devils' "winning" mentality, in contrast to the paucity of recent success at Arsenal. "The golden destiny of Alexis," said daily newspaper La Tercera. Mkhitaryan joined United for around £30 million in 2016 after three years at Borussia Dortmund. The highlight of his stay in Manchester was scoring in the Europa League final victory over Ajax last season and he also helped United win the League Cup. "I would like to wish Henrikh all the success and happiness that I am sure he is going to get. He is a player that we will not forget, especially for his contribution to our Europa League victory," added Mourinho. Mkhitaryan told the Arsenal website he had "always dreamed of playing for Arsenal". "Now that I'm here, I'll do my best for this club to create history," he said. Arsenal boss Wenger said he was happy to acquire Mkhitaryan in the deal. "Henrikh is a complete player. He creates chances, he defends well, he can absorb distances and he's very committed as well. "I must say he's a player who has all the attributes." The Sanchez-Mkhitaryan deal is the latest move of a January transfer window during which Liverpool sold Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for 160 million euros and signed central defender Virgil Van Dijk from Southampton for £75 million (85.5 million euros). Reports in Germany say striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could be on his way to Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund.

Finally, the Sanchez-Mkhitaryan deal done

Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam in the final of the Europa League tonight in Stockholm. Can their record in previous competitions give us an idea of what&#39;s going to happen? Here&#39;s some numbers to help you make sense of where these clubs have been and where they&#39;re headed.

How many European titles have they won?

Interestingly, Manchester United (Man United) has never won the Europa League or its previous incarnation, the UEFA Cup. Ajax Amsterdam did win the UEFA Cup back in 1992.

Ajax has won four Champions League titles (or European Cups as it used to be called before 1991) while Manchester United has won three.

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What is their record against each other? 

For two clubs with such a history in European competition, they have faced each other just four times, all in the Europa League or UEFA Cup. The first two matches were in 1976 as part of two-leg tie in the first round of the UEFA Cup back in 1976. The next two matches were part of a two-leg tie in 2012 as part of the Round of 32 in the Europa League. Man United won both those ties on aggregate.

How do they perform&nbsp;against teams from each other&#39;s countries?

The last time Man United played a Dutch team was in 2016 when they played Feyenoord in the group stage of the Europa League. Man Utd. won that match at home 4-0. The last time Ajax played an English team was five years ago in 2012 when they played Manchester City in Manchester in the group stage of the Champions League. That match was drawn 2-2. They did beat Manchester City that same year though 3-1&nbsp;in Amsterdam.

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How have they fared in Europe over the past five seasons?

It&#39;s been a long time since Ajax have progressed this far in European competition. Otherwise over the past five seasons, they have gone past the Round of 32 just once in 2014/15. Man United hasn&#39;t done much better either, with the Champions League quarterfinals in 2013/14 the furthest they&#39;ve gone in the past five years.

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How have they done domestically over the past five seasons?

Let&#39;s leave Europe aside for a moment and see if their domestic form gives us any pointers on how strong these teams actually are.&nbsp;Neither side has much to crow about though, as it&#39;s been a long time since either club won their domestic title. The last time Man United won the Premier League was in 2013 and they even&nbsp;placed as low as sixth this season in England. Ajax last won the title in 2014 but have not fallen out of the top two since.

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Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam hoping to win their first European title in nine years. Here are some numbers to give you a perspective on the final

Manchester United face Ajax Amsterdam in the final of the Europa League tonight in Stockholm. Can their record in previous competitions give us an idea of what's going to happen? Here's some numbers to help you make sense of where these clubs have been and where they're headed. How many European titles have they won? Interestingly, Manchester United (Man United) has never won the Europa League or its previous incarnation, the UEFA Cup. Ajax Amsterdam did win the UEFA Cup back in 1992. Ajax has won four Champions League titles (or European Cups as it used to be called before 1991) while Manchester United has won three. What is their record against each other? For two clubs with such a history in European competition, they have faced each other just four times, all in the Europa League or UEFA Cup. The first two matches were in 1976 as part of two-leg tie in the first round of the UEFA Cup back in 1976. The next two matches were part of a two-leg tie in 2012 as part of the Round of 32 in the Europa League. Man United won both those ties on aggregate. How do they perform against teams from each other's countries? The last time Man United played a Dutch team was in 2016 when they played Feyenoord in the group stage of the Europa League. Man Utd. won that match at home 4-0. The last time Ajax played an English team was five years ago in 2012 when they played Manchester City in Manchester in the group stage of the Champions League. That match was drawn 2-2. They did beat Manchester City that same year though 3-1 in Amsterdam. How have they fared in Europe over the past five seasons? It's been a long time since Ajax have progressed this far in European competition. Otherwise over the past five seasons, they have gone past the Round of 32 just once in 2014/15. Man United hasn't done much better either, with the Champions League quarterfinals in 2013/14 the furthest they've gone in the past five years. How have they done domestically over the past five seasons? Let's leave Europe aside for a moment and see if their domestic form gives us any pointers on how strong these teams actually are. Neither side has much to crow about though, as it's been a long time since either club won their domestic title. The last time Man United won the Premier League was in 2013 and they even placed as low as sixth this season in England. Ajax last won the title in 2014 but have not fallen out of the top two since.

Analysis: Can Manchester United win the Europa League tonight?

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