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Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United

Mitch Fretton
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Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United

Former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho says the club have given Erik ten Hag more trust and support than he had when he was in charge.

The 61-year-old won the Europa League and League Cup during his time at Old Trafford, but was sacked in 2018 after failing to challenge for the Champions League places that season.

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Since his dismissal, the Red Devils have only won one trophy – the 2023 League Cup – and have failed to re-establish their dominance of the Sir Alex Ferguson era.

Mourinho has delivered success at almost every club he has managed and believes he could have done a lot more in Manchester had he enjoyed a better relationship with former chief executive Ed Woodward.

He told The Telegraph: “My relationship with Ed Woodward was good. Good as in the personal point of view.

“Even now we send an SMS. But from a professional point of view it was not the best. I am who I am. I am a football man.

“Ed comes from a different background and what Ten Hag has in his time at Manchester United I didn’t have.

“I didn’t have that level of support. I didn’t have that level of trust. So I left sad, because I felt I was in the beginning of the process.

“In some moments, I felt if they trusted me and believed in my experience things could be different.”

Mourinho often complained about the lack of quality and professionalism from some of his squad during his tenure at United and had multiple public fallouts with the likes of Paul Pogba and Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The former Chelsea tactician even admitted wanting to sell some players who remain in Ten Hag’s squad today.

He added: “There are still a couple of players still there I didn’t want five or six years ago.

“I think they represent a little bit what I consider not the best professional profile to a club of a certain dimension.

“But I did my job there. Time always tells the truth. I would love Manchester United to succeed.”

Sexual predator jailed for more than 14 years

Helen Greaney
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Sexual predator jailed for more than 14 years

A man has been jailed for 14.5 years after pleading guilty to 11 counts of sex offences – including against a child.

Graham Young (63) formerly of of Hesketh Meadow Lane, Wigan, was sentenced on Friday for horrific acts against teenage girls.

The court heard how Young groomed the two girls after befriending those close to them and would use highly sexualised language and innuendo when he saw them.

Young pleaded guilty to 11 sex offences against the youngsters, including possession of Cat A and B videos of a child, possession of Cat A, B and C images, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and voyeurism.

DC Stephanie Goss said: “We are pleased with this result, which has seen a dangerous, sexual predator removed from our streets. We hope that this allows the victims time to heal and come to terms with what they have been through at the hands of this man.

“As a force, we are committed to investigating any allegation of sexual abuse and we urge anyone who believes they have been a victim to get in touch with us. You will be believed, and you will be supported.

“If something doesn’t feel right, report it. If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.”

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk.

 

Manchester United: Cole and Terry inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame

Mitch Fretton
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Manchester United: Cole and Terry inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame

Manchester United legend Andy Cole has been inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame alongside former Chelsea captain John Terry.

The competition’s fourth-highest goalscorer becomes the seventh former Red Devil to be awarded the honour alongside David Beckham, Eric Cantona, Rio Ferdinand, Roy Keane, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel.

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Legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson is also among the coveted names to be recognised by the Premier League, taking the total United Hall of Fame contingent to eight.

Cole and Terry join ex-Arsenal and Blues defender Ashley Cole as the second and third inductees in 2024 and 23rd and 24th picks overall since its induction in 2021.

The 52-year-old Treble winner made 195 Premier League appearances for United, scoring 93 times between 1994 and 2002.

Speaking after being awarded a special medallion, he said: “I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved in football, which is thanks to my family, my coaches and my team-mates.

“Being inducted into the Hall of Fame makes me very proud.

“Football is a game of ups and downs, but I enjoyed every single minute of my career.

“The reason you play football and compete at the highest level is to win major honours.

“It was so, so special for me to win so many trophies and five Premier Leagues.

“To get my first one was crazy and after that I just wanted more.”

Terry recognised as a Premier League great

Chelsea’s iconic defender Terry was the other recognised figure and the 43-year-old still holds the record for most clean sheets as a defender in the competition with 214.

He joins Ashley Cole, Petr Cech, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba as former Blues to be inducted.

The five-time Premier League winner is the highest-scoring defender in the league’s history with 41 goals and remains a cult hero at Stamford Bridge.

He said: “I’m very grateful to have been voted into the Premier League Hall of Fame.

“I’m a player that certainly gave my all whenever I stepped out on the pitch and to be recognised in this way makes me really proud.

“I was lucky to share a dressing room with so many top players. To captain a club like Chelsea and achieve what we did as a team is so special to me.

“The Premier League is the best league in the world, which every player hopes to play in, and I’m very proud to have won it five times.”

 

Manchester United captain Fernandes urges players to ignore noise around Ten Hag

Jon Fisher
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Manchester United captain Fernandes urges players to ignore noise around Ten Hag

Bruno Fernandes says the Manchester United players need to focus on their own jobs and not get distracted by speculation surrounding the future of manager Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford has looked perilous even before the partial takeover by Jim Ratcliffe, who was at Wembley yesterday as United squandered a 3-0 lead against Championship side Coventry City, survived a narrow offside call that would have almost certainly meant an extra-time defeat before squeezing through on a penalty shoot-out.

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Ratcliffe cannot fail to have been alarmed by the disorganised nature of United’s performance which came on the back of one win in seven league games.

It seems inevitable Ten Hag will be dismissed in the summer but captain Fernandes believes the players need to ignore the noise around the Dutchman.

He told The Guardian: “That doesn’t have to affect anyone because we have to focus on everything we have this season. We still have chances to get in the European positions in the league, we have to finish as high as possible, that’s the main thing, and then we have an FA Cup final to play.

“So no one has to be worried because it’s not our job to be worried with these things that come from the outside or from the inside or whatever because we have the owners who take care of that, we have the directors and then we players…it’s about performing on the pitch and giving our best.”

United will now meet Manchester City in the final for the second year in succession. City won last year 2-1 thanks to Ilkay Gundogan’s brace with Fernandes netting for United from the penalty spot.

“It’s two years in a row we have reached a final, we know how difficult it is to get to the final of the FA Cup. Obviously we wanted to get there in a different way,” added the Portugal midfielder.

“For the first 70 minutes, we were so good, we controlled the game and then obviously well done from them, they believed, they gave everything they could to get back to the game and they did it.

“At the end, they got some lucky goals but at the same time, we have to give credit to them.”

HUKD Golf: Vast entertainment under one roof

Helen Greaney
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HUKD Golf: Vast entertainment under one roof

Where else can you hit a magnificent drive, feel the fun of the fair and knock down pins in a virtual bowling alley, all under one roof?

It’s HUKD Golf – the largest indoor simulator golf venue in the UK – and it’s based in Bury, Greater Manchester, with easy access from the M66.

So come April showers or shine, you can still have a go on the greens and be completely entertained.

The popular venue, which opened in October 2022, provides a great range of packages – and even children’s parties – or if you fancy it, you can book the whole venue out for your bash.

Screenshot 20240422 114949 e1713784443269

For big kids and small ones alike, this is a brilliant place the whole family can enjoy.

For the pros or those who simply getting better with a driver, there’s HUKD Golf – 12 tour pro trusted golf simulators, with swing analysis and club mapping available.

Screenshot 20240422 115817 The GC Hawk/GC Quad technology offers cutting edge data for even the most experienced golfer – and there was a pro warming up while we were there. The technology gives you the ability to experience and play on some of the best courses in the world. 

Be it the Road Hole at St Andrew, Pebble Beach’s picture postcard perfect par-three seventh, or the infamously tough stretch around Amen Corner at the Augusta National – there’s bound to be a stretch of rough and short stuff you’re desperate to tackle.

And for those of us who are just up for the banter, whether we have any skill or not – there’s HUKD Crazy – an 18-hole crazy golf course.

Screenshot 20240422 115020

A round of absolute madness with a variety of holes including a Pacman course, lucky duck, crazy clowns, a snooker table and much more.

We were spoilt for choice when it came to food options and being gluten and dairy-free wasn’t even a problem – out came free-from pizzas cooked to perfection.

Screenshot 20240422 115710

For those who eat everything, there were fabulous sharing plates for two – we had the Meaty Mountain – packed with mini beef sliders, chicken strips, lamb koftas, loaded nachos and much more but those just wanting a little snack were well catered for too.

And of course, it would be rude not to sample the cocktail menu – with Mojitos, Porn Star Martinis and Moscow Mules galore, there was something for everyone, with plenty of crisp beers, ciders and lager on tap too.

Which means that the 19th hole at HUKD Golf is just as good as whichever 18 you’ve opted to play beforehand.

You might not get a hole in one, but this place sinks a monster 40-foot putt when it comes to entertainment.

It’s a 10/10 from us.

Find: HUKD Golf, 35 Walmersley Road, Bury, BL9 5AE.

Book: hukdgolf.com or 0161 729 0666.

Hours: Monday-Thursday (10am-10pm); Friday & Saturday (8am – late); Sunday (8am-6pm)

 

Police reopen scene at Kersal Wetlands amidst murder inquiry

Helen Greaney
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Police reopen scene at Kersal Wetlands amidst murder inquiry

Police investigating the discovery of human remains in Salford, have reopened a scene nearby.

On April 4, part of a torso, buttocks and thigh of a man in his forties were found wrapped in plastic in Kersal Wetlands.

Since then, hundreds of specialist officers and scientists have been working around the clock to search the area.

On Wednesday, police decided to close the scene but with the investigating parameters moving and the search widening, a scene at Great Clowes Street and Kersal Wetlands was re-opened on Saturday.

Police want to urgently speak with anyone who was in the area between 6am and 6pm on Thursday, April 4. From the vast CCTV trawls which have taken place since the investigation launched, police have reported that children were playing in the area in the days leading up to the victim being found, – and they could hold crucial information without realising it.

Further enquiries

Detective superintendent Lewis Hughes said: “I understand there has been large public interest in the case, so it is only right that we inform you of our most recent update.

“Whilst our extensive search of the area was completed last week, we have some further enquiries that we are looking to exhaust during the course of the day.

“I would like to reassure you that this is precautionary. Every piece of intelligence we receive is investigated thoroughly, leaving no stone unturned to give us the best chance of finding out who our victim is and what happened to him.

“If you have any information that you would like to share with us, or any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to my officers at the scene.

“At this stage, we are expecting to be at the scene for several hours, but there should be no disruption to the wider community. I would like to thank residents once again for their patience and cooperation in assisting us in our investigation. We will keep people informed as soon as we have more updates to share.”

A dedicated portal for anyone to submit images or video footage which could help police can be found here: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)

Nottingham Forest: Carragher and Neville expect big punishment after ‘embarassing’ statement

Mitch Fretton
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Nottingham Forest: Carragher and Neville expect big punishment after ‘embarassing’ statement

Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville expect the FA to come down hard on Nottingham Forest after they released a statement criticising VAR and Stuart Attwell following their 2-0 defeat to Everton on Sunday.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side had three huge penalty shouts waved away by referee Anthony Taylor at Goodison Park, prompting a furious statement from the Tricky Trees at full-time.

The Midlands club recently employed former official Mark Clattenburg as a consultant to provide clarity and communication with those operating the new technology but he labelled the decisions not to award Forest a penalty as “a joke” and suggested that the club were left feeling “victimised.”

After recording their 18th loss of the season against Everton, Forest remain just one point above the relegation zone and four behind Sean Dyche’s men in 16th place.

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But Sky Sports pundits Neville and Carragher had no sympathy for the two-time European Cup winners, with the former suggesting Clattenburg should resign from his role.

“Mark Clattenberg must resign tonight,” said Neville on Sunday.

“If he saw those words go out in which question the integrity of a referee and claims someone is a cheat for supporting another club, then he’s supporting what is being said.

“He would lose all credibility with referees in the game. He should stand down tonight and distance himself from that statement.

“The statement is like a petulant child. It’s embarrassing.

“Today has been a horrendous day for Nottingham Forest. Possibly horrendous because of the decisions that they’ve had, but horrendous for how they’ve reacted to the situation.

“To mention the VAR official as being a Luton fan and inferring in some way that’s had an impact on the decision-making process and suggesting to me as a fan, thinking ‘has he cheated us’, you’re into really dangerous territory.”

Former Liverpool man Carragher agreed with his old rival and believes the FA should come down hard on Forest to prevent a similar situation happening again.

He said: “The FA need to come down hard on Forest and stamp this out. There’s been stuff with Liverpool at Tottenham and Arsenal at Newcastle.

“It feels like it’s building with Clattenburg at Forest. It’s like a tactic to put pressure on officials in some way. We saw Clattenburg in the stands.

“This shouldn’t get away from Anthony Taylor and Stuart Attwell having a bad day but this behaviour needs stamping out, like asking for an apology, exploring all options.

“There are no options. There needs to be a really big sanction on Forest.”

Pop legend Lulu to headline Manchester’s Michael Josephson MBE Ball

Helen Greaney
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Pop legend Lulu to headline Manchester’s Michael Josephson MBE Ball

A major Manchester charity fundraising event has announced singing sensation Lulu will headline this year’s event at Hilton Manchester Deansgate.

Lulu performed at the first Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball in 2018 and will take centre stage once again this November 16, following her recent announcement to retire from touring, with her nationwide farewell tour closing at the London Palladium.

Michael Josephson said: “It is absolutely incredible to be able to announce Lulu as our special guest at this year’s Michael Josephson MBE Ball. Last year’s event was truly unbelievable, and I am so proud of raising such a huge amount for a selection of incredible children’s charities in one night.

“We are looking forward to raising even more at this year’s event. We are truly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, and of course Lulu and her team for joining us again this year. Every year we try and make the night bigger and better, and we cannot wait until this year’s event in November.”

Lulu said: “I’m delighted to reveal that I will be the headline performer at the Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball 2024. Last year, the annual event broke records by becoming the first million pound plus fundraiser in the North West. I’ve worked with Michael before and can’t wait to return – it’s wonderful to support such important causes.”

The Michael Josephson Ball has raised millions for children’s charities since its launch in 2018.

The last event, in November 2023, broke records, becoming the first million pound-plus charity gala in the North West, raising £1,063,872 net total.

A number of children’s charities will be supported on the evening with five main beneficiaries – Variety, the Children’s Charity, The Anne Frank Trust, Mahdlo Youth Zone, Seashell Trust and Rainbow Trust – all who work with children and young people in need of support. Michael is currently Chief Barker of Variety, the Children’s Charity.

The event will be held at Hilton Manchester Deansgate with over 400 guests set to attend. Previous attendees have included Dame Joan Collins, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Stephanie Beacham, Ryan Thomas, Christopher Biggins, Bryan Robson and Paul Scholes.

Gareth Robertson Appointed as UK Director of Quantity Surveying at Walker Sime

News Desk
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Gareth Robertson Appointed as UK Director of Quantity Surveying at Walker Sime

Walker Sime, a prominent construction consultancy, has confirmed the appointment of Gareth Robertson as the UK Director of Quantity Surveying. Previously holding the position of Senior Director and Head of Cost Management for the North of England at CBRE, Robertson was instrumental in leading and expanding his team over his four-year period there.

Robertson, who has previously worked alongside Walker Sime on various initiatives, expressed his respect for the firm’s established reputation, effective track record, and methodologies. He stated that his decision to join was influenced by the strong correlation between the company’s vision and his personal values.

Duncan Firth, Managing Director, stated, “We are delighted to welcome Gareth and his appointment marks another pivotal moment in our growth. With his wealth of experience, growth mindset and alignment with our values and culture, we are confident his leadership, personality, and skills will increase the rate of our growth.”

Robertson is looking forward to applying his expertise to augment Walker Sime’s Quantity Surveying services. He commented, “I will be picking up the baton with the already strong QS team, continuing the great work already being done and collectively moving the service line forward. I will be rolling up my sleeves immediately and leading our team on several high-profile instructions.”

In addition to his role as UK Director of Quantity Surveying, Robertson has also been welcomed into the newly formed Executive Leadership Team at Walker Sime.

Operating out of Manchester, Robertson will also contribute his vast experience to the company’s offices in Liverpool and Leeds. Walker Sime has been involved in several notable projects such as Manchester New Victoria and the Civic Heat Network in Manchester, Dock Branch Park in Birkenhead, EUREKA! and Liverpool Waters.

Chinese Grand Prix 2024 results: Verstappen ‘felt amazing’ in F1 win, looks ahead to ‘crazy’ Miami GP

Ben Miller
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Chinese Grand Prix 2024 results: Verstappen ‘felt amazing’ in F1 win, looks ahead to ‘crazy’ Miami GP

Runaway driver standings leader Max Verstappen said his Red Bull “felt amazing” after winning the Chinese Grand Prix for his fourth win in the first five races of the 2024 Formula One season.

Reigning champion Verstappen finished almost 14 seconds ahead of second-placed Lando Norris and more than 19 seconds clear of team-mate Sergio Perez in a race featuring two safety car interventions in quick succession.

“We were incredibly quick all weekend,” said Verstappen, who started on pole in Shanghai, adding that he had “survived” the restarts.

“It was just enjoyable to drive. I could do whatever I wanted with the car. To achieve what we did is fantastic.”

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The first halt in the action took place when Kick Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas suffered an engine failure at Turn 11 on lap 20, leading to Norris and team-mate Charles Leclecr, who finished fourth, overtaking Perez.

Red Bull had hoped Perez would catch both drivers and complete a one-two for them after a further delay caused by two incidents on lap 27.

Chinese GP results 2024

The only moment of concern for Verstappen, who is 25 points above Perez in the standings, appeared to be hitting material on the track as he cruised to victory.

“You hear noises a little bit,” he said. “I’ve had it in the past where I’ve retired quite close to the end. There was a bit of debris from a car.

“When the tyres are getting cold and old, it’s very easy to puncture them. I wanted to double check.”

Red Bull are 44 points above Ferrari, for whom Carlos Sainz came fifth ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who won the race for a record sixth time when it was last held in 2019, came ninth for Mercedes, with Haas’ Nico Hulkenberg completing the top 10.

Verstappen will now attempt to win the Miami Grand Prix for a third consecutive edition when the championship heads to Florida in two weeks’ time.

“It’s normally a good race for us,” he said. “It’s normally a little bit more straightforward in terms of strategy but it’s a difficult track. I’m excited – it’s always a crazy weekend there.”

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