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Keeping the faith

Erik ten Hag insists he never doubted that Manchester United's young attackers would become more consistent in front of goal. 

Summer signing Rasmus Hojlund, 21, has scored in four straight Premier League games and is now into double figures in his first campaign in England.

Alejandro Garnacho, who turns 20 in July, has already beaten last season's five-goal tally, with seven in all competitions so far this term. 

And while a number of pundits questioned whether they would provide the firepower Ten Hag's side needed, the United manager's confidence has not wavered. 

He said: "Players need time, especially young players. Rasmus and Alejandro, they need time but also they need a team. 

"Those two facts were not there in the first part of the season. We had to make a lot of adjustments in the way we play [due to injuries], so it was difficult to serve the offensive part of the team. 

"When that happens [they get service], it can go really quickly that players are going to develop and progress. That is what we have seen. 

"I was, from the start, confident that they have the potential to do this, what they are doing. Now it is about keep moving, keep going, be hungry.”

Back in business

Former Atletico Madrid and Chelsea star Diego Costa has joined Brazilian side Gremio until the end of the season.  

The veteran striker, 35, had been without a club since his contract with Botafogo was allowed to expire. 

Welcoming Costa, a statement on Gremio's website said: "In the early evening of Thursday, Gremio signed an agreement with centre forward Diego Costa, a Brazilian naturalised Spanish citizen. 

"The player stood out in European football, where he was a champion and scorer in Spain and England."

Lion in wait

England boss Gareth Southgate is keeping a close eye on Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo.

The midfielder joined the Red Devils aged nine and has long been tipped to reach the top. 

Having made his first-team debut in January 2023, Mainoo has now racked up 14 appearances in all competitions but may have played more had he not been injured during United's US tour last summer.

And Southgate has earmarked the 18-year-old ace as a future England international. 

The Three Lions chief said: "He's doing brilliantly. I'm not certain he's necessarily going to be a defensive midfielder, as such.

"He's quite a progressive player but he’s had a fabulous start to his career and it will be good to monitor him as we go forward."

Done deal

Luis Sinisterra is relishing the rest of the season after Bournemouth secured his services on a permanent basis. 

The Colombian winger, 24, joined on loan from Leeds last September but the Cherries have handed him a full-time deal after an impressive spell saw him make 17 appearances in all competitions. 

Sinisterra told the club's website: "I'm really happy to make this move. I'm excited to play for Bournemouth for the long term. 

"I feel really comfortable here and the fans are really nice. When I meet them in the streets, they show the love. 

"I'm really happy here and I've settled really well. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season."

Clarke relishing challenge

Scotland boss Steve Clarke cannot wait to lock horns with Croatia, Portugal and Poland in the Nations League. 

Having won Group B1 to gain promotion, the Scots will play in the top tier this time around — and Clarke, 60, is relishing the challenge. 

He said: "It's our first time in League A so it was always going to be a difficult draw. 

"We've got three fantastic opponents and hopefully six very good matches. I'm always a great believer that you have to play against the best teams if you want to improve. 

"I predict tough matches but hopefully they will be tough matches for our opponents as well."

Special times

Mia Fishel claims every appearance she makes in a Chelsea shirt is special. 

The United States international, who joined the Women's Super League champions last summer, is delighted with the progress she is making under Emma Hayes. 

Speaking to Chelsea's official website, the 22-year-old striker said: "I just want to keep improving and keep building connections with my team-mates. 

"It will take time but each game is special because I am continuing to learn this game and this style of play."

Injury blow

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara is set for another spell on the sidelines after suffering an injury against Arsenal. 

The 32-year-old ace, who had been out since last April with a hip issue, returned to action as a sub in Sunday's 3-1 defeat at the Emirates but picked up a muscle problem. 

Thiago is out of contract this summer and it is unclear whether the Reds will extend his deal.