Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has performed a clearout - of the ball boys!
The People says Mourinho drafted in players from United's Under-16 team for the 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Old Trafford last Sunday after becoming dissatisfied with the previous standard.
Until then, the club's ball boys and girls were provided by the Manchester United Foundation. But Mourinho wanted a slicker operation when the ball went out of play with his team either on the attack or up against the clock.
I understand Mourinho decided to make a change after the 2-0 home win over Hull in the EFL Cup semi-finals earlier this month.
A United insider said: “The manager wasn't happy with what was on offer before from the ball boys and girls. He wanted a much slicker operation — especially when United are on the attack or time is running out.
“He felt by bringing in lads from the Academy teams — boys who understand the nuances of the game and the urgency of certain occasions, it would help speed up play at crucial moments.
“Of course, people may speculate whether opponents are given the same courtesy if they are on the attack or chasing the game."