Manchester United's Headliners, Articles and Rumours

[dc7176]

Fergie to play awesome foursome at the Bridge?

Sir Alex Ferguson may let his big-name striking quartet all loose on some unfortunate Premier League opponents.

It is unlikely for Manchester United's trip to Chelsea, especially as neither Dimitar Berbatov nor Cristiano Ronaldo are match fit, but it is something Ferguson is willing to try.

Should those two play alongside Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney, the strikeforce would cost well in excess of £100million.

"You could play all four," said Ferguson.

"You would have to sacrifice something but I once ended up with Peter Schmeichel as a centre-forward, so I am sure I could end up with those four as well."

In reality, the United boss is likely to spread the load as his side challenge for honours on all fronts.

It is a very similar position to the one Ferguson found himself in during the historic 1999 Treble-winning season, when Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer provided the ammunition.

"It was hard to leave players out then," recalled the United boss.

"No matter what combination I chose - and they were all terrific - you were always disappointing two.

"But the name of the game is to win.

"If I have a strong squad this season - and hopefully I have now I have brought in Berbatov - then it is the right thing to do.

"Whether it gives me 1% improvement or 10% it doesn't matter, improvement is what we are looking for."

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Team news: Berbatov returns

Manchester United could hand starting spots to Dimitar Berbatov and Cristiano Ronaldo for the trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea.

Chelsea v Manchester United (14:00)

Berbatov and Ronaldo are both set to return to the squad for the crucial clash against table-topping Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Berbatov missed the Champions League draw with Villarreal in midweek while Ronaldo made a long-awaited comeback for the struggling giants, who lost to fierce rivals Liverpool last weekend. Defender Nemanja Vidic is suspended so Alex Ferguson must decide between Jonny Evans and Gary Neville. Goalkeeper Ben Foster is out for six to eight weeks with ankle ligament damage sustained in a reserve match and midfielder Michael Carrick will be missing for a month with a broken foot.

Michael Essien (knee) is out for the home side, while fellow midfield star Michael Ballack (ankle) is a doubt; however Chelsea welcome back Didier Drogba from injury. Luiz Felipe Scolari must decide whether to replace Nicolas Anelka or pair him with the Ivorian in attack as the Blues seek to maintain their 84-match unbeaten home league run.

Manchester City v Portsmouth

Midfielder Michael Johnson (groin) is a doubt for Man City after he was ruled out of the European win over Omonia Nicosia on Thursday night. Winger Martin Petrov is definitely out with a similar problem. Strike trio Benjani (thigh), Darius Vassell (knee) and Valeri Bojinov (calf/shin) are out.

Wingers Armand Traore and John Utaka could be rested by Portsmouth after their exertions against Vitoria Guimaraes, with Papa Bouba Diop and Glen Little candidates to come in - the latter is still awaiting his debut after injury. Younes Kaboul could also make a comeback. Striker Ben Sahar (knee) and midfielders Niko Kranjcar (ankle), Jerome Thomas (back) and Richard Hughes (calf/shin) remain sidelined; likewise defenders Lauren (knee) and Richard Duffy (groin).

Hull v Everton

Striker Victor Anichebe faces a fitness test on a shin injury he picked up during the club's UEFA Cup draw against Standard Liege on Thursday. Goalkeeper Tim Howard has been suffering from a virus but will play. Steven Pienaar (ankle), Andy van der Meyde (hamstring), Tony Hibbert (knee), Joseph Yobo (ankle) and Louis Saha (calf) remain injured.

Hull midfielder George Boateng may return after missing the last three league matches with a thigh problem. Attackers Nick Barmby (calf) and Richard Garcia (virus) are expected to feature while Daniel Cousin will make his debut after he was suspended for last week's defeat of Newcastle: he will replace Craig Fagan, who is out for three months thanks to a horror tackle Danny Guthrie of Newcastle.

Tottenham v Wigan

Croatia playmaker Luka Modric is a major doubt with the knee injury he picked up against Aston Villa last Monday while right-back Alan Hutton is also out with an ankle injury - Vedran Corluka will play on the right side of defence after he was cup-tied in the midweek win over Wisla Krakow. Hossam Ghaly is missing with a knee problem.

Wigan pair Ryan Taylor and Erik Edman have knee injuries and will not be available.

[dc7176]

Premier League - Team news: Berbatov returns



Berba SUCKS!!! juz two games n he macham like invisible!!! hope he isnt a 30 million pound FLOP!!!!:(:mad:

MR Berbatov, PLS PROOF ME WRONG!!!:mad:

[Black Oaf]

Berba SUCKS!!! juz two games n he macham like invisible!!! hope he isnt a 30 million pound FLOP!!!!:(:mad:

MR Berbatov, PLS PROOF ME WRONG!!!:mad:

I think he will start showing results when Man U's first choice midfield is fit again and he gets the service he wants.

[imom]

Berba SUCKS!!! juz two games n he macham like invisible!!! hope he isnt a 30 million pound FLOP!!!!

MR Berbatov, PLS PROOF ME WRONG!!!

You said it yourself - it's only two games. It took Ronaldo two seasons.

And Black Oaf is right - Berbatov is an out-and-out striker - no potent midfield supplying chances, means no goals. You want him to come get the ball from midfield, he'll turn into another Rooney.

[Icarus]

Let's give Berbatov til the Jan transfer window, to see if he can blend in the MU playing style.

If by then, he cannot or still on goal-drought, then Fergie might have plenty to worry on. Fergie might even buy in another striker in place of Berbatov in the Jan window

[asiancigar]

Yo.... how have u guys been...?. I see Bro Imom is still very active.... fabulous.

Yes, i just got back from Bali.... thats why MIA lor.

Well, i personally feel that it might not be our year for silverware..... sadly, we again got off to a slow start and are half a dozen points or more behind rivals Chelsea & Arsenal. We have strikers that don't gel yet, a midfield that is injury prone (physical & yellow type), a Edwin VD Sar that seems to be jaded and slower off his mark..... and the deadliest blow of all is that we lost Carlos Q....

If you are a betting person..... you might wanna hang on to your cash and just watch the game with a mind set of either yet another draw game or at best 1-0 victory and god forbid us losing.

Yes, it PAINS me to death to see our beloved Man United sputter, choke and rattle like a vintage car..... but it would seem so... at least for now.

But all said and done..... we are die-hard ManU Fans...... we keep the faith and continue to believe that there must be a silver lining akan datang !!!

Cheerz
AC

[machoman]

Berba SUCKS!!! juz two games n he macham like invisible!!! hope he isnt a 30 million pound FLOP!!!!:(:mad:

MR Berbatov, PLS PROOF ME WRONG!!!:mad:

It's only just 2 games, bro. Cool down.

Don't be too hasty to make judgment on Berbatov.

IMHO, it's only fair to give him more time to adjust to his new team mates & Man Utd's way of playing before we write him off as a 30 million pound FLOP!

[machoman]

Fergie fumes over Pogatetz horror tackle
Wednesday, September 24, 2008, 09:14:16 HRS

http://67.15.8.113/CPS.NRL43.240908031313.photo00.quicklook.default-245x187.jpg
Middlesbrough's Austrian defender Emanuel Pogatetz (centre) is sent off by referee Andre Marriner during the Carling Cup third round football match against Manchester United at Old Trafford, Manchester, on September 23. Manchester United won 3-1.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson branded Emanuel Pogatetz's challenge on Rodrigo Possebon "horrendous" after the young Brazilian was left with a suspected broken leg on his debut for the English and European champions.

Possebon was stretchered off after 65 minutes of United's 3-1 victory against Middlesbrough in the third round of the League Cup at Old Trafford following a studs-up challenge which earned the visiting captain a straight red card.

The challenge drew a furious response from Ferguson who remonstrated on the touchline with Middlesbrough coach Colin Cooper and had a heated debate with manager Gareth Southgate.

Ferguson was clearly still sickened by the incident after a comfortable victory which featured goals from the returning Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Nani, cancelling out an equaliser from Adam Johnson.

Ferguson said: "The boy is off to hospital and it looked a really bad one. For the kid to make his first team debut and get an injury like that, it was pretty horrendous to be honest with you.

"For ten minutes after it, everyone was numb and we lost our momentum but the thing about those challenges is it is always the case that the opponent claims he is innocent.

"That's what I couldn't understand. He should have walked right off. One of their bench was screaming that he shouldn't have been sent off and that there was nothing wrong with our player.
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson (left) talks with Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate after the Carling Cup third round football match at Old Trafford, Manchester, on September 23. Manchester United won 3-1.

"At least Gareth Southgate apologised, he understood the gravity of it and was very, very apologetic but it was a terrible tackle. I've seen the video of it and I really don't want to see it again."

http://67.15.8.113/CPS.NRL43.240908031313.photo02.quicklook.default-197x245.jpg
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson (left) talks with Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate after the Carling Cup third round football match at Old Trafford, Manchester, on September 23. Manchester United won 3-1.

Southgate made no excuses for his captain's savage assault on the United man and explained how he had calmed the situation with the United manager.

"He won the ball but he caught him with his following foot," said Southgate. "I have no complaints about the sending off and just have to hope that if he is seriously hurt the lad gets a full and speedy recovery.

"Obviously, in the context of the game, it turned the game against us as well, but our first thoughts are with the lad.

"A couple of lads on our bench didn't have the same view of it that I did. I could see it was a bad one and I think we have dealt with that with Sir Alex now. I explained that to him and put it right."

Pogatetz has been known to relish the physical side of the game and, although his manager made no attempt to defend the foul which left a large and gaping gash on Possebon's right shin, he refused to reveal what punishment he will hand out.

"That's not something I want to talk about publically," said Southgate. "I have no complaints about the sending off, we apologised to the player and everything else stays within the club.

"I have to say the last two years he has worked incredibly hard on his disciplinary record. That was an unusual aberration for him in that period of time.

"He has taken the responsibility of captain very well and, if you speak to referees this season, they will say he has been a credit the way he has captained the team. It is difficult to know why what has happened tonight but there is nothing you can do about that."

The evening should have been a comfortable and successful one for United given that Ronaldo started a game for the first time this season, scoring and completing an hour of impressive action.

"We have plenty of big games coming up so that was important," added Ferguson. "We have players who need the games.

"Cristiano, as he has done many times before, climbed above the defenders, his spring is terrific and Ryan's finish was absolutely fabulous. I was pleased with a good performance, it's just a pity about the boy's injury and I just hope there is nothing serious. But it looks bad."

- AFP

[yinyang]

..god forbid us losing. Yes, it PAINS me to death to see our beloved Man United sputter, choke and rattle like a vintage car..... but it would seem so... at least for now.
But all said and done..... we are die-hard ManU Fans...... we keep the faith and continue to believe that there must be a silver lining akan datang !!!
Yours also die hard down south.. we know:p;)

[dc7176]

I think he will start showing results when Man U's first choice midfield is fit again and he gets the service he wants.

You said it yourself - it's only two games. It took Ronaldo two seasons.

And Black Oaf is right - Berbatov is an out-and-out striker - no potent midfield supplying chances, means no goals. You want him to come get the ball from midfield, he'll turn into another Rooney.

It's only just 2 games, bro. Cool down.

Don't be too hasty to make judgment on Berbatov.

IMHO, it's only fair to give him more time to adjust to his new team mates & Man Utd's way of playing before we write him off as a 30 million pound FLOP!

agree w wat u hav all said!! oso i hav said it myself, its only 2 games... really hope to c man u start winnin again!! n win BIG!!! keke

Man u all the way.... !!!:)

[dc7176]

http://www.linkpicture.com/out.php?i=16508_manchestervsborocc2008xf7.png

Carling Cup, Round 3
Manchester United vs Middlesbrough
Tuesday 23rd September 2008, 20:00 (BST)
Old Trafford, Manchester

1-0 Ronaldo Min.25 "Credit Mr. Mercury"
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2315380)

1-1 Johnson Min.56
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2315448)

2-1 Giggs Min.79
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2315504)

3-1 Nani Min.94
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2315541)

[imom]

Yo.... how have u guys been...?. I see Bro Imom is still very active.... fabulous.

AC!!

Um, I haven't really been active lah. Occassionally popping up here and there.

Unlike you who has been stealthily 'active'..... :D

[alex18122003]

Champions League - United will not risk rotation

Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to field his strongest line-up as Manchester United face Champions League newcomers Aalborg in Denmark.

Despite their opponents' status as relative minnows in the competition, United will feature Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov from the outset.

The holders featured a weakened side when they travelled to then-Danish champions FC Copenhagen in 2006 and lost 1-0.

Following their opening 0-0 draw at home to Villarreal - and Aalborg's impressive 0-0 draw away to Celtic - Ferguson said he would not risk rotating his squad.

"I don't have any fears about complacency with this side," said Ferguson.

"But a couple of years ago we made a mistake with the team against Copenhagen because we were in a comfortable position and ended up scrapping to qualify. This time I will play my strongest team.

"The players know how important qualifying is. We need to get to February because that is when the tournament really takes off. If we get to that stage then we have as good a chance as anyone."

United will be without Owen Hargreaves and Gary Neville, neither of whom has travelled to Denmark, but otherwise have a full-strength squad.

Aalborg defender Michael Jakobsen will serve a one-match ban against United, while the Danish side also have doubts over Kasper Risgard and Jeppe Curth, who both sat out training on Monday.

At the end of Monday's press conference, Ferguson said he would no longer co-operate with the British press corps because of their supposed misrepresentation of comments made about Chelsea.

He was reported as claiming the large number of Chelsea players aged 30 and over meant he did not see "outstanding progress" from the Blues.

"You will never get any help out of me again," the Guardian quoted Ferguson as saying on Monday.

"I gave you access in South Africa and I shouldn't have given you access."

"It won't happen again. From now on, no matter how many miles you travel to get an interview, you won't get one."

Ferguson is required to attend Champions League press conferences and would be fined if he did not appear.

[ket_79]

Hi i seldom post but am a red devil fan since 7.

Anyway got a feeling man u wont do too well against big epl teams this year. They gonna whack the small teams but will drop points against big 4.

What do u all think?

Anyway any bros got agent to intro ? my one run road... looking for one.

Details can be given....

thanks.

pm me.

[alex18122003]

Despite a 3-0 win over Aalborg, former England defender Paul Parker is yet to be convinced by Manchester United's early season form.

"Three wins out of three, Wayne Rooney is back on goalscoring form and Dimitar Berbatov has opened his goal account - after a shaky start to the season, things are starting to look up for United.

Or are they?

I'm still not entirely convinced the champions have hit their stride yet. Just over two weeks ago I said there was still more to come from them and, despite the recent upturn in fortunes, that view has not changed.

United's win over AaB Aalborg in the Champions League capped off a run of three wins and two draws - including one away at Chelsea - in all competitions, but for me performances are just as important as results.

Forget about the three points, there's nothing better than a good performance to give players the confidence they need to go and win the next match.

And on the pitch over the past few weeks United have failed to demonstrate that they are the finished article quite yet.

Take the game in Denmark. United gave the ball away cheaply and did not convince against one of the poorest sides in the competition. That the Danish side have Marek Saganowski - a player who could not even make the grade in the Championship - leading their line speaks volumes.

If it had been Arsenal playing at the Energi Nord Arena, the Danish champions would have ended up on the receiving end of a mauling - but United never threatened to do that.

They gave the ball away far too cheaply when they should have been dominating possession and giving Aalborg the run-around.

We've seen it before and United's away form in the competition still worries me. And with trips to Celtic Park and Villarreal still to come, it's not going to get any easier for them. Ferguson can definitely expect more of a battle in Scotland and Spain than the one his side got in Denmark.

But it was good to see Berbatov get on the scoresheet, although his muted celebrations after having found the back of the net were a little odd. His reaction to the first in particular was akin to that of a player who has just netted the sixth goal in an FA Cup drubbing of a lower league minnow, not his first in a United shirt in a Champions League game.

He still seems to be trying to understand what it means to score for a club like United. It will be interesting to see how he reacts to scoring in a 'bigger' Premier League game.

One other pleasing aspect of the game was the introduction of Rafael Da Silva in my old position at right-back. The young Brazilian did well enough and, although on occasion he is too keen to go to ground, he seems to pose a real threat coming forward.

That is something that Wes Brown doesn't really give United, although I don't agree that the England man has been overtaken in the pecking order by Rafael. I know the boss had said he would not experiment with his side in such an important game, but the Brazilian got the nod ahead of Wes purely because it was as good a time as any to give him a run out. I'm sure Wes will be back in the starting line-up for the next game.

Rafael was not born to defend - he was born to run at defences with the ball at his feet - but with coaching, the defensive side of his game can only improve. And at United, the boy is in the best possible place to make that happen."

[wallnzer]

Agreed with Alex.

While the rest of the Big 4 seems to have improved over last year, Man U looks weaker - complacent and the signing of Berba has caused an upset and a rethink in Man U's attack. Morale is also low over the long running Madrid-Ronaldo saga.

I see them finish 4th this year..

[-1688]

This seasons MAN U will not win any CUP. mark my word. :D

[yinyang]

This seasons MAN U will not win any CUP. mark my word.
Bet your fortunes on it? Your word the very powderful 1:p:D

[dom01]

heard Owen Hargreaves going to be offloaded at 15 million... :confused:

[dom01]

Hargreaves signed for United in 2007 for around £17 million from Bayern Munich and won the Premier League and the Champions League in his first season at Old Trafford.

However, he was far from a regular in the side due to a catalogue of injuries which restricted him to only 16 league starts.

This season has been no different and Hargreaves has made only one league start, in the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, this season following a persistent problem with tendonitis.

The injuries have also kept Hargreaves out of the England squad and forced him to miss the recent successes against Croatia, Belarus and Kazakhstan.

The News of the World reports that Ferguson would be willing to sell his injury-prone midfielder as early as the January transfer window should an acceptable offer be received.

It is thought that the champions would be willing to take a slight loss on the midfielder and accept an offer in the region of £15 million for Hargreaves.

Certainly the Red Devils are well-stocked in midfield with Anderson, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, Rodrigo Possebon, Paul Scholes and now Ryan Giggs all competing for the central positions.

Despite his problems with fitness, Hargreaves is likely to be in demand should the club prove willing to sell the 27-year-old.

The News of the World speculates that both Manchester City and Barcelona would be interested in signing the England international, although United would undoubtedly be unwilling to sell him to neighbours City.

[Cum_Luver]

FifPro team: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), John Terry (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Carles Puyol (Barcelona), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Kaka (AC Milan), Xavi (Barcelona), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Fernando Torres (Liverpool), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United).

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named FifPro World Footballer of the Year. It is the first in what is expected to be a host of individual honours for the 23-year-old, who scored 42 goals for Manchester United on their way to Champions League and Premier League title glory last term.

Congratulation to Manchester United's supporter and Cristiano Ronaldo. He fully deserve it.

[alex18122003]

Giggs wants home double

Liverpool may be leading the way in the title race after finally bringing Chelsea's unbeaten home record to an end. But no-one is panicking at Old Trafford, especially not United's most experienced campaigner.

Ten-time title winner Ryan Giggs is experienced enough to knows prizes aren't handed out until May.

Nevertheless, the 34-year-old is well aware of the importance of keeping in touch with the Premier League pace-setters and, having only managed a point at Everton last Saturday, it's vital the Reds secure back-to-back victories this week.

"The fact that we're behind the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea means we need to get back on track as soon as possible," he told MUTV.

"The good thing is we've got a game on Wednesday against West Ham in which to try and do that and another home match with Hull [on Saturday]. Hopefully we can get back to winning ways."

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Team news: United trio out

Edwin van der Sar, Gary Neville and Wes Brown have been left out of Manchester United's squad to face Celtic in the Champions League.

England defender Brown (pictured with Van der Sar) has an ankle problem that has seen him sidelined for the last two matches and missed training at Carrington on Tuesday morning.

Neville, who has fought with 18-year-old Brazilian Rafael da Silva recently for the right-back berth vacated by Brown, has also been ruled out. Rafael will therefore start on the right side of defence against the Hoops.

Long-term absentees Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves were the other absentees as the English and European champions flew to Scotland for the Group E clash at Parkhead.

Former Netherlands goalkeeper Van der Sar will be rested by United manager Alex Ferguson ahead of Saturday's match against Arsenal at The Emirates.

He will be replaced in the starting line-up by Ben Foster, who will make his Champions League debut.

"I want to play in as many games as possible, although it is nice to get a little rest once in a blue moon," Van der Sar told the Red Devils' television station.

"I realise you cannot win things with 11 or 12 players."

Ferguson decided not to take 19-year-old reserve team skipper James Chester, who had been expected to make the trip north, while Angolan striker Manucho also misses out.

If United win the match, they will progress to the knock-out phase of the competition having taken seven points from their opening three matches, the same as Villarreal. Celtic and Aalborg have both earned one.

Full squad:

Tomasz Kuszczak, Ben Foster; Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, John O'Shea, Rafael da Silva, Jonny Evans; Rodrigo Possebon, Anderson, Darren Fletcher, Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo, Darron Gibson, Ryan Giggs, Michael Carrick, Park Ji-Sung; Carlos Tevez, Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Ronaldo shines as United thump Stoke

Two Cristiano Ronaldo free-kicks set Manchester United on the way to a 5-0 Premier League win at home to Stoke City.

The winger rifled the ball home from long range three minutes in, and set up Michael Carrick for the second just before half-time.

Dimitar Berbatov volleyed home from close range before Danny Welbeck netted a stunning 30-yarder on his top-flight debut.

Ronaldo then ended the game as he began it, scoring another free-kick, this time a low, curling effort from the edge of the box.

United leapfrogged Arsenal to go third in the table following the Gunners' 2-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa.

Sir Alex Ferguson went into the game without three of his main men.

Wayne Rooney, battling a chest infection, the injured Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville did not feature in the squad, meaning starts for Jonny Evans and John O'Shea at the back, and Carlos Tevez up front.

Fears that United might be caught out were eased after just three minutes, when Ronaldo scored his first free-kick of the season from more than 30 yards.

When Amdy Faye fouled Tevez on the left side, it appeared to be out of even Ronaldo's range, but he struck a fizzing, dipping drive that deceived Stoke goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.

However powerful the shot, the Dane will be very disappointed not to have got a touch on the ball as it slammed into the middle of the net.

Then came Stoke's best, in fact their only, chance of the first half, courtesy - of course - of a Rory Delap long throw.

The Irishman's throw from the left flicked off John O'Shea's head and Edwin van der Sar clawed it away with a brilliant, instinctive save.

The Dutchman was subsequently less secure, coming on a risky sortie out of his box, then missing his punch entirely from an Andy Griffin free-kick.

But, with United enjoying over two-thirds possession, the scares were few and far between.

Ronaldo buzzed with endeavour, focussing his intentions on the left wing, while Tevez appeared determined to capitalise on his opportunity, providing the industry and invention normally supplied by Rooney.

Park Ji-Sung went close twice more in the first half, bringing a particularly good save from Sorensen when he was played through one-on-one and the Dane made a superb block at the edge of the box.

Carrick made it two in first-half stoppage time. Stoke backed off Ronaldo as he ran down the left, expecting another shot.

But the Portuguese played a simple ball inside to his midfield colleague, who took a touch and smashed his left-foot shot into the top corner from the edge of the box.

If Stoke harboured any hopes of staging a remarkable comeback, they were quickly extinguished four minutes into the second half.

Tevez found Berbatov with a deft low cross from the left, the Bulgarian took an touch and volleyed past Sorensen from close range.

Tevez was clearly desperate for a goal of his own but his finishing was uncharacteristically poor. He failed to locate the far corner with a right-foot chance and shot wide on several other occasions.

Ferguson took a rare opportunity to fringe players Welbeck, Darron Gibson and Manucho.

Welbeck made it a dream debut, crashing a long-range shot into the top-right corner with six minutes remaining.

There was still time for Ronaldo to give the rout a neat symmetry, sidefooting his second into the bottom-right corner.

[imom]

Premier League - United move for new Solskjaer
Eurosport - Mon, 17 Nov 12:40:00 2008

http://d.yimg.com/i//ng/sp/eurosport/20081117/25/2f2b9cfcf9148bfb03f6bc0d92d9e39c.jpg

Manchester United are understood to have made an offer for Norwegian star Mohammed Abdellaoue - branded the 'new' Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The 23-year-old, Norwegian born but with Moroccan parentage, is a full international having made his debut for Norway earlier this year against the Republic of Ireland.

He is now back in the squad for their match with Ukraine after he helped Valerenga win the Norwegian Cup final.

A host of English clubs were present at the final when Abdellaoue fired a brilliant brace and that has now seen the interest in the striker intensify.

Now United have seemingly leapt to the front of the queue to land the player after inviting him to train with them, something which is possible given the domestic season in Norway has finished.

It is reported in Norway that Jim Solbakken, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's agent, has helped to broker the move.

Valerenga would not confirm that Abdellaoue would be heading to Old Trafford until the finer details had been settled.

"We can't comment on anything before we have anything formalised," Valerenga director Pal Breen told Verdens Gang.

The player's personal advisor Erik Moe also refused to comment on the United offer.

"This is up to Valerenga to comment," he said.

"Moa has only one focus now, and that is the international against Ukraine on Wednesday. It is important."

[spotter542]

Alex Ferguson has said he will make a late decision on whether to include record signing Dimitar Berbatov in the derby match against Manchester City on Sunday.

The forward has missed Manchester United's goalless draws at Aston Villa and Villarreal since suffering a hamstring on international duty with Bulgaria.

Berbatov was set to return to training on Thursday and United manager Ferguson was keen to monitor his progress on Friday and Saturday before deciding whether to include him at Eastlands.

Berbatov has never had hamstring problems before and his Scottish boss is wary about exacerbating the problem.

"With hamstrings you've got to be careful and it's not an easy one," Ferguson told reporters here Thursday.

"He's never had a hamstring injury before and we have to judge whether it's wise to use him on Sunday or put him on the bench and that depends on how he does over the next couple of days."

Ferguson has, however, hinted that Paul Scholes could return to action next week, either in the League Cup game against Blackburn or in the Premier League match with Sunderland.

The veteran midfielder has been out of action since suffering knee ligament damage in September and had targeted the trip to Tottenham on December 13 for his return.

But Ferguson has now admitted that Scholes could be back in action against Blackburn or the Black Cats and he added: "Scholes may be involved next week sometime but definitely not this game."

Meanwhile, Ferguson believes City must follow the model set by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich at Chelsea if they are to convert their new-found wealth into sustained success.

City, currently eight points behind third-placed United, are now one of the richest clubs in the world after they were taken over by the Abu Dhabi United Group at the start of September.

Their new-found spending power was evident when City manager Mark Hughes, a former United striker, who played under Ferguson, signed Brazil star Robinho for a British record 32.5 million pounds (50.1 million dollars) on the last transfer deadline day.

Sunday's clash at Eastlands will be the first time Ferguson has come up against City since the takeover but he insisted Hughes had plenty of work to do before they can be considered genuine rivals to the Old Trafford club.

But he added English and European champions United would relish a new challenge from across town.

"At this moment in time, our threats are still Chelsea and Liverpool who are sitting above us at the moment.

"The rest is the future and that's what Mark Hughes has got to decide how he uses his money and how he shapes his team.

"We experienced it with Chelsea when Abramovich came in and they bought all these players that summer and they won the league in the next two years.

"There was an immediate impact and of course what we had to do then was sit back and accept the challenge.

"The one thing you have to say about this club is that we can accept a challenge and do something about it. We had to do something about it or we'd have been second forever more.

"With Chelsea, it has worked and you have to say their success rate has been good," he added.

"They've been at the top all the time and they're not spending money the way they did when he (Abramovich) first came on the scene.

"They've built up a strong squad of players, very experienced internationals and they've coped with the situation quite well, bringing all the big players in together."

[alex18122003]

Man City 0 United 1

Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off for the second time in a Manchester derby, but Wayne Rooney’s first-half strike was enough to hand United all three points at Eastlands, Ronaldo’s two yellow cards – the second for a bizarre deliberate handball – meant the Reds had to play the last 22 minutes with 10 men. But City didn’t threaten until stoppage time and United held on to claim a deserved derby-day win.

Sir Alex’s men controlled the game from start to finish, proving class and ability on the pitch counts for far more than wealth and ambition off it. Certainly, when City’s new owners took over in the summer, expectations in the blue half of Manchester rose astronomically. Almost immediately, the owners outlined a wish to win the Champions League within just three years. On the evidence of the 151st Manchester derby, however, City still have a lot of work to do.

Dimitar Berbatov made a surprise return to the Reds’ starting line-up after missing United’s last two matches with a hamstring injury. His inclusion alongside Wayne Rooney meant Carlos Tevez had to be content with a place on the bench.

Elsewhere, Ji-sung Park was given the nod ahead of Ryan Giggs and Nani on the left side of midfield, while 18-year-old Brazilian Rafael started at right back in his first Manchester derby. He showed little sign of nerves, darting down the wing early on to add an extra man to the Reds’ attacks.

It was from the right that United’s first real chance came, although it was Ji-sung Park and not the young Brazilian who fizzed the ball across the Blues’ box. It reached Rooney at the penalty spot, but the England international’s shot was straight at Joe Hart.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Ronaldo awarded Ballon d'Or

Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been awarded the Ballon d'Or after inspiring the club to a Champions League and Premier League double this year.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi came second and Liverpool striker Fernando Torres third in a poll of 96 journalists from all over the world organised by France Football.

The 23-year-old Ronaldo follows former United greats Denis Law (1964), Bobby Charlton (1966) and George Best (1968) as a winner of the prize previously known as the European Footballer of the Year award. He scored 42 goals for the club last season.

Ronaldo earned 446 points with Messi on 281 points and Torres on 179.

"It's one of the most beautiful days in my life. I've been dreaming of this trophy since I was a child," said Ronaldo, who will be officially presented with the trophy during a French TV show on Sunday.

Ronaldo is the third Portuguese player to win the award after Eusebio in 1965 and Luis Figo in 2000.

"I was not scared because I was aware of what I had done in the season," Ronaldo added.

"Thank you to my team-mates, who helped me be the best, thank you to those who set me up for these goals.

"I will now work to be good on Saturday. This morning, arriving at the training session, I will be the same lad. What is sure is that I want to win again because it is so good."

He also became this year only the second player to win England's Footballer of the Year award in successive seasons.

However, he failed to make an impact at the European Championship in Austria and Switzerland as Portugal bowed out to eventual runners-up Germany in the quarter-finals.

During a pre-season dominated by speculation about a move to Real Madrid, Ronaldo underwent ankle surgery but he has scored eight goals in 11 league games since returning to action in September.

Ronaldo, who was second to Brazil playmaker Kaka last year, is the first Portuguese to win the award since Figo and the first Premier League player since Michael Owen in 2001.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was the top-ranked English player in 10th position, ahead of Wayne Rooney (13th) and Frank Lampard (15th).

Torres was one of seven Spanish players to win votes, as the Euro 2004-winners dominated the list.

Full results:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal, Manchester Utd), 446 points

2. Lionel Messi (Argentina, Barcelona), 281 pts

3. Fernando Torres (Spain, Liverpool), 179 pts

4. Iker Casillas (Spain, Real Madrid), 133 pts

5. Xavi Hernandez (Spain, Barcelona), 97 pts

6. Andrei Arshavin (Russia, Zenit St Petersburg), 64 pts

7. David Villa (Spain, Valencia), 55 pts

8. Kaka (Brazil, Milan), 31 pts

9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, Internazionale), 30 pts

10 Steven Gerrard (England, Liverpool), 28 pts

11. Marcos Senna (Spain, Villarreal),16 pts.

12. Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo, Arsenal), 12 pts.

13. Wayne Rooney (England, Manchester United), 11 pts.

14. Sergio Aguero (Argentina, Atletico Madrid), 10 pts.

15. Frank Lampard (England, Chelsea), 8 pts.

16. Franck Ribery (France, Bayern Munich), 7 pts.

17. Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon, Barcelona), 6 pts.

18. Gianluigi Buffon (Italy, Juventus), 5 pts.

19. Michael Ballack (Germany, Chelsea), Cesc Fabregas (Spain, Arsenal), 4 pts.

21. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast, Chelsea), Sergio Ramos (Spain, Real Madrid), Nemanja Vidic (Serbia, Manchester United), 3 pts.

24. Edwin van der Sar (Netherlands, Manchester United), Ruud van Nistelrooy (Netherlands, Real Madrid), 2 pts.

No votes: Karim Benzema (France, Lyon), Pepe (Portugal, Real Madrid), Luca Toni (Italy, Bayern Munich), Rafael van der Vaart (Netherlands, Real Madrid), Yuri Zhirkov (Russia, CSKA Moscow).

Reuters

[machoman]

Four-goal Tevez fires five-star United into semi-finals
Thursday, December 04, 2008, 06:28:18 HRS

Manchester United stormed into the League Cup semi-finals in style as Carlos Tevez's four-goal haul earned a 5-3 victory over Blackburn on Wednesday.

Sir Alex Ferguson made 10 changes to the United team who won at Manchester City on Sunday but they were still too strong for Rovers at Old Trafford.

Tevez was credited with the first goal nine minutes before the break, although Blackburn's South Africa midfielder Aaron Mokoena was close to turning the ball into his own net.

Nani added a second goal five minutes before the interval from Tevez's assist before South African forward Benni McCarthy pulled one back within two minutes of coming on as a half-time substitute.

Tevez grabbed his second from the spot in the 51st minute before completing his first hat-trick in English football by rounding off a move of real quality three minutes later.

Matt Derbyshire and McCarthy struck in the final minutes to set up a dramatic finale but Tevez eased United through with his fourth goal in stoppage time.

It may have been a second string side, but United were well worth their victory and Ferguson was also able to give Paul Scholes a run out as the midfielder continues his rehabilitation from a knee injury.

England goalkeeper Ben Foster had a couple of decent early touches as he pushed away Stephen Warnock's header with just three minutes gone after Roque Santa Cruz and Derbyshire had flicked on Paul Robinson's free-kick.

But soon United were in control, with Nani providing a constant threat on the left of United's three-man attack.
Manchester United's Argentinian forward Carlos Tevez (R) is chased by Blackburn Rovers' New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen during their English League Cup quarter final football match at Old Trafford in Manchester. Manchester won 5-3.

The Portuguese blasted over and had another effort blocked on the edge of the box before Darron Gibson had a header cleared off the line by Martin Olsson after he had beaten Robinson from Ryan Giggs' corner.

Foster did well to hold a Keith Treacy shot that skidded off the turf and was quick off his line to force Warnock to lift the ball well over the bar after the former Liverpool man latched on to Derbyshire's lofted through-ball.

But United were soon in front after poor Blackburn defending. Giggs lofted a free-kick from the right flank to the far post and Tevez beat Mokoena to the ball to bundle it home.

And Nani doubled the lead five minutes before the interval by skipping past Ooijer, exchanging passes with Tevez and then sweeping a shot past Robinson.

Rovers looked like they might make a game of it after the interval when manager Paul Ince, a former United player, opted to go with two in attack and after Santa Cruz and Jonny Evans failed to make contact with a long ball forward, McCarthy made Gary Neville look weak and slow and powered a shot in to the corner of Foster's net.

But the chances of a fightback were killed off within two minutes when Giggs played Tevez into space and the striker went down under Andre Ooijer's challenge in the box before sending Robinson the wrong way with his penalty.

In the 54th minute, Tevez completed his hat-trick.

Anderson picked the ball up in midfield, fed Giggs, who returned the pass with a back-heel, then swapped passes with Tevez before squaring the ball for the Argentinian to slot the ball home.

Scholes came on for the final 25 minutes as he made his first appearance since suffering knee ligament damage in September and after Giggs sliced wide from five yards, the former England man dragged wide from distance.

Derbyshire pulled another back for Blackburn with seven minutes left and McCarthy clipped in from Derbyshire's cross in added time before Tevez added a fifth for United.

- AFP

[yinyang]

MU fixtures, with crowded calendar to new year. 11 Jan must be BIGGIE, revenge on the cards?:p:D

Fixtures to Jan 2009 (time at BST):

Saturday, 13 December 2008
Barclays Premier League
Tottenham v Man Utd, 17:30
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, 18 December 2008
FIFA Club World Championship
Winner Q/F 2 v Man Utd, SF, 10:45
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, 26 December 2008
Barclays Premier League
Stoke v Man Utd, 12:45
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, 29 December 2008
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Middlesbrough, 20:00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 04 January 2009
The FA Cup sponsored by E.ON
Southampton v Man Utd, R3, 16:00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 06 January 2009
Carling Cup
Derby v Man Utd, SF, L1, 19:45
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 11 January 2009
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Chelsea, 16:00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Wigan, 20:00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 17 January 2009
Barclays Premier League
Bolton v Man Utd, 15:00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Carling Cup
Man Utd v Derby, SF, L2, 19:45
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Barclays Premier League
West Brom v Man Utd, 19:45

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Tevez saves United at Stoke

A late Carlos Tevez goal spared Manchester United's blushes as they beat 10-man Stoke 1-0 in a fractious encounter at the Britannia Stadium

The Argentinian rammed home just his second Premier League goal of the season on 83 minutes as the champions claimed maximum points despite a vexing afternoon.

Stoke had right-back Andy Wilkinson sent off for two bookable offences, but a more strict referee than Chris Foy might have shown a red card to any or all of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gary Neville.

Rooney could face further disciplinary action after appearing to throw an elbow at Abdoulaye Faye.

The newly-crowed Club World Cup champions were denied an easy return to domestic action by Tony Pulis's side, and their problems were deepened by a pre-match back injury to Rio Ferdinand, which saw Jonny Evans come into the starting line-up at short notice.

It would be unfair on Stoke to put United's lacklustre display down to jet lag following their return from Japan.

This was a far cry from the 5-3 knockabout against Gamba Osaka. Stoke showed all the qualities that have earned them five home wins this season - power, desire and an ability to play to their strengths and their opponents' weaknesses.

Early on, the nervous-looking Evans misjudged a high ball and allowed Ricardo Fuller a shot, which flew over, so Stoke decided to test him again.

The Northern Irishman's hesitancy dealing with long balls with the sun in his eyes was ruthlessly exploited time and might have led to a goal but for a Fuller footware malfunction.

The Jamaican raced clear down the right channel, but lost a boot and fell over as his socked left foot slipped on the turf when he tried to change direction.

The home side also used the familiar tool of Rory Delap's long throws - the Irishman's strained shoulder having kept him out of action recently - and one from the right side flicked Ryan Shawcross's head, forcing a sharp save from Edwin van der Sar.

In the second half they went even closer when Delap found the unmarked Danny Pugh, whose header brushed the top of the net on its way over.

United dominated over two-thirds of possession but struggled to transform that into goals, or even clear-cut chances.

Wilkinson had been a thorn in Ronaldo's side, reducing the world's greatest player to virtual anonymity with his dogged, physical play.

However, that physicality spilled over on 72 minutes when he launched a needless tackle from behind at the winger. Referee Foy showed him a second yellow card.

In the main, however, it was United who lost their cool. Rooney's indiscretion was missed by Foy and the England striker escaped a red card.

And Ronaldo also flicked his leg at Wilkinson after being upended for the umpteenth time, although his action was more petulant than reprehensible and may have provoked the tackle that got the Stoke man sent off.

Late on, Neville clashed with Glenn Whelan in an incident that saw both men booked.

Opportunities for United were scarce. Rooney and Nemanja Vidic went close with first-half glancing headers while a trademark Paul Scholes shot brought a superb save from Sorensen.

But as it looked like another Big Four side would slip up, United were saved by two strikers who are not supposed to be supposed to play together.

Tevez started in place of Dimitar Berbatov, but the Bulgarian came off the bench and volleyed a low cross from the right that the Argentinian finished gleefully.

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Jose: Vidic should miss tie

Internazionale coach Jose Mourinho has said Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic should be banned for both legs of the Champions League last-16 tie between the two sides.

Vidic was sent off in December's FIFA Club World Cup final against LDU Quito, which United won 1-0, after appearing to swing an elbow at opposition striker Claudio Bieler.

The Serbian centre-back does not yet know how many matches he will miss as a result, with UEFA still to decide on the length of any punishment.

Vidic will almost certainly miss the world champions' trip to the San Siro for the first leg of the Champions League tie on February 24, but Mourinho believes that would not be punishment enough.

The former Chelsea boss told La Gazzetta dello Sport: "I'd be surprised if Vidic didn't get at least two matches - which wouldn't even be much for a gesture like that, during a match seen by the whole world."

Mourinho, who will lock horns with Sir Alex Ferguson five years on from knocking United out of the Champions League at the same stage when coach of Porto, added that he felt Wayne Rooney had been fortunate to avoid a ban for an incident in the group stages.

Rooney appeared to stand on the chest of Aalborg's Kasper Risgard during the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford on December 10 but avoided punishment after the incident was reviewed by UEFA.

"I don't like the fact that in football there are different standards. I was amazed that Rooney was not suspended," Mourinho said.

[ryanlim]

Manchester United 3 Chelsea 0...............

:D:D

[alex18122003]

Premier League - United third after Chelsea rout

Manchester United gave their Premier League title defence a major boost by beating rivals Chelsea 3-0 at Old Trafford.

Goals from Nemanja Vidic, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov moved United up to third - above Aston Villa on goal difference - and five points behind leaders Liverpool with two games in hand. They will move above second-placed Chelsea with a win over Wigan Athletic on Wednesday.

Vidic lost his marker at the far post to head home his fourth of the season from a corner in first-half stoppage time and give United a lead they just about deserved on the balance of play.

That goal was registered at the second attempt after Cristiano Ronaldo had a header of his own disallowed just moments earlier. Rooney had casually knocked the inital corner into play while nobody except Ryan Giggs was looking, and the Welsh veteran jogged over to the ball before quickly crossing in to the far post for Ronaldo to glance a header past goalkeeper Petr Cech. However, the linesman's flag was immediately raised and referee Howard Webb ruled that, as none of the officials were made aware that the ball was in play, the corner must be retaken.

Midway through the second-half, United doubled their lead when Patrice Evra - returning from a four-match ban for his row with a Chelsea groundsman at Stamford Bridge last April - curled in a cross that was too high for Berbatov to head but Rooney was able to prod home from close range.

Berbatov put the gloss on the victory with three minutes of normal time remaining when he steered in Ronaldo's free-kick delivery at the near post.

Considering the inevitably fevered build-up to the match, the first-half was a largely uneventful one.

The referee handed out four yellow cards, the first to Frank Lampard after just four minutes for a cynical trip on Ronaldo.

Ronaldo found himself in the book midway through the half along with fellow Portuguese Ricardo Carvalho after the two tangled with each other while battling at a corner.

The only shot on target preceding the opener came from Berbatov after Rooney had found him in the Chelsea area with a delicate flick. The Bulgarian striker was in front of goal but his left-footed shot under pressure was tame and an easy stop for Cech.

Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari brought on Nicolas Anelka at half-time to partner Didier Drogba, but the league's top scorer did little to aid his coahces cause.

The Frenchman could not muster any efforts on goal himself, while Drogba blazed one strike over the bar and air-kicked another attempted volley as the Blues chased the game.

Four more booking were handed out before the final whistle, including one for Rooney, whose performance deserved both the goal he scored and the yellow card he received.

Ronaldo fired a shot inches wide from distance and had a free-kick loop up off the wall and tipped over the bar by Cech before he set up the third goal that ended Chelsea's unbeaten run of 20 away matches in the league.

[imom]

Those jounos at yahoo/eurosport really have long memories..... :D Article taken from their 'Early Doors' column...

You can't handle the truth

Mon Jan 12 08:24AM

When Rafa Benitez began his extraordinary outpouring of Fergie-bashing on Friday, he said he did not want to start any mind games, which is a bit like Hitler saying he didn't want a war as Panzers were rolling into Warsaw.

Benitez said he was interested only in facts. Sadly, even the briefest look at what he actually said reveals that he is to facts what Prince Harry is to race relations.

FICTION 1: "Two years ago we were playing a lot of early kick-offs away on Saturdays when United were playing on Sundays. And we didn't say anything."

FACT 1: Rafael Benitez, September 2007: "We will be talking to the Premier League about this because it is not fair. I don't know if it is possible to change these fixtures in the New Year, but I hope so because, in the last few years, we have played more games on a Saturday than anyone and more away games than anyone. There are too many early kick-offs and I am not pleased about the situation at all."

FICTION 2: "You can see every single week how they put (referees) under pressure, we know this. We have seen it before. We have seen players sent off at Old Trafford and we do not see our opponents sent off."

FACT 2: Opposition players sent off at Old Trafford in the league this season - none. Stoke's Andy Wilkinson is the only player to be sent off against United in the Premier League this season. Opposition players sent off against Liverpool this season - five, including Nemanja Vidic of Manchester United.

FICTION 3: "Now he is complaining about everything, that everybody is against United. But the second half of the season will see them playing at home against all the teams at the top of the table, it is a fantastic advantage."

FACT 3: Last time ED checked everyone had to play everyone else twice - surely the order in which you play your games is irrelevant. And it's not like United covered themselves in glory in their away games against the top four - one point out of nine hardly represents a fantastic advantage.

FICTION 4: "At Christmas, United played on the 29th and the rest of the teams played on the 28th. We were away against Newcastle two days after playing Bolton. They were playing about 40 hours later, they were not complaining then."

FACT 4: United played 31 hours later, but their opponents Middlesbrough also had the benefit of an extra day's rest so it wasn't much help. And Liverpool's game against Newcastle was so one-sided they would have exerted themselves more by staying in and watching Wallace and Gromit. Plus, to be really pedantic, Aston Villa - who are level on points with United - played Hull on Tuesday 30.

FICTION 5: "There are two options if we don't want more problems with fixtures. One is the same as in Spain, the draw for the first part of the league is known, everyone knows which weekend. In the second-half everyone plays the opposite, so you all know."

FACT 5: That wouldn't help at all. You all know your fixtures anyway, and a Spanish system wouldn't stop United playing all of the Big Four at home in the second half of the season.

FICTION 6: "During the Respect campaign - and this is a fact - Mr Ferguson was charged by the FA for improper conduct after comments made about Martin Atkinson and Keith Hackett. He was not punished. He is the only manager in the league that cannot be punished for these things."

FACT 6: Harry Redknapp can also get away with it, having got off scot-free for this pop at Steve Tanner: "He's a poor referee and I've seen him make a mess of so many games. I couldn't even put into words what I thought of his performance. I walked into the referee's room before the game and saw who was refereeing and I knew what was coming. I expected that sort of performance. I've had him before many times and I know what he's like. He's really not good enough."

FICTION 7: "I will be watching United's game with Chelsea. The result does not matter to us, if we win at Stoke that result does not matter."

FACT 7: Sorry, that one was a fact.

[bigassman]

An article i found :D

Rafa should've shut up

Miind games do exactly what they say on the tin: they mess with the mind.

Which is why they should be left to the experts such as Sir Alex Ferguson and not wheeled out ad hoc as they were by Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez last week, especially when your team is already top of the Barclays English Premier League.

The purpose of mind games is to irritate and divert. Yet the only people Benitez seems to have succeeded in distracting is his own Liverpool side, whose goalless draw at Stoke might well come to be seen as a squandered opportunity in the EPL title race.

The bottom line is that when all the talking is done, when Benitez has accused Ferguson of influencing referees and when Ferguson has branded Benitez as "ridiculous" and "disturbed," winning trophies comes down, as it always has done, to players.

It comes down to whether the players possess character, resilience and talent.

The resounding conclusion from a revealing weekend was that in all those areas United are still ahead of the rest.

Way ahead of Chelsea, whose season is not so much fraying at the seams as unravelling before our eyes.

The defensive lapses that saw them lose 3-0 at Old Trafford proved how far they have slipped from the time when Jose Mourinho made them into the most miserly team in England.

Yet that was not the worst of it. Not by a long way. It was the way players capitulated when the game was running away from them that betrayed the problems of Luiz Felipe Scolari at Stamford Bridge.

Where was Michael Ballack? Where were Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba? Where was the commitment from the strolling John Obi Mikel? The big-hitters simply failed to deliver when needed most.

What was worse was that they did not appear to possess the desire to run through the brick walls that was second nature under Mourinho.

That points to an enduring malaise at Chelsea, one which has been hinted at in the dressing room and which Scolari will struggle to rectify on the training pitch.

Everything suggests Chelsea are an ageing team on the point of breaking up, a feeling that might yet be exacerbated by Wednesday's tricky away FA Cup tie at Southend.

United, by contrast, are a team who look to have caught their second wind in a season that began slowly but is now starting to spark into life.

It is all about balance and no team in the EPL has a more pleasing blend of youth and experience.

The dynamic contributions of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo are obvious, but Dimitar Berbatov has begun to weigh in with game-winning contributions while on Sunday, 35-year-old Ryan Giggs gave one of those midfield performances that mark him out as one of the Premier League's enduring greats.

United can also bring in a talented youngster such as Jonny Evans to deputise for the injured Rio Ferdinand, while Gary Neville appears to be rediscovering his old form with perfect timing.

That is what makes United stand out; strength in depth, character from back to front, plus desire in bucketloads.

Liverpool have much of that too as well as the world-class contributions of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, and their yearning to land a first Premier League title still promises to make this season special.

Yet Benitez's team do not have game-winners surging from all directions. Not like United.

They do not have the capacity to overwhelm in the manner in which Ferguson's men saw off Chelsea.

It is why the title race, even with so far to run, might well have witnessed its defining moment.

[alex18122003]

Substitutes inspire Tevez

Not for the first time, the sight of a striker warming up on the touchline had its desired effect on Carlos Tevez.

United assistant manager Mike Phelan admits the Reds were about to make a late change at Bolton when the Argentina international produced a moment of magic to tee up Dimitar Berbatov for the goal that sent United to the top of the league.

"We weren’t far off bringing Tevez off and sending young Danny Welbeck on," Phelan told the BBC. "But he has a habit of doing that: you warm up a centre forward and it spurs him on! Carlos did extremely well for the goal."

A similar scenario unfolded at the Britannia Stadium on Boxing Day. On that occasion, however, the roles were reversed and it was Tevez who fired home from Berbatov's cross.

The win at the Reebok - rarely an easy place to play - was made even more difficult for the Reds due to injury concerns to several key players. Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic both passed late fitness tests, while the recent hectic fixture schedule has started to take its toll on the squad.

"A few of the lads were tired," Phelan admitted, "but some of them will have a bit of a rest now.

"The bench [at Bolton] was good and definitely played its part. Giggsy has those skills to unlock people and Scholesy has good control. We were on top of the game but we thought bringing those two on would give us that little bit extra."

Phelan praised the Reds for persevering until the final whistle but also revealed United's loyal army of travelling supporters played its part in the victory.

"I felt the crowd, in the second half in particular, sucked us into that goal area and we responded to that. I’m glad they got the reward as well as us.

"It doesn't matter if we score in the first minute or the 90th minute - we keep going until the end."

[machoman]

Squeaky clean United

Manchester United broke the Premier League record for consecutive clean sheets after their 5-0 win at West Brom.

http://www.premierleague.com/javaImages/26/cf/0,,12306~5295910,00.jpg
Edwin van der Sar has beaten Petr Cech's record

"The fact that everyone has come in and done a job shows the strength of the squad"
- Edwin van der Sar

As referee Rob Styles raised his whistle to his lips at The Hawthorns on Tuesday 27th January 2009, a Premier League record was broken, writes Claire Harmer.

With the match between West Brom and United ending 5-0 in favour of the visitors, the Barclays Premier League leaders had broken the record held by title rivals Chelsea for the last four years.
Sir Alex Ferguson's side had gone an incredible 11 top-flight matches without conceding a single goal, one more than the Blues' stretch in the 2004/05 season.

Having been between the sticks for every minute of those matches, Red Devils goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar took the crown once held by Chelsea's Peter Cech, who had previously held the record for the number of minutes without conceding a goal in the top flight, with 1,025.

After the match, Ferguson was quick to praise the 38-year-old goalkeeper for his role in the feat. Of the Dutch shot stopper, the manager said: "Edwin Van der Sar, who has achieved everything in the game, is as delighted as when he saved that penalty kick in Moscow during the Champions League final.

"He was over the moon in the dressing room and that tells you his desire. He has still got that ambitious streak and wants to win all the time."

SPECIAL MENTION

Van der Sar, who was given the match ball at the final whistle, admits he was aware of the record as the minutes passed by in the Midlands, knowing at the kick off that he only had to hold out another 85 to claim the glory.

He survived all 90, and afterwards told the club's official website: "It feels terrific. I was watching the minutes tick away towards the end and even though you're a few goals up you still feel very nervous. When I saw the clock reach 85 minutes I started to get a good feeling.

"It's been some performance from all the defenders who have played in those eleven games especially when you consider we didn't have a settled back four during those matches.

"The fact that everyone has come in and done a job shows the strength of the squad."

It certainly does. In the first 11 matches of their run, United have used nine different defenders: John O'Shea, Nemanja Vidic, Johnny Evans, Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand, Rafael Da Silva, Gary Neville, Wes Brown and Richard Eckersley. Special mention should go to Vidic, who was the only ever-present defender, and who also found time to help out the team's strike force, contributing three goals of his own in the run.

And there was something fitting about the final scoreline at the Hawthorns. It was the second time United had won 5-0 this season. The first, was back in mid-November, as Fergie's giants gave promoted Stoke City a harsh lesson about life in the Barclays Premier League, putting five past them at Old Trafford, and beginning an impressive run in the process.

United 5-0 Stoke City (15th November)

A rampant United gave Stoke a demonstration of their attacking prowess as well as their defensive metal. Goals from Michael Carrick, Dimitar Berbatov, Danny Wellbeck and a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo sent a clear signal of intent to United's title rivals.

Aston Villa 0-0 United (22nd November)

A tough fixture lay in wait for United. Under Martin O'Neill, Villa are eying a Champions League place and had no intention of rolling over for the champions. In front of their home fans, the Villians ended a 14 match losing sequence against United by keeping a clean sheet of their own, but with chances at a premium for both sides, honours were shared after a goalless draw.

Manchester City 0-1 United (30th November)

Having conceded six points to their local rivals in the 2007/08 season, Sir Alex's men went in to their encounter against City with a point to prove. Wayne Rooney's 100th club goal settled it in favour of United, although a red card for Ronaldo saw United reduced to 10 men and brought about a nervy finish. Fortunately, the rearguard held strong and bragging rights went the way of the red half of Manchester.

United 1-0 Sunderland (6th December)

Three days after Roy Keane's dramatic exit from Sunderland, the Black Cats travelled to his old stomping ground to challenge the club with whom he spent many a happy year as a player. Mounting an impressive defensive display of their own, Sunderland proved harder to break down than most had predicted in the run up to the match. It took United defender Vidic to break the deadlock at the death.

Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 United (13th December)

Should United's title challenge falter as the season draws to a close, they may look back at this one against struggling Spurs as a case of two points dropped. But while the strikers could be blamed for failing to make the most of their numerous chances, once again the defenders did what they were supposed to. A last minute save from Spurs 'keeper Heurelho Gomes denied the Red Devils the victory.

Stoke City 0-1 United (26th December)

As the Old Trafford outfit returned from a successful Club World Cup campaign, they found Stoke had learnt the lessons of their 5-0 drubbing well. The Potters held firm for 83 minutes, with scoring a goal of their own very much further down the agenda. The dismissal of Andy Wilkinson was followed shortly after by the winner from Carlos Tevez, ensuring the Red Devils kept the pressure on Barclays Premier League leaders Liverpool.

United 1-0 Middlesbrough (29th December)

With 2008 drawing to a close, the goals had all but dried up for United. In six attempts, they had managed four goals, with that 5-0 win over Stoke seemingly a distant memory. With the side as a whole missing a string of opportunities, Berbatov scored the only goal against Boro. With the defence continuing their remarkable run of clean-sheets, that was all it took to claim all three points.

United 3-0 Chelsea (11th January)

Finally, the goals were flowing again for United as they took on Chelsea in one of the biggest matches of their season. With the deadlock broken by Vidic in first-half stoppage time, Rooney and Berbatov added one each after the break in this meeting of two of the Barclays Premier League title challengers. With two matches in hand over top of the table Liverpool, United were now the masters of their own destiny.

United 1-0 Wigan Athletic (14th January)

With former stalwart of the United defence, Steve Bruce, returning to Old Trafford as Wigan manager, Ferguson's men laid on an impressive display that Bruce, in his heyday would have been proud of. The former central-defender would have been wishing his own side could have emulated their opponents' defensive qualities, as he watched Wayne Rooney score what turned out to be the winner in the first minute. The win saw United close the gap between themselves and Liverpool to just two points, with Fergie's men on course to top the table if they won their next match against Bolton.

Bolton Wanderers 0-1 United (17th January 2009)

And win they did. But it was not a resounding victory, far from it in fact. A last minute strike from Berbatov was all United needed to earn their place at the Barclays Premier League's summit for the first time this season. Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen won the accolades after a fine individual display, but the United resistance continued their storming run, equalling Chelsea's record of 10 successive clean sheets.

United 5-0 West Bromwich Albion (27th January)

Top met bottom at the Hawthorns and the difference in class was there for all to see. The flood gates well and truly opened with goals from Berbatov, Tevez, Vidic and a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo seeing off the Baggies in the same magnificent style that they had demonstrated at home to Stoke two and a half months before. Claiming the record for the longest run of consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, United produced the same score with which they had started.

[Markowitz]

Fellow Good Players For Everton Game

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/65.$plit/C_71_article_1042114_image_list_image_list_item_0_ image.jpg

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Patrice Evra and Nani could be at his disposal this weekend.

The Red Devils have recently been victim of an injury crisis, with several of their first-team players sidelined.

However, the Premier League champions have still demonstrated impressive form, while Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and Park Ji-sung all returned in the 5-0 midweek win at West Bromwich Albion.

And Ferguson has revealed Evra (ankle) and Nani (groin) are both set to return for the home clash with Everton on Saturday.

Looking up
The Scot told the Manchester Evening News: "Things are looking up and players are starting to come back.

"Patrice may have a chance for Saturday against Everton. If the game had still been on Monday I'd say he'll definitely play. But he's still got a chance of making it.

"Nani should also be fit for Saturday as well. The ones still unavailable are Jonny Evans, Rafael and Fabio, and Anderson."

Meanwhile, United captain Ferdinand has praised the side's recent displays while issuing caution over maintaining their focus.


Medals
He said: "We have got players who are very businesslike at the moment, wanting to get the job done, score goals, wanting to defend, and defend for our lives, and keep clean sheets.

"With that form, you are on to a good thing. But medals haven't been handed out yet so we are not going to get ahead of ourselves.

"We have just got to the top of the league and we need to consolidate on that now, try to keep the momentum and get more points on the board.

"If we continue to do that, in the manner we have done in the last few games, we have got a great chance of picking up some silverware."
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Source: http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11667_4868094,00.html

[Markowitz]

Fergie Rules Out 2012 Olympic Coaching Role

http://www.independent.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00027/alex_ferguson_27336t.jpg

Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled out taking charge of a British football team at the 2012 Olympics in London.

The Manchester United manager had informal talks with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Lord Coe, chairman of the 2012 organising committee, last year over the possibility of spearheading a bid for gold on home soil.

But Ferguson has confirmed he has no interest in a career in international football.

''No. I won't turn to international management,'' he told a special 200th anniversary edition of the club's magazine Inside United.

''When I've finished here, I think I deserve a rest. After here, I'm finished.''

The involvement of a Great Britain side at the 2012 Games has yet to be confirmed and is opposed by the football associations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, who fear it could jeopardise their independent status within FIFA.

But just last month, when asked at a Downing Street press conference what he wanted for Christmas, Brown said: ''That we have an Olympics team for the 2012 Olympics that is a football team from Britain.''

Brown also suggested the involvement of Ferguson could help to bring the Scots on board, adding: ''Sebastian Coe and I have talked to Alex Ferguson about the possibility that he might want to be the manager.''

He added: ''I think there is a way around this problem, and I think the way around this problem can be found if people can get round the table and discuss it.''

Earlier last year, however, Ferguson, 67, insisted that he was too old to guarantee his involvement.

''I'll be 70 then, so I don't need any commitment to anything like that,'' he said.

''I would not, in any way, shape or form try to commit myself to anything like that four years away.

''I'm not sure they would allow it [the GB Team] anyway, because countries have their own identity.''

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Source: Soccernet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=614127&sec=england&cc=4716)

[Markowitz]

Toffees Battle Too Soon For Rooney

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Rooney: Set to return at West Ham

Rooney limped out of United's Premier League clash with Wigan earlier this month after picking up a hamstring injury but could now be available for England's friendly with Spain in Seville on February 11.

Patrice Evra and Nani could also return next weekend, while Ferguson reports no fresh injury worries from Tuesday's 5-0 win at West Brom.

Neither Rio Ferdinand nor Wes Brown have suffered any reaction to their comebacks while young Brazilian full-back Fabio is also in contention as United look to complete an unprecedented 12th top-flight clean sheet in a row.

Kick-off at Old Trafford is 5:30pm. (GMT :: 01:30am.)

United (from): Van der Sar, Foster, Kuszczak, Neville, Ferdinand, Brown, Vidic, O'Shea, Fabio, Chester, Eckersley, Ronaldo, Scholes, Giggs, Carrick, Park, Gibson, Possebon, Tevez, Berbatov, Welbeck.

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Source: Teamtalk (http://www.teamtalk.com/football/preview/0,16374,1778_4873857,00.html)

[Markowitz]

Ferguson Chasing New French Starlet

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Yven Moyo :: Star of The Future

Even though Sir Alex Ferguson is nearing the end of his coaching career, he is still thinking about the future. In the last two years the Scottish manager signed Serb Adem Ljajić, Davide Petrucci, one of the brightest talents to have emerged from Roma’s youth academy and Kike Macheda from Lazio, while another Serb, Filip Đuričić is currently on trial at Old Trafford. Ferguson is also chasing Leeds’ whizz-kid Fabian Delph and Daniel Situ from Lens, the captain of French U17 side. The latest target is one of the hottest prospects in France, Yven Moyo. The reports are suggesting that Manchester United is close to signing highly-rated youngster after the player was scouted on five occasions.

All these youngsters have the potential of becoming truly great players, thus Ferguson’s successor will be well-equipped for the future challenges. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is working with these kids at the moment and it is possible that he is being prepared to succeed Alex Ferguson as the first team manager.

The 16-year-old Yven Moyo is playing for Sochaux youth teams and he is yet to make a senior debut. Still, the attack-minded left-footed player has really impressed the visiting scouts while playing for the youth team and it seems that he is destined for the big move very soon. He is still under a trainee contract at Sochaux, which should keep him at the club for another two years but he is likely to leave the club before his contract ends. Sochaux’s academy director Jean-Luc Ruty is denying that United have made any approach about the youngster and he is thought to be surprised with all the hype.

Ruty is aware that Moyo is a very good prospect but he believes that the youngster is still not at the same level as Jeremy Menez was at that age. Menez was one of the hottest prospects to have graduated from the club’s youth academy and he is currently playing for Roma. Still, this could be just Ruty’s way to take the pressure off the young player and try to keep him at the club for as long as possible.

However, I don’t think that the club will be able to fend off interest from big clubs and Moyo could join Manchester United very soon. He will certainly have the opportunity to further develop his skills in such a great club, although there are no guarantees that he will become a great player.
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Source: SoccerPie (http://www.soccerpie.com/premier_league/ferguson-chasing-yven-moyo/)

[Markowitz]

Fergie: Time For Forwards To Shine

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Ferguson: Wants Strikers To Impress

"Quite rightly, defenders have been taking the credit this season up until now. I hope it is now the forwards' turn," said Ferguson.

United are aiming for an unprecedented 12th clean sheet on Saturday evening when they tackle Everton at Old Trafford.

The run has enabled Ferguson's side to collect maximum points from their last six games - even though they scored just a single goal in four of them.

But Tuesday's five-goal mauling of West Brom was a sign of a strike force beginning to find its form - and Ferguson feels Cristiano Ronaldo and company are ready to take centre stage again.

"Quite rightly, defenders have been taking the credit this season up until now. I hope it is now the forwards' turn," said Ferguson.

"It is important, because I have said for years we have always had the best goal difference when we are contesting the Premiership title.

"Last season I was able to make changes for the game at Chelsea before the Champions League semi-final the following week, because our goal difference was like an extra point.

"When we were in Japan we were 13 goals behind Chelsea. Now it is just two, which is a measure of the change."

Apart from Ronaldo finding his goalscoring boots again, Ferguson cites Dimitar Berbatov as the major reason for the change in fortune.

Often in his early weeks at United, the £30.75million signing from Tottenham was not on the same wavelength as his new team-mates.

All that has changed, Berbatov scoring four times in his last six games to prove he has adapted to life with the Red Devils.

"Players are understanding Dimitar now," said Ferguson.

"They are feeding him and playing to him much more.

"It took the players time to recognise his talents, because he is a different player to what we have been used to. Now they are realising it, and the benefits are there for all to see."

Ferguson reported no further injury concerns from the Baggies trip.

Following the return of Rio Ferdinand and Wes Brown at The Hawthorns, the situation is getting slightly easier. Fabio is available on Saturday - while Nani, Patrice Evra and Wayne Rooney should be fit for next Sunday's trip to West Ham.

Another victory for the Red Devils on Saturday night will take them five points clear of nearest challengers Liverpool and Chelsea, who meet at Anfield on Sunday.

United's progress since they returned from Club World Cup action in Japan has hinted at an inevitability about a title hat-trick next May - which Ferguson refuses to get drawn into.

"The one thing that is inevitable about this league is that there will be shocks," he said.

"Football can kick you in the teeth, so the best way to handle it from our perspective is not to get carried away and not to make any predictions.

"By doing that, we can concentrate on each game and treat it seriously."

Nemanja Vidic will miss the first leg of Manchester United's Champions League tie with Inter Milan after being suspended for one match following his red card in the Club World Cup final.
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Source: TeamTalk (http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_4876103,00.html)

[Markowitz]

Owen Hargreaves Will Be Fit By August

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''Owen had a second operation last week and it was completely successful,'' said the United boss.


Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves will be fit for the start of next season.

Hargreaves has been forced to undergo two operations under the guidance of Colorado-based knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman in a bid to cure a tendinitis problem that has plagued him since his arrival from Bayern Munich 18 months ago.

There have been suggestions if surgery does not prove successful for the Calgary-born midfielder he will be forced to retire from the game.

However, Ferguson reports the operations have gone well, allowing Hargreaves to begin a long recovery programme that should get him back on the pitch again by August.

''Owen had a second operation last week and it was completely successful,'' said the United boss.

''It was better than the last one, which was much more difficult.

''This one is completely clear and I am certain he will be ready for the start of next season.''

Hargreaves has been restricted to just three appearances this season and has not been on first team duty since the draw at Chelsea in mid-September.
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Source: SoccerNet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=614252&sec=england&cc=4716)

[Markowitz]

Ron Won't Do It Again :(

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Ronaldo: Tough Act To Follow

Ronaldo won every major personal honour in the game, culminating in the FIFA world player of the year award, on the back of his incredible 42-goal haul as Manchester United won the Premier League and Champions League last term.

Although he had to overcome a summer ankle operation and the intense speculation about a move to Real Madrid before he could get back in the thick of the action this season, the 23-year-old started in superb fashion.

But, after notching nine goals in his first 12 appearances, Ronaldo suddenly hit a standstill.

Apart from a goal against Gamba Osaka in the Club World Cup, the Portugal superstar did not find the net once in two months.

However, after converting a penalty in the Carling Cup semi-final win over Derby, Ronaldo then scored twice in the midweek hammering of West Brom, leaving Ferguson to conclude the former Sporting Lisbon star is at last acknowledging he cannot expect to enjoy the stunning achievements of 12 months ago as a matter of course.

"It was a miracle season," reflected Ferguson.

"It is hard to imagine he can replicate that again.

"But I am not sure that Cristiano understood it was a miracle season.

"He had the belief it was normal for him and I think he just expected to carry on.

"But one of the situations he had to face was that this year couldn't be as good as last season.

"Now he has started to come to terms with the whole thing, we will see more goals from him."

It is not that Ronaldo's talent has lessened, just that opponents are now concentrating on ways to stop him.

Two, sometimes three markers are commonplace for Ronaldo now.

In theory that should mean more space for his team-mates, although until recently, that has not been translated into an improvement in the overall United goals output.

"You often comes up against a brick wall in football," said Ferguson.

"Opponents can make it difficult for you because they analyse you better. They put more emphasis on stopping Ronaldo, although we have been missing chances from a few departments not just him."

However Ferguson now expects Ronaldo to go past the 20-goal mark for the third season in a row.

Currently, the winger is on 13, which is not a bad tally for a wide-man at this stage of the season, even if it is only a quarter of last year's phenomenal total.

"People are saying Cristiano has not had a good season but he has got 13 goals and 11 assists," said Ferguson.

"If you dismiss last season altogether they would be saying it is incredible for a winger to score 13 at this stage.

"I am absolutely certain he will end up with over 20 again."
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Source: TeamTalk (http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_4875119,00.html)

[Markowitz]

Berbatov: This Feels Like Home

http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_27329_4177.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=480&hei=179&rgn=0.006109979633401222,0.0079155672823219,0.9775 967413441955,0.47229551451187335&cvt=jpeg

“That was a big relief for me. Sometimes if it doesn’t feel like home, you can’t adapt on or off the pitch. But it was so easy for me to settle here.”

United’s in-form striker Dimitar Berbatov feels completely at home at Old Trafford, and says his current team-mates are the best he’s ever played with.

Berbatov has every reason to be in upbeat mood. He's struck goals against Middlesbrough, Chelsea, Bolton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion (three of them match-winners) in the last month to take his tally to 11 for the season, and he’s also the Premier League’s most creative player, with nine assists.

The reason for it is that Berbatov instantly settled in Manchester, while his unique style of play has been allowed to flourish freely under Sir Alex Ferguson, as Dimitar explained to ManUtd.com.

“I feel completely settled here,” he says. “To be honest, I felt that way from the minute I walked into the dressing room. The boys have been great. It’s like I’ve been here for years. I was made to feel part of the team straight away, and I think things clicked quite early on.

“That was a big relief for me. Sometimes if it doesn’t feel like home, you can’t adapt on or off the pitch. But it was so easy for me to settle here.”

But Berbatov, who describes himself as a perfectionist, isn’t completely satisfied just yet. “I want to train hard and continue to show what I can do in games,” he continues. “Everyone here has talent, but you need to develop the talent God gives you, work hard and, with a bit of luck, you’ll succeed.”

However, life is made a little easier when you have the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez, and whole lot more throughout the side.

“Personally, this is the best squad I’ve been involved with. I am very proud that the manager has said this as well. My country is proud, too. For me to be here, coming from a small country, it’s a big success. You can’t get higher than the standard at United. We have some of the best players and clearly the best coach. It’s a pleasure just to be here and follow in the footsteps of so many great players.”

At 27, Berbatov may be one of the more experienced members of a youthful attack at Old Trafford, but he says there is plenty for him to learn in his peak years.

“I always try to improve and work on my weaknesses,” he adds. “I listen to the boss and the experienced guys in the team who have won many league titles. You only have respect guys like that, they have achieved everything. That’s one of the great things about being here. You work, you develop, improve and, hopefully, win cups and titles. I have my own style and I always play my game. With that, if I can help the team, great.”
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Source: ManUtd.com (http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid={F9E570E6-407E-44BC-800F-4A3110258114}&newsid=6626143&page=1)

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Ronaldo sends United five points clear

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty as Manchester United went five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Everton.

Ronaldo converted from the spot two minutes before half-time at Old Trafford after Mikel Arteta was adjudged to have tripped Michael Carrick.

Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar set a new English league record for time without conceding a goal, breaking the previous mark of 1,103 minutes, as the visitors rarely threatened to beat the Dutchman.

Either Liverpool or Chelsea can reduce the gap to two points when the teams play at Anfield on Sunday, but the champions will have a game in hand.

Everton visited Old Trafford on the back of draws against Liverpool (twice) and Arsenal, and showed the organisation and tenacity that has made them so hard to beat.

The talismanic Tim Cahill started despite a bruised foot picked up against Arsenal on Wednesday, as David Moyes picked an unchanged line-up.

Everton have thrived on a consistency in selection from which Moyes's counterpart across Stanley Park, Rafa Benitez, could learn a thing or two, and the visitors looked comfortable until Ronaldo's breakthrough two minutes before the break.

The outstanding Carrick made a purposeful forward run and, as he entered the area, was caught by Arteta and stayed on his feet until Tony Hibbert tackled him cleanly.

The appeals were muted but referee Mark Halsey awarded the penalty for Arteta's trip. Everton were furious but Ronaldo was not about to let them off the hook, clipping the ball down the middle as Howard dived out of the way.

It was the Portuguese's 14th goal in half an injury-interrupted season - not a bad return given the constant attention devoted to his supposedly sub-standard performance and attitude.

Ronaldo showed all the ambition and ability that saw him crowned the world's best player, attempting skills that few others would even consider.

Exhibit A was a remarkable toe-poke hit with no backlift that scuttled through the Everton box, beat Howard but came back off the inside of the right-hand post.

While Van der Sar extended his Premier League clean sheets record to 12 in a row, his opposite number Tim Howard also excelled himself.

Howard, himself a former Old Trafford keeper, produced a superb close-range stop to deny Carlos Tevez from close range on 12 minutes, and he reacted sharply to a deflected Ronaldo effort to tip it over.

As well as winning the penalty, Carrick was in ambitious form. He sent a left-foot volley just wide after 33 minutes after collecting a majestic scooped through ball from Ronaldo, then forced another fine save from Howard with a drive from the edge of the box.

Early in the second half, Carrick might have had another penalty, when Joleon Lescott tripped him close to goal - this time referee Halsey waved play on.

Tevez may find himself back on the sidelines next weekend, when Wayne Rooney is scheduled to make his return from injury. The Argentine did little to help his cause with a wayward finish after he controlled a low cross from the right.

Tevez, who celebrates his 25th birthday this week, clearly knew he had to make an impact but, on two occasions in the second half, did so to the detriment of his team - ignoring better-placed team-mates to try long-range shots

[dc7176]

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s104/dc7176/BPL/unitedqk0.png http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s104/dc7176/BPL/vs1lh3na8.gif http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s104/dc7176/BPL/evertondy0.png

Manchester United Vs. Everton

EPL 08/09 Week 24

Old Trafford Stadium


GOALS

1st goal for Manchester by Ronaldo 44' (PK)
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590352)


EXTRAS

Park chance 7'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590256)

Tevez chance 12'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590277)

Ronaldo's post 26'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590310)

Ronaldo shot 27'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590320)

Tevez shot 52'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590405)

Tevez free kick 71'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590432)

Park shot 87'
Click Here for Video (http://www.d1g.com/video/show/?id=2590451)

[Markowitz]

Probable New Man Utd Shirt Sponsor

http://www.footballshirtculture.com/images/stories/nbty-manchester-united.jpg
NBTY: Favourite For New Sponsor

With AIG announcing that they won’t be renewing (http://www.footballshirtculture.com/200901222050/sponsorship/aig-ends-manchester-united-sponsor-deal.html) their sponsorship of Manchester United due to the affects of the credit crunch Paddy Power have begun betting on the next shirt sponsor of Manchester United and there is already a strong favourite.

The most likely new sponsor of Manchester United according to Paddy Power is NBTY. Paddy Power offer 9/4 that NBTY is the next shirt sponsor of Manchester United.

NBTY is a leading global vertically integrated manufacturer, marketer and distributor of a broad line of high-quality, value-priced nutritional supplements in the United States and throughout the world. Under a number of NBTY and third party brands, the Company offers over 22,000 products, including products marketed by the Company's Nature's Bounty.

Sahara

http://abclive.in/thumbnail.php?file=sahara_208506866.jpg&size=article_medium
Sahara Group, India

Another new sponsor of Manchester United according to Paddy Power could be Sahara. Paddy Power offer 7/2 that Sahara is the next shirt sponsor of Manchester United. The name may not be familiar to many, they are an Indian group whose interests range from financial services to real estate. They also sponsor the Indian cricket team. It is thought United have approached several companies about sponsorship and Sahara have confirmed they are one of those companies.

Tata , Saudi Telecom, China Telecom

It shows what a global brand Manchester United is when all of the companies being linked with Manchester United are international ones.

http://www$$$$$news.in/files/tata_steel_0.jpe
Tata Group India

Tata are 3rd favourites at 8/1 with Paddy Power. Tata own several car brands such as Jaguar and Land Rover and it has been announced that they will be sponsoring the Ferrari Formula One team. Whether or not they can afford to sponsor both Ferrari and Manchester United in the current financial climate remains to be seen.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/media/images/38228000/jpg/_38228564_sauditelecom300.jpg
Saudi Telecom

Also third favourites are Saudi telecom who are both 8/1. China Telecom follows with 10/1

Other interesting links include Pepsi who are 16/1 and McDonalds who are 18/1 with Paddy Power.

To find out the odds on the next shirt sponsor being Yahoo, Google or the Abu Dhabi Group (owners of Manchester City)
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Source: Football Shirt Culture (http://www.footballshirtculture.com/200901312073/sponsorship/manchester-united-shirt-sponsor-put-your-money-on-nbty.html)

[dc7176]

oi!! guys!!! devil supporters!!! how cum this thread so quiet liao??? lets talk abt the next match vs west ham!!

West Ham Vs Man Utd

Edwin van der Sar will be looking to keep his 13th clean sheet in a row when league leaders Manchester United travel to Upton Park on Sunday.

While title rivals Chelsea and Liverpool have all stuttered recently, Sir Alex Ferguson's side have hit a rich vein of form since losing 2-1 at Arsenal at the beginning of November.

United have won ten and drawn two games without conceding a goal since that setback to move two points clear of second-placed Liverpool and they still have a match in hand.

The unbeaten run has come despite a string of injury problems but they finally appear to be easing.

Wayne Rooney could return to action after missing the last five matches with the hamstring injury he suffered in the 1-0 victory against Wigan Athletic, while Patrice Evra has recovered form the ankle problem he sustained in last month's win against Chelsea.

Nani is also available following his groin injury against Derby County in the Carling Cup semi-final second leg but Rafael (hamstring), Anderson (foot), Jonny Evans (ankle) and Owen Hargreaves (knee) all miss out once again.

United won't find it easy at Upton Park though against an in-form Hammers side and on a ground where they have a poor record.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Giggs magic sends United top

Ryan Giggs rolled back the years to send Manchester United top of the Premier League, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win at West Ham.

The 35-year-old struck just after the hour mark with a piece of brilliance, cutting inside from the left flank, beating two men and finishing low past Robert Green.

The champions increased their consecutive clean sheet record to 13, but were made to work hard by an impressive, industrious West Ham side.

Gianfranco Zola picked the same team for the fourth consecutive match, while Alex Ferguson made three changes - bringing in Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rafael da Silva for Ji-Sung Park, Darren Fletcher and the unwell Gary Neville.

Carlos Tevez received warm applause on his return to Upton Park, but produced a quiet performance and will surely return to his familiar position on the bench when Wayne Rooney returns against Derby County in the FA Cup next weekend.

West Ham showed all of the organisation and resilience that their coaching team of Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke has given them, denying the champions time on the ball and limiting their goalscoring opportunities.

Carlton Cole might have celebrated his call-up to the England squad with a goal on 13 minutes, when he was released down the right channel and sprinted away from Rio Ferdinand.

But instead of shooting with power, Cole attempted a cute chip and Van der Sar made a comfortable catch.

A minute earlier, Lucas Neill also came close to ending United's run of defensive perfection when he volleyed goalwards but, after a brief fumble, the goalkeeper held on to the ball.

Then Jack Collison had a chance, as the young Welshman collected the ball and turned into shooting position, but took one touch too many and Ferdinand eventually scrambled it away.

At the other end, the visitors dominated the statistics but only once genuinely threatened Green's goal before the break.

Giggs played a free-kick on the right low to Scholes 25 yards out, and he dragged his first-time shot off-target. However, an instinctive sidefoot from Cristiano Ronaldo redirected the ball towards the top corner and Green made a superb reflex save to palm it away.

The goal came when Giggs received a perfect crossfield pass from Scholes on the left, then turned inside beyond two flailing challenges and sent a right-foot shot into the bottom corner through a sea of legs.

It was Giggs's first goal of the season, and ensured he has now scored in all 19 of his league campaigns.

Thereafter United were comfortable, passing the ball around with Dimitar Berbatov proving an unusually effective defensive influence.

Scholes and Giggs have had to put up with reduced playing time in the twilight of their careers, but they still possess match-winning quality and between them turned one point into three.

Those extra two points are the margin by which Ferguson's side lead Liverpool with a game still in hand, to be played against Fulham in 10 days' time.

[yinyang]

Ferguson calm after vital victory

Fergsuon praised Giggs for his services to United. Sir Alex Ferguson refused to get carried away about Manchester United's title hopes after victory at West Ham took them back to the top of the table.

A superb Ryan Giggs goal proved enough and put them two points clear of Liverpool with a game in hand.

But Ferguson said: "Mistakes can be made - we had an 11 point lead over Arsenal in 1998 and lost the league, so we are not counting our chickens.

"We shouldn't either because this game can come and bite you."

United hopes of a 11th league title under the leadership of Ferguson were given a boost this weekend with Chelsea and Arsenal falling further off the pace following draws.

However, their nearest challengers Liverpool managed to secure a last-gasp victory at Portsmouth.

It looked at one stage that they would only secure a point at Upton Park until Giggs cut in from the left, drifting past two West Ham's players, before firing past Robert Green.

It was the Welshman's first goal of the campaign and maintained his record of scoring in every Premier League season.

"I am searching my memory bank for the last time Ryan scored with his right foot," said Ferguson. "I think it was against Coventry 12 years ago

"Ryan truly is a credit to the game. If anyone wants an example of how to dedicate themselves to football, you could have no greater example than Ryan Giggs."

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola believes that 35-year-old, who made his first appearance for United in 1990, can play on for "many years".

"I have a lot of admiration for him, he is a fantastic player, and although you are the opposite side, you enjoy players like him," said Zola. "He is one of those players you would love to have in your team". "He is a very good advertisement for football and young players. When somebody has got such a talent it is all down to the desire.

"If you have the desire to carry on playing and challenging yourself all the time, he can play for many years.

"It is up to him. When I was at his age, I just didn't want to give up. I wanted to get better and better. That's why I played for more years.

"Looking at him, he has the same desire. He is one of those players you would love to have in your team."

[CKee]

[QUOTE=dc7176;3453969]oi!! guys!!! devil supporters!!! how cum this thread so quiet liao??? lets talk abt the next match vs west ham!!
[CENTER]
West Ham Vs Man Utd

Defensively and to an extent offensively West Ham played well, pressing Man Utd and fighting to be the first to reach the ball. But what separates the top tier teams from the rest is the the moment of brilliance to find an opening and deliver the killer blow.

For the past few matches, the stats boast that Man Utd have the majority of the play. Maybe this season Fergie has decided that at times, he should incorporate the style which he adopted when Man Utd played Barcelona last season (en route to the Champions League final) - which is keeping the ball and passing it around, letting the opponents chase the game. Thre is a certain calm in this season's play. I'm a fan of Owen Hargreaves and waiting for him to return to the fold. Any news?

Rafael has played well in matches which featured him. With his brother Fabio, they are for the future...

[yinyang]

..I'm a fan of Owen Hargreaves and waiting for him to return to the fold. Any news?
Rafael has played well in matches which featured him. With his brother Fabio, they are for the future...
OH is out for rest season (so I hear) due to his recurring medical problem. I actually prefer him over Carrick. C's great with his distribution, but OH is more hardy -tackles included:D

[CKee]

OH is out for rest season (so I hear) due to his recurring medical problem. I actually prefer him over Carrick. C's great with his distribution, but OH is more hardy -tackles included:D

Carrick and Hargreaves are different types of players. The former is deployed in the creative mold -picking up players with the killer pass. Though of late, Sir Alex wants him to also get in with his fair share of tackles. In the last few games, Carrick's overall contribution has been good. He is also cool under pressure with good use of bith feet. Speed wise he's never there but so what right?Hmmm...people always mention Berbatov of his languid style, Carrick also looks indifferent at times :)

Concur that Hargreaves is the harrying type - terrifying opponents. Maybe due to his style of play, which is always high tempo, full of hard running and crunching tackles, Hargreaves' body can't take the constant punishment in the EPL. Thought that he would be a good addition to the team. Understand that even in the Bundesliga, Hargreaves was constantly injured and they don't play that many games in Germany - with a winter break thrown in.

[alex18122003]

FA Cup - Team news: Rooney to miss out

A round-up of the FA Cup fifth round team news with Manchester United unlikely to play Wayne Rooney at Derby.

Sunday February 15

Derby County v Manchester United (17:30)

Derby full-back Jay McEveley is suspended, so Lewin Nyatanga is set to start at left-back.

United are unlikely to play Wayne Rooney, who is almost fit again after a hamstring injury, while Anderson is also missing. However, Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand are both fit.

Monday February 16

Cardiff City v Arsenal (Fourth-round replay, 19:45)

Cardiff skipper Darren Purse is set to miss out due to the return to fitness of Gabor Gyepes.

Over a year after breaking his leg at Birmingham City, Croatia striker Eduardo could return the Arsenal starting line-up due to Emmanuel Adebayor's torn hamstring. Gunners fans will have to wait for new signing Andrei Arshavin's debut though, as the Russian is ineligible having signed after the first match of this tie was played. A knee injury means former Cardiff player Aaron Ramsey will miss the chance to play against his old club.

[alex18122003]

Boss: Rooney will start

Sir Alex has confirmed he'll hand Wayne Rooney his first start for five weeks when Blackburn Rovers visit Old Trafford on Saturday.

Rooney, who scored in midweek after coming off the bench against Fulham, missed the previous seven matches after tearing a hamstring in the Reds' win over Wigan Athletic on 14 January.

Now, however, the boss says the Englishman is fit and raring to go.

"Wayne will play," Sir Alex told media at his pre-match press conference. "He has to start so we can see how far advanced he is, but we think he's fine. We could have been tempted to use him at Derby on Sunday, but we decided the extra few days’ training would help him."

Elsewhere, John O'Shea's swollen heel, sustained on Wednesday night, means the Irishman is a "slight doubt".

"Other than that, it's the same squad," Sir Alex confirmed.

Victory against Blackburn will send United eight points clear of title rivals Liverpool, who play on Sunday.

[dc7176]

Barcelona launching £20M bid for Man Utd fullback Evra

Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra is a £20 million target for Barcelona.

The News of the World says the Spanish giants have made several trips to Old Trafford to monitor the Frenchman’s form and fitness.

Although Evra signed a new four-year deal worth £70,000 a week only last season, he has been tempted in the past by the interest of Real Madrid and Barca. And while Alex Ferguson rates him highly, he might be tempted by a £20m offer for a left-back.

The United boss has hopes for the Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio Da Silva and sees them as his long-term full-back partners. That could persuade Fergie to cash in on first-choice Evra as he freshens up his squad.

[dc7176]

Goal Video: Manchester United 2-1 Blackburn (http://www.soccergoalx.com/2009/02/21/goal-video-manchester-united-2-1-blackburn/)

[dc7176]

Ferguson delighted with response of Man Utd youngsters to strategy

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted with the way his youngsters have responded to the rigours of first team football this term.

In his programme notes for yesterday's victory over Blackburn, Ferguson said: "We agreed that the way forward with our youngsters was that as soon as we had identified they had the quality and temperament to become first-team players, then we would bring them into the squad and let them train with the seniors.

"This has made a huge difference to their readiness for the big time, and they are able to make the most of a first-team chance as and when it comes along. This policy has made our training sessions quite hectic and crowded at times, but we have the coaching staff to cope, and it has enabled our young players to step up with more confidence than if they were coming straight out of the Reserves and into the first team.

"It’s important that the lads feel they are progressing, and you have to challenge their ambition rather than let them linger so long at Reserve level that it becomes too much of a comfort zone for them. Training with the senior players is an invaluable stepping stone, and one of the reasons why I felt confident about giving the youngsters their chance in the two domestic cup competitions.

"Of course, when you pick lads and come a cropper, there will be some people who will point a finger and criticise you for fielding a weakened team, but you don’t win every match whatever the strength of your side. We lost at Derby in the first leg of our Carling Cup semi-final, and I am sure some of our critics felt that with a Wembley final just one step away, I should have played all the big guns.

"But I didn’t have any regrets, because I knew that, long term, the lads wouldn’t let me down, and that I was pursuing the right policy. They came good in the second leg, and to underline their worth they went back to Pride Park last week and gave a display of quality football which kept our fans cheering all night. I shall stay with these boys in the cups, and they can expect to be involved at Wembley against Spurs in the Carling Cup final."

He added: "There are more good youngsters coming through, too, like Federico Macheda and Davide Petrucci, both from Rome, plus local lads Matthew James and Richard Eckersley."

[machoman]

Fergie still cautious as Harry bets on United fab five

Monday, March 02, 2009, 11:16:31 HRS

http://67.15.8.113/photo_1235958131868-1-1.jpg
Manchester United's manager Alex Ferguson celebrates with the trophy after his team beat Tottenham to win the 2009 Carling Cup final at Wembley stadium, north London, on March 1. United won by beating holders Tottenham 4-1 on penalties after the match ended 0-0 after extra-time.

Sir Alex Ferguson insists it will take a freakish run of good luck for it to happen. But Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is prepared to put his money on Manchester United ending the season with an unprecedented haul of five major trophies.

Sunday's penalty shoot-out win over Redknapp's Spurs in the League Cup final means it is two down, three to go for United following their World Club Championship triumph in Japan in December.

And the next ten days will go a long way towards deciding the fate of their bid for a clean sweep of every competition they have entered this season.

Liverpool's defeat at Middlesbrough on Saturday means Ferguson's men, who travel to Newcastle on Wednesday, are seven points clear in the Premier League with a game in hand.

An FA Cup quarter-final tie at Fulham on Saturday could see United move to within two matches of claiming that trophy and, four days later, Inter Milan visit Old Trafford with a place in the last eight of the Champions League at stake.

By mid-March, the odds on a 'quintuple' could be very much shorter, but Ferguson insists he is not getting "carried away" by the prospect of an achievement that would match that of one of his heroes, Jock Stein, with Celtic in 1967.

"Only you guys, the media, will get carried away with it," he said. "We'll keep our feet on the ground.

"My experience is we could go to Fulham this weekend in the FA Cup and the ball comes off somebody's backside and we are out of the cup. That is what cups can do to you."
Manchester United's Portuguese player Cristiano Ronaldo holds the trophy after his team beat Tottenham Hotspur during the 2009 Carling Cup final at Wembley in London. United won by beating holders Tottenham 4-1 on penalties after the match ended 0-0 after extra-time.

"The best thing we can do is gather ourselves, energise ourselves for Newcastle on Wednesday, which will be a very difficult game for us, and go from there, taking it one step at a time."

Redknapp has been around long enough to share Ferguson's scepticism about the chances of everything turning out just as you would like it.

But he also believes United's squad has sufficient depth of quality to make their own luck.

"They have got a big chance -- they are the team to beat for sure," Redknapp said.

"They have a fantastic squad. They have one cup already, it looks as if the league is going their way for sure and you wouldn't bet against them in the Champions League and the FA Cup."

Ferguson acknowledged that Tottenham might easily have won Sunday's match before the shoot-out but for the heroics of goalkeeper Ben Foster, who made crucial saves in open play from Aaron Lennon and Darren Bent before stopping Jamie O'Hara's opening spot-kick for Spurs.

"It was not an easy day for us," Ferguson said. "Tottenham were good opponents and they probably had the better chances in the match but Ben has made a few good saves for us."

Ferguson said Foster's performance was another sign that, as well as being the natural successor to Edwin van der Sar at United, he could go on to be England's number one for "a large number of years."

"The future is his," Ferguson added. "The present belongs to Van der Sar, that is obvious but that performance can only strengthen my opinion of his ability and his own self-confidence.

"He is a strong character -- he has had to be. He has had to come through two cruciate ligament injuries and you have to have something inside you to do that."

Despite his admiration for United, Redknapp felt his side had edged the contest on points.

"The lads were terrific, we just could not get that break," he said. "I thought we were going to win it in the last minute (when Darren Bent drew a good save from Foster)."

Spurs' fate was sealed after O'Hara had their first penalty saved by Foster and David Bentley steered the third spot-kick wide, handing Brazilian midfielder Anderson to follow Ryan Giggs, Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo in converting his spot-kick to give United an unassailable 4-1 lead.

Despite Ferguson's praise for Tottenham's display, it was United who came closest to winning the match in regulation time with Ronaldo having struck the inside of the post in the third minute of injury time.

http://67.15.8.113/photo_1235934180329-1-1.jpg
Manchester United's Portuguese player Cristiano Ronaldo holds the trophy after his team beat Tottenham Hotspur during the 2009 Carling Cup final at Wembley in London. United won by beating holders Tottenham 4-1 on penalties after the match ended 0-0 after extra-time.


Television replays also suggested that Ronaldo should have earned a penalty earlier in the second half after beating Ledley King to the ball inside the box.

Instead the Portuguese winger earned a yellow card for what the referee judged to have been a dive.

Tottenham's best chance fell to Lennon soon afterwards but the winger was unable to beat Foster from ten yards.

[SP2010]

GLORY GLORY MAN UTD .. !

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[SP2010]

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[SP2010]

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[asiancigar]

HIP HIP HURRRRRAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYY

2 in the bag and 3 more to goooooooooooooooo

Cheerz
AC

[alex18122003]

Kuyt Ready For United Test

Dirk Kuyt believes Liverpool can draw on their performances against Real Madrid to re-ignite their Premier League title challenge against leaders Manchester United on Saturday.

The foundation for a 5-0 aggregate Champions League last-16 victory over the nine-time European champions was set up by Yossi Benayoun's solitary goal in the Bernabeu a fortnight ago.

Kuyt said that experience in the Spanish capital, in particular, would be invaluable as they make the short trip to Old Trafford for the lunchtime kick-off.

"This was a great result and performance in the Champions League, but it's also great going into our next game on Saturday," said the Dutchman after the club's 4-0 demolition of Real at Anfield last night.

"It gives us confidence and we're really looking forward to the weekend now. "Man Utd are playing very well - they've had some great results - but we'll see what we can do on Saturday.

"Of course Liverpool have to win every game but it will be very difficult against a side like Manchester United.

"It was the same for us when we played Madrid two weeks ago. We will give it a try."

Liverpool's tactics surprised many against Juande Ramos' side as they began the match at lightning pace and could have been 3-0 up even before Fernando Torres' 16th-minute opener.

Two goals from captain Steven Gerrard - his first a controversial penalty for handball when the ball clearly struck ex-Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze's shoulder - and a late effort from Andrea Dossena wrapped up victory.

Winger Ryan Babel and central midfielder Javier Mascherano also excelled and Kuyt said it was important, with 10 matches left in the Premier League and a Champions League quarter-final to look forward to, that everyone stepped up their game.

"Everyone knows how important Gerrard and Torres are to the team but Babel had a great performance and put in a great assist for Stevie," added the Dutchman.

"He was also involved in Dossena's goal. He's worked really hard over the past couple of weeks, so deserves all the credit he's going to get.

"I don't know whether or not it's the best we've played since I've been here, but if you beat Real Madrid 5-0 overall it's great and hopefully it will prove to be one of our biggest results."

Wirral-born former youth team captain Jay Spearing replaced Gerrard for the last 16 minutes to make his home debut and was left stunned by the experience.

"I could hear the crowd singing my name and I couldn't think straight," said the 20-year-old, who made his first appearance for the club in December's group game against PSV Eindhoven in Holland.

"Quite a few of the lads said congratulations at the end of the game and if I keep working hard I might get another chance."

[alex18122003]

Champions League - United topple Inter to reach quarters

Goals by Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo gave Manchester United a 2-0 win over Internazionale at Old Trafford to secure the European champions' passage into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The goals, both headers coming at the beginning of each half, saw Alex Ferguson register just his second career win over his old foe Jose Mourinho, whose Porto side eliminated United on their way to winning the tournament in back in 2004.

United moved into the last eight 2-0 on aggregate after the first leg in Milan ended goalless a fortnight ago, although Inter were far from pushovers and hit the woodwork in each half during an entertaining game.

But following their early breakthrough, United doggedly refused to allow Mourinho's side a route back into the game and the result ensured the holders retain an interest in the competition ahead of Friday's quarter-final draw.

As far as starts go, on the night United could not have asked for much better. Right from the kick-off they attacked Inter and they were rewarded with the opener from their second corner of the game.

Ryan Giggs's first dead ball had been easily cleared by the Italian defence, but his second found Vidic careering in unmarked to power a header past Julio Cesar.

The culprit for leaving the Serb all alone? A certain Patrick Vieira - a surprise inclusion in Mourinho's starting XI - the former Arsenal midfielder having turned his back and then slipped to leave Vidic free.

United then had two handball appeals in the space of seconds, the evergreen Giggs seeing a cross blocked by a prone Walter Samuel before Dejan Stankovic's arm got in the way of his second attempt to get the ball into the middle. While the first was the more plausible appeal, both were dismissed by referee Wolfgang Stark.

It was rousing stuff from the hosts but their initial fervour soon eased as Inter began to settle and gain a foothold in the game.

And sure enough, the Italian side began to create chances of their own, the mercurial Zlatan Ibrahimovic proving his goal threat on several occasions.

The Swede lost Rio Ferdinand to meet a free-kick with a downward header that bounced up on to the crossbar on 29 minutes before he fired wide having been put in by a sublime first-time pass by Mario Balotelli on 40 minutes.

In between those efforts, Stankovic brought a tremendous fingertip save from Edwin van der Sar before the Serb fired over with a difficult chance from Ibrahimovic's awkwardly bouncing cross.

At the other end, United had a glorious chance to double their lead before the first half was out, only it fell to the one man United fans would rather not have seen in such a position - John O'Shea.

The Irishman burst on to Wayne Rooney's delightful through pass but with Dimitar Berbatov free to his left he opted to go for goal, allowing Julio Cesar to narrow the angle and make the save.

Inter emerged from the tunnel for the second half rejuvenated and looking far more hungry than they had done 45 minutes previously.

But their gusto came to nothing as Ronaldo swooped four minutes after the restart, the Portuguese powering forward to meet Rooney's delightful cross and register his first goal of this season's competition.

Credit to Inter, they continued to search for a goal that would have got them right back into the game, Esteban Cambiasso bringing Van der Sar into action almost immediately after United's second went in.

Substitute Adriano, who had been demoted to the bench in favour of the disappointing Balotelli, then struck the inside of an upright with an outrageous flying volley that Van der Sar was struggling to reach.

But with that chance gone, Inter's game deteriorated - Ibrahimovic typifying the visitors' mood with a ballooned long-range effort before a half-hearted back-post attempt at a header - and with it went any hope of getting something from the tie.

Berbatov should have made it three for United following a Cesar spill and the Inter keeper had to be on his toes again to deny Rooney and then Ronaldo as time ran out.

The elimination of the Italian champions keeps alive the possibility of a quintuple for United, whose next task will be to beat Premier League pretenders Liverpool in Saturday's lunchtime clash.

[Max80]

thanks bro sp2010 for the great pics!!

Im backing MU for the CL and EPL title !!

[SP2010]

thanks bro sp2010 for the great pics!!
Im backing MU for the CL and EPL title !!

Welcome bro .. and not forgetting the FA CUP as well :)

MAN UTD Squad v INTER MILAN 12th Mar 09.

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[SP2010]

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[SP2010]

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[SP2010]

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[asiancigar]

i really love this article...... hehehe

Ferguson admits he's still baffled by Rafa's rant

Sir Alex Ferguson intends to consult the works of great psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud to try and work out what lies behind the legend of 'Rafa's rant'.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez let forth a string of invective against his Manchester United counterpart in January, accusing Ferguson of exerting undue influence on the English game and claiming the Scot was a hypocrite and a whinger.

As, virtually from the moment Benitez had finished his tirade, Liverpool's fortunes have slumped as United charged clear in the title race, Ferguson felt no need to respond.

The Scot still feels the same now, in fact he is totally non-plussed at the reason for Benitez's outburst.

"I would need to read more Freud before I could really understand it and where it came from,'' reflected Ferguson.

"I am not really interested. It never bothered me at the time and it doesn't bother me now.''

Ferguson does accept their respective positions mean he will never be bosom buddies with the former Valencia coach. It is the same with another long-standing rival, Arsene Wenger, although it does not prevent the Red Devils chief accepting what a brilliant coach the Frenchman is.

"Anybody that manages Liverpool is a rival to me,'' he said.

"Over the years we have had Kenny [Dalglish], Graeme [Souness], Roy [Evans], Gerard [Houllier] and now Rafa. It doesn't matter who manages Liverpool, they will always be a rival, it is part of the history.

"It's the same with Arsenal. Arsene and I have had our fall outs but you must respect the quality of football he produces. The Arsenal team has got Wenger written right across it.''

For United and their fans however, Liverpool represent something else entirely.

Ferguson recognised the mutual loathing as soon as he came down from Aberdeen and vowed to knock the Merseyside outfit off their perch as kings of England.

That aim has long since been achieved but there are a few other factors likely to give tomorrow's showdown more spice than usual.

United are chasing an 18th league title to match Liverpool's long-standing record for a start. Benitez's men are desperate to stop them and realise that, seven points adrift having played a game more, nothing but a win will do.

Then there are the controversial comments Wayne Rooney made to MUTV in midweek, outlining his personal hatred of the Anfield outfit, which have only served to stoke the fires even more.

"Liverpool have always been our main rival,'' said Ferguson.

"It does not matter what the position in the league, as far as I am concerned, it has always been the derby game.

[asiancigar]

This article by Rafa is also very comical..... loaded with " Ifs' and Maybe's " wahaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAA

We can shatter United empire

RAFA BENITEZ will shake Alex Ferguson by the hand and offer a warm smile today — convinced he is on course to shatter the Manchester United empire.
Liverpool’s manager takes his side to Old Trafford on the back of Tuesday’s Euro drubbing of Real Madrid.

Benitez knows even his first- ever league victory at United would leave the title as no more than a faint hope.

The defending champions would still be four points ahead, with a game in hand.

Yet the Spaniard has seen enough this term to back up his belief that he will eventually mastermind the toppling of United — even if it is not this season.

Benitez insisted: “I think we can. This year has been better than before and, with one or two more goals, we could have been about four points closer. So, of course, we can do it.

“This year we’ve been up there for a long time. But we have also made some mistakes. If we cut those out in the future, we’ll be even closer. Then maybe the motivation would be different for everyone.

“If we can do everything well, if everybody is together and we can improve on the pitch — team selection, commercial, everything — we can be closer. We must be more consistent.”

Benitez put himself in the firing-line with his infamous rant against Ferguson, claiming he had too much influence over referees and got preferential treatment from the FA.

After his outburst before the draw at Stoke in early January, Liverpool went four games without a win and crashed out of the FA Cup at Everton. Meanwhile United cruised past them at the top.

Ferguson admitted he was baffled by what the Kop boss said, joking he would have to read more Freud before he could work the statements out.

Yet Benitez is adamant his comments — or facts, as he insists — have had no bearing on how things have turned out.

He added: “The facts are the facts, I can’t change that. I will have to improve my English! But, really, I don’t think that made any difference.

“I haven’t spoken to him about it. But I will shake his hand, because I have a lot of respect for him.

“He’s a great manager of a big team. But I have to defend my club.

“And if Steven Gerrard had scored at Stoke, instead of hitting a post, the facts would still be the same.”

Against Real Madrid, Liverpool tore at them from the off — something they have not done against the lesser lights when they have dropped points this season.

But Benitez thinks the major reason behind their slips facing the likes of Stoke, Fulham and Hull has been a failure to score that crucial first goal.

He claimed: “It’s not just a question of determination and high tempo.

“If you don’t have the space, you have to make sure you don’t give the ball away.

The first goal always makes a massive difference.”

He is convinced United’s desire to please their own fans will ensure the defending champions do not simply sit on a draw and open the door for Liverpool’s counter-attacks.

Benitez insisted: “Clearly they will try and win, because they’re at Old Trafford.

“They won’t be thinking of a draw in front of their own fans, so they will not think of anything except winning.”

At least he will be able to unleash a fully fit Gerrard and a rejuvenated Fernando Torres, even though neither player has ever really managed to shine against United.

Their manager, though, thinks the time has come.

He declared: “Maybe they can start this time.

“They’re really important to us and, if we keep them fit, it will be very difficult for United to stop them.”

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Manchester Utd v Liverpool

Carlos Tevez starts alongside Wayne Rooney as Manchester United look to end Liverpool's Premier League title challenge at Old Trafford.
Carlos Tevez starts alongside Wayne Rooney as Manchester United look to end Liverpool's Premier League title challenge at Old Trafford.


Liverpool have never won at Old Trafford under Rafa Benitez.

Liverpool have taken 10 points from four games against 'big four' rivals this season.

United have won only one of their four games against 'big four' rivals this season.

There have been three red cards in the last four league meetings between Liverpool and United.

Rio Ferdinand has scored three Premier League goals against Liverpool, he has not scored more than one against any other top-flight side.

Wayne Rooney has scored in five consecutive league games for the first time in his career.

Liverpool are the only team to fall behind against United in the league this season and come back to win.

The Merseyside club have recouped more points than any other team from losing positions in the top division this season (18).

Should Liverpool win, it will be their 100th Premier League victory under Rafa Benitez.

If United win, they will equal their best sequence of Premier League victories - 12 in a row

[asiancigar]

Alamak....... no one showed up at Old Trafford........

Feel that SAF got the tactics wrong........ should have started with Giggs, Scoles and Berbatov instead of Anderson, O'Shea and Tevez.

But, nonetheless we are still 4 pts up with a game in hand...... hehehe

Cheerz
AC

[lacoruna69]

Could be kelong....if Man U wins, they run away with title liao. Do you think anyone will watch the remaining matches anymore? It is all a money game.
Best to lose to Liverpool than other teams. :cool:

[bigassman]

It was a disastrous result... low morale whole night

the only way i can console myself is reminding myself Man Utd are still leading 4 points with 1 game in hand... they will surely come back stronger

Lets see who will have the last laugh;)

[CNY_OX09]

Could be kelong....

same thought here else how can MU lost by such a margin,maybe 1-2 still acceptable.
the teamwork and spirit was not in the match.
MU will surely bounce back and the next opponent will get the heat.

[asiancigar]

Could be kelong.......... It is all a money game.
Best to lose to Liverpool than other teams. :cool:

Totally concur.......

It was a disastrous result...

the only way i can console myself is.......... they will surely come back stronger


Absolutely.........

same thought here else how can MU lost by such a margin, maybe 1-2 still acceptable.
the teamwork and spirit was not in the match.
MU will surely bounce back and the next opponent will get the heat.

Also think that some level of fatigue set in after Inter Milan.....

Cheerz
AC

[dc7176]

i kena suan left right centre liao lor... yest didnt even buy newspapers... but i still puttin up my man utd avator... keke... we should c who havin the last laught end of the season!! :cool:

[asiancigar]

Hmmmmm, this is very worrying.....

Man Utd's financial challenge
Massive battle for Championship favourite

The Observer reports that Man Utd no longer are as solid as one would expect. Creditors doubts the clubs abillity to keep head over water and hold their obligations.

Worried lenders sell on Man Utd debts at knockdown prices. Sales of loans, taken out by the club, is now sold at deeply destressed prices as they grow concerned about the abillity to heavilly indebted companies to meet interest payments through a recession.

Despite enjoying one of the best seasons on the pitch, with five trophy wins still in prospect, Man Utd's financial future looks far from rosy.

Huge amounts of depths were heaped on the club's books as part of a private equity style buyout led by US entrepeneur Malcolm Glazer in 2005.

Discussion about refinancing loans through securations in future gate receipts have been shelved, as the market for such products has in effect closed.

With unemployment levels rising, one in four season ticket holders all over considers dropping their ticket for next season and just go to the most interesting games.

Merchendise sales will decrease world wide and the resession will in full be seen for the start of the 2009/10 season.

Clubs such as Portsmouth and West Ham are in big trouble, but other clubs heavy in depth could see a much colder futhre ahead, despite good results on the pitch.

[yinyang]

Fellow red devils, let's hold heads high.

So we lost, and nothing we say or do will change result. The probability of our faltering or ending our unbeaten run was always there. Just like throwing that proverbial dice, cannot get 6 always mah. Though losing by that margin and at OT home some more is galling.

Let's hit Fulham away for what we are worth and rest games. :p
i kena suan left right centre liao lor... yest didnt even buy newspapers... but i still puttin up my man utd avator... keke... we should c who havin the last laught end of the season!!

[Tintinsnowy]

West Ham United and Sheffield United have confirmed they have come to an agreement on compensation over the Carlos Tevez affair, bringing to an end a saga which has rumbled on for almost two years.

The row centred around Tevez's eligibility to play for the Hammers towards the end of the 2006/07 season, when the Blades were relegated on the final day of the season after losing at home to Wigan Athletic while Tevez scored the only goal in West Ham's victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.

It has sparked three separate inquiries, one of which led to a £5.5m fine - but not a points deduction - for the Hammers.

An independent tribunal had already found in the Championship side's favour though West Ham had been fighting the ruling.

The Bramall Lane club were reportedly seeking compensation in the region of £45m, due to the loss of income brought about by relegation. But it is thought West Ham had come up with documents of their own to prove that relegation only costs £5m in real terms.

Reports at the end of last week claimed the two clubs had agreed a payment of £10-15m, with that figure being paid in instalments over a five year period. Some suggest the final payment may be up to £25m.

The announcement relieves a lot of the financial pressure at Upton Park with the Hammers still reeling from the collapse of Icelandic bank Landsbanki, which was run by owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson who effectively lost most of his personal wealth when the institution collapsed.

The spectre of a possible £45m payout had blocked any chance of a takeover of the club, but now that the Tevez affair has been put to bed the club can move forward without the fear of a sudden sizeable bill coming through the letter box.

The clubs have released a joint statement which read: "West Ham United and Sheffield United have reached an out-of-court settlement with regard to the dispute between the two clubs - agreeing that it is time to move on and bring the matter to an end.

"The agreement means the independent tribunal in relation to Carlos Tevez, chaired by Lord Griffiths, that was due to reconvene today (Monday, March 16) will no longer proceed.

West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury and Sheffield United Chairman Kevin McCabe said: "Both clubs are pleased to announce that a satisfactory settlement for compensation has been reached which brings the dispute between Sheffield United and West Ham United to an end. The tribunal will not be resuming."

Mr Duxbury said: "For everyone concerned, the time was right to draw a line under this whole episode. We have had very positive discussions over a number of days with Sheffield United and acknowledge their willingness to resolve this in the best interests of both clubs.

"This now allows us to concentrate on our immediate ambitions, which include a strong finish to the Premier League season and possible European qualification, without any negative impact on our long-term project. We wish Sheffield United well in their bid to secure promotion from the Championship."

Mr McCabe said: "We are happy and satisfied with the settlement with West Ham. Throughout the finalisation of the terms for the agreement, the discussions were friendly, co-operative and in the best of spirit with both the Blades and Hammers advisory teams.

"We are two clubs with a fantastic footballing history who now want to move on and focus on the business of playing football - hopefully for us against the Hammers in the Premier League next season. We look forward to a positive ongoing relationship with West Ham at all levels."

[asiancigar]

Here it is boys......

United draw Porto
MARCH 20, 2009

MANCHESTER United have been drawn against FC Porto in the Champions League quarter-final. United will play the first leg at home.

United will face the winners of Arsenal v Villarreal in the semi-finals if they beat Porto.

In the other quarter-finals, Liverpool face Chelsea while Barcelona will meet Bayern Munich. The winners of those two games will meet in the other semi-final.

The draw for the Champions League quarter-finals is:

Villarreal v Arsenal
Manchester United v Porto
Liverpool v Chelsea
Barcelona v Bayern Munich

The first legs will be played on April 7/8 with the second legs on April 14/15.

The draw for the Champions League semi-finals is:

Manchester United or Porto v Villarreal or Arsenal
Barcelona v Bayern Munich or Liverpool v Chelsea

The first legs will be played on April 28/29 with the second legs on May 5/6.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Chelsea beaten at Tottenham

Chelsea blew the chance to cut the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester United when they slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur.

Nine-man United were beaten 2-0 at Fulham, which gave Chelsea a sniff at reducing their lead to just one point.

But a second-half goal from Luka Modric (pictured) gave Spurs a win they deserved against an uninspired Blues side that laboured for much of the game.

Kick-off was delayed by half an hour after a suspicious package was reported at White Hart Lane.

The wait did not seem to help Chelsea, who looked sluggish in the first half. Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka barely touched the ball and their support in midfield was uninspired.

They did create two good opportunities though, with Michael Essien and Anelka forcing good saves from man-of-the-match Heurelho Gomes.

London rivals Spurs, meanwhile, looked confident in possession but were unable to take the succession of half-chances they created.

Jermaine Jenas sent a rising drive just over the bar, Robbie Keane forced a good stop from Petr Cech after poor defending from Alex and Jose Bosingwa, while Keane fired straight at Cech after he was put through by Vedran Corluka.

The second half saw more of the same, only Spurs finally made one of their chances count.

On 50 minutes, Jose Bosingwa's poor clearance found its way to Aaron Lennon on the right.

The sometime England winger, who recently signed a five-year deal at the club, drilled a low cross past Ashley Cole and Modric expertly sent the ball into the bottom-right corner past the diving Cech.

The goal spurred Chelsea into action, which had the effect of opening the game up and giving Spurs a few more opportunities.

Modric volleyed into the ground in a near-identical move to that which created the goal.

Darren Bent should have got a shot away when the Croatia playmaker sent him through on the left but the erstwhile England striker's poor confidence was obvious when he opted to play the ball backwards instead.

Chelsea, meanwhile, went close when Gomes made a very good stop from Drogba, while Frank Lampard's insipid performance was highlighted by a weak drive wide after he was put through by Anelka.

It seemed like it was not going to be Chelsea's day when Gomes made a contender for save of the season by keeping out a bullet header from John Terry that was headed for the bottom-right corner.

Drogba went close with a header of his own that looped just wide as the Blues heightened their pressure in the latter stages.

Guus Hiddink's men almost snatched a dramatic injury-time equaliser but Alex's header rebounded off the underside of the bar and the loose ball was tipped away by Gomes.

There was a late scare for Spurs when the whistle blew following a goalmouth scramble in the sixth minute of stoppage time, but it signalled the end of the match and not the penalty Chelsea craved.

Chelsea remain second, four points behind United - who also have a game in hand - while Spurs move ninth.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Injury blow for Berbatov

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has been ruled out for a further two weeks with an ankle injury.

The Bulgarian suffered the problem during the 2-0 Premier League defeat at Fulham a fortnight ago.

He subsequently pulled out of his country's World Cup qualifying double-header against the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, and he will play no part in Sunday's league clash against Aston Villa.

"It's probably going to be another two weeks," said Ferguson. "Hopefully he will be back training with us at the end of next week and he will be okay after that."

It leaves Ferguson with a major selection headache for Sunday's Premier League clash with Aston Villa as Wayne Rooney is also out through suspension.

In addition, Carlos Tevez is not due back from South America until later this afternoon following Argentina's stunning six-goal hammering in Bolivia.

"I think he gets back from Mars about 4pm," joked Ferguson.

"With Dimitar out and Wayne suspended hopefully Carlos will be okay. that will give us one striker, then we will have to choose another."

Should the prognosis prove correct, the 28-year-old will also crucially miss both legs of the Champions League quarter-final against Porto and next weekend's league trip to Sunderland.

It would put him in line for a return in the FA Cup semi-final against Everton on April 19, but the talented frontman will undoubtedly be missed a crucial stage in the season.

Should Liverpool avoid defeat at Fulham tomorrow, United could find themselves knocked off the top of the table heading into the match with Villa.

Berbatov has scored 13 times in 33 appearances for the Red Devils since joining from Tottenham for £30 million last summer.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Machedo screamer puts United top

http://i40.tinypic.com/5vnj8m.jpg

A stunning injury-time strike by 17-year-old Federico Machedo gave Manchester United a 3-2 home win over Aston Villa to restore the champions to the top of the Premier League.


In the 92nd minute, the previously unknown Italian curled an unstoppable shot into the top right after leaving Luke Young for dead with a delightful backheel.

Villa had been leading through goals by John Carew and Gabriel Agbonlahor, with Cristiano Ronaldo adding an 80th-minute equaliser to his first-half opener.

Burly former Lazio schoolboy Machedo came on as a second-half substitute for the disappointing Nani and was only in the squad because United were missing seven first-team players through injury and suspension.

Rio Ferdinand, Dimitar Berbatov, Fabio Da Silva and Wes Brown are all out for varying time frames while Nemanja Vidic, Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney were serving bans for recent red cards.

The net effect was that United's defence looked shaky and a bench filled with teenagers could barely provide inspiration when Sir Alex Ferguson's side went behind

Villa started brightly and they went close through a Carew header cleared off the line by Darren Fletcher on five minutes.

Gabriel Agbonlahor was getting the better of Gary Neville as United looked unsure at the back with Rio Ferdinand injured and Nemanja Vidic suspended.

But the hosts took the lead after a moment of madness saw James Milner touch the ball back to Brad Friedel with the American keeper already diving on to the ball.

It was a clear backpass inside the area and, after Milner was booked for encroachment, Ryan Giggs touched the indirect free-kick to Ronaldo, who smashed the ball across the face of goal and into the top right corner for 1-0 on 14 minutes.

United could have gone two up straight from kick off when a long ball played Giggs through, but Carlos Cuellar got back to block his finish.

Villa recovered from the shock of going behind and Ashley Young forced a smart stop from Edwin van der Sar with a free-kick on the edge of the United area.

They levelled on 29 minutes thanks to the endeavour and skill of Gareth Barry, who won a 50-50 ball on the right, nutmegged Patrice Evra and swung a perfect cross for giant Norwegian Carew to divert a downward header into the left corner of the United goal.

Ronaldo was guilty of a glaring miss five minutes later when he sent a free header straight at Friedel, but it would have been harsh on Villa to trail at the break as, despite United having more of the ball, the visitors created more clear-cut chances.

The second half started in subdued fashion, with United looking nervous and uninspired while Villa were happy to sit back and look to use the counter attack.

It paid off for Martin O'Neill's men when, after Ronaldo dilly-dallied in the Villa half, they countered down the left.

Neville stood back as Carew moved towards the area and allowed him time to pick out a cross that Agbonlahor rose to head past the stranded Van der Sar.

United's problems with injury and suspension were highlighted by the introduction of Macheda for anonymous Portugal winger Nani.

Jonny Evans headed a Giggs corner just over but United lacked a creative spark or inspirational figure to drive them on.

The laboured while looking hesitant at the back and it was always going to be a moment of brilliance needed to get them back in the match.

After a short spell camped on the edge of the Villa box, the ball broke to Ronaldo who took a touch before drilling a low left-foot shot through the legs of Stiliyan Petrov and past the unsighted Friedel into the bottom right.

The 80th-minute equaliser heralded a final push by United, but they struggled to convert possession into opportunities until Macheda's moment of brilliance gave them a win to put them one point clear of Liverpool with a game in hand.

Villa, meanwhile, stay fifth but are only one point ahead of Everton, who thrashed Wigan 4-0 earlier in the day.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Rafa: Fergie is scared of Liverpool

Rafael Benitez has said Sir Alex Ferguson is scared of his Liverpool side and talks "too much" about other teams.

The Liverpool manager, who is preparing for a Champions League showdown with Chelsea on Wednesday night, took another another swipe at the Manchester United boss as the Premier League race reaches boiling point.

Benitez was responding to claims from Ferguson that the loser of the Liverpool-Chelsea quarter-final will then be United's biggest challenger for the title because they will only have one competition to contend with.

He said of Ferguson's claims: "It is not mind games, I think it maybe is that he is a little bit scared."

Liverpool took over at the top of the table on Saturday evening with a late winner by Benayoun at Fulham.

But less than 24 hours later, United produced a stunning comeback victory over Aston Villa with the decisive goal coming in the fourth minute of injury-time from 17-year-old Federico Macheda.

That grabbed the initiative back for the Old Trafford club, but Benitez has come out fighting.

He said: "I do not have a problem with United. Clearly one of us, either Chelsea or us, will end up focusing just on the Premier League after this.

"I think Sir Alex will be supporting Liverpool in this tie because he knows we are the bigger threat now.

"If we continue in the Champions League maybe he will think we are tired. If we are not in this competition then he knows that we will be a (bigger) threat in the Premier League.

"If Chelsea are not in the competition, then he knows they will then be a threat also in the league. But he will lose anyway, whoever goes out, because they will still be a big threat to United.

"You have to prepare well for every single Premier League game, it is tough (to be in the Champions League as well). So he will clearly be supporting us tomorrow and next week.

"I would like to be worried about both competitions, it means we will continue to be successful.

"We just concentrate on our team, while he likes to talk too much about other teams."

Benitez said he was unmoved by United's late heroics against Villa, saying: "We knew there would be situations like this, with us one point ahead, or one point behind. And everyone knows five minutes (of injury time) at Old Trafford is a very long time.

"I watched the game, but once United scored their second you felt they would win the game.

"He (Ferguson) is in the driving seat now and in a better position, but there is still a long way to go and we have confidence. We are pushing them and we will push them until the end."

[jordanskywalker]

Can u believe it, it's the 17 year old Macheda that 'save' Man Utd again!!! Look like he can become what Ole was 10 years back, the SUPER-SUB!!!

[CNY_OX09]

Can u believe it, it's the 17 year old Macheda that 'save' Man Utd again!!! Look like he can become what Ole was 10 years back, the SUPER-SUB!!!

what about Louis Saha and Andy Cole,when they just joined MU.
look like the ONE above is really looking over MU.

[Peggie83]

Singapore Pools offer Specials on HOW MANY TITLES WILL M UTD WIN?

Match No: 3803

Sales closes: 11:55 PM 30/05/2009

Selection No. HOW MANY TITLES WILL M UTD WIN?

Odds
01 EXACTLY 2 TITLES $7.00

02 EXACTLY 3 TITLES $1.82

03 EXACTLY 4 TITLES $2.35

04 EXACTLY 5 TITLES $14.00

[CNY_OX09]

a question for all Red Devils here...
what happen after Alex ???

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Fabregas: Bring on United

Cesc Fabregas helped Arsenal see off Villarreal and turned his attention straight to a Champions League semi-final against Manchester United.

A 3-0 win at the Emirates Stadium handed Arsene Wenger's side a 4-1 aggregate win over the Spanish side and set up a mouth-watering clash with their Premier League rivals.

Theo Walcott opened the scoring with a superb 10th-minute chip before Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie, with a penalty, put the result beyond doubt.

Fabregas said: "What was really important was that we'd said we wanted to try to score early, keep the pressure on and we did that well.

"At the end 3-0 is quite a fair result, we could have scored a few more but let's not be greedy.

"(Facing Manchester United) is unbelievable for us. What can you say? To be in the semi-final of the Champions League against maybe the best team in Europe, and the world, we would take it for sure."

Wenger praised Walcott's exquisite finish, after watching the England winger transfer his form on the training ground to crucial matches.

"We know he can finish but now he is transferring that to the games. His level of confidence has gone up," Wenger said.

"In training he was always a good finisher but now he is becoming a great finisher in games too."

[slyer]

what a wonder goal by ronaldo. its great man utd face arsenal in semi final :D

[asiancigar]

Can't wait for this relishing clash of the titans.......

Off course...... it helps that we know how to play Arsenal........ hehehe

Cheerz
AC

[kiko]

Next champions league at old trafford, Man Utd will have an easy game vs Arsenal. Cause Arsenal is not as tough opponent like chelsea and Liverpool. I predict Man Utd to go through to the finals!

[asiancigar]

Next champions league at old trafford, Man Utd will have an easy game vs Arsenal. Cause Arsenal is not as tough opponent like chelsea and Liverpool. I predict Man Utd to go through to the finals!



wah u now very famous liao bro KIKO.......... hehe

Cheerz
AC

[yinyang]

Oh no, here we go again... for vested political interests?

Caldéron claims put Cristiano Ronaldo's future in doubt | Manchester United - Times Online (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article6101985.ece)

[SP2010]

PORTO V MAN UTD 16th APR (0-1).

http://i43.tinypic.com/zkqp2p.jpg
http://i40.tinypic.com/4eix.jpg
http://i39.tinypic.com/30my875.jpg
http://i42.tinypic.com/20u8prs.jpg

[SP2010]

http://i44.tinypic.com/nmn7vc.jpg
http://i43.tinypic.com/28ib235.jpg

[Cum_Luver]

Man Utd vs Everton
(FA Cup Semi-Final)

Full-Time 0-0
now playing extra-time.
advantage will be Man Utd as they are all very young. It is a young line-up by Alex. Perhap has his mind on the EPL ?

[alex18122003]

Man Utd vs Everton
(FA Cup Semi-Final)

Full-Time 0-0
now playing extra-time.
advantage will be Man Utd as they are all very young. It is a young line-up by Alex. Perhap has his mind on the EPL ?

Glory Glory Glory To Red Devils

Ole Ole Ole

[xsgrantz]

Glory Glory Glory To Red Devils

Ole Ole Ole

Heads up Red Devils..even though we lost (i still dont know how berbatov miss that penalty) and the quintuple dream is gone..we can still go for quadruple! ;)

[SP2010]

Man Utd vs Everton
(FA Cup Semi-Final)

Full-Time 0-0
now playing extra-time.
advantage will be Man Utd as they are all very young. It is a young line-up by Alex. Perhap has his mind on the EPL ?

Alex blew it tis time, Everton is there to be taken. Even with practically a
second choice MU line-up, Everton didnt really performed well.
But best wishes to them in the final lah.

[asiancigar]

Hmmmm...... it almost seemed like Sir Alex willed a win for Everton.

Oh well...... 4 Cups is still good......... OLE OLE

Cheerz
AC

[alex18122003]

FA Cup - Cool Everton beat United on penalties

Everton defeated an under-strength Manchester United 4-2 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes at Wembley to reach the FA Cup final.

David Moyes's side will return to London on May 30 to face Guus Hiddink's Chelsea after ending United's dream of winning a quintuple of trophies.

In the last 12 months, United have won the Champions League, Community Shield and Carling Cup on penalties, the latter two at Wembley.

Yet it was Everton who held their nerve in the shoot-out as Tim Howard saved from Dimitar Berbatov and Rio Ferdinand.

But arguably United's biggest villain was their manager. Sir Alex Ferguson was made to pay for his controversial team selection, making eight changes from the side that beat Porto in the Champions League, and leaving out his biggest stars.

United were denied what looked a clear penalty in normal time, but can have little complaint at the result given the complacency of Ferguson's team sheet.

Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic were the only undisputed first-teamers to start, while Ferguson made room for the unheralded likes of Ben Foster, Fabio da Silva, Darron Gibson, Danny Welbeck and Federico Macheda.

Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Michael Carrick and Edwin van der Sar did not even make the trip to London, staying in Manchester to prepare for the visit of Portsmouth to Old Trafford on Wednesday.

It was a remarkable decision and one that reflects where Ferguson's true priorities lie. While some fans wanted to win it all, Ferguson's main aim is to keep Liverpool's hands off the Premier League trophy.

If that means losing the FA Cup and upsetting the 40,000 United fans who travelled to Wembley, then so be it.

Despite being plunged into immediate underdog status, United were not overawed.

Macheda may be only 17, but his self-belief appears to have developed fully. He was full of inventive flicks and touches, using his imposing physique to good effect.

The Italian showed some especially good interplay with his fellow youngster Welbeck, who failed to convert several chances.

Joleon Lescott blocked a Welbeck effort turned goalwards from a Rafael cross, before the Brazilian sliced a left-foot shot well wide after Macheda fed him superbly.

Despite targeting United's attack-minded full-backs Rafael and Fabio, Everton had little joy from the flanks as the 18-year-old twins coped well with the threat of Steven Pienaar, Leon Osman and the overlapping Leighton Baines.

Foster played a starring role at Wembley in February as United beat Tottenham on penalties in the Carling Cup final.

However, he looked nervous throughout, slicing a clearance, nearly gifting possession to Louis Saha when he dallied on the ball and whacking a clearance into the body of James Vaughan. However, none of his errors ranked on the Lukasz Fabianski scale; the Arsenal keeper's blunders costing his side a place in the final on Saturday.

Saha battled back from a stomach virus to start up front for Everton, supported by the towering aerial presence of Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill. Everton showed increased ambition after half-time, with Cahill forcing Foster into a diving save with a dipping 25-yard strike.

At the other end, Park Ji-Sung and Gibson went close before the defining moment of normal time, when Welbeck burst into the box and appeared to be brought down by Phil Jagielka.

Referee Mike Riley said no penalty, sending Ferguson into a predictable rage. David Moyes spoke pointedly in the week about Riley's supposed pro-United bias and it is hard not to wonder whether the Everton manager's words affected the referee's decision-making.

Tevez, Anderson and Welbeck all went close but in truth, extra-time seemed inevitable long before Riley blew for the end of 90 minutes.

Cahill forced Foster into a sharp save with his legs before Fellaini narrowly failed to get his shot away at the edge of the box.

Substitute Vaughan also failed to convert a golden chance from a Baines pull-back, while at the other end Welbeck took an airshot when teed up by Berbatov.

But penalties were always the likely outcome, and although Cahill missed Everton's first spot-kick, Everton were soon in front after Berbatov, dismally, and Ferdinand failed to convert.

Former United man Phil Neville converted nervelessly, before Jagielka converted the decisive shot to send 40,000 Evertonians into raptures.

[alex18122003]

TEVEZ TARGETS TOTTENHAM TREBLE

Carlos Tevez insists United will be focused on only one North London club this weekend, despite the tantalising prospect of facing another next Wednesday.

Tottenham Hotspur's trip to Old Trafford in the Barclays Premier League will be followed by Arsenal's visit to Manchester, for the first leg of an enthralling Champions League semi-final. But Tevez says the Reds are taking it one competition at a time and will not prioritise one trophy over another.

"The focus is always the next game, whichever competition that’s in," Carlos affirms.

"We never sit down and say: ‘We’d prefer the league this year.’ We just go out to win every game and every trophy: that’s always the plan."

United have already lifted two trophies this season - the second was at Tottenham's expense when Carlos and co won the Carling Cup on penalties. Tevez also started in the 2-1 win over Spurs in the FA Cup, a competition that United have since exited after a less successful shoot-out against Everton.

Tevez said, "The press kept suggesting we could go on and win all five trophies. It was nice to hear that praise, but we never got carried away by that. We're aware that in football things can change very quickly."

[alex18122003]

Premier League - United roar back to hammer Spurs

Manchester United staged a stunning comeback from two goals down to beat Tottenham 5-2 at Old Trafford and reclaim top spot in the Premier League.

The champions were facing defeat after Darren Bent and Luka Modric had taken advantage of yet more shaky United defending to put Spurs two up before half-time.

But a dubious penalty award - when Heurelho Gomes was adjudged to have brought down Michael Carrick in the box on 56 minutes - sparked an incredible turnaround of events which saw United score five times in the second half.

Cristiano Ronaldo's expert penalty conversion was followed by a four-minute blitz that yielded a further three goals - another from Ronaldo and two from Wayne Rooney - before Dimitar Berbatov rounded off the scoring on 79 minutes.

The result sent United back to the summit, deposing Liverpool who had kept warm the position for a couple of hours, as the champions took a huge stride towards retaining their title for a third consecutive year.

But for all the deserved plaudits for a simply stunning comeback which saw some thrilling attacking football and a virtuoso display from Rooney, focus will inevitably turn on referee Howard Webb's role in proceedings

[CNY_OX09]

it is showing that Liverpool is not the only super super comeback team.
even MU also can do it,0-2 down and winning 5-2....
wow wow wow !

[ranking]

it is showing that Liverpool is not the only super super comeback team.
even MU also can do it,0-2 down and winning 5-2....
wow wow wow !Agreed,wat a fantastic game for the weekend! I was so touched when ronaldo scored the third goal and took off his jersey for celebration.

[asiancigar]

Premier League - United roar back to hammer Spurs

Manchester United staged a stunning comeback from two goals...


But a dubious penalty award - when Heurelho Gomes was adjudged to have brought down Michael Carrick in the box on 56 minutes...


KNN........ IT WAS A CLEAR CUT PENALTY LAH....... WHY THESE F%#@$*& REPORTERS ARE SO BIAS AGAINST US.......

DANNY WELBACK DESERVED A PENALTY TOO DURING THE FA CUP SEMIs

AND NOTICED THAT OUR ODDS ARE ALWAYS SO MUCH HIGHER THAN THE OTHER BIG 3......... THIS IS THE PRICE WE AS MANU DIE HARDS HAVE TO ENDURE....... BUT ENDURE WE SHALL...... AND WE WILL WIN 4 THIS YEAR.... OLE OLE OLE

Cheerz
AC

[bigassman]

http://i41.tinypic.com/v6qjck.gif


ROAR!

Ronaldo damm pumped up! :cool: :D

[mangoesteam]

To watch United strenghten their grip on the Premiership title: GREAT!

To see them come back from 2 goals down and win 5-2 : FANTASTIC!

To give Liverpool fans a false dawn and thereafter have some of them whine and moan and intensify their childish name calling : PRICELESS!

:D:D:D:D

[machoman]

Giggs wins players' player of the year award

Monday, April 27, 2009

http://67.15.8.113/photo_1240785270723-1-1.jpg

Manchester United's Ryan Giggs, seen here during a game in March 2009, was named here on Sunday as the English Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year for the first time despite starting just 12 league games this season.

Manchester United great Ryan Giggs was named here on Sunday as the English Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year for the first time despite starting just 12 league games this season.

The 35-year-old Welsh midfielder, who has enjoyed nearly two decades of success at Old Traford in a career featuring two Champions League final triumphs, had twice won the Young Player of the Year award but can now add the ultimate mark of esteem from his fellow professionals to his list of prizes.

"It's right up there, with personal accolades it's the best to have as it's voted by your fellow players," Giggs, who could win his 11th league title with United this season, said.

"I've been fortunate to win a lot of trophies, I won the young player award twice, but this is the big one."

Giggs has only started a dozen league games this season but has been a squad regular in all competitions, with the award acknowledging the respect he has from opponents.

If he plays against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday, he will become the first United player to make 800 senior appearances for the club, having broken Sir Bobby Charlton's record of 758 by coming on as substitute in last season's Champions League final in Moscow where he scored a penalty in the shoot-out win over English rivals Chelsea.

But the thrill of a major match still gets to Giggs even now.

"It's an exciting season," he said. "I think it is going to go right to the wire, there's big game after big game now."

He also paid tribute to United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who has guided Giggs's career since the winger was a teenager.

"The manager has been massive in my career from when I first met him when I was 13," Giggs said.

"That's over 20 years and he knows me better than anyone and our relationship has been brilliant and just gets better.

"I've been so fortunate to have such a great career in so many great teams, it's not even worth thinking about what it would have been like without the manager," he added.

Giggs, whose current contract expires at the end of next season, said of his future: "As long as I'm getting picked, enjoying it and injury-free, I'll carry on as long as I can.

"At 35 you can't look too far into the distance, you just can't."

Aston Villa winger Ashley Young was named Young Player of the Year, a reward he said for the way in which the Birmingham side, currently fifth in the table, had performed this season.

"It's a massive achievement for the club and my team-mates around me," Young said. "It's a great honour and I'm delighted."

The PFA Premier League team of the year has featured six United players and also included Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka as well as Portsmouth and England right-back Glen Johnson.

PFA Premier League team of the year: Edwin van der Sar (Man Utd); Glen Johnson (Portsmouth), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd), Nemanja Vidic (Man Utd), Patrice Evra (Man Utd); Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Ryan Giggs (Man Utd), Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd); Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea), Fernando Torres (Liverpool)

- AFP

[halogen019]

Giggs is a living legend......

The only memorable match for him this season imo is the game against chelsea where he deputised in the centre of the park. To play like he did that time against a big club at his age is incredible.

I feel that there are other better candidates for the PFA award because giggs did not play as many matches while the other candidates played a lot more and played quite good consistently.

Nevertheless, i don't mind giggs get the award, it is like a very long due one. he should have gotten it many years ago but i dunno why he didn't.

[slyer]

the match against spurs is a great comeback for man utd. great match. looking forward to champ league semi against arsenal and may the red devils lift the champ league trophy for the consecutive seasons

[hubber27]

Dude, u know whats my best moment last sat? I was in a pub, mostly livpl fans. After livpl match, everyone cheers and suan MU match.

1st half of MU, disappointing while all the drunkard LP fans are smuudering at me. I held my faith for a draw and then came a penalty. Huahwaah, goals after goals and I starting to smile and "YES!" inside me.

Looking ard, I saw the horror look on those LP fans. Muahahaha, that moment is "PRICELESS!"

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Rafael commits future to United

Brazilian teenager Rafael da Silva has extended his contract with Manchester United by two years until June 2013.

The 18-year-old right-back has made 24 appearances for United this season, scoring one goal, and manager Sir Alex Ferguson expressed his delight at the Brazilian.

"Everyone at the club has been very impressed and excited by his first year as a professional," Ferguson said.

"His enthusiasm and the adventurous way he plays is typical of a Manchester United player and we are delighted that he has signed a new contract."

Rafael, who arrived in Manchester in July 2008 after being brought up in Rio de Janiero, said he hoped to have a long association with United.

"It has been a fantastic first year and I have learned from all the players at the club but especially from the defenders," he said.

"It has been an exciting time for me and I want to be part of this for a long time so to get an extension is unbelievable."

Rafael was part of the team which defeated Tottenham 5-2 at home on Saturday to move three points clear of Liverpool at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

He could also be involved on Wednesday in the Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal at Old Trafford.

The Brazilian's twin brother Fabio is also at United and plays at left-back, but has had little first-team involvement this season.

[slyer]

great 1-0 victory against arsenal thou we can score more goals but i have faith we can go to champ league final :D

[mangoesteam]

great 1-0 victory against arsenal thou we can score more goals but i have faith we can go to champ league finalyes, it would have been great if they had converted a few more chances but the creative play was excellent and there is hope that they can create some more and convert them at Highbury.:)

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Tevez repeats desire to move

Carlos Tevez has reiterated his desire to leave Manchester United at the end of the season

There has as yet been no agreement to turn the Argentina striker's loan spell into a permanent deal and he has revealed he would like a move to Spain.

Tevez has failed to hold down a place in the starting XI this season and is unhappy with his lack of action.

"It's true I've spent a lot of time on the bench and I'd like to play more. But every time I'm given a chance I do all I can to do well and take full advantage," Tevez told Madrid's Cadena COPE radio station.

"Yes it's true I see myself more leaving United than staying here. I don't see why I should lie to people or anything because the fans support me a lot, as you can see. So I don't have any reason to lie to them.

"While I wear the United shirt, I will leave my life on the pitch. My future? I don't know what will happen for my future.

"I would like to go to Spain, yes, but I don't know yet. I have no preference for a team. With respect to the fans and the history of Manchester United, I don't want to leave the club.

"But, from a personal aspect, my exit will be the best solution."

[alex18122003]

Premier League - United see off Boro to edge closer to title

Manchester United extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to six points with a comfortable 2-0 win over Middlesbrough at the Riverside.

Recently-crowned PFA Player of the Year Ryan Giggs and substitute Park Ji-Sung were on target in each half as the champions took a giant stride towards retaining a third successive title.

Four matches remain this season for Alex Ferguson's side, who have now played the same number of games as second-placed Liverpool, who face Newcastle on Sunday.

While it was an entirely satisfactory afternoon on Teesside for United, it was a gloomy day for the hosts, whose top-flight status hangs by a thread.

The result saw Gareth Southgate's men stay second-bottom with 31 points - the same as Newcastle - and three from safety.

The evergreen Giggs capped a great individual week with the opener on 25 minutes, driving home crisply from the edge of the penalty area (pictured) - his 103rd league goal for United - after Boro allowed the veteran midfielder far too much time to set his sights.

It was a trait that characterised Boro's defending throughout the opening period and Brad Jones was fortunate not to have been called into action more often.

That the Boro keeper remained relatively unworked was entirely down to some oddly wayward United shooting, in particular from the normally deadly Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney.

More than once those players were given time and space to run at the Boro defence and get away shots, but neither were able to force a save from Jones; only the ballboys behind the goal troubled by their efforts.

At least Boro managed to test Ben Foster - in the United starting line-up for the rested Edwin van der Sar - at the other end, although it proved to be the hosts' only chance of the game.

It fell to Jeremie Aliadiere on 21 minutes, the Frenchman running on to a Marlon King through pass before firing on target. Foster had to be alert to repel the shot with his legs.

United shrugged off the scare and took the lead soon after; as the game progressed, the champions - apparently at ease - increased their control on upon it.

Federico Macheda - winning his first league start - prodded wide from Rooney's cross early in the second half before United made their dominance count with the second goal of the day.

Park won the plaudits for a composed finish - a low drive into the bottom right-hand corner - but Macheda and Giggs were both involved in an excellent passing move which ended with a killer ball through from Rooney to find the South Korean.

The goal took whatever wind was left in Boro's sails and United saw out the remainder of the 90 minutes as they threatened to increase their advantage.

Rooney went close with a curling effort on 77 minutes before Dimitar Berbatov, substitute Carlos Tevez and Rooney all linked up to present John O'Shea with a shooting chance on 81 minutes. The Irishman - on target against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday - saw his shot well-blocked.

One slight blot on an otherwise impeccable day for United came when Patrice Evra picked up a knock to his ankle in the second half. With one eye on Tuesday's second leg at the Emirates Stadium, the Frenchman was withdrawn on 78 minutes.

[slyer]

really hope tevez wil stay at man utd. his playing style, diligent play really suits man utd attacking style of football. i feel that 30m shd be spent on retaining tevez rather than buying berbatov

[asiancigar]

really hope tevez wil stay at man utd. his playing style, diligent play really suits man utd attacking style of football. i feel that 30m shd be spent on retaining tevez rather than buying berbatov

I second opinion of Bro Slyer..... it would be a tremendous lost for us should Tevez move to another EPL club....... huhu

Cheerz
AC

[epsilon]

i would also love to see Trevez staying but he is wanting more playing time and with the depth of Man Utd it will be quite difficult.

[epsilon]

Manutd leading 2-0 right now....

[machoman]

Manutd leading 2-0 right now....

Arsenal need to score 4 to go through to the final. :eek:

[alex18122003]

Man United have a 2-0 lead over Arsenal after just over 10 minutes of their Champions League semi-final second leg

[epsilon]

3-1 but fletcher will miss the final

[asiancigar]

3-1 but fletcher will miss the final

His Red Card will be rescinded coz he did play the ball.......... no worries...

THE CHAMPIONS STEAM ROLL THEIR WAY TO THE FINALS.......



Cheerz
AC

[mangoesteam]

His Red Card will be rescinded coz he did play the ball.......... no worries... That's for sure. Sir Alex was already asking the assistant referee if the referee will review it first.:)

[The Monkees]

congratulation to all Red Devils here.
another final.
a very good performance,the Gunners simply do not match-up.

[slyer]

i am so happy man utd reached rome final :D

ronaldo free kick is superb.

the 3rd goal is fast counter attack

credits to park ji sung who performed well in boro and arsenal match

glory glory man utd:D

[asiancigar]

Ronaldo puts Arsenal to the sword
By The Insider
(Archive)

Many questioned whether Cristiano Ronaldo was worth the hassle he seemed determined to cause Manchester United last summer.

Apparently desperate to join Real Madrid at all costs, Ronaldo's days as a Premier League player seemed numbered for much of last summer as all the familiar tactics of press leaks and un-named sources suggested he would start this campaign as the new jewel in La Liga's crown.

Some portrayed United boss Alex Ferguson as a desperate old man, as he tried to hang onto his favoured son even though it was clear he was determined to fly the nest, but this memorable spring night in North London showed just why Ferguson's belligerence was worthwhile.

United will be in Rome to defend their Champions League crown later this month due primarily to the right boot of a player whose wonder-goal sealed their passage to this semi-final tie with the winner in Porto and a performance at the Emirates Stadium that left you wondering why anyone ever doubted his talents.

After setting up the seventh minute opening goal for Ji-Sung Park, thanks in no small part to a slip by Arsenal youngster Kieran Gibbs, his own moment of iconic Champions League glory confirmed his season of occasional slumber could yet end in the grandest manner.

Most of us packed into the overflowing press seats at Emirates Stadium believed Ronaldo was showing arrogant ambition as he lined up a free-kick that was all of 40 yards from goal eleven minutes into this tie. With many of United's big guns up from the back, it seemed as if floating the ball into the box in a bid to expose Arsenal's age-old flaws in defending set plays was a better plan.

Ronaldo's had different ideas. While Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia should never have been beaten from such a lengthy and speculative shot, the pace, the power and movement Ronaldo managed to impart on his set-play was majestic.

Arsenal fans groaned at the moment that ensured their fourth season in succession would end without a trophy, but as the ball crashed into the Arsenal net and Ronaldo ran half the length of the field to celebrate, his return to the pinnacle of the world game was complete.

Manchester United's No.7 must have felt a degree of wounded pride after a season that has seen Barcelona's Lionel Messi take over as the pound for pound world champ, yet longevity of brilliance is the mark of a true great and this single, venomous strike ensures Ronaldo's campaign will still be remembered with fondness.

He may well end this season as the Premier League's leading goal scorer and with another domestic championship piece of gold in his back pocket. Oh and he may even get his wish of having Champions League Final showdown with the very man who has stolen his thunder as Leo Messi and Barcelona may well lie in wait for United in Rome.

You had to feel a degree of sympathy for the Arsenal fans after this comprehensive drubbing on a night when they banished the notion that the Emirates Stadium is the home of all that is ugly in the modern game.

Corporate hospitality is required to fund the club's sparkling stadium, yet the men in suits whose interest is more in their free champagne than the football doesn't always create the sort of atmosphere you would hope for at a major club.

However, this was a night when the Emirates came alive for one of the first times. The rapturous welcome that greeted the two teams onto the pitch prior to a rendition of that always uplifting Champions League anthem suggested Arsenal could be swept on a wave of emotion all the way to the Final in Rome.

Indeed, they started in a manner that suggested their silky passing football could unnerve a United side that looked a little rattled as they chased the ball in vain for the first five minutes. Arsenal only have one game plan, but it can beat the best of opponents when executed with precision.

Early promise soon turned to a grizzly reality as their old defensive problems in dealing with set-plays surfaced again. In addition, once United's five-man midfield unit managed to snatch the ball from Arsenal's grasp, their powerful presence was a quality Wenger's kids could not overcome.

A little like their demise in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea last month, an experienced and weighty opponent had too much for Arsenal and United boss Ferguson should take credit for selecting what proved to be a perfectly balanced side for this occasion.

Arsenal's misery was completed as United broke with pace and power with an hour gone and after Park and Rooney ripped through the broken Gunners, Ronaldo was on hand to apply the finishing touch. This one-sided Champions League semi-final was officially over.

It was a cue for Arsenal fans to flow out of the Emirates Stadium in their masses, grumbling at Wenger's tactics and philosophies as they came to terms with the reality that another season of false promise was complete. The comprehensive nature of their trashing in this tie may have ramifications for the future of some key Arsenal players, but such debates are for another day.

"It's too soon for me to think about whether this team are good enough to bring success to this club," admitted a visibly shaken Arsene Wenger. "We have been on a good run in the league, but in the two big cup games we have played recently, we haven't been good enough.

"This is the most disappointing night of my Arsenal career as it feels as if we let everyone down. The fans were up for it, but this game was over before it started for us. It hurts so much.

"Wenger's understandable despair was contrasted by Ferguson's glee and his praise of match winner Ronaldo was complete. "Arsenal started so aggressively, the ball was zipping around and the crowd were right behind them, but they couldn't handle Ronaldo once we got the ball to him," he said. "Ronaldo was the difference between the sides and when you see him performing like that, he is fantastic player.

"I have some sympathy for Arsene Wenger because I think you can still be a great manager even if you don't win the Champions L eague, but that is not the way it will be portrayed in the media."

Ronaldo has been accused of being a cheat, a player who doesn't perform in the big games and an egomaniac who is in this game for himself rather than the good of his team.

Even if all of those flaws are true, Cristiano Ronaldo is worth his weight in gold.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo
Special players confirm their class on nights like this and Ronaldo stole the show as only he can.

SYMPATHY FOR GIBBS: It was hard not to feel sorry for Arsenal youngster Kieran Gibbs as his slip gave Park the chance to open the scoring. Wenger took him off at half-time to protect him from a night that could have tarnished him for good.

FERGIE BANTER: When asked who he wanted to play in the Final, the United boss has a novel answer. "Barcelona or Chelsea will be tough so I'll say neither of them. I think we should have a bye and they should give us the trophy now."

ARSENAL VERDICT: On a night when Wenger's young team needed to show they had become men, they failed their exam in desperate fashion. Where they go from here is open to debate.

UNITED VERDICT: Their unexpected dip a few weeks ago is banished to the history books. Form is temporary, yet United's class has proved to be permanent.

[alex18122003]

Wenger: The best team won

Arsene Wenger was in downbeat, but magnanimous mood after his Arsenal side were dumped out of the Champions League by United.

The Gunners manager was in confident mood ahead of Tuesday's semi-final decider at the Emirates, but his young side were blown away as the Reds strode through to this month's final in Rome.

"Manchester United over the two games deserved to go through," Wenger told his post-match press conference. "It could have been over after the first game. We had a good opportunity to come back but overall they were the better side."

Wenger cited the loss of two early goals and the performance of Cristiano Ronaldo as the main reasons behind his side's exit, although he admitted United's European experience was also a telling factor.

"It's easy to say we maybe need a bit of experience," he said. "I'm convinced that we have the quality and we will continue to develop. If you look at the average age of the team it is still very young and to reach the level we have deserves a lot of credit.

"But we were caught by a team that has an art to kill and take advantage of every mistake you make. I believe Ronaldo gave us a tough time."

[imom]

United vs Barca..... Let's hope it's a Devilish Rome!!

[alex18122003]

Barcelona face Reds in Rome

An incredible injury-time equaliser for 10-man Barcelona booked the Catalan giants a Champions League Final date with United in Rome on May 27.

Barça trailed Chelsea for almost the entire match by virtue of Michael Essien's stunning opener at Stamford Bridge, but Andres Iniesta hammered home from the edge of the area in the 93rd minute - with the visitors' first strike on target - to swing the tie towards the La Liga leaders.

Eric Abidal was sent off midway through the second period and Daniel Alves also picked up a third booking of the competition, meaning that they will both miss out on facing United in the Stadio Olimpico.

Chelsea's frustrations boiled over at full-time, with the last-gasp nature of the defeat particularly tough to take, especially when allied to a string of strong penalty claims being waved away - including one for handball in the 96th minute.

It had seemed for so long that, for the first time ever, the same two teams would contest the Champions League Final in successive seasons, but instead it is Barça who will take on the holders in Rome in a repeat of last season's epic semi-final.

[mangoesteam]

This can only be good for football!:)

[epsilon]

That's for sure. Sir Alex was already asking the assistant referee if the referee will review it first.:)

UEFA: No chance of reprieve for Fletcher

Manchester United's hopes of overturning Darren Fletcher's red card have been dashed by UEFA, who state that overturning the Scot's suspension for the Champions League final would open a "Pandora's Box".


Allsport

Darren Fletcher's harsh sending off seems certain to rule him out of playing in Rome.
UEFA have confirmed that a protest against a sending off would only be allowed on the basis on mistaken identity - and not on whether the referee had been too harsh.


Head of communications Rob Faulkner said: "Manchester United have the right to file a protest within 24 hours of the match however a protest against a caution or sending off is only admissible if the referee's error was to mistake the identity of the player."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had hoped referee Roberto Rosetti would have admitted it was a mistake to give Fletcher a straight red card for a foul on Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas in the box.

"He's one of the most honest players in the game and to miss the final, it's a tragedy," said Ferguson.

"In respect to the referee in this situation he might look at it himself without anyone asking him."

Although the English FA have moved towards a position where referees regularly rescind red cards, both UEFA and FIFA strictly maintain the rules that match officials' decisions should remain sacrosanct.

A UEFA source added: "It opens Pandora's box if you can challenge every decision. And if you rule that it is not a red card, then you are also saying it is not a penalty, and therefore not a goal, and what do you do then - start changing the results of matches afterwards?"

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also admitted the red card was "very harsh" after television pictures clearly showed Scottish international Fletcher - a non-playing substitute at last year's final - played the ball.

[slyer]

man utd vs barca is a dream final setup. looking forward to see messi vs ronaldo :D

[mangoesteam]

Fletcher gets final hope
United may try to overturn red card

Source : Sky Sports | Football | News | Fletcher gets final hope (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_5292519,00.html)

Uefa general secretary David Taylor has suggested that there could be some hope for Darren Fletcher to feature in the UEFA Champions League final.

The Scottish midfielder was dismissed in the latter stages of Manchester United's second-leg triumph over Arsenal on Tuesday.

He challenged Cesc Fabrgeas in the box and was adjudged to have fouled the Spaniard, although television replays confirm that he won the ball fairly.

Uefa rules differ to the Premier League, and Europe's governing body do not allow appeals over red cards other than in a case of mistaken identity.

But Taylor intimated that after conversation with Sir Alex Ferguson, there maybe an avenue United can go down to get Fletcher's ban overturned.

"I have spoken with Alex Ferguson personally on this - as fate would have it we shared a car after the match. We were rather thrown together but had an interesting discussion," Taylor told The Sun.

"He was very fair about the referee and what had happened but equally he was very disappointed for Darren, as are we all.

"I tried to give Alex as much advice as I could with regards the procedure in these circumstances.

"There is no formal process. But if the club want to write to us with information - such as video evidence - explaining why they think this is a harsh punishment then they can do that.

"The likelihood is that we'd then refer the matter to our disciplinary body.

"They would then look to see if there were any special circumstances to justify any departure from established procedures.

"I must stress there is normally no way these matters can be overturned."

Referee's report

Fletcher's hopes could hang on referee Roberto Rosetti admitting to his apparent error in his match report, but Taylor concedes such an admission may not be enough to reverse the red card.

"The ref may take the view a mistake has been made and include that in his report but that wouldn't be in any way decisive," he continued.

"It's an entirely discretionary thing, whether or not the committee feels there is reason to intervene.

"That's the position. Strictly speaking there's no appeal process but representation can be made and looked at."

Should Fletcher get his ban overturned then that is likely to prompt a similar appeal from Barcelona who had Eric Abidal sent off in their semi-final second leg against Chelsea, with television replays again suggesting the decision was an incorrect one.

Burley backing

Scotland boss George Burley has thrown his support behind Fletcher's appeal.

"It's an injustice, really, that, through no fault of his own, he's going to miss the Champions League final," he said.

"Unfortunately there is no appeal but I think it's something people have got to look at because they do have the top referees but referees do make the odd mistake.

"I'm sure if the referee had been allowed to look at it again, I think it might have been overturned."

[epsilon]

United ask UEFA to overturn Fletcher red card


Manchester United have asked UEFA to overturn Darren Fletcher's red card against Arsenal on compassionate grounds.


The Scotland international was dismissed late on in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final win over Arsenal for a professional foul on Cesc Fabregas.

Replays showed Fletcher had in fact played the ball but UEFA confirmed on Wednesday that United do not have the right to appeal against the referee's decision.

However, UEFA general secretary David Taylor has now revealed an avenue of appeal could be open to United over the card which dashed Fletcher's Champions League final hopes.

As things stand Fletcher will sit out the final against Barcelona in Rome later this month but Taylor has hinted at a reprieve for the combative midfielder.

''I have spoken with Alex Ferguson personally on this - as fate would have it we shared a car after the match. We were rather thrown together but had an interesting discussion,'' Taylor told The Sun. ''He was very fair about the referee and what had happened but equally he was very disappointed for Darren, as are we all.

''I tried to give Alex as much advice as I could with regards the procedure in these circumstances.

''There is no formal process. But if the club want to write to us with information - such as video evidence - explaining why they think this is a harsh punishment then they can do that.

''The likelihood is that we'd then refer the matter to our disciplinary body.

''They would then look to see if there were any special circumstances to justify any departure from established procedures. I must stress there is normally no way these matters can be overturned.''

Fletcher's hopes could hang referee Roberto Rosetti admitting to his apparent error in his match report, but Taylor concedes such an admission may not be enough to reverse the red card.

''The ref may take the view a mistake has been made and include that in his report but that wouldn't be in any way decisive,'' he continued. ''It's an entirely discretionary thing, whether or not the committee feels there is reason to intervene.

''That's the position. Strictly speaking there's no appeal process but representation can be made and looked at.''

[dc7176]

Our Ticket to Rome... simply love the 3rd goal Man Utd scored!! simply breathtakin... simply fantastic... :D

YouTube - Arsenal vs Manchester United 1 - 3 [05/05/2009] Goals UEFA Champions League Semifinal (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKgk40T01oI)

Glory Glory Man Utd!! :)

[contribution]

Super-fast counter attacks on the 3rd Goal ... now can Man Utd beat Baca hands-down?

Both teams have fast attacking players ,.. really a pleasure to watch this time ...

Messi gotta strut his stuff, so will Ronaldo ... Its their match of the moment..

[slyer]

man utd 2 man city 0. goals from ronaldo and tevez at half time. man utd sign tevez up.dun let him go to other epl club...

[epsilon]

Fletcher forced to accept Rome final suspension


Darren Fletcher's attempt to get his suspension from the Champions League final overturned has failed. UEFA have confirmed that the red card that the Manchester United midfielder was given for a foul on Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas will stand. Fletcher's tackle on the Spaniard looked to have won the ball before the Scot collided with the Gunner. Referee Roberto Rosetti awarded a penalty and then sent off Fletcher for being the last man, a decision which looked harsh on TV replays.

UEFA choose not to have recourse to overturn decisions, eschewing the use of TV evidence and Fletcher will miss a match he seemed certain to start after being an unused substitute in last year's final. There is no formal appeals process in place so United's chances were remote in the first place. Speaking after United's Manchester derby victory on Sunday, Fletcher seemed resigned to his fate.

Barcelona meanwhile will have their own absentee in Eric Abidal, the French defender's attempts to get his dismissal against Chelsea also falling on the deaf ears of the governing body. Dani Alves, to no-one's particular surprise, will also miss out after his yellow card was rubberstamped.

UEFA said in a statement: "All three players are therefore suspended for one UEFA club competition match and will serve their bans when Barcelona meet Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League final in Rome on May 27.

"In reaching its decision, the Control and Disciplinary Body concluded (i) that the protests had not been submitted within the required 24-hour deadline of a match for filing protests - as specified in the disciplinary regulations - and (ii) that even if they had been admitted they would have been rejected as unfounded as there were no grounds for contesting the referees' original decisions."

[asiancigar]

We need only 4 points from remaining 3 matches irregardless of what liverpool does........ OLE OLE OLE

And YES....... we should sign Tevez for good...... would be a tremendous loss should another EPL team take him away....

Cheerz
AC

[alex18122003]

Serie A - Ibrahimovic 'wanted' by United, Chelsea

Both Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, according to the Internazionale striker's agent.

The Sweden international has starred for Jose Mourinho's side this season, scoring 21 goals and helping to put Inter on the brink of a fourth successive Scudetto.

But the 27-year-old is understood to be keen on taking up a new challenge with a another top European club next term.

The Premier League pair are two of four clubs who would be able to offer what the striker wants - Champions League football and wages that could match his current reported £160,000-a-week deal.

"Chelsea, Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid are in contact with me," Ibrahimovic's agent Mino Raiola told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet.

"They are the only teams capable of taking someone like Zlatan.

"Until proven otherwise, he will go ahead with Inter because he is under contract with the Nerazzurri club.

"If we do move, it will be to another great team. Otherwise he will stay and try to win the Scudetto and Champions League with Inter next season."

[Pussies-Licker]

Man Utd won 2-1 after Wigan took a 1-nil half-time lead.
A freaky goal by Tevez and a fantastic goal by Carrick in the second half won the match for them.
need just 1 more point to be champion again.
Man Utd seems to be able to nip those 1 goal's win...thatz why they are going to be the champion again.

[HeadOn]

this is how champ is made...play well u thrash pple, play badly u also win, even if opponent keeper throw the ball into his own net to let u win also can...:p:D

[slyer]

nice backflip goal by tevez. hope tevez will sign for man utd on permanent deal. this guy is good.

1 more pt against arsenal and we can pop champagne and lift epl trophy at old trafford next match :D



Tevez could sign for free
United could try to sign Carlos Tevez on a Bosman-style free transfer. SunSport understands the Red Devils are exploring whether there are legal loopholes in the striker’s contract. In particular, the third party ownership agreement which ties Tevez with the investment company MSI is under scrutiny. Leading sports lawyers are looking at whether the ownership of Tevez’s registration by MSI could be challenged under the same terms as Jean Marc Bosman took on the old transfer system. His advisor Kia Joorabchian said once again yesterday that no deal is close with United and that Tevez is willing to sign for one of their Premier League rivals. “What he wants to do is to go to a club which has real ambition, a real focus, to be champions of England, champions of Europe, champions of everywhere. Obviously, leaving United he would have to go to a rival in order to achieve that target. But he understands it’s not in his control.”
Ian McGarry, The Sun

Other quotes from Joorabchian indicated the striker would be willing to switch to Manchester City - who have made preliminary inquiries - although no decision would be made until the end of the season. Former United captain Steve Bruce, who has been tipped by Wigan chairman Dave Whelan to take over frrom Sir Alex, has warned Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo that they will be making a huge mistake if they leave Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand has hailed Sir Alex, insisting he never lost faith in the United manager's ability to create another great team. “You just have to trust the manager," he said. "He has been so successful, so not to have done that would have been crazy. The players stood by everything he has done.”

The Guardian reckons United are on the verge of signing Brazilian teenager Dodo in a £5million deal.

Manchester United Official Web Site (http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pa...newsid=6632467)

[peter88798]

A freaky goal by Tevez
\.Don;t think that is a freaky goal......it is nicely done by tevez.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Fergie: I want to keep Tevez

Sir Alex Ferguson insisted he wants Carlos Tevez to stay at Old Trafford after the Argentinian scored in Manchester United's 2-1 win at Wigan.

Tevez equalised with an impudent back-heel after Hugo Rodallega had given the Latics a first-half lead before Michael Carrick scored an 86th-minute winner to leave United only a point away from retaining their Premier League title.

Tevez's future has been in the spotlight over the past few days, with the former West Ham player quoted in a Sunday newspaper saying he does not expect to stay at the champions.

However, following the victory at the JJB Stadium, Ferguson told Sky: "He is a fantastic player.

"He knows I want him to stay. I had a chat with him today and (chief executive) David Gill has had meetings with him.

"I'm sorry I have to keep on going on about this, it has never changed. (The fact) we're not negotiating with a football club is the problem - we'll see."

Carrick paid tribute to Wigan following his late strike, saying: ''It (my goal) was worth the wait.

''To score goals as important as that is a great feeling - I had to make up for the miss in the first half, it's a great feeling.

''Wigan came at us and caused a few problems.

''It's not the first time we have come from behind - we did it the hard way.''

[asiancigar]

YET ANOTHER TEAM TERRORIZED BY OUR TEVEZ.....!!!!!!!!!

Please SIGN HIM UP Sir Alex...............

Cheerz
AC

[mangoesteam]

I think United are doing this on purpose, just to rub salt on Liverpool's wounds.

First they come back against Villa, then Spurs and now Wigan.

Each time Liverpool get a small hard on and end up with a premature ejeculation. :p

I'm Loving It!:D

PS. Wonder what further tirades we gonna see from their fans following this victory.

[asiancigar]

Just bought today's (May 14th, 2009) NewPaper and the article on the last page by Lim Say Heng got me laughing and almost rolling on the floor of my office.

He is using and citing past events, numerology, coincidences and goodness knows what other feng sui devices to surmise that our beloved Champions might slip on a banana skin........ and lose to Liverpool. wahaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Off course it is the job of a sports writer to pen interesting articles to keep readers informed and craving for more........ "selling the news". But to peer into information that has collected dust in the archives and delve into superstitions and what "ifs" half beliefs..... mmmmmmm,....... a rather cheeky and desperate approach.

Whats next....... I think there will be a report soon that on-line demand for voo-doo dolls (shaped and dressed up like ManU) have gone up and there is a world shortage for needles. HA HA HA


Cheers
AC

[bangin]

We are gonna beat Arsenal this saturday and celebrate in front of thier faces! haha! Glory Glory Man United!

[mangoesteam]

Just bought today's (May 14th, 2009)

He is using and citing past events, numerology, coincidences and goodness knows what other feng sui devices to surmise that our beloved Champions might slip on a banana skin........ and lose to Liverpool. wahaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

HA HA HA


Cheers
AC
Just goes to show the number of delusional adults who still believe in Santa Clause and the Tooth Fairy.:p

[Cum_Luver]

Congratulation to all Man Utd's fans.
Another great win.

[alex18122003]

http://i41.tinypic.com/vnjtpt.jpg

Premier League - Manchester United are champions!!


Manchester United were crowned Premier League champions after a goalless draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford

United only needed a point to secure a third consecutive Premier League title and that is what they achieved with a cautious performance.

It was the 11th title of Sir Alex Ferguson's reign and means United match Liverpool's record haul of 18 in the top-flight.

United came into the match on the back on a seven-match winning streak in the league and had an opening inside a minute when Cristiano Ronaldo burst away down the right flank but opted to cross rather than shoot.

That summed up an understated opening 45 minutes from the hosts whose best chance was spurned by Wayne Rooney. He was picked out by Michael Carrick but diverted his header past the near post.

Ryan Giggs also lifted a free-kick in a good position over the crossbar and was equally wayward when the ball sat up for him nicely after a counter attack initiated by Rooney.

Arsenal had won on three of their previous 12 Premier League visits to Old Trafford, including in 2002 when Sylvain Wiltord's goal clinched a 1-0 win and the title, and they had the best chance of the opening period.

A super diagonal pass from Cesc Fabregas found Robin van Persie unmarked eight yards out but he put his header over the top.

Samir Nasri, who scored twice in the Premier League match at the Emirates between these sides earlier in the season, also should have done better when he was picked out by Andrei Arshavin 18 yards out. His shot was going wide and van Persie was unable to divert it on target.

Arsenal headed to Old Trafford on the back of a recent 4-1 aggregate drubbing against United in the Champions League but continued to play the better football after the break and Arshavin teed up Kieran Gibbs whose shot from 20 yards nestled in the side netting.

United failed to muster a single shot on target in the entire match but their best chance came when Darren Fletcher's cross from the right found Carlos Tevez who eluded Kolo Toure but Lukasz Fabianski raced off his line to make a sliding challenge with his feet which was enough to put the Argentine off.

Had Tevez gone down, referee Mike Dean would have had a big decision to make.

Tevez left the fray shortly after, waving goodbye to the Stretford End possibly for the last time, and his replacement Park Ji-Sung put the ball in the net shortly after coming on only for Ronaldo to be penalised by an errant offside flag.

Ronaldo almost gave the home fans the goal they were craving but a superbly struck free-kick from the left just missed the top corner with Fabianski looking on helplessly.

But then United had to endure a nervy ending as the Gunners looked to spoil the party.

The best move of the match saw Alex Song burst through and tee up Fabregas who aimed for the near post from the angle and saw his shot brush Van der Sar's fingers and hit the outside of the post.

Van Persie then warmed Van der Sar's palms with a shot on goal from the right before in injury-time the Dutchman's whipped effort flicked off Carrick and went for a corner.

However United were not to be denied and for the first time in 10 years, when they beat Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, were confirmed as champions on their home turf.

United took the acclaim of the Stretford End at the final whistle and now face Hull next Sunday before they bid to retain the Champions League against Barcelona.

[machoman]

http://www.poster.net/manchester-united/manchester-united-man-utd-forever-9959136.jpg


YouTube - for all MAN UTD FANS!!! *Glory Glory Man utd* (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDUqeh5qXhI)

[HeadOn]

glad tat we made Liverpoll wait for another yr...Hope they can continue to wait n wait...maybe another 19yrs from now...keke

[slyer]

Glory Glory Man united. We have won it 18th times

now next is Uefa champ league trophy:D

[asiancigar]

FABULOUS MAN UNITED............ we have three in the bag and now for that last and final TROPHY of the season.... Ole Ole Ole

Actually i lost a lot of money betting but its only money.................. because WE ARE UNDISPUTED...... ENGLISH CHAMPIONS, current EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS AND WORLD CHAMPIONS.......

Cheerz
AC

[machoman]

YouTube - Queen - We are the champions, live (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdCrZfTkG1c)

[bigassman]

OLE! OLE! OLE!

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/5866/87412703.jpg

http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/7967/87412770.jpg

http://img.skysports.com/09/05/800x600/Unitedtrophy_2307683.jpg

http://img.skysports.com/09/05/800x600/United-celebrate_2307727.jpg

[BaoZhuPo]

Call it sour grapes if you like

(The below replies of Mr. Benitez are extracted from Sunday NewPaper dated 17 May 09)

Reporting by Sammyboy reporter : BaoZhuPo (BZP)

BZP: So, Mr Benitez, what do you think of Manchester United clinching their 18th titles, or 11th EPL titles?

Benitz: Hmmm...(lips twisted)...it just mean they have more points...

BZP: huh? what you mean?

Benitez: If United win the leauge title, it means they will have points, but there are some very good teams in different positions in the table.

BZP: (Confuse..) Can you enlighten us more?

Benitez: (Clear his throat a little) it depends on the time of the season. I don't think I ever said we playing the best out of everyone, maybe just at certain moments. I do have a lot of respect for other teams (maybe not Blackburn), but to say who is the best at one moment is not easy.

BZP: (more confuse)...So...who is the best team you think...err...depends on the "moment"?

Benitez: There are alot of good teams in the Premier leauge. Without putting them in any order, I would say Chelsea, United, Liverpool, and Arsenal are the best.

BZP: So...as you had just said, should there be a Champion for the moment, the team which is playing the best for the "moment"?

Benitez: .........

BZP: How is the season this year for Liverpool?

Benitez: This year we have shown we are improving and that we are a better team than before. We can still get better but we are in this position (2nd in the league) because we are winning a lot, have played good football, scored a lot of goals and not conceded many.

BZP: What do you think of Manchester United result this season?

Benitez: If United have more points, it only means they have more points, that's all, nothing else.

BZP: Sir...how the EPL works then?

Benitez:....

Someone whisper to us across the room: ...the winner of every match score 3 points, draw 1 point, lose no points...

BZP: I see...so Mr Benitez...Manchester United win more matches, that's why they score more points...?

Benitez: .....

[asiancigar]

Can one of our kind Brudder post a video link of the Trophy Celebrations...... knn, it was not shown live because of Spurs match.

Cheerz
AC

[wish_mistress]

I am happy that Man U won as my BF is a Man U fan

[asiancigar]

I am happy that Man U won as my BF is a Man U fan

Hope u guys celebrate with passion..... hehehe

Cheerz
AC

[mangoesteam]

Can one of our kind Brudder post a video link of the Trophy Celebrations...... knn, it was not shown live because of Spurs match.

Cheerz
AC

Bro I am abit of a dinosaur when it comes to embedding videos. There are a quite few videos here : English Premier League | Footytube.com - Latest Football Video Highlights (http://www.footytube.com/category/videos/english-premiership/)

Ronaldo interviewing Anderson is hilarious.

The ESPN version from Sky is here : http://www.espnstar.com/media-player/?goTo=http://publish.vx.roo.com/espnstar/flashmain/?vxSiteId=1458d2e1-b8e3-4d73-8b76-e8420617f8b8&vxChannel=English%20Football&vxClipId=2168_ESSFEF_160509manuchamps&vxBitrate=300

cheers

[virginlovers]

Glory, Glory Man U!
Hope they can clinch another EPL title to overtake Liverpool!

[mangoesteam]

Call it sour grapes if you like

(The below replies of Mr. Benitez are extracted from Sunday NewPaper dated 17 May 09)

.....I never knew Spanish wine can be so sour!:eek:

United are World Club Champions!
League Cup Champions!
Premiership Champions!
Champions League Finalists!
FA Cup Semi-finalists!

They have shown their prowess in all fronts and yet Benitez wants to begrudge their achievements?

One word : DELUSIONAL!

I guess he is trying to cover up his "blow up" in january.

Anyways, who cares what he thinks! The league table never lies!:p

cheers

[mangoesteam]

I am happy that Man U won as my BF is a Man U fanI am sure all the brudders here are happy too that you picked the RIGHT MAN!:p:D

[asiancigar]

Bro I am abit of a dinosaur when it comes to embedding videos. There are a quite few videos here : English Premier League | Footytube.com - Latest Football Video Highlights (http://www.footytube.com/category/videos/english-premiership/)

Ronaldo interviewing Anderson is hilarious.

The ESPN version from Sky is here : Media Player | espnstar.com (http://www.espnstar.com/media-player/?goTo=http://publish.vx.roo.com/espnstar/flashmain/?vxSiteId=1458d2e1-b8e3-4d73-8b76-e8420617f8b8&vxChannel=English%20Football&vxClipId=2168_ESSFEF_160509manuchamps&vxBitrate=300)

cheers

KUM SIA Bro Mangoesteam........

Mist upz ur reps liao..... keke

Cheerz
AC

[SP2010]

Cudnt agree more wz you Bro ...he's an excellent player !

YET ANOTHER TEAM TERRORIZED BY OUR TEVEZ.....!!!!!!!!!

Please SIGN HIM UP Sir Alex...............

Cheerz
AC

http://redimagehost.com/upload1/out.php/i10812_m0517tujin.jpg

[mangoesteam]

KUM SIA Bro Mangoesteam........

Mist upz ur reps liao..... keke

Cheerz
ACNo problem bro. It was my pleasure. :)

Cheers

[richie_rich]

Call it sour grapes if you like

(The below replies of Mr. Benitez are extracted from Sunday NewPaper dated 17 May 09)

Reporting by Sammyboy reporter : BaoZhuPo (BZP)

BZP: So, Mr Benitez, what do you think of Manchester United clinching their 18th titles, or 11th EPL titles?

Benitz: Hmmm...(lips twisted)...it just mean they have more points...

BZP: huh? what you mean?

Benitez: If United win the league title, it means they will have points, but there are some very good teams in different positions in the table.



I used to have respect for him but not so now. How can he claim that Liverpool who is trophyless for yet another season be better than United?
Somebody please remind that guy that the league lasts 10 months. The league table at the end of 38 matches played will not lie.

I sincerely hope that United will win the Premier league again next year. This time, United would really have fulfilled what SAF set out to do when he took over - to knock Liverpool off their xxxking perch. :)

[slyer]

Can one of our kind Brudder post a video link of the Trophy Celebrations...... knn, it was not shown live because of Spurs match.

Cheerz
AC

bro here

Free File Hosting Made Simple - MediaFire (http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=becdb1acf4a76bb0e7ba8e3c6e11ce20ffe1feb1 b5acadc3b8eada0a1ae8665a)

someone uploaded all the celebrations vids in another forum

[asiancigar]

bro here

Free File Hosting Made Simple - MediaFire (http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=becdb1acf4a76bb0e7ba8e3c6e11ce20ffe1feb1 b5acadc3b8eada0a1ae8665a)

someone uploaded all the celebrations vids in another forum

Kum Sia Bro Slyer

Cheerz
AC

[LentorGarden]

Let the transfer talks and rumors begin once again. Haha. From my point of view, Tevez leaving United is definite. I feel for that poor chap. He is indeed good on the ball and very hardworking, talented young lad from Argentina. Its a pity that United will lose him. C.Ronaldo might leave united as well, judging from his answers given during interviews. Hopefully we wont lose C.Ronaldo because he is instrumental in the midfield as well as attack.

Post season summary by me :

Achievers - Ronaldo as usual, Tevez, VDS, Vidic, Park Ji Sung, Rafael, Fletcher
Flops - Berbatov (Number 1 suspect for me because he does not justify hes expensive price tag) and Anderson
Unlucky ones - Owen Hargreaves, Nani, G.Neville, Wes Brown
Lucky one - F.Macheda :D

Cheers!

[mangoesteam]

Flops - Berbatov (Number 1 suspect for me because he does not justify hes expensive price tag) and Anderson


I will have to disagree with you on this.

I don't know if you had been watching the same games. Anderson was the drive in midfield in the 2nd leg quarters and the semifinals of the champions league. In my view Anderson has come on his own towards the later part of the season.

As for Berbatov, I think his link up play and holding up the ball has been missed on lots of fans. No doubt he may not have delivered in terms of goals but don't forget that he missed the entire pre-season with United and that's a massive lose.

Lets not pass judgment too early. Many felt Vidic was a misfit too after the first season. Just see where he his now.

I suggest we do not be like other fans and teams who look for instant hits and off load players within a season. That's not the United way!

cheers!

[slyer]

Kum Sia Bro Slyer

Cheerz
AC

welcomed :)

next tue is champ league final. can't wait to see the champion lift the champ league trophy :D

[LentorGarden]

I will have to disagree with you on this.

I don't know if you had been watching the same games. Anderson was the drive in midfield in the 2nd leg quarters and the semifinals of the champions league. In my view Anderson has come on his own towards the later part of the season.

As for Berbatov, I think his link up play and holding up the ball has been missed on lots of fans. No doubt he may not have delivered in terms of goals but don't forget that he missed the entire pre-season with United and that's a massive lose.

Lets not pass judgment too early. Many felt Vidic was a misfit too after the first season. Just see where he his now.

I suggest we do not be like other fans and teams who look for instant hits and off load players within a season. That's not the United way!

cheers!

IMO what I see in Anderson is exactly like what I see in Scholes.. An old horse. But honestly, Anderson has played quite few games as compared to the likes of carrick and fletcher so I might been wrong about commenting on him for his little games played.

As for Berba, I can feel that even SAF is getting fed up with him. Who the heck would pay 30 over million pounds for a striker and then put him for a straight 20 or 30 games of 1st 11 action and then subsequently leave him on the bench or start to sub him during match play. Its only a matter of time that SAF decides enough is enough and start to play berba regularly so that other clubs will be able to take notice of him and subsequently, sell him just like what he did with Saha.

Again, these are just what I feel bro. No harm intended because like most of the guys here, I'm a united supporter as well. :D

[mangoesteam]

No harm intended because like most of the guys here, I'm a united supporter as well.No problem at all in having a friendly discussion bro.:)

In any event, no one can beat the astuteness of Sir Alex. Maybe we should just leave it in his safe hands.:p

cheers

[WAKE-UP-U-FOOL]

Reds fans living off past glories
By Neil Humphreys, Lighter side





LIVERPOOL had to go and upset the apple cart. They had to disturb the natural order of things. Beating Manchester United 4-1 at Old Trafford has got Reds fans in a tizzy.

They're starting to yearn. They're starting to hope. They're starting to sing songs like 'We're by far the greatest team the world has ever seen' and, frankly, that is just embarrassing.

Speaking objectively, I love Liverpool fans. As a neutral spectator, their rousing rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone makes the hair stand. (That's why I have a theory that Bobby Charlton might still have a full head of hair had he played for Liverpool.)


But Liverpool do not swing when they are winning. That is Manchester United's thing; winning. Martyrdom is the Reds' thing.

Melancholic renditions of any song by Gerry and the Pacemakers, followed by a swift trip down memory lane to revisit any football match before 1990: that is the Liverpool way.

As the trophies accumulated on the other side of Lancashire, it was immensely entertaining watching Liverpool fans cling desperately to their record of 18 League titles.

When there were Cantona-inspired doubles, Liverpool cried '18'! When there were historic trebles, Liverpool cried '18'! Even when there were unexpected Chelsea-destroying titles, Liverpool still cried '18'!

It is rather like the world's longest sneezing fit.

Reds suffered from a benign Tourette's Syndrome, where the symptoms involved screaming '18' for a period of up to 19 years and the trigger was any mention of 'Manchester United'.

They lived off past glories.

Liverpool supporters resembled an old-time comedian who shook his head in disgust at all this fast, modern comedy like Little Britain and The Office and said: 'I used to be just as funny, you know. The 80s were my prime, when I ruled with my knock knock jokes.

'Let me tell you the one about an Englishman, an Irishman and a Scotsman.'

The Reds did the same; telling us the one about Ray Clemence, Mark Lawrenson and Kenny Dalglish.

Listening to the Anfield die-hards move the goalposts with every successive failure was always a highlight of the season. Over the years, they said things like:

'We've got to retain the title this year';

'We must try to win back the title';

'This year we should get closer to United';

'We should at least qualify for the Champions League';

'We'll be happy if we finish above Everton'.

United did the silverware; Liverpool did the nostalgic Gerry and the Pacemakers songs. Everyone knew where the club stood.

But those extraordinary victories against Real Madrid and United are threatening to ruin everything.

The Reds are not only talking up their title credentials again, but also ridiculing Alex Ferguson and his boys.

'Bad loser Alex Ferguson goes missing' was one headline in the Liverpool Echo; swiftly followed by another which read 'Ferguson is cracking up'.

Because Rafa Benitez was cracking up a few weeks ago, get it?

Facebook pages lampoon United's 1-4 collapse and Fernando Torres' imperious domination of Nemanja Vidic at Old Trafford.

Liverpool fans do not only believe once more; they are mocking, which is most disconcerting.

United are still four points clear with a game in hand, but Liverpool are daring to dream again.

Their fans are beginning to sound like that anti-Vietnam War pop song from the 1980s, stuttering 'n-n-n-n-n-n-nineteen' at each other.

Such a dramatic rise in self-confidence is not without merit.
No matter what happens now, Liverpool supporters can be absolutely certain that they will finish above Everton.

Reds fans living off past glories (http://www.straitstimes.com/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=91000fdff4a10210VgnVCM10000043 0a0a0aRCRD&vgnextchannel=35b0758920e39010VgnVCM1000000a35010a RCRD)

[imom]

....When there were Cantona-inspired doubles, Liverpool cried '18'! When there were historic trebles, Liverpool cried '18'! Even when there were unexpected Chelsea-destroying titles, Liverpool still cried '18'!

It is rather like the world's longest sneezing fit.

Reds suffered from a benign Tourette's Syndrome, where the symptoms involved screaming '18' for a period of up to 19 years and the trigger was any mention of 'Manchester United'.....

Haven't you heard? '5!' is the new '18!'.... :D

[mangoesteam]

Splendid article by Alex Dunn of Sky Sports.:D

Tevez v Berba
Alex Dunn takes a light-hearted look at United's striking talent

How much must Dimitar Berbatov hate Carlos Tevez?

That's the question, along with 'how does Jamie Carragher manage to get a wedgie every time he makes a slide tackle?' which has most frequently interrupted my thoughts when watching football this season.

I've become obsessed. I'll spend whole Sunday afternoons watching re-runs of United games through the eyes of the Bulgarian via player-cam, desperate to catch him mouth an obscenity or sneer when his Argentine team-mate runs the length of the field with United 4-0 up at home to Bolton to tackle Danny Shittu. With his head.

There's something mesmeric about watching two players, both undeniably of world class calibre, play the game from such contrasting mindsets. Put simply, Tevez is everything Berbatov isn't and it's clear from the 'Argentina' chants that serenade the former's every touch that the Old Trafford faithful have made up their mind which they prefer. At times it seems as though there's more chance of the home crowd adopting a chant for Uncle Bulgaria than their own number nine.

It is though the man that matters who has nailed his colours to Berbatov's mast this season, with Sir Alex Ferguson unequivocal in his conviction that his £30million acquisition is the heir apparent to King Eric. To date, the crown has not quite fitted. When quizzed on the United crowd's affection for Tevez, Fergie replied 'they love a trier' which sounded not dissimilar to a teacher telling a pupil they're 'special' because they have particular needs.

Throughout his two seasons at Old Trafford Tevez has been the model professional and is popular with his team-mates, fans and manager alike but his recent behaviour smacks of a petulance that owes as much to his 'owners'' desire for a lucrative pay-day as it does his own ambition and frustration. Giving Fergie the old Hulk Hogan ears and sulking whenever he is withdrawn sits better with his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and could, in the long-run, prove to be his undoing when United's board meet to talk cold figures. They'll be loath to add diapers to next season's kit bill.

Berbatov's laissez-faire school of thought/movement can be frustrating for the partisan but the manner in he which he nonchalantly brought down Darren Fletcher's long ball and laid on the perfect pass for Tevez in the recent Manchester derby was more je ne sais quoi. Berbatov's got that certain something you just can't bottle, although there have been reports he has been in talks about fronting a new antiperspirant, it's got the tagline - BERBATOV: Guaranteed no sweat.

It would do a disservice to Tevez's talent though to label this a bout between the artisan and artist; craft and art, but there are clear parallels that can be drawn. Berbatov is Eubank to Tevez's street fighting Benn, is Peter Cook to Dudley Moore, is Baddiel to Skinner, Style Council to The Jam, Blur to Oasis. If the pair were pets, admittedly unlikely, Berbatov would be a cat that barely looks up when you get home, while Tevez would lick you and run off with a shoe. Think Garfield and Odie.

Berbatov's physique hardly does him any favours either. He's got the head of Andy Garcia and body of Jarvis Cocker and just doesn't look like a footballer. An up and coming mafioso maybe, but when he finally takes the hint and tracks back his tackling is reminiscent of a geography teacher that's had to take PE at the last minute. Somewhat perversely, he's fast becoming a poster boy for fat Sunday League strikers. His mantra is one I used to embrace; once when a centre-half lost patience with my reluctance to hare after one of his aimless punts forward and screamed 'CHASE IT!' I retorted 'You chase it, you f***** kicked it.' Berba would have been proud of that one.

Tevez, in stark contrast, is Brian Glover in Kes. He's probably only up to Berbatov's nipples but has an infectious and insatiable appetite for the fight that has United fans beating their chests and doing the unthinkable: singing about a team in blue and white.

Think with the head rather than heart though and the stats are slanted in Berbatov's favour. The big man has managed nine league goals to Tevez's five and has the most assists in the league alongside Frank Lampard, ten apiece. Tevez has assisted just three. The tackle count narrowly goes against Berbatov, with Tevez taking it 1,923 to three.

Ferguson, for his part, retains the utmost confidence in a player he has clearly always fancied managing, a la Cantona. While he persistently talks of United in terms of passion and guts and champions the spirit of risk and reward, he also appreciates the finer things in life. His love of fine wine is well known and while he'd bristle at being labelled a champagne socialist, he has managed to weld together sides that embrace cavalier spirit with roundhead efficiency.

Berbatov, like a vintage red, is an indulgence but one that Ferguson can well afford. It remains to be seen whether he feels the same about Tevez.

http://i41.tinypic.com/jkcb6d.jpg
"Tell him to stop running boss."

[alex18122003]

It's Ronaldo United must keep

On Sunday night, Carlos Tevez preferred to stay at home to comfort his young daughter who had a temperature rather than attend Manchester United's player of the year celebrations (a prize won by Nemanja Vidic).

Coupled with his body language as he left the pitch during United's final home game of the season against Arsenal, the Argentine's absence has led many to assume that he is heading for pastures new. After two years at Old Trafford he will be taking his entourage of advisers, interpreters and owners elsewhere, thus ending one of the most convoluted and contorted episodes of player ownership in football history.

Once footballers were traded like pieces of meat. In Tevez's case, they have been traded like commodities, with a futures market and endless opportunities for arbitrage. And the characters drawn into ownership on the back of such possibilities are among the least savoury ever seen in football. Which is frankly saying something. In Tevez's case the fact the English authorities have sealed the loophole preventing third party ownership has probably confirmed his departure from United. His owners need a couple more trades to maximise their profit before they finally relinquish his signature.

For United fans, however, the matter is a simple one: whatever it takes, they want Tevez to stay. He is the epitome of the kind of player supporters appreciate, his energy and commitment a reflection of their investment in the cause. Everybody loves a trier. For Alex Ferguson, however, there are complications, beyond even the player's Byzantine ownership structure. He has in reserve two young strikers who he feels are ready to take a step up to regular first team deployment. He has already told Fabio Capello that he expects Danny Welbeck to be in England's World Cup squad next June, while all attempts by Italian clubs to take Federico Macheda on loan next season have been rebuffed. He wants both to get lots of games next term.

Ferguson has never shied away from removing obstacles in the way of young players' development, and with Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney already on the books, paying out a total of £32 million for Tevez, simply to line the pockets of third party owners is not something he would undertake lightly if it meant he was playing instead of United's future hopes. The Old Trafford hard core, however, would prefer it if the blockage to development was removed elsewhere in the team.

"Keep Tevez, let Ronaldo go," one United regular told me, voicing a widely held opinion. He added that Ronaldo's attitude had become increasingly hard for even the most diehard United fan to justify. The Ronaldo song which soundtracked United's march to Moscow last season has been much less frequent in its airing this. The fans have fallen out of love with their one-time favourite. The arrogance, the diving, the endless self-pity when decisions do not go his way, coupled with his pantomime attempt to be released to Real Madrid last summer, has convinced the regulars that his interest lies chiefly in the promotion of Cristiano Ronaldo rather than the wellbeing of their club. Such has been the falling out, the consensus is now that Ferguson should let him go and keep the one who cares.

In which case, the advice should be: careful what you wish for. True, Ronaldo started this season slowly. True, he is at times a leading candidate for the most annoying human being on the planet award. But consider this: his 18 league goals are what made the difference this season. United won the league because they beat teams at home that Liverpool could only draw with. And Ronaldo was the one who scored the winning goals. While it would be unfair to describe him as a flat track bully (his performance in the Champions League semi at the Emirates destroyed the myth that he can't cut it at the highest level) he certainly enjoys inflicting pain on those he considers beneath him.

Without Ronaldo's winners against Stoke, Blackburn, Hull, West Ham, Bolton and the rest at Old Trafford, Rafa Benitez would now be in receipt of a congratulatory letter from Alex Ferguson for securing Liverpool's 19th title. Ronaldo's is a skill not easily replicated. It is certainly not one Tevez - for all his qualities - possesses. In fact, for the future of his club, Ferguson would be advised to do the opposite of the fans' wishes and put all his summer work into ensuring he keeps Ronaldo, not Tevez.

[alex18122003]

http://i44.tinypic.com/2earxap.jpg

Premier League - Ronaldo: I will stay at United

Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo insists he will remain at Old Trafford next season.

Much like last year, Ronaldo's future is constantly under the spotlight and Real Madrid have again been linked with a move for the Portugal international.

United are adamant he is not for sale but if Florentino Perez wins the Madrid presidential elections he is likely to make signing the world player of the year his number one priority.

However, Ronaldo claims Perez's efforts would be futile.

"At the moment I'm only thinking about the (Champions League) final independently of what will happen to me or my team-mates next season," he told Atena 3.

"I'm sure Perez would create an incredible team at Madrid but at the moment I'm at United and I don't care about what happens there.

"I only care about what will happen next season at Manchester United."

[mangoesteam]

http://i43.tinypic.com/2i9gjf5.jpg

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Van der Sar not fazed by Barca

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is not any more worried than usual about facing Barcelona's free-scoring attack in the Champions League final.



Van der Sar will be lining up for his fourth final in Rome's Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night against a Barca side that has scored over 100 goals en route to winning La Liga this season.

But the 38-year-old, who was in goal for United's shootout victory against Chelsea 12 months ago, will approach the Catalan side just like any other.

"As a goalkeeper you always expect every team to give you nightmares," Van der Sar said. "Every flaw you have or lapse of concentration can cost you a goal so you have to be on your toes every minute of the game.

"You work hard the whole year to come to certain parts of the season when you can get your hands on some silverware: we did it with the league title and we want to do it now tomorrow.

Netherlands' record cap-winner Van der Sar has lifted the trophy twice before, for United last year and with Ajax in 1995, and he believes the experience of winning the competition which he shares with his team-mates will give them edge.

"We have experience. We went last year and we know how big the game is. Let's hope we can have some advantage with that."

The Dutch giant is also not fazed by the prospect of returning to Rome, where he and Ajax suffered defeat at the hands of Juventus the year after they had won the trophy in Vienna.

"Maybe I'm less nervous but there is 13 years in between. There has been a lot of activity and games in between so you know certain situations a little better than at that time."

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Barcelona win the Champions League

Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi scored the goals as Barcelona beat Manchester United 2-0 in the Champions League final in Rome.

Cameroon international Eto'o struck after ten minutes and Messi added the second with a superb header 20 minutes from time.

United can have no complaints as they failed to find their usual fluency and defended hesitantly with many of their key performers well below-par.

Barcelona lifted the trophy for the third time in their history and matched United's own treble in 1999 as Pep Guardiola's men added Europe's premier competition to domestic League and Cup success.

The Catalan club scored with their first real attack after United started in electric fashion.

Andres Iniesta got past Anderson too easily and found Eto'o who cut inside Nemanja Vidic and toe poked the ball under Edwin van der Sar from close range.

Until then it had been all United.

After just two minutes Cristiano Ronaldo's 30-yard effort bounced viciously in front of Victor Valdes who spilled the effort and it required a superb block by former United defender Gerard Pique to deny Park Ji-sung a tap-in.

The Portuguese then volleyed just wide from 16 yards before United fell behind with Serb Vidic, named Barclays player of the year earlier in the day, culpable with a lackluster challenge.

Ronaldo looked to get his side back on terms and his run through on goal was ended by a Pique block for which he received a yellow card.

But Barca then began to boss the game and Messi came to the fore with a scorching drive just missing the top corner, with Van der Sar beaten, before Xavi curled a free-kick just over the top.

It was the 11th effort on goal in a frenetic opening half-hour.

United had an escape on the brink of half-time when Van der Sar spilled a low cross from Messi but there was no-one at the near post to capitalise and Sir Alex Ferguson gambled at the interval by replacing the ineffective Anderson with Carlos Tevez.

But Barca relished the extra space in midfield and twice came close to extending their advantage within the space of four minutes.

Iniesta sent Thierry Henry away down the left, in a big hole vacated by John O'Shea, and he turned Rio Ferdinand inside out before seeing his shot saved by the legs of Van der Sar.

Then a surging run from man-of-the-match Iniesta was ended a yard outside the penalty area by Vidic and Xavi curled the resulting free-kick around the wall and against the post.

United did regroup however and Ronaldo swung in a cross from the right which Yaya Toure completely missed only for the ball to bounce off the hard pitch and over the head of the unmarked Park six yards out.

Park was then replaced by Dimitar Berbatov as Ferguson threw caution to the wind with a 4-2-4 formation only to concede a second.

Patrice Evra hooked his clearance aimlessly to Xavi who picked out an unmarked Messi and the little Argentine climbed high to guide the ball past Van der Sar and into the far corner for his first goal against an English club.

United should have pulled a goal back almost immediately as the ball fell to Ronaldo at the far post only for Valdes to smother his shot.

Paul Scholes replaced Giggs and he was booked along with Ronaldo as United chased the game with the Premier League champions almost conceding a third when Carles Puyol's thumping header was saved by Van der Sar before the advancing Dutchman saved a shot from the Barca captain after the best move of the match.

Berbatov headed over from close range late on but there was no way back for United who failed in their bid to become the first team since Milan in 1990 to retain the European crown.

Victory for Barca also ended United's record 25-match unbeaten run in the competition and inflicted a first defeat in a European final on the Old Trafford club.

[too_hot]

I used to have respect for him but not so now. How can he claim that Liverpool who is trophyless for yet another season be better than United?
Somebody please remind that guy that the league lasts 10 months. The league table at the end of 38 matches played will not lie.



My comments might be coming a bit late but i feel the need to say it anyway.

Yes, much of the media has been making a joke abt rafa's comments that winning the league only means they have more points. But i tink wat rafa is saying is that having more points per se does not a better (or best) team make.

For the first time for as along as i can remember since the premier league started, liverpool got a better goal difference than man u, scored more goals than man u and had less losses than man u. So, whilst none of these 3 criteria will win a team a championship, to say that just because man u got the most points (hence winning the league) automatically means they are the best team is indeed flawed. Dun forget also dat liverpool did the double over man u this season including routing them in their own theatre of dreams during a time when man u was in form and making their charge for the title. If in spite of all this, you still can't see wat rafa's point was, then u're a sad excuse for a football fan who is unable to accept reality and choose to only see that which pleases u.

U would probably say berbatov is a better striker than torres, carrick a better midfielder than gerard. Why? Cos they are the striker and midfielder of the champion team right. So by definition they must be better than their counterparts in the 2nd place team. The truth is i'd take kuyt over berba anytime while both mascherano & alonso are better than carrick.

[WAKE-UP-U-FOOL]

My comments might be coming a bit late but i feel the need to say it anyway.

Yes, much of the media has been making a joke abt rafa's comments that winning the league only means they have more points. But i tink wat rafa is saying is that having more points per se does not a better (or best) team make.

For the first time for as along as i can remember since the premier league started, liverpool got a better goal difference than man u, scored more goals than man u and had less losses than man u. So, whilst none of these 3 criteria will win a team a championship, to say that just because man u got the most points (hence winning the league) automatically means they are the best team is indeed flawed. Dun forget also dat liverpool did the double over man u this season including routing them in their own theatre of dreams during a time when man u was in form and making their charge for the title. If in spite of all this, you still can't see wat rafa's point was, then u're a sad excuse for a football fan who is unable to accept reality and choose to only see that which pleases u.

U would probably say berbatov is a better striker than torres, carrick a better midfielder than gerard. Why? Cos they are the striker and midfielder of the champion team right. So by definition they must be better than their counterparts in the 2nd place team. The truth is i'd take kuyt over berba anytime while both mascherano & alonso are better than carrick.


LOL.. who cares wat u or even wat rafa bendhisass think..

Man Utd won 3 titles in a row!

And they're still no good ? sorry sore FOOLS losers

try harder NEXT NEXT NEXT NEXT NEXT NEXT NEXT NEXT SEASON lah

how many next season liao LIVERFLOPS!

now go back ur hole :D

[slyer]

sigh man utd lost the champ league. the better team won. barca deserve to win champ league. it is juz nt our nite :(

this season has been a good season for man utd winning 3 trophys

looking forward to next season

[alex18122003]

Champions League - Players: Ronaldo blames tactics

Reaction from the players after Barcelona stunned holders Manchester United to win their third Champions League crown with a 2-0 victory.

Cristiano Ronaldo: "The tactics were not good, everything went wrong. We have to give credit to Barcelona, but they were a bit lucky to be here because Chelsea did not deserve to lose and no-one has mentioned that. I have to congratulate Barcelona, they were better but only the winners get talked about."

Rio Ferdinand: "I don't think there's one of us out there can say we played well to be honest, as individuals or collectively. (The first goal) was a bit of a sucker punch, we'd had a few good chances before that. But no excuses, not on today's performance they were the better team. Special moments decide these games and they were deserved winners today."

Wayne Rooney: "Barcelona are a brilliant team and in my opinion Andres Iniesta is the best player in the world. Against a team like that if you don't take your chances, they will punish you. That is what happened. It is very disappointing and the feeling at the moment is not a good one. We are hurting. But we have to forget it and look forward to next season."

Ryan Giggs: "We are disappointed with the result and the performance. We didn't turn up tonight. They turned up, they played some great football. We didn't really. At times Barcelona can make you look silly because they keep the ball so well. At times we maybe chased it and didn't keep our shape as we should have."

Edwin van der Sar: "Rome doesn't bring me luck. We started well then after the first goal we suffered and we didn't play at the level we are used to."

Lionel Messi: "This is the most important win of my life. I am the happiest man alive and I am happy for myself, for my family and for my country."

Thierry Henry: "I've been waiting so long to get this title and finally today. The last five minutes were the longest of my life. You never know what can happen - we were playing against best team in the world. It's amazing. All year we played the same way, we wanted to play football. I don't think we started well. We had to play better, then we passed the ball the way we can. It's my daughter's birthday today so it's a double celebration."

Andres Iniesta: "I am speechless, the Cup is so beautiful. It's the perfect ending to a spectacular season."

Samuel Eto'o: "What we have done is historic, this is fantastic. I'm not sure that my goal was crucial for us to win the Champions League but it was certainly important. The whole team played fantastic, from Xavi to Iniesta, who was coming back from injury. It's been a great team effort from the start of the season."

[mangoesteam]

Losing any game will hurt even in the best of times. Maybe 66 (39 clean sheets) games took their toll.

Nevertheless, we cannot dispute this has been another great season.

Lets rejoice in the 3 Trophies won!

Cheers!:)

PS. Coming season at least United will not be distracted by the World Club Cup and can stay focussed on league number 19!:D

[bochapsing]

Cristiano Ronaldo: "The tactics were not good, everything went wrong. We have to give credit to Barcelona, but they were a bit lucky to be here because Chelsea did not deserve to lose and no-one has mentioned that. I have to congratulate Barcelona, they were better but only the winners get talked about."

Wayne Rooney: "Barcelona are a brilliant team and in my opinion Andres Iniesta is the best player in the world. Against a team like that if you don't take your chances, they will punish you. That is what happened. It is very disappointing and the feeling at the moment is not a good one. We are hurting. But we have to forget it and look forward to next season."

Ryan Giggs: "We are disappointed with the result and the performance. We didn't turn up tonight. They turned up, they played some great football. We didn't really. At times Barcelona can make you look silly because they keep the ball so well. At times we maybe chased it and didn't keep our shape as we should have."


i'm not here to start a war of words...

but if rumours r to be believe, i think ur team shall send ronaldo to real and get ribery from munich.. ronaldo's ego is getting too big for the good of the team..

hat's off to rooney n giggs...

looking forward to next season...

:):):)

[devilsperm]

i'm not here to start a war of words...

but if rumours r to be believe, i think ur team shall send ronaldo to real and get ribery from munich.. ronaldo's ego is getting too big for the good of the team..

hat's off to rooney n giggs...

looking forward to next season...



ronaldo's ego is big cause he know he is one of the most exciting player to watch on the planet, banging in goals from everywhere, mostly, anywhere. Ronaldo is also the main reason why man u is entertaining with his skill, shooting, power.

For the Barca game, he seems like the only one attempting goals, even tho he seems like to anyhow shoot only.. :mad: Under-perform Giggs, Rooney, Park, Anderson. All shuts off... Sad sad..

The more we hate him, the more we want to watch him. Ribery to Man U ?? Hmm.. what about the newly signed Tosic ? Hopes Ronaldo stays at Man U so i can have him for my Fantasy League next season! :D

[dc7176]

ronaldo's ego is big cause he know he is one of the most exciting player to watch on the planet, banging in goals from everywhere, mostly, anywhere. Ronaldo is also the main reason why man u is entertaining with his skill, shooting, power.


as u hav said so... cr7 ego is big!!!

cr7 must b reminded tat no one is bigger than the club... except for SAF...

Even when SAF get his tactics wrong in the final, he is still ard...

so pls sell cr7... oso sell berbatov... buy tevez...

[devilsperm]

so pls sell cr7... oso sell berbatov... buy tevez...

cr7 top goalscorer, berbatov most assist from him.. berba might look lazy but his touches changes game man... ;) dun get me wrong, i do hate his lazyness most of the time too... but its good to have him since rooney and tevez plays the same style..

keep all of em!! sell off nani! waste of money.. somehow, man u's midfield lack 'injection'. scholes might not be on for full 90 mins anymore.. carrick defends too much.. anderson, fletcher, carrick.. all turns out to be holdin midfield.. owen hargreaves.. hhmm.. need those exciting midfield centre la..

[slyer]

cr7 is very good skilled player i personally hope he can stay at man utd but at the same time hope his attitude can change for the better. he shd learn from scholes, giggs

if cr7 insist to leave man utd sell him to real for no less than 100million pounds. then use the money buy ribery, tevez and benzema and we are ready to win the treble next season:D

[richie_rich]

Yes, much of the media has been making a joke abt rafa's comments that winning the league only means they have more points. But i tink wat rafa is saying is that having more points per se does not a better (or best) team make.

For the first time for as along as i can remember since the premier league started, liverpool got a better goal difference than man u, scored more goals than man u and had less losses than man u. So, whilst none of these 3 criteria will win a team a championship, to say that just because man u got the most points (hence winning the league) automatically means they are the best team is indeed flawed. Dun forget also dat liverpool did the double over man u this season including routing them in their own theatre of dreams during a time when man u was in form and making their charge for the title. If in spite of all this, you still can't see wat rafa's point was, then u're a sad excuse for a football fan who is unable to accept reality and choose to only see that which pleases u.




So i gather you are telling me that the best team didn't win the league?
So what if Liverpool managed the double over United, scored more goals and have a better goal difference? It just means that Liverpool played better than United during the 2 games that they met, they have a better attack and managed to score more goals in their other league wins.
But you fail to mention that Liverpool only managed 25 wins compared to United's 28 overall. You failed to mention that Liverpool drew too many games, 11 to be exact as compared to United's 6. Yes, Liverpool did lose only 2 games in the entire season. But does that convert to points?
We can argue about statistics until the cows come home.
Bro, you, are to me, and i quote : " then u're a sad excuse for a football fan who is unable to accept reality and choose to only see that which pleases u."
I just want to add that the league lasts from August to May, a course over 10months.
The best team over these 10 months wins the league. Enough said.
Cheers! :)

[alex18122003]

England must cope without Carrick

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra with a foot injury.

Aston Villa winger James Milner has been called up from the England Under-21 squad as the replacement for Carrick.

Milner's inclusion brings the total number of Villa players in the squad to four.

Carrick played alongside Ryan Giggs in central midfield for United in their 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.

His absence is not expected to hamper England coach Fabio Capello unduly as he prepares for the games, against Kazakhstan in Almaty on Saturday, then Andorra at Wembley the following Wednesday.

Maximum points should all but make England's place at the 2010 World Cup safe.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - United agree shirt deal with Aon

Aon Corp, the world's largest insurance broker, has agreed a four-year deal to sponsor the shirts of Premier League champions Manchester United from the start of the 2010-11 season.

United's current £14 million a year deal with US insurance giant American International Group runs out in June 2010.

Details of the agreement were not disclosed but U.S. media reports said it was worth about £20m a year.

"We are delighted to be entering such an important relationship with a company of the stature of Aon and to have its logo adorn our shirts from the start of the 2010-11 season," United chief executive David Gill said.

"We look forward to being closely aligned with the world leader in risk management, a firm which shares our values and is an exciting partner for Manchester United.

"Today's announcement clearly strengthens our position as one of the biggest clubs in world football."

United won the Premier League title last month for the third year in a row to continue their domination of English football but they lost 2-0 to Barcelona in the Champions League final to end the season on a disappointing note.

The deal represents a coup for Aon, which has secured one of the most prestigious advertising deals in sport with United's huge global fan base making them one of the top prizes in sports sponsorship.

"It is a unique opportunity when two leaders in their respective fields can come together in a partnership such as the one we are announcing today," added Greg Case, president and chief executive officer of Aon.

"Manchester United has one of the most recognised sports brands in the world. David and his team are all about winning and about excellence; the same holds true for the Aon team."

Aon last month posted a 28 per cent rise in first-quarter net income but said softer insurance pricing and the economic downturn ate away at business.

AIG told Reuters this year it would not renew its shirt sponsorship of United and that it had started cutting back costs in relation to the existing deal.

Once the world's biggest insurer by market value, AIG averted bankruptcy in September last year with an $85 billion federal bailout, which later swelled to about $152 billion.

[alex18122003]

Rooney craves England success

Wayne Rooney hopes England can wrap up qualification for the 2010 World Cup as soon as possible, so that he can edge closer to international silverware.

The United striker has won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Club World Cup and the Carling Cup in his club career, but has only memories of frustration from his participation in Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup.

England have a 100 percent record in qualifiers to date, and can move ever closer to a berth in South Africa with victory over minnows Andorra on Wednesday evening.

"You look to play in the big tournaments and the two I've played in have ended in real disappointment," he admitted, "so hopefully we can qualify and I can help this team win something in the future.

"Of course you think about it, it's one of the biggest tournaments in the world and a win on Wednesday will be a massive step for us."

Rooney bagged his 22nd international goal in England's 4-0 win over Kazakhstan on Saturday, and he is delighted with his own form and that of his colleagues under coach Fabio Capello.

"I was delighted to score," he said. "In the end it was a good result with four goals and the win. We're doing quite well. We're delighted to win the games and it's always nice when you score goals as well. There are a lot of players who can score goals in the team."

[yinyang]

Ron's going, gone liao... for princely sum gbp80mil.

No player's biger than club, besides there's shelf life to valuation.

Manchester United have accepted a world record offer of £80m from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo.

BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | M | Man Utd | Man Utd accept £80m Ronaldo bid (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/8094720.stm)

[Castrol]

Ron's going, gone liao... for princely sum gbp80mil.

No player's biger than club, besides there's shelf life to valuation.

Manchester United have accepted a world record offer of £80m from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo.

BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | M | Man Utd | Man Utd accept £80m Ronaldo bid (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/8094720.stm)

ok that lay rest to the rumours about c.ronaldo's mega transfer, say... how come man city is not flexing any muscle yet?

many people are calling him gaynaldo, not sure this rumour is true or not...

http://172.31.254.244/i43.tinypic.comm/2ns6pv9.jpg

[goodielecks]

80m is good business. Selling 1 player and the money could be used for 3 or 4 players.

I guess Fergie has decided enough is enough, all the rumours every summer is unsettling.

Now time for the replacements, Ribery, Benzema or who else?

[imom]

A return of 567%, profit of 68million quid, is not bad at all.... Take it as his parting gift....

He did play with commitment whenever he wore the devils' shirt - wish him well but hope we still beat RM if/when we meet them... lol

Who will wear the no.7 shirt next season......?? Hoping we get a winger so Rooney can get back into a central striking role. And looking at Glen Johnson's England performances, I think we might have missed out on Gary Neville's replacement...

[blackpower]

Ron's going, gone liao... for princely sum gbp80mil.

No player's biger than club, besides there's shelf life to valuation.

Manchester United have accepted a world record offer of £80m from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo.

BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | M | Man Utd | Man Utd accept £80m Ronaldo bid (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/8094720.stm)

Lol for that monyey can nearly buy newcastle team.. Lol..

But its good that he goes.. Too much of rumors etc.. Fergie doesnt like this.. And the return of investment is good.. I hope Fergie will definitely will put to good use to it, and get some decent midfielders to strengten his squad. :cool:

[imom]

Lol for that monyey can nearly buy newcastle team..

LOL yeah, didn't think of that....

So, with the amount they have spent on two players, RM could have owned Newcastle, plus given them a transfer kitty of close to 40million quid....

[dc7176]

Glazers hand Man Utd boss Ferguson £100M warchest

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been given £100 MILLION to spend this summer.

The Daily Mail says Ferguson has been given the warchest after he personally gave the order for Cristiano Ronaldo to be sold to Real Madrid.

And United last night prepared to enter a bidding war with Chelsea for France international Franck Ribery which could go as high as £65m.

Old Trafford boss Ferguson is also known to have Lyon’s £25m forward Karim Benzema on his hit list and he hopes to conclude the £16m signing of Wigan’s Antonio Valencia in the near future.

[slyer]

since ronaldo's heart is not with man utd, its time to let him go. 80million pounds is good money considerin sir alex bought him for 15million pounds :D real madrid management seems like to spend lots of money on star players without getting more silverwares

hope ribery, benzema can come to man utd while tevez stays on. with these 3 signings man utd is good to go on for the next season :D

[devilsperm]

Glazers hand Man Utd boss Ferguson £100M warchest

Old Trafford boss Ferguson is also known to have Lyon’s £25m forward Karim Benzema on his hit list and he hopes to conclude the £16m signing of Wigan’s Antonio Valencia in the near future.

We already got Antonio Valencia, we're left with Benzema! :P

[imom]

since ronaldo's heart is not with man utd, its time to let him go. 80million pounds is good money considerin sir alex bought him for 15million pounds...


It was 12.5million if I remember....

[stevenash]

Nobody is bigger than the club,so i guess man u are right to sell ronaldo off for a big sum of money where they can used to strengthen their squard.

[slyer]

It was 12.5million if I remember....

oops i am not sure of the exact price ronaldo is bought in but definitely if he goes to real for 80million, man utd earn a very big profit.

now hope tevez can stay and don't go to man city

[goodielecks]

Fernando Torres (http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2009/06/14/1323728/manchester-united-to-make-shock-move-for-liverpool-star-fernando-)?

I don't think any of us would have expected this, trust SAF to surprise us again.

[dc7176]

Nobody is bigger than the club,so i guess man u are right to sell ronaldo off for a big sum of money where they can used to strengthen their squard.

SAF??? :rolleyes::D W/O SAF, Man utd wont be where we r today!! keke...

[mangoesteam]

SAF???Of course it is SAF:) I shudder to think what will happen when he finally calls it a day:(

[imom]

Fernando Torres (http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2009/06/14/1323728/manchester-united-to-make-shock-move-for-liverpool-star-fernando-)?

I don't think any of us would have expected this, trust SAF to surprise us again.

SAF actually wanted to bring Torres to MU from Atletico Madrid, before actually 'settling' for Tevez that same season. So no surprises that he still has his eye on him.

But, highly unlikely as there have been no transfers between MU/Pool for the longest time.... And remember the Heinze episode? Rafa will probably use this to exact revenge. FACT. LOL!

[slyer]

fernando torres is a good striker. i doubt rafa will agree to sell him to man utd.

ronaldo move to real madrid finalised alr? i'm hoping he will reject the move but it seems unlikely :(

there is a high chance we may lose tevez to man city sigh :(

[evo3]

According to the latest news Man U will soon lose Tevez to Man City.

[yinyang]

...Man U will soon lose Tevez to Man City.
Looks like draw of 1st team place (and $$$ wages) to big cheque book MC. Chelski interest too?? Torres rumour is just BS :p

Tevez set to spurn Ferguson - Transfers, Football - The Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/tevez-set-to-spurn-ferguson-1705345.html)

Tevez set to spurn Ferguson

By Ian Herbert
Monday, 15 June 2009

Tevez told Ferguson directly in the past few days that he wants to leave.

Sir Alex Ferguson's attempt to keep Carlos Tevez at Old Trafford is having little tangible effect after the Argentine told the Manchester United manager directly in the past few days that he wants to leave.

Ferguson, it is understood, has stepped up his attempts to persuade the striker that he does have a future with United by making several telephone calls from his holiday on the Cote d'Azur. But Tevez has been more direct with Ferguson than at any time in the past three months, reiterating that he is still intent on leaving.

That means a move across Manchester still looks on the cards. City remain well ahead of Liverpool in their pursuit of the player, with the Premier League runners-up looking to schedule any transfer payment over four instalments and unable to come close either to the sum or the wages which City could offer. City's unconfirmed offer is £140,000 per week – a reflection that Tevez has proven ability to deliver in the Premier League.

Chelsea are also believed to be a contender for his services, yet United have not given up all hope of Tevez remaining with them. Cristiano Ronaldo's departure, which should advance with his Real Madrid medical in the next few days, creates a greater chance for Tevez to start more major games next season.

[CibLover]

Hi to all my Red Devil fans.

Douglas Costa anyone??

18 years old already in Brazil's under 20.
Rumoured to have a "Get-out" Clause for 18 million pounds.

[TinTin130670]

80 million pound & not a single signing yet...:confused:
80 million could get....
Karim Benzema for 30 million
Alexis Sánchez for 15 million
Douglas Costa for 15 million
Daniele De Rossi for 15 million
Another 10++million for a decent Center back....:D

Ben Foster
Wes Brown Vidic Evans Evra
Daniele De Rossi
Alexis Sanchez Anderson Douglas Costa
Rooney
Benzema


Cheers,
TinTin

[richie_rich]

SAF has a war chest of 100m pounds. I hope he signs David Villa and David Silva from Valencia for a combined fee of around 60m. Another 20m to Wigan for right winger Valencia. If Villa goes to Real, then I hope SAF goes for E'to.

Line up for 2009/2010 :

Foster
Brown Ferdinand Vidic Evra
Valencia Hargreaves Carrick Silva
Rooney Villa (E'to)

Subs: Berbatov, Anderson, Ji Sung, Rafael, Fletcher, O'Shea, Macheda, Van der Sar

Players to sell : Nani, Wellbeck, Gibson, Campbell

Eh, anybody has any idea what's happened to Manucho who was loaned to Hull?

[goodielecks]

2009-10 Fixtures List

August
Sat Aug 15 Birmingham City H
Tue Aug 18 Burnley A
Sat Aug 22 Wigan Athletic A
Sat Aug 29 Arsenal H

September
Sat Sep 12 Tottenham Hotspur A
Sat Sep 19 Manchester City H
Sat Sep 26 Stoke City A

October
Sat Oct 3 Sunderland H
Sat Oct 17 Bolton Wanderers H
Sat Oct 24 Liverpool A
Sat Oct 31 Blackburn Rovers H

November
Sat Nov 7 Chelsea A
Sat Nov 21 Everton H
Sat Nov 28 Portsmouth A

December
Sat Dec 5 West Ham A
Sat Dec 12 Aston Villa H
Tue Dec 15 Wolverhampton Wanderers H
Sat Dec 19 Fulham A
Sat Dec 26 Hull City A
Mon Dec 28 Wigan Athletic H

January
Sat Jan 9 Birmingham City A
Sat Jan 16 Burnley H
Tue Jan 26 Hull City H
Sat Jan 30 Arsenal A

February
Sat Feb 6 Portsmouth H
Wed Feb 10 Aston Villa A
Sat Feb 20 Everton A
Sat Feb 27 West Ham H

March
Sat Mar 6 Wolverhampton Wanderers A
Sat Mar 13 Fulham H
Sat Mar 20 Liverpool H
Sat Mar 27 Bolton Wanderers A

April
Sat Apr 3 Chelsea H
Sat Apr 10 Blackburn Rovers A
Sat Apr 17 Manchester City A
Sat Apr 24 Tottenham Hotspur H

May
Sat May 1 Sunderland A
Sun May 9 Stoke City H

Subject to changes, kick off times and dates to be finalised.

Kicking off with promoted clubs and playing all the big guns and the derby early on in the season.

[alex18122003]

Premier League - Lyon 'could sell Benzema'

Lyon could be tempted to sell Karim Benzema to Manchester United if the Premier League side put in a big-money bid, according to director Bernard Lacombe.

Benzema (pictured, right) is one of the world's hottest properties and speculation is rife that United are ready to use some of the money from the impending sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid to bring the young striker to Old Trafford.

Lacombe claimed recently Benzema would remain at the Stade Gerland, but has now revealed the 21-year-old could be sold if the price is right.

"He is with us, but no-one knows what will happen," Lacombe told regional daily Le Progres.

"At the time we didn't think that Michael Essien would leave, but when Chelsea came with their cheque...

"If Manchester United, who we all know have come into a lot of money, present an offer for Benzema, what can you do?"

Ronaldo is set to become Madrid's second signing of the summer, following the purchase of Kaka from AC Milan.

The pair will cost the club around 160million euros in transfer fees and Lacombe has lashed out at the Spaniards for distorting the market.

He added: "The market is false because certain European clubs don't have official league bodies controlling how they are managed and can do what they want.

"I'm not bitter but how can Real Madrid, who are in debt, sign two players whose price is almost the same as Lyon's entire budget?

"It shocks we who are in the same environment, so I understand that people outside the football world are shocked.

"It's baffling, clumsy and disrespectful. Economically Spain is at a standstill. We can't support this."

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas had earlier hinted he could be powerless to keep the forward at the Stade Gerland.

"I won't hide from you the fact that he has been approached. For the moment, I managed to convince them not to go further," he said.

Benzema came through the ranks at the French giants and burst onto the scene in the 2007-08 season with 31 goals in 51 games.

That same season, the striker was named Ligue 1 player of the year and also topped the league's scoring charts.

This campaign was less impressive for both club and player, as Lyon ended the season without the Ligue 1 title for the first time in eight years, but the France forward nevertheless scored 23 goals in all competitions - an average of a goal every other game.

[kyc2110]

heard the news yesterday morning that Ronald deal to Real Madrid has been HOOKING in the air due to some unclear and unsatisfactory terms and conditions. Oh what a waste, at least MU will be alot of money to buy and groom more player and then sell it again. Cheers for MU as a commercial Football club.

[papamikiesen]

Too bad Tevez's leaving. Hope they buy a lethal striker and a world-class midfielder next. Huntelaar should go to Man Utd.

[slyer]

quite upset abt tevez saga. he says he wants to be highest paid at man utd, sir alex offer him a contract that makes him the highest paid. nw he reject the contract n wants to leave. i wonder what is he tinking.

save the money and use it to buy sergio aguero and benzema. they are younger, pacy and better

[machoman]

"New Ronaldino" Douglas Costa to join Man Utd?


YouTube - Douglas Costa x Ronaldinho 0001 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5M05-5Abqk)


Manchester United are understood to be in talks with Brazilian club Grêmio concerning the transfer of Douglas Costa, their much sought after teenage midfield player, as Sir Alex Ferguson looks to replace Real Madrid-bound Cristiano Ronaldo.

Costa, who is commonly known simply as Douglas, is a left-footed attacking midfield player and free-kick specialist. In Brazil he is being hailed as "the new Ronaldinho" after earning rave reviews in his first full season with the Grêmio senior squad.

United have been monitoring his progress for about two years; but following outstanding performances in the junior Copa Santiago tournament in January 2008, several other leading European clubs, including Liverpool, Inter Milan and Real Madrid began to show an interest.

Grêmio responded by giving him a contract until February 2013, with a release clause estimated to be worth £13.5 million. However, Ferguson remains confident of signing the player this summer and adding him to the growing roster of Brazilian stars at Old Trafford.

Douglas’s agent Cesar Bottega, however, was more circumspect yesterday when speaking about the negotiations: "There have been some informal conversations [but] I don’t believe they can reach those values. Right now, an offer might come in at a maximum of £6.7million. But this would not be enough for [Grêmio] president Duda Kroeff. At the end of the Brasileirão [Brazil’s equivalent of the Premier League which ends in December], Douglas will be worth at least twice what he’s worth now.”

Ferguson is also hoping to complete the transfer of Antonio Valencia, the Wigan Athletic and Ecuador winger, before United head off to Asia for a series of pre-season friendlies in the middle of July.

[CibLover]

Reports from The Sun, UK:-

MANCHESTER UNITED have been knocked back in their bid to take wonderkid Douglas Costa on a 20-day trial. The Brazilian midfielder, 18, has been tipped as a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford.


He is valued at around £13million but United are unsure whether he is ready for first team action.

Douglas' current club Gremio are keen to keep hold of him but admit there is interest in the player from Europe. Club president Duda Kroeff said: "I received a phone call from someone working for Manchester United.
"He asked for Douglas to be released and said that he would not play, but they wanted to see him in action.


"I denied the request. Douglas is an established player, he is not a stranger. He has no need to face tests at European clubs."


Hmmm.... seems like someone is playing hard ball when European clubs comes-a-calling. Good prospect though.

[RipcurlGuy]

ronaldo deal settled already... sian... but at least man utd got money to buy some.. tevez leave ronaldo leave...dunno who coming...scarly buy flop players den how to win EPL next season... and the new jersey... all LCP rank..lol quite chio la..

[slyer]

goodbye ronaldo all the best to u in real madrid

tevez says berbatov arrival is a sign for him to leave man utd. stupid reason lol. if a striker is good he will nt be afraid of competition

[alex18122003]

Papers: Karim deal closer
United close in on Benzema

Sir Alex Ferguson took another step towards the £30m capture of striker Karim Benzema yesterday. But Manchester United could yet face fierce competition from bitter transfer market rivals Real Madrid. Fallen French champions Lyon opened the door to the sale of prize asset Benzema by making a £15m move for Porto striker Lisandro Lopez. It is a clear indication that Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas is preparing to cash in on his 21-year-old star. Lyon were knocked back in a bid for Paris Saint-Germain’s Guillaume Hoarau. But their rapid response was a move for Portugal ace Lopez. That is good news for United boss Ferguson, who is aware Benzema is in no hurry to leave Lyon until after the World Cup next summer. The Old Trafford chief’s main problem could be big-spending Spanish giants Real, who have taken £80m Cristiano Ronaldo from United and also want Wigan winger Antonio Valencia. Real are now likely to target Benzema, leaving United to hope that the Galactico policy at the Bernabeu will persuade the young Frenchman his prospects will be better at Old Trafford.
Bill Thornton, Daily Star

The Daily Mirror says Sir Alex Ferguson will quickly slap in a £40million bid for Spain's David Villa, after Barcelona opened the bidding for the Valencia star. However, the article does include Villa's assertion that: "Next season I will play in Spain because it is the league that is best for me." The same paper speculates that Nani could be used as a makeweight in a deal for Wigan's Antonio Valencia.

The transfer tittle-tattle keeps coming. United will have to fork out £25million - without an initial three-week trial - for Gremio starlet Douglas Costa, according to The Daily Mail.

[CibLover]

Arsenal enters race to sign Benzema. - Reports from Soccernet.

Arsenal are reported to be in the race to sign Lyon striker Karim Benzema, as they look to replace Emmanuel Adebayor should he leave for AC Milan this summer.

The highly-rated Benzema has been linked with Manchester United for the past six months, but the News of the World claim that the striker is now subject of interest from Arsene Wenger.

Should the future of £25m Togo striker Adebayor be decided in the next few weeks, Arsenal will be keen to bolster their strikeforce and a £30m bid for Benzema could be accepted.

The player has said that he would prefer another season at Lyon to make sure he cements a place in the France side for the World Cup. But the club's owners have hinted that a bid of more than £30m would turn their heads and Benzema is also believed to favour a move to the Emirates over Old Trafford.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas' said last week that despite Benzema's apparent desire to stay at Stade Gerland, a sizeable offer could lead to him leaving.

"Karim has said that he wants to stay another year at Lyon," Aulas told L'Equipe. "But I think that Kaka or Ronaldo maybe imagined remaining with their respective clubs.

"There is a tsunami called Real Madrid which provokes reactions at Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.

"So it is very complicated to say that he is non-transferable. It's obvious we want to keep him. There is more chance he'll be at Lyon next season than that he won't be.

"I won't hide from you the fact that he has been approached. For the moment, I managed to convince them not to go further."

Benzema has come through the ranks at Lyon and burst onto the scene in the 2007-08 season with 31 goals in 51 games, a streak that saw him named Ligue 1 player of the year as well as top the league's scoring charts.


Damn...Benzema favours going to Arsenal????? :confused:

[richie_rich]

UNITED COMPLETE VALENCIA SIGNING


Sir Alex Ferguson has tipped new signing Antonio Valencia to make a significant contribution to Manchester United's bid for an unprecedented fourth league title on the trot.

United confirmed their first summer arrival this evening as the 23-year-old signed a lucrative four-year contract.

Although the Red Devils have not specified a fee, it is believed they have spent around £16million of the world record £80million banked from the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo.

And, while it is not expected Valencia will represent the end of Ferguson's spending, the United boss is already tipping the South American to make a big impact.

"Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan," he said.

"I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team."

If nothing else, Valencia's arrival ensures Wayne Rooney should be given the more central berth he craves next season as the Ecuador star is unlikely to venture into the middle quite as much as Ronaldo.

As he has already gone through the Premier League settling-in period after spending two seasons with the Latics, there are no worries over whether Valencia can adapt either.

His lack of English may be a concern initially, although the main doubt of most United fans is a goalscoring return of just seven in 83 appearances for Wigan and four in 34 for his country.

Even though few would expect Valencia alone to match Ronaldo's phenomenal recent output, better will be expected from a player who spent a short time as a team-mate of former United star Diego Forlan at Villarreal.

Forlan's experience proves players of high quality can struggle to make an impact at Old Trafford, although Valencia is looking forward to the opportunity.

"Joining Manchester United is a dream come true for me," he said.

"I have enjoyed my time at Wigan but I am thrilled to have the chance to challenge for the biggest honours in club football here.

"Playing in front of 76,000 fans alongside players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs will be an amazing experience.

"I can't wait to get started."

The first Ecuadorian to play for United will get his first opportunity on a four-match tour of Asia next month, before the Red Devils head for a four-team tournament in Munich.

By the time Ferguson's side wrap up their pre-season programme against Valencia at Old Trafford on August 5 and head to Wembley for the Community Shield showdown with Chelsea, Valencia will have expected to be accustomed to his new surroundings.

Having turned down an approach from Real Madrid, Valencia is clearly keen to make an impact, although it is a measure of the vast sums of money that has been spent at the Bernabeu, what would normally constitute a significant signing - and is a club record for Wigan - is almost being greeted with a shrug of the shoulders.

"I hope the fans at Wigan can understand that I am an ambitious guy and a chance like this might never come again for me," said Valencia, who will be 24 next month.

"I am happy that the club has benefited from the move financially because I owe them such a lot. I have had a great time here."

[richie_rich]

PJANIC - BENZEMA JOINING UNITED


Miralem Pjanic claims Lyon team-mate Karim Benzema is close to completing a £38million move to Manchester United.

Benzema has been a long-term target for United, with Lyon prepared to listen to offers if the France international expresses a wish to move.

Reports had previously claimed that Benzema was willing to spend one more season with Lyon in order to maximise his prospects of playing at the 2010 World Cup.

However, he could now be on his way to Old Trafford after Pjanic revealed the 21-year-old is ready to link up with the Premier League champions.

"Benzema is nearly gone to Old Trafford," Pjanic told Bosnian website Sportsport.

"The English club are willing to pay €45million (£38million) for him and it is just a question of the day when he will move to England.

"He does not have anything against going to Manchester. Our side will be reinforced by Lisandro Lopez, the Argentine forward from Porto."

Real Madrid and Arsenal had also been linked with the striker, but it appears United have won the race to sign the coveted Benzema.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is striving to replace Carlos Tevez following the end of the Argentine's two-year loan and Benzema looks to be his top target.

Ferguson has money to spend following the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid and wrapped up the signing of Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic on Tuesday evening.

[richie_rich]

VIDIC: I WILL STAY AT UNITED


Nemanja Vidic has revealed he has received offers from AC Milan, Real Madrid and Barcelona but will spurn their advances to stay at Manchester United.

The Serbia international has established himself as one of Europe's finest defenders since moving to Old Trafford and his performances at the heart of United's defence has not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

The 27-year-old has attracted plenty of interest from other clubs but although Vidic concedes his wife is unhappy in Manchester, he is adamant he will see out his contract that runs until 2012.

After losing Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid and Carlos Tevez having also departed, Sir Alex Ferguson is determined no other top stars will be moved on.

While his wife may not be happy with his decision, Vidic, who has received a significant pay increase to fend off interest from elsewhere, is going nowhere.

"My wife Ana is unhappy with our lifestyle in Manchester but I am not going to change my mind as I am happy with the team and Manchester and the club's ambition for next season," he told The Sun.

"I got offers from Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid and I played a very honest game - I disclosed all these offers to my boss Sir Alex.

"He reacted quickly. I was told he was raising my pay to bring it to the level where my reputation is in the Premier League and Europe.

"After Milan and Real Madrid made their offers Barcelona came in - they wanted to pay £30million for my services but after Sir Alex's move, I am definitely staying in Manchester until my contract expires in 2012.

"I don't care that I will still not be paid as much as my good friends Rio Ferdinand or Wayne Rooney but I guess I will be at the same level as Berbatov or Carrick."

[TinTin130670]

BENZEMA going to Real Madrid....:mad:

Cheers,
TinTin

[asiancigar]

BENZEMA going to Real Madrid....:mad:

Cheers,
TinTin

Yet ANOTHER major F%&@ UP by CEO DAVID GILL....... he is a pure Accountant (no offense to brudders from that profession).

Lost CR and Tevez, almost lost Giggs 2 seasons ago and now Benzima.....

Less we pull an elephant out off the hat...... I fear that we might end up 3rd in EPL next year behind Liverpool and ManC and probably get knocked out in the 2nd round of Champions League.

Our future looks bleak Brudders....... sigh

Cheerz
AC

[CibLover]

........
[I]Our future looks bleak Brudders.......

Don't fret too much. SAF has been there before and if we can't compete in signing established stars, might as well go for uncovered gems. Like what we did with C.Ronaldo.

Anyway, the current crops should step up to the plate now. Wazza shd be able to play in his more "favoured" position since Valencia plays on the wings. Nani shd buck-up and learn to keep the ball while supplying better crosses.

All-in-all, let's wait and see how SAF spends the 80 million.

[yinyang]

Don't fret too much. SAF has been there before and if we can't compete in signing established stars, might as well go for uncovered gems.
..Wazza shd be able to play in his more "favoured" position since Valencia plays on the wings.
Inflated market, not least helped by RM's new galacticos build up (psst..they also have a sell list to unload likes of Nilsteroy etc).

Yeah, Rooney doesn't have to accomodate Ron.. and settle in his more forward striker role.

So AC, relax lah... superstars (and their big egos) do not 1 successful team make

[richie_rich]

OWEN FOR OLD TRAFFORD?


Michael Owen has now been cut to evens to move to Manchester United this summer.

Sky Bet slashed Owen's odds of moving to Old Trafford to 7/4 from 20/1 on Thursday afternoon following sustained support for the England striker make the move.

And he was cut further on Thursday after more interest in the market.

Sky Bet's Mike Triffitt said: "With Real Madrid hoovering up several high profile targets, United are running out of options to fill the void left by the departure of Ronaldo and Tevez and Owen is a cheap option.

"We've had a steady stream of bets on free agent Owen joining United.

"A move to United should suit Owen, who wants to get back into the England squad and will feel he has a better chance with a higher profile club."

After Real Madrid seemingly beat United in the race to sign Karim Benzema on Wednesday, it seems as if Alex Ferguson's striking options are dwindling significantly.

Indeed, there was plenty of speculation in the Thursday papers that United might not sign a striker at all, and place faith in youngsters like Frederico Macheda and Danny Welbeck.

Given Owen's injury record and United's transfer kitty the move seems unlikely, but perhaps the punters know something we don't.