Anderson will play anywhere for Man Utd

Anderson is happy to play anywhere for Manchester United.

The Brazilian attacking midfielder has been played in a defensive role in recent weeks and says: "I feel at ease playing further back.

"I try to distribute the moves quickly and I am very happy with the praise I'm getting from my teammates.

"Now I need to continue with these performances and also to win the respect and confidence of all the fans at United."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=62915

Rio rocked as he heads for a scan

Rio Ferdinand has given Manchester United an injury scare that leaves him touch-and-go for Saturday's battle of the Premier League giants at Arsenal.

Ferdinand reported to United's Carrington complex on Monday but went for a scan instead of training.

The England centre half fears a recurrence of a groin problem that forced him to miss four of United's final six games in the run-in to regaining the title last season.

Coming on the day when it was also revealed midfielder Paul Scholes will be ruled out until February, it was hardly the news manager Sir Alex Ferguson needed before the clash with rival Arsene Wenger and his Premier League leaders.

Ferdinand was replaced by Gerard Pique 20 minutes from the end of Saturday's convincing 4-1 win over Middlesbrough, a victory that lifted United to the top until Arsenal took a point from Liverpool on Sunday.

Ferdinand's solid defensive partnership with Nemanja Vidic had been a key feature of United's return to form along with the blossoming partnership in attack of Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez.

Ferguson's recordequalling side have now hit four goals past their last four opponents.

United insiders expect Ferdinand to bite the bullet for Saturday's crucial lunchtime showdown at the Emirates, which is likely to be one of a handful of matches this season that settle the destination of the title.

But there is concern that Ferdinand's injury will have to be addressed in the long term if it keeps returning to bother the defender, who is 29 next month.

Scholes will not kick another ball in anger for at least another 12 weeks and will have surgery on a knee on Thursday after his specialist confirmed he was suffering from ligament damage.

There had been fears that the talented midfielder might be suffering from a cruciate injury after an initial scan proved inconclusive on Friday.

The 32-year-old former England player, who beat a career threatening eye injury last season, was hurt in training a week ago in Kiev while preparing for a Champions League tie.

Scholes must now sit out the next three months as United surge on towards what Cristiano Ronaldo believes will be their 'heavyweight championship'.

Old Trafford's darling has promised to keep frustrating the defenders who leave him black and blue, and warned: 'With Carlos Tevez, Nani and Anderson, we are more heavyweight this season.

'Now, when teams come to shut up shop, we have more ways of unlocking them. It's exciting. We're certainly better than last year. And if defenders want to put the boot in, I'll keep taking it. I'm used to it now.'

Ronaldo added: 'I was delighted that Real Madrid were so interested in signing me, but United have become everything to me. I'm going to be here for many years and I'm going to be very happy.'

Sunderland manager Roy Keane is ready to raid his former club in January with a £2.5million offer for 20-year-old United central defender Jonny Evans, who impressed during a successful loan spell at the North East club last season.

Keane could not persuade his former boss Ferguson to sell the Northern Ireland international this summer but Evans has failed to break into the Premier League ranks at Old Trafford.

Keane, however, will be able to assure the ambitious youngster that he will have a regular starting place if he joins him at the Stadium of Light.

United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who made his debut for Holland in June 1995, has revealed that he intends to retire from the international stage after next year's European Championship.

Van der Sar, 37, previously at Ajax, Juventus and Fulham, has made a record 121 appearances for his country. He said: 'I will stop with Oranje after Euro 2008. The time has come.'

Fellow Dutchman Jaap Stam, who won three League titles and the Treble with United in 1999 and is still celebrated in song at Old Trafford, has retired from football at 35 because of a lack of motivation.

Stam, who retired from international football three years ago after winning 67 caps, said: 'I no longer feel 100 per cent.'

The Ajax centre half was sold to Lazio in 2001 after falling out with manager Ferguson — who he claimed in his outspoken book had ' tapped him up' before United signed him from PSV Eindhoven in 1998.

Source : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=490608&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Neville poised for Man Utd return

Manchester United captain Gary Neville is set to make his comeback from a succession of injuries in Thursday's Senior Cup tie with Stockport.

The right-back, 32, suffered an ankle injury in March and muscle strains have hampered his return this season.

Neville told Manchester United Radio: "Missing the end of last season was bad enough but then for it to go into this season is doubly frustrating.

"But hopefully it's over now and I can get back into the team."

However, the England international is aware that he will not walk back into a United side that has won its last eight games, with Wes Brown performing admirably in his place.

"I'm seeing the lads playing well and they're getting good results and I want to be part of it," he said.

"I've made myself available but with the way Wes is playing it might be a case of easing me back in over the space of a couple of weeks."

Neville is unlikely to be risked at Arsenal on Saturday, even if he does come through Thursday's game at Northwich unscathed, but may make the bench for next week's Champions League game against Dynamo Kiev.


Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/7068723.stm

Ronaldo eyeing United double

Cristiano Ronaldo is confident Manchester United will win both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League this season.

United have clicked into gear after a slow start to the defence of their Premier League title and are now on a run of eight consecutive victories.

They are also set to progress in the Champions League and Ronaldo feels all the pieces are in place for a domestic and European double.

"I believe we'll win the Premier League and Champions League this season," the Portuguese winger said in The Sun.

"We have the team, we have the players and we believe we can do it. There's a good chance we will.

"All the players feel good, feel sharp, feel quick and they are showing on the pitch their desire to play for Manchester United.

"In the last three or four games we have scored many goals and we are more confident now."

United face table-topping Arsenal on Saturday and Ronaldo is relishing the challenge, although he accepts it will be a difficult test.

"Arsenal are very strong and are playing fantastic, attractive football," said Ronaldo.

"It will be a big game for us but it's a good opportunity to see how good we are.
"Arsenal have started well but the season is a marathon - you have to be consistent."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2834964,00.html

Manchester United keeper to quit next year

Manchester United and Holland goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar has revealed his intention to quit international football after Euro 2008.

Van der Sar, who turned 37 on Monday, made his Oranje debut in June 1995 against Belarus and has since racked up 121 caps for his country.

In an interview with Dutch station Radio 538, the former Juventus and Ajax keeper said: "I will stop with with the Oranje after Euro 2008. The time has come."

Holland still require one win from their remaining Euro 2008 qualifiers against minnows Luxembourg and Belarus to qualify for next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland.

Van der Sar is out of contract at United at the end of the season.

Source : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=490509&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Next Game News : Arsenal vs Man United

Rooney eyes great end to great week

Wayne Rooney is hoping Manchester United finish off a "really good week" by beating Arsenal on Saturday to return to the Premier League summit.

Rooney took his staggering run of form to eight goals in seven games for club and country on Saturday as he smashed home United's killer second in their 4-1 win over Middlesbrough.

The result briefly saw the Red Devils leapfrog Arsenal into the Premier League's top spot. And while Arsene Wenger's men regained the initiative - albeit by the slenderest of margins in the 'goals scored' column - it is just the way Rooney imagined it ahead of the crunch showdown between the top two at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

"After a dodgy start, we have done well over the last few weeks," said Rooney, immediately after the Boro game.

"It is a big week. We want Arsenal to draw with Liverpool, then, if we can beat them on Saturday, we will have had a really good week."

On current evidence, should such a scenario unfold and United open a three-point lead at the top, it is difficult to see the defending champions being clawed back.

Now on a run of eight successive league wins, the Old Trafford outfit also equalled a 100-year-old record of scoring four times in four games running, an amazing feat given Sir Alex Ferguson barely knew where the next goal was coming from a couple of months ago.

The major differences are the return to goalscoring form of Cristiano Ronaldo and the burgeoning partnership between Rooney and Carlos Tevez.

Many pundits felt the pair were too similar to form an effective partnership.

Yet, in just six games together the duo have scored nine goals. Their combination play for United's third at the weekend was flawless and it is increasingly hard to see how they can be stopped.

"It is an honour to play in this team and having Carlos alongside me is just brilliant," said the England international.

"He is such a clever player, really intelligent, and we are working well together.

"The best way to play football is to pass and move and I saw him start his run out of the corner of my eye, so I just gave him the ball."

No-one will expect United to grab another four goals at Arsenal but, after scoring just nine times in their first 11 games this season in all competitions, Sir Alex Ferguson's men have now netted 16 in their last four, with Rooney admitting the change in fortunes is astounding.

"It is an amazing turnaround," he said.

"The beginning of the season was a bit slow. We weren't playing too badly, we just weren't getting the goals.

"We have been scoring, playing well and winning recently, so we have to be happy with that."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2833107,00.html

Hargreaves: Move over Arsenal
Manchester United go to Arsenal next weekend

with Owen Hargreaves convinced the Red Devils

will prove beyond doubt they are England's top dogs.

Wenger issues Reds warning

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists his side go

into Saturday's showdown with United on the crest

of a wave, following Sunday's draw with Liverpool.

Sagna Snr stokes fire between Arsenal, Man Utd

Bacari Sagna's Dad has turned up the heat on Arsenal's big clash with Manchester United this Sunday.

Rooney cleans up his act

WAYNE Rooney says he has cleaned up his disciplinary act as United warm up for a red-hot trip to Arsenal.

Man Utd boss Ferguson has Huntelaar in sights

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is considering a January bid for Ajax ace Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.

The People says Ferguson has once again grown frustrated by Louis Saha's injury problems and he has compiled a list of targets which includes Huntelaar, Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka and Tottenham's Dimitar Berbatov.

With Saha increasingly unreliable and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer retired, United would be short in attack if Wayne Rooney or Tevez picked up an injury and Ferguson does not want to jeopardise his side's chances of silverware.

Fergie has asked the club's owners if money is available in January and was given a positive response. Huntelaar's agent has admitted that this is likely to be the Dutch star's last season at Ajax.

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=62571

Other Scout News

Man Utd, Chelsea eyeing Belgian

prospect Fellaini

Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham have

all been represented at Standard Liege games in

recent weeks to watch Belgium U21 star Mourane Fellaini.

Skjelbred staying for now - Agent
Ciljan Skjelbred's agent has played down reported

interest from Manchester United, but admitted the

Rosenborg star may move "in a few years"

Scholes KO fear

PAUL Scholes is set to be ruled out for United until into the New Year.

United will send the 32-year-old midfielder to a specialist on Monday after a scan last week proved inconclusive on the knee injury he sustained in training last Monday in Kiev before the Champions League match.

Sir Alex Ferguson reported that Scholes had felt a 'click' in his knee during the session in Dynamo's Olympic Stadium.United couldn't fly their midfielder home early but after returning from the Ukraine in the early hours of Wednesday morning, he was sent for a scan.

Reds boss Fergie said the results didn't show clearly the problem but Scholes had a further appointment to try to ascertain the damage.But there are serious fears that Scholes will be told he will be out for three months, leaving him looking at a return to fitness in February.

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1021896_scholes_ko_fear?rss=yes

Man Utd's Rooney has to be dragged off training pitch

After his super show on Saturday, Manchester United ace Wayne Rooney admits he's having to be dragged off the training ground by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rooney revealed: "The night before the Kiev game we trained at the stadium. I wanted to do some shooting at the end but the boss wouldn't let me.

"I was gutted and a bit frustrated because I hadn't been the best in training and sometimes it is good to do some shooting at the end. But it was probably for the best because it was a cold night."

His attitude is refreshing at a time when players are unfavourably compared to our rugby heroes and he said: "Us footballers are privileged and we are lucky that we go to work to do the thing we love - football.

"And most days you are finished and home by 2pm so staying on the training pitch for an extra half an hour to an hour is not really anything dramatic.

"But if there is something extra you can do that is going to help improve your game, then it is worth doing.

"There will be times in matches when the practice you put in on the training field will pay off, no matter whether you are 10 or 35."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=62568

Man Utd fear Scholes out three months

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes is facing three months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

The Sunday Express says Scholes faces a scan tomorrow which could confirm Manchester United's fears that he will be out for three months.

Scholes has a damaged knee and one recent scan proved inconclusive. But the initial diagnosis was not optimistic - with the club resigned to the player having to undergo surgery.

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=62403

After Match Report : Manchester United 4 Middlesbrough 1

Boss salutes 'amazing' Reds


Sir Alex was delighted with United's fourth four-goal haul in as many matches, but admitted the Reds almost let Middlesbrough back into the game.

Nani fired United into the lead in the third minute, only for former Arsenal forward Jeremie Aliadiere to equalise three minutes later.

"For weeks people were going on about our 1-0 wins but now they're going on about us scoring four. It's amazing!" the manager told MUTV.

"Some of the attacking play today was very good, although when we got in front we took our foot off the pedal. We started running with the ball, didn't play the way we normally play and paid the penalty.

"We weren't getting to the ball quick enough and I think the players really needed a wake-up call, and that's exactly what their goal did to us. Credit to Middlesbrough for that 20-minute period where they got in and about us.

"Gareth Southgate's side may have made things difficult for the Reds in the first half, but the second period was all United and the match ended 4-1."There was no doubt we were on top in the second half," Sir Alex agreed.

"There was far more concentration, our attacking play improved and we could have scored a lot of goals.

"The boss was particularly impressed with Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney, who linked superbly for United's third.

"I think that goal sums up their partnership. It was all about quick-thinking, great vision and, you know, the courage to even try that. Wayne could have taken another touch but he knew Tevez was making that run and a little backheel put him in on goal. It was a fantastic goal and hopefully we're going to see a more complete partnership."

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=482634


Hargreaves glad to be back
Injury has ravaged Owen Hargreaves' start
to life as a United player, so it's little surprise
that he savoured every second of Saturday's
win over Middlesbrough.

Super Nani shines
Sir Alex's decision to plump for Nani ahead of
Ryan Giggs on Saturday paid dividends for the
United boss, with the Portuguese wonder-kid
lighting up the Reds' 4-1 win over Middlesbrough

United get a glimpse of the future
When Wayne Rooney say it's an "honour" to play
for this Manchester United team, you know
Sir Alex Ferguson is developing something special
at Old Trafford.

Clever Carlos wins Wayne's heart
Wayne Rooney heaped praise on strike partner
Carlos Tevez after United's summer signing notched
twice in the Reds' 4-1 win over Middlesbrough.

Man Utd boss Ferguson thrilled with
Rooney, Tevez
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was
thrilled to see Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez fire
his team to the Premiership summit after their 4-1
defeat of Middlesbrough.

Match Review : Manchester United 4-1 Middlesbrough

Wayne Rooney scored one goal and superbly set up another as Manchester United overwhelmed Middlesbrough to move to the top of the Premier League.

United went ahead on three minutes when Nani drove in a cracking shot from 30 yards but Jeremie Aliadiere soon equalised with a precise header.

Nani robbed Stuart Downing and played in Rooney, to smash United's second.
After the break Carlos Tevez slotted in after a sublime Rooney back-heel and he added a fourth with a deflected shot.

United knew a win would see them overtake leaders Arsenal - at least until Sunday when the Londoners play Liverpool.

And the hosts, who had Owen Hargreaves in their starting line-up for only the fourth time, wasted no time in setting about their task.

Nani decided to take the direct approach after picking the ball up deep in Boro's half. He skipped two challenges as he cut inside and then launched a dipping shot from 30 yards which beat Mark Schwarzer for height and pace.

It was a dream start for United but a nightmare for Boro, who went into the game desperately short of confidence after failing to win in their previous six matches.

And the visitors still appeared shell-shocked when Tevez broke through the middle but the Argentine did not quite get his attempted lob right and Schwarzer made a comfortable catch.

The script appeared set - a rampant United, with Nani and Ronaldo rampaging down the flanks and Rooney menacing through the middle about to rip through woeful opposition.

But Tuncay clearly felt a re-write was in order and promptly delivered the perfect cross - after turning stand-in left-back John O'Shea inside-out - for Aliadiere to head into the bottom left corner.

It was Aliadiere's first goal for Boro and it served to galvanise them. For the next 10 minutes, Boro held their own as United's early fluency deserted them.

The visitors even missed a great chance to take the lead as frequent threat Tuncay crossed in for Downing to head just wide of the right hand post.

Still, you felt once United smoothed out their now-stuttering approach play, Boro could find themselves in trouble once more.

And so it proved, as Ronaldo went close with a low shot from the left side of the box as United slipped through the gears.

Then Downing tried to trick his way past Nani on the edge of his area but had the ball nicked from his toes and played into the path of Rooney who smashed the ball home.

For the rest of the half, it seemed it was a matter of time before United scored again, particularly through Ronaldo.

But the Portuguese winger could not convert Nani's cross and later side-footed straight at Schwarzer after a slick passing move.

Immediately after the break, Rooney fizzed a drive just too high and wide and once more it seemed United were about to turn the screw.

Middlesbrough might have prevented it had Edwin van der Sar not been equal to Lee Cattermole's rising shot.

But after Rooney produced an exquisite backheel for Tevez to slot the ball into the bottom corner on 55 minutes, the contest was over.

Ronaldo started to stretch his legs again, twisting and turning the Boro defence but not finding a finish to match.

United took off Hargreaves for Darren Fletcher on 66 minutes, and later took the chance to give Rio Ferdinand an extended rest ahead of next Sunday's visit to Arsenal.

It barely affected the pattern of the game, although Boro almost cut United's lead when Downing went close with a curling free-kick.

But instead, Tevez rounded things off for United with 15 minutes to go when his shot looped off Andrew Taylor and beat a disconsolate Schwarzer.

It was the fourth match in succession they had scored four goals - equalling a record which stretched back to 1907.

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7054065.stm

Clip Highlight

1-0 Luis Nani

http://letsprove.tv/video/Sports_zgdkvnwm5x1193497565

1-1 Jeremie Aliadiere

http://letsprove.tv/video/Sports_7gqp5w4zyx1193497705

2-1 Wayne Rooney

http://letsprove.tv/video/Sports_smxfzphw961193497789

3-1 Carlos Tevez

http://letsprove.tv/video/Sports_f8jqpwvstb1193500350

4-1 Carlos Tevez

http://letsprove.tv/video/Sports_6zh5k8trc91193500702

Match Preview : Man Utd v Middlesbrough

Old Trafford

Saturday, 27 October

Kick-off: 1500 BST

Manchester United are able to include England midfielder Owen Hargreaves, who has been out with a knee problem.

Paul Scholes is out with a knee injury but Patrice Evra should play despite suffering a calf strain in midweek.

Middlesbrough striker Jeremie Aliadiere is in contention for a place after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Defenders Robert Huth and Emanuel Pogatetz are not yet ready to return, while Julio Arca, Brad Jones and Matthew Bates remain sidelined.

BIG-MATCH FACTS

Manchester United and Middlesbrough clash for the 99th time in the league.

The Red Devils are out to follow up their impressive 4-2 Champions League win away to Dynamo Kiev, with an eighth straight league victory to jump over Arsenal and return to the top of the table.

The Teessiders know that a fourth straight league defeat would leave them fourth bottom, just one point above the relegation zone.

United boast the Premier League's tightest defence with three goals shipped in 10 outings and an unparalleled seven clean sheets; 'Boro have conceded the opening goal in an unequalled eight of their 10 games in this division this term.

Boro have only lost once in six Premier League visits to Old Trafford since March 2002, winning two and drawing three.

HEAD TO HEAD

United were held to a 1-1 draw by a plucky Middlesbrough side in last season's corresponding fixture. The Red Devils have a 42% winning record against the Teessiders in the Premier League at Old Trafford (won just five of 12).

Home and awayLeague (inc PL): Man United 48 wins, Middlesbro 29, Draws 21Prem: Man United 13 wins, Middlesbro 5, Draws 6
at Man United onlyLeague (inc PL): Man United 28 wins, Middlesbro 11, Draws 10Prem: Man United 5 wins, Middlesbro 3, Draws 4

LAST SEASON'S CORRESPONDING GAME

Manchester United 1-1 Middlesbrough21 April 2007 - Ref: Peter WaltonMan United scorer: Richardson 3Middlesbrough scorer: Viduka 45

------------------------------------------------------------------
Man Utd (from): Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, O'Shea, Evra, Fletcher, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Nani, Giggs, Rooney, Tevez, Eagles, Simpson.
Middlesbrough (from): Schwarzer, Turnbull, Young, Woodgate, Riggott, Taylor, Downing, Boateng, Rochemback, Aliadiere, Mido, Sanli, O'Neil, Craddock, Lee, Wheater, Cattermole, Hutchinson.

Credit : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7054065.stm

Watch LIVE match :
Manchester United - Middlesbrough 15:00 GMT

http://4.livefooty.doctor-serv.com/sat27.10/ManU_Middlesbrough.html

http://4.livefooty.doctor-serv.com/sat27.10/ManU_Middlesbrough2.html

Before Game Report : Man Utd v Middlesbrough

United v Boro: Key battles


MANCHESTER United have found their goalscoring form by netting 12 goals in their last three games - and Middlesbrough are next in the firing line.

However, the Riverside outfit will be looking to continue their impresive form at Old Trafford having lost just one league match in the last six seasons.

Here is a look at the key battles that could decide the game:



Wayne Rooney v Jonathan Woodgate

The Red Devils forward will cause problems for the Boro defence with his powerful approach and eye for goal, netting 64 goals in 155 appearances so far in his United career. After a slow start to this season’s campaign, the 22-year-old has hit form with seven goals in his last six games for club and country.

Boro’s former Galactico will have to show his solidity with Rooney and Carlos Tevez lurking – but he has the organisational skills and tackling ability to pose them problems. He’s made seven appearances this season and when Woodgate is fully fit, there aren’t many better defenders.


Anderson v Fabio Rochemback

The Brazilian wonderkid should get another start with key players missing and will have the chance to dazzle Middlesbrough with his skilful dribbling and attacking flair. Anderson won many honours with former club Porto, as well as featuring in Brazil’s Copa America winning team in 2007.

Fabio Rochemback has the task of dealing with his countryman’s trickery but provides Boro with a chance with his long-range shooting and vision. The former Barcelona midfielder has been capped seven times by Brazil and has two runners-up medals in the UEFA Cup, but Boro fans are sometimes left frustrated with his work-rate.


Wes Brown v Stewart Downing

Wes Brown’s tough-tackling, aerial strength and pace will be put to the test against Downing. Brown’s career has been restricted by injury with two cases of damaged knee ligaments and a broken ankle, but now he is benefitting from Gary Neville’s absence. Along with Nemanja Vidic, Brown adds steel to the Reds backline and never shirks a challenge.

Downing has become one of Boro’s most valuable players and will be giving Brown a significant challenge with a sweet left foot capable of unlocking any defence and pinpoint crossing. The Middlesbrough Academy graduate has 16 England caps under his name.

Credit : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1021701_united_v_boro_key_battles?rss=yes


Others NEWS : Manchester United vs Middlesbrough

MANCHESTER UNITED v Middlesbrough:
Hargreaves back in the mix
Sir Alex Ferguson has declared Owen Hargreaves
fit and ready to start against Middlesbrough at
Old Trafford tomorrow.

Neville back in the frame
Gary Neville may find himself back in United's
first-team squad when the Reds welcome
Middlesbrough to Old Trafford.


Boro boss plots a shock
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate insists
his side are far from lambs to the slaughter when
they visit United this weekend.

Rooney confident over Anderson
Wayne Rooney has offered Anderson his backing as
the Brazilian gets set to take the responsibility of
patrolling Manchester United's midfield.

Giggs: Keep it going
Watch out Middlesbrough, United are flying. That's
the message from Reds winger Ryan Giggs in the
lead-up to Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash
at Old Trafford.

Anderson lauded by United chief

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson reckons Brazilian teenager Anderson has already gone some way to justifying his hefty transfer fee.

United may eventually pay Porto £17million for Anderson and although the 19-year-old initially struggled to adapt to the Premier League Ferguson has been impressed by what he has seen.

"The thing that has impressed us all is his knowledge," said Ferguson.

"I noticed him the other night directing players who were much older than him.

"That is a nice sight to see from a young lad of 19, considering his English is not perfect.

"He missed the pre-season because of the Copa America, so it took him some time to get his fitness levels up. But he is there now.

"We knew there would be a time when we had to see what he is capable of. Maybe, because of the injuries, that time has come a bit earlier than we might have expected. But he has taken to the job very well."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2828489,00.html

Rooney takes heat off England boss

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney claims the players should be blamed for England's Euro 2008 troubles - not manager Steve McClaren.

England are in danger of failing to qualify for next year's finals in Austria and Switzerland following last week's 2-1 defeat in Russia.

McClaren's position has come under heavy scrutiny but striker Rooney, who scored England's goal in Moscow, insists the squad should take responsibility.

Rooney, speaking at a Coca-Cola Street Striker event, told The Sun: "Before that Russia game everyone was saying how well the side was playing and how well the manager was doing.

"Of course everyone was really disappointed to lose - but one defeat doesn't make you a bad side or him a bad manager. These things happen - no one's going to win every game.

"Steve's come in and done a great job.

"Everyone in the camp's really happy and the players really feel a sense of responsibility for what's happened.

"We're the ones playing the football, we're the ones representing the country and we feel responsible for it."

England, who play Croatia in their final qualifier, will miss out on Euro 2008 if Russia, who have a game in hand, beat Israel and Andorra.

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2828335,00.html

United aim to string quartet together

Manchester United will smash a 100-year record if they score four against Middlesbrough - but Cristiano Ronaldo is only interested in points.

Having hit a combined tally of 12 goals past Wigan, Aston Villa and Dynamo Kiev in the last three games, United know another quartet against Gareth Southgate's strugglers at Old Trafford will see them emulate the feat of Billy Meredith's side during the 1907-08 campaign by netting four in four consecutive games.

Such an extraordinary long wait, for a club of United's free-scoring potential, emphasises just how impressive an achievement it would be.

But for Ronaldo, who has contributed four to the total with doubles against Wigan and Kiev, the statistic is irrelevant in the continued pursuit of honours.

"Of course, if you have an opportunity to score more goals you should take it because the fans enjoy the game more and the players' confidence increases," he said.

"But I don't worry about how many goals we get, I am only interested in how many points we get. It could be half-nil for all I care just as long as we win."
Ronaldo does accept there has been a startling transformation in United's scoring fortunes during October.

Prior to the Wigan game, Sir Alex Ferguson's men had scored just nine times in 11 outings.

Yet, it is not just the number of goals that has impressed Ronaldo, it is the number of players who have scored them, with Rio Ferdinand particularly prolific in recent times.

Throughout his career, Ferdinand has never scored more than three in a season. Yet, after successive strikes, and one against Russia for England at Wembley, he is already up to that tally this term.

And Ronaldo would be happy to see the £29.1million defender match him stride-for-stride in the scoring stakes.

"I have kept telling Rio he has great qualities," observed Ronaldo.

"He is tall and strong and exceptionally good in the air. I hope he scores a lot more, more than me if he can. I would be very happy if he did that."

In truth, there is little chance of that, with Ferdinand soon likely to concentrate his energies on keeping United's opponents out, as he did so effectively at the start of the campaign.

It is Ronaldo, with six goals in six games, and Rooney, with seven in six for club and country, who provide the main offensive threat for Ferguson and his team over the coming weeks.

Middlesbrough have proved obdurate opponents in recent seasons, grabbing at least a point on five of their last six league visits to Old Trafford.

But with table-toppers Arsenal due at Liverpool on Sunday, six days before they entertain United at the Emirates Stadium, now is not the time for the Red Devils' winning streak to end.

"It is always difficult to play after a Champions League match but that would not be justification for winning tomorrow," said Ronaldo.

"Middlesbrough are a difficult team to play against but we are at home and we are confident.

"We all know Arsenal have a difficult game this weekend. If we win and they lose, it will give us a chance to play without pressure next week."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2826783,00.html

Missing Euro 2008 would be a 'nightmare', insists Rooney

Wayne Rooney admits it will be a "nightmare" if England do not qualify for the Euro 2008 finals.

England are no longer in control of their own destiny after losing in Russia and now need Israel to take points off Guus Hiddink's side to have any realistic chance of reaching the tournament.

Rooney, who fired England ahead in Moscow with a stunning volley but then gave away a penalty as Russia fought back to win 2-1, is hoping Israel will come to the rescue.

"With the players and support we've got it would be a nightmare if we didn't qualify," the Manchester United striker told Sky Sports News.

"Hopefully Israel can help us by taking a point or beating Russia. We have to wait and see and pray that Israel get a result."

Israel tackle Russia on Saturday, November 17 while England's final game is against Group E leaders Croatia at Wembley four days later.

The Russians complete their campaign against minnows Andorra.

Credit : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=489740&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Van der Sar to land new deal at United

Edwin van der Sar last night vowed to stay at Manchester United for another season and assist the development of his long-term replacement, Ben Foster.

Van der Sar is out of contract at the end of the season and celebrates his 37th birthday on Monday.

But the Holland international revealed he hopes to open talks about a one-year extension in December and hinted that his new role may involve some coaching.
He said: "My agent has not heard anything official from the club yet, but I expect to hold talks with the relevant people in December. Last year we extendedmy contract in that month, so that could well happen again.

"I'm very happy here. I'm playing at a very high level every week and with my experience I can maybe help the younger players a lot in the future."

Defender Andrew Taylor has admitted there is still ill-feeling between Middlesbrough and United's Cristiano Ronaldo before tomorrow's trip to Old Trafford.

Ronaldo won a key penalty in an FA Cup-tie between the sides last season and left back Taylor, who will directly face the Portugal winger tomorrow, said: "The incident did leave a bad taste in the mouth."

Credit : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=489801&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Chelsea hit with paltry £30k fine for fracas at Old Trafford

Chelsea have been fined £30,000, severely censured and warned as to their future conduct for failing to control their players during the Barclays Premier League match against Manchester United.

The club had admitted the charge, which related to the conduct of Chelsea players towards referee Mike Dean following the sending-off of Mikel John Obi during the Old Trafford clash on September 23.

Obi was red carded in the first half of his side's 2-0 defeat for a studs-first challenge on United defender Patrice Evra.

The Football Association Regulatory Commission hearing also fined Blues' assistant first team coach Steve Clarke £5,000 - suspended until the end of the season - after he admitted a charge of using abusive and/or insulting words towards the match officials at the end of the same match.

The commission took into account Clarke's exemplary record over 20 years in football - but he was also severely censured and warned as to his future conduct.
Midfielder Mikel served a three-match ban immediately after the FA rejected an appeal against his red card.

Credit : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=489728&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

TODAY'S NEWS

Giggs shrugs off Man Utd's injury worries

Stand-in skipper Ryan Giggs is confident

Manchester United can cope with a growing

injury list.

United wait for news on Scholes scan
Sir Alex Ferguson will await news of a scan
on Paul Scholes' knee injury today with far
more fear than he could have had at any stage
of Manchester United's 4-2 Champions League
triumph over Dynamo Kiev.

Fifa yet to rule on Gibson case
The Irish FA has said that reports that the issue
of Northern Ireland-born players playing for the
Republic has been ruled on by Fifa are premature.

Vidic: Everything clicking for Man Utd
Nemanja Vidic has hailed Manchester United
defender Rio Ferdinand after his goal in last night's
4-2 victory at Dynamo Kiev.

O'Neil: Boro have nothing to lose
Midfielder Gary O'Neil insists struggling
Middlesbrough have "nothing to lose" when they
visit in-form Manchester United on Saturday.