Manchester United

Tevez price is right for United

2007-11-25T23:29:00.000+07:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson claims a fee has already been agreed to sign striker Carlos Tevez on a permanent deal.

The Argentina international finally signed for the Red Devils in a two-year loan deal in August after protracted legal wrangling over his transfer from West Ham.

Tevez, 23, has made an instant impact at Old Trafford with five goals in 17 appearances and Ferguson believes he has done more than enough to show he will be a sound investment.

"There is no question about his long-term future here," Ferguson told Setanta.

"David Gill (the club's chief executive) has spoken to his agent and told him we are very happy with him.

"The fee is in place. I won't tell you what it is but it is still cheap.

"I want to make this happen. He has impressed everyone with his appetite for the game.

"He'll get me 15 goals this season and what's more, they'll be important goals."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2920458,00.html

Queiroz admits: Bolton intimidated Man Utd

2007-11-25T23:26:00.000+07:00

Manchester United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz admits Bolton Wanderers simply didn't allow their stars to play during yesterday's defeat at the Reebok stadium.

Queiroz said: "We tried to play football but it is difficult when you face intimidation football. That is how Bolton played and it was difficult.

"Without protection from the referee we couldn't play our usual game.

"After a poor first half we improved in the second half.

"We were more calm and cooler and played better football. I think we deserved at least not to lose after the second half performance.

"But this is football, if you only play for 45 minutes it is difficult to win."
Returning to the referee's display, Queiroz felt Clattenberg talked too much in the match,

"The referee tried to teach the rules and stopped the game for too long at times.

"Instead of making decisions he talked, and the referee is there to make decisions not to teach the game."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=66590

Fergie: Ref wasn't strong enough

2007-11-25T23:20:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he told referee Mark Clattenburg "what I thought" of him before being dismissed at Bolton.

Ferguson was ordered from the Reebok Stadium dug-out by Clattenburg midway through his United side's 1-0 defeat on Saturday, and was forced to watch the second half from the stands as his side fell to Nicolas Anelka's early effort.

The Red Devils chief was furious at Clattenburg's failure to clamp down on what he felt were over-aggressive tactics from the relegation-threatened hosts, who recorded their first home win over United since December 1978.

And he waited for the official - whom he hailed as one of the best in the Premier League only a month ago - by the tunnel at the interval to offer a piece of his mind.

"I told the referee what I thought - some referees don't like that. They don't like the truth," said Ferguson.

"But I just told him how bad he was in the first half.

"I know Bolton are battling for their lives at the bottom but they were a bit aggressive and we were looking for some protection from the referee.

"The first half was just a shambles. It was foul after foul after foul. I felt they were over-physical and there were two or three really dodgy tackles. You hope the referee is strong enough to handle it. But he wasn't."

Ferguson was particularly annoyed at the treatment meted out to full-back Patrice Evra, who was on the wrong end of a series of firm challenges even if he was fortunate to escape being booked himself for a late tackle on Kevin Davies.

"I don't know whether they targeted him but the poor lad seemed to be involved in everything. There were some terrible tackles on him."

However, opposite number Gary Megson, who was presiding over his first win in six matches as Bolton manager, refused to make any apology for his team's committed performance.

"We were third from bottom of the table," he said. "I asked my team to be aggressive.

"The worst tackle was by a centre-forward (Davies), who is not a particularly good tackler.

"We have to compete. That is the idea. You won't get me criticising my team for that. You would only get complaints if they don't.

"The referee saw nothing untoward. He didn't send anyone off."

Ferguson was honest enough to admit his side did not deserve to win.

Given their lack of clear opportunities, Carlos Tevez wasting the best one, it is debatable whether United even deserved a point as they slumped to their first defeat since mid-August and fell three points adrift of league leaders Arsenal, who also have a game in hand.

Although the visitors were without Cristiano Ronaldo with a thigh strain, it was the absence of Nemanja Vidic with a back problem that caused United more problems given it was a mistake by the Serbian's replacement, Gerard Pique, which gifted Anelka his 11th-minute winner.

"It looked like Gerard jumped too soon," said Ferguson.

"We do not like losing but sometimes you have to take defeats, it is part of the game.

"We have players of great quality and I am sure we will bounce back."

While Ferguson headed back down the M61 licking his wounds, Megson was finally able to celebrate, not just the victory but the sight of his team climbing out of the relegation zone.

"It was a terrific performance in terms of work-rate, desire and drive," said Megson.

"We have an awful lot going for us and I have no qualms is saying we will get out of this position."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2919754,00.html

Hargreaves blasts ref justice

2007-11-25T23:16:00.000+07:00

OWEN Hargreaves echoed Sir Alex Ferguson's comments in criticising referee Mark Clattenburg.

The Manchester United manager was sent to the stands for remonstrating with the official during the champions' shock 1-0 defeat a Bolton.

And England international Hargreaves agreed - suggesting Clattenburg failed to keep control of a bad-tempered affair.

Patrice Evra seemed to come off worse - being the subject of several crunching tackles, from Kevin Davies in particular.

And Hargreaves said: "There were definitely a few challenges that were borderline, especially the one from Kevin Davies.

"I don't mind physical. That is why there is a referee out there - but he struggled to keep the game under control."

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1025852_hargreaves_blasts_ref_justice?rss=yes

Match Review : Bolton 1-0 Man Utd

2007-11-25T23:11:00.000+07:00

Gary Megson claimed his first win in charge of Bolton with the unlikely scalp of Manchester United, thanks to Nicolas Anelka's early strike.

Anelka slotted home Ivan Campo's free-kick after 11 minutes.

And an out-of-sorts United were left frustrated as Jussi Jaaskelainen kept out Owen Hargreaves' free-kick and Carlos Tevez sliced a shot wide.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was sent to the stands after the break following a half-time rant at the referee.

Ferguson, whose side now trail Premier League leaders Arsenal by three points, was dismissed by referee Mark Clattenburg for a tunnel outburst at a succession of minor decisions that had gone against his team.

Although Manchester United's trip was less than 20 miles down the road from Old Trafford, the gap between the two sides in the Premier League could not be much bigger.

United experienced their only previous league defeat this season back in August - against Manchester City - whereas that same month marked Bolton's only win in the Premier League - 3-0 against Reading.

Having already notched up four draws and a loss, Megson's side have clearly become harder to beat but few would have expected them to take an early lead.

Megson reaped the rewards of Anelka's return from a recent hamstring injury when the Frenchman took advantage of United defender Gerard Pique's mistake to slot home.

Campo's chipped free-kick set up the goal with Pique mis-timing his leap leaving Anelka unmarked with the ball in front of goal.

While Bolton looked lively and dangerous on the break, the visitors made a lacklustre start - perhaps missing the touch of winger Cristiano Ronaldo, who was rested after playing in two Euro 2008 qualifiers over the past week.

United's chances at the other end were few in the first half with Hargreaves screwing a 20-yard effort wide, and Tevez just failing to get on the end of Rio Ferdinand's long ball.

Their frustrations were deepened by an ongoing battle between Bolton striker Kevin Davies and United defender Patrice Evra - which resulted in an angry Ferguson being sent to the stands after the break.

Davies was lucky to get away with just one booking after two heavy-handed late challenges and a nasty clash of heads with the Frenchman.
But the referee's decision brought Ferguson to the touchline to express his disgust.

However the tactical substitution of Pique for Anderson just before the half hour mark seemed to reinvigorate Ferguson's side and moments later, keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen did well to keep out Owen Hargreaves' dipping free-kick with a flying save.

United kept turning the screw and Carlos Tevez should have done better when he sliced Evra's cross wide from just a yard out 70 minutes in.
Although the visitors continued to pile forward, United could find no equaliser.

And when Hargreaves clipped the roof of the net with an injury-time free-kick, Ferguson had to settle for the sight of his side losing at Bolton for the first time since December 1978.

Meanwhile Megson was able to breath a sigh of relief as defeats for Birmingham, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Wigan helped Bolton climb from second from bottomin the table to 15th on 11 points.

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7099689.stm

Match Preview : Bolton vs Man Utd

2007-11-24T12:54:00.000+07:00

Reebok StadiumSaturday,

24 November

Kick-off: 1500 GMT

Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka is fit again after a hamstring injury and should return to the starting line-up.

El-Hadji Diouf is also set to return after completing a one-match ban.
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney is still out with an ankle injury, while Gary Neville continues his recovery after a succession of injury problems.
Defender Nemanja Vidic is United's only worry. The Serbian picked up a knock against Poland, so Wes Brown may partner Rio Ferdinand at the back.

Bolton (from): Jaaskelainen, McCann, Michalik, A O'Brien, Meite, Gardner, Cid, Campo, Guthrie, Nolan, Speed, Alonso, Diouf, Davies, Anelka, Al Habsi, Samuel, Teymourian, Braaten, Giannakopoulos.

Man Utd (from): Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evans, Evra, Simpson, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Fletcher, Eagles, Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Saha, Tevez.

Bolton manager Gary Megson:"In my view, we are improving. We made a case for winning every game played whilst I've been here.

"But we haven't won so we've got to find a way of turning draws into wins, regardless of the opposition.

"We've also been doing a lot of work during the international break in terms of watching players."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:"He [Wayne Rooney] is doing some running. Somebody said that they saw him training on Tuesday. That's some eye sight!

"He started some light running on Thursday and did some good running on Friday.

"He won't play at Bolton or against Sporting Lisbon, but I would think he'll be available for Fulham."

BIG-MATCH FACTS

The 109th league meeting of these two Greater Manchester rivals could see United at the top of the table and Bolton still below the safety line at the final whistle.

No club has won more Premier League matches this season than Manchester United (nine), and no club has won fewer than Bolton (one).

Bolton have drawn four and lost one of five games since the appointment of Gary Megson, and are chasing a first win under the new manager against the tightest defence in the Premier League.

Manchester United are unbeaten in 10 league outings; Wanderers are pursuing a first win in 10.

The Trotters have conceded more Premier League goals to Manchester United than to any other club (40).

Bolton are making a ninth attempt to clinch a first ever home Premier League victory over Manchester United. They've not taken maximum points off the Red Devils in front of the home faithful since a 3-0 top flight triumph on 22 December 1978. A brace from Frank Worthington and an Alan Gowling goal decided the issue 29 years ago.

CLUB FORM
BOLTON WANDERERS

Highest realistically achievable after Saturday's matches: 15thLowest could fall: 20th

1. One of only two clubs with just one Premier League victory; the other is Derby. Also, one of three clubs with just one home Premier League victory so far this season. The others are Middlesbrough and Derby. Reading are the only club to have left the Reebok without any points.
2. Not won in eight; drawn three and lost five league and cup games since beating Rabotnicki Kometa 1-0 in the Uefa Cup first round second leg at the Reebok on 4 October.
3. Drawn five of the last seven Premier League fixtures, including the last three against Aston Villa (h), West Ham (a) and Middlesbrough (h); it is the longest current sequence of draws in the highest league.
4. Won one of 19 Premier League outings; winless in nine, having picked up five points out of 27.
5. Eight points from the first 13 games equals their worst ever start to a Premier League season in 1995-96. That was their first taste of football in this league, which saw them finish bottom and suffer immediate relegation.
6. Averaging 0.62 points per game, having dropped 31 of the 39 available. Only Derby exceed that; 33 points dropped. Eight points were dropped from winning positions; losing to Fulham and Portsmouth - both away, and drawing, home to Aston Villa.
7. Yet to beat a top half club. Drawn two and lost four of their six fixtures against clubs currently in the top 10.
8. Won one of the last seven Premier League fixtures against north-west clubs; 1-3, away to Wigan on 7 April.
9. Need to score one goal to total 200 in home Premier League games all-time.
10. This match precedes Thursday's Uefa Cup Group F tie, home to Aris Salonica, and a Premier League trip to Liverpool on Sunday, 2 December.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 1stLowest could fall: 2nd

1. Undefeated in nine; won eight and drawn one in all competitions, since the 0-2 home defeat by Coventry in the third round of the Carling Cup on 26 September; their only loss in 15 outings.

2. Dropped only two points from a last possible 30, since their only league defeat this term; 1-0, away to Manchester City on 19 August.

3. Kept eight clean sheets in the Premier League so far this season - more than any other club; seven of those have been in the last 10 matches.
4. Opened the scoring in an unrivalled 10 Premier League matches this season.
5. Heading the Premier League's "Last Six Current Form" table with 16 points out of 18.
6. Completed 53 league games since a loss by more than a single goal; 3-0, away to Chelsea on 29 April 2006.
7. Meanest defence in the Premier League with six goals conceded from 13 outings, at one every 195 minutes (three hours 15 minutes) on average. Liverpool have also let in just six, but from 12 matches, at one every 180 minutes (three hours).
8. Yet to lose to a lower half club; won five and drawn one of their six fixtures against clubs in the bottom 10.
9. Unbeaten in four league games on the road (three wins, one draw), and already returned from Everton, Birmingham and Aston Villa with maximum points.
10. This match precedes Tuesday's Champions League Group F tie, home to Sporting.

KEY PLAYER NOTES

BOLTON WANDERERS

Nicolas ANELKA is Bolton's leading scorer with seven goals, including six of the clubs 11 in the Premier League.
Kevin DAVIES is a hat-trick shy of 100 club career goals (Chesterfield, Southampton, Blackburn, Millwall and Bolton).
Jussi JAASKALAINEN is the only player to have been on the field for every minute of every one of Bolton's Premier League matches this season.
Gary SPEED, the only player to have netted in every Premier League season, is a double shy of 100 career league goals (Leeds, Everton, Newcastle and Bolton).
If selected:-
SPEED will be extending his record breaking number of Premier League appearances to 533.
DAVIES will be making his 150th league appearance for Bolton.
Kevin NOLAN will be making his 300th club career appearance - all for Bolton.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Wayne ROONEY, who's currently injured, has scored five Premier League goals against Bolton - all five were netted last season.
Cristiano RONALDO is Manchester United's top scorer this season with 10 goals, and leading Premier League marksman with six.
Ryan GIGGS is one short of 100 career league goals.
Rio FERDINAND is the only remaining player to have started all of Manchester United's Premier League matches this season.
When he returns from injury and next plays from the outset, Gary NEVILLE will be making his 350th Premier League start for Manchester United.

HEAD TO HEAD

Wayne Rooney celebrated his 21st birthday earlier in the week, by completing a hat-trick in last season's 0-4 triumph over Bolton in this identical fixture last season.
United scored eight goals against the Trotters last term.
Although they are yet to defeat the Red Devils on home territory, Bolton have recorded two Premier League victories at Old Trafford: 1-2, on 20 October 2001 and 0-1, on 11 September 2002.
Home and awayLeague (inc PL): Bolton 40 wins, Man United 44, Draws 24Prem: Bolton 2 wins, Man United 10, Draws 4
at Bolton onlyLeague (inc PL): Bolton 24 wins, Man United 16, Draws 14Prem: Bolton 0 wins, Man United 5, Draws 3

LAST SEASON'S CORRESPONDING GAME

Bolton Wanderers 0-4 Manchester United28 October 2006 - Ref: Rob StylesMan United scorers: Rooney 10, 16, Ronaldo 82, Rooney 89

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7099689.stm

Training Pic. Before Game with Bolton

2007-11-24T12:45:00.000+07:00

Eight Reds braced for big night

2007-11-21T20:19:00.000+07:00

As many as eight United players could be involved when the Euro 2008 campaign draws to a close on Wednesday night.

Owen Hargreaves has recovered from tendonitis and could pip Aston Villa's Gareth Barry to a midfield place if England coach Steve McClaren decides to play a 4-5-1 system. Wes Brown is also in the squad to face Croatia at Wembley but Rio Ferdinand is suspended. McClaren has invited the injured Wayne Rooney to Wembley to cheer on his England team mates who need just a draw to qualify for Euro 2008.

Two United players could be on opposite sides in Belgrade. Nemanja Vidic's Serbia need to beat Tomasz Kuszczak's Poland, who have already qualified, to keep their campaign alive. Serbia will then face Kazakhstan on Saturday in a rearranged game and if the result is still crucial, but it remains unclear whether Vidic will be allowed to play in the match as it would mean missing United’s away fixture at Bolton.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani could both play for Portugal when they take on Finland, seeking the point they need to reach the Euro 2008 finals.

The Netherlands and France have both already qualified but Edwin van der Sar is set to play again for the Dutch away at Belarus while Patrice Evra may be given an opportunity for France over the border in Ukraine.

In Group F, Northern Ireland have an outside chance of going through. They must win in Spain, without the suspended United defender Jonny Evans, and hope that Latvia win in Sweden.

Source: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=509142

Tevez off in Argentina loss

2007-11-21T20:03:00.000+07:00

Carlos Tevez was sent off in Argentina's World Cup qualifying defeat to Colombia on Tuesday night.

Having earlier come close to opening the scoring with a volley, the United striker was dismissed after just 24 minutes for an off-the-ball scuffle with defender Ruben Bustos.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi gave the Argentines an unlikely lead 10 minutes later, but second-half strikes from Bustos and Dairo Moreno gave the hosts a 2-1 victory.

Despite their first defeat of the qualifying campaign, however, Argentina still top the CONMEBOL table with nine points from four games, one point ahead of Colombia.

Source: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=509396

Batistuta: Man Utd's Tevez convincing Argies about Premiership
Argentine legend Gabriel Batistuta believes Manchester United ace Carlos Tevez can be a trailblazer for the Premiership attracting Argentina's best young talent.

Man Utd's Tevez: I'm cooked
Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez admits his latest trip to South America for Argentina's World Cup qualifiers has left him worn out.

Man Utd get serious about Sporting Lisbon's Veloso

2007-11-21T19:55:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is pondering a £10 million bid for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso.

Ferguson, taking the advice of his assistant Carlos Queiroz, has identified Veloso as the next potential star to emerge from the Sporting youth ranks that also produced Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, says the Guardian.

Veloso, who has broken into the Portuguese national side at 21, has been the outstanding player in La Liga this season and it is a measure of United's interest that Ferguson's brother Martin, the club's chief scout, has been a virtual ever-present recently at the Estadio Jose Alvalade XI. United have been represented at six of Veloso's last seven matches.

Ferguson has been slowly modifying his line-up to a 4-2-3-1 system and he has received glowing reports about Veloso's ability to break up opposition attacks. One scouting report from last season details how Veloso outshone Patrick Vieira when Sporting beat Internazionale in the Champions League.

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=66034

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Hutton can be superstar

2007-11-21T19:49:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Rangers fullback Alan Hutton can become a future "superstar".

Hutton is being linked with a move to United and Ferguson, reflecting on Scotland's defeat to Italy on the weekend, admits he's a big fan of the 22 year-old.

"Hutton was exceptional," said Ferguson in The Daily Telegraph. "He has come from nowhere and looks as though he will become a superstar once he gets that little extra bit of experience."

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=66032

Youth inspires Giggs

2007-11-21T19:43:00.000+07:00

Ryan Giggs says he feels invigorated by the promising young talent around him at Old Trafford.

The influx of Anderson, Nani, Owen Hargreaves and Carlos Tevez this season has added strength and depth to an already ultra-talented squad. Paired with the experience of United's longstanding servants like Giggs, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes, Sir Alex Ferguson believes this is the best squad during his 21 years at Old Trafford.

Giggs is certainly excited by the current set-up and says the youthful exuberance within the squad has given him a new lease of life.

"When you come into training and you’re up against young, quality players it’s a test every day," he told ManUtd.com. "That only helps to bring your game on. There’s so much enthusiasm amongst the lads and it’s a great place to be at the moment.

"The new lads have all bedded in really well and very quickly, bringing something new to the team already this season. Nani with his spectacular goals and celebrations, while Anderson has shown what a top player he is with some fantastic performances.

"We knew all about Owen’s [Hargreaves] qualities and he’s produced those every time he’s played and Carlos [Tevez] has brought that extra dimension to our attacking play.

"They’ve also added something different to the dressing room which is great. There is certainly a lot more Spanish and Portuguese being spoken! They’re all very enthusiastic and the team spirit is as good as ever."

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=509106

Ferguson dealing in Man Utd foursome

2007-11-20T20:07:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to deal in four of his defensive stars.

The Mirror says Wes Brown, out of contract at the end of the season, is expected to sign a three-year contract worth £50,000-a-week in the next few days. He has been right-back this season in place of the injured Gary Neville and can talk to other clubs from January 1 unless United move fast.

Left-back Patrice Evra will renegotiate the deal that brought him to United almost two years, while John O'Shea was offered an improved contract.

Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will agree a 12-month extension until the end of next season.

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65880

Ronaldo backs Queiroz as next Man Utd manager

2007-11-20T19:57:00.000+07:00

Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo is backing assistant manager Carlos Queiroz to eventually succeed Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.

"I have a great relationship with Carlos and I know all the squad like him," said Ronaldo.

"Sir Alex has been at the club for 21 years. It will be very hard to replace him on many levels."

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65861

Rooney is on course for shock comeback

2007-11-20T19:50:00.000+07:00

Wayne Rooney is set to return to training just 11 days after damaging his ankle.

The England striker was initially ruled out for four weeks after suffering an ankle injury in a freak training-ground accident prior to United's Premier League win over Blackburn.

However, it is thought that Rooney could now return for Manchester United's Champions League tie against Sporting Lisbon next Tuesday.

Ferguson has problems up front anyway, with Carlos Tevez not due back to training until Friday after completing Argentina's World Cup qualifier in Colombia.

In addition, while Louis Saha was able to start in Rooney's absence in the win over Blackburn, his fitness is so fragile Ferguson will not want to be over-reliant on the Frenchman.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=495133&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Ronaldo worthy of Ballon d'Or

2007-11-20T19:46:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Cristiano Ronaldo would be a worthy Ballon d'Or winner.

"Someday I would like to be voted the best in the world, but it is not an obsession," said Ronaldo. "That's not what drives me.

"During the past few months I have heard it mentioned. For me, that nomination would be a dream come true. But I don't think about it when I get up every day for training.

"Whatever has to happen will happen naturally. If Manchester United are doing well, I will do well. The greater the success of United, the greater the success of each of their players.

"More than any individual title is the feeling my work is appreciated. If, one day, one of these awards is destined for me, it will be welcome and I will be there to receive it."

Ferguson says Ronaldo would be a worthy winner. "The season Ronaldo had was unbelievable stuff," said Fergie.

"Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and George Best all won the European Footballer of the Year award, which was unique coming from one club.

"If any of our lads achieved that, it would be fantastic for us as a football club. Ronaldo is a match-winner, like Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez."

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65858

Hargreaves tops fan poll

2007-11-20T19:37:00.000+07:00

Owen Hargreaves may have been limited to half a dozen appearances since his summer arrival from Bayern Munich, but he has already made a huge impression on Reds supporters.

In a Fanzone poll, we asked ManUtd.com readers which summer signing had impressed you most, and Hargreaves came out on top, although Carlos Tevez wasn't far behind.

Tendonitis in his knee has sidelined the 26-year-old for much of the season, but his effervescence and excellent distribution have been a breath of fresh air in the midfield engine room.

He polled 37 per cent of the overall votes in our poll. Tevez, who has also settled remarkably well and has already established an impressive partnership with Wayne Rooney, finished in second place with 32 per cent of the votes.

Anderson and Nani, Sir Alex Ferguson's other summer purchases, have both played more football than they would have expected this term. But both players have proved instantly capable of playing in the United first team as well showing plenty of potential to improve even further.

Nani provides a viable alternative to Ryan Giggs or Cristiano Ronaldo on either flank, while 19-year-old Anderson has - perhaps surprisingly - given his boss a selection problem in central midfield with performances that belie his age.

Source: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=508863

Evra is season's star

2007-11-20T17:36:00.000+07:00

Forget Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, Patrice Evra has been United's outstanding performer so far this season, according to MUTV pundit Paddy Crerand.

The Reds legend and former European Cup winner insists Evra has been “absolutely fantastic” this term, particularly because of his instinct to attack down the left flank.

Many United fans would agree, and on current form it could be reasonably argued that the Frenchman is the best left-back Premiership.

"I would say without question he’s been the man of the season so far, he’s been absolutely outstanding," Crerand told MUTV. "I don’t think anybody can have an argument about that. But if they do, I’ll argue with them!

"He’s got all the qualities, particularly at Old Trafford because United are invariably the attacking team. He plays up and down that left side and has been fantastic doing it.”

Having arrived almost two years ago for a reported fee around £5.5million, Evra has proved an excellent capture and already seen off the competition of Gabriel Heinze. It may have taken him time to bed in to the English style of play, but the patience, Crerand feels, has paid off.

"He’s another one who, like Nemanja Vidic, needed a little bit of time to settle,” he added.

“I think there’s more pressure at this club on players than there is at any other club because you’ve got a worldwide audience staring at you and they expect you to go on the pitch and be a star straightaway.

“But it takes time. You have to get to know the players you’re playing with and they have to get to know you.

"I believe Patrice is a very popular person with the rest of the squad, but I think being a good player helps to make you popular, and he’s been exactly that for us this season.”

Source: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid={F9E570E6-407E-44BC-800F-4A3110258114}&newsid=508860&page=2

Deco fears Barcelona's dream could be ended by resurgent United

2007-11-20T17:27:00.000+07:00

Barcelona's Deco has picked out Manchester United as one of the main threats on the road to the Champions League final.

"United are strong," he told Champions magazine of the UEFA Champions League."They have improved since last season with their new signings."

He also named Milan and Real Madrid as rivals of Barcelona. "Milan are always the same. They seem dead in the water, seem to be playing badly but in the final stages they become too strong. And Real Madrid signed pretty wisely in the summer."

Deco, 29, added: "I am curious about Arsenal, to see if they can keep going until the end of the season. And we have to see what is to be of Chelsea."

The midfielder, who won his first Champions League title in Jose Mourinho's Porto side in 2004 said: "Mourinho makes his players better. I have only good things to say about him. Let's wait and see at the end of the season how much Chelsea miss him."

Deco says he is committed to Barca despite summer speculation about his future. "They told me that I was part of the project and they didn't want me to leave. I had to take their word, didn't I?

"However, the time of every player at any club always comes to an end. Always. i have a contract until 2010 and my intention is to stay here. But, if the club is not satisfied with me, we will go our separate ways. that is normal, it is part of football."

Fighting for a place in the attack are Messi, Eto'o, Thierry Henry and two pearls from the club's academy Giovani Dos Santos and Spaniard Bojan Krkic, who has Serbian roots.

He added: "We have some new players this year, but the structure of the team hasn't changed. We will all suffer a lot of pressure throughout the season, and Rijkaard will suffer from it above all - the coach is always in the spotlight. The group of players is bigger, and the main difficulty will be keeping everybody calm and satisfied."

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=494953&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Reds fans in SOS to Whitehall

2007-11-19T17:47:00.000+07:00

A Manchester United fans' group has written to Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe demanding intervention to halt the spiralling cost of Premier League tickets.

Sutcliffe, a United fan, hit the headlines last month, and irked Sir Alex Ferguson when he condemned the cost of admission to Old Trafford and claimed many lifelong fans were being priced out.

Ferguson responded by telling Sutcliffe to go and watch FC United, the Unibond League outfit set up by disgruntled Reds fans in protest both at Malcolm Glazer's controversial takeover and increasing prices.

It was also pointed out to Sutcliffe by the United boss that London duo Chelsea and Arsenal are among the clubs who charge substantially more than his own.

However, the Manchester United Supporters Trust the group formerly known as Shareholders United, have sent an open letter, pleading with Sutcliffe to intervene.

"We believe the time has come for the Government to intervene over ticket prices," said MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo.

"Club owners have been given ample time to put their own house in order and bring prices under control and yet price increases have actually accelerated to unprecedented levels.

"This has created hardship for many long-term supporters (as well as potential new fans) who have given loyalty to their club for so many years only to be rewarded with an ultimatum to pay up or be replaced by someone else who can.

"We understand that the Government sees intervention as the last resort but we believe that the case for such intervention is now overwhelming.

Source: http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1024851_reds_fans_in_sos_to_whitehall?rss=yes

Kaka: Man Utd's Ronaldo best in Europe

2007-11-19T17:41:00.000+07:00

AC Milan midfielder Kaka has declared Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo as currently the No1 player in Europe.

The Brazilian is hot favourite to win the European Footballer of the Year award, which is handed out by magazine France Football next month.
But Kaka has paid a glowing tribute to Ronaldo.

"He is the best, not only for his technical ability, but also for what he has done with Portugal," said Kaka to Italian media on Sunday.

As for the future, the 25-year-old dreams of captaining Brazil when his country host the 2014 World Cup.

"In 2014, I will still be playing and it would be a marvellous experience to be captain of our national team," he said.

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65573

Vidic could miss Man Utd fixture

2007-11-19T17:36:00.000+07:00

Nemanja Vidic could miss Manchester United's game at Bolton on Saturday.

Vidic is part of the Serbia squad whose Euro 2008 qualifier against Kazakhstan has been rescheduled for the day of United's trip to the Reebok Stadium.

The group A match was due to be played last Saturday but had to be cancelled because of heavy snow in Belgrade.

However, if Serbia fail to beat group leaders Poland, or Portugal take a point from Finland on Wednesday, the Kazakhstan tie will be meaningless.

That would raise the possibility of Vidic being freed by his country to rejoin the United squad for their Premier League encounter with Gary Megson's Bolton.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will be loathe to lose the 26-year-old defender, who has played in all but one of the club's league games this season.

After Saturday's postponement Uefa attempted to stage the qualifier on Sunday but with 14cm of snow still lying on the Partizan Stadium pitch, those plans also fell through.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/7101231.stm

Man Utd in swap talks for Barcelona star Eto'o

2007-11-19T17:31:00.000+07:00

Manchester United are in sensational swap talks with Barcelona over fiery Cameroon ace Samuel Eto'o.

The People says agents are working behind the scenes to see if a deal can be struck to move the Cameroon hit-man to Old Trafford in exchange for Louis Saha and £5 million.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been on the look-out for another striker for some time and has grown increasingly frustrated with Saha's constant injury problems.

The Frenchman will not play unless he feels 100 per cent fit and, while his ability is undoubted, his willingness to put his body on the line when needed is questionable.

Eto'o, meanwhile, has himself been plagued by injury this season and has not featured for Barca since tearing a tendon in his right thigh.

However, he is on target to return just before Christmas and would be ready to go by the time any deal could be sanctioned in January.

The striker will be on African Cup of Nations duty and would disappear for the back end of January and early February. But, long term, that would not bother Fergie.

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65648

Man Utd's Hargreaves returns to England squad

2007-11-19T17:25:00.000+07:00

Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has been recalled to the England squad.

Also winning a place is Tottenham striker Darren Bent, who comes into the squad after Michael Owen was ruled out by a thigh strain suffered in the friendly victory over Austria on Friday.

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65567

Man Utd's Simpson working closely with Neville

2007-11-19T17:21:00.000+07:00

Manchester United fullback Danny Simpson has revealed he's working closely with skipper Gary Neville in training.

He told the People: "He's teaching me all sorts of stuff ... how to study the weaknesses of different players and try to force them into areas where they do less damage.

If you can't learn from somebody like Gary, then you might as well not bother.

His dedication is second to none - he's the ultimate team player."

With Neville due back next month and We Brown ahead of him, Simpson knows he must play the waiting game.

He said: "Rio Ferdinand told me not to get carried away, to enjoy my taste of the big time but to keep a level head.

And that's what I'm going to do."

Source: http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=65615

I can make it at United - Pique

2007-11-18T21:22:00.000+07:00

Manchester United defender Gerard Pique is hoping to repay the faith shown in him by Sir Alex Ferguson and establish himself at Old Trafford.

Pique was sent out on loan to Real Zaragoza last season and attracted interest from both them and Atletico Madrid in the summer.

But after making six first-team appearances so far this season the 20-year-old now feels he is ready to make an impression on United's defence of their Barclays Premier League crown.

He told the Manchester Evening News: "Zaragoza tried to sign me in the summer but I knew what the answer would be.

"Since the first day I arrived, Sir Alex has showed me he has a lot of confidence in me and I'm trying to do my best to show him I can be part of this team. I can be a United player.

"He talks to you a lot - not only about football, but about everything in life''.

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2888093,00.html

O'Shea set for new United deal

2007-11-18T21:14:00.000+07:00

Manchester United star John O'Shea has revealed he is close to signing a new deal at Old Trafford.

The Republic of Ireland international says he is in advanced talks over extending his stay with the champions.

The 26-year-old insists he is happy to stay as he been assured he is important to Sir Alex Ferguson's plans.

"The manager feels I am part of his plans, so we will wait and see," O'Shea told the Sunday Mirror.

"I have this season and the next on my current contract, but I am very close to signing a new deal that will keep me at United into my 30s.

"It is something I want to do. I want to stay here, everything is good and this is where I want to be.

"I have never looked to go elsewhere."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2889397,00.html

Cristiano: Praise is positive

2007-11-18T20:23:00.000+07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has welcomed Sir Alex's comments on the strength of United's squad.

In his United Review programme notes for Blackburn's visit to Old Trafford, the United boss said he believed the current crop of players could be his best yet.

"It's always good to hear praise from our manager, who, over the years, has coached several United teams," Ronaldo said. "If he says that then it's good for us, especially the new players. It's very positive.

"Ronaldo's form has been central to United's unbeaten streak in the league, which now stretches back to mid-August. Indeed, the Portugal international has found the net 10 times already this season. And yet, some critics claim he's failed to ignite matches in the way he so often did during the 2006/07 campaign.

That kind of criticism doesn't bother Ronaldo. He insists he's playing well and only wants to continue his good form.

"I have scored some goals and played well," he said. "I always work to be the best, with the aim of improving every year on the weaker parts of my game. I’ve been in good form and now I’ve got to make sure I maintain this consistency."

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=507786

My Invincibles - Fergie hails 'best ever' United to turn the heat on Wenger

2007-11-13T13:49:00.000+07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson claimed his Manchester United all-stars are the best squad he has had as they moved three points clear of Arsenal yesterday.

Arsene Wenger's team are at Reading tonight but Ferguson is in pole position and purring with excitement about his team, who beat Blackburn 2-0.

The Manchester United manager, who has been at Old Trafford for 21 years, said: "I believe this is the strongest squad I've ever had.

"I prefer to see a pool of players emerge and develop into something special, which is what is happening at Old Trafford this season. We have the young players led by Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo and they have now been joined by the likes of Carlos Tevez, Nani and Anderson."

Ronaldo's two goals came in as many minutes in the first half but the talking point of the afternoon was the sending off of Rovers midfielder David Dunn.

Dunn was cautioned for pulling Tevez's shirt in the first half and then dismissed after taking Louis Saha's legs soon after half-time.

Blackburn boss Mark Hughes said: "We're disappointed. We were more than in the game but lost David to a challenge that was mistimed more than anything. It wasn't violent or poor play. The game suffered because of that decision."

Ferguson acknowledged that Dunn had been rather unlucky and Blackburn can also feel aggrieved after Ronaldo appeared to shove Ryan Nelsen into the advertising hoardings late in the game.

Ron tops Rovers poll

2007-11-13T12:42:00.000+07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo's quick-fire brace against Blackburn has earned the winger the Man of the Match award, as voted by ManUtd.com users.

More than 6500 fans had their say in an online poll after United ended Rovers' unbeaten streak on Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford.

Mark Hughes' men hadn't lost away from home in the league since the last time they came to Old Trafford, back in March.

But two goals in as many minutes – the first a powerful header, the second a simple tap-in after good work down the left by Carlos Tevez – sunk the visitors and left Sir Alex marvelling at his side's killer instinct.Ronaldo didn't light up the stage as he has done on so many other occasions, but his two goals undoubtedly turned the game and he garnered an impressive 53 per cent of the vote.

Ryan Giggs, who turned back the clock with a stunning display of wing wizardry, provided the sternest competition (18%), while Patrice Evra (13%), Owen Hargreaves (11%) and Carlos Tevez (5%) rounded out the voting.

Man Utd's Saha delighted with start

2007-11-13T12:41:00.000+07:00

Manchester United striker Louis Saha is delighted with the early weeks of his latest comeback from injury.

"It has been such a long time since I was in the starting line-up and it felt good to be in there," Saha told L'Equipe after Sunday's victory over Blackburn Rovers. "I was in the starting XI against Roma, but that day I was not at my best.

"I took advantage of the Wayne Rooney injury, but that is why a whole squad is useful.

"It went smoothly against Blackburn. I won't complain about failing to score because the most important thing is the team won."

Ferguson hails 'strongest' squad

2007-11-12T21:00:00.000+07:00

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson saw Manchester United beat Blackburn 2-0 to head the Premier League and claimed the squad is his strongest in 21 years at the club.

Ferguson said: "We've got young players led by Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo and more in the likes of Carlos Tevez and Nani and Anderson.

"In fact, it is difficult to know when to stop when talking about our important players.

"But this team has to win something. They have a great chance of doing so."

Ronaldo scored twice in United's victory over Blackburn, which moved Ferguson's squad three points clear in the top flight, although second-placed Arsenal visit Reading on Monday night.

The goals took him to double figures already for the season, and saw him get the highest mark from users of BBC Sport's player rater for the match.

But Ferguson also singled out for praise the old man of the squad, Ryan Giggs.

Ferguson added: "He is 34 at the end of the month but I feel he can go on for a few years yet.

"He has been a wonderful servant for this club and he was our best player."

However, Ferguson's opposite number Mark Hughes was not so happy after seeing his side beaten on Sunday.

The Blackburn manager was unable to hide his frustration at referee Chris Foy's dismissal of David Dunn, who picked up a second booking early in the second half.

"He was a little bit quick with the card," Hughes told BBC Sport.

"There should have been a little bit of leeway but after that it was very hard for us. We feel a little bit hard done by."

Ferguson agreed with Hughes that Dunn's red card might have been harsh.

Dunn's second booking was for a trip on Louis Saha and was possibly deserved but Hughes was unhappy with Foy's previous decision to give the Blackburn midfielder a yellow card for a challenge on Tevez.

"It was never a booking - why didn't the assistant help the referee in that situation?" questioned Hughes.

Blackburn were already losing by two goals when Dunn was dismissed and Hughes argued that his side's numerical disadvantage gave them no hope of rescuing the game.

"Little things went away from us and we didn't quite get the run of the ball," he added. "We didn't have a chance to show the team we are."

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7089910.stm

Man Utd' Ronaldo delighted with double

2007-11-12T20:55:00.000+07:00

Manchester United wing ace Cristiano Ronaldo was delighted with his brace in yesterday's 2-0 defeat of Blackburn Rovers.

He said: "If I keep scoring two goals every game then it's fantastic, it doesn't matter about the hat-trick. I score goals to help my team not for personal glory.

The most important thing is getting the three points and going back to the top of the table.

"The first goal was a fantastic leap and the second goal killed the game. After that we improved our play and deserved to win. We are in good form."

Source :

http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=64642

Match Review: Man Utd 2-0 Blackburn

2007-11-12T20:45:00.000+07:00

Manchester United moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo's double.

Christopher Samba came very close to giving Blackburn the lead when his rising shot crashed against the bar.

But Ronaldo's header and a side-footed finish, in the space of two first-half minutes, put United in total control.

And any hope Blackburn had of salvaging a point disappeared when David Dunn was sent off for picking up a second yellow card early in the second half.

Clip Highlights

Before Game Report : Man United vs Blackburn Rovers

2007-11-11T14:52:00.000+07:00

Fergie unruffled by Rovers' style

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists he has no problem with Blackburn's style of play ahead of Sunday's tussle

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has criticised Rovers' approach this season, but Ferguson believes it is "the right type of aggression".

"They are very aggressive at times but I don't have any great issue with it," said the United manager. "Maybe about three years ago they had one bad season, but you can't paint them black all the time.

"The disciplinary record this season and last season is good and that's the tell-tale sign. There's nothing wrong with being aggressive so long as it's the right kind of aggression."

Ferguson will be forced into a comprehensive change of plan after Wayne Rooney's ankle injury in training yesterday ruled the striker out of contention for four weeks.

Rooney had been in breathtaking form for United, his eight goals in the last seven games netting him the Barclays Player of the Month trophy for October.

His partnership with Carlos Tevez had helped United to 22 goals in six games, and had allowed Ferguson to treat Louis Saha with kid gloves, keeping him in a substitute's role to protect his delicate knee.

Just before Rooney sustained the injury Ferguson had praised his form and expressed his belief that Saha was currently at his most effective on the bench.

Ferguson said: "Wayne had an injury to begin with and that knocked him back a bit as he missed four or five games.

"We expect players of his ability, young players like him and (Cristiano) Ronaldo, to develop and improve themselves.

"They got 23 goals each last year and I think they are capable of getting more than that this year."

In terms of Saha, he added: "We are trying to manage the situation he finds himself in terms of his knee condition so we don't play him in every game and the dilemma is do we start him or do we bring him on.

"If you look at the composition of our side now, he is different to everyone else so he makes a bigger impact as a substitute.

"At the moment my inclination is to use him as a sub and he is fine with that."

Rooney should be back for United's trip to Liverpool on December 16.

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2872670,00.html

Others News

Hughes: Pressure greater at Man Utd when I was there
Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes says expectations were greater at Manchester United when he was a player than nowadays.

Rovers can break big four
To quantify the threat posed by Blackburn Rovers at Old Trafford on Sunday, Sir Alex Ferguson believes Mark Hughes’ men could be the team to break the four-strong monopoly at the top of the Premier League.

Blackburn can cause Man Utd problems - Hughes
Blackburn boss Mark Hughes believes his side are capable of 'causing Manchester United problems' at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Fergie backs 'Rottweiler' Hughes to break into top four
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Mark Hughes's Blackburn can be the team to break the big four's dominance of the Premier League this season.

Mach Preview: Man United vs Blackburn Rovers

2007-11-11T14:21:00.000+07:00

Old Trafford

Sunday, 11 November

Kick-off: 1500 GMT

UNITED will be without striker Wayne Rooney for the clash with Blackburn after he injured an ankle in training.

The England international left the club's Carrington base on crutches, meaning he will not feature against Rovers at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Gary Neville is still unlikely to figure against Rovers despite having made a comeback in the reserves.

The only other absentees are those with long term-injuries - Mikael Silvestre, Paul Scholes, Park Ji-sung and Ben Foster.

Ahead of the game Blackburn manager Mark Hughes has spoken of his admiration for Sir Alex Ferguson - but is confident of outsmarting his one-time mentor this weekend.

Ferguson this week celebrated 21 years in charge at Manchester United but shows no sign of slowing down.

Yet Rovers are also enjoying a strong run of form and travel to Old Trafford on Sunday unbeaten away and only five points behind United with a game in hand.

Former United striker Hughes, who has long been tipped to succeed Ferguson one day, said: “It is fantastic what he has done and is doing.

“It is a remarkable feat that he has been able to keep going and keep the energy and enthusiasm for the game that he has. Football is his life and he has still got that drive he has had form the outset.

“By all accounts he has mellowed a bit from my time when I was a player, but maybe that comes from being so successful.

“It’s a big ask going to Manchester United, they are playing exceptionally well, as we are, but it will be very different to overcome them in the form they have been showing.

“Defensively they are rock solid and it will take a good side to overcome them - but we feel we are a good side.

“We have gone up against three out of the big four and come out of them unbeaten so there is no reason we cannot go to Old Trafford and get a positive result.

“We couldn’t be going there in better circumstances given the run we’re on. Something’s got to give, let’s hope it’s United.”

Manchester United (from): Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evans, Evra, Simpson, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Fletcher, Eagles, Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Saha, Tevez.

Blackburn Rovers (from) : Friedel, Ooijer, Samba, Nelsen, Warnock, Emerton, Bentley, Dunn, Tugay, Pedersen, Santa Cruz, McCarthy, Derbyshire, Brown, Khizanishvili, Treacy.

Last season: United 4 Blackburn 1

Key opponent: David Bentley - Probably the best crosser in the league and has a good record against United

Prediction: United 1 Blackburn 0 - Rooney's injury is a blow, but if the Reds can keep it tight at the back they should overcome this tough test

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7076650.stm,

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1023785_preview_united_v_blackburn?rss=yes

Scholes' surgery a success

2007-11-11T14:06:00.001+07:00

Sir Alex has allayed fears Paul Scholes' recent knee injury could threaten the midfielder's career.

Scholes, who turns 33 on Friday 16 November, damaged his knee during a training session in Kyiv last month.

An initial scan was inconclusive before a second confirmed the need for surgery and three months' rest.

"Paul has had his operation and it was 100 per cent successful," the Reds' boss told United Radio.

"The specialist said the condition of his knee is fantastic… he's got the knee of a 20-year-old.

We're losing him for three months but the great news is there's nothing stopping him from playing for a few years yet.

"In January he'll come back as a fresh player, at an important time when we've got the knockout stages of Europe and the FA Cup to think about.

Remember the last time he came back after his eye injury – it was like having a new player."

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=506343

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Rooney injury big blow

2007-11-11T13:57:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits Wayne Rooney's ankle injury is a huge blow to their title push.

The in-form forward, who has scored eight goals in his last seven games for the Red Devils, injured his ankle during a game of 'head tennis' at United's Carrington training ground.

Rooney will therefore be unavailable for England's friendly with Austria next week and the potentially crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia at Wembley on November 21.

"I think Rooney was the man who could take England to the European championships," Ferguson told Manchester United Radio.

"It was an absolute freak accident.

"He was playing a game of head tennis and he caught his foot on the stanchion that holds up the net. It's a sickening blow, but we hope he'll be back in four weeks.

"He's been in red-hot form recently, but that's football. He'll miss our games against Blackburn and Bolton - and it's obviously a big loss for England too."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=64400

Rooney: Player of the Month

2007-11-11T13:50:00.000+07:00

INJURED United striker Wayne Rooney has been named Barclays Player of the Month with former United ace Mark Hughes taking the manager's award.

Manchester United striker Rooney, 22, scored four goals in just three matches to be named Player of the Month - although he will not get the chance to reclaim his crown after suffering an ankle injury which will keep him out for the rest of November and beyond.

The former Wales manager takes the honour for the first time after leading Rovers to three straight wins in the month - with Birmingham and Reading defeated at Ewood Park and Tottenham beaten at White Hart Lane.

Hughes is the first Blackburn boss to win the award since Brian Kidd in 1998.The decision was made by the Barclays Awards Panel, which includes representatives from football's governing bodies, the media and fans.

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1023787_rooney_player_of_the_month?rss=yes

Rooney out for four weeks

2007-11-11T13:49:00.000+07:00

WAYNE Rooney has been ruled out for four weeks after suffering an ankle injury in training.

The United striker left Carrington on crutches and will miss Sunday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Blackburn and most likely their remaining two group matches in the Champions League.

He will also be unavailable for England’s friendly with Austria next week and the Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia at Wembley on November 21.

England coach Steve McClaren had only just named Rooney in his squad and greeted the news with understandable disappointment.

“It is hugely disappointing for us and him,” he said.

“Given the form he has been in and the contribution he has made to England over the last two games means it is a blow.

“But we have to deal with it, like we have dealt with situations like these before.

“It is an opportunity for someone else to come and do a job.”

Rooney has already been out injured this season when he broke his foot in the first game of the season against Reading.

Rooney, meanwhile, has been named the Barclays Player of Month for October.

The 22-year-old scored four goals in just three matches. The decision was made by the Barclays Awards Panel, which includes representatives from football’s governing bodies, the media and fans.

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1023780_rooney_out_for_four_weeks?rss=yes

Man Utd's Ronaldo admits battle of the bulge

2007-11-09T22:05:00.001+07:00

Manchester United wing ace Cristiano Ronaldo has confessed he battles against an increased waistline because of his love for fine food!

"I have the great fortune of being able to eat at the best restaurants where the food is prepared the best and there are the noblest wines," said Ronaldo.

"It is very good, but is not the best recommended ways for a footballer.

"But I am going to be careful with what I eat because (United manager Sir Alex) Ferguson does not want me to become overweight because that affects my form on the field."

Ronaldo also revealed he's grown to love local food.

He added: "I dated a girl from Manchester and she showed me that steak pies and chips are very good."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=64292

Pique: I won't quit Red Devils

2007-11-09T19:09:00.000+07:00

Gerard Pique hopes his patience will eventually be rewarded at Manchester United after insisting he has "no intention" of leaving the club.

The 20-year-old was loaned out to Real Zaragoza last season and could easily have joined them on a permanent basis had Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson not rebuffed a substantial bid.

Pique, also linked with Atletico Madrid just this week, enhanced his reputation with a first start - and only his second appearance - in the Champions League on Wednesday, and scored his maiden United goal in the 4-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev.

Despite growing interest in the Barcelona academy product, Ferguson has stressed he wants to hang on to the centre-back.

Pique himself is only too happy to stay at Old Trafford, looking on the loan spell in his homeland last season as just part of his learning curve.

"When I went on loan last year what I wanted was experience. It was good for me, and now I am am getting experience here - and I am happy," said the Spain Under-21s international.

"You have to think 'it is Manchester United' and they are one of the best teams in the world'.

"The players that are here have a lot of quality, and it is very difficult to break through. You have to be patient.

"I want to play more games, but the boss decides."

Ferguson has invested a lot of time in Pique since he arrived at Old Trafford as a teenager - and he is not prepared to let all that good work go to waste.

"I am not surprised people are saying they are interested in him," said the United manager.

"Zaragoza tried to buy him in the summer. They offered a lot of money for him. But no. The boy's future is here.

"I have no fears for him. The course we have set is a good one, and there is absolutely no intention of letting him go."

Pique was relatively untroubled alongside Nemanja Vidic in a back four which also contained fellow 20-year-old Danny Simpson, also making his first Champions League start, and the established Patrice Evra.

Playing with those experienced internationals undoubtedly helped the rookies settle in.

"They are great players, and when you play with them they give you the confidence to play your game," said Pique.

"You know if you make a mistake you have them around you.

"It was a great feeling to score a goal in the first (Champions League) game you start and you help the team to win the game.

"We are now already qualified, and that is great for us. The last two games we can enjoy it - and try to be the first in the group."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2870225,00.html

Ronaldo: We're better this year

2007-11-09T19:03:00.000+07:00

In-form winger Cristiano Ronaldo believes Manchester United now have a better chance of winning the Champions League than last season.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who guided the club to a dramatic European Cup win over Bayern Munich in Barcelona in 1999 and the semi-finals last season, has gone on record as saying as he would like to lift Europe's premier club competition at least one more time.

They have begun that quest well by reaching the knockout stages with two group matches still to play after Wednesday night's 4-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev.

And Ronaldo, whose goal against the Ukrainians at Old Trafford was his eighth in 10 matches in all competitions, believes this season the team could go all the way again.

"Manchester United have the opportunity to win [the Champions League] every season," said the Portugal international, who scored in the 3-2 first leg semi-final victory at home to eventual champions AC Milan last season only to see the side lose 3-0 in Italy a week later.

"You work for that but this season there is a better chance than last season.

"We have more options. We have new players, we have great quality and when you have quality you have the opportunity to score goals - which is what the players try to do.

"We have better players and they want to win the Champions League and the Premier League. You have to believe."

Wednesday's victory saw Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez both score - with defender Gerard Pique heading the opener - and their burgeoning partnership up front is one of the key factors behind United's success this season.

Rooney has nine goals in the campaign and the Argentina striker five, but it is their link-up play with each other which has caught the eye.

Ronaldo praised the pair for working hard to establish their partnership.

"The last five or six weeks they have played fantastically," he said.

"They know each other, score goals and do a fantastic job."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2869241,00.html

Carrick: Man Utd competition red hot

2007-11-09T18:33:00.000+07:00

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick admits competition for first team places is red hot at Old Trafford.

Carrick may be one of those under the most pressure - because he is vying for a midfield place with the likes of Darren Fletcher, Anderson, Owen Hargreaves, John O'Shea and Ryan Giggs.

He returned to action in last Saturday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal after a month out with a dislocated elbow, played against Dynamo Kiev in midweek and hopes to be involved for the visit of sixth-placed Blackburn on Sunday.

"The squad is terrific. A few lads have been rested, and that will continue throughout the season," said the England international.

"The manager has got a lot of bodies, but I'm sure it's a happy problem for him.

"That [competition] is what this club is all about. They are all top players - and whoever plays will not let anyone down."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=64268

Simpson inspired by Fergie confidence

2007-11-09T18:28:00.000+07:00

Manchester United defender Danny Simpson believes he can justify the faith shown in him by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Salford-born 20-year-old made his first start in the Champions League on Wednesday night and looked comfortable during the 4-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev which saw United qualify for the knockout stages with two matches to spare.

He could even have scored midway through the second half but saw his follow-up from Carlos Tevez's rebounded shot saved by Ukrainian goalkeeper Olexandr Shovkovskiy.

But it capped a stellar month for Simpson after he made his Premier League debut as a 30th-minute substitute in the 4-0 victory at home to Wigan on October 6 and then came off the bench for the 4-2 win in Kiev a fortnight ago.

"It is everything to get a start. It gives you that confidence that he (Ferguson) trusts you," said Simpson, who was loaned out to Sunderland for their Championship-winning run-in last season having previously spent time at United's feeder club, Royal Antwerp, in Belgium.

He and Spanish centre-back Gerard Pique, also 20, were both given starts against Kiev while Jonny Evans, who was on loan with the Black Cats with Simpson, came on as a late substitute.

And Simpson believes Ferguson's keenness to develop young talent can only bode well for the trio.

"When he (Ferguson) said 'You and Gerard are playing at the back with Nemanja (Vidic) and Patrice (Evra),' it was a hell of a compliment," he said.

"He didn't even have to say anything to me - just, 'Go out there and do what you normally do.'

"I was a bit gutted I didn't score but the young lads who played, me and Gerard at the back, we kept a clean sheet and we played some good stuff.

"The gaffer has always said if there is a young lad he will give them a chance and last night I proved that.

"After that he might feel, now that we are through, why not give me another game against better teams.

"For the likes of myself, Gerard and Jonny Evans it is looking good for the future."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2869248,00.html

Vidic signs new Man Utd contract

2007-11-08T23:50:00.000+07:00

Manchester United centre-half Nemanja Vidic has extended his contract with the club until 2012.

The 26-year-old, whose old deal ran out in 2010, moved to United for £7m from Spartak Moscow in January 2006.

The Serb international was unconvincing initially but did not take long to find his form and helped United clinch the Premier League crown last season.

"Nemanja has made a terrific impact at the club," Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club's website.

"He has forged a partnership with Rio Ferdinand that was a major part in us winning the title last year.

"He is an extremely popular member of the squad, both with staff and fans alike.

"It's great news that he wants to be part of this exciting side for years to come."

Vidic was a key presence for United early on this season when he helped the side keep consecutive clean sheets against Tottenham, Sunderland and Everton, with Sir Alex Ferguson's outfit earning three 1-0 wins as they struggled to hit top form in attack.

"Playing in this team is a great privilege," stated Vidic. "This is such a great club, I am delighted to be able to extend my stay here.

"The fans and everyone at the club have been very special to me. I hope I can do my bit to bring the club even more trophies in the years ahead."

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/7084935.stm

Rooney: I didn't enjoy it

2007-11-08T23:43:00.001+07:00

Wayne Rooney didn’t enjoy the 4-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv - he felt the Ukrainians came to Old Trafford without any intention of attempting to achieve a result.

The 21-year-old Reds striker got on the scoresheet, but he described the match as “like a training match”.

“We're delighted that we’re through and maybe we can rest a few players in the next two games,” he said.

“It was difficult though because they didn’t want to play. It spoilt the game and I didn’t really enjoy playing in it. It was one of those nights but we did a good job and got the win.

“It was like a training session, they came and showed no enthusiasm to play the game. At times we played some good football, but it was a slow game. The main thing, though, was that we won the game.”

Rooney was pleased with the contribution of young defenders Danny Simpson, Gerard Pique and Jonny Evans, who were all given a chance to shine.

“A few lads came in and did really well – Simmo, Gerard Pique and Jonny Evans got good experience. That will help them in years to come and I’m sure they’ll thrive on that.”

And for the rest of the squad it’s a continuation of the good form the team has been producing in recent weeks. “We’re really confident at the moment anyway,” he added. “We’re playing some good football and we just want to keep that up.”

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=505507

Match Review : Man Utd 4-0 Dynamo Kiev

2007-11-08T08:00:00.001+07:00

Manchester United qualified for the Champions League knockout stage after a comfortable win against Dynamo Kiev.

Gerard Pique headed his first United goal after 31 minutes and Carlos Tevez quickly added a second after a brilliant exchange with Wayne Rooney.

United continued to dominate and Rooney side-footed home Nani's superb cross with 15 minutes left.

Cristiano Ronaldo's solo effort made it four late on and Roma's draw with Sporting Lisbon sent United through.

United made five changes to the team that drew 2-2 at Arsenal, and it took a while for Sir Alex Ferguson's side to get into their stride.

Rooney received a yellow card after 17 minutes for a foolish chase and tackle on Artem Milevskiy.

But United's frustrations eased on the half-hour when they took the lead in freakish circumstances.

Michael Carrick's header from Ronaldo's free-kick bounced off the head of an unwitting - and offside - Tevez and lobbed into the path of Pique, who headed home.

And five minutes later they doubled their advantage when Rooney exchanged passes with Tevez to allow the gifted Argentine to shoot high past Olexandr Shovkovskiy.

United made a substitution at half time, with Tomas Kuszczak replacing Edwin van der Sar in goal after the Dutch keeper suffered a foot injury.

He was instantly in action, diving to save well from Diogo Rincon - but United were always in the ascendancy.

Nani had a shot saved from 20 yards and then Shovkovskiy made a fine double save from Tevez and Danny Simpson after brilliant approach work from Patrice Evra.

Kuszczak had distinguished himself, and he saved well from Tiberiu Ghioane as Dynamo at last showed more attacking intent.

United wrapped up the win with 15 minutes left when Nani provided a superb right-wing cross that was an open invitation for Rooney to side-foot home from six yards.

Ronaldo finished the night with a flourish, tricking his way into the area in trademark fashion before firing home powerfully.

Man Utd: Van der Sar (Kuszczak 46), Simpson, Vidic, Pique (Evans 72), Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Nani, Fletcher, Rooney, Tevez (Saha 67).Subs Not Used: Brown, Anderson, O'Shea, Eagles.
Booked: Rooney.
Goals: Pique 31, Tevez 37, Rooney 76, Ronaldo 88.

Dynamo Kiev: Shovkovskiy, Fedorov, Vashchuk, El Kaddouri, Markovic, Diakhate, Rotan (Rebrov 46), Correa, Gusev (Rincon 46), Ghioane, Milevskiy (Bangoura 76).Subs Not Used: Rybka, Gavrancic, Ninkovic, Dopilka.
Booked: Diakhate, Correa.

Att: 75,017

Ref: Jan Wegereef (Holland).

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/7076590.stm
http://www.super-goal.info/vdo_clip.php?catid=25&id=3485

Match preview: Man Utd Vs Dynamo Kiev

2007-11-07T17:38:00.000+07:00

Champions League, Group F match

Date: Wednesday, 7 November

Kick-off: 1945 GMT

Venue: Old Trafford

Manchester United captain Gary Neville is out after suffering a setback in his recovery from a calf injury.

The right-back made his long-awaited comeback from injury in a reserve game last week but a new calf strain will keep him out against Kiev.

Neville aside, boss Sir Alex Ferguson has no new injuries to contend with.
Striker Louis Saha could come into contention, while midfielder Owen Hargreaves should make his European debut for United.

Neville has not played for the first team since damaging ankle ligaments in March.

Ferguson said: "Unfortunately, Gary's got a little calf strain again. It's a real dampener for the boy and us and something we could have done without.

"I don't think it's a long one, but it is a setback because he really needs to get his season on the road."

Man Utd (from): Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evans, Evra, Simpson, Ronaldo, Hargreaves, Anderson, Fletcher, Eagles, Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Saha, Rooney and Tevez.

Man Utd manager Sir Alex Ferguson: "Talk comes cheap but we have built a platform that, with a little bit of luck, will launch us on our way to this most elusive of trophies.

"We have had our disappointments on the Champions League trail.
"But, while you can never take anything for granted at this level, I really believe we can go all the way."

BIG MATCH STATS

Head-to-head

Manchester United and Dynamo Kiev have played each other three times in European matches.

On 23 October, their most recent encounter ended in a 2-4 away win for United. Their only previous meeting was at Old Trafford, on 8 November 2000, ended in a 1-0 victory for the home side.

European history

Manchester United, the 1968 Champions Cup winners and 1999 Champions League winners, were eliminated at the semi-final stage of the CL by AC Milan last season.

Dynamo Kiev's best result in the CL is reaching the semi-finals in 1998-99, in which they lost to Bayern Munich.

Current European form

Manchester United have won their last seven CL home matches, and are unbeaten in 10 home European games.

They've not been beaten on home soil in this competition since 23 February 2005, when AC Milan won 0-1 at the Theatre of Dreams.

Dynamo Kiev have not won any of their last six CL away matches.

Overall, the Ukraine club have not won in 10 CL matches, losing their last three.

Player and disciplinary info

If selected, United's Rio Ferdinand will be playing on his 29th birthday.

Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are the only Manchester United players to have been on the field for every minute in the Champions League this season.

Other miscellaneous facts

On Saturday, the Red Devils drew 2-2 at Arsenal to remain second in the Premier League, just behind the Gunners at the top on goal difference , having played a game more.

Dynamo Kiev meantime lost 0-1 at home to Metalist Kharkiv. Kiev trail leaders Shakhtar Donetsk by 10 points after 15 matches.

Definitions of terms used:-

Champions League (CL) - only group phase matches and beyond of this competition which began in 1992-93.

Champions Cup/Champions League - all matches played since it began in 1955-56 including qualification matches.

European matches - all matches played in the major European tournaments (Fairs Cup, Uefa Cup, Cup Winners' Cup,

Champions Cup, Champions League). Uefa Super Cups, Intertoto Cups and the old Intercontinental Cup competition are excluded.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/7076590.stm

EXCLUSIVE: I'm young and pure but never a wimp, growls United's innocent abroad Anderson

2007-11-07T17:18:00.000+07:00

Now that the Brazilian called only "Anderson" has left a mark on European football, he is determined that it should become permanent.

It has taken some time for one of Manchester United's more ambitious signings to come to the fore, but injuries to Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick have given the 19-year-old midfielder his chance.

After a headline-making battle with Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas at the Emirates at the weekend he admits that he has a taste for the physical side of football in England.

"Cesc Fabregas is one of the best players in Europe and it was a pretty intense duel for me at Arsenal," said Anderson last night.

"But those situations are pleasant for me. They are what I am here for. I am not a violent player but equally I will never run from a fight.

"The experience was totally positive and I think it was for Fabregas, too.
"We are both young players who are learning. I don't have a problem with him."

Anderson will hope to keep the fit-again Carrick out of United's starting line-up tonight as Sir Alex Ferguson's side go in search of a win over Dynamo Kiev that would see them safely into the knockout stages of the Champions League with two games to spare.

After playing two consecutive matches for the first time for United, the £17million summer signing from Porto has drawn praise from Ferguson for his maturity and his knowledge of the game.

"In Kiev two weeks ago he was giving senior players advice on what to do," recalled Ferguson. "That was great to see."

However, Anderson has been criticised for making the most of some of the tackles he received at Arsenal at the weekend. So have United recruited another diver?

"No, not at all,' protested Anderson. "I am young but I am very pure on the field. I do not try to trick people with my actions or practise any theatre.

"The theatre is for actors. I am a footballer and I just want to play. I saw the comments of the manager and I would rather concentrate on those.

"That makes me very happy because those words are coming from one of the best coaches in the world."

It is tempting to regard Anderson as the first Brazilian to play at Old Trafford, so miserable were the efforts of the World Cup-winner Kleberson during two seasons at the club between 2003 and 2005.

Indeed, South Americans have never really got on at Old Trafford. Argentina's Juan Sebastian Veron and Uruguay's Diego Forlan were equally dispiriting and Anderson must break the mould if he is to succeed in the long term.

"I know the stories about the problems of the South Americans at Manchester United, but I believe that this season Carlos Tevez and I will break those," added Anderson.

"A Brazilian should be able to triumph in any club in the world, including this one, so I won't make any excuses.

"I just want the chance to show my quality. I am Anderson, not Veron or Kleberson. This is the difference.

Perhaps I have arrived with more ambition than those two did.

"I am happy with the way my stay in England has gone so far. The advice I have had from the manager has just been to work hard and wait for my chance."

Having lost a large chunk of his young career with Porto to a broken leg, Anderson — along with the Portuguese winger Nani — was bought by Ferguson with the future in mind.

The United boss, tired of being beaten to the world's best young talent by Chelsea and Arsenal, invested £34m in both players.

Anderson, known in Brazil as "little Ronaldinho", is actually quite different from the Barcelona No 10.

Indeed, his gifts are more recognisable to those who watch the Premier League.

"My main characteristic on the pitch is the way that I fight for each ball," he said. "I never want to lose a single play and will follow my opponent to all corners of the field if I have to.

"After seven months without playing because of my injury I am now in paradise. In Kiev, for example, I found that I played with comfort and without nerves and I was pleased about that.

"I was happy with the way the match went for me personally and that we managed to win the game as well. But the Ukrainians not are an easy rival to play.

"People said that the first game was a promenade but it wasn't like that for the players. This will be a tough game for us as well.

"I believe we have a great chance in the latter stages of the Champions League this season but these are the games we have to win if we are to get there."

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=492115&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

We must shed 'nearly men' tag in Europe this year, demands Fergie

2007-11-07T17:11:00.000+07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned his Manchester United players that they face being known as 'nearly men' if they cannot win him a second Champions League title.

United face Dynamo Kiev at Old Trafford in Group F tonight knowing another win would send them into the knockout stage with two games to spare.

And manager Ferguson has challenged his players to realise their potential and lift the trophy for the first time since 1999.

Ferguson said: "We've had disappointments on the Champions League trail but this season we are capable of going all the way.

"The players clearly want to do well in the Champions League and if you are one of the best you naturally look to spell it out with cups and medals, otherwise you are in danger of ending your career as a nearly man.

"And I don't think a single Manchester United player wants that."
Gary Neville will miss the game after injuring his calf in training.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=492118&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Owen: Dynamo were afraid

2007-11-05T23:28:00.000+07:00

England midfielder Owen Hargreaves has accused Dynamo Kiev of being "afraid" of Manchester United a fortnight ago.

United romped to a 4-2 win in the Ukraine, completing one of the easiest European away triumphs during Sir Alex Ferguson's stint in charge.

Providing Ferguson's side can confirm their superiority over Kiev at Old Trafford on Wednesday, they will book a place in the knockout phase with two games to spare.

And Hargreaves, who is set to make his long-awaited Champions League debut for United after finally overcoming the knee problem which blighted the early weeks of his Red Devils career following an £18million summer move from Bayern Munich, can see no reason why Ferguson should not receive a perfect 21st anniversary present as manager.

"Dynamo seemed a bit afraid of us in Kiev," said the England midfielder.

"It is very rare in the Champions League that you see someone pulled apart so easily and concede four goals at home.

"Normally, those type of games are very difficult but Dynamo were really quite poor, surprisingly so for that level of competition."

Although a change of coach, which has seen former Arsenal star Oleg Luzhny handed the top job, has only come about due to the ill-health of Jozef Sabo, Kiev clearly hope the move can have a galvanising effect on a team yet to register a point in Group F.

It seems unlikely they will gain anything from Old Trafford though.

Ferguson's side saw their eight-game Premier League winning streak come to an end thanks to William Gallas' injury-time strike at the Emirates Stadium at the weekend, but they remain very much in-form.

The added bonus of key players such as Michael Carrick, Louis Saha, Gary Neville and Hargreaves all returning to action since the game in Kiev only fuels the feeling United will cruise home.

"I am sure Kiev will try to redeem themselves but we are at home and we are expecting to win," said Hargreaves, who won the competition with Bayern.

"That would give us 12 points and many teams have qualified for the second phase with less.

"We should go through easily and ideally we will have two games to spare as well."

It would certainly represent one of the more straightforward qualifying campaigns during Ferguson's amazing spell as United chief, confirming the theory that, after their semi-final appearance 12 months ago, the Scot has moulded together another side capable of challenging at the very highest level.

However long Ferguson has left, and weekend pronouncements suggest the 65-year-old has no inclination to step down any time soon, after nine Premier League wins, five FA Cups and a League Cup triumph, adding another Champions League crown to the one he won so famously in 1999 represents the major remaining ambition.

Hargreaves, brought in with the stated intention of achieving that goal, feels the Red Devils have the capability to exceed last year's last-four berth.

But, given the extreme nature of competition, the Calgary-born star accepts United must hit the pinnacle of their powers at exactly the right time.

"It is not about peaking now, it is about peaking towards the end of the season," he said.

"Obviously, it is great to be playing well now but it is towards the end of the season that we want to be at our best and have everybody playing well.

"I am hoping to be a big part of that.

"These are all stepping stones to get to that phase. I have had a lot of experience at this level and I am looking forward to using it in my first season here."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2862975,00.html

Giggs: It's still early days

2007-11-05T23:23:00.000+07:00

Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs believes it is "still early" to say who will be challenging for the Premier League title this season.

Captain Giggs, who came within inches of scoring what would have been his 100th Premier League goal at Arsenal when he put the ball past the post from close range during the first half, said:

"It's still early yet. The test will be around Christmas time.

"I think it will be ourselves, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool.

"It is whoever can sustain their form throughout the season, can handle the injuries and suspensions the best."

allenging for the Premier League title this season.

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2862817,00.html

Fergie can go on and on

2007-11-05T23:16:00.000+07:00

SIR Alex Ferguson celebrates 21 years in charge of Manchester United this week and shows no sign of slowing down.

At 65, most people settle into retirement and look forward to a quiet life but Ferguson remains at the top of his profession and has every intention of staying there.

In the last few days alone, the iron-willed Scot has shown his footballing fire and passion, so evident in two trophy-laden decades at Old Trafford, burn as brightly as ever.

In the aftermath of Saturday's heavyweight clash at Arsenal, he launched an immediate offensive at referee Howard Webb and was clearly angry his side had conceded a late equaliser.

Details of Ferguson's team-talks have seeped out over the years and it would certainly be no surprise if the infamous hairdryer came out in the Emirates Stadium's away dressing room.

United may be champions and again playing some outstanding football but still he is not satisfied.There have been nine Premier League titles, five FA Cups and a Champions League win but no let-up.

Relentless It is this single-minded focus and relentless determination to succeed, combined with an ability to command respect and cajole the best from players, that has made him such a formidable manager.

He has never shied from difficult decisions and seldom been afraid to remove players he has seen as disruptive, no matter how much controversy those decisions have caused.

Paul McGrath, Paul Ince, David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy are just a few of the huge stars who have fallen foul of Ferguson and they may not be the last.

Ferguson has let little get in his way in his pursuit of glory and, after turning around a hugely-underachieving side and maintaining a place at the top for so long, few can argue with his methods.

There have been times when his superiority has faced a challenge, but each time he has risen to it and, arguably, come back stronger.

Blackburn briefly deposed United in the mid-1990s, the Arsenal of Arsene Wenger have been recurring rivals and most recently Chelsea have taken charge.

Yet Ferguson never gives in and United's achievement in holding off the filthy-rich Blues to win the Premier League last season perhaps ranks as one of his greatest.

It is a remarkable tale of longevity and, with United challenging for more honours, there are more chapters to be written yet.

A relative lack of European silverware is perhaps the only imbalance on Ferguson's record.

One European Cup Winners' Cup and one fortuitous Champions League win compares unfavourably with some of the continent's other managerial greats.

It is something he is determined to put right, as evidenced by a number of near misses, and even if he does, he seems unlikely to stop there.

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1022835_fergie_can_go_on_and_on?rss=yes

Man Utd boss Ferguson hails supersub Saha impact

2007-11-04T20:59:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with the performance of Louis Saha off the bench for yesterday's 2-2 draw at Arsenal.

Saha helped create Cristiano Ronaldo's goal in the draw and Ferguson told MUTV: "I had the strongest bench that we've had all season, that's encouraging for us.

"The lads who have been playing all this time have been fantastic and we are very proud of them. But we can now alternate our teams a little bit better."

John O'Shea, Michael Carrick and Saha all came on in the second half against Arsenal, and the latter caught the eye when United scored what looked to be the winning goal.

"Louis Saha made a marvellous contribution when he came on," praised Sir Alex.

"He made a great pass for the goal to Evra who squared it for Ronaldo. At that point, I thought we were home and dry."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=63402

Sir Alex: We threw it away

2007-11-04T11:39:00.000+07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson was fuming after United's failure to keep the lead cost them dear in a dramatic draw at the Emirates Stadium.

The boss believes his team threw away a great chance to beat their rivals, and pointed to the first of two Arsenal equalisers as the source of his irritation.

"We threw it away, we were in a winning position twice," Sir Alex told MUTV.

"The goal that angered me most was the goal we gave away after half-time. To lose a goal from taking a throw-in at their corner flag was criminal.

"The goal in question, scored by Cesc Fabregas, came only three minutes after Wayne Rooney had given United the lead - albeit with the half-time interval inbetween.

"It was a marvellous time for us to score, just before half-time. We should have been buoyed by that and we did start the second half well with good possession. Then we gave the goal away and for the next five to ten minutes after that they got at us.

"United weathered that early second-half storm and the score remained at 1-1 for the next half-hour. Sir Alex was then as surprised as anyone when the Reds broke through again.

"I couldn’t see either team scoring a second goal. To then score our second when we did and give it away in injury time is hard to take, really hard to take. Arsenal got out of jail.

"The result doesn’t tell you anything as both teams are going to be challenging. But the draw's good for Chelsea and Liverpool and there are a lot of twists and turns to come."

Source : http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A3110258114%7D&newsid=504131

Ferguson critical of referee Webb

2007-11-04T11:34:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson accused referee Howard Webb of favouring Arsenal in United's 2-2 draw.

The Gunners twice came from behind to salvage a draw at home on Saturday.

"I think Howard Webb has a great chance to be the top referee but today was a big game for him and, at times, he favoured Arsenal," Ferguson told MUTV.

"Their second goal came from him not giving a free-kick for a foul on Louis Saha on the far side. It should've been a foul for us."

However, Ferguson stated it was hard for referees not to be influenced by hostile home crowds.

I am pleased that in two big games we had to run after the score and we did that both times

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger

"It is very difficult for the referee," he added. "On our bench, we were getting terrible abuse from people two or three feet away from us.

"There is a lack of security. It is absolutely disgraceful the abuse you and your staff take. All sorts of things are being shouted and screamed at you and there is an absolute danger here."

However, a spokesperson for the Gunners said: "Stadium security is of the highest importance and we feel there is ample stewarding around the dugout area.

"However, the club does recognise that some exchanges which takes place can be of an aggressive nature, and there was an incident this afternoon where one supporter was ejected.

"There is also CCTV which monitors the area which our stadium management crew review in detail after games, and if necessary the club will take further action."

Ferguson had thought his side had done enough to win the match when Cristiano Ronaldo put them 2-1 up with eight minutes left.

But William Gallas, whose own goal had given United a first-half lead before a Cesc Fabregas goal, volleyed an injury-time equaliser for the Gunners.

"Our character was tested twice," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. "Just before half-time and with eight minutes to go.

"Overall though, I believe it was a fair result. We played with the handbrake on in the first half, though, and we lacked our usual flowing game."

It was the second time in successive league matches that Arsenal had drawn against top opposition, having finished 1-1 at Liverpool last Sunday.

And Wenger was frustrated not to have taken at least four points from the two games.

"That is a disappointment," he added. "But on the other hand I am pleased that in two big games we had to run after the score and we did that both times.

"We are still in charge of the title race because we are top with a game in hand.

Source : http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7073616.stm

Match Review : Arsenal 2 Man United 2

2007-11-03T23:14:00.000+07:00

MANCHESTER United had to settle for a point after conceding a dramatic last-minute equaliser at the Emirates Stadium.

The Reds took the lead in first-half injury time when Wayne Rooney's close-range effort was deflected in for a William Gallas own-goal, but Francesc Fabregas equalised just minutes after the restart.

United looked to have won the game when Cristiano Ronaldo scored with just eight minutes remaining, but Gallas scored in injury time, the ball just crossing the goal-line despite desperate attempts to clear it.

Despite the early kick-off, the atmosphere inside 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium was electric - and the next 93 minutes did not disappoint.

It was a bright start to the much-anticipated match, with some slick passing on display from Arsene Wenger’s men and little quarter given by United in the tackle.

After eight minutes, Ronaldo saw his downward header come back off the post following a left-wing corner, but referee Howard Webb had spotted a push by the United midfielder on marker Tomas Rosicky.

Quick

At the other end, Emmanuel Adebayor timed his jump all wrong to send a cross from Gael Clichy over the bar.

Following an Arsenal free-kick after 16 minutes, United broke quickly through Ronaldo down the right. Captain Ryan Giggs should have done better when arriving at the far post to meet the eventual low cross, but could only stab the ball wide from a yard out.

Sir Alex Ferguson was out of his dug-out when a decision went against Patrice Evra, for kicking into the back of Emmanuel Eboue, and was quick to give attending fourth official Alan Wiley a piece of his mind as well as the referee.In the 23rd minute, Giggs tried his luck from just outside the area, but the ball was always rising over the bar.

Despite Arsenal having seen plenty of possession, with 30 minutes almost on the clock, the home side had not yet tested Edwin van der Sar.

Alexander Hleb’s run down the right on the counter attack was checked by Anderson, six yards from the edge of the area. Cesc Fabregas whipped the resulting free-kick into the six-yard box, where Gallas met it with a bullet header, only to be denied by the legs of the United keeper.

Bundled

United snatched the lead in first-half stoppage time. Wes Brown bundled Hleb off the ball before he played in Ronaldo down the right.

The low cross was met by Rooney at the near post, and his scuffed shot deflected up off the diving Gallas and past Almunia into the net.

Arsenal’s response was immediate, as they drew level just three minutes into the second half. Eboue floated the ball over from the right and into the penalty area, where Adebayor had time his run perfectly.

Van der Sar was out quickly to block the Togo striker’s volleyed effort. However, the loose ball broke to Bacary Sagna, who squared it back to Fabregas. The young Spaniard set himself before drilling in his 11th goal of the season from 12 yards.

Slowly, the champions began to find their own rhythm again. A fine interchange between Rooney and Giggs set up the England forward with a free header 12 yards out, but for once he was well off target.

United went back in front when substitute Louis Saha fed Evra, who skipped into the right side of the box, drew Almunia and cut the ball back for Ronaldo - who could not miss.

Arsenal pressed for an equaliser, which almost came when Evra spooned the ball onto his own bar.

Just when it looked United were set to take the spoils and record a ninth straight league win, Arsenal forced in a dramatic stoppage goal when Gallas struck at the far post - the ball having been palmed away by van der Sar from behind the line.

Source : http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester_united/s/1022782_arsenal_2_united_2_?rss=yes

Score Report

2007-11-03T23:02:00.000+07:00

FT : Arsenal 2-2 Manchester United

0-1 Wayne Rooney 45'

1-1 Cesc Fabregas 48'

1-2 Cristiano Ronaldo 82'

2-2 William Gallas 90'(+2)

Fergie and Wenger: The best of enemies

2007-11-03T22:51:00.000+07:00

"As far as Ferguson is concerned, one thing is very simple now. I will never answer questions any more about this man. I am not going to answer any provocation from him any more.

"He does what he wants in England anyway. He can go abroad one day and see how it is there.

"What I don't understand is that he does what he wants and you are all at his feet."

Arsene Wenger, January 14, 2005

Time heals, doesn't it? Less than three years after Arsene Wenger's relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson reached its lowest point, Arsenal and Manchester United convene in London this afternoon with English football's most enduring and intriguing personal rivalry back at the top of the Premiership agenda.

Today's meeting at the Emirates Stadium may be billed as the purists' football match — the day when the Premiership shows the world that a diet of crash-bang-wallop football is not all that we have to offer.

At its core, however, remains something primitive, a battle of wills between men who have done so much to shape English domestic football over the last decade.

As such, at Arsenal's training ground at London Colney yesterday lunchtime, Wenger was doing what he once swore he would never do again: taking questions about Ferguson.

"He has most of the qualities you need to be a great manager," said Wenger.

"He is passionate, makes the right decisions, has the personality and has consistency in his motivation.

"You must sacrifice your life to be such a long time in a job like his.

"This job never leaves your head wherever you are. You need to be consistently determined in your attitude and we are the same as far as the sacrifice is concerned."

After two years in the Premiership wilderness, the resurgence of an enterprising Arsenal team — coupled with Chelsea's moderate start to the season — has brought Wenger and Ferguson nose to nose once more.

With the departed Jose Mourinho hogging so many headlines over the last three years, the rivalry between Wenger and Ferguson, no matter how ingrained, has been subconsciously relegated to sub-plot.

And let's face it, English football — an industry that is nothing without its personalities — has missed it.

Ferguson's rivalry with Mourinho was underpinned by friendship and was, therefore, all about witty asides, pleasantries and boring questions about bottles of red wine.

Only occasionally did it threaten to boil over. With Wenger, it has always been different.

Ferguson's years in combat with the Frenchman have been characterised by mutual suspicion, mistrust and genuine contempt at times.

Ferguson once texted Mourinho to congratulate him on a notable European result.

It is hard to imagine him texting Wenger — presuming he has his number — even if the Frenchman was to be made Prime Minister.

"We don't contact each other, but that's not to say there's no relationship," said Ferguson yesterday.

"It's odd occasions as managers when you meet up, normally when you play each other. That's when you speak to each other.

"But a lot of these things are over-hyped." Ferguson is right, but only to a point.
In January, 2005, there appeared to be a thaw on the way as Ferguson admitted that he and Wenger had shared bottles of wine at UEFA coaching seminars.

But then United ended the 49-game unbeaten run of Arsenal's so-called "Invincibles" at Old Trafford, Wenger's players threw pizza at Ferguson outside the dressing rooms and anarchy again reigned.

Ferguson seemed reluctant to discuss his relationship with his rival yesterday, apart from admitting that it had been a "see-saw".

For his part, Wenger admitted that his own team's relatively fallow recent seasons had enabled a little objectivity to return.

"First of all, it is down to the fact that we didn't compete directly with them, so games were not really the deciders," conceded Wenger.

"That calms it down. Enemies is a big word. I don't know Ferguson well enough to say that I am friends with him.

"I respect him for what he has done, and for what he is doing in the job. That's it. Sometimes, it was hotter. Sometimes the climate was a bit warmer!

"What is important is that this is a good football game and that we win. All the rest is less important."

What lies at the heart of 10 years of problems between these men is hard to pinpoint, apart from the unavoidable friction involving sporting rivals.

It should be noted that Wenger has few genuine friends in English football and is actively disliked by managers such as Mark Hughes at Blackburn and Newcastle's Sam Allardyce.

For all his eloquence and erudite charm, the Frenchman is known throughout the game as a particularly sour loser.

Ferguson, meanwhile, resents Wenger for the way he feels he courts the media — he doesn't, he is merely polite to them — and for the manner in which he feels his teams' technical skills have always belied a barelyhidden nastiness.

His reservations are shared by others at Old Trafford.

Only this week, one United executive told Sportsmail: "Why is everyone banging on about beautiful Arsenal again this season? They haven't won anything yet."

Ferguson made the same point in his own press conference yesterday and once more the stage is set.

So, will things boil over again in Highbury & Islington this afternoon?

As Wenger said impishly: "I cannot give you any guarantees."

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_article_id=491441&in_page_id=1779&ct=5

Arsenal v Man Utd

2007-11-03T22:49:00.000+07:00

Emirates Stadium: Saturday, 3 November
Kick-off: 1245 GMT

Arsene Wenger has a near full-strength squad to chose from with Robin van Persie (knee) and Philippe Senderos (back) the only enforced absentees.

Eduardo, after his midweek brace, and Gilberto are both pushing for starts.

Louis Saha and Michael Carrick make timely returns to Manchester United's squad for the top of the table clash.

Saha has finally shrugged off a long-term knee problem, while Carrick has recovered from the dislocated elbow he suffered against Roma last month.

Arsenal (from): Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Eboue, Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb, Rosicky, Adebayor, Lehmann, Eduardo, Gilberto, Diarra, Diaby, Walcott, Bendtner, Denilson.

Man Utd (from): Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, Simpson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Pique, Evra, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Fletcher, Hargreaves, Carrick, Anderson, Giggs, Nani, Tevez, Rooney, Saha.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger:

"It's a giant of a game - everybody wants to see who is the best at the moment.

"I have a strong belief in my team and I'm convinced we can put them under good pressure and beat them. We have a game in hand, we want to extend our lead at the top and take advantage of that game.

"Calmness will be an important factor, managing the game and maintaining domination over them. If we panic there is little chance to win."

Man Utd manager Sir Alex Ferguson:

"It is going to be tense. Big games always are. The pace of the game will escape no-one.

"It is far too early to say this is a title decider. My experience suggests there are rough times ahead because teams in this league can drop points against anyone.

"But both ourselves and Arsenal are enjoying a good spell and that is the mouth-watering aspect of the game. The football they are playing and the goals they are scoring means anyone who has a ticket will be rubbing their hands."

BIG MATCH-FACTS

A top of the table showdown between the two most successful clubs in Premier League history. Manchester United have won 375 matches, gained 1,258 points and claimed nine titles; Arsenal have won 316 games, collected 1,107 points and lifted three titles.

It pits the north Londoners with the longest current unbeaten run in this league (17 games) with the Red Devils, who are on the longest current winning streak of eight.

It sets the strongest attack against the tightest defence in the highest league; Arsenal have scored 22 goals in 10, Manchester United have conceded four in 11.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who celebrates 21 years in charge at Old Trafford on Tuesday, comes up against his Arsenal opposite number Arsene Wenger for the 34th time. Of the 33 previous encounters United have won 11, Arsenal 13. Seven of the nine other games finished level and two were decided on penalty shoot-outs; United won the 2003 Community Shield, and Arsenal the 2005 FA Cup final on penalties.

In the Premier League there's nothing to chose between Wenger and Ferguson at eight wins a piece, and six draws, but the Frenchman has the edge on home soil with five wins to three, and three draws.

Victory for the Gunners would be their seventh at home and equal the club record of successive league victories from the start of a season, set in 1934, and equalled two years ago.

Arsenal came from behind with two goals in the last seven minutes of the first ever meeting with Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in January to complete the double over their fierce rivals.

CLUB FORM

ARSENAL

Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 1stLowest could fall: 2nd

1. Undefeated in 24 in league and cup. Won 15 and drawn two of 17 this season, and won 18 and drawn six since suffering defeat to West Ham at the Emirates Stadium nearly seven months ago.

2. Won 11 and drawn six of the last 17 Premier League matches since losing 0-1, home to the Hammers on 7 April.

3. One of two remaining unbeaten clubs in the Premier League. The other is Liverpool.

4. Dropped fewer Premier League points than any other club; just four.

5. The only club to have scored in every Premier League match so far this season; netted 22 goals in 10 outings, at one every 41 minutes on average.

6. One of three clubs to have gained as many as seven points from losing positions; won two and drawn one in which they were trailing.

7. Made their best ever start to a Premier League season. The previous best points total after the first 10 games was 25 in 2004-05. The best after 11 games is 27, in 2003-04 - their last title-winning campaign.

8. One of two clubs holding a 100% home Premier League record (won six of six). Manchester City have an identical record.

9. Three shy of 600 home goals in the Premier League all-time.

10. This match precedes Wednesday's Champions League Group H fixture in the Czech Republic, against Slavia Prague.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 1stLowest could fall: 2nd

1. Not dropped a point since their only loss of this league campaign; 1-0, away to local rivals Manchester City on 19 August.

2. On their longest winning league sequence since recording nine in a row on 9 April 2006; the last of the nine being a 2-0 home win over Arsenal.

3. Scored four goals in each of the last three league matches, and on course to replicate the longest run in the Premier League of four successive games in which four or more goals were scored; achieved by Manchester United themselves on 15 April 2000 (putting four past Bradford City, seven past West Ham, netting four against Middlesbrough and four against Sunderland).

4. Conceded two goals in claiming 24 points out of 24, and just four all season; shipping one every 248 minutes (four hours eight minutes) of Premier League football played, on average.

5. On the longest current run in the Premier League of 14 matches since conceding more than a single goal in a game; the most recent being the pair in the 2-4 away win over Everton on 28 April.

6. Also on the longest current run in the Premier League of 51 matches since a defeat by more than a single goal; 3-0, away to Chelsea on 29 April 2006.

7. Their 11 league games have yielded 23 goals (19 for, four against). Only Premier League matches involving West Ham have a poorer return; 21 (12 for, nine against).

8. Kept seven clean sheets - more than any other club in the division.

9. Aiming for a fourth consecutive league victory on the road.

10. This game precedes Wednesday's home Champions League Group F fixture, against Dynamo Kiev of Ukraine.

KEY PLAYER NOTES

ARSENAL

Cesc FABREGAS is Arsenal's top scorer with 10 goals.

Emmanuel ADEBAYOR is the clubs top Premier League marksmen with six.

Arsenal have never lost when ADEBAYOR has scored; winning 16 and drawing
two of the 18 matches in which he's netted. But he has not found the net since getting a double, home to Derby on 22 September.

Only Kolo TOURE has been on the field for every minute of every one of Arsenal's Premier League matches this season.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Wayne ROONEY and RONALDO are Manchester United's joint top scorers with six goals each.

ROONEY has scored five Premier League goals against Arsenal (two for Everton, three for United).

ROONEY and Carlos TEVEZ are the clubs top Premier League marksmen, with four each.

Ryan GIGGS is one short of 100 career league goals.

Rio FERDINAND is the only remaining player to have started all of Manchester United's Premier League matches this season.

If selected:-

Chris EAGLES will be making his 50th English league start (Manchester United, Watford and Sheffield Wednesday).

HEAD TO HEAD

Arsenal achieved same season home and away victories over Manchester United for only the third time in the Premier League last season.

It was only the eighth time United had been "doubled" in their Premier League history.

Home and away
League (inc PL): Arsenal 65 wins, Man United 71, Draws 40
Prem: Arsenal 9 wins, Man United 12, Draws 9

at Arsenal only
League (inc PL): Arsenal 50 wins, Man United 22, Draws 16
Prem: Arsenal 6 wins, Man United 4, Draws 5

LAST SEASON'S CORRESPONDING GAME

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
21 January 2007 - Ref: Steve Bennett
Arsenal scorers: Van Persie 83, Henry 90
Man Utd scorer: Rooney 53

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7065152.stm

2007-11-03T10:29:00.001+07:00

Before Game Report : Arsenal vs Man United

2007-11-03T01:06:00.000+07:00

Fergie: It's us or Arsenal for title
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United and Arsenal have shown early signs they can make it a two-horse race for the Premier League title.

The two sides are currently level on points ahead of Saturday's clash at the Emirates Stadium, although the Gunners do have a game in hand over Ferguson's men.

Chelsea and Liverpool have suffered slightly more inconsistent starts to the season but Ferguson still believes they may launch title challenges of their own after the New Year.

He said: "At the moment I think it's looking between Arsenal and ourselves at the top but you know football changes.

"When you come to January and it really does start, then you expect to see Liverpool and Chelsea."

United won their first Premier League title for four seasons last year and Ferguson is confident he has built a squad capable of retaining the trophy.

"We have had some incredible injury situations, but over the last few years we've been like that at early season with a lot of injuries," he added on the League Managers Association' website

"I hope and pray that by the time we come to December - because the second half of the season is where it really begins - we have got a good strong squad together.

"I feel that once we get that strong squad together we are capable of going and winning the league again."

Meanwhile Ferguson admits the start of the season can put teams like Tottenham in a "false position" because of the disruption caused by international call-ups.

"Once the internationals get out of the road, then I think you'll find that the Premier League will settle down, we'll get a true perspective of who is going to be really challenging and you will get some consistent results," he said.

"At the moment there have been some surprise results."
Ferguson also paid tribute to Carlos Tevez, who despite struggling to learn English is letting "the football language talk".

Tevez is being given private tuition at home to improve his English and Ferguson said he is working hard.

But the United boss could not hide his delight at securing the services of the man who he believes single-handedly kept West Ham in the Premier League last season.

"What I have noticed about the boy here, since he has come to us, is that when he loses the ball he wants it back which is a great attribute to have as a striker really, not every striker thinks that way. So he's got a lot of great things about him and most importantly that great enthusiasm to play."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2840774,00.html

United and Gunners come of age
FOR those who like their football red in tooth and claw, Saturday's top two showdown may turn out to be something of a let-down.

Fergie challenges young guns
SIR Alex Ferguson has declared it will be medals and trophies that decide whether Arsenal's youngsters are better than Manchester United's.

Arsenal's kids must be judged on trophies: Fergie
Sir Alex Ferguson has declared it will be medals and trophies that decide whether Arsenal's youngsters are better than Manchester United's.

Man Utd legend Robson: Arsenal lack bottle for tight title race
Manchester United legend Bryan Robson says Arsenal's young team don't have the bottle to challenge for the title this season.

Wenger: We're contenders again
Arsene Wenger says Arsenal's brunch crunch with Manchester United on Saturday is once again a pivotal Premier League fixture in the title race.

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Don't write-off Chelsea, Liverpool

2007-11-03T00:44:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson won't rule out Liverpool and Chelsea making a title challenge this season.

Ahead of tomorrow's big match at Arsenal, Ferguson said: "At the moment, I think it's looking between Arsenal and ourselves at the top, but you know football changes. "When you come to January and it really does start, then you expect to see Liverpool and Chelsea."

And it's been revealed Ferguson always expected an improved Arsenal this season.

In a rare moment of intimacy with journalists on United's pre-season tour of Asia, Ferguson raised an eyebrow when he was asked whether Arsenal might struggle after losing Henry to Barcelona.

"They lost him in December," Ferguson said in a curt assessment of the France forward's final months as an Arsenal player.

"His time had gone and I think Arsene (Wenger) knew that. I think they will be more consistent. They need more goals, but they've got [Emmanuel] Adebayor and they've got [Robin] Van Persie back, so they're not too bad, are they?"

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=63209

Other News

Man Utd boss Ferguson delighted with Hargreaves impact

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have Owen Hargreaves fit and available.

Man Utd to make opening £8M Veloso bid

Manchester United are set to make an opening £8 million bid for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso.

Shearer hails Man Utd pair Rooney, Tevez

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer says he always knew the Manchester United pairing of Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez would click.

Man Utd's Tevez tackling English lessons

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed Carlos Tevez is working just as hard off the pitch as he does on it.

Man Utd's Vidic welcomes Bruce, Pallister comparison

Nemanja Vidic has welcomed comparisons with Manchester United heroes Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister.

Fergie slams Sutcliffe after attack on ticket prices
Sir Alex Ferguson has hit back at Gerry Sutcliffe's controversial outburst over Manchester United's season-ticket prices - and jokingly suggested the Red Devils-supporting sports minister might be better off going to watch rebel club FC United.

Fergie tips Jose to snub England return

2007-11-03T00:28:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he does not expect Jose Mourinho to ever return to England following his shock Chelsea exit.

Ferguson has been in touch with the self-proclaimed Special One "a couple of times" since he left Chelsea and believes he will end up working on the continent.

"I don't know if he will come back into the English game, I'm not sure of that," Ferguson told the League Managers Association website.

"I think Jose will end up at a top team in Spain or Italy, I'm almost certain of that.

"There certainly is no-one on the radar at the moment obviously, he's taking a break and I think he's aiming to come back fresh.

"I don't think there's any problem about him coming back into management, I think it's where he comes back in and I don't think anyone has any clues to that at this moment in time."

Ferguson warned that managers cannot be out of the game too long because they will become forgotten - although he conceded that will not happen to Mourinho.

"I was reading an article the other day where a club was talking to Brian Little and Brian has done great work in his management career at Darlington, Aston Villa, Leicester etc," said Ferguson.

"He's been around quite a few clubs, Brian, but he's been out of the game for about three years now and you get forgotten about.

"It is ridiculous, but being out of the game that long is a handicap because with his qualities and his CV, Brian Little could quite easily manage 80% of the clubs in England."

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2840824,00.html

Man Utd boss Ferguson excited by Arsenal showdown

2007-11-01T01:15:00.001+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is excited about their looming clash at Arsenal.

"It's still an open race but Arsenal have had a great start and they're the ones we are chasing at the moment," Ferguson told the Daily Star.

"I know challenging for a title is a new experience for a lot of their players, but some of them have been there before and the manager has, and that is a big help.

"People said the same about us last year, but we led the league for three-quarters of the season, so I don't think it's a handicap."

He added: "Everything is coming together, as I thought it would, and in good time to take on Arsenal in what could be a key match in our title defence.
"The main thing is I know we will chase them with great fervour and determination."

Source : http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=62898

Other News

Man Utd's Saha fit for Arsenal trip

Manchester United striker Louis Saha will be fit for Saturday's crunch match at Arsenal.

Arsenal No1 Almunia: Man Utd just another game

Manuel Almunia is urging his Arsenal teammates to treat Saturday's clash with Manchester United as just another game.

Ferdinand fit for Gunners battle

2007-11-01T01:02:00.000+07:00

Manchester United have confirmed Rio Ferdinand will be available for Saturday's Premier League showdown with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Despite being named captain, Ferdinand was substituted during last weekend's 4-1 win over Middlesbrough, apparently uninjured.

Reports have surfaced suggesting the 28-year-old had been sent for a scan after a recurrence of the groin problem he sustained at the end of last season and ruled him out of key England games against Brazil and Estonia.

United have officials have opted not to outline the results of the scan, or indeed confirm whether Ferdinand actually had one.

But, in a statement, the Red Devils claim the England defender will face the Gunners this weekend as they look to open up a three-point lead at the top of the table.

"Manchester United have confirmed that Rio Ferdinand is fit to face Arsenal on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium," read the statement.

"Reports in Tuesday's press claimed the Reds defender has experienced a recurrence of an old groin injury and would miss the key Premier League clash.

"However, the influential 28-year-old centre-back trained with the rest of the squad at Carrington on Tuesday, and is considered fully fit and ready to play against the Gunners."

It is good news for Sir Alex Ferguson, who on Monday saw midfielder Paul Scholes ruled out for three months after being forced to undergo knee surgery.

However, with Owen Hargreaves returning to duty on Saturday and both Michael Carrick and Gary Neville set to make their comebacks after recent lay-offs, it does appear United's early season injury problems are easing.

Source : http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1778_2835464,00.html

Anderson will play anywhere for Man Utd

2007-10-31T22:07:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-30T23:39:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-30T20:06:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-30T18:05:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-30T17:56:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-29T22:41:00.000+07:00

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

Harg reaves: 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.

Wen ger 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.

Roo ney 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

2007-10-29T22:40:00.001+07:00

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.

Skj e lbr ed 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

2007-10-29T22:09:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-29T22:04:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-29T01:32:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-29T01:14:00.000+07:00

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

Har g reaves 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.

Sup e r 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.

Cle ver 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

2007-10-28T01:04:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-27T19:48:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-27T19:47:00.000+07:00

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

M ANCHESTER 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.

Bo ro 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.

G igg s : 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

2007-10-27T19:34:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-27T15:58:00.000+07:00

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

2007-10-27T13:37:00.000+07:00

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