Manchester United's Headliners, Articles and Rumours [Archive] - Page 16

mr_missile

23-07-2012, 02:39 PM

More Transfer Gossips

UNITED FAVOURITES FOR RVP.

So, Arsene Wenger wants Robin van Persie to stay at Arsenal, but that seems unlikely to happen.

Where will he go? Well, The Sunday Mirror believes that Manchester United are the favourites, after Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed their interest in the Dutch striker.

The Sunday Times agrees, with that paper reporting that Van Persie's preference is a move to United over Manchester City or Juventus.

The former's pursuit is apparently complicated by City's struggles in getting rid of Emmanuel Adebayor, as Van Persie dislikes his former Arsenal colleague so much that he won't consider sharing a dressing room with him.

However, Arsenal look like they're playing hardball.

The Times reports: 'They want a minimum of £20m and believe they may be able to raise as much as £25m with such tactics - having pulled off a similar trick in 2011 with Samir Nasri. Not only is United's bid at least £10m below the mark at which Arsenal would even consider dealing, spending big on Van Persie, who is 29 next month, would signify a huge change in policy. Only once in 15 years, when buying Dimitar Berbatov in 2008, has Ferguson paid a fee for an outfield played older than 26.'

UNITED IN FOR DEMBELE?

Interesting tale in The People, who claim Manchester United are 'poised to swoop' for Moussa Dembele.

Hmmmmm.

The paper believes United have stepped up their interest in the Belgian midfielder, with Fulham apparently set to demand around £15million for their man, but United are willing to pay big.

shysaint

23-07-2012, 05:00 PM

Manchester United ready to make new £32m Lucas Moura bid

The Premier League giants are confident that their latest offer will be enough to capture the Brazilian midfielder after a £27m proposal was rejected earlier in the week.

EXCLUSIVE
By Wayne Veysey | Chief Correspondent

Manchester United are set to make a £32 million offer for Lucas Moura after Sao Paulo rejected their latest bid of £27.2m, Goal.com has learned.

The Brazilian club have claimed that United made a "very important offer of €35m [£27.2m]" for their 19-year-old attacking midfielder.

Sources have indicated that the Red Devils' bid was made on Thursday and that the club are now expected to return with a final offer, which they are confident will be enough to seal the deal.

Lucas, who was part of the Brazil squad that beat Great Britain in a warm-up match for the Olympics on Friday night, is viewed by Sir Alex Ferguson as the ideal candidate for the playmaker role that he tried to fill with Eden Hazard before the Belgian moved to Chelsea at the start of the transfer window.

United were willing to pay £32m for Hazard before being beaten to his signature by the more lucrative salary package on offer at Stamford Bridge.

It is understood that the same sum is available to United to sign Lucas, but the Old Trafford club are not willing to go beyond that figure.

United are confident that the Portuguese-speaking enclave of Nani, Anderson and Rafael Da Silva would ensure a smooth adaptation period but are mindful that, should Lucas enjoy a reputation-enhancing Olympic tournament, he could be priced out of their reach if they do not come to a swift agreement.

“Manchester United made a very important offer of €35m but they would need to produce a little more,” Sao Paulo director Marco Aurelio Cunha Cunha was quoted as saying by TuttoMercatoWeb.

“For us there is only Neymar worth more, after him is Lucas and we would not want to sell for less than this sort of value. For us it is still better to have a good player than lots of money in the bank.”

shysaint

23-07-2012, 05:02 PM

Papers: Lucas fee agreed?

23/07/2012 09:09

The Daily Mirror writes...

Mour the Merrier!
Manchester United have agreed a staggering £26 million deal with Sao Paulo for Brazil sensation Lucas Moura. Boss Sir Alex Ferguson is being backed by the Glazers to land the 19-year-old wonder boy, who appeared as a sub against Team GB, and the move is now down to agreeing terms with his camp. Inter Milan and Chelsea also chased Lucas but backed off at the price tag. However Ferguson is determined to land a ‘worldie’ for his squad. Amazingly, Lucas would need a permit appeal to be allowed to play in England, but with the money involved the authorities are sure to be convinced he is in the ‘special talent’ category. Lucas would ideally have a medical as soon as possible, but Brazil are favourites for the gold medal - and it would be disruptive for them at the moment.

Several dailies report that Michael Carrick is performing a U-turn on his international career. The classy midfielder will make himself available for selection again under Roy Hodgson after sitting out Euro 2012. "I would consider it, definitely," said the ex-Spurs man. "If you’re not playing at my age, especially under Capello, then it’s not worth it. That was my decision."

Arsenal are facing D-Day with regards to Robin van Persie's future, according to The Sun. The Dutchman has not travelled on the club's pre-season tour and Arsene Wenger commented: "He has one year left and is in demand but our desire is to keep him. However, we will do what is in best interest of the club. If you have a decoder in your head you can decode that. The official transfer deadline is August 31 but then we can create an internal deadline."

dc7176

23-07-2012, 06:00 PM

hahaha. ya hor. like those usually found in an italian restaurant! alamakz! :o

heard that the away strip was specially requested by sir alex to be white though.

Oiz... i bought tat piece of table cloth, been wearing it n I M PROUD OF IT!! lolx...:)

okie, waiting for the white kit goin to buy tat too.. lolx:p

machoman

24-07-2012, 08:58 AM

thks bro machoman for the pics of the new jerseys. prefer the white away strip. :)

Home jerseys, look like some checked table cloth. Darned fellow who sanctioned this must have been smoking something

hahaha. ya hor. like those usually found in an italian restaurant! alamakz!

heard that the away strip was specially requested by sir alex to be white though.

Oiz... i bought tat piece of table cloth, been wearing it n I M PROUD OF IT!! lolx...:)

okie, waiting for the white kit goin to buy tat too.. lolx

http://cdn101.iofferphoto.com/img3/item/514/974/124/l_IOq4manchester-united-home-jersey-12-13.jpg

http://www.9footballshirt.com/product_images/k/fa12_manchester_united_kit_pattern_group_v0l6__559 49.jpg

mr_missile

24-07-2012, 01:20 PM

Oiz... i bought tat piece of table cloth, been wearing it n I M PROUD OF IT!! lolx...:)

okie, waiting for the white kit goin to buy tat too.. lolx:p

you the man! me also waiting for the white away strip. me like the collar better than the red "tablecloth" one. kekeke. :p

thanks bro machoman for more pics of the home strips. they look so streamline. fat old man like me wear liao machiam like lup cheong! :)

mr_missile

25-07-2012, 01:11 PM

Moura's United move off - Agent

Lucas Moura's agent Wagner Ribeiro says any move to Manchester United is off as Sir Alex Ferguson will not up his bid for the Brazilian star.

United have lodged an offer for the Sao Paulo midfielder, currently in England with Brazil's Olympic squad.

But with Sao Paulo wanting around £30million, it appears their asking price could be too much.

Ribeiro, one of the leading agents in South America, does not think Moura will be moving anywhere this summer after United's bid was rejected.

"They have reached their limit," Ribeiro told UOL.

"Lucas Moura won't leave. He is happy at Sao Paulo. we have to forget this subject. There is no possibility he leaves now.

"Manchester United made an offer, which was rejected and they won't make another one as they reached their limit."

Ferguson moved to dampen reports on Monday that a £26million fee had been struck for the 19-year-old, saying: "It's not correct. We haven't reached an agreement for the player.

"We have shown an interest, but until such time a we get a deal agreed, we can't say he's our player."

KatongCowboy

25-07-2012, 06:36 PM

Oiz... i bought tat piece of table cloth, been wearing it n I M PROUD OF IT!! lolx...:)

okie, waiting for the white kit goin to buy tat too.. lolx:p

White not so good. Buy red better if you are gambling on MU matches.
Next years fengshui not favour the colour white.

ikariamsg

25-07-2012, 09:08 PM

She do Raw!! Uncensored!! :eek:

Ameri Ichinose AV link (http://www.thisav.com/video/12272/catwalk-poison-46--%28ae%80%83%8E%80%82%83%83-ameri-ichinose%29.html)

Time to PCC!!!

Getting ready for a new Man Utd Adult Video... :rolleyes::o

Do you have movies from this:
Collection Ameri Ichinose's Movie (Uncensored): http://bon99.com/news/ameri-ichinose-uncensored.html

Wow, I love it, but I can't download from Filepost or Zippyshare ,please help, thanks

BTW, I think almost MU player very want watch Ameri Ichinose's Movie ;)

lusty

25-07-2012, 11:53 PM

Her name kinda cracks me up - Itchy Nose...but when i saw her in action....it ain't funny anymore. SOng ah!!!!

machoman

27-07-2012, 09:16 AM

Shinji Kagawa First Goal For Manchester United vs Shanghai Shenhua

http://youtu.be/Fb-eJDU0ZWQ

mr_missile

27-07-2012, 03:27 PM

White not so good. Buy red better if you are gambling on MU matches.
Next years fengshui not favour the colour white.

bro, fengshui has got nothing to do with which club i support or which colour jersey they are wearing. win or lose, bet or no bet, i will support united.

glory glory man united.

mr_missile

27-07-2012, 03:29 PM

Shinji Kagawa First Goal For Manchester United vs Shanghai Shenhua

http://youtu.be/Fb-eJDU0ZWQ

thanks for the link bro machoman. good to see u back and posting here actively. :)

machoman

27-07-2012, 10:38 PM

thanks for the link bro machoman. good to see u back and posting here actively. :)

You are most welcome, bro mr_missile. :D

The above link has been disabled. :eek:

New Link:

http://youtu.be/eEnE-Kbct6Q

bonkudear

01-08-2012, 08:37 AM

mr_missile

02-08-2012, 01:35 PM

Read that United are linked with Gunners' wantaway captain RVP. Does United really need him when we already have Rooney, Wellback, Hernandez and Macheda (assuming Berbatov is sold)?

I think what we need is a LB and a holding midfielder to take over from Carrick. We need a tough tackler who can break up opponents' attacks, win the ball back and pass to our new boy Kagawa to feed our attackers.

So to me, the priority should be midfield instead.

welcome back to the united thread bro. seems like more old timers are back here. :p

imagine rvp with rooney in united's attack? that will surely send shivers down the spine of most, if not all, the opposing team's defenders.

united's wingers of valencia, nani and young will have 2 very mobile targets to aim their crosses to. not only that. rooney and rvp can also both draw defenders away from the other strike partner and create even more room inside the penalty area for kagawa and the wingers to exploit.

what a awesome attack it would be. :)

mr_missile

06-08-2012, 08:09 AM

RVP AND MOURA IN SOON

Big balls out in Mail on Sunday, who report that Manchester United will spend something like £50million this week.

Apparently a £30million deal for Lucas Moura has already been agreed, with the Brazilian winger set to have his bits poked and prodded on Sunday. By United medical staff, not some bizarre Olympic ritual.

And to cap off the week, Fergie's good pal Bob Cass goes on to write that they will look to wrap up a deal for Robin van Persie this week too, although they will have to compromise on the £25million asking fee, with £20million likely to be the fee.

That's what it says here, anyway. However, there is this extremely whiffy paragraph, about RvP:

'But he has not concealed his desire to move to Old Trafford and that is the ace up Ferguson's sleeve.'

KatongCowboy

07-08-2012, 08:54 AM

welcome back to the united thread bro. seems like more old timers are back here. :p

imagine rvp with rooney in united's attack? that will surely send shivers down the spine of most, if not all, the opposing team's defenders.

united's wingers of valencia, nani and young will have 2 very mobile targets to aim their crosses to. not only that. rooney and rvp can also both draw defenders away from the other strike partner and create even more room inside the penalty area for kagawa and the wingers to exploit.

what a awesome attack it would be. :)

Case of too many cooks spoil the broth...... it may backfire if have too many "star players" in the team. We need to have one or two not so famous workhorses too to make the team effective.

mr_missile

07-08-2012, 02:00 PM

Case of too many cooks spoil the broth...... it may backfire if have too many "star players" in the team. We need to have one or two not so famous workhorses too to make the team effective.

not to worry bro. if indeed rvp comes, he will be the target man with rooney more than happy to drop deeper in a 4-4-1-1 formation.

in fact, both rooney and rvp can interchange their positions and draw their markers out of position leaving young, kagawa, valencia and nani (if he stays) to have a go at goal! :D

mr_missile

07-08-2012, 02:03 PM

Wonder who will take over the role of Paul Scholes when he fully retires??:confused:

supposedly shinji kagawa. just hope his legs don't go jelly from too many "sessions" with his beautiful gf ichinose. :D

KatongCowboy

08-08-2012, 02:43 AM

in fact, both rooney and rvp can interchange their positions and draw their markers out of position leaving young, kagawa, valencia and nani (if he stays) to have a go at goal! :D

Not a good idea having Young, Kagawa, Valencia & Nani in the same midfield as all are attacking minded players. We need someone to carry out the destroyer role too.

CTOA3954

08-08-2012, 09:00 AM

Not a good idea having Young, Kagawa, Valencia & Nani in the same midfield as all are attacking minded players. We need someone to carry out the destroyer role too.

Man Utd never really found another to replace Roy Keane in that role.

mr_missile

08-08-2012, 09:21 AM

Not a good idea having Young, Kagawa, Valencia & Nani in the same midfield as all are attacking minded players. We need someone to carry out the destroyer role too.

agree with u. united won't play all 4 wingers at one time, only 2 or 3 at most. or else every game will end up 5-4. :p

have to have carrick or anderson (and fletcher when he is fully recovered) as the defensive/holding midfielder to be in the team. :)

Man Utd never really found another to replace Roy Keane in that role.

yup. i had high hopes that fletcher could fulfill that midfield general role but the illness suffered by him last season really disrupted the team's engine room.

there are rumours of united going for fulham's moussa dembele though. :)

machoman

08-08-2012, 08:28 PM

Bolt still hankering after a Manchester United trial

Usain Bolt won his second consecutive gold medal in the Olympic 100m final on Sunday, but he's already back to talking about his desire to pursue a new challenge in a different sport.

He's said it before and now he's saying it again: he wants to play for Manchester United.

The Sun quotes Bolt as saying: "People think I am joking. But if Alex Ferguson called me up and said, 'OK let's do this, come and have a trial', it would be impossible for me to say no.

"I would not take up the challenge if I didn't think I was good enough. I am a very accomplished player and know I could make a difference.

"I would be the fastest player in the team — but I can play as well."

The 6ft 5in Jamaican added: "I am in Britain for a few more days. If Alex Ferguson wants to give me a call he knows where I am."

People might think he's joking because a video he released through his official YouTube channel for Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson before the Olympics carried the line, "as an avid Manchester United fan he jokingly pleas for Alex Ferguson to sign him up" in its description.

The video shows Bolt playing in an amateur match back home in Jamaica, supposedly against his coach's wishes. The 25-year-old sprinter has previously said that he played as a midfielder in high school.

This isn't the first time Bolt, who visited United in 2009, has declared his interest in playing for the Premier League's most successful club, though.

In his 2010 autobiography, Bolt said: "Ideally, if I was to play football, I'd sign for my favourite team - Manchester United. People say it's not realistic but nobody has seen me play so you never know. If Alex Ferguson saw me in one of those charity matches he might think I could replace Ryan Giggs."

There isn't much in the video to make Sir Alex force out veteran Giggs just yet, but United are coming off a season during which they won just the Community Shield and giving one of the world's most popular athletes a trial while he happens to be in the country cannot hurt.

http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01561/SNN0701GX2-620_1561862a.jpg

machoman

08-08-2012, 08:31 PM

ACE Rio Ferdinand has offered to help sprint king Usain Bolt fulfil his dream of playing for Manchester United.

Yesterday the Olympic 100m champion begged manager Sir Alex Ferguson for the chance to join his squad, but warned he would have to be quick.

He told of his dream after being asked about his next challenge.

Bolt, 25, said: “People think I am joking. But if Alex Ferguson called me up and said, ‘OK let’s do this, come and have a trial’, it would be impossible for me to say No.

“I would not take up the challenge if I didn’t think I was good enough. I am a very accomplished player and know I could make a difference.

“I would be the fastest player in the team — but I can play as well.”

The 6ft 5in Jamaican added: “I am in Britain for a few more days. If Alex Ferguson wants to give me a call he knows where I am.”

And this morning Rio tweeted Bolt, writing: “If you want that trial at Man Utd shout me, I’ll speak to the boss!! Well done in 100m.”

http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01561/Rio_Ferdinand_s_tw_1561986a.jpg

Twitter

Bolt replied: “After the Olympics we work on that ... lol ... thanks man.”

Bolt — who thrilled the world with his 9.63 seconds victory on Sunday night — has been pals with Sir Alex and his stars since visiting Manchester in 2009 to take part in a 150m sprint through the city streets.

He said recently: “I definitely want to see what I could do. I think I could step up to the Rooneys.”

Last night fans backed his call. Adam Haworth, 35, of Bury, Gtr Manchester, said: “We could have done with a bit more pace and power last season!”

Chris Hicks, 49, from Manchester, said: “We should stick him in the reserves for a year to train him up — then when Ryan Giggs retires we’ll have a ready-made replacement.”

lusty

08-08-2012, 11:45 PM

Bolt will outmuscle and outrun Yaya Toure inside out, outside in. Dunno abt his ball skills though

dc7176

10-08-2012, 12:34 AM

Home jerseys, look like some checked table cloth. Darned fellow who sanctioned this must have been smoking something

Something to share... this happen to me today!!

Due to national day, i was wearing the new red jersey today, when one of my Chelsea friend commented abt it lor. Another friend of mine who is oso a Man Utd supporter help to reply him.

Friend A : Wah Man Utd so poor gotta use table cloth as Jersey.!
Friend B : Where do u normally find a table cloth??
Friend A : Stupid question of coz on top of the table!
Friend B : Ok!

:D:p

CTOA3954

10-08-2012, 05:13 AM

Bolt will outmuscle and outrun Yaya Toure inside out, outside in. Dunno abt his ball skills though

When not training for the sprints..... Usain plays soccer with the Jamaican team to relax ! :D

CTOA3954

10-08-2012, 05:16 AM

lol. If his legs turn jelly, then most prob sir Alex will kick a boot to him as sir alex knows what turns kagawa's legs to rubberlike.:D

I think the real reason SAF signed Kagawa is because of his porn star girlfriend.... Man Utd have these regular bonding sessions where all the players bring their girlfriends and wives to socialise and party. :D

mr_missile

10-08-2012, 10:34 AM

Friend B : Where do u normally find a table cloth??
Friend A : Stupid question of coz on top of the table!

great answer!! :D

glory glory man united!

mr_missile

10-08-2012, 12:06 PM

For u bro :)

ooh-aah-cantona! thks bro! :D

mr_missile

15-08-2012, 10:28 AM

United close in on Chilean star

Young Universidad de Chile striker Angelo Henriquez has reportedly travelled to England to undergo a medical with Manchester United.

However, rivals Manchester City are also said to be in talks for the highly-rated 18-year-old.

Henriquez was already in Europe, as he is with Chile's youth squad who are playing in numerous friendlies, including the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland.

United have been tracking Henriquez for months and he has already trained with the club, but reports in England claim City want him too.

However, Chilean sources say he is set to join United.

Universidad de Chile's assistant manager Sebastian Beccacece was asked about Henriquez.

"No doubt he is a very useful player, with a good goalscoring talent," he told Radio ADN. "But we have to count on the players that we have available, not the ones that aren't available."

xcluded

15-08-2012, 09:49 PM

so they are closing in on van persie also...

Tai_zi21

16-08-2012, 03:24 AM

The best news that i have heard so far this year and it true!!!!!

Robin Van Persie is coming to MANCHESTER UNITED!!!!!!

machoman

16-08-2012, 08:30 AM

The best news that i have heard so far this year and it true!!!!!

Robin Van Persie is coming to MANCHESTER UNITED!!!!!!

Yup! Comfirmed!

Arsenal’s van Persie set for Man Utd move

Thursday, August 16, 2012

http://www.straitstimes.com/sites/straitstimes.com/files/imagecache/story-gallery-featured/vanpersmanut-r1e.jpg

Robin van Persie is set to make his much-anticipated move from Arsenal to Manchester United.

The Red Devils have agreed terms with the Gunners for the Dutch striker who will head up to Manchester on Thursday to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms.

"Manchester United is pleased to announce it has reached agreement with Arsenal Football Club for the transfer of Robin van Persie,” read a statement on United’s official website.

"The deal is subject to a medical and the agreement of personal terms. A further announcement will be made in due course."

Arsenal’s official website added: "Van Persie will travel to Manchester on Thursday in order to agree personal terms and complete a medical ahead of the proposed move."

van Persie has been linked with United for weeks now and it appears as though his transfer, which will exceed £20million, will be completed this week.

shysaint

16-08-2012, 01:17 PM

15/08/2012 19:20, Report by Press Department

FOOTBALL NEWS

United agree van Persie deal

Manchester United is pleased to announce it has reached agreement with Arsenal Football Club for the transfer of Robin van Persie.

The deal is subject to a medical and the agreement of personal terms. A further announcement will be made in due course.

mr_missile

16-08-2012, 01:41 PM

Yup! Comfirmed!

Arsenal’s van Persie set for Man Utd move

The best news that i have heard so far this year and it true!!!!!

Robin Van Persie is coming to MANCHESTER UNITED!!!!!!

United agree van Persie deal

yups! this is fantastic news! surely send shivers down the opposing teams' defenders' spines. :D

and we also have cleverley back in midfield too!

only problem is the mini injury crises to our defence with jones, evans and smalling all out at the moment and no real cover for evra.

bonkudear

16-08-2012, 03:43 PM

Arsenal’s van Persie set for Man Utd move

Thursday, August 16, 2012

http://www.straitstimes.com/sites/straitstimes.com/files/imagecache/story-gallery-featured/vanpersmanut-r1e.jpg

Robin van Persie is set to make his much-anticipated move from Arsenal to Manchester United.

The league title is coming home. :)

machoman

16-08-2012, 07:15 PM

Done Deal!

Contract Signed, Sealed & Delivered!

http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1263642.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/persie+(1).jpg

mr_missile

17-08-2012, 05:56 PM

Done Deal!

Contract Signed, Sealed & Delivered!

http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1263642.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/persie+(1).jpg

The league title is coming home. :)

champ20ns! champ20ns! champ20ns! :D

erm, what jersey number is rvp given?

jitlong69

17-08-2012, 06:51 PM

champ20ns! champ20ns! champ20ns! :D

erm, what jersey number is rvp given?

I think No 9 or could even be 7

mr_missile

18-08-2012, 08:20 AM

I think No 9 or could even be 7

here's the full squad numbers bros (notice that rvp is given shirt number 20. how befitting if at the end of the season, he helps united to be champions for the 20th time.) :) : champ20ns!

United reveal shirt numbers

Manchester United have announced the team's squad numbers for the 2012/2013 campaign.

There is confirmation of the numbers for new signings Robin van Persie (20), Shinji Kagawa (26) and Nick Powell (25) while Antonio Valencia has moved into the famed No7 jersey vacated by Michael Owen.

Rafael takes the No2 slot, the traditional number for a right-back, Tyler Blackett has been handed the shirt previously occupied by Paul Pogba and Anders Lindegaard replaces Ji-sung Park at No13.

Darren Fletcher is registered as he continues to battle against ulcerative colitis in his bid for a return to first-team action.

Squad numbers: 1: De Gea (GK), 2: Rafael, 3: Evra, 4: Jones, 5: Ferdinand, 6: Evans, 7: Valencia, 8: Anderson, 9: Berbatov, 10: Rooney, 11: Giggs, 12: Smalling, 13: Lindegaard (GK), 14: Chicharito, 15: Vidic, 16: Carrick, 17: Nani, 18: Young, 19: Welbeck, 20: Van Persie, 22: Scholes, 23: Cleverley, 24: Fletcher, 25: Powell, 26: Kagawa, 27: Macheda, 31: Wootton, 33: Bebe, 34: Cole, 35: Lingard, 36: Vermijl, 37: Brady, 38: M.Keane, 39: Thorpe, 41: King, 42: Blackett, 45: Petrucci, 46: Tunnicliffe, 48: W.Keane, 49: Veseli, 50: Johnstone (GK).

machoman

18-08-2012, 01:39 PM

More pics of RVP:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/526148_10151032880587746_888443044_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/418395_10151032129882746_1548920071_n.jpg

machoman

18-08-2012, 01:42 PM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/254914_10151032312112746_890564864_n.jpg

machoman

18-08-2012, 01:44 PM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/6074_10151032572837746_1375828426_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/386790_10151033030987746_1036978155_n.jpg

Encik

19-08-2012, 01:14 PM

MU should win their 20th titles just like RVP's jersey number.

shysaint

20-08-2012, 07:43 PM

Manchester United have bought the left-back Alexander Buttner from Vitesse Arnhem, according to the Dutch club. The fee is undisclosed but is not thought to be more than £3.9m for a player who has never been capped by Holland.

Buttner, 23, has been bought by Sir Alex Ferguson as cover for Patrice Evra, with Fabio Da Silva, his former understudy, on loan at Queens Park Rangers.

Buttner had also interested QPR and Southampton before his transfer to Old Trafford.

Although he is yet to play for Holland he was part of a pre-Euro 2012 squad that trained while some of the senior players took a break.

The move to United has caused some surprise in Holland as he is still considered a player of raw potential.

Buttner said: "I'm travelling to Manchester this evening [Sunday] and I'm very delighted that such a big club bought me."

shysaint

20-08-2012, 07:53 PM

The Daily Mail links United with a shock loan move for Real Madrid's Kaka.

dc7176

20-08-2012, 08:25 PM

The Daily Mail links United with a shock loan move for Real Madrid's Kaka.

huh?? we dun need kaka. wat we lack now is an anchorman!!

West Lake

21-08-2012, 10:26 PM

should be able to bounce back and start winning.
i think Alex still prefer a lone targetman or single forward.

mr_missile

22-08-2012, 08:29 AM

The Daily Mail links United with a shock loan move for Real Madrid's Kaka.

huh?? we dun need kaka. wat we lack now is an anchorman!!

agree with bro dc7176. we do not need kaka since we already have kagawa and cleverley and even scholes as our "playmaker".

we do need a midfield general/hardman to boss the centre of the park much like keane , robson or ince. watched the everton game and we really got bullied by the physical approach play from them. carrick is too gentle lah. :)

should be able to bounce back and start winning.
i think Alex still prefer a lone targetman or single forward.

give rooney and rvp a bit of time to gel. they were not the top 2 scorers in the bpl last season by luck. :)

i thought playing valencia at RB was a waste as our new R & R strike combo could really do with his superb wingplay and crosses.

just hope rafael recovers to take over the RB duties fast!

nani looked distracted and really off-form. might be a good thing to sell him off now.

bonkudear

22-08-2012, 01:55 PM

Everton is becoming to be United's bogey team! Last season went to OT and forced a 4-4 draw which I strongly feel caused United the title.

And now, beat United right at the start of the new season. :mad:

talkanythingsg

22-08-2012, 05:10 PM

unfortunately, we lost the 1st game...
We were almost no match for Everton..
that Fellani...kill us..
Nani was damn lousy..
no decent shots at all..
only one cleverley chance throughout the match which was nicely setup by Kagawa..
Kagawa and De Gea were the best for this match..
Come on ..United...
Huat Ah...hahaha..

jitlong69

24-08-2012, 01:06 AM

unfortunately, we lost the 1st game...We were almost no match for Everton..
that Fellani...kill us..
Nani was damn lousy..
no decent shots at all..
only one cleverley chance throughout the match which was nicely setup by Kagawa..
Kagawa and De Gea were the best for this match..
Come on ..United...
Huat Ah...hahaha..

Dont worry bro, 1st game only. You cant win all 38 games. Have to loose somewhere along the way so either ManU loose now or later.

mr_missile

24-08-2012, 12:34 PM

unfortunately, we lost the 1st game...
We were almost no match for Everton..
that Fellani...kill us..

Dont worry bro, 1st game only. You cant win all 38 games. Have to loose somewhere along the way so either ManU loose now or later.

united are traditional slow starters. let's not be too worried over a lost game.

more to worry is the injuries to our defenders! fellani (and everton) took full advantage of carrick playing at CB and practically bullied our defence into conceding that goal.

de gea is really cementing his place in the side with his many saves. he is another legend in the making.

let's hope evans complete his recovery and take his place vs fulham this weekend. :)

mr_missile

25-08-2012, 12:08 PM

Ferguson rules out more buys

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled out making any more signings before the close of the transfer window.

Alexander Buttner's move to United from Vitesse Arnhem was confirmed earlier this week, the Dutch full-back becoming the fourth new arrival of the summer at Old Trafford following the signings of midfielders Nick Powell and Shinji Kagawa and striker Robin van Persie.

United also announced this week that teenage striker Angelo Henriquez is to join them from Universidad de Chile having been granted a work permit.

Buttner was officially unveiled at a press conference on Friday morning, where Ferguson was also previewing the Red Devils' Premier League home clash with Fulham, and the Scot revealed United would not be splashing any more cash before next week's transfer deadline.

"We definitely won't be buying anyone else, that is for sure," Ferguson said.

The likes of striker Dimitar Berbatov and winger Nani have been linked with moves away from Old Trafford and asked if there would be any likely departures, Ferguson said: "There is no movement I can tell you about, to be honest with you.

"There is only a few days left now until the deadline and that will pass quite quickly I would imagine."

United got their 2012-13 Premier League campaign off to a losing start with a 1-0 defeat at Everton on Monday night, a game in which Ferguson - unable to call upon Phil Jones (back), Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling (both foot) and Rio Ferdinand (leg) - was forced to field a make-shift defence.

The manager confirmed that none of that quartet would be fit for the Fulham match, joking: "I've recalled Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister!

"No, it is the same as Monday night unfortunately. Phil Jones started training yesterday, but it is too early for him."

Ferguson said Buttner would be involved on Saturday, although most likely starting on the bench.

The 23-year-old has been brought in to provide back-up to left-back Patrice Evra, who Ferguson admitted could be a option in central defence.

"Patrice Evra could actually play at centre-back, he has done in the past. But it (Buttner's arrival) gives us a stronger squad, that is the most important thing," he added.

Van Persie made his United debut as a substitute in the Everton game and Ferguson hinted the Holland international - recruited from Arsenal for a reported £24million - could be promoted to the first XI against Fulham.

"He has had a few days' training since Monday," Ferguson said.

"In an ideal world, he would be better for two or three games under his belt, and he hasn't got that. But it is a home game and there is every chance he could start."

mr_missile

27-08-2012, 07:58 AM

No quick return for Rooney

Wayne Rooney's hopes of a quick comeback from the wound he sustained during Manchester United's win over Fulham look certain to be dashed.

Rooney remained in hospital overnight as medical staff assessed the extent of the injury he sustained when Hugo Rodallega landed on him in stoppage time.

Immediately after the game, Sir Alex Ferguson said it was "a very bad one" which would rule his forward out for four weeks.

This has been emphasised by the reaction of surgeons who were "surprised" at the depth of the cut.

Rooney returned home on Sunday morning after a comfortable night.

However, his chances of figuring in next Sunday's Premier League encounter with Southampton appear non-existent and it seems inevitable he will also miss England's opening World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine next month.

Roy Hodgson is due to name his squad on Thursday, at which point it will be surely too early for any risk to be taken with Rooney's recovery.

The one reason for optimism is that when Nani needed stitches in a nasty wound, admittedly below the knee, inflicted by Jamie Carragher at Liverpool in March 2011, Ferguson immediately put the recovery timescale at three weeks, yet the Portugal winger was back in action nine days later.

With the start of another Champions League campaign and a trip to Liverpool looming straight after the international break, any reduction in that four-week timescale would be a bonus for Ferguson.

Rodallega has been cleared of any blame for the incident, which happened as Rooney attempted to close down a free-kick that had just rebounded back to the Colombian.

The sheer force of Rodallega landing on Rooney caused the damage and it appeared the Fulham man was wearing studs, rather than the blades some have argued cause greater injury.

Rooney's condition helped deflect attention away from the fact he did not feature in the United starting line-up yesterday, although Ferguson was at pains to stress there are "no problems" with the forward.

Instead of being paired with new signing Robin van Persie, Rooney was left on the bench as Ferguson kept faith with Shinji Kagawa following that dire defeat at Everton on Monday.

Rooney was amongst those to perform well below expectations at Goodison Park and many fans yesterday immediately hailed Ferguson's decision as the right one.

However, it must have been a blow to the striker's pride if nothing else.

And with the transfer window due to close on Friday, there is bound to be some talk of Rooney's future, if only outside the club.

Certainly Ferguson was quick to quell such talk even as Rooney was heading to hospital.

"He and Robin van Persie are needing games," said the Scot.

"To start the two of them would have been too much. Wayne understood that.

"There is no problem. He played his part when he came on."

Rooney did have just three pre-season outings, although including the Everton game, did have five hours' action under his belt prior to kick-off, significantly more than Van Persie, who admits he is still a couple of weeks away from full fitness.

However, whilst Kagawa was excellent yesterday, what must also be factored into Ferguson's use of the summer arrival from Borussia Dortmund is that his international break involves a draining return home and World Cup qualifiers against United Arab Emirates and Iraq.

Ferguson noted with Park Ji-Sung that his performance levels tended to dip in such circumstances, so the threat to Rooney's status as United's number one man need not be long lasting.

And Van Persie, whilst keen to spread the praise across his team-mates, expects Rooney to be his main strike partner this season.

"Wayne is a world-class player," said the Dutchman.

"He can give you everything; assists, goals. He is quick, technical. He loves to link up as well.

"I am looking forward to that combination of course.

"I am a football fan. I like to enjoy my work. With Wayne and all the others I think I can do that."

mr_missile

29-08-2012, 11:10 AM

Cleverley warned over consistency

Michael Carrick has told Tom Cleverley he must maintain the highest of standards if he is truly to make a big impression at Manchester United.

After spending various spells away from Old Trafford on loan, Cleverley first caught the eye 12 months ago when he was an integral member in United's flying start to the season.

A succession of injuries curtailed that involvement and also robbed the midfielder of his chance to impress new England boss Roy Hodgson ahead of Euro 2012.

Now though, Cleverley has benefited from his Olympic experience, finally won his first England cap against Italy earlier this month and last weekend brought that form to the Premier League once more as he helped inspire United to their first win of the season against Fulham.

Carrick has always felt the 23-year-old was a player of potential.

It is showing that on a regular basis which will determine how far Cleverley will advance at the highest level.

"He's got the talent and the ability - we've all seen that," said Carrick.

"He's comfortable dealing with the pressures that come with playing for the club. There is no danger about that.

"It's just about keeping the standards high - we set the standards and the hard part is keeping to that standard consistently.

"There is no magic ingredient. It's just about learning and getting experience. The more games he plays the better he'll play."

Cleverley has resisted the temptation to regard last term as a wasted year.

Carrick though acknowledges those long periods on the sidelines were a handicap the Yorkshire-raised player could have done without.

At a time when the driving force of United's midfield is still being questioned, Carrick, who has been operating as an emergency defender following a spate of pre-season injuries, feels Cleverley offers an option that could come in very handy as the weeks tick by in the battle for major honours.

"Tom is a very intelligent and clever footballer," he said.

"It's a shame the way his season panned out last year because he started so well.

"He's got a lot to bring [to midfield].

"That's one of the good things about our midfielders. We all bring different things when called upon which gives the manager options.

"That is vital given how many games we're hoping to play this season."

mr_missile

30-08-2012, 01:31 PM

Berbatov heading for Fulham?

Juventus claim Manchester United's Dimitar Berbatov won't be joining them and is instead set to sign for Fulham.

Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has revealed Dimitar Berbatov will not be joining the Italian champions, claiming the Manchester United striker is on the verge of signing for Fulham.

The 31-year-old Bulgarian looked set for a switch to Fiorentina earlier on Wednesday, having agreed terms with the Viola and been asked to head to Florence for a medical.

However, Berbatov never arrived in Italy, prompting Fiorentina to accuse Serie A rivals Juve of hijacking the deal, only for the player to reportedly decide he wants to remain in England.

Marotta insisted Juve had "acted with the maximum fairness and transparency" towards Fiorentina, who earlier accused the Turin club of scuppering their deal for Berbatov with "reckless and arrogant actions".

"We have much to discuss with Fiorentina," Marotta said to Sky Sport Italia.

"We have acted with the maximum fairness and transparency with regard to the market dynamics.

"I reject the allegations from Fiorentina. We entered into the business over Berbatov when we heard that he had refused Fiorentina, and in the meantime there was a proposal by Fulham.

"We made our own, then the player said he preferred to stay in England for family reasons. It was not a rejection.

"We wanted to take advantage of an opportunity that had appeared to us in the market. Many teams were following the player."

A statement from Fiorentina earlier read: "ACF Fiorentina announces that the acquisition of Dimitar Berbatov finally fell through after an agreement had been reached with Manchester United [exchange of contract, the first instalment of the consideration paid and surety for the second instalment already signed] and after it had reached a verbal understanding with the player on his contract.

"During today, the English club granted its affiliated written permission for the player to travel to Florence for a medical and to sign the contract.

"[We thought] the player had embarked, accompanied by his attorney, on a flight - tickets paid for by Fiorentina - to Florence.

"But the player never arrived in Florence....because of reckless and arrogant actions of other companies, which have nothing to do with the values of honesty, fair play and ethics of sport and that lie beyond the boundaries of loyalty.

"As for the player, despite his characteristics and his technical merit, at this point we are happy that he did not come to Fiorentina. He did not deserve our city and our shirt and the values it represents."

Berbatov has scored 48 league goals at United, helping them to two Premier League titles, but his Old Trafford future has been in doubt since he was left out of the squad for the 2010-11 Champions League final against Barcelona at Wembley.

Despite slipping down the pecking order last year he reminded any potential suitors of his goalscoring class with a hat-trick against Wigan on Boxing Day, before adding two more in the unexpected home defeat to Blackburn five days later.

Last month he admitted he was resigned to leaving the club this summer, saying it would be "better for everyone" if he exited Old Trafford.

CTOA3954

01-09-2012, 01:15 AM

Why do the Man Utd supporters here not have a predict the score contest?

mr_missile

01-09-2012, 10:55 AM

Why do the Man Utd supporters here not have a predict the score contest?

gd idea. but we need someone who can afford the time to consolidate all the predictions and results.

any volunteers? i can contribute my humble 9 points for the right predictions. :)

dc7176

01-09-2012, 06:12 PM

Why do the Man Utd supporters here not have a predict the score contest?

we used to hav a liverpool fan who organise this predict the score for us!!

Tiko cum_luver kor kor... r u here?? :p

deheasammy

01-09-2012, 10:45 PM

Berbatov is one wasted talent on the Utd bench

machoman

02-09-2012, 01:56 PM

gd idea. but we need someone who can afford the time to consolidate all the predictions and results.

any volunteers? i can contribute my humble 9 points for the right predictions. :)

http://www.epltalk.com/media/2008/04/premier-league-trophy.jpg

If anyone wishes to start the predictions competition, I will also volunteer to award my points to the winners.

jitlong69

03-09-2012, 02:28 AM

Tonight RVP, great finishing especially his last goal during extra time. As for the penalty looks like he has taken too big a step before kicking. Anyway good that he bag his first hattrick in ManU shirt and a win is a win.

machoman

03-09-2012, 11:19 AM

van Persie hits hat-trick as Man Utd break Southampton hearts

Monday, September 03, 2012

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRZxD0NFAMSkxCGbMSLK8CdJMnFWFcr2 I8g2LLYKAYOZWHGYM9k4Q

Manchester United have produced a come-from-behind 3-2 win over Southampton to mark Sir Alex Ferguson’s 1000th league game in charge of the club.

Robin van Persie netted a hat-trick to take his Premier League tally to 100 goals as the Red Devils twice fell behind before scoring two goals in five minutes to produce a massive victory over an unlucky Saints outfit.

Against the script, Southampton took the lead in the 16th minute when main man Rickie Lambert got on the end of Jason Puncehon’s left-footed cross from the right to powerfully head home past Anders Lindegaard, who was preferred to David de Gea, at the back post.

But soon enough parity was restored as United’s newest ace van Persie superbly controlled Antonio Valencia’s rightwing cross from the right to then place his left-footed effort across Kelvin Davis, who got a glancing leg to the ball, and in for his second goal in his second start for the club.

Nigel Adkins’ Saints side were working tirelessly throughout and got another reward when Lambert received the ball from Puncheon before sitting it up for an advancing Morgan Schneiderlin to make the most of Patrice Evra’s slip and head home for a second for the home team.

But just as the Saints thought they had come away with a rare win over United, van Persie bobbed up to score an equaliser with a few minutes left when Rio Ferdinand’s header hit the upright to see the former Arsenal star fire home from close range from the deflection off the woodwork.

In injury-time, van Persie gave United maximum points when he got free at the edge of the six-yard box to glance home a header from Nani’s corner to send last season’s runners-up to fifth position on the table.

With just over 20 minutes remaining, Southampton gave away a penalty when Jos Hooiveld slid in behind on van Persie with referee Mike Dean having no hesitation in making the decision, however, Davis was able to keep out the Dutchman’s chipped attempt from the spot.

In the end, however, van Persie saved the day for United to endear himself to his new fans as the Saints remained at the foot of the top flight table.

Southampton: 2 (Rickie Lambert 16’, Morgan Schneiderlin 55’) Manchester United: 3 (Robin van Persie 23’/87’/90+2’)

St Mary’s Stadium, Southampton – 31,609

Yellow cards: SOU - Jos Hooiveld 68’ MU - nil

mr_missile

03-09-2012, 11:49 AM

van Persie hits hat-trick as Man Utd break Southampton hearts

the "perfect" hat-trick : 1st goal with his left foot, 2nd with his right and the winner with his head. what a befitting gift to sir alex on his 1000th game in-charge of united. :)

mr_missile

03-09-2012, 11:52 AM

Berbatov is one wasted talent on the Utd bench

agree that he is a class act. but he needs games and i thank him for his service to united and wish him the best at fulham.

mr_missile

04-09-2012, 04:30 PM

Berba: Fergie's lost my respect

Dimitar Berbatov has hit out at Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson over his treatment during his final season at Old Trafford.

The Bulgarian striker last week joined Fulham in a deal worth a reported £5million after falling out of favour at United.

The 31-year-old cost United £30.75million in 2008 and was the Premier League's top scorer in 2010-11 but made just 12 league appearances last term.

The beginning of the end appeared to come when he was left out of the matchday squad completely for the 2011 Champions League final against Barcelona.

Speaking at a press conference in Sofia, Berbatov told reporters: "I don't think I deserved such treatment at United - not playing in the last year.

"I went more than 10, probably 15, times to ask the coach if they need me.

"And every time I was told that I'm an important player and should not leave, but then again I was not in the team.

"Maybe I should've gone when he [Ferguson] left me out of the squad for the Champions League final.

"I know he's the boss, but he has lost, to some extent, my respect because of the way he treated me."

Berbatov found himself below Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck in the Old Trafford pecking order last season and this summer's arrivals of Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa threatened his place further.

Berbatov felt he was the victim of a decision by Ferguson to play with a different style.

He said: "He tried to explain to me that the team will be using a more direct style, with more speed.

"But I've never been among the fastest players, I like to hold the ball, this is my style.

"I found it hard to accept his decision - I still have my dignity. I scored many goals, I won the league two times, and I was the league top scorer, so it's not bad.

"I'll have no problems playing against United as this already happened in my career. But there's no point to look back again.

"I said goodbye to the people who deserve it. I couldn't say goodbye to Ferguson."

Berbatov's move to Fulham was not without controversy as he angered Fiorentina by turning down the chance to join them and then snubbed Juventus.

Berbatov defended his position, saying: "I've never personally told them, 'Yes, I'll play for you'.

"It's not my problem that someone is disappointed. After all, I choose where to play and be happy."

Berbatov's agent Emil Danchev also revealed that Tottenham made a last-ditch attempt to re-sign their former player.

He said: "We were in touch with Tottenham at the last moment."

mr_missile

05-09-2012, 05:20 PM

I can't hide from Fergie - Roo

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney knows he has to be at the top of his game or risk the wrath of manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The England forward admits that he put on seven pounds during the off-season but explained the hard work he puts in during training makes the excess weight easy to shift.

"As a striker, I need to work hard all the time. I need to be sharp, which means my fitness has to be right to play well. If it isn't, it shows," he told the Daily Mirror, who are serialising his latest autobiography.

"It would probably be different if I were a full-back. I could hide a bit, make fewer runs into the opposition half and get away with it.

"As a centre-forward for Manchester United, there's no place to hide. I've got to work as hard as I can, otherwise the manager will haul me off the pitch or drop me for the next game.

"There's no room for failure or second best at this club."

Rooney found that out late last year after he was dropped for a match against Blackburn at Old Trafford.

Ferguson was unhappy after it came to light Rooney had been out socialising after a game.

"I'm happy at Manchester United, despite the downs that sometimes take place at a football club," he continued.

"Like when we stuff Wigan 5-0 on Boxing Day. I go out for dinner with a few of the lads, and our other halves, to a hotel.

"The next day, the manager pulls me up and tells me he's not happy and doesn't feel I've trained properly.

"He fines me, but there's worse to come. I'm dropped for the next game, on New Year's Eve, against Blackburn.

"At a lot of clubs, people wouldn't bat an eyelid at players having a night out six days before a game. But that's the difference at Manchester United and a mark of the high standards the manager demands.

"It's a big deal, another lesson learned."

And Rooney also knows his body is not as durable as it used to be.

"Physically I've taken a bit of a battering over the years; being lumped by Transformer-sized centre-backs or having my muscles smashed by falls, shoulder barges and last-ditch tackles, day in, day out, has left me a bit bruised," Rooney, currently sidelined for a month after having his leg wounded during a game with Fulham, said.

"When I get up in the morning after a game, I struggle to walk for the first half-an-hour. I ache a bit. It wasn't like that when I was a lad.

"I remember sometimes when I finished training or playing with Everton and United, I'd want to play some more. But football has had a massive impact on my body because my game is based on speed, power and intensity.

"Like any player I'm fearful of getting a career-ending injury. I could be in the best form of my life and then one day a bad tackle might finish my time in the sport. It's over then.

"But that's the risk I take as a player in every match. I know football is such a short career that one day, at any age, the game could be snatched from me unexpectedly.

"So I want to decide when I leave football, not a physio, or an opponent's boot."

mr_missile

06-09-2012, 09:50 AM

Henriquez seals Man Utd move

Manchester United have unveiled Angelo Henriquez after finally completing the formalities of his transfer from Universidad de Chile.

The Chile Under-23 striker has joined the Red Devils for an undisclosed fee after they exercised an option to sign the 18-year-old that has been in place since 2009.

Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club's official website: "Angelo has made a tremendous impact on the game in his short career so far.

"His pace is a great asset and he reads the game really well for someone of such a young age.

"We have a proud record of developing young talent and Angelo fits the profile of a United player - skilful, attacking and someone who plays the game with real flair."

Henriquez said: "I am thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world. Manchester United is a great team and has a great manager.

"To be able to be part of that is a huge honour and I can't wait to get started. I hope I can be part of many successful years with United."

mr_missile

06-09-2012, 05:33 PM

Rooney eyes midfield berth

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney believes he could have a future playing in midfield when his days as a forward come to an end.

Rooney, who is missing England's World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine through injury, has revealed his thoughts on his future playing plans in his autobiography which is being serialised in the Daily Mirror.

Rooney talks of a switch to midfield, where he played last season during an injury crisis at United, explaining: "I get more of the ball, I'm involved loads and, after one game, I even think about playing there permanently, but only later in my career.

"Once I feel that I haven't got the sharpness needed to get away from defenders, I'll probably drop back into midfield for a couple of seasons so I can still influence the game."

Rooney also wrote about the agony he felt when the Barclays Premier League was claimed by arch rivals Manchester City last season on a dramatic final day which saw United beat Sunderland only for City to snatch a late winner against QPR, with United losing out on goal difference.

"Someone shouts, 'City scored two in injury time' and I feel sick. Our fans look heartbroken.

"There's nothing worse than having the same points as the champions, but being second best."

Rooney also talks about the remorse he felt after celebrating scoring a hat-trick against West Ham by swearing into a TV camera.

Upon seeing his angry face shouting into the camera after the game he immediately issued an apology.

"I'm shouting, screaming and swearing into the cameras. My face is all twisted, scowling, angry, wound up. I start to feel sick. I know I've let myself down."

"I got carried away, made a mistake, and now I regret it and genuinely feel sorry."

mr_missile

08-09-2012, 11:23 AM

Rooney wants to stay at United

Wayne Rooney says he wants to see out his career at Manchester United, and has revealed how his recent horror injury was almost much worse.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports ahead of the launch of his new book - My Decade in the Premier League - Rooney has given a unique insight into his time with the Red Devils and Everton.

England's star striker burst onto the scene as a precociously talented 16-year-old in 2002, fully justifying all the hype over his potential with a stunning strike against Arsenal as he beat Gunners great David Seaman from outside the box to secure a 2-1 triumph for the Toffees.

He made the move to Old Trafford in August 2004, with the £20million invested in his services by Sir Alex Ferguson worth every single penny following a return of 181 goals from his 367 appearances - taking him to fourth place on the club's all-time record goal scorers' list and with Sir Bobby Charlton's legendary tally of 249 within his sights.

The 26-year-old is under contract with United until June 2015 after signing a new and improved five-year deal back in 2010 following an unforgettable few days when he asked to leave the club - a moment he regards as his biggest mistake - before performing a dramatic U-turn.

And, despite further speculation over his long-term future with United surfacing again in the opening weeks of the season, Rooney insists his commitment is unwavering and that he would happily see out his playing days at the Theatre of Dreams.

He told Sky Sports: "When you first join a club, you want to do well and you want to be successful. I've managed to do that with Manchester United. Being here for eight years, it's like a family club, you get to see all the history and how big the club has grown over the years.

"You feel part of it; you are part of that history. I love playing for Manchester United and as long as I am wanted to play for this football club I will be here for a long time. It is a great football club and, let's be honest, where else can you go from this football club? It is probably the biggest team in the world."

When asked if he would stay at Old Trafford for ever, he replied: "I hope so. I want to be successful here, I want to still be playing here in the next 10 years and be successful.

"You look at Giggsy and Paul Scholes, how successful they have been, they are an example to us all. That is the idea, that is the plan, and hopefully that will be the case."

Rooney is currently on the sidelines after suffering a frightening injury in the recent 3-2 victory over Fulham when an attempted block by Hugo Rodallega led to the Colombian forward's studs opening a large gash in his thigh.

Although the United star is yet to begin running again, he remains hopeful of being back in action before the end of the month, although it was terrifyingly close to the problem being significantly more serious.

He admitted: "I was quite lucky, to be honest. It somehow didn't hit my muscle. It was a millimetre away from my artery so it could have been a lot worse than it was. I have to thank God I am quite fortunate.

"The doctor said a lot of players would have fainted. They tried to cover it up in the dressing room when they were treating it to stop it becoming infected, but I told them I wanted to see it.

"It is feeling good at the minute and is healing quite well, but it is basically down to the doctor. You have to be careful and I don't want to come back too soon because I could get a bang on it and it would open up again.

"We said at the time there was a four-week scale and that would be the case, I imagine."

mr_missile

10-09-2012, 08:16 AM

Jones injury blow for United

Manchester United defender Phil Jones faces up to eight weeks on the sidelines with a knee injury.

Jones suffered the injury in training earlier this week and was sent for a scan which has confirmed he requires an extensive period of rehabilitation.

A statement issued by the club read: "Phil Jones has had surgery on a knee meniscus tear sustained in training that will require six to eight weeks' rehabilitation."

It is desperate news for the 20-year-old, who is yet to make an appearance this season.

After an extensive break following Euro 2012, Jones suffered a back injury that prevented him playing any part in pre-season.

He missed United's opening three Premier League games and the start of England's World Cup qualifying campaign, but Jones' return to training was supposed to be the prelude to his comeback.

Instead, Jones is sidelined until November. It means he will miss England's next two qualifiers against San Marino and Poland next month.

More importantly for United though, he is ruled out of a succession of key league fixtures, including matches against Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal.

In addition, he will miss at least the Red Devils' opening three Champions League group matches.

Even when he has recovered, Jones' lack of match fitness may prove a significant problem in regaining the form which at one stage saw him compared to Duncan Edwards during an exceptionally encouraging debut campaign following his big-money move from Blackburn in 2011.

CTOA3954

10-09-2012, 03:02 PM

mr_missile

13-09-2012, 02:17 PM

Evra to be dropped ?

Patrice Evra will be replaced by Alexander Buttner for this weekend's clash with Wigan, according to a report.

The Daily Mirror claims that the Frenchman - who has barely missed a game in six years - will make way for Dutch left-back Buttner.

Evra looked vulnerable in United's 3-2 win over Southampton before the international break and is likely to lose his place to give Buttner his debut.

Dutchman Buttner impressed in United's Under-21 win over Tottenham at the end of August.

United are expected to recall David de Gea in goal after his replacement Anders Lindegaard looked nervous against the Saints.

mr_missile

13-09-2012, 02:19 PM

Van Persie concern for United

Manchester United are waiting to assess an injury picked up by Robin van Persie after he was forced off in Holland's win over Hungary.

Van Persie was forced out of the 4-1 win in Budapest after suffering a knock to his thigh, with Klaas Jan Huntelaar brought on in his place, but Oranje boss Louis van Gaal insisted he was merely erring on the side of caution.

"We took off Robin for precautionary measures," van Gaal told the SBS6 television channel.

"It doesn't seem to be too serious, but you never know. We didn't want to take any risks."

mr_missile

14-09-2012, 06:35 PM

Rooney hates Fergie hairdryer

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney says feeling the full force of Sir Alex Ferguson's rage is "horrible", but he admits he sometimes shouts back.

United manager Ferguson is famous for giving his players the 'hairdryer' treatment when they are not performing to the required standard, and Rooney admits he has been on the receiving end on several occasions.

The striker says his manager is still a formidable figure, even if he sometimes decides to disagree and answer back.

"There's nothing worse than getting the 'hairdryer' from Sir Alex," Rooney said in his autobiography My Decade, as reported in The Daily Mirror.

"When it happens, the manager stands in the middle of the room and loses it at me. He gets right up in my face and shouts.

"It feels like I've put my head in front of a BaByliss Turbo Power 2200. It's horrible.

"I don't like getting shouted at by anyone. It's hard for me to take, so sometimes I shout back.

"I tell him he's wrong and I'm right."

Rooney says some players struggle to recover from a blast of Ferguson's anger and their confidence remains shattered.

"It spurs some of the lads on, but it crushes others," he explained.

"I've seen the manager shout and scream at people and when they've gone back on the pitch their heads have dropped. They've lost it."

Rooney recalls that Louis Saha was subjected to one of Ferguson's most explosive rants following a 1-0 loss to Celtic in a Champions League game in 2006, while he got caught in the crossfire.

"It's the worst 'hairdryer' I've seen," said Rooney. "He's in Louis' face, shouting and screaming.

"But Louis isn't the only one getting an earful.

"The manager knows I've been negotiating a new deal with the club and he saves some for me, 'Players wanting more money from the club and new deals - you don't deserve anything after that performance!'"

mr_missile

14-09-2012, 06:38 PM

Giggs: United eager to impress

Ryan Giggs has underlined how determined Manchester United are to win the Premier League title back.

United lost out in agonising fashion to Manchester City last term and, with injuries depriving Sir Alex Ferguson of so many key members of his squad, the hangover has lingered.

After losing their opening match at Everton, the Old Trafford outfit looked set to suffer another defeat at Southampton immediately before the international break until Robin van Persie turned the game on its head.

It was the kind of result that can kick-start a season, and with Wigan the visitors on Saturday, Giggs is eager for United to find their feet.

"The lads can't wait to produce some of the football that we did last year," the veteran Welshman told Key103.

"What happened last season was tough for everyone but you just have to come back in the right manner, which is what we hope to do.

"It is going to be tough because there are a lot of quality teams out there but you are always determined. We want to get it back."

The availability of Van Persie and fellow new-boy Shinji Kagawa would help.

However, along with Patrice Evra, all three are major doubts after picking up injuries on international duty in midweek.

Holland manager Louis van Gaal took Van Persie off with a thigh injury, while Kagawa has a back injury that forced him to miss Japan's encounter with Iraq.

With Wayne Rooney already out with his gashed thigh, United would be in trouble if they were forced to operate without two more players who have made such a positive impact at the club already.

"You hope the big players that you sign fit in straight away," said the 38-year-old Giggs, who will be making his 600th Premier League appearance if he plays some part against the Latics.

"Sometimes it doesn't happen. With Shinji and Robin, it has happened straight away, which is great.

"It gives everyone a lift in the squad. Training is a lot sharper and we are all fighting for places, which is what you want.

"It just ups the performance level."

machoman

16-09-2012, 08:54 AM

Scholes scores in milestone game as Man Utd ease past Wigan

Sunday, September 16, 2012

http://images2.asianbookie.com/news/8864558.jpg

Manchester United have produced a huge second to defeat Wigan Athletic 4-0 at Old Trafford in Paul Scholes’ 700th appearance for the club.

Sir Alex Ferguson was cautious with his starting line-up, putting injury doubts Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa on the bench, and replacing Patrice Evra with Alexander Buttner at left-back.

At half-time it appeared to be a strange move from the great manager but as always he was vindicated with his selection process as United scored four times in the second half to notch up their third victory of the new campaign.

Veteran midfielder Scholes marked his milestone game with the opening goal in the 51st minute when he tapped in from close range when Nani’s cross from the right caused some confusion in the box before Javier Hernandez, who had earlier missed a penalty, added a second just over 10 minutes later.

The Mexican was on hand to deflect Buttner’s goalbound attempt into the back of the net to put United in the driver’s seat.

An impressive Buttner, who signed from Vitesse Arnhem this summer, then opened his United account in the 66th minute with a sharp finish off Ali Al Habsi from a tight angle following a dazzling run.

Another United new boy in Nick Powell also got himself on the scoresheet when he came off the bench to make it 4-0 with eight minutes remaining with a well-struck effort from range.

Early on, United were awarded a questionable penalty when Danny Welbeck went down under minimal pressure from Latics goalkeeper Al Habsi with the Omani able to deny Chicharito from the spot. It is believed that Welbeck will face calls for diving with the incident set to be reviewed this week.

Nevertheless, it was a stellar second-half performance from Ferguson’s men who are now second on the table, just one point behind Chelsea as Wigan drop to 13th with their second defeat of the season.

Manchester United: 4 (Paul Scholes 51’, Javier Hernandez 63’, Alexander Buttner 66’, Nick Powell 82’) Wigan Athletic: 0

Old Trafford, Manchester – 75,142

Yellow cards: MU - Alexander Buttner 45+1’, Danny Welbeck 90+2’ WIG - Emmerson Boyce 49’, James McArthur 56’

machoman

16-09-2012, 01:56 PM

Alexander Buttner amazing debut Goal v Wigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRErkuWz0FM

mr_missile

17-09-2012, 12:23 PM

Alexander Buttner amazing debut Goal v Wigan

buttner's goal was a bit lucky. but kudos for his drive and determination as he "bulldozed" his way into the penalty box. his shot should have been saved by the keeper though.

the other debutant powell's goal is much better taken. sold the defender a dummy before unleashing a powerful shot that even scholes would have been proud of. :D

mr_missile

18-09-2012, 03:12 PM

PL unlikely to act on chants

The Premier League are unlikely to take action following brief anti-Liverpool chanting during Manchester United's Premier League win over Wigan.

United's biggest win of the season was marred by a short burst of anti-Liverpool chanting from a small minority of home fans following this week's damning report on the handling of the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, in which 96 people died.

The report laid bare a shocking cover-up which attempted to shift the blame for the tragedy on to its victims, revealing that South Yorkshire Police had instructed officers to change or amend their statements relating to the tragic events.

One clearly audible chant at Saturday's game at Old Trafford was "Always the victims, never your fault", believed to be in reference to the report findings.

However, the song has been sung since Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was found guilty of racially abusing United defender Patrice Evra last season, which saw the Uruguay international given an eight-game ban and a £40,000 fine.

It is understood the Premier League deem the chants to be unacceptable but believe it is a matter for the clubs themselves to deal with.

There is a history of sour relations between the two sides. A minority of United fans have directed chants to Liverpool fans regarding Hillsborough and a Liverpool minority have chanted in reference to the Munich air disaster of 1958 in which 23 people died.

A United spokesperson said the club "deplore" such songs and, in a statement, the club said: "The manager has made the club's position very clear on this matter. It is now up to the fans to respect that."

The Football Association declined to comment on the matter on Sunday.

The tension between the two rival clubs is sure to be heightened when United travel to Anfield next Sunday.

Manchester United's Supporters' Trust echoed Ferguson's statements.

MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo said: "We enjoy a fierce rivalry but these issues transcend that rivalry.

"We agree 100% with the statement made by Sir Alex Ferguson - this is the time for supporters of these two great clubs to represent their clubs with the integrity and honour that our glorious history demands.

"Following this week's developments and release of revelatory information on the Hillsborough tragedy, MUST wishes to make it absolutely clear that just as we condemn chants mocking the Munich air disaster we also condemn any chants relating to Hillsborough or indeed any other human tragedy.

"We did hear the usual anti-Liverpool chants at the match today but we're pleased to say, despite some reports to the contrary, there was nothing that was specifically referencing Hillsborough."

mr_missile

18-09-2012, 03:15 PM

i just hope that those so-called united supporters stop these chants. respect the dead. they were the victims......so too were those who died in the munich air crash.....

alex18122003

19-09-2012, 01:27 AM

Reds ready for Europe

Manchester United held a training session in front of the media on Tuesday, ahead of the opening match of the 2012/13 UEFA Champions League campaign against Galatasaray.

Sir Alex Ferguson almost had a full squad at his disposal with just Ashley Young joining long-term absentees Wayne Rooney, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling in missing the workout.

Patrice Evra was fully involved after missing Saturday’s win over Wigan Athletic, while Shinji Kagawa and Robin van Persie, sporting a blue strapping, also took part.

As ever, official club photographers John Peters and Matt Peters were on hand to capture the action.

mr_missile

19-09-2012, 01:05 PM

Reds ready for Europe

great to see u back here bro alex! :D

mr_missile

19-09-2012, 05:17 PM

Ferguson to carry on rotating

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will continue to alternate Anders Lindegaard and David de Gea to build up their experience.

De Gea started the campaign but, after a couple of shaky displays, he was replaced by Lindegaard.

Yet the Spaniard could be called upon again on Wednesday evening as United open their latest Champions League quest against Galatasaray.

There is a clear argument against such tinkering, especially in a team looking for some defensive solidity. But Ferguson insists it is not an issue.

"The most important thing I'm trying to achieve is experience of the English game," said the Scot.

"They are both young and don't have the experience of an Edwin van der Sar or Peter Schmeichel so alternating is not a problem for me.

"That's the policy I have been adopting and I'm comfortable with it."

At the other end of the field, Ferguson is set to recall summer signings Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa.

Galatasaray will have a few familiar faces helping them too.

Johan Elmander, Emmanuel Eboue, Milan Baros and Albert Riera are all well known to Premier League supporters from their time playing in England.

Galatasaray coach Fatih Terim said: "Manchester United have been so successful in the Champions League for many years.

"I was there when they beat Bayern Munich in the (1999) final and they have won many more important games apart from that.

"What happened last season was a surprise but maybe it will just make them even more motivated."

mr_missile

19-09-2012, 05:19 PM

Rooney ready for return?

Wayne Rooney is set to return in Sunday's Premier League clash with Liverpool after a return to full training.

Rooney joined in with full-contact training on Tuesday - just 24 days after suffering a horrific thigh injury that was expected to sideline him until October.

The Sun even claims that he could be on the bench for Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Galatasaray.

Rooney was expected to be missing for two months after the accidental clash with Hugo Rodallega that left him with a massive gash in his thigh.

But Rooney has been back training for five days and on Tuesday trained with his teammates while wearing light strapping to avoid infection.

mr_missile

19-09-2012, 05:26 PM

can't help it......just want to thank our "old" boy cr7 for putting one over the "noisy neighbours" in their CL game last nite. :D

machoman

20-09-2012, 09:44 AM

Narrow win for Man Utd over Galatasaray

Thursday, September 20, 2012 - 5 hours ago

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSABZ92LJ0IEk_nuMXYc7N-JQF93hCNDVc_WrpXEU0b8BO3b6eTdg

Michael Carrick's early goal was enough to give Manchester United a hard fought 1-0 win over Galatasaray who will feel aggrieved they did not take at least a point from this encounter.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was determined there would not be a repeat of last season when poor team selection and some indifferent performances saw the Old Trafford outfit fail to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

Even with a tough game against Liverpool looming at the weekend a strong side was sent out to face Galatasaray in this Group H encounter.

But as early as the first minute a clumsy tackle by Nemanja Vidic almost gave away a penalty in a frenetic opening period which saw the host's take an early lead as Shinji Kagawa played in Michael Carrick who regained his footing despite being fouled by keeper Fernando Muslera to score.

But the team from Istanbul were powerful on the break and hit the woodwork twice and ended the half strongly.

Antonio Valencia was a constant threat to the Galatasaray defence but too often his final ball was poor and United failed to take advantage of some promising situations.

United should have sealed the game just after the restart when Rafael was brought down by Burak Yilmaz but Nani was too clever with his stuttering run-up and shot weakly at the keeper who easily saved.

The Turkish side almost made them pay immediately as Selcuk Inan narrowly glanced a header wide.

Then Galatasaray broke quickly from a United corner and David de Gea twice in quick succession saved from substitute Emre Colak and Yilmaz to prevent an equaliser.

Both team's went close to scoring as the half progressed but it was United who got their Champions League campaign up and running with this hard earned success and have now only lost 2 of their last 56 European home games.

Another bonus for the home side was the return of Darren Fletcher from long term injury who came on as a second half substitute.

Referee: Wolfgang Stark (GER)

Venue: Old Trafford

Attendance: 74,653

Man Utd scorers: Carrick 7 Galatasary scorers:

Yellow cards: van Persie (MANU), Vidic (MANU), Evra (MANU), Melo (GAL)

mr_missile

20-09-2012, 02:00 PM

Narrow win for Man Utd over Galatasaray

a win is a win. 3 points in the bag first. glory glory man united! :D

mr_missile

20-09-2012, 05:19 PM

Fergie: Van should have taken pen

Nani would be keen to take another penalty despite his spot-kick woe for Manchester United, but it doesn't look like he will get the chance.

The Portugal winger accepted the responsibility in the Champions League clash with Galatasaray at Old Trafford, and promptly became the third United player to fail, following Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez.

"I took a bad penalty, Van Persie took a bad one," admitted Nani.

"I am sure next time, no matter who takes it, we will score.

"I would take one again. If the manager agrees I would do it - and score."

The manager will not agree though. Indeed, Sir Alex Ferguson had no idea why Nani was taking the kick in the first place.

"I think he just ran and grabbed the ball," said the United boss.

"I thought Robin should have taken it, to be honest with you.

"I think we will have to decide before the game. That was my fault, I should have done that."

In the end it did not matter as Michael Carrick's seventh-minute effort proved sufficient to secure a 1-0 win.

It was not convincing though.

Galatasaray had penalty appeals at the start and end of the game turned down, hit the woodwork twice and also forced a magnificent double save out of David de Gea.

"The first 15 minutes we played very well and got the goal," said Ferguson.

"At that moment we thought it was going to be a good night.

"But we became very careless and every time we lost the ball, they counter attacked and were a threat.

"Missing the penalty kick kept them in the game."

The result was welcome given United's unexpected group stage exit last term.

It was also Ferguson's 100th victory in the competition, the first manager to do so.

He dismissed that though, saying it was merely because he has been a boss for the longest period.

Of more interest was the late substitute appearance of fellow Scot Darren Fletcher, playing for the first time since November as he battles to overcome a chronic bowel complaint.

"The supporters recognise what a tough time he has had for the last year," said Ferguson.

"They gave him a marvellous reception.

"He has been out of the game for a year it took him one or two minutes to get going but he can only be better after tonight."

Now United can prepare for what is bound to be a tense visit to Liverpool on Sunday.

It will be the Merseysiders first game at Anfield since the damning judgement on Hillsborough was delivered last week and Ferguson has already appealed for calm.

United will again be without Wayne Rooney for that game, as the striker remains troubled by his gashed thigh despite claims he had returned to full training and might even have been involved this evening.

"I don't where that story came from," said Ferguson. "He was never close."

Asked whether the weekend fixture would also be too soon for the England striker, United's long-serving manager simply replied: "Yes."

Galatasaray coach Fatih Terim was certain his side should have had a penalty before Carrick struck when Umut Bulut was tripped by Nemanja Vidic.

However, his side's overall performance gave plenty of reasons to be cheerful.

"My players were excited," said Terim.

"We had more possession and were in control. It makes me optimistic for the rest of the campaign."

mr_missile

22-09-2012, 09:17 AM

Ferguson makes final plea to fans

Sir Alex Ferguson has written a letter to Manchester United supporters attending Sunday's Premier League encounter with Liverpool.

The letter will be presented to fans as they enter the turnstiles and is a final plea aimed at getting them to behave themselves.

Earlier today Ferguson spoke of the sensitivities surrounding the fixture, Liverpool's first at home since the damning judgement on the Hillsborough disaster was released last week.

And he wants an end to the baiting of Liverpool fans over the disaster, in which 96 people died.

As published by www.manutd.com, Ferguson's letter reads:

"Dear Supporter,

"The great support you gave the team here [at Anfield] last season has seen our allocation back up to near-full levels. I want you to continue that progress today.

"But today [Sunday] is about much more than not blocking gangways. Today is about thinking hard about what makes United the best club in the world.

"Our rivalry with Liverpool is based on a determination to come out on top - a wish to see us crowned the best against a team that held that honour for so long.

"It cannot and should never be based on personal hatred. Just 10 days ago, we heard the terrible, damning truth about the deaths of 96 fans who went to watch their team try and reach the FA Cup final and never came back.

"What happened to them should wake the conscience of everyone connected with the game.

"Our great club stands with our great neighbours Liverpool today to remember that loss and pay tribute to their campaign for justice. I know I can count on you to stand with us in the best traditions of the best fans in the game.

"Yours sincerely, Sir Alex Ferguson."

Earlier today, Ferguson admitted he could not discount the emotion having a negative effect on his players.

Liverpool intend to mark the occasion with a number of significant gestures, including a mosaic across three sides of the stadium.

And having gone through something very similar four years ago on the 50th anniversary of the Munich air disaster, the Red Devils boss accepts it may have a hidden impact.

"It's a possibility, I don't deny that," Ferguson said. "Human nature can be that way.

"When we played Manchester City for the 50th anniversary of Munich the place was so flat in the dressing room before the game. I even felt it myself.

"We just couldn't perform and were glad to get it out the way. It was such an emotional day for us and it could be that way on Sunday."

mr_missile

22-09-2012, 09:19 AM

hats off to sir alex for the letter to fans. he is not sir alex for nothing. my respect for this man has been taken up another notch.

glory glory man united! :)

mr_missile

24-09-2012, 08:10 AM

Pool 1 United 2

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers felt mistakes by referee Mark Halsey led to Sunday's 2-1 defeat by Manchester United at Anfield.

The Reds dominated for the majority of the match, even after Jonjo Shelvey's 39th-minute red card for a two-footed lunge on Jonny Evans, but lost 2-1.

Steven Gerrard's volley gave his side the lead seconds after the interval but Rafael curled in an equaliser before Robin van Persie scored United's first penalty of the season after Glen Johnson was adjudged to have brought down Antonio Valencia.

However, Rodgers took issue with the sending-off, the penalty and Halsey's decision not to award Liverpool a spot-kick when Luis Suarez was felled in the second half.

"We are bitterly disappointed with the result, I thought the best team lost," he said. "Of what we could control I thought the players and performance level was outstanding, what we couldn't control were decisions by the referee.

"If Shelvey gets sent off for having both feet off the ground then Evans has to get sent off for that as well if you watch the replays.

"Jonjo is coming in from the side, it is a tackle the player has to go for and one the United player has to go for but the Liverpool player can't get sent off and the United one stay on the field.

"I thought it was very harsh and that was how it was throughout the game as a number of poor decisions went against us.

"The penalty was never a penalty. Johnson has made a fantastic recovery back in and I have no idea why Valencia goes down.

"Up the other end Suarez gets a toe on the ball, gets contact, goes down and doesn't get the penalty.

"It was one of the those days where we never got any decision which could have helped us at all and when you lose a man you need some help."

As Shelvey departed the field he had an angry exchange with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson but Rodgers insists he did not see it.

The midfielder apologised for the tackle but not for his reaction afterwards.

"I apologise to the fans for getting sent off but no way was I pulling out of that tackle in a game of that importance. I'm sorry," he wrote on Twitter.

Ferguson was bemused by the 20-year-old's reaction.

"He blamed me! But he is young and he will realise the stupidity of it," said the Scot.

"Jonny Evans went for the ball but Shelvey was nowhere near and could have given Jonny Evans a really bad injury - he was very lucky actually."

Ferguson almost agreed with Rodgers in his assessment of the match, although not over the United penalty.

"I thought we were poor. Over the last four years we have allowed the (Anfield) crowd to get at us a little bit," he added.

"They gave fantastic support to their team and they dominated.

"We played better in the second half but it was against 10 men and Paul Scholes, Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs' experience got us through.

"No doubts about the penalty though, it was reckless.

"We haven't played well here for the past four years and we can do better but at least we got a result. It is a turning point for us."

Ferguson was also pleased his side had broken their duck from the spot after three misses - one from Van Persie himself - this season so far.

"It wasn't easy for Robin. He took it well. It was the way he envisaged he would," added the United boss.

Liverpool finished the match with nine men as Martin Kelly hobbled off with a knee problem to give Rodgers more injury problems after defender Daniel Agger sustained possible medial ligament damage and forward Fabio Borini was withdrawn with a swollen ankle.

United looked to have an injury worry of their own when Rio Ferdinand went down in the first half, and although he left Anfield limping, he insisted he was fine.

He said the victory, on an emotionally charged day when Liverpool paid tribute to families of the Hillsborough disaster after the publication of the independent report exonerating fans, more than made up for it.

"It has been four or five years since we got a win here. It was an ugly win, probably our worst performance in that time, but we will take that," he said.

"We didn't get going as an attacking force. We were on the back foot for most of the first half and sometimes it creates its own problems.

"Today, with the occasion and the emotions involved, we just wanted to come here, get the job done and get out with the three points.

"We have done that so we are well pleased.

"You can get really involved and sometimes the emotion of the occasion can affect you.

"They dealt with it fantastically. You have to pay tribute to that but we won the game - that is all that matters."

mr_missile

24-09-2012, 08:16 AM

machoman

24-09-2012, 09:14 AM

Liverpool see red as Man Utd come from behind to triumph

Sunday, September 23, 2012

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSM8SCqcGJziRZUvPXRqR4PEyaDYFrU-kVW0mZNVRQ_6F7oM4TF

Manchester United have come from behind to beat ten-man Liverpool 2-1 despite being well below their best.

In an eventful contest at Anfield, Sir Alex Ferguson’s outfit conceded early in the second half before levelling and then going ahead late after the Reds were reduced to ten men when Jonjo Shelvey was sent off in the 39th minute.

It was a questionable decision by referee Mark Hasley as the young midfielders challenge on Jonny Evans was strong, and to a certain extent reckless, but he did make a genuine attempt at the ball and the United defender was not in control of his own tackle.

Nevertheless, Halsey brandished the red to disadvantage Brendan Rodgers’ team who fought courageously throughout only to come up short.

In the first match at Anfield since it became official that Liverpool supporters were absolved of blame for the Hillsborough tragedy, the home side managed to open the scoring early in the second half through their influential captain Steven Gerrard.

The Reds may have had one less player on the pitch but they soon had the entire city behind them in the 46th minute when Gerrard fired past Anders Lindegaard with a lovely left-footed volley after controlling Glen Johnson’s chipped pass on his chest.

However, less than five minutes later the visitors were back on level terms when Rafael produced a stunning lofted finish with his left foot from the right side of the area from a fairly tight angle.

With just over ten minutes remaining, United took the lead when Robin van Persie scored from the penalty spot, despite Pepe Reina getting a hand to the shot, after Johnson had nudged Antonio Valencia just as he was about to pull the trigger. The midfielder had broken from inside his own half before advancing into the area and just as he was about to shoot, the Reds defender but enough of a touch on from behind to prompt referee Halsey to point to the spot.

Liverpool were the better team on the day and deserved more than what they got with Lindegaard the busier of the two goalkeepers but the weight of numbers and a slightly more efficient attacking display from United forced the result which allows last season’s runners-up to move second on the table.

Unfortunately for the Reds, their winless streak was extended to five games as they sit 18th on the table on the back of their worst start in over 100 years.

Liverpool: 1 (Steven Gerrard 46’) Manchester United: 2 (Rafael 51’, Robin van Persie (p) 81’)

Anfield, Liverpool – 44,263

Yellow cards: LIV - Pepe Reina 77’ MU - Paul Scholes 58’, Robin van Persie 84’ Red card: LIV - Jonjo Shelvey 39’

mr_missile

25-09-2012, 08:07 AM

Rafael revels in crucial strike

Manchester United scoring hero Rafael admitted his equaliser was a crucial factor in Sunday's win at Liverpool.

After five games without a victory at Anfield, United were again struggling, even against a side reduced to 10 men following the first-half dismissal of Jonjo Shelvey.

And when Steven Gerrard struck straight after the interval, it seemed the Red Devils' unhappy recent record on Merseyside was going to be extended.

Instead, Rafael curled home a superb equaliser, which allowed United to create the platform from which Robin van Persie eventually secured maximum Premier League points with a late penalty.

"It was an important time to get the goal," said Rafael.

"It was a good moment to get it because it was so quickly after they scored. If we hadn't scored then we might have got a little bit nervous."

Amazingly, Rafael has now scored twice this season after also finding the target against Fulham last month.

It leaves him second in United's scoring charts, trailing only Van Persie, who heads the Golden Boot standings with five.

Rafael is benefiting from his Olympic experiences with Brazil over the summer, even though he eventually had to settle for a silver medal in London.

At the time he expressed a hope that Premier League crowds would start to appreciate his all-action approach.

That is certainly the case at Old Trafford now, even if some reservations have been held about his impetuous nature.

Sometimes it can easily be forgotten Rafael was only 22 in July and is still making massive strides in his fledgling career.

"It's definitely the best goal I've scored for United," he said of yesterday's excellent effort, a curling left-footed strike that bounced in off a post.

"I have scored four goals for United now, one with my head and two with my left foot. Maybe I am better with the left."

With Phil Jones and Chris Smalling both ruled out with long-term injuries, Rafael has cemented his status as Sir Alex Ferguson's first-choice right-back.

And he is doing it without the presence of twin brother Fabio, who has joined QPR on loan.

Rafael threatened to ring his brother in the immediate aftermath of United's victory, although after Rangers lost at Tottenham, maybe it would have been better to hold off for a little while.

Indeed, a period of quiet contemplation might be better for everyone after such an emotional day, which had gone so well until a mindless pair of Liverpool fans took it upon themselves to goad a still packed away end with aeroplane signals long after the final whistle.

The reaction was sad and predictable.

United opted not to respond to the anti-Liverpool chants that were clearly heard by those still present in the stadium and captured by TV cameras after the match.

Indeed, there is little more the club could have done to plead with their supporters to behave, and have been commended for the way in which they carried out pre-match gestures.

None of this was of major significance in the dressing room afterwards.

After that shocking opening weekend defeat at Everton, United have recorded four straight victories, leaving them just a point behind leaders Chelsea and three in front of title-holders Manchester City.

"Both clubs have a great history and we had to respect that, then we got the three points, which is so good for us," said Rafael.

"It wasn't a great performance from us but in the last five years we haven't won here so we're very pleased.

"Robin van Persie had to wait a long time to take his penalty. It might make some people anxious but he is a top player and he found the net."

CTOA3954

26-09-2012, 01:01 AM

as sir alex said in my previous post, it was an ugly win.

but given the emotional atmosphere and that the team didn't get going at all in the 1st half especially, i am just glad we took the 3 points.

the pool fans can say all they want about the refree's poor decisions or whatever. fact is - we won at their own backyard (and coming back from a goal down). something which we have not done so for a few years already.

glory glory man united!

I'd rather the game was won fair and square with 11 vs 11....... although a win is a win but this win over Liverpool dun make me feel that "Oomph" at all. In fact I feel the other way..... paiseh and depressed !

mr_missile

26-09-2012, 12:43 PM

I'd rather the game was won fair and square with 11 vs 11....... although a win is a win but this win over Liverpool dun make me feel that "Oomph" at all. In fact I feel the other way..... paiseh and depressed !

nothing to be paiseh or depressed lah. sometimes decisions will go your way and sometimes not. but it always evens itself out at the end of the season. :)

mr_missile

26-09-2012, 05:21 PM

Vidic out for eight weeks

Manchester United have been dealt another injury hammer blow after skipper Nemanja Vidic was ruled out for eight weeks following knee surgery.

Vidic, who missed the final five months of last season after rupturing his cruciate in the Champions League defeat to Basle, missed Sunday's Premier League win at Liverpool after complaining of tightness in his right knee.

However, a subsequent examination revealed a greater problem, prompting Vidic to be sent for an operation, which has now been completed.

"Nemanja Vidic has had a meniscus operation on his right knee and will be out for around eight weeks," said a club spokesman.

"Sir Alex, as a precautionary measure, rested Vidic at the weekend, after he complained of tightness in his knee, however, further medical investigation revealed the underlying problem.

"The central defender was operated on this week and will be sidelined for about eight weeks."

As the new injury is the same knee as Vidic ruptured his cruciate, it is bound to spark fears of another major problem for the 31-year-old.

Even on the timescale United have highlighted this afternoon it would rule the Serbian out of the Red Devils' next three Champions League matches in addition to seven Premier League games, including key meetings with Chelsea and Arsenal.

However, the worry must be that Vidic will be out for even longer, robbing Ferguson of a major component of his entire squad.

Short-term, it provides the United boss with a major headache.

As Phil Jones has been ruled out for a similar period of time with the same problem and Chris Smalling is yet to resume training after a broken metatarsal, it leaves Ferguson with only two fit central defenders, and Jonny Evans picked up a knock at Anfield.

It continues an unhappy sequence of defensive problems for Ferguson.

Already this term Michael Carrick had been forced to play in that position twice as an emergency measure.

Last Friday Ferguson said he was crossing his fingers Vidic, Evans and Rio Ferdinand remained fit.

Those hopes have now been dashed and it remains to be seen who United have to call on ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Tottenham at Old Trafford.

It also suggests Michael Keane and Scott Wooton may be in line to face Newcastle in tomorrow's Capital One Cup third round tie.

Nineteen-year-old Keane has made one substitute appearance for the senior side, whilst Wooton, who went on the summer tour to South Africa and China, is yet to make his debut.

England Under-18 international Tyler Blackett could also be involved.

mr_missile

27-09-2012, 05:25 PM

Fergie rocket lifts Cleverley

Tom Cleverley received a half-time rocket from Sir Alex Ferguson before his first Manchester United goal helped them defeat Newcastle 2-1.

Cleverley had been sent through by Javier Hernandez when the contest was still goalless.

But amazingly, with only goalkeeper Rob Elliot to beat, Cleverley fired wide.

Although Anderson fired home an excellent 25-yard effort to put United ahead at the break, Wayne Rooney confirmed Ferguson was not happy.

"The manager wasn't too pleased with Tom because of that miss in the first half," said Rooney.

"But it was a nice goal by him and a great strike by Anderson.

"I am delighted for the two of them, especially Tom because it was his first one."

The prize for victory was a dubious one as it set up a fourth round encounter with Premier League pace-setters Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next month.

It represents a major test for United, not least because of their growing number of injured defenders, Nemanja Vidic and Phil Jones will both still be sidelined for certain.

The departure of Alex Buttner before the end of tonight's contest was another worry for Ferguson.

However, there was consolation in the performances of youngsters Scott Wootton and Michael Keane, who until the final 20 minutes when Papiss Cisse scored a minute after his introduction as substitute, kept Newcastle at bay in impressive fashion.

"For two young centre-halves playing against top strikers they were fantastic," said Darren Fletcher, who was making his first start after 10 months out combating a chronic bowel condition.

"They were talking to me the whole game."

Keane went into the match with just one substitutes' appearance under his belt, whilst Wootton was making his debut.

Marnick Vermijl was also handed his debut at right-back, whilst Robbie Brady and Ryan Tunnicliffe - whose dad landed a hefty wager at 100-1 that his son would play a first-team game for United, struck when the midfielder was only nine - were also given their first experience of senior combat.

"Newcastle had a stronger team than us physically but we played some fantastic football and we deserved to win," said Ferguson.

"We want to progress as far as we can in this competition and will do our best to do that."

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew was disappointed with the outcome, believing his side had done enough to at least take the tie into extra-time.

However, their best chance disappeared when Cisse's overhead kick came crashing back off the crossbar near the end.

"There are a lot of positives to take out of tonight," he said.

"The media can't hang that tag round Papiss' neck that he has not scored anymore.

"That goal means everything to him. There is nothing in his work-rate that has changed. Sometimes a goal can make a difference.

"You could see that little bit of exuberance return to his game with the overhead kick. I thought that was in."

VoltaRedonda

27-09-2012, 07:51 PM

I found Marnick Vermijl poor in the Carling Cup 3rd Round game but afterall he needs alot of polishing. Goals by Anderson and Cleverley just proves why I feel they should be in the 1st team partnership as both of them were the ones who led us to 5 straight wins at the start of last season.

mr_missile

28-09-2012, 01:30 PM

marnick, along with the rest of the many youngsters like keane, wooten, brady and tunnicliffe in the capital cup (former carling cup) still need as much polishing as possible before they can make the step up to the 1st team.

exposure (games) is what they need. playing alongside seniors like rooney, fletcher (who were both returning from injuries), cleverley and anderson will certainly gain them precious experience.

as for cleverley and anderson, they will get their chance. but for now, carrick is on top of his game. and scholes? well, scholes is really still indispensable at the moment.

mr_missile

28-09-2012, 05:39 PM

SAF hopes defensive woes ease

Sir Alex Ferguson is crossing his fingers Manchester United can limp through the next week before finally seeing their defensive woes ease.

With Chris Smalling and Phil Jones already sidelined, Ferguson last week expressed the hope his remaining centre-halves would remain fit.

That desire was dashed on Tuesday, when it was confirmed skipper Nemanja Vidic had undergone knee surgery that will keep him out for another two months.

It leaves Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans as United's only fit central defenders for Saturday evening's encounter with Tottenham.

And as his side also have a Champions League trip to Cluj, and a Premier League match with Newcastle before the next international break, Ferguson must feel like wrapping Ferdinand and Evans in cotton wool.

"Everyone knows the situation with our defenders," said Ferguson.

"We are having a hard time with that.

"Nemanja Vidic being out is a blow to us and we simply cannot take a risk with defenders.

"We just hope if we can get through the next two league games it will give us a little breather and we can start to get one or two of them back."

As Jones is out for a similar length of time to Vidic after undergoing the same operation, Smalling's recovery from a broken metatarsal is what Ferguson is pinning his hopes on.

The former Fulham man will not be back this weekend though, so, with Wayne Rooney recovered from his gashed thigh and Tom Cleverley finally opening his United scoring account, Ferguson may decide attack is the best form of defence against Spurs.

Cleverley could not have picked a better time to score either as England coach Gary Neville was in the stands for the 2-1 Capital One Cup win over Newcastle on Wednesday, with Roy Hodgson a week away from announcing his England squad for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Poland.

"It (not having scored for United) has been playing on my mind a little bit," said Cleverley.

"I have always scored goals when I have gone on loan, so it was bugging me that I had not been doing it for my club or my country.

"I have got the first one out of the way now. Hopefully they will all come at once."

mr_missile

29-09-2012, 09:08 AM

Man United v Tottenham preview

Team news ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash between United and Tottenham at Old Trafford.

Antonio Valencia is Manchester United's major injury concern.

The Ecuador wide-man suffered a nasty knock on his ankle at Liverpool last week and Sir Alex Ferguson rates Valencia as "doubtful".

Darren Fletcher and Scott Wootton are both in the United squad but are unlikely to play from the outset and Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney could start together for the first time.

Brad Friedel will return in goal for Tottenham.

Hugo Lloris will be on the bench and defender Kyle Naughton could return after missing last week's win over QPR with a foot injury he sustained against Lazio.

Emmanuel Adebayor (hamstring), Scott Parker (Achilles), Jake Livermore (groin), Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Younes Kaboul (both knee) are out.

Manchester United (from): Lindegaard, De Gea, Rafael, Evans, Ferdinand, Wootton, Evra, Buttner, Nani, Fletcher, Scholes, Anderson, Cleverley, Carrick, Kagawa, Rooney, Van Persie, Welbeck, Hernandez.

Tottenham (from): Lloris, Friedel, Gomes, Cudicini, Smith, Gallas, Dawson, Walker, Vertonghen, Caulker, Naughton, Falque, Huddlestone, Mason, Bale, Lennon, Sandro, Dembele, Dempsey, Sigurdsson, Carroll, Townsend, Defoe, Obika.

VoltaRedonda

29-09-2012, 10:30 AM

mr_missile

29-09-2012, 11:55 AM

Rooney and Kagawa plays the same position of shadow striker right? I hope Rooney shed a few pounds more before we get the old him. For now, Rooney and RVP have yet to gel to provide Man Utd with a lethal strike force. Valencia would definitely play given Nani's torrid form, hopefully Nani starts playing better or he better go to Zenit :D

yups bro. both rooney and kagawa can play in the "hole" behind rvp. but rooney can also play in rvp's position - that is, the main striker. but if sir alex plays the 2 of them together, likely kagawa will have to settle for a place on the bench.

valencia got a knock to his ankle in the game vs pool so he is unlikely to be playing tonite. agree with u that if valencia is fit, he should be given the nod ahead of inconsistent nani. afterall, valencia can also switch to right-back if ever it is needed. zenit offered to buy nani. but the deal was scuppered by nani's sky-high wage demands.

VoltaRedonda

02-10-2012, 09:37 AM

Yea bro agreed, our first half display against spurs was rubbish but our second half showed why we were a team to beat!!!! Chances wasted but luckily its still early in the season. Lets look forward to CFR Cluj tonight!!!!!

mr_missile

03-10-2012, 10:14 AM

RvP at the double in United win

Manchester United were again forced to come from behind as Robin van Persie's double earned a 2-1 away win over Cluj in the Champions League.

Named in the same team as van Persie for the first time, Wayne Rooney created both goals in the Group H encounter in Romania on Tuesday night.

And the winner, four minutes after the break was simply sensational as the 29-year-old took his tally to six for his new club.

The result means back-to-back wins over Braga will take United into the last 16 with two games to spare.

However, Sir Alex Ferguson cannot be entirely happy with this trip to Transylvania, and was left spitting blood as his team fell behind for the sixth time in nine games.

The Scot could not have made his position any clearer either when he delivered his forceful pre-match address on Monday night: "It will be the last".

It was a direct ending to being quizzed about his side's woeful record of conceding the first goal.

But after 14 minutes, staring down at him to his left from an otherwise pitch black sky, there it was again. Cluj 1 Manchester United 0.

And whilst the Romanian champions could congratulate themselves on the effectiveness of the counter-attack Ferguson had primed his side for, from United's point of view it was all rather disappointingly simple.

Rafael Bastos swept a superb pass out wide to Modou Sougou, who exposed Patrice Evra's defensive frailties, then whipped in a low cross which Kapetanos finished in fine style.

Speaking to ITV before the second half began, Ferguson branded it "an absolute shocker".

It is fair to assume his assessment within the confines of United's dressing room was not quite as measured and for a short while afterwards, the visitors looked nervy and uncertain.

Rooney dropped ever deeper in search of possession, which, considering he was starting behind the front two, took him virtually in front of United's defence.

The visitors good fortune came in the departure of Sougou through an injury that cost Cluj much of their attacking zest.

And within five minutes, United had taken advantage.

Van Persie had already come agonisingly close to levelling when he latched on to an inspired Tom Cleverley lofted pass.

But when Rooney floated over a free-kick from the left, United enjoyed their second slice of luck.

Had van Persie made a firm contact with his header, Mario Felgueiras might well have saved.

Instead, the Cluj keeper was committed when the ball looped off Van Persie's shoulder and was helpless to prevent it dropping over him into the net.

It was the former Arsenal man's 19th goal in 49 Champions League appearances. His 20th arrived four minutes after the re-start.

There was no luck involved this time. This time it was pure class.

Again Rooney was the provider. On this occasion the delivery came from the right.

Stationed in a central position about eight yards out, Van Persie watched the ball drop, then steered it into the bottom corner with a delicate touch of his left foot.

It was the kind of sublime moment Ferguson was buying when he persuaded the Glazer family to splash out £24million on a player with relatively little resale value in the summer.

The noisy - if respectful - home fans thought they were celebrating an equaliser as they rose to acclaim Cadu's goalbound effort.

But not for the first time in his short United career, David de Gea's athleticism got his team out of trouble as he repelled the Cluj skipper with a magnificent reaction save.

Van Persie came close to completing his second Red Devils hat-trick when he slid in to reach yet another Rooney cross. This time, though, he could not quite get there.

Scott Wootton was introduced for his European debut 11 minutes from time, after which the visitors needed to survive only one scare when De Gea pushed Bastos' diving near-post header behind.

In pure results terms, Ferguson has got exactly what he asked for after last season's group stage debacle.

However, the 70-year-old will be acutely aware he must find a remedy for those bad starts if United are to stand any chance of winning silverware this term.

VoltaRedonda

03-10-2012, 11:00 AM

mr_missile

04-10-2012, 10:05 AM

Amazing that we started the match without natural wingers, with Newcastle away on the horizon, it was good to see that we won without playing Nani and Kagawa. Cleverley and Anderson combination was deadly and instrumental in building the attack but Anderson do need to train on his shooting :o . Overall good performance and Rooney and RVP are starting to gel well!!!!

nani has not been consistent. wait, has he ever been consistent? lol. :D

with sir alex opting to play rvp and rooney together, i doubt he will put kagawa to be in the same line-up. rooney took over the "hole" behind rvp. and he did so with much effect setting up both assists to rvp's goals.

cleverley and anderson needed the game. and they seem more suited for the "european" stage.

sir alex may be toying with the idea of one line-up (with de gea, cleverley and anderson) for the champions league and another line-up (with lindegaard, carrick and kagawa) for the premier league. :D

mr_missile

05-10-2012, 10:37 AM

Wootton eyeing United start

Scott Wootton would not wish injuries on any player, but will not complain if he is thrown into the Manchester United team against Newcastle.

Wootton has been catapulted into United's first-team squad thanks to the injury crisis that has already robbed Sir Alex Ferguson of three central defenders, and leaves him at risk of being without a fourth if Jonny Evans cannot shake off the effects of a dead leg.

Wooton made his first senior start against Newcastle in the Capital One Cup and came off the substitutes' bench in Tuesday's Champions League win over Cluj in Romania.

And while Ferguson cannot wait for his fitness worries to ease, Wootton could be forgiven for wanting it to carry on a little bit longer.

"The last week or so has been amazing," said the 21-year-old. "To make my competitive debut in the League Cup and then to come on and play in the Champions League is a great feeling. It's something I'm made up with.

"It is always the way. As a young player, obviously you don't wish injuries on someone, but that's how you might get your chance.

"I got my chance against Newcastle through injuries. It's just the way it is."

Wootton had a rather unconventional route to the United first team in that he hails from Birkenhead and was initially on Tranmere's books.

However, it was not long before Liverpool were showing an interest and he moved to their academy.

United always kept in touch though, and when Wootton hesitated over signing scholarship forms with the Anfield outfit, the Red Devils made their move.

"I wasn't too sure whether I was going to sign (for Liverpool)," said Wootton.

"United invited me down for a week's trial and said they wanted to sign straight after that. It was really good."

Wootton is showing welcome signs of being completed unaffected by the transformation in his status.

He still changed with the reserve players last week at the Carrington training ground, and when United took on Liverpool at Anfield last month he was able to sneak into the visitors' end without anyone taking too much notice.

"I was never a Liverpool fan or anything like that, so I just went mad like everyone else when Robin van Persie scored," he said.

How quickly Wootton has gone from cheering Manchester United's latest glamour boy to sharing a dressing room with him.

Yet Wootton insists he is trying to do everything just the same.

"You want to progress as a footballer and these are the next steps," he said.

"For young players at a lot of top clubs the League Cup is where the managers embed them into the team, so obviously I was delighted with that.

"But in all these situations, it would be wrong to do anything different than you would normally.

"Obviously there are some extra special things like the team talks, coming away with the first team and the fans, which are different from what you're are used to.

"But you just try and concentrate on your football just the same."

It is not quite the same though, not when you are having to mark Papiss Cisse, as he did in the League Cup and may have to do again on Sunday.

"Everything is that extra step quicker," said Wootton.

"You've always got to concentrate; you can't switch off for one minute."

mr_missile

06-10-2012, 11:29 AM

Newcastle v Man Utd preview

Team news for Sunday's Premier League clash between Newcastle and Manchester United at St James' Park.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is likely to draft a quartet of big names back into his starting line-up.

Defender Davide Santon, midfielders Jonas Gutierrez and Hatem Ben Arfa and striker Demba Ba were all rested for Thursday night's 3-0 Europa League victory over Bordeaux, which saw full-back Danny Simpson return from a hamstring injury.

Keeper Steve Harper will resume after taking over from Rob Elliot against the French side when he suffered a groin injury, with 19-year-old Jak Alnwick providing the back-up from the bench, but number one Tim Krul (elbow), defenders Fabricio Coloccini (hamstring) and Steven Taylor (calf) and utility man Ryan Taylor are still out.

Manchester United will have experienced midfield trio Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick available for the trip.

Giggs and Carrick missed the Champions League trip to Cluj on Tuesday through illness while Scholes was rested.

Defender Jonny Evans has also recovered from a dead leg and could feature but Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Chris Smalling, Nemanja Vidic and Phil Jones are not yet ready to return.

Newcastle (from): Harper, Alnwick, Simpson, Tavernier, Ferguson, Perch, Williamson, Santon, Tiote, Cabaye, Gutierrez, Ben Arfa, Anita, Bigirimana, Gosling, Marveaux, Obertan, Vuckic, Abeid, Amalfitano, Sammy Ameobi, Ba, Cisse, Shola Ameobi, Campbell.

Manchester Utd (from): De Gea, Lindegaard, Rafael, Buttner, Evra, Ferdinand, Evans, Wootton, Keane, Powell, Cleverley, Anderson, Fletcher, Nani, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, Tunnicliffe, Lingard, Hernandez, Rooney, Welbeck, Van Persie, Kagawa.

mr_missile

08-10-2012, 08:13 AM

Red Devils make Magpies pay

Manchester United's blistering start blew away Newcastle as the visitors won 3-0 on Sunday to move up to second in the Premier League table.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men were handed a flying start as the Magpies' makeshift defence crumbled horrifically on two occasions inside the opening 16 minutes to allow first Jonny Evans and then Patrice Evra to head home.

Alan Pardew's men rallied in determined fashion and might have been back in the game five minutes into the second half, but Demba Ba's header came back off the bar and Papiss Cisse's follow-up was clawed on to the post by keeper David de Gea with the home contingent claiming the ball had crossed the line.

But Tom Cleverley's 71st-minute strike from long range ensured the visitors avenged their 3-0 defeat at St James' Park last season in fine style.

The bulk of a crowd of 52,203 trudged away knowing their team had contributed to its own downfall with the kind of calamitous defending which has plagued them for years, but had, until Sunday, become less common since their return to the top flight.

United dominated possession for long periods and had greater invention with Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Danny Welbeck repeatedly stretching their hosts as Cheick Tiote and Yohan Cabaye struggled to exercise any real control in the middle of the park.

On a day when Newcastle found themselves linked with a sponsorship deal with loans company Wonga - it is understood the stadium naming rights are not involved - Pardew's players were handing out gifts for which there was no need for repayment.

Firstly, former Sunderland defender Evans left both Mike Williamson and Ba for dead to apply the finishing touch to Van Persie's right-wing delivery with eight minutes gone, and as many minutes later, Evra, hardly the most imposing of figures physically, was similarly unaccompanied as he reached Wayne Rooney's set-piece from the left with the same result.

Newcastle's defending was simply shambolic and while they could point to the absence of Tim Krul, Danny Simpson, Steven Taylor and Fabricio Coloccini, four certain starters in their first-choice back five, the men handed the marking jobs in their absence failed miserably in their tasks.

As the chaos unfolded, minds turned back to Arsenal's visit to Tyneside two seasons ago when Van Persie struck twice as the Gunners surged into a 4-0 lead by half-time, but only emerged with a point after being hit by a second-half blitz.

A repeat looked unlikely, but as Newcastle gradually climbed out of the hole they had dug for themselves, the mood inside the stadium began to change.

The movement of Rooney, Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa behind lone striker Welbeck had left the Magpies chasing shadows, and Pardew opted to switch Hatem Ben Arfa to the right to give his side a better shape and a greater attacking threat.

Gradually, his players worked their way into the game, Jonas Gutierrez dragging an 18th-minute shot just wide and Cabaye only just missing the target with a curling effort.

Ba turned a Cisse cross over the bar under pressure and Cisse headed wide from a Cabaye free-kick, but crucially, the Magpies failed to test keeper David de Gea.

A full-blooded 45 minutes saw five men booked by referee Howard Webb - Tiote and Gutierrez for Newcastle and Kagawa, Rio Ferdinand and Van Persie for United - and there was little sign of the tempo abating after the break.

Indeed, Newcastle thought they were back in it within five minutes of the restart when Ba got to Shane Ferguson's cross ahead of De Gea, but saw his effort come back off the bar.

Strike-partner Cisse headed the rebound towards goal, where the keeper managed to divert it on to the post with the striker insisting the ball had already crossed the line, but to no avail.

Ba headed wide from another Cabaye cross, but United continued to threaten on the counter and might have extended their lead when Welbeck held off Davide Santon and laid the ball off for Cleverley, but the midfielder skied his 57th-minute effort.

Keeper Steve Harper had to get down well to keep out Rooney's skidding left-foot effort three minutes later with the visitors pressing once again.

The home side kept plugging away with Hatem Ben Arfa dragging a well-struck left-foot shot marginally wide, but the game was over 19 minutes from time when Cleverley accepted Rooney's lay-off on the left wing and curled the ball right-footed across Harper and into the top corner.

machoman

08-10-2012, 08:58 AM

A well-deserved victory, keeping a clean sheet after so many defensive errors recently.

Well, done to the team.

mr_missile

08-10-2012, 10:56 AM

A well-deserved victory, keeping a clean sheet after so many defensive errors recently.

Well, done to the team.

as mentioned in Football365, sir alex was very "ballsy" to start with wellbeck, rvp, rooney and kagawa. when i saw the team sheet, my first thought was : wah, sir alex expecting newcastle to score, so he better have players to score more than newcastle! :D

rooney played as an attacking midfielder. in fact, it seemed as if he, kagawa and rvp were all attacking midfielders leaving wellbeck as the target man. newcastle's make-shift defence must have been caught out as they would not have any idea who to mark as in an attack, all 4 of them were there! :D

kudos to united's defence for the clean sheet. de gea's save on the line was outstanding. sir alex should just stick with him.

curacao

08-10-2012, 01:34 PM

Good game overall... any game without nani is good...

VoltaRedonda

08-10-2012, 01:44 PM

mr_missile

08-10-2012, 01:56 PM

Great win by Utd to reversing the 3-0 loss we had last season here. Finally Ferguson started Cleverley, but my question which is still left unanswered is did the whole of the ball cross the line??? Anyways Newcastle had their luck against us at Old Trafford last season when the referee wrongfully awarded Newcastle a penalty which gave them a 1-1 draw.

I am already looking forward to the Oct 28 game against Chelsea at the Bridge :D

seen the replays many times. the whole ball didn't cross the line. this is especially obvious from the camera at the top of the goal and when it is played in slow motion. great save by de gea. :)

yinyang

08-10-2012, 02:43 PM

mr_missile

09-10-2012, 12:45 PM

Why old fart not blood Powell and Butner more?? Given our defensive woes (even if both defenders scored). Evra is past his prime. and Evans is still wet behind his ears. Ferdinand's slooooow ...just as Bale out ran him;)

powell and butner will play more in the capital cup bro.

i do agree with u that evra has been really off-form. but the game against newcastle was quite the opposite. he has had his best game for a long time! let's hope that he can keep up that standard of play at least for this season so that butner can really settle into united.

ferdinand's pace is gone. but with vidic, jones and smalling all also out, we really have to make do with him and evans. or u prefer carrick partnering evans? :p

i would say letting rooney sit on top of the midfield as the linkman to rvp is a good move. wellbeck's and nani's play are both not up to expectations. so playing rooney just behind rvp, with valencia at the right wing, supported by cleverley (playmaker), carrick (defensive midfield) and kagawa (right midfield), may be the best formation for united now. :)

yinyang

09-10-2012, 01:06 PM

powell and butner will play more in the capital cup. Ferdinand's pace is gone. but with vidic, jones and smalling all also out, we really have to make do with him and evans. or u prefer carrick partnering evans? :)
Capital cup is consolation. Imo, both Powell and Butner shd be up to EPL task and demands (not exactly 'new'). Nothing to lose, with us relying on 2 RoD players.

And Carrick/Evans partnership, no never. Evans still 'green' and with both defenders hitting the net last sun ..let's hope it's not a flash thing.

Seems the diamond formation is working;)

mr_missile

10-10-2012, 09:02 AM

Capital cup is consolation. Imo, both Powell and Butner shd be up to EPL task and demands (not exactly 'new'). Nothing to lose, with us relying on 2 RoD players.

And Carrick/Evans partnership, no never. Evans still 'green' and with both defenders hitting the net last sun ..let's hope it's not a flash thing.

Seems the diamond formation is working;)

latest news is that both jones and smalling should be back in full training real soon. jones is even targetting his comeback game on oct 29 vs chelski. :)

yes, it seems like a much trimmer (and fitter) rooney is revelling at the role on top of the diamond. :D

VoltaRedonda

12-10-2012, 11:35 AM

Capital cup is consolation. Imo, both Powell and Butner shd be up to EPL task and demands (not exactly 'new'). Nothing to lose, with us relying on 2 RoD players.

And Carrick/Evans partnership, no never. Evans still 'green' and with both defenders hitting the net last sun ..let's hope it's not a flash thing.

Seems the diamond formation is working;)

Dun worry too much, Powell and Buttner will get their time in the Capitol One cup and FA Cup as well. They will also get their time in EPL matches at home against lower opposition. I felt however Cleverley deserved more playing time and not stick to the old pairing of Carrick and Scholes. Playing the diamond is good but not effective against some teams a.k.a Chelsea which we must stick to the usual 4-5-1

mr_missile

12-10-2012, 03:08 PM

Rooney named England captain

Wayne Rooney has been named England captain for Friday night's World Cup qualifier with San Marino at Wembley.

England boss Roy Hodgson has given the armband to Rooney with regular skipper Steven Gerrard missing the visit of San Marino through suspension.

Gerrard's obvious replacement Frank Lampard has also been forced to miss the game at Wembley after failing to shake off a knee injury.

Joe Hart, who had also been mentioned as a possible contender for the captaincy, backed Rooney for the role earlier this week saying the Manchester United man was the ideal candidate to take the armband.

It means it will be the first time Rooney, who has won 76 caps for his country, will lead out his team for a competitive game as captain.

Gerrard will take the armband for next week's qualifier with Poland after serving his ban against San Marino.

Rooney said at a press conference ahead of Friday's game: "It's a great honour, it's something I'm really proud of.

"It's a big challenge for myself, I'm really looking forward to it and excited, and hopefully we can cap the day off with a good victory."

England boss Roy Hodgson added: "I've enjoyed working with Wayne, we had a good Euros and I enjoyed working with him there.

"I was disappointed when he got that terrible gash and I was even worried it could rule him out of not only the September games, but also the October games.

"Luckily he's made a very quick recovery and now he's available for the games, and he'll certainly captain the team in the first one."

Hodgson was unwilling to offer any further insight into his team-sheet for tomorrow's meeting with the joint lowest-ranked team in the world, with speculation in some quarters that key men such as Ashley Cole could be rested ahead of Tuesday's clash with Poland.

"I haven't spoken to the players about the team," he said at the televised briefing.

"I guess Wayne Rooney realises he's starting the game because he's sitting alongside me as captain of the team."

mr_missile

16-10-2012, 06:30 PM

Neville hails 'hungry' Rooney

England coach Gary Neville believes Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has turned into a lean, mean fighting machine.

After receiving a huge amount of criticism for his sluggish display during United's defeat at Everton on the opening weekend of the Premier League, Rooney has benefited massively from the time off he was forced to take when he suffered a badly gashed thigh against Fulham.

Although he has still to get off the mark for his club, Rooney has been outstanding in a midfield role behind Robin van Persie and marked his first competitive game as England captain with two goals in Friday's win over San Marino.

And England coach Neville is delighted with what he has seen.

"Rooney is best when he plays like the street kid; fights for every ball, loves playing football, wants to take every free-kick, every throw-in, tackles, heads, fights like he has the passion to win," Neville told BBC Radio Five Live.

"The last couple of weeks, coming back from injury, I've seen a lean, fit, hungry Rooney. He looks like he is up for the next challenge in his career, to maintain his position at Manchester United."

Van Persie's arrival at Old Trafford and Danny Welbeck's impressive form means Rooney can no longer be guaranteed a forward berth.

Not that Neville necessarily believes that is a bad thing after seeing former team-mates Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes have managed to prolong their careers by adapting their approach.

"At the age of 26 you always have to think there's more to come," Neville added. "You can't get to the age of 26 and think 'My best years have gone'. He has to challenge himself.

"He has great examples of players who have continued to do that in Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

"Giggs has gone from a flying, out-and-out left-winger to someone who now plays off the front, inside-left and central midfield.

"Scholes was a goalscoring midfielder, off-the-front number player when he started playing as a 16-year-old. Now he's a holding midfielder who controls the game.

"Rooney is still a centre-forward, but he'll adapt over this next 10 years to continue to become someone who's thought of in the same way as those two players."

richie_rich

18-10-2012, 04:29 PM

Dear fellow United fans. It's been a long time since I am here. It's great to see this thread alive and kicking!

Glory glory Man United! As the Reds go marching on on on!! :)

mr_missile

18-10-2012, 04:47 PM

Dear fellow United fans. It's been a long time since I am here. It's great to see this thread alive and kicking!

Glory glory Man United! As the Reds go marching on on on!! :)

wah! welcum back bro! missing in action where ah?? :D

VoltaRedonda

18-10-2012, 11:52 PM

Glory Glory Bros :D . Back to EPL action against Stoke at Old Trafford this saturday and great to see all Man Utd players for England and other countries went through the internationals unscathed.

bonkudear

19-10-2012, 01:54 PM

Dear fellow United fans. It's been a long time since I am here. It's great to see this thread alive and kicking!

Glory glory Man United! As the Reds go marching on on on!! :)

Ya! Welcum back to the scene bro. Looking forward to your contributions to this thread and other sections. HeHeHe!

mr_missile

20-10-2012, 08:48 AM

Man United v Stoke preview

Team news ahead of Saturday afternoon's Premier League clash between Manchester United and Stoke at Old Trafford.

Ashley Young returns to the United squad after a two-month absence ahead of the game against the Potters.

Young has recovered from a knee injury and is in contention to face Tony Pulis' men.

Chris Smalling (foot) will not be considered even though he is closing in on full fitness.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis will assess the condition of Glenn Whelan and Michael Owen ahead of the game.

Midfielder Whelan, who came off in the 0-0 draw at Liverpool with a hamstring problem which kept him out of the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifiers against Germany and the Faroe Islands, is rated "50-50" by Pulis.

The manager has also said he expects striker Owen, missing from the Liverpool game after tweaking his groin, to only be fit enough for a place on the bench at best, but defender Andy Wilkinson is available again after completing a three-match suspension.

Man United (from): De Gea, Lindegaard, Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Buttner, Valencia, Nani, Fletcher, Anderson, Scholes, Carrick, Cleverley, Giggs, Kagawa, Rooney, Van Persie, Hernandez, Welbeck.

Stoke (from): Begovic, Sorensen, Huth, Shawcross, Cameron, Upson, Shotton, Wilson, Whelan, Etherington, Delap, Palacios, Jones, Jerome, Crouch, Walters, Kightly, Whitehead, Adam, Edu, Nzonzi, Owen, Ness, Wilkinson.

badboynani17

20-10-2012, 10:42 AM

Glory Glory Man United! Will be watching tonight! Hopefully Nani can play to redeem himself for the poor display since the start of this season.... :)

VoltaRedonda

20-10-2012, 10:52 AM

Glory Glory Man United! Will be watching tonight! Hopefully Nani can play to redeem himself for the poor display since the start of this season.... :)

Watched Russia vs Portugal and Nani was not bad in that game... Hoping to see Powell play in this game and beating Stoke should not be much of a problem. One eye will be on the West Brom vs Man City game where West Brom always gets the best out of our noisy neighbours :D

yinyang

20-10-2012, 07:44 PM

Hoping to see Powell play in this game and beating Stoke should not be much of a problem. One eye will be on the West Brom vs Man City game... always gets the best out of our noisy neighbours :D
Yo, did you all catch fergie's bit on how tall/physical stoke players are? And Owen might need a ladder even;)

Let's W Brom do in moneyed neighbours nose in the mud:D

VoltaRedonda

20-10-2012, 08:47 PM

Yo, did you all catch fergie's bit on how tall/physical stoke players are? And Owen might need a ladder even;)

Let's W Brom do in moneyed neighbours nose in the mud:D

Haha yup... We are facing a rugby team tonight... Only way to beat them is with pace:D

Max80

21-10-2012, 12:47 AM

YAY!!

We made it. had some nerve wrecking moments, esp when Rooney had an own goal in, but was glad that he later made amends and an overall good performance from the team !!:D

mr_missile

22-10-2012, 08:36 AM

Haha yup... We are facing a rugby team tonight... Only way to beat them is with pace:D

YAY!!

We made it. had some nerve wrecking moments, esp when Rooney had an own goal in, but was glad that he later made amends and an overall good performance from the team !!:D

pace and creativity bro.

rvp crossed for rooney to equalise. then valencia slid the ball to rvp for united to take the lead before half-time. almost immediately after the break, rooney sent a teasing cross to wellback to nod into the net. and lastly, an rvp corner fell to rooney and he made no mistake from there.

valencia had a decent game. can't say the same though for nani & chicharito (maybe they came on too late in the game to do much).

the combination and understanding of rooney and rvp are beginning to tell as they play more together. i thought wellback should have scored more as he was presented with more chances.

mr_missile

22-10-2012, 08:39 AM

Yo, did you all catch fergie's bit on how tall/physical stoke players are? And Owen might need a ladder even;)

Let's W Brom do in moneyed neighbours nose in the mud:D

the baggies gave our noisy neighbours a good fight. i thought hosay liao when milner was sent off in the 1st half. but city's bench again rescued them : bloody hell, which other team in the league can call upon kun kun and dzeko from the bench and scored 2 late goals to win the game? damn!

richie_rich

22-10-2012, 02:05 PM

wah! welcum back bro! missing in action where ah?? :D

Erm....just went missing. No action. Lol.

Ya! Welcum back to the scene bro. Looking forward to your contributions to this thread and other sections. HeHeHe!

Thks. Good to see this thread alive and kicking.

mr_missile

23-10-2012, 12:33 PM

Erm....just went missing. No action. Lol.

haha. no action? nevermind lah. just glad to see u back here.

mr_missile

23-10-2012, 12:35 PM

Ferguson: No issue with Rio

Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to offer Rio Ferdinand a one-year contract extension after resolving his communication breakdown with the defender.

Ferguson was furious with Ferdinand on Saturday when the 33-year-old defied his order to wear a T-shirt backing the Kick It Out anti-racism campaign.

However, the pair held clear-the-air talks at United's Carrington training HQ yesterday, during which Ferdinand put forward a "compelling argument" for why he adopted his solo stance.

As a former shop steward, Ferguson remains committed to the idea of collective action, and also did not take kindly to being undermined in such a public way.

However, with their respective positions aired, the United boss is more than happy to concentrate on Ferdinand's attributes on the field.

"Rio can play for two or three years," said Ferguson.

"He has different issues from Paul (Scholes) or Ryan (Giggs) in terms of injuries over the last couple of years.

"He is not as quick as he was but that is not a big problem because his experience is important.

"He is still a great footballer and, even at 33, there is no reason why he can't stay on.

"We have always adopted that policy of offering one-year contracts, so we will see as the season progresses.

"I didn't even realise his contract was up. You are making me panic."

It was not panic that made Ferguson react the way he did on Saturday.

The central component of his entire managerial philosophy is that his word is law.

At 70, it is hardly an opinion that is going to change.

And rather than back down from their respective positions, it seems the Carrington summit resulted in an amicable agreement to disagree, with Ferguson insisting any issues Ferdinand has over the FA's handling of John Terry's racism case with brother Anton should be taken up with the governing body directly.

"I spoke to Rio," said Ferguson.

"The issue is pretty simple. There was a communication problem.

"He felt I should have spoken to him on Friday and I didn't anticipate there would be any problem in the dressing room as far as the T-shirt was concerned.

"I have listened to the conviction of Rio and I think it is quite compelling. I can understand his stance.

"But I think you are always stronger as a union. There's more solidarity than as a single unit.

"The advice I would give is that he should take it up with the proper authorities. It is only through that he will make his voice heard.

"Obviously as the manager of the club when you lay down policy you don't want to see it being ignored. That's where my anger came on Saturday.

"But we have resolved the situation, there are no lingering problems and we move on. That is the end of the matter."

Anxious that his selection should not be viewed as any kind of punishment, Ferguson broke with tradition by confirming Ferdinand and skipper Patrice Evra would not be in his starting line-up for Tuesday night's Champions League encounter with Braga at Old Trafford.

Instead the pair are set to be replaced by Scott Wootton and Alex Buttner as Ferguson schemes for the tough domestic challenges that await.

"Tomorrow, so your false teeth don't fall out, I am not playing Rio," he said.

"We have a game at Chelsea on Sunday at Chelsea, which is a big one for us, so we will leave two of the older players, Rio and Patrice Evra, out tomorrow."

VoltaRedonda

23-10-2012, 09:39 PM

Actually to me Galatasaray is the strongest in our Champions League group as they have so good players like Uruguay's Muslera, Turkey's Altintop and Felipe Melo of Brazil. But after seeing Braga beating them 2-0 away it seems to me tonight would be a 'tough' match for us. Braga is currently 3rd in Portugal and I hope this time we will score the 1st goal and 2nd goal so that we can rest RVP or Rooney for the showdown against Chelsea this sunday!!! Good to see that Ashley Young will be back playing tonight as well. Lets see how it goes tonight :D

mr_missile

24-10-2012, 02:07 PM

[/COLOR]"]Hernandez heads United to victory

Manchester United came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at home to Braga and secure their third straight victory in this season's Champions League.

Approaching the 26th anniversary of Sir Alex Ferguson's appointment as Red Devils manager, the comeback was a suitably fitting way to preserve his side's 100% record and means, barring a complete collapse in their final three games, they will advance to next spring's knockout stage.

However, with two games against Chelsea and a home encounter with Arsenal to come before the return fixture in a fortnight, Ferguson must harbour serious concerns about United's fragile defence.

Incredibly, they have now fallen behind eight times in 12 games this season.

Tonight it took less than two minutes to surrender the initiative.

And they fell further behind before Hernandez struck, the Mexican capping a fine display by nodding home the winner from Tom Cleverley's cross 15 minutes from time.

It had been established in the five times United had gone behind since Michael Carrick had been eased out of central defence that he was not responsible for his side's repeated inability not to find themselves playing catch-up.

There had been evidence in the performances of Scott Wootton and Michael Keane in the Capital One Cup against Newcastle last month that there was an alternative should the need for an emergency central defender arise.

With Chris Smalling and Phil Jones still at least a fortnight away from full fitness and Rio Ferdinand rested to the bench, an assurance already received from Ferguson that it was solely to do with Sunday's visit to Chelsea and nothing to do with the weekend T-shirt spat, this was one such occasion.

Yet Ferguson again went for Carrick as Jonny Evans' partner, presumably on the basis Braga would not offer much of a physical threat.

Carrick lacks defensive nous though, and having shepherded Eder to the by-line, his failure to trap the Portugal international there was suicidal.

After turning sharply, Eder scampered towards the goal before cutting a cross back to provide Alan with an easy finish.

This would have been bad enough. The fact Braga were already in front raised serious concerns about United's ability to pull through.

Barely a minute had elapsed when Alan pulled to the far post and climbed above Alex Buttner, replacing Patrice Evra for the first European game of his entire career, and steered it past David de Gea.

It was the eighth time they had fallen behind this season, and the fourth occasion in the last five games, a quite shocking statistic that cannot continue if United are going to be serious challengers for silverware this term.

Predictably, a team skippered by Wayne Rooney and including Robin van Persie and a host of other stellar attacking talents, the hosts were a force at the other end.

A wise advantage by Serbian referee Milorad Mazic allowed Shinji Kagawa to profit from a foul on van Persie, crossing for Hernandez, who nodded home.

The pair would have combined to haul United level had an offside flag not been raised against Kagawa as he darted on to Van Persie's through ball before rolling another cross into Hernandez's path.

Ferguson noted that mistake, and a few others, in his half-time assessment of proceedings.

However, in hauling off Kagawa and introducing Nani at the break, the Scot was also signalling the diamond he feels could revolutionise United needs a bit more polishing before it is ready for public display.

The transformation was immediate as United sped down the flanks, pinning their opponents back.

As the crosses fizzed across Braga's goal, the visitors' defending became increasingly desperate.

When Evans took a fresh air swipe at van Persie's corner, the attempted clearance cannoned back off Elderson, allowing the Northern Ireland defender a second chance, which he duly prodded in.

It was Evans' second goal in three games, not a bad return considering he had only scored once in his previous 131 appearances for the Red Devils.

From that moment it was only a matter of time before United got their winner.

Tom Cleverley provided it with a superb, deep cross from the right touchline.

Hernandez, whose movement was akin to that he showed during his debut season, peeled away and headed home.

mr_missile

24-10-2012, 02:08 PM

Hernandez heads United to victory

Manchester United came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at home to Braga and secure their third straight victory in this season's Champions League.

Approaching the 26th anniversary of Sir Alex Ferguson's appointment as Red Devils manager, the comeback was a suitably fitting way to preserve his side's 100% record and means, barring a complete collapse in their final three games, they will advance to next spring's knockout stage.

However, with two games against Chelsea and a home encounter with Arsenal to come before the return fixture in a fortnight, Ferguson must harbour serious concerns about United's fragile defence.

Incredibly, they have now fallen behind eight times in 12 games this season.

Tonight it took less than two minutes to surrender the initiative.

And they fell further behind before Hernandez struck, the Mexican capping a fine display by nodding home the winner from Tom Cleverley's cross 15 minutes from time.

It had been established in the five times United had gone behind since Michael Carrick had been eased out of central defence that he was not responsible for his side's repeated inability not to find themselves playing catch-up.

There had been evidence in the performances of Scott Wootton and Michael Keane in the Capital One Cup against Newcastle last month that there was an alternative should the need for an emergency central defender arise.

With Chris Smalling and Phil Jones still at least a fortnight away from full fitness and Rio Ferdinand rested to the bench, an assurance already received from Ferguson that it was solely to do with Sunday's visit to Chelsea and nothing to do with the weekend T-shirt spat, this was one such occasion.

Yet Ferguson again went for Carrick as Jonny Evans' partner, presumably on the basis Braga would not offer much of a physical threat.

Carrick lacks defensive nous though, and having shepherded Eder to the by-line, his failure to trap the Portugal international there was suicidal.

After turning sharply, Eder scampered towards the goal before cutting a cross back to provide Alan with an easy finish.

This would have been bad enough. The fact Braga were already in front raised serious concerns about United's ability to pull through.

Barely a minute had elapsed when Alan pulled to the far post and climbed above Alex Buttner, replacing Patrice Evra for the first European game of his entire career, and steered it past David de Gea.

It was the eighth time they had fallen behind this season, and the fourth occasion in the last five games, a quite shocking statistic that cannot continue if United are going to be serious challengers for silverware this term.

Predictably, a team skippered by Wayne Rooney and including Robin van Persie and a host of other stellar attacking talents, the hosts were a force at the other end.

A wise advantage by Serbian referee Milorad Mazic allowed Shinji Kagawa to profit from a foul on van Persie, crossing for Hernandez, who nodded home.

The pair would have combined to haul United level had an offside flag not been raised against Kagawa as he darted on to Van Persie's through ball before rolling another cross into Hernandez's path.

Ferguson noted that mistake, and a few others, in his half-time assessment of proceedings.

However, in hauling off Kagawa and introducing Nani at the break, the Scot was also signalling the diamond he feels could revolutionise United needs a bit more polishing before it is ready for public display.

The transformation was immediate as United sped down the flanks, pinning their opponents back.

As the crosses fizzed across Braga's goal, the visitors' defending became increasingly desperate.

When Evans took a fresh air swipe at van Persie's corner, the attempted clearance cannoned back off Elderson, allowing the Northern Ireland defender a second chance, which he duly prodded in.

It was Evans' second goal in three games, not a bad return considering he had only scored once in his previous 131 appearances for the Red Devils.

From that moment it was only a matter of time before United got their winner.

Tom Cleverley provided it with a superb, deep cross from the right touchline.

Hernandez, whose movement was akin to that he showed during his debut season, peeled away and headed home.

machoman

24-10-2012, 05:02 PM

mr_missile

24-10-2012, 05:20 PM

Fergie has got to do something to bolster the porous defence. Having to come back after conceding goals 8 times in 12 games this season definitely smacks of a weak defence.

Good attack but poor defence is highly undesirable!

agree totally. read report below. sir is baffled! i personally thought that rio would have to shoulder most of the blame - read goal scored by bale for spurs and another similar one conceded against stoke. the opposing forwards used their pace to outrun rio and there was just nothing he could do to stop them. sigh....

we need vidic or jones to be back fast!

Defensive frailties baffle Fergie

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he has no idea what is causing his Manchester United side their defensive headaches.

For the eighth time in 12 games this season, United found themselves behind to Braga at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Thanks to two goals from Javier Hernandez either side of Jonny Evans' second in three games, United were able to roar back for a 3-2 victory that almost certainly guarantees a place in the knockout phase of this season's Champions League.

However, with Chelsea to come twice, and a Premier League home game against Arsenal before the rematch with Braga in a fortnight, Ferguson knows unless he finds a solution, his team could be in massive trouble.

"I can't get to the bottom of it I am afraid," he said.

"If you analyse the goals we are losing, they have come from throw-ins, crosses, cut-backs, all sorts, and they are finding players free in the box.

"It is difficult to put your finger on it, and it is a concern because it is making it difficult for us."

This time United paid for resting Rio Ferdinand, who was replaced in central defence by Michael Carrick.

The England man was at fault for Braga's second when he was turned far too easily by Eder, who provided Alan with the easiest of finishes.

At that stage, United were already trailing as Alan had opened his account after just two minutes.

But Hernandez prompted a fightback and after pulling a goal back from close range, he also bagged the winner 15 minutes from time after he got on the end of Tom Cleverley's far post cross.

"The boy is improving all the time," Ferguson said of the Mexican.

"His goal ratio is fantastic and the way he bent his run for the second goal was terrific.

"He is a fantastic trainer and he has given me a problem, which is good."

It was the first time United had recovered from two goals down in a European game since they beat Juventus in the 1999 semi-final, although Ferguson could do without the omen.

"I would rather be without it," he said.

The victory did not come without its pain either as Shinji Kagawa was forced off with a twisted knee that will be assessed tomorrow.

In addition, Anders Lindegaard has a thumb injury that will prevent him from being involved in Sunday's title clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

VoltaRedonda

24-10-2012, 11:33 PM

Hmm we just have to survive and wait for the return of vidic, smalling and jones!!! Chicharito and Welbeck will get their playing time against Chelsea anyways either in the capital one cup or premier league :D . Love that brilliant cross by Cleverley to Chicha for the 3rd goal!!! Definitely will be hoping Cleverley starts this sunday:D

mr_missile

25-10-2012, 02:45 PM

Love that brilliant cross by Cleverley to Chicha for the 3rd goal!!! Definitely will be hoping Cleverley starts this sunday:D

chelski's midfield has hazard, mata and oscar. all very fast and creative.

united's midfield at present cannot match them in my humble opinion. if i were sir alex, i would play rvp upfront and a 5 men midfield of rooney, carrick, valencia, anderson and cleverley.

anderson and cleverley to give the energy needed to match the chelsea midfield. carrick the defensive guy while rooney and valencia the attacking midfielders. :)

VoltaRedonda

25-10-2012, 02:48 PM

chelski's midfield has hazard, mata and oscar. all very fast and creative.

united's midfield at present cannot match them in my humble opinion. if i were sir alex, i would play rvp upfront and a 5 men midfield of rooney, carrick, valencia, anderson and cleverley.

anderson and cleverley to give the energy needed to match the chelsea midfield. carrick the defensive guy while rooney and valencia the attacking midfielders. :)

If you were the old geezer, I guessed we would not have comeback victories le :D . I would agree with you definitely we will play 4-5-1 with RVP in front, hmm time to take advantage of a terry-less defense.

yinyang

25-10-2012, 03:31 PM

Rear really lau sai. And we have to rely on comebacks to win games? Not only unfair burden to strikers (at home some ore!) but also sucks if we have to kena go out on goal difference again:o

mr_missile

25-10-2012, 03:37 PM

If you were the old geezer, I guessed we would not have comeback victories le :D . I would agree with you definitely we will play 4-5-1 with RVP in front, hmm time to take advantage of a terry-less defense.

bro, if i were sir alex, i would have retired when we won the 2nd champs league title and now stay at home kiao kah and be a couch potato.

i would have asked my good pal mourinho to take over me. of cos, he has to promise to bring with him cr7. :D

VoltaRedonda

25-10-2012, 09:59 PM

bro, if i were sir alex, i would have retired when we won the 2nd champs league title and now stay at home kiao kah and be a couch potato.

i would have asked my good pal mourinho to take over me. of cos, he has to promise to bring with him cr7. :D

News came in that Sir Fergie prefer to have Pep Guardiola taking over :D, perhaps bringing messi along??? Hahah just wishful thinking.

VoltaRedonda

28-10-2012, 09:54 AM

Here goes!!!! Tonight against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge :eek: There will be no John Terry so there should be no debate rumbling on about whether handshaking is necessary. A tough match even from the neutral's point of view. Hope Scholes will be assisted by Carrick, Cleverley and Welbeck as Scholes is only dangerous with the ball and without it he was be just a lost soul in the game. 4-5-1 with RVP as the lone striker and Wayne in the 5 man midfield, I dunno Fergie will start with Valencia or Nani but the backline will form themselves up naturally with the injuries. Rafael, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra and De Gea at the back. This meeting is more important than the next against them as I rather we take the win here in the league than the Capitol One Cup. My money will be on Man Utd 0.25 all in :D

yinyang

28-10-2012, 04:10 PM

rather we take the win here in the league than the Capitol One Cup. My money will be on Man Utd 0.25 all in :D
But of course:p Scholey, alamak ..he was never the same after his eye operation awhile back. Likelihood of his yellow carding on late tackles:o

On the offensive, rather have Chicharito than Wellback fella

dc7176

29-10-2012, 10:26 AM

Hernandez secures controversial win

Javier Hernandez was Manchester United's match-winner
Roberto Di Matteo and Sir Alex Ferguson had to be separated as Manchester United ended their 10-year wait for a Premier League win at Chelsea with a controversial 3-2 success.

The Blues finished with nine men and were beaten by an offside winner as United made up for all the bad luck they perceived they had suffered at Stamford Bridge in one fell swoop to cut their opponents' lead at the top to one point.

Referee Mark Clattenburg wrongly sent off Fernando Torres for diving after Chelsea had fought back from a David Luiz own goal and Robin van Persie's ninth of the season to equalise through Juan Mata and Ramires.

Branislav Ivanovic did rightly see red five minutes before Torres, whose second yellow card prompted furious exchanges between the rival managers, and that was before Javier Hernandez's winner.

Ferguson did not need to bother with mind games against Chelsea last season, so far adrift were they of United in the league.

But he did not waste any time prior to this fixture, branding the side built by Jose Mourinho seven years ago as better than the current league leaders, in defiance of the plaudits earned by Di Matteo's men this season.

His opposite number refused to be drawn into the phoney war, knowing the worst thing to do ahead of the game was to stoke up any ill feeling.

Rio Ferdinand thought so too, duly wearing his 'Kick It Out' T-shirt during the warm-up and shaking Ashley Cole's hand before kick-off.

Ashley Young - a surprise starter after more than two months out injured - was the only player on either side to snub the anti-racism initiative, while the home supporters jeered and taunted Ferdinand mercilessly.

It had no effect on the defender, who was celebrating a two-goal lead after 12 minutes as United became the latest top side to ruthlessly expose Chelsea's shortcomings.

It took less than four minutes, the Blues losing possession and Van Persie crashing a shot against the post, the ball rebounding in off the luckless Luiz.

Ivanovic was fortunate to escape a booking for clattering into Young before United struck again, Ferdinand this time the architect.

The defender was predictably booed as he ambled out of defence and found Rafael, who fed Antonio Valencia, with the winger's low cross instantly swept home by Van Persie.

It was a goal of embarrassing ease against a Chelsea side Di Matteo had warned about the way they were starting games, but the European champions finally woke up midway through the half when Michael Carrick chopped down Ramires.

He should have been booked but Luiz almost punished him anyway with a brutal free-kick which David De Gea inexplicably elected to save with his legs, the Spaniard deviating from the goalkeeping coaching manual again to keep out Gary Cahill's header.

Torres was having another shocker but his failure to react to a corner missed by everyone else was forgivable and his header was only kept out by a brilliant De Gea save.

The goalkeeper could do nothing when Wayne Rooney needlessly upended Eden Hazard with a revenge tackle a minute from half-time - earning a booking - and Mata stepped up to curl a sumptuous free-kick into the corner.

Mata would have equalised moments later had De Gea not made amends for a horrendous clearance before Torres earned his first booking for a foul on Tom Cleverley.

But Chelsea needed only seven minutes of the second half to deservedly level as Mata took the game by the scruff of the neck.

After scuffing a right-foot shot, he showed sublime control to keep Oscar's ball in play, allowing the Brazilian to cross again for Ramires to head home.

Hazard had two more sniffs before United got a grip.

And they were given a golden opportunity to snatch all three points as disaster struck for Chelsea when Ivanovic and Torres were both sent off in the space of five minutes.

Ivanovic could have no complaints, the right-back seeing red for bringing down Young, who had been played clean through by Van Persie.

Rooney fired the resultant free-kick just over before United replaced the ineffective Cleverley with Javier Hernandez and Chelsea sent on Cesar Azpilicueta for Oscar.

They were about to bring on Daniel Sturridge for Torres but the striker joined Ivanovic in the dressing room when he was controversially shown a second yellow for diving when replays showed he had been caught by Evans.

Torres was furious, trudging off and berating the fourth official, who was then forced to keep Di Matteo and Ferguson apart on the touchline.

Ryan Bertrand joined the fray instead of Sturridge but Chelsea faced an impossible task with nine men and Hernandez snatched what proved the winner 15 minutes from time from an offside position.

Petr Cech brilliantly tipped Van Persie's shot onto the post but Rafael followed up and Hernandez turned the ball home.

Mikel was booked for his protest, Sturridge entered the fray and Valencia also saw yellow as well as wasting a chance to kill the contest.

mr_missile

29-10-2012, 12:29 PM

My money will be on Man Utd 0.25 all in :D

On the offensive, rather have Chicharito than Wellback fella

jackpot in your predictions! u guys are spot on (although chicharito came on as a sub)! :D

we must be doing something right, especially our attacking play, that even the "fools" are talking about our win in their thread! sour grapes perhaps? hahaha. :)

glory glory man utd! :D

yinyang

29-10-2012, 08:54 PM

Missile sir and VR... We did good 1st half, and Chelskis reacted to be on par after. Truth be told, we got away with murder as Tores red card surprised many. Being selfish, we shd have knocked in some more after they down to 9:p We'll take it, now -1pt behind and blxxdy moneyed egos of neighbour chasing down our necks:p

Rickey

29-10-2012, 09:42 PM

Fergie has got to do something to bolster the porous defence.

Good attack but poor defence is highly undesirable!
Yes, Fergie MUST n he has got to do it quick !...he shd hv learnt his lesson last yr when he lost the league crown to Man City on goal difference cos his defence keep on letting in goals...imagine even the minnows can score against them...so if he doesn't get good, solid, dependable defenders like John Terry of Chelsea he can jus abt forget being league champion again.. Rio Ferdinand shd be replaced as he is getting too old for the team n is one of the main culprits for letting in goals at the back... To be assured of winning the league n be crowned champions, the team concerned must hv good attackers as well as good solid defenders...

If ur strikers keep on putting in the goals in the opponent's half and ur defenders do not allow in any goals in ur own half, ur team wil definitely win..letting in a goal or two once in a bluemoon is o.k though...The United team during Eric Cantona's time was something like dat n they became league champions for quite a no of years...Anw i m truly glad the Red Devils won last nite's game against such a strong rival as Chelsea ! :)...though i could not stay up late to the middle of the nite to watch tis great match...Yes, glory, glory !..Manchester United ! :) ..but Fergie beta wake up n buck up fast !

VoltaRedonda

30-10-2012, 08:13 AM

jackpot in your predictions! u guys are spot on (although chicharito came on as a sub)! :D

we must be doing something right, especially our attacking play, that even the "fools" are talking about our win in their thread! sour grapes perhaps? hahaha. :)

glory glory man utd! :D

Yea bro wa damn heng and my heart will beating throughout the game!!! Heheh looking forward to wednesday night capitol one cup tie against Chelsea again ... Hopefully our youngsters will do us proud!!! Yea rickey bro I do admit we concede too much too easily but now we are delivering the important 3 points more than goal difference.... Guess we dun need the goal difference for now.... Hmm we won @ Newcastle @Liverpool and @Chelsea... that itself is huge :p

richie_rich

30-10-2012, 12:53 PM

we must be doing something right, especially our attacking play, that even the "fools" are talking about our win in their thread! sour grapes perhaps? hahaha.

glory glory man utd! :D

Those fools only know how to blame others. If they are honest, they would be the 1st to admit that Suarez should have already been sent off for that atrocious tackle on Distin.

Anyway, why are we talking about those fools here? They are not even a threat anymore - read : they are not a big 4 club anymore. :)

Missile sir and VR... We did good 1st half, and Chelskis reacted to be on par after. Truth be told, we got away with murder as Torres red card surprised many. Being selfish, we shd have knocked in some more after they down to 9:p We'll take it, now -1pt behind and blxxdy moneyed egos of neighbour chasing down our necks:p

It was an important win, albeit with loads of luck. We started off very well. That was what Sir Alex wanted I guess after falling behind 6 times from the earlier 8 games. Chelski at their own turf are more than a match for any team. The 3 playing behind Torres are more than capable of wrecking havoc (they won 4-2 at Spurs last week).

United need to tighten up and not depend on the forwards to score more than we let in (although that would make an interesting game to watch. Haha)

City will definitely strengthen their squad come January. What I fear is that they are knocked out of the Champs League early. Then they would not have any distractions and would be focused on defending the BPL title.

yinyang

31-10-2012, 12:52 PM

What will it be tomorrow morning? 2nd liner teams for both sides?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20053672

And Rooney'sin for prestigious award

http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/20140253

mr_missile

01-11-2012, 12:48 PM

Chelsea edge cup thriller

Chelsea came from behind to reach the last eight of the Capital One Cup with a pulsating 5-4 extra-time victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.

Just four days after suffering their first Premier League defeat of the season at the hands of the same opposition - when the Reds edged a five-goal thriller - the Blues enjoyed a measure of revenge following another goalfest in west London.

However, the Blues had to come from behind three times and needed a last-gasp Eden Hazard penalty to take the match into overtime.

United were gifted an opening goal on 21 minutes when Oriol Romeu was robbed by Anderson who set up Ryan Giggs to fire a low curling left foot strike beyond the reach of keeper Petr Cech.

Yet the Blues were level from the penalty spot eight minutes later: Alexander Buttner tripped Victor Moses and David Luiz smashed the ball into the bottom left-hand corner of the net although keeper Anders Lindegaard managed to get a hand on it.

Javier Hernandez was at his predatory best to fire United back in front two minutes before half-time.

After Anderson pounced on a Luiz mistake, the Brazilian spotted Hernandez who raced clear of the home defence before slipping the ball past an advancing Cech.

Chelsea were level for a second time seven minutes after the break when Juan Mata's corner was crisply headed home by Gary Cahill.

However, Nani superbly chipped United back in front just before the hour mark after playing a quick one-two with Anderson - who collected his third assist of the night.

And with 93 minutes on the clock, a clumsy Scott Wootton bundled over Ramires in the box and Hazard cooly slotted home Chelsea's second penalty of the evening to take the tie into extra-time.

Wooton was also at fault when Chelsea went ahead for the first time just seven minutes into extra-time.

The youngster's weak mis-directed header back to his keeper was gratefully gobbled up by Daniel Sturridge who made amends for his previous misses to fire Chelsea 4-3 ahead.

And four minutes from the end of extra time, Hazard set up Ramires who rounded Lindegaard to slip the ball into an empty net and put Chelsea 5-3 ahead.

There was still time for Giggs to score the ninth goal of the evening from the penalty spot, following a foul by Cesar Azpilicueta on Hernandez in the 119th minute, yet it came too late to save the visitors as the Blues made it through to the quarter-finals of a competition they used to call the League Cup.

yinyang

01-11-2012, 01:49 PM

mr_missile

01-11-2012, 02:02 PM

Kns, we were cruising home until that teenager sub W fella gave away penalty in LAST 4th minute injury time:(. And another gift goal by another teen defender. But no no shame with 2nd liner away in SB, and sco line at least says AET. Even if it's mickey mouse cup

yes bro. sir alex made a whopping 10 changes to the side that beat chelski on sunday. the only player to retain his place last night was rafael.

chelski made only 4 or 5 changes and retained their "big" guns hazard, mata and ramirez.

and yes, butner gave away the 1st penalty and wooten gave away the injury time penalty for chelski to draw level 3-3 at 90 mins. but got to give credit to our "reserves" for putting up a good fight at stamford bridge even though it is just the mickey mouse cup. :)

VoltaRedonda

01-11-2012, 03:24 PM

I dunno why chelsea celebrated so hard haha... After substituting 3 players during the 2nd half... Chelsea had 9 players who are from the 1st team that lost against us in the previous fixture... We only had rafael, welbeck and chicharito.... Well hope michael keane and scott wootton learn from this experience as their inexperience cost us the game... Lets look forward to the fixture against arsenal this weekend and show them what our first team can do!!!!!!:D

kiko

02-11-2012, 11:22 AM

Tomorrow Big Game Man Utd vs Arsenal.

I will take Man Utd 3 Arsenal 0.

Go Spore Pool buy , Man Utd will win.:D

VoltaRedonda

02-11-2012, 12:43 PM

Tomorrow Big Game Man Utd vs Arsenal.

I will take Man Utd 3 Arsenal 0.

Go Spore Pool buy , Man Utd will win.:D

Cant help but agree with you :D , if Man Utd defence dun leak in any goals would be better because I know Man Utd will always score.

mr_missile

02-11-2012, 05:28 PM

Tomorrow Big Game Man Utd vs Arsenal.

I will take Man Utd 3 Arsenal 0.

Go Spore Pool buy , Man Utd will win.:D

wah, 3 kosong. very confident! will take united to win. but maybe 3-2? :p

rvp to score against his former club? ;)

mr_missile

02-11-2012, 05:32 PM

Wenger: Don't abuse van Persie

Arsene Wenger has stressed Arsenal fans must not disrespect the efforts of their club by abusing Robin van Persie at Manchester United.

The Gunners are likely to come up against their former skipper for the first time since his £24million summer transfer to Old Trafford.

Wenger believes goading Van Persie from the terraces would serve no purpose - especially in the current climate where all clubs campaign against discrimination of any kind.

"We cannot promote respect and then say 'look it is respectful on Saturday'," the Arsenal manager said.

"I hope it (reception) is a respectful one because he has played for us for eight years, and he has done very well for us.

"We campaign against discrimination, it was still the case last week so why should it not be the case this week?"

Wenger, though, maintained Arsenal must not worry about just trying to put one over their former skipper on Saturday.

He added: "For us, what is important is the result at the end of the game, and the quality of our performance. We do not even talk about him."

Van Persie netted a total of 132 Arsenal goals - 37 of which came last season to help secure third place in the Premier League.

The Holland forward, 29, has certainly come a long way since Wenger brought him to the club as a raw, temperamental talent from Feyenoord in 2004.

Much of that is down to the guidance of the Gunners boss.

"You would think that one of the parts of my job is to have a positive influence on people's (lives) as a player. When you manage to do that, you are always kind of satisfied," said Wenger.

"You want to try and have a positive influence on people you cross in your life. I think my influence was not too bad."

Van Persie, who turned down a lucrative offer from champions Manchester City, has settled quickly into his new side, scoring seven Premier League goals already.

Wenger said: "I am not surprised by how well he is doing.

"In Manchester United, you have good players around him, and Robin is very intelligent around the box, his runs are fantastic and his technique is absolutely amazing.

"There are a lot of players in offensive positions, so with his intelligent runs, of course he will take advantage of that.

"Robin is certainly the most efficient striker."

Arsenal head to Schalke for a Champions League tie on Tuesday night, so Wenger will take that into consideration ahead of Saturday's trip back to the stadium in which they were thumped 8-2 last August.

Winger Gervinho is expected to be out for around three weeks with an ankle problem, while goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, full-back Kieran Gibbs and midfielder Abou Diaby remain unavailable.

England forward Theo Walcott netted a hat-trick in the amazing Capital One Cup comeback at Reading in midweek, but after completing the whole of extra-time may be on the bench again.

"I will see how he recovers," said Wenger, who is ever hopeful a new contract can be agreed with Walcott.

"We play again in Schalke on Tuesday, so I will consider the global situation - some players will be available maybe more for Tuesday than Saturday."

dc7176

03-11-2012, 11:05 PM

Van Persie nets in United cruise

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/design05/images/2012/1103/manchesterunited'srobinvanpersie_640x360.jpg

Robin van Persie struck inside three minutes against his former club as Manchester United eased to a comfortable 2-1 victory over 10-man Arsenal at Old Trafford.

The prolific Dutchman was taunted throughout by visiting fans but reminded them of his talents in the opening moments in a Barclays Premier League contest United dominated from the outset.

Wayne Rooney missed United's fourth penalty of the season but Patrice Evra added a second and Arsenal's misery was compounded by the sending off Jack Wilshere before Santi Cazorla hit an injury-time consolation.

England midfielder Wilshere had been making only his second appearance for the Gunners after a 14-month injury lay-off.

United were superior in almost every department against a side they fought out a bitter rivalry with in the last decade.

The sight of Van Persie in their ranks will have hurt, and the Arsenal fans made clear from the moment his name was first read out what they now thought of their former hero.

Van Persie's eight year stint in north London culminated in last season's magnificent 37-goal campaign but he was cheered when he slipped in the opening minute.

But the 29-year-old needed little time to remind the Gunners of what they lost when he left the Emirates Stadium in a £24 million move over the summer.

Arsenal's defensive frailties were again in evidence as United swept forward and Antonio Valencia bypassed Andre Santos by releasing Rafael down the right with a deft backheel.

The Brazilian whipped in an awkward low cross which caught Thomas Vermaelen off balance and his attempted clearance rolled straight to Van Persie, who fired past Vito Mannone from inside the box.

It was his 10th goal for United in 13 games but he avoided antagonising Arsenal supporters further by deciding not to celebrate.

Conceding so early may have led to some anxiety in the Arsenal camp after their 8-2 capitulation in the corresponding fixture last season.

United may not have threatened a repeat of that scoreline but they continued to control the game and the best response the visitors could initially muster was a wayward long-range drive from Santos.

That was a rare moment of opportunity for Santos, who found himself under considerable pressure at left-back.

United may have seemed content to build a patient game but attacking Santos' flank seemed a fruitful avenue for the hosts, with Valencia troubling the Portuguese at every opportunity.

Van Persie went close again as he raced onto a defence-slitting pass by Rooney but Mannone saved well.

Arsenal did show some positive intent with Aaron Ramsey, the only starting member of their side who played in last year's thrashing, reaching the byline but David de Gea pushed away his cross.

Valencia predictably beat Santos to cross and Michael Carrick clipped the ball to Rooney after Bacary Sagna had half-cleared.

Rooney steadied himself to shoot but Mannone produced another good save and Van Persie headed straight at the goalkeeper after the ball was worked back in.

United could have doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time after Cazorla handled an Ashley Young cross at point-blank range just inside the box.

The Spaniard felt the award was harsh and he could argue he was protecting his face but it did not matter as Rooney dragged the resulting spot-kick wide.

Another goal might have been the least United deserved for their first half superiority but it was a reminder of their early season deficiencies from 12 yards.

Questions will certainly be asked as to why the in-form Van Persie did not take the responsibility.

United were close to doubling their lead again after another Vermaelen error early in the second half allowed Van Persie to break but Valencia could not turn in his low ball.

Carrick then shot wide from distance after a shot by Rafael was half-cleared as far as the England midfielder.

Arsenal continued to lack a spark but Olivier Giroud almost provided one after a neat touch beat Rio Ferdinand and gave him a shooting chance but he could only hit the side-netting from a tight angle.

Van Persie was booked after a late challenge on Sagna but was back in more familiar position just after the hour as he was picked out by a fine cross by Ashley Young, but Mannone got a vital hand to his low shot.

Arsenal could not hold out much longer and from a short corner routine Rooney crossed for Evra and the Frenchman planted a firm header inside the post.

The Gunners' agonies grew as Wilshere, booked in the first half and fortunate to escape a second yellow card for a bad tackle on Van Persie, was penalised for one bad tackle too many, this time on Evra, and saw red.

Van Persie and substitute Anderson both thought they had added a third for United but were both correctly denied by an offside flag.

United played out the closing moments with little alarm until Cazorla netted a fine consolation from the edge of the box with what proved the last kick of the game.

machoman

04-11-2012, 08:53 AM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/21183_10151145333057746_564416384_n.jpg

Again, the defence let 10-men Arsenal score a stoppage time goal.

Really disappointing despite the victory to climb to the top of the table, leapfrogging Chelsea.

mr_missile

05-11-2012, 09:07 AM

Again, the defence let 10-men Arsenal score a stoppage time goal.

Really disappointing despite the victory to climb to the top of the table, leapfrogging Chelsea.

the defence just can't seem to keep the goals at bay. vidic is out for at least another month or so although jones and smalling are near to make their comebacks by this week.

however, i guess the problem our defence have right now is mental. we do not have a "no-nonsense" man to take charge on the pitch to push the players through (think bryan robson and roy keane). the closest we have now is vidic and fletcher and maybe even rooney (i thought he had a fantastic game despite the penalty miss). but all 3 have yet to reach robson's and keane's level of leadership on the field.

but it's great to have the results in our favour over the weekend as both chelski and the noisy neighbours dropped points. :)

mr_missile

05-11-2012, 05:38 PM

United are fired up - Evra

Patrice Evra has warned rivals that Manchester United "are back" after moving to the top of the Barclays Premier League at the weekend.

United may not have been at their most formidable, but back-to-back wins over Chelsea and Arsenal have shown they are a force to be reckoned with.

And Evra thinks things should get even better because the overwhelming feeling after beating Arsenal 2-1 at Old Trafford on Saturday - despite collecting the three points - was one of disappointment at a failure to win more convincingly.

United certainly had the chances after Robin van Persie struck against his old club after just three minutes but it was not until after Evra's 67th-minute header that the scoreline looked comfortable.

But even after Arsenal had Jack Wilshere sent off, United might have faced a nervy finish had Santi Cazorla's injury-time consolation come a little earlier.

Left-back Evra told MUTV: "It has been a terrific week, we are really happy. It is just the expectations are so high.

"You win at Liverpool, at Chelsea and against Arsenal - I don't think we did that last year - and that is why I think the team know we have the potential and the quality to win the league.

"Just why we are not happy is because we should score more goals.

"In the end, it has been a terrific week for Man United, don't get me wrong.

"I think the confidence is really high for everyone in the team and you could see that in the game in the Capital One Cup we lost.

"I feel sorry for them because it was a great effort and in the last second we conceded a penalty - but Manchester United are back."

United hammered Arsenal 8-2 in the corresponding fixture last season and while a repeat of that scoreline would have been harsh on the visitors, they were fortunate to escape further damage.

"That is why it is true some players were feeling in the dressing room like we had lost the game," said Evra, whose efforts helped United produce one of their best defensive displays of the season.

"To only win 2-1 we are a little bit disappointed, not because we don't respect Arsenal but because the expectations are very high."

United turn their attention to the Champions League this week with a trip to Group H rivals Braga.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men came from behind to beat the Portuguese side last month and another positive result would secure their place in the knockout stages.

VoltaRedonda

06-11-2012, 08:44 AM

the defence just can't seem to keep the goals at bay. vidic is out for at least another month or so although jones and smalling are near to make their comebacks by this week.

however, i guess the problem our defence have right now is mental. we do not have a "no-nonsense" man to take charge on the pitch to push the players through (think bryan robson and roy keane). the closest we have now is vidic and fletcher and maybe even rooney (i thought he had a fantastic game despite the penalty miss). but all 3 have yet to reach robson's and keane's level of leadership on the field.

but it's great to have the results in our favour over the weekend as both chelski and the noisy neighbours dropped points. :)

Bro, our lineup is so attacking minded until there is no need to defend :D. I must say though the goals conceded this season are hard to swallow as some are from comical errors and simple mistakes such as leaving ur man unmarked.

I was quite delighted to see that the old man started with my favourite cleverley in midfield with Carrick as god knows what would happen if he had started the Arsenal game with Scholes :eek: . I figure out that the champions league match this wednesday night away to braga would feature the same lineup as the one that played Chelsea in the Capitol One Cup!!! With that being said, Chris Smalling should be back in the first team this week right???

mr_missile

06-11-2012, 01:09 PM

Bro, our lineup is so attacking minded until there is no need to defend :D. I must say though the goals conceded this season are hard to swallow as some are from comical errors and simple mistakes such as leaving ur man unmarked.

I was quite delighted to see that the old man started with my favourite cleverley in midfield with Carrick as god knows what would happen if he had started the Arsenal game with Scholes :eek: . I figure out that the champions league match this wednesday night away to braga would feature the same lineup as the one that played Chelsea in the Capitol One Cup!!! With that being said, Chris Smalling should be back in the first team this week right???

united's lineups have always been attack-minded. that's sir alex's philosophy. united would never put out a team with the intention of parking a bus infront of the goal. ;)

cleverley was a lucky man on saturday. am quite sure he would be sent off like wilshere if sir alex did not take him off.

anderson did a commendable job replacing cleverley. i guess he would feature in the champ league game vs braga. however, i don't see youngsters like wooten and keane playing that game in central defence. sir alex would want to ensure qualification (and top of group) before blooding our young players. :)

yes, smalling and jones could be back in this game or if not, this weekend latest.

Rickey

06-11-2012, 08:48 PM

Again, the defence let 10-men Arsenal score a stoppage time goal.

Really disappointing despite the victory to climb to the top of the table, leapfrogging Chelsea.

When will SAF n the Red Devils ever learn...Seems like they will never learn their lessons...keep on letting in goals at the back almost every match...in fact to every team, big or small, tat plays against them...make their strikers work even harder to win the games...:(..so risky n dangerous, makes the team hang by the thread near the end of each game...sigh...the only thing is tat they r fortunate they hv ladyluck on their side to save them each time...:)..but at the rate they r letting in goals, afraid they might not be able to keep the lead for long..

mr_missile

07-11-2012, 05:03 PM

Braga v Man Utd preview

Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes were missing from United's travelling party for their Champions League Group H clash with Braga.

Fletcher did not take part in the section of training which was open to cameras at Carrington earlier on Tuesday, and while Scholes had been involved in the session, neither was included in the squad list for the trip to Portugal posted on United's website on Tuesday afternoon.

Fellow midfielder Nick Powell appeared to have sat out on Tuesday morning but was included in the list, along with defender Chris Smalling, who has been making progress in training in his rehabilitation from a broken metatarsal and may be in line for his first appearance of the season in Wednesday's game.

Phil Jones (back and knee), Nemanja Vidic and Shinji Kagawa (both knee) all miss out.

mr_missile

07-11-2012, 05:06 PM

Ferguson, Mata claim awards

Sir Alex Ferguson and Juan Mata have been named Premier League manager and player of the month for October.

Manchester United scored 10 goals in victories over Newcastle, Stoke and Chelsea - earning Ferguson the award on the 26th anniversary of his appointment.

The Scot has now won 27 monthly honours since the Premier League was inaugurated, and he told Sky Sports News: "I'm pleased with our attacking play, that's been a feature of our game.

"We've had an issue about defending, but in Saturday's win against Arsenal we were back to what I expect of Manchester United defenders."

Chelsea's attacking midfielder Mata, meanwhile, took a first individual award in England after scoring three league goals during October.

machoman

08-11-2012, 11:47 AM

A statue of Sir Alex Ferguson is set to be unveiled at Old Trafford in November, Manchester United have announced.

http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2012/1102/manchesterunitedmanageralexferguson_275x155.jpg

GettyImages

Sir Alex Ferguson will be honoured by Manchester United later this month

Ferguson joined United exactly 26 years ago, and will be honoured with the work by sculptor Philip Jackson, to be revealed on November 23. He has since guided the club to 12 Premier League titles, five FA Cups and two Champions League triumphs.

"It will be placed in a prominent position near the entrance to the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand - formerly the North Stand which was renamed in his honour last year.

"The club will also be unveiling new artwork and installations in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand concourses which will illustrate the manager's achievements throughout his United career," a club statement read

machoman

08-11-2012, 11:56 AM

Late United comeback wins first place in Group H

Published: Wednesday 7 November 2012, 22.52CET

SC Braga 1-3 Manchester United FC

by Paul Bryan
from Estádio Municipal de Braga

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/Comp_Matches/01/88/89/62/1888962_w2.jpg

Alan's penalty looked to have earned a famous win but late goals from Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernández took the visitors through.

For the second match running, Manchester United FC came from behind to overcome SC Braga, goals in the last ten minutes from Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernández securing a victory that assured the three-time European champions of first place in Group H.

The Red Devils found themselves two goals down to Alan's double at Old Trafford in the corresponding fixture a fortnight ago, mounting a stirring comeback to eventually prevail 3-2. There was more of the same here, Alan firing the Portuguese side in front from the penalty spot early in the second half but, just as Braga began dreaming of three welcome points, Van Persie rose from the bench to bring United level. Rooney's spot kick completed the turnaround, with Hernández forcing in a late third to rubber-stamp United's ticket for the UEFA Champions League's last 16 with two games to spare.

Prior to the first meeting between these clubs at the Estádio Municipal de Braga, Arsenalistas coach José Peseiro said his team would attack their opponents as they sought a similar start to the reverse fixture at Old Trafford, where they scored twice in the first 20 minutes. Braga duly began strongly with the threatening Éder rifling wide of David de Gea's upright after latching onto Douglão's pass. Rúben Micael's subsequent run and shot kept United on the back foot.

Attempting to extend an impressive home record of four victories without conceding against English sides in the last five years, Braga went closer still to the breakthrough in the 22nd minute. Éder met Hugo Viana's centre with a diving header that struck the base of De Gea's right upright before bouncing to safety.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men boasted their own impressive run on Portuguese soil having lost just twice in eleven visits but the Premier League leaders were largely frustrated in an opening period in which they failed to create a clear-cut chance. Those niggling worries multiplied four minutes into the second half when Jonny Evans felled Custódio inside the area, Alan smashing his penalty past De Gea.

After a 12-minute break when the lights went out, the 2011 UEFA Europa League finalists went in search of more and, under pouring rain, De Gea had to leap to palm out Nuno André Coelho's bending free-kick. United responded by bringing on Van Persie and the move paid dividends in the 80th minute, the Dutch international racing onto Anderson's pass on the left and lifting the ball over the advancing Beto with the goalkeeper caught out of position.

That sparked a momentum shift and, with United now pressing, Coelho caught Rooney as the United forward latched onto a loose ball inside the box; the No10 picked himself up to send Beto the wrong way from the spot. Worse was to follow for Braga as Hernández made it three from close range in added time, giving United an eight-point lead at the top of the standings and leaving their opponents down in fourth position.

mr_missile

08-11-2012, 01:52 PM

Late United comeback wins first place in Group H

glory glory man utd. guaranteed 1st place in group h with 2 games to spare. fergie's fledgings will definitely feature in them now that we are out of the capital cup. :)

i have a very conflicting feeling after this week's champ league ties......happy that we are thru to the knock-out phase and happy that our noisy neighbour's champ league progress are hanging by a thin thread. yet i feel apprehension as if just like last season where city got knocked out after the group stage, they will have not much distraction (no disrespect to the FA cup) to defend the premier league title.

united will thus have a much tougher run to wrest the title back from them.

VoltaRedonda

09-11-2012, 09:07 AM

Finally I am happy to see that we can field our youngsters for the last two Champions League matches especially the match away to Galatasaray. The match against Braga showed again that Rooney is able to form a good partnership with RVP and Smalling is still abit rusty after being out for so long. I am sure Man City will go all out in the last two games of the Champions League as it is an embarassment to go out in the 1st stage having a squad so strong and deep as theirs :rolleyes:. Hmm looking forward to the away game to Villa this saturday and seeing us win without conceding first :D.

mr_missile

09-11-2012, 02:44 PM

I am sure Man City will go all out in the last two games of the Champions League as it is an embarassment to go out in the 1st stage having a squad so strong and deep as theirs :rolleyes:. Hmm looking forward to the away game to Villa this saturday and seeing us win without conceding first :D.

yup. city, or at least mancini, will be under tremendous pressure for the next 2 champ league games where they will have to win both to stand a chance of going through to the next round.

i forgot that if they fail to make it thru (again), they will probably end up in the europa league where the 2nd tier teams (read : the fools :D) play on thurs evenings. this is really not a bad thing (for us that is) as their playing schedules would be severly disrupted. :D

Rickey

11-11-2012, 09:14 AM

Again, the defence let 10-men Arsenal score a stoppage time goal.

Really disappointing despite the victory to climb to the top of the table, leapfrogging Chelsea.

The defence again let in another 2 goals last nite :(.. sigh...against such a weak team as Aston Villa...How n when are they going to solve their problems at the back...to make sure they win the EPL and the European Championship :confused:...but all thanks to their well known strikers like Rooney, Hernandez n their new talisman RVP, they were able to make a comeback n win their last few matches...:)

machoman

11-11-2012, 08:31 PM

http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/542605_532254313470458_145732460_n.jpg

machoman

12-11-2012, 08:45 AM

First Published: Saturday 10 November 2012

Ferguson delighted by 'tenacious' United fightback

United manager lauds side after rally at Aston Villa takes his side four points clear at the top

http://www.premierleague.com/content/dam/premierleague/site-content/News/2012-13/news/AVL-MUN-Hernandez-goal-m.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.490.338.margin.png

Javier Hernandez scores Manchester United's equaliser in off Aston Villa's Ron Vlaar

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with his side's battling spirit after they fought back from a two-goal deficit to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory against Aston Villa.

"I admire the tenacity of the performance, though. When they need to do it, they do it"

Sir Alex Ferguson

Goals in each half by Villa's Andreas Weimann looked to have set up a shock defeat for the Barclays Premier League leaders, but two goals by substitute Javier Hernandez either side of a shot by the Mexico international that deflected in off Ron Vlaar completed another dramatic United comeback win.

"It was a magnificent result and a magnificent game," said Ferguson, whose side have moved four points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League. "Villa did fantastic today, they ran their socks off. We have to feel for them but we never gave in.

"We hit the bar twice but it was after the second goal we came alive, and it was a fantastic game.

"I was disappointed to go behind like that, but I started to think about (how) if we got a goal we would have a chance, and we did.

"We did put pressure on ourselves today but we came through it. The lesson is we need to do better defensively. I admire the tenacity of the performance, though. When they need to do it, they do it."

Defeat leaves Villa just one place above the bottom three and with two wins to their name this season, but manager Paul Lambert refused to lay the blame with his players, despite them letting slip a two-goal advantage today.

"We gave it absolutely everything, we were brilliant," he said. "I can't fault the team. We've got lots of young lads in the team and they were great. I can't ask for any more from them."

VoltaRedonda

12-11-2012, 10:27 AM

Checked out manutd.com and heard the good news that phil jones will be available after the game @norwich this week. Hope that will solve our defensive lapses, hey at least the neutrals are saying we are an exciting team to watch!!! We scored 29 goals in 11 games which means its almost 3 goals a game hahaha. The only bad news is that rooney is injured :(.

dc7176

14-11-2012, 09:57 AM

Man Utd, Man City head-to-head for new English wonderkid Zaha

Manchester United and Manchester City have joined the battle for Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha.

The Manchester Evening News says Zaha has been on Sir Alex Ferguson’s radar ever since his sensational performance inspired Palace to a shock Carling Cup victory over United last November.

As a two-footed winger he is seen as a potential replacement for Nani if the Portuguese international is allowed to leave Old Trafford.

Ferguson is also considering Porto’s £40m-rated James Rodriguez, but Zaha would represent a much cheaper alternative.

The England under-21 star could be available for around £15m.

That would also interest Roberto Mancini, with City already signing rising English talents Jack Rodwell and Scott Sinclair in the summer.

mr_missile

16-11-2012, 01:28 PM

As a two-footed winger he is seen as a potential replacement for Nani if the Portuguese international is allowed to leave Old Trafford.

Ferguson is also considering Porto’s £40m-rated James Rodriguez, but Zaha would represent a much cheaper alternative.

the end is near for nani......he is at the moment really just a squad player.

richie_rich

20-11-2012, 02:28 PM

United played way below par against Norwich. It was really a very disappointing performance. And coupled with Man City's thrashing of Villa in earlier game. What a lousy weekend. :(

mr_missile

28-11-2012, 05:45 PM

UNITED TRACK STROOTMAN

Manchester United could be set to solve their midfield problems with a move for Dutch international Kevin Strootman.

The PSV midfielder was first linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer, and his agent has talked up United's interest ahead of the January transfer window.

Chiel Dekker, who has quite a magnificent name, told SHOUTsport: "All the top clubs in Europe know about Kevin, but a move to England next summer is his first priority and, yes, Manchester United and other big clubs in Europe have been in touch with me."

mr_missile

29-11-2012, 05:46 PM

Fergie predicts tight title fight

Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted another long and tight title race following Manchester United's narrow win over West Ham on Wednesday night.

Robin van Persie scored the only goal after just 33 seconds, his 14th of the season, which proved enough to keep the Red Devils ahead of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

It was not pretty, though, and Carlton Cole could easily have snatched a point in the latter stages.

"We got a great start," said Ferguson.

"You hope to go on from a start like that and some of our football was very good but we never quite finished them off.

"We have played with the diamond quite a few times this season and done very well so I don't think that is an excuse.

"But we have got the three points and are still ahead in the league.

"With Chelsea drawing it draws us away from them a little bit further.

"But of course, (Manchester) City are on our tails so it is going to be a long season."

While not exactly unfortunate, with a little bit more composure West Ham could easily have gained a share of the spoils.

But, as Sam Allardyce pointed out, in players like Van Persie, United have extra class.

"Manchester United have lots of players who will have good spells and can come up trumps when they need them to," said Allardyce.

"Robin van Persie is a quality player and we have largely kept him quiet.

"But he will score 20 goals for Manchester United, maybe 30. In the end that is normally the difference.

"What chances did Manchester United create? None really. We went right to the very end but couldn't quite make it.

"Whether they played to their potential or not doesn't matter does it? They still won. They have a nasty habit of doing that."

VoltaRedonda

30-11-2012, 08:21 AM

Ferguson tinkering with the formation again. Playing with no wingers against West Ham, I could see that we attacked alot but definitely our defence is still frail :mad:. Do we need vidic?? Or do we just need Phil Jones and Chris Smalling getting their form back???

VoltaRedonda

01-12-2012, 02:00 PM

Reading vs Manchester United 1.30am tonight

Hopefully no replay of the norwich game in this fixture. Lets get Carrick, Cleverley and Anderson in the midfield and we should win this a little comfortably :D. Although there is a strong feeling that Nani will leave this January, hopefully he can play and prove to us that his heart is still in Manchester, no more being consistently inconsistent!!!

GGMU :D

machoman

02-12-2012, 09:03 AM

1 December 2012

By Phil Dawkes
BBC Sport

Manchester United remain top of the Premier League after beating Reading in a remarkable seven-goal thriller.

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/64508000/jpg/_64508485_hi016642413.jpg

United fell behind when Hal Robson-Kanu lashed in but hit back via Anderson's finish and a Wayne Rooney penalty.

The Royals reclaimed the lead when Adam Le Fondre and Sean Morrison both headed in from corners.

The visitors swung the game their way through neat finishes from Rooney and Robin van Persie, who also had a shot that crossed the line not given.

United came into the game knowing a point would be enough to return them to the top of the Premier League table.

Ferguson's men had been boosted by the results of Saturday's earlier games. Manchester City only drew 1-1 at home against Everton, while Chelsea were beaten 3-1 at West Ham.

That the Red Devils extended their lead over their title rivals tells only half the story of a phenomenal game of football.

The Madejski Stadium has already hosted its share of see-saw goalfests this season and provides more questions than answers about the overall quality of this United side.

The first half alone was an epic, showcasing seven legitimate goals, another wrongly adjudged not to have crossed the line, appalling defending that warranted a pre-half time tactical substitution and the kind of end-to-end football used to justify the Premier League's unofficial reputation as the best league in the world.

Reading may not be taking any points but they deserve their share of the plaudits for a committed contribution to a game from which any reward would have been a bonus in their quest to extend their top-flight stay to a second season.

The most notable examples of defensive frailty came from the title challengers, who fell behind to the first goal for the 14th time this season - when Jonny Evans's poor clearing header allowed Robson-Kanu time and space to lash in from close range - and then conspired to fall behind again midway through the half when identical Nicky Shorey corners were headed home in the box by Le Fondre and Morrison respectively.

Full-back Rafael was taken out of the action to be replaced by Chris Smalling, but in truth any one of the back five could have suffered the Brazilian's fate.

That United were not facing an uphill battle of the sort that endured Arsenal in the Capital One Cup owes purely to their potency at the other end of the field, where they retain the ability to carve teams open seemingly at will.

A slick one-two between Anderson and Ashley Young and a superb near-post finish from the Brazilian, followed by a calmly-converted penalty from Rooney after Jonny Evans was bundled over by Jay Tabb, overturned the Royals' first goal.

And Rooney's neat side-footed goal from a Patrice Evra cross, just before Van Persie's own tidy finish following a flick from his strike-partner, ensured they led at the break.

United should have had a fifth as well prior to the 45th minute when Van Persie's shot from close range crossed the line before being cleared by Shaun Cummings, but the officials ruled otherwise.

After a first half like that, the second was always likely to be a relative disappointment and so it proved with far fewer chances.

Van Persie spurned the best of them when he nipped in to capitalise on a poor piece of control by home keeper Adam Federici but after buying himself a yard to shoot the Dutchman unbelievably put his effort over the bar.The miss ensured anxious closing stages for United but they demonstrated a resolve they had so sorely lacked earlier in the game to repel Reading's increasingly desperate attacks.

With Chelsea and West Brom both losing on Saturday it means the gap between second and third is now seven points, doing little to quash suggestions that this season is already shaping into a two-horse race between United and City.

Ferguson's side have their noses in front but the flaws inherent in their display at the Madejski means they have a lot of work to do before they can consider themselves favourites.

Reading manager Brian McDermott: "It was a fantastic effort and quality as well. I'm so proud of our players today.

"We know what our agenda is for this season. There is no problem with confidence from our players.

"I think we are becoming people's second team in the Premier League. We want our results to match our performance and hopefully that will come. Hopefully it is good to watch for our fans."

Reading
3
Robson-Kanu 8′Le Fondre 19′Morrison 23′

Man Utd
4
Anderson 13′Rooney 16′ (pen), 30′Van Persie 34′

First-half flurry

This match equalled the record for most first-half goals scored in a Premier League match. The only other games to feature seven goals before the break were Blackburn v Leeds (Sep 1997) and Derby v Bradford (Apr 2000).

Rickey

02-12-2012, 06:30 PM

mr_missile

19-12-2012, 09:31 AM

1) Rooney warns against leaky defence...

2) Ferguson hits out at MU defending....

Those 2 statements by the MU manager n senior player speaks for themselves abt the troubles facing this team trying to win back the league championship frm their 'noisy' blue neighbours...imagine letting in so many goals against lowly relegation teams like QPR n last nite Reading...This is their achiles heel, their perennial problem, the same problem tat plagued them last season n cause them to lose the league title..

Imho, not much use talking abt their problem week after week...action (doing something positive abt it ) is beta than a thousand words !..to fix their problem once n for all...

agreed bro. our defence this season is not up to the usual high standards of the past where we had vidic and ferdinand in their prime playing together game after game.

last season and again this season, the injuries to vidic, jones and smalling have depleted the defence such that even carrick had to play a central defensive role at times.

thank goodness we have a superb strike force of rvp, rooney, chicharito, (and to a much lesser extent) wellback where we have scored impressive away wins at chelski, pool and of cos the "6 pointer" over city at their own backyard. we also beat arsenal at home too.

these wins over chelski, city and arsenal will surely put us in good stead come the 2nd half of the season. last season we didn't manage to win most of our games against the other top 4 teams and i believe that ultimately cost us the title.

mr_missile

21-12-2012, 09:16 AM

United to face Mourinho's men

Manchester United will face Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid in a mouth-watering Champions League last-16 showdown - Celtic are playing Italian champions Juventus and Arsenal will take on last season's runners-up Bayern Munich.

United's clash with Real - which will see Cristiano Ronaldo face his former team - was the pick of the ties, and Sir Alex Ferguson's men have the advantage of playing away first.

Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for United, but it was another Ronaldo - the Brazilian striker - who took the honours when the clubs last faced each other in 2003.

He scored a hat-trick at Old Trafford as Real went through 6-5 on aggregate.

Cristiano Ronaldo's last match for United was in the Champions League final defeat by Barcelona, after which he moved to Madrid for a world record £80m transfer.

United will play the first leg at the Bernabeu on February 13 with the return

at Old Trafford on March 5.

Arsenal and Celtic, who were group runners-up, will both play their second legs away.

Arsenal will play the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 19 and the second at the Allianz Arena in Munich on March 13.

Celtic will take on Juventus at Celtic Park on February 12, with the return leg in Turin on March 6.

Barcelona, the bookies' favourites, will take on seven-time winners AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund, who many pundits are tipping to win the competition this season, will face the improving Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk.

Turkish champions Galatasaray will face Schalke, Valencia face Zlatan Ibrahimovic's PSG and Porto take on unfancied Malaga.

Galatasaray v Schalke 04

Celtic v Juventus

Arsenal v Bayern Munich

Shakhtar Donetsk v Borussia Dortmund

AC Milan v Barcelona

Real Madrid v Man Utd

Valencia v PSG

FC Porto v Malaga

First legs to be played 12/13/19/20th February, 2013

Second legs to be played 5/6/12/13th March, 2013

VoltaRedonda

21-12-2012, 09:22 AM

Bro, It just had to be written in the stars right that we have to meet Real Madrid. Real Madrid is currently having their worst form right now but when they meet us they will bring their A game :mad:

mr_missile

21-12-2012, 01:19 PM

Bro, It just had to be written in the stars right that we have to meet Real Madrid. Real Madrid is currently having their worst form right now but when they meet us they will bring their A game :mad:

it is the knock-out phase of the CL. every team will be hard to beat. the form teams right now has got to be juve, dortmund, malaga and of cos barca. but come feb when the games are played, who knows?

the real game will be a hard-fought one and i pray that our united will emerge victorious over the 2 legs. just have to restrict our old boy ronaldo and half the battle will be won.

mourinho, if he wants the old trafford hot seat when saf retires, will have to proof his mettle then.

but i believe united will put up more than a good fight. looking forward to this game! :)

mr_missile

24-12-2012, 09:15 AM

United held by brave Swansea

Manchester United were held to their first draw of the season as Swansea held on in a 1-1 stalemate in the Premier League at the Liberty Stadium.

Patrice Evra gave United an early lead, but Michu drew Swansea level before the half hour mark with his 13th goal of the campaign.

United dominated the second half and twice hit the crossbar, but Swansea defended brilliantly to pick up a share of the spoils.

After a bright start from Swansea it was United who created the first noteworthy effort of the game on 13 minutes when Wayne Rooney saw his swerving shot kept out by a smart save from Michel Vorm.

Vorm came to Swansea's rescue again a minute later when he produced a smart reaction save to keep out Ashley Young's shot inside the box after Carrick played the winger in on goal with a fine pass.

United made the breakthrough on 16 minutes with Evra heading home his third Premier League goal of the season after rising highest to meet Robin van Persie's whipped in corner with the ball going in off the far post past Leon Britton on the line.

Swansea came roaring back into the game and they drew level just before the hour mark with Michu netting his 13th goal of the season.

Wayne Routledge slipped in Jonathan de Guzman inside the box and his shot across goal could only be palmed out by David de Gea to the grateful Michu who tapped home the rebound from close-range.

United had a great chance to restore their lead just before the break when Evra got in down the left and pulled the back for the unmarked Rooney 12 yards from goal, but the England man could only fire his shot straight at Vorm.

Swansea started the brighter of the two sides at the start of the second half and De Gea was twice called into the action to keep out efforts from Kemy Agustien and Wayne Routledge.

Ashley Williams produced a superb block to deny Young inside the box after van Persie teed up the winger for a shot on goal.

The visitors were beginning to turn the screw and United were inches away from restoring their lead on 67 minutes when out of nothing van Persie saw his instinctive volley from Rooney's cross loop onto the crossbar.

Things threatened to boil over 16 minutes from time when Williams and van Persie were both booked after a melee involving the pair when after being fouled Williams drilled the ball into the Dutchman's head while he was on the ground.

United struck the cross bar for a second time on 78 minutes when Carrick got on the end of van Persie's corner and was unlucky to see his effort come back off the woodwork.

Swansea were defending in numbers and Williams and Davies produced vital blocks inside the box to deny van Persie and Young respectively as United piled on the pressure.

United threw everything at Swansea in the closing stages, but they could not find a way past as they had to settle for a point to move four points clear at the top of the table.

mr_missile

26-12-2012, 09:30 AM

Ferguson likens RvP to Cantona

Robin van Persie's influence at Manchester United can be compared to the striking transformation brought by the signing of Eric Cantona, according to manager Alex Ferguson.

The former Arsenal talisman has scored 15 goals since signing for United, drawing similarities with Frenchman Cantona, whose arrival at Old Trafford was the catalyst in which they claimed the league title for the first time in 26 years.

In the programme for Wednesday's home game against Newcastle United, Ferguson said: "I reckon here at Manchester United we got our Christmas present early - right at the start of the season in fact when Robin van Persie arrived at Old Trafford.

"I am reluctant to subscribe to the cult of an individual because I firmly believe the essence of a successful football team depends on teamwork, and neither are we a one-man team, but sometimes there really is a situation where you are lucky enough to find the last piece of the jigsaw."

Cantona was signed from Leeds United for £1.2million in 1992, with Ferguson's side lagging in eighth place, but he galvanised the team who went on to win the 1993 title by ten points- the first of Ferguson's 12 Premier League crowns.

"We did it when we brought Eric Cantona to Old Trafford where he proved to be the right player at the right club at the right time," Ferguson said.

"He became the catalyst and springboard for our surge to success.

"It doesn't have to be signing someone for a record fee. Cristiano Ronaldo was not a record buy either but he certainly made a difference as he prospered with us to the extent that he came to be regarded by a lot of people as the world's best player."

mr_missile

27-12-2012, 08:21 AM

Hernandez settles thriller

Javier Hernandez snatched victory for Manchester United in a pulsating and controversial 4-3 Premier League victory over Newcastle at Old Trafford in which Alan Pardew's side led on three occasions.

The Red Devils looked as though they would have to settle for a point at best but struck at the start of added time as the Mexico striker applied the finishing touch to Jonny Evans' cross to spark jubilation from a previously furious Sir Alex Ferguson as his side moved seven points clear of Manchester City following their shock 1-0 defeat at Sunderland.

Newcastle made a dream start as they were gifted the lead with only four minutes on the clock. Michael Carrick failed to control the ball in midfield with Demba Ba advancing towards the United box before unleashing a low shot which David De Gea could only push into the path of the grateful James Perch to tap home.

United were back on terms in the 25th minute when Evans applied the finishing touch at the right end from close range after Tim Krul could only half block Javier Hernandez's low shot following a Van Persie free-kick which caused confusion in the visiting defence.

But the moment of controversy arrived soon after with Danny Simpson's low shot from the right corner of box turned home by sliding Evans. Assistant referee Jake Collin's flag went up for offside against Cisse, but Dean eventually gave the goal as he correctly ruled the Newcastle striker had not touched the ball.

It was the right decision from the official, but sparked fury among the home players and supporters, while Ferguson sat with a face like thunder in the Old Trafford dug-out, chewing furiously in the pouring rain, with his stewing anger unleashed as the teams emerged at the start of the second half, an incident the Football Association are sure to take an interest in.

Newcastle were inches away from taking a 3-1 lead before the interval as Sylvain Marveaux picked himself up after having his heels clipped by Hernandez outside the box to curl a glorious free-kick against the face of the crossbar with De Gea rooted to his line.

The growing anger of the home support turned to delight in the 58th minute when Patrice Evra collected Perch's attempted clearance, held off Marveaux and unleashed a low shot from the edge of the box which evaded the diving Krul before finding the corner of the net.

However, Newcastle took the lead for the third time when Cisse produced an emphatic first-time finish, sweeping home substitute Gabriel Obertan's low cross to leave De Gea grasping at thin air, but again United responded immediately with Van Persie firing home at the second attempt following Krul's excellent save from his initial effort.

Old Trafford was baying for a penalty once again with just over 10 minutes remaining when Hernandez's shot struck the arms of Coloccini from close range, with Collin subjected to more of Ferguson's opinions, with Van Persie then volleying narrowly wide at full stretch moments later

Hernandez missed a glorious opportunity to steal the points for the league leaders, but somehow headed wide from a glorious Antonio Valencia cross from six yards out and there was still time for Sammy Ameobi to strike the base of the post, with De Gea grateful to see the ball bounce back into his arms.

Hernandez headed straight at Krul from another good position soon after and it looked as though it would not be his day, only for the diminutive forward to steal the headlines in added time with a typical poacher's finish as the visiting defence switched off at a crucial moment, while Vurnon Anita was carried off after a late challenge from Valencia which could have brought a second booking.

mr_missile

27-12-2012, 08:26 AM

Rooney faces three weeks out

Wayne Rooney will miss the rest of Manchester United's festive programme after injuring knee ligaments in training.

The striker has been ruled out for between two and three weeks with the problem, which kept him out of a thrilling Boxing Day victory over Newcastle.

Rooney's replacement Javier Hernandez scored an injury-time winner in a 4-3 success which put United seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.

And after the game Sir Alex Ferguson told MUTV the reason for Rooney's omission from the 18-man squad.

He said: "It was a volley towards the end of training. He did a ligament at the back of his knee and could be out for two to three weeks."

Ferguson's worst-case scenario would see the England international miss Premier League games against West Brom, Wigan and Liverpool and the FA Cup third round tie at West Ham.

machoman

27-12-2012, 09:22 AM

mr_missile

28-12-2012, 08:43 AM

Crazy roller-coaster game! Defence was terrible!

But kudos to the Red Devils for their famous never-say-die attitude, fighting all the way until the final whistle!

yups! the defending so far this season is atrocious. the way opposing teams' strikers can just run at the defence and we see our defenders back-off or simply let unmarked attackers in to shoot at our goal.

we need vidic to be back to his no-nonsense best fast!

see below report for ferdinand's and evan's own assessment of their play :

Rio makes case for defence

Rio Ferdinand is concerned by Manchester United's leaky defence and admits they need to shore things up to reclaim the Premier League title.

Though United's victory over Newcastle allowed them to open up a seven-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, conceding another three goals at Old Trafford drew more anxious words from Sir Alex Ferguson.

Incredibly, the Red Devils have now conceded 28 goals this season, only five fewer than QPR who are presently languishing at the foot of the table.

To put that into context, at the half way point of the campaign, they have now exceeded the number of goals they conceded in three of their most recent title-winning seasons - 2007, 2008 and 2009.

In all competitions, that figure now stands at 40, during which time they have kept just four clean sheets. In addition, they have now gone behind 16 times, 11 of which have ended in victories.

They are quite shuddering statistics. And everyone in the United camp admits they must be corrected.

"We are concerned," said Ferdinand.

"When you are conceding goals at any level you want to put it to a stop.

"This season we have let in far too many goals and we need to change that.

"We need to make a big effort now to push on.

"We are in a good position but if we are to maintain where we are, we need to sort ourselves out."

Ferdinand's words were echoed by central defensive colleague Jonny Evans, who feels it is only a matter of time before United finally resolve their defensive issues.

"We know what is going on," he said.

"Defending is a mindset. You have to be mentally prepared to defend and want to defend.

"We just sort of been concentrating too much on scoring goals. Instead of getting off to good starts we have killed ourselves a little bit by conceding sloppy goals.

"The good thing is we are scoring, which is the hardest part of football.

"We have been doing that freely so I am sure the more simple part of keeping clean sheets will come naturally to us."

Evans had an eventful afternoon, becoming the third player this season - after Wayne Rooney and Gareth Bale - to score at both ends, as well as getting booked for handball.

It is another lesson in the 25-year-old's footballing education as he closes on 150 club appearances.

Evans certainly cuts a far more confident figure than the one who was pitched into top flight combat for United in 2008 when Ferdinand's back problems first surfaced.

He has not quite made it into the seniors group for the normal training ground opener of boxes, when Ferguson's squad splits for a keep-ball session, but he is starting to assume the status that could one day see him viewed in a similar light to fellow one-club men Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

And Evans accepts he is starting to assume more responsibility within the Old Trafford fold.

"I think so. You have to," he said.

"You don't wake up one day and think you have to be more responsible. It just comes.

"As a defender, if you are playing a lot of games for Manchester United and are not taking responsibility, you are going to get found out.

"You try to organise a bit more and gauge what players you need to keep on their toes."

Not that Evans felt able to exert his personality within the dressing room immediately.

There is far too much experience around for that.

"There is a difference between coming in and upsetting people," he said.

"Some of these lads have been here for many years. You cannot just come in and boss them around.

"As you gradually gain the respect of your team-mates, you start to express yourself a bit more.

"That is something that a few of the younger players have started to do a bit more of over the last couple of years."

Rickey

30-12-2012, 12:32 AM

Red Devils now struggling to overcome WBA...Lol...winning only by an own goal by opposing team...happy to always win other teams by only a one-goal margin...they r contented wif tat n having to come back frm behind as well a few times...no passion n hunger for goals apart frm their talisman RVP whilst at the same time letting goals in behind...sigh...like dat, not too sure whether they can win the league title come May wif Chelsea, Arsenal n Blue neighbours getting beta n stronger...

Oooo..hoo !! n their talisman RVP finally scores again n as usual at almost the last minute (91st minute)...tats typical of MU nowadays...lol....2-0 to MU against WBA

mr_missile

31-12-2012, 08:25 AM

Oooo..hoo !! n their talisman RVP finally scores again n as usual at almost the last minute (91st minute)...tats typical of MU nowadays...lol....2-0 to MU against WBA

Ferguson praises Van Persie

Sir Alex Ferguson paid tribute to Robin van Persie after he sealed Manchester United's nervy 2-0 win over West Brom with his 17th goal of the season.

Van Persie was left on the bench at the start of the game but Ferguson called on him 25 minutes from time, with the visitors beginning to threaten.

He went on to score in the final minute, revealing a message on his shirt that read "RIP Tchuna, we will never forget you," relating to the death of a close friend of the Dutchman on Friday night.

"He is a fantastic player," said Ferguson. "He came on and changed the game for us. Every time the ball came up to him he got hold of it and turned on them.

"They were having to go back to their box all the time and he has done well.

"They were a very resilient, stubborn team. They worked really hard on their defending and closed all their ranks. You have to deal with that but the slowness of the pitch killed our speed a bit."

United head to Wigan on New Year's Day and Ferguson expects to rotate his squad again, adding: "It will be a hard game.

"Hopefully we can freshen up again. Possibly Phil Jones will be ready and Rafael will be ready. We rested Javier Hernandez, and also Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, so we have enough freshness to bring in."

machoman

01-01-2013, 05:51 PM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/206619_10151227135872746_736607277_n.jpg

machoman

01-01-2013, 05:52 PM

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9FnyBDwcfY/UDSLTGmQXxI/AAAAAAAABUY/Km2e0ELIYk8/s1600/Fixtures_1.jpg

mr_missile

02-01-2013, 09:11 AM

New Year's Day joy for United

Javier Hernandez and Robin van Persie both scored twice as Premier League leaders United beat Wigan 4-0 to begin the year in fine style.

Hernandez also had a strike disallowed, which came prior to him making the breakthrough after 35 minutes at the DW Stadium.

Van Persie doubled United's lead in the 43rd minute and it was the Dutchman's free-kick that ballooned up to present Hernandez with his chance to net again in the 63rd minute.

The Mexican striker's volley ended Wigan's hopes of any reward and van Persie fired a late fourth as United passed the 50-point mark, taking their haul to 52 from 21 games this season.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side continue to head nearest rivals City by seven points as they attempt to claw back the league title from their neighbours.

mr_missile

03-01-2013, 08:08 AM

Van Persie enjoying United life

Robin van Persie has admitted his joy at playing for Manchester United and says his first goal in the 4-0 win at Wigan was one of his best yet.

Van Persie ended up with a brace to take his overall tally to 19 as United remained seven points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City.

But while his latter effort was a tap-in provided by Danny Welbeck, his first was brilliant as he collected Javier Hernandez's pass, stepped outside Ivan Ramis, then inside the hapless defender before curling expertly past Ali Al Habsi with his supposedly weaker right foot.

"It was a good goal because every single touch was the right one," he said.

"The first one was a little behind me and I had to drag it onto my left foot.

"Then I waited for the guy to slide in, had a good touch inside and then a quick finish. Three touches but all good touches."

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has already identified van Persie as the likely difference in this season's championship battle.

The 29-year-old could hardly have enjoyed a smoother start to life at Old Trafford.

However, the Dutchman insists it would not have been possible without the help of his team-mates, with Hernandez sharing top billing on Tuesday with a double of his own.

"This is a special team," said van Persie. "Everybody wants to help each other. Everybody's keen for everyone to score.

"Defenders are working their socks off for the midfielders, the midfielders are working for the strikers. Everybody wants to run and everybody has one target in their mind."

In such circumstances, it is understandable why Ferguson might want to hang around a bit longer as he indicated in an interview with the Abu Dhabi Sports channel.

"I'm hoping to stay on for a bit of time," he said.

Enough time to see his £24million investment reap handsome dividends.

"We knew we were getting a top player who would make a difference to the team," said Ferguson. "That is why we went for him.

"Robin is a completely rounded footballer. He has great international experience, he's played for Arsenal for seven years and he came to us at the very peak of his career.

"His ability to make and take goals is fantastic.

"His play for his first goal was absolutely magnificent, his turn, his balance, no drawback, just side footed it in. It was a really good goal."

mr_missile

05-01-2013, 11:43 AM

Rooney out for another fortnight

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Wayne Rooney has been ruled out for another two weeks after failing to recover from his injury.

Rooney sustained minor knee damage in training on Christmas Day and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson initially expected the striker to be back in a fortnight.

However, it now seems he will be missing for longer - and will sit out next week's clash with Liverpool.

"Wayne is still injured," said Ferguson.

"It is not serious but it is going to take longer than we thought, probably another two weeks. He won't be fit for Liverpool."

Rooney was expected to have been back in training by now and Ferguson cannot exactly work out why it has not happened.

"He got a little kick behind his knee and he is still feeling it,'' said

Ferguson.

"Hopefully another couple of weeks will sort it out.

"Nonetheless, it is a loss. You always want your best players available.''

There was some good news, though, with Ferguson revealing winger Nani, who has been absent for two months with a hamstring problem, will take a major step forward in his recovery.

"He starts training today,'' he said.

Ferguson also explained the reason behind Darren Fletcher's recent absence.

After battling back from a chronic bowel condition, Fletcher played four times

in a fortnight at the end of last month.

However, the midfielder's only appearance since came as a last-minute

substitute in the Boxing Day win over Newcastle.

"The grounds have been really heavy, which has not suited Darren,'' said

Ferguson.

"The pitch at Old Trafford seems to have collapsed in the last two weeks.

"We have had six great years out of it. They have done a fantastic job but we

are going to have to change it during the summer.''

artie

07-01-2013, 01:16 AM

Dont you wish your striker was Van Persie, Dont you Dont you.

RVP the hero yet again.

Hope Sneijder joins us!

mr_missile

10-01-2013, 09:26 AM

Dont you wish your striker was Van Persie, Dont you Dont you.

RVP the hero yet again.

Hope Sneijder joins us!

haha. nice "song" u got there. rvp is turning out to the the buy of the season. :D

sneijder to join us? i prefer a more combative kind of midfielder to give us muscle in that department and can provide a shield for the defence too.

celtic's wanyama and psv's strootman may be better buys than sneijder imho. :)

and with all 3 of our wingers performing under par this season so far (valencia, young & nani), palace's wilfried zaha will be a good addition.

cool.dan

10-01-2013, 09:53 AM

mr_missile

10-01-2013, 05:20 PM

UNITED IN 'POLE POSITION' TO SIGN ZAHA

According to the British papers, they claim that Manchester United are in 'pole position' to sign Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha.

There are reports that United have nudged ahead of Arsenal, who were in the running for the youngster, but 'their interest is thought to have cooled given their reluctance to get into a bidding war' with United.

The Daily Mirror agrees, reporting that United will pay Palace an initial £8million, with the eventual fee rising to around £12million.

Plus, as a wee sweetener, they will loan Zaha back to Palace for the rest of the season, plus send some other (unnamed) players to them on loan to help their promotion bid.

mr_missile

10-01-2013, 05:23 PM

Man, will somebody please remind him that the last time those fools won the title, maybe he wasn't even born yet.

Glory glory Man Utd!

hahaha. well said bro. but as u have said, they are fools what. so just let those fools say what they like lor. they just can't face up to the truth now, or rather, they can't bear to look at the table now. :D

VoltaRedonda

10-01-2013, 06:41 PM

mr_missile

12-01-2013, 09:23 AM

Fergie quiet on Zaha rumours

Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed the heightened speculation surrounding Manchester United during the January transfer window.

Ferguson elected not to fuel rumours surrounding Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha or Chelsea duo Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole, all of which have been aired this week, during his press conference prior to Sunday's Premier League match against Liverpool.

"There is nothing to report," said the Scot.

"It is January for goodness sake and you (the media) are all getting desperate for a story. But there is no story to tell you."

However, it seems the interest in Zaha is genuine, even if no announcement is imminent.

It is understood that should the transfer take place then 20-year-old winger Zaha would remain with current club Crystal Palace for the remainder of the season before formally arriving at United in the summer, in a similar arrangement to the one agreed when United signed Chris Smalling from Fulham in 2010.

That part of the deal is sure to appeal to Palace, who are fighting to earn promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since 2005, and possibly explains why United have emerged above Arsenal and Tottenham as such strong favourites to secure Zaha's services over past few days.

Zaha, who won his first England cap during the November friendly against Sweden, would also fit the general template United have worked to until the arrival of Robin van Persie, namely investing in younger players and helping them through the final stages of their development, as they did so successfully with Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney to name but two.

That certainly does not apply to Chelsea pair Lampard and Cole, both of whom are set to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer when their contracts expire.

It has been suggested Ferguson could sign either or both, with Paul Scholes the obvious example why Lampard's age should be no barrier to a transfer north.

However, it appears Ferguson is not interested in either player.

Neither does it seem Leighton Baines is destined for Old Trafford in the near future either. Baines has been linked with United since last summer, yet it is impossible to imagine the 27-year-old might be interested in moving from Everton merely as back-up to Patrice Evra and equally implausible that United would wish to pay around £14million for a deputy to the Frenchman.

mr_missile

14-01-2013, 08:03 AM

United 2 Pool 1.

it was almost like watching 2 games where united absolutely dominated the 1st half and pool played much better during the 2nd and united were holding on to win the 3 points.

we had many opportunities to have wrapped up the game earlier - rvp, cleverley, wellback and kagawa all went close.

too bad the gunners went down to city in the other important clash last night or else we would have extended our current 7 point lead at the top of the table.

mr_missile

14-01-2013, 08:16 AM

United withstand Reds' rally

Manchester United saw off a late Liverpool rally to beat their old rivals 2-1 at Old Trafford and tighten their grip on top spot in the Premier League.

Robin van Persie had given United a first-half lead and Nemanja Vidic extended their dominance in fortuitous fashion early in the second half.

But substitute Daniel Sturridge's first league goal for Liverpool brought the visitors back into the game and there were one or two nervy moments before the Red Devils confirmed the three points.

United took the lead with the opening chance of the game on 19 minutes when van Persie swept home first time from Patrice Evra's low cross following a patient build-up by the leaders.

Van Persie was almost in again on 27 minutes after Ashley Young's pass found him in space just inside the box, but the Dutchman's first-time finish on this occasion flew over the bar.

Joe Allen was enduring a difficult afternoon and the midfielder's loose pass was seized upon by Danny Welbeck before Daniel Agger produced a great block to deny the striker.

Luis Suarez blazed over Liverpool's only shot of the first half before Tom Cleverley flashed a volley wide after Allen's poor headed clearance from Young's cross.

The Red Devils should have extended their lead just before the break, but van Persie's flick from Rafael's cross was cleared off the line by Martin Skrtel and Pepe Reina was hurt in a collision with Shinji Kagawa in the scramble for the loose ball.

United struck again on 53 minutes when Skrtel was booked for hauling back Welbeck and van Persie's delivery was met by Evra, whose header was inadvertently deflected in by Vidic.

Liverpool were quick to respond and pulled a goal back within four minutes when Sturridge, a half-time replacement for Lucas, was sharpest to the loose ball after David de Gea could only parry Steven Gerrard's low drive from outside the box.

Kagawa forced a flying save out of Reina with a deft curler before Glen Johnson, Sturridge and another substitute Fabio Borini all failed to find the target in a five-minute spell of Liverpool pressure.

Sturridge had Liverpool's best chance in the closing stages, but scooped his shot over the bar and United spent the last couple of minutes of stoppage-time deep in opposition territory before Howard Webb blew for full-time.

machoman

14-01-2013, 10:20 AM

Sunday's game vs those fools. I read in F365 that their new signing Sturridge has claimed that the fools are the biggest club in England. Man, will somebody please remind him that the last time those fools won the title, maybe he wasn't even born yet.

Glory glory Man Utd!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/59906_362642540500501_96222468_n.jpg

http://webserver.com.my/forms/ecard-cny/ecard-archive/ws-ecard-cny2010-03.gif

mr_missile

14-01-2013, 11:11 AM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/59906_362642540500501_96222468_n.jpg

muahahahaha! what a timely reminder to those fools, bro machoman! thanks! u just made my day!

shysaint

15-01-2013, 10:43 PM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/59906_362642540500501_96222468_n.jpg

http://webserver.com.my/forms/ecard-cny/ecard-archive/ws-ecard-cny2010-03.gif

hahaahha .. NICE one :D

mr_missile

16-01-2013, 08:44 AM

Ferguson allays injury fears

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has allayed fears about the injuries suffered by Nemanja Vidic and Ashley Young on Sunday.

Young and Vidic were both forced out of Sunday's Barclays Premier League win over Liverpool.

Young failed to appear for the second half after hurting his knee in a tangle with Daniel Agger, whilst Vidic suffered a blow to the head, having already apparently taken a bang on the knee that has caused him so many problems during 2012.

However, scans have revealed neither man has suffered extensive damage, although Young could miss Sunday's trip to Tottenham in addition to Wednesday night's FA Cup replay with West Ham.

"Actually, Nemanja's knee is okay," Ferguson told MUTV. "It was concussion. He had a little bit of concussion but he's okay and fine. He trained (on Monday) and was good.

"Obviously, Young has got a dull knock, a little bit of a strain on the knee, but it's nothing serious. I think he'll be back next week. Maybe not for Tottenham (on Sunday) but, the week after, he should be okay."

The news of Vidic is particularly welcome given he has had two operations already on the knee he ruptured cruciate ligaments in during the Champions League defeat to Basle in December 2011.

It was unlikely the Serbian would have been selected to face the Hammers anyway, with Phil Jones and Chris Smalling set to be partnered together in central defence as Jonny Evans continues to rest his hamstring strain.

However, Wayne Rooney is expected to play for the first time since he suffered a minor knee injury during training on Christmas Day.

Nani should also be involved after missing 15 games with the hamstring injury he sustained against Braga at the beginning of November.

mr_missile

17-01-2013, 08:37 AM

Rooney sees off West Ham

Wayne Rooney scored a ninth-minute winner to send Manchester United through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory over a spirited West Ham United.

The England striker side-footed into an empty net after Javier Hernandez had raced in behind the visitors' defence and squared.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side will now face Fulham at home in the last 32.

There was a tinge of sadness for Rooney, however, who dedicated his goal to his late sister-in-law Rosie, who died on January 5th.

He then went on to miss a second-half penalty, blazing his effort over the bar as West Ham threatened to mount a comeback.

Ferguson made 10 changes to his team and the disruption showed in a below-par performance that lacked cohesion and tempo.

They started well and deservedly took the lead, but failed to build on their advantage, with their only other clear chance of the first half being a shot from Nani that was kicked off the line by Dan Potts.

West Ham lacked penetration in the opening period but fared far better after the break and had several opportunities to draw level.

They could have had a penalty shortly after the restart when the ball struck Rafael's arm, but referee Phil Dowd waved play on.

United were then fortunate that the Brazilian right-back was in the right place to prevent Matt Taylor's square ball reaching Ricardo Vaz Te.

Taylor later curled an excellent chance over, before Chris Smalling managed to nick the ball away from Kevin Nolan just as the Hammers substitute was about to shoot from close range.

United should have put the game beyond doubt after Jordan Spence handled the excellent Ryan Giggs' cross, but Rooney missed from the penalty spot.

mr_missile

21-01-2013, 09:41 AM

Clint to the rescue for Spurs

Clint Dempsey snatched a late equaliser in the snow to earn Tottenham a 1-1 draw against Manchester United.

Robin van Persie had looked to have claimed all three points with his first-half header at White Hart Lane on Sunday but Dempsey swept the ball home in stoppage time to salvage a point.

The adverse weather conditions had threatened to see the Premier League clash at White Hart Lane called off - and Spurs fans were soon left wishing it had.

After a cautious start in which Aaron Lennon forced a save from David de Gea, it was ex-Arsenal man Van Persie who opened the scoring by heading home Tom Cleverley's right-wing cross.

It was the culmination of a flowing move from the Red Devils after good work from Michael Carrick, Shinji Kagawa and Danny Welbeck, who was selected ahead of Wayne Rooney in attack.

The home side struggled to create outright chances until De Gea produced a superb reaction stop with his legs to deny Gareth Bale's deflected effort from the edge of the box just before the break.

And De Gea was called into action once again after the interval when he came up with a reflex save to keep out the advancing Dempsey from point-blank range.

The Spanish goalkeeper then pushed away another Dempsey shot shortly afterwards as Spurs pushed hard for an equaliser and the crowd got behind their team.

But United remained a threat on the break and Rooney had a strong shout for a penalty shortly after replacing Kagawa when he went down under a challenge from Steven Caulker.

It was still Andre Villas-Boas' side asking most of the questions and it required a last-ditch block from Rio Ferdinand to prevent Jermain Defoe levelling things up after getting away in the channel.

But just when Sir Alex Ferguson's team looked to have held on for the win, De Gea could only punch a cross as far as Lennon inside the area and he returned the ball to Dempsey to stun United.

dc7176

22-01-2013, 09:25 PM

artie

22-01-2013, 09:40 PM

boo... no LFC players please...

alex18122003

22-01-2013, 11:18 PM

Papers: RvP wants more

Martin Blackburn writes in The Sun...

RvP: I haven’t scored enough
Robin van Persie says his sensational scoring record should be even better. The Manchester United hitman has already notched 22 goals this term - with 10 in his last 10 games. But the £22million summer signing from Arsenal declared: “It should have been 10 games, 14 or 15 goals. At least four or five I shouldn’t have missed. It’s not going really well. It is going well but if you start to believe it’s going well, you’re going down. If I look at all those games, I should have done better in most of them because I had more chances than just one chance and one goal.” Even so, the fact United are five points clear at the top of the League, and still in the Champions League and FA Cup, makes RVP believe he was right to quit Arsenal last summer. And the Dutch ace says he feels like a ‘kid in a sweet shop’ as he looks around the dressing room at his new team-mates. He said: “Arsenal is a great club but after eight years sometimes you feel that you need a new challenge. If you look at the last couple of months it explains it all. I’m seeing things again that I didn’t see for a long time. For the moment we’re in a great position. We are ahead on points, goal difference is in our favour. All these guys here know how to win and become champions.”

The Times says United are considering a move for Barcelona's disgruntled goalkeeper Victor Valdes. The broadsheet is one of several papers that has unfairly criticised David De Gea following Sunday's 1-1 draw with Tottenham and makes the ambitious claim that the Reds "have discussed the possibility of bringing in a goalkeeper this month but the matter is unlikely to be addressed until the summer."

Elsewhere, The Guardian claims Sir Alex Ferguson is confident of signing Wilfried Zaha for £12m from Crystal Palace by the end of the week, with the aim of loaning the winger back to the Championship club for the remainder of the season.

mr_missile

23-01-2013, 08:04 AM

United on course for Zaha

Manchester United are now the clear favourites to sign the highly-rated Wilfried Zaha after Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger denied interest.

Speculation that United are poised to sign Crystal Palace's exciting 20-year-old winger, who is valued at a reported £15million, has intensified in recent days.

Zaha, who made his England debut last November, is regarded as the most exciting talent in the country outside the Barclays Premier League.

Zaha revealed in a tweet last year he is an Arsenal fan but, despite reported interest in the player, Wenger insists a move to the Emirates Stadium was never a possibility.

Wenger, at a press conference to preview his side's midweek clash with West Ham, said: "We were never in for Zaha.

"I don't know if he will go to Man United. If he goes to Man United, good luck to him."

There have been reports that United have held discussions with Palace and that further talks between the clubs are planned.

It has also been suggested that United could sign the player and then loan him back to the promotion-chasing Championship club for the remainder of the season.

Neither club have commented on the reports.

Zaha has come through the youth system at Palace after joining the club at the age of 12.

His progress has attracted interest from a number of clubs and was underlined by his selection for England's friendly against Sweden two months ago, although he remains eligible for birth country Ivory Coast.

United's squad, meanwhile, are preparing for this weekend's FA Cup fourth-round tie against Fulham at a warm-weather training camp in Qatar.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has not travelled with the party but the players are hoping to put Sunday's league setback against Tottenham behind them.

United conceded an injury-time equaliser at White Hart Lane that meant, over the course of the weekend, their lead at the top of the table was cut to five points.

Defender Phil Jones said: "Confidence is high but we know we still have to produce and do our job every time we step out on the pitch.

"As long as we're focused on what we've got to do and on our game-plan hopefully, we'll be okay."

The squad's attention has now turned back to the FA Cup and the visit of the Cottagers, which will see striker Dimitar Berbatov back at Old Trafford for the first time since leaving.

Berbatov, signed by United for £30million in 2008, left United for the London club in August.

Jones said: "The FA Cup is a great competition and one we want to win. We want to go as far as we can - it's a competition I've always admired.

"It'll be great to see Berba back at Old Trafford, technically he's a fantastic player.

"Hopefully we can get the result we want and continue to progress in the competition."

United have defended their ticket pricing policy for the match following a complaint by Fulham.

Fulham were unhappy to discover that some United fans have been able to purchase seats equivalent to those on offer to their supporters £5 cheaper.

As is common practice for FA Cup games, the clubs had agreed a standard price of £45 for home and away fans but United members have been able to buy them at a discounted rate of £40.

United say that is an offer available only to members, and is part of a long-standing scheme that should not have come as a surprise.

Fulham claim they were not informed about it and it is understood they would not have agreed to it had they known.

A United spokesman said: "Fulham fans are paying the same as United fans who are not members.

"A discount scheme has existed for members for around 20 years.

"We're surprised it has come as a surprise to them."

The Football Association has received a complaint from Fulham and is understand to have written to United for an explanation.

mr_missile

23-01-2013, 08:11 AM

Man Utd boss Ferguson considers shock bid for Liverpool keeper Reina

Manchester United are eyeing a shock move for Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina.

boo... no LFC players please...

no way saf would take an over-the-hill keeper in reina. i would rather stick with de gea. to be honest, he has improved but he still has problems dealing with crosses and parrying shots away out to touch instead of parrying onto the paths of attackers. :(

barca's keeper valdes has indicated that he will not renew his contract (which expires in 2014).

and madrid's keeper casillas, who many regard as the world's best, has fallen out of favour with mourinho.

these 2 are more possible targets. another fact, they are both infront of reina in the spanish national team.

post note : welcum back bros alex and dc7176. welcum bro artie. let's keep the thread up and rocking!

shark89

25-01-2013, 12:57 PM

Heard from Class 95's morning express that United has agreed to sign winger Zaha from Palace. That would probably spell the end for Nani at United.

mr_missile

25-01-2013, 02:13 PM

Heard from Class 95's morning express that United has agreed to sign winger Zaha from Palace. That would probably spell the end for Nani at United.

not sure about nani but competition for the wingers' slots has surely hot up with the acquisition of zaha. see report below :

United medical for Zaha

Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha will reportedly have contract talks and undergo a medical with Manchester United in the next 48 hours.

United have been given permission to speak with the England international by Palace and it is understood he will travel north with his advisor Will Salthouse to conclude the deal.

It is anticipated the 20-year-old will immediately be loaned back to Palace for the remainder of the season.

mr_missile

28-01-2013, 10:46 AM

Fergie: About time we won cup

Sir Alex Ferguson was satisfied after Manchester United cruised into the last 16 of the FA Cup with a comfortable 4-1 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford.

Javier Hernandez netted twice for the hosts, along with goals from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, while Aaron Hughes grabbed a late consolation for the Cottagers.

And Ferguson said: "It was a good performance. I think we respected Fulham because we played a very strong team today.

"The FA Cup's an important trophy for us this season. We haven't won it for almost 10 years, so we really need to have a big performance this year.

"Rio Ferdinand's never won an FA Cup medal - so we really need to do something about that."

Giggs got the ball rolling with a third-minute penalty. Twenty years and three days after his first FA Cup goal, Giggs' strike was his 12th in the competition, and the Welshman echoed his manager's view that victory in the cup is long overdue.

"It means a lot," said Giggs. "We've not done as well as we should have done in the last eight, nine years.

"There's a lot of players desperate to win it. With the history we've got in the competition, we should be there, we should be getting to finals, so hopefully this will be the year."

Ferguson also confirmed that Giggs taking United's penalties would not be a long-term thing, just that he had been given a break from his normal duties.

He added: "With Wayne missing the penalties he has, it was time to give him a break. But he will come back it.

"The one thing about Wayne is that it doesn't faze him if he misses one. He has a fantastic temperament."

Rickey

29-01-2013, 12:17 AM

Man Utd boss Ferguson considers shock bid for Liverpool keeper Reina

Manchester United are eyeing a shock move for Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina.

El Mundo Deportivo says United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is weighing up a controversial raid on Anfield for Reina, who would arrive as a direct replacement for David De Gea.

De Gea would be sold to Barcelona in the summer, with Reina arriving as United's new No1.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is also a big fan of Reina.
Oh NO !...not him !...its a no, no...is SAF in his right mind ??...how many goals hv he let in for Pool...tink De Gea is still better than him...but getting Victor Valdes, the Barcelona Keeper may be the best choice...my 4 cents worth...

Hope tis year they can do a double of winning the League Title as well as the FA Cup which hv eluded them for a few yrs now...tink they shd be able to wif their new talisman, none other than RVP !! :D....22 goals alrdy !!...Keep it up, Red Devils ! :)

shysaint

29-01-2013, 12:30 AM

Man Utd become first $3bn club

January 28, 2013

By ESPN staff

Manchester United have become the first sports team in the world to be valued at more than US$3 billion (£1.9bn).

According to American business magazine Forbes, United are comfortably ahead of the world's second-most-valuable sports team, the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, worth US$2.1bn (£1.4bn).

The magazine states: "Despite a drop in first quarter earnings because of a reduction in television revenue, the appetite for shares of the 19-time English champion has increased due to better earnings, new sponsorship deals with Japan's Kansai, and China Construction Bank, and the potential of much more lucrative English Premier League (Manchester United currently is in first place) and Champions League payouts this year."

Indeed, a surge in the club's shares - standing now at $17 each - has seen the overall value of United rise and a huge increase in the overall wealth of the Glazer family, who have a controlling interest in United, and billionaire investor George Soros - the 22nd richest person in the world - who bought a 7.5% stake in the club.

United sold 10% of shares in the club in an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in August when the Glazers - their owners - hoped to achieve a price of $20 each, which could have valued the club at $3.3 billion (£2.06 billion).

But after underwriters initially propped the share price up, it fell as low as $12, which valued the club at just under $2 billion (£1.3bn).

However, United's commercial growth appears to be driving the share price up, with the club announcing several new sponsorship deals since August, qualifying for the Champions League knockout stages, and with the prospect of the new bumper Premier League television deals that are coming on stream from August.

Information from the Press Association was used in this report

VoltaRedonda

29-01-2013, 07:20 AM

Hopefully some of Man Utd's debt can slowly decrease if profit increases. Hmm anyways I think Nani has a place in our squad, somehow I find Valencia's form has been pretty bad lately, and Young is out with injury again :(

mr_missile

31-01-2013, 10:25 AM

United win to go seven clear

A Wayne Rooney brace saw Manchester United come from behind to beat Southampton 2-1 and move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Jay Rodriguez gave the Saints a shock third-minute lead when he latched onto a poor back pass from Michael Carrick to tuck home around the advancing David De Gea.

But Rooney levelled just five minutes later, slotting into the bottom corner following an excellent through ball from Shinji Kagawa.

Kagawa then hit a post on United's next attack and it took some excellent goalkeeping from Artur Boruc to keep the hosts at bay as returning Robin van Persie and Danny Welbeck both threatened danger.

United finally doubled their advantage on 27 minutes when Patrice Evra climbed highest at the far post to meet Van Persie's free-kick, the France defender leaving Rooney with the easiest of tap-ins from barely a yard.

But the hosts were then forced to survive a second-half Southampton bombardment, with the visitors spending almost the entire second period camped in the United half.

Mauricio Pochettino's team pushed forward in search of a leveller, with substitute Adam Lallana having a significant influence as Rickie Lambert twice went close.

Briefly, United relieved the pressure, with Van Persie's goalbound header brilliantly saved by Boruc before the Dutchman had an effort ruled out from a Rooney cross for offside.

Southampton were soon back on the offensive, though, with De Gea producing an excellent flying save to turn away Lambert's free-kick.

Nemanja Vidic flung himself in the way of another Lambert piledriver before Rooney, who finished playing on the left as defensive cover for an overrun Evra, ensured the Saints' final assault got nowhere and his side kept the valuable three points.

VoltaRedonda

31-01-2013, 12:08 PM

From now its the points that matters, looking at the remaining fixtures of City and Utd, we should not be dropping as many points as them. Hmm Kagawa was brilliant today especially Nani, Valencia is on a poor vein of form and deserves to be dropped, Smalling was poor and De Gea was suspect. I am still thinking whether the first goal conceded was the fault of Carrick or De Gea.

yinyang

31-01-2013, 12:27 PM

first goal conceded was the fault of Carrick or De Gea.
Both, Carrick bad back pass and De Gea just 'jumped' with ball going in:( Still, 1s half we swarmed saints, with 4-2-4 (Welback, Persie and Roon in front)

VoltaRedonda

01-02-2013, 10:13 AM

Both, Carrick bad back pass and De Gea just 'jumped' with ball going in:( Still, 1s half we swarmed saints, with 4-2-4 (Welback, Persie and Roon in front)

Well had De Gea fouled Rodriguez there it would have been a red card, maybe he was considering that. Hmm good to see some players rested for the game against Fulham this saturday. :D

dc7176

03-02-2013, 10:39 AM

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/601072_10151302365452746_712695549_n.jpg

mr_missile

04-02-2013, 08:33 AM

Ferguson delighted by victory

Sir Alex Ferguson felt Manchester United deserved all three points following a narrow 1-0 victory at Fulham.

Wayne Rooney scored another late winner to put the Premier League leaders 10 points clear for 24 hours at least and Ferguson paid tribute to the defence, who have conceded just 16 goals in 12 away games this season.

"We had so many chances. It was a terrific football match and it was an excellent result, and I'm very pleased for us," said the Scot.

"They had some great chances. Our keeper (David De Gea), Jonny (Evans), Rio (Ferdinand) were terrific and we had a few chances ourselves, the second half in particular.

"In the first half we hit the woodwork three times but we deserved to win. They have had a great home record over the years and it is a very important result for us.

"It's a good position (we are in) we are pleased. Tonight you can look at the performance of the players. They put their bodies on the line, blocking shots, great headers out of defence, really determined effort by the players.

"It was similar to when we played here a few years ago when Cristiano scored near the end and we went on to have an undefeated run after that. It was around the same time too.

"It was a well-taken goal and Rooney was unlucky before that, hitting the post and having a couple of shots saved by the goalkeeper."

De Gea has come under fire after some uncertain performances this season, but Ferguson was quick to single him out for praise.

"It's not fazed him, for sure," Ferguson said of the recent criticism. "He enjoyed this game. It's a challenge and it's not easy for a young goalkeeper, but he's enjoyed tonight."