awank.kurniawan

Evans: We must move on

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:39:00 -0800

01/12/2011 23:20, Report by Gemma Thompson

With games coming thick and fast in the next few weeks, Jonny Evans insists the Reds must move on as quickly as possible from their Carling Cup defeat to Crystal Palace.

Evans, who was captain for the night on his 100th United appearance, says all the players are keen to make up for what turned out to be a forgettable evening at Old Trafford.

"We're very disappointed not to be in the semi-finals," the defender told MUTV.

"I thought we would go on after we scored. And going into the first period of extra time, playing towards the Stretford End, I thought we'd have a chance of getting a goal and seal it from there.

"But they went down the other end and scored against the run of play really. We had a lot of possession but we couldn't break them down.

"A lot of our play was in front of them and I think the only way we were going to get in was down the side, but we didn't manage to do that as well as Manchester United can. We didn't get a lot of crosses into the box.

"The games are coming thick and fast and the manager will need his squad. So we need to pick ourselves up and hopefully win on Saturday [at Villa]."

Evans added that while proud to skipper the side, the end result took away from the honour.

"Before the game I was delighted to be given the armband, but I'd happily take that away to have the victory instead.

"It's good that the manager plays the younger lads [in this competition], but unfortunately we've not managed to get the result.

"My first game was in the Carling Cup [against Coventry in September 2007] and it didn't turn out as well as we expected, but the lads have got to keep focused and work hard on their games."

source : Manutd

Late sub for Santa Run

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:37:00 -0800

01/12/2011 09:00,

Tom Cleverley is to replace Paul Scholes at the annual Santa Run at Old Trafford this Sunday, 4 December.

Scholes was originally scheduled to take part in the MU Foundation event, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the midfield legend is unable to attend.

However, just as he has done on the pitch this season, rising star Cleverley has stepped into Scholesy's boots and will be on hand to officially start the 2km family race at 11.30am.

Foundation chief executive John Shiels said: "We’re extremely pleased that we have a first-team player to start the race and we’re sure everyone will have a great time at our festive charity event.

"It’s unfortunate that Paul is now unable to attend but it can’t be helped. We are sure the Santa Run will still raise a great deal of money for charity on the day."

Now in its fifth year, the Santa Run raises money for the Foundation and its charity partners The Christie, Francis House and UNICEF – or any other charity.

Following the 2km family run, a 5km route for serious Santas will start at 12.30pm, this year taking in some of Manchester and Salford's finest landmarks.

Starting at Old Trafford, runners will follow a route that takes them past the Imperial War Museum, The Lowry and MediaCity, before finishing with a lap around the world-famous Old Trafford pitch.

source : Manutd

Sir Alex says sorry to fans

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:34:00 -0800

"I don't know where to start to be honest. My apologies go to our fans tonight because that was not a Manchester United performance."

- Sir Alex Ferguson

30/11/2011 23:00, Report by Gemma Thompson

Sir Alex Ferguson apologised to United fans after the Reds were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.

Glenn Murray's extra-time header, albeit from a marginally offside position, secured a famous 2-1 victory for the Eagles who put on a dogged display throughout the quarter-final tie.

Sir Alex was full of praise for Palace's effort, but hugely disappointed by his own side's performance.

"I don't know where to start to be honest. My apologies go to our fans tonight because that was not a Manchester United performance," he told MUTV.

"I don't want to take anything away from Crystal Palace - I wish them every success and I hope they get to the final. It was a fantastic, mammoth effort from all of them. Every one of their players worked their socks off to get to the semi-finals.

"We maybe played too many short passes, but I'm not going to dwell on it and go into the ins and outs of it all.

"When it went to extra-time I thought we must win it, but it wasn't to be. Their second goal was offside from what I've seen on the cameras, but I can't take it away from Crystal Palace, they fought hard to get the result and they deserve it. It's a very disappointing night for Manchester United."

source : Manutd

Butt: Reds exit was hard

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:32:00 -0800

"The media can look at United and analyse it too much. Inside the club, they won't be worrying what people are saying and writing. The manager will have his say, the coaches will have their say and the players too. They will know what targets are what got to do and where to improve and I'm sure they will do that."

30/11/2011 14:04, Report by Adam Marshall

Former midfield star Nicky Butt gave United Review his thoughts on the Reds ...

How big a wrench was it to leave United?

It was the hardest thing I had to do in football as I'd been there since I was 12 years of age. But it came to a time when you're getting up to 30, it was just around the corner, and I wasn't playing a lot or as much as I wanted to or felt I should've been. I was going down the pecking order. Although I didn't really want to leave, I wanted to play football and didn't want to sit on the bench for three or four years and just fizzle out really. I wanted to have one more kick at it. I knew Newcastle were in for me and I was desperate to go there really. I'd played against them and I knew they were a great club with a great atmosphere so I was more than happy to go there.

It must be hard for all players to handle squad rotation..

It is difficult. To be fair, all my career I had good players in front of me - Scholes, Keaney, Veron - and we were all fighting for two spots in midfield. But, all my career, I used to get over 30 games every year. I played in all the big games as people were injured or we played three in midfield. I always played in the big semi-finals and finals and I loved every minute there. But it got to a point where I was getting a bit frustrated and wasn't myself. I wasn't getting angry but I was resenting people and I didn't want to end up being bitter and twisted. So I went to speak with the manager and he was great. He understood my position and understood the most important thing was the club and rightly so. It was a nervous thing to do, going to speak to the manager about leaving the club as I'd been there so long, but it was fine. He was brilliant and asked if I was sure what I wanted to do as he didn't want me to make any rash judgements. So he said think about it for a couple of days and, when I did that, my mind hadn't changed. I still wanted to play football. Although it was the most difficult thing I had to do, I was happy to go to Newcastle.

How do United approach games that they're expected to win?

I think any game in the Premier League is tough, regardless of who it is against. In years gone by, when I think we'd walk out at Old Trafford, we knew we were going to win. We used to know that before we'd go out. Maybe it sounds a bit big-headed but we knew we were more than capable of winning in maybe third or fourth gear. Now it's moved on and teams are having a right go which is good to watch. But I still think United are always strong favourites when at home.

What's your assessment of United's form?

United started well but have flattened out a little bit but that happens. Every team in the whole season has its ups and downs, no matter how good you are or what team you are. Every team has ups and downs, hopefully United have had theirs and can kick on. City will have bad times, there's no question about it. Chelsea have had a bad time already and everyone has bad times it's just a matter of how you deal with them. No matter how good a team are, they still have bad moments. Hopefully, the bad moments will be overcome.

How does the club handle any rough patches internally?

The media can look at United and analyse it too much. Inside the club, they won't be worrying what people are saying and writing. The manager will have his say, the coaches will have their say and the players too. They will know what targets are what got to do and where to improve and I'm sure they will do that.

How difficult will it be for United to retain the title?

It is hard every year and it seems to be getting harder. The great thing about the club is the challenge. I think if there wasn't a challenge, a lot of palyers would be bored and the manager would get bored as well. But, every year, teams get bigger and none bigger than City, our local rivals, who are coming up there and have done a really great job in getting a team together. So it's a big challenge for us. I think whoever beats United to the top will be a good team and I still fancy them for the league, to be fair. I don't know about City, they're a fantastic team who can beat anybody on their day but the thing at the back of my mind, niggling away, is what's next? There's always something at club, someone who's not happy and that's why team spirit and a good, settled squad can take you a long way. The squad all know who the boss is at United - it's the manager and nobody challenges him. I'm sure they'll have chats with him, like everyone does, but everyone knows who the manager is and their position in the squad and they get on with it. If they do knock on the door and ask why they're not playing, it never gets aired.

source : Manutd

Fryers thrilled with progress

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:29:00 -0800

"To come on at Old Trafford in a Champions League game was out of this world. It all felt a bit unreal. That's the most excited I've ever been and I just want to keep experiencing things like that."

- Ezekiel Fryers, full interview in tonight's United Review.

30/11/2011 11:36, Report by A Marshall & N Coppack

Promising defender Ezekiel Fryers admits he has been surprised by his involvement in the first-team this term.

The youngster was sidelined for a substantial part of last season through injury but started both the Carling Cup ties at Leeds and Aldershot and also came on as a late substitute in the Champions League win over Otelul Galati.

Ahead of another likely appearance against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, the 19-year-old is delighted with his progress.

"I must admit I didn’t think the first-team games would come as soon as they did," he said in an exclusive interview with United Review, the official matchday programme for the quarter-final. "At the start of the season, a lot of the young guys start talking about loans and most people want to land themselves a loan deal to get more experience.

"Nothing worked out on that front for me, so I just concentrated on training well and getting my fitness levels up with the Reserves. Then the Carling Cup game at Leeds came along and it was an amazing experience.

"And to come on at Old Trafford in a Champions League game was out of this world. It all felt a bit unreal. That's the most excited I've ever been and I just want to keep experiencing things like that."

Fryers has already played in the heart of the defence and at left-back for Sir Alex's side so he gives the boss a couple of options going into the Palace tie.

"I was a bit surprised the opportunity came along so soon, especially because I’ve had a couple of injuries in recent years," he added.

"Last season was a bit of a downer: I had a bad injury and needed a knee operation, but this term I’ve managed to stay fit.

"Ideally, I prefer to play at left-back but I'll play wherever the manager wants. I'm not going to say 'no' to him!"

source : Manutd

Philosophy pays off

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:27:00 -0800

"It is, more and more, an exciting time for me. It's started with Welbeck and Cleverley because, when I came in, they were 10 or 11. Now they've featured in the first team team and, just underneath, there's more."

Interview first appeared in Inside United

30/11/2011 15:17, Report by Adam Marshall

Rene Meulensteen feels United are reaping the benefits of developing youngsters from an early-age and bringing them through the system.

The first-team coach implemented his philosophy at Carrington, developing the famed Coerver method after working with his fellow countryman Will in the 1990s. Teaching schoolboys good habits allows them the flexibility to play in different positions and the fruits of the hard work are starting to become clear for all to see.

"I worked with Will myself and I was very fortunate to do that," he stated. "That provided the background, the basis of the philosophy which I've taken on board and expanded it so it has become my philosophy, engrained with all the other important aspects.

"I'm just a very strong believer in it because the best players out there in the world - past and present - have given us that information. If you go back in time to George Best, Johan Cruyff and Diego Maradona up to all of the best players now - Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney - they've got the ability to take players on and beat them. It's not only important for the team, it's very exciting for the game itself."

Educating the youngsters is providing a massive benefit for United when they are asked to fulfil various roles later in their career. The in-built confidence in possession and comfort with the ball is vitally important to Meulensteen's programme.

"In the beginning, the kids are young and just respond to the environment you create for them," he explained. "They don't know what is good or bad, they just enjoy it or hate it but they will do it.

"If I had kids climbing the fence up and down all day, they don't know whey they're doing it. "But, when they get to 18-20, they realise it's no good and they should've worked on their skills.

"When they've gone through that, it has become second nature and that's why skill development is so important in the early age groups because it can become second nature by 16, 17 and 18. If a player is going to be a defender, midfielder or attacker, they also know it's no problem because they think if I'm under pressure, I've got the skills to deal with it and that is the big difference."

The progress of Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley into the first-team this season is providing evidence that the system is set to produce players of international calibre for Sir Alex Ferguson.

"It is, more and more, an exciting time for me," enthused Meulensteen. "It's started with Welbeck and Cleverley because, when I came in, they were 10 or 11. Now they've featured in the first team team and, just underneath, there's the likes of Larnell Cole, Jesse Lingard, Ryan Tunnicliffe, Tom Thorpe, Ezekiel Fryers and the Keanes.

"They've all been on the skills journey and are now coming back to Reserves training and working with the first team and they see the same coach, sending the same messages. They say: 'Do you remember?' and it's a case of: 'Yes, so now you can tell why we did it. It should make you a player who can make a difference for us'."

For Michael Keane, Cole and Lingard in particular, patience was preached because of their slower physical development and that is beginning to pay off. "Exactly," asserted Meulensteen. "Height is no problem. It's all about quick feet and a quick brain. You see Barcelona showing us that every week."

source : Manutd

Q&A: Justin Young

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:24:00 -0800

30/11/2011 15:13, Report by Gemma Thompson

The Vaccines front man Justin Young on suffering as a young Red and hanging out with Wazza at Glastonbury…

Why United?

My dad and brother both supported Southampton but I wanted to follow another team. I was about five at the time and I saw United on TV and they were wearing red (same as Southampton) so that was it for me; they were my team. I haven’t got a better reason unfortunately.

What are your earliest memories?

They’re not great to be honest. The first few times I saw United live was at The Dell - the first game we lost 3-1, the following year it was 6-3 to Southampton and they won again 1-0 the year after.

Who was your hero growing up?

Initially I used to have pictures of all the players up on my wall. If I saw a photo in newspapers or magazines I’d always cut them out. One time I cut out a picture of a player in a United shirt that I didn’t recognise and put him on my wall. My dad saw it and laughed: ‘that’s Gary Rhodes, he’s a celebrity chef who supports United!’ My first real hero was Beckham – I absolutely loved him and even grew curtains in tribute!

Tell us about your first visit to Old Trafford...

My dad arranged to bring me up to a game against Derby [in April ‘97] but he couldn’t get tickets in time so he planned to try and get some from a tout. Unfortunately they were charging a lot and dad didn’t have enough money so we went home without seeing the game. I was gutted. He did soften the blow by buying me a kit before we left though.

How often do you get to games nowadays?

Once or twice a season depending on work commitments. I was at the Chelsea game last month, which is one of the best matches I’ve seen here, and I came to the Newcastle match at the weekend. The guy who books our gigs is a big United fan so I’m hoping he’ll organise dates around matches!

Is there any football rivalry in the band?

A bit, yeah. Our manager and tour manager are die-hard Tottenham followers and they’ve managed to successfully convert the other guys in the band into Spurs fans. So I’m flying the flag for United on my own.

Have you ever met any of the players?

I’m friends with Winston from Mumford & Sons – he took me to the Chelsea game – and he introduced me to Rooney backstage at Glastonbury. He’s my favourite player and I must admit that being in the presence of greatness left me pretty speechless. I didn’t really know what to say apart from ‘hello!’

What do you make of the modern-day rivalry between United and City and do you expect the Blues to push us closest for the title?

Unfortunately I think they’ll do well this season. They have bought well and seem to be gelling a bit better. City have never been that good in my lifetime until now, but we’ve got a strong squad and with Sir Alex leading us you always have to feel confident.

The Vaccines’ double A-side single ‘Wetsuit / Tigerblood’ is out on 4 December.

source : Manutd

Papers: Elm move hint

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:20:00 -0800

01/12/2011 09:21

The Mirror writes…

Elm hints at possible United move

Sweden midfielder Rasmus Elm says he is flattered by links with Manchester United as rumours continue that the champions may move for him in January. The AZ Alkmaar wide man caught the eye in his country's defeat at Wembley recently, with Joe Hart having to beat away a clever corner. Elm, 23, said: "You have to take rumours for what they are, but it is obviously flattering if there is some truth in it. I don't close the door to any league. But the most important thing is to develop here and do as well as I can in Holland." Elm would be a possible replacement for Antonio Valencia, who has slipped behind Ashley Young and Nani in the Old Trafford pecking order. United's midfiield has been a cause for concern this season, and Sir Alex Ferguson has been linked with a host of players in the absence of injured Tom Cleverley and Anderson. But, last week, he appeared to rule out buying in the upcoming transfer window, saying: "It is easy to say you are going to buy players but it is not easy to buy them for Manchester United, especially in January," he said. "I do not see anyone who could make us a better team. There are two or three players but they are not available, so there is no point even going there."

Several newspapers suggest Mark Hughes is in the frame to replace former United team-mate Steve Bruce at Sunderland with the suggestion that he could even hold talks on Wearside as early as today.

The Daily Mail believe City are growing increasingly confident that they can lure from Old Trafford. The Frenchman came off the bench in the disappointing Carling Cup exit to Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.

source : Manutd

United 1 Palace 2 (aet) [players rating]

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:16:00 -0800

Our assessment of United's individual performances in the Carling Cup game against Crystal Palace will appear here shortly...

Ben Amos Kicked well all night and had no chance with either Crystal Palace goal. Only called into action once, when he dived to his right to keep out a long-range free-kick.

Rafael One of United's brightest sparks until he was forced off the pitch in the second half. Very strong defensively and also showed his usual attacking thrust.

Chris Smalling A fabulous performance from the young centre-back. Won a number of tackles and, as always, remained cool under pressure from attackers.

Jonny Evans Lost Glenn Murray for the briefest of moments for Palace's second goal but it was the only slight blip on an otherwise excellent evening. Looked supremely solid.

Fabio There was a good battle shaping up between the Brazilian and Palace's tricky winger, Wilfried Zaha, but unfortunately Fabio limped off with a hamstring injury.

Antonio Valencia A stunning turn and outside-of-the-foot pass ignited the first half and Valencia was also central to the Reds' late but ultimately unsuccessful charge. Mucked in defensively, too.

Darron Gibson An encouraging performance given he's not started a first-team game for seven months. Passed the ball well but was frustrated at times by a lack of movement ahead.

Ji-sung Park A largely quiet evening for the Korean, who struggled to assert himself on the game until its latter stages.

Federico Macheda Showed great maturity and nerve to step up to convert the penalty he won but his influence was otherwise limited, although in fairness he was deployed in an unfamiliar wide role.

Mame Biram Diouf Palace's physical approach at the back seemed to unsettle the Senagelse striker, although he went close at the end of the first half with an acrobatic attempt.

Dimitar Berbatov Came off at half-time after picking up a knock on 20 minutes. Never really got going either before or after that blow, though.

SUBSTITUTES
Ezekiel Fryers (for Fabio)
A strong performance from the young left-back, although could have cleared his lines better on a couple of occasions. Generally, though, a very bright outing.

Ravel Morrison (for Berbatov)
Injected creativity and urgency to the game and pulled off a number of clever flicks/passes. Influence waned slightly as the match entered extra-time.

Paul Pogba (for Rafael)
Did himself no harm with a solid if not spectacular showing in the centre of midfield. Almost scored with a belting shot from 25 yards soon after coming on.

source : Manutd

United 1 Palace 2 (aet)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:13:00 -0800

MAN UNITED 1

MACHEDA (69)

CRYSTAL PALACE 2

AMBROSE (65), MURRAY (98)

30 NOVEMBER 2011, OLD TRAFFORD ATTENDANCE: 52,624

HOME

MAN UNITED
40	Amos
21	Rafael	42
6	Evans
12	Smalling
20	Fabio	51
25	Valencia
28	Gibson
13	Park
32	Diouf
9	Berbatov	49
27	Macheda
Subs:
34	Lindegaard
38	Keane
42	Pogba	21
49	Morrison	9
51	Fryers	20
52	Cole
50	Lingard

30/11/2011 21:55, Report by Nick Coppack

United's Carling Cup campaign is over after Crystal Palace snatched an extra-time winner at Old Trafford to seal their place in the semi-finals.

The Eagles join Manchester City, Cardiff City and Liverpool in the last four after goals from Darren Ambrose and Glenn Murray dumped Sir Alex Ferguson's men out of the competition.

Ambrose's stunning strike gave the visitors a surprise lead midway through the first period but Federico Macheda soon equalised from the penatly spot. That sent the game to extra-time, where Murray headed home on 98 minutes to send the Championship side into the semi-finals. United's disappointment, meanwhile, was heightened by first-half injuries to Fabio, Rafael and Dimitar Berbatov (who left Old Trafford wearing a protective boot).

This wasn't a United team full of youngsters, either. Eight of United's starting XI were either current or retired senior internationals. Only Ben Amos, Rafael and Federico Macheda are yet to win a full cap. That meant there was no place from the start for the likes of Paul Pogba, Ravel Morrison, Michael Keane, Zeki Fryers or Larnell Cole, all of whom have featured in this season's earlier rounds.

Crystal Palace, currently 12th in the Championship, enjoyed a bright start in front of their vocal travelling support, with both Wilfried Zaha and Jermaine Easter momentarily sneaking behind the Reds' defence inside the opening 10 minutes.

United weren't overrun, though. The Reds kept possession well, passed the ball on the ground and patiently probed for openings. Darron Gibson, given the task of anchoring the midfield in his first start for seven months, was heavily involved, spreading the ball to both flanks and consistently providing the Reds' centre-backs with an outlet.

Still, there was precious little goalmouth action in the first period and neither Amos nor Lewis Price had to make a save of any note before the interval. The closest anybody came to breaking the deadlock was on the stroke of half-time, when Mame Biram Diouf rounded off a speedy counter-attack by sending an acrobatic effort just over the crossbar.

The only other incidents of note in a dour first 45 minutes were unfortunate hamstring injuries that forced United's Fabio and Palace's Sean Scannell off and knocks to Berbatov and Dean Moxey (both ankle) that meant neither reappeared for the second half.

In Berbatov's place, Sir Alex thrusted Ravel Morrison, the talented teenager with an uncanny knack for unlocking opposition defences. His energy and creativity certainly made a difference, although it was Patrick McCarthy's defensive error that gifted the first chance of the second half to Antonio Valencia, who slid his shot wide of the post when clean through on goal.

Morrison then got in on the action, stinging Price's palms after neat control 25 yards from goal, while Macheda fluffed a volley shortly afterwards. Price then had to be alert to keep out another Morrison effort with his feet as United ramped up the pressure in search of the game's opening goal.

It duly arrived, but at the other end. And boy was it a cracker, Darren Ambrose collecting the ball 40 yards from goal before advancing briefly and firing an unstoppable effort into the top corner. It was arguably the best goal scored at Old Trafford by a visiting player since Dean Ashton's overhead kick at the Stretford End in 2008, and yet Ambrose's joy was short-lived.

Within three minutes the Reds were level, Federico Macheda slotting home from the penalty spot after being tugged to the ground by McCarthy. Palace fans felt aggrieved but replays showed their captain had grabbed a fistful of Macheda's shirt in a desperate attempt to preseve his side's lead.

With parity restored and Paul Pogba, sent on moments before Ambrose's thunderbolt, beginning to assert himself more in the middle of the park, United pushed for a winner. That inevitably left a few gaps at the back and Palace weren't shy in exploiting them. It made for an entertaining final 10 minutes but ultimately neither side could prevent the tie from going to extra-time.

Despite heavy Reds presssure, Palace struck the crucial blow. Substitute Glenn Murray, perhaps standing marginally in an offside position when Ambrose's free-kick was whipped in, eluded his marker to head the visitors in front after Ji-sung Park had illegally halted Zaha's run.

Gibson and Macheda both went close to nabbing a second equaliser, while Ambrose tested Amos with another bullet from distance before the extra-time interval. The Reds then threw everything at Palace in the final 15 minutes as Sir Alex's men pressed for penalties but the Londoners stood firm to register a famous victory.

Sir Alex, meanwhile, could only apologise to fans at the final whistle and insisted "that was not a Manchester United performance".

source : Manutd

Evra: Seize the day

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:04:00 -0800

30/11/2011 09:30, Report by James Tuck

Patrice Evra has sounded a note of caution as United’s talented young players prepare to stake another claim for regular first-team action.

The likes of Ezekiel Fryers, Paul Pogba and Michael Keane featured against Leeds and Aldershot in the previous rounds of the Carling Cup and will be hoping to be involved tonight against Crystal Palace.

Whichever youngsters are picked, Evra wants them to make the most of their opportunity to impress Sir Alex Ferguson – and take nothing for granted.

The Frenchman said: "This is a big chance for them, but they have to be careful because Sir Alex gives you an opportunity and if you let him down, it’s difficult to get another one.

"This is the United way: if you play well, you’ll get another chance, but if you play only an average game, the boss will put you on the bench. There’s always someone ready to come in and try to do better than you.

"That’s why players must be ready to grasp the chance. Before the game they must think to themselves how lucky they are to be playing with the first team already."

Evra has nevertheless been impressed by what he has seen so far.

"I’m really proud and pleased because when you see these young players in action, you know United’s future is bright," he said.

"They’re doing a great job and Sir Alex deserves a lot of credit for that – he’s not afraid to play them in the Carling Cup."

source : Manutd

Lingard hopes for call

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 03:02:00 -0800

29/11/2011 14:40, Report by Adam Marshall

Jesse Lingard is hoping to be involved in the Carling Cup squad for the tie with Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.

The young winger has been in excellent form for Warren Joyce's Reserves and is keen to follow in the footsteps of pals Ezekiel Fryers, Larnell Cole, Ravel Morrison, Paul Pogba, Michael Keane and Marnick Vermijl by being named in the matchday party in the competition this term.

"Hopefully, I can be involved against Palace," he told ManUtd.com. "I've been training a lot with the first-team now and just hope I can keep training with them.

"I've enjoyed the training a lot and you shouldn't be surprised by it. You've just got to carry on playing your normal game. I've got to keep working hard, keep the manager thinking about me and, hopefully I'll be involved in the Palace game."

The 18-year-old was outstanding in the recent Reserves' victory over Everton and also performed well in the success at Bolton in his last outing. After recovering from an injury picked up against Bury earlier in the campaign, he is currently firing on all cylinders.

"I'd hurt my medial ligament and part of my ankle," he explained. "It was a five-week rehabilitation programme and I was on the bench for the next game after the injury. But I've come on nicely with it and am playing well now. I just had to keep my chin up, keeping playing and doing well now I'm over the injury."

source : Manutd

Carrick aims for Cup lift

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 02:59:00 -0800

"This year there are still big teams left in it. Certain years in the past, there have been a few lesser teams. This competition is very strong. Come the quarter-finals you take it seriously, of course you do. We are not taking Crystal Palace lightly."

– Michael Carrick

29/11/2011 09:29, Report by Adam Marshall

Michael Carrick has outlined how the Carling Cup can provide a timely lift ahead of the season run-in.

The Reds lifted the trophy in 2009 and 2010 and the midfielder feels success in the competition - the final will be played on Sunday 26 February at Wembley - provides an injection of confidence in the lead up to the business end of the season.

Carrick, in superb form at the moment, also feels the tournament is the perfect testing ground for up-and-coming talents to bed in alongside the senior figures.

"There is no harm in getting into the habit of winning games, no matter what competition it's in," the former Spurs man stressed. "Some people have written the competition off as not being so important, but lifting that trophy in February gives you a great feeling. It gives you a lot of belief going into the end of the season, not just as players but as a club. If you are winning trophies, it gives everyone a boost. It's something we're not taking lightly as it's an opportunity to get more silverware.

Several members of last season's FA Youth Cup-winning side are expected to be in the squad again after featuring in the wins at Leeds and Aldershot in previous rounds.

"This is a great place to learn your trade," insisted Carrick. "The manager is the best at guiding young players through when he sees they are ready. They have had little snippets before. Zeki [Ezekiel Fryers] has played a couple of times and done well. I am sure they will do well if the manager puts them in.

"They certainly have the talent. They're good players - they wouldn't be threatening to play if they weren't. They have been doing things right and have ability. It's about going to that next step when you have the opportunity. There are not a load of opportunities to come into the first-team. The Carling Cup is probably the best way to establish yourself and I'm sure they'll take the opportunity with both hands if it arises."

source : Manutd

Boss promotes integration

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 02:57:00 -0800

"I used to threaten Bryan Robson all the time and tell him the 1992 team would beat you."

- Sir Alex

29/11/2011 09:16, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex enjoys watching his latest batch of youth products training with the first-team at Carrington.

The United boss is adept at integrating youngsters into his plans and is carefully nurturing another talented group of teenagers, who already have the FA Youth Cup under their belts.

"The youngsters have taken part in a lot of first-team training now," explained the boss. "[Ravel] Morrison, [Paul] Pogba, [Larnell] Cole, [Jesse] Lingard and [Zeki] Fryers: we've stepped them up to our squad.

"They enjoy the challenge and it's an opportunity for us to see what they're like in these sessions, how they cope with the older players. It's how they handle the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic if they give them a bit of stick... it's a good part of a young player's progress when they can be involved with the big boys."

The situation is not new for United, as the fabled "Class of 92" had a famous tussle with their senior counterparts in order to measure their progress.

"I used to threaten Bryan Robson all the time and tell him the 1992 team would beat you," revealed Sir Alex. "We did have a practice game together, the first team versus the Class of 92.

"The first team won 3-1 and Robson was in one of his angry moods. He was very determined that day! It was brilliant, they were absolutely revved up for it and the young boys were thinking: 'Why are we doing this and can we beat them'? There was an element of doubt in them and I think there was a lot of intimidation going on. I can't remember who was referee but it wasn't me!"

source : Manutd

De Laet back for Norwich

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 02:54:00 -0800

Reds on loan

Barclays Premier League
Ritchie De Laet - Norwich City

npower Championship
Danny Drinkwater - Barnsley
Ryan Tunnicliffe - Peterborough
Scott Wootton - Peterborough
Robbie Brady - Hull City

npower League OneOliver Norwood - Scunthorpe United
Sam Johnstone - Scunthorpe United

Bundesliga
Joshua King - Borussia Monchengladbach

28/11/2011 12:01, Report by Adam Marshal

Ritchie De Laet, fit again after a back problem, helped Norwich to a 2-1 victory against QPR.

The Belgian, who returned to training last week, played for 59 minutes of the Canaries' triumph, leaving the field seconds before Luke Young equalised for Rangers. Grant Holt hit the winner.

Robbie Brady was deployed in a different role to his usual flank position in Hull City's defeat to Burnley. The Irish youngster was part of a three-man strikeforce as the Tigers surrendered a two-goal lead against the Clarets. The Dubliner forced one good save out of Lee Grant as he and former Red Cameron Stewart supported Matty Fryatt.

Ryan Tunnicliffe came off the bench for Peterborough in their creditable 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough at London Road. The young midfielder replaced Lee Frecklington on 54 minutes, moments after Matthew Bates' opener and helped the Posh retrieve a point.

Danny Drinkwater came on as a substitute for Barnsley in their superb 2-1 success at Leeds. The midfielder is back from suspension.

Oliver Norwood and Sam Johnstone played in Scunthorpe's unlucky 3-2 defeat at Notts County. Northern Ireland midfielder Norwood was harshly sent off for a challenge on Jeff Hughes while Johnstone made one wonder stop to deny Ben Burgess.

Joshua King did not feature for Borussia Monchengladbach as the Bundesliga side won 3-0 at Cologne.

source : Manutd

United v Crystal Palace preview

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 1 Dec 2011 02:51:00 -0800

28/11/2011 11:15 , Adam Marshall

The Reds look for a place in the last four of the Carling Cup...

Form guide

United have only lost once all season but have been held to consecutive home draws by Benfica and Newcastle. Sir Alex's side breezed through previous rounds of the Carling Cup against Leeds and Aldershot. Palace's trip to Old Trafford is the Eagles' first away assignment in the competition. Dougie Freedman's team haven't scored for five Championship games but three of those have been goalless draws.

Ins and outs

The manager has dropped plenty of hints about his possible team selection. The Da Silva twins, Ezekiel Fryers and Chris Smalling could all play with Mame Biram Diouf and Federico Macheda also promised a run-out. Paul Pogba, Darron Gibson and Ravel Morrison are in contention for midfield spots while Ben Amos is expected to play in goal. Palace will be without on-loan defender Dekel Keinan as he is cup-tied after representing Cardiff in earlier rounds. Another loanee, striker Chris Martin, should be available.

Last meeting

There was stalemate at Selhurst Park in March, 2005, as Palace held out for a draw despite Vassilis Lakis being sent off after 64 minutes. Big guns Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Scholes came off the bench but there was no way past home keeper Gabor Kiraly.

Star man

Wilfried Zaha imay be a talent but much of the Eagles' best work has been in defence of late and Nathaniel Clyne is a full-back with a big future. The 20-year-old was npower Player of the Month for October in the Championship and made his England Under-21 debut in the recent victory over Iceland. Freedman will be aware of the need to fend off Barclays Premier League interest in the youngster when the January window opens.

Quote/unquote

"It is about the players enjoying themselves and providing the fans, who have stuck by us through relegation and administration, with a great night. It is amazing to think we are playing Manchester United in the last eight of the League Cup this season. Who would have thought that would happen?" - Dougie Freedman.

Any sub-plots?

Palace were the opponents when Sir Alex lifted his first trophy as United boss - the 1990 FA Cup. The South Londers were also overcome at the semi-final stage of the same competition in 1995. The Reds are aiming to win the Carling Cup for a third time in four years after successes in 2009 and 2010.

Whistle blower

Chris Foy takes charge of the quarter-final - the first time he's officiated a Reds match this term. The Merseyside man-in-the-middle has shown four red cards in 2011/2012 including two to Chelsea players in their derby defeat to QPR last month.

Rivals watch

The other three quarter-final ties are all on Tuesday. Cardiff face Blackburn, Chelsea entertain Liverpool and City are at Arsenal.

source : Manutd

Sir Alex: Timing key for debuts

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:58:00 -0800

"When somebody like Paul McGuinness comes to me and says: 'He's a first-team player', then I know to keep a special eye on the player."

- Sir Alex Ferguson

Pictured left to right: Sir Alex with two loyal Academy servants, Jimmy Ryan and Paul McGuinness

28/11/2011 10:57, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson has explained the detailed process that is followed when he considers whether to hand a youngster his debut.

The progress of a number of last season's FA Youth Cup-winners for Warren Joyce's Reserves has inevitably led to suggestions that more new faces could feature in Wednesday's Carling Cup tie against Crystal Palace. Zeki Fryers, Larnell Cole, Paul Pogba and Michael Keane have already made their first-team bow in the competition this term, to demonstrate that the Carrington production line is still in fine working order.

"The monitoring system here is good and there's a lot of consistency with our Academy staff," says Sir Alex in the new edition of Inside United. "These are guys that have been here a long time and know what to look for. When somebody like Paul McGuinness comes to me and says: 'He's a first-team player', then I know to keep a special eye on the player.

"From there, we'll bring the boy into first-team training for a couple of sessions. That's what we're doing at the moment with Paul Pogba, Ravel Morrison, Jesse Lingard, Zeki Fryers, Larnell Cole and Michael Keane. They're all training with the first team.

"That allows me to see how they cope playing against seasoned professionals, it lets me judge their temperament. It allows me to get a far better picture of how they're progressing. And, while this is going on, you hope they're playing well for the Reserves and displaying the right attitude and enthusiasm.

"Players are never simply thrown into first-team action," he asserted. "They always follow this step-by-step process.

"I don't think we've ever been off the mark and given a boy his chance too early. That can be very damaging. If he's not up to the standards we require at United, then we don't venture there. The last thing we'd want is to humiliate a player. I'm not saying every player I've ever given a debut to has gone on to be a fantastic player at this club, but most of them have at least forged successful careers."

source : Manutd

Boss: Draw was a travesty

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:55:00 -0800

26/11/2011 17:19, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson felt his Manchester United players were hugely unlucky not to take three points from the tussle with Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

The Reds went ahead through Javier Hernandez shortly after half-time but were pegged back by Demba Ba's penalty after Rio Ferdinand's tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa inside the box. Despite carving out a host of chances, the champions were unable to beat Tim Krul and his solid defence for a second time, even though the Magpies went down to ten men after Jonas Gutierrez's red card.

"It was a fantastic performance from us," said Sir Alex. "Alan Pardew said Newcastle were the better team in the first half - I don't know what game he was at! Chicharito had four clear chances and we played some great football. The second half was just an onslaught and to not get three points from that is just a travesty.

"I'm not concerned if we're playing like that. Most of the time, we'd score three or four goals in that game. Their goalkeeper made some fantastic saves, there were shots blocked, cleared off the line and we had one or two bad misses. So it's just an incredible result."

The boss was obviously upset to see referee Mike Jones point to the spot after consulting his assistant on what looked to be a clean challenge by Ferdinand in the second half.

"I think it was everyone's view [that it was a fair tackle], including the referee as he thought Rio won the ball because he gave the corner kick," explained Sir Alex. "He let the assistant referee over-rule him.

"We had a situation a few weeks ago when the linesman gave a penalty kick to Sunderland for handball [against Nemanja Vidic].

"The referee [that day] was put in a terrible quandary in between what to do as he knew fine well it wasn't a penalty and over-ruled his linesman. It's what the referee should have done today."

The manager also bemoaned the crucial touch from Michael Carrick which meant Hernandez was in an offside position as he tucked in Ryan Giggs' injury-time cross.

"We kept making chances and that's the normal pattern of these last 15-minute surges," he added. "We do get chances and usually do okay. We were unlucky with the offside as, if Michael doesn't touch it, Chicharito is onside.

"They had a few blocks and put their bodies on the line all the time. Give credit to Newcastle but we absolutely slaughtered them and we just couldn't get the result. It's disappointing in that respect but, if we play like that every week, I'll be very happy."

source : Manutd

Papers: Reds eye Italian

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:52:00 -0800

28/11/2011 09:45

The Daily Mail writes…

United on list of admirers for striker Gabbiadini

Manchester United are monitoring Atalanta's teenage striker Manolo Gabbiadini. Sir Alex Ferguson is mulling over a £9million bid for the 19-year-old, who has scored 10 goals in 13 games for Italy's Under 21 side. Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen are expected to leave Old Trafford in the summer, and the departures of the experienced duo could leave space open in the squad for another promising youngster. If he decides to make a move, Ferguson could face competition from Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan for Gabbiadini's signature. Although he has so far failed to live up to his international goal-scoring record at club level, Gabbiadini's powerful physique looks to make him ideal for the Barclays Premier League.

There is widespread coverage of Wales manager Gary Speed’s death, with several papers featuring Ryan Giggs’ statement, first published on ManUtd.com on Sunday afternoon.

Most of the major daily newspapers run a story claiming Sir Alex will avoid an FA ban following comments made about a linesman in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle.

The Sun quotes Sir Alex’s United Review column in which the Reds boss states he is not in favour of a Great Britain Olympic football team.

source : Manutd

Pogba to face Palace?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:39:00 -0800

"We've won two Carling Cup finals with young players, which is good going. It's become an important tournament for us in terms of getting the youngsters an introduction into winning and having an understanding of the progress they're making."

- Sir Alex Ferguson

27/11/2011 10:07, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson has dropped some hints as to his likely team selection in Wednesday's Carling Cup quarter-final with Crystal Palace.

The boss will again rely heavily on youth, as he has in the previous rounds against Leeds United and Aldershot Town, and has suggested that Paul Pogba could be handed his first senior start for the Reds. The Frenchman came on as a substitute at Elland Road and the EBB Stadium but is now in the running for a place in the initial eleven, alongwith fellow FA Youth Cup winner Ravel Morrison.

"There will be complete change," revealed Sir Alex. "Just the same as we had at Leeds and Aldershot. Ravel Morrison was in the squad for Wednesday's game [against Benfica]. He's a very, very talented boy, of course, and he'll possibly be on the bench, at least, in midweek. But I've got other players needing a game like Mame Biram Diouf and Federico Macheda.

"All the younger players [will come in] - Zeki Fryers, the two Da Silvas [Rafael and Fabio] are possibles. Chris Smalling has come back and I may be able to play him on Wednesday. He's still young and it'll be a young squad against Palace. The only area where I've got problems is centre midfield. It's possible I could play Pogba in there but we'll wait and see. I've got enough players to choose from, that's for sure."

"I think the League Cup has turned into quite a good tournament," added the manager. "Clubs like United are able to introduce young players and ones who have not been playing regularly in the first team and it's been good to us over the years.

"We've won two finals at Wembley with young players, which is good going, and I think it's become an important tournament for us in terms of getting the youngsters an introduction into winning and having an understanding of the progress they're making."

Sir Alex has a well-established system in place in terms of how to develop the youngsters coming through the ranks at Old Trafford.

"The reserves' league is more of an extended youth league but we rectify that by putting players on loan," he explained. "We've got quite a lot of players on loan this year, as we have every year, most of the 19 and 20-year-olds.

"The nucleus of the youth team last year have all had first-team experience this season. They've all been involved in the League Cup and travelled to European games with us. One of that youth team is out on loan in the Championship [Ryan Tunnicliffe at Peterborough] and it's valuable experience for the younger ones."

Sir Alex Ferguson was speaking to journalists from the national Sunday newspapers.

source : Manutd

Giggs saddened by Speed death

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:23:00 -0800

27/11/2011 13:48,

Ryan Giggs is "totally devastated" by the news that Wales manager Gary Speed has died at the age of 42.

Giggs and Speed became good friends during their long club careers and international appearances as Wales team-mates.

"I am totally devastated," Giggs said. "Gary Speed was one of the nicest men in football and someone I am honoured to call a team-mate and friend.

"Words cannot begin to describe how sad I feel at hearing this awful news. It goes without saying my thoughts are with his family at this tremendously sad time."

Former Reds captain Gary Neville also paid tribute to the former Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United midfielder.

"It’s absolutely devastating," Neville said on Sky Sports. "Our careers crossed paths often and I played against him many times. He was a fantastic professional, a winner with a great reputation.

"We sometimes think of football being important, but it’s not."

good bye Mr.Gary Speed

source : Manutd

Sir Alex: Draw was a travesty

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 05:17:00 -0800

26/11/2011 17:19, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson felt his Manchester United players were hugely unlucky not to take three points from the tussle with Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

The boss was obviously upset to see referee Mike Jones point to the spot after consulting his assistant on what looked to be a clean challenge by Ferdinand in the second half.

"We had a situation a few weeks ago when the linesman gave a penalty kick to Sunderland for handball [against Nemanja Vidic].

"The referee [that day] was put in a terrible quandary in between what to do as he knew fine well it wasn't a penalty and over-ruled his linesman. It's what the referee should have done today."

The manager also bemoaned the crucial touch from Michael Carrick which meant Hernandez was in an offside position as he tucked in Ryan Giggs' injury-time cross.

source : Manutd

United 1 Newcastle 1 (Ratings)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 04:40:00 -0800

Adam Marshall assesses the individual performances in the Reds' 1-1 draw with Newcastle...

David De Gea: Made a world-class save to deny Fabricio Coloccini after also thwarting Demba Ba in the first half. Had no chance with Ba's penalty and handled every cross with immaculate ease and authority.

Fabio: A tigerish display full of passion that should have resulted in a goal, only for his finish to lack composure after playing a one-two with Javier Hernandez. Sent the cross over for Ryan Giggs' first-half opportunity and made a couple of snappy challenges on Jonas Gutierrez - one of which earned him a yellow card.

Nemanja Vidic: Supreme in the air and managed to nullify most of Newcastle's attacking intentions. Made one thumping, but fair, challenge on Ba and forced a superb save out of Tim Krul with a diving header.

Rio Ferdinand: Outmuscled Ba on numerous occasions but also dribbled past him too, showing silk and steel. Blocked a Gabriel Obertan drive and stopped a dangerous Hatem Ben Arfa pass at the start of the second half. But his most telling contribution was what looked a fair sliding tackle on the Frenchman that resulted in the controversial penalty.

Patrice Evra: With Obertan's presence possibly restricting his attacking intentions, the shackles were released after the second half and he was much more involved. Blocked one Obertan cross with his arm from point-blank range but a penalty would have been harsh. His best moment was setting up a chance for Ashley Young and he made another superb pass down the line to the winger soon afterwards. Drilled in one shot that forced a diving save out of Krul late on.

Nani: Failed to see much of the ball in the opening exchanges, having to come deep to get involved. A switch of flanks saw him set up a chance for Hernandez and he curled a shot over the bar after working a short corner with Ryan Giggs. Returned to the right to run at the visiting defence and carved out clear openings for Wayne Rooney and Young before being fouled by Jonas Gutierrez that led to a red card for the Argentinian.

Michael Carrick: A strong, disciplined performance which featured some tough tackling as he was a vital figure throughout. Kept the ball rolling in midfield and there's little doubting he's in good form at the moment.

Ryan Giggs: A neat backheel early on showed his class and this was a composed display in the midfield engine room. Some driving runs lifted the crowd and showed he is still able to glide past players effortlessly with his wonderful balance. A flicked shot forced a great stop out of Krul in the first half and he set up Hernandez for the last-gasp disallowed goal.

Ashley Young: Really struggled to make his mark in the first half as United's wide players were unable to get into the game. The second period was a different story as he smashed a shot inches wide from an Evra pass and saw a cross intercepted by Krul with Hernandez waiting for a tap-in. Was unable to steer into a gaping net under strong pressure from Steven Taylor and was out of luck when his drive smacked a post late on.

Wayne Rooney: Instantly involved and kept his cool despite Ben Arfa's attempts to provoke him following a challenge with Fabricio Coloccini. A controlled volley with his left foot led to the goal and he headed a Young corner over the top but most of his work came deeper on the pitch as he tried to probe with some intelligent passing.

Javier Hernandez: Had a number of shots throughout, firing a Nani pass over in the first half, and playing high up on the Newcastle backline. Netted for the first time at Old Trafford this season when Steven Taylor's clearance cannoned off him but he was caught offside on a few occasions, inevitably given his advanced position, and most crucially when touching home deep into injury time.

Substitutes:

Federico Macheda (for Evra, 88): Did well to try and make things happen despite his limited time on pitch and the fact he's only just returned from injury. Headed his only chance wide.

Chris Smalling (for Fabio, 90): No time for any impact.

source : Manutd

United 1 Newcastle 1

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 04:31:00 -0800

MAN UNITED 1
HERNANDEZ (49)
NEWCASTLE UNITED 1
BA (63)

26 NOVEMBER 2011, OLD TRAFFORD ATTENDANCE: 75,594

A controversial penalty equaliser by Demba Ba denied Manchester United victory in a hotly-contested clash with high-flying Newcastle United as Javier Hernandez also had an injury-time effort ruled out for offside.

Rio Ferdinand's tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa in the 63rd minute looked a clean one but the assistant referee had other ideas and Mike Jones pointed to the spot. It cancelled out Javier Hernandez's opener, his first goal at Old Trafford this term, and the Tynesiders held out despite playing the final 12 minutes with 10 men when Jonas Gutierrez was sent off.

Sir Alex opted for experience in his starting XI with Ryan Giggs in central midfield alongside Michael Carrick and the Reds started quite promisingly with Hernandez having three early sights of goal. Unfortunately, the Mexican was unable to find a finishing touch after Wayne Rooney linked well with his strike partner.

Newcastle mustered a decent attempt of their own when Ben Arfa's scooped pass released Ba but the Magpies' top scorer's volley was comfortably saved by David De Gea. Ben Arfa needlessly berated Rooney, earning a yellow card, after the striker was penalised for a foul on Fabricio Coloccini but this was a rare first-half flashpoint as the teams tried to contend with the sweeping Manchester rain.

Another clear-cut opportunity did not arrive until the half-hour mark when Nani, who had switched flanks with Ashley Young, fed Hernandez with a slide-rule pass but the Mexcian striker fired over the top. United seemed to find some urgency as, seconds later, Giggs touched on a Fabio cross which was superbly dealt with by Krul, palming it away to safety with Hernandez lurking and hoping for to pounce on the rebound.

Nani and ex-Reds winger Gabriel Obertan traded shots over the top and the latter carried some threat as the half wore on, with Patrice Evra requiring the assistance of Nemanja Vidic in the middle to deal with one raid and then blocking a cross from his fellow countryman with his arm, although a penalty would have been extremely harsh.

The final attack of the first 45 minutes again carried plenty of potential but Hernandez made a hash of Young's pass by missing his kick, after Rooney was involved in the build-up, meaning the teams went in goalless at the break.

The Reds edged in front at the start of the second half after Hernandez was fouled by Steven Taylor. Rooney's free-kick hit the wall but he volleyed it back with his left foot and Steven Taylor's attempted clearance cannoned off Hernandez and into the net. It was a slice of luck but the Reds should have extended the lead soon afterwards when Fabio worked a clever one-two with Hernandez but hammered an inviting opportunity off target.

The Magpies were clinging on for dear life as Young fizzed a shot inches wide following fine play by Evra. However, Newcastle rallied and De Gea had to make a stunning save to keep out Fabricio Coloccini after the hosts were caught napping at a corner. The relief was only temporary, however, as Ferdinand's fine tackle on Ben Arfa led to the controversial penalty. Up stepped Ba to send De Gea the wrong way and level the scores - despite the champions' protests. The Reds' frustration with the officials grew, with the manager upset at one wrong call, and the bookings mounted for the Magpies as they resorted to some desperate tackles.

After Rooney had a shot off target, Young really should have restored the lead but, under pressure from Steven Taylor, was unable to convert Nani's excellent assist with the goal gaping. Gutierrez was shown a second yellow card for a rash challenge on Nani 12 minutes from time, which sparked an inevitable late onslaught from Sir Alex's team.

Krul stood firm with a brilliant, instinctive save to keep out Vidic's flying header and then tipped away Evra's left-footed effort. When the keeper was beaten, Young's low drive thudded back off a post and Simpson made an unbelievable goalline block to stop a Hernandez header. Substitute Federico Macheda could only nod a Giggs centre wide with the Reds laying siege to the opposing goal and Vidic was unable to scramble home a mis-hit shot by Ferdinand as Newcastle held out for a valiant point that left everybody of a Red persuasion totally frustrated - despite Hernandez tucking home a Giggs cross in the dying seconds. The flag went up, almost inevitably, and the chance of three points vanished.

source : Manutd

Sir Alex reveals Palace plans

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 04:09:00 -0800

- Sir Alex Ferguson

27/11/2011 10:07, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson has dropped some hints as to his likely team selection in Wednesday's Carling Cup quarter-final with Crystal Palace.

Sir Alex has a well-established system in place in terms of how to develop the youngsters coming through the ranks at Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson was speaking to journalists from the national Sunday newspapers.

source : Manutd