MANCHESTER UNITED BLOG

United 3 - 0 Wolves

2009-12-16T00:00:00.000Z

Mick McCarthy's vastly-changed Wolves survived for half an hour before losing out to a lacklustre Manchester United.

With 10 new faces from the team that beat Tottenham, Wolves fell behind to a Wayne Rooney penalty after Ronald Zubar handled Darron Gibson's corner.

Defender Nemanja Vidic soon made up for a wild volley by nodding in United's second from another Gibson corner.

An uninventive Wolves rarely threatened and Antonio Valencia fired in the third after clever work by Dimitar Berbatov.

After their shock defeat by Aston Villa, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be pleased with the three points which draw them level on points with leaders Chelsea, but the flat performance might give him a few concerns.

The talking point before kick-off could have been Ferguson's previous 899 league games in charge, but instead it was the visitors' surprising line-up that caught the attention.

After Saturday's 1-0 win at Tottenham, the Wolves team sheet revealed 10 changes by manager McCarthy with goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann the only survivor from their White Hart Lane heroics.

Premier League rules state that clubs should "field a full strength team", although the governing body told BBC Radio 5 live it was unlikely they would launch any investigation into the Old Trafford match.

These are worrying times for Wolves with this defeat pushing them back into the bottom three after Bolton saw off West Ham on Tuesday night.

Despite regulars Stephen Ward, Jody Craddock, Richard Stearman and Nenad Milijas all being absent from the squad, McCarthy's team of unfamiliar faces justified their selection at the start as they shut out United's strike partnership of Rooney and the recalled Berbatov.

After firing a one-on-one at Hahnemann's legs and then seeing a deflected shot dribble just wide of the post, Rooney finally got the all-important opener with a penalty on the half-hour to settle the early jitters.

Gibson's corner looped into the box and, as Zubar leaped with the towering Vidic, the Wolves defender flapped with his arm and referee Steve Bennett pointed to the spot.

The diving Hahnemann could do nothing to prevent the England striker hammering in his 12th league goal of the season and his 20th in the Premier League in 2009.

Just before the interval, the league champions doubled the lead after Vidic made up for an earlier high-and-wide volley that sailed over the bar.

It was another Gibson corner that created further havoc in the defence as the Serbian defender nodded the ball down and saw it squirm through the American keeper's hands.

The tepid exchanges continued in the second half and it was the visitors who almost pulled one back with a rare attack, but George Friend could only blaze over.

It was time for a change in personnel and McCarthy stoked up his attacking options by replacing the hard-working but largely ineffective Stefan Maierhofer with Chris Iwelumo.

Wolves soon conceded a third though, thanks to some trickery from Berbatov.

The Bulgarian picked up the ball on the right after a raking pass from Paul Scholes and hooked the ball over his head to Valencia, who hammered in a half-volley.

United's victory was a canter in the end, and after the Wolves fans chanted "we want our money back" it will be interesting to see which 11 they will be watching when they come up against fellow-strugglers Burnley at the weekend.

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Ryan Giggs named 'Personality of the Year' by BBC

2009-12-14T01:55:00.002Z

Manchester United star Ryan Giggs was crowned 2009 BBC Sports Personality of the Year in Sunday's award ceremony.

The Welsh winger, 36, is the most decorated player in English football with a record 11th Premier League winners' medal secured this year.

Formula 1 champion Jenson Button was second with world heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis securing third spot.

Giggs said: "I grew up watching this programme. To see the people that have won it and to be here is unbelievable."

He is the first footballer to claim the prestigious trophy since England midfielder David Beckham in 2001, with Michael Owen (1998), Paul Gascoigne (1990) and Bobby Moore (1966) the only other football winners.

With the public choosing their favourite from the shortlist of 10 by phone on the night, Giggs received 29.4% of the vote (151,842 votes) ahead of Button (18.74% - 96,770) and Ennis (15.58% - 80,469) with a total of 516,473 votes cast.

This year has seen Giggs win the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year award for the first time in April and the Wales Sports Personality of the Year award, and in a United shirt he has made his 800th appearance, scored his 150th goal and helping them reach the Champions League final.

The Cardiff-born star added: "I am playing for the greatest manager that has ever lived and I'm playing for the greatest club. Perhaps I've become more appreciated as I have got older.

"It's unusual for a 36-year-old to be playing with a team like Manchester United for 20 years but I am enjoying it and long may it continue."

After Ferguson revealed on Friday that his veteran playmaker had been offered a new contract for next season, Giggs said: "It was the first I had heard of it the other day so I was quite pleased. Hopefully there will be another year after that."

One of the most emotional moments at the Sheffield Arena was Spanish golf legend Seve Ballesteros - watching on a video screen from home - being honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award.

The 52-year-old, still recuperating from a brain tumour that required four life-threatening operations, received a standing ovation before receiving the award from a tearful compatriot and golfer José María Olazábal.

Other vote totals were: cyclist Mark Cavendish in fourth (55,960), gymnast Beth Tweddle (38,907), Daley (36,929), tennis player Andy Murray (19,936), Strauss (17,237), boxer David Haye (13,916), athlete Phillips Idowu (4,507).

After the 10 contenders were introduced to a packed audience at the start of the evening, Major Phil Packer received the Helen Rollason award.

The Sussex-born man was awarded for his extensive charity work - which included running the London Marathon this year - and revealed he would be setting up the British Inspiration Trust after leaving the army next February.

The 15-year-old diver Tom Daley, who was already in the list of 10 for the main Sports Personality award, began the night in grand fashion by getting his hands on the Young Sports Personality trophy for the second time.

Next up was comedian Eddie Izzard looking a little more refreshed than three months ago when the 47-year-old was finishing his 43rd marathon in 51 days in aid of Sports Relief.

After being handed the BBC Sports Personality special award, Izzard said: "Everything was painful. People asked me if I enjoyed the running, but I enjoyed the stopping! I staggered, I ran and I crawled."

The team award went to the England men's cricket team following their Ashes success against the Australians this summer, led by captain and top 10 Sports Personality contender Andrew Strauss.

Strauss, in South Africa with the team, said: "What I am most proud about is that we have stuck together in some pretty tough times. That is what got us over the line in the Ashes and this award can act as a spur to achieve more in the future."

Fabio Capello was named Coach of the Year on the back of the 63-year-old Italian guiding England to the 2010 World Cup, while Olympic and world sprint champion Usain Bolt claimed the Overseas trophy after his fireworks on the track.

The 72-year-old swimming instructor Doreen Adcock from Milton Keynes won the Sports Unsung Hero award.

Source: BBC

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Preview: 'United v Villa' (12-12-09)

2009-12-11T23:10:00.002Z

PARK PRIMED FOR VILLANS' VISIT

Ji-sung Park is a man on a mission - to help United vanquish Aston Villa.

A win would at least keep Chelsea within reach - the Blues are now two points ahead - and could even put the Reds top if the leaders slip up at home to Everton.

Victory is far from a formality, however, even if United have won the last seven at home to Villa. As Park warns, history will count for little at 17:30 GMT on Saturday.

The Korean told United Review, “We have a good record against them but we have to look at the present - our past results won’t help us this time.

"Villa have been strong for the last few years and they’re more determined than ever to break into the top four. This season they have performed very well."

United's industrious winger is impressed with the squad Martin O’Neill has built at Villa Park, and knows the Reds will have to be on top form.

"They have a really strong team. Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor, James Milner and Emile Heskey are all good. We'll have to be at our best."

Nemanja Vidic will return to bolster United's defence against Aston Villa on Saturday, but the Serbian will still be only one of two recognised defenders in the back four.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed to his Friday press conference that Vidic has overcome a recent bout of flu, and is likely to be joined by Michael Carrick in the centre of defence, with Darren Fletcher extending his recent stint on the right side of defence. Patrice Evra will continue at left-back.

"Having Vidic back is good news for us," said the boss. "Villa are prolific crossers of the ball so it's important to have someone like Nemanja in there.

"And if Villa play Heskey and Carew up front then we'll have a formidable task in dealing with them because they are big lads. But I think Vidic is the one player who can cope and we're delighted he's back.

"Michael will continue in the centre alongside Vida and Darren will play at right-back. We're certainly encouraged by the fact that players like Michael and Darren can adapt to playing in different positions and help us cope with the current situation."

The Reds' glut of rearguard concerns should ease, however, in the coming days and weeks. Rafael has started training, and is likely to be available for Tuesday's meeting with Wolves, while the same goes for Wes Brown, who starts training again on Friday. Edwin van der Sar remains out of action, but should return next weekend.

Gary Neville, Jonny Evans and John O'Shea are all still out, with Evans due back within a fortnight and O'Shea likely to be back for Leeds' FA Cup visit.

Source: manutd.com

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Fergie hails Owen hat-trick

2009-12-08T23:00:00.000Z

MANCHESTER United manager Sir Alex Ferguson saluted "fantastic" Michael Owen after the striker’s hat-trick helped the Reds triumph 3-1 at Wolfsburg to finish top of Champions League Group B.

Owen’s first treble for the club helped United overcome the absence of 14 players to record a memorable win over the German champions.

Asked about the former Liverpool forward’s contribution, Ferguson said on Sky Sports 2: “Fantastic. You know what he is. In the penalty box, he’s on the shoulder, making runs across defenders... the timing of the runs is fantastic and I’m really pleased for him.”

The victory was a record 15th away game unbeaten in the Champions League and only United’s third in 10 attempts on German soil.

Ferguson was also satisfied with how the rest of his makeshift team performed.

“There’s players with quality there. You’ve got to trust them. They’re doing their jobs and proving it tonight again.

“They’ve applied themselves and that’s important.”

Ferguson admitted his side had been fortunate not to concede a first-half penalty, however.

“It looks as if it was a penalty,” said the Scot. “Maybe we were a bit lucky there but sometimes you need a bit of luck in any game.

“Our control in the first half was very good but their threat towards the end with their speed on the counter-attack was very good.”

Owen view

Owen refused to take all the credit for the victory, saying the team as a whole had to dig deep to contend with so many absentees.

“Me getting three goals will probably grab the headlines, but it was a great team performance,” Owen added.

“I was playing deep with us having so many players out and we were trying to protect the back four.”

Owen, who turns 30 next Monday, hopes United will now be handed a favourable tie in the last 16 after progressing as group winners.

“It’s great being top so we play at home second,” he said. “But I’m not going to lie, you want as weak a side as possible

“(But) if a team’s got to first or second in the Champions League, there’s no weak sides, although you obviously want to avoid the big boys.”

Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

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West Ham 0 - 4 United

2009-12-06T22:33:00.002Z

Source: football-highlight.com

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Yaya linked with Barca exit

2009-12-01T16:55:00.003Z

Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure is becoming increasing unsettled at the club and his omission from the Barcelona team at the weekend against rivals Real
Madrid may be the final straw. Toure is now being linked with a move to either Chelsea or Man Utd in January with some sources also putting Manchester City in there too.

Toure’s agent Dimitri Seluk said: “We are not happy with this obviously. He is not playing. It is very strange not to be having minutes. If a team like Chelsea or Manchester United would come to us, we are obviously open to talking without any kind of problem.

“Yaya won’t just sit and wait. He is 26 years old and is nominated for the Golden Ball award. It is ridiculous for a player like this not to be playing.

“I don’t know what will happen, but I can say once thing for sure: my player won’t be remaining on the bench. This is 100 per cent for sure.

“It would be a mistake for Barca to let him go. For instance, when Liverpool sold Xabi Alonso, Liverpool went downhill. That’s the same situation here. Yaya is a key player in organising the midfield and in attacking.”

Whether Yaya is of the same mould as Alonso is up for debate but he would certainly add some bite to the Man Utd midfield and would add quality to the team. Someone is needed to fill the Man Utd shirt that will have to be left by Scholes one day and although Yaya is still young he has experience of playing at the very top level, something that will prove valuable if he signs for united.

Written by Kampanart Wong, a sports editor who blogs about cheap football kits

There's only one love, It's UNITED forever!!!!

2009-11-28T15:00:00.001Z

Wes Brown enjoying life at the back

2009-11-27T19:00:00.003Z

Wes Brown will be targeting three more points – and a second successive league clean sheet – when United travel to Portsmouth this weekend.

Injuries in defence have given Wes a chance in his favoured central role recently, one he grasped with both hands in the 3-0 home win over Everton last weekend.

The Longsight-born player has endured his own maddening periods on the sidelines over the years, but when fully fit he remains a top-class defender, and he'll be looking to demonstrate that once more at Fratton Park on Saturday.

"Rio and Vida have missed a few games, which has given me a chance and it’s been nice to be back in the centre," the 30-year-old says. "Throughout my career that’s always where I’ve said I want to play, but it really doesn’t bother me either way.

"I’m really enjoying it at the moment – I’m training well and when I’ve played I’ve felt 100 per cent fit. I’ve had a few frustrating seasons, but I always try my best to come back strongly and, touch wood, up to now I’ve been fine."

Wes is not the only Brown to have featured in United colours this season – brother Reece has been making a name for himself in the Academy and Reserves sides, although he's currently sidelined through injury.

"I try to watch him as much as I can," Wes adds. "We’re quite similar in the way we play, but he’s a lot taller than me and is very a powerful defender. We talk a lot about football and hopefully we’ll get the chance to play together one day."

Written by Paul Grippo, a 'Crazy' United fan

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Edwin Van der Sar may carry on

2009-11-26T13:00:00.000Z

EDWIN Van der Sar is still keeping fellow keepers Tomasz Kuszczak and Ben Foster waiting for their big chance.

The 39-year-old Dutchman's performances have been of their usual top quality, leading to the belief he will sign another one-year contract.

There are even rumours of a possible return to international football with Holland at next summer's World Cup - when he will be only four months short of his 40th birthday.

"I don't know his plans," said Sir Alex Ferguson.

"When you get to that age and have a young family, there are a lot of things to consider.

"It is usually sometime in December that he outlines his plans and how long he thinks he can go on.

"He is a very intelligent man, who understands his body better than anyone. He will come to the right decision."

Sir Alex is equally confident of the future when van der Sar bows out.

"I have said all along, Ben has terrific ability," the manager stated.

"He needs plenty of game experience, which he has not got at the moment, but the future rests with him and Tomasz.

"The two of them will fight it out, I am sure of that."

Source: manchestereveningnews.com

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United 0 - 1 Besiktas

2009-11-25T22:00:00.000Z

THIRTEEN years after Fenerbahce became the first team to defeat Manchester United in a European game at Old Trafford, fellow Turkish side Besiktas ended their 23-match unbeaten home record in the Champions League.

Rodrigo Tello's first-half effort did the damage, just as Elvir Bolic broke Sir Alex Ferguson's team all those years ago - goalkeeper Rustu Recber the constant - with United left to do a spot of naval gazing over the winter months.

A point at Wolfsburg in a fortnight will still secure top spot in Group B, qualification having already been achieved.

But, Gabriel Obertan apart, Ferguson knows his United team laboured badly against a side that had collected just a single point from their four previous matches.

A bit like England manager Fabio Capello in Qatar, the United boss discovered his back-up is not really cutting it just now, leaving him to cross his fingers that the watching Rio Ferdinand heads a list of returning soldiers when battle recommences in February, when, unlike now, there will be no redemption after failure.

The outcome was particularly galling for Ben Foster, who had so little to do.

To say there was a bit of pressure on Foster before kick-off was sizeable understatement.

A lot of it was self-inflicted. In grumbling quite so publicly about his perceived status as Reds' third choice goalkeeper while at the same time being good enough to start England's last two internationals, Foster ensured there would be a fairly intense focus on him the next time he was picked by Ferguson.

His recall was accompanied by words of high praise from his manager for CSKA Moscow stopper Igor Akinfeev, someone United were supposedly considering as Edwin van der Sar's replacement when the veteran Dutchman eventually calls time on his stellar career.

Ferguson's assertion that rumours he wants to sign the Russia international are “not true” will be greeted with a pinch of salt by the sceptics and certainly Foster had no reason to feel comfortable.

So, to be beaten after 20 minutes by a long-range strike that appeared to catch him slightly flat-footed was not the best way for Foster to respond.

Consolation could be taken from the slack defending that created the space for Tello to shoot.

The strike itself took a slight deflection off Rafael Da Silva that took it further out of Foster's reach but it was with a slight shake of the head and a sense of foreboding that the former Watford goalkeeper picked the ball out of his goal.

United were fortunate not to be further behind at the break but Michael Fink spoiled an otherwise excellent central midfield display by clipping the outside of a post with a 12-yard effort after the home defence had been opened up far too easily once more.

Yet on the whole, it had been an encouraging first-half for a youthful Red Devils side that only needed to preserve that long unbeaten home run to confirm themselves as Group B winners with a game to spare.

Strikers Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck both caused Besiktas problems in their own way.

The Italian was prepared to shoot from distance while Welbeck had a more nimble approach to unlocking the defence of a side that conceded eight to Liverpool on their last visit to England two years ago.

Obertan made the biggest impact.

For those still missing Cristiano Ronaldo, the Frenchman performed some fleet-footed stepovers and was not scared to use his pace down the right flank.

And, although his head seemed to drop near half-time when a couple of decisions went against him, it was Obertan who lifted flagging United spirits after an hour when he collected the ball inside his own half and sprinted past a couple of lame tackles before drawing an excellent low save out of Rustu.

He also looped a Macheda cross onto the roof of the net, at no little cost to Ibrahim Toraman, who was carried off with a suspected broken nose after accidentally being caught by an Obertan elbow.

But Obertan apart, a malaise had gripped home ranks. The introduction of Michael Owen was followed by a Ferguson expletive as he watched Darron Gibson curl a poor free-kick straight at Rustu.

It proved to be the Republic of Ireland international's last involvement as Michael Carrick and Patrice Evra were called upon to execute one of those famous rescue acts.

The task proved beyond them, with Rustu producing two excellent flying saves to deny Macheda and Wes Brown to give himself another night to remember at Old Trafford.

Source: manchestereveningnews.com

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Foster told he isn't going anywhere

2009-11-23T17:44:00.002Z

Alex Ferguson has come out and stated that Ben Foster will not be leaving the club in January and that he wants o hold on to the England international. The 26 year old keeper was the number one at the start of the season due to an injury to Edwin van der Saar but now finds himself third in the pecking order.

Foster is still in the England frame, however, and claimed his club situation was "disheartening" after playing in the defeat against Brazil last weekend.

But Ferguson said: "He is definitely staying. He will be a terrific keeper."

After playing his second consecutive game for England in Qatar, Foster expressed frustration with his predicament, pointing out that while he was playing regularly for his country he was unable to play week in week out in a Man Utd football shirt .

That led to reports that Foster could move away from United in the January transfer window in order to earn a place in England manager Fabio Capello's World Cup squad, with a loan move the most likely.

Foster made his name during two separate loan moves to Watford - but his manager insists there is no chance of another switch in the New Year.

"He has had a couple of bad mistakes in games but his performance level has been very good," added Ferguson.

"Ben is a strong lad. Without doubt he is England's best goalkeeper. Without question he has the best presence and he is the quickest. He is also very brave.

"But for a lad of 26 he has not had much game experience. That is the negative part for him and that is where maybe it will cost him his England position at the moment.

"However, I am not protecting the lad because he is my goalkeeper but when I look at the abilities of the goalkeepers in the league who are English, I don't think they are as good as Ben Foster. It is as simple as that."

Written by Mark Ferguson, a sports writer who blogs about cheap football kits

OWEN: We Can build on Chelsea Display

2009-11-20T22:00:00.000Z

Michael Owen believes events at Stamford Bridge a fortnight ago will help inspire Sir Alex Ferguson’s men when Everton visit Old Trafford on Saturday.

But it’s not just a sense of injustice that will fire the Reds. Owen says United will take heart from the way the team dominated at Chelsea despite the 1-0 loss.

“We don’t have that desperate desire to get out there again and prove anything to anyone,” Owen told United Review .

“When we lost at Liverpool it was a different story – we didn’t perform well at Anfield – but there was no way we deserved to lose at Chelsea. We walked away with our heads held high. There were plenty of positives to take out of that performance.”

Positive sums up Owen’s start to his United career. The 29-year-old has scored in the league, Carling Cup and Champions League since his summer arrival and choruses of “Michael Owen is a Red” have rung out around Old Trafford since his winner in September’s Manchester derby.

“I’m not sure Gary Neville’s too pleased with me nicking his song!” he joked.

“To be honest, 10 years ago I wouldn’t have dared dream I would one day play for United, so it’s a nice surprise. I’ve been very fortunate to end up here and there’s no better feeling than playing, scoring, winning and hearing the fans sing your name.”

Source: United Review

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Could Mourinho be the next United manager?

2009-11-19T15:55:00.002Z

The story linking Jose Mourinho with a move to Manchester United as manager one day continues to rumble on. Mourinho has in the past hinted that he would like the job, and again this week, that he sees his long term future in England.

It would seem unlikely that a return to Chelsea would be on the cards and, going on the assumption he would only go to a top 4 club, unless there is new ownership at Arsenal then his style of play wouldn't exactly be welcomed at the Emirates which leaves Man Utd or Liverpool. Liverpool are certainly in need of a change at the moment but whether the financing would be available for Mourinho under the current owners is uncertain.

The other apparent option for Mourinho is the Man City job, where he would certainly have the financing made available to him, but the main aspect of that job that would appear to potentially rule it out is that it is unlikely it would be a long term job which according to Mourinho is what he is looking for next in his career. That leaves only Manchester United as the type of club that Mourinho is looking for. There is no doubt that he is a top manager and 5 titles in 7 seasons in 3 different countries is an impressive record for anyone, but would he be welcomed by the fans at Old Trafford?

The initial reaction by many fans would be no, but the reality is Sir Alex can not go on forever. Most of us can't really remember Man Utd without Sir Alex but there will be a day when he is no longer in charge. There have been a few names linked with possibly taking over one day including David Moyes, Martin O'Neil and Steve Bruce, but the reality is none of these guys have won titles before and are very unlikely to at their current clubs so would a risk like that be one worth taking or does the experience of Mourinho not make him an ideal candidate?

There is no doubt in my mind that Mourinho has the managerial talent to win the league at United but for him to be accepted by the fans he would need to adapt to the culture of the club. If Mourinho was in it for the long haul he could be an excellent United manager and although it would take him a while to win over the whole support he would be a success as at Man Utd. Whether the club would choose to appoint someone like Mourinho I think will very much come down to Sir Alex who will almost certainly have major say in whoever is appointed.

Written by Mark Ferguson, a sports writer who blogs about cheap football jerseys

Rio Ferdinand is out until New Year

2009-11-19T00:30:00.000Z

RIO FERDINAND will not play for Manchester United again this year.

The England centre-back has been told he needs another six weeks of rest and physio work before his back will be strong enough for Premier League football.

Ferdinand, 31, had been playing with back problems since last season - leading to a calf injury this term.

After a series of poor displays he decided to get the problem sorted out for good.

Rio had hoped to be back by the start of December. But by the time he plays again, he will have missed at least 15 matches.

United's medical staff have been baffled by his constant injury problems.

One theory being looked into now is that he might need his hip realigned.

If the hip is slightly out it will lead to strain on other parts of the body, including his back.

Ferdinand's last game for United came in the 2-0 defeat at Liverpool on October 25 when he was out-run and out-muscled by Fernando Torres for the opening goal.

At least there was good news for United boss Alex Ferguson about Ferdinand's defensive partner Nemanja Vidic.

Vidic is ready to start against Everton on Saturday after coming through Serbia's 1-0 win over South Korea unscathed.

Vidic missed United's 1-0 defeat by Chelsea 11 days ago with a calf injury but played 60 minutes of yesterday's international at Craven Cottage.

United's Korean midfielder Park Ji Sung also played an hour as he continues his recovery from a knee problem.

Source: The Sun

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Ben Foster disheartened at United

2009-11-19T00:00:00.001Z

England goalkeeper Ben Foster is "disheartened" by his Manchester United status - but has no plans to leave.

At the start of the season he stood in for Edwin van der Sar, but a series of errors means he is third-choice behind the Dutchman and Tomasz Kuszczak.

"I'm third choice for United yet I'm playing for my country," said Foster after England's 1-0 defeat by Brazil.

"It's very disheartening not even to be on the bench, but I can't go saying 'I want to leave' or anything like that."

With Van der Sar absent through injury in the early months of the season, Foster was handed the gloves by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, only to make embarrassing mistakes in the derby win over Manchester City and the 2-2 draw with Sunderland.

"I thought I started off well but then there was a period of two or three games where I made a few mistakes," added Foster.

"But they were the only ones I made really and I was disappointed to find myself out of the team."

But while his club form dimmed, Foster's international prospects brightened due to Robert Green's suspension following his dismissal against Ukraine, allowing the United keeper to play against Belarus and Brazil.

"It is everything for a footballer to go to the World Cup but I can't go saying 'I want to leave' or anything like that," said Foster, reflecting on his chances of going to the World Cup in South Africa if he is not playing in the United first-team.

"I have just got to see what happens."

Fabio Capello is expected to take three keepers to South Africa, with David James, Green and Foster the Italian's preferred stoppers.

Source: BBC Sports

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The rise and rise of Darren Fletcher

2009-11-13T20:00:00.000Z

The football world’s eyes are at last wide open to what the boss knew all along – Darren Fletcher is pure gold. The 25-year-old’s emergence as one of English football’s finest engine-room controllers has surprised a few, but his displays have vindicated Sir Alex’s faith in him. We spoke to Fletch – proud father whose twin toddlers make his on-field challenges seem a doddle – about his hard-earned authority as a top-class midfielder...

A year ago you said you were playing your best football, but you’ve stepped it up yet another level since then…

I’m enjoying everything at the moment because the team is successful. Last season was great, despite the disappointment of the Champions League final. That low was partly because it was the last game as well, but if you look back on what we achieved right throughout the season it was fantastic. I played in a lot of big games and was given a consistent run in the side. The most important thing for me this season has been to kick on and not sit back and take my place for granted. At United you’re proving your worth in every game, there’s always someone who wants to take your shirt. That drives you on. I want to keep improving as a player, as I feel I have done in every season I’ve been here. You look at Giggsy, Scholesy and Gary Neville – as they’ve got older they’ve improved through their experience, knowledge, maturity and application of what they do off the pitch as much as on it.

The coaches have spoken of your determination to improve. Does the hard work you’ve shown to get where you are now bring added satisfaction?

This is a level that I’ve been striving to reach. The way I’m playing now, I’m the player I’ve always wanted to show people I could be. I’m not saying I’ve worked harder than anyone else, I’ve just tried to make sure I improve my game – and things have really paid off. Doing weights is a big thing for me now, whereas before it didn’t seem to have much effect. But just because you’re in the gym, that doesn’t make you a great player. It’s small percentages of improvement that help you become a better athlete and player. Becoming a father has really helped, too. Having two lads [twins Jack and Tyler] has matured me as a person, and that helps on the pitch as well.

What difference has having the boys made to you off the pitch and on it?

Having the boys has helped take my mind away from football, which is no bad thing. When I was younger I was intense and uptight about how well I was playing. I was constantly thinking about situations in games, what I could do better, or a bad performance would play on my mind. If you’re sitting at home with nothing else to do it’s easier to think about those things. Whereas now I go home to my children, who take up lots of my time, and it puts everything else into perspective. It gives you a great outlook on life. Now I know there’s a time to work and be focused on that. But I’ve also got my family, who are the biggest part of my life now. It allows me to relax much more, and because of that my game and outlook on everything is more balanced and more mature.

Mike Clegg [United’s strength and conditioning coach] says you’ve struck the perfect balance between football fitness and gym work. The only other person he’s seen do that is Cristiano Ronaldo. Quite a compliment...

Fitness has never been a problem, but in terms of strength and power my gym work has made a real difference. Striking the right balance is important. There’d be no point in bulking up if that was to the detriment of being able to get around the pitch, which is a big part of my game. I wanted to get to a level where I had strength, but also the stamina to keep going over 90 minutes. I’ve found a good balance, although I reckon I could still do a little more and put on more weight without affecting my fitness. There’s room for improvement but, like I said, I’m always looking to develop the little things. It’s not just the physical side – it’s a mental thing as well. I have more experience now, and simply being at this club improves you as a player; being in this team, around these great professionals. It’s been a gradual progression for me, but I’m really enjoying myself and I want that to continue for many more years to come.

When Ronaldo left in the summer, Sir Alex said it was a chance for other players to step up. Did you see it as your opportunity to stamp your mark on the team?

The players all knew we were losing a massive player, and a big gap in how and where we got our goals. We knew other players would have to rise to the challenge – we needed everyone to raise their game. Maybe there were times when we expected Ronaldo to come up with the goods, whereas now everyone knows we need to produce, individually or collectively. We’re a different team now, with a different style. Ronaldo was brilliant for us as much as we were brilliant for him, but now we have a new style and new players. We try to find the best way to win a match as a team. That’s United’s secret and a lot of the players have learnt that from Giggs, Scholes and Neville. There’s more than one way to win a match. We’ve shown already this season that we can win playing brilliant, attacking football. But sometimes it has to be ugly. They have the know-how to do it and the rest of us are learning. There will be times in games when we might not be on top, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to lose. That’s what makes this a good team, a championship-winning team.

Source: manutd.com

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Who can replace Ronaldo?

2009-11-12T14:24:00.002Z

It doesn't take a genius to work out that we are not the team we were last year with the only loss to the team being the genius that was Cristiano Ronaldo. Wayne Rooney has been given much more of free role and is playing better than he ever has but he can't do it alone. Just like Ronaldo needed Rooney in the team Rooney needs a Ronaldo and Antonio Valencia just isn't it.

Valencia is not a bad player and has shown glimpses of why he was brought to the club. However he is not the world class player that Ronaldo was and the world class player that we need in the team. At times the side seems to lack creativity and imagination, particularly in the midfield, but trying to find a replacement for Ronaldo is much easier said than done, not only financially, but also in finding someone who offers the same quality.

There have been a number of players who have been linked with Man Utd and with puling on the famous red Man Utd shirt but so far we have not seen any of the names linked with a come to fruition.

One of the names continually linked with a move to the club is Franck Ribery. He appears to be one of the most sought after players at the moment but Bayern were keen to keep him in the summer and did but if the rumours are true they could now be willing to cash in on their star man.

Another two players linked with the club are David Villa and David Silva, both of whom appear to be top quality players. Silva is not quite the quality of Ronaldo but is certainly a top class player whilst Villa is one of the best forwards in the game. Both players seemed reluctant to leave Valencia but with the increasing financial problems at the club they could be forced to move.

Atletico Madrid's Argentinean forward Sergio Aguero is a player linked with a move to the Premiership, and although there is no doubt the lad has talent I am just not convinced he can do it as regularly as we would want and need him to.

For me the Ribery, Villa and Silva would certainly add to the quality of the team but I feel more is needed. A top quality central creative midfielder is what we need at the club but these are not easy to pick up. A player with the qualities of Diego, though I am not necessarily saying him though you could do worse, is what we need. Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs have served the club magnificently over the years but we can't depend on them forever. We need to sign someone sooner rather than later but I don't see any big money move being made until the summer which I fear may be a little too late.

Written by Danny Watson, a sports writer who blogs about cheap football jerseys

Ferdinand backs big brother Rio

2009-11-12T03:41:00.002Z

Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand says older brother Rio will overcome doubts about his fitness and form and return stronger than ever.

Manchester United defender Rio has come in for criticism about his form lately and is struggling with a calf injury which shows no sign of improving.

"I know my brother and he'll come back stronger than ever," said Anton.

"People are doubting him for the World Cup - it's astonishing, he's been England's best player at the last two."

Rio Ferdinand, 31, has become a key player for Manchester United since his move from Leeds in 2002, but he missed the first month of the season with a torn thigh muscle and since then has had calf problems.

Some of his recent performances for United and England have come in for criticism, but brother Anton, 24, said his brother was being unfairly criticised for slipping from his own high standards.

"This is the first time he's had a bad period since he left West Ham (in 2000) - for a player who has played so many big games to only have one bad patch in a 10-11 year period says something," he said.

"He's one of the best - he knows this would always happen, the minute he doesn't play well people will jump on his back."

Source: BBC Sports

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Boss targets Bridge improvements

2009-11-06T23:30:00.001Z

Sir Alex Ferguson wants to see a return to the days when he enjoyed trips to Stamford Bridge and United prospered with an excellent record.

The last 10 fixtures against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge bear a stark contrast with the 10 that came before them. In the last 10, United have won only once, drawn four and lost five. Before it, the stats read: won five, drew three, lost two. Those figures are undoubtedly skewed by Chelsea’s rise to prominence as title contenders, but still, the boss naturally prefers the earlier statistics.

“We would like to improve our record there,” said Sir Alex. “It’s not been that great in the last few years. We’ve had a couple of draws but nothing more than that. We hope to improve on that. It’s strange, we used to have a terrific record at Stamford Bridge, but in the last few years we’ve let it slip. We have to get our act together. But the players realise it’s a big game and their performance is going to be important.”

Even at this early stage, the game will be discussed as potentially decisive in the title race. Sir Alex doesn’t think it’s as cut and dried as that, but there is a marked difference between going top or being five points behind Chelsea on Sunday night.

“It doesn’t come into my thinking that it's a league decider,” said Sir Alex. “But it could be an important game. Towards the end of the season, you might think, ’I’m glad we got a result at Chelsea’. But it’s difficult to pinpoint the importance of Sunday in relation to where we’ll be in May.”

Nemanja Vidic and Dimitar Berbatov are poised to return for the top-of-the-table clash against Chelsea on Sunday, but there is no immediate prospect of a comeback for Rio Ferdinand.

A calf injury has kept Vidic out since the defeat to Liverpool, while Berbatov sat out Tuesday's Champions League draw against CSKA Moscow after picking up a knock, but Sir Alex confirmed both should be in contention for the showdown at Stamford Bridge.

Ji-sung Park is still missing with a knee problem and Gary Neville is suspended, but Owen Hargreaves is around 10 days from a return to training.

"Vidic has trained for the last three days and should be OK," Ferguson said on Friday. "Berbatov got a knock and we’ll see what he’s like in training today, but he should be fine.

"Rio and Park are both out and Gary is suspended, of course. Other than that, the rest are fit and we’re ready for a big game."

The news on Rio is a concern. Sir Alex admits he is unsure when the centre-back will return from a troublesome calf which may be the side-effect of a longer-term back problem.

"We don’t know where the calf injury is coming from. It could be the lower back," the Reds boss continued. "A calf injury usually means two to three weeks out. But there’s no sign of recovery. We’re looking at whether it’s coming from his back, but in the meantime he’s out."

But Hargreaves is inching ever closer to a comeback from long-term knee surgery and Sir Alex added: "He’s been doing some good football work with our physios and hopefully we'll get him back in training in the next 10 days. We’re not going to force it, but he is very happy within himself."

United v Chelsea

The game will start at 16:00 GMT on Stamford Bridge.

Written by Paul Grippo, a 'Crazy' United fan

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Coleen Rooney gives birth to boy

2009-11-04T23:00:00.000Z

Coleen Rooney, wife of Manchester United and England footballer Wayne Rooney, has given birth to a boy they have named Kai Wayne.

Coleen, 23, had her baby at Liverpool Women's Hospital on Monday.

Rooney, who scored for United on Sunday, had earlier missed his team's training session ahead of their Champions' League match on Tuesday.

Coleen was nine days overdue. The child, the couple's first, was born at 1420 GMT, their spokesman said.

He added: "Mother and baby are both absolutely fine. Wayne and Coleen are thrilled with the wonderful addition to their family life."

The couple were married on the Italian Riviera last summer.

Coleen is the eldest of four children and a television presenter on ITV2, while Wayne is the eldest of three. Both have large extended families.

Following the birth, bookmakers have offered various odds on the couple's child achieving sporting success in future.

Coral are offering odds of 66-1 that Kai Rooney will follow in his father's footsteps and play football for England.

William Hill rate him at 100-1 to play Premiership football, 125-1 to play for Manchester United and 150-1 to gain a full England cap.

Source: BBC Sports

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United 3 - 3 CSKA Moscow

2009-11-03T23:00:00.001Z

Manchester United staged a stirring late rally at Old Trafford to claim a place in the last 16 of the Champions League after CSKA Moscow looked poised to end their 22-game unbeaten home record in the competition.

Sir Alex Ferguson's revamped United looked like they would have to wait to seal their place in the knockout phase when they trailed 3-1 with only six minutes remaining.

But with a grandstand finish that has become their trademark, Paul Scholes headed home six minutes from time and Antonio Valencia's deflected shot in injury time rescued the vital point.

CSKA looked well on course to inflict United's first Champions League defeat at Old Trafford since AC Milan won in February 2005 - but they reckoned without the powers of recovery and refusal to accept defeat buried deep within Ferguson's side.

The Russians took the lead after 25 minutes when Alan Dzagoev beat a static Edwin van der Sar from an angle, but Michael Owen pounced in the area to restore equality four minutes later.

CSKA were quickly back in front when Milos Krasic rounded Van der Sar to score, and when Vasili Berezutski headed home Dzagoev's free-kick two minutes after half-time, United looked likely to sample the rare taste of defeat on home territory.

But the introduction of Wayne Rooney, the day after the birth of his son Kai, lifted the mood inside Old Trafford and set the scene for United's late charge.

United boss Ferguson made public his admiration for Igor Akinfeev in his programme notes, and the CSKA keeper will have further impressed the Old Trafford hierarchy with a magnificent display that kept the Premier League champions at bay until the late double salvo from Scholes and Valencia broke their resistance.

To complete a miserable conclusion for CSKA, they had defender Deividas Semberas sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

Scholes headed home Gary Neville's free-kick with six minutes left, and Valencia capped a trademark grandstand finish when his shot from the edge of the area was deflected off Georgy Shchennikov past Akinfeev.

You can view the entire article here

Source: BBC Sports

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Fletcher and Rooney in fight to face Liverpool

2009-10-23T22:00:00.001+01:00

Wayne Rooney is "desperate" to play on Sunday, but Sir Alex Ferguson still has doubts over the fitness of United's number 10 and his team-mate Darren Fletcher.

Rooney has been struggling with a calf injury and missed the games against Bolton Wanderers and CSKA Moscow in the last week, while Fletcher was also absent for both matches with a foot injury.

"On the injury front I can't give a clear picture, there are still some doubts about Rooney and Fletcher," Sir Alex said on Friday.

Getting the influential pair ready for Anfield is now the main aim for United's medical and coaching staff, though Sir Alex doesn't doubt their eagerness to return.

"He is always desperate to play, that's the nature of the boy," said the boss. "Of course, you can't let that cloud the realistic side of things. It's going to be important how he does in training on Saturday.

"We'll see if Wayne does train on Saturday and then we'll have a better idea."

The good news for United is that Patrice Evra and Ryan Giggs have both been passed fit after remaining in Manchester while the rest of the squad travelled to Russia, but Ji-sung Park has definitely been ruled out.

Written by Paul Grippo, a 'Crazy' United fan.

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United on top of Premier League as Liverpool flop

2009-10-17T20:56:00.004+01:00

Manchester United regained top spot in the Premier League with a 2-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers at Old Trafford on Saturday as Liverpool's title bid suffered a potentially fatal blow.

Reigning champions United ended the day a point ahead of Chelsea, who started the weekend in first place but were beaten 2-1 by Aston Villa in Saturday's early kick-off.

Liverpool's quest for a first top-flight title since 1990 could now be over after a 1-0 loss away to Sunderland - their fourth league defeat in nine games, twice as many as they suffered in the whole of last season.

Tottenham remained third as former Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp saw his current side hang on to beat the basement club 2-1 in a Fratton Park match where both sides finished a man down.

Spurs's north London rivals Arsenal moved into the top four with a 3-1 win at home to Birmingham.

Manchester United went ahead in the fifth minute when Bolton defender Zat Knight put through his own net after Patrice Evra's cross was flicked on by Michael Owen.

They doubled their lead when Antonio Valencia turned in Gary Neville's cross at the near post to score his first United goal since his pre-season move from Wigan.

Matthew Taylor's header 15 minutes from time gave Bolton hope.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "We had a lot of opportunities to finish the game and, when that happens, 2-0 leads are not particularly great. And when Bolton scored it was backs to the wall stuff and there was a bit of panic."

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti was frustrated after setpiece errors cost his side dear at Villa Park.

They took a 15th minute lead when Didier Drogba's long-range shot bounced awkwardly in front of goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

But Villa levelled before the break when a poor header by England midfielder Frank Lampard allowed Richard Dunne to equalise from a corner.

Early in the second-half Villa again made Chelsea pay at a corner when James Collins rose highest to head the hosts back into the lead.

"We lost this game because there were two setplays from which Aston Villa scored two goals," said Ancelotti. "We need to be more focused in these situations."

Sunderland took the lead against Liverpool in extraordinary fashion at the Stadium of Light when striker Darren Bent's fifth minute shot hit a stray beachball on its way past Pepe Reina.

Liverpool, without injured stars Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard, then survived seeing Bent glance a header just wide before the striker hit the post with an angled shot.

The match ended with tempers boiling over with rival managers Rafael Benitez and Steve Bruce exchanging angry words.

"We didn't play well enough to have bad luck," Benitez admitted. "We need to improve the performance of the team. They worked hard against a physical team but we have to play better."

Redknapp saw Spurs go ahead in the 29th minute when Niko Kranjcar - one of several former Portsmouth players in Spurs's line-up - crossed for Ledley King to head home.

Before the break they were 2-0 up when Pompey old boy Jermain Defoe turned in Jermaine Jenas's cross.

But in a twist former Spurs midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng fired home for Pompey from close range just before the hour and shortly afterwards Tottenham were down to 10-men when Defoe was red-carded for lashing out at South Africa's Aaron Mokoena.

Goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes preserved Spurs's lead before Pompey's Michael Brown was sent-off just before the finish for a second yellow card.

"I felt people were disrespectful to the Portsmouth fans, talking about how they were going to behave," said Redknapp. "They were absolutely fantastic.

"We rode our luck and I was very disappointed with the way Jermain Defoe reacted."

At the Emirates, goals from Robin van Persie and Abou Diaby gave Arsenal an early lead before Lee Bowyer pulled one back for Birmingham.

Andrei Arshavin sealed Arsenal's victory six minutes from time.

In other games, Stoke beat West Ham 2-1 while Everton and Wolves drew 1-1.

James Beattie put Stoke ahead from the penalty-spot at the Britannia Stadium, but second-bottom West Ham levelled before the break when Matthew Upson headed in a corner.

Beattie restored Stoke's lead when Rob Green could only parry Ricardo Fuller's shot.

There was deadlock at Goodison Park until the 76th minute Kevin Doyle put Wolves in front.

But the visitors were denied a valuable victory when Diniyar Bilyaletdinov equalised two minutes from time before Wolves's Stefan Maierhofer was sent-off.

Blackburn Rovers play arch-rivals Burnley on Sunday when Manchester City face Wigan.

Source here (With some pictures)

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Rooney out but Owen and Van der Sar return

2009-10-16T18:00:00.002+01:00

Wayne Rooney has been ruled out of Bolton's visit to Old Trafford on Saturday but Edwin van der Sar and Michael Owen will both be involved.

Sir Alex confirmed on Friday morning that Rooney will miss the fixture with a calf injury sustained on international duty.

"Rooney's definitely out... but I certainly hope he'll be fit for Liverpool [next Sunday]. Because it's a calf strain we know how difficult these things can be."

That disappointment is offset by Michael Owen's recovery from a groin strain and van der Sar's return between the posts.

"Edwin's fit and he will play," Sir Alex said. "He played for the Reserves about 10 days ago and came through that fine – it was a confidence booster. He's trained for a while now but because it was a hand injury, you don't take any chances."

United's only other concern surrounds Darren Fletcher. The midfielder picked up an injury while training with Scotland in the recent international break.

"I think everyone else is okay," the manager said. "There are one or two bumps and bruises but nothing serious. And after the disappointment of Sunderland, this is an important game for us."

Written by Paul Grippo, a 'Crazy' United fan.

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Boss ponders midfield options

2009-10-02T21:25:00.002+01:00

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he has a growing dilemma of who to select in central midfield as he prepares for Saturday's match against Sunderland.

There is now an embarrassment of riches in the centre of the park for the Reds. Against Wolfsburg on Wednesday night, the rapidly improving Anderson and winning goalscorer Michael Carrick matched the standard set by Darren Fletcherand Paul Scholes in the previous victory at Stoke City. With Ryan Giggs rolling back the years, Owen Hargreaves nearing a return and Darron Gibson showing great promise, Sir Alex has a problem, albeit "a good one”.

“Our two central midfielders – Carrick and Anderson – were fantastic against Wolfsburg,” Sir Alex said on Friday.

“Michael (Carrick) knows himself he's not a quick starter. But we got some juice (rain) on the ground on Wednesday night and he seemed to revel in that. His form is coming right. I thought he was fantastic and I was really pleased for him.

"Anderson impressed me too - his form in the last few weeks has been top, he’s looked very, very good - and I thought Fletcher and Scholes were outstanding at Stoke. It is giving me a real headache."

Source: RedView

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