Man United Devils

Manchester United Ready For Barcelona Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (FootballNewsBlog) — Mon, 09 May 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Manchester United all but secured the Barclays Premier League title on Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Chelsea which put them six points ahead of their closest challengers with just two games to go. Although United still need a point to officially secure the title, they can now start turning their attention to the prospect of a mouthwatering final with the Spanish Champions on May 28th.

The general consensus among the football media is that Barcelona are unstoppable and that United are very much second favourites for the Wembley showdown. The opinion is that this is not as strong a Manchester United side in recent years and as a result Barcelona will be too strong for them.

On a player by player basis, I would agree with the first half of that statement. Wayne Rooney aside, United do not have a truly world class player in the mould of Cristiano Ronaldo or Carlos Tevez. However, as a collective unit, this is arguably one of the most dogged and determined United sides of recent times.

Sure, away from home United have been nothing more than ordinary this season and have leaked goals at an alarming rate. But as has always been a trait in Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, when they have needed to get the job done, they have got it done. Last weeks defeat at Arsenal was disappointing but owed as much to a strong performance from Arsene Wenger’s men than it did to poor play from United. However as they have done in responding to defeats by Manchester City and others this season, United bounced back with a victory when it mattered to all but clinch the Premiership title.

That new additions are required in the summer is without question, but there is enough about this group of players - who have scored in every home match this season and are unbeaten at Old Trafford - to win the trophy at Wembley later this month.

United are capable of organising their defensive line in a way that Barcelona do not regularly encounter and with the pace on the break of Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Luis Antonio Valencia, they have more than enough to cause Pep Guardiola’s men problems. Ferguson will still hope to get Darren Fletcher back into his side to face the Catalans but with the pressure off in the remaining games with Blackburn and Blackpool, he has time and freedom to tinker with his side to find a winning formula.

Written by Eddie Smith, a sports blogger who writes about classic football shirts.

Man United On Their Way To Wembley

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Wed, 04 May 2011 20:39:00 +0000

Manchester United took a two goal lead against Schalke into the second leg of the Champions League semi-final at Old Trafford. United will now play Barcelona in the Champions Leagie Final after beating Schalke 4-1 at Old Trafford (6-1 on aggregate).

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, Rafael Da Silva, Smalling, Evans, O'Shea, Gibson, Scholes, Anderson, Valencia, Berbatov, Nani.

Subs: Kuszczak, Evra, Owen, Giggs, Hernandez, Vidic, Fletcher.

Jefferson Farfan had Schalke's first shot at goal but his low effort fell just wide of the post. Some brilliant work by Dimitar Berbatov almost created an opening for United, but he was unable to get the ball to a team-mate.

Man United took a 1-0 lead on the night (3-0 on aggregate) in the 26th minute. Darron Gibson put Antonio Valencia through on goal and the winger slotted the ball past Schalke keeper Manuel Neuer.

Man United doubled their lead five minutes later after a bad mistake from Neuer. Gibson's low shot slipped through the keepers hands and over the line to give United a 2-0 lead (4-0 on aggregate).

Schalke pulled a goal back in the 34th minute. After a cross in, the ball took a deflection off Jonny Evans, fell to Jurado who hit the ball past Edwin Van Der Sar.

Immediately after the Schalke goal, United went down the other end and almost replied with another goal but Valencia's effort was cleared off the line.

Anderson brought out a fantastic save by Neuer in the second half. Berbatov
found the Brazilian and his effort had to be forced behind by Neuer for a corner.

Man United's first substitution will be to bring Patrice Evra on for Rafael Da Silva. Smalling did have the ball in the back of the net but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Minutes later Man United did score their third of the night. Luis Nani pulled the ball back to Anderson, who was challenged by Atsuto Uchida in the penalty area but it was Anderson who got to the ball first and he hit it past Neuer.

Immediately after the goal, Darren Fletcher was brought on for Scholes after recovering from an illness. Man United's fourth goal of the game came on the 76th minute. Berbatov's cross in from the right fell to Anderson, who tapped the ball in from close range. That was then followed by United's final substitution of the game, which was to bring on Michael Owen for Berbatov.

Substitute Klass-Jan Huntelaar did score for the away side, but just like Smalling, his was ruled out for offside. Van Der Sar made a brilliant save from Edu, Hunterlaar was the first to the rebound, he did put the ball past the United keeper but he was ruled offside.

Three minutes were added on at the end, which saw Owen curl an effort on goal but he was denied by Neuer.

Champions League Preview : Man United v Schalke

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 03 May 2011 16:25:00 +0000

Wednesday night Manchester United hope to book their place in the Champions League final at Wembley. United go into the second leg against Schalke at Old Trafford with a 2-0 aggregate lead.

Team News

Manchester United-

Wayne Rooney missed Tuesday's training session because he has been suffering with a tight hamstring. Man United will assess his injury before the game. Fabio Da Silva also missed the training session.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that Darren Fletcher will feature tomorrow. Fletcher made his return from illness for Man United's reserves last Thursday, playing the first 45 minutes.

Man United squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Lindegaard, Rafael, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Smalling, Evans, Brown, Evra, Valencia, Scholes, Anderson, Carrick, Fletcher, Gibson, Park, Giggs, Nani, Obertan, Rooney, Berbatov, Owen and Hernandez.

Schalke-

Schalke are hoping that Benedikt Howedes has recovered from a strained stomach muscle. Klass-Jan Huntelaar could return from injury. Hunterlaar had been out for two months because of a damaged medial knee ligament.

Most Recent Meeting

Man United and Schalke played each other last week in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final tie. Man United beat the German side 2-0 with goals from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Schalke have only played each other once, which was last Tuesday, Man United won the game 2-0.

Recent Form

Man United- LWWDL

1st May: Arsenal 1-0 Man United (Premier League)
26th April: Schalke 0-2 Man United (Champions League)
23rd April: Man United 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
19th April: Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April: Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)

Schalke- LLLDW

30th April: Bayern Munich 4-1 Schalke 04 (Bundesliga)
26th April: Schalke 0-2 Man United (Champions League)
23rd April: Schalke 0-1 FC Kaiserslautern (Bundesliga)
16th April: Werder Bremen 1-1 Schalke (Bundesliga)
13th April: Schalke 2-1 Inter Milan (Champions League)

Officials

Referee: Pedro Proenca
Assistant Referees: Tiago Trigo and Ricardo Santos
Fourth Official: Duarte Gomes
Additional Assistant Referees: Joao Capela and Joao Ferreira

Top Two Set To Battle It Out For The Title This Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Mon, 02 May 2011 10:00:00 +0000

The Premier League title race has been blown wide open after the weekend's Premier League games. Man United lost 1-0 to Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday, the previous day everything went Chelsea's way.

Chelsea had a massive slice of luck on Saturday against Tottenham Hotspur with key decisions going their way. The officials wrongly allowed both of Chelsea's goals in their 2-1 win over Spurs.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that after this weekend's results, Chelsea now have a 'major chance' of winning the Premier League title.

Only two months ago Chelsea were 15 points behind Man United, now after that incredibly lucky win, they are only three points behind the league leaders and both clubs have a goal difference of +38.

After the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, Sir Alex Ferguson told Sky Sports: "Obviously, it gives Chelsea a major chance now and that's what happens when you get these decisions.
"They got one at Old Trafford last season so that's the worry now.
"But in terms of ability - a game at Old Trafford, the supporters will be ready for it - and so will our players."

In all likelihood, Sunday's game will probably be the title decider. In theory both teams should pick up maximum points in their final two games, although anything can happen in football.

Manchester United's final three fixtures:

Man United v Chelsea (H)
Blackburn v Man United (A)
Man United v Blackpool (H)

Chelsea's final three fixtures:

Man United v Chelsea (A)
Chelsea v Newcastle (H)
Everton v Chelsea (A)

United and Chelsea have played each other four times this season. Man United have won three of the games, losing just one.
The first game was on the 8th August 2010 in the Community Shield, which United won 3-1. On the 1st March 2011 United visited Stamford Bridge in the league, they lost 2-1.

Man United and Chelsea were drawn against each other in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. Man United won the first leg at Stamford Bridge 1-0. United won the second leg 2-1 at Old Trafford, which meant that it was United who progressed.

Chelsea will have the week to prepare for Sunday's game. Man United on the other hand have a semi-final second leg game against Schalke on Wednesday. Man United are in a comfortable position after beating the German side 2-0 in the first leg.

If United beat Chelsea on Sunday then they will go six points clear of the London club with two games remaining. A loss to Chelsea would mean that Chelsea go top of the table on goal difference with two games to go. A draw would keep United three points clear.

Title Race Wide Open After United Lose To Arsenal

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sun, 01 May 2011 15:04:00 +0000

Manchester United go into next weeks game against Chelsea needing a win after a 1-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates today.

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, Fabio, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Park, Carrick, Anderson, Nani, Hernandez and Rooney.

Subs- Kuszczak, Owen, Berbatov, Smalling, Rafael Da Silva, O'Shea and Valencia.

It was Arsenal who started brightly, their first chance came only minute into the game after Nemanja Vidic only half-cleared the ball, which fell to Jack Wilshere but he hit his effort wide. Then Theo Walcott came close after getting onto the end of a cross from Gael Clichy but he hit the ball over the bar.

Man United didn't threaten the Arsenal goal until the 20th minute, Luis Nani found Fabio Da Silva who ran into Arsenal's penalty area, he pulled the ball back towards Javier Hernandez but the ball was put behind from Arsenal for a corner.

Arsenal should have been awarded a penalty in the 33rd minute after Vidic handled the ball in the area. Walcott's ball into the area came off Vidic's outstretched arm and behind for a corner.

Man United were testing Wojciech Szczesny minutes into the second half. United were awarded a free-kick after Alexandre Song fouled Ji-Sung Park. Rooney took the free-kick, which was saved by Szczesny, the ball rebounded to Patrice Evra who hit the ball into the side-netting.

Man United made their first substitution on the 54th minute bringing on Antonio Valencia. A minute later, Arsenal took the lead. Robin Van Persie cut in from the right, he pulled the ball back to Aaron Ramsey who slotted the ball low into the corner.

A foul by Song on Evra started a fracas, the Arsenal player was booked. Park was booked a minute later after a high challenge on Bakari Sagna.

Man United wanted a penalty on the 66th minute after Walcott pulled down Evra in the penalty area but nothing was given.

Man United had another free-kick after Ramsey handled the ball, Rooney took the free-kick but it caught by Szczesny. With 14 minutes remaining, Szczesny parried away Nani's shot from 12 yards out.

A counter attack from Arsenal, Jack Wilshere found Van Persie, his cross into the area was missed by the Arsenal players. Then Arsenal had a free-kick from 22 yards out but the ball was hit straight into the arms of Edwin Van Der Sar.

The final substitution of the game for United was to bring on Michael Owen for Michael Carrick.

United should have been given a penalty on the 87th minute, Owen was brought down in the penalty area but Chris Foy waved away the penalty claims.

Four minutes were added on but Man United failed to score and now have to win against Chelsea next week. Man United are now only three points clear of Chelsea, they have the same goal difference so if the London side win at Old Trafford, they will go top of the table.

Premier League Preview: Arsenal v Man United

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 11:38:00 +0000

With only four Premier League games left, Manchester United can take a massive step to clinching the Premier League title if they beat Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday.

Arsenal on the other hand have thrown away the chance of winning the league after only picking up two points in their last three matches.

Team News

Arsenal-

Thomas Vermaelen made his long awaited comeback against Man United's reserves after eight months out. Vermaelen played the full 90 minutes but Sunday's game has come too early for the centre back.

Abou Diaby will also be missing after failing to shake off a groin injury, along with Lukasz Fabianski who is out for the rest of the season with a shoulder injury.

Manchester United-

Dimitar Berbatov will return after recovering from a groin injury, the Bulgarian hasn't played since United's 1-0 loss to Man City in the FA Cup. Darren Fletcher played the first 45 minutes against Arsenal's reserves Thursday night, but Fletcher will not play against Arsenal tomorrow.

Owen Hargreaves is unavailable with a shoulder injury and Anders Lindegaard is out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Paul Scholes will complete his three-match ban.

Most Recent Meeting

The two clubs met each other in the Sixth Round of the FA Cup last month at Old Trafford. Man United beat Arsenal 2-0. Fabio Da Silva opened up the scoring in the 28th minute, Wayne Rooney scored United's second goal in the 49th minute.

Head-To-Head

Man United are unbeaten in their last seven games against Arsenal, winning the last six and Arsenal have only won three of their last 17 Premier League matches against United.

The Gunners and the Red Devils have played each other 211 times. Man United have won 88 of those games, compared to Arsenal's 77 wins and there have been 46 draws.

Recent Form

Arsenal- LDDWD

24th April: Bolton 2-1 Arsenal (Premier League)
20th April: Tottenham 3-3 Arsenal (Premier League)
17th April: Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
10th April: Blackpool 1-3 Arsenal (Premier League)
2nd April: Arsenal 0-0 Blackburn (Premier League)

Man United- WWDLW

26th April: Schalke 0-2 Man United (Champions League)
23rd April: Man United 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
19th April: Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April: Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)
12th April: Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)

Officials

Referee: Chris Foy
Assistant referees: John Flynn and Andy Garratt
Fourth official: Lee Mason

Foy has refereed 31 matches this season, showing 77 yellow cards and two red cards.

Foy has officiated six matches involving Man United this season. The first was United's first Premier League game of the season, which was the 3-0 win against Newcastle. He has also refereed the 0-0 away draw against Sunderland, 0-0 away draw against Man City, 2-1 away win against West Brom, the 3-1 home win against Aston Villa and the 2-0 win over Arsenal in the FA Cup.

Foy has taken charge of four matches involving Arsenal; their 2-1 away win against Blackburn, a 2-1 home win against Fulham, the 2-0 home win Wolves and the 2-0 loss to United in the FA Cup.

Rivals

Chelsea can reduce the gap down to three points on Saturday, they play Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge.

Evra Wary Of "The Wounded Animal"

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 11:56:00 +0000

This Sunday Manchester United have a very important Premier League game against Arsenal. Ahead of the game defender Patrice Evra has said that Man United “have to fear the wounded animal”.

Arsenal are nine points behind Man United with only four games to go. The Gunners have ruined their chances of winning the Premier League after picking up only two points in their last three games.

Evra said: "You have to fear the wounded animal”

"It is all or nothing for Arsenal so that is a danger. They will want to show they can still win the title.''

"We have a good record at Arsenal but statistics can change so quickly”'

"Everyone used to say how Arsenal kept losing to Chelsea and then they beat them. We kept losing at Stamford Bridge but won there in the Champions League. Our record at the Emirates will hurt them and they will want to do something about it.''

United have played Arsenal twice this season. The first was in the Premier League, at Old Trafford in December. Man United won the game 1-0 with a goal from Ji-Sung Park in the 41st minute. United and Arsenal played each other in the FA Cup at Old Trafford back in March. United won the game 2-0 with goals from Fabio Da Silva and Wayne Rooney.

Evra went on to talk about how important the next few games are. Man United are six points clear of Chelsea but with both Arsenal and Chelsea coming up in the next two league games, it is vital that United pick up all three points against Arsenal this weekend.

"Sunday is a massive game for us. It is a great opportunity," Evra added. "There is still a lot of pressure on us.

"If we lose and Chelsea have beaten Tottenham on Saturday, they will only be three points behind and they have to come to Manchester.

"That is what we have to think about now."

Man United Have The Advantage After Win In Germany

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:33:00 +0000

Manchester United have a two goal advantage going into second leg against Schalke next week after beating the German side 2-0.

Man United starting XI: Van Der Sar, Fabio Da Silva, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Giggs, Park, Rooney and Hernandez.

Subs: Kuszczak, Anderson, Smalling, Nani, Scholes, Rafael Da Silva, Evans.

Schalke had a very early opportunity, but Alexander Baumjohann fired his shot straight at Edwin Van Der Sar. Minutes later a right footed shot by Wayne Rooney caused problems for Manuel Neuer after taking a deflection, but the keeper flicked the ball away for a corner.

Not long after Neuer was called into action again, Ji-Sung Park cut in from the left, his shot was saved and the ball rebounded to Javier Hernandez but the Mexican was ruled offside. That was immediately followed by another chance for United, Antonio Valencia's cross found Hernandez, who brought out another save from Neuer.

Then it was Schalke who came close to opening up the scoring. Jefferson Farfan came close to curling the ball into the bottom corner but his effort was just wide of the post.

Neuer was forced to make another save after Hernandez beat the offside trap but his low shot was saved by Neuer's legs. Man United continued to have opportunities; Hernandez came close but his shot hit the side netting, then the Mexican broke into the box again but pulled the ball back to Rooney instead of shooting.

Hernandez had another chance in the 25th minute but hit his shot across the face of goal. Ryan Giggs came close with a header but a fantastic save from Neuer on the line prevented the goal.

Half an hour into the game, Schalke made a rare break into the Man United penalty area but Giggs was there to dispossess Baumjohann.

Man United had many chances within seconds to score, somehow the ball was kept out of the back of the net. Hernandez had the first shot, which was saved, then Park had a shot blocked by a defender, the rebound fell to to Giggs who shot wide.

An unmarked Fabio Da Silva shot over the bar, then Schalke went down the other end of the field and wanted a penalty. Baumjohann went down in the area after a challenge from Valencia but the referee waved away the penalty appeals.
Manchester United should have scored yet again with only a minute left of the first half but Neuer made another brilliant save.

Neuer was called into action again only minutes into the second half. A free-kick taken by Giggs was glanced on by Patrice Evra but Neuer denied the Frenchman.

Then came another miss from Giggs, Valencia's cross found Giggs but he skewed his shot wide. United did have the ball in the back of the net through Hernandez on the 49th minute but he was ruled offside.

Schalke had a few chances, Jefferson Farfan's cross was half cleared by Nemanja Vidic. The ball fell to Jose Jurado but he hit his shot wide. Vidic came close to giving United the lead with a flick towards goal from a cross in by Valencia but his effort was blocked.

Schalke had a few opportunities after the hour mark, Raul Gonzalez found Peer Kluge from a corner, his shot was blocked but the ball fell to Raul, his cross was headed behind for a corner by Rio Ferdinand. A couple of minutes later, Edu had a shot saved by Van Der Sar.

Man United finally took the lead after Rooney's through ball found Giggs who was clean through and hit the ball through Neuer's legs.

United had another goal only a few minutes later, Hernandez won the ball, he played in Rooney who slotted the ball past Neuer.

With a two goal cushion and an important Premier League game away to Arsenal at the weekend, Sir Alex Ferguson brought on Oliveira Anderson and Paul Scholes for Hernandez and Park.

Schalke did force a good save out of Van Der Sar, Sergio Escudero hit a shot from 25-yards out but was well saved by United's keeper.

A couple of minutes later Luis Nani was brought on for Rooney. Evra came inches away from giving United a three goal lead after Nani hit the ball over Schalke's defence, Evra got onto the end of the ball but hit his shot just wide of the post.

The game finished 2-0 and Man United go into the game against Schalke next week at Old Trafford with a two goal lead.

Champions League Preview: FC Schalke 04 v Manchester United

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:56:00 +0000

After a 1-0 win against Everton at the weekend in the Premier League, Man United now turn their attention to the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final match against FC Schalke 04.

Schalke have won every single one of their home games in the Champions League this season. Man United haven't conceded a goal away from home in this season's Champions League, winning four out of the five away games and drawing only one.

Team News

Klass-Jan Huntelaar, Peer Kluge, Christian Pander, Mario Gavranovic, Christoph Moritz and Tim Hoogland are all out injured for Schalke. Benedikt Howedes is rated as doubtful.

Man United are without Dimitar Berbatov, who didn't travel due to a groin strain. Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Ji-Sung Park were rested for the game against Everton, they are expected to return to the side.

United squad: Edwin Van Der Sar, Tomasz Kuszczak; Patrice Evra, Wes Brown, Chris Smalling, Rio Ferdinand, John O'Shea, Jonny Evans, Nemanja Vidic, Fabio Da Silva, Rafael Da Silva; Anderson, Ryan Giggs, Ji-sung Park, Michael Carrick, Luis Nani, Paul Scholes, Antonio Valencia, Gabriel Obertan, Darron Gibson; Michael Owen, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez.

Head-To-Head

Manchester United and FC Schalke 04 have never played each other before.

Recent Form

Schalke- LDWWW

23rd April: Schalke 0-1 Kaiserslautern 1 (Bundesliga)
16th April: Werder Bremen 1-1 Schalke (Bundesliga)
13th April: Schalke 2-1 Inter Milan (Champions League)
9th April: Schalke 1-0 Wolfsburg (Bundesliga)
5th April: Inter Milan 2-5 Schalke (Champions League)

Man United- WDLWW

23rd April: Man United 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
19th April: Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April: Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)
12th April: Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
9th April: Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)

Officials

Referee- Carlos Velasco Carballo
Assistant referees- Roberto Alonso Fernandez and Jesus Calvo Guadamuro
Fourth official- David Fernandez Borbalan
Additional assistant referees- Carlos Clos Gomez and Antonio Rubinos Perez

Late Hernandez Header Clinches All Three Points

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 14:09:00 +0000

Man United have gone nine points clear of Arsenal and Chelsea with a 1-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford.

With one eye on the Champions League semi-final against Schalke on Tuesday, Sir Alex Ferguson made five changes to the side who played against Newcastle.

Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans, Fabio Da Silva, Darron Gibson and Antonio Valencia replaced Chris Smalling, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs.

Starting XI: Van Der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Evans, Fabio, Valencia, Gibson, Anderson, Nani, Rooney and Hernandez.

Subs: Kuszczak, Evra, Brown, Rafael, Carrick, Giggs and Owen.

For the first 10 minutes Man United were dominating the game but failing to test Tim Howard. The first meaningful attack came when Wayne Rooney played in Luis Nani down the left but Portuguese's shot was straight at Howard.

Man United were on top but still unable to create any notable chances. Rooney had a low cross in cleared by Phil Jagielka, that was followed by a poor shot from O'Shea, which went wide of the post.

25 minutes in a shot from Hernandez was finger-tipped behind by Howard for a corner. Soon after Gibson hit the ball well wide of the post. Minutes later Valencia picked out Rooney, who found Hernandez. The Mexican's shot was parried away by Howard.

Jermaine Beckford was calling for a penalty 10 minutes before half time after tangling with Evans in the penalty area. Beckford went down easily and the penalty correctly wasn't given.

Man United should have scored in the 38th minute. Valencia brushed Leighton Baines aside, he cut the ball back for Nani, his strike hit Hernandez and went wide.

During the second half, Everton had strong claims for a penalty after Victor Anichebe went down in the area after a challenge from Ferdinand but referee Peter Walton waved away the appeals.

Man United's first substitution was to bring on Evra, who replaces O'Shea.

Gibson with a shot from 25 yards out but his effort was blocked by Jagielka and went for a corner. From the resulting corner, Wayne Rooney had a shot blocked.

The second substitution by United was to bring on Michael Owen for Nani.

Everton started to put some pressure on the United goal, Leon Osman's cross in was cleared by Jonny Evans with Seamus Coleman ready to strike. Then a low shot by Jack Rodwell, which took a deflection off Evans brought out a great save from Edwin Van Der Sar.

Man United came very close to opening up the scoring after Owen hit the bar from six yards out.

The final sub made by United was to bring on Ryan Giggs for Gibson.

Man United were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out from goal, after Javier Hernandez was fouled. Rooney took it, his curling shot was tipped over the bar by Howard.

United continued to attack the Everton goal. Rooney had a shot go wide, Valencia had a shot blocked by Jagielka and then Howard saved an effort from Hernandez.

Man United finally took the lead with only seven minutes remaining. Valencia's cross towards the far post was headed in past Howard by Hernandez.

Three vital points were picked up by United. Next up in the league is Arsenal at the Emirates, that is followed by a league game against Chelsea at Old Trafford. In between those games are the two semi-final matches against Schalke in the Champions League.

Premier League Preview: Man United v Everton

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 14:42:00 +0000

Tomorrow lunchtime Man United take on Everton at Old Trafford in the Premier League. A win will take United nine points clear of Chelsea and Arsenal, who are both on 64 points.

Team News:

Rio Ferdinand was missing from United's draw against Newcastle with a calf strain but he may return tomorrow, along with Dimitar Berbatov who also missed the game.

Rafael Da Silva returns from injury but United are still missing Paul Scholes who is serving a three-match ban. Also out are Anders Lindegaard, Owen Hargreaves and Darren Fletcher.

Everton will be without Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta, Marouane Fellaini, Jose Baxter and Louis Saha, who are all out injured.

Most Recent Meeting

The two clubs last played each other back on the 11th September 2010, at Goodison Park. The match finished 3-3 after two very late injury time goals for Everton.

Steven Pienaar gave The Toffees a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute, four minutes later Darren Fletcher equalised for Man United. Nemanja Vidic scored United's second on the 47th minute and Dimitar Berbatov scored the third on the 66th minute. Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta scored for Everton in injury time.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Everton have played each other a total of 181 times. Man United have won 78 of those matches, lost 62 and there have been 41 draws.

163 of those matches have been League games. Man United have won 71 league matches against Everton, lost 53 and there have been 39 draws.

Recent Form

Man United- DLWWW

19th April- Newcastle 0-0 Man United (Premier League)
16th April- Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)
12th April- Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
9th April- Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
6th April- Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)

Everton- WWDWD

16th April- Everton 2-0 Blackburn (Premier League)
9th April- Wolves 0-3 Everton (Premier League)
2nd April- Everton 2-2 Aston Villa (Premier League)
19th March- Everton 2-1 Fulham (Premier League)
9th March- Everton 1-1 Birmingham (Premier League)

Officials

Referee: Peter Walton

Assistant referees: Mike Cairns and Ron Ganfield

Fourth official: Kevin Friend

Walton has officiated two games involving Man United this season. They were the 2-2 away draw against Fulham and the 3-2 away win against Blackpool.

Walton has taken charge of four matches involving Everton, their 2-2 away draw against Everton, 2-1 away win against Man City, 2-2 home draw against West Ham and the 1-1 home draw against Birmingham.

Rivals

Chelsea play West Ham at Stamford Bridge in the Saturday evening kick-off. Arsenal play away against Bolton on Sunday.

United Seven Points Clear After 0-0 Draw

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:44:00 +0000

Manchester United have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points after a 0-0 draw against Newcastle.

Sir Alex Ferguson made five changes to the side that lost to Man City at the weekend. Wayne Rooney, Chris Smalling, Ryan Giggs, Anderson and Javier Hernandez all returned to the starting line-up. Rio Ferdinand, Dimitar Berbatov, Paul Scholes, Antonio Valencia and Ji-Sung Park all made way.

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar; O'Shea, Smalling, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Carrick, Anderson, Giggs, Rooney and Hernandez.

Man United subs: Kuszczak, Evans, Fabio, Gibson, Park, Valencia and Owen.

Man United almost had a early goal after a fantastic ball by Wayne Rooney, found Javier Hernandez but a brilliant save by Tim Krul prevented the Mexican from scoring.

After that chance, Newcastle pressurised the Man United goal for a few minutes. A decent run from Jonas Gutierrez ended in him having a effort at goal, which was deflected away for a corner by Smalling. Man United eventually cleared the ball after Fabricio Coloccini headed it towards goal from a corner and Cheik Tiote hit his effort straight at Edwin Van Der Sar.

Newcastle may have been piling the pressure on United but it was the away side who had the two best chances of the first 20 minutes. The first was Hernandez' chance, the second fell to Rooney. The striker flicked the ball over Mike Williamson and went through on goal but his shot took a deflection off Krul and went over the bar. The referee didn't spot the deflection and Man United weren't awarded a corner.

Luis Nani wanted a penalty after going down in the area after a challenge from Gutierrez but the Portuguese went down far too easily and United weren't awarded a penalty.

Hernandez came close to scoring the opening goal, Giggs fed the ball through to the Mexican but Coloccini did well to take the ball off Hernandez. Peter Lovenkrands had a superb chance for Newcastle after being left unmarked but he nodded his header wide.

Man United got off to a good start in the second half. Nani's cross found Giggs, who had space in the penalty area but his header was straight at Krul.

The referee could have given Newcastle a penalty after a challenge from Anderson on Lovenkrands but Lee Probert waved play on. Minutes later Lovenkrands was involved in the play again, this time he headed the ball over the bar.

Man United had their own chances, Hernandez almost got onto the end of Anderson's long ball but Krul came off his line to collect the ball.

Giggs should have scored after Patrice Evra cut the ball back to him but the Welshman hit his left footed shot wide. Man United's first substitution was to bring on Antonio Valencia for Anderson.

Steven Ireland came on for Newcastle, nearly scoring with his first touch. Ameobi knocked the ball down for Ireland but the shot was hit narrowly wide. Not long after, Man United were awarded a free-kick, which was hit into the wall by Giggs and away for a corner. The resulting corner was played short to Nani, his right footed shot fell just wide of Krul's post.

Michael Owen came on for Man United with less than 10 minutes remaining, he replaced Nani.

There were four minutes of time added on. During that time it looked like United may have been awarded a penalty after Hernandez was fouled in the area, instead the Mexican was shown a yellow card.

Newcastle United v Man United Preview

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Manchester United have the opportunity to put Saturday's 1-0 loss in the FA Cup to Manchester City behind them, with a win against Newcastle United.

Man United can go nine points clear of Arsenal in the Premier League, if they beat Newcastle at St James' Park tomorrow night.

Team News

Newcastle- Kevin Nolan will serve the second of his two-match ban but Cheik Tiote and James Perch will both return from suspension.

Ben Arfa is out with a broken leg, also out injured are Leon Best, Alan Smith and Dan Gosling. Shola Ameobi has been rated as doubtful.

Man United- Wayne Rooney and Jonny Evans will both be available after completing their suspensions. Paul Scholes was sent off against Man City and will now have to serve a three-match ban.

Darren Fletcher is also unavailable for Man United, he is still recovering from illness. Owen Hargreaves, Rafael Da Silva and Anders Lindegaard are all out due to injury.

Most Recent Meeting

The two sides met back on the 16th August 2010, which was their first Premier League game of the 2010/11 season. Man United won the game 3-0 with goals from Dimitar Berbatov, Darren Fletcher and Ryan Giggs.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Newcastle have played each other 151 times. Man United have won 77 of those games, drawing 35 times and losing 39 of them.

Recent Form

Newcastle- LWLLD

10th April- Aston Villa 1-0 Newcastle (Premier League)
2nd April- Newcastle 4-1 Wolves (Premier League)
19th March- Stoke 4-0 Newcastle (Premier League)
5th March- Newcastle 1-2 Everton (Premier League)
26th February- Newcastle 1-1 Bolton (Premier League)

Man United- LWWWW

16th April- Man City 1-0 Man United (FA Cup)
12th April- Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
9th April- Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
6th April- Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April- West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)

Officials

Referee: Lee Probert
Assistant referees: Andy Halliday and Trevor Massey
Fourth official: Jon Moss

Probert has officiated 29 games this season, showing 69 yellow cards and six red cards.

He has refereed two matches involving Man United, which were the 7-1 win over Blackburn in the league and the 1-0 win over Crawley at Old Trafford in the FA Cup.

Probert has only refereed one game involving Newcastle, which was the 0-0 draw with Fulham in the league.

“I'm definitely here for the rest of my career now"

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:47:00 +0000

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has pledged his future to the club.

The 29-year old joined Man United in January 2006 and has gone on to make 226 appearances, scoring 17 goals. The defender has been linked with a move away, with clubs such as AC Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid all reportedly interested in him.

Vidic told the Sunday Mirror: “I hope to spend the rest of my career here at United.”
“I heard the speculation about me maybe leaving last year, but I know where I want to be and I have shown my commitment to the club.

“I have given the best years of my career to this club and the talk about me leaving here was never correct.

“I always give my best. Of course, sometimes you have good and bad days, but I think I always try to give 100 per cent – and especially now I have that armband and the responsibility that goes with it.

“I'm definitely here for the rest of my career now. It never came from my mouth that I would be leaving United. I love it here and I think I show that on the pitch.”

City Beat The 10-Men Of United At Wembley

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 18:19:00 +0000

Manchester City will play either Stoke or Bolton in the final of the FA Cup after beating Manchester United 1-0 at Wembley.

Teams:

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Park, Scholes, Carrick, Valencia, Berbatov and Nani.

Subs- Kuszczak, Owen, Fabio, Smalling, Anderson, Hernandez and Gibson.

Man City starting XI- Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Lescott, Kolarov, De Jong, Barry, A Johnson, Yaya Toure, Silva and Balotelli.

Subs- Taylor, Boyata, Vieira, Milner, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Dzeko and Jo.

The Game:

Man United started off the better side at Wembley, with Dimitar Berbatov having two fantastic chances in the opening few minutes. Ji-Sung Park put Berbatov through on goal but Joe Hart came out and blocked the Bulgarian's shot. Second later, Nani picked up the ball from a throw-in, he turned and his cross across goal was hit over the bar by Berbatov from two yards out.

United continued to attack City's goal, Michael Carrick had an effort from 20 yards out but it was charged down by the City defence.

Man United then had a couple of opportunities from corners. The first saw Berbatov loop his header from Antonio Valencia's corner over the bar and onto the netting. Then from another corner taken by Valencia, Vidic couldn't direct his header towards goal.

Man City didn't threaten the Man United goal until just after the half hour mark. Gareth Barry turned in Man United's penalty area, his shot hit the side netting.

Then a powerful long distance strike from Mario Balotelli had to be knocked over the bar from Edwin Van Der Sar. City came close to opening up the scoring minutes before half time but Vincent Kompany's curling shot went just wide of Van Der Sar's post.

Manchester City took the lead on the 52nd minute after a mistake from Carrick. The midfielder lost possession just outside the area, the ball was picked up by Yaya Toure, he ran past Vidic and hit the ball past Van Der Sar.

David Silva almost found Toure at the far post but Van Der Sar claimed the ball. That was followed by two shots by Balotteli, which were blocked by Ferdinand and Vidic.

Man United were awarded a free-kick after Pablo Zabaleta fouled Park. Before the free-kick was taken, Antonio Valencia was replaced by Javier Hernandez. Nani took the free-kick, which took a deflection and was pushed onto the bar by Hart.

Things went from bad to worse after Paul Scholes was shown a straight red card after a high challenge on Zabaleta. Sir Alex Ferguson's response to the red card was to bring on Anderson for Berbatov.

Man United had to play just less than 20 minutes with 10-men but they still had a few chances. Hernandez tried to equalise for United but his shot was saved by Hart. Evra had a good chance to put the ball into the area but instead he tried to hit the ball past Hart and the near post but his effort went wide.

Toure had a very good chance to score City's second just before full time. Toure burst into the United penalty area, the ball was finally cleared by a combination of Vidic and Van Der Sar.

City won the game 1-0 and will now play in the FA Cup final.

FA Cup Semi-Final Preview: Man United v Man City

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 14:23:00 +0000

Manchester United and Manchester City will fight it out at Wembley tomorrow for a place in the final of the FA Cup.

Team News

Manchester United:

Wayne Rooney and Jonny Evans are both unavailable for Man United due to suspension. Darren Fletcher will also miss the game, he is back in training but not fully recovered from illness. Owen Hargreaves and Anders Lindegaard are both out injured.

Squad: Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Rafael, O'Shea, Brown, Ferdinand, Smalling, Vidic, Evra, Fabio, Valencia, Gibson, Anderson, Scholes, Park, Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Berbatov, Hernandez and Owen.

Manchester City:

Man City will have to make do without their captain, Carlos Tevez, who has been ruled out for up to a month with a hamstring injury. Micah Richards had also been suffering from a hamstring injury but he is fit for tomorrows game.

Squad: Hart, Taylor, Richards, Zabaleta, Kompany, Lescott, Kolarov, Boyata, Wright-Phillips, De Jong, Y.Toure, Vieira, Barry, Silva, Milner, A.Johnson, Dzeko, Balotelli, Razak and McGivern.

Most Recent Meeting

The last derby match was played on the 12th February 2011, which Man United won 2-1 at Old Trafford. Luis Nani opened up the scoring in the 41st minute. David Silva equalised for Man City in the 65th minute but Rooney won the game for United scoring just 12 minutes before full time.

Head-To-Head

The two clubs have played each other 157 times. Man United have won 65 of the 157 games, they have lost 42 matches against City and there have been 50 draws.

Recent Form

Man United: WWWWW

12th April: Man United 2-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
9th April: Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)

Manchester City: LWLWW

11th April: Liverpool 3-0 Man City (Premier League)
3rd April: Man City 5-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
20th March: Chelsea 2-0 Man City (Premier League)
17th March: Man City 1-0 Dynamo Kiev (Europa Cup)
13th March: Man City 1-0 Reading (FA Cup)

Managers

Sir Alex Ferguson:

"It should be an exciting game. We go into it with great confidence, we're playing well and we're ready for it”
"City have a strong squad and they've got plenty of experience. You have to play well to win at Wembley."

Roberto Mancini:

"I have respect for Manchester United because they have won everything for many years”
"To begin with, they won a single trophy after a long time with nothing. Now we are in the same position.
"We can go on to do what United have done. We have a chance on Saturday and for this we should be happy."

Officials

Referee: Mike Dean
Assistant referees: Mike Mullarkey and Peter Kirkup
Fourth official: Chris Foy

Mike Dean has officiated 36 matches this season, showing 125 yellow cards and five red cards.

Dean has refereed three matches involving Man United this season. The first was United's 5-2 away win against Scunthorpe in the Carling Cup. He also refereed United's 2-2 away draw against Aston Villa and the 0-0 away draw against Tottenham.

Dean has also taken charge of three matches involving City; their 1-0 loss against Sunderland, their 2-1 loss to Wolves and their 2-2 draw against Leicester City in the FA Cup.

Man United Through To The Semi's

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 20:36:00 +0000

Manchester United are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League after beating Chelsea at Old Trafford this evening.

Teams:

Man United starting XI- Van Der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Carrick, Park, Giggs, Hernandez and Rooney.

Subs- Kuszczak, Brown, Berbatov, Smalling, Scholes, Valencia and Gibson.

Chelsea starting XI- Cech, Ivanovic, Alex, Terry, Cole, Ramires, Essien, Lampard, Anelka, Torres and Malouda.

Subs- Turnbull, Benayoun, Drogba, Mikel, Zhirkov, Ferreira and Kalou.

The Game:

Man United got off to the better start. Luis Nani was fouled by Branislav Ivanovic but the resulting free-kick was poor, then Wayne Rooney volleyed the ball from 35 yards out but was caught by Petr Cech.

Chelsea's first opportunity fell to Fernando Torres, who got onto the end of a cross by Nicolas Anelka and his header fell wide of the post. That was followed by two great chances for the away side. Anelka had a strike fall just wide of the post, then Frank Lampard hit a close range effort straight at Edwin Van Der Sar.

Javier Hernandez had the ball in the back of the net on the 27th minute but he was ruled offside. Rooney's cross in was headed past Cech by Hernandez but the goal was ruled out.

Van Der Sar had to make a fantastic save, just as it looked like Anelka might beat him to the ball, United's keeper made a brilliant tackle outside the box.

Man United took the lead in the 44th minute with a goal from Hernandez, after he was picked out by Ryan Giggs and the Mexican tapped home.

Carlo Ancelotti made an immediate change after half time, which was to bring on Didier Drogba for Torres. Drogba was an instant threat, who got on the end of a cross by Ivanovic but Vidic was there to block the ball.

Lampard and Florent Malouda both had efforts at goal within the opening minutes of the second half. Lampard scuffed his shot wide and Malouda volleyed wide from outside the area.
Drogba came close to pulling a goal back for Chelsea 57 minutes in after he turned past Rio Ferdinand but his shot drifted wide of the far post. Seconds later, Patrice Evra handed Chelsea a brilliant chance to threaten the Man United goal after the Frenchman fouled Drogba just outside the penalty area. The free-kick was cleared by United, Rooney down ran down the other end of the pitch and was fouled just outside the area by Lampard.

Nani came close to putting United 2-0 up (3-0 on aggregate) but Cech saved his low effort and pushed the ball behind for a corner. Giggs had an even better opportunity after a wonderful cross for Giggs, who miss-cued his header.

Chelsea were down to 10 men after Ramires was shown a second yellow card for a foul challenge from behind on Nani.

Man United's first and only substitution came in the 75th minute after Antonio Valencia came on for Nani.

It looked like the match was set for a nervy finish after Drogba gave Chelsea a glimmer of hope. Drogba was put through on goal by Michael Essien, he was judged to have been onside and he hit the ball past Van Der Sar.

Chelsea's celebrations didn't last long, literally only second later, Ji-Sung Park gave Man United the lead again. Giggs found Park on the left of the box and the South Korean smashed a low shot past Cech.

Chelsea continued to attack the United goal, Malouda forced a great save from Van Der Sar.

The game finished 2-1 to Manchester United (3-1 on aggregate) and Man United have made it through to the semi-final's of the UEFA Champions League.

Champions League: Man United v Chelsea Preview

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:36:00 +0000

Tomorrow night Manchester United take on Chelsea at Old Trafford in the Champions League quarter-final second leg. Chelsea go into the second leg 1-0 down after Man United beat them at Stamford Bridge last Wednesday.

Team News

Man United:

Rafael Da Silva is the only doubt for Man United ahead of the game.

Darren Fletcher is out of the game, he has been suffering from a virus. The last time Fletcher played was when he came on as a substitute against Liverpool on he 6th March.

Wayne Rooney missed United's 2-0 win over Fulham on Saturday due to suspension but he can play for United in the Champions League. Also back for United is Rio Ferdinand, who also missed the win because he has been suffering from a calf injury.

Chelsea:

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has a fully fit squad to pick from.

Yossi Benayoun and Alex both returned from injury at the weekend. Jose Boswinga has recovered from the illness that ruled him out at the weekend.

Most Recent Meeting

The two clubs played each other last Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final. Man United won the game 1-0 with Rooney scoring the only goal.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Chelsea have played each other 159 times. Man United have won 68 of those games, lost 44 times and there have been 47 draws.

Recent Form

Man United: WWWWW

9th April: Man United 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)
15th March: Man United 2-1 Marseille (Champions League)
Chelsea: WLDWD

9th April: Chelsea 1-0 Wigan (Premier League)
6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: Stoke 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
20th March: Chelsea 2-0 Man City (Premier League)
16th March: Chelsea 0-0 FC Copenhagen (Champions League)

Managers

Sir Alex Ferguson:

"Chelsea are no more desperate than Manchester United, believe me”
"For any club when the expectations are high you come to a situation where it is all or nothing.
"People talk about us winning the league but we are desperate to win this game."

Carlo Ancelotti:

“I agree that United are favourites because they have an advantage from the first leg. But I’m sure they are not so comfortable because it’s not a clear result. We have to come back in the game – and we will.

“A win there is not easy but it’s good for us to think that last year when we needed to win there, we won. This is important for me. We have a good memory and it could be good to motivate us again.

"I think we have the team and we have the ability to win at Old Trafford.”

Referee

Olegario Benquerence (Portugal)

Man United Go 10 Points Clear

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 15:50:00 +0000

Manchester United have gone 10 points clear of Arsenal after a routine 2-0 win over Fulham at Old Trafford.

Team News:

Man United starting XI- Kuszczak, O'Shea, Smalling, Vidic, Evra, Gibson, Scholes, Anderson, Valencia, Nani and Berbatov.

Subs- Van Der Sar; Brown, Fabio, Carrick, Park, Hernandez and Owen.

Sir Alex Ferguson made eight changes to the side who beat Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday. Tomasz Kuszczak, John O'Shea, Chris Smalling, Darron Gibson, Anderson, Paul Scholes, Luis Nani and Dimitar Berbatov all came into the side.

The Game:

Fulham had an early effort, which was a 25-yard shot from Gael Kakuta but it was well saved by Kuszczak. Man United's first attempt on goal came from Nani, the ball was deflected over by Aaron Hughes and went for a corner.

Kuszczak had to make two good saves within the first five minutes, the second was a 20-yard shot from Moussa Dembele, Kuszczak punched the ball away for a corner.

Despite a sloppy start, it was Manchester United who took the lead in the 11th minute. Nani played a one-two with Anderson, who played in Berbatov and the Bulgarian scored from 10 yards out.

Anderson should have put United 2-0 up after a brilliant run by Berbatov, he squared the ball to Anderson but the Brazilian screwed his shot wide.

Man United continued to push for a second goal with both Antonio Valencia, Nani and Smalling all having chances.

Man United did have a second goal just after the half hour mark. Nani picked up the ball down the left, Mark Schwarzer came off his line, Nani went past him and hit the ball towards goal. Valencia was there to head the ball into an empty net.

Man United almost had a third just before half time. Valencia burst into the area he crossed the ball towards Berbatov but Hughes was there to clear, if he hadn't it would have been a simple tap-in for Berbatov.

Second half and Man United had another brilliant chance only two minutes in; Anderson's strike was palmed away by Schwarzer for a corner.

Bobby Zamora looked like he could trouble United in the 53rd minute but Kuszczak was quickly off his goal line to claim the ball. Immediately down the other end Berbatov shot wide from eight yards out.

Fulham had two chances in a matter of minutes. The first was a long range strike from Clint Dempsey, the ball was deflected away by Smalling. The second looked like it was in after an effort from Eidur Gudjohnsen. The ball hit the boards and hit the net behind the goal.

Anderson had another long range effort, this time from 25 yards out but it was a comfortable save for Schwarzer. Seconds later, Fulham were awarded a free kick right on the edge of the area after Nemanja Vidic was judged to have fouled Kakuta.

Man United went on to win the game 2-0 and are now 10 points clear of Arsenal, who play Blackpool tomorrow.

Kuszczak Set To Leave United

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 10:27:00 +0000

Tomasz Kuszczak is set to leave Manchester United, according to The Sun newspaper.

Kuszczak is unhappy at the amount of time he spends on the bench and has had enough of waiting to be United's number one keeper.

The 29-year old joined Man United on the 10th August 2006, since then has has gone on to make 59 appearances. He has only made eight appearances this season and is not set to leave during the summer.

The Sun have quoted the goalkeeper as saying:

"I'm definitely leaving the club. My time in Manchester is coming to an end.

"I've worked hard for five years but I never played as much as I wanted.

"It's a shame the manager didn't really give me a chance.

"I always believed I can be Edwin Van Der Sar's successor. Unfortunately, Sir Alex has decided differently.
"Even though I played many games, I spent most of my time on the bench.

"I accepted that as I had a great rival, one of the world's best keepers, and Manchester was the only club where I could accept that role for so long.

"But I've had enough of waiting. I want to play in Euro 2012. Staying here I could be left out by Poland's coach.

"I spoke to Alex Ferguson about my role on many occasions.

"The manager was in a difficult position. But he also knew Edwin is retiring after this season so he could give me a few more chances to play.

"We didn't speak that much to convince me next year I can be No1."

“I'd probably be No2 for the next few years. I don't want that."

Premier League Preview: Man United v Fulham

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:45:00 +0000

Saturday afternoon, Manchester United are back in Premier League action with a home game against Fulham after Wednesday's win against Chelsea in the Champions League.

Team News

Man United: Anderson, Wes Brown and John O'Shea have all recovered from injury and are available to play against Fulham.

Sir Alex Ferguson also confirmed that Rafael Da Silva won't be available for tomorrows game but he should have recovered in time for Tuesday's game against Chelsea.

United will be without Wayne Rooney, who will serve the first of a two-match ban. Also out are Darren Fletcher, Anders Lindegaard and Owen Hargreaves.

Fulham:

The away side may be without Damien Duff, who is struggling with an Achilles injury. Diomansy Kamara and Philippe Senderos are both out.

Aaron Hughes is fit despite picking up a head injury against Blackpool.

League Positions

Man United still sit top of the Premier League, seven points clear of seventh placed Arsenal, who have played a game less. Man United have played 31 games, taking 66 points in the process.

Fulham on the other hand are mid-table. The club are in 10th position after taking 38 points from 31 games.

Most Recent Meeting

The last time the two clubs played each other was back on the 22nd August, in the Premier League. The result from Craven Cottage was a 2-2 draw. Paul Scholes gave United the lead, Simon Davies equalised for Fulham. United took the lead again after an own goal from Brede Hangeland, who scored his second goal minutes later to earn Fulham a draw.

Head-To-Head

Manchester United and Fulham have played each other 71 times, which have seen 42 Man United wins, 13 Fulham wins and 16 draws.

61 of the 71 matches have been played in the league. Man United have won 35 of them, lost 12 times and there have been 14 draws.

Recent Form

Man United: WWWWW

6th April: Chelsea 0-1 Man United (Champions League)
2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)
15th March: Man United 2-1 Marseille (Champions League)
12th March: Man United 2-0 Arsenal (FA Cup)

Fulham: WLWDL

3rd April: Fulham 3-0 Blackpool (Premier League)
19th March: Everton 2-1 Fulham (Premier League)
5th March: Fulham 3-2 Blackburn (Premier League)
27th February: Manchester City 1-1 Fulham (Premier League)
20th February: Fulham 0-1 Bolton (FA Cup)

Rivals

Arsenal don't play until Sunday, which is an away match against Blackpool. Chelsea are at home to Wigan on Saturday afternoon.

Rooney Loses Appeal And Sponsorship

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:44:00 +0000

Today the FA announced that Wayne Rooney's two-match ban has been upheld. Not only that but have Coca-Cola decided not to renew their sponsorship with the player.

The FA confirmed on their website that a Regulatory Commission has suspended Rooney for two games. Rooney had admitted a charge for the use of offensive, insulting and/or abusive language but he did appeal the length of the ban.

The Commission didn't accept the claim and Rooney will now be missing for Man United's Premier League match home match against Fulham this Saturday. He will also be unavailable for United's semi-final FA Cup match at Wembley against Manchester City.

Man United's response was to release this statement on ManUtd.com:

"Manchester United is clearly very disappointed with the Regulatory Commission's decision.
"The Club put forward a very strong case to have the punishment reduced, which was unsuccessful.
"Wayne Rooney apologised immediately after the match and the Club now wishes to move to on to what hopefully will be a very exciting conclusion to the season."

Rooney also released his own statement, which read:

"I am gutted to miss two matches, one of which is an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. I am not the first player to have sworn on TV and I won’t be the last.
"Unlike others who have been caught swearing on camera, I apologised immediately. And yet I am the only person banned for swearing. That doesn’t seem right.
"Whatever, I have to accept that what’s happened has happened and move on from here. That’s what I intend to do.”

Coca Cola have also confirmed that they will not be renewing the sponsorship with Rooney, which was worth £600,000 a year. It is believed that the company hasn't been impressed with Rooney's recent scandals.

A spokesperson for Coca Cola said: “We mutually agreed that we would not renew our relationship. We wish Wayne well with in his career.”

Advantage United

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 20:38:00 +0000

Manchester United will go into the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Chelsea next Tuesday with a 1-0 lead.

Man United starting XI- Van der Sar, Rafael Da Silva, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Giggs, Park, Hernandez, Rooney.

Subs: Kuszczak, Berbatov, Smalling, Nani, Scholes, Evans, Gibson.

Chelsea nearly had an early goal with a chance for Fernando Torres who nearly got on the end of a cross in by Jose Bosingwa but he was just beaten to the ball by Rio Ferdinand. That was followed by a late challenge by Michael Essien on Wayne Rooney. No yellow card was shown but Rooney was able to continue.

Park had shot from the edge of the box was deflected behind for a corner, the resulting corner was rolled to Rooney by Ryan Giggs but Chelsea cleared before the ball got to Rooney. Chelsea did have their own chances, one of which was a shot from Didier Drogba, which was tipped over by Edwin Van Der Sar.

Man United took the lead in the 24th minute. A brilliant pass by Carrick to Giggs, who picked out Rooney who's shot went in off the back post.

Half an hour in, Chelsea started to put some pressure on the Man United goal. Yuri Zhirkov's cross in was completely miss-kicked by Torres. That was then followed by a good cross into the area by Bosingwa but Rafael Da Silva was there to turn the ball behind for a corner.

United nearly had a second goal after the ball was chipped to Javier Hernandez, who was so close to making contact, which would have been a goal.

The final two minutes of the first half was all Chelsea. Drogba's cross in was flicked on by Torres, the ball hit the post, rebounded straight to Frank Lampard, who's shot was cleared off the line by Patrice Evra.

Second half and Manchester United's first substitution was in-forced after Rafael went down after a challenge by Drogba. Rafael received treatment and did return to the field for a few minutes but he was unable to continue and was stretchered off. Luis Nani was immediately brought on.

Rooney did have the ball in the back of the net again in the 54th minute but Hernandez was judged to be offside in the build-up.

Chelsea escaped again after the ball was crossed into the area by Nani, keeper Petr Cech just managed to a touch on the ball and push it behind Hernandez, who was there ready to score. Chelsea came close a few times, the first was a powerful effort from Essien but the ball fell wide of the post. Torres also had an opportunity but his looping header was clawed away by Van Der Sar.

Sir Alex Ferguson's second substitution was to bring on Dimitar Berbatov, who replaced Hernandez.

The final 10 minutes saw Van Der Sar booked for time wasting. Branislav Ivanovic had a shot saved by Van Der Sar. Nani almost had a chance but the ball was smothered at his feet by Cech.

Chelsea could have been awarded a penalty in added time after Patrice Evra brought Ramires down in the area but the referee waved away the appeals.

Man United held on to the win and go into the second leg with a 1-0 lead, which is a very important away goal.

Rooney Accepts Charge But Appeals Length Of Ban

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:27:00 +0000

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has accepted the FA's charge but he will appeal against the severity of the ban.

Rooney was charged by the FA for the use of offensive, insulting and / or abusive language after swearing into a television camera during Man United's 4-2 win over West Ham.

A statement released by the FA read:

"Manchester United player Wayne Rooney has today admitted a charge for the use of offensive, insulting and / or abusive language.

"However, Rooney has submitted a claim that the automatic penalty of two games is clearly excessive. A commission will hear the submission tomorrow (Wednesday).

"The charge relates to an incident during his side’s fixture with West Ham United at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 2 April 2011."

Champions League: Chelsea v Man United Preview

noreply@blogger.com (manuniteddevils) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:52:00 +0000

Tomorrow night, Manchester United and Chelsea will face each other in the Champions League.

Man United and Chelsea have played each other in Europe was in the 2008 UEFA Champions League final. After a 1-1 draw, the match went to penalties, which Man United won 6-5.

Man United are 11 points ahead of the London side in the Premier League and Chelsea are out of the FA Cup so this could be their last chance of silverware this season.

Team News

Chelsea:

Centre-back David Luiz is cup-tied so he wont play a part.

Yossi Benayoun and Alex both trained on Tuesday but manager Carlo Ancelotti has said that they are unlikely to play.

Man United:

Rio Ferdinand could return from a calf injury after training all week but Sir Alex Ferguson is unsure whether he will be available for tomorrow or not. Both Jonny Evans and Rafael Da Silva are available to play. Wes Brown and John O'Shea have both returned to training.

Most Recent Meeting

Man United and Chelsea met in the Premier League on the 1st March at Stamford Bridge. Man United took the lead through Wayne Rooney but goals from Luiz and Frank Lampard (penalty) handed Chelsea the win. Nemanja Vidic was sent off in injury time.

Head-To-Head

Man United and Chelsea have played each other 158 times. Man United have won 67 of those games, lost 44 times and there have been 47 draws.

Man United and Chelsea have only played once in Europe, which was the 2008 Champions League final.

Recent Form

Chelsea: DWDWW

2nd April: Stoke 1-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
20th March: Chelsea 2-0 Manchester City (Premier League)
16th March: Chelsea 0-0 FC Copenhagen (Champions League)
7th March: Blackpool 1-3 Chelsea (Premier League)
1st March: Chelsea 2-1 Man United (Premier League)

Man United: WWWWL

2nd April: West Ham 2-4 Man United (Premier League)
19th March: Man United 1-0 Bolton (Premier League)
15th March: Man United 2-1 Marseille (Champions League)
12th March: Man United 2-0 Arsenal (FA Cup)
6th March: Liverpool 3-1 Man United (Premier League)

Officials

Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Assistant referees: Fermin Martinez Ibanez (Spain)and Juan Carlos Yuste Jimenez (Spain)
Additional assistant referees: Fernando Teixeira Vitienes (Spain) and Carlos Clos Gomez (Spain)
Fourth official: David Fernandez Borbalan (Spain)