Manchester United Fan Club [Archive] - Page 10?login=1 - ThisisBigBrother.com

bbfan1991

13-02-2013, 10:40 PM

Boss: It's within our grasp

Sir Alex Ferguson thinks United have a great chance of progressing in the Champions League following a 1-1 draw at Real Madrid.

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The boss was pleased with his side's performance, if disappointed that a number of chances were not taken in the second half, and sportingly paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo for his excellent equaliser.

"I think it was an interesting match," he told Sky Sports. "There were chances at both ends. David De Gea made three or four terrific saves and we missed some really good chances ourselves. Their keeper [Diego Lopez] made a fantastic save in the last minute and when Robin van Persie hit the bar. There were a lot of incidents and it made it a really interesting game.

"We sat back off them too much in the first half and they had a lot of play around the edge of our box which is not healthy or good to watch. It was unlike us in many ways but we changed it around in the second half and put Danny Welbeck around Xabi Alonso. It made a great difference and the ebb of the game definitely changed.

"We had a really good start to the second half and, all in all, created a lot of chances with good attacking football at times but we've not had the possession we should have. Real won the possession without question but they were at home and it's a difficult place to come.

"I've got to be pleased. The players dug in and got the result. It takes us back to Old Trafford with a great chance."

Sir Alex hailed Ronaldo's leveller and realises he will be a big threat again in the return leg.

"What a header," he exclaimed. "Unbelievable. You can't stop that, I've got to say, with that leap and spring and he holds himself in the air. And the power in the header. I came in at half-time and said: 'Patrice did you not challenge for it' but I've seen the video.

"I thought we did well and it was difficult for Cristiano playing against us, his old team. Maybe there was a little bit of emotion attached to it but he was still a big threat for them.

"It's very open. I think they'll score at Old Trafford. We know they're going to be a tremendous counter-attacking team because we've seen it when they played Manchester City at the Etihad. They absolutely dominated the game in the first half.

"So we've got a big job on our hands but it's definitely within our grasp, no doubt."

bbfan1991

13-02-2013, 10:52 PM

The British press giving De Gea some well deserved praise AT LAST:).

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Ryan57

13-02-2013, 10:55 PM

Fu-cking w@nk referee. Varane clearly should of been off.

Fantastic performance though. De Gea shutting a lot of tw@ts up.

bbfan1991

13-02-2013, 11:02 PM

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Nice:). Sky said that Cristiano Ronaldo had popped into the United dressing room for a bit of a catch up with SAF/players/staff etc, which is nice and I hope the emotion of being back at Old Trafford gets to him in the second leg;).

bbfan1991

13-02-2013, 11:28 PM

This was from before the Real Madrid match, so true:).

Manchester United keeper David de Gea insists he has improved since he joined the club amid continued backing from Sir Alex Ferguson.

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Now nearing the end of his second season at Old Trafford following an £18million switch from Atletico Madrid, some observers believe it will be his last.

The summer arrival of Jack Butland at Stoke suggests Asmir Begovic will be on the move, with United long since being viewed as a likely destination.

But De Gea has defended his record and believes he has improved since he joined the club, a view shared by boss Ferguson.

The Spanish keeper said: "Of course when you arrive at a new club it is normal there will be low points. The important thing is to learn from them and improve.

"I know I am much better than when I first arrived at Manchester United."

Ferguson added: "David has shown his character because he has taken a lot of criticism, sometimes unfairly.

"What we are good at is developing people. He came to us as a very young man, not used to the English game and unable to speak the language. Also he was still to mature physically.

"But it's like a young kid taking his first steps forward, he wobbles, then gets up, wobbles, then gets up again and eventually he walks.

"The boy is walking now."

bbfan1991

13-02-2013, 11:30 PM

Vote: Man of the Match

There were several outstanding performances in the United ranks as the Reds regsitered a hard-fought 1-1 Champions League draw at Real Madrid.

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David De Gea was by far the busier goalkeeper on show, and the former Atletico Madrid stopper was equal to almost everything Real could throw at him. An early world class stop from Coentrao was the highlight of his display, run close by his improvised hoof away from the same opponent's shot. Another magnificent big-game display from the Spaniard.

Phil Jones turned in a selfless shift in a defensive midfield position, coagulating Real's approach play in central areas and providing a fine foil for Michael Carrick. The youngster once again gave absolutely everything for the cause.

United's attacking threat was largely reduced to counter-raids, but Robin van Persie's role within them was integral. The Dutchman's use of the ball and hold-up play was superb, though he'll be haunted by passing up the chance to bag a second away goal for the Reds.

In addition to his well-taken goal, Danny Welbeck was an inspirational presence in the United attack, applying his trademark hustle with abandon and providing a lively outlet throughout his 73-minute outing. A really impressive shift from the Longsight lad.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/manchester-united-man-of-the-match-v-real-madrid-away.aspx

David De Gea just edges Danny Welbeck for me:).

Legend killer

13-02-2013, 11:37 PM

Fergie was bang on with tactics tonight especially second half

Credit where credit is due

Legend killer

14-02-2013, 12:30 AM

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 12:49 AM

Ronaldo: It was emotional

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't celebrate after scoring for Real Madrid against United because of the emotion of playing against his former team.

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The Portuguese, who spent six years at Old Trafford before his world record transfer to Spain, equalised Danny Welbeck's opener with a thumping header in the Champions League draw between the two sides.

"To play against Manchester was hard, especially for me, but I just tried to be professional and tried to do my best," Ronaldo told MUTV.

"I didn't celebrate because I played in Manchester for six years and it was very emotional for me. I just tried to do my best, to play for Madrid, to score goals, but I didn't commemorate because I think it's not fair, not respect if I commemorate."

An absorbing first leg tie ended all-square in Madrid, with the joy of Welbeck's goal offset by the frustration of further missed openings and Real's constant menace in attack.

With another enthralling 90 minutes of the tie still to come, Ronaldo feels his side are still firmly in with a chance of reaching the quarter-finals - though he is already anticipating another emotional outing on his former stomping ground. "It will be amazing to play there after four years and it will be another emotional game."

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 12:50 AM

Robin: Draw a decent result

Robin van Persie viewed United's 1-1 draw with Real Madrid as a positive result, but lamented his own missed chances in a thrilling encounter in Spain.

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The Dutchman had three second-half opportunities, seeing two efforts well repelled by Real stopper Diego Lopez, but it was a scuffed effort which Xabi Alonso cleared off the line which most haunted van Persie.

"We had a couple of good chances and I think if you'd said we would play out a 1-1 before the game, most of us would take it," the 29-year-old told Sky Sports.

"Away from home it's a good result. For the people who watched that game, they've seen chances on both sides and I think it was a great game to watch.

"I had three [chances] in the second half, especially the one just after I hit the bar. That was a big chance. I should have put that one in. I just slightly mis-kicked it, didn't hit it properly.

"With a bit of luck it could have gone in but they didn't and in the dying seconds the keeper made a really good save - I was counting on that one to go in."

Danny Welbeck's first-half header ensured the Reds have an away goal in the bank ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford, but van Persie warned against placing too much stock in its importance.

"At this level I don't really think that these kind of teams really care if they play home or away," he said. "We don't really care and they don't really care; it's just half-time now and we'll be ready for the second half."

the truth

14-02-2013, 03:24 AM

I hate to say a bad word about RVP because he has been AMAZING for us but damm he misses a lot of sitter's which is amazing considering some of the amazing goals he does score. Main reason why Ruud will always be my fav Dutch striker at United

I wouldnt sweat on that too much, hes so brilliant he actually creates half these chances for himself anyway, most great strikers miss a few

wellbeck did well tonight , de geas saves were awesome
incidentally ryan giggs played his 998th first class game tonight, 2 more for immortality

Ryan57

14-02-2013, 11:02 AM

I hate to say a bad word about RVP because he has been AMAZING for us but damm he misses a lot of sitter's which is amazing considering some of the amazing goals he does score. Main reason why Ruud will always be my fav Dutch striker at United

All strikers miss sitters to be fair. I think Alonso put him off tonight, as did RVP probably thinking he was offside.

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 01:44 PM

Jones: We could have won it

Phil Jones says the players were slightly disappointed to come away from the Bernabeu with a draw after a display of determination and grit against Real Madrid.

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Jones was one of the Reds' star performers in the 1-1 Champions League last 16 first leg draw, which produced football of the highest order.

Danny Welbeck's opener on 20 minutes came against the run of play and gave the visitors a crucial away goal, before Cristiano Ronaldo levelled 10 minutes later.

And while David De Gea had to be at his very best to keep Madrid's goal count down to just one, United created enough chances to have come away with the win.

"The lads were disappointed in the changing room after the game because we all felt that we could have scored more than the one goal. We had the chances and with a bit more luck some of them might have gone in," Jones told PA Sport.

"Going in front first gave us great belief. It gave us a spur. But they hit back with a great header from Ronaldo. Once they scored it was a bit of a backs-to-the-wall job, but we dug in deep and it was important to get to half-time without conceding again.

"At the break we said we just had to show some more belief. We know we can play some good stuff and we did that in the second half. If Robin’s effort had gone in over the keeper and also past him at the end it could have been 3-1.

"All over the pitch we were superb defensively," Jones added. "You always have to be on your guard against them. We now have to repeat the same performance at Old Trafford and go out and beat them."

Jones revealed he had known for a few days that he would be involved from the start in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 clash and was given specific instructions to monitor the movements of Ronaldo.

"The gaffer told me I had to be wary of him and if he made runs inside then I had to follow him," explained the England international. "Once or twice he escaped and it was a wake-up call because he is so sharp, but overall I thought we dealt with him well.

"Obviously Cristiano is the main threat for Madrid but there are other players who can cause you a hell of a lot of problems. It was about being solid and getting that foundation and base at the back. We did that terrifically well.

"Madrid are a great team and they played some really good stuff, but I thought we limited them to a few chances. You have to ride your luck at times, but on another day we could have scored a few more. Overall, I think a draw was a fair result."

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 01:46 PM

Madrid trip 'just another game'

Danny Welbeck revealed the secret behind United's professional display against Real Madrid in the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu: treating it like any other game.

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The 22-year-old striker opened the scoring for the Reds in Spain and, although Cristiano Ronaldo quickly levelled matters, United gave as good as they got in securing a 1-1 Champions League draw.

"You come to the Bernabeu and it's a magnificent stadium," Welbeck told Sky Sports. "With all the names they've got we just knew we had to set out as if it was going to be another game.

"We came here to play the game, not the occasion, and no matter who we're playing against we're going to set out like Manchester United do and try to win the game."

Welbeck admitted his well-taken header from a Wayne Rooney corner was the result of well-rehearsed set-piece routines, saying: "Once Wazza took the corner, I knew exactly where he was going to put it. We've got different routines, and thankfully it came to me and I stuck it in the back of the net."

Shortly before half-time, he came agonisingly close to doubling his haul, only for Real shot-stopper Diego Lopez to turn away his prodded effort from a Robin van Persie cross.

"It was very close," he added. "It was a great ball by Robin, it was just inches away. Just a step forward and maybe I could have stuck it in the back of the net, but it was just a bit too far."

I am pleased for Welbz last night:), he was class. What a night it must have been for him being Manchester born and bred, a Manchester United fan and scoring at the Santiago Burnabeu, he has United running through his veins and has so much potential at United and with England too!

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 01:49 PM

Manchester United profits rise

Manchester United has reported a 74% rise in profits for the second half of 2012, on the back of rising revenues.

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The Premier League club said pre-tax profits for the last six months of the year were £22.3m.

Total revenues were up, with income from sponsors particularly strong, though broadcast revenues were down.

The club, owned by the Glazer family, listed on the New York Stock Exchange last year. It still has debts of £366.6m.

Manchester United has had a successful campaign on the pitch so far this season. They currently sit top of the Premier League and are in the last 16 of the Champions League.

On Wednesday evening they drew 1-1 in the first leg of their Champions League match with Real Madrid.

Staff costs rose by more than 10%. The club said it spent a total of £84.5m, mainly on signing new players, player wage increases and on increasing its commercial staff numbers.

Ed Woodward, Manchester United's executive vice chairman, said the club's commercial operation "continues to experience extremely strong growth particularly in sponsorship".

WOW:). Great news!

bbfan1991

14-02-2013, 04:51 PM

'The party is not over': David De Gea warns Man United are not through yet

"We are talking about Real Madrid, one of the world's best. They still have to come to us," the keeper says:

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David De Gea is not getting carried away despite his starring role in Manchester United's draw at Real Madrid.

The 22-year-old has been under pressure this season after some uncertain displays between the sticks this season, but he was in fine form on Wednesday night in the Champions League match in the Bernabeu, helping the Red Devils come away with a 1-1 draw.

But De Gea is still wary of the Spanish champions ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford in three weeks.

"The party is not over," he said.

"We are talking about Real Madrid, one of the world's best. They still have to come to us.

"It was a good result for us though, one we deserved."

The Spaniard started the game well, tipping a Fabio Coentrao shot on to the post in the opening minutes, before keeping out another effort from the Portuguese with his legs in the second half.

"It all happened so fast," he said. "I got across and was lucky enough to save it with my feet.

"Overall, I am very happy with my performance. I am improving every at Old Trafford and I am very happy."

Ex-United keeper Mark Bosnich says De Gea needs to be given time to establish himself.

"He has been criticised time again in United's goal," said Bosnich.

"It has been very harsh and has come from people who don't really know.

"When you're in goal at the Bernabeu you can feel Madrid's momentum. The roar becomes deafening.

"I speak from experience. I was fortunate enough to stand in those very shoes when United played against Real Madrid in 2000 quarter-final. It's some experience.

"So well done to David De Gea.

"He has been linked with a move back to Madrid - possibly as Iker Casillas' replacement at Real - but I hope he stays in the Premier League and continues to prove his value."

Well said DDG:). There is still one more leg to play yet, but what a performance from him and the British press are finally giving him some credit for once!

I am glad that he is happy at United too:D.

Brother Leon

14-02-2013, 05:07 PM

They will be back to hating him the second we are playing in the prem again. CL is different as he's representing England for Man United in a way so they will him to do well.

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:39 PM

David de Gea looking the part in Manchester United's glove department

It was in an airless room, in the bowels of the Bernabéu, that we learned a little more about the young guy with the sloping shoulders and Tintin haircut who had picked his moment well to turn down the volume on his critics.

"In Spanish we call it cresta cabeza," Eric Steele, the goalkeeping coach who has taken almost paternal care of David de Gea at Manchester United, explained. It means, literally, quiff-head. "Any criticism goes off that quiff. That is the great thing about him. He's able to say: 'Right, fine.' He might have dark moments but he keeps them away from the training ground. If he is ever hurt, he doesn't show it."

Steele can pass off a little Spanish because he has been learning the language to help the lines of communication. De Gea's English is evidently improving, too, on the back of his twice-weekly lessons. On Tuesday, sitting beside Sir Alex Ferguson in a news conference in Madrid, he had wanted to show it off. "He was disappointed he got only two questions," Steele disclosed. "He was ready to answer some in English."

It is a brave man who is willing to try a new language in front of the world's media but, if there is one thing we are coming to learn about De Gea, it is that the 22-year-old is not short of courage.

There have been lapses, as might be expected of a goalkeeper his age, and it is a brutally two-faced media when the people stampeding to bury him a few weeks ago are now trampling each other out of the way to lavish him with praise.

Steele has said himself that De Gea was "slightly disappointed" with his first season in Manchester but perhaps now it is clearer why Ferguson, a manager who has described a goalkeeper's best attributes as maturity and experience, was prepared to replace Edwin van der Sar with someone half the Dutchman's age.

It was, Steele admitted, a calculated gamble. Van der Sar was 34 when he made his United debut and nearly 40 when he left. Peter Schmeichel was 27 when he signed. Fabien Barthez was 29 and Tim Howard 24. De Gea was 20 when he arrived in Manchester from Atlético Madrid for a fee of £18.9m. "The manager missed out on Petr Cech when he was younger and he didn't want to do that again. Joe Hart was the other one. The manager just said if this guy is as good as we think and we have scouted him strongly, then we don't want to miss out on him like we did with Petr Cech."

It has been a difficult journey at times. "You bring a boy into the Premier League at 20," Steele said. "It's not easy. He's learning in the toughest environment in the world. But the one thing he has is fantastic inner strength. We teach him that the calmest man on the field has to be the goalkeeper. And one of his great strengths is his calmness.

"There have been dark moments but he has his family close to him. He doesn't read the press. All the other mediums are there, which he knows about. But everything that has been going on around him for the last four or five months … trust me, he's very mature for his age. He's had to be because you're not just replacing a goalkeeper in Edwin, you're replacing a legend.

"It's not just about the shot-stopping. There's more to it. Put it this way, if you think about what David has been through, he has to have inner strength. He has dealt with it. And he's such a likable lad. He hasn't come in swearing and squeaking. He's just got on with his job."

What a job he did, too, against José Mourinho's team. As Steele put it: "He was born in Madrid, played for the enemy. There were all these different pressures on him – but you wouldn't have known."

De Gea had left the Bernabéu saying merely that he was "very happy" with his performance. Ferguson had described him as "superb", making "three or four top saves" and sparing United a potential ordeal with that slight yet decisive touch, at full-length, to turn Fábio Coentrão's shot against a post early on.

Steele blew out his cheeks in admiration. "That was the one. If we go one-nil down to Real Madrid after five minutes at the Bernabéu, that makes things a lot harder. He saw it late – one of their boys might have been offside in front of him – but he got a finger to it. Some [goalkeepers] may have had the anticipation. David also had the speed of the first-step movement and that great long reach to get enough on it. That's the fine line for a goalkeeper. That's why a goalkeeper can be a hero one moment and zero the next."

The key, of course, is consistency. De Gea will almost certainly slip back again at some point and the scrutiny will not let up, as it never does at a club of United's size.

"It's the variation of the Premier League," Steele continued. "We knew he had to go to places like Stoke, Birmingham, Wolves. That's what he's having to learn: each week is a different challenge. He's still growing physically. He's working hard on that. He'll get stronger physically and that will help."

It helps, too, that De Gea is in a working environment where they shelter their players. Ferguson and his staff have retained their trust in the Spaniard, accepting there will be mistakes, just as there were when Schmeichel, the greatest of them all, first arrived in England.

"We have a staff that closes ranks, stays together," Steele said. "We know what we have. We bring in a lot of young players here. The manager has always done that and, if you're bringing in young players, you have to have confidence in them and let them build and thrive. We just put the shield up. You're there to be shot at but that's fine, you deal with it. And David will be fine. He has always been a goalkeeper. He believes he was born to be a goalkeeper."

Great article on DDG, he has so much potential:). In David We Trust!

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:40 PM

They will be back to hating him the second we are playing in the prem again. CL is different as he's representing England for Man United in a way so they will him to do well.

So true LOL. The press are annoying and predictable, at least DDG does not read what they say and his English is apparently improving.

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:44 PM

De Gea deserves plaudits

Michael Carrick says David De Gea deserves all the plaudits he has received since his Man of the Match display against Real Madrid which has helped give United a slight edge in the Champions League last 16 tie.

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The Spaniard produced a host of top quality saves at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night which, Carrick believes, helped keep the Reds in the game. And following Danny Welbeck’s crucial away goal, Sir Alex’s men now hold a minor advantage ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford on 5 March.

“David’s performance just showed what he is all about,” Carrick told PA Sport. “There is no bigger pressure cooker really than this stage of the Champions League and coming to a place like this. Coming back home [to Spain] as well, there was an extra spotlight on him. Some of his saves kept us in the game at times.

“It is never nice when people question you but that is natural at a club like this. You are always getting questioned and criticised,” added Carrick, when asked about the flak De Gea has received this season, mainly within the media. “That is just how it is. You have to deal with it.

“He is a top keeper and he is only going to get better. To play at this club at such a young age and have so much on your shoulders and to then produce a performance like that [against Madrid] just showed what he is all about.”

Carrick was also full of praise for the Reds’ goalscorer on the night Danny Welbeck, whose all-round display was saluted by Sir Alex after the game.

“I thought Danny was magnificent,” declared Carrick. “It just showed what he is capable of. He has all the attributes to be a top player. I was delighted for him. He worked so hard. He probably doesn't get the credit he deserves really, but on Wednesday night he was terrific and getting his goal will be a massive boost.”

Welbeck’s 20th-minute header was only his second United goal of the season, but Carrick insists the striker is about much more than just goals.

“He is a genuinely nice lad who gives everything he has got. He is a Manchester lad and just loves the club. We all appreciate what Danny gives to the team, even if he is not scoring,” continued the midfielder.

“The team is winning so it is not such an issue who is scoring. It was nice to see him get one in Madrid and even if he is playing and doing well but someone else is scoring I am sure Danny will take that.”

Nice praise for both lads from Michael Carrick:).

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:45 PM

De Gea storms fan poll

David De Gea's performance against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night has earned the young goalkeeper ManUtd.com's Man of the Match award.

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The Spaniard returned to the city of his birth and the stadium of his boyhood team's rivals to turn in a display of great maturity and shot-stopping prowess. While at times slightly unorthodox in his methods, De Gea frustrated Real Madrid on a number of occasions to ensure the Reds left Spain with a vital away draw.

His performance won him plenty of headlines in Thursday morning's papers, as well as an overwhelming 86 per cent of the fans' vote in our post-match poll.

United goalscorer Danny Welbeck came a distant second with 9 per cent, with Phil Jones and Robin van Persie rounding out the vote. De Gea admitted afterwards he was "very happy" with his performance, but warned "the party is not over".

"We are talking about Real Madrid, one of the world's best sides," he told reporters at the Bernabeu. "We have to play them at Old Trafford yet."

Congratulations DDG, well deserved:).

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:48 PM

Boss: Patience pays off

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of the value of being patient with young players after the likes of Danny Welbeck, Phil Jones and David De Gea shone in Madrid in midweek.

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Welbeck, who has been with the club since the age of nine, scored the Reds' vital away goal against Real and displayed tremendous confidence while De Gea made his critics eat their words with a fabulous performance.

Jones was handed an important role in midfield, but the manager also had a word for Tom Cleverley, who ended up being an unused subsitute at the Bernabeu. Certainly those who have come through the ranks at Carrington are providing great examples as role models for those currently in the youth team squad.

"We're always patient with young players," stated Sir Alex during Friday's press conference. "We're patient with Tom Cleverley. We sent him out on loan on four different occasions and he's matured. Now he’s an important member of the squad. You have to show patience. If you think they have the ability then you have to be prepared to wait for that.

"Maturity helps [goalkeepers too]. There are very few goalkeepers who are the finished article at 20 years of age. There are some examples, like Gianluigi Buffon and Petr Cech. That's not always the case.

"Peter Schmeichel didn't join us until he was 27 and then gave us eight great years. Normally for goalkeepers it's the mid-20s until you get the finished article.

"A good performance helps everyone. It gives them confidence, there’s no doubt about that. It won’t change him. He [De Gea] is a down-to-earth boy.

"As for Danny, his goal won't do him any harm. He's not a boy who lacks confidence. He wasn't fazed by the occasion. It's a great boost for the younger players coming up behind him, those in the Academy like Danny was. He's been with us since the age of nine.

"It's great testament to the development work we do with young players. We had young Nick Powell and Adnan Januzaj in the Reserves on Monday and you say to yourself: 'These are definite Manchester United first-team players.'

"We can see that. They have outstanding qualities. They can see that in trusting us to map out their careers and help them and develop them then they can get to Danny’s level."

Powell impressed in a central attacking role, where he was often employed in his Crewe Alexandra days, against the Gunners' Under-21s while Belgian teenager Januzaj has started to shine at that level after being promoted from the Academy side.

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:50 PM

Reds to rotate against Royals

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that he will rotate his squad for United’s FA Cup fifth round meeting with Reading at Old Trafford on Monday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/38B86E947CA142E1A5382EA60385F022.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,110,600,333

Speaking at his weekly press conference, the Reds boss revealed that everybody who featured against Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday has returned to M16 in rude health and is in contention to start against the Royals.

However, with important fixtures in Europe and the Barclays Premier League coming up, Sir Alex will utilise the strength-in-depth at his disposal - though he is not taking Brian McDermott's men lightly.

“We've come through Wednesday's game without any injuries,” the boss told reporters. “That's the best thing, apart from the result of course. I'll make some changes for Monday night, even though it’s an incentive to get to the quarter-final. I don’t think that’s lost on any of the players.

"There's a good spirit in place and they're all contributing. Whatever side I pick we’re expected to qualify. That's what happens at United. Whatever team you play you’re always expected to win. I went to see Reading last week and they’re a team who are showing plenty of fighting qualities at the moment, as you’d expect given they’re down the bottom of the league.

"We'll take nothing for granted. In the FA Cup you always expect the unexpected. It happens so many times. You just hope you're not a casualty or a shock. We've had a few over the years. But I can't be more pleased than I am at the moment with the form and spirit in the place. It’s good."

Sir Alex also revealed that Paul Scholes is struggling with a knee injury and could be out for a couple of weeks.

Good news about the rotation, shame about Paul Scholes' injury though. I wish him a speedy recovery.

bbfan1991

15-02-2013, 03:51 PM

Preview: United v Reading

Date, time and coverage: Monday 18 February, 20:00 GMT kick-off. The match will be shown on ESPN.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/Preview-of-Manchester-United-v-Reading.aspx

Ryan57

15-02-2013, 05:07 PM

Sorry if already posted.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/how-real-madrid-helped-to-rebuild-manchester-united-after-munich-air-disaster-8492422.html

Very very good read. Now my favourite sports article ever. Have gone and bought the book also after hearing the author on the radio earlier today.

Legend killer

15-02-2013, 05:23 PM

This OTT media bumming of David is is nearly as cringe as the hate he got. He just did what he has been doing all season for us and that's keeping us in matches he had no right to keep us in

Legend killer

15-02-2013, 05:25 PM

Also would not be surprised at all if this whole Scholes is injured stuff is just a cover tbh. I personally think he has realised he cant offer us anything against THE BIG BOYS any more and has asked Fergie to slowly filter him out

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:36 PM

Boss: Rafael showed his class

Sir Alex says Rafael da Silva’s performance at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night proved just how far the Brazilian has progressed in recent times.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/54DC0E953BF341E39DDEB4B2D466FDAC.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=243,0,608,547

Real Madrid targeted United’s right-hand side in the first 45 minutes and, by the United manager’s own admission, the young defender struggled to cope with the Spanish side’s attacks.

What’s more, Rafael was left treading a disciplinary tightrope when he was booked on 40 minutes for hauling down Mesut Ozil on the by-line.

The Daily Telegraph talked of Rafael being "tormented by a succession of white-shirted matadors", claiming the 22-year-old "must have felt as though he had strayed into the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, Madrid’s most historic bullring, rather than the Bernabeu".

Sir Alex, speaking to MUTV, insists he never considered taking Rafael off at half-time and, sure enough, after the interval it was a different story.

Cristiano Ronaldo, so impressive in the first half, failed to reach those same heights as Rafael proved why Sir Alex believes he can be the Reds’ right-back for the next 10 years.

"Obviously Rafa had a trying first half but he coped well in the second half. He calmed down.

"He's a very impetuous boy. He's enthusiastic and wants to win every ball and, of course, he committed himself far too early on a lot of occasions.

"In the second half, he was back to the form he has shown all season and he did really well. For a young boy to recover like that says a lot for him so that was pleasing to get that second-half performance out of him."

Spot on SAF:).

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:38 PM

Reds may change for Real return

Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed sympathy for those in his squad who didn’t play in last Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid but insists they may get their chance for the return leg at Old Trafford.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/0A7B637E267241F6BC8281B2A076A793.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,47,849,362

The manager has always admitted that leaving players out of his team is one of the hardest parts of his job and never more so than for glamour games such as United’s match at the Bernabeu.

“I know a lot of players were disappointed at not playing on Wednesday,” Sir Alex told media at his Friday morning press conference at Carrington. “That is to be expected. I would be disappointed if they weren't disappointed.

“But the players who weren't playing were all behind the ones who were. That is good. There’s a good spirit here. That is obvious.”

Madrid travel to Manchester for the second leg on Tuesday 5 March and the United boss says he's certain to field a different side to the one that drew 1-1 in the Bernabeu.

"When you are successful you have to look at the overall squad. It will be a different team who play against Real Madrid when they come here.

"One or two or three who weren't playing on Wednesday could be playing in the next game.

"I have all these international players. Why can't I trust them? I could have played a completely different team on Wednesday and I think we would probably have got the same result."

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:40 PM

Boss shuns De Gea press

Sir Alex Ferguson insists he will not be paying attention to the press after the reaction to David De Gea's outstanding performance against Real Madrid.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/F5DBFBAB67B24FB4B6EEFF026A434951.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,871,3456,2149

The Spaniard has often been criticised in the media this term – unfairly, perhaps – but has been lauded in all quarters since helping restrict Real to a single Cristiano Ronaldo goal on Wednesday night.

Given the boss never had any doubts about the youngster's quality and potential, recent tabloid speculation about a summer exit would appear to be wide of the mark, as more improvement is expected of the 22-year-old next season.

"That's the journalism," Sir Alex told MUTV. "It's fickle.

"I wouldn't worry about that [any over-the-top praise]. It didn't worry us before so why should we worry after it?

"The boy has shown that he has got terrific ability. He's got to adapt to the English game and we know there will still be some occasions where he is going to find it difficult in terms of the physical part of it. But he's getting stronger and, next year, he'll be better.

"He had a fantastic night as he made three exceptional saves. Their keeper, Diego Lopez, made two, too, so it was a night when both goalkeepers excelled on the big occasion."

Once again spot on Sir Alex Ferguson- David De Gea is improving and is getting more used to the style of play in England and apparently his English is improving. He has the talent to be the United GK for many, many years to come:).

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:43 PM

Sir Alex: Squad stronger than '99

Squad rotation will come into full effect over the next month, as Manchester United continue to challenge for trophies on three fronts.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/E6C3CF9F354A435EA3C9E7B3F6155E8E.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,29,1024,410

Twelve points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League, in a position of advantage at the halfway point of an absorbing Champions League tie with Real Madrid and still in the FA Cup, the Reds’ season is progressing exactly how manager Sir Alex Ferguson would have liked.

But with United about to embark on a run of five fixtures in 20 days, beginning with Reading’s visit to Old Trafford in the FA Cup fifth round on Monday night, Sir Alex knows he’ll need to call on all his first-team players to ensure the squad remains fit and fresh.

“I’ll make some changes on Monday,” he said. “It will be a different team. And it will be a different team again against QPR, a different team at Norwich, a different team against Madrid.”

Sir Alex has, of course, won all three major trophies once before, in 1999. And although the manager insists he’s not thinking about a potential repeat of the Treble – “at this moment in time I am just looking at winning our next match,” he insisted on Friday – he admits the Reds are better equipped to win multiple trophies now than in 1999.

“The squad I had then is not nearly as strong as the squad I have got today. But the reality is that we should not get carried away," he said.

“When we went to the Champions League final in 1999, Roy Keane and Paul Scholes were suspended, but Henning Berg was the only injury.

“I had to pull in a player, Jonathan Greening, who had only played once or twice in the first team. He got a medal for being on the bench. That gives you an idea of the strength of the squad.

“Now I could change a whole team. We have a whole group of internationals who weren't involved on Wednesday.”

Although Sir Alex will make a number of changes for the Reading tie, he insists United won’t take anything for granted against a Royals side that has lost just once in the last seven games.

He added: “In the FA Cup, anything can happen. You don't want to be a shock. Monday, in many people's eyes would be, 'Yes, it's Reading, we have just beaten Madrid... Monday will take care of itself'.

“Monday can't take care of itself. We have to take care of that. We must get a performance off the players that respects our opponents and also the fact the FA Cup can produce shocks. We have had them ourselves. We don't want one on Monday night.”

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:44 PM

Manchester United footballer Nani crash: Police driver suspended

A Manchester United footballer's vehicle has been involved in a collision with a police car.

Greater Manchester Police said a police driver had been suspended after a car crash involving the winger Nani.

Police said an unmarked police car responding to an emergency call was travelling along Gatley Road in Gatley, Stockport at about 18:40 GMT on Friday.

It collided with the 26-year-old player's Bentley Continental as the police car entered Kingsway junction.

Officers said a passenger in the police car received minor injuries and minor damage was caused to both vehicles.

A police spokesman said: "The police driver has been suspended from driving duties in line with normal procedure."

Portuguese footballer Luis Carlos Almeida da Cunha is commonly known as Nani.

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:48 PM

Man Utd boss Ferguson admits Chicharito upset not seeing Real Madrid action

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits Javier Hernandez was disappointed not to see action against Real Madrid.

Chicharito is expected to start on Monday against FA Cup opponents Reading.

"I explained to Javier that Robin van Persie is our main striker and that we want someone to join in from a deeper position," said Ferguson.

"But whenever Javier plays, he delivers. He has 14 goals already, will get ample opportunity and will score more than 20.

"There were a lot of disappointed players.

"Nani and Ashley Young are two international footballers. I find it hard to explain that I have left them out."

Brother Leon

16-02-2013, 02:51 PM

Dumb ****ing fed.

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:52 PM

David De Gea will be No.1 goalkeeper in the world in two years – Chicharito

Javier Hernandez has claimed David de Gea will be the best keeper in the world within the next two years.

De Gea has come in for huge amounts of criticism at times following his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2011, most of it centred around the difficulties he has had dealing with crosses and the physicality of the Premier League.

There was still some evidence of that weakness on Wednesday night, when De Gea produced what is widely acknowledged to be his best appearance for United, making a string of fine saves in the Champions League draw with Real Madrid.

As a Spanish speaker, Hernandez has developed a close relationship with De Gea during their time at Old Trafford.

And as someone who was forced to bulk up in order to deal with the buffeting he gets in England, the Mexico forward is well-placed to assess De Gea's ability to meet the unique requirements of life in his new home.

It leaves Hernandez is no doubt De Gea has the capacity to become the very best, very quickly.

"A lot of people who know about football know that David is a top-class goalkeeper," Hernandez told MUTV.

"That is why Manchester United bought him.

"They saw how good he can be. If he wasn't at the right level to play at this club he wouldn't be here and they are trying to look after him.

"To me, he is a complete goalkeeper. You see the great saves he made on Wednesday. He can also play with his feet, which is very useful to see in a goalkeeper.

"Other people are speaking about when he has to go out and clear the corners and free-kicks. They say that is the weak part of his game.

"But I think he is doing brilliant and in a couple of years he will be the number one in the world."

Although De Gea can apparently understand more English than he tends to admit outside the confines of United, he has not allowed the criticism to affect him.

"David is very focussed and doesn't care about what people say about him," said Hernandez.

"He has a lot of confidence. He doesn't need to listen to what people say about him.

"He should just play and enjoys it because he knows he can be number one in the world."

Sir Alex Ferguson has noted similar traits.

And the United boss has dropped the clearest hint yet De Gea will remain at Old Trafford next season despite claims he will move back to Spain next summer, with Stoke's Asmir Begovic joining the Red Devils.

"What people say didn't worry us before, so why should we worry afterwards," said Ferguson.

"There will still be occasions when he finds it difficult in terms of the physical part.

"But he is getting stronger and next year he will be better."

De Gea's place is at risk from Anders Lindegaard for Monday's FA Cup fifth round tie with Reading given Ferguson has pledged to make changes.

The Dane has only made one appearance since a dismal performance the last time the two sides met at the Madejski Stadium in December when he was condemned for his contribution to goals conceded in a 4-3 win.

Victory would keep United on track to emulate their 1999 Treble-winning campaign.

So, whilst it would be easy to let minds wander towards that return leg with Real on March 5, Hernandez is keen to focus on the present.

"Wednesday was a very good result for us but now we need to think about the FA Cup," he said.

"If we want to win the three competitions, you have to think game by game and try to get the points in the league and get further in the cup."

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 02:59 PM

I hope Nani stays with us in the Summer tbh, his future is still uncertain tbh and if he does leave then we would need a replacement.

Anderson was apparently quoted in the Brazilian press saying that he has tried to leave United before and was unsuccessful, he has denied this on his Instagram- Andowlove.

If the Anderson story is true, well my opinion is that it's not now because he normally looks happy for someone who wants to leave that we would definitely need to strengthen on the CM if he did want to leave.

He has always had issues with fitness/consistency, but has shown glimpses of potential and has actually played well this season when given the chance.

Ryan57

16-02-2013, 08:07 PM

Legend killer

16-02-2013, 11:09 PM

The squad may be better then 99 but that 99 team WOULD ABUSE this team. What Prime Keane And Scholes would do to our current midfield is not even nice to think about

As for Chico I feel so sorry for him man. Don't blame Fergie for not starting him but Chico would pretty much start at any other team in the league with ease and he is a top lad

Brother Leon

16-02-2013, 11:11 PM

I love Chicho man. He won't be more than an impact player from the bench for us and although he may deserve more elsewhere, it's still a very important role at a huge club.

Legend killer

16-02-2013, 11:16 PM

What makes it worse IMO is Chico has genuinely worked on his game (you reading Wayne) his link up play is on a different planet to what it was when he joined and he is easily our most clinical finisher.

If we could just blend him and Danny together we would have a WPOTY candidate on our hands

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 11:25 PM

I love Chicho man. He won't be more than an impact player from the bench for us and although he may deserve more elsewhere, it's still a very important role at a huge club.

I agree. Chicharito is always happy and you can tell he loves playing at United, he is biding his time for future development because SAF does have plans for him and I think he will start on Monday.

The press have linked Chicha with a move away, but I don't think that he will leave or the club have any plans to sell. He has praised the signing of RVP before and knows there will always be competition.

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 11:30 PM

Adrenaline junkie: The buzz of playing for Manchester United has Robin van Persie hooked

"Every game is a big game - I want to play against Reading. I want to keep going, *playing all of the games" beams Old Trafford's £24million striker

Robin van Persie is addicted to the thrill of playing for Manchester United.

http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1708794.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Real%20Madrid%20v%20Manchester%20United%20-%20UEFA%20Champions%20League%20Round%20of%2016-1708794.jpg

The Dutchman has revealed he is completely hooked by the *excitement of leading United’s challenge for the Treble.

And it doesn’t matter whether it’s Real Madrid or Reading, he wants Sir Alex Ferguson to just keep letting him play.

United face the Royals in the fifth round of the FA Cup *on Monday night, still on a high following a draw in the Bernabeu that has given them a great chance of progressing into the last eight of the Champions League.

Van Persie said: “I have found out that when you play for *Manchester United, every game is a big game.

“There are some extra-special matches – like when you play City or Liverpool in the Premier League and Real Madrid in the *Champions League - but the so-called smaller games are important also because *winning those games makes you champions.

“Personally, I love to play all of the games.

"You get into a rhythm. I get used to having a game every three days and when you don’t play for a week, it can take maybe 10 or 15 minutes to get your rhythm back.

“I want to play against Reading. I want to keep going, *playing all of the games.

“I love the intensity of playing for United. It is great to be involved in huge games when you don’t know what is going to happen.

“You get more out of it when there is a thin line between *winning and losing.

“I love the buzz, the drama, the excitement. I live for that. I can’t imagine the day when I have to stop playing. I know I will miss the buzz so much.”

Van Persie has justified Fergie’s decision to pay Arsenal *£24million for a 29-year-old with an* incredible burst of goals.

He has already hit the target 23 times for United. But he is haunted by the goal that got away in the final minutes of Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw with Real.

Van Persie said: “That second chance I had, just after I hit the bar, that should have gone in. I mis-hit the ball. I wanted to hit it hard, but I just couldn’t produce the power.

“We won’t sit back against *Madrid in the second leg – that isn’t in United’s DNA.

“Teams like Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona – great teams – don’t bother whether they are at home or away.

“Hopefully we can go further in the Champions League and test ourselves against some more top teams in Europe.

“But first we must focus on *getting beyond Madrid. The *manager says that is an acid test for us and he is right.”

He added: “The way this season is going, it feels like it could be very, very special.

“I am playing in games that are the greatest you can play in.

“The manager said: ‘Don’t play the occasion, play the game’. I think we did that.”

RVP loving the United way:worship:.

Brother Leon

16-02-2013, 11:35 PM

bbfan1991

16-02-2013, 11:41 PM

He's always been a student of the game and he's loving playing for a team with such glorious history and integrity. Probably the main reason he told City to do one. I remember when the Sir Alex statue was unveiled and they showed the reaction of the players and the fact that stuck out was his. It was one of absolute awe and amazement. Top guy.

He is such a professional and took the decision for the sake of his career to leave Arsenal to try and win some silverware as he reaches the period of his career where he is getting older etc.

City actually offered more money than United, but he was seduced by United overall as a club and had the initiative to know he would play more games at United and you can tell that Rooney enjoys playing with him and not having all the pressure of being the main man put just on him LOL.

Ryan57

17-02-2013, 03:12 PM

Yeah, it's a shame about Hernandez. He's been so good this season, yet there isn't that much space for him in the starting line up.

Perhaps if the diamond gets used again...

Rooney behind

Chicha RVP

http://www.naughtybits.us/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/southpark-cum.jpg

bbfan1991

17-02-2013, 03:54 PM

Reds, Royals await Cup draw

Manchester United and Reading don't meet in the FA Cup fifth round until Monday night, but both sides will kick off knowing the identity of possible sixth-round opponents following Sunday's draw at Wembley Stadium.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D64F4B679BEF4FF5A6BEE4BCFFAD132D.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=358,1,712,532

Former England manager Graham Taylor and ex-Barnsley boss Simon Davey will conduct the draw at 17:55 GMT. By that time, six of the eight fifth-round ties will be complete, leaving only the Reds and the Royals to battle it out at Old Trafford and Middlesbrough to host either Chelsea or Brentford (who play their fourth round replay on Sunday).

United will be represented in the draw by ball no.7, with the sixth-round fixtures scheduled to be played on the weekend of 9 and 10 March.

bbfan1991

17-02-2013, 03:57 PM

Le Fondre admired

Sir Alex Ferguson admits United will have to keep an eye on Reading danger-man Adam Le Fondre in Monday night's FA Cup fifth-round tie at Old Trafford.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/16CB06D45ABC49FFA4272C7DE5020CEF.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,41,551,245

The Royals striker has scored seven times since the turn of the year and is earning a reputation as something of a super sub.

A boyhood United fan, the 26-year-old actually had a trial for the club at the age of seven before working his way up the footballing ladder from nearby Stockport County.

"I watched Le Fondre when he was at Stockport," revealed Sir Alex. "It's a big jump to come from Stockport to the Premier League. You've got to give the boy credit.

"He came on at Stoke last weekend for the last 10 minutes and almost got a penalty kick and had a shot blocked.

"A lot of teams have got players who tend to be a good substitute like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was, for instance, and Chicharito is another one.

"I think Le Fondre has done most of his scoring in the home games and he's scored late goals for them. It's been a turnaround for Brian McDermott since Christmas. It looked as if they were destined to go down but now they're rescuing games in the last few minutes.

"They beat Sunderland and West Brom at home and snatched a point against Chelsea after being 2-0 down with a few minutes left. So there's a bit of fight in them, you know."

Le Fondre, who scored in his side's 4-3 defeat at the Madejski Stadium earlier this term, will be keen for a start as McDermott may shuffle his pack on Monday.

"They have got an important game on Saturday at home to Wigan," stated the boss. "I'm just wondering what kind of team they will play against us. I'm not sure if it will be their strongest team but you never know.

"We'll know the FA Cup quarter-final draw on Sunday afternoon and I don't think there will be any problem with motivation for us. We certainly shouldn't have any problems with it."

bbfan1991

17-02-2013, 04:00 PM

Boss backs Shinji to shine

Shinji Kagawa will shine for Manchester United once he properly adapts to life in the Barclays Premier League, predicts Sir Alex Ferguson.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/CCBD03E1B5214DFB858F9922C8252A78.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,67,533,264

The Japan international is still bedding in after arriving from Borussia Dortmund last summer and, although a knee injury stunted his early promise, it was telling the manager entrusted him with a key role during Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Real Madrid.

Many see Kagawa as an important figure in European competition for the Reds and the boss acknowledges he provided a threat early on at the Bernabeu.

"In the first half an hour [in midweek] he was terrific as he kept making these great runs through them, which we thought was going to be one of our biggest assets in the game," Sir Alex explained.

"He was just unlucky that he had a couple of heavy touches on the ball when he made runs past Robin van Persie. He kept opening them up but people don't see that, which is a wee bit unfair, as he did really well for us in the first half."

Sir Alex is convinced the 23-year-old will only begin to show his true colours after having a full season to settle at Old Trafford.

"He's come from an environment that is completely different," he stated. "I think the difference between German football and English football has been shown. In Germany you can't foul. It's foul after foul.

"The Premier League is completely different as there's physical contact in our game and it's different to Germany but, next year, he'll be better."

SAF is so right. Shinji Kagawa does need more time to settle in and improve, some people are being impatient right now. He has lots of potential and I am sure he will prove himself:).

bbfan1991

17-02-2013, 04:02 PM

Reds' progress pleases Smalling

Chris Smalling believes "it's all coming together" as Manchester United continue the charge towards three major trophies.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/0999E00D995C4953A11F7D60D40A5CFA.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,78,727,619

The Reds are undefeated in 15 games in all competitions, 12 points clear in the Barclays Premier League, in a commanding position in the two-legged Champions League tie against Real Madrid and preparing to host Reading at home in the FA Cup fifth round.

"We are peaking at the right time," the defender said. "At the start of the season we had a number of players who were struggling. Now we have a nice, full squad and a lot of people to call upon.

"It all seems to be coming together. There's a lot of confidence and the results are showing. We are going for three competitions. That makes it good for the whole squad to play games and to be happy. When things are going well on the pitch we're happy as well.

"The manager has stressed that he expects to go to the end in all three competitions. We're confident we can fight on three fronts."

Realistically, the FA Cup is surely third on United's list of trophy priorities, and yet Smalling insists there's a real desire within the squad to lift the trophy at Wembley this season.

The 23-year-old describes the competition as "massive" and says Sir Alex stressed the importance of a good run this season before United's first fixture, away at West Ham.

"There are quite a lot of lads who haven't won it, despite being here for a while. It's a competition I've watched since I was growing up and I look forward to it."

United haven't won the competition since 2004, a nine-year drought Smalling is keen to end.

"I was quite shocked at how long it has been since United won the FA Cup. This club has always been successful. Luckily we have another good draw, at home to Reading, and we need to make it count.

"I don't think any game is a foregone conclusion. You have seen in the league a lot of teams down at the bottom have beaten a lot of teams at the top. It will be a difficult one but we are confident because we are playing at home.

"But this competition is difficult to win. It's about what happens on the day. Luton have reached the fifth round. Anything can happen. Form goes out of the window. It's all about what happens in those 90 minutes.

"I've seen quite a lot of Reading's games. They play good football and recently have picked up a few points. It is not going to be an easy game. We have not had too many of them at Old Trafford. We have to try and make sure we break them down."

bbfan1991

17-02-2013, 06:04 PM

United or Reading vs Middlesborough or Chelsea.

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 03:35 PM

Boro or Chelsea await

The winner of Manchester United and Reading's FA Cup fifth round tie on Monday night will host Middlesbrough or Chelsea at the quarter-final stage of the competition.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D64F4B679BEF4FF5A6BEE4BCFFAD132D.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=358,1,712,532

The sixth-round draw took place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 17 February and paired the winner of Monday's match with either the Teesiders or the Blues, who will play their fifth round tie on Wednesday 27 February.

The quarter-final tie is then scheduled to be played on the weekend of 9 and 10 March.

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 03:40 PM

Loans: Zaha shines in win

Wilfried Zaha produced a stunning display for Crystal Palace in the Eagles' 4-1home win over Middlesbrough at the weekend.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/9DB73305A379477CAEEF975ED6313EB6.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,1,837,312

The winger, who signed for United in January but will remain with the Championship side until the summer, turned in a Man of the Match performance and earned widespread praise for an outing that included two assists.

He didn't get on the scoresheet himself, but caught the eye with a dazzling display of trickery and direct running. Palace boss Ian Holloway said afterwards: "He is good as any chef I've seen, he can roast people. He's roasted both their full-backs... they'll be delighted to go home, to be honest."

Elsewhere, John Cofie was the only other United loanee to feature at the weekend, with the young striker playing 78 minutes of Notts County's 1-1 draw away at Walsall.

Cofie toiled with little reward in the League One fixture that one media outlet described as "a horrible game, played on a horrible pitch".

Elsewhere, Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute in Wigan's 4-1 FA Cup win at Huddersfield, while Federico Macheda also failed to make it off the bench as Stuttgart beat Hoffenheim 1-0 in the Bundesliga.

Bebe will be hoping for a spot in Rio Ave's starting XI on Monday night, as the Portuguese Superliga side host SC Braga. The forward scored the winner in his last outing and also played a key role in Rio Ave's recent win over Sporting Lisbon.

Scott Wootton, on loan at Peterborough, is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained earlier this month, but fellow Red Davide Petrucci will be keen to play his part in Posh's match at Millwall on Tuesday evening. The Italian netted his first senior goal - a scorching half-volley - in Peterborough's last fixture.

Michael Keane has caught the eye in recent weeks at Leicester City and is likely to start tomorrow night, as the Foxes host Charlton Athletic at Filbert Street.

Meanwhile, Fabio enjoyed a free weekend as Queens Park Rangers were without a fixture.

:)

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 03:43 PM

Ando ready to take his chance

Anderson says Manchester United won’t take the challenge of facing Reading in the FA Cup lightly and he is ready to give his all if selected to play tonight, although he admits competition for places is fierce for every game.

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United are chasing trophies on three fronts as the season reaches a critical stage, which Anderson says has created a healthy rivalry for game-time among the Reds’ first-team squad. He expects a tough test as Sir Alex’s men seek to secure a sixth-round tie against either Chelsea or Middlesbrough.

“People say ‘Oh, United have an easy game,’ but there are no easy matches. Everyone has to do their job and play well if we are to get through,” he tells tonight's edition of United Review.

“Every team that comes to Old Trafford plays like it’s their last game – that’s how important a match at Old Trafford against United is to other teams. That makes it hard for us, but we know we have the quality to beat any team.”

Brian McDermott’s Reading side showed impressive persistence when United visited the Madejski Stadium earlier this season as the two teams shared seven goals in 26 minutes of a frantic first half, a game in which Anderson scored.

“It was a crazy match!” he recalls. “I remember it was 4-3 by half-time! It was a hard game – it always is when you play away from home. But tonight we’re at home and we have to be confident at Old Trafford.”

Anderson believes the steady flow of matches is far from a hindrance to United’s three-pronged trophy assault, saying: “I think it’s really important to have two or three big games a week because it allows the boss to give every player a chance.

"It can be hard for a player if you don’t play for, say, two weeks because when you do get your chance you have to be ready to put in your best performance. If you haven’t played it can be difficult to do that.

“It’s good for all the players to be involved in big games and tonight’s match is another important one. We know we have a good opportunity to win the Cup this season and we will all do our best to try and do that.”

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 03:45 PM

Cleverley's delight for Danny

Tom Cleverley says he was delighted his good friend Danny Welbeck netted Manchester United's crucial away goal against Real Madrid last week, even if he wasn't on the pitch himself to join in the celebrations.

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Cleverley was an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu, so watched from the bench as Welbeck peeled away from his marker, Sergio Ramos, to head the Reds in front after just 20 minutes.

It was only the striker's second goal of the season, but Cleverley insists Danny's team-mates judge him on more than just his goal return.

"He’ll be happy with that goal and it’s a very important one for us," Tom told MUTV.

"He’s not scored as many as he did last year but we know he does other things for the team that are just as important. I don’t think anybody’s really worried about that [his lack of goals]."

Despite not making it onto the pitch in Spain, Cleverley says he enjoyed the Real Madrid experience and knows his time will come as United now enter a busy period, playing five games in 20 days.

"It’s the first time I’ve been to the Bernabeu and it’s always good to experience these historical grounds," he said.

"It was a good experience for me even though I didn’t play, which I’d have liked to. But you can’t beat going to these places with two massive clubs in the world clashing with each other.

"As a footballer, you want to play every game. If you can’t play, you want to be ready to come on off the bench.

"I think that’s the good thing about this squad – no-one is an individual. We’re all in it together and fully understand that.

"We’ll take every game as it comes. We’re in three tournaments and doing well in them all. I think we need a good squad.

"I don’t think the same 11 players can fight on all fronts. We’ve got a brilliant squad, great team spirit and I’m sure it’s what we need to be successful."

Nice words by Tom Cleverley for Danny Welbeck:). I think Tom will be playing tonight vs Reading!

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 03:47 PM

Live: United v Reading

United take on Reading in the FA Cup fifth round on Monday 18 February (kick-off 20:00 GMT) and you can follow it live on ManUtd.com.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/live-Manchester-United-text-and-radio-match-commentary.aspx

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 03:49 PM

Team I want tonight

Lindy
Raf Smalling Vidic Buttner
Nani Clev Ando Giggs
Rooney Chico

Save Evans and Rio for the weekend
Rest Carrick will need it for Real game
Don't trust Tony and Ashley to do anything positive
Rooney needs game time his form is pretty slack TBH

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 07:27 PM

Man Utd team vs Reading: De Gea; Jones, Vidic, Smalling, Buttner, Young, Cleverley, Anderson, Valencia, Hernandez, Welbeck.

Man Utd Subs: Lindegaard, Ferdinand, Giggs, Carrick, Nani, Kagawa, RVP.

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 09:33 PM

I'm sorry but if we get rid of a WORLD CLASS player like Nani and keep two average joe's and Young and Tony I will be fuken pissed

Nani has proved tonight why he should be automatic first team for us

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 10:37 PM

Well done United:). We were the better team overall and created better chances and had good possession, but were frustrated in trying to make the breakthrough in the first half and then when Nani was brought on because of Phil Jones' injury that changed the match.

I hope Phil Jones is OK and that his injury is not that bad.

Nani was the MOTM for me when he come on, he was confident on the ball, tried to cross, linked up with players and had chances before he got the first goal and assisted Chicharito for United's second. Nemanja Vidic was awesome at the back too.

RVP's control was cool too when he came on as a subsitute.

Reading are notorious for scoring late and got a goal, which set up a tense finish but United hold their nerve to hold on.

Bring on Middlesborough or Chelsea in the next round at Old Trafford!

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 10:38 PM

Report: United 2 Reading 1

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Feb/manchester-united-v-reading-fa-cup-report.aspx

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 10:40 PM

Nani and Chicharito Post-Match interview: http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/nani-and-chicharito-post-match-interview/#.USKtbYps6g8.twitter …

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 10:52 PM

http://i.minus.com/ipZjW25EXiYA.gif

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 10:54 PM

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hails the 2-1 FA Cup win over Reading

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was a happy man after the 2-1 FA Cup win over Reading at Old Trafford.

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The visiting Royals battled to half time without conceding but could do nothing to prevent man-of-the-match Nani opening the scoring with a crisp drive in the 69th minute.

Hard-working striker Javier Hernandez doubled the lead three minutes later and although poor defending allowed Jobi McAnuff to cut the deficit in the final moments, the Red Devils ultimately set up a home quarter-final against either Chelsea or Middlesbrough.

There was less positive news in the form of an injury to utility man Phil Jones, who appeared to damage ankle ligaments early in the game and later left the ground on crutches and in a protective boot.

Ferguson was keen to focus on the positives and said afterwards: "It was a good Cup tie. It ended up a really good Cup tie when they got the goal and had a really good go at it.

"When they got the goal, they then got the ball in the box. We withstood that and I think when you analyse it, we played some great football and should have scored a lot of goals tonight.

"We missed some chances but there were shots saved and I'm really satisfied with the quality of the game.

"A goal can change things and when we got it, we had to defend well. We really should have punished them better, though. At 2-0 you're never comfortable."

On the bustling performance of Hernandez, the Scot added: "15 goals he's got us this season. The great thing about Chicharito is his energy and enthusiasm is fantastic. I thought Nani's contribution was terrific too. I had a feeling he would win the match for us.

"When you look at these draws, you just hope for a home quarter final. You can't ask for any more than that."

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 11:04 PM

Nani deserved to be man of the match, his contribution was terrific. I had a feeling he would win the match for us

Safe to say we won't see Nani for another 3-4 weeks

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:09 PM

He could have earned himself a start vs QPR after that performance to boost his confidence:). I hope so!

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 11:14 PM

Even if he starts he will be shoved out on to the left to accommodate Tony SMH. Nani showed tonight more attacking prowess then I have seen from Tony and Ashley combined this year he has earned his pick to play on the right this weekend. If not I am sorry questions need to be asked

Brother Leon

18-02-2013, 11:14 PM

It's official

Going to the QPR game. :)

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 11:19 PM

Enjoy the ground is a **** hole

Brother Leon

18-02-2013, 11:22 PM

I know it is. I've been before. But still, United Away fans>>

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:23 PM

Nani delighted to take opportunity against Reading

Manchester United winger Nani hopes to have proven his worth to Sir Alex Ferguson after scoring from the bench against Reading in the FA Cup.

http://u.goal.com/256500/256563hp2.jpg

The Portugal international came on as a substitute and proved to be a catalyst for the Red Devils, notching in the second half with a close range volley, before setting up Chicharito for their second of the match.

Nani has only managed 16 appearances for the Red Devils this season and was linked with a January move to Serie A side Roma after finding his first-team chances at Old Trafford limited.

"I think everyone is always ready to help the team. I always think like that. If I get my opportunity I just want to get on and try to help the team," he told ESPN.

"That's what happened, and I am very happy for this night.

"Yeah, I tried a lot [of attempts on goal]. Eventually I scored the first goal, that changed the game, and I'm so pleased to give one assist to Chicha [Chicharito] and help the team on this big win today."

The 26-year-old was involved in a car crash on Friday evening when a vehicle driven by a police officer hit his £180,000 Bentley while responding to an emergency call, however the attacker confirmed he was fine and was happy to be playing football.

"It was not a big crash, but yes I am happy to have nothing bad, but that's happened in life, the most important thing is today. I'm so happy for the beautiful day, and keep working hard," Nani explained.

Chicharito hailed Nani's performance at Old Trafford and was relieved to get past a stubborn Royals side.

"We know that it would be very difficult thankfully we scored twice, so we are very happy," he added.

"We were struggling in the last few minutes because Reading really went for it but we were able to hang on. We knew that the rival in front [of us] was a very difficult one, and thankfully we scored twice in the last minutes.

"We were struggling a little bit because they wanted to score the draw one [equaliser], but we're very happy because we get through.

"I think his [Nani] first touch he almost scored an unbelievable volley, so he was brilliant today. He scored, he made a few chances for us and the assist to me.

"I think we wanted to be respectful with them because they are a very good team throughout and they do the best to try to get the draw, to get the other match [replay] in their house, but like Nani said we're happy, we're really pleased with the result.

"Right now we need to start thinking about QPR because we want to keep that gap that we have in the league."

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:24 PM

It's official

Going to the QPR game. :)

Enjoy:). City vs Chelsea at the weekend too, so it could be interesting if we win and they drop points again.

Legend killer

18-02-2013, 11:25 PM

Very true our home fans are pretty pathetic TBH could not even be bothered to make any noise when Ando tried to pump them up

Enjoy and if Nani ain't starting on the right hurl some abuse at Fergie for me

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:29 PM

Nani eyes FA Cup glory

Nani says United are “focused” on winning the FA Cup after booking a place in the sixth round via a 2-1 win over Reading at Old Trafford on Monday night.

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The Portuguese was a standout performer against the Royals, replacing the injured Phil Jones to make an instant impact by striking the post with an audacious volley, then scoring a fine second half opener before setting up Javier Hernandez’s near-post header.

Afterwards, when quizzed by MUTV, Nani was keen to reiterate United’s desire to lift the famous trophy for the first time since 2004 and also expressed his satisfaction after producing a fine display following a spell on the sidelines.

“It is very important, the manager has told us that he wants to win the FA Cup and we are very focused on this competition,” the 26-year-old explained. “We prepared very hard for this game and we did well to win, which is the most important thing.

“I have been injured for a long time and it is always difficult when you come back, but I’ve worked very hard and part of what I did on the pitch was because I’ve worked very hard. I will continue to work hard to do my best.

“It was nice to help the team, it was a beautiful evening and I have to keep working hard to try and help the team every time I get on the pitch.”

Despite dominating for much of the match and later building a comfortable two-goal lead, the Reds were forced to endure a nervy finale as a result of Jobi McAnuff’s late strike at the Theatre of Dreams. Thankfully, Nani and his teammates were able to secure progress from a tricky tie.

“It is always difficult to play against this team because they have a very good motivation to play against us and they always play until the last minute. Of course, if they relax a bit then they can cause problems. They scored one goal and the last minutes were difficult for us.”

Ryan57

18-02-2013, 11:32 PM

Nani definitely deserves to start at the weekend. Him and Vidic were the best players on the pitch by some distance.
Nani totally changed the game.

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:51 PM

Manchester United's Phil Jones faces nervous wait on ankle injury

Manchester United's Phil Jones faces a nervous wait to determine the severity of an ankle injury suffered during Monday's 2-1 FA Cup win over Reading.

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/65948000/jpg/_65948967_philjonestwo.jpg

The England international, 20, left Old Trafford on crutches after a first-half tackle on Jobi McAnuff.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson suggested that Jones would miss Saturday's Premier League trip to Queens Park Rangers.

"We'll have to assess it in the morning," Ferguson said.

Jones did an impressive job against Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo when United secured a 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu in their Champions League last-16first-leg clash.

Ferguson is hoping that the versatile former Blackburn man, who was playing at right-back against Reading, will be fit for the second leg against Madrid at Old Trafford on 5 March.

"It's an ankle injury obviously so I'd imagine he'll not be ready for Saturday anyway," the United manager said.

"But we'll see what he's like after that."

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:53 PM

Vote for your star man

United booked a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals thanks to a 2-1 win over Reading on Monday night and we've selected four of the Reds' top performers for our Man of the Match poll.

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Portuguese winger Nani came off the bench to inspire the Reds to victory. After smashing the post with a brilliant volley just before half-time, he opened the scoring with a fine strike and made the second for Chicharito with an excellent cross.

Tom Cleverley was another attacker who caught the eye after showing good energy throughout. And he was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet in the first half when he saw a low drive well saved by Adam Federici.

At the other end, Nemanja Vidic was a rock at the heart of United's defence. The Serbian made some vital, and typically brave interceptions, during the 90 minutes and even spilled blood for the cause as he challenged for the ball with Noel Hunt in the opening period.

Another impressive performer at the back was Alexander Büttner who looked solid in defence and got forward well to support Ashley Young down the left. He also showed some good touches and looked calm in possession.

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fanzone/Competition-And-Polls/Poll.aspx

Nani for me:).

bbfan1991

18-02-2013, 11:55 PM

Boss heralds his super sub

Sir Alex Ferguson saluted the influence of Nani as the Portuguese scored and assisted in a slow-burning, but ultimately entertaining FA Cup fifth round victory over Reading.

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A tepid first period was enlivened by the winger's 42nd-minute introduction in place of the injured Phil Jones, and the entire tie ultimately hinged on the enforced substitution.

"His contribution was terrific," Sir Alex said. "Just after coming on he had two great strikes, one hit the post and the other one was saved. In the second half he got us the opening goal and I had the feeling he would win the match for us.

"I think he deserved it. He's a fantastic talent. You could see he was right on form when he came on. He's a good addition. If he keeps that form, it makes my job more difficult."

Nani's well-taken opener and sublime cross for Chicharito to put United two goals ahead seemingly ended Reading's resistance, only for Jobi McAnuff to ensure a nervy final few minutes with a poached finish.

"It ended up a really good tie. When they got their goal, they went for it," admitted Sir Alex. "They hurled the ball into the box, hoping to get that vital touch. But we withstood that. And I think when you analyse it, we played some great football.

"We could have scored a lot of goals tonight. We made some chances - we had shots blocked, the goalkeeper's made some saves, I'm really satisfied with the quality of the game. We really should have punished them better."

Legend killer

19-02-2013, 12:07 AM

Nani and Anderson were worth every penny we paid for them for there Penalties in Moscow alone

Brother Leon

19-02-2013, 12:15 AM

Nani and Anderson were worth every penny we paid for them for there Penalties in Moscow alone

Pretty much. The pressure they must of been on at that age and they both took it so calmly. Ahh what a night that was....

Legend killer

19-02-2013, 12:32 AM

Ando's was the most awesome PEN EVER. Watching his fat body take that MASSIVE run up and then smashed it down the middle had me in stiches

bbfan1991

19-02-2013, 12:55 AM

bbfan1991

19-02-2013, 12:56 AM

I went bonkers when Edwin Van Der Sar saved that last Chelsea penalty, memories:D.

Brother Leon

19-02-2013, 12:58 AM

Ando's was the most awesome PEN EVER. Watching his fat body take that MASSIVE run up and then smashed it down the middle had me in stiches

Nani's was epic too, because he HAD to score and he sidefooted it into top corner. Ultra cool

Brother Leon

19-02-2013, 12:59 AM

I went bonkers when Edwin Van Der Sar saved that last Chelsea penalty, memories:D.

Same. I remember I couldn't even look when Terry stepped up, then my lil bro groaned and I knew he missed :joker:. Both our emotions that day..oh my :joker:

Legend killer

19-02-2013, 03:11 PM

Hargreaves pen was by far the GREATEST pen I have ever seen

Sigh he was one hell of a player that year

Legend killer

19-02-2013, 03:11 PM

Hargreaves pen was by far the GREATEST pen I have ever seen

Sigh he was one hell of a player that year

Legend killer

20-02-2013, 11:01 PM

The stars have aligned guys the Treble is only a formality.

Scholes is Injured, Young is injured , Milan are going to take Barca out and Fergie has stopped playing Giggs in the middle this is not a coincidence it is fate

If Tony V is injured in the next few weeks you might aswell start your treble celebrations nice and early

Legend killer

20-02-2013, 11:01 PM

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:12 PM

Duo to be monitored

United will monitor the fitness and health of Phil Jones and Wayne Rooney over the coming few days after Jones hobbled out of the FA Cup win over Reading and Rooney missed the match altogether.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/097E28204E2D43F0933BC500B83CBC87.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=29,0,1001,726

Sir Alex confirmed to ESPN before the game that Rooney had been struggling with a sinus infection and was "still in his bed", while Jones injured an ankle in a heavy challenge during the first half of the clash with the Royals and was replaced by Nani just before the break.

"We will have to assess it in the morning," the manager told MUTV in reference to Jones' complaint.

"It's an ankle injury so I would imagine he would not be ready for Saturday [away to QPR]. We will see what he is like after that."

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:14 PM

De Gea to be world's best

Javier Hernandez is the latest Manchester United player to champion David De Gea, declaring the Spaniard will soon be the best goalkeeper in the world.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/666C53F8B5A44B5FABD7942B465DC23C.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,90,681,599

De Gea garnered plenty of praise after his heroics in the Bernabeu helped the Reds gain the upper hand in the Champions League last 16 tie against Real Madrid.

But the 22-year-old stopper has also been criticised in some sections of the media this season for a perceived susceptibility to crosses and lack of dominance in his area.

That’s an accusation that doesn’t sit well with Chicharito, who told MUTV: “He’s been brilliant. He’s a complete goalkeeper and you can see the great saves he’s made.

“A lot of people who really know about football say he is a top-class keeper. It’s why United bought him.

“People say clearing corners and free-kicks are a weak part of his game but he’s doing brilliantly. For me, in a couple of years or less, he will be the number one in the world.”

Hernandez believes De Gea will continue to flourish at Old Trafford because he doesn’t pay attention to his critics.

“That’s the way he is. He’s very focused and doesn’t listen to all that rubbish they speak about him.

“He has a lot of confidence from us and we tell him every day he’s a very good keeper. He plays and enjoys it. He knows he can be the best in the world and for this club.”

:)

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:15 PM

Ando: Nani won it for us

Anderson praised Nani's influence after the Portuguese winger came off the bench to help the Reds secure a 2-1 win over Reading in the FA Cup fifth round.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/E998A45696D54224BB586CFDC05EE4DC.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,205,1500,762

The Brazilian started as part of a rotated team after Sir Alex Ferguson made eight changes from the XI which drew with Real Madrid last Wednesday - with only David De Gea, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck retaining their places.

As a result, United naturally lacked continuity but managed to seal a narrow win thanks in part to the introduction of Nani, whose performance caught the eye after replacing the injured Phil Jones to score the opening goal before setting up Javier Hernandez in the second half.

When asked about the Portuguese winger's display, Anderson was keen to celebrate his team-mate's efforts and impact on proceedings.

“Everybody knows the quality of Nani,” Ando told MUTV. “I know he sometimes does not play but when he does he is important for the team. He won the game for us and he was very important.

“It was a hard match, the boss picked a different team and the players have to be ready for everything, but we did the job to win the game and that is what matters.

“Every game is hard because everyone wants to play against us and everyone wants to win against us, but we did our job very well and I’d like to congratulate everyone in the team.”

Victory over Brian McDermott’s men means United are still in the running to win the FA Cup, Barclays Premier League and UEFA Champions League this season – adding fuel to the fire that another treble could be on the cards.

Although there are plenty of games left to play and nobody is getting carried away, Anderson believes United have enough quality and strength to achieve the seemingly impossible.

“It could happen, it happened one time and it could happen again,” Ando explained. “We have a good team, we have a good squad and if everyone remains focused and concentrated then we can win everything.

“Every competition is very important. Everyone has to be on top form – but we have a good team, a good squad with lots of players. It would be fantastic for me to say to my family and my kids that I won the FA Cup with Manchester United.”

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:19 PM

Anderson happy at United

Anderson has insisted he is happy at United after stories in his homeland suggested he wanted to quit Old Trafford.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/AD9E505DBBD5454AABF4850079325A8B.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,664,495

The midfielder started the FA Cup fifth-round win against Reading and played his part in the 2-1 triumph as the Reds continue to chase silverware on three fronts. Although not a regular starter, the South American stresses he enjoys being part of such a powerful squad and denies that he seeks a move away from Manchester.

"It is not true," he says. "Everyone knows I am happy at the club. I have had a lot of injuries but I have never let the smile go from my face. I try to help the team all the time. This is me. When I want to leave, I will have to talk to the boss first. I don't have any issues.

"It is not easy to play for Manchester United. A lot of top players came here and couldn't do it - [Juan Sebastian] Veron - some big players. Kleberson came here and didn't play. I have stayed for six years.

"The only places you could go to from here are Real Madrid and Barcelona. You can't have another choice. The level at Manchester United is so big and so massive. You come here and you are definitely going to win titles. I have won the [Barclays] Premier League three times. I have won the Champions League once and lost two finals. I have always been there."

Anderson admits it has been difficult to properly establish himself following his move from Porto due to the injury problems that have dogged his career but feels ready to contribute fully to the remainder of the campaign.

"I have been good," he told PA Sport. "I have won the Champions League and I have won the Premier League. I play some games. I came to Manchester United as a Brazilian and I have been here six years. It is not easy to stay here. I love it here but it is hard.

"When I take two steps forward, I seem to take three back. It is sad but I have to do my job. I need to play games and not to have any injuries.

"I came here when I was very young. I came from Porto and there were people like Paul Scholes and other big players. It was hard but I did very well in my first year.

"In the second, I played some games and missed some, then I have had big injuries. But I have always been here when the boys have needed me."

Well done Ando for speaking out and rubbishing those rumours:). It is a shame he seems to be injury prone, when he has played this season though he has actually been good and been decent in our weak Midfield. He needs to keep fit and work on his consistency, but I have faith in him.

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:22 PM

Schmeichel: Reds buzzing

Ex-Reds goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel is impressed with the focus of Manchester United’s players this season and the general sense of positivity surrounding the club – key ingredients to success, according to the Dane.

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As United no.1, Schmeichel never let his back four lose concentration as he barked orders from the penalty box, so he is pleased to see United showing focus on the task at hand: setting about reclaiming the Barclays Premier League title.

“There’s a real focus about United this season,” the Dane told the Reds’ matchday programme United Review. “Last year we had an eight-point lead in the Premier League and lost it, and I don’t think I’ve seen us lose such a lead before, especially so close to the end of the season.

“The manager has given a clear message to the players that he won’t accept it happening again. I’d say that message has been heeded.”

There have been signs recently, particularly in the league, of getting the job done. Victories against Southampton, Fulham and Everton urged Sir Alex to describe his players against the latter of those opponents as having “their championship-winning heads on right from the off”.

“The win at Fulham two weeks ago was the kind of game we probably would have lost last season,” Schmeichel adds. “There’s a definite sense that lessons have been learned, and that’s key if we’re to pick up silverware this season.

“We’ve done really well in the Premier League and have built a very nice cushion, and if United do go on to win the title this season then it sends out a hell of a message. It shows that we can bounce back from the way last season ended – which was really tough to take – and we can do so with a mixture of young players we’ve brought through and big players that we’ve brought in.

“I saw an interview with Robin van Persie the other week and I found it fascinating. He was talking about how he is inspired by training at Carrington, that every time he looks around he sees top-level players and seasoned winners like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

“All the players are feeding off that and inspiring each other, and you can sense a buzz around the club. When you get that kind of feeling about the place, it can only breed confidence. [It’s] shaping up to be a memorable season.”

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:24 PM

Boss: We'll treat QPR like Real

Sir Alex Ferguson insists he will take the trip to QPR just as seriously as the Champions League ties with Real Madrid.

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The manager locks horns with old adversary Harry Redknapp again at Loftus Road with the West Londoners battling to avoid relegation.

United can stretch the lead at the Barclays Premier League to 15 points with Manchester City not in action until Sunday and the challenge is there for the Reds to maintain the title push and erase the memories of last season's final-day agony.

"With Harry's experience and his ability to judge players, he will have a better chance that most in that situation [battling to avoid relegation]," Sir Alex stated at his pre-match press conference. "We're going down there to win, though. That's what our job is. There is an absolutely brilliant spirit in the place at the moment and a good determination about us. We have to treat these games as we would Real Madrid or anyone else. It has to be won. We want to win.

"We have a problem picking teams at the moment but that's where we want to be. QPR are fighting for survival and we know it is going to be a hard game. That is what we need anyway. We need to keep the awareness on making sure we do our job right."

Sir Alex remains convinced that points will inevitably be dropped during the run-in and is refusing to get carried away with the gap at the top.

Although the situation looks healthy for the Reds, there are plenty of tough tests ahead and QPR have already proved their steel by taking points off City, Tottenham and Chelsea since Redknapp's arrival.

"My experience of being in this situation is that teams drop points," he explained. "That's a fact. It's unavoidable. It's a tough league. At the moment we have good momentum. The only thing we can do is try to win our next match and see where it takes us.

"The fact is, City will drop points too. That's where we are, coming into the run-in. We expect to drop a few points but so will they. To be honest, it's always a hard run-in in the Premier League. With the right attitude and the right players, we have a chance."

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:26 PM

Parker's pitch concerns

Former QPR and United defender Paul Parker believes the compact nature of the Loftus Road pitch will make life difficult for the Barclays Premier League leaders on Saturday.

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Sir Alex's side are looking to extend the lead at the summit to 15 points ahead of Manchester City's encounter with Chelsea on Sunday but will be fully aware of the defensive organisation of Harry Redknapp's Rangers. The Hoops have kept clean sheets against Chelsea, Tottenham and City and are unbeaten in their last four home matches.

Parker, who moved north from the capital in 1991, believes things may be awkward for United's wide players – the likes of Nani, Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young – if they are selected in the starting line-up.

"It’s very tough at QPR as it’s a small ground and it helps them," the 48-year-old told ManUtd.com. "I tell you why they keep so many clean sheets there: it’s because if a team’s great strength is out wide then it kills them.

"It’s why wingers have always struggled at QPR. The only player with any width who did well in my time there was Andy Sinton but that’s because he had other things about him rather than staying on the touchline. It’s a very narrow pitch. It’s as simple as that and it’s very easy to defend there."

Although the West Londoners are currently bottom of the table, Parker is in little doubt that a team battling to fend off relegation will ensure an uncomfortable afternoon for United.

"QPR need a goalscorer as they haven’t got anyone to score goals," he opined. "Even Loic Remy has not scored goals regularly in France of late.

"My heart hopes QPR stay up. They managed to beat Chelsea and will think they can get something on Saturday as United have had a few scares.

"Fulham could have taken something from the game at Craven Cottage recently. It could be tight."

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:28 PM

Sir Alex gives Jones update

Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled Phil Jones out of Saturday’s clash with QPR but claims the Manchester United defender has “an outside chance” of facing Real Madrid next month.

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The England international limped out of Monday’s 2-1 win over Reading with an ankle injury, prompting fears that he might not be able to face the Spanish champions after performing so admirably at the Bernabeu during last week's UEFA Champions League second round tie.

Speaking during his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss was cautiously optimistic about Jones – who celebrates his 21st birthday today – but also declared the rest of his squad fit to face Harry Redknapp’s men at Loftus Road in the Barclays Premier League.

“Phil Jones is the one we are really concerned about in terms of the Real Madrid game,” Sir Alex told reporters. “We're working hard on it and I'd say he has an outside chance – no more than that. He won't be fit for the weekend.

"He tackled awkwardly. He tackled with the outside of his foot. He has dangled his foot in there so that is why he has ended up with the injury he has got. But he has the courage and willingness to tackle. Bryan Robson was exactly the same. Bryan couldn't see danger and neither can Phil. That is a lot to do with the courage they have. You are not going to take that out of them. I wouldn't even attempt that.

"He did an incredible job against Real Madrid. The great thing Phil has got is that he doesn't care who he is playing against. There is no fear about playing against anyone. We will have to wait and see. The Madrid game is two weeks away. A lot can happen in that time.

"When you look at Phil's tackle, it is the tackle of a young man. He was going in too brave. He was unbalanced and ended up with a sore one. He's an outside chance for Madrid, that's all. Other than that, everybody's fit for QPR.

“We have a problem picking teams at the moment but that's where we want to be. QPR are fighting for survival and we know it is going to be a hard game. That is what we need anyway. We need to keep the awareness on making sure we do our job right."

I hope he has a speedy recovery:).

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:34 PM

David Gill to step down as CEO

Reds' CEO will step down in June after 10 years in charge but remain on club board
- Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward to assume responsibilities, with Richard Arnold being promoted to Group Managing Director

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(NYSE:MANU) David Gill is to step down from his position as chief executive of Manchester United plc, with effect from 30 June 2013.

David, 55, joined the board in February 1997 as finance director and has been its chief executive since September 2003. He is to remain a director of Manchester United Football Club.

Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward will assume his responsibilities.

David was appointed the vice chairman of the English Football Association in October 2012 and has been nominated as its candidate in the upcoming UEFA Executive Committee elections in May 2013.

Announcing his departure, David Gill said:

“It has been the greatest privilege to serve Manchester United for 16 wonderful years – the last 10 of which as its chief executive. I have worked alongside the finest manager in the history of the game and been part of what I consider to be the best club in the best sport in the world.

“It has been a very hard decision because I love this club and, as the fans’ banner says, it is, ‘more than a religion’. I’ve experienced some incredible highs, such as the Treble in 1999 and the League and Champions League double in 2008, and lows, like losing the title with the last kick of the season last year. But that is what makes this club and this sport so compelling.

“However, I have always been conscious of the fact that, as a member of staff, I was always just a temporary custodian of this marvellous institution. I am also of the view that all businesses need to refresh themselves with new management and ideas and after 10 years in charge I believe it is appropriate for someone new to pick up the baton.

"I’m delighted Ed has accepted the role. I have worked with him for more than seven years and in that time he has built up knowledge of football matters, which will hold him in good stead for the future.

“I am looking forward to continuing my involvement on the club board. And I hope to be able to make a contribution to the game on a wider national and European level.

“I’d like to thank the Glazer family and my fellow directors for all their support over the years. But in particular, I would like to thank all of the club’s fantastic staff for their hard work, dedication and enthusiasm right across the organisation. In my 35 years in business, I have never met a more loyal, diligent and professional staff as that at United. Without doubt, we would not have achieved what we have done in the last two decades without their unstinting commitment and talent. I extend to them all my very best wishes for the future.

“There is nowhere like Manchester United in world sport and if I have played a small part in maintaining and enhancing that reputation, then it has been an honour.”

Sir Alex Ferguson said:

“I have been at United for over 26 years and for 23 of those years my boss has been one of only two men: Martin Edwards, who brought me to the club, and David Gill. I have enjoyed working with both.

“David has been a magnificent chief executive. Of course, we have had a million arguments, but I have always enjoyed them because I know that David has two great qualities: he is straight and he always puts Manchester United first. No disagreement is ever personal with him. He always wants the best for United, whether it's the players, the training ground or the staff.

“Him stepping down is a big loss to me but the fact that he is staying on the board encourages me that the reason for his departure is heartfelt, that he believes it is time for the club to move on. If I could have found a way of persuading him to stay I would love to have done that. But he has made his decision and I respect him for it.

“He has been, and will continue to be, a fantastic success for Manchester United. He has all the qualities of successful people engrained in him: energy, honesty, integrity, personality and decision-making ability. I wish him well in whatever new challenges he will tackle in the future.”

United co-chairman Joel Glazer said:

“David has played a significant role in the success of Manchester United in his 10 years as chief executive and he can take great satisfaction in all that has been achieved on his watch, both on and off the field.

“He has been a tireless advocate for Manchester United and its role in the game and was the driving force behind the establishment of the Manchester United Foundation, which uses the power of the club’s name to bring change and improvement into the lives of those in disadvantaged communities around Manchester and far beyond.

“He is someone that has a reputation for decency and integrity and a man that has engendered the loyalty and total commitment of staff. He has been an invaluable confidant and adviser in the last eight years. I am very pleased he has agreed to remain on the board, so that his experience and counsel are not lost to us.

“I hope that the decision he has made will be to the benefit of the game in Europe as a whole, as he seeks election to UEFA’s Executive Committee.”

Gutted that David Gill is leaving:(, at least he will still be on the United board and I wish him well with the projects he will be doing with The FA and UEFA.

DG had his critics, but for me he always had the best interests of the club at heart and I loved how Sir Alex Ferguson left out Peter Kenyon when talking about his bosses, revenge:D.

Edward Woodward is David Gill's replacement then, so I wish him well with this great responsibility:).

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:38 PM

Ed Woodward assumes responsibilities at MU

– Executive vice chairman takes on duties vacated by David Gill

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– Richard Arnold appointed group managing director, consolidating business operations under him

– Michael Bolingbroke, chief operating officer, to be appointed to the main board and to take on further responsibilities including chairman of the MU Foundation

(NYSE:MANU) Ed Woodward, Manchester United’s executive vice chairman, is to assume the responsibilities that David Gill will relinquish on 30 June. From 1 July, Ed will have overall responsibility for the club, including, in conjunction with Sir Alex Ferguson, facilitating transfer activity.

In a revised management structure from 1 July, Ed has appointed Richard Arnold, the current commercial director, as its new group managing director, overseeing all commercial and operational aspects of the club.

Michael Bolingbroke, chief operating officer, will report into Richard and consolidate the club’s operations under him. His new position will see him take responsibility for the club’s local, national and global CSR (corporate social responsibility) projects.

Ed joined the club in 2005. He initially focused on developing the overall growth strategy of the club and in 2007 he assumed direct responsibility for the commercial and media operations. Hiring Richard, together they developed and implemented a new commercial strategy, including the execution of an innovative sponsorship approach.

Ed is a director of Manchester United Football Club, Manchester United plc, Manchester United Merchandising Ltd and MUTV. He also sits on the Marketing Committee of the European Club Association. His job title will remain executive vice chairman.

Richard joined United in 2007 and is currently responsible for the management and growth of the club’s sponsorship, retail, merchandising, apparel and product licensing, and its new media and mobile business. He was nominated for SportBusiness International's Sports innovator of the year list in 2011. He is a director of Manchester United Football Club, Manchester United plc, Manchester United Merchandising Limited, MUTV and the MU Foundation.

Michael joined the club as its first ever chief operating officer in 2007 and is responsible for finance, ticketing, hospitality, matchday and non-matchday operations, club secretarial functions, property management and corporate services. He is a board member of Manchester United Football Club, MUTV and a trustee of the Club’s pension fund.

Joel Glazer said:

“I am delighted Ed has agreed to take on this new role at the club. He has devoted the last seven years of his professional life to Manchester United and truly understands the club’s culture and what makes this club so treasured."

Ed Woodward said:

“This appointment is a great honour. Manchester United is a glorious football club. We have wonderfully loyal fans, a deeply rich history and tradition but also aren’t afraid to lead and to innovate. When allied to the dedication and loyalty of our staff, the talent of our players and the incomparable skills of our manager, it has been a very successful combination, which we are all committed to maintain.

“I am particularly humbled to have the chance to work alongside the greatest manager in the history of the game. Alex's experience and track record are incomparable and I look forward to having the opportunity to support him in shaping his squad in the future and maintaining the club’s position at the pinnacle of the sport.

“I’d like to thank David for his help and guidance over recent years, which has helped to develop and hone my experience at the highest level of club football.

“I am delighted Richard has accepted the offer of becoming group managing director. His work as commercial director has redefined the way the industry looks at sponsorship and partner servicing and I know he will continue to bring the same enthusiasm and skills to his new role.

“Michael has done great work at the club in the last six years and has transformed the customer service ethos and operations at Old Trafford. In addition, he has been responsible for managing the work to upgrade our state-of-the-art training facilities at Carrington to an exceptionally high standard.

“Richard, Michael and I have worked closely together for more than five years now and I’m delighted this core group will continue to help shape the future of the club for years to come.”

Sir Alex Ferguson said:

“Ed is taking over from a chief executive who has helped to lay the foundations of the present Manchester United. I know David will welcome Ed’s appointment, as I do. He is a young man with the energy and drive to help keep United at the forefront of thforward to working with him and wish him all the best.”

Richard Arnold said:

“It is a great privilege to have been asked to serve as the group managing director of the world's greatest football club. Having worked as commercial director since 2007, I have seen the esteem in which it is held around the world and I am conscious that those who work here are the custodians of that reputation and have a responsibility to honour the past while preparing the club for the challenges of the future.

“The great strength of Manchester United is its ability to combine continuity with a relentless desire to change and improve. I look forward to playing my part in continuing that tradition and keeping this great institution in the hearts and minds of our fans all around the world and at the top of world football.”

Michael Bolingbroke said:

“I have worked closely with the Foundation since its early days and have been involved in some of its activities and programmes. It’s a great honour to have the opportunity to become its chairman and be able to help define its strategy and ensure that its ultimate goal – of using the power of Manchester United to help disadvantaged communities both here in Manchester and around the world – is achieved.

“I’ve worked with Ed and Richard on the senior management team for five years now and I’m looking forward to the new challenges.”

Brother Leon

21-02-2013, 01:47 PM

So we have a Glazer yes man as chief?

Hmm.

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:52 PM

So we have a Glazer yes man as chief?

Hmm.

Edward Woodward has been at the club since 2005. He has the same background as David Gill too in Chartered Accounting, so people should give him a chance when he takes over.

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ed-woodward-leaps-spotlight-manchester-1337210

Brother Leon

21-02-2013, 01:55 PM

Ahh right. Thought he was someone they bought in for some reason.

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 01:59 PM

Ahh right. Thought he was someone they bought in for some reason.

Of course he has to be a Glazers yes man, he can hardly slag his bosses off.

I am not a fan of the Glazers for various reasons, but at least they keep their nose out of footballing aspects and the commercial team have actually worked well with them with all of these various business deals, so credit to them for that and keeping a low profile unlike some owners of certain clubs;).

bbfan1991

21-02-2013, 03:51 PM

iuFuub6u4R8

Legend killer

21-02-2013, 04:00 PM

How ANYONE can bitch about the Glazers is beyond TBH. They have money WHENEVER Fergie wants it and they stay out of his business SMH. Our debt is going down year on year really don't see the problem

Ryan57

22-02-2013, 08:54 PM

How ANYONE can bitch about the Glazers is beyond TBH. They have money WHENEVER Fergie wants it and they stay out of his business SMH. Our debt is going down year on year really don't see the problem

Spot on LK. Totally agree. And when people moan about agent fee's and not paying stupid wages I like to point to Sh-itty in the summer. Struggling to get rid of Adebayor and co. due to those silly wages.

And the whole 'no money' thing is total garbage.

1. Can you really imagine Sir Alex Ferguson going into Malcolm Glazer's office and saying 'Can I have X amount of cash' and Malcolm saying, 'Sorry Fergie, no'. To which Fergie responds, 'Okay, thanks anyway'.

No, me neither.

2. Why would Ferguson stay, and tarnish his legacy, as he's unable to spend the amount he wants to keep United at the top?

£60 mil ish spent in the summer of 2011, and buying the league's top goalscorer the season before in the summer of 2012. AS WELL, as coughing up around £30 million for Lucas Moura in that same summer, before he went to PSG.

Anyone who says there's no cash to spend, like I see a lot do across the net, in my opinion, is totally wrong.

The debt thing is one of my dislikes towards the Glazers, but it's one of few (however that debt is reducing). Commercially, United are bigger than ever. Thank goodness Roman didn't take charge of United.

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:08 PM

Smalling savours chances

Chris Smalling is determined to play a key role in Manchester United's charge towards three trophies this season but knows his own performances will dictate the extent of his involvement.

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The young defender's season has been blighted by injury so far, yet he's still managed to make 18 appearances for the first-team.

"No matter whether you are young or old you want to play in as many games as you can," he said. "Luckily we are going well in all competitions. But when you get your chance, you need to take it. You don't give the manager an excuse to leave you out.

"It helps that we are in three competitions. It keeps everyone happy in that sense."

Squad rotation has long been part of life at Manchester United. And while Smalling admits he'd like to play every game, he's also aware of the system's benefits.

"You're at one of the biggest clubs in the world and the manager needs to do what he does. We are happy at the minute because everyone is getting games. Long may that continue.

"When you are injured you want to play. When you are fit you just want to play every week. But there is a large degree of patience required. You can't get too frustrated."

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:10 PM

Rooney: Consistency key

Wayne Rooney thinks United's consistency is the driving force behind the 12-point lead at the head of the Barclays Premier League.

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The striker missed the FA Cup tie with Reading due to a sinus problem but has been a key figure during the chase for glory on three fronts. In an exclusive Google+ DHL hang-out with Jonny Evans and Tom Cleverley, Rooney revealed the key to the side's splendid form.

"I think it's consistency," he replied when asked to explain why the Reds are riding so high at the summit. "We've been the most consistent team.

"Obviously, it's put us in a great position as, when other teams have dropped points, we've managed to keep winning or not lose too many games.

"I think the team spirit and desire to win all comes from the manager, who has been in place here for 26 years. So the players all know what we have to do and we all want to win.

"We all want to do it together, whether you're starting or a substitute or, sometimes, are not even on the bench. There is no bitterness between the players. We all want to work together and win together."

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:11 PM

McCullough extends deal

Luke McCullough has extended his loan stint with Cheltenham Town for another month.

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The 18-year-old defender made his senior debut during a 1-1 draw with Aldershot last weekend and is hoping for more opportunities to impress in League Two.

"It was good to make my debut and get that out the way," said the Northern Irishman. "I obviously want to spend more time on the pitch but I will respect the manager's choices and give it my all whenever given the chance.

"I did okay for my debut. There were one or two sloppy passes but, all in all, I think I did quite well.

"I have only been here for a very short time but have already learnt so much just by being here and I just want to keep learning whilst giving it my all when given the opportunities."

Warren Joyce commented to ManUtd.com on McCullough's current situation: "Luke’s made his debut for Cheltenham and they are near the top of the league.

"He’s got to fight to get into a team going for promotion and he gave a good account of himself when he came on at the weekend. It’s up to him but hopefully he’ll be involved this Saturday again."

Good luck to him with the loan spell:).

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:13 PM

Tunnicliffe's a Tyke

Ryan Tunnicliffe has sealed a 28-day emergency loan move to Championship side Barnsley.

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The tenacious midfielder spent some of last term with Peterborough and has joined a team battling it out with Posh and several other sides in the bid to avoid relegation to League One. He will wear the no.28 shirt.

David Flitcroft's Tykes have been in incredible form of late, winning eight of their last nine league and cup fixtures, and the 20-year-old is sure to provide more steel in the middle of the park.

Tunnicliffe has been a regular in the Under-21s for United, scoring once (against Sunderland), and is available for the weekend encounter at Bristol City and, intriguingly, the FA Cup quarter-final tie against Manchester City next month.

The former Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year made his first-team debut for United in the Capital One Cup tie against Newcastle and also came off the bench during the 5-4 defeat to Chelsea in the following round.

Good luck to Tunni on his loan spell:).

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:16 PM

Scholes sees specialist

Paul Scholes has been sent to a specialist to assess the knee injury that has kept him sidelined for the past five games.

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The veteran playmaker's last appearance came as a substitute in the 4-1 FA Cup win against Fulham last month but Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the 38-year-old will be back in a red shirt soon.

"Paul has had a little knee injury which we sent him to a specialist for," revealed the boss. "It is a little bit floating in the knee which he has had for many years.

"He will be back, though. It won't be too long. We are just managing it at the moment."

As for Wayne Rooney's fitness, Sir Alex admits that the England striker may not be ready for Saturday's Barclays Premier League encounter at QPR.

"I wouldn't think so," he conceded. "He came in for the first time yesterday [Wednesday].

"The medical people are dealing with him. He just had a bad sinus infection. He got it on Saturday morning and didn't turn in. He has been on medicine but came in yesterday. Hopefully he will start training on Thursday."

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:20 PM

Sir Alex wants Nani to sign

Sir Alex Ferguson has stated his desire to keep Nani at Manchester United and revealed talks are ongoing with the player’s agent.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/81E2F24B14214FC7AF294038EE5037C8.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,36,541,439

Portuguese international Nani, whose contract expires at the end of next season, has been the subject of intense media speculation in recent months with many publications claiming the winger has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford, linking him with moves to various clubs in Europe.

However, when speaking during his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss was quick to quash such rumours and claimed the 26-year-old is very much part of his plans for the future.

“We want to keep him, there's no doubt about that,” Sir Alex stated.

“He's capable of scoring incredible goals. His goal against Everton, when he dinked the keeper after playing a couple of one-twos, was incredible. And the goal against Tottenham the year before, where he dinked the goalkeeper after playing a one-two, was another one.

"The boy has an incredible talent for winning matches. He's one of the best match-winners in the game, and I include the whole of Europe in that.

“David Gill's been speaking to his agent for quite a few weeks. It's entirely up to the boy - he has a year and a half left. I think he wants guaranteed first-team football. He can guarantee himself that. Performances like the other night can guarantee that.

"We're trying our best to keep him because he's such a match-winner."

Nani has missed much of this season as a result of a hamstring injury and has only just returned to full fitness, most recently coming off the bench during Monday’s 2-1 win over Reading to score once and set up Javier Hernandez,
earning ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match award as a result.

Now in rude health, the Portuguese winger has added to Sir Alex's already pounding selection headache with crucial matches in the title race, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League approaching – but as the boss admits, it's a welcome problem at this stage of the season.

“Nani was out with an injury for six weeks or more," said Sir Alex. "We sent him back to Portugal for treatment and tried to get the injury to settle. He's never really had an injury.

“Now he's back fit, training well, he's a consideration. There's no doubt about that. It gives me a headache because Antonio Valencia has been a fantastic player for us and I know Nani likes playing on the right.

"We like to play Nani on the left sometimes. We also have Ashley Young who can play on the left and we have Ryan Giggs who can play there if we want him to play in a different way.

"Our options are fantastic. I think that puts us in a strong position."

Encouraging quotes from SAF about Nani's future:). I hope that we manage to convince him to sign a new contract and I hope SAF plays him more especially after that Reading performance because it was a confidence booster.

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:22 PM

Sir Alex's headache

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he’s finding it tough to pick his teams at the moment because every one of his players is desperate to be involved.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/54EFCF52CB6F4E878DF9B98148B37535.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=326,0,1098,577

The Reds boss has frequently stated he’ll make full use of his squad to ensure the best possible chance of success in the three competitions still up for grabs.

But that doesn’t mean players are happy to be left out each week – and that’s just the way Sir Alex wants it.

When asked by MUTV if he was finding it easy to rotate his squad, he replied: “No, it’s very difficult at the moment. I have a lot of disappointed players.

“Against Real Madrid they all wanted to play and that’s fantastic – it’s a measure of their faith and confidence in themselves.

“And I thought they acquitted themselves well against Reading. Their hunger and attitude to the game was great and we deserved to go through.

“At this club, and particularly in the situation we’re in at the moment, anything can happen in the run-in. Players can suddenly find themselves playing in a final or an important league game because that’s the squad I have.

“I think they sense this could be a big year for them.”

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:24 PM

Welbeck: Let's get it right at QPR

Danny Welbeck is focused on getting three points from the trip to QPR on Saturday as he hopes Manchester United's tactics will break down the stubborn Londoners.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/DAFD8EE9672142D4851C3F01FCBA3D6A.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=94,2,550,685

Although it is a case of top versus bottom in the Barclays Premier League, Sir Alex Ferguson's side need no reminders that Harry Redknapp's battlers have taken points off Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester City recently.

It promises to be an awkward afternoon for the in-form Reds in the capital but the aim remains to pile the pressure onto Manchester City ahead of their encounter with Chelsea on Sunday.

"It definitely won't be easy," Welbeck told ManUtd.com. "I think every game in the league now is going to be pretty tough. We’ve got to set out right and make sure we get the three points. That’s the main thing – to keep the pressure on City.

"QPR have done well recently. I think they’ve been setting up with two banks of four, making it difficult to break them down. They’re just getting behind the ball and obviously it’s been hard for teams to score goals against them. But hopefully we’ll have our tactics right on the day and will try to get some goals."

Although Fabio cannot play because of the terms of his loan, there could be a reunion with Old Trafford favourite Ji-sung Park.

"It will be good to see Ji again," admitted Welbeck. "We’ve seen him a couple of times as he came to a few of the London games and I’ve seen him at the team hotel once or twice. So it’s good that he’s not been a stranger to us. So, whenever I see him, it’s all good and the same with Fabio. He’s been back at Carrington a few times so it’s nice to see him too."

bbfan1991

22-02-2013, 11:25 PM

Preview: QPR v United

Date, time and coverage: Saturday 23 February, kick-off 15:00 GMT.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/Preview-of-QPR-v-Manchester-United.aspx

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 01:12 PM

Rafael enjoying best season

Rafael believes he is having his best campaign since joining Manchester United as he continues to impress at right-back.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/74399EC69C494B0CB1E7AAB6C921974C.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,193,580,407

The Brazilian was outstanding in the last Barclays Premier League outing against Everton, picking up the man of the match award, and could be a contender for the club's Player of the Year award.

"I think so," Rafael replied, when asked by MUTV if this is his finest season. "I have played many games very consistently so it is probably my best season here.

"Of course, I think there are some games where I feel I could have done more - I should have done this or should have done that better. I definitely still want to improve."

The South American sat out the FA Cup tie with Reading on Monday after his exertions in the Bernabeu against Real Madrid when he was stretched in the first half but performed admirably after the break.

"I am just rested sometimes," he explained. "We have to rest so I'm happy because we won to stay in the FA Cup.

"I always want to play. I think every player wants to play in every single game but, when you're not playing, you can learn from things. I was there watching and can learn a lot.

"I think because it was a big game [against Real], I expected a lot more of myself and I thought I had to win every ball. I think I came out for the first half thinking like that. I thought, 'I need to win this ball' and, if I did something wrong, then I really had to win the next ball.

"At half time, the boss came to speak to me and I realised: 'Come on, it's the same as it has been all season. I don't have to win every ball.' So I think I did better in the second half."

Rafael, who misses out on playing against his brother Fabio in Saturday's clash at QPR because the loanee is ineligible for the game, recently admitted that he has never been in direct opposition to his twin apart from in competitive training sessions.

"In training here, we battled a lot when we trained together but I’ve never played against him properly," he confessed.

Rafael has been amazing this season and is consistently improving. Credit to him:).

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 02:11 PM

United team to play vs QPR:

De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Giggs, Carrick, Young, Chicharito, RVP.

United Subs - Lindegaard, Evans, Valencia, Anderson, Rooney, Welbeck Cleverley.

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 02:19 PM

Saw Nani on team sheet was preparing to get the tissues then I saw Giggs in CM FACEPALM. Fergie being very clever here we all know he hates Nani so when we get dominated in the middle today and quite possibly drop points he will have reason to drop Nani AGAIN

On a more serious note I thought we had finally got past this ****e Giggs in CM cost us the game vs Norwich and Spurs this year and we don't have Wayne to cover any of his slack today

Apart from that MASSIVE mistake love the selection

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 02:22 PM

Clev and Ando must be scratching there heads and you can see why Pogba left

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 03:56 PM

http://www.abload.de/img/raf1rrfa.gif

What a goal by Rafael:worship:, he has been on top form today.

RVP walked off the pitch with a hip injury and was subsituted for Danny Welbeck, hopefully he is OK and it was a precaution.

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 04:02 PM

Raf showing ONCE AGAIN why he has been out best player this year

IN RAFA WE TRUST

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 04:24 PM

Get Giggs off the fuken pitch already his passing is bloody terrible and is everywhere but the centre of the pitch SMH

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 04:40 PM

Good finish Giggs now would you mind staying in the fuken centre of the pitch. Also our attacking football is 100X better with Nani in the team I dare anyone to tell me otherwise

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 04:55 PM

Amazing performance by the team VERY IMPRESSED only 3 goals conceded in the PL in 2013

MASSIVE shoutout to the fans were chanting for a solid 30 mins there at the end puts our hom fans to shame

the truth

23-02-2013, 05:03 PM

Good finish Giggs now would you mind staying in the fuken centre of the pitch. Also our attacking football is 100X better with Nani in the team I dare anyone to tell me otherwise

the five live commentators though giggs was sensational, scored the winner to take man utd 15 points clear of poor old man city, on his 999th match for club and country

999 games
181 goals
over 250 assists
34 trophies
umpteen awards
and a 13th premiership medal to follow
lets face it the mans an immortal

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 05:10 PM

With the ball going forward he was VERY GOOD. However Carrick was playing in the centre by himself the majority of the game while Giggs ran around like a headless chicken

the truth

23-02-2013, 05:16 PM

With the ball going forward he was VERY GOOD. However Carrick was playing in the centre by himself the majority of the game while Giggs ran around like a headless chicken

Ill take the word of the 5 live experts over you and watch the match later....giggs is class and his clever passing is often game changing as we saw in the last minute equalizer at west ham...no one has created more goals with passing than giggs in the history of football. he also made some brilliantly timed runs ....hes the most successful british footballer of all time and his legend grows on....1000th game next week. build the man a statue

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 05:29 PM

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 05:37 PM

What a vital win, it is nice to be 15 points clear until tomorrow when City play Chelsea and I hope they drop points.

I am not getting carried away because United have learnt the mistakes from last season and the title is not guaranteed until it is mathematically certain City cannot keep up, so United have to keep plugging away trying to get more points and we will probably drop some points at some stage.

Rafael was my MOTM today:). What I love about this team is the team mentality and that they are all in it together.

RVP's hip injury will be assessed tomorrow, he should be fine and has a week to rest as United's next match is against Norwich at Old Trafford on March 2nd.

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 05:38 PM

Report: QPR 0 United 2

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Feb/qpr-v-manchester-united-premier-league-report.aspx

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 05:41 PM

Vote: Pick your star man v QPR

Manchester United’s 2-0 win at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday sent Sir Alex’s men 15 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Everybody played their part in the victory, but we’ve selected five Reds we feel are particularly deserving of a spot in our Man of the Match poll.

Midfielder Michael Carrick was tremendous in the centre of the park, particularly in the second half. He displayed the full range of his passing and was always positive, seeking to find United’s forwards with early balls. United’s midfield metronome, Carrick kept the Reds ticking over at a high tempo. He was also the subject of the travelling fans' love – they serenaded the 31-year-old for much of the second half with a catchy new song.

Ryan Giggs netted United’s second goal of the game in his 999th appearance in senior football (United, Wales, Team GB), but deserved his spot on the shortlist even before he sealed the three points. He turned back the clock once again to produce a stunning performance that belies his 39 years of age, tackling and harrying every bit as much as he created in midfield.

The Reds’ other scorer, Rafael, is also on our list. He netted a contender for goal of the season after 23 minutes when he rifled a shot into the top corner from 20 yards. Shortly afterwards he showed his worth at the other end, clearing off the line to preserve United’s lead. He was quieter after the break but still steady, helping to play his part in a third consecutive clean sheet.

Even more key in keeping QPR goalless was Nemanja Vidic. The Serbian had his hands full at set-pieces with Christopher Samba but defended well and put his body on the line to block a number of shots. He left the pitch bruised and bloodied for the second time in a week, a measure of the remarkable effort he put in at Loftus Road.

Last on our shortlist is young striker Danny Welbeck, who started the game as a substitute and came on just before half-time for Robin van Persie, who injured his hip in the build-up to the Reds' opener. Danny put in his usual tireless shift up front and proved a real nuisance to QPR defender Clint Hill. He played a big part in Ryan Giggs’ goal, winning back the ball in midfield and then launching the attack that led to the strike.

http://www.manutd.com/en/polls

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 05:44 PM

Does anyone gave a gif of De Gea celebrating after Giggs scored???Warmed my heart

SRS

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 05:48 PM

Does anyone gave a gif of De Gea celebrating after Giggs scored???Warmed my heart

SRS

That was amazing:). It shows his passion and his gratitude that United have stood by him through thick and thin, plus he is feeling more settled at the club too!

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 05:55 PM

I Love De Gea

Really hope there is a gif made of his celebration is was really good to see

the truth

23-02-2013, 05:57 PM

LOL if your watching MOTD please don't come back to me as they just show the highlights going forward. Ask any one who watched the game Giggs was non existent in helping Carrick in the centre don't care whether you like that truth or not

the writers , football experts on the radio and the pundits on bbc completely disagree with you. they said he had a great game. MOTD shows all aspect sof the game. you seem to have an irrational hatred of giggs, ive never heard you say a good word about him? youre the ONLY man utd fan Ive ever heard who hates giggs. its just insane.

hers some snippets...

Ryan Giggs netted United’s second goal of the game in his 999th appearance in senior football (United, Wales, Team GB), but deserved his spot on the shortlist even before he sealed the three points. He turned back the clock once again to produce a stunning performance that belies his 39 years of age, tackling and harrying every bit as much as he created in midfield.

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 06:06 PM

It's Carrick you knowwww, it's hard to believe its not Scholes!!!

First United fan chant for Michael Carrick, he deserves one:).

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:16 PM

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:16 PM

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:17 PM

BBFAN that song has been around for years you just don't hear it a lot

the truth

23-02-2013, 06:23 PM

Irrational hatred LOOOL I said he was very good going forward with the ball stop being a little bitch boy. Go watch the full 90 mins and then come back and tell me Giggs did a good job helping Carrick in the centre

SMH I hate blinded fanboys

999 games 181 goals 34 trophies 250+ assists...rave reviews for todays performance which totally discredits your anti giggs rubbish

so Shut up bitch and go worship the posters of your leg breaking hero roy keane, please do it privately fanboy !:dance:

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:27 PM

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 06:27 PM

Ryan Giggs is appearing in his 999th senior competitive football match today. Manchester United 931, Wales 64, Great Britain 4.

LEGEND:worship:.

the truth

23-02-2013, 06:31 PM

What the **** does that have to with him not helping Carrick in the middle today???

Nah I think I will prefer to have a quick wank over Fergie's comments on Keane being the best player to ever play for him BRB just getting tissues

STAY MAD SON

not happy , im happy as larry....:blush: i leave the anger, aggression, hate and the swearing to abusive fanboys like you who worship players who deliberately break legs:nono:

oh heres yet more prooof youre talking rubbish and hating on giggs as always

eurosport

PLAYER RATINGS

QPR: Cesar 6, Bosingwa 5, Samba 6, Hill 6, Traore 5, Townsend 5, Granero 5, Mbia 6, Mackie 5, Taarabt 7, Zamora 6; Subs: Jenas 6, Remy 6, Hoilett N/A

Man Utd: De Gea 7, Rafael 8, Evra 6, Ferdinand 7, Vidic 6, Giggs 8, Carrick 6, Nani 7, Young 6, Van Persie 6, Hernandez 6; Subs: Valencia 6, Rooney 6, Welbeck 6

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:33 PM

^^^ Vidic only a 6 LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL point proved please leave this thread you have been embarrassed

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:34 PM

LOOOOOOOOOOOOL god you made yourself look silly with that post

the truth

23-02-2013, 06:35 PM

^^^ Vidic only a 6 LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL point proved please leave this thread you have been embarrassed

more proof of your humiliation:joker:

you clearly only like players who break legs:nono:

Giggs Just Keeps on Going

I`m expecting Ryan Giggs to feature, prominently, in our man-of-the-match poll.

The Welshman had a storming game and his performance showed there was plenty in the tank still.

But, we feel that Ryan should be congratulated on another aspect of his career today.

Today was the 999th time Ryan has run out for a competitive match with 931 of those being for United, 64 for Wales and 4 for Great Britain at the London Olympics.

A remarkable achievement I think you`ll agree.

Read more: http://www.manchesterunited.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=310307#ixzz2LkTCTRtP

the truth

23-02-2013, 06:36 PM

LOOOOOOOOOOOOL god you made yourself look silly with that post

Theres a G in God. Too angry to notice?
No true red hates on Giggs like you, so youre no true red.:xyxwave:

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:41 PM

Sorry still laughing about you posting a link showing Vidic to be a 6 as a credible source

Giggs with the ball today was a solid 7/10 BUT without the ball he was a 3/10 at best

He was our joint 4th best player along with Nani behind Vidic ,Carrick and Raf really don't see how I am hating on him

the truth

23-02-2013, 06:47 PM

Get Giggs off the fuken pitch already his passing is bloody terrible and is everywhere but the centre of the pitch SMH

not exactly what you spouted easrlier with your anti giggs rubbish

glad to you youre admitting you were wrong and way over the top and back traacking now to give him 7 out of 10
more humility like this would be good for your development, because your aggressive tone and abusive words will get you absolutely nowhere in life
clearly you will now predictably be offended and try to stroke back because of your macho ego, but id suggest you take my advice on board. drop the ego and give your intelligence a chance instead

bleacher report gave them both 8 out of 10

goal.com

0Ryan Giggs 3.5 stars
The veteran Welshman has played much of his football on the left this season, and has been effective despite his lack of pace. However, at Loftus Road he was back in the centre and he put in a decent shift. A few times he gave the ball away in a promising position, but he did well in tight areas and put the match beyond doubt with United's second goal in his 999th career match.

5493.00Michael Carrick s stars
Perhaps not one of his most effective afternoons, but he was important in the centre nevertheless. Several times he made a well-timed interception, and he always tried to keep possession moving in a positive direction by looking forward.

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 06:51 PM

Brother Leon

23-02-2013, 07:10 PM

Great day.

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 07:22 PM

m_OFxbSTe9w

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 07:23 PM

Great day.

Glad to hear it and that we got the win:). Do you mind sharing a bit of your day at QPR then?

the truth

23-02-2013, 07:46 PM

and is everywhere but the centre of the pitch SMH

Backtracking not even once

Also from another of your pointless links

A few times he gave the ball away in a promising position,

Did I or did I not say that in the post you quoted FACEPALM you again make yourself silly posting one of your own sources LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL

And thanks for noticing my Macho ego it's good to know I pull it off well

you pull nothing off well. youre just a little bitch trying to boe a bully and failing. you fantazise about big strong macho dirty players yet fail to even understand the genius of a man who plays 999 games 181 goals, 250+ assists 34 trophies? you think football is just about physicality, dirty tackling and sideways passing..theres a million and one players who can do that...but theres only ONE ryan giggs....it takes a genius to thread the ball through the eye of a needle and dance past world class defenders for 23 years...you cant even recognise that FACT....I pity you and until you open your blinkered eyes you will never know the true beauty of the game....BITCH

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 08:58 PM

Robin suffers bruised hip

Robin van Persie will be assessed by Manchester United's medical staff after limping out of the Reds' 2-0 victory against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/EA6B3EDA7B8740B28BE37D6C37727032.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,11,768,296

The Dutchman crashed into a television camera, situated just beyond the by-line, in the build-up to United's first goal. Encouragingly, he played on for 18 minutes following initial pitchside treatment, but eventually departed just before half-time, replaced by Danny Welbeck.

Sir Alex told MUTV after the game: "He collided with a camera, which was in a dug-out piece of ground. He hit the base of it and has a very bruised hip."

He added on Sky Sports: "I imagine it will be tender and sore for a few days but hopefully he will be all right, especially for the Madrid game [on Tuesday 5 March]."

Van Persie joined his team-mates on the bench at Loftus Road to watch the second half, as United turned the screw and, with 10 minutes to play, added a second goal to secure three valuable points.

The Reds' next test comes against Norwich City on Saturday 2 March, followed by the second leg of the Champions League last 16 tie against Real Madrid on Tuesday 5 March.

I think he will be OK and has a week to rest before our next game, glad he was taken off as a precaution:).

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 09:01 PM

Rafael: My best goal

Rafael says he has never scored a better goal than the one that set United on the way to victory at QPR on Saturday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/EB8DCCA353284C43AE2ED64E04375867.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=39,2,720,1025

The Brazilian latched onto a loose clearance from the home side 20 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable drive past QPR goalkeeper Julio Cesar into the top corner on 23 minutes.

It was the defender's third goal of the season, the second of which was a stupendous curling winner at Anfield in September. But Rafael, who made a vital contribution at the other end when he cleared Christopher Samba's first-half header off the line, insists his strike at Loftus Road tops the lot.

"I can't remember scoring a better goal," he told MUTV. "The one at Liverpool was different because it was a curling shot, but I can't remember a better one than this. I think it's my best.

"I just saw the ball coming towards me and hit it as hard as I could. You can feel by the way you hit the ball that it's going in. I just hoped it wouldn't deflect off anyone. It was a good goal."

The 2-0 win took United 15 points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City, who host Chelsea at the Etihad on Sunday lunchtime.

Rafael insists no-one is getting carried away with the advantage, but maintains that every victory and clean sheet continues to boost the players' confidence.

"We're pleased to not be conceding and keeping clean sheets. We want to keep that going and continue picking up points," he added.

"The more clean sheets we keep the more it improves our confidence. That consistency really helps us. We know what happened last season and that every game is important. We just have to keep winning."

I am so pleased for Rafael:). He has such a bright future at United, the last few years development for him have finally paid off with this great season he currently is having and he is only 22.

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 09:03 PM

Sir Alex happy to avoid 'shock'

Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted his Manchester United side came away from QPR with all three points after sensing there were ingredients for a surprise defeat in west London.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/7A3507103F1240D89F7241410F4D882B.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,14,607,466

Rafael gave the Reds the lead with a wonderful strike in the first half at Loftus Road but it took a late Ryan Giggs goal to stave off the threat of a nervy finish against the Barclays Premier League basement-dwellers.

Sir Alex made seven changes to the side that beat Reading in the FA Cup and admitted he always felt it would be a testing afternoon against Harry Redknapp’s men.

“Today was about our determination and concentration at the back,” he told MUTV. “We did that part very well.

“I decided to play all my experienced players: Ferdinand, Vidic, Carrick, Giggs, van Persie, Evra. We needed plenty of experience because it’s not an easy place to come to.

“It was a scrappy game for a lot of the time, the pitch was lively and it’s a tight ground. It was an ideal situation for a shock but fortunately we didn’t get that.

“I thought we played much better in the second half, when we created some good chances. One goal is never enough but Ryan’s goal with 10 minutes to go killed the game.”

Rafael’s 23rd-minute strike – a first-time rising drive from 20 yards – is a certain candidate for United’s Goal of the Season and it capped another impressive display by the Brazilian.

“I said to him he must have closed his eyes!” Sir Alex joked. “He’s had an absolutely magnificent season: he’s got three goals for us and he’s maturing all the time. He had a fantastic day.”

With 11 games to go, United are 15 points clear, at least temporarily as second-placed Manchester City face Chelsea on Sunday. But Sir Alex is remaining focused.

“It’s a good position but the way we approach it is to win our next game – it’s the best way to do it. So we’ll carry on doing that,” he added.

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 09:04 PM

Live: United v Norwich

United host Norwich at Old Trafford in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday 2 March(kick-off 15:00 GMT) and you can follow it live on ManUtd.com.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/live-Manchester-United-text-and-radio-match-commentary.aspx

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 09:36 PM

Ryan Giggs insists Manchester United will not be getting carried away in title bid

Ryan Giggs claims Manchester United will not allow themselves to get carried away in their title bid, despite pulling 15 points clear.

The Red Devils edged further into the distance on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers, with reigning champions Manchester City left with it all to do if they are to cling on to their crown.

United have been in this position enough times, though, to know that it is important to never take your foot off the gas and allow complacency to set in.

Giggs, a man with 12 title medals to his name, is aware of that fact more than most and the 39-year-old midfielder is adamant that United will keep pushing all the way to the finishing post.

Asked how they would be approaching things from this point on, the evergreen Welshman told Sky Sports: "Just what we have been doing, which is win the next game. That's all we can do, not look too far ahead and not get too excited.

"I think the main thing is we're in good form and we have got nearly everyone fit. The manager has got a big squad to choose from, so he can chop and change and keep everyone fresh.

"We're in good form and that is all you can ask, individually and as a team. We are winning scrappy games, we are winning games spectacularly, so we just have to keep it going."

Giggs was among the goals again at Loftus Road on Saturday, as he made his 999th senior appearance, and he feels that United further underlined their title credentials with a gutsy display.

He added: "It wasn't spectacular first half, we had to dig in. Rafa's goal was the outstanding thing in the first half, it was an unbelievable strike and he deserves it because he's been brilliant all season.

"To go 2-0 up, it gave us that extra cushion. At 1-0 you just never know what could happen. Once we got that second goal we kept the ball well and it knocked the stuffing out of QPR. We ran out comfortable winners in the end."

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 10:05 PM

you pull nothing off well. youre just a little bitch trying to boe a bully and failing. you fantazise about big strong macho dirty players yet fail to even understand the genius of a man who plays 999 games 181 goals, 250+ assists 34 trophies? you think football is just about physicality, dirty tackling and sideways passing..theres a million and one players who can do that...but theres only ONE ryan giggs....it takes a genius to thread the ball through the eye of a needle and dance past world class defenders for 23 years...you cant even recognise that FACT....I pity you and until you open your blinkered eyes you will never know the true beauty of the game....BITCH

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m3lc29ZCi21rvwaupo1_500.png

PMSL this guy is rambling on about prime Giggs for some unknown reason. The fact of the matter is son Giggs at his current playing level STINKS in CM the results don't lie

Leon I got two questions for you and I want Honest answers

1. I got a boner listening to the David De Gea chants on the TV what was it like in the stadium

2. Although Giggs was very good for the majority going forward please tell this fool that he offered ZERO help to Carrick in the centre

Ryan57

23-02-2013, 10:44 PM

LMAO. LK is the bully. Yet you call him a bitch more than once and he's the abusive one?

http://lans-soapbox.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Pot_Meet_Kettle.jpg

Legend killer

23-02-2013, 11:17 PM

He is just an angry little man Ryan. Was no doubt very upset that Giggsy choice to nail Imogen rather then himself

bbfan1991

23-02-2013, 11:45 PM

Calm down and LK please stop mentoning Paul Pogba, he chose to leave and fair play that decision seems to be paying off because Juventus are giving him playing time in their midfield, which has a lot of options.

Brother Leon

24-02-2013, 01:57 AM

bbfan1991

24-02-2013, 02:14 AM

the truth

24-02-2013, 08:48 PM

LMAO. LK is the bully. Yet you call him a bitch more than once and he's the abusive one?

http://lans-soapbox.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Pot_Meet_Kettle.jpg

if u follow the thread he started abusing me calling me bitch and fanboy etc all Im doing is giving him a taste of his own medicine(the love you make is the love you take, the hate you make is the hate you take). anyway that attention seeker has had enough cheap atention , back to the legend giggs

999 not out
181 goals
250+ assists
34 trophies (more to come)
young player of the year
player of the year
players player of the year
european golden foot award
welsh sportsman of the year a few times
bbc sportsman of the year
etc etc

Manchester United ages on Ryan Giggs' debut, 2 March 1991

Paul Scholes, 16 years, four months Anderson, two years, 11 months
Rio Ferdinand, 12 years, four months Javier Hernandez, two years, eight months
Michael Carrick, nine years, eight months Alexander Buttner, two years, one month
Nemanja Vidic, nine years, five months Shinji Kagawa, one year, 11 months
Patrice Evra, nine years, two months Tom Cleverley, one year, seven months
Robin van Persie, seven years, seven months Chris Smalling, one year, four months
Darren Fletcher, seven years, one month Ben Amos, 11 months
Anders Lindegaard, six years, 11 months Rafael, nine months
Ashley Young, five years, eight months David de Gea, three months
Antonio Valencia, five years, seven months Danny Welbeck, three months
Wayne Rooney, five years, five months Phil Jones, not born (D.O.B 21 Feb 1992)
Nani, four years, four months Nick Powell, not born (D.O.B 23 Mar 1994)
Jonny Evans, four years two months
.

the truth

24-02-2013, 08:52 PM

"Leon I got two questions for you and I want Honest answers

1. I got a boner listening to the David De Gea chants on the TV what was it like in the stadium

2. Although Giggs was very good for the majority going forward please tell this fool that he offered ZERO help to Carrick in the centre "

1. Was amazing. He acknowledged us non stop throughout. Seems really pleased that despite all the hate in the media the fans still trust him. The Carrick chant was epic too.

2. Giggs isn't a Central Mid, we know this already. Saying that, it wasn't as bad as first feared when I saw the midfield.

different styles of players. carrick is class but hes more of a holding central midfielder. most holding midfielders play the safe ball and often move sideways, whereas a flair player like giggs is usually the type of player who takes more risks, with his dribbling and passing. so flair players will make more errors but also achieve far more game changing moments in their careers.
risk v reward....but it takes a one a ten million genius to constantly dribble or pass the ball through the eye of a needle the way giggs has done for 999 games and nearly quarter of a century at the very top

bbfan1991

24-02-2013, 09:40 PM

Legends praise Giggs

Old Trafford legends Denis Irwin and Lou Macari were united in praise of Ryan Giggs following the Reds' 2-0 win at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.

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Giggs, making his 999th appearance in senior football (931 for United, 64 for Wales, four for Team GB), scored the game's second goal to seal three vital points in the race for the Barclays Premier League title.

Irwin and Macari, speaking on MUTV's Matchday Live programme, waxed lyrical about the Welshman following a performance that earned Giggs a nomination in ManUtd.com's Man of the Match poll.

"There have been times this season, last season and the season before when people were writing him off but he's a top professional," Lou Macari said. "He keeps bouncing back and doing what he's done at QPR. Did he look nearly 40? I don't think so. He flew about the pitch, he got on the ball, his passing was good.

"The biggest indicator as to how good he is: the manager keeps picking him. Sir Alex doesn't mess around here at Manchester United. He lets players go at times when supporters aren't sure why, but he knows things we don't know.

"It's the same for the people he keeps. If he keeps Giggs and Paul Scholes that's because he has a belief that they have something to offer. And they go out onto the pitch and prove the manager's right. To write Giggsy or Scholesy off is a silly thing to do. They can have a poor game, but that happens to the best of players, let alone players approaching 40 years of age."

Denis Irwin added: "He's dedicated, too. You should see him in training. And don't forget, he started as a winger, an out-and-out winger who ran up and down the touchline, scoring goals, creating goals.

"He was in the centre of the park on Saturday and he got around and did his defensive duties well. Like Lou says, he's good enough to play. If he wasn't good enough for this club the manager wouldn't play him.

"Sir Alex trusts him, he knows it's going to be a tough game and yet he sticks him in the centre of the park and he scores a great goal. He's a fantastic player, he really is.

"To play 999 games is unbelievable. He had problems with his hamstrings in his 20s but then started doing yoga. That sorted it out. Obviously the manager's been careful with him over the last eight or nine years, but he's an incredible athlete. There's not an ounce of fat on him.

"He looks after himself, he trains as hard and intense as he plays on a Saturday. Young players can learn bundles off Giggsy and Scholesy through the way they train and the way they are in the dressing room. Ryan is a very big character in that dressing room - he's not quiet. He's a great professional and played fantastically well on Saturday."

bbfan1991

24-02-2013, 09:42 PM

Carrick happy to win ugly

Michael Carrick was delighted with Manchester United's win at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday, even if it wasn't always the best advert for "the beautiful game".

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Rafael and Ryan Giggs netted either side of the interval to clinch a hard-fought win that took the Reds 15 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

It was a battle, though, with the London side making life difficult for Sir Alex's men on a pitch that played havoc with United's fondness for fluid, passing football.

"We expected a tough game and we certainly got it, especailly in the first half," Carrick told MUTV. "The pitch was bouncy and bobbly and it's tight at the best of times here [at Loftus Road].

"It was just a case of adapting to the conditions and the context of the game, battling it out at times. I thought we did that well.

"Sometimes you have to do that. Throughout the season it's not always going to be pretty. Sometimes you have to grind out results, work hard and make the most of your opportunities.

"We were able to cope with QPR and, at times, we played some good football. At other times we defended well and played on the break. In the second half we controlled the game and created more chances.

"All in all I think we can be delighted with how the day's gone."

United opened the scoring on 23 minutes when Rafael ran onto a bouncing ball and sent a thunderous shot screaming into the top corner from 20 yards.

"A goal like that from Rafa put us in a great position," Carrick said. "I was right next to it. It was an unbelievable strike. It caught me by surprise, to be honest. Probably like everybody else!"

A second-half strike from Giggs made sure of the win, while at the other end of the pitch United kept a third successive clean sheet. At the heart of the Reds' defence was the formidable pairing of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, a factor Carrick believes was vital in helping to secure the three points.

"You know what you're going to get [with Rio and Nemanja]. They know each other's games inside out, and with me in front you have that little triangle that we use to try and defend well and start counter-attacks from.

"It was a case today of doing the basics right and letting the front boys produce the quality. As it turned out it was Rafa who produced the quality! It could have been more in the end but we'll take what we got."

bbfan1991

24-02-2013, 09:43 PM

Title race: Reds to March on?

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/guide-to-march-title-race-fixtures-for-manchester-united-and-manchester-city.aspx

Brother Leon

26-02-2013, 11:35 PM

http://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/466/680/b0e.gif

bbfan1991

26-02-2013, 11:51 PM

Tunnicliffe makes debut

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/Loans-Ryan-Tunnicliffe-makes-his-Barnsley-debut.aspx

bbfan1991

26-02-2013, 11:53 PM

Rafael romps Reds poll

Rafael is used to catching the eye this season following a string of mature and confident displays in United's defence, and his stunning strike against Queens Park Rangers is up there with his finest moments – it also helped earn him ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match award.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/1817CF78DBE44E21B64C48684E28552D.ashx?20130225T120 9148531

The Brazilian defender struck his thunderbolt shot from 20 yards in the 23rd minute to set the Reds on the way to a comfortable 2-0 win at Loftus Road. He then went about helping United to an eighth clean sheet of the Barclays Premier League campaign, whilst retaining a 12-point lead at the top of the table.

Rafael bagged a majority 72 per cent of votes in ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match poll, ahead of Ryan Giggs (18 per cent), Nemanja Vidic (5 per cent), Michael Carrick (4 per cent) and Danny Welbeck (1 per cent).

Giggs turned in another impressive display on his 999th appearance as a professional, scoring United's second, while Carrick's name was sung loudly in the second half as the Reds' away following applauded his efforts.

But Reds boss Sir Alex was quick to praise his 22-year-old right-back's excellent form. "Rafa's had an absolutely magnificent season,” he said. "He's got three goals this season and he's maturing all the time. He had a fantastic day."

Well done Rafael:).

bbfan1991

26-02-2013, 11:54 PM

Brown set for Town

Reece Brown is joining Ipswich Town on loan for the remainder of the Championship season.

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The two clubs have agreed a deal that will take the defender to Portman Road in time to aid Mick McCarthy's side and their bid to remain clear of the relegation zone.

After spending the first part of the season with Coventry City, the versatile centre-back has made five appearances at Under-21 level for the Reds.

Brown, younger brother of Sunderland's ex-United star Wes, has represented England at Under-19 and Under-20 level.

"This is a big challenge for me and I’m excited to be signing for Ipswich," Town's new No21 told Ipswich Player.

"It’s a big club with great facilities and I’m looking forward to meeting all the lads and getting started."

Good luck to Reece with his loan spell:).

bbfan1991

26-02-2013, 11:56 PM

Carrick quashes title talk

Michael Carrick says nobody inside the Manchester United dressing room believes the title race is over, despite the Reds' healthy lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

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Sir Alex's men have established a 12-point gap with just 11 league games remaining but United midfielder Carrick insists not even a hint of complacency has crept into the Reds' camp.

"We're trying the best we can [to block out talk of the title being won already]," he told MUTV.

"We have a job to do and the manager has said we need to think game to game and just win the next match, what's in front of us.

"You can't look too far ahead because it can come back and bite you."

Last season the Reds blew an eight-point lead with six games to play, an experience Carrick and his team-mates will be determined not to repeat this time around.

Certainly, the current signs are good. United are unbeaten in all competitions since 5 December and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has almost a full squad at his disposal. Only Phil Jones (ankle) and Robin van Persie (hip) are doubts for this Saturday's game against Norwich, with Paul Scholes almost certainly ruled out with a knee injury.

"We've got the experience around the place [to cope with the pressure]," Carrick said. "You saw at QPR, it was all about getting a result and that's what we focused on. Now we move onto the next game."

Spot on!

bbfan1991

26-02-2013, 11:58 PM

Welbeck set for busy March

Danny Welbeck is still buzzing after scoring at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid as he prepares for four consecutive home matches with Manchester United.

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The England international headed the priceless away goal in the Spanish capital and has since played his part in the victories over Reading and QPR. Indeed, he won possession in the build-up to Ryan Giggs' victory-sealing goal at Loftus Road after replacing Robin van Persie as a substitute.

Welbeck told ManUtd.com and MUTV: "It was a great feeling to get a goal at the Bernabeu, especially because of the whole occasion with all our fans travelling over and with it being such a big game.

"It was a big goal - probably the biggest goal I've scored. It's something you strive for since being a little kid. Playing for Manchester United in one of the biggest games made me feel proud and it gives you motivation to strive for more."

Although the Champions League second leg is only a week away, the players are fully aware that Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash with Norwich City currently takes precedence. The first target will be to extend the Reds' lead at the summit again, after Manchester City cut it back to 12 points with victory over Chelsea.

"The manager and coaching staff keep reiterating the fact that the next game is the most important," explained Welbeck.

"I think the whole squad has got that into their heads and we've all got the same mentality of going into the next game and needing to win to gain momentum.

"Once we come to the Real Madrid game, we'll see what happens. It will be good not to have to travel anywhere for the next four matches in a row and we can try to get wins in every single game.

"All credit to the squad as well because every single player is fighting for their place. They all want to get on the pitch to do the best they can in every competition this year. We are still in three competitions and yet we’re coming to the end of the season. It’s good for the whole squad."

The 22 year-old is keen to add to his tally of two goals this term as the Reds continue to hunt glory on three fronts.

"I've been played out wide a lot of times," Welbeck added on MUTV.

"I'd like to get more goals but it's more difficult to score when playing out wide. You need to be more creative as well but scoring is part of my game I'd like to resurrect.

"If I can add goals from playing on the wing then it's going to be beneficial to the whole team."

:)

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 12:01 AM

Vote: Player of the Month

United were unbeaten in five games in February, with the excellent draw in Madrid the only fixture that did not yield a victory.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/A927EF1E5F4445BAB8C053B9D46C11DE.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,600,446

Once again, it means there are plenty of candidates for our Player of the Month award and whittling the shortlist down to six names was a task in itself that generated plenty of debate.

Ultimately, we have plumped for this sextet so make your vote count here.

David De Gea is a clear contender following an outstanding run of form that includes the man-of-the-match display in the Bernabeu. The Spanish shot-stopper was also voted star man in the win at Fulham and was nominated for the prize in four of the five games.

Rafael also has two man-of-the-match gongs to his name (against Everton and QPR) and the Brazilian has been superb of late. Even when tested in the first half against Real Madrid, he recovered his composure to rediscover his usual form after the interval.

Defenders feature prominently this month with Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand both worthy of inclusion for their efforts. The experienced centre-backs played together at Loftus Road, keeping a clean sheet, and look in a formidable mood.

It's been encouraging to see Michael Carrick finally getting the recognition he deserves, as the away fans' chanting on Saturday illustrated, and his consistent work should guarantee he is in the running for the overall United Player of the Year award.

And everybody is running out of superlatives to describe Ryan Giggs' incredible longevity. The Welshman has scored in consecutive Barclays Premier League matches and is providing plenty of experience and nous to help guide the Reds through at key moments.

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fanzone/Competition-And-Polls/Poll.aspx?id={C5AF6658-B7C3-42A8-B83A-BC1DDB99C2A5}

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 12:02 AM

Joyce enjoys late win

Warren Joyce was pleased to see his Under-21 side snatch a dramatic victory against Liverpool on Monday night.

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The Reds won the league clash at the death with a Michele Fornasier effort in injury time after the Merseysiders were reduced to 10 men following the sending off of Stephen Sama.

The victory moves Joyce's side into fourth place in the table, with games in hand on the top three - runaway leaders Tottenham, Liverpool and Southampton.

"I'm obviously pleased with the win," he told MUTV. "We kept going until the end and I thought we deserved it.

"I'm disappointed we didn't capitalise and make more use of the sending off. I thought we played better against 11 men than 10. We didn't move the ball quickly enough, work hard enough and weren't creative enough.

"There were a few mistakes defensively as well. We were sloppy at times and a little bit casual getting out to people. We should have really drove the tempo of the game when they were down to 10 men."

Jeff Schlupp, who is on trial from Leicester City, caused problems for the hosts all evening in a central attacking role.

"Jeff was unlucky a couple of times not to score with his bright movement," stated Joyce.

"It's never easy for players coming in but I thought his movement and work-rate were good and he played a part in the goal at the end as well."

The Under-21s' next assignment is a trip to West Ham's Upton Park on Friday night with the action live on MUTV.

The chance to play at a Barclays Premier League stadium is an ideal scenario for Joyce, who is always mindful that his youngsters are building their experience as the campaign progresses.

"Nights like tonight are good games," he stressed after Monday's success. "Playing in front of crowds in stadiums are a massive benefit for the boys as opposed to playing on training grounds during the day."

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:20 PM

Sir Alex seeks home advantage

Manchester United are about to embark on a run of four consecutive home games in three different competitions and Sir Alex Ferguson is urging his side to “take full advantage” of the situation.

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The Reds are already well-placed in three competitions and will face Norwich in the Barclays Premier League this weekend, then Real Madrid in the Champions League, Chelsea or Middlesbrough (to be confirmed tonight, Wednesday) in the FA Cup and Reading again in the league – all at Old Trafford – before closing out March with a trip to Sunderland.

There is a rearranged league trip to West Ham to fit in before the end of the season but as yet that has not been allocated a new date. Therefore, as it stands, preparations for the next few matches will not suffer the distraction of travelling up and down the country or to the continent, and United can count on the familiarity of playing at Old Trafford and, of course, home support.

“We’re hopeful that we can take full advantage of this spell,” Sir Alex told MUTV.

The boss is also confident the Old Trafford pitch, which came under scrutiny earlier this year, has improved drastically thanks to the dedicated work of United’s groundstaff.

"I must say, the one thing that is going to help us [in this period] is that the pitch has improved a tremendous amount,” added the boss. "Against Reading it was much, much better. It was not as good as the start of the season obviously but it is getting there. With a further 10 days between the Reading and Norwich games, I expect it to be back to normal."

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:22 PM

Robins' Norwich regret

Huddersfield Town boss Mark Robins has hailed Sir Alex Ferguson's winning mentality ahead of the clash between two of his former clubs this weekend.

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In an exclusive interview with Inside United, the ex-Reds striker recalled joining Norwich City in 1992 and admits he still enjoys watching the league leaders in action. It is clear that the new Terriers chief has certainly learned some important lessons from his manager at Old Trafford.

"Win at all costs was the strapline and the manager actually demanded that and taught us that," said Robins.

"It was something he wanted in his squad - a winning mentality. It's probably a bit tongue-in-cheek saying 'at all costs' but you have to have that winning mentality.

"Sir Alex came in and knew he needed to win trophies. It took him a bit of time but, thankfully, he remains in the post today after 26 years and has had phenomenal success. It is all down to what he instilled, well reintroduced [from Sir Matt Busby], in the building at that particular time and from then on.

"It's a club synonymous with success in a style that is fantastic to watch. It's intriguing at times and nailbiting. The way they go about their business is fantastic in the way they play and grind teams down.

"It's not just grinding out results but they do it with a swagger at times. The players in there have got real attacking instincts and it's tremendous to watch. In a nutshell, United are an attacking, successful brand."

Robins admits he should not have asked to leave United before heading to Norwich instead of signing a new contract around the time of the inception of the Barclays Premier League.

"I'd asked to move on because I wanted to play," he revealed. "It's one of my regrets. Sometimes you make a decision when you're headstrong and young and make decisions for yourself that you think are right when you really haven't got a clue.

"That was the category it fell into. I should have stayed and waited as the season I left, they won the league. Being young, you don't know how it's going to pan out and, in hindsight, and hindsight is brilliant, I would have stayed a little bit longer.

"The gaffer did offer me a three-year contract which, looking back, was absolutely generous but, me being me, I decided it wasn't for me and I needed to go and play. Yet I was at, for me, the best club in the country by a million miles and I should have scrapped to stay and hang on in there.

"After you've made decisions, you can't afford to have regrets and I had good times at every club I went to and played for but nothing replaces the feeling of playing for a club like United, without a shadow of a doubt."

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:23 PM

Final tour date announcement

Following the recent announcements about Manchester United’s summer visits to Yokohama, Osaka and Hong Kong, ManUtd.com will reveal the Reds' final pre-season destination on Thursday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/00E91987D3BF4A2282F02FFC23AB3A55.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,29,480,208

With games now confirmed for Sydney (20 July), Yokohama (23 July), Osaka (26 July) and Hong Kong (29 July), one more city and date will be revealed at 09:30 GMT on Thursday morning. All of the matches are part of the club's Tour 2013 presented by Aon.

Tickets for United's matches in Japan against Yokohama F·Marinos and Cerezo Osaka went on pre-sale on 8 February and will be on general sale from 7 April. Tickets can be purchased from Ticket Pia (www.pia.co.jp).

Fans can book their seats for the game against Kitchee FC at Hong Kong Stadium now via www.cityline.com, while a third batch of tickets for the friendly against the Australian A-League All Stars in Sydney will be released in April. In the meantime, fans can purchase tour packages from Thomas Cook Sport that include both ticket and accommodation, or sign up to a waiting list on the Football Federation Australia website.

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:24 PM

FA Cup: Chelsea next for United

Manchester United's next FA Cup opponents were confirmed tonight (Wednesday) when Chelsea won their fifth-round match at Middlesbrough.

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Ramires and Victor Moses scored in the second half as Rafa Benitez's team triumphed 2-0, to line up Sir Alex Ferguson's sixth FA Cup tie against the West London side.

The quarter-final at Old Trafford on Sunday 10 March (kick-off 16:30 GMT) will be the clubs' first meeting in the competition since the 2007 final, when an extra-time goal by Didier Drogba snatched glory for Chelsea, then managed by current Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho. However, the Reds have much the better record in FA Cup contests, having beaten the Blues emphatically, 4-0, in the 1994 final and knocked them out in 1996 (semi-final), 1998 (third round) and 1999 (quarter-final replay).

United will hope for better fortune against Chelsea in the FA Cup after losing a nine-goal thriller to the same opponents in the Capital One Cup earlier this season at Stamford Bridge. A fourth clash for 2012/13 is due in early May, when the Blues will return to Old Trafford for the Reds' penultimate home match in the Barclays Premier League.

Official Members can apply online for home match tickets for United vs Chelsea.

Bring it on:devil:.

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:26 PM

Nemanja Vidic: Manchester United captain managing knee problem

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic is confident that he will soon be available for every game as he seeks to overcome a troublesome knee injury.

Vidic admitted he is currently managing the problem that has limited him to only 14 starts since December 2011.

"With playing Wednesday and Saturday, some games I have to think if it's good for myself to play or not," the Serbia defender told BBC Radio Manchester.

"After every game I feel better and better, which is a good sign."

The 31-year-old believes his knee will be in peak condition before the end of the campaign, after revealing he has experienced swelling - but no pain - after some recent outings.

"Sometimes I will get reactions, sometimes not," added Vidic, who has played 256 times for the Premier League leaders.

"When I have got through two or three months without injuries, I will be fine. It's not long-term. It's normal procedure after this kind of operation.

"We have to manage the knee for the next two or three months and after that it's going to be normal."

Vidic's injury issues began when he suffered ligament damage in his right knee during a Champions League tie against Basel.

He missed the remainder of the 2011-12 campaign and required another operation in September after complaining of tightness in the knee.

The centre-back returned to action in mid-December and has appeared in 10 of United's last 16 games in all competitions, including the 2-0 win at lowly QPR on Saturday, which maintained the club's charge towards a record 20th domestic league title.

Keen for his skipper to avoid another lay-off, manager Sir Alex Ferguson has allowed Vidic time to rest between games and even left him out of the side for the first leg of their Champions League tie against Real Madrid earlier this month, instead pairing Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans at the heart of defence.

bbfan1991

27-02-2013, 11:31 PM

The papers are at it again stirring with their nonsense story linking Wayne Rooney to PSG again, he is such a vital player to United and I don't think SAF would sell him now he is settled at the club again and is doing his best since that contract saga.

The stories linking Cristiano Ronaldo back with a move to us in the Summer are interesting because of him having two years left on his Real Madrid contract and is stalling on agreeing a new one, so I am not sure if the club would sacrifice Rooney to buy Ronaldo if we were interested in getting CR7 back.

I would love to see Ronaldo back, but I would not want to see us sacrifice Wayne Rooney and the financial side would always be a problem if it came to getting Ronaldo back unless the sponsorship people stepped in to help and they would get their money back through the commercial aspect and shirt sales etc...

the truth

27-02-2013, 11:55 PM

Ryan57

28-02-2013, 07:43 AM

but if it came down to a straight swap between the 2, who would you choose?

rooney is being paid too much at £250,000 hes only £250000 a year less than messi who is light years better.....ronaldo wages are more confusing with commission increases every season, but I think he may be on a bit more even than messi.

Rooney isn't on £250,000. It's the papers stirring. He will only earn £250,000 if he completes the bonuses in his contract.

bbfan1991

28-02-2013, 04:17 PM

De Gea voted February star

David De Gea says he’s delighted his February performances have earned him the ManUtd.com Player of the Month award.

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The Spanish stopper kept three clean sheets in five games and turned in Man of the Match displays away at Fulham and, most memorably, Real Madrid.

That game at the Bernabeu was even described by some media outlets as De Gea’s “coming of age” moment and drew praise from those who had previously been among his harshest critics.

United fans have always been behind the goalkeeper, though, and they voted in their thousands across the club's seven language websites in our end-of-month poll. De Gea collected 57 per cent of the vote, ahead of Rafael (21 per cent) and Ryan Giggs (12 per cent). Michael Carrick, Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand shared the remaining votes.

It’s the third time De Gea has won the Player of the Month award since joining the Reds at the beginning of the 2011/12 season. No other United player has won it more often in that period.

"It’s very good to have the support of the fans, so I’m happy to win this award," De Gea told ManUtd.com. "I can hear the supporters during the games so I know they’re singing about me. I’m very grateful for that."

De Gea was loathe to take all the credit for his award, however, and was quick to acknowledge those who play in front of him, while revealing his favourite save of the period came at the Bernabeu.

"I think we’ve been very good in defence as a whole and have been keeping some clean sheets," he added.

"I think my favourite save from the last month was definitely the one with my left hand against Real Madrid, when I pushed Fabio Coentrao’s shot against a post."

Thanks to everybody who voted in the poll.

Well done to David De Gea. I am pleased for him and glad that he knows that the fans are fully backing him:).

bbfan1991

28-02-2013, 04:19 PM

Rooney's home help

Wayne Rooney admits it will be to Manchester United's benefit to have a run of four consecutive home games.

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The upcoming agenda includes outings in all three competitions - the Barclays Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup - at Old Trafford and the lack of travelling should provide a boost during a busy spell.

"The day before away matches, we travel down and stay in a hotel," explained Rooney to ManUtd.com at his book signing event in Manchester this week.

"We prepare as normal for the game but, with home matches, we go to the hotel on the night before to have our dinner there and then stay over. We get up and prepare for the game but it's not much different in terms of preparation. However, having that home advantage is a great help to us. That's a real difference.

"When we play away, we finish the game and then are either flying back or getting the train or coach. With home matches, we finish the game and I can be back at my house within 40 minutes or something like that. So that's one big help as well.

"It's always nice to play at home so to have a few games there back-to-back is good."

bbfan1991

28-02-2013, 04:20 PM

Preview: United v Norwich

Date, time and coverage: Saturday 2 March, kick-off 15:00 GMT.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/manchester-united-v-norwich-preview.aspx

bbfan1991

28-02-2013, 04:23 PM

Rooney isn't on £250,000. It's the papers stirring. He will only earn £250,000 if he completes the bonuses in his contract.

This, the rumoured wage Rooney gets from United is actually between £150,000-160,000 per week and the rest of the amount adding up to £250,000 is from sponsorship/commercial stuff he does.

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 10:47 AM

I have an AWFUL feeling Giggs is going to start in CM vs Madrid. It has been nagging me since the QPR game and SAF pretty much said Giggs will start in his press conference today. He deserves to start left wing but should be know where near Xabi or Khederia in the centre

As for Rooney if he is not starting up top im sorry guys he should be left on the bench vs Madrid. He is useless out wide and for all his supposed work rate left Raf utterly exposed vs Ronnie Ozil by himself the fact he would take Nanis spot on the wing makes it even worse

thesheriff443

01-03-2013, 10:51 AM

im waiting in, for ticket's for man u v rael madrid.

the truth

01-03-2013, 01:15 PM

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 02:07 PM

If you think Giggs should be starting in centre midfield vs Madrid you are honestly more clueless then I originally thought SMH did you not watch him get ABUSED by both Norwich and Spurs this year. Heck why don't we chuck Scholes in there too and play him in Giggs and a midfield 2

It's not a coincidence his best run of form this year started with him playing back out on the wing

the truth

01-03-2013, 03:13 PM

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 03:26 PM

Why would i give someone a standing ovation for being paid millions to do there hobbie as a job. And before you start crying i gave him a standing ovation for smashing Imogen Thomas already

Brother Leon

01-03-2013, 03:37 PM

Why would i give someone a standing ovation for being paid millions to do there hobbie as a job. And before you start crying i gave him a standing ovation for smashing Imogen Thomas already

God forbid applauding the team you support....jesus

Ryan57

01-03-2013, 03:48 PM

Why would i give someone a standing ovation for being paid millions to do there hobbie as a job. And before you start crying i gave him a standing ovation for smashing Imogen Thomas already

:joker:

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 03:51 PM

Interesting i thought the post was about applauding Giggs on playing a thousand games not applauding the team in general SMH

Why would i applaude ANY footballer for playing a thousand games lol seriously quit with this sentimental ****e

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 03:54 PM

Correction any footballer earning the money Giggs has. Would no doubt do so for those lower league brothers who have done so while having to actually work aswell

Brother Leon

01-03-2013, 03:57 PM

Your agenda is getting boring now. Done tbh.

Legend killer

01-03-2013, 04:18 PM

Yes my Giggs hatred agenda where i said he should be starting on the wing for us SMH

As i have told a few members on here if you don't like what Im saying put me on your ignore list if not **** with your whining cause you don't agree with something i say

the truth

01-03-2013, 04:22 PM

Your agenda is getting boring now. Done tbh.

To think a pretend football fan cannot even respect and applaud 1000 games at the top is just pathetic. Glad I and others have exposed this legend killer as the hateful, shallow spiteful person he is. Hes not man utd fan, no football fan. Not even worth talking to , I shall of course ignore him for the rest his time. what a sad , unbelievably boring attention seeker he is. Bye.:xyxwave:

anyways back to the main man, I shall stand and applaud Giggs for his 1000th game , he has just been a magnificent servant for man utd and football in general. Giving us decades of phenomenal entertainment and more medals than a whole league of football clubs. He is the longest serving, longets lasting,most entertaining, most successful british footballer thats ever lived, if that doesnt earn applause nothing does.:wavey::wavey::blush:

Brother Leon

01-03-2013, 04:34 PM

Funny thing is if Giggs was Irish the dick slurping would be epic by LK :laugh:

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:25 PM

Ryan Giggs agrees new deal

Ryan Giggs has signed a new one-year contract, a deal that will keep the winger at Old Trafford until June 2014 and see him complete his 23rd season as a first-team player.

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Giggs, the most decorated football player this country has ever seen, signed professional forms with United in 1990 and made his debut on 2 March 1991. Since then, he has made a club-record 931 appearances, scoring 168 goals. He has won 12 Premier League titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups, two UEFA Champions Leagues, one Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup.

Sir Alex Ferguson said: “What can I say about Ryan that hasn’t already been said? He is a marvellous player and an exceptional human being. Ryan is an example to us all, the way in which he has, and continues to, look after himself.

"He has fantastic energy for the game and it is wonderful to see. Ryan seems to reach a new milestone every week and to think that he now has 23 unbroken years of league goals behind him is truly amazing in the modern-day game. His form this year shows his ability and his enjoyment of the game are as strong as ever and I am absolutely delighted that he has signed a new contract.”

Ryan Giggs said: “I am feeling good, enjoying my football more than ever and, most importantly, I feel I am making a contribution to the team. This is an exciting team to be part of, with great team spirit, and we are again pushing for trophies as we head towards the business end of the season.

"I am delighted to have signed a new contract. I would like to thank Sir Alex and the coaching staff and I would also like to thank David Gill who has been a tremendous support over my many years here."

Great news:):worship:. Giggsy is a legend and he keeps defying age with his determination to keep playing on.

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:27 PM

Coaching role awaits Giggs

The ink was barely dry on Ryan Giggs' new one-year playing contract when Sir Alex Ferguson told reporters on Friday morning that the Welshman will stay involved at United in a coaching capacity when he does finally hang up his boots.

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Giggs will remain a Red until at least June 2014 and could make his 1000th senior appearance (a total that includes games for United, Wales and Team GB) against Norwich on Saturday, 22 years to the day after his debut in 1991.

"He’ll be involved [against Norwich] and he’ll be involved on Tuesday [against Real Madrid] so somewhere along the line he’s going to play his 1000th game this week, which is phenomenal. It’s unique in the modern game, but I think it’s more than that – I don’t think it will ever be achieved again by anyone given the way that players’ contracts are played out nowadays.

"We’re very fortunate to have several players who have been at the club for quite a long time. Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes of course, and the likes of Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra have given us seven years. That’s quite unusual in the modern world.

"Ryan deserved another year’s contract because his form has never changed over the last few years. He still retains that wonderful youthfulness in the way he plays, he still has great balance and a change of pace. He still has his fitness and he still gets you a goal. He really deserves his new contract."

Eulogising Ryan's talent is nothing new, but Sir Alex also revealed he expects Giggs – and fellow veteran midfielder Paul Scholes – to take up a coaching role upon retirement.

"That will happen, that's the plan," he said. "We’ve done the same with Nicky Butt with the Reserves and when Paul Scholes finishes it will be exactly the same with him.

"We’re good at that – we’ve got several former players installed in the club in different capacities. Mike Phelan, Brian McClair, Tony Whelan, Paul McGuinness… I think it’s important we have people here who have the experience of being a player here."

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:28 PM

Van Persie fit for Norwich

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Robin van Persie is fit and available for Manchester United’s clash with Norwich in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday.

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There were concerns the Dutchman might miss the clash after bruising his hip by colliding with a television camera during last weekend’s 2-0 win at QPR. But the striker has trained all week and will be in contention to start against the Canaries at Old Trafford.

Speaking during his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss also gave an update on Phil Jones after the England international suffered an ankle injury against Reading late last month.

“Phil Jones starts running today,” Sir Alex revealed. “He’s got a fight on his hands to be ready for Tuesday [Real Madrid] but we’ll give him every chance. He won't be available for tomorrow [Norwich].

“We have no injury issues. Robin van Persie has trained this week – he's available for tomorrow. His hip was very tender but he's okay now.

“Tomorrow is an important one because Tuesday will look after itself. It's an occasion on Tuesday whereas tomorrow is the mundane practical situation in that we need to win.”

Good news and I hope that Phil Jones will be fit hopefully:).

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:31 PM

Carrick hails 'Mr Manchester United'

Michael Carrick has labelled team-mate Ryan Giggs a "one-off" after the midfielder agreed a new deal which will see him play at Old Trafford into his 40s.

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The veteran has been rewarded for yet another superb campaign with an extra year's contract with the club until June 2014 which will see him complete his 23rd full season as a first-team player. And Carrick says the 39-year-old thoroughly deserves it.

"He sets an example - and has done for a number of years. He is Mr Manchester United," Carrick told us.

"He sets the tone around the dressing room. He doesn't say an awful lot but when he does speak, everyone listens and everyone respects him. It leads onto the pitch.

"Not many people have lasted as long as Ryan. You have to take it year by year and see how your legs hold up. He is a one-off.

"It is not just that he is still playing, it is the way he has adapted his game. In his younger years he had a totally different way of playing than he has now. To be able to do that can't be easy. It shows the qualities that he has."

Spot on:worship:.

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:34 PM

Sir Alex set to move upstairs

Sir Alex Ferguson has said he is keen on becoming a director at Old Trafford when he finally decides to quit management. The 71-year-old Manchester United boss said that he is determined to stay at the club after initially intimating that he would step away.

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“There’s no getting rid of me. I’ll probably become a director,” said Ferguson, speaking the new magazine twentyfour7 Football.

“Nobody knows (my retirement date), neither do I. It won’t be a doctor that tells me to quit!” As for his successor, he added: “They’ll ask me but I think it’ll be a club decision, not mine. With the structure we have here, it can't be an impossible job.”

Former United defender Viv Anderson has rejected the idea that Ferguson might be tempted to step down this summer, even if they win the Champions League and Premier League.

Anderson, who played under Ferguson from 1987-91, said: ‘There is no chance that Sir Alex will retire this summer. He loves the club. He lives and breathes it.”

I really, really hope that happens when SAF retires:amazed:.

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:48 PM

It began on a lifeless pitch one spring afternoon back in the days when Liverpool were still on their perch, the "keep off the grass" signs were in one language, not the six there are now, and the entire Manchester United team, including substitutes, was made up of players from Britain and Ireland. It was the height of "Madchester", even if "Do The Bartman" was No1, and, if anyone wants evidence of what a different place Old Trafford was back then, just look at the attendance, 45,656, for a game that left Alex Ferguson's team eight without a win, level on points with Wimbledon, almost a quarter of a century since their last championship.

By his own admission there was not a great deal to get worked up about in Ryan Giggs's first senior appearance back in March 1991, coinciding with a United performance the Observer described the following day as "depleted, disjointed, shapeless". They lost 2-0 against 12th-placed Everton, falling 17 points behind Arsenal at the top of Division One. "Nor was it an auspicious entry from Giggs," the newspaper continues. "He was pushed off the bench when [Denis] Irwin left and, unsurprisingly, failed to find his feet until well into the second half."

Giggs, in fairness, has never tried to butter up the occasion too much himself. His abiding memory after replacing the injured Irwin, 35 minutes in, is Dave Watson scything through him with a challenge that split open his knee and felt, to the 17-year-old recipient, like a coded welcome to the big time. That apart, Giggs remembers Ferguson shouting at everyone in the dressing room. "The gaffer said we were second to the ball and lacked imagination. And he did so pretty forcibly. I can only say he was spot on. We were terrible. It should have been a celebration but it felt more like a wake."

The 22nd anniversary is on Saturday when, courtesy of one of the nice little twists that have accompanied his career (not least overtaking Sir Bobby Charlton's appearance record on the night United won the Champions League in Moscow), Giggs should mark the occasion by clocking up his 1,000th game. Sixty-four were for Wales, four with the Great Britain Olympics team and the other 932 for the club that know enough about Giggs by now to realise he will not want any fussy pre-match presentations before the home game against Norwich City. A polite smile, maybe a wave to the crowd and that will probably be enough when his real focus is the three points on offer. Very soon, one suspects, the swagmen on Sir Matt Busby Way will have to update their "Giggsy 12 Gerrard 0" T-shirts paying homage to his unprecedented collection of title wins.

Eventually, the press release from Old Trafford will carry tributes rather than news but, for now, the announcement that he has extended his contract has become an annual fixture in the football calendar around this stage of the season (10 February last year) and there is no surprise that he is carrying on. As Gary Neville said earlier in the week: "He's been influencing matches since he was 17 and he's still contributing now. I'd be absolutely stunned if he didn't play for another season."

The next deal will take Giggs beyond 40 and, to put it into context, if George Best had had the same kind of longevity he would have played for Ron Atkinson in the 1985 FA Cup final and, best of all, still been at the club when Ferguson took over the following year. Phil Jones was nine when Giggs had his testimonial match against Celtic in 2001 and not even born when he made his debut. David de Gea, Danny Welbeck and Rafael da Silva were all in nappies, aged between three to eight months. Giggs's hair, once raven, now has flecks of grey above the ears and is thinning on the crown. For United there have been 147 different team-mates; for Wales 84. Just don't even try to tot up the number of opponents he has left behind him.

"We played them two days before Christmas in 2000," the former Ipswich Town striker James Scowcroft remembers. "We were fifth in the league but it was the only time in my professional career I've played a match that has felt like schools football because one side was so much better than the other. They beat us 2-0, God knows how it wasn't more, and Giggs was absolutely devastating.

"He was playing up front with [Ole Gunnar] Solskjaer and every time the ball came into Giggs's feet he'd flick it between his legs then run round the other side of the defender with that blistering pace. I can remember at half-time our assistant manager, Dale Roberts, going mad at the centre-halves: 'Any ****ing chance you can get tighter on Giggs?' and Mark Venus shouting back: 'You try getting ****ing near him.' We were in shock."

"Twisted blood," Ferguson put it in the quote that now adorns the back cover of Giggs's autobiography. Gary Pallister was the first to use that line, going back to their days together on the training pitches of The Cliff. Viv Anderson will vouch for it, too, after the first time Giggs, at 14 and known then as Ryan Wilson, was pushed into a senior practice match. Ferguson loves this story: "Viv was shouting: 'You can't play him, he's far too small.' Ryan gets the ball and boom-boom-boom he's round three of them. Viv can hardly breathe, he's chasing after him and he's going: 'Who the hell is that?'" Apocryphal or not, there is a great story about George Graham apparently inquiring of Ferguson some time in the mid-1990s: "Whatever happened to that Ryan Wilson you used to rave about?"

Neville believes his former team-mate will never be emulated – "there won't be another player like him ever again" – and for a long time Ferguson would happily tell anyone who cared to listen that Giggs should get a knighthood, emboldened enough to say it should happen while he was still playing and "how I would love to adorn my team-sheet with the words 'Sir Ryan Giggs'."

Sadly for him, what has happened since means the idea should probably be shelved and, though it would be nice to gloss over it, there is no point pretending the tabloid scrutiny on Giggs's private life has not caused substantial damage to his public reputation. At one point masked men attacked the photographers' cars outside Giggs's house. Ned Kelly, who ran United's security for over a decade, offers his own slant on Giggs in his 2003 book, Manchester United – The Untold Story. Giggs, he says, "is under the (unsolicited) protection of the 'Salford mob' and affiliated gangs in Manchester. He is quite simply untouchable and viewed as the original local-boy-done-good."

Neville remembers that boy at 14 as "ridiculously special, an incredible player, off another planet" to the point "you were almost embarrassed to turn up at the training ground because you'd think: 'Are they all like him?'" Now he looks at him with a mix of awe and near disbelief. "To think, he came into the team as a flying left-winger and he's now playing as a holding midfielder. He's still got that little bit of pace. But think about what he's doing now, that adaptation in him ... he's now a passer."

As for Ferguson, the Giggs we see now, oozing sophistication and football intelligence, ranks as "the most precious, skill-based player I've ever had". There are three footballers who can make Ferguson's eyes sparkle just by mentioning their names. One is Cristiano Ronaldo, another Eric Cantona. The third is the serial champion who, quietly and diligently behind the scenes, has combined being the doyen of United's dressing room with being the first footballer to reach the mandatory coaching qualification for Premier League and Champions League managers, the elite-standard Uefa Pro Licence level, while still playing.

It has taken Giggs six years in total. Even getting his 'A' and 'B' badges is an example of dedication given the number of hours it takes, never mind for someone already in the business of trying to win football matches. Not too many people recognise Giggs as a realistic contender to manage United whenever Ferguson retires. It should not be discounted.

This article sums up what a legend Ryan Giggs is for United!!!

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 06:57 PM

Exclusive: Wayne Rooney hails Ryan Giggs ahead of 1000th match

Wayne Rooney reveals his admiration for Ryan Giggs as Welshman closes in on 1000th senior appearance

http://static.givemefootball.com/uploads/images/6a171ce08ae94ece8c69b876d6ddc9ae/130066164444982800/650x420/top.jpg

Wayne Rooney has heaped praise on his Manchester United teammate Ryan Giggs as the Welshman closes in on his 1000th senior appearance.

Giggs put pen to paper on a new one-year contract extension on Friday morning - a deal which will keep him at the club until June 2014 and past his 40th birthday.

The United midfielder has made 931 appearances for Sir Alex Ferguson's side - a club record - and has won 12 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues and four FA Cups during his 22-year career with the Red Devils so far. That trophy haul makes him the most decorated player in English football history.

Giggs is poised to make his 1000th senior appearance - including United, Wales and Team GB matches - against Norwich at Old Trafford on Saturday.

And Rooney hailed Giggs for his "unbelievable achievement" - even suggesting he could be the best player he's ever played with.

Speaking exclusively to GiveMeFootball for his official Facebook page, Rooney said: "Giggsy is a legend, not only at Manchester United but in the game of football.

"To play as long as he has and to do it at the top level is an unbelievable achievement. He's right up there with the best I've played with, if not the best.

"He brings so much to the squad, whether it's his experience around the place or when he's still scoring on the pitch.

"He'll make his 1000th appearance tomorrow but he's still that good that I can't see where it's going to end."

The visit of Norwich marks the beginning of a four-game run of home fixtures for Ferguson's side. They welcome Real Madrid to Manchester next Tuesday, before Chelsea visit in the FA Cup sixth round the following weekend.

Reading complete a busy two weeks for the Premier League leaders on 16 March. But even with the marquee matches to come, Rooney insists it's important not to look too far ahead.

"Big game against Norwich tomorrow," Rooney continued. "They're a good side and beat us earlier in the season so we need to be up for it."

United could stretch their lead over second-placed Manchester City to 15 points this weekend with victory over the Canaries. Chris Hughton's side have proved a tough nut to crack on more than occasion this season, and secured a 1-0 win over United at Carrow Road earlier this term.

City don't play until Monday evening, when they take on relegation battlers Aston Villa at Villa Park.

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 11:11 PM

Sir Alex Ferguson dismisses claims by Roberto Mancini that Manchester United are lucky to have a 12-point advantage

Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed claims by Roberto Mancini that Manchester United were "lucky" to have a 12-point advantage at the top of the Premier League.

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Mancini claimed there was not a 12-point gap in terms of class between United and his Manchester City team.

But Ferguson hit back with more than a touch of sarcasm.

"We're dead lucky," he said. "We have only been doing it for 25 years. It is a terrible habit. Maybe he (Mancini) is lucky they are only 12 points behind."

United face Norwich on Saturday and three days later take on Real Madrid at Old Trafford in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 clash, with the tie finely balanced at 1-1.

Ferguson watched Jose Mourinho's men destroy Barcelona in the midweek Copa del Ray clash and admitted: "I was shocked. Real Madrid were magnificent.

"They were absolutely brilliant, with Ronaldo, Angel di Maria and Mesut Ozil so good on the counter-attack.

"But we already knew Madrid are one of the best counter-attacking teams in Europe. That is what we will be up against on Tuesday and that is what our preparations are centring around.

"We have to make sure their counter-attacking doesn't kill us."

Well said Sir Alex Ferguson!

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 11:13 PM

Boss expects Rio to sign

Sir Alex Ferguson believes there is a "strong possibility" that Rio Ferdinand will sign a new Manchester United contract before the end of this season.

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Ferdinand’s current deal expires in the summer, though he has already outlined a desire to extend his stay at Old Trafford and the boss is confident of making of that happen in the coming months.

Speaking during his weekly press conference at Carrington, Sir Alex was clear in his response when asked if the 34-year-old will replicate Ryan Giggs’ decision to sign a new contract.

“That is a strong possibility," the boss declared. “It would have to happen before the end of the season.

“I think he has had a great season. He has managed himself the right way and we have contributed to that in the preparation we give him. He doesn’t play every game in the same way that Ryan doesn’t. Two weeks ago, against Real Madrid, he was excellent. We need to get him ready for the big one on Tuesday.”

The boss went on to state his view that United’s defence has improved as the season has progressed, transforming from a depleted back-line that conceded early goals into a more flexible, experienced foundation that kept three cleans sheets during five matches in February.

“I think the awareness of our game has improved," he added. "In the early part of the season we were giving all these early goals away and that may have been a combination of the fact that we had defenders out.

“In the first game of the season we had to play Michael Carrick at centre-half because we had four centre-backs out. That had its impact but in the last few weeks there has been a definite change in terms of concentration and the awareness that these games are important.”

I hope this happens soon:). Rio has had a great season and is playing well, plus he has a lot of passion for United.

bbfan1991

01-03-2013, 11:15 PM

Evra: League is the priority

Patrice Evra admits it would be a "nightmare" to head into the eagerly-anticipated Champions League tie with Real Madrid on the back of a shock defeat to Norwich.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/5B161EBC357A4F35B6ED0E346B339825.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,118,588,556

The Barclays Premier League leaders can extend the gap at the top to 15 points with Manchester City not in action until Monday evening and Sir Alex Ferguson has drummed the message into his players that one game must be taken at a time.

So any talk of a potential Treble understandably irks the left-back, who will only start thinking about Real once the final whistle sounds on Saturday at Old Trafford.

"Every game is important now," he told MUTV. "I hear a lot of people talking about the Treble and this is the wrong way [to do it] - you have to think game-after-game.

"If we start to think about Madrid before Norwich, then you lose to Norwich. It's a big game and we have to win - if we go into Tuesday after losing against Norwich, it's going to be a nightmare.

"Of course, Norwich are going to come here for a win. Don't forget, we lost three points away. I know it was a difficult game but every team comes to win against Manchester United.

"I think the boss will pick a strong side. We have to be careful against Norwich, even if we have to rest some players, and have to play for winning that game. There can be a lot of talk if we lose and maybe City win their game [at Aston Villa] and are going to get back [in the race] for the Premier League.

"The Premier League is the priority. We won't think about Madrid until Saturday, just after the game, and then we will have our recovery on Sunday. Every game is important. I even say friendly games with United are important."

the truth

02-03-2013, 06:02 AM

Its a lot of great vibes at [present, with so many fit players now showing some form add RVP to the mix and its possible man utd could be going for euro glory this season, roll on madrid...

Ryan57

02-03-2013, 09:59 AM

Sir Alex Ferguson dismisses claims by Roberto Mancini that Manchester United are lucky to have a 12-point advantage

Well said Sir Alex Ferguson!

The league table never lies.

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 12:00 PM

De Gea
Raf Evans Rio Evra
Nani Ando Clev Young
RVP Chico

With Madrid in mind Vidic needs to be kept fit hate having to drop Evans for Madrid though as i think he is on par with Rio now TBH

Nani needs to be let continue his great form and ready him for my Madrid team

We have ZERO chance of beating Madrid without Carrick so rest that ageing body. Giggs would start on the left vs Madrid if i was manager so again rest that body while giving the Young some match time

RVP needs gametime to find his shooting boots. And Chico should ALWAYS start ahead of Danny(love this guy but could not finish his dinner

Wayne gets left out simply because he won't be starting up top vs Madrid and unlike Fergie im not willing to watch him stink up the place on the wing at the expense of either Nani or Giggs

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 12:07 PM

Again if i was manager Wayne would start up top vs Madrid

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 02:15 PM

Manchester United team vs Norwich City: De Gea, Smalling, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Anderson, Kagawa, Rooney, Van Persie.

Bench: Lindegaard, Rafael, Chicharito, Nani, Young, Welbeck, Cleverley.

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 02:16 PM

Tony picked over Nani SMH. However Giggs not involved and i am pretty sure he will start vs Madrid which means Nani may also be starting Boner achived

Good team aside from that

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 02:17 PM

Ryan Giggs will obviously play a part vs Real Madrid:). SAF trolling the media because they thought Giggsy would play in this game because of a 1000th career appearance, love it ha ha.

Trust SAF when it comes to the line up!

Ryan57

02-03-2013, 02:54 PM

start ahead of Danny(love this guy but could not finish his dinner

:joker: Brilliant. Love the stuff you come out with, LK.

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 05:11 PM

Get in 4-0 win vs Norwich and fifteen points clear till Manchester City play at Villa on Monday, which I think they will win that game tbh.

United were the better team throughout and Norwich defended well in the first half and parked the bus, but Shinji Kagawa with three very good finishes and one from Wayne Rooney too earned us the win.

Shinji Kagawa and Michael Carrick were the stand out players for me, but a great team performance and now the focus can be on for the big Real Madrid game next week:).

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 05:14 PM

Shinji Kagawa had a brilliant game and he is the first player from Asia to score a hat trick in the Premier League:amazed:.

Our defensive work has improved which is a big sign and David De Gea is doing great.

Antonio Valencia was on form too today and I think this was one of his best performances this season because he shown glimpses of the player he was last season and I hope it will be a confidence boost for him!

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 05:14 PM

http://i.minus.com/ibdt83KFeeYn0m.gif

Brother Leon

02-03-2013, 05:16 PM

The 2nd finish was orgasmic too.

bbfan1991

02-03-2013, 05:21 PM

The 2nd finish was orgasmic too.

All of them were and I liked Rooney's too. The United fans who think we should sell Rooney and believe them nonsense PSG stories are clueless IMO.

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 05:32 PM

Decent performance today and very happy for Shinji (top lad on twitter)

However why did Nani get zero playing time if he is not playing vs Real lets call a spade a spade and admit fergie hates him

Also today proved once more how much of a waste playing Wayne on the wing is and with us being at home i don't think Fergie will play him there again

Team i think Fergie will play

De Gea
Raf Evans Rio Evra
Welbeck Carrick Jones Giggs
Rooney
RVP
Playing or not playing Nani could be what wins or loses us the game and honestly if Danny or Tony start ahead of him i would not blame him for leaving in the summer

Brother Leon

02-03-2013, 05:35 PM

Yeah, our outfield MOM from the first leg starting ahead of Nani would be a shocking decision..

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 05:46 PM

Wtf yes us playing a striker ahead of our best winger who is in form at home would be shocking

lol i God that was a cringe comment why don't we take RVP out for Shinji who was MOM today and stick him behind Wayne

Facepalm

Brother Leon

02-03-2013, 05:48 PM

Yeah, because a MOTM performance against the same team away from home means nothing...

Lol @ you kiddo :)

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 05:49 PM

Regardless the team above i would be fairly happy with but lets not act like Danny playing ahead of Nani on the WING is any which way justified

Anyway good win today lets enjoy

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 05:51 PM

Again what's your point RVP missed two sitters and Rooney was useless should they be replaced????

Legend killer

02-03-2013, 08:04 PM

Felt terrible for Chico today getting Zero playing time must have been a blow to the lad. Not blaming Fergie for not starting him but zero playing time seemed a bit harsh considering he will be lucky to get any time in the next week

Brother Leon

02-03-2013, 08:05 PM

He will probably start against Chelsea I imagine.

Ryan57

03-03-2013, 08:56 AM

Great win. Kagawa's best performance in a United shirt by far. Also, Valencia looked better today. Even used his LEFT FOOT!!! to deliver a cross in the build up to the first goal.

Shame Real are in good form now. Will be a good match on Tuesday I expect.

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:26 PM

Match Report:

United 4 Norwich 0

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Mar/manchester-united-v-norwich-city-premier-league-report.aspx

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:27 PM

Some other stories from before/after the game coming up...

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:29 PM

Smalling wary of Canaries

Memories of this season’s 1-0 defeat at Norwich City are still fresh in the mind for Chris Smalling, who is wary of lightning striking twice as Manchester United host the Canaries at Old Trafford on Saturday.

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The Reds defender played a full match at Carrow Road in November but could not prevent a narrow defeat caused by Anthony Pilkington’s 60th-minute header, a goal which knocked United off the top of the table at the time and inflicted a third Barclays Premier League defeat of the campaign.

Impressively, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men have not lost in the top flight since and are currently twelve points ahead of title rivals Manchester City. Despite such admirable form, Smalling is taking nothing for granted, although he hopes to make the most of home advantage.

“I remember the Norwich away game really well,” Chris told United Review. “We had a lot of chances but couldn’t take them and they took one of their very few chances and punished us for it.

“They showed that they’re a very hard-working side and can play a lot of football as well, so we’ll definitely have to be wary. I think losing at their place was a bit of a wake-up call for us, so we’ll be firing when they come to Old Trafford.

“We fancy our chances against anybody at home, in the cup competitions or the league. It might be tight in the first half but if we keep moving the ball, most teams tire in the second half as the Old Trafford pitch is so big. We’re used to it, so more often than not we get the result we want.”

With the big Champions League game against Real Madrid just days away, Sir Alex is expected to rest a number of players against Norwich. However, any talk of complacency is wide of the mark for Smalling, who is focused and raring to go.

“Everybody’s a bit more cautious after last season, when there were only a handful of games left but we threw away eight points. We're determined to maintain the gap this time. I don’t think the manager would be too happy if we didn’t! And we’d be kicking ourselves.”

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:30 PM

Beware the Real break

Sir Alex Ferguson says his players have been working hard to ensure Real Madrid’s counter-attacking “doesn’t kill us” on Tuesday night at Old Trafford.

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The Reds host Jose Mourinho’s men in the Champions League last 16 second-leg encounter with the tie finely poised at 1-1.

United hold the slightest of advantages following Danny Welbeck’s away goal at the Bernabeu last month, but after travelling to Spain to see Real destroy Barcelona at the Nou Camp earlier this week, Sir Alex is determined to ensure his squad are fully prepared for everything Ronaldo and co throw at the Reds.

“I was shocked [by Madrid’s performance against Barcelona],” the United manager told reporters on Friday. “I thought they were magnificent I really did. They were absolutely brilliant and won well with Ronaldo, Di Maria and Ozil on the counter-attack.

“But we know that Madrid are one of the best counter-attacking teams in Europe. That is what we will be up against on Tuesday and that is why our preparations are centred around making sure their counter-attack doesn’t kill us.”

e Reds put in a highly impressive and disciplined shift in the first leg in Madrid, but the performance did not surprise Sir Alex who believes his current squad is stronger than the 1999 Treble-winning group.

“We are looking forward to all the big games knowing we have to be at our best as we were in 1999. The big difference is we have a stronger squad now than we did back then,” added Sir Alex.

“The squad is also stronger than last year, if you think about it. We have brought Robin and Kagawa in, plus the younger ones, like Welbeck and Cleverley, have got stronger and improved over the course of a season. Rafael is having an unbelievable season. De Gea is improving. I am able to make changes without them having any really bad impact now.”

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:33 PM

Boss: It was Kagawa's day

Sir Alex Ferguson acknowledged it has been a great day for Shinji Kagawa after the Japan international's hat-trick helped sink Norwich City 4-0 at Old Trafford.

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Kagawa had only scored twice for the Reds since his summer move from Borussia Dortmund but bettered that tally in one memorable afternoon with three clinical finishes past Mark Bunn.

With Wayne Rooney also getting in on the act late on with a stupendous strike, it was a great afternoon's work that sends the Reds 15 points clear of second-placed Manchester City.

"Midway through the second half, I didn’t think it would end up 4-0 as I think we were a bit ragged for that period," he told MUTV. "But, when we brought Shinji into central midfield, it made a difference to us and he ended up with a hat-trick.

"It’s brilliant for him. The lad is a good finisher and his second goal was so composed and an intelligent finish while his third was absolutely brilliantly-taken. It’s been a great day for him."

The boss has already expressed an opinion that Kagawa will be even better next season after properly bedding in, which is an exciting prospect on Saturday's evidence.

"He got that injury around October-November and was out quite a while," continued Sir Alex. "It knocked him back a bit but he’s gradually coming back and I think you’ll see a really good player next year."

Rooney also earned praise for his efforts and focus can now switch towards the huge Champions League second leg against Real Madrid in midweek.

"It’ll do him good," stated the manager. "Confidence is part of it for Wayne. He’s missed two or three games recently but he worked hard and he scored a goal which is all we need.

"All in all, we showed good spirit, we were determined and worked really hard in the match. They didn’t think about what was going to happen on Tuesday so they all contributed in that respect."

I am pleased for Shinji:), he has a bright future with United and I think once this season is done for him to settle in and adjust to United's style of play and also that of the Premier League then he will be even better next season!

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:35 PM

Robin OK for Real clash

Robin van Persie was taken off after an hour of Saturday’s 4-0 win over Norwich, but Sir Alex Ferguson insists there was nothing untoward about the Dutchman’s substitution ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League tie with Real Madrid.

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Sir Alex also revealed that Ryan Giggs will make his 1,000th appearance against Jose Mourinho’s men after resting the Welshman for the Barclays Premier League encounter with the Canaries.

Asked whether van Persie was removed as a precaution, Sir Alex told MUTV: “We agreed Robin would get an hour,” before adding that Giggs "will be involved on Tuesday. We couldn’t miss that moment for the lad. He deserves it.”

It is an interesting tactic to reward Giggs’ longevity and excellent recent form in one of the biggest games of the season. His experience could be vital in a tie that remains very much undecided.

The balance United must strike is in defending against Real’s talents on the counter-attack and being positive enough to win the tie. A 0-0 draw would take United through but Sir Alex admits that outcome is highly unlikely given the attacking inclination and traditions of both clubs.

“If I thought we’d get a clean sheet on Tuesday, we’d go through,” he said. “But I think both teams will score. I hope we score more goals than them. It’s going to be fantastic – the two greatest sides in the world. The atmosphere is going to be electric – it cannot be anything else but a great game.”

Real Madrid completed their preparations for Tuesday’s tie with a 2-1 win over rivals Barcelona. Karim Benzema struck first for Mourinho’s side before Lionel Messi levelled. Real were inspired by a second-half substitution, bringing on a certain Cristiano Ronaldo, but it was Sergio Ramos who got the headed winner. Real remain 13 points behind league leaders Barca.

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:37 PM

Vote: Man of the Match

Manchester United's routine 4-0 win over Norwich City - a result which restored the Reds' 15-point lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League - was achieved with a real team effort.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/EDBEBF20ADAA451B8768F428B68EE4B1.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,8,774,584

We've highlighted a number of individuals, however, who could be picked out as the Man of the Match, starting with the club captain, Nemanja Vidic.

Serbian skipper Vidic led from the back, dealing with the aerial threat of Grant Holt superbly throughout the game. His influence in defence was undoubtedly an important factor in stifling the visitors, particularly when they searched for an equaliser early in the second half.

Shinji Kagawa claimed three of the hosts’ four goals, in what was his finest display to date in a United shirt. The first strike came deep into the opening half, as a close-range volley gave his side the lead at the break. The Japan international regularly found space in attacking positions and profited again with 15 minutes to go, as he tapped in from Wayne Rooney’s cross. He linked with Rooney once more to seal his hat-trick late on with an exquisite dinked finish.

In the middle of the park, Michael Carrick was his usual calming influence for United, allowing the hosts to enjoy good spells of possession. He did the simple things well and rarely put a foot wrong, as Chris Hughton’s side were outplayed in midfield.

Wayne Rooney is the next on our list. After setting up two goals for Kagawa, he scored himself with a spectacular 20-yard strike in second-half stoppage time to add insult to injury for Norwich. He didn’t run himself into the ground as we have become accustomed to, as United kept one eye on Real Madrid, but was massively effective nonetheless.

The final candidate is Patrice Evra. His hard work at both ends ensured that he would be a constant thorn in Norwich’s side. The Frenchman had a relatively quiet first half, but shone as United broke forward more often in the second period.

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fanzone/Competition-And-Polls/Poll.aspx?id={BE73BE22-5207-458B-9CF8-F7B34B52CB3E}

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:38 PM

Ronaldo return is 'false hope'

Sir Alex Ferguson has shot down press speculation suggesting United are making progress in a bid to set up a sensational return for Cristiano Ronaldo.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/5D472696CF7F445C8FB2F0CAF1598832.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,82,592,523

Rumours have been rife that the Portugal international could decide against signing a new contract at Real Madrid but the boss has previously insisted it is extremely unlikely that his next move would be back to Old Trafford.

"I don’t think there’s anything as far as I’m aware to encourage me that he’d come back here," reiterated Sir Alex. "I don’t think there’s anything in that at all.

"I think he’s got two years left on his contract and it could be a lot to do with the fact that negotiations are ongoing for a new contract. But it’s false hope [for anybody expecting Ronaldo to return]."

Nonetheless, the Real star is still guaranteed a great ovation on Tuesday, at least prior to kick-off, before the serious business of qualifying in the Champions League takes priority.

"He’ll get a good reception," predicted the manager. "All our former players who come back, who have been great players, get a good reception. I’ve seen that all the time. I think, at the start of the game, he’ll get that."

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:40 PM

Sir Alex: No place like Old Trafford

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United fans are capable of producing an atmosphere to rival the very best in world football.

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The Reds host Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 second leg on Tuesday night, having returned from Spain last month with a very credible 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu. Now, the United boss is expecting the two sides to meet again at United’s home against a backdrop of colour and noise.

“It was a good result for us in Madrid,” Sir Alex said. “We scored the away goal and that means we flew back to Manchester feeling positive.

“What it does is ensure that Old Trafford will be absolutely fantastic for the return leg. There’s a guaranteed great atmosphere that night, and I always feel that on special occasions there’s no better place to be.”

Certainly, Old Trafford was rocking the last time Spanish opposition, Barcelona, arrived in Manchester for a Champions League knockout tie. That was in April 2008, a night many fans and players still recall fondly.

Rio Ferdinand remembers United were “under a lot of pressure” that night, but insists “the noise the crowd made was incredible and they really drove us on”. The same sort of support may be required again on Tuesday evening for a match many are calling the Reds' biggest fixture for several years.

Spot on:worship::cool::):amazed::thumbs:,

bbfan1991

03-03-2013, 12:42 PM

Rooney praises Reds approach

Wayne Rooney praised Manchester United's professionalism in seeing off Norwich City and prioritising three league points ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/5F10DF62A13541C68790CB084812E4AD.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,17,770,303

Shinji Kagawa's hat-trick helped the Reds towards an eventually-emphatic 4-0 win, and having also chipped in with a goal, Wayne stated that team selection was an important factor on Saturday.

“It was a massive game for us, we wanted to extend the lead at the top of the league," Rooney told MUTV.

"I’m sure you can see by the team the manager picked, he put a lot of experienced players out and made us aware that the Norwich match was more important than the game on Tuesday. So, it was a good professional job and a well-deserved win.”

United came up against a stubborn Norwich defence in the first half, but broke the deadlock moments before the break through Kagawa’s close-range volley. Rooney thinks the opener was vital, and was full of praise for his team-mate.

“I think that [goal before half time] virtually created all the space we got in the second half, because we knew sooner or later Norwich would be back to try to have a go at us and try to get a goal back. So, to get that goal at the end of the first half was vital for us.

“He [Kagawa] was fantastic, he keeps putting himself in positions where he can maybe get a shot at goal or play someone in. If you can see him and pick him out, he’s cool with his finishes as well. He works hard and he’s a good team player, and we’re all delighted that he got the three goals.”

Rooney compounded the visitors' misery in the closing moments of the match by firing a fantastic 25-yard effort past Mark Bunn in the Norwich goal. Naturally the striker was delighted to get on the scoresheet.

“Yeah it’s always nice to score, and in injury time right at the end of the game it was great to get that goal. I think overall it was a good performance."

As well as boosting the goals-for column by four, United claimed a fourth consecutive clean sheet, a feat Wayne believes is vital going into Tuesday’s second-leg against Real.

“Early on in the season we were conceding too many goals," admitted Rooney.

"We seemed to have coped with that, we’re not conceding and we’re scoring goals so we’re in a great position at the minute. So, hopefully we can continue for Tuesday.

"Obviously it [United vs Real Madrid] is two of the biggest clubs in the world, so it will be an exciting night, we’re all looking forward to it. Three points against Norwich were vital to put us in good spirits for the game on Tuesday.”