Manchester United Fan Club [Archive] - Page 11 - ThisisBigBrother.com

Legend killer

06-03-2013, 02:21 PM

Firstly LOL at Madrid being better they did not even have a fuken shot before Nani was sent off while we had at least a handful of GREAT chances

Guys I just wanted to say that was the most proud I have been of a United team in a LONG time until Nani got sent off Madrid were as dangerous as Norwich a couple of days earlier.

My personal ratings for the game

De Gea 6 Did nothing wrong or good made a decent save from Ronnie but had nothing major to do nothing he could do about either goal

Raf 10 Was AMAZING going forward and had Ronnie in his pocket was utterly spent went he came off

Rio 10

Vidic 10

EVRA 10 Have ripped Patrice in the past but was a black version of Raf last night

Nani 9 Not as good as the major heroes but was constantly a threat created the goal and worked hard defensively

CARRICK 10 Will never be Keane but should go down as a United Legend dominated the midfield

Cleverly 9 Very good has earned his place in the team not as good as Michael

Giggs 10 Like Patrice have Ripped Giggs ( notice epic performance on the wing not centre) but he shut me up. Had his usual misplaced passes in the first half which he sorted out in the second BUT his workrate at his age was just something else + him pumping the fans up was emotional

Danny 9.75 GUY was fuken epic ( notice again in the centre not out wide) everything but his finishing was WORLD CLASS but the finishing is now becoming a massive problem so I can't give him a 10

RVP 8 Was not as good as Danny in any area and his finishing was not up to scratch when we needed it for the price we paid for him is not acceptable OWES the team a big game vs Chelsea on Sunday

FERGIE 10 Tactics were SPOT ON abused Jose in an area I though Jose was the king at and had the balls not to let Wayne stink the place up on the wings

Jesus.

06-03-2013, 03:07 PM

If all the players are hitting pretty much 10 out of 10's, then I'm surprised you couldn't have gone down to 8 men and still won. Madrid were full of 6's.

Legend killer

06-03-2013, 03:19 PM

If all the players are hitting pretty much 10 out of 10's, then I'm surprised you couldn't have gone down to 8 men and still won. Madrid were full of 6's.

http://i.imgur.com/hSsUZ.gif

This ain't Fifa son

Ryan57

06-03-2013, 06:18 PM

http://i.imgur.com/hSsUZ.gif

This ain't Fifa son

I'm surprised you used a Cheryl gif, LK. :hugesmile:

That said, she is still http://pictures3.ebuddy.com/emotions/A/a/R/AaRakcR90PEP4KDwCIJQYKzs.png.

the truth

06-03-2013, 08:56 PM

dont get me wrong that was an epic occasion and fantastic performance. and if the ref hadnt had a brain fart man utd would probably have won....my reason for saying madrid had the edge was their poessession play usually leads to chances in the second half of most matches plus their strikeforce. modric is class, so is ozil and kaka and higuain is a nuisance, ronnie is very special.....however the keeper was the mom he made several amazing saves
for man u , defensively superb until the sending off....wellbeck was immense, nani had a great game up to that point, giggs terrific, rvp missed a few sadly

so is this ref saying that anytime a player tries to kick a ball thats in the air he will be sent off? madness......havent the refs got some kind of discretion?

Brother Leon

06-03-2013, 09:16 PM

We played them perfectly tactically. Ozil and Alonson were made to be irrelevant and despite the goal Ronaldo just wasn't into it and was handled well by Rafa and Giggs. Who knows what would of happened, but I am fairly sure without the Red we would of probably scored a 2nd before they scored.

the truth

06-03-2013, 09:39 PM

Legend killer

06-03-2013, 11:06 PM

I'm surprised you used a Cheryl gif, LK. :hugesmile:

That said, she is still http://pictures3.ebuddy.com/emotions/A/a/R/AaRakcR90PEP4KDwCIJQYKzs.png.

Fuken hate that woman Ryan. Obviously I would smash but I would make sure she got not an ounce of enjoyment out of it. Would go in dry and aim the money shot straight in her eyes

Damm that looks a lot more rape like written down

Ryan57

07-03-2013, 08:47 AM

Fuken hate that woman Ryan. Obviously I would smash but I would make sure she got not an ounce of enjoyment out of it. Would go in dry and aim the money shot straight in her eyes

Damm that looks a lot more rape like written down

Not a fan of that accent myself. And that new tattoo looks ridiculous. However, in the face, there's not many more good looking in the showbiz world imo.

We played them perfectly tactically. Ozil and Alonson were made to be irrelevant and despite the goal Ronaldo just wasn't into it and was handled well by Rafa and Giggs. Who knows what would of happened, but I am fairly sure without the Red we would of probably scored a 2nd before they scored.

Agreed. I think we'd of scored a second and definitely won.

Jesus.

07-03-2013, 08:54 AM

Bug-hnPxFaY

bbfan1991

08-03-2013, 05:15 PM

I am over the Real Madrid loss now, although that decision and the Referee did annoy me because tactically United's gameplan was working until it all happened but Madrid might have equalised if the ref did not send Nani off in that scenario.

Now to focus on the Chelsea game at Old Trafford and I really hope we can beat them to make it to the FA Cup Semi Final, it has been a long time since United last won the FA Cup and hopefully we will manage to win it this year!

bbfan1991

08-03-2013, 05:20 PM

Boss quashes Rooney rumours

Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed widespread speculation that Wayne Rooney could leave Manchester United in the summer.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/BA27B01AA3454B40BCF256BC3A131B78.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,21,550,225

The boss came out fighting in his first address to the media since the controversial Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid in midweek and set the record straight regarding the England striker.

After being benched for the European tie, Rooney will feature against Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-final on Sunday and there are no issues between the pair.

"The Wayne Rooney issue first?" he asked at the start of his press conference. "Or do you want to talk sense?

"The issue you're all going on about in the papers is absolute rubbish. I've banned two papers from the press conference and they won't get back in here until they apologise. There is absolutely no issue between Wayne Rooney and I. To suggest we don't talk to each other on the training ground is absolute nonsense.

"He understood the reasons for not playing him and that was completely tactical. And I think I was right. We don't always get it right but I think we did get it right. Danny Welbeck is the best player we have in terms of operating in a double role. We had to choke Xabi Alonso's ability to control the game, which Danny did, and that took away Alonso's control of the game and his ability to go further forward and be an attacking player. We don't always get it right but we definitely did on Tuesday."

The manager was also clear that there is no truth in the reports linking Rooney with a big-money exit during the close season.

"Wayne will be here next year," he promised. "You have my word on that. I have no issues at all with the player and he'll be involved on Sunday."

I know SAF has said one thing and done the opposite before, but he seems genuinely pissed off at these nonsense press stories and it was the Daily Mail and The Independent that got banned:D.

I was always confident these stories were not true, although due to the contract saga etc some United fans had doubts.

Tactically I think it was a good call though because Giggs got the nod due to his record appearance thing and was in great form, plus Danny Welbeck was chosen to try and keep the threat of Xabi Alonso out of the game, which he did and had good energy levels tracking him so SAF felt that Rooney did not suit that particular role in the game!

Legend killer

08-03-2013, 06:14 PM

The loss sill hurts with Barca practically out I would fancy us against EVERY other team left

Ryan57

08-03-2013, 06:19 PM

The loss sill hurts with Barca practically out I would fancy us against EVERY other team left

Yeah, that's what made it hurt even more. If Barca go out I reckon we could of won it. That said, I still think we would stand a chance against Barca.

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:25 PM

United v Chelsea preview

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/manchester-united-v-chelsea-preview.aspx

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:27 PM

Rafael wins goal award

Rafael's stunning strike at QPR was the clear winner of the February Goal of the Month award, as voted by ManUtd.com readers and MUTV viewers.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/217886583B964308B56D7954CC965A6B.ashx

The Brazilian has been challenged by Sir Alex Ferguson to double his current tally of three strikes before the season is out. "I have told him if he manages six by the end of the season, I'll give him £50 for a new haircut!" the boss wrote in United Review.

However, it has been quality over quantity for the outstanding full-back, who also won this accolade back in September for his belter at Liverpool.

Rafael's howitzer past fellow countryman Julio Cesar collected a massive 93 per cent of the vote, well clear of second-placed Wayne Rooney's winner at Fulham and Nani's effort against Reading, which came third.

Thanks to everyone who voted on our websites - one of the voters, selected at random, wins a United shirt signed by Rafael. Congratulations to Lukasz Lipinski from Poland.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/rafael-wins-manchester-united-goal-of-the-month-for-february-2013.aspx

Congratulations to Rafael, well deserved:).

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:28 PM

Giggs wins Real accolade

Ryan Giggs was voted the ManUtd.com Man of the Match for his display against Real Madrid in midweek.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/23B373BB96704E93920E1F44D5827D10.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,2,600,448

The Welshman produced an exceptional performance and was tireless in defeat, urging on colleagues and fans alike with his actions on the field. It's fair to say he looked the fittest player on the pitch despite being the oldest at 39.

Sir Alex Ferguson stated at his press conference on Friday: "Ryan Giggs won't play on Sunday. Why? Because he was the best player we had and we know how to look after him."

Giggs polled 46 per cent of the vote to finish well clear of the other three candidates. Skipper Nemanja Vidic just edged Danny Welbeck into third spot with Rafael in fourth despite also receiving plenty of support.

Well done Giggsy:).

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:30 PM

Boss: Lopez was the difference

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Real Madrid goalkeeper Diego Lopez “saved” the Spanish side from a Champions League exit.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/CBCD5ADAA00743518FF45D49370E87C2.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,11,763,294

Lopez, only playing due to an injury to regular no.1 Iker Casillas, made a string of superb stops to deny Manchester United in Tuesday night’s clash at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the media for the first time since that disappointing evening, Sir Alex revealed he’d have preferred Casillas to have been fit.

“He wouldn’t have saved the shots that the boy Lopez did,” the manager said. “Going out to Danny Welbeck in the first half, going down at Robin van Persie’s feet, coming out and whacking Nemanja Vidic in the head... Casillas isn’t that type of goalkeeper and I think Lopez saved them.”

Assistant manager Mick Phelan spoke of a “distraught” dressing room on Tuesday night, but Sir Alex is confident the Reds will bounce back to winning ways when Chelsea visit Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon.

“We have a job to do on Sunday and I think we’ll do that okay. We’ve gone through this procedure many times. When you’re at a club for a long time there are always damp moments and dark days. In general we recover very well and we’ll do that again.”

I agree with SAF. Diego Lopez had a very good game for Real Madrid, although United cannot dwell over that result now and the focus goes on to the Chelsea game. I hope we respond back very well!

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:31 PM

Sir Alex: We were in shock

Sir Alex Ferguson has analysed Manchester United's Champions League exit to Real Madrid in an exclusive interview on MUTV - and explained why his players were undone by two goals in quick succession.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/BBB1CCA21E454EBC9EBDCA39368890BC.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,54,600,499

Nani's dismissal obviously had a bearing on the course of the tie but questions were still asked about how the Reds' 10 men were unable to hold out for longer against a side that went full throttle after the introduction of Luka Modric as a substitute.

The manager has his own theory on what went wrong, apart from referee Cuneyt Cakir's controversial decision, but he finds it difficult to blame his players, who finished the game strongly despite the numerical disadvantage.

Sir Alex said on Countdown to Kick-Off: "Let's be honest, it was hard to take, when you think about all the work that was done in terms of preparation for both legs. The players' performance level was fantastic. The support was unbelievable. We didn't deserve that and it's a fact.

"You just couldn't believe it [the red card]. Quite astonishing. I think, in general, we know it was the wrong decision. I think, after looking at the game again a few times, the players were shocked.

"They couldn't recover from it until we lost the second goal and then they galvanised themselves and were fantastic in the last 15 minutes of the match. They were absolutely brilliant and we could've scored five goals. It was a fantastic performance by the players with 10 men but, in that period after the sending off, they played in shock.

"Knowing we'd had a bad decision against us again, we couldn't get going for 10 minutes. Their legs went to water. That cost us. It really did. If it was a justified sending off, in our eyes, it'd have been okay because it was an absolutely brilliant performance tactically. They never made a chance so I think we'd have got through the game."

Much has been made of Sir Alex's team selection but there is no disputing the fact that his tactics were working perfectly - in both legs.

"Our analysis of Real was perfect with exactly all the qualities all the players have. We made sure we were going to be a problem for them.

"Playing Ryan Giggs in off the right-hand side gave the left-back a big problem, whether he should push in or stick and protect the area because Rafael was hunting that space all the time. And Nani's performance in wide left against the boy [Alvaro] Arbeloa was terrific."

bbfan1991

09-03-2013, 03:34 PM

Young: We'll bounce back

Ashley Young believes it is to United's benefit that the next fixture is another big one - with Chelsea coming to Old Trafford for Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final tie.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/1C0F3A0304924E089D7A7B5A16A1C6FD.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,2465,1833

The England winger will hope to start after coming off the bench during the Champions League exit to Real Madrid and confidence remains high despite the defeat with 10 men.

"Of course we were disappointed in midweek," explained Young. "But the club has bounced back many times and that is what we will be looking to do on Sunday. It is a big game but it is a chance to get further in the FA Cup. That is exactly what we are looking to do. We are looking to bounce back and I think you will see that on Sunday.

"Obviously, when you have a disappointment like we had the other night you want to get the next game straight away. We know it is another massive game and everybody will be fired up for the game on Sunday. That would have been the case whether it was league or cup. Everybody wants to get back to winning ways. That is what we are looking forward to doing."

Young appreciates that it will be another special occasion in front of the Manchester public with the aim to make the semi-finals at Wembley.

"When you are playing one of the top four, the intensity is going to be higher than normal," he opined. "The intensity will be even greater with it being the FA Cup. We have to go into the game full of confidence with the way we have been playing.

"In midweek, the boys were fantastic. It was a disappointing result but we have to move on from that. I am sure if everyone is concentrating and fully focused, we can get ourselves into the next round."

Chelsea will provide a formidable barrier considering their recent record in the competition and the fact that they are the current holders. However, the Blues also lost in Europe in midweek - to Steaua Bucharest.

"The travelling to Romania and back could play in our favour but we are not concentrating on them and how many miles they have been travelling," insisted Young. "We concentrate on ourselves and getting back to winning ways. We want to get through this round and get ourselves to Wembley in the FA Cup final."

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 01:45 PM

Boss ponders XI for Chelsea tie

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he has a number of selection issues to resolve ahead of Manchester United’s FA Cup quarter-final with Chelsea on Sunday afternoon.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/6DB25557A732472198B8F5F15E707BC6.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,106,579,538

With a wealth of internationals all vying for starting places, the boss needs to make some difficult decisions after leaving recent goalscorers Shinji Kagawa and Wayne Rooney out of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League defeat to Real Madrid

Of course, Mexican striker Javier Hernandez did not feature either and could return against the Blues, a team he has netted six times against in nine outings – most recently during this season’s previous two trips to Stamford Bridge in the Barclays Premier League and Capital One Cup.

“We’ve got to prepare and we’ve got a big squad, so I’ve got to make sure I pick the right team bearing in mind who our opponents are,” Sir Alex explains.

“I’ve got an issue in that Shinji scored a hat-trick against Norwich and then did not play on Tuesday. I think he and Wazza (Rooney) are both best at playing that role behind the main striker. We’ve also got Chicharito, whose goals record against Chelsea is unbelievable. So I’ve got a lot of these issues.

“At the back, Evans is fit again. He was a bit of a doubt as he had a rick in his neck before the Real game but he was okay on Tuesday. The combination of Vidic and Ferdinand was fantastic but I’ve got to think whether I should bring Evans in. I’ve got a few issues to contend with when picking the team.”

Speaking specifically about Hernandez and Evans, two players who have consistently delivered the goods whenever called upon this season, Sir Alex is apologetic about not featuring either in the Real Madrid match.

“Do you think it’s easy leaving Chicharito out? He’s scored 15 goals and every time he comes on, he does a job for me. I can’t keep knocking him down all the time. Evans has probably been our best defender all season and I left him out on Tuesday. It’s disappointing to leave good players out.”

Having been knocked out of Europe in controversial circumstances during the week, the boss feels a quarter-final meeting with Chelsea is the perfect platform for a positive reaction, knowing that victory would move the Reds closer to a first FA Cup triumph since 2004.

“Big games are always good,” Sir Alex states. “It’s a quarter-final and an opportunity to get to the semis, and hopefully the final. I think we’re looking at opponents in the cup you’d have to regard as the hardest ones, you know, in the context of the FA Cup.

“Over the last few years, we keep getting Premier League teams. We got them all the way through in the Treble year and we had Chelsea then. We won 2-0 down there in the replay when Dwight Yorke scored two goals.

“It won’t be an easy game. It’s a cup tie and Chelsea's FA Cup record is the best in the country in the last decade so we’ve got a job to do but I’m quite confident we’ll be alright.”

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 01:49 PM

Nani: This is my time

Manchester United winger Nani is determined to make his mark on the club's bid for the Double after the disappointment against Real Madrid in midweek.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/2A0F8D28FFBC4EEBB606B899BE696ADB.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=96,0,522,638

The Portugal international was the victim of a controversial red card that turned the Champions League tie in Real's favour but is hoping for more chances to impress during the run-in. Following a man-of-the-match display in the previous FA Cup round against Reading, Nani is keen to continue the march towards Wembley with a starring role in this afternoon's clash with Chelsea.

"I’d been working hard until that point, waiting for an opportunity, so when it came I was determined to make the most of it," Nani told United Review. "Against Reading, I scored a goal and I provided an assist so it was a brilliant night for me.

"Now my confidence is high and I think the best is still to come from me. This is my time and I think I can be important for the team in these big games. Because I was injured for two months, it means I’m fresh now when some other players are starting to get tired.

"I feel I’m in good form and I’ve nearly arrived at my peak. I think over the next few games I can surprise a few people.

"I want to show the manager that he can trust me and he can believe in me in every match. I want to show him my contribution can help win games. So I’ll keep working hard to make sure I’m ready to respond every time I get a chance."

Bang on and I think the club/fans have rallied around him after that red card:, so that will make him more determined to do his best:).

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 01:52 PM

Live: United v Chelsea

Manchester United take on Chelsea at Old Trafford in the FA Cup sixth round on Sunday 10 March (KO 16:30 GMT).

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/F4B0529319494404A167D9E664E4B35E.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,76,1000,447

Come on United later:):devil:. I hope we win and to positively respond to the disappointment in the week!

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 01:55 PM

Wayne Rooney to get new Man Utd deal - Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson says Wayne Rooney will be given a new contract to extend his stay at Manchester United.

Last week Ferguson insisted there was no way Rooney will be allowed to leave the club this summer despite not starting the 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid.

Rooney's current deal expires in 2015 but Ferguson has no concerns.

"There's no issue with his contract. When it has to be renegotiated it will be done," Ferguson told the Sunday newspapers.

"We don't want good players to leave."

:)

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 03:44 PM

United team to play Chelsea: De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra. Nani, Carrick, Cleverley, Kagawa, Rooney, Hernandez.

Bench: Amos, Van Persie, Valencia, Anderson, Vidic, Young, Welbeck.

Good team and bench:).

bbfan1991

10-03-2013, 06:28 PM

A replay it is then at Stamford Bridge. United threw away our two goal lead through no fault of our own and Chelsea became confident once they brought Ramires/Hazard on and got their first goal.

The United second half performance was dire:bored:.

Legend killer

10-03-2013, 06:31 PM

Where do I start with that joke of a performance??? After the heroics of mid-week they come out with that tripe

Rooney - TOTALLY useless and has been pretty much all season. Cannot pass the ball or run past a player and managed to **** up a easy chance for 3-0. Shinji and Chico went off ahead of that tripe

Cleverly - WTF was that left Carrick by himself n the middle and could not make a simple 1 yard pass

Tony V - Would struggle to get a game in the conference. As SOON as he came on out football just stopped. If not given the ball away just stops does a U-tURN and kills all momentum. Wearing the number 7 shirt ISTHISREALLIFE.GIF

Evra - Don't know if he was tired but that performance was class of 2010-12 performance bloody rubbish

Carrick and Rio the only outfield players who should hold there head high after that

Brother Leon

10-03-2013, 06:51 PM

Valencia is depressing to watch. Fergie should of put Young on.

Legend killer

10-03-2013, 07:15 PM

Tony's performance was the worst I have EVER seen no exaggeration would rather have Bebe out there

But let's not act like Wayne was nearly as bad if that is even possible. We are prepared to reward his utter rubbish play with a new deal yet won't give Nani the extra 10-20k he want and deserves.

Also I have said it before but RVP is no RVN.

Legend killer

10-03-2013, 07:16 PM

Dat save by De Gea at the end gave me the biggest boner though

Ryan57

10-03-2013, 08:01 PM

To be honest, it's harsh to pick out anyone player imo. They were all 'effin w@nk in that second half.
I know this could well be a bit hypocritical, xD, but Evra jogging back pis-sed me off so so much. Totally at fault for Ramires' goal. Then he went and did it again. That said, as I said before, everyone was sh-it.

Worst half of football we've played all season.

I think at times Valencia was trying too hard, but also at times awful. However, he saved us at the end with that intervention on Cole.

Brilliant save from De Gea as mentioned from Mata.

the truth

11-03-2013, 01:44 AM

as time goes by, everyone will look back and realise how irreplacable giggs is....his class skill coolness and vision were again massively missed.....the closest they have to replace him his nani, whereas valencia needs a one way ticket to the championship

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:34 PM

Report: United 2 Chelsea 2

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

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:35 PM

City await replay winners

Manchester United and Manchester City will face each other in an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley should Sir Alex's men beat Chelsea in a sixth-round replay.

The Reds and Chelsea drew 2-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday in a breathless fixture full of scoring chances.

A replay is now required at Stamford Bridge (date to be confirmed), with the winner due to face Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on the weekend of 13/14 April.

Should United progress, it will be a repeat of the 2011 FA Cup semi-final, when City beat the Reds 1-0.

The other semi-final tie will feature Millwall or Blackburn Rovers - who drew 0-0 in Sunday's earlier match - against Wigan Athletic, the surprise 3-0 victors at Everton on Saturday.

I knew it! Hopefully we will win the replay...

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:37 PM

Sir Alex: Fatigue a factor

Sir Alex Ferguson felt fatigue was a factor in Manchester United's failure to take a guaranteed FA Cup semi-final place from a winning position against Chelsea.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/3F7F21B047CC4E12BDC1B78499EE8C1F.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,715,536

The Reds were deservedly 2-0 up at half-time in Sunday's quarter-final clash and looked all set for a Wembley date in April. But an injury to Nani just before the break was the beginning of a bad conclusion to the match as Rafael Benitez's side came back to level at 2-2 and threatened on several occasions to win the tie at the first time of asking.

"We're lucky to still be in the cup," Sir Alex admitted on MUTV. "We just ran out of legs and Chelsea were far the better team in the second half. But I can't be critical of my side because the running they had to do on Tuesday night, against a really top side in Real Madrid, had its bearing on today's result, no doubt about that.

"The two full-backs, Rafael and Patrice [Evra], are knackered and the two central midfielders tired badly. We kept giving the ball away and it made it a long day for us, going from one penalty box and back to our own."

Few observers would have expected a replay after seeing Javier Hernandez and then Wayne Rooney add to their growing collections of goals against Chelsea, and the Reds might have been even further in front with a bit more fortune.

"We could have been 4-0 up in the first 25 minutes of the match," remarked Sir Alex. "The two strikers' goalscoring has been great this year - that’s Wayne on 15 now for the season and Chicharito on 16. But I think we needed that lead because I could detect towards the end of the first half that the players' legs were starting to go."

Chelsea substitute Eden Hazard was the first player to pull a goal back for the Blues, but the United boss did not feel their personnel changes had as much bearing on the game as his own players' problems.

"They [Chelsea] may think that [they changed the game]. If you make substitutions and they work for you, it’s easy to say that. But to be honest with you, I just thought we were running out of legs.

"I detected some tiredness because the players kept giving the ball away. When you see teams giving the ball away as we were doing then you have to understand why. I think the emotions and the intensity of Tuesday took their toll on some of the players, understandably. I've no problems with that but certainly they did feel it in the second half."

Ramires went on to score Chelsea's equaliser and there would have been a winner for the visitors had David De Gea not saved Juan Mata's goalbound effort with an outstretched foot in the 90th minute.

Sir Alex said: "It was a terrific save at an important time because if they'd scored it we would have been out, no doubt about that."

The Reds will instead have a second chance to reach the semi-finals, with a forthcoming replay at Stamford Bridge where United won in the league earlier in the season but lost in the Capital One Cup after extra-time.

"The replay is not a problem for us," insisted the manager. "We’ve got plenty of time for it as we have no European games. I don't know when it's going to be played mind you, probably May because we've got the international break coming up! But the only thing we can say is we're still in the cup."

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:38 PM

Rio: We were careless

Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United should have killed off the game long before Chelsea clawed their way back into Sunday's FA Cup sixth round tie.

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The Reds were 2-0 up after just 11 minutes but ended the game hanging on and grateful for David De Gea, who made a brilliant late save to deny Juan Mata from close range.

Ferdinand, who was terrific for long periods in the heart of United's defence, was visibly frustrated during his post-match interview with MUTV, claiming Chelsea should never have been allowed back into the game.

"We're disappointed, especially after the way we played in the first half," he said. "We should have put the game out of sight. In the second half we gave them the impetus to go on and get back into the game.

"David made a great save at the end to keep us in the game and the tie. We should have finished the game off in the first half, though. Had we done that we wouldn't be talking about any saves at the end of the game.

"The frustrating thing is that the attacking play in the first half will get overshadowed now and nobody will talk about it. We'll probably talk more about how we finished the game, which wasn't on a good note.

"We were playing some great football but we were also careless at times. At this level, if you're careless you'll get punished. Today that was the case."

Indeed, Sir Alex told MUTV he thought United were "lucky" to still be in the FA Cup following Sunday's second-half performance. The boss believes last Tuesday's Champions League tie against Real Madrid took its toll on some of his players, who looked "knackered" against Chelsea.

"I think you could see it in a few of the guys' legs," Rio agreed. "As the game stretched and became more open there were a couple of tired legs out there. But that's no excuse. We should have had the game sewn up well before then.

"We're still in the FA Cup, though, and Wembley's there, waiting for either us or Chelsea to go through. Hopefully it's us.

"We're confident [we can win the replay]. We have the tools and the players to win at Stamford Bridge. We've been there this season and done very well. With the squad we've got we don't fear going anywhere."

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:40 PM

Nani injury not serious

Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful that Nani will be back on the pitch sooner rather than later, after missing the second half of Sunday's clash with Chelsea.

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The Portuguese winger picked up an injury just before half-time, when United were leading 2-0 and pressing for what might have been a killer third goal. He played no further part in the match and could only watch as the visitors rallied to force a replay.

Sir Alex told MUTV: "Nani got a little hamstring injury. I don't think it's too serious but nonetheless he had to come off."

It was the second time in a week, of course, that Nani had to leave the field prematurely when the Reds were winning. And while there was no numerical disadvantage on Sunday, with Antonio Valencia coming on as a substitute, we'll never know if Nani could have affected the outcome after his recent return to form.

"That was a blow to us because Nani was playing very well at the time," admitted Sir Alex.

Nani himself had told Sunday's edition of United Review, the official match programme, that his "confidence is high." He added: "This is my time and I think I can be important for the team in these big games. I feel I’m in good form and I’ve nearly arrived at my peak. I think over the next few games I can surprise a few people."

Glad to hear that, the poor guy is having no luck at the moment:(.

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:42 PM

Loans: Joyce praises Fabio

Warren Joyce is delighted with Fabio’s progress at Queens Park Rangers and claims “there’s not a lot” between the Brazilian full-back and twin brother Rafael.

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The less-experienced Da Silva sibling is on loan at Loftus Road this season and has featured heavily since the New Year, most recently helping Harry Redknapp’s side record an invaluable 3-1 win over Sunderland in the Barclays Premier League.

That victory, a second in as many games, hands QPR a fighting chance of survival and Reserves manager Joyce hopes Fabio can impress further throughout the remainder of the campaign.

“Fabio has established himself in the team at QPR now and looks up for a huge fight and the big test there,” Joyce told United Review. “I just hope Fabio has a run of games.

“His brother Rafael has done fantastically well this year but there’s not a lot between them. You could argue who is the best player but Fabio just needs a run of games to prove that. Hopefully, he will get that during the run-in and it will stand him in good stead when he gets back to United.”

Elsewhere, Wilfried Zaha was forced to apologise for a gesture made towards Leeds fans after he was taunted about his impending transfer to United during Crystal Palace’s 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park in the Championship.

The 20-year-old took to the social networking site Twitter to say sorry for his actions, writing: "I want to apologise for the gesture I did towards the Leeds fans in yesterday's game. Very unprofessional from me.”

In the FA Cup, Ryan Tunnicliffe endured a day to forget as Barnsley were thrashed 5-0 by Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The Reds midfielder was yellow carded but almost scored when a late effort was denied by Costel Pantilimon.

Michael Keane played another full match for Leicester City but was unable to prevent his side losing 1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday at the King Power Stadium. Defeat dents the Foxes’ automatic promotion hopes, leaving them in fifth place and eight points short of top two.

There was an opportunity for United teammates to face each other at the weekend as Peterborough took on Ipswich at London Road, but disappointingly, neither Davide Petrucci, Reece Brown or were involved in the goalless draw.

In Portugal, Bebe started for Rio Ave in their 1-1 draw with Nacional, playing for 63 minutes before being exiting for Alex Rodriguez. Over in Belgium, Luke Giverin played a full match as Royal Antwerp sealed a 2-0 win over Sint-Niklaas in the Second Division.

John Cofie was an unused substitute as Notts County drew 0-0 at Crawley Town in League One while Kiko Macheda made a second half cameo as Stuttgart lost 1-0 to Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga, making his fifth appearance since joining on loan earlier this year.

Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute as Wigan Athletic caused a massive upset in the FA Cup by beating Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park. The Chilean striker joined the Latics in January and has scored one goal from just five appearances in all competitions.

I can't wait to see Fabio back at United next season because now he is getting game time on his QPR loan spell he is improving his all round game:).

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:46 PM

Carrick relishes Bridge replay

Despite the mixed emotions of United's FA Cup quarter-final draw with Chelsea, Michael Carrick insists the Reds are ready to overcome the Blues at Stamford Bridge.

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The England midfielder shone as United forged ahead early on, only for Rafael Benitez's side to roar back after the break and set up a replay for the right to reach Wembley.

"Of course we'll go there positive because it's in our nature," Carrick told MUTV. "We go there believing we can win. It's a tough place to go because they're a good team, but it's a one-off and the FA Cup can throw up some classic games. Hopefully we'll be on the right end of it next time."

Manchester City await the winners of the replay in next month's semi-final, completing a road to Wembley lined all the way by Premier League opposition, should the Reds progress past Chelsea. Nevertheless, Carrick is unperturbed by the rough route United have taken so far in this season's competition, conceding: "That's the way it is.

"If we'd beaten Chelsea then we'd have to play City in the final or the semi-final, so it's just the nature of the competition: you've got to beat everyone and that's what's ahead of us."

The manner of Chelsea's fightback at Old Trafford left United clinging on, and Carrick admitted that a replay is by no means the worst outcome for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

"We've mixed emotions in some respects," he said. "We're completely disappointed, from the position we were in, not to finish it off - there are no excuses for that - but at the end we could be out of the competition with the opportunities they had, especially the save David made from Mata.

"David has stepped up there at a big time in the tie and kept us in it. We can be very thankful for that because we could have been out of the cup. It just shows his quality. When you need him, he's there. We're taking the positives, really: we're still in the cup, we've got another chance at it so we move on."

Well said Michael Carrick:). He has been amazing for United this season!

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:49 PM

I do agree that United look tired vs Chelsea, but it is our fault that we allowed them back into the game and conceded two goals.

We were poor in the second half and were very sloppy in Midfield, which I hope Sir Alex Ferguson strengthens in the Summer to make our team more stronger.

David De Gea made some very important saves and particularly the one at the end, fair play to him.

I don't know what has happened to Antonio Valencia, but he has had a disappointing season. I like him and will keep the faith that he hopefully gets back to top form at some point.

The lads have a few days to rest and train now before the Reading match on Saturday!

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:50 PM

De Gea earns MOTM award

David De Gea's last-gasp save from Juan Mata didn't just keep United in the FA Cup, it went a long way to earning him the ManUtd.com Man of the Match prize.

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The Spanish stopper's outstretched foot ensured his countryman's effort dropped wide of the far post instead of inside it and ensured the Reds remained in the Cup having been pegged by Chelsea at Old Trafford.

De Gea received an impressive 67% of the votes in our online poll, easily securing him our Man of the Match accolade.

Michael Carrick was second with 17%, while Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans finished in third and fourth spots respectively.

Congratulations to David De Gea:):worship:.

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 08:53 PM

Sir Bobby Charlton has insisted Wayne Rooney remains a 'great player' and will stay at Manchester United next season.

The England striker, 27, has been linked with a summer move to Bayern Munich, despite Sir Alex Ferguson’s promise Rooney will remain a United player beyond the summer.

Franz Beckenbauer, honorary president of the German club, said he would be 'very, very happy if Wayne Rooney decided to come to Bayern Munich', but Charlton described the speculation as 'premature'.

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Speaking ahead of the Laureus World Sport awards in Rio de Janeiro, Charlton said: 'Wayne Rooney has maybe had an injury and he might not perform as well as he might have done but that’s not to say you get rid of him.

'Sir Alex Ferguson said he had no intentions of letting Wayne Rooney travel to anywhere and you have to abide by that, 100 per cent. He’s a great player. Why would we get rid of a great player? I think you’re being a bit premature.'

bbfan1991

11-03-2013, 09:15 PM

David De Gea:worship:. Have that haters, quality save!

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bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 12:49 PM

Glad we won 1-0 yesterday against Reading thanks to Wayne Rooney's goal, although the performance was disappointing.

At least we capitalised on Manchester City losing at Everton to go 15 points clear, but the title race is NOT over yet for me because United need to keep picking up points in our remaining fixtures until it is confirmed that the title is won!

Report: United 1 Reading 0

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bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 12:51 PM

Rio to play for England

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Rio Ferdinand will travel with the England squad next week.

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The defender, who set up Wayne Rooney's winner against Reading, is linking up with Roy Hodgson's team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers with San Marino and Montenegro.

After suggesting there would need to be discussions with the medical department over Ferdinand's availability, because he is being nursed through the season carefully at Old Trafford, the boss revealed that the veteran centre-back will be available to play for his country.

Ashley Young also looks likely to be fit for England, despite being hurt in a challenge with Garath McCleary that led to his substitution against the Royals.

"Rio will be joining up and Ashley should be okay," Sir Alex informed MUTV.

Good news for Rio, but IMO he should have told them no after how he was treated and carried on focusing on United!

bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 12:53 PM

Vote: Man of the Match

For United it was a case of getting the job done against Reading rather than providing Saturday night entertainment at Old Trafford, but there were still some promising individual displays for the Reds.

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Rio Ferdinand has been in the news recently as his excellent club displays have earned him an England recall and his serene and classy display at the heart of United's defence provided convincing evidence as to why Roy Hodgson reneged on his decision not to include him at international level. He had a significant hand in United's goal following a surging run out of defence.

Fellow defender Alexander Büttner also turned in a noteworthy performance at left-back in place of Patrice Evra. It was only the Dutchman's fourth start of the season but he showed that he is a reliable deputy to the usually ever-present Patrice with a steady defensive display.

Ryan Giggs continued his run of form with another good showing in the middle of the park. His vision at times was excellent and his energy levels and willingness to work for the team continue to astound.

The final name on our shortlist is the match-winner, Wayne Rooney. It was a scuffed shot from the United no.10 that gave the Reds the lead and in the end claimed all three points, but he put in a shift and on at least two other occasions looked to be United's most likely scorer.

Visit www.ManUtd.com/polls to cast your vote.

bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 12:54 PM

Rooney: Let's get the job done

Wayne Rooney says Manchester United must be professional in order to clinch the Barclays Premier League title.

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The striker sank Reading with his first-half winner and accepts that the Reds are in a great position to regain the domestic crown following Manchester City's defeat at Everton.

"You have to be professional," he told ESPN. "We know we're in a fantastic position - nine games to go and 15 points clear - but as professional players, we have to do our job week in, week out and try to win football matches.

"Whether we're top of the table, second or if the league's won, we have to keep going and try to win our games.

"We knew three points was the most important thing today, especially after City dropped points, but it was a tough game.

"It's always nice to score, deflection or not, it's a goal and, thankfully, it's won us the game. It was great, obviously, that City lost but we had to back that up with three points."

Well said Wayne Rooney:).

bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 12:57 PM

Reds won't be complacent

Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted United will not be complacent in the title chase, despite going 15 points clear of Manchester City at the head of the Barclays Premier League.

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The Reds are on course to avenge last term's final-day heartbreak following a 1-0 win against Reading but there are still nine matches to go. Sir Alex felt it wasn't a top performance on Saturday but stresses that his squad rotation will pay off after the international break.

"You don't get points and medals for being complacent and we won't be," he told MUTV. "I think the players are conscious of the importance of the games now and that concentration, which has improved, has helped us do that [in terms of keeping clean sheets].

"I think, before the game, we always thought that winning was the important thing today. It wasn't a great performance but where we are now is not down to today, but the last six months. The team has shown great consistency and played a lot of great football. Our goal difference is big over City now - 13 goals. It's a great position to be in, but the only thing we can do is win our next game."

Rio Ferdinand is to link up with England after playing his part in creating Wayne Rooney's winner and the boss will face an anxious wait before all the international players hopefully return fit and well.

"The problem I've got is a lot of players are away on international duty and play two games," added Sir Alex. "They come back and then we've got a lunchtime game against Sunderland on Saturday [30 March] and then it's lunchtime again against Chelsea on the Monday. We have a squad to use it and that's what we did today."

That is the best way to be, focus on the next game and no complacency.

bbfan1991

17-03-2013, 01:00 PM

Vidic: Title is in our hands

Club captain Nemanja Vidic believes the Barclays Premier League title is Manchester United’s to lose after the Reds moved 15 points clear at the top thanks to a 1-0 win over Reading on Saturday.

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It wasn’t a classic, but victory was all that mattered after Manchester City lost at Everton earlier in the day and Wayne Rooney’s first half strike was ultimately enough to seal a narrow triumph at Old Trafford ahead of the imminent international break.

Saturday's results tighten United’s grip on the title race with just nine games left to play, but Vidic is wary of complacency and warns his team-mates must not let such a fortunate position slip.

“We will take the three points but we didn’t get them easily,” Vida told MUTV. “You want to win your games and play for your country during the international break without any bad feelings and we have done that. Now, we just have to think about the next games that are coming.

“If you look at the 15-point lead, you have to say that it is a big gap and we shouldn’t let anything change. We have the title in our hands but we have games still to play and some especially tough away games that are traditionally hard for us. Nothing is finished yet, but we’re in a good position.

“Sometimes you can feel the fans in the stands getting nervous because they think about last season. I don’t think we should allow that to happen again. We are in a good position now. We should relax and enjoy playing football. It is a good time for us.”

Saturday’s slender win over the Royals also yielded a fifth successive clean sheet in the Premier League following previous shut-outs against Norwich, QPR, Everton and Fulham. And Vidic feels this defensive solidarity is down to all 11 players on the pitch – not just the back four.

“It’s important. Today we didn’t play good football but we got the three points because we defended as a team and a group,” explained Nemanja.

“I think the team worked well. Maybe it wasn’t a good performance attacking-wise, but I have to give the attackers credit as well because they fought for the team and helped us keep a clean sheet which is why we got the three points.”

Well said Vida:).

Legend killer

17-03-2013, 02:10 PM

I hate to say it guys but I think RVP has taken the Arsenal bottle gene over with him to us. Has been non existent since we got to the business end of the season which comes down playing for nothing with Arsenal at this time of the season.

Brother Leon

17-03-2013, 02:47 PM

He's tired as **** and he's getting next to no service unless Nani or Kag play. Ain't even mad he pretty much carried us into a league lead in the first place.

Legend killer

17-03-2013, 02:55 PM

I agree on the service part (comes with having no creative centre mids which you personally have tried to justify the last 2 years so no point in complaining now) but let's be honest he missed a couple of sitters in the Madrid tie which has gone unmentioned

As for Tired LOOOOL. He has had quite a few games off the last couple of months and is as fit as he has ever been so nobody got time for that excuse

I would personally bench him for a couple of games for Chico give him a much needed kick up the ass

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:11 PM

Smalling: Defence is key

Manchester United secured a fifth clean sheet in nine games in a routine 1-0 win over Reading on Saturday and Chris Smalling happily admits that the Reds won ugly to move 15 points clear in the Barclays Premier League title race.

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There is a resolute resistance to the back four – regardless of the individuals selected within it – that contrasts sharply with the first half of the season. In 28 games before the turn of the year, United kept four clean sheets and conceded 40 goals. In 2013, the defence boasts seven blank slates in 16 games, conceding just 12 goals.

United's defence was last breached in the league against Southampton on 30 January and so David De Gea can proudly claim not to have conceded in 537 minutes of Premier League action.

“That’s linked in with all our defenders coming back now,” Smalling told MUTV. “It’s just Phil [Jones] who is struggling but I think he will be back soon and our strength is shown by the players that we have available.

“It wasn’t a pretty game [against Reading]. It got pretty ugly in the second half and I think we were just happy to get the three points. That was what we needed and we got a clean sheet as well so we’re happy with that.

“We knew what we had to do before City played, but [City losing 2-0 at Everton] gave us an extra incentive. We would like to have scored a few more goals but we stayed solid and got the 1-0 win.”

It is key!:)

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:12 PM

Vidic: Break is good for me

Nemanja Vidic admits he is looking forward to some dedicated work on the training ground while a host of his Manchester United team-mates travel the world representing their countries.

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The Reds captain retired from international duty after Serbia failed to qualify for Euro 2012 and, as a result, he is among a small group of players who will report to Carrington during the next two weeks.

But Vidic is not moaning. In fact, the club captain is excited to roll up his sleeves and improve several facets of his game without having to worry about preparing his body for matches.

“The international break is good for me,” Nemanja told MUTV after Saturday’s 1-0 win over Reading. “During the 10 days, I can work on my individual stuff like fitness and other technical things.

“It is also always good to have a few days for yourself. When you have lots of games, like we have recently, you just manage yourself until the next one and you don’t work on yourself that much. Sometimes it is nice to have these days to work on yourself.”

I agree it is good for him and the club!

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:14 PM

Robson tips trio for trophy

United legend Bryan Robson has three players on his shortlist for the club's Player of the Year award.

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After Antonio Valencia won the 2012 accolade, the field is wide open with so many players making positive contributions to the campaign.

Old Trafford legend Robson thinks Robin van Persie, Michael Carrick and Rafael all have a good shout of lifting the trophy in May.

"In my mind, there are three players right up there in the reckoning," he told United Review. "Obviously, the way Robin van Persie has come into the club from Arsenal and the way he has played makes him a strong candidate, but I believe Michael Carrick and Rafael are both running him very close.

"Michael has had a great season and it speaks volumes that Sir Alex has played him in more or less all our games. He is a very intelligent footballer and has done excellently all season. Rafael has really progressed and has had a great campaign as well, so it’s a close call between those three, for me."

I agree with his choices and would add David De Gea in there too...

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:15 PM

Duo hope to make semi-finals

Adnan Januzaj and Sean McGinty are hoping United's youngsters push on to clinch a place in the semi-finals of the inaugural Barclays Under-21 Premier League competition.

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The two players impressed in the 2-0 win at West Brom at The Hawthorns and combined to break the deadlock in the 84th minute when defender McGinty converted a pinpoint cross by Januzaj.

"I think I did well," Belgian prospect Januzaj told MUTV afterwards. "I went one against one and went into the box and saw Sean alone. He finished well.

"We're happy with the three points and I hope we continue like this."

McGinty was not only happy with his strike but focused on winning more silverware following last season's successful campaign at Reserves level.

"It was my first goal this year so I'm pleased with that," he stated. "Adnan's done a lot of good work down the right-hand side and cut it back to me. I was in the right place at the right time and stuck it home. So I'm pleased with that and it's a great win for the lads.

"We've kept a lot of clean sheets recently and have done really well to get two goals and go away with the three points. I think the game started off quite slowly but we came into it a bit more in the second half and there was a lot of good football played by both sides. We had a cutting edge and they were two good finishes - John Cofie came off the bench and did well too [scoring the second goal].

"We're in second place now and are pushing to qualify for the semi-finals so we're really pleased."

Good luck to them and the other young lads:).

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:17 PM

Loans: Fabio frustration

QPR's hopes of Barclays Premier League survival suffered a body blow as Fabio watched the closing stages of the 3-2 defeat by Aston Villa from the sidelines.

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The Brazilian full-back was substituted in the 66th minute and looked on as his side conceded a late winner to Christian Benteke but is learning from his stint at Loftus Road and being able to prove his versatility.

"Harry Redknapp is good to work with," Fabio told London24 recently.

"I feel I’ve become a better defender. He’s put me on the left wing and right wing as well. I am enjoying it here."

Fabio was pleased to hear Warren Joyce tell ManUtd.com about the high regard that both he and twin brother Rafael are held in at Old Trafford. "It's very nice," he admitted. "Maybe in the future, my brother and I will play as wingers [at United]. I don't know. I'm here now and I want to help QPR get out of the relegation zone."

Wigan boosted their hopes of safety with a 2-1 triumph against Newcastle but Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute as Arouna Kone snatched a last-gasp winner.

In the Championship, Wilfried Zaha featured in Crystal Palace's 3-0 reverse to Brighton despite reports that he requires canal root surgery on a tooth problem. Fellow promotion hopefuls Leicester were also beaten, 2-1 at Derby, despite a goal from recent Reds trialist Jeff Schlupp. Michael Keane played at centre-back for the Foxes.

Davide Petrucci and Scott Wootton remain injured but Peterborough picked up a useful 1-0 win at Blackpool and Barnsley enhanced their prospects by beating high-flying Watford by the same scoreline, even if Ryan Tunnicliffe was an unused substitute. Reece Brown did not feature in Ipswich's 1-0 success against Bolton with Mick McCarthy explaining that he'd already used the maximum of five domestic loanees in his line-up.

Further afield, there was only fleeting action for overseas Reds Federico Macheda, Bebe and Luke Giverin. Macheda came on as a substitute deep into stoppage time as Stuttgart ended a poor run of results with a 2-1 triumph at Eintracht Frankfurt while Bebe was a 63rd minute substitute in Rio Ave's 1-0 reverse to Moreirense. Giverin did not play in Royal Antwerp's 2-0 loss to Roeselare.

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:19 PM

International Reds

United's international stars are flying across the globe to represent their countries during the domestic break in action.

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Sir Alex Ferguson has already informed United Review that the club will lay on private jets to ferry some of the players back in time for the matches with Sunderland and Chelsea during the Easter long weekend.

Shinji Kagawa has a big incentive with Japan as victory against Jordan will enable his nation to become the first team to qualify for next year's World Cup finals. Beforehand, Alberto Zaccheroni's side are in Qatar for a friendly against Canada.

Javier Hernandez also has a long trip as Mexico take on Honduras ahead of a big home fixture in Mexico City against USA. Antonio Valencia arrived in Quito to be greeted by fans as Ecuador prepare for a qualifier against Paraguay with a friendly against El Salvador. Chile have included Angelo Henriquez again in their squad as he continues his loan spell at Wigan.

Closer to home, Nani is out of Portugal's plans due to the hamstring injury he sustained against Chelsea in the FA Cup but Robin van Persie (Netherlands) and Patrice Evra (France) will all be available for action. There was no place for Anders Lindegaard in Denmark's squad for games against Czech Republic and Bulgaria but David De Gea has been called up by Spain as third-choice keeper.

United's representation in the England squad is down to six after Rio Ferdinand's withdrawal on Monday. Chris Smalling, Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley, Ashley Young, Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck remain in contention to feature against San Marino and Montenegro.

The Reds' only other Briton involved in World Cup action is Jonny Evans, as Northern Ireland face home fixtures with Russia and Israel.

Good luck to the United lads on International duty and I hope they all come back fit and healthy!

bbfan1991

18-03-2013, 06:21 PM

Rio out of England squad

The Football Association released the following statement at 13:10 today (Monday)...

Rio Ferdinand has been forced to withdraw from England's forthcoming fixtures with San Marino and Montenegro.

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The decision was taken following a meeting in London on Sunday evening with Rio Ferdinand and England manager Roy Hodgson. At the meeting Rio confirmed he wants to continue playing for England and to be selected for summer and autumn fixtures. Hodgson said: "I'm disappointed Rio will not be available, but due to the detailed pre-planned training and medical programme he must follow it's not possible.

"However, I was pleased that Rio called and asked to meet with me. It was important to hear from him personally about the way he must manage his body between games. This is not to say he cannot play back to back games - he can and has proven so. He's out this time due to particular pre-planned details already in place for his programme. I must place on record how I was impressed with his commitment to playing for England and I look forward to hopefully selecting him for squads in the future."

Rio Ferdinand said: "It was important for me to be able to speak with Roy face to face and explain the situation, and one thing I made clear was that my passion and commitment to represent my country is as strong as ever. It is disappointing that I won't be able to play a part in the upcoming games but I told Roy that I want to continue to be available for England and I look forward to working with him in the future."

Well done Rio:):D.

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:40 PM

Ferdinand wins fan poll

Rio Ferdinand turned in a Man of the Match display in Manchester United’s 1-0Barclays Premier League win over Reading and he gained a majority percentage of the vote in ManUtd.com’s official poll.

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The 34 year-old centre-back was at his imperious best against Reading. And although the Royals didn’t provide much of a goal threat at Old Trafford, Ferdinand still managed to turn on the style and gain 61 per cent of votes in ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match poll.

Wayne Rooney’s goal after 21 minutes came after a surging run out of defence from Rio and his class and quality on the ball, particularly when breaking out of defence, was a key feature of his performance.

Rooney was second in the poll with 22 per cent of the vote, while Ryan Giggs gleaned 12 per cent and Alexander Buttner completed the shortlist with 5 per cent, but Ferdinand was the undisputed winner.

Well deserved Rio:):D

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:41 PM

Reds must return focused

Manchester United’s internationals temporarily turn their attentions away from the title race in the next two weeks, but Chris Smalling insists that the Reds must have it in mind to return ready and focused for two big games that could help define the season.

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Smalling will be on England duty for their World Cup qualifying games against San Marino and Montenegro, but when he returns to Manchester with five other Three Lions colleagues they must prepare to face Sunderland in the Barclays Premier League for a 12:45 GMT kick-off on Saturday 30 March, then Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-final replay on Easter Monday, less than 48 hours later.

“The 15-point lead looks good now,” says Chris, “but we go away to join up with our national teams and hopefully everyone can come back fit because we then have two big games against Sunderland and Chelsea. That could be a key edge in terms of how the league and cup goes. So that will be a big few days for us.”

The title remains United’s top priority, particularly after last season's heartbreaking finale. “It’s a massive incentive for us to hold onto this lead,” Chris told MUTV. “It’s a bigger lead than last year but we can’t rest on our laurels and we want to make sure we finish the job this season.”

Smalling isn’t short of company in the England squad. He is one of six Reds in Roy Hodgson’s ranks alongside Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young, Danny Welbeck, Michael Carrick and Tom Cleverley, while Rio Ferdinand was forced to pull out due to a pre-planned medical and training programme.

Ferdinand's performances could mean he is selected for England in future and Smalling welcomes more familiar faces in the England fold.

“All through the season it has started to pick up in terms of how many United players are in the squad,” Smalling added. “With Phil coming back there could be eight of us. That’s good to keep people around you that you know.”

Well said Chris!

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:43 PM

Johnstone loaned to Walsall

Sam Johnstone has joined Walsall on loan for the rest of the season.

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The highly-rated keeper will replace Aaron McCarey, who has been recalled by Wolves, and is in line to make his debut for his new club against Hartlepool on Saturday.

Johnstone has impressed for the Under-21s again this term but Ben Amos' return from Hull City has increased the goalkeeping options open to Warren Joyce.

The England Under-19 international has already had temporary spells with Oldham and Scunthorpe.

"I want the next step of competitive football,” Johnstone told ManUtd.com recently. "I think you want to be playing in front of crowds.

“When you get in the first team, you can say: 'Well, I’ve done this already on loan for half a season or a whole season so it’s not so new to me'. It’s just the way it goes and it helps you improve.”

Good luck to Sam with his loan spell!:):D

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:44 PM

Sir Alex admires Swansea

Sir Alex Ferguson has praised Swansea City, and striker Michu in particular, after being impressed by the Capital One Cup winners.

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The Welsh side earned a 1-1 draw with the Reds at Liberty Stadium in December, with their Spanish top scorer cancelling out Patrice Evra's opener, and have claimed some major scalps under astute manager Michael Laudrup.

After being asked by Inside United if any team or player had taken him by surprise this term, the boss replied: "Swansea have been terrific.

"The boy Michu has been a revelation. To sign him for just £2million and get 20 goals out of him - what a bargain!

"I wouldn't say Swansea have been the surprise package but they've really lifted their performances. They were a newly-promoted side last year and managed to survive in the top flight. This season, they've kicked on to another level and become a good middle-to-top side.

"They also won the League Cup of course and they play really good football. I'd say they're the team of the year with Michu a real bargain buy."

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:45 PM

De Gea proud of "big step"

David De Gea feels that his call-up to the Spain squad for the World Cup qualifiers is a "big step" in his career.

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The current ManUtd.com Player of the Month has been rewarded for his fine form between the posts with a place in Vicente del Bosque's plans for the matches against Finland and France.

"I am very pleased and happy," he told As in his homeland. "This is a special moment for me and a big step in my career. I will try to do my best to impress the boss [del Bosque].

"I want to enjoy this and learn from my team-mates, who are my and many other people’s idols.

"It’s a pity Iker Casillas is out. We all know he is our captain and a legend but I'm happy to be here, even if it’s because of his injury."

Barcelona's Victor Valdes and Liverpool stalwart Pepe Reina are the other two goalkeepers in the squad.

Congratulations to David De Gea. I am so pleased for him:):D.

bbfan1991

20-03-2013, 09:48 PM

David De Gea insists he is very happy at Manchester United, despite reports linking the goalkeeper with a move to Barcelona.

The 22-year-old has improved in recent months following an indifferent start to his Red Devils career and earned plaudits for a sparkling display in a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid at the Bernabéu last month.

Sir Alex Ferguson parted with £17m to lure De Gea to Old Trafford from Atlético Madrid in 2011, with the Spaniard viewed as a long-term replacement for Edwin van der Sar.

With Victor Valdes announcing that he will leave Barcelona when his contract expires in 2014, De Gea has been linked with a move to Camp Nou, but the Red Devils youngster says he has no plans to leave Old Trafford.

“For the time being it’s Victor, and it will be difficult that he leaves,” De Gea told Onda Cero.

“I am very happy in Manchester and it will be my club for many years.”

He added: “I’m very happy in Manchester and I have a contract.”

However, De Gea did admit he would like to return to his native Spain in the future, but only after a long career at the Red Devils.

“But with the passage of time returning home is nice. I would always like to return because the love that they gave me there was special,” he added.

De Gea earned his first call-up to Spain’s senior squad for their forthcoming 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Finland and France

Great news that David De Gea is very happy and wants to spend many more years at United!

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:50 PM

Young wants injury-free run

Ashley Young is striving for an injury-free run to the end of the season.

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The Manchester United winger has been frustrated by spells on the sidelines this term and hurt his knee in the win against Liverpool in a crunching challenge with Dan Agger back in January. A similarly robust tackle with Reading's Garath McCleary led to his substitution in the last Barclays Premier League outing.

However, the 27-year-old linked up with the England squad as planned and is hoping that he can play a big part in the run-in for the Reds.

"It's been very frustrating as a player when you're injured and seeing the other players training every day," he told MUTV's Inside Carrington programme. "It's where you want to be, not in the gym every day. You want to get yourself outside.

"For me, the injuries have been very disappointing and I just wanted to get myself back fit. Fingers crossed, from now until the end of the season, I can stay injury-free and get a run in the team."

Young is not a great watcher of matches from the stands and prefers to be in the thick of the action.

"I am a bad watcher," he admitted. "Anybody who has been sat next to me knows I'm not a good one to watch games. As long as I keep myself fit and stay in the team, I'm better off doing that than watching the games."

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:53 PM

Reds ready for Dallas Cup

United will fly out on Friday to compete in the Dallas Cup again this year after reaching the final in 2012.

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Warren Joyce is to take a young squad to compete against some of the world's top sides with the Reds looking to make their mark again in the United States.

Although the likes of Liverpool, West Ham and Nottingham Forest have won the Under-19 Super Group in the past, United’s only success in the competition has been at Under-12 level in 1998.

“The Dallas Cup is a great tournament,” enthused Joyce. “There is no doubt that last year helped us on the run-in to achieve all the things we achieved.

“It was really well organised, we played in a great stadium, the teams we faced were very good and it was doubly difficult because we had such a small squad.

“However, it knitted them that tightly together that we were almost indestructible during the run-in and we were able to deal with everything we came up against.

“These are the principles that you’re trying to instil into the boys, that nothing is a problem, and you cannot do that by having it easy all the time. We had to come through difficult circumstances with the travelling and the volume of work.

"It was near enough the same team playing every minute of every game, five matches in six days, after travelling halfway around the world. But we showed that resilience.”

The spirit fostered during the trip clearly stood Joyce’s squad in good stead, with trophies secured in each of the domestic competitions entered last year.

“We had a difficult run-in anyway at the back-end of last season,” he added. “But you either come together or break up as a group under difficult circumstances. The team spirit was second to none last year and helped us to win everything. I don’t think that’s been done before as a group and the team spirit was a big factor.”

Joyce will take a younger side than last year due to the impact of the birth-date rules on his selection but at least he will have a bigger pool of players than in 2012.

"It's something different," he stated. "Tournament football is certainly a good education.

"We have got a few more in terms of numbers than last year but it's a younger side and there will be big tests for them physically and mentally. There will be problems with the heat due to the kick-off times but we're looking forward to playing foreign opposition. I hope we give a good account of ourselves and play some decent football."

Dallas Cup group fixtures

Sun 24 (23:30) v Club America
Mon 25 (21:00) v Dallas Texans
Wed 27 (19:00) v Kashiwa Reysol

KickTV will screen the games live via YouTube

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:54 PM

Praise for Charni's form

Warren Joyce has revealed that he has been impressed by Charni Ekangamene's form for United's Under-21s.

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The Belgian youngster smashed only his second-ever goal for the Reds during the 2-1 reverse to Arsenal and has started to look at home in midfield at this level after graduating from the youth team.

"It was a great strike and I think he's played really well for the last few weeks now," Joyce told MUTV. "His determination in midfield in wanting to tackle, sniff out danger and put himself around for the team has been fantastic.

"A quality moment like that can only give him confidence."

Ekangamene survived a late challenge by Arsenal's matchwinner Hector Bellerin at the end of the match which could have placed his involvement in the Dallas Cup under threat.

"It looked a poor tackle to say the least," added Joyce. "I'm just glad he's okay."

Glad he is doing well:).

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:56 PM

Keane earns Under-21s call

Reds defender Michael Keane, currently on loan at Leicester City, has been rewarded for a string of fine performances for the Foxes with a first call-up to the England Under-21s squad.

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Keane, twin brother of striker William who has played three times for Stuart Pearce’s side, has made 17 appearances and scored three goals for the Championship outfit since arriving on loan in November. That move followed a dream start to the 2012/13 season, in which Keane made his Manchester United debut in the Capital One Cup against Newcastle at Old Trafford.

The international call-up comes just 24 hours after the Leicester Mercury reported Keane’s desire to represent his country at U-21 level.

“That would be a great achievement," he said. "It would be an honour to be picked. It has been one of my ambitions. Coming to Leicester and playing first-team football in a side going for promotion can help me get a call up, which I hope will come sooner rather than later.”

Keane has been granted his wish and is scheduled to join the England U-21s squad on Saturday. He will now hope to feature in the friendly against Austria at Brighton’s Amex Stadium on Monday 25 March.

Stuart Pearce’s side beat Romania 3-0 on Thursday night, thanks in part to a goal by Wilfried Zaha, who joined United in January but was loaned back immediately to Crystal Palace.

Meanwhile, in other England youth news, Nick Powell featured in the U-19s’ 1-0 win over Turkey on Thursday night but missed a late penalty.

Congratulations to Michael Keane on his cap and I am glad the other United lads done well!

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:57 PM

Reds squad for Dallas Cup

Manchester United's squad for the Dallas Cup has a youthful look with the majority of the party still eligible for the Under-18 Academy team.

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Michele Fornasier is one of the senior players, along with Under-21 colleagues Reece James, Tyler Blackett, Luke Hendrie, Gyliano van Velzen and Wednesday's goalscorer at Arsenal, Charni Ekangamene.

Fornasier scored in the 2012 Dallas Cup against Everton and his experience in defence should prove useful.

Adnan Januzaj, a key performer for the Under-21s of late, will look to provide a creative spark while a number of those included will hope to step up to Warren Joyce's side next season.

Coach Joyce, who guided an older side all the way to the final in last year's competition, has also confirmed that one of those stars of that run, Will Keane, is also travelling but only to continue his rehabilitation from injury as he would be ineligible for participation in any case.

Squad: Pierluigi Gollini, Jonny Sutherland; Liam Grimshaw, Nicholas Ioannou, Michele Fornasier, Reece James, Tyler Blackett; Charni Ekangamene, Luke Hendrie, Ben Pearson, Joe Rothwell, Jack Rudge, James Weir, Josh Harrop, Mats Daehli, Adnan Januzaj; Jack Barmby, Gyliano van Velzen, James Wilson.

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 03:58 PM

Reds score in England rout

Four Manchester United players started for England - with two of them scoring - as Roy Hodgson's side claimed a comprehensive 8-0 win away to San Marino on Friday night.

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Reds winger Ashley Young netted the fourth and the finest of five first-half goals for the visitors, beating goalkeeper Aldo Simoncini with a fantastic 30-yard strike that crashed in off the underside of the crossbar. Wayne Rooney weighed in with number six, early in the second period, with a free-kick curled over the wall.

Rooney was rested after this contribution, replaced by Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge, and Tom Cleverley made way for Everton midfielder Leon Osman.

Chris Smalling, operating as an underemployed centre-back, played on, as did Young who pulled back a delicious ball for Daniel Sturridge to head home England's seventh goal in the 70th minute. Meanwhile Michael Carrick and Danny Welbeck remained on the bench as unused substitutes.

England's other scorers were Tottenham forward Jermain Defoe (2), Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Chelsea veteran Frank Lampard, after an early own goal from Alessandro Della Valle put Hodgson's men on track towards an excellent, if entirely expected, victory in World Cup qualifying Group H.

Robin van Persie scored the second goal and set up the third for substitute Ruben Schaken as Netherlands maintained their 100 per cent record in Group D by beating Estonia 3-0. Ex-Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart broke the deadlock two minutes after the interval, having come on as a sub for the injured Wesley Sneijder in the first half.

David De Gea was not named among Spain's 18 starters and substitutes for their disappointing 1-1 home draw with Finland in Group I. Barcelona's Victor Valdes was beaten in the 79th minute when Teemu Pukki cancelled out the opener scored half an hour earlier by Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos. Spain's unused sub goalkeeper, picked ahead of De Gea, was Liverpool's Pepe Reina.

Two points dropped by Spain enabled Patrice Evra's France to go top of Group I, although the United left-back remained on the bench throughout Les Bleus' 3-1 home win over Georgia. Manchester City's Gael Clichy started instead of him, while former Reds midfielder Paul Poga was also among those who played the full 90 minutes.

Jonny Evans was given the evening off after heavy snow in Belfast forced the postponement of Northern Ireland's qualifying match against Russia. The Group F match was promptly rescheduled for Saturday afternoon - weather permitting.

Earlier on Friday, Shinji Kagawa completed the match as Japan beat Canada 2-1 in a friendly international on neutral ground in Doha. The United star's namesake, Shinji Okazaki, struck first and was later joined on the Japanese side of the scoresheet by substitute Mike Havenaar.

Well done to the United lads:).

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 04:00 PM

Euro ban for Nani

Nani's dismissal against Real Madrid in the Champions League Last 16 clash at Old Trafford on Tuesday 5 March has earned the Portuguese winger a one-match European ban.

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There had been speculation that Nani could have a three-game suspension imposed on him, but UEFA's Control and Disciplinary body ruled the winger's challenge on Alvaro Arbeloa – deemed on the night to be worthy of a straight red card by Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir – merited only the mandatory one-match punishment.

Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson, meanwhile, was fined €10,000 (approximately £8,500) for "non-fulfilment of the post-match media obligations at the same match". Sir Alex sent assistant manager Mike Phelan to address the press instead, preferring to digest the night's events away from the media spotlight.

The ruling means Nani will be unavailable for United's first Champions League fixture of the 2013/14 campaign.

Oh well:mad::bored:.

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 04:02 PM

Honduras stun Hernandez

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez took his Mexico goal tally to 30 with a double but was left frustrated as hosts Honduras came back to force a draw.

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Chicharito followed club colleagues Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Ashley Young in scoring an international goal on Friday, when he headed in from Andres Guardado's left-wing cross. He then showed quick reactions to convert a Carlos Salcido setpiece from close range in the 54th minute, shortly before taking a break from the searing heat with Mexico 2-0 up and seemingly set for a first World Cup win in Honduras since 1993.

Replaced by Omar Bravo after 65 minutes, Chicharito could only look on from the bench as the hosts netted twice in quick succession, through Carlo Costly and Jerry Bengtson. The 2-2 draw leaves Mexico lying fourth in a six-team league with two points from two matches so far. The other North American, Central American and Caribbean sides still bidding for a place at Brazil 2014 are leaders Honduras, USA, Panama, Jamaica and bottom-placed side Costa Rica.

Meanwhile, in South America, United striker Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute for Chile as they lost 1-0 away to Peru. The Chileans remain in contention to reach next year's World Cup finals, however, with a fourth automatic qualifying place and a play-off berth both within reach. Antonio Valencia's Ecuador are third in the same table and will be expected to pick up three points when they host Paraguay on Tuesday, 26 March.

Unlucky Chicharito and Angelo Henriquez!

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 04:07 PM

Valencia eyes final flourish

Antonio Valencia told United Review that it's been an eventful couple of weeks at Old Trafford, but that the yearning for a silver-lined season remains undiminished...

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How is everyone feeling after a pretty eventful couple of weeks on three fronts?
Everyone is feeling good. We were pleased with the win over Norwich and there are so many positives to take out of our performance against Madrid despite the result. I don’t like to look at it as a down - we all know the big things that happened in the match which had an effect on the eventual result, but these things happen. Football is about ups and downs. Chelsea are always tough opponents and we were delighted to go 2-0 up and things were looking good. But when a team of that quality gets one back there is always a danger they can get another and that’s what happened unfortunately. The most important for us is to keep our heads up and move on to the next challenge.

You mentioned the positives you can take from the Madrid game - in a way can what happened inspire to you to succeed in other competitions?
Yes, definitely. For 65 minutes we were ahead in the game and the tie, playing well and in control. We know what happened after that. It’s hard to take positives when you’ve lost but in that particular match there were a lot of positives. We were one man down for most of the second half but even in the final few minutes we had Madrid penned back in their area. We showed that this Manchester United team is full of heart, character and a desire to be successful no matter the situation. And that is something that can inspire us for the future.

What was the overriding feeling after the Chelsea FA Cup game – frustration that we hadn’t gone through after being ahead or relieved to still be in it given how things panned out?
2-0 is always quite a dangerous scoreline in football. We went into the dressing room at half-time and felt reasonably comfortable, but 14 minutes into the second half they scored and that gave them a real lift. We were disappointed after the game not to have won given that we were 2-0 up, but we’ll go into the replay full of confidence. The replay is the game for us to put things right in and recently we’ve had better results at Chelsea so we’ll go there without fear.

How big is the desire within the squad to win the title back?
The desire amongst the lads to win the league is huge – we really couldn’t be any more determined. We do not want a repeat of last season. Every game is like a cup final for us - we have to fight in every minute of every match. We know it’s in our hands and we have to make sure we make the advantage we have count.

How would you sum up your season on a personal front?
It’s not been quite the season I would have hoped for on a personal front. I think the injuries I’ve had have held me back a bit. I still get the odd twinge from the last injury I had to my leg and that has perhaps affected my progress slightly. That isn’t to say I haven’t enjoyed the season because I have very much.

Do you feel you have an important part to play between now and the end of May?
I hope so. I hope I get the chance to be involved in as many games as possible and if I’m picked I’m determined to grab my opportunities and do my best for my team-mates, the manager and the fans.

You made a clean sweep at the Player of the Year awards last year – which of your team-mates gets your vote this season?
It’s a difficult choice. So many players have had a great season but there are four or five players who have really stood out, but I can’t reveal where my vote will go yet! [Laughs]. The great thing for us is we’ve had so many players playing well and hopefully everyone can continue to maintain those high standards between now and May.

I do agree with Antonio that this season has been frustrating for him, although I hope the three assists he got for Ecuador this week on the International break vs El Salvador will give him more confidence for the rest of the season to come with United:).

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 04:10 PM

Sam eyes senior debut

Inside United sat down for a chat with Under-21 goalkeeper Sam Johnstone..

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How are you finding the Under-21 league?
It’s good to play other teams that we never played growing up. We kept playing the local sides like Bolton and Liverpool so it is good that we’re playing southern teams too.

You have been on the bench several times for the first team this season..
Yes and it’s been really good experience just being around the lads. It’s funny because, when you’re not around them, you do get a bit star-struck and are not as comfortable with them. When you’re around them regularly, you get to know them and talk and everyone gets on really well.

Has going on the last couple of tours helped in that respect?
Of course but I think the biggest experience for me was the derby against Manchester City. That was really good – a great game – and I was able to celebrate from the bench!

Have you been pleased with your season in general?
I think the main thing was getting regular games for the Under-21s as I think, for a keeper, you need regular game-time. Ben Amos is back from Hull City and it’s a case of trying to keep everyone happy.

You’ve been away on loan before. How did you find the spell at Scunthorpe?
It was good as it helped me a lot. It was a difficult time when I was there as they were fighting relegation and hovering around the drop-zone. It was a good team but they just couldn’t get the results. It helped me to grow up from a little boy and into a man so it was all about maturing. You have to do everything for yourself and it was different.

Is it difficult being a young goalkeeper after tasting first-team football?
Well, there are a lot of young keepers around at the moment. You just need someone to put their trust in you and then it’s up to you to take the opportunity.

Are the goalkeepers at United a close-knit group?
I think the four of us (De Gea, Lindegaard, Amos and I) are close because we’re similar ages. Obviously, when Edwin [van der Sar] was here, everyone still got on with him but he was a bit older and wasn’t into the same joking about that we were. We mess about because we’re so close in age. We share the same interests and go out socially - playing snooker, shopping or eating out. Yet it’s still competitive in training.

It must have been a proud moment to make your debut on tour last summer..
Yes, it was good but the next thing is I just want to play in a competitive game. I think it’s been a bit difficult this year with the cup draws. We had four of the defence all making their debuts against Newcastle [in the Capital One Cup]. Obviously, David and Anders have been trying to fight it out for the No1 spot as well but, if it’s right, your time will come.

When you have been on the bench, do you have to be prepared to be thrown into the action at a moment’s notice?
Anything can happen. You could even end up starting the game rather than coming on as the goalkeepers have an intense warm-up. If an injury does happen, then you’re straight in. So it’s a case of having patience but realising it can happen within the click of your fingers.

Have you got any secrets to your penalty-saving skills?
Not really, to be honest. I saved three out of four against Aston Villa in the national play-off final. The only time we do penalties is a day before a first-team game when we’ll practice free-kicks and penalties with different players. Touch wood, I’ve been lucky. I just pick which way to go and look at the taker’s run-up.

You’ve captained your country at Under-19 level – was that a different experience for you?
Yes, in the summer in the European Championship. No, it’s not different, although you do think I’ve got to lead by example. I think, as a goalkeeper, you are already talking to people and telling them what to do. I think that’s very similar with the captaincy. It was nice and was at Preston, where I am from, and where my Dad played back in the day.

How big an influence has your father, Glenn been on your career?
It’s helped. When I was younger, we were always at the park. I was a defender at first but, back then, we never had a keeper so we rotated it each week. When it was my turn, I went in and enjoyed it and said I’d stay there. So I’ve been a keeper since I was 10.

How useful is it having friends like Nick Powell in and around the squad?
We have a lot of youngsters but obviously Nick is new. We were next door to each other on tour. He’d just come from Crewe and was then on tour with United so we got on. He lives around the corner from me. He’s a year younger but we’re the two youngsters in the dressing room. Everyone gets on with everyone. It’s a young team but the Reserves have mainly all grown up since the Under-12s. I’m lucky I’ve got a good age-group here and a good age-group with England.

You were competing with Jack Butland at England youth levels – he has now got a move to the Premier League..
He’s done well. He’s a good lad and a good goalkeeper. He’s managed to get himself into the England squad, has been around first-team football regularly and played in the Olympics. There has been a lot of hype around him as he’s been in the spotlight and he’s done well to get a move to Stoke.

Sam seems a down to earth guy and he will keep improving and learning to try and acheive his aim of reaching the United first team.

bbfan1991

23-03-2013, 04:15 PM

Success in Wayne's sights

This interview first appeared in the current edition of monthly magazine Inside United.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/359120B9BD534CA6AE708562B58101FE.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=2,55,547,258

Hard work and consistency: two traits Wayne Rooney insists have helped the Reds carve out a healthy lead in the Barclays Premier League. The striker refers to both qualities frequently during our discussion at Carrington and maintains they'll be just as important in the coming weeks as they have already this term. And with the title race end date drawing closer, the striker says the players are determined to ensure this season’s conclusion has a very different ending to the last campaign...

United currently enjoy a healthy lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League. Are you surprised to have built such a gap?
It’s a great position to be in but nothing is over yet. We’ve just kept plugging away and have been getting results and thankfully the other teams have dropped points. But we have to keep things going, keep pushing on and working hard to make sure that gap stays as big as possible. It’s going to be a big few weeks for us.

How has this season felt to play in?
It’s felt like a roller-coaster to watch at times, particularly in the first half of the campaign, with lots of comebacks and close matches… It’s been an exciting season. There have been some surprise results in general in the league, but you’re going to get that because there are so many tough games. We’ve probably got to where we are by being the most consistent team. Other teams have won a few games then drawn or lost but we’ve managed to win most of our games and it’s because of that consistency that we’re in the position we’re in. We need to make sure we keep that going.

Does having a points cushion affect your mentality or do you try to block that out when you prepare for a game?
You just want to either maintain it or try and extend it by keeping on winning. You never look at the situation and say ‘we’re this many points clear so we can afford to lose a game and draw one or two’. It’s about winning and making sure you don’t drop any points. That’s always been the mentality here and our approach is always to win.

Is last season’s disappointment hovering in your mind as a warning?
Obviously what happened last year was a big disappointment, but as a footballer having the chance to win the Premier League title should be enough to drive you on regardless. I’m sure City will look at what happened last season and still believe they have a chance, so we have to make sure we don’t take any games lightly and that we try to win every game we go into. What happened last season was a terrible disappointment for us and it’s our aim to make sure nothing like that ever happens again.

Presumably the manager will not allow any kind of lapse in focus anyway?
No, definitely not. We have regular team meetings and he speaks to a lot of players individually too, especially some of the younger lads. And his team-talks are brilliant. They really inspire you. It doesn’t matter that we might be a few points clear of other teams, he never lets you feel like that before a match because he wants us to keep going and maintain that lead.

Bar the odd injury, the majority of the squad have been fit in recent weeks – that’s a huge advantage at this stage of the campaign, isn’t it?
Yes, it’s great. We’ve had quite a few injuries at this stage of the season in past years, which has made things tough. Having players fit now is very important because it gives the manager so many options at a time when there are a lot of big matches. If he needs to rest a few players and bring others in he can do that. Hopefully everyone can stay fit between now and the end of the season.

Is the positive twist on early season injuries to players like Kagawa and Nani, and to a degree yourself, that you and they feel relatively fresh?
Yes, definitely. I haven’t played as many games as I normally would have at this point in the season and I do feel fresh and ready for that battle until the end of the season. With the way the manager rotates the team there will be a lot of players who are feeling fresh as well. Some teams tend to field the same team every week and when you get towards the end of the campaign you can lose that sharpness because of that. We should definitely be well prepared.

Also in United’s sights this season is the FA Cup. There seems to be a real appetite to win it this season, is that the feeling in the dressing room?
Definitely. It’s a massive tournament and as important to me as the other competitions. It’s a trophy I’ve never won and as a footballer it’s one I’ve always dreamt of winning.

So filling that hole in your personal trophy haul would obviously mean a lot?
Of course. It’s a tournament I grew up watching and have always wanted to win. I’ve lost a few finals and it’s not a nice feeling. It’s something that we as a club and we as players are determined to win. Hopefully this will be the year.

How would you assess your own season to date?
It’s been a bit of a stop-start season for me with a couple of injuries, which has been a bit disappointing. I just want to keep myself fit until the end of the season now and play as many as games as I can and help the team be successful.

You’ve played in a number of positions, including orthodox centre-midfield, the tip of a diamond, wide and up front. Have you enjoyed that variation?
It’s been a different experience but something I’ve enjoyed. I’ve played all across the midfield and up front and it allows you to pick up different knowledge of the game, which can only help you. If the manager needs me to play in any position I’ll always do it.

You’ve got a couple of significant milestones coming up – 400 games and 200 goals. Are they important to you?
It’s great to have played so many games for this club at such a young age and it would be nice to get to that 200 goals mark. It would be an achievement I’d be proud of. Hopefully I can get to it between now and end of the season.

Do you see yourself as a senior statesman in the side? You’re someone the young players always talk about looking up to…
[Smiles] You speak to the younger players as much as you can and try to pass on the knowledge you’ve picked up over the years that you feel can help them. That’s what all the players I’ve played with have done with me, and you want to do the same because some of the younger lads don’t know everything about the game and what challenges they’re going to face. So you want to help them out, and I’m sure when those younger players are a bit older they’ll be doing the same thing for the lads coming through under them.

How would you sum up Robin van Persie’s contribution this season?
He’s been brilliant for us and has scored a lot of goals. He fitted in straight away and is fantastic to play with – he holds the ball up well, has great movement and makes great runs. Everyone was delighted when he signed as we knew he could bring a lot to the team and he’s proved that.

What’s he like in the dressing room?
He’s fitted in really well. This club has always been brilliant at making new players feel very welcome very quickly whenever they sign, and it was the same with Robin. He’s an outgoing person who gets on with everyone.

What is this current United side like to play in?
It’s brilliant. The team spirit is always good and whenever new players come in they are always welcomed into the squad very quickly. Everyone gets on well and works hard for each other on the pitch. We have always had a great team spirit under the manager.

As well as the seasoned pros in the squad, the younger players have time on their side and are gathering experience all the time. How good do you think this team could be in three or four years?
Being successful this season is really important because it would give us a great platform to kick on in the next few years. Once the young players get their first taste of silverware with the club they’ll realise just how good it feels and they’ll want to keep doing it again and again. Hopefully they’ll get to taste it this season.

This is a recent interview. Wayne still has loads of quality and is a versatile player and I so don't believe the recent rubbish stories that he might leave.

He is a very important player at United and has a big part to play in our success for many years to come IMO!

bbfan1991

24-03-2013, 04:21 PM

Antonio Valencia believes Rafael's improvement has been 'incredible' and feels his Manchester United team-mate can become one of the world's best right-backs.

Rafael has been one of United's most consistent performers this season and has played a key role in the club leading the Premier League table by 15 points.

The Brazilian has added maturity to his game this term and Valencia has noticed Rafael's transformation over recent months.

"It's incredible how much he's improved," said Valencia. "I've seen a big improvement in his level of concentration.

"If he continues, it won't be long before he's one of the best right-backs in the world."

Valencia has acknowledged it has been a disappointing season on a personal note and the winger has been hampered by niggling injuries.

He hopes to play a role in United's bid to wrap up a 20th top-flight title and also expressed his admiration for evergreen colleague Ryan Giggs.

The Ecuador international added: "I hope I've an important part to play between now and May. I hope I'm involved in as many games as I can.

"If picked, I'm determined to grab my opportunities and do my best for everyone.

"I admire and learn from Ryan Giggs and Nani every day. They are great pros and players who work hard to become the best they can be. Ryan's desire to win is as strong as ever."

Nice praise from Antonio Valencia for Rafael, who has been outstanding this season and has improved a lot:).

bbfan1991

24-03-2013, 04:23 PM

Robin van Persie has revealed his goal was to win three trophies in his first season with Manchester United, but will settle for winning the Premier League title away to Arsenal next month.

Van Persie moved to Old Trafford from the Gunners in a £25 million transfer last summer, and has been forced to adjust his ambitions since United were bundled out of the Champions League by Real Madrid over two legs earlier this month.

The striker is now hopeful the league leaders can seal the domestic title when they play Manchester City on April 8, or at Arsenal three weeks later.

"My goal was to win the treble," Van Persie is quoted as saying in the Daily Mirror. "I wanted the Premier League, the Champions League and the FA Cup.

"Now we only have the double and, yes, I think we could win the title at Arsenal or even against Manchester City. But I really don't care where we win it. I just want to grab that league title."

A target for United during his days in the Eredivisie in his homeland, Van Persie says he is now at an age when he can appreciate being at one of the Premier League's biggest clubs.

"Sir Alex Ferguson once sent a scout over to Holland to watch me when I was a young player and Feyenoord. But I was sent off that afternoon and the scout went back to England with that in his report.

"Sir Alex mentioned that to me when I arrived at United. He felt I was not yet ready for a move to a big English club all those years ago - and he was right. I said to the boss 'you were right then, but I am ready now'," he explained.

This guy:worship:.

bbfan1991

24-03-2013, 04:26 PM

David de Gea says Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is 'a father figure' to Old Trafford youngsters

http://e0.365dm.com/13/03/660x350/De-Gea-Fergie_2919843.jpg?20130324123132

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has described Sir Alex Ferguson as being 'a father figure' to him.

The 22-year-old is currently in his second season at Old Trafford, having joined from Atletico Madrid in June 2011.

The Spaniard has received plenty of criticism in the English media during his time with United, but has always been backed by his manager.

De Gea is currently with the Spain international squad for their World Cup qualifying fixtures and when asked to compare Ferguson with his national coach Vicente del Bosque, he told AS: "They are two great coaches and everyone has their own things but, yes, the two are very paternalistic.

"I know Ferguson a little more and he is like a father, especially for young people."

As for his criticism in the press, he added: "The truth is that many times it does not make much sense but I prefer not to pay much attention and keep training and keep playing.

"I have three years left on my contract and the truth is I'm very happy, it's a great club and when you're a part of it you realise how big it is."

I am pleased that David De Gea feels happy and Sir Alex Ferguson is always protective of the younger United players:).

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:18 PM

Cleverley rates Reds core

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley hopes he can continue to reproduce his impressive club form on the international stage and believes having so many fellow Reds around him in the England squad can only help his development.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/5C5E42DA0FCD4EF1B242E3B8F2EA3AD2.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,64,550,267

Cleverley, who only made his Three Lions senior debut seven months ago, has been part of Roy Hodgson’s plans ever since. Indeed, he’s started in each of England’s last eight fixtures, including last Friday’s 8-0 demolition of San Marino.

Now the 23-year-old hopes to make his mark in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Montenegro, in an England squad that contains six Manchester United players and could well have included two more – Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones – were it not for injuries.

“When you see the current squad, seven of us got picked [Ferdinand pulled out to manage his fitness],” Cleverley told English media in Montenegro. “It’s the biggest [United contingent] it has been for a while. You have Phil Jones to add to that.

“We are obviously proud of that fact. We must be doing something right for our club. Hopefully we can carry on that form for England as well.

“It is good that we all know each other and how each other play. It is good for Manchester United as well that there is a good core of English players who are doing well... Sir Alex also wants us to play well so we will gain confidence when we go back to the club.”

Despite becoming a fixture in England’s midfield in recent months, Cleverley is under no illusions that his spot in Roy Hodgson’s side is guaranteed.

“Definitely not. Every time we meet up I know I have to train hard. I am thankful to the manager that he has picked me a lot this year. But there are some fantastic midfielders as well so I don't take anything for granted.

“It’s only natural for big games like this [against Montenegro] that everyone wants to play. Those who aren’t will be disappointed. But coming off the bench and helping the team to win is part of the job, too.

“Both England and United have great players , especially in my position. It’s just as hard to get into either team.

“We just accept that there are great players with both club and country so we just have to work as hard as we can to get into either team.”

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:19 PM

Loans: Sam's clean sheet

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/loans-clean-sheet-start-for-johnstone.aspx

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:19 PM

Reds down Texans

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/manchester-united-dallas-cup-versus-dallas-texans.aspx

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:20 PM

Reds around the world

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/international-reds-kagawa-can-help-seal-qualification.aspx

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:22 PM

Sir Alex waits on stars

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he will scrutinise his international players' World Cup involvement before finalising his team plans for Sunderland and Chelsea.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/02B9432C65364BB4977D62CBD423BF12.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,43,781,333

The boss faces an anxious wait until his stars return fit and well ahead of a tough double-header over the Easter holiday period in the Barclays Premier League and FA Cup. Clearly there will be plenty of deliberating at Carrington before the line-ups are confirmed for the Stadium of Light and Stamford Bridge.

"Every coach is praying that their players come back fit," Sir Alex told Sirius XM.

"They played last Friday and they are playing tonight. Once I know later this evening how many minutes each player has played, I will start to think about my team for Saturday.

"I have to make sure I have some freshness in the team because we also have Chelsea on Monday lunchtime.

"It is a big ask for our squad and something we need to concentrate on because I need to make sure I pick the right teams."

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:24 PM

RvP, Rooney both on target

Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney both found the net in World Cup qualifying on Tuesday night, although only van Persie ended the night a winner.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/18F60D5498B74215819DFBC1DF506784.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=44,1,778,549

Rooney headed home against Montenegro after just six minutes in England's 1-1 draw, while van Persie netted a brace for Holland as the Oranje romped to a 4-0 victory over Romania.

Van Persie's second-half double – a header and a penalty, both scored past Manchester City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon – earned him the Man of the Match award and sent Holland seven points clear at the top of Group D.

Rooney's goal gave England a flying start in Podgorica but a late second-half concession means Roy Hodgson's men lie second in Group H, two points behind Montenegro after six matches.

Danny Welbeck, Tom Cleverley, Michael Carrick and Chris Smalling also started for England, while Ashley Young replaced Cleverley immediately after the home side's equaliser.

Earlier, Shinji Kagawa scored for Japan but couldn't prevent his team falling to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Jordan. Japan, who had previously taken 13 points from five group matches, missed the opportunity to become the first side to qualify for the 2014 finals (outside of hosts Brazil).

Elsewhere, Patrice Evra played 90 minutes for France as Les Bleus lost 1-0 to Spain in Paris. The defender almost fashioned an equaliser in the dying stages but his header was well saved by Victor Valdes in the Spain goal. Reds goalkeeper David De Gea was an unused substitute.

Jonny Evans also had a full night's action, as Northern Ireland lost 2-0 at home against Israel. Evans was booked in the first half.

Antonio Valencia's Ecuador beat Paraguay 4-1 in South America qualifying, while Javier Hernandez couldn't find the net for Mexico in their 0-0 draw with the United States of America. Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute in Chile's 2-0 win against Uruguay.

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:25 PM

Kagawa nets in loss

Shinji Kagawa scored in Japan's World Cup qualifier on Tuesday but couldn't prevent his team falling to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Jordan.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/0A067DF1C16D490B90AC24F5169B8F80.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,30,550,233

Japan, who had previously taken 13 points from five group matches, missed the opportunity to become the first side to qualify for the 2014 finals (outside of hosts Brazil).

A point or better would have sealed a fifth consecutive appearance at the World Cup. Instead, Japan got nothing from a pulsating game at the King Abdullah Stadium.

Kagawa was reportedly heavily involved in Japan's attacking play, but his 69th-minute strike, a tidy finish applied to a bouncing ball eight yards from goal, came only after Jordan had gone 2-0 up thanks to strikes from Khalil Bani Ateyah and Ahmad Ibrahim.

Two minutes later, Yasuhito Endo had a golden chance to secure the point Japan required to qualify but missed from the penalty spot.

bbfan1991

27-03-2013, 06:27 PM

Anders follows the leaders

Anders Lindegaard has revealed that the senior players are steering United through the title run-in.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/134D35FE82874575B92F0B9350D3215F.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=2,31,600,475

The Reds have a 15-point lead at the Barclays Premier League summit ahead of Saturday's visit to Sunderland but there is a real focus on guarding against any complacency with second-placed Manchester City heading to Old Trafford on 8 April.

In an exclusive interview with MUTV's Inside Carrington on Tuesday, the Danish keeper stressed the desire of those who have been in this situation before is providing an example for the others to follow.

"We are at a crucial stage of the season and have to stay sharp," he stated.

"I think it's very important for us not to look at the table right now. People from outside will say we've put ourselves in a comfortable situation but it's very important for us to take it game by game so we don't get to relax.

"Of course, it's a good position to be in but it's something we cannot think about. I think you can feel it in the team now, especially with the more experienced players, that we're entering the late stage of the season when all the medals are going to be given out.

"From Rio, Giggsy, Scholes and Vida, you can really feel it with the players who have done it before and see how determined they are and how important it is to them.

"The younger and less experienced players try to look to them leading us in the right direction, reminding us every day to stay sharp, not to relax and to keep going."

Lindegaard is looking forward to heading to the Stadium of Light on Saturday to help erase some of last May's painful memories. The home supporters celebrated as news of Sergio Aguero's dramatic title-clinching winner filtered through and the keeper admits that could provide added motivation to pick up another three points.

"Personally, I didn't see them cheering as I was on my way from the seat in the stands to the locker room," he recalled. "I was injured at the time but had a feeling we were probably going to win. Unfortunately we didn't. When you have an experience like that and if you feel something is against you, like the fans in Sunderland, hopefully it's something we can remember to use it in a positive way at the weekend.

"We'll go up there and be determined to win the game."

Ryan57

27-03-2013, 07:37 PM

Good to see RVP score for Holland. Need him back firing again for United.

bbfan1991

28-03-2013, 08:41 PM

KWkeRkRyToo

Class:cool:.

Ryan57

29-03-2013, 09:59 AM

Great video that, bbfan. Saw it yesterday.

Also watched Valencia's assists for Ecuador for the first time yesterday.

http://thepeoplesperson.com/video-valencia-gets-three-assists-including-super-solo-run-vs-el-salvador/

Yeah, you could say it's against El Salvador but Valencia hasn't looked anywhere close to that player against any opposition for United this season. First two assists were fantastic.

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 06:55 PM

Robin Van Persie: Manchester United Could Be My Last Club

Robin van Persie revealed he has is ready to see out his footballing career at Manchester United.

The 29-year-old moved to Old Trafford following a contentious summer move from Arsenal at the beginning of this season but has has wasted no time at all in becoming something of a hero with the Man United faithful.

With 19 Premier League goals this season — second only to Liverpool’s Luis Suarez — Van Persie has been instrumental in firing United to a 15-point lead at the league summit.

But with the likes of Ryan Giggs, 39, and Paul Scholes, 38, as team-mates, Van Persie has his eyes on a long stay in the north-west.

Van Persie told Dutch magazine Voetbal International: “For the next few years I will be at Manchester United – and maybe longer. United could be my last club.

“You have a number of clubs in Europe where older players can find it good, where they are valued.

“You used to have that at Juventus and AC Milan, Manchester United today is a good example. So who knows how long I will stay at the club,” he added.

“There is a new challenge for me every day at United. My development is an ongoing process.

“That gets an extra boost when you are surrounded by new coaches and team-mates, all with their own ideas, in a totally new environment.”

Van Persie scored twice for the Netherlands against Romania on Tuesday to overtake Johan Cruyff’s international goal tally. Cruyff scored 33 goals in 48 appearances of a curtailed international career and Van Persie is now on 34 goals from 74 caps.

However his recent form in England has not been quite so prolific, with just one goal in 10 matches for the club.

Great:worship:. I look forward to him and Wayne Rooney terrorising defences for United for the next couple of seasons- I still think that these press stories about Wayne Rooney leaving are pure nonsense.

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 06:56 PM

McGinty heads to Tranmere

Sean McGinty is set for a youth loan to Tranmere Rovers on the deadline day for transfers in the npower Football League.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/496B44C723A34FEC9140496A87635602.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,756,564

The teenager, who has performed at full-back and also in the heart of the defence for the Under-21s of late, will aid the League One side's push for promotion after the two clubs reached an agreement on Thursday.

The deal will run until the end of the season for McGinty, who scored in the recent victory at West Brom for Warren Joyce's team but did not travel to the United States for the Dallas Cup. The former Charlton man has made 10 starts in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League this term.

The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international has also had previous loan stints with Morecambe, Oxford and Carlisle.

Good luck to him with the loan spell:).

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 06:58 PM

Live: Sunderland v United

Manchester United travel to Sunderland in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday 30 March (KO 12:45 GMT).

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

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 06:58 PM

Preview: Sunderland v Utd

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/Preview-of-Sunderland-vs-Manchester-United.aspx

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 07:00 PM

No issues with Black Cats

Sir Alex Ferguson insists he has forgiven Sunderland's supporters for their joyous reaction to Sergio Aguero's last-gasp title winner last May.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/D4E46F08B71A4049A092CEFB42667F75.ashx?20130329T131 8574242

With the Reds concluding a 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light, there was an anxious wait for news to filter through from Manchester and a section of the home fans went wild on hearing the dramatic update and even mirrored City's 'Poznan' celebration.

It may have been hard to take at the time, and the boss was clearly still upset afterwards, but he has stressed that it is merely a reflection of modern football followers and not the Black Cats in isolation.

"I think that's modern society," he stated in Friday's press conference. "You see a lot of that with supporters' reaction to many things. I don't think we can change that. It was disappointing and it's hard to take these things with the way it all panned out. I thought we'd won it for 20 seconds and it was snatched away from us.

"There's not any bitterness from my point of view. It happens and we move on. We've dusted ourselves down and made a really good challenge in the league this year. The concentration has been fantastic and the team spirit is really good. So, in that respect, we've answered it as best we can.

"So I don't have any issues with the Sunderland fans. I don't think the Sunderland fans wanted City to win it any more than we did. It was just a fact that they were our opponents that day and it goes back to what I was saying about present society. You see it with supporters every week. Wherever the fans are in opposite corners, they are venting their spleens at each other. It's what happens in modern-day football."

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 07:02 PM

Van Persie back with a boost

Robin van Persie will benefit from his international goals for the Netherlands, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

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The Dutchman scored three times - twice against Romania and once against Estonia - in his country's World Cup qualifying victories during the recent hiatus in the club fixture programme.

The strikes end an unusually barren run domestically for van Persie, whose last strike came in the 2-0 win against Everton on 10 February. That was his 23rd goal in 31 matches, but in the seven games since then goals have been more difficult to come by.

"[Van Persie scoring] was the most pleasing thing about the break for me actually," declared Sir Alex at his press conference. "He got the three goals for Holland.

"It's the same with all strikers. When they hit that little dry spell, they're hoping to get out of it as quickly as they can.

"Hopefully, those goals for Holland will help him to do that. His form has not changed, that's the most important thing, but the goals will certainly help and there's no question about that."

I agree with SAF that the Holland goals will boost RVP's form and confidence again:).

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 07:04 PM

Nani, Scholes, Jones in training

Sir Alex Ferguson will carefully manage tiredness in his squad when selecting teams for the forthcoming matches against Sunderland and Chelsea over the Easter weekend, but Nani, Paul Scholes and Phil Jones have trained this week and could bolster United's ranks.

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The aftermath of an international break is a delicate time for managers, but Sir Alex was mostly “very satisfied” with the freshness of his players.

“I don't think there are any injuries from the internationals which is really good news,” the boss told reporters on Friday. “There's a fair bit of tiredness and the answer to that is to make sure we get the energies back in their bodies. So there's the recovery side to it with not much training.

“There was a fair bit of travel - Chicharito and Valencia only got in yesterday [Thursday] afternoon and the English players got back at 5am. Other than that, we're very satisfied.”

Having Nani, Jones and Scholes available would be another boon for the boss. “Nani, Jones and Scholes are all doing a little bit of training, which is encouraging,” he added. “Hopefully it will give us a good strong squad to approach the two games on Saturday and Monday. We'll try and keep the momentum going with he run we're in at the moment. If we do that, Monday will take care of itself.”

Great news that those three are back from injury!

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 07:05 PM

Reds prepare for double header

Sir Alex Ferguson admits United have put a lot of thought into keeping the squad fresh for the taxing Easter holiday fixtures at Sunderland and Chelsea.

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The Reds will fly back from the North-East before making the journey to London after laying on private jets to ferry some of the international stars home from various exotic locations in midweek.

"I think you have to do exactly what you have to do in terms of getting the energy back into their bodies," revealed the boss to MUTV.

"We're flying back from the game and that helps a good bit. Rather than sitting on a coach for two or three hours, we should be back within an hour from Newcastle Airport. We've put a lot of thought into it to make sure we're ready for the game against Chelsea.

"I always believe winning is a good habit to have, to try and keep the momentum going, so obviously we'll play a strong side at Sunderland and Monday will have to look after itself.

"There will be changes for Monday but, at the moment, we're going to play a strong side against Sunderland and see where it takes us."

bbfan1991

29-03-2013, 07:08 PM

Vidic wants the trophy back

Nemanja Vidic says he won't be celebrating any title success until he has the trophy in his hands after last year's disappointment.

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The Reds let an eight-point lead slip in the table in 2011/2012, crucially allowing Manchester City to move top with a 1-0 win the derby ahead of winning their final two fixtures with Newcastle and QPR.

It means United are not getting carried away with a 15-point advantage this time around, even if many pundits are already referring to Sir Alex's side as champions-elect ahead of the trip to Sunderland.

"We didn't expect this situation, at this stage of the season, with nine games left," said Vidic. "No-one expected that but we are happy with it. Especially the way it went in this league, even last year, we were eight points clear and we dropped the points.

"That is why there are so many points this year and people are still saying 'are you sure you are going to win the title'. You are never sure until you have the trophy in your hands. We are 15 points clear but we still have big games to play. I keep saying that. I know people are saying we have the title already but we have to play Chelsea, West Brom, Swansea etc. They are teams who can hurt you. They are tough games. Teams who are fighting relegation. We just have to keep winning.

"We have reacted well this season. We trained hard and we got into the situation we are in now. We are in charge of the title. We are going to Sunderland, we are not bothered whether they celebrated or not last year. We are going to play our game and try to get the three points, which is important for us. We want to be 15 points clear before we play Manchester City. It is a big game for them but it is a big game for us as well so we will try to do our best."

Last May's uncharacteristic slip-up in the run-in remains in the minds of the United players but it is still being used to channel positive thoughts ahead of the latest stepping stone to what could ultimately be a record-breaking 20th title triumph.

"You always think about that," Vidic admitted. "It is fresh. It is last season. If we hadn't experienced that, people would be saying it is already done. That kind of thing keeps you sharp. It is good for the team and the players. We don't want that to happen again. It was bad last year but this year it is working for us."

Well said Vida!

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:34 PM

Sunderland 0 United 1

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Mar/sunderland-v-manchester-united-report.aspx

Well done lads. It was a girtty win, but the most important thing is the three points and I am glad that we got another clean sheet too:).

United are the first team in any season too to win 25 out of the first 30 games, not bad for a team who the ABU's call crap or doing well just because some other rival teams have issues.

This team has the winning and team mentality/spirit, determination and ability to grind out results!

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:36 PM

Vote: Star man vs S'land

Manchester United made hard work of Saturday afternoon’s visit to the Stadium of Light, but eventually left Sunderland with all three points.

The Black Cats caused the Reds plenty of discomfort in the second half but a Titus Bramble own goal on 27 minutes was enough to hand Sir Alex Ferguson’s side a narrow victory.

A number of United players were steady rather than spectacular, although five Reds – four of them defenders – caught our eye and earned a nomination for ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match award.

Dutchman Alexander Büttner, starting in successive games for the first time in his Reds career, shone on the left flank, although as much for his forward forays as his defensive contribution. He came close to scoring on two occasions, once wriggling his way through almost the entire Sunderland defence and then, in the second half, drawing a fine save from Simon Mignolet from long range.

In midfield, Michael Carrick once again displayed a knack for making football look easy. Composed on the ball, Carrick passed well but also contributed in defence, shielding United’s back four expertly and making a number of timely interceptions. He was a deserving recipient of host broadcaster Sky’s Man of the Match award.

Jonny Evans may have started the game on the bench but an injury to Rafael gave the Northern Irishman an early opportunity. He sprung into action immediately, surging forward with the ball at his feet. He then defended brilliantly, including one brave header to deny Stephane Sessegnon an easy chance in the second half.

Alongside Evans, Chris Smalling also impressed. He started in the middle before moving to the right when Rafael went off, but the switch didn’t faze him. He read the game superbly all afternoon and made one terrific header in a crowded six-yard box to help preserve United’s lead.

Another defender, Nemanja Vidic, rounds out our list of nominees after a robust performance that left the skipper bloodied and bruised. Aside from that incident (a collision with David De Gea that left him bleeding from the mouth), the Serbian skipper was typically solid and did as much as anybody to ensure United left the Stadium of Light with a sixth successive clean sheet in the Barclays Premier League.

More: Cast your vote

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fanzone/Competition-And-Polls/Poll.aspx?id={C7A65372-1001-470A-BC1C-03AC713FB25E}

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:37 PM

Robin claiming vital winner

Robin van Persie feels he should be credited with United's winning goal at Sunderland, but admitted that the result was more important than his own scoring record.

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The Dutchman's 27th-minute strike deflected off Phil Bardsley and Titus Bramble en route past Simon Mignolet, but van Persie has no doubt that his seven-game goalless run is over.

"Of course, no question about that," he told Sky Sports. "I think you could see (I enjoyed it). It's been a while so it was good to score again, and it was an important goal. Today it was all about three points and we got them.

"We knew before that it was going to be tough; away at Sunderland is always going to be very hard. They work hard and play a game with lots of long balls, second balls and we had to dig in. We did that, everyone fought hard for a deserved win."

Sunderland were restricted to few clear openings - David De Gea made his first save in the 90th minute - and van Persie felt that the outcome was never in doubt, despite United's slender lead.

"This team, if you ask me, is just full of winners," he said. "Everyone knows what he has to do. I was never in doubt, even if it was still a small score at 1-0.

"I was always confident we would win this game because of players like Mike (Carrick), Vida (Nemanja Vidic), Chris (Smalling) has been playing really well, Alex (Büttner) just comes in and plays well... everyone knows what he has to do and we did it again."

He is right!

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:39 PM

Sir Alex hails players' courage

Sir Alex Ferguson saluted the “courage” his Manchester United players showed as they overcame Sunderland 1-0 at the Stadium of Light.

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Titus Bramble’s first-half own goal, a deflection from Robin van Persie’s stinging drive, was enough to secure victory over the relegation-haunted hosts, who improved after the break but failed to break down a resolute Reds defence.

The visitors lost Rafael to a groin injury in the first half and his replacement, Jonny Evans, played on after picking up a knock, while David De Gea was temporarily dazed by a clash of heads with Nemanja Vidic.

“I thought it was a battling performance by the players,” Sir Alex said. “We picked up two or three injuries along the way and courage got us through, particularly in the second half.

“In the first half we did well. In the second half you have to give credit to Sunderland – they gave it a real go. They had some fantastic crosses into the box which we had to deal with.

“But our concentration is much better. Early in the season we were losing goals but we’ve got all our defenders back now.”

The win temporarily moved United 18 points ahead of nearest challengers Manchester City, ahead of the Blues’ win over Newcastle.

It means the Reds need just four wins from the remaining eight league games, the next of which is City’s visit on 8 April, to win back a title lost in such heartbreaking fashion last season.

“The players have galvanised themselves,” Sir Alex added. “They’ve shown a team spirit and focus in every game. It’s also 25 wins in 30 league games, which is a record, and that’s all down to the efforts of the players. It was an important win."

Van Persie has stated he'll be claiming the decisive strike and, though Sir Alex isn't concerned who it's credited to, he's happy the Dutch striker is in contention after seven United games without a goal.

"There’s a case for it being an own goal but it was a wicked drive by him," Sir Alex said. "It was a fantastic shot – I don’t know whether it was going in but it was certainly too much for the goalkeeper to handle.

"Scoring for Holland in the midweek internationals helped him. When strikers don’t score for a few games they think they’re never going to; when they do it can set them off again."

Well said SAF. The team spirit amongst the lads is fantastic and I hope those players who picked up knocks or injuries are OK!

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:41 PM

Carrick: Revenge not an issue

Michael Carrick shrugged off the notion that revenge provided added motivation for United to overcome Sunderland, insisting that the quest for a 20th Barclays Premier League title was incentive enough.

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Black Cats supporters revelled in Manchester City's title triumph at United's expense on the final day of last season, but Carrick says the Reds' sights are set to the future.

"They weren't the only fans who enjoyed that, but that was gone and it was all about coming here with something different to aim for this time," the midfielder told Sky Sports.

"It was about getting points for us, ticking another one off and keeping the run going, which we did, and we're delighted."

United's victory at the Stadium of Light owed more to defensive fortitude than attacking guile, and Carrick was heartened to see United grafting three points closer to the title.

"We played some very good football first half, controlled the game," he said. "We probably didn't have as many goalscoring opportunities as we'd have liked but we were in control.

"We knew the second half was going to be different because they're fighting for their lives. We defended well, kept together, defended our goal well and we're delighted with the three points.

"I suppose we're getting closer because it's one game less and we've won again, but that's all it is. We've still got to go again. We've got another game on Monday and then obviously City next week, so we'll keep rolling on."

Michael Carrick is class:), for me he has been one of United's best players this year along with Rafael and RVP and is so underrated too as a player.

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:43 PM

Reds bruised, bloodied

Manchester United came away from the Stadium of Light on Saturday not only with three points but nursing a number of bumps and bruises.

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The 1-0 win against Sunderland was a gritty affair that took its toll on Sir Alex Ferguson’s men. Brazilian defender Rafael limped off after barely 30 minutes with a groin strain, while Nemanja Vidic and David De Gea both required lengthy treatment after a nasty clash of heads in the second half. Vidic was left bleeding from the mouth, while De Gea briefly lost consciousness, according to the Reds boss.

What’s more, Sir Alex revealed in his post-match interviews that Jonny Evans (who came on for the injured Rafael) struggled to complete the game, while Dutchman Alexander Büttner was lucky to escape serious injury when Phil Bardsley lunged into a challenge that earned the former Red a yellow card.

“We picked up two or three injuries, which doesn’t help,” Sir Alex said. “It was all down to the courage of the players that they got through it.

“Rafael got injured and Jonny Evans got a bit of a knock but carried on. That was great because we couldn’t afford to take him off. He said he’d last as long as he could but he got through it. He actually said it eased up in the second half.

“I thought we’d lost David De Gea for a moment. He was out for a few minutes but recovered and played a really great part for us.

“We got a few knocks but Sunderland are fighting for their lives, we have to remember that. We had to stand up to that part of the game. Generally, we have a few bumps and bruises but we handled it well.”

Should any players struggle to pass fitness tests for Monday’s match against Chelsea (Rafael is the biggest doubt following his withdrawal from action at Sunderland), the manager can at least draw on his sizeable squad. His selection on Saturday hinted there would be changes anyway.

“We left some players behind,” he confirmed. “Wayne Rooney, Chicharito and Ryan Giggs, for example. So we have options for Monday night.”

bbfan1991

30-03-2013, 06:44 PM

Live: Chelsea v United

Manchester United travel to Chelsea in the FA Cup on Monday 1 April (KO 12:30 BST)

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

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 10:46 AM

Manchester United line up to start at Chelsea (FA Cup replay):

De Gea, Jones, Smalling, Ferdinand, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani, Hernandez, Welbeck.

Man Utd bench: Giggs, Lindegaard, Young, Van Persie, Powell, Kagawa, Vermijl.

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 10:59 AM

Chicharito still important

Sir Alex Ferguson would instantly rebuff any offers made for Javier Hernandez and is adamant that the Mexican is a crucial part of Manchester United’s strike-force, despite speculation linking him with a move away from Old Trafford.

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Reports suggested Hernandez was frustrated at missing out on being involved in the Champions League ties against Real Madrid recently; Chicharito was an unused substitute on both occasions. But Sir Alex has launched an impassioned response, describing the 24-year-old striker as “a very important player”, his positive attitude “a breath of fresh air”.

“He’s on a long contract for a start,” Sir Alex told reporters when asked if Chicharito's goal ratio might attract interest from other clubs. “We won’t be entertaining any interest from anyone, no doubt about that. As far as we are concerned he is a really important player for us. You can see that any time he comes into a game he changes it. He does something different from the other strikers.”

An integral part of the selection process involves Sir Alex discussing his decisions with the players. “When I pick a team, I speak to the players that don’t play," he says. "I’ve said to Javier that it’s not easy for me to leave him out because a 16-goal tally against the number of games he has started is a fantastic record. He will always have that record because he is a penalty-box player.

“It’s difficult when you have a player of Robin van Persie’s form, and then you have got Welbeck, Rooney, Kagawa… but that’s been the benefit of having a strong squad – it gives us an advantage over the other teams. I think we’re working with 26 full first-team players now, which is probably the biggest squad in the league.”

Chicharito is perhaps best described as an impact player – sent on from the start to set a high tempo and grab an early goal, or used effectively from the bench when defenders’ legs begin to tire, a tactical change is required or a late winner needed. Naturally, those qualities encourage comparison with another natural finisher from United's past: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. However, Sir Alex feels the two men are different.

“There’s no evidence that Chicharito has been annoyed or disappointed,” he says. “Ole was a very laid-back lad and he could probably handle it quite easily. I’m sure Chicharito wants to play every game. But he has been great. His training performances have been terrific, his enthusiasm to play is brilliant and I have absolutely no issues at all with the lad. He has been absolutely brilliant, a breath of fresh air since the day he came to the club.”

Sir Alex’s challenge is in balancing squad rotation and keeping individuals happy. “The team spirit has been great, it’s been really good all season long,” he says. “When you have got 26 players then managing them and making changes can only happen successfully if the players buy into it and understand that changes have to be made. There is always a time where players pick themselves through form and there have been a few occasions this season when Chicharito has picked himself.”

Great news because Chicharito is awesome:).

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:02 AM

Dutchman's Double dream

Robin van Persie is determined to beat Chelsea on Easter Monday and keep Manchester United's Double dream alive.

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The Reds, 15 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League, meet the London side at Stamford Bridge on Monday in an FA Cup sixth-round replay. The winner will secure a Wembley semi-final against Manchester City on Sunday 14 April.

Not since 1999, when Sir Alex Ferguson's side won the Treble, have United lifted both the league title and the FA Cup in the same season. But van Persie, who arrived at Old Trafford last summer determined to win silverware with his new club, admits he's harbouring thoughts of a historic Double.

"We want to win the Double and we took a big step in the league [on Saturday against Sunderland]," he told MUTV. "But we want to go for both. Now we have to look ahead to the FA Cup tie against Chelsea. It's going to be a big test but I'm quite confident we can play well at Stamford Bridge and get a good result."

Since the Reds' last FA Cup success in 2004, United have lost two FA Cup finals, against Arsenal in 2005 and Chelsea in 2007. Van Persie actually played in that 2005 final, a match the Gunners won on penalties after United dominated for 120 minutes but failed to score.

"It's been nine years since United have won the FA Cup," the Dutchman said. "It's important to us. We have a big chance of reaching the semi-final against City. I don't want to look too far ahead but if we beat [Chelsea and then] City we have a massive chance of winning the competition."

Monday's game against Chelsea comes less than 48 hours after both sides' Saturday league fixtures. As a result, van Persie warns fans shouldn't expect a classic encounter.

"It's not ideal because it's only two days after the Sunderland game. It's a shame but we can't do anything about it. We just have to deal with it.

"It's not ideal but we have to get the result. I think people have to realise not to expect a great game of football. That might not be possible. If it happens, great, but don't expect it - the games are too close to each other."

:worship:

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:03 AM

Sir Alex relishes replay

Sir Alex Ferguson admits Chelsea deserved to win the FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford but he will send out his Manchester United team in Monday's replay to prove they are the better side.

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The Reds have already won at Stamford Bridge this season, beating the Blues 3-2 in the Barclays Premier League, but a less experienced line-up lost there three days later in the Capital One Cup, going down 5-4 after extra-time.

With former Liverpool chief Rafa Benitez since installed as interim manager, there is added spice to the occasion. The Spaniard's first meeting with United as Chelsea boss ended 2-2 three weeks ago when only a late David De Gea save prevented Juan Mata from completing an incredible comeback by the visitors.

"I thought we were lucky to be honest with you," stated Sir Alex. "I thought that tiredness had got into the team and, from a comfortable position for the first 20 minutes, you could see the signs when we started to give the ball away just before half-time. That is a definite sign of tiredness.

"The tiredness came, possibly, from the emotional intensity of the Real Madrid game and also the way we lost it. I think that affected two or three players. In the second half in particular there was no doubt that Tom Cleverley’s and our two full-backs’ [Rafael and Patrice Evra] legs had gone. That was [due to] emotions. The way full-backs are, they put so much energy into getting forward but they found it difficult getting back.

"That made it a long game against Chelsea and they had the advantage of extra players in midfield. They really deserved to win the game in the second half, although we could have been four-up in the first 20 minutes. De Gea’s save was one thing, but I also thought we were scrambling about to get through the game. But we’re fresher now and we’ve got a strong squad in terms of picking two teams."

Sir Alex believes Chelsea have had the rub of the green in terms of FA Cup draws in recent years but promises that the holders will have to do it the hard way in 2013.

"In the last few years, we’ve had some very difficult draws in the FA Cup," he added. "Chelsea have enjoyed a great benefit of home draws and I don’t think they have had one hard game in the run-up to the semi-finals over the years. That helps, no doubt about that. But they have us to play at Stamford Bridge and we won’t be easy for them."

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:04 AM

Young Reds beat Brazilians

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/manchester-united-beat-coritiba-of-brazil-in-under-19s-friendly-in-dallas-texas-usa.aspx

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:05 AM

De Gea eyes FA Cup reward

David De Gea kept Manchester United in the FA Cup with a stunning late save against Chelsea and wants to take advantage in Monday lunch-time's sixth-round replay at Stamford Bridge.

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In the first game at Old Trafford three weeks ago, the Reds surrendered an early two-goal lead and Juan Mata was inches away from completing a remarkable turnaround for the Blues at the death. But De Gea stuck out a trademark right boot to divert his fellow Spaniard’s effort just wide of the post and preserve United’s hopes of a domestic Double.

In an exclusive interview with Inside United, the goalkeeper recalled: "Juan turned Jonny Evans and suddenly the whole goal opened up for him to shoot.

"But at full stretch I managed to make contact with my toe and it was very satisfying to keep it out.

"He came up after the game and congratulated me for the save but he also took the mickey a bit, in a nice way!

"It’s difficult to attribute value to individual saves because they’re all important, but it’s one of my best."

After playing in five ties during his two seasons at United, De Gea has a good understanding of the stature of the FA Cup, the equivalent of the Copa Del Rey in his homeland.

"It’s a historic, well-known, long-running competition," the 23-year-old told ManUtd.com. "It’s always in the news in Spain and I remember watching it on TV when I was younger.

"I get the sense the FA Cup is a little more prestigious than the Copa but they’re certainly similar. It’s a competition we’re proud to play in."

DDG:).

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:08 AM

Büttner: No let up

Manchester United can only ease up in the Barclays Premier League title race after the finish line has been crossed, according to Alex Büttner.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/7A6C4575E76A484B948AEB59FB5E5397.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,137,600,360

The Dutch defender featured as the Reds overcame Sunderland on Saturday to preserve a 15-point lead at the head of the table, and he insists victory is the only option until the title race is over.

"It was an important win," Büttner told MUTV. "If we want to be champions then we have to win every game. We have to focus every week and win every game until the end. If we are champions then we can relax!

"We are in a good position but we have to try every week to play hard, not have any easy thinking and work hard for each other."

A narrow victory on Wearside was built on a sixth successive clean sheet in the league, and Büttner is similarly ambitious about avoiding concessions with regularity.

"It's good, of course, if you have a clean sheet," he said. "It's good for the defenders. You can trust each other and I think a big team like Manchester United should try to have a clean sheet in every game."

For Büttner, victory on Wearside was his second successive outing for the Reds, and his 11th appearance since joining from Vitesse Arnhem, and he feels he is now ready to begin his United career in earnest.

"It needs time and I needed a couple of months, when I came here for the first time, to settle in," he said. "It's started to be good now and I try to have my life set up here now. I know I signed for five years, so it's started to begin."

Well said Buttner, he had an impressive game on Saturday and I hope he improves defensively because he started out as a left winger ha ha.

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:08 AM

Live: Chelsea v United

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

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:09 AM

Preview: Chelsea v United

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Mar/preview-of-chelsea-v-manchester-united-fa-cup-replay.aspx

KO at 12:30!

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:11 AM

Yorke: Play like it's 1999

Dwight Yorke is hoping history will be repeated on Easter Monday when Manchester United visit Chelsea for an FA Cup quarter-final replay - a fixture he helped the Reds to win in the famous Treble season.

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The Reds travel to Stamford Bridge on the back of an initial draw at Old Trafford, something which also happened in 1998/99 when Sir Alex Ferguson’s side went on to record a 2-0 triumph in West London thanks to a perfect counter-attacking display and two fine goals from Yorke.

The Trinidad and Tobago legend feels the pressure was on Chelsea to progress that day and when asked if Monday’s meeting is similarly poised, the 41-year-old was clear in his assessment.

“I think so,” Dwight told ManUtd.com. “The onus is on Chelsea to make sure they win. They have to make sure that they move forward and take the game to United. We like to play on the counter, we have a decent record there and I’m sure the manager and the players will take heart from that.

“During my time as a player, we had to go there and take on Chelsea in their own backyard. We drew 0-0 at home and then went there knowing that they had a very good team.

“Myself and Andy Cole were reintroduced back into the team and we were so confident at that time. We knew that if we played with the kind of intensity and quality that we had within the team then we would overcome Chelsea and we did that.

“I was very fortunate that I got both goals and the [baby cradling] celebration with Becks [David Beckham] was great with his son Brooklyn being born a few days earlier. A whole bunch of stuff was happening at the time, it was great, so let’s hope the boys can go there and repeat the success on Monday.”

Andy Cole, who will rekindle his iconic partnership with Yorke this summer for the ‘Red Heart United’ charity legends match against Real Madrid, also has fond memories of that triumphant '99 night at Stamford Bridge and feels confident the Reds can grab a similar result to march into the semi-finals.

Cole said: “I was speaking to Denis Irwin about the match recently - we felt Chelsea were very cock-a-hoop when they came to Old Trafford and got a draw. Ahead of the replay, it was as if they thought ‘we’ll do them at Stamford Bridge’. I actually remember the game like it was yesterday.

“Yorkie got both of the goals and we caused Frank Leboeuf and Marcel Desailly to have absolute nightmares. I really enjoyed that game because we got in amongst it, it got a bit physical, but we stood up for ourselves and ended up 2-0 winners. Don’t be surprised if the Reds do it again on Monday.”

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 11:20 AM

Tony V starting FACEPALM would honestly rather start with 10 men. Giggs should be on the left and Nani the right

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 11:21 AM

No Wayne Rooney- MUTV confirmed that he picked up a slight groin injury on England duty and should be OK for the City match!

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 12:18 PM

Tony much better at Right Back INTERDASTING. Nani having a nightmare

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 12:19 PM

Mata and David seem to have a bit of man love going on hugging and touching each other at any given opportunity hopefully David can lure him to OT

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 01:06 PM

How many FUKEN times do we need to see Giggs in midfield?? Get him out wide for **** sake

And somehow Tony survives can't cross or shoot yet stays on when we need a goal SMFH

bbfan1991

01-04-2013, 01:24 PM

Gutted:(.

Brother Leon

01-04-2013, 01:26 PM

Thank **** we are 15 points clear. Team has been **** since Madrid game.

Ryan57

01-04-2013, 01:27 PM

Please, please, let us sign a creative midfielder this summer.

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 02:44 PM

Right I have calmed down slightly and this will be my final post on the matter.

The Madrid game has pretty much ended all our players mentally we have played like utter trash since and I hate to say it BUT THE UGLY MIDFIELD ISSUE IS REARING IT'S HEAD again and fergie has to take fully blame for this as it has affected us for nearly 5 years now and nowt has been done.

Our whole game is based on wingplay so take the last couple of years for example even though we still had a useless centre midfield bar Carrick because of the performances of our wingers we were able to compensate for it.

However now the wingers are playing more to there default setting nothing can be done about it as we can't change our default 4-4-2 setting as we don't have the quality midfielders to adapt it to say a 4-3-3 and even the ones who can play that formation like Shinji sit rotting on the bench

Sadly I don't think the issue wil be sorted until Fergie goes

Brother Leon

01-04-2013, 02:50 PM

Please, please, let us sign a creative midfielder this summer.

Please let us sign any midfielder for poor Carrick to play with.

Legend killer

01-04-2013, 05:12 PM

All banter aside would not back RVP to hit Anderson's arse in the form he's in at the moment

the truth

02-04-2013, 12:56 AM

man utd have neeeded a creative central midfielder since the last millennium....why the heck cant they get one?

Ryan57

02-04-2013, 09:51 AM

man utd have neeeded a creative central midfielder since the last millennium....why the heck cant they get one?

Well we still had Keane and Scholes at that point. Then we bought Veron who in some games would look class and other games would just pass him by unfortunately.

Then several years later we bought Anderson, who to begin with, looked a beast. Then injuries and inconsistency have hampered him.

Very nearly signed a midfielder in the summer of 2011. Went for Nasri, nearly had him until his agent demanded a stupid amount. Sneijder, not entirely sure what happened there. So much was floating about. Could of been his stupid wage demands, or Inter got rid of Eto'o and that prevented any deal from happening and the fact Sneijder was happy at Inter.
So we decided to put our faith in Anderson and Cleverley. Who looked immense in the first few weeks of the season. Cleverley doesn't look to of really progressed since then. Just doesn't offer much more than a ball retention player.

Legend killer

02-04-2013, 03:44 PM

What has happened to Powell seems to be getting the Pogba treatment SMH. Ouside Carrick I would go as far as saying we have the worst midfield in the league

Anderson we have completely ruined TBH. If anyone saw him before he came to us he was a complete monster and was being touted as the next Ronaldinho and then for some unknown reason Fergie tried to turn him into some box to box dynamo

Cleverly Very rarely in CM runs around like a headless chicken alright in a 3 due to his energy

Fletcher for some unknown reason Fergie seems to think he is going to come back and be Vintage even in his prime ball winner nothing more

Scholes SMH

Giggs

SMH

So basically Jones a defender is our next centre midfield yet he can't pass a simple 5 yard pass the whole thing is bloody pathetic TBH

We as fans need to be thankful Carrick has stayed injury free cause without him I can honestly say we would be nowhere near top right now

On a more positive note watching De Gea command his area and come out for crosses yesterday brought a tear to my eye

Ryan57

02-04-2013, 05:14 PM

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:17 PM

Please, please, let us sign a creative midfielder this summer.

I agree!!!

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:18 PM

Chelsea 1 United 0

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

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:20 PM

Boss: We lacked composure

Sir Alex Ferguson admits his team "lacked composure" after conceding the goal which ultimately knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup at Stamford Bridge on Easter Monday.

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Demba Ba's superb finish on 49 minutes proved decisive, as did Petr Cech's incredible point-blank save from Chicharito's close-range header soon after.

United had chances to get back into the match, but Sir Alex felt Ba's goal changed the flow of the game in Chelsea's favour.

"We were comfortable in the first half and I couldn't see them getting into the game or being any great threat to us. But the goal, as it always does, changed the game," the boss told MUTV and ITV1.

"We spoke about Ba and the experience we had with him a couple of years ago at Newcastle when he scored exactly the same type of goal. We were caught napping to be honest. It wasn't a good start for us right at the beginning of the second half.

"After that I think we lacked the composure to win the game and create proper openings. We had a lot of possession but didn't make the best use of it and they caused us quite a few problems on the counter-attack.

"They've got several players like Hazard, Oscar and Mata who sleep in little pockets and can cause you bother on the counter. Fortunately we didn't lose another goal, but I couldn't really see us scoring either.

"Robin van Persie had a fantastic chance and should have scored, but he put it over the bar. We had a couple of headers past the post and Cech made a fantastic save from Chicharito. But we just lacked composure when we had to chase the game and didn't play as well as we should have in the second half."

The Reds will now switch to ensuring victory in the title race and what would be the club's 20th league crown. Sir Alex's men currently hold a 15-point lead over rivals Manchester City who are United's next opponents at Old Trafford on Monday.

"We must kick on," insisted Sir Alex. "We're disappointed and the players are down. They're disappointed because they know they can do better.

"To be honest with you, for the ninety minutes I thought only Antonio Valencia reached the standard that we expect of them. Phil Jones, for a good part of the game, and David De Gea did well. But in terms of the ninety-minute performance, Antonio was the only one.

"But we need to forget this result and look forward to the game with City. A positive result for us next Monday will just about seal the title for us."

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:22 PM

Smalling's derby focus

Chris Smalling says United must use the forthcoming Manchester derby as a source of motivation to overcome the disappointment of exiting the FA Cup at the hands of Chelsea on Easter Monday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/03F869B41FBE4C9A9F9CEBEF03FEBD98.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=10,1,792,584

The Reds lost 1-0 at Stamford Bridge, following Demba Ba’s second-half strike. The defeat ends United's bid to win the Double and leaves Sir Alex Ferguson’s side with the Barclays Premier League title to fight for in the remaining two months of the season.

While obviously disappointed to have missed out on a Wembley semi-final clash with Manchester City, Smalling wants his team-mates to get over the result by triumphing in next Monday’s league derby and then by sealing the title in style.

“It will take a couple of days to get over this because a lot of us came into it with great confidence and we felt we were going to win this game," Smalling told MUTV. “At least we have a good game next Monday but we need to make sure that we rally together and win this title with aplomb.

“Our fans will be right behind us and we need to make sure that we give them a good performance because the second half today was just not good enough.”

Having beaten Sunderland less than 48 hours earlier on Saturday, United were perhaps a little sluggish at Stamford Bridge but did largely control the first half and limited Chelsea to very few chances whilst looking relatively dangerous on the counter attack.

However, with quite a few tired legs on the pitch, the Reds struggled to keep the upper hand and created very few scoring chances, other than two excellent opportunities for Javier Hernandez and substitute Robin van Persie after Ba had broken the deadlock on 49 minutes.

“The dressing room is disappointed,” Smalling explained afterwards. “I think the first half went very well and we were on top, playing some good football so a lot of us are disappointed that we didn’t carry that on into the second half, which wasn’t like us.

“We were very confident that we would score today and judging by our first-half performance, we thought we wouldn’t concede either because they didn’t create too many chances - but it was really unlike us not to score.

“In the last half an hour, the game started to stretch which wasn’t ideal for us but before that we felt comfortable as a team and played some good football in the first half. The biggest disappointment is that we didn’t carry that on in the second half. That’s what everyone is really down about.”

Naturally, after defeat in the replay, the mind automatically wanders back to when United were 2-0 up in the initial sixth-round meeting at Old Trafford and seemingly cruising towards the semi-finals - but Smalling says such thinking is futile.

“At the start of the day, we saw this replay as a new challenge and a fresh start so you can’t think about the lead in the first match and what might have been. We need to make sure that we remember this defeat next season and not let it slip again.”

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:24 PM

Rooney set for return

Sir Alex Ferguson hopes Wayne Rooney will have recovered from a groin injury in time for Monday's Manchester derby after the injury forced the striker to sit out United's trips to Sunderland and Chelsea over the Easter weekend.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/BA27B01AA3454B40BCF256BC3A131B78.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,62,550,265

The striker picked up the problem while away on international duty with England and consequently missed the league win at the Stadium of Light and the FA Cup defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Sir Alex said Rooney felt the injury again in training on Sunday, but hoped he would be available for the clash with Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 April.

Jonny Evans, meanwhile, missed the 1-0 loss at Chelsea because of a hamstring strain picked up in Saturday's victory over the Black Cats.

The Northern Ireland international replaced the injured Rafael in the first half at Sunderland and although he completed the remainder of the game, Sir Alex said afterwards that Evans had played through the pain barrier for much of the second period.

Good news. I think we missed Wayne and I hope Jonny Evans is OK!

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:25 PM

Evra laments missing medal

Patrice Evra admits he was sad to see another FA Cup campaign fall short for Manchester United as his quest to win the world-famous competition goes on.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/1F5C06D3656443ACA3286DDE3BFB40C7.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,35,600,259

The Frenchman has handled every other trophy that English football has to offer during his seven years as a Red, not to mention the European and Club World Cups in addition, but an FA Cup winner's medal has so far proved annoyingly elusive with Chelsea becoming the latest team to knock United out.

“It's a massive disappointment for us,” said Evra. “We didn't expect to lose and we really wanted to win the Double. A lot of players, including myself, haven't won the FA Cup and it was an important trophy for us.”

Evra felt yesterday’s replay defeat confirmed a demise that began in the original meeting with Chelsea, at Old Trafford on 10 March.

“I think we lost the tie in the first match,” he reflected. “We have to be realistic with ourselves - we gave the first game away. We were winning 2-0, they came back from 2-0 down and we drew 2-2. After that we had another chance to win at Stamford Bridge but Chelsea deserved to go through.”

Captain again in the absence of Nemanja Vidic, Evra graciously congratulated Demba Ba on his match-winning strike – and noted its similarity with a goal he scored against the Reds for his former club, Newcastle United.

“He did it when we played Newcastle away [last season],” said Evra. “He showed great technique and I don't think De Gea could have saved it. Well done to Demba Ba because it's a great goal."

Exiting the FA Cup leaves United, unusually, with only league fixtures to play in April and May. And while things clearly remain very rosy in the title race, Evra would love to have complemented its conclusion with further involvement in the knock-out competitions.

“We were really sad to lose in the Champions League, it hurt us a lot when we lost against Real Madrid,” he said. “And this is another really sad day for the club, the players and the fans.

“Now we're going to focus on the league. It's nearly done but we have to win a few games.”

bbfan1991

02-04-2013, 06:27 PM

Vidic: I feel blessed

Nemanja Vidic lays bare his footballing soul in a fascinating and wide-ranging interview in the new issue of Inside United, the club's official magazine.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/21890CC2F22E4DA698C14795E14ACA30.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=38,0,550,767

The Manchester United captain talks in depth on a variety of subjects, including what it means to win, his views on leadership and competing, his toughest days as a player, his football future – and the honour of pulling on the red shirt.

“It’s brought me huge enjoyment and the opportunity to express myself on what’s probably the biggest stage in football,” Nemanja says of being a Red. “I feel blessed to play for this club and I learn things every day. I’ve been at United for seven-and-a-half years... I can’t deny I feel something very special.”

Vidic also discusses his fierce competitive streak (“I don’t like to lose a header, I don’t like to lose a game”), his injury pain (“that was the hardest time for me”) and the shalt-not-lose mentality that has been the bedrock of his success (“winning is vital in football; in fact, winning is everything”).

Vida is class:).

Legend killer

02-04-2013, 07:13 PM

Ryan57

02-04-2013, 08:58 PM

Just watching PSG-Barca and wow Lucas is fuken class. Just think we couldn't get him so we got Young LOOOL hardly like for like. Would not be surprised if Young was getting better wages then him either

Wasn't the same summer. However, yeah, I was thinking they have Lucas we have Young. :joker:

Apparently he's on 250,000 euros, roughly £212,000. Not sure that's true though. Be shocked if it is.

Edit: Reading elsewhere apparently it's 250,000 euros a month. £53,000 ish. I'm off to go cry.

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:38 PM

De Gea: Let's finish the job

David De Gea is typically serene and relaxed as Manchester United prepare for a potentially significant derby clash on Monday night.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/4FCC6982FF254EC38098B0C67EF4A9FC.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=77,92,762,602

Victory over reigning champions Manchester City at Old Trafford would put the Reds 18 points ahead of the Blues with just seven Barclays Premier League games left. De Gea, who has contributed as much as anyone to United’s telling run of six consecutive league clean sheets, is determined to finish the campaign with a first winner’s medal.

The 23-year-old told the latest issue of Inside United magazine: “I’d love to win the league this season but so does everyone else in the team. We’re all focused on getting three points from every game – that is what will take us to our objective. We appreciate where we are in the league and we want to finish it.”

De Gea has made 35 appearances already this term but is still feeling fit, fresh and happy with his form heading into the final straight.

“I’m feeling well, in good shape and I’m at ease on the pitch,” he said. “I’ve played a lot of matches but I get plenty of rest at home and I eat well – it’s important to look after myself.

“I’m more confident and feel I’m playing consistently because I’ve had a prolonged run in the team. But training well and having a good mental attitude brings its rewards. Everything you put in, you get out. That is what you’re seeing now – I’m very happy with how I’m playing.”

DDG is awesome:worship:.

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:40 PM

Reds duo on track

Wayne Rooney and Rafael are back in training ahead of the derby clash with Manchester City.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/F41AB3810F2A4FAD98795359AA414DE3.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,2,500,374

The pair missed the FA Cup exit at the hands of Chelsea and there are still question marks over the availability of centre-backs Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic, who also sat out the Stamford Bridge clash.

The fact that the Old Trafford showdown with second-placed City is on Monday night at least gives United plenty of time to work on the fitness of those who are carrying injuries.

"Wayne and Rafa have started training this morning," stated Sir Alex. "Which is good news.

"Hopefully, they will be fine by Monday. Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic are not there yet but, hopefully, they will start training maybe tomorrow or Saturday morning. We have a little bit of time on our hands to get most of the troops ready for the game."

City will be determined to stop the Reds from taking another massive step towards regaining the Barclays Premier League crown in what promises to be an exciting encounter.

"It's a derby game with a difference from a few years ago," explained the boss at his press conference. "We have to get used to playing Manchester City in big games and that's the case again.

"The important thing is to win Monday's game. It'll be a big game for City. They'll want to come and derail us for a spell. We're at home and our consistency is there for all to see. I expect us to perform really well on Monday.

"We have to congratulate our players on their consistency - to win 25 out of 30 games is a record and should be applauded. It's fantastic. But we've
still got to win the title. We have eight games left and that's 24 points to play for.

"The way we've approached things is the correct way and that's to win the next game. Hopefully, it takes you to winning the league and then we talk about what the season has been like. It doesn't matter what people say outside of the club, it's about what we think inside the club about what we've achieved.

"The staff I have are more critical than anyone - we're always looking to do our best. I think this season has been a good season for us."

Good news that Wayne Rooney and Rafael are fit again. I hope that Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic will be OK!

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:42 PM

Boss: No rest for Robin

Sir Alex Ferguson is backing Robin van Persie to end his goal drought but feels United's top scorer was unlucky not to be credited with the winner at Sunderland last weekend.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/7EA84EE3357A4811B943B3F4DBE450BF.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,22,600,246

The Dutchman worked the ball onto his left foot at the Stadium of Light and fired in a shot but it took a deflection off Titus Bramble and will go down as an own goal against the Black Cats centre-back.

Following the FA Cup tie at Chelsea, van Persie has now gone nine games without scoring with his last strike coming in the home win against Everton in February. However, the manager rejects any suggestions that the 29-year-old needs a break at this stage of the campaign.

"Robin doesn't need a rest, that’s for sure," insisted Sir Alex. "He's a strong lad with a great physique.

"It's disappointing he wasn't awarded the goal at Sunderland – I can understand that because it took a wicked deflection. His shot was fantastic – it was hit with such venom that it’s not surprising it took a deflection. But his ability to manoeuvre his position at that point was excellent. The goals will come. All strikers have little dry spells – you always hope it ends quickly. It's just part of being a striker."

After bagging the late winner in the corresponding derby fixture at the Etihad Stadium, the stage is set for van Persie to net against City again on Monday. Sir Alex says he can draw on his own experience to offer advice to strikers when it comes to taking chances.

"I didn't have dry spells [as a striker]!" he laughed. "I remember I had a spell at the start of one season when I had a little knee injury and didn't score until October and I still ended up with 30-odd goals!

"You have to get through that period and not lose your faith and belief in yourself. My dad always used to say make sure you batter the ball when you’re in there, don’t tap it or try and side-foot the ball in the net, batter it! That's what I always tell strikers – when you get in the position make sure you hit it. If the goalkeeper saves it, you can say 'what a great save'. But if you try to side-foot it in and the keeper just catches it easily, you’ll get criticised for that.

"It’s just being sensible and realistic. Robin’s shot last week could have come off any defender because it was hit so well and that’s the right thing to do."

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:45 PM

Jones excites Sir Alex

Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted a glittering future for Phil Jones and paid tribute to the England international's versatility, although the boss sees him as a natural centre-half.

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Describing the 21-year-old as an "animal for football", the boss also outlined some of his plans for the defensive positions in the coming years during his exclusive interview with Inside United.

Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans also look certain to compete for a centre-back slot, Jones' preferred position, but that United's no.4 has the ability to perform all over the pitch marks him out as a special talent.

"Jonny's been really brilliant this season," enthused Sir Alex. "He's 25 years old now and, hopefully for the next six or seven years, he could be a regular centre-back for us. Obviously, Rio [Ferdinand] is 34 now and [Nemanja] Vidic is 31. [Patrice] Evra is 31 so, in that sense, players like Smalling, Jones and Evans will come to the fore.

"Jones is going to be a fantastic player, his talent is unbelievable. Yes [his best position is centre-back] but you could play him anywhere. I think you could play him centre-forward! He’s just that type of player, he’s an animal for football. He grasps the game, he understands it. Play him right-back? Brilliant. Play him centre-midfield? No problem. Play him centre-back? Terrific.

"He’s just one of those unusual players you get now and again who can play anywhere. We’ve not had a player like him in terms of someone who can play at that performance level since, well the closest you would get would be Brian McClair.

"Now, Brian McClair was a fantastic player. He could play anywhere, McClair. I remember kidding him on once; I said to him, just go and play in the right-back area and he laughed. I said to him, ‘What are you laughing at?’ and he said, ‘Next week I’ll be centre-half.’ But that was his character, so composed about life. Nothing bothered him."

Nice praise by SAF for Phil Jones, who I am sure is humbled by it and I am too excited by Phil because he is so versatile and really is developing into a class player!

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:47 PM

Sir Alex: League was the priority

Sir Alex Ferguson has pointed out that wresting the title crown back from Manchester City would represent a very successful season for United.

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In an exclusive interview with MUTV, the boss admits he is perplexed at any suggestion that the defeats to Real Madrid and Chelsea in the Champions League and FA Cup respectively could take some of the gloss off the campaign.

Perhaps it is the commanding lead in the table that causes some pundits to claim there could be a 'flat' end to the season for the Reds but nothing could be further from the truth for the manager, who appreciates how difficult it is to win the league.

Despite City chief Roberto Mancini's recent comments, the title race is still not over and Monday's derby is one that United will be desperate to win in order to stretch the lead even further to 18 points with seven fixtures remaining.

Sir Alex said: "I was asked about only winning one trophy. I think that's a strange question in the context of the kind of competition we have as we're up against teams from London - Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea - plus Liverpool and Everton.

"They're massive challenges every year [for both Manchester clubs]. For every one of those teams, the supporters want to win one trophy. I think we can win the one that really does matter to the fans in particular.

"Yes, I'd love to win the Champions League again but I'd say that we were knocked out in circumstances everyone is still talking about. The disappointment at being knocked out by Chelsea is obvious but the league form has been fantastically consistent."

Meanwhile, Nemanja Vidic remains a doubt for Monday's clash after the captain sustained a thigh injury during last weekend's 1-0 victory at Sunderland with Jonny Evans also struggling to make Monday's encounter.

"Vida got injured at Sunderland," confirmed Sir Alex. "Early on, he had a clash and had a bit of treatment and then he had a clash with David De Gea near the end of the game. It's not serious, just a nerve in his calf, so he should be maybe back in training over the weekend.

"I've got Rio Ferdinand, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones so I've got the right cover, I think."

I agree with Sir Alex that the league is the priority and the title race is not over yet, although it disappoints me how we have not won the FA Cup in ages:(.

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:48 PM

Rio: The records can wait

Rio Ferdinand says the Reds are not contemplating setting points records for the season, but are first and foremost focusing all efforts on completing the main aim of winning the title.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/66EDE5DCA43143469193504FD72B58E3.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,34,605,259

Sir Alex's men hold a 15-point lead over closest rivals Manchester City who visit Old Trafford on Monday night. Victory over the Blues would put the Reds on the verge of title glory, but attentions in the media have already turned to the possibility of United beating Chelsea's record haul of 95 points in the 2004/05 campaign.

Ferdinand, however, insists no-one is thinking about anything else other than beating City and edging a step closer to a 20th Championship crown.

"It is just about winning. Anything that comes after that is great, but winning it is the most important part," he told PA Sport.

"If you win the league before the end of the season then you can set other targets. For me, personally, we need to get the trophy first, then you can think of all the other stuff that goes on around it.

"We are not any more hungry because of what happened last season," he added. "That is just the way we are. The mentality of this club, driven by the manager, is that you have to win and you have to be challenging for every single competition you go in for. That has been the case since I have been here. That will never change.

"This club, the manager, the management team he has behind him, and the players and the fans demand that."

Twenty-five wins from the first 30 games - a record in the top flight - has helped the Reds build a double-figures advantage over Roberto Mancini's side, and United are also on an impressive defensive run of six consecutive clean sheets.

"We feel more solid as a team," opines Ferdinand. "At the beginning of the season we were playing open, expansive football, which I am sure was good for the fans to watch but, being a defender, my first instinct is to defend and keep clean sheets. We weren't able to do that.

"We addressed it. That is the most pleasing point. Now we are benefitting from it."

Spot on Rio. I love his passion for United!!

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:50 PM

Man Utd boss Ferguson includes Buttner in his 'ones to watch' list

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has put Alex Buttner on notice.

Ferguson expects the Dutch fullback to be pushing for a regular start next season.

He said: “I would expect us to have a real good challenge next year.

“Rafael has proved how much he has developed this season, while David De Gea’s progress in goal has been superb.

“He’ll be better next year. Shinji Kagawa will be a far better player next year too, then there’s Alex Buttner and Phil Jones, who can do anything he wants to do.

“We’ve got to deal with one or two players getting older — but we’re not so bad in terms of protecting most positions.”

bbfan1991

07-04-2013, 01:56 PM

I am so pumped for the United vs City game tomorrow, obviously I hope and want a United win but if we drew instead I would be satisfied with that because it means we did not lose.

Ryan57

08-04-2013, 08:19 AM

Legend killer

08-04-2013, 10:09 AM

Wasn't the same summer. However, yeah, I was thinking they have Lucas we have Young. :joker:

Apparently he's on 250,000 euros, roughly £212,000. Not sure that's true though. Be shocked if it is.

Edit: Reading elsewhere apparently it's 250,000 euros a month. £53,000 ish. I'm off to go cry.

What!!!! and we are paying Mr Average 100,00 + a week to grace us with his mediocrity.

Also RVP OWES Fergie some goals tonight Fergie took a big gamble paying the money he did for him and IMO he has paid only half of that back.

On a more positive note Raf is back so we will actually have a threat outwide tonight

bbfan1991

08-04-2013, 06:07 PM

Manchester United team to play Manchester City:

De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Jones, Evra, Carrick, Giggs, Young, Rooney, Welbeck, Van Persie.

Bench: Lindegaard, Valencia, Chicharito, Nani, Cleverley, Kagawa, Buttner.

Ryan57

08-04-2013, 06:19 PM

Ashley fackin' Young

Brother Leon

08-04-2013, 06:23 PM

Go on Young. Earned the start by not being absolute **** like Nani was against Chelsea. Besides he done great at the Etihad.

Ryan57

08-04-2013, 06:33 PM

Go on Young. Earned the start by not being absolute **** like Nani was against Chelsea. Besides he done great at the Etihad.

Didn't play for the full 90 minutes though. Just a cameo. He did alright to be fair when he came on though.

Brother Leon

08-04-2013, 06:43 PM

Yeah. In that cameo he done more than the other wingers done the whole game though. Would of liked Kagawa, but he hasn't been great in the big games I suppose.

bbfan1991

08-04-2013, 06:44 PM

Manchester United's Carrington training ground is to be renamed the AON training complex as part of a ground-breaking naming rights agreement worth around £15m a season.

AON are currently the club's main kit sponsor but are to be replaced by Chevrolet from the start of the 2014-15 season. The new training ground and kit deal extends AON's relationship to 2021 and will be worth around £120m over the life of the contract.

Great news.

Interesting.. I know the Glazer's divide opinion, but you have to give credit to them and their team for all these business deals because the debt is going down and we should be debt free in a few years, just think with FFP coming in too!

Drew.

08-04-2013, 06:45 PM

predicting a 2-1 United win

King Gizzard

08-04-2013, 07:27 PM

"Keep singing 6-1, keep singing 6-1, 6 games in Europe, you didn't win 1"

Legend killer

08-04-2013, 11:19 PM

Legend killer

08-04-2013, 11:22 PM

Go on Young. Earned the start by not being absolute **** like Nani was against Chelsea. Besides he done great at the Etihad.

Another majestic performance from Ashley tonight his creative play and beating of a man reminded of Cristiano and as for Giggs he ran the middle like Xavi

Well im guessing that's what you and Fergie saw anyway

Ryan57

09-04-2013, 06:25 AM

Was not pumped before the game and when i saw the teamsheet i was even less pumped. Like i said to my mate Ryan a couple days earlier for every Madrid there is a Rome 09 Wembley 11, Etihad 12 and now todays DISASTER

Giggs CM really getting bored of this now
Young starting offering Zero Creativity cannot beat a man yet is taking 100 000 out of our wage bill
Welbeck out wide like Giggs getting sick of saying this
Jones playing CB ahead of Smalling
Raf being chucked straight back in
Subs not being made until 5-10 mins to go lol

And now into my main Issue. Please someone explain to me

A. Why when we play ANY decent team at home we set out as if we are playing Barca at the Nou Camp

B. Bearing in mind you set out as stated in question A why do you then not even play the players to make it work loooool at playing counter attack when we have Tony Giggs and Young in our team

The whole thing has been pathetic since Madrid TBH

I don't think personally we did a whole lot wrong. It was a tight game, both sides defended well and a great finish (debatable as to whether he should of even gotten the shot in) won the match.

Jones was our best defender last night.

I'd of preferred to of seen Nani to Young. Might of had a sh-it game at the Bridge but he offers more than Young does. Offered zero going forward and left Evra with two men to mark when the guy nowadays struggles to even remember he's a left back. To be fair to Young, the rest didn't do a tremendous job going forward. It's just his tracking back was mostly non-existent.

Overall, should still win the league.

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 11:30 AM

Can someone explain the zero game time Shinji is getting to me please. Is our ONLY creative player alongside Nani and RVP and has the highest final third pass completion rate in the league

No lie this team the last few years has been the most infuriating team i have ever supported bare in mind i supported the 07-10 Heat and support Ireland period. But at least they played to there bloody strengths unlike us.

It's depressing knowing that you have nearly all the pieces to the jigsaw yet will never complete the puzzle for the simple fact Fergie has lost his edge

Im sorry but if any of you think Fergie in his management pomp would

A. Keep on insisting on playing past their best players like Giggs Scholes and Nev instead of giving youth a chance look what he did to Hughes Pallister and co for reference

B. Have average players like Young(not bad but should be squad player at best+50 000 a well max STARTING

C. Have a 40 year old winger playing centre mid (don't get me wrong was amazing in that champions league run alongside carrick so Kudos to Fergie for that cause i would never have even thought of converting him. But let's be honest has been beyond pathetic in that role for 2 years now) starting every major game made more boggling by the fact his better then every winger we have outside Nani still

Honestly think he lost his edge round the time of the rooney debacle. The way he handled the stam situatuion but more importandly the Keane incident idicates this further to.Although i will NEVER agree with how he treated Roy respect has to be given for the way he handled the situation with a player he openly stated was his greatest ever and a player despite Wayne's early potential no version of him is fit to Lace Roy's boots

Ryan57

10-04-2013, 11:47 AM

I think the issue is the fact Kagawa hasn't had a great time when played. The 3-2 win at Southampton was a match that, when I think of Kagawa comes straight to my mind. It was like he was being told 'Welcome to England'. Easily knocked off the ball, was unable to do never having been up against a team like this before. He's struggled to adjust to England, imo. That and a long term injury didn't help.

He's been better in recent weeks though and he's obviously a talented player, that has never been in question, it's just he hasn't settled in so well. Hopefully next season he'll push on. This and the fact Rooney plays in Kagawa's preferred spot. I honestly think that Kagawa was bought to be played in the hole but then we went and signed RVP and that changed things.

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 12:04 PM

Brother Leon

10-04-2013, 01:06 PM

The fact Young seems to be your main worry from the match highlights how pathetic your agenda is.

Ryan57

10-04-2013, 03:26 PM

The fact Young seems to be your main worry from the match highlights how pathetic your agenda is.

He mentions several things in his thoughts about the derby. Far from highlighting Young above everything else.

I actually think both RVP and Kag were signed by Fergie knowing Wayne would be gone a summer later and giving them a year to gel together sadly injuries have not allowed

Updated my earlier post too so let me know what you think bro

Hmm... I still think, personally, his idea was:

Valencia Kagawa Hazard (Later Moura)

Rooney

Of course this all changed due to Hazard and Moura going elsewhere and RVP becoming available.

In regards to point C. I think we played Giggs there as Cleverley is knackered. No other choice, which obviously needs sorting.
Giggs was immense in 2010/11 in central midfield, and I think that's the reason Fergie plays him there hoping he can put in a shift as good as that campaign. That said, his best form this season has been on the wing. In which he's been our best winger this campaign (not a hard thing to be, however).

Keane was totally out of order for going on MUTV slagging the team off though for me. Huge respect to Keane despite that as he was 'effin brilliant as a player. The problem between the pair is they're too a like.

A lot wanted Fergie to go around the Mourinho domination era. Those teams were just not good enough. Then he went and rebuilt and we dominated for a few years. I still think he can rebuild United again. He just has to sign some quality midfielders this summer. Would love Gundogan.

Brother Leon

10-04-2013, 04:02 PM

"Rebuild"

Jesus. We've become spoilt haven't we :joker:.

Ryan57

10-04-2013, 04:14 PM

"Rebuild"

Jesus. We've become spoilt haven't we :joker:.

Rebuild was the wrong word. Unless there is some sort of mass clear out which I doubt. I meant, I believe Fergie can still strengthen the team (should of said this not rebuild).

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 04:49 PM

The fact Young seems to be your main worry from the match highlights how pathetic your agenda is.

Wtf are you crying about i moaned about a lot of things about the derby it is YOU highlighting Young. And i think you will find my main moan about the derby was giggs stinking the middle of the park out once again

Also i though you put me on your ignore list SMH like Garnett you can talk the talk but not walk the walk

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 04:53 PM

And no rebuild is not the wrong word maybe on Fifa brother could win plenty of games with Alan Smith as his centre mid SMH but in the real world a team with Alan bloody Smith as your Cm is no question going through transition

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 05:02 PM

He mentions several things in his thoughts about the derby. Far from highlighting Young above everything else.

Hmm... I still think, personally, his idea was:

Valencia Kagawa Hazard (Later Moura)

Rooney

Of course this all changed due to Hazard and Moura going elsewhere and RVP becoming available.

In regards to point C. I think we played Giggs there as Cleverley is knackered. No other choice, which obviously needs sorting.
Giggs was immense in 2010/11 in central midfield, and I think that's the reason Fergie plays him there hoping he can put in a shift as good as that campaign. That said, his best form this season has been on the wing. In which he's been our best winger this campaign (not a hard thing to be, however).

Keane was totally out of order for going on MUTV slagging the team off though for me. Huge respect to Keane despite that as he was 'effin brilliant as a player. The problem between the pair is they're too a like.

A lot wanted Fergie to go around the Mourinho domination era. Those teams were just not good enough. Then he went and rebuilt and we dominated for a few years. I still think he can rebuild United again. He just has to sign some quality midfielders this summer. Would love Gundogan.

Good post but i am afraid to tell you while Giggs is still here no quality CM will be brought in. The fact we brought Scholes out of fuken retirement instead of give Pogba his deserved chance still brings a tear to my eye if anyone thinks Fergie would have done that 6-7 years ago don't know ****

Also we really need to get of Phelan. There is a reason Fergies limitations tactical have been exposed since this yes man look over from Carlos

Legend killer

10-04-2013, 05:20 PM

Ryan57

10-04-2013, 05:36 PM

Outside of buying a CM my main bit of buisness would be

Signing Nani too a new contract one of a few genuine world class players we have when Given a consistent run rather then benched every other fuken game and shoved to the left. Couple of seasons ago when he was actually allowed a consistent run he was our player of the year and put up numbers Ashley and Tony would struggle to get combined. For **** sake he has the same numbers as them both combined this year SMH

Then get rid of Tony and especially Young. He has actually outplayed Tony this year (not saying a lot) but that 100 000 a week contract is clogging up our wage bill

Bring in jay rodriguez with young gone we will have more then enough wage capacity

I think Nani may well leave. Fergie made out he wanted to keep him and he'll stay but, it just seems to me like he doesn't trust him.

I want Valencia to stay, personally. He has played like Rory Delap this season but... he has had three good seasons prior to that. Hopefully he'll be back to his best next season, if he stays that is.

I think Young will be given another season. And next season I predict he'll score 55 goals and have 23 assists. Proving all us doubters wrong. http://images.sodahead.com/polls/001399199/43af7c49_d8ce_19b1_answer_9_small.jpeg

Edit: In regards to your previous post. I really really hope a central midfielder is signed this summer. Surely this summer will be when we fix the centre of midfield once and for all. Joao Moutinho would be a great aquisition, imo. Was tempted by the Premier League last summer.

King Gizzard

10-04-2013, 05:37 PM

Spurs will probably have him

Ryan57

10-04-2013, 06:47 PM

Spurs will probably have him

Indeed. So underrated, imo.

Legend killer

11-04-2013, 02:16 PM

Ryan57

11-04-2013, 02:42 PM

If we don't even enquire about Felliani in the summer I may actually cry. Would get him relatively cheaply and is exactly what we need Physical , not scared to tackle and can score goals to boot. Not even making an attempt to get Dembele last year still has me bemused

I think Everton will demand about £25 mil to £30 mil with the season he's had. Wanyama would be a cheaper alternative.

Yeah, I really wanted Dembele. Such a classy player. I don't think we bought him due to having Cleverley.

Legend killer

11-04-2013, 04:03 PM

Wanyama is great as a defensive mid but his all round game is not actually that great. I would much rather pay the 10-12 mill extra for Fellani who is the superior all round player and is proven in the premier league. And after all Fergie payed 20 mil for Mr Average so I don't think he will mind paying the big bucks when needed

Ryan57

11-04-2013, 04:21 PM

Legend killer

11-04-2013, 07:28 PM

Don't forget Jay Rodriguez too

Sadly we are more likely to see Gary Nev and Sir Bobby coming out of retirement I am afraid mate

Legend killer

11-04-2013, 08:02 PM

Ryan57

11-04-2013, 08:40 PM

Neville felt he was slowing up, might cost United and should retire. "Rubbish, Neville,'' replied SAF, 'typical you, emotional".

Just saw this above quote from Nev and is exactly the point I am making about Fergie and his sentimental bull****. That year EVERYONE could see Nev was finished yet if he had not called it a day Fergie like with Scholes and Giggs would have refused to accept this and continued playing him

I have MASSIVE respect Nev was a quality right back but he did what was right for the team and called it a day when he knew he could not perform to that level anymore it takes a big man to do such a thing

For me, I'm not sure if he was finished. Now hear me out xD. I believe he played twice (just checked played three times, one from the bench, believe he started at West Brom) in 2010/11 at Stoke and at West Brom. 'effin terrible I know. However, the fact he only featured three times meant for someone his age as well, it wasn't possible for him to play well. Also those two matches were a few months apart. We see young players return after two or three games out and they can be rusty.

The previous season he did a good job for us at right back.

Admittedly, Fergie does have some of that sentimentality. Though last season when Scholes came out of retirement he was fantastic and we'd of probably not of even been in the title race but for Scholes returning. Played a huge part. That said, game at the Etihad was just too much for him. Toure abused our central midfield.

Midfield has to be sorted this summer once and for all. I'd be shocked if it isn't as I don't see any other area (barrring the wing and an outside chance of a centre back imo) that needs strengthening. We very nearly had a playmaker in the summer of 2011. Nasri was all but done until his agent was a tw@t. I believe there were other targets in mind and of course Sneijder. Although, not sure how him playing in the centre would of worked out.

Legend killer

11-04-2013, 09:14 PM

Nah Ryan Nev was more then finished his performance against Stoke was literally the single worst performance I have EVER seen bare in mind I have been watching Giggs in CM and Tony this year. Also remember if he had stayed on I am more then positive Raf's progress would have been completely stunted just like quite a few of our younger players in recent years

Ryan57

12-04-2013, 08:17 AM

Ryan57

12-04-2013, 09:13 AM

Guillem Balague says United have put a down payment on Falcao, just like they did with De Gea. :suspect:

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:27 PM

Rooney wins goal poll

Wayne Rooney has picked up our latest Goal of the Month award for his effort against Norwich City at the start of March.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/7310B0BD162E4E2296B51D2665E6ADAF.ashx?20130408T132 2078454

In injury-time against the Canaries at Old Trafford, Rooney cut inside and unleashed a dipping drive from outside the box past goalkeeper Mark Bunn to seal a 4-0 win for United, after Shinji Kagawa’s earlier maiden hat-trick for the club.

The goal garnered 39% of fans’ votes on our seven official websites – English and its Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, Spanish and French language versions.

Javier Hernandez’s looping header in the 2-2 FA Cup draw against Chelsea came second on 27%, with Kagawa’s third goal against Norwich, a neat dink following a fine team move, rounding off the top three (16%).

Kagawa’s second that afternoon, an impudent first-time finish from Rooney’s pass, was also nominated, along with a rocket by Charni Ekangamene and a smart shot by Sam Byrne for the Under-21s and Under-18s respectively.

Well done to Wayne Rooney:).

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:28 PM

Live: Stoke City v United

Manchester United face Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium this weekend (Sunday 14 April, kick-off 14:05 BST).

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

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:29 PM

Preview: Stoke v United

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

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:30 PM

Sir Alex: We're in good shape

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United “are in good shape” ahead of Sunday’s trip to Stoke City after injured trio Jonny Evans, Nemanja Vidic and Chris Smalling all made positive strides this week.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/29312A0EDBAC4EE689A634173A148F8C.ashx?20130412T100 7282511

Speaking during his Friday morning press conference at Carrington, the boss confirmed Evans has trained all week and is in contention to start at the Britannia Stadium, while Vidic and Smalling have stepped up their individual workloads to potentially boost the Reds’ defensive options.

Paul Scholes should start training next Monday after struggling with a knee problem in recent months, however Ashley Young is set to be out for a fortnight with an ankle injury sustained during Monday’s derby defeat to Manchester City at Old Trafford.

“I’m hoping Vida will start training today," Sir Alex told reporters. “Jonny Evans has trained this week, which is better news than we had building up to Monday’s game. Ashley Young is out – he got a sore whack on his ankle and is maybe out for two weeks. Other than that, we're in good shape in terms of player availability.

“Chris Smalling started running this week and Paul Scholes will start training with the first-team on Monday. He’s done a fair bit in the last week or so and it will be a terrific boost to get his football intelligence back in the squad. He's been out for a few weeks now so he’ll need a good bit of training with us.

"You know you’re always going to get a hard game at Stoke. That will never change."

A mix of good and bad news!

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:32 PM

Boss: We need a win at Stoke

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United need to win at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday to get the title charge back on track.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/85C6B4AF95F945E4B5383CCDCB3100AE.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=253,0,611,536

The derby-day reverse to Manchester City trimmed the lead to 12 points with seven games remaining, enough to cause a minor bout of the jitters for some supporters in the wake of what happened at the end of last year's Barclays Premier League.

Any trip to Stoke City is usually tough and the Potters are desperate for points themselves after slipping down the table. However, the United manager is determined to secure victory ahead of the midweek journey south to West Ham next Wednesday.

"We have a job to do," stated Sir Alex. "The incentives are there for ourselves in the sense that we've only got seven games left.

"The challenge is there for Stoke as well. I don't think they will go down but, nonetheless, they’re in a precarious situation because, down the bottom of that league, you don’t pick up a lot of points. I think they'll get enough to get out.

"I don't think we should look at our position in terms of being 12 points clear. What matters is winning on Sunday and we need to do that. As we always do, we should just try to do our best. We have a job to do on Sunday and we need to do it."

The boss doesn't accept the view that Manchester City deserved to win Monday's top-of-the-table clash at Old Trafford.

"It's always disappointing to lose a derby," he conceded at his press conference. "There was nothing in it between the two teams.

"Possession-wise, they were better in the first half and we were better in the second half but lost two bad goals and you can't do that in derby games. It was a fantastic derby in the sense of the intensity.

"The start of the game was absolutely brilliant. Both teams went for it and it was end-to-end. Both had half-chances of sorts but it ended up that Joe Hart had the only save in the match to make. There was only one save in the whole match between the two goalkeepers. That gives you an idea about how close the game was."

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:34 PM

Vidic remains a doubt

Nemanja Vidic remains a doubt for the weekend encounter at Stoke City with Sir Alex Ferguson conceding the captain could be a "bit short" in terms of fitness.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/CC92C73177DB4904AFEEDE05C1755D0D.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,2,535,801

The Serbian was injured during the 1-0 win at Sunderland and missed the defeats to Chelsea and Manchester City in the FA Cup and Barclays Premier League respectively. Although Jonny Evans is in contention to return at the Britannia Stadium, it looks like being a straight tussle with Rio Ferdinand and Monday's man-of-the-match Phil Jones for the two centre-back slots.

"We are hoping Nemanja can start training today but he's maybe a bit short for Sunday," the boss informed MUTV. "At least Jonny should be back and that's the good news we've got on that front.

"Chris Smalling has started training running-wise and is not far away. Phil was fantastic [in the derby] and that was only his fourth game at centre-back this season. As you know, he's been playing in other positions.

"He can play anywhere on the pitch and is going to be a fantastic player."

Sir Alex is determined that his side recovers from the setbacks against Chelsea and City by getting the title bid back on track in the Potteries.

"You don't want to lose derby games and I've said that time and time again," he asserted. "They scored late too and it didn't give us a lot of time to recover.

"Nonetheless, we've got to dust ourselves down. You know what this club is about and we know what our history is like. We know we can recover from disappointments and we'll do it again."

I so hope he is available!

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:35 PM

Lingard set for big week

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/527750D3FF87472CA83747E04B3F3C01.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,1,524,196

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Apr/jesse-lingard-hopes-for-first-team-call.aspx

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:37 PM

Rio: No hangover from Madrid

Rio Ferdinand insists the Reds are not suffering from any kind of hangover from last month's Real Madrid defeat, despite some disappointing results of late.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/0DF162ADE27148A484861DE21B950B99.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,13,534,410

After losing out in the FA Cup quarter-final replay away at Chelsea, having initially been in control of the tie at Old Trafford, the Reds went down 2-1 in the Manchester derby on Monday night.

Ferdinand maintains the players simply didn't reach the levels needed against Chelsea and City and says the results were not affected by the Reds' Champions League exit.

"There has been no hangover at all," he told MUTV's Countdown to Kick-Off show. "The Madrid game was a weird one - you're gutted obviously, but it didn't feel the same as when we lost to City because we didn't play well in that game.

"Against Madrid we did everything that was asked of us as players, but one decision took us off the rails and had a big impact on the way the game finished. So I wouldn't say that [about there being a hangover].

"We've had a couple of hard games against two teams [Chelsea and City] that are up there [near the top]. We've got no divine right to beat those teams, but we should have beaten them given we were playing at home. That's the disappointing thing. But no, there is no hangover."

Despite the loss to City, United remain well in control of their title destiny and Ferdinand says the players are simply focusing on finishing the job.

"Inevitably you have a bit of a down period for a day or so but you've got to dust yourself down and move on, and that's what we're doing," he added. "We go into the Stoke game [on Sunday] knowing we need to put a good performance and result together.

"What you aim for at the start of the season is to get some consistency within your team and that's what we've done. The results we've had have been churned out through hard work and applying ourselves in the right way and we've got to continue that.

"One defeat in 19 is some going. We can't allow all that hard work to be undone by one or two bad results of late."

bbfan1991

12-04-2013, 08:38 PM

The loss to City really annoyed me and I was gutted, although onwards and upwards now to the Stoke game. Both teams at the opposite end of the table need those 3 points, but of course I hope that United return back to winning ways and if we beat them then three more wins are needed to guarantee that the Premier League title will be heading to Old Trafford!

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 11:27 AM

Chicha: Winning is everything

Chicharito says the Reds are not worried by a recent lack of goals and insiss winning games is all that matters at the moment.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/F2D981E46EB84AB5A76C6544B1526D81.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=144,0,518,562

After failing to score in the FA Cup replay at Chelsea, the Reds' two goals in the last two league games have come courtesy of the opposition.

Chicharito maintains it doesn't matter who or how many goals United score, as long as the team wins. And he says the players are determined to bounce back from the Manchester derby defeat with victory at Stoke on Sunday.

"Sometimes you can score a lot of goals and sometimes you are only scoring a few. It's part of football," he told MUTV's Countdown to Kick-off show.

"In some parts of the season we have scored a lot of goals. In December [and into January] we scored at least two goals in a few games in a row. That happens.

"We are working very hard to try and create as many chances as we can and when we have those chances we always try to score. The most important thing for us is to win the games - even if we win 1-0 we would still love that."

The Reds, who need one more goal to make it 100 for the season, travel to the Britannia Stadium knowing a win will extend their lead to 15 points over City, who are on FA Cup semi-final duty against Chelsea at Wembley on the same day.

United may be within 10 points of claiming a 20th league triumph, but Chicharito insists no-one at Old Trafford is thinking of anything but three points on Sunday.

"We have to forget about that [when United could win the title]. We are only thinking about Stoke," he adds. "We are taking it game by game. It's Stoke now and then we'll think about West Ham [on Wednesday] and then the next game.

"We are working very hard in training and doing what the gaffer wants us to so we can put in a performance on the pitch."

Chicharito is awesome:).

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 11:31 AM

Boss disagrees with Mancini

Sir Alex Ferguson insists United are pushed to the limits in every Barclays Premier League match and expects the trend to continue during the run-in.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/343FA7276EC44C9AB3997C2056E1D4F5.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=11,33,764,312

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini stirred some controversy ahead of the derby by claiming that the Reds have been given an easy ride in racking up a commanding lead in the table.

Although the competitive nature of most of United's matches this term would indicate otherwise, Mancini said: "No-one plays well against United because they only play with fear. Every team that plays against United plays very soft because they think this game is difficult, that they can't beat them."

However, Sir Alex has responded by emphasising the honesty of the English game and knows Stoke City and West Ham look certain to push the Reds all the way in the next two fixtures.

"I think that's absolute nonsense, I really do," countered the boss. "There are a lot of games I've watched this season, teams like City, and I've said to myself 'are they trying?' - of course they're trying.

"The English game is the most honest in the world, I think we all recognise that, and it has been for many, many years. And also you've got 3,000 fans following you away. There's no way any team could come to Old Trafford and not do their best. That also applies itself to the Etihad, Stamford Bridge, the Emirates or Anfield. They all do their best because that's the nature of the English game.

"So it's absolute nonsense what he [Mancini] said. He was maybe looking for a bit of self-sympathy or something like that. But it's nonsense.

"If you look at our game down at Norwich this season, the energy they expended in that game, particularly the two wide players, was phenomenal. They ran 100 miles. That's an example of the Premier League. And the Reading game, when it went to 3-2, I thought we were going to lose 30! Every crossed ball that came into the box, they seemed to get a header against us.

"I had to take Rafael off, simply because we didn't have enough height to deal with it, and put Chris Smalling at right-back. That cured it, so there are all different types of games and different types of opponents in the Premier League, which gives it that variety of football no other country has."

Sir Alex destroying Roberto Mancini:D.

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 11:32 AM

Falcao rumour dismissed

Sir Alex Ferguson has scoffed at suggestions that he will look to sign Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao in the summer.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/C3370F2378CB4F65A22C4A088F96B522.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=8,42,797,336

Spanish daily Marca broke a story that United were close to agreeing a deal with the Vicente Calderon club and much of the English media followed suit afterwards.

With various reports going as far as to speculate about the future of Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez as a result, Sir Alex was quick to shoot down the speculation when asked if it was genuine.

"Do you honestly believe that?" he asked the Sunday press. "Really? It does amaze me that you come up with that one."

Colombia international Falcao has continued his prolific goalscoring form in La Liga after moving from Porto in 2011. The 27-year-old had previously proved his worth at River Plate in Argentina.

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 11:35 AM

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez is not disheartened by the time he has spent on the bench this season, insisting it has made him more motivated to claim a regular starting berth.

http://www.espn.co.uk/PICTURES/CMS/43800/43845.2.jpg

Hernandez has just six Premier League starts to his name in 2012-13, though he is expected to add a seventh against Stoke on Sunday.

Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney are ahead of the Mexico forward in the United pecking order and Danny Welbeck has also often been preferred, leading to speculation that Hernandez may look to move on this summer.

However, the former Guadalajara man is adamant that the situation is not getting him down.

"All the players in the world want to start every single game," Hernandez said. "I am happy to be at this club. Of course I would love to start more often but I will keep the same attitude.

"When the gaffer wants me on the bench or the starting line-up I will do my best. My attitude is going to be very good because I want to respect the club, my team-mates and the coach."

I love Chicharito's attitude and I so hope he gets more match time soon:).

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 12:11 PM

Man United XI vs Stoke: De Gea, Jones, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Kagawa, Carrick, Valencia, Rooney, Hernandez, van Persie

Not sure what the formation is. Could quite possibly be the diamond? Or maybe Kagawa in the centre of midfield for a change, or Rooney?

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 12:16 PM

Ace line up, we need to attack, attack, attack!

Subs: Lindegaard, Evans, Giggs, Smalling, Welbeck, Cleverley, Buttner.

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 12:19 PM

Ace line up, we need to attack, attack, attack!

Subs: Lindegaard, Evans, Giggs, Smalling, Welbeck, Cleverley, Buttner.

Three defenders on the bench and no Fat Ando. Surely off in the summer.

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 12:23 PM

Three defenders on the bench and no Fat Ando. Surely off in the summer.

Could be and I hope that we replace him if that happens. Fletcher coming back is still up in the air.

I don't want him to go tbh, but I have a feeling that Nani would be off and I would be worried if Young, Zaha, Valencia and probably Giggs are our only wing options for next Summer. Kagawa can play on the wing, but his best position is in CAM.

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 12:47 PM

Could be and I hope that we replace him if that happens. Fletcher coming back is still up in the air.

I don't want him to go tbh, but I have a feeling that Nani would be off and I would be worried if Young, Zaha, Valencia and probably Giggs are our only wing options for next Summer. Kagawa can play on the wing, but his best position is in CAM.

At best I feel Anderson can be a squad player. However, his injury record isn't great. I thought he'd be gone last summer and so was surprised but perhaps this summer will be when he departs. Would still like to see, if Porto want him back, Anderson plus cash for Joao Moutinho.

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 12:49 PM

This is either going to be AMAZING or a fuken disaster once again

Don't get me wrong we actually have most of our best players on (apart from Tony) but this is not FIFA where players can play in any position without any issues there is such a thing as a balanced team which we have not seen before Madrid and after

Kagawa is accused of being light - weight so when we need him for flair in a game against someone like City he sits rotting on the bench whilst against the most physical team he start's

AGAIN Carrick will be the only actual centre mid playing in centre mid

Valencia STARTING AGAIN what dirt does he have on Fergie is what I would like too know

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 12:50 PM

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 12:51 PM

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 12:52 PM

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 12:53 PM

Like I said before we totally ruined fat Ando. Before he came to us he was a real flair player at porto and was being compared to Ronnie and then for some unknown reason we tried to turn him into a box to box dynamo when it is quite apparent he does not have the lungs for that role

That and he discovered numerous fast food chains over here. His injuries haven't helped either.

Indeed bbfan, but I still don't get why he didn't feature at all against City.

Brother Leon

14-04-2013, 12:58 PM

Dear god. The lineup. Something I would do on FM :p

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 12:59 PM

The thing is that Shinji Kagawa needs to play in those type of games now so he is used to the style of the Premier League, so he is more settled in next season and can kick on with getting his United career to the next level.

Shinji should be starting every game for us FULLSTOP. Anyone that think Rooney is a better number 10 then Kag shows the lack of knowledge and appreciation of the game. Don't get me wrong Rooney has been great in that role for us due to his energy and commitment to covering our joke of a centre mid.

But he is not a natural number 10 and his poor passing and touch will never allow him to fit this role. Whilst Shinji is your perfect number 10. Has AN AMAZING touch finds space in and around the box with ease and is an amazing passer ( highest pass completion rate in the final third in the PL)

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 01:09 PM

Carrick!

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 01:12 PM

Carrick!

Nice and it is our 100th goal this season too:).

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 01:58 PM

Positives

Very nice possession football
Carrick (as usual)
Vidic (as usual)
Look like we will score every attack

Negatives

Stoke look like utter tripe
Don't have a fuken clue what formation we are playing
Valencia looking mediocre at best against rubbish opposition again
RVP does not look like scoring ever again

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 02:57 PM

Good win well played everyone bar Tony

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 03:01 PM

Happy with that:):D.

I am pleased that Michael Carrick got his first goal of the season and that Robin Van Persie has ended his goal drought, loved him running off to celebrate with Sir Alex Ferguson and Rene etc.

Seven points needed to win the title now, we just need to keep focused and keep going till we reach our target to be confirmed as champions!

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 03:06 PM

http://www.101greatgoals.com/wp-content/gallery/gimages/gcs7k8x.jpg

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 03:16 PM

SAF on the RVP celebration: "He nearly killed me! I'm 71!!" #MUFC

:D

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 03:48 PM

I wonder if Wayne Rooney's class performance today has given SAF food for thought and he will start playing him there more, transition into Midfield hence us being linked with Strikers? If true then I hope we still strengthen in our weakest area.

Wayne is so versatile and he has not moaned about playing in a different position, he has a lot to offer still for United and his quality is obvious.

I still can't see him leaving in the Summer though.

Legend killer

14-04-2013, 03:56 PM

A Defender and a Striker are better then every actual centre mid we have bar Carrick joking aside that badly needs to be finally sorted in the summer

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 04:07 PM

Report: Stoke 0 United 2

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Apr/stoke-city-v-manchester-united-match-report.aspx

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 04:08 PM

Vote: Man of the Match

Manchester United opened up a 15-point gap again at the Barclays Premier League summit with a 2-0 win at Stoke City.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/C55E055191B64342B4300D4BF980B62F.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,550,410

There were a number of impressive performers for the Reds at the Britannia Stadium and the ManUtd.com team have produced a five-man shortlist.

Wayne Rooney was Sky Sports' star man as he adapted to a midfield role with ease and Michael Carrick is another clear contender following his first Barclays Premier League goal of the season and another assured masterclass in midfield.

At the back, Nemanja Vidic was a tower of strength in dealing with all of the aerial problems caused by Stoke in strong winds and Patrice Evra was a bundle of energy at left-back. Our final nominee played on the other flank as Phil Jones continues to look a class act regardless of which position he is stationed in.

So, which of our five candidates will you go for? Vote now at http://www.manutd.com/en/polls.

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 04:10 PM

Gallery: Success at Stoke

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Features/2013/Apr/Gallery-of-Stoke-City-v-Manchester-United.aspx

Brother Leon

14-04-2013, 04:19 PM

Robin's celebration melted my heart. Could see how much this means to him.

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 04:24 PM

Robin's celebration melted my heart. Could see how much this means to him.

Indeed, he wanted to thank everyone at United and he knows that after the frustrating years he had at Arsenal for a few years with no trophies that he is close to getting one with his new club!;)

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 05:38 PM

Sir Alex praises his troops

Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for his players after a deserved 2-0 win at Stoke City on Sunday.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/C71FA5C31F1343A08D78F9AC1AFDCAFC.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,181,550,385

Michael Carrick and Robin van Persie scored the goals and the celebrations that followed the Dutchman's penalty will live long in the memory as the Reds took an important step towards a historic 20th league title.

After losing to Chelsea in the FA Cup and to Manchester City in the derby, some pressure was on the runaway leaders going into the hostile environment at the Britannia Stadium.

"It was a big one coming on the back of the defeat on Monday night and it was essential for us in terms of standing up and being counted," the boss told MUTV. "Everyone did a great job today.

"I said at the beginning of the game that the wind would affect the ball and it was the worst day possible to come to Stoke. They are a handful and it was a really tough match. Credit to the players as they battled all day."

Sir Alex was delighted to see van Persie end his 11-game goal drought but less enamoured to be embraced so vigorously by his enthralled top scorer.

"He nearly killed me!" he joked. "He forgets I’m 71! I always think you should celebrate goals – the boys celebrated right away and it was an emotional part of it. The supporters were encouraged by that.

"It was an absolutely tremendous penalty under pressure, with the wind blowing the ball off the spot two or three times," the manager stated. "He arrowed it right in the corner, a perfect penalty. He did well to get us a penalty after a tremendous ball out to him by Wayne and he was brought down.

"He and the rest of them will think they’ve done a great job today, very well justified in terms of the performance and having to dig in deep to get that result."

Sir Alex admits he hopes Stoke do not go down, even though the defeat leaves the Potters in trouble following Sunderland's 3-0 win at Newcastle.

"I hope Stoke stay up," he insisted. "I think they’re a great club with fantastic support and a great manager. Tony Pulis is terrific, one of the best in the business. With the job he’s done here, he doesn’t deserve to be in the position they are in.

"They should be doing better but I hope they stay up and I think they will get enough points. There was a great determination about them and determination at this part of the season is a good thing to have. I really do hope they stay up."

As for the Reds, the message from the manager is clear: end the season in style.

"The responsibility and expectation is for Manchester United to win every game," he told Sky Sports. "I don't think any of the supporters would think any differently.

"Today was the start and we have got six games left. To go and win the next game is what we want to do."

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 05:49 PM

Rooney salutes Reds' response

A comfortable victory at Stoke provided the perfect antidote to the frustration of last Monday's derby defeat to Manchester City, according to Wayne Rooney.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/24D925AFAD3D433CBA83DEBA3C04B8FF.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,165,1188,606

Michael Carrick's early opener gave the Reds an ideal start at a windswept Britannia Stadium, before Robin van Persie's second half penalty sealed a win which brought the Premier League title three points closer.

"It's difficult coming here and the conditions today were dreadful, really," Rooney said. "It was probably the most wind I've played in, so we had to deal with it, be disciplined and give a good performance. We did that and thankfully we got the three points.

"It [the derby] was horrible really. No matter how many points clear we were, it was a derby game we wanted to win and unfortunately we didn't do that, so the next best thing to do was show we could respond to that, come to Stoke and get three points."

United now need a maximum of seven points from six remaining games to clinch a record-extending 20th league title, and Rooney is determined to garner a further three at Upton Park next week.

"It's a tough game on Wednesday, West Ham away, and it's a massive game now," he said. "We'll go there and try and get the three points. Hopefully we can do that and then move on to the next one.

"We're in a great position and I'm sure every United fan and player would have taken this position before the season started. We just have to make sure we move on and push ourselves over that line."

:)

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 05:53 PM

Rooney role explained

Wayne Rooney proved his versatility with an accomplished performance in midfield during the 2-0 win against Stoke City.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/86B2F6B53CA14BA6866B97E676FD0E3B.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=5,93,626,324

The United star was selected in a deeper role for the Britannia Stadium assignment and was unflustered throughout, adding real composure by making time for himself on the ball.

Rooney's display was sufficiently impressive to earn him Sky Sports' man-of-the-match award and Sir Alex Ferguson explained afterwards the thinking behind his tactical decision.

"I thought he was brilliant," enthused the boss. "I think he was possibly needing a different role in terms of getting his confidence back.

"He's been getting a little bit of criticism, not seriously so, but a few doubters. He's a fantastic player and our job is to get his confidence and form back. I thought a spell in midfield today would do him the world of good and, of course, it worked for us.

"With Chicharito, Robin van Persie and Wayne on the pitch, they have got 55 goals between them and that counted for me," he added. "One of them is going to score for you and that was important.

"I also thought a spell in midfield for a while could be good for Wayne."

When asked if Rooney is likely to play there again this term, the boss replied: "Yeah, it's a possibility we'll utilise players who can get you goals. I think we tried to do that today with Antonio Valencia wide right and Shinji Kagawa on the left, who I thought was fantastic, as it gave ourselves options to score."

As for the player himself, Rooney was more pleased with the three points than his own personal performance.

"I've played there a few times this season and I just had to make sure I got myself back alongside Michael [Carrick] and alongside Rio [Ferdinand] and Vida [Nemanja Vidic] for the second balls," he revealed. "And then, when I could, try and get my foot on the ball and break forwards. I thought I managed to do that.

"As a centre-forward, you always look to score goals, but you have to hold yourself back at times and try and do a job for the team, try and help the team keep the ball and move up the pitch together.

"You enjoy it when you win. I think it was a good, disciplined performance by us and when you're on the football pitch, winning games, you always enjoy it."

Wayne Rooney is very versatile, which is great and I admire his attitude and it is interesting that SAF might play him in Midfield more after todays performance.

Nice praise for Shinji Kagawa too by SAF!

bbfan1991

14-04-2013, 05:55 PM

Robin relieved to score again

Robin van Persie felt compelled to thank his colleagues after scoring his first goal in in eleven games during United's vital victory at Stoke City.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D6E5D0A88D394CC898A2BB4FD1CD6EAB.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,1,550,206

The Dutchman won and converted a second half penalty to net his first Reds goal since February before joining Sir Alex Ferguson, his staff and the substitutes on the visitors' bench at the Britannia Stadium.

"I had to score that one and thankfully it went in, and after that the relief of a couple of weeks came out, I would say," laughed the Dutchman. "I wanted to celebrate with everyone; with the players, the staff, with all the players involved even on the bench because they've been great to me from day one.

"Even when sometimes it is a little bit harder, they still believe in me and they still support me and help me wherever they can. That's why I wanted to join everyone."

Wayne Rooney paid tribute to van Persie's bravery in deciding to take the penalty, with the weight of expectation bearing down after so long without a goal.

"I'm sure he would have thought about it (the drought) before he took the penalty, but he showed a lot of courage to step up and put it away. Credit to him for that.

"Every player in the world has had a few games on the run without scoring. Robin's kept his head down, kept working and thankfully today he's got his goal and hopefully that'll kick him on because he'll be a massive player in the next few games for us."

Class:worship:.

Ryan57

14-04-2013, 07:59 PM

Legend killer

15-04-2013, 03:13 PM

Thought I would share my all time United team from the players I have seen although I have been told by many Best was better then Pele

Schmeichel
Raf Rio Vidic Evra
Ronaldo Carrick Keane Giggs
Scholes
RVN

Keeper: Big shout out to Van the man and De Gea is already 3rd on my list

Right Back: sorry Nev great servant but Raf over the last year and a half has reached a level I don't think you could reach on Fifa

Centre Back: I actually think both Stam and Vidic are better defenders then Rio but they are too similar to play together and I think Vida is slightly better then Stam although close

Left Back: Irwin WAS MUCH MORE RELIABLE then Patrice but his Patrice's prime it is a similar case to Nev and Raf

Right Mid: Picks Itself

Centre Mid: Although I would play him as a defensive mid next to the GOAT Michael would have a more free role to the one has now and would be allowed to set up play a lot more like his early days with us

Left Mid: Picks itself

Striker: Picks itself just a matter of whether you would stick someone up top with him

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:02 PM

Vidic expects test

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic expects another tough test on Wednesday night when the Reds travel to London to meet West Ham.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/E9534AC930F7404EB3C9BA59187DB3B2.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,8,680,261

Sir Alex’s men emerged from a bruising encounter at Stoke on Sunday with a 2-0 win and Vidic, who was terrific in the heart of United’s defence, believes West Ham will pose a similar physical threat.

“Stoke is always a difficult place to go to but we fought for every ball, played some good football and, in the end, I think we deserved to win,” he told MUTV. "It was physical. You know they're going to get the ball to the forwards, they're good at set-pieces, they're going to challenge defenders.

“Now it's West Ham and we have to play well again. They play in a similar style to Stoke – we're going to have long balls and set-pieces to deal with.”

Victory at West Ham would leave the Reds needing just four points from five games to secure a 20th league title. Vidic admits lifting the Barclays Premier League trophy is on his mind, but knows nothing is guaranteed in football.

“Yes, you think you're almost there but you have to win the games,” he said. “[Winning at Stoke] helps us build up the confidence and a few players had a great game – people like Antonio, Wayne and Robin.

“It's important for players like this to be in good form for the games to come.”

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:03 PM

Roo, RvP: Win it in style

Manchester United strikers Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie are determined to win the Barclays Premier League in style.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/0EED70C81BFC4E3C94E19706F4AEE327.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,17,550,221

Following the Reds’ gritty 2-0 win at Stoke City on Sunday afternoon, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men require just seven points from the remaining six league fixtures to secure a 20th league title. But Rooney and van Persie believe it’s important United romp to victory rather than limp over the line.

“That's the aim,” Rooney told Sky Sports. “The manager [told us before the game at Stoke] that the season started today and we've now got six to go – we have to go for all of them.

“I think if we win them all, we get a record in our pockets, so it's a good aim, a nice target for all of us to achieve.”

Van Persie, who netted from the penalty spot to end a 10-match goal drought, was in similarly bullish mood.

“We don't just want to try and win the league by getting the points we need, we want to get maximum points now from the games remaining.

“It’s important that you keep a run of wins going and that's what we want to do.”

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:04 PM

Loans: Paying the penalty

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Apr/Loans-Michal-Keane-and-Leicester-suffer-blow.aspx

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:06 PM

Sir Alex proud of Reds

Manchester United's 2-0 win at Stoke City on Sunday was a test of character that the Reds passed with flying colours, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/3E3D797C74F043828C6C6C1C5948309B.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=150,0,1308,1734

The challenge is now to repeat it with another tricky away trip to take on West Ham at Upton Park on Wednesday night.

Following defeats to Chelsea in the FA Cup sixth round replay and then Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League, United were in need of a win at the Britannia Stadium to ensure no further incentives were handed to Roberto Mancini’s men in the title race.

In blustery conditions against a team renowned for their physicality and a home crowd lauded for its partisan atmosphere, the Reds delivered a composed performance under pressure to gain another valuable three points.

Having had time to reflect on the result, the performance and its potential broader significance, Sir Alex told ManUtd.com: "I always say you don't leave your character in the dressing room and I think we saw that against Stoke.

"The Britannia Stadium is not an easy place to go to and we had this swirling wind in the first half in particular, which was difficult, but nonetheless we had to find a way through it and we kept our composure. We weren't over-anxious about the game - we kept playing the ball, passing it around.

"We didn't make a lot of chances, but we've done that at Stoke over the last six years and made very few chances but usually won the games: a late goal from Tevez, a late goal from Chicharito.

"The performance and the character the players showed was terrific."

United now need a maximum seven points to clinch title no.20, but the team's mantra of focusing on the next game remains, and so attentions now turn firmly to taking another three points from Sam Allardyce's West Ham side.

Well said Sir Alex. The lads did well to respond after the City defeat and got back to winning ways against Stoke!

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:07 PM

Preview: West Ham v Utd

Date, time and coverage: Wednesday 17 April (kick-off 19:45 BST).

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Apr/preview-of-west-ham-united-vs-manchester-united.aspx

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:08 PM

Sir Alex: No new injuries

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed the Reds came away from Stoke unscathed and revealed that the same squad will travel to West Ham on Wednesday.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/2C136E663E5A4659805A6EDD87EE8173.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=30,1,566,802

Goals from Michael Carrick and Robin van Persie secured a vital 2-0 win for United on Sunday to stretch the lead at the top to 15 points.

Sir Alex's men need seven more to secure a 20th league title and have the opportunity to pick up another three at Upton Park on Wednesday night.

"We have no injuries from Sunday against Stoke. It was a tough game, certainly. But there were no injuries and that is a blessing of course," the boss told MUTV.

"We have a good, strong squad. We took 20 players with us to Stoke and those 20 players will go with us again on Wednesday night."

Good:).

Brother Leon

16-04-2013, 06:10 PM

Looking forward to being at Upton Park. Should be a great away day atmosphere being so close to #20.

Apologies in advance because I have a terrible record in United games I have been to :joker:

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:10 PM

Tunnicliffe's target

Ryan Tunnicliffe is determined to win more silverware this season as United took a big step towards sealing a place in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League semi-finals on Monday night.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/A7618B542DB04D1D88A2063143B07932.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,29,600,251

The dynamic midfielder scored the only goal of the game against leaders Tottenham at Salford City Stadium to lift the Reds above Liverpool into second place in the table with the top three progressing to the knockout stages of the inaugural competition.

With the Reserves still involved in the Manchester Senior Cup and Lancashire Senior Cup, Tunnicliffe is keen to repeat last term's clean sweep of trophies at this level.

"I think we have set a marker for the rest of the year," he told MUTV. "If we get to the final, it looks like we could play Tottenham and we've proved we can beat them.

"Obviously, we've played them four times now this year and we've both won two each so you can't say they're better than us, they've just picked up more points elsewhere, although I'm not taking anything away from them because that's why they are top of the league and they're a very good team.

"We want to win everything, whatever tournament we are in - the Lancashire Senior Cup, Manchester Senior Cup and to be crowned the best team in England is what we're striving for. We don't want to go out at an earlier stage and then have nothing to play for - we want to keep going until the end."

Tunnicliffe's second-half strike proved decisive and his celebration mirrored that of Jesse Lingard in the previous match against Southampton, when the winger admitted he was rubbing his head in reference to Tunnicliffe's new mohawk haircut.

"One of my biggest traits is determination and, when I've seen it break for me, I just thought I'd get onto it," he said of the goal. "I didn't think I'd reach it myself but I got a toe to it. I couldn't really see it but I looked up and it was nestling in the net so I went off celebrating.

"The celebration was just exactly the same between me [Jesse] and him. We've been talking and he doesn't think my mohawk is the best and he wants to keep it for himself. I've stolen it from him but I think I pull it off a bit better as well so I wanted to rub it in!"

The Salford City Stadium certainly got the thumbs up from the former Peterborough and Barnsley loanee as a bumper crowd turned up to witness the victory.

"Obviously, you want to play in front of bigger crowds with a better atmosphere," he admitted. "You want to impress everyone there and the scouts. It was free entry and that helped.

"It's a nice pitch and a modern stadium. Everyone wants to come and visit it. The facilities in the backroom are very nice and it's just good to play in a bigger and better ground."

Ryan has a good attitude and he definitely has the potential to break through into the first team at some point!

bbfan1991

16-04-2013, 06:12 PM

Reds rib Robin

Patrice Evra says all the players were delighted to see Robin van Persie back on the scoresheet at Stoke, but revealed he has had plenty of stick for his goal celebration.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/EFC1B32082B04BBC9309C081D0DC592A.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=22,0,707,1024

The Dutchman ended a drought of 10 games without scoring for Manchester United in Sunday's 2-0 win at the Britannia when he won and converted a second-half penalty.

He immediately ran towards the United bench after seeing the ball hit the back of the net and jumped into the arms of an equally jubilant Sir Alex Ferguson.

"It has been difficult for Robin. He has had a lot of stick from us. For two or three days we have been getting at him!" Evra joked, when asked by PA Sport and Talksport about the goal celebration.

"To be fair, Robin told us he was really emotional. He had not scored for 10 games. He just showed the passion and the way he wanted to win. He said to us: 'Hands up guys, it was an emotional game. I did it, it is okay, we can move on now.'

"It was nice. I can see a lot of love and emotion. It is the first time we saw that [from Robin]. It is good to see love like that on the pitch sometimes. I always say the atmosphere at this club is great. That is a big strength for Manchester United."

Sunday's victory means the Reds are within seven points of reclaiming the championship crown and Evra says that, in Sir Alex, the players have the perfect person to guide them to glory.

"The boss is a winner," Evra said. "He has just told us to win the six games that are left. He said before the Stoke game that the season starts now. That shows you the way he wants to win this 20th title.

"He told us not to think about the title, just think about winning these six games. We can still break the record [points total]. That is what he wants.

"The challenge for us is to win the six games we have left. It won't be easy but that is the way the boss wants us to play."

Patrice is funny:D:joker:.