Manchester United Fan Club

[bbfan1991]

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Carrick's best campaign

Michael Carrick is having his best season since joining Manchester United, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 31-year-old midfielder has been in majestic form and showed his value to the team in a cameo performance against his former club West Ham in midweek.

With the next fixture against another of his old sides, the 2006 signing from Tottenham will aim to continue to impress and keep the Reds flying high at the top of the Barclays Premier League table.

"I think he's been magnificent," enthused Sir Alex. "It's his best-ever season at the club and he's commanding that position. He's doing absolutely brilliantly.

"Even when he came on against West Ham, he helped ease us through the last 20 minutes. Good players do that. He came on and settled us down."

Incredibly, in all Carrick's time at the club, only one team has gained more points from a season than United - Chelsea, in 2010, when they pipped the Reds to the title by a point. Current champions Manchester City were, of course, only crowned on goal difference.

Spot on SAF:). Michael Carrick has been outstanding for United this season!

[bbfan1991]

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Guardiola move surprises boss

Even Sir Alex Ferguson was surprised to learn former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola had agreed to join Bayern Munich, although the Manchester United manager confesses he can see the allure of the German giants.

Bayern announced on Wednesday that Guardiola, currently spending a year away from football, would take over in the summer on a three-year contract.

Many, including Sir Alex, had expected the Barcelona legend to take up a post in the Barclays Premier League, with Manchester City and Chelsea hot favourites to land the 41-year-old's signature.

"I was surprised because I didn’t see it coming," the Reds boss told media at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "All the time the talk was about clubs in England.

"But if you assess it as a coach, if you're given the opportunity to manage Bayern Munich it is hard to turn down because they are probably one of the best-run clubs in Europe. A fantastic city, a fantastic stadium, good players, good history. It is very easy to choose Bayern Munich with all these circumstances."

Ferguson has always been full of praise for the Bavarian club, no doubt due to the way their history, like United's, influences the current state of play.

"Karl Heinze Rummenigge and Uli Hoeness are involved. You also have Gerd Muller working in the place and I think Sepp Maier is still there. That place is loaded with players who made that club’s history. They've always been that way. It's a really well-run club and I think it's easy to accept that offer because of that."

[bbfan1991]

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Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas wary of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney

Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas is wary of the threat of Robin van Persie ahead of Sunday's visit of Manchester United.

Van Persie has scored 10 goals in his last 10 games ahead of the trip to White Hart Lane and Villas-Boas admits he has been a revelation for the Red Devils.

"For them he has been a tremendous success and it has been a transfer with immediate impact and immediate results," said the Spurs manager.

"He is a player who last year impressed and his level of form was incredible. To make a move to an even bigger club and arrive the way he has and triumph there is something outstanding - he is probably the difference at this time between the Manchester clubs.

"I think what is exciting with Van Persie at this stage is the fact that you know he was transferred to Manchester United after last year's amazing goal scoring record, and he kept on scoring.

"It didn't affect him and his form. He continues to be the amazing talent that he is."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has refuted claims that his side are a one-man team and Villas-Boas agrees with that - pointing to the danger of his partnership with Wayne Rooney.

Asked about Rooney, the Portuguese coach said: "He sacrifices himself for the team and embraces all of that United team spirit and desire to win.

"I think he has overcome some difficult moments in his career but he is a top quality footballer.

"It is a very, very strong partnership at the moment. The individual talent is absolutely amazing."

[bbfan1991]

Ryan Giggs says fellow Welshman Gareth Bale has a bright future ahead of him

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Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs praised Gareth Bale ahead of Sunday's clash with Tottenham and said he has high hopes for the fellow Welshman.

Bale was on the scoresheet when Spurs shocked United with a 3-2 win last September, and while Giggs makes it clear he hopes the 23-year-old midfielder has an "off-day" on Sunday, he showers praise on the Tottenham midfielder.

"Gareth is brilliant," Giggs said.

"He has so much to his game and over the last season or so he has improved a lot.

"He is not just a left winger. He can play in various positions.

"I have seen him play up front for Wales. I have seen him play off the front and on the right.

"He is such an exciting player, but more than that, he has a good attitude as well.

"He can go far in the game. And whilst I hope he has an off-day this weekend, as a fellow Welshman I hope it is to the very top."

Commenting on the five-goal thriller at Old Trafford earlier in the season, the United midfielder added: "We didn't perform in the first half that day.

"In the second Tottenham did not get out of their half and we should have got something out of the game.

"But when they have that kind of talent, you can't take anything for granted. You have to be at your best, which we definitely weren't in that first half earlier in the season."

United have dropped just five points since that defeat, adding Chelsea and Manchester City to their list of notable away victories.

"When you have a seven-point advantage you just have to look after yourself and the rest will take care of itself," said Giggs.

"People spoke so much about us playing first last weekend, this time it is roles reversed.

"But we are not thinking about that. We are just thinking about a tough game at White Hart Lane against a very good Tottenham side who have already beaten us this year.

"We know what we are up against. We know that it is going to be hard. But games with Tottenham are always brilliant to be involved in.

"Hopefully we can get the right result."

[bbfan1991]

Chicha keen to play part

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This season there is stiff competition up front for United, but Javier Hernandez is the Reds' second top goalscorer so far in 2012/13 and thoroughly enjoying the challenge...

You’re getting lots of game time and playing alongside the likes of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney – are you enjoying yourself this season?
I am very happy. I am enjoying playing a lot and I just want to be ready when the manager wants to put me on the pitch. It’s true, it’s great to play alongside Robin, Wazza, and Danny too. But when you train and play with world-class players you also must have the best possible attitude to gain everything you can from playing alongside them. It’s easier to improve when you’re surrounded by good players – and this club has many good players.

What in particular are you learning from those players?
Every striker and every player has something they bring to the team, but Robin and Wazza are complete players. They have certain attributes that are better than others, of course, but the reason they are so good is because they do everything so well – touch, movement, passing, finishing. It’s easy to learn from them because it’s so obvious how good they are. They are two of the best strikers in the world.

You’re not doing too badly. You’ve scored 12 goals this season, eight of which have come in the last 30 minutes of matches. What’s the secret?
I really don’t know. But if you look at Robin, he scores late goals too: Southampton, Liverpool, Manchester City, West Ham… they were all late goals. If you looked at the stats of strikers at this club, past and present, I imagine they will have scored a lot of late goals. It’s the mentality of this club that you never give up because you always have time to make a difference. If we are losing 2-0, or even 3-0, in your mind you think, ‘If we get one, we’ll get two. If we get two, we can get a third’. It’s about belief. Against Newcastle we kept going behind but we always believed we would come back, and at 3-3 we knew we could win. We got the goal and it was a great feeling. My goals late in games are more about the club than me. It’s in our history and the gaffer always tells us: never give up, always fight until the end. I love that about Manchester United. It’s a totally different feeling. A great feeling. You may prefer to win 2-0, but the atmosphere in late victories is incredible. It gives you great satisfaction, and the other team doesn’t have time to react. But the most important thing is that we win.

Four of your goals this season have been winners. You’ve got a reputation now…
A little bit… [smiles] No, I don’t like to talk about myself like that. If I score a goal then it is a consequence of the efforts of the team. We are strikers, we are the nearest players to the goal and you can say it’s our job to score. But strikers have to give more to the team – you can help dictate the rhythm and tempo of the team’s play, provide assists, help defensively. I am happy that I have 13 goals this season. I still count the one at Aston Villa – I have the match ball at home. Officially it’s 12 but, for me, it’s 13. Robin van Persie has 20 goals already and is playing really well and the whole team are happy that we are scoring, but there are other departments in which we need to improve.

Where specifically?
Well, we’d like to concede fewer goals but it’s not fair to say the forwards are doing well but the defence needs to improve. As a striker, I consider myself to be the first defender when I play. The first attackers are the defenders and goalkeeper. So we take credit and criticism for both areas together. And we will improve together. Every player at this club is clear about that. Are you pleased with the position the team is currently in? Yes, but it’s a long season. The most important thing is that we are seven points in front in the league and we are through to the Champions League knockout stages because last season we didn’t do that. We also have a chance to progress in the FA Cup. Like I said at the start of the season, my biggest dream here is to win the Treble. Some people might say it is impossible, but I think anything is possible here.

Fans’ questions

Are you the fastest player at United? - Christian Gore, via Facebook
I don’t know. It’s difficult to say yes. In training players like Nani, Antonio Valencia, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney are all very fast. I don’t know if I am the fastest but I think I am one of the quickest – maybe I’m in the top five! We need to have a race.

How did it feel to be named Mexican Athlete of the Year? - Neema Nabavian, via Facebook
I didn’t know that! If that’s true then I am very happy. In my country in the last couple of years sport has really improved. In the Olympics we got more medals than we are used to winning and we won the Gold medal in the football. In Boxing we have many good athletes. I wouldn’t want to leave someone out by naming all the other Mexican athletes I admire, there are many. Individual honours and prizes are great but without my team-mates or the club I couldn’t do it.

Chicharito is such a nice guy:), so likeable. I hope he gets more games this season for United and continues to improve.

His work outside the box in particular this season has come on leaps and bounds and he is doing more than just being an out and out goalscorer, which is great!

[bbfan1991]

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Sir Alex happy with 'headaches'

Sir Alex Ferguson has provided an insight into how he manages to rotate his squad and yet still keep the United players happy.

The Reds enjoy a famed team spirit despite having a large group of talented individuals who would be guaranteed regular starters elsewhere and the boss discusses the reasons behind his selections with the players on a regular basis.

"I don’t think it’s easy picking your team when you have a big squad of players," he explained. "The form of some of the players is becoming very good.

"Tom Cleverley is playing well. Danny Welbeck was terrific against Liverpool and Shinji Kagawa was tactically a problem for them. They couldn't quite get to him.

"I think Rio Ferdinand has been terrific this year. He’s preparing for games in the right way and doing his yoga twice a week. He’s in good physical condition. He and Nemanja Vidic were brilliant against Liverpool, absolutely brilliant. Considering Phil Jones has hardly had any football, he was fantastic against West Ham.

"These are the kinds of headache you want. To be able to say to people I’m leaving you out not because you’ve not played well but because I’m picking a different team today. All the ones who played in the FA Cup on Wednesday will get plenty of football between now and the end of the season."

The increased speed of the game, supported by the statistical elements available through sports science and tracking player performances, has necessitated regular rotation at Old Trafford.

"If you go back to when I started playing young players in the League Cup, a lot of people complained," recalled Sir Alex. "If you’re in Europe, the FA Cup and have the League to contend with, you can’t play the same players all the time. The stats show players’ running performances have soared, particularly sprints. It’s amazing. So the game has developed and is quicker with more energy being spent in games. You have to think more about picking your teams.

"I think the players accept it now. I wouldn’t say they enjoy it but they handle it better. It is difficult. You have to speak to them and can’t ignore it. The days of putting the team up on the notice-board have gone. They have here anyway. I don’t think you can do it any other way."

[bbfan1991]

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Exciting times ahead for United

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United can revel in the fact that some huge fixtures are on the horizon - and not be daunted by the workload.

The Reds are at Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday afternoon for what promises to be a severe examination of any title credentials before an FA Cup fourth-round tie with Fulham and two cracking Champions League clashes against Real Madrid.

The point is often made to the boss that United's continued European involvement could prove a hindrance in the context of the Barclays Premier League because Manchester City have exited the competition. However, he feels this could not be further from the truth, arguing that this is the sort of spell to be cherished and enjoyed.

"I think the best way to deal with it is we’ve got great games and it’s really exciting," he stated. "We’re going to Madrid and are then getting them here. We have an FA Cup tie at home to Fulham. It’s a brilliant period for the club.

"These are the situations you want – for our club to be involved in everything, the FA Cup and then the European Cup, it’s absolutely brilliant and we’ve got the squad to do it. There is absolutely no doubt about it. It’s tremendous. If you go back to the year we won the Treble, we had to go to Chelsea in a replay and won 2-0. We had a replay against Arsenal and won it. We’ve managed to get through and the name of the game in cup ties is to win.

"We've got to perform down at Tottenham and we're in the period of the season where, if we can keep our momentum going, we've got Southampton, Fulham and Everton to come in the next few weeks. These are big opportunities for us and we don't want to miss them."

[bbfan1991]

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Pitch inspection at Spurs

Story updated 14:19 GMT.

Spurs have confirmed there will be a pitch inspection at 14:50 GMT ahead of United's Barclays Premier League clash with Tottenham on Sunday.

A statement from Tottenham said: "There will be a pitch inspection by the referee at 14:50 GMT. We will have a further update for you as soon as possible after that time."

The match will probably be called off:(. Bloody snow!

[AnnieK]

I thought all the bigger clubs have undersoil heating to stop games being called off? Bloody snow.

[bbfan1991]

Game is ON:):D. Relief!

[bbfan1991]

United team to play at Spurs: De Gea, Rafael, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Carrick, Jones, Cleverley, Kagawa, Welbeck, Robin Van Persie.

[bbfan1991]

United Bench: Lindegaard, Anderson, Valencia, Rooney, Giggs, Smalling, Hernandez.

[bbfan1991]

Gutted that United could not hold on for the win, although a draw is probably a fair result at Spurs considering the play in the second half.

[bbfan1991]

RVP interview about how his first season at United has gone so far and discusses his time at Arsenal. Class guy and very intelligent with his about the game:).

http://www.skysports.com/video/inline/0,,20699_8417689,00.html

[bbfan1991]

Match Report: Tottenham 1 United 1

http://www.manutd.com/en/Fixtures-And-Results/Match-Reports/2013/Jan/tottenham-hotspur-v-manchester-united-match-report-barclays-premier-league.aspx

[bbfan1991]

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Sir Alex sees positives

Sir Alex Ferguson was disappointed United hadn't secured a win by the time Clint Dempsey struck Tottenham's late equaliser, but the boss is taking the positives from a point gained in one of the season's hardest away games.

The Reds remain five points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League table and a draw away at Spurs is far from disastrous. It was just the manner of it that was difficult to take.

“We had the opportunity to kill them off on the counter attack but our final ball let us down,” the boss told MUTV. “We worked really hard, as did Tottenham. It was a really difficult, gruelling game but we dealt with everything they did.

"They kept pumping that ball in the box and we kept heading it out. Unfortunately we didn’t get that last one that really mattered, the last kick of the game. It’s not an easy place to come to. They are a very aggressive, committed team. There was a good quality to the match in terms of the commitment of both sets of players. It was a difficult game but unfortunately we didn’t hold on for that extra minute.”

Robin van Persie’s first-half header was his 22nd goal of the season and Sir Alex was as pleased with the approach play as he was with yet another strike from his in-form front man. “It was a good build up from Danny to Tom," the boss said, "and Robin did what he has been doing all season and got another goal for us.”

The Dutchman's strike looked for so long like it would settle the match, then Dempsey struck in injury time. “I thought we looked quite comfortable in that last part of the game,” Sir Alex added. “I actually thought Rafael was fouled in the build-up. It was a clear foul and we didn’t get it. But I didn’t think we were going to get a decision from the linesman, that’s for sure.”

An earlier foul on Wayne Rooney inside the penalty area went undetected, of which Sir Alex opined: “It was a clear penalty and he was definitely brought down. He put his leg in and the linesman was right there facing it. I thought the linesman had a very poor game. I thought he was disappointing.”

Those frustrations aside, Sir Alex remains content with a five-point cushion at the Barclays Premier League’s summit with arguably the hardest away trips on the fixture list now all completed.

“We’ve been to all the top teams’ grounds now, we’ve just got Arsenal left,” added the manager. “I think we can be pleased with the outcome and the points total in all of them. It’s another game out of the road and I wanted the game to be on today [after a pitch inspection] because we don’t want a backlog of matches.”

[bbfan1991]

Vote: Man of the Match

Manchester United were forced to settle for a point against Tottenham on Sunday after a last-gasp equaliser from the home side at White Hart Lane.

Sir Alex praised the hard work put in by all his players in an interview with MUTV after the game and we have put together a four-man short-list for our Man of the Match award.

Former Spurs midfielder Michael Carrick produced another eye-catching display in the centre of the park with some excellent pin-point passing. Alongside him, Phil Jones was in combative mood and provided great protection in front of the back four thanks to a host of superb interceptions and last-ditch tackles.

The same could be said of Rio Ferdinand who was exceptional at the heart of the back four with the highlight of his display a potentially goal-saving block from Jermain Defoe after the break.

In attack, Danny Welbeck once again proved an eager runner and caused problems down the left for Spurs, particularly in the second half. And he played an important role in United's goal with a lovely pass out to Tom Cleverley who crossed for Robin van Persie to score.

Who will you vote for in our Man of the Match poll?

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

[bbfan1991]

Reds relish winter sun

Michael Carrick believes Manchester United's mid-season break to Qatar will be vital to the team's quest for silverware for the remainder of the campaign.

The squad fly out to the Middle East on Sunday evening for a four-day training camp in the sun.

Carrick joked that the players are looking forward to escaping the snow and believes the trip will stand the players in good stead for the challenges that lie ahead.

"I think it will be an important break for us," he told MUTV.

"We can get the sun cream out hopefully and get out on the beach and relax a bit!

"It's a busy season and there are busy times ahead. It's about recuperating and getting ready for the next game."

[bbfan1991]

Live: United v Fulham (17:30)

United host Fulham in the FA Cup fourth round at Old Trafford on Saturday 26 January (kick-off 17:30 GMT)

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

[bbfan1991]

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Rio won't dwell on late draw

Rio Ferdinand says Manchester United have to take a little of their own medicine after suffering the disappointment of Tottenham’s game-changing late intervention to secure a draw at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

Robin van Persie’s first-half goal was all that separated the teams with 90 minutes on the clock, but Clint Dempsey’s injury-time equaliser did to United what United have done to many opponents down the years.

Ferdinand had epitomised the Reds' resolute defending in the second half, with bodies thrown in front of shots and last-ditch tackles applied as Tottenham threw everything at the visitors. Yet while the initial reaction to such a late concession was one of acute frustration, on reflection Rio is sanguine about a hard-earned point.

“The way the game panned out was disappointing,” he told MUTV. “We defended for our lives as a team and got a really good goal through Robin, so it's disappointing in that sense. But we've done that [scored late] to so many other teams in the past that sometimes you just have to take that on the chin.

“As soon as I got off the pitch and got in the changing room I thought back to how many times we've done that to other teams and you've got to accept it every now and again, especially if you don't lose the game. It's a difficult place to come and you just have to dust yourselves down and say, 'okay, we'll take that point’.”

United remain in a commanding position in the league table and a point at White Hart Lane may yet prove to be a valuable one considering the quality of Andre Villas-Boas’ side.

“We're in a good position but nothing is won yet and no medals are given out now,” Rio added. “You've just got to keep chalking off the games and picking up as many points as you can.

"You want to get the difficult games out of the way and this is one of them. I think a lot of teams will drop points here.”

[bbfan1991]

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Reds paid the penalty

Michael Carrick felt Manchester United deserved a better outcome at White Hart Lane after "putting bodies on the line" to resolutely defend a slender advantage.

The midfielder may have been granted his wish against his former club Tottenham had the officials taken a different view of Steven Caulker's challenge on Wayne Rooney when the Reds were still leading 1-0.

"It was as clear a penalty as you're going to get," Carrick told MUTV. "We're disappointed with that because it would have put us in a great position. Big decisions like that can change games and today it did."

Carrick's team-mate Rio Ferdinand concurred, "One hundred per cent, it was a penalty. I can't believe he didn't give it. The linesman didn't really help us on that side [of the pitch] at all during the second half. We're disappointed the referee didn't give what was a stonewall penalty."

Both United players were involved in a sterling rearguard action, with highlights including Ferdinand's potentially goal-saving tackle on Jermain Defoe and Carrick's jockeying to win a goal-kick against rapid right-winger Aaron Lennon.

"While Tottenham were coming at us, I thought we defended very well as a team," said Carrick. "People were putting their bodies on their line to block shots and we hoped we could see the game out.

"The game-plan worked well. We set up slightly differently today but we defended well as a team and looked really strong.

"Without having a lot of chances in the game we still looked dangerous and I still felt we could score again, but the final pass just didn't quite fall for us. We were in a good position but we just couldn't quite see it out. It's disappointing after leading for so long, but we just have to move on and we can take a lot of positives from the game."

One such positive would be the play which led to the opening goal, scored yet again by Robin van Persie.

Ferdinand recalled: "The ball got worked out to Tom [Cleverley] who put in a great delivery and whatever Robin is touching at the moment seems to be going in. That was a great start for us.

"I don't think we can be too down about coming away from here with a point because Spurs are a confident team under new management and they've been doing well. We'll take that point."

[bbfan1991]

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Loans: Henriquez heads in

Angelo Henriquez marked his Barclays Premier League debut with a goal for Wigan after coming on as a substitute against Sunderland.

Although the close-range header, after he was involved in the initial build-up, could not prevent a 3-2 defeat, it illustrated his predatory instincts and Latics boss Roberto Martinez was delighted with the Chilean's impact.

"Whether he is scoring or not, Angelo has the profile of a goalscorer," he told Sky Sports. "His movement off the last man is fantastic and he has that knack of being in the right place.

"Scoring on his Premier League debut is going to do a world of good for his confidence but I don’t think it will change his way of playing or the high esteem he holds himself in."

The Reds' other English top-flight loanee, Fabio, continues to go from strength to strength at QPR. The Brazilian performed impressively in a 1-1 draw at West Ham, clearing a late Joe Cole attempt off the line to help preserve a precious point for Harry Redknapp's men.

Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson has asked for patience to be shown to Davide Petrucci after the Italian midfielder and Scott Wootton both featured in a 1-1 draw with Hull City. Grant McCann replaced Petrucci in the second half and fired the equaliser from the penalty spot.

"Davide got very frustrated with himself in the second half, which is why I took him off, but we have to bear in mind that he has never been out on loan before," explained Ferguson to the Peterborough Evening Telegraph.

"He is, by definition of where he came from, a very good footballer and he loves being at this club. We only have him for a month at first, but I will definitely try and extend the loan."

Michael Keane produced another accomplished display at the back as promotion-chasing Leicester picked up a useful 1-0 victory against Middlesbrough on Friday night. Although the England Under-19 international was shown a yellow card, he was unlucky to see a header hit the bar and excelled in snowy conditions.

In Europe, Bebe played the full 90 minutes of Rio Ave's 3-1 home reverse to Vitoria Guimaraes while Luke Giverin's Royal Antwerp saw their game with Heist postponed due to the terrible weather in Belgium. Antwerp's next scheduled fixture is on Wednesday against White Star Woluwe. Sean McGinty has returned from his stint with Carlisle United.

[bbfan1991]

After the Spurs game yesterday!

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:joker:

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United have announced the acquisition of the one-third stake in Manchester United Television (MUTV) from Sky, meaning the club now wholly owns its TV operation.

MUTV launched in 1998 as a three-way joint venture between Manchester United, ITV and Sky as three equal partners.

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The Premier League club has been ramping up its in-house media operation since then, and bought out ITV's stake in November 2007.

Manchester United said that acquiring Sky's 33.3% stake in MUTV was a "natural progression" for the club.

It is also "indicative of the club's desire to have full control of the content generating and distribution capabilities across all of its businesses".

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

MUTV is now available in 57 countries around the world, and can be accessed in the UK and Ireland via subscription on satellite and cable TV platforms.

Manchester United commercial director Richard Arnold said that the club intends to further expand MUTV after completing the buyout.

"The acquisition of Sky's stake is great news for all our fans who watch us around the globe, MUTV, its staff and the club," he said.

"We look forward to continuing to enhance our media proposition and distribution capabilities in the years to come, and delivering some of the best and most compelling content to our 659 million followers."

[bbfan1991]

Carrick tops Spurs poll

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Michael Carrick has pipped Rio Ferdinand to ManUtd.com’s Man of the Match poll vote for his performance against former club Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Carrick has been in fine form this season and Sir Alex Ferguson has said that United’s midfield metronome is enjoying his finest campaign yet for the Reds.

It was another commanding display from the 31-year-old playmaker and the fact that he beat Ferdinand, who was outstanding at the back for United, to the top spot in our poll is a significant show of approval.

The Reds’ no.16 polled 39% of the votes, with Rio taking 33%. Phil Jones, playing in a midfield role on Sunday, impressed with some heroic blocks and tireless running and claimed 17% of the votes, while Danny Welbeck polled 11%.

Carrick was as much seen breaking up Tottenham attacks as he was starting them for United. However, the fact that the Reds couldn’t quite hold out for victory was a source of frustration for Carrick, who felt United had defended valiantly in the face of a late Spurs siege.

"While Tottenham were coming at us, I thought we defended very well as a team," he said. "People were putting their bodies on the line to block shots and we hoped we could see the game out. We set up slightly differently but defended well as a team and looked really strong. We just couldn’t see it out.”

[bbfan1991]

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Jones: We're focused

Phil Jones insists Manchester United will not get carried away by the advantage over Manchester City at the Barclays Premier League summit, insisting it's vital the players stay fully focused.

Jones was one of the Reds' star performers in Sunday's trip to Tottenham which ultimately ended in disappointment after a last-gasp Clint Dempsey leveller. The 1-1 draw still keeps United five points ahead of City, but Jones says there is no room for complacency.

"Confidence is high but we know we still have to produce and do our job every time we step out there," he told ManUtd.com. "As long as we're focused on what we've got to do and on our game-plan hopefully we'll be okay.

"This period is always tough with a lot of games in a short space of time, but now we're getting towards the nitty gritty part of the season. It's the time when you need to be fully aware of what you've got to do and make sure you do it. We all relish the challenge - everyone is very focused and committed and we're ready for the next game."

United’s next challenge comes in the FA Cup on Saturday with Fulham, and most notably former Reds striker Dimitar Berbatov, in town for the Old Trafford tie. "The FA Cup is a great competition and one we want to win," declared Jones. "It's a competition I've always admired and we want to go as far as we can. It'll be great to see Berba again. Technically he's a fantastic player. Hopefully we can get the result we want and continue to progress in the competition."

[bbfan1991]

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Butt a perfect role model

Warren Joyce has spoken of the great example Nicky Butt sets the younger players at Manchester United.

The former Reds midfielder, who celebrated his 38th birthday on Monday, has been assisting Joyce with the Reserves and Under-21s after obtaining his coaching badges.

The ex-England international is a perfect role model for the youngsters because of his character and not only what he achieved on the field.

"It's great for the boys to see the true, proper Manchester United players like Nicky and listen to them to see how they are as people, as well as obtaining their input for information to improve them," Joyce told Inside United recently.

"It's a good experience for the boys. It gives them an example of what it takes to be a United player with real principles to the core and how normal, humble and hard-working they are.

"I think everybody who works in the Academy here has a clear idea of what qualities United players should have as a person as well as a player.

"We're trying to mould them as people as well as all the things that are involved in being a professional footballer - the technical, tactical and physical stuff. We're trying to mould personalities as well so that being a Manchester United player means something."

[bbfan1991]

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Cleverley craves cup glory

Manchester United have won five FA Cup finals in Tom Cleverley's lifetime - but none since he became a professional footballer.

The Reds midfielder wants to help rectify that quirk and he's already made a decent start by scoring the club's maiden goal in the 2012/13 competition, in the third-round tie away to West Ham. Cleverley says United's exertion to eventually win the tie proves how important the cup is to the players.

"It's a squad full of winners here and we definitely didn't want to lose that match," said Tom, referring to the first game when a late Robin van Persie equaliser was wildly celebrated.

"United haven't won the FA Cup for quite a while now," he adds. "The last time was in 2004, and it's definitely a trophy I want to win. It means a lot. In fact, we've got a few players in the squad who haven't won anything [major] in this country as yet, including myself, so anything we're involved in I want to win."

Cleverley did help the Reds to win the Community Shield in 2011, in his only club appearance so far at Wembley Stadium. And having turned out there more recently for England, he's acquired a taste for the famous venue - one that could inspire him in the next FA Cup clash with Fulham this weekend.

"Playing at Wembley is one of the best feelings of my career," Tom told United Review. "I've been lucky to have played there five or six times now, but I always want more."

If Cleverley can help United to see off Fulham and eventually reach the final after three further rounds, he'd be emulating a player he watched as a boy and now plays alongside as a man.

"The FA Cup memory that sticks out from when I was growing up has got to be Ryan Giggs' goal against Arsenal," said Tom. "I can't recall everything about the FA Cup run that year [1999], because I was only nine years old, but I remember that game well. United were down to 10 men, Beckham scored and then Giggsy got that unbelievable winner."

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa 'not satisfied' with himself following move from Dortmund

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Shinji Kagawa has claimed that he must develop greater mental strength to succeed at Manchester United after admitting to being unhappy with his progress at Old Trafford.

The Japan midfielder, a £17 million signing from Borussia Dortmund last summer, returned to action last month after almost 10 weeks on the sidelines with a knee injury sustained during the Champions League victory against Braga in October.

But despite making a bright start to his United career with two goals in his first six games for the club, Kagawa insists that he has not done enough for Sir Alex Ferguson’s team since arriving from Germany.

“I’m not satisfied what I have done here at all.” Kagawa said. “It is a big and really famous club in the world, but I need to overcome lots of pressures and be mentally stronger.

“Unfortunately I got injured after a couple of months, but I have to be better and grow as a player and as a person in terms of contributing to team’s wins and succeeding here.

“We have a really strong squad with many world class players, so it is lucky for me to have opportunity to train with them and play games with them, but I’m really feeling that I need to perform better.”

Kagawa claims that United’s success this season in claiming victories with late winners - prior to the injury-time goal conceded against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday - emphasises the need to match the mental strength of his team-mates.

“I really feel that we have a strong ability to bounce back when we are behind, so people in this team must be really mentally tough.” Kagawa said. “My team-mates are so experienced and mentally strong.”


I like his honesty and the eagerness to improve:).

[bbfan1991]

EMINEM: "Manchester United is a very big club and I love when they play like champions. Wish I get authorized to make one rap song on United"

:amazed:.

[bbfan1991]

Wilfried Zaha to undergo medical before signing for Manchester United

• Palace grant United permission to speak to the player
• Zaha to be loaned back for remainder of the season

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In the next 48 hours, Wilfried Zaha will have contract talks and undergo a medical prior to signing for Manchester United in a deal potentially worth in excess of £15m.

United have been given permission to speak with the England international by Crystal Palace and it is understood that he will travel north with his adviser Will Salthouse to conclude a five and a half year contract.

It is anticipated the 20-year-old winger will immediately be loaned back to Palace for the remainder of the season.

The United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is a long-time admirer of Zaha and last week watched him in Palace's FA Cup third-round replay defeat at Stoke. In addition, Ferguson's assistant Mike Phelan was at Burnley for a recent Championship game, and with the Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger claiming earlier this week that the Gunners were not interested in the player, United were the only buyers in the market.

Interesting:).

[bbfan1991]

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Cole hails 'special' strikers

Andy Cole believes United's top striking quartet are special but feels it is too early to compare them to the 1999 Treble-winning forwards.

Sir Alex has often made reference this season to the fact that Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck give him a similar wealth of options to the time of Cole's hey-day. The former England hitman combined superbly with Dwight Yorke but Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were also worth their weight in gold.

During an Audience with Andy Cole on MUTV, he discussed the attacking armory at the manager's disposal with the Reds dreaming of going all the way on three fronts again this year.

"Robin has done extremely well," stated Cole. "With Wayne, Chicha and Danny Welbeck. I look at the three who played with me - Yorkey, Teddy and Ole - and they're always going to get compared to what we achieved.

"Naturally, you can only compare when the season is over and you can see what the players have achieved but the guys we have got now are very, very special. The boys we had in 1999 were special as well so only time will tell."

Cole does not think he was similar to any of today's strikers, even if he appreciates all of their individual qualities.

"Definitely not," he asserted. "If you look at the way the game has evolved, it's changed a lot. Robin can play up front by himself a lot of the time and Wayne can play in midfield or at the top of the diamond. Chicha likes to run in behind and I always enjoy watching centre-forwards stretch centre-halves by running in behind.

"The goal never moves. You stretch them and they don't want to move so you get more space that way. I look at those guys and I'm different to all of them."

As for the future, Cole is still unsure whether to take up coaching on a full-time basis.

"I've dabbled with it and enjoyed it," he stressed. "I did it at Huddersfield and get asked all the time. Can I see myself as a manager? I honestly don't know.

"I'd like to go in for a couple or three days a week, maybe doing a little bit of coaching with the strikers and them come out of it. It's the only way to say to yourself if you fancy it or don't fancy it. There's no point going full steam ahead then saying it's not for me. I'd like to try and dabble with it and see if that's where I want to go."

The 41-year-old hopes to see United come out on top against another of his former clubs, Fulham, in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday.

"I'm hoping so as we've not had a decent run in the cup in the past few years," he added. "It's very unusual. When you talk about the cup competitions, you need a little bit of luck. Look at Bradford. Who would have expected that? So, fingers crossed, we can have a good run and get through to the final."

[bbfan1991]

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Reds refreshed after Qatar trip

The United players and coaches have told ManUtd.com how much they have enjoyed this week's training camp in Qatar and feel it has provided excellent preparation for the upcoming challenges at home and abroad.

The Reds flew out to the Middle East on Sunday night after the 1-1 draw with Spurs and have trained at the renowned Aspire Academy in Qatar for the last few days.

Nemanja Vidic and Ryan Giggs says the players have thoroughly enjoyed their break in the sun and have praised the facilities on offer at Aspire.

"It’s been excellent since we’ve been here," said Vidic. "The weather has been nice and the facilities have also been fantastic.

"Working in the sun has been a nice change, especially with the weather in Manchester at this time of year. We were here three years ago and on both occasions we have had great trips."

Giggs echoed those sentiments. "It’s been really enjoyable - the weather has been good, the facilities are excellent and it's been good to be in the sun!

"We hope it will benefit us over the season as the training has been great and the lads have had some down-time relaxing on the beach and watching the golf at the Qatar Masters which was enjoyable."

Assistant manager Mike Phelan and first team coach Rene Meulensteen could not speak highly enough of the facilties at Aspire and the way the squad have been looked after.

"We are proud to have been here and very privileged to have worked with Aspire again. The staff have been excellent and the facilities are first class," added Phelan.

"The players have all enjoyed themselves - the weather helps and always puts a smile on faces! Our preparation for the back end of the season has been very good out here."

"The primary reason for going away was to get the players exposed to the natural sunlight and also to get some warmth in training and that has been excellent since we've been here," continued Meulensteen.

"The facilities and training have been great. We wouldn’t have done anything differently if we'd been back at Carrington and this has given us an excellent opportunity to prepare the team for the next game."

[bbfan1991]

Wayne Rooney shrugs off injury scare in Doha http://bit.ly/14d0J1Q

Phew if this news is true. Ashley Young is out for a few weeks apparently:(.

[bbfan1991]

Jonny Evans coming of age

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Jonny Evans has been one of United's most consistent performers in the past 12 months or so. He recently sat down with Inside United to discuss his progress...

You signed a new deal before Christmas. Do you see yourself as a one-club man?
I’d like to be. Obviously I’ve had my loan spells but I have come through the Academy here and now I’m in the first-team. When I was younger, clubs were asking me to go on trial from a young age and I never went on trial to another club. I just knew that Manchester United was the place I wanted to play football. So to play here throughout my career would be something I would look to do and I’d love to do it. But I can’t look too far ahead. I’m still only 25 so I’ll see where this takes me.

There have been a number of big wins this season, dramatic ones too. Which match has given you most satisfaction?
Obviously the City game was a great win. I’d come off injured and I was sitting on the bench and I just remember at the end hugging Tom Cleverley to death! I was trying not to jump around too much because I had an injury. The game I enjoyed the most was maybe the Southampton game. I didn't actually play, it was just being there. The way that game went, we didn’t actually play too well. I was sitting on the bench watching. When Robin missed the penalty I thought it wasn’t going to be our day. But the way the match unfolded in the last couple of minutes was brilliant. Being on the bench, it’s more like you’re a supporter. The match gets to you a lot more. When you’re playing you don’t get that emotional experience because you’re doing everything you can to help the team score. But when you’re watching from the sidelines there’s nothing you can do about it, so you’re sitting there experiencing all the emotions that a fan does. It was exciting to watch.

You’ve scored four goals this season. What’s the secret?
I think it’s just because I’m older, more experienced and more confident, so I just relax more. The first couple of years I was so desperate to score I was probably going up the other end of the pitch and not thinking about what I was actually doing. I was just thinking, ‘I need to score, I need to score’. Sometimes you’ve just got to have that bit of composure, not try too hard and get yourself in the right positions.

Which of your team-mates has impressed you most this season?
I actually think Rafael has done really well. He has shown real maturity. His brother has gone out on loan now and it’s probably given him a lot more responsibility. Because of the injuries, too, there hasn’t been much competition for him at right back so he has really stepped into the position and made it his own.

Is Rafael’s situation similar to what you experienced breaking into the team?
Rafael is a lot younger than me but he stepped into the first-team probably in the same season I did. We both made our breakthrough seasons in that same year. He probably played about 30 games that season, which is incredible for a young player. Even back then you knew he was going to be a fantastic player. He has been for a number of years. Some people have criticised his all-action style, but I think he has managed to find the right balance now and he’s become, I think, one of the best full-backs in the world.

What’s the relationship like between the defenders? Are you mates? Do you encourage each other in training and games?
Yeah, definitely. We always say, ‘well done’ if someone has a good game. I know that, at other clubs, you get people thinking that if another player plays in their position they want them to do badly. That’s life in a way - people don’t want someone else to come in and do their job better than them. But I’ve never really taken that point of view. I don’t think any of the lads in this team think, ‘When he comes into the team, I hope he makes a mistake today’. We’re all in it together, we’re Manchester United and we want to win trophies. If I’m not getting picked in the team and the player in that position makes mistakes, we’re not going to win leagues are we? We’re not going to win trophies. We’re all in it together and we need each other to be successful.

In five years’ time do you think you’ll appreciate even more having learned your trade alongside Ferdinand and Vidic?
When I first came into the first-team squad, the level that those two were playing at was unbelievable. The presence they have, the way they could defend, it was the very top. For younger players to try and emulate that was a big ask. It still is. But for me coming through the youth team looking at these two fantastic players, it was all about trying to get to that level - not necessarily as quick as possible but just to the best of my ability. I just tried to be as good as I can be really. That’s been the challenge for me. It’s not really been the challenge of getting into a normal first-team - it’s the challenge of trying to reach a standard set by Rio and Vida, two of the best centre-backs in the world. It was a big ask, but something that you have to try and achieve. It’s probably the biggest challenge of all.

Was that daunting?
I wouldn’t say daunting. I’ve never thought, ‘I want to be like them’. I've always wanted to be my own player. I wanted to be the type of player that I am. You can never truly mirror the way another player plays because everyone is different. If I tried to do that then I wouldn’t be the player I am. So I wouldn’t say daunting but I recognised that it’s a big challenge to come in and try take them out of the team. It’s all about having patience and being the best I could be. You can’t put too much pressure on yourself in that situation. You’ve got to go out and play your football and make sure you work hard to always keep improving.

You seem to take charge in defence, organising and instructing team-mates…
I’d like to think it’s always been a part of my game. It’s hard when you first come into the squad because I was never going to be able to do that. I was thinking to myself, ‘How can I tell these lads where they should be’? But then in a short period of time, you gain that respect from your team-mates and the confidence to say something that needs to be said. Communication is a massive part of being a defender. I think it makes your job so much easier if you can speak and tell someone to move five yards one way, or two yards the other way. Small things like that make a big difference to your own game and it helps your team-mates out too.

[bbfan1991]

Jonny Evans seems such a nice guy with no arrogance about him, good interview:).

He has been a rock in the United defence for ages and is continuing his rapid development into one of the best defenders in the world IMO, shame some people outside of United do not rate him.

I hope he recovers from his current injury soon too!

[bbfan1991]

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Federico Macheda is set to join VfB Stuttgart on loan for the remainder of the season.

United have reached an agreement with the Bundesliga club and the Italian is in Germany completing the temporary transfer.

Stuttgart are currently in 10th place in the German top-flight and and have been in the market for a new striker.

Director of sport Fredi Bobic admitted Macheda has been scouted extensively and a deal was clinched following positive discussions with Sir Alex, despite competition for his services.

Macheda, who will wear No14 at his new club, is United's leading goalscorer at Under-21 level this term and was on the bench for the FA Cup third-round draw at West Ham. After previous loan stints with Sampdoria and QPR, the striker will be determined to make his mark.

"I have followed the Bundesliga and naturally know about Stuttgart," said Macheda. "I am glad that I can now play for the club.

"For me, it is about getting to know the team and what I can bring because we have a lot of interesting games in three different competitions in front of us."


Good move for him. I hope he does well there, although I hope it is a permament move in the Summer because I see no place at United for Macheda and he deserves to be at a club who will be willing to offer him first team football!

[bbfan1991]

Boss respects Berbatov

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Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his respect for Dimitar Berbatov ahead of a likely reunion with the Fulham striker on Saturday.

Berbatov joined the Cottagers after the fixture between the two clubs at Old Trafford at the beginning of the season. The FA Cup fourth-round tie is being billed as an opportunity for the forward to dump his old club out of the famous competition.

The boss refuses to accept that Berbatov was not a success in Manchester, as he was joint-top scorer in the division the last time United won the Barclays Premier League, but acknowledges the player's desire for regular games.

"I think Berbatov is Fulham's best player," stated Sir Alex. "I don't think he was a failure here. He did a great job here. He's a really good player but the problem was that I had choices and it’s never easy at his age to be a part of those choices if he is not playing. Therefore, we were happy enough that he wanted first-team football and we gave him the opportunity to go to Fulham. I think, at his age, it was the right thing to do. I think he has done pretty well there.

"Fulham are a club that, in the last few years, have grown. There are very few clubs who have full houses every week and Fulham are one of them. They have progressed a lot. The UEFA Cup final helped them a lot and they have had a good finish in the league.

"So I don’t think it’s a big step down [for Dimitar]. I think it’s a step down to leave Manchester United for anyone in my mind. But it’s not such a big step down that you could say he’s given up any ambition. Fulham is a club that is ambitious.

"I don’t think [playing with other big players] was a problem for him here. I think the problem for him was the way we wanted to play and the selections I had to make. It was maybe the hardest thing when I had Carlos Tevez here as well. That affected both of them. But when you have choices you hope you make the right choices. In his first season with us, Chicharito had a fantastic season that as time went on Chicharito became a more regular player than Dimitar was.

"Some people like to see players run through brick walls all the time. Dimitar is not that type of player, but he is a very talented player and he had a decent goalscoring record here, you must remember that."

As for the chance to reach the fifth round of a competition United have not won since 2004, Sir Alex is determined to get his hands on the trophy again.

"I think we all know that we haven't done as well in the FA Cup for a few years now," he added. "It's a cup which has fantastic appeal given our record in it. We have benefit of the home draw, which I always say we'll take that any time. It's going to be a challenge for us. But we would take playing anyone at home."

[bbfan1991]

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Berba is a special talent

Ahead of Dimitar Berbatov’s return to face his old club at Old Trafford, Ryan Giggs has paid tribute to the former Red he calls “an amazing talent.”

Berbatov will be in town with Fulham on Saturday for the FA Cup fourth round clash - the first game against his old club since his switch from United to the Cottagers last summer. The Bulgarian has excelled in his role in Martin Jol's side and has netted seven goals so far this term.

Giggs expects Berbatov to be afforded a good reception by the United faithful and says it will be fully deserved.

“United fans always appreciate talent and Berba certainly has talent,” the veteran told ManUtd.com and PA Sport.

“We all remember the bits of magic he produced against West Ham on the touchline and his hat-trick against Liverpool which always goes down well with our fans!

“Maybe it suits him being at Fulham, where he is the focal point and the main man. Everything goes through him. That won't bother him. He would want to be the main man and score all the goals and be hitting the headlines.

"We will need to keep an eye on him because he is an amazing talent and a brilliant player.”

While important league games remain ahead and the Champions League last 16 tie with Real Madrid is drawing ever closer, Giggs insists progress in the FA Cup remains high on United's priority list.

“A home draw is all you can ask for and that’s what we’ve got and we’ve got to capitalise on that. We don’t want a replay because we’ve got a lot of games coming up,” added the 39-year-old.

“We realise it’s going to be a difficult match – Fulham did well when they came to Old Trafford earlier in the season and we’re going to have to be at it right from the start.

“The competition is special for me because I know how it feels to win the FA Cup, it’s a great feeling. The FA Cup was a huge competition for me growing up and it still is. And the rest of the players who haven’t won are desperate to win it.”

[bbfan1991]

McCullough out on loan

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Young Manchester United centre-back Luke McCullough has joined Cheltenham Town today (Friday) on a one-month loan deal.

The Portadown-born defender is a member of the Reds' Under-21s squad, having captained the Under-18 team last season when he made 25 appearances. He was also nominated for the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award.

McCullough, who has represented Northern Ireland at Under-16 and Under-17 level, will hope to gain some valuable experience as he joins Cheltenham's chase for promotion from League Two - Mark Yates' side currently lie fifth. The Robins recently hosted Everton in the FA Cup third round, losing 5-1 to the Toffees.

[bbfan1991]

Evans and Young missing

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Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled Ashley Young and Jonny Evans out of Manchester United’s FA Cup fourth round meeting with Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Speaking during his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss explained that both players are not fully fit but did complete some work during this week’s warm-weather training camp in Qatar.

"Jonny Evans and Ashley Young are still not 100% fit," Sir Alex revealed. "We had a good week training in Qatar and it was a great time to go there – we couldn’t have picked a better moment actually when you consider the weather we’ve had here.

"So it’s worked out very well for us and hopefully we get the benefit from that. It was always the plan at some stage to do that this January. It couldn’t have worked out better for us.

"Ashley Young is not far away. He trained a bit in Qatar. Not a lot, but at least he is on the road back and he has always been an important player for us.

"Jonny is just taking a bit longer than we thought. But he did a bit of training in Qatar. Again, not a lot, but he is on the way back. The bonus for us, of course, is that Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are both back. So we’re not so bad in that department."

When asked if Young and Evans could return to face Real Madrid, the boss: "Both of them will be fit for that. I would hope to have a fully fit squad by the time those games come around."

As for the FA Cup, Sir Alex once again outlined his desire to win the competition and welcomed a home draw against the Cottagers, though the United manager admits he’d happily face anyone.

“We haven't done as well in the FA Cup for a few years now. It's a cup which has fantastic appeal given our record in it. We have benefit of the home draw. We'll take that any time. It's going to be a challenge for us but we would play anyone at the moment.”

[bbfan1991]

Deal agreed for Wilfried Zaha

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Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Wilfried Zaha have reached an agreement for the player to join Manchester United in July 2013.

The player is having a medical in Manchester today (Friday 25 January).

There will be no further comment by any party until Wilfried joins United in July 2013, although Sir Alex did speak briefly about the deal at his Friday morning press-conference.

"As we like to do, we sign young players with potential," the manager said.

"We can also develop players well here. That’s proved to be the case many times.
"Hopefully the boy will enjoy it coming here when he eventually does join us in the summer."

[bbfan1991]

Welcome to United Wilfried Zaha:):devil:. Young talent with lots of potential and I hope he enjoys the rest of the season at Crystal Palace!

[bbfan1991]

Zaha delight at Reds deal

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Wilfried Zaha has spoken of his delight at agreeing a move to Manchester United.

The Crystal Palace forward has agreed personal terms and will undertake a medical in Manchester today (Friday 25 January).

Crystal Palace's official website report the deal should be concluded early next week, with Zaha loaned back to the Eagles until the end of the season. He will join his new United team-mates in July 2013.

“I'm delighted to be joining Manchester United and ending the recent speculation," the 20-year-old said.

"I would like to thank the owners at Palace for making the move possible, however my focus for the next five months will be solely at Crystal Palace.

"I have been at Palace for more than 10 years, I will always love the club and I want to help get them back to the Premier League, particularly for the fans who have always been so good to me.”

[bbfan1991]

Preview: United v Fulham

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Date, time and coverage: Saturday 23 January, 17:30 GMT. The match will be shown live on ESPN.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Jan/Preview-Manchester-United-v-Fulham-in-the-FA-Cup.aspx

[bbfan1991]

Wilfried Zaha turns up to his Manchester United in an Imogen Thomas T-Shirt. I think Ryan Giggs will be impressed!:joker:

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[bbfan1991]

Michael Keane: Leicester City keep Manchester United defender

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Manchester United defender Michael Keane has extended his loan deal at Leicester until the end of the season.

Keane, 20, originally signed for the Foxes in November and then a deal was agreed to until the end of January.

He was injured on his debut in November but has been a regular since returning to fitness in January.

Foxes boss Nigel Pearson told BBC Radio Leicester: "It's still a steep learning curve for he has done exceptionally well so far and I am very pleased."

[bbfan1991]

Wilfried Zaha's instagram picture:amazed:.

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[Ryan57]

EMINEM: "Manchester United is a very big club and I love when they play like champions. Wish I get authorized to make one rap song on United"

:amazed:.

Sorry bbfan but, I really hope this doesn't happen. :(

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex Ferguson has thrown his weight behind David De Gea and told the Manchester United goalkeeper to ignore any detractors in the press.

The Spaniard pulled off a string of superb saves during last weekend's 1-1 draw with Tottenham but was criticised following Clint Dempsey’s late equaliser at White Hart Lane, having only half-cleared Benoit Assou-Ekotto’s initial cross.

Since then, the media have had a field day, condemning the 22-year-old's burgeoning Old Trafford career while also linking him with transfers to Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Speaking to MUTV on Friday, Sir Alex dismissed such wild speculation and backed the youngster to handle the situation: "It has been over the top. It's always over the top when it comes to criticism here.

"The boy has got to brush it aside. Thirty seconds from time, he was a revelation according to most people. He was fantastic and made some fantastic saves. I'm not interested in discussing the criticism now because it's unfounded.

The boss also addressed the situation during his weekly press conference at Carrington, outlining his plan to support De Gea whilst lamenting the pitfalls of being a goalkeeper.

“It is better we deal with David De Gea rather than the press deal with him. I think we are quite good at that. He had a fantastic game and was 30 seconds away from that. I remember talking about how well he played and then 30 seconds from time the ball park changes.

“It is unfortunate for the lad but he has to deal with it. We will help him. Outfield players maybe make 20 mistakes in a game. But they are in a crucial position. We are okay with him."


Well said SAF and it is great that he has publicly defended DDG:worship:.

[Ryan57]

De Gea <3

[bbfan1991]

Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson calls David de Gea critics 'idiots'

Manchester united manager Sir Alex Ferguson has called critics of his goalkeeper David de Gea 'idiots'.

The Spaniard, 22, was criticised in the media for failing to clear the ball in the lead-up to Tottenham's equalising goal in Sunday's 1-1 draw with United.

"It's been over the top. It is always over the top when it comes to criticism here," said Ferguson. "You have to listen to some idiots in the game.

"I am not interested in discussing it because we know it is unfounded."
“We are high profile and the FA naturally panic as soon as the press criticise them.”

The United boss believed the blame should lie with assistant referee Simon Beck, who allowed, what he believed was a foul in the build-up.

Ferguson has been asked to explain his criticism by the Football Association and has to wait until Tuesday to find out if he will be charged.

"We are high profile and the profile of me is such that the FA naturally panic as soon as the press criticise them.

"Whether I think it is unfair or not doesn't matter to them really at this point.

"I just think it is more about me than what I have said."

[bbfan1991]

Report: United 4 Fulham 1

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

Good team performance by the lads and yay we are in the next round of the FA Cup:).

Ryan Giggs deservedly named MOTM.

[bbfan1991]

Some stories from before the match coming up...

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex: Rio can play on

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Sir Alex Ferguson has reiterated his belief that Rio Ferdinand will extend his Reds career beyond this season and replicate the longevity of legends Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

The 34-year-old veteran defender is out of contract in the summer and is yet to sign a new deal, but his boss believes pen will be put to paper when the timing is right.

When asked at Friday's press conference if Rio will agree an extension, Sir Alex replied: “I don’t think there is any reason why not. We give players one-year contracts and there is nothing wrong with that.

“I don’t think players with the reputation and ability of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand should worry about a one-year contract. It is quite straightforward I think.

“It is not to say we doubt them in terms of longevity. What we are doing is natural because players get to their 30s and you never know how they cope with getting older. Some do, some don’t.

“Players look after themselves and defenders, if they look after themselves, should have longer than Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, or as much as. There have been good examples through the years.

“Going back to the old days, Frank McLintock played until he was 39 or something like that. Defenders can do it if they look after themselves. It does apply to all positions but particularly defenders because they don’t have the mileage on the clock that midfield or wide players have.”

This season, Ferdinand appears to have moved on from the persistent injuries that had hampered previous campaigns and has produced several admirable performances at the heart of United’s defence, most recently during last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham at White Hart Lane alongside long-term partner Nemanja Vidic.

As Sir Alex explains, this level of performance and quality is no fluke and can be attributed to the careful plan that is mapped out to bring the best out of Rio, taking care to attribute game time in appropriate matches as the Reds chase glory in three separate competitions this term.

“Rio has had a great season,” the boss stated.” Obviously, he doesn’t play every game and we prepare him for certain situations. He didn’t play last Wednesday against West Ham. He was nice and fresh to play against Tottenham and of course as we expected he did really well.

“I read that (Andre) Villas-Boas said they (Tottenham)played great football. They didn’t, actually. They missed out their midfield in the second half, they just kept playing it into the penalty box. In that situation Rio and Vida were right down their alley. They (Tottenham) played right into their (Ferdinand and Vidic's) hands I thought.

“I didn’t see any great danger to be honest with you. Rio and Vida swallowed up everything that came in their way. They had a couple of shots blocked but nothing that caused us a great deal of damage. The biggest threat was Lennon. When he got the ball, he was Tottenham's best player.”

Hopefully Rio signs another deal:). he is having a good season and has given United great service.

[bbfan1991]

Evra reveals Cup message

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Patrice Evra has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson has spelled out his determination to win the FA Cup this season.

The Frenchman would love to get his hands on the famous trophy and could be in line for his first outing in this season's competition when Fulham provide the opposition in the fourth round on Saturday.

"The boss has given a big message this season – he really wants to win the FA Cup," Evra told United Review. "He really wants it and so do we.

"It is the only trophy that I have not won at Manchester United. That seems impossible given that I am now in my seventh year here. The FA Cup means so much and, one day, I hope I will win it. Hopefully this year."

The left-back feels Sir Alex is able to shuffle his pack for the cup competitions and yet still progress, something that was evident considering he did not feature himself in the two ties with West Ham.

"Manchester United is the only team that can make 10 changes and still win," he asserted. "You might hear people call it a second team, but it’s not. Everyone is a United player and you trust each one of your team-mates. The manager makes those changes because he trusts that we are going to win. He’s not crazy, he knows exactly what he is doing."

[bbfan1991]

Reds await fifth round draw

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Manchester United’s next FA Cup opponents will be revealed when the fifth round draw takes place on Sunday 27 January at approximately 17:45 GMT.

Sir Alex’s men beat Fulham 4-1 on Saturday afternoon at Old Trafford thanks to goals from Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney and a brace from Javier Hernandez to book a place in the next round and move a step closer to reaching a first FA Cup final since 2007.

United will be represented in the draw by ball no.5. Other top-flight sides still in the competition include Manchester City (ball no.10), Arsenal (no.9) and Everton (no.16), as well as Liverpool (no.2) and Chelsea (no.12) who both play their fourth round fixtures on Sunday.

[bbfan1991]

Vote: Man of the Match

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Manchester United turned in a dominant performance against Fulham on Saturday afternoon to ease into the FA Cup fifth round.

The Reds took the lead after just three minutes via the penalty spot before adding three more goals in the second half.

Ryan Giggs gave United that early lead and then proceeded to pull the strings in midfield, just as he did against West Ham in the third round. The veteran drifted infield from his wide position, picking his passes superbly and dictating the tempo of the Reds' play.

In the centre of the park, Anderson was at his driving best, surging forward at every opportunity and causing panic in the Fulham defence. He worked tirelessly, launched a number of Reds counter-attacks and set up Wayne Rooney's first goal.

And although United netted four times against Fulham, our last two Man of the Match candidates are defenders. Chris Smalling and Phil Jones were superb at the back, limiting Dimitar Berbatov and Bryan Ruiz to just a handful of half chances. Jones was dominant in the air and made a number of clever interceptions, while Smalling's composure on the ball was particularly pleasing on the eye.

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

[bbfan1991]

Cup focus for Sir Alex

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Sir Alex Ferguson insists the FA Cup is "an important trophy for us this season" after seeing his side secure a comfortable 4-1 win over Fulham.

Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez - twice - got on the scoresheet to ensure United's place in the fifth round, the draw for which takes places on Sunday at 17:45 GMT.

The United manager was pleased with his side's display against the Cottagers and even more delighted to see two of his strikers firing on all cylinders.

"I'm really pleased that Wayne scored and that Chicha scored two because if I get those two and Robin [van Persie] into the twenty-plus goals mark, we're definitely in business," he told MUTV and ESPN after the match.

"We picked a very strong team because we didn't want to make any slip-ups. The FA Cup is an important trophy for us this season. We haven't won it for nearly 10 years.

"The players did well and it was quite comfortable. In the first half Fulham had a lot of possession and there were a couple of squeaky moments. But all in all it was a really good performance by us."

The Reds got off the mark in the third minute from the penalty spot after Aaron Hughes' handball. And United should arguably have had a second soon after when Damien Duff clearly handled in the area.

"I think from the referee's position he obviously thought it was unintentional, but from my angle - obviously I've got the benefit of looking at the video at half-time - it was handball," added Sir Alex. "But we didn't need any decisions because the performance was good.

"We had some shots in the first half blocked, one hit the bar - we needed that second goal to put us in the comfort zone, and we got that early in the second half and then a third and fourth followed."

Indeed, it would be great if United did win the FA Cup this year:).

[bbfan1991]

Giggs: We want the FA Cup

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Ryan Giggs says Manchester United are “desperate” to win the FA Cup after booking a place in the fifth round with a comfortable 4-1 victory over Fulham on Saturday.

The Reds' legend, who was a standout performer at Old Trafford, believes his early penalty conversion was the catalyst for victory, but feels his team-mates could have been more clinical in the final third having created a number of clear chances to test opposition keeper Mark Schwarzer.

“We got the early goal, which is what you always want, but we didn't really kick on from there," Giggs told ESPN. “We had a couple of chances and probably should have been a little bit more clinical, but then in the second half we were.

“It does help [scoring early]. If you're at Old Trafford you want to score early and settle into the game and keep the ball. That's what we did. Like I say, we could have been a little better in front of goal, but we made up for that in the second half.

“The FA Cup means a lot," he added. "We've not done as well as we should have done really in the last eight or nine years. There are a lot of players that are desperate to win it. The history that we've got in the competition, we should be there - we should be getting to finals. Hopefully this year will be the year.”

[bbfan1991]

United front: Fergie got thumbs up from Scholes and Giggs before buying Robin van Persie

Old Trafford manager's assistant Rene Meulensteen reveals concerns that signing a player from bitter rivals Arsenal might upset the dressing room.

http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1389732.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Manchester+United+v+Stoke+City+-+Premier+League

Sir Alex Ferguson took the advice of two key people before signing Robin van Persie.

The Manchester United boss sought the opinions of veteran stars Ryan Giggs and Paul *Scholes because he wanted assurances that the £24million *striker’s arrival from Arsenal would not lead to any problems in the dressing room.

Both urged their boss to sign the Dutchman – and Van Persie has responded with a blaze of goals and emerged as the *signing of the season.

United coach Rene *Meulensteen said: “The players at United never saw Robin as an intruder.

“The boss and I tested that before we made a move for him. We dropped Robin’s name with Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

“We said to them, ‘What would you think if Robin van Persie comes here?’ They both said the same thing. They both thought it would be outrageous if Robin came to United – and later so did all the other players.

“The reason we discussed it with Ryan and Paul is because they stand for the culture of Manchester United in the dressing room. They keep that culture and protect it.”

Meulensteen believes Van Persie’s strengths are now improving the emerging players in the Old Trafford ranks.

Meulensteen explained: “Robin has a phenomenal eye for free space. I don’t know another player who creates space for himself so well.

“As a coach that was one of the first challenges for me. Trying to show to the other players what kind of striker Robin is and how they have to play with him in the team.”

And the arrival of Van Persie has made United feel invincible.

The Dutchman has given Ferguson's side a star quality that was missing when they were pipped to the title by Manchester City last season.

And, according to Meulensteen, beating City to the signature of his countryman was a huge statement of intent by Fergie.

With United five points clear at the top of the table, Meulensteen said: “Robin gives the team an invincible feeling.

“All the players have that same buzz. They think ‘we’ve got Van Persie. With him we are always going to score. We can always give him the ball and he will always do something magical with it.’

“It was time for Manchester United to have a big-name player like Robin van Persie again.

“In the last few seasons, we had squeezed everything out of our star players and last season we were just not good enough.

“As a club we had to make sure that we would not underperform again. With Robin we have a world-class player in our ranks again. He’s a really *world-class act. As one of the biggest clubs in the world we really needed a player like him.”

Meulensteen believes that the rest of United’s squad recognised a kindred spirit in Van Persie when he announced his intention to move to Old Trafford to win trophies.

United’s gain has been City’s loss. The Dutchman said: “With his *personality, it was easy to get a warm welcome from the rest of the squad from the first moment.

“Robin is not the kind of player who says, ‘Here I am’. Robin is an absolute professional. He’s a fantastic trainer and he delivers on the pitch.

“That creates a security for players. They feel nothing bad can happen to them because we have got Robin van Persie. We really missed that kind of influence last season.”

Meulensteen added: “Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes just love football. Like *Lionel Messi, they don’t care if they are playing in a stadium filled with 100,000 people or in the local park.

"I mean this in a positive way, they are football animals. Football is the only thing that occupies their life and, since the *beginning of the season, they have been joined by one more football-mad guy in Van Persie.

“The fact that he chose United shows how much he loves the game. He is a guy who thinks about everything. He is driven by his love for the game.

“All Robin is focused on is success.

“He has a massive desire to win. I know because he could have earned so much more money elsewhere.

[bbfan1991]

Carrick wins new Utd deal

MICHAEL CARRICK is in line for a fresh 12-month contract at Old Trafford when his £80,000 a week deal ends this year.

There were suggestions boss Alex Ferguson might opt to cash in on the 31-year-old next summer, with former clubs Spurs and West Ham keeping tabs on his situation.

But Carrick has been United’s outstanding midfield performer this term.

And Fergie is adamant the England star will be staying at Old Trafford.

So the England star is poised to get the same same rolling agreement given to the likes of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

It would be well deserved as he is so important to the United Midfield and he is in outstanding form this season:).

[bbfan1991]

He's Terryfic! Phil Jones has more in his locker than a young John Terry claims Ferguson

Manchester United boss insists he isn't having a pop at "fantastic" Chelsea talisman Terry but feels his man is a better prospect at 20 than he was.

http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1538404.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Manchester+United+v+West+Ham+United+-+FA+Cup+Third+Round+Replay

Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Phil Jones has more natural talent than John Terry.

The Manchester United boss is a big admirer of Terry but feels Jones, at 20, is a better prospect than the Chelsea captain was at the same age.

Jones, a £16.5million buy from Blackburn, was outstanding in midfield for United at Spurs last week. And Fergie said: “Jones has got more in his locker than John.

“Terry has got the *experience and has become a fantastic central figure at Chelsea.

“But as a young player, John would be the first to admit he didn’t have the pace of Phil Jones.

“Phil is a *versatile boy, he can play anywhere. He’s quick, two-footed, reads games well and is competitive.

"He’s doing very well.”

[bbfan1991]

Well done to United loanee Fabio Da Silva on scoring for QPR in their shock FA Cup exit to MK Dons.

[bbfan1991]

Ryan Giggs to study at WBS

http://theboar.org/media/uploads/2013/01/24/thumb-10757.jpg

It has been revealed that football player Ryan Giggs is to undertake part of his management course at Warwick Business School (WBS).

He is aiming to complete the final qualification necessary for managers of Premier League and Champions League teams, having already completed his ‘B’ and ‘A’ licences.

Part of this elite qualification requires him to complete a mandatory business case study, for which he will briefly undertake study at WBS.

However, it is unlikely that the football player will attend any classes on campus due to his commitments to Manchester United.

It is more likely that he will undertake distance learning at Warwick, as he is attempting to complete the qualification in less than 12 months to avoid taking excessive leave.

Giggs has recently been mentioned as one of the several potential successors to Sir Alex Ferguson by the current Manchester United manager himself.

Good luck with it Giggsy:).

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United Becomes First Team Valued At $3 Billion

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Manchester United has become the first sports team in the world with a $3 billion valuation.

Manchester United's crest (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Shares of the English soccer team, which were offered to the public last August at $14, did poorly at first but have soared the past few days. Closing at just under $17, Manchester United’s stock has outperformed the S&P 500 since its IPO and made the controlling Glazer family and legendary investor George Soros, who bought a big stake in the team shortly after it went public, wealthier.

The recent increase in its stock price has pushed up Manchester Untied’s enterprise value (equity plus debt) to $ $3.3 billion, the highest value of any team in the world. The second most valuable sports team in the world are the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, worth $2.1 billion.

Despite a drop in first quarter earnings because of a reduction in television revenue, the appetite for shares of the 19-time English champion has increased due to better earnings, new sponsorship deals with Japan‘s Kansai, and China Construction Bank, and the potential of much more lucrative English Premiership (Manchester United currently is in first place) and Champions League payouts this year.

Publicly traded sports teams have traditionally been bad investments. But thus far the Red Devils are bucking history.

Well done United:).

[bbfan1991]

Prank Call! Manchester United fan rings up 606 pretending to be a Liverpool fan

http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/prank-call-manchester-united-fan-rings-up-606-pretending-to-be-a-liverpool-fan/

:laugh3:

[bbfan1991]

Jones lauded by Sir Alex

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Sir Alex Ferguson has lavished praise on Phil Jones and praised the defender's versatility.

Jones was an instant hit last season after joining Manchester United from Blackburn Rovers in the summer of 2011 but injuries curtailed his progress in the current campaign prior to his return in late November. Recent performances against West Ham and Tottenham proved he is back to his best and they came in two very different positions - centre-back and central midfield.

The fact that Sir Alex started with the England international at White Hart Lane, in such an important league fixture, shows the faith he has in the former Blackburn man.

"Jones was absolutely brilliant at Tottenham in the role we asked him to play," said the boss. "He did it really well. He can play anywhere. He is quick, two-sided and reads the game well. He’s competitive and has got a great change of pace going forward so the boy has done very well."

Some pundits have likened Jones to Chelsea stalwart John Terry during his Ewood Park days, but the manager does not subscribe to that viewpoint.

"Well, I think he’s got more in his locker than Terry had to be honest with you but Terry gathered experience and became a fantastic central figure for Chelsea," added Sir Alex. "Obviously, he was the main man at Chelsea but, as a young player, I think John would be the first to admit he didn’t have the pace of Jones.

"He’s a very versatile boy while John is a centre-back. Jones is proving himself everywhere."

[bbfan1991]

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Chicha targets the treble

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez has outlined his desire to win the treble after helping Manchester United progress to the FA Cup fifth round with a comfortable 4-1 victory over Fulham.

The Mexican striker bagged a brace of goals against the Cottagers and looked sharp throughout, taking his tally for the season to 14 whilst helping the Reds advance in a competition that has not been won since 2004 – a fact that has been often mentioned at Old Trafford this season.

“I don’t want to say it was comfortable because I want to respect Fulham,” Chicharito told MUTV. “They came here against a difficult team but we are very happy because we scored four goals and got through in the cup. All of the people should know we can win this competition, as well as the title and Champions League.

“It is almost ten years now since we last won this cup. The gaffer, my teammates and I want to win the cup. Of course, we have a lot of hunger to do it and not get distracted in the league and the Champions League.

“The most important thing for me right now is to win the treble. We have a chance in the FA Cup and now we have two games in the league. After that there is the international break, another league game and then Real Madrid, so we have a very good calendar and we are looking forward to it.

“We want to win all three - we want to win the treble. That is in our minds, we need to think game by game and then get the points in the league and get through in both cup competitions.”

After netting his second goal of the match via a heavy deflection, Chicharito parted ways with his usually reserved celebration to complete a brief yet amusing dance as a tribute to a watching friend – but as the Mexican admits, he wanted to check the goal was definitely his first.

“I was speaking with the referee after I scored the goal and asked if this one was mine because at Aston Villa they took away my goal. I am always looking for the famous hat-trick but, like I always say, we won 4-1 and I scored twice so I am very pleased.

“My best friend is here. We used to play together and do that dance when both scored. In Chivas, there were two players who celebrated like that and when we were in the youth team we celebrated like that too. He was here visiting me so that’s why I did it.”

:worship:

[bbfan1991]

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Reds to face Royals in Cup

Manchester United will face Reading at Old Trafford in the fifth round of the FA Cup after being paired with the Royals in Sunday’s draw.

Sir Alex’s men beat Fulham 4-1 on Saturday afternoon at Old Trafford, while Reading progressed following a 4-0 home win over Sheffield United.

The two sides have met 12 times before in the FA Cup and will do so again on the weekend of 16/17 February (date and kick-off to be confirmed).

United have lost just one of those previous 12 meetings, winning six and drawing five.

[bbfan1991]

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/B737B016122C42BE84CE71D00B8A2A6A.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,34,787,326

Anderson casting wide net

Following Manchester United’s FA Cup fourth round triumph over Fulham, Anderson insisted that the Reds’ sights are set on all three major honours this season.

Perched atop the Barclays Premier League, preparing for a Champions League second round clash with Real Madrid and now safely into the fifth round of the FA Cup, the Reds are well-placed as the season’s nitty-gritty stage approaches.

With Sir Alex Ferguson’s sizeable squad currently boasting a favourable bill of health and the boss rotating personnel successfully, Anderson feels United have the talent pool to achieve all their aims.

“Of course,” the Brazilian told MUTV. “We have unbelievable players. I know the boss has two or three teams. He doesn't play eleven players all the time, he changes players and I think he has an unbelievable squad.

“I don't want to be the manager at this moment because there are a lot of quality players. The boss tries to keep everyone happy. Sometimes that's difficult, but that's the club; this is Manchester United.”

The Reds’ comfortable triumph over Fulham ensured a last-16 berth in the FA Cup, a competition which attracts less attention than domestic or European rule, but one which Anderson insists is important to everyone in the United dressing room.

“It's very important for everyone,” he said. “Rio's been here for ten years and he hasn't won the FA Cup. It's important for everyone.

"Every competition is important at this moment for Manchester United. Four-one is a good result but we have not finished here. We have three or four more games to get to the final.”

The Brazilian shone against the Cottagers, pulling the strings in midfield during his 70-minute outing, though he admits that he has a little further to go before he will attain full match fitness after missing several weeks with a hamstring injury.

“I'm not one-hundred percent fit yet,” he said. “I need maybe one or two more games, then I think I'll be one-hundred percent. It's important for me to not have any injuries anymore.

“Just when I think everything is fine I have to get back again, stay out for one month, come back and now it starts to go slowly. No problems, training is good, no problems.”

[bbfan1991]

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Sir Alex puts Giggs on spot

Sir Alex Ferguson has stood by his decision to strip Wayne Rooney of Manchester United’s penalty-taking duties, but insists he still has faith in the striker from 12 yards.

Ryan Giggs stepped up to score from the spot in the Reds’ 4-1 win over Fulham, even though Rooney, United’s usual designated penalty-taker, was also on the pitch.

The Englishman, however, missed his 10th penalty in a Reds shirt in United’s recent FA Cup third round replay, prompting Sir Alex to hand over the responsibility to his most experienced player.

“I think Ryan's probably one of our best penalty takers, to be honest,” the manager told MUTV.

“I think it's fair that with Wayne missing the penalties he has, it was time to give him a break. He'll come back to it, though, there's no question about that.

“The thing about Wayne is that it doesn't faze him if he misses a penalty kick. He's got a fantastic temperament for that.”


Right call for now. Wayne Rooney can get more practise in with them;):).

[bbfan1991]

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Boss explains Chicha dilemma

Sir Alex Ferguson admits Javier Hernandez is providing him with 'a terrible dilemma' when it comes to team selection, but the manager has left the Mexican in no doubt over his importance within the United squad.

Another pair of goals in Saturday's FA Cup victory over Fulham took Chicharito's personal haul to 14 this season, making him second only to Robin van Persie in the Reds' scoring charts.

"He got a break in the summer, got the little rest and that's shown the benefit," Sir Alex told MUTV. "It's a terrible dilemma when I've got that lad there. Sometimes I leave him out to bring in Robin van Persie, but as I explain to him, we regard him so highly.

"He's a fantastic professional, unbelievable attitude to the game, never stops running or working and every training session's the same, so I'm really pleased for him and it's good to see Wayne back scoring."

Comparisons continue to be drawn between the Reds' current attacking roster and 1999's Treble-winning quartet of Andy Cole, Teddy Sheringham, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Dwight Yorke, and Sir Alex rates his modern crop just as highly as their forebears.

"The four in '99 were fantastic players," he said. "You couldn't possibly criticise any of them, they were fantastic, but we've got four players today who are equally as good."

Well said Sir Alex:). Chicharito is class and has such a good attitude, he has many more years to give at United!

[bbfan1991]

Loans: Fabio's first goal

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Fabio scored his first goal for QPR but it came in a shock home defeat to MK Dons in the FA Cup fourth round.

The Brazilian helped restore some respectability to the scoreline by netting with a powerful shot that deflected in during the 4-2 reverse, with the League One visitors 4-0 ahead at one stage. Rangers boss Harry Redknapp fumed at his much-changed side afterwards and suggested a number of players blew their chance to impress.

Michael Keane was also in FA Cup action as his solid defensive display aided Leicester City's cause in a 1-1 draw at Huddersfield Town. The England Under-19 international was booked for a foul but picked out Ritchie De Laet with a fine pass in the build-up to Chris Wood's equaliser.

If the Foxes win the home replay, they will face Wigan Athletic in the fifth round and Keane could come face-to-face with United team-mate Angelo Henriquez. The Chilean was given a taste of the other end of English football as he started in the tricky away tie at non-league Macclesfield Town, giantkillers of Cardiff City in the previous round.

The teenager’s tricks did not always come off on a cold, bumpy surface – and he was booked for failing to retreat at a free-kick late on - but he persevered for the full 90 minutes, helping the Latics to win 1-0 through Jordi Gomez’s early penalty.

Luke McCullough was an unused substitute on Friday night after joining Cheltenham Town in time for the goalless home draw with Rochdale.

Bebe featured in Rio Ave's 1-1 draw at Maritimo but was substituted 13 minutes from time by former Bolton forward Temitope Obadeyi. Federico Macheda was not rushed into action against Bayern Munich after joining Stuttgart, with coach Bruno Labbadia not including the Italian in the matchday squad, and Luke Giverin, Davide Petrucci and Scott Wootton did not have a fixture.

[bbfan1991]

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Law tips Rooney for more

Manchester United's all-time leading FA Cup goalscorer Denis Law has backed Wayne Rooney to keep hitting the net for the Reds.

The Scottish legend thinks it's inevitable that the current No10 will beat his overall tally of 237 strikes for the club but Rooney's tremendous finish in Saturday's FA Cup fourth-round victory still leaves him 18 behind in the world's most famous cup competition.

The ex-Everton attacker will be bidding to climb United's all-time list of FA Cup scorers - he's currently in seventh place - as his quest to win the trophy for the first time in his career continues this term.

"When you see some players in and around the penalty box, you don’t think they’ll score," Law told Inside United. "But, with Rooney, you never think that. We always dreaded playing against Jimmy Greaves when he was at Spurs because you knew that if he was in and around the area there was a fair chance he’d score a goal. And Rooney is in that category.

"Along the way, I obviously beat someone else’s total [to get to 237] so it’s something that is always going to happen in football. I was happy to beat someone else and it’s inevitable that Rooney will beat mine. I said when he first joined the club that if he can steer clear of serious injuries, he’ll be the record goalscorer for Manchester United, there’s no doubt about that."

United's all-time top scorers

FA Cup:

1. DENIS LAW 34
2. Jack Rowley 26
3. Stan Pearson 21
3. George Best 21
5. Sir Bobby Charlton 19
6. Mark Hughes 17
7. WAYNE ROONEY 16

Overall:

1. Sir Bobby Charlton 249
2. DENIS LAW 237
3. Jack Rowley 211
4. WAYNE ROONEY 191

:)

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson charged by FA with misconduct

• Charge relates to comments about assistant referee at Spurs
• FA alleges remarks 'implied official was motivated by bias'

http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2013/1/29/1359479965003/Manchester-Uniteds-manage-001.jpg

Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association over comments he made about an assistant referee after Manchester United's draw at Tottenham this month.

FA disciplinary officers believe that the United manager's remarks "implied that the match official was motivated by bias". Ferguson faces a fine and/or potentially a touchline ban if found guilty.

Ferguson was incensed by Simon Beck's refusal to award a penalty to United after a challenge by the Spurs defender Steven Caulker on Wayne Rooney. He said that his club had "history" with Beck following the official's failure to rule out an offside Didier Drogba goal in 2010 and claimed: "There was no way we were going to get a decision from [Beck]."

He added: "The stand-side linesman didn't give us a thing all day," and: "We never got anything on that side of the pitch."

The governing body said in a statement on its website: "The FA has today charged Sir Alex Ferguson in relation to post-match media comments made following Manchester United's game at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 20 January 2013.

"It is alleged the Manchester United manager breached FA Rule E3 in that he implied that the match official was motivated by bias.

"Ferguson has until 4pm on Friday 1 February 2013 to respond to the charge."

The FA had previously asked Ferguson to explain his comments about Beck, which the manager did in writing last week.

Ferguson feels he should be allowed to criticise what he regarded as a poor performance but, speaking on Friday, said he suspected the matter has become personal. "That is what I have put in my letter exactly. But you never know the FA," he said. "We are high profile and the profile of me is such that the FA naturally panic as soon as the press criticise them.

"I think that is what you will find. That is why they have sent me a letter. Whether I think it is unfair or not doesn't matter to them really at this point. I just think it is more about me than what I have said."


I knew he would be charged, but I agreed with SAF and the FA are a joke of a so called ''organisation'' anyway:bored:.

[bbfan1991]

Giggs is star man again

Ryan Giggs picked up the ManUtd.com Man of the Match award for the second time in 10 days.

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The one-club man came out on top of the fan vote for the replay win against West Ham and continued his excellent form in the FA Cup with a dazzling display in the 4-1 beating of Fulham.

After converting an early penalty, awarded for handball against Aaron Hughes, he produced a performance full of verve, authority and almost effortless skill at times. His controlling of a ball on the left flank and audacious backheel on the edge of his own box to spark a counter-attack were just two moments that had the Old Trafford fans gasping in appreciation.

Giggs also provided the assist with a threaded through ball for Javier Hernandez's second of the match before departing to a much-warranted ovation from the home fans.

By polling more than half of the vote, the 39-year-old finished well clear of second-placed Anderson, who also impressed in midfield with his drive and invention. Defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, imperious again when paired at centre-half, were the other players on the short-list.

1. Ryan Giggs 57%

2. Anderson 28%

3. Phil Jones 11%

4. Chris Smalling 4%


Well done Ryan Giggs, he deserved that:).

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex wary of shifting Saints

Sir Alex Ferguson admits his knowledge of Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino is limited, although the Reds boss is more than aware of the impact the Argentine is making.

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The former Espanyol head coach made a promising start to life at St Mary’s after replacing Nigel Adkins earlier this month, earning a highly credible 0-0 draw with Everton in the Barclays Premier League despite taking charge of just a handful of training sessions with his new squad.

When asked if homework on Pochettino will be done ahead of Wednesday's match at Old Trafford, Sir Alex revealed he will utilise all of the resources at his disposal.

“Yeah, I’ll get some information,” the boss explained. “I don’t know a lot about him to be honest but I will have a chat with my brother [Martin] as he’s been scouting in Spain. It won’t matter in this particular game as he’s just at the club but they had a fantastic response against Everton.

“They should have won as they were superb and could have been five-up in the first half. Tim Howard had a fantastic game [in goal for Everton], they hit the woodwork and Rickie Lambert missed a couple of chances. They played really well against Everton who are at the top of their game and playing really well.

“So we’re not taking anything for granted. We’ve got Southampton on Wednesday, then we go to Fulham and then it’s Everton at home. These are big games, massive games.

"Teams will drop points [in the title race]. Not just us but Manchester City will drop points, absolutely, it’s a certainty. Chelsea and Arsenal will drop points. We’ll probably drop two or three ourselves but the important thing is accepting the challenge that every game is just as difficult as the rest.”

Having managed United for over 26 years, Sir Alex has become a mentor to many other bosses around the country and regularly receives calls for advice. He conversed with Pochettino's predecessor Nigel Adkins just prior to the sudden change of management at St Mary's.

“I spoke to him the day before he was sacked,” Sir Alex revealed. “He phoned me about his situation there. I mean I can’t understand these things. I think their form had picked up. Was it two defeats in 12 games? That’s not bad for a team at the bottom of the league.

“Southampton’s fans have got a way of demonstrating and there were a few banners up at the Everton game. It’s nice in terms of recognising the contribution Adkins made. He brought them up into the division and it’s not an easy job.

“The game prior to losing his job, they were 2-0 down to Chelsea but they came back and got a draw. Arsenal had the same situation and got to 2-1 but couldn’t quite get the second goal. The task of getting back at Chelsea on their home ground when you’re 2-0 down is pretty impressive."

Although bemused by Adkins' dismissal, Sir Alex has been around long enough to understand the ruthlessness of football.

“It’s a horrible part of the game in football," he added. "It’s the name of the game that you want to do well with your own personal contribution [as an owner or a chairman] and they want to still be in the division.”

[bbfan1991]

Jones prefers back four

Phil Jones has grown in maturity in 18 months at United and has looked more confident and commanding in his favoured centre-half role this season. But while he is happy for Sir Alex to utilise his versatility, he hopes it won’t detract from his true calling at the heart of the Reds’ defence.

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Jones was excellent in a central defensive position alongside Chris Smalling against Fulham in the 4-1 FA Cup fourth round win on Saturday, and yet he also stood out in a typically rampaging midfield role against Tottenham in the league.

The 20-year-old knows which position he prefers, saying: “I have said all along that [centre-back] is where I feel most comfortable. I understand and read the game better there. But wherever I am asked to play I will play there.”

Asked if promising midfield displays might prove detrimental to those long-term aims, he joked: “Yes, I kind of shoot myself in the foot a bit. But I am at Manchester United and I love playing for this club and I am happy to play anywhere.”

Few clubs in world football can rival United’s broad range of talents in that position; with the experience and wily knowhow of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, the consistency of Jonny Evans and the burgeoning promise of Smalling and Jones. That is precisely why Jones will take minutes when and where he can get them.

“I didn’t have a great start to the season but hopefully I can push my way into the side now and get some games under my belt,” he told PA Sport ahead of Wednesday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Southampton. “They are a good team irrespective of whether they have got a new manager or not. They have got some good players in the squad. We will have to be wary of that.”

United are challenging for three trophies heading into the crucial last four months of the season and Jones says that Sir Alex is encouraging his players to aim for a triple triumph. “Definitely,” Phil says, “that is what the gaffer said to us before the [Fulham] game and that is exactly what we are going out to achieve.”

Jones, however, isn't getting waylaid by the idea, adding: “The Treble is too far in the distance. We have to concentrate on the games coming up. We have a tough game on Wednesday against Southampton and that won’t be easy.

“We have to focus on what is in front of us now. We have lots of games coming up. There are a lot of tricky games and it is a tough period but we know if we have everyone fit then with the big squad we have we will be fine. We have a good team here and a solid foundation. You can see that on the pitch with all the lads and in training. It is a laugh but we are focused and are really gelling.”


I agree with Phil, his best position is CB but the fact he is versatile and can play in CM too or RB is good.

[bbfan1991]

Giggs relishes triple assault

Ryan Giggs insists he and his team-mates love nothing more than being challenged on the biggest stages at home and abroad.

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While the Reds are currently leading the way in the Barclays Premier League, a fifth round FA Cup berth was secured on Saturday thanks to a 4-1 win over Fulham. And just around the corner is the small matter of Real Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League.

Giggs says the players are relishing the challenges in front of them and are determined to ensure at least one piece of silverware is captured this term.

“Challenging on all fronts is what you want, especially given the strength and depth we’ve got in the squad,” he told ManUtd.com and PA Sport. “We want to be fighting on all fronts and involved in all the competitions and doing the best we can.

“I think there is more to come from us. There is always room for improvement. Obviously we’re happy with where we are in the league and in the FA Cup and Champions League – you’ve got to be pleased with that. But there is always room to improve both individually and as a team.

“We’re not thinking about Madrid really. Everyone was excited when the draw was made but as experienced players you can’t look too far ahead. You want to perform in games and be in good form going into games like that and that’s what we intend to do. But at the moment we’re concentrating on Southampton.”

The Saints visit Old Trafford on Wednesday night in their first away game under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, who was brought in, much to many people’s surprise, in place of Nigel Adkins.

“I think everyone was shocked when Nigel Adkins went, but ultimately players have got a job to do and the new manager will put his ideas across and players will just get on with it,” said Giggs.

“Southampton have been in decent form and on a good run; it’ll be another tough game for us. They gave us a good game earlier in the season so we’ll need to play well.

“Every game at this time is tough but there are no easy games in this league. You’ve got to perform well in every match and you want to do that for your own satisfaction and for your own form. You want to play well because it gives you confidence going into the next game.”

[bbfan1991]

Preview: Manchester United v Southampton

Date, time and coverage: Wednesday 30 January, 20:00 GM at Old Trafford.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Jan/Preview-Manchester-United-v-Southampton.aspx

[bbfan1991]

Singha deal extended

Manchester United’s official beer partner Singha has today announced it is to extend its sponsorship with the English Premier League leaders.

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The original three-year sponsorship is to be extended by a further three years to 2016.

Manchester United commercial director Richard Arnold comments:

"Singha celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2013 and what better way to commemorate this than to renew our successful relationship. Manchester United is delighted to be keeping Singha within its family of sponsors and looking forward to building on the fantastic achievements the partnership has created so far.

"I am confident the next three years will be just as positive."

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United's Paul Scholes has car stolen

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Manchester United footballer Paul Scholes has had his car stolen after he left its engine running while defrosting the windscreen.

Police said the grey Chevrolet estate had been taken from the drive of his house in Greenfield, Oldham at around 08:00 GMT on Monday.

A police spokesman said "inquiries to locate the car are ongoing".

Scholes is understood to have the car as part of the motor company's sponsorship of the Premier League club.

The spokesman added that Greater Manchester Police had issued warnings about "ice bandits - offenders who target vehicles left outside houses, early in the morning, with the engine running while the owner returns to the house".

"Motorists may be tempted to leave their vehicle with the engine running while they go inside to stay in the warm - however, it only takes a few seconds to steal a car when keys have been left in the ignition," he said.

I hope the Police manage to find Scholesy's car and find the thugs who stole it!

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United defend sponsorship strategy

Manchester United have denied they are diluting their brand by negotiating so many sponsorship deals.

In the space of an hour last week, United revealed agreements with Chinese duo Wahaha and China Construction Bank, then on Friday they had an Old Trafford launch for another three-year partnership with Japanese paint manufacturer Kansai Paint.

Such deals, underpinned by the massive seven-year £357million shirt sponsorship contract with US car giant Chevrolet, which is due to commence in 2014, are the reason why United are posting such massive commercial figures.

In their most recent annual results, to June 30 2012, United posted a 13.7% increase in commercial income to £117.6m.

And the figure will rise this year as United marketing manager Jonathan Rigby rejects the notion that United have reached their limit.

"There is nothing of what we know of our own brand that suggests that is the case," he said.

"We don't see that at all. We see an increase in growth in the vibrancy of our brand.

"In fact we see the opposite. We see a fanbase that is growing, we see engagement levels growing, we see viewing figures continuing to grow."

Indeed, Rigby does not feel United have come even close to maximising their potential.

"We don't know how far we can go," said Rigby.

"We certainly don't think we are reaching a limit.

"It is a model that is working very well. The evidence I see every day is that our partners get a huge amount and are all able to get their own part of Manchester United."

Others are starting to follow the Red Devils' lead though.

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has spoken of his admiration for United's commercial expertise, whilst both Real Madrid and Barcelona are amongst those who seem to be embarking on the same strategy.

"We should always be conscious that other clubs will try to emulate or copy what we do," said Rigby.

"That is what keeps us continuing to go forward and investing significantly more in this area than anyone else.

"The other thing is that we have a great story to tell. We have a huge global fanbase and a very successful business model that helps us to finance the big players to keep us at the top."

It is a matter of record that United have never finished lower than third in the Premier League era, enough to qualify for the Champions League under its present criteria.

Yet Liverpool's present situation and Arsenal's precarious one is proof that such lofty status may not always be preserved, which would raise question marks over the loyalty of that worldwide fan base, which United estimate at 700million.

But Rigby does not have any concerns.

"We will always strive to be right at the top of our game but we feel the love of our fans for the club goes deeper; into its history, the success and the players, both now and in the past," he said.

"Of course, success is important, but there its lots of evidence to suggest the fans will be with us forever.''

[bbfan1991]

The making of the $3BILLION super club: How Manchester United's bank balance is being boosted by beer, wine and crisps... and that's just for starters!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2269599/Manchester-Uniteds-incredible-list-sponsors-helping-3billion-super-club.html#ixzz2JNEdP0pQ

The marketing deal at United are class doing all these business deals, fingers crossed it will help towards paying our debt off at the hands of those bloody Glazers soon:).

[bbfan1991]

UNITED'S SPONSORS (according to club website)

AON
Principal sponsor of Manchester United - £20m a year

DHL
Official logistics partner of Manchester United - £10m

NIKE
Official kit supplier of Manchester United - £25.4m

CHEVROLET
Official automotive partner of Manchester United - £12m

SINGHA
Official beer of Manchester United - £2m

THOMAS COOK
Official travel partner of Manchester United - £1.3m

BWIN
Official online gaming and betting partner of Manchester United - £2.4m

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO
Official wine partner of Manchester United - £2m

HUBLOT
Official timekeeper of Manchester United - £4m

The below are all worth approximately £1m - £2m...

SMIRNOFF
Official responsible drinking partner of Manchester United

TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS
Official medical systems partner of Manchester United

STC
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United for Saudi Arabia

PCCW
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Hong Kong

TURKISH AIRLINES
Official airline partner

EPSON
Official office equipment partner of Manchester United

MISTER POTATO
Official savoury snack partner of Manchester United

YANMAR
Official global partner

TM
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Malaysia

GLOBACOM
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United for Nigeria, Ghana, Republic of Benin

VIVA KUWAIT
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Kuwait

MTN
Official integrated telecoms partner of Manchester United for South Africa / Zambia / Rwanda / Uganda / Swaziland / Botswana.

AIRTEL
Official telecommunications partner of Manchester United in India/Sri Lanka/Seychelles/Bangladesh.

ZONG
Official telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Pakistan

GLOBUL
Official telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Bulgaria

MAMEE
Official noodles partner of Manchester United for Asia, Oceania and Middle East

VIVA
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Bahrain

TURK TELEKOM
Official integrated telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Turkey

A.P. HONDA
Official motorcycle partner of Manchester United in Thailand

AIRTEL AFRICA
Official telecoms partner in Burkina Faso, Chad, DR Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Congo Brazzaville

BEELINE
Official telecommunications partner of Manchester United in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

BAKCELL
Official telecommunications and broadcast partner of Manchester United for Azerbaijan

KAGOME
Official soft drink partner of Manchester United for Japan

WAHAHA
Official soft drink partner of Manchester United for China

PT MULTISTRADA
Official tyre partner of Manchester United

KANSAI
Official paint partner of Manchester United

Woah!:amazed:

[Legend killer]

Team I want for Madrid

De Gea
Raf Vidic Ferdinand Evra
Ando Carrick Cleverly
Nani Rooney
RVP

An AWAY GOAL IS A MUST and with that team we will get 2 goals min. Hopefully Ronnie comes down Raf's side rather then Paddy's as our Samba kid will do a solid job on him

[Brother Leon]

Pretty much spot on there. Don't really like Wayne on the wing but they will all be rotating around like the holy trinity in 07 anyway.

[bbfan1991]

I like the look of that team too tbh.

So City dropped points at QPR then, good:D. Now I hope United get the job done vs Southampton and make the lead back to seven points!

[the truth]

giggs is just 5 games away from his 1000th professional game (927 for man utd, 64 for Wales 4 for GB) extraordinary

[bbfan1991]

giggs is just 5 games away from his 1000th professional game (927 for man utd, 64 for Wales 4 for GB) extraordinary

He is a one off in sporting terms, so professional and only a one club man:).

[the truth]

I believe there is only 1 man in the history of football who has played more games for one club and thats some bloke called Pele. pretty good company

[Brother Leon]

We take having players as great as Giggs & Scholes for as long as we have for granted at times. Giggs is nearly 40 and still runing up and down that wing. Inspiring.

[Petershaw1984]

the premiership trophy is ours i feel this season. out of the teams we have to play we only play arsenal, city and chelsea that are capable of beating us and i dont fear any of them

[bbfan1991]

United fans inspire Kagawa

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/D74F9BEC482E403BACB41FBCEE4BA7F4.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=103,0,469,550

Shinji Kagawa is loving life at Old Trafford and says Manchester United's supporters give him extra belief when he's on the pitch.

The Japanese international, who signed for the Reds from German champions Borussia Dortmund last summer, spoke exclusively to United Review ahead of Southampton's visit to Manchester on Wednesday night.

"I’m in a fantastic environment, training every day with top players," he said. "At the same time, being with a big club like Manchester United, I know we are always expected to win trophies, which I haven’t accomplished yet.

"I love playing at Old Trafford, though, and I’m always amazed by the atmosphere of the stadium.

"We’ve managed many come-from-behind wins this season, which is very difficult. But if we go 1-0 down and then equalise, the feeling of unity between the supporters and players is incredible.

"Those moments encourage the players and make us feel like we can score another goal at any time."

Sir Alex's men found themselves 2-1 down against Wednesday night's opponents back in September before Robin van Persie rescued the Reds with a dramatic hat-trick. Kagawa remembers the match well and admits it's a thrill to play alongside the Dutchman.

"It’s not only that game at Southampton [where I've been impressed with Robin]. He’s a player who can do a crucial job to win in almost every game.

"It’s a wonderful experience for me to be able to play with him. It’s always encouraging to have players like van Persie and Wayne Rooney when you’re attacking."

I am glad that Shinji is enjoying life at United:), there is plenty more to come from his game and I am confident he will continue to improve once he is fully used to the style of play in England and of course United's style of playing!

[bbfan1991]

Evra backing for Büttner

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Patrice Evra has revealed he is fully supportive of his left-back rival Alexander Büttner.

The Frenchman, who captained the side to FA Cup victory over Fulham at the weekend, was rested for the two matches in the previous round against West Ham, with Büttner deputising.

Evra is pleased to see the summer signing continue to adapt to his new surroundings and provides further evidence of the team spirit that runs through the camp.

When asked by United Review if he is happy to help Büttner learn his trade, Evra replied: "Of course, of course. I told him when I first arrived here, in my first six months the Old Trafford pitch looked like an airport!

"It was so big and you had to run so much it felt like my legs burned after games. But that’s normal at first. You need at least six months to adapt to playing here.

"I always try to help Alex because I am a United player, not just Patrice Evra. I want the benefit for the team. If it’s me that is playing well or Alex Büttner, I will be happy.

"I don’t just say that to look good. It’s the truth. I’m not a selfish player and I would hope any of my team-mates would tell you the same thing. I think Alex sees that I’m not a bad guy and I want to help him."

That is nice of Patrice:). Alexander Buttner is currently second choice LB, but he has to continue improving his game to push Evra for that spot and there is Fabio too who will be back from his loan next season.

[bbfan1991]

Rafa’s rise from being impetuous ...to simply imperious

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Rafael took a significant step forward in his United career at the start of the season when he was officially handed the Reds’ No.2 shirt. It hadn’t been assigned to anybody since Gary Neville retired as United’s veteran right-back in February 2011. The jersey had been Neville’s exclusive property since 1996.

The role he dominated was becoming a problem position in the injury-blighted latter stages of his career and after he quit. In January 2008, while Neville was sidelined for virtually a season with ankle ligament damage, Sir Alex Ferguson brought over Rafael and his twin brother, Fabio, from Brazil to Manchester, having agreed a deal with Fluminense 12 months previous.

The then 17-year-old Rafael was earmarked to take over from Neville eventually. Following in the England internationals footsteps has been a treacherous path for the South American.

But Rafael has hit back for the Reds. Armed with a new four-year Old Trafford contract signed in July – and that No.2 shirt – he has moved on to a steadier level.

And Rafael’s fast improving graph from impulsive to imperious has also caught the eye of United’s 1999 Treble-winning full-back Denis Irwin.

“There has never been a question about Rafael’s talent,” Irwin told M.E.N. Sport.

“He was brave, aggressive and his attacking qualities were very good. He had all the attributes. His problem was that as a young player he was impetuous and the timing of his tackles got him into trouble and caused problems.

He has had to learn to be a lot more patient with his defending. You learn the most when you make mistakes and he has made a couple of big ones on big occasions.

But he’ll never forget them. When you make those kind of mistakes it clicks with you and you become wiser."

So true:). Rafael's development has been amazing and for me is one of the best RB's in the world right now!

[bbfan1991]

http://thebusbyway.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/tumblr_mh9389yDis1qk1fueo1_500.gif

:joker:

[the truth]

RVP has been a revelation this season, an extraordinary signing , the return to fitnes of vidic, and with the rise of hernandez too,the rise of cleverly too, the return of fletcher utd have refound their mojo, while city have fallen back with ballotelli-gate and the departure of the great drogba....But id still question if their midfield can handle madrid and barcelona?

[the truth]

does anyone agree with this top 10 voted in 2011?

where the heck is denis law?

1) Ryan Giggs
2) Eric Cantona
3) George Best
4) Sir Bobby Charlton
5) Cristiano Ronaldo
6) Paul Scholes
7) David Beckham
8) Roy Keane
9) Peter Schmeichel
10) Wayne Rooney.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1352154/Ryan-Giggs-voted-greatest-Manchester-United-player.html#ixzz2JTcqT5zB
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

[bbfan1991]

FA Cup: Monday night football

Manchester United’s FA Cup fifth round tie against Reading will be played at Old Trafford on Monday 18 February (20:00 GMT). The match will be broadcast live in the UK on ESPN.

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It will be the 13th FA Cup meeting between the teams and the sixth at Old Trafford. The Reds have lost just one of the previous 12 ties against the Royals, a 1927 third-round second replay, but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists nothing should be taken for granted.

“The draw gives you no guarantees,” he said, “but I always say you can only ask for a home tie.

“We’re looking to go on a run in this year’s competition. After nine years without picking up the trophy it’s important for us this season.”

[Legend killer]

Keane behind Beckham FACEPALM lets be real whether you like him or not his impact on our team is only matched player wise by Eric and Ronnie

As long as there is not any stupid over the top rotation tonight ie: Giggs and Scholes in the middle we should win by 3 maybe 4 goals even though they havee improved a lot

Also although RVP has been sensational our player of the year has been Rafa the guy is a MONSTER endless energy and passion for the team and he is not even in his prime yet which is scary

Is it bad that I would rather have Giggs on the wing then either Tony or Ashley??? For all the well deserved criticism he has received from me when playing in the middle the guy is a monster on the wing LOOOL

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United team to play Southampton:mDe Gea, Jones, Smalling, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Anderson, Welbeck, Rooney, Kagawa, Van Persie.

Subs: Lindegaard, Buttner, Rafael, Rio, Nani, Valencia, Cleverley.

I like the look of this team and the subs bench:).

[Brother Leon]

Nani for Welbeck and Welbeck Vs Fulham I would of gone for. Also for me our player of the season has been Carrick. RVP will win it though and obviously no complaints if he does.

[Brother Leon]

Nani for Welbeck and Welbeck Vs Fulham I would of gone for. Also for me our player of the season has been Carrick. RVP will win it though and obviously no complaints if he does.

[bbfan1991]

Javier Hernandez absence is because he has a hip injury, not serious so he should be fit to play a part in the Fulham game at the weekend.

[bbfan1991]

2-1 to United full time:). Well it was all Southampton in that second half and they pressed us very good, but sometimes you need to grind out results and that is what United did. Points are what most matter!

Wayne Rooney and Shinji Kagawa impressed me tonight and they are developing an exciting understanding.

[bbfan1991]

Match Report:

United 2 Southampton 1

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

[Brother Leon]

Good 3 points, but that 2nd half is embarrassing. I kinda dread taking the lead vs Madrid if all we are going to do is sit back and stop playing like we always do. Will only end in tears.

[Brother Leon]

Good 3 points, but that 2nd half is embarrassing. I kinda dread taking the lead vs Madrid if all we are going to do is sit back and stop playing like we always do. Will only end in tears.

[bbfan1991]

Good 3 points, but that 2nd half is embarrassing. I kinda dread taking the lead vs Madrid if all we are going to do is sit back and stop playing like we always do. Will only end in tears.

I agree. Southampton pressed us and we just sat back, where was United's ball retention too?

We play Fulham before City play Liverpool at the weekend, so if United win it would really put the pressure on City to get a result in their game.

[Legend killer]

Tonight was a prime example of why Carrick will NEVER BE WORLD CLASS. Once under pressure he CRUMBLES have seen this time and time again however does not change the fact he does a solid job for this team

Also can someone explain Fergie's persistence on playing Danny out wide it's nearly as bad as his Giggs CM vendetta which he thankfully seems to have given up on

Good 3 points none the less

[Legend killer]

Guys also the pitch needs sorting ASAP will cost us points sooner rather then later bloody dreadful

[bbfan1991]

Vote: Man of the Match

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Five Manchester United players made the shortlist for ManUtd.com's Man of the Match award after the Reds came from behind to beat Southampton 2-1.

Wayne Rooney is an obvious contender after scoring the crucial two goals and he was denied a hat-trick when Saints keeper Artur Boruc came out from his goal to save at his feet. For all his attacking work, Rooney was also needed to help out in defence towards the end of the 90 minutes and made a couple of meaty challenges.

The Reds needed to be resilient at the back, particularly in the second half, and captain Nemanja Vidic was a solid presence despite picking up a booking. Fellow defender Patrice Evra shone with some tenacious play and teed up the winning goal with a flying header at the far post.

Shinji Kagawa was particularly effective in the first period and was unlucky not to score when hitting a post. The Japan international also split the visiting defence to set up Rooney's equaliser and was bright and inventive before being replaced by Nani with 17 minutes remaining.

Danny Welbeck was another who did most of his eye-catching work before the break and forced a decent save out of Boruc. The forward, playing wide, put in another good shift and kept working hard throughout.

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

Wayne Rooney MOTM for me:).

[bbfan1991]

Boss' relief after scare

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Sir Alex Ferguson cited United's narrow, nail-biting victory over Southampton as 'a bit lucky' and paid tribute to the Saints' second half display at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney's first-half double had the Reds ahead after Jay Rodriguez's second-minute opener, but the Reds were pinned back inside their own half for much of the second period as Southampton dominated possession, albeit without often breaking down United's resolute defence. Sir Alex told MUTV:

"In my experience at the club, when we're going for championships there's always a game where you say to yourself: 'we were a bit lucky,' and I think this was one of those nights. I thought Southampton, in the second half, gave the best performance anyone's given here this season. I think they pushed right on top of us and didn't give us time to settle."

The Old Trafford playing surface has been showing signs of wear and tear this winter, and Sir Alex admitted the pitch had been detrimental to the Reds' play.

"In the second half, the players just found the pitch impossible," he said. "We tried to play the way we normally play and found it difficult because the pitch had dried out a lot. We lost an early goal in the first half but it didn't deter us from playing some fantastic football and we could have been four or five up at half time, but once the pitch started to dry out the players found it difficult to play a different way and it really required us to play the ball into the gaps, which we don't normally do. We can't use the pitch as an excuse, but it didn't help us. It's a worry. We've won the game and I think that's the one thing we can take out of it."


Well done SAF for admitting that Southampton were the better side in the second half, although the state of the pitch at Old Trafford does look awful.

[bbfan1991]

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Vidic's title warning

Manchester United skipper Nemanja Vidic has warned that there is still a long way to go in the title race despite the Reds opening up a seven-point gap at the top of the table.

The Reds were far from impressive in defeating Southampton with a Wayne Rooney double and the Serbian accepts that the Southampton match became a real battle on Wednesday night.

With the result all important after Manchester City's draw at QPR, there will still be a determination to put on an improved collective performance at Fulham on Saturday.

"We had to fight to win this game at the end," Vidic admitted to MUTV. "You see we couldn't have possession of the ball and they were attacking all the time.

"Sometimes it's important to win this type of game. Obviously, the performance in the second half, we're not really pleased with, but I think we played some good football in the first half and had some good chances. All in all, we have to be pleased with the result. If you look at the other teams, they all drew, so we're in a good position now.

"We have to now focus for the next game against Fulham. Away games are always hard so we need to think about that. It's a good position we're in. It's important to win games, especially at this stage of the season, and every game now is important. We know that we have to forget the games that come before and always focus on the next ones. Nothing is finished yet. There is a long way to go but we're in a good position."

The defender feels there were positive elements to take out of the victory against the Saints as it again illustrated the team's ability to grind out three points.

"Of course you have to show character," he asserted. "Sometimes even when it's not happening for you. You have to defend and I think the whole team was pushed to the limits physically. It was a hard game and the pitch did not help.

"Again, we went 1-0 down, and it was not a great start, but I think we had a spell of maybe 20-30 minutes of good football where we had a few chances and scored the two goals. We stopped after that. I don't know why. The last 10 minutes of the first half, we just stopped but sometimes you have these type of games and you still have to win."

Vidic also praised team-mates Rooney and David De Gea for their contribution to the hard-fought success.

"Wayne is important for the team," said the centre-back. "He is working hard. Obviously, he scored the goals and I think the more games he plays, the better he is. We need him, especially for the second half of the season, as we need all the players to be fit. We have a good squad now and it's going to be hard for the manager to choose the first XI.

"It was a great save from David [to keep out Rickie Lambert's free-kick]. Actually, I see the ball in the net but instead it was a magnificent save. He showed he has the talent. He is a good keeper and I think the more games he plays, the better he is going to be."

Vida is just class:worship:.

[bbfan1991]

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Carrick holds his hands up

Michael Carrick has shouldered the blame for Jay Rodriguez’s opening goal during United’s comeback win over Southampton on Wednesday.

The Reds midfielder was caught out when his weak back-pass was pounced on by the Saints forward, who duly slipped the ball under David De Gea to earn Mauricio Pochettino’s side a shock lead at Old Trafford, where two Wayne Rooney goals were ultimately enough to seal a hard-fought triumph.

Afterwards, when quizzed on the matter, Carrick took full responsibility for the early concession and praised his teammates’ ability to overcome the deficit and secure a crucial victory, moving seven points clear of title rivals Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League as a result.

“I just didn’t get enough on it, it’s totally my fault and I take the blame for that,” Michael explained to MUTV. “As it popped up I just tried to flick it back to David and I didn’t get enough on it. But we bounced back from that and got the goal and played some decent stuff in the first half. We showed character, it wasn’t an easy game and we are happy with the three points.

“I think I gave us a bit of a bad start but we bounced back in the first half and played some good football. For the majority of the first half, we were quite happy with our performance but the second half was a bit of a write-off to be honest, we didn’t play well at all.

“We just found a way to get over the line so we are delighted to get the three points. There are a few things to work on but we can still take the positives and we are still in a good position.”

Despite dominating the first half and holding a comfortable half-time advantage, United struggled in the second half and were put under pressure from Southampton, who continually pumped the ball forward in search on an unexpected point at the Theatre of Dreams.

In the end, the Reds defended admirably and although fans were forced to endure a nervy climax, Carrick is convinced the result was rarely in doubt - citing the fact that De Gea had very few saves to make against the spirited Saints.

“To be honest, I thought we defended well, it was my mistake that led to their goal and you can’t really legislate for that, it wasn’t really a defensive error in terms of the team,” Carrick noted.

“I thought we looked quite solid when defending the goal, David had the free kick to save and apart from that he didn’t have an awful lot else. It’s just one of those things.

“We are delighted with the three points, we knew it was a big game and it was a terrific result for us. People will look at it and think we shouldn’t be too happy because we haven’t played well.

“But Southampton have improved of late and we knew it would be a tough game. We can improve on the performance and I’m sure we will do that on Saturday. We are happy with the three points.”


Good on him for being honest and admitting the goal for Southampton was his fault, no doubt the press will continue with their agenda and blame David De Gea for it, such is their problem with him:bored:.

[bbfan1991]

Fletcher will return

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Sir Alex is optimistic Darren Fletcher will return to first-team football next season, but expects a different sort of player to the box-to-box midfielder that proved so crucial in recent campaigns.

Fletcher, whose career has been severely interrupted since November 2011 by the debilitating bowel condition ulcerative colitis, underwent surgery last month and will miss the remainder of 2012/13.

But the United manager is confident the procedure – and subsequent six months’ recovery – will help ensure Fletcher returns to full fitness.

“The rampaging Fletcher of old has gone but I’m sure he will be a success in a better-paced job,” Sir Alex wrote in his Southampton matchday programme notes.

“We hope to have him back in action for next season and there will be a different role for him along the lines of how he played this season, sitting in front of the back four as the holding midfielder.

“Darren coped well during the last few months and he made a return to football [after his initial spell on the sidelines] with 10 senior appearances. His treatment was going well, but the problem surfaced again and the advice was [to] have surgery. The decision was taken with Darren’s long-term health in mind just as much as getting back to his career.

“It hasn’t been an easy journey for him, but he has shown great courage. There isn’t a nicer boy at the club and he's a star professional. All his team-mates wish him well and I am sure the fans join me in wishing him a good recovery and a speedy return to football.”

[bbfan1991]

Boss hopes for Kiko break

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Sir Alex Ferguson is desperate for a break to fall Federico Macheda's way after loaning the striker to Stuttgart.

Previous moves for the Italian, to Sampdoria and QPR, have seen the club's manager axed shortly afterwards, and injury also cut short his stint at Loftus Road. After Stuttgart won the chase for his signature last week, there are hopes that the Under-21s' top scorer will be able to show his quality and get the regular first-team football he craves.

"I pray for the boy," Sir Alex told MUTV. "I must say with his experience he got at Sampdoria as they sacked the coach when he'd been there a week. The new coach came in and didn't play him. So that was four or five months lost.

"The same thing happened when he went to QPR last season. They sacked the coach and Mark Hughes came in. Of course, Mark had his own ideas about the front players and, once again, for four months, he doesn't play.

"He's been back with us since the summer obviously and he's done well in the Reserves' team and scored a few goals. This is an opportunity to get football at a higher level. It's too good an opportunity to miss."

[bbfan1991]

Smalling in England squad


Chris Smalling has been recalled to the England squad for the upcoming friendly with Brazil.

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The defender is one of five Reds in Roy Hodgson's plans for the Wembley fixture next Wednesday and returns to the fold after an absence of around 11 months, largely due to injury.

Michael Carrick and Tom Cleverley are included as midfield options with Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck among four strikers chosen by Hodgson.

The prestigious clash is part of the FA's 150th anniversary celebrations.

Squad: Jack Butland (Birmingham), Joe Hart (Man City); Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Chris Smalling (United), Kyle Walker (Tottenham); Michael Carrick (United), Tom Cleverley (United), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), James Milner (Man City), Leon Osman (Everton), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal); Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Danny Welbeck (United).


Well done to Chris Smalling on his England recall and to the rest of the United lads called up in the squad:).

[bbfan1991]

Jones handed Under-21 call

Phil Jones has been handed a surprise England Under-21 call-up ahead of the friendly with Sweden in Walsall next Tuesday.

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The United defender, who has been capped at senior level, is joined in the squad by fellow Reds Ben Amos and Wilfried Zaha, who is arriving from Crystal Palace in the summer.

Versatile performer Jones has been in excellent form of late and moved into midfield during the win against Southampton after starting at right-back.

Squad: Ben Amos (United), Declan Rudd (Norwich), Jason Steele (Middlesbrough); Ryan Bennett (Norwich), Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton), Craig Dawson (Bolton, on loan from West Brom), Phil Jones (United), Tom Lees (Leeds), Jack Robinson (Liverpool), Luke Shaw (Southampton), Adam Smith (Millwall, on loan from Spurs), Andre Wisdom (Liverpool); Nat Chalobah (Watford, on loan from Chelsea), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Will Hughes (Derby), Henri Lansbury (Nott'm Forest), Jason Lowe (Blackburn), Josh McEachran (Middlesbrough, on loan from Chelsea), Jonjo Shelvey (Liverpool), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool); Benik Afobe (Bolton, on loan from Arsenal), Tom Ince (Blackpool), Connor Wickham (Sunderland), Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace).

Well done to Phil Jones and the other United lads in the England Under 21 squad:).

[bbfan1991]

Petrucci stays with Posh

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United have agreed to allow Davide Petrucci to stay with Peterborough until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old has only featured twice since joining the Championship club on loan due to the bad weather and FA Cup but is likely to have a key role to play in the remainder of the campaign.

Posh are currently bottom of the table but a win in their game in hand would take Darren Ferguson's side above Bristol City and Barnsley.

Petrucci, who is getting his first taste of first-team football, is one of two Reds at the club with centre-back Scott Wootton completing his second stint at London Road.

"The ones I brought in have made a difference," commented Darren Ferguson to Posh Player. "Wootton and Petrucci were a no-brainer coming from there [United] because they are good players."

The creative midfielder added on Peterborough's official website:" I am very happy. I only signed for a month in the first place because it was my first loan spell. I didn't know what to expect.

"However, since the first few days, I realised that I wanted to stay for longer and I am very pleased to be here until the end of the season."


Good luck to Davide with his extended loan spell:).

[bbfan1991]

Rooney named star man

Wayne Rooney came out on top in the ManUtd.com poll for Wednesday's Man of the Match award after his two goals sank Southampton.

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The Reds' No10 cancelled out Jay Rodriguez's effort with a calm finish after being put in the clear by Shinji Kagawa and grabbed the winner from even closer range from Patrice Evra's diving header.

With 58 per cent of the vote, Rooney was a clear victor ahead of Kagawa in second place after a bright performance from the Japanese schemer, particularly in the first half.

Skipper Nemanja Vidic finished in third spot after a dominant display at the heart of the defence with Evra and Danny Welbeck completing our shortlist.

Man of the Match results:

Wayne Rooney: 58%
Shinji Kagawa: 27%
Nemanja Vidic: 9%
Patrice Evra: 5%
Danny Welbeck: 1%


Well done to Wayne Rooney:).

[bbfan1991]

Boss quashes Jones row

Sir Alex Ferguson has quashed speculation that he is upset with Phil Jones' call-up to the England Under-21 squad, although he is surprised by the youngster's inclusion.

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The manager thinks the versatile defender, who has enjoyed a tremendous start to 2013, should be in Roy Hodgson's senior party for the friendly against Brazil at Wembley.

Despite press reports that United are unhappy at the prospect of Jones playing in the European Championship in the summer for Stuart Pearce's side, Sir Alex understands the situation.

"I haven't paid much attention to it," he admitted at his pre-Fulham press conference. "I'm surprised he's in the Under-21s and not the full squad.

"I think it's happened quite a few times to players [being dropped back to Under-21s]. Is it understandable to the players? That can be the difficult thing to manage. The players, once they're in the full squad, think they've achieved that - he's played for the full squad.

"If they then take a step back, it can be hard to manage that. But he's 20 years of age and Stuart Pearce wants to pick as good an Under-21 squad as he can get. And that includes players like Phil Jones."

[bbfan1991]

Reds play on with pitch

Sir Alex has confirmed United will not replace the deteriorating Old Trafford pitch until the end of this season and expressed hopes that conditions will improve with warmer weather.

The playing surface at the Theatre of Dreams was ravaged by heavy rainfall over the festive period and has since suffered as a result of frost and cold weather, making it almost unplayable at times – particularly against Southampton on Wednesday when the boss cited the turf as a hindrance.

But now, having taken advice from grounds man Tony Sinclair, the boss is optimistic improvements can be made before important home fixtures with Everton, Reading and of course, Real Madrid.

“It's not good,” Sir Alex told, when quizzed on the pitch's quality during his weekly press conference at Carrington. “We're changing the whole pitch in the summer but we've got 10 days before Everton now and 10 days before Reading.

“We're getting more sunlight now as well and that will help in terms of regenerating it. It's definitely a bit worn out, in my mind. On Wednesday there was a lot of water before the game, which helped us in the first half. But in the second it dried out and that made it difficult for us.

“The grounds men work their socks off. He's as concerned as anyone and he's disappointed with how it is at the minute. We’ve got 10 days before Everton so hopefully that makes a difference. It's not been the same since that game against Newcastle and the deluge of rain.

“We've had this pitch now for a number of years and it's been great. If you go back before that we had to renew it maybe once or twice a season. Although that helped it was never perfect. The turf would lift out sometimes.

“We've declined to replace the turf at the moment because we believe Tony will get it right. We've got the artificial lights on it all the time. We also have to hope for better weather and a bit more sun. That really helps. The more light we get the better it is for the pitch.”


Glad the pitch will be replaced in the Summer because the current state of it is awful:(.

[bbfan1991]

Rooney expects stern test

Manchester United made light work of Fulham when the Cottagers visited Old Trafford last weekend, but Wayne Rooney expects this Saturday’s league clash in west London to prove more difficult.

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The Reds won the FA Cup fourth round clash at a canter – thanks to goals from Rooney, Ryan Giggs and Javier Hernandez (2) – but have won just once in the last four league visits to Craven Cottage.

And while Martin Jol’s side have taken just 18 points from a possible 36 at home this season, they’ve tasted defeat by the banks of the Thames just once since the beginning of December, hinting at a recent change in fortune in front of their own fans.

“At home, Fulham are a different team,” Rooney said. “It’s always a difficult game there. It’s a smaller pitch and a compact stadium. That suits them.

“They’ve got players who can take the ball between the lines because the pitch isn’t as big and then create chances. It will be a completely different game [to the one at Old Trafford].

“They are down near the bottom so they will be fighting to get one or three points. We will need to make sure we are at our best to beat them.”

United will certainly need to improve on the second-half showing against Southampton in midweek that almost cost the Reds valuable points in the title race. The Reds not only had to come from behind after conceding an early goal, but had to endure a barrage of Saints attacks after the interval.

Sir Alex’s men dug deep to hang on, however, and now go to Craven Cottage with an opportunity to extend the lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League table to 10 points.

Rooney netted both United’s goals on Wednesday night to take his tally for the season to 12. But he insists personal glory means nothing to him.

“It’s nice to score and it helped the team pick up points,” he said. “That’s the most important thing, that the team picks up points. I have always said I am not really too concerned with how many goals I score as long as we keep winning. But it is nice to score and hopefully that will continue.”

Wise word Wayne:), he is hitting good form at the right time!

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex denies FA charge

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D143D489D0634E37B2F1CFCC440A6706.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=95,36,793,296

At 17:00 GMT on Friday 1 February, the Football Association released the following statement on www.thefa.com:

"Sir Alex Ferguson has denied an FA charge of misconduct in relation to post-match media comments made following Manchester United’s game at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 20 January 2013.

"It is alleged the Manchester United manager breached FA Rule E3 in that he implied that the match official was motivated by bias.

"Ferguson has requested a paper hearing, the date of which will be set in due course."


Well done SAF:worship:.

[bbfan1991]

Preview: Fulham v United

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/preview-fulham-v-manchester-united-barclays-premier-league.aspx

[bbfan1991]

One track mind: Fergie insists Man United won't suffer from complacency this time

Old Trafford boss promises to treat every game the same after being tested by Southampton

http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1551447.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Sir+Alex+Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson insists there will be no complacency from his Manchester United players in the title race run-in.

The Red Devils can go 10 points clear of nearest challengers Manchester City with victory at Fulham tomorrow evening.

City do not host Liverpool until the following day, but Ferguson said there is no danger of his players getting ahead of themselves and believing the title is won.

"Every game is treated the same way," said Ferguson.

"We saw the effort Southampton put in on Wednesday, which is a reminder to us that you get three points for winning a game, not just against the top teams, but also teams in the lower part of the league.

"The great example for us is last season, when we lost at home to Blackburn. It would be quite easy to say that cost us the league.

"But I don't expect my players to be complacent, I really don't. Wednesday was a reminder for us."

Ashley Young and Jonny Evans are still out for United, although Ferguson said he hoped the former would start training today.

"We're quite healthy in terms of the players available," said Ferguson.

"Ashley Young is the one who's still not available, and hopefully Jonny Evans will train today, which will give us another defender, which is good news.

"Fulham got a fantastic result on Wednesday [a 3-1 win over West Ham], a result they really needed.

"We hope we can successfully navigate this one, because we're getting to that stage of the season where every game is important.

"I will make one or two changes and freshen things up. Rio Ferdinand will definitely play, and I'll change a few positions around."

[bbfan1991]

Beckham move surprises boss

Sir Alex Ferguson may not be a fan of the media circus that accompanies transfer deadline day but he noted David Beckham's move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) with interest.

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The former Old Trafford star sealed a five-month switch to the French capital rather than join one of United's domestic rivals. Despite plenty of Barclays Premier League interest in the veteran midfielder, Beckham has always insisted he would never join another English side out of respect for the Reds.

"I didn't think he'd sign for an English club," Sir Alex told MUTV. "He's always said he would never sign for an English club after his career with United and he was true to his word that way.

"I must admit I didn't see the PSG move coming though, I don't think anyone did. I was surprised."

The live television coverage of deadline day itself may be popular with some fans but the boss was not glued to his screen watching the clock tick past 11pm.

"It's an absolute shambles," Sir Alex laughed. "I mean they [TV] go over to a ground and there's a poor young reporter there being mobbed by about 30 kids. I mean it's humiliation. It's absolutely terrible what they do.

"I don't know what benefit they get to be honest, other than filling some loose time they've got on TV. I'm sure all the managers are glad it's over."


Sir Alex Ferguson's comments about the transfer window are so right:D.

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex demands better

Sir Alex Ferguson fears Manchester United will be made to pay for not killing teams off when given the opportunity.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/1642C3A2601A4C09B5201DB927FAA530.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,312,3000,1427

The Reds boss believes his side should have been “four or five goals up” at half-time when Southampton visited Old Trafford on Wednesday night. Instead, he and the United fans in attendance were forced to endure a nervy second period in which the Saints came perilously close to snatching an equaliser.

“It must be hard for our fans,” he admitted. “It’s the sadistic nature of our team.

“It was poor from us, though. We should have been 5-0 up at half-time.

“In my experience, there are always one or two games a season where you say to yourself: ‘We were lucky today.’ I think we were lucky in the second half.”

Following last season’s dramatic conclusion, in which the Reds lost the league to crosstown rivals Manchester City on goal difference, Sir Alex knows all too well the dangers inherent with not pressing advantages home. And he’s determined not to go through a similar experience this time around.

“We didn't enjoy last season. You couldn't enjoy that. A few times this season we’ve been in comfortable positions but haven't dug our nails into [the game].

“It's frustrating because I know we're capable of doing that. It could go to goal difference again and that's an issue.

“At the moment we're only two goals better off than Manchester City but that could be undone in one game. We've had opportunities to be better.”

Nevertheless, despite the manager’s concerns, United go into the weekend’s fixtures holding a seven-point lead at the top of the table. City host Liverpool on Sunday, meaning a Reds win at Craven Cottage on Saturday would, temporarily at least, extend the Reds’ lead into double figures.

“It's very tempting to think about being 10 points clear,” Sir Alex admitted, “but the most important thing is to keep our feet on the ground and try and win our game at Fulham. Then we'll see where that takes us.

“There's a long way to go [this season. Fourteen games. A lot can happen.

“We're not certainties. Nobody's a certainty in this league - they never have been. We were 11 points clear of Arsenal one year and lost the league. We were 12 points behind Newcastle one year and won it. It's an unremitting league. If you make mistakes you get punished.

“[That’s why] I don't think we can afford to drop any points. When you drop points it only encourages everybody around you.

“I know fine well that points will be dropped, I suppose, by both ourselves and Manchester City. But I hope we don't drop points, particularly in the next few games.”

[bbfan1991]

Rooney reveals penalty chat

Wayne Rooney has revealed it was his decision – not Sir Alex Ferguson’s – to stop taking Manchester United’s penalties.

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The striker told MUTV he met with the Reds boss following his FA Cup third round replay miss against West Ham to inform the manager he wished to pass spot-kick duties to Robin van Persie.

Rooney, who’s missed nine of the 28 penalties he’s taken in a United shirt since his arrival from Everton in 2004, acknowledged his recent record wasn’t good enough. Seven of those misses have come since the start of 2010, including two – against West Ham and Arsenal – this season.

“To be honest, it was my choice,” Rooney revealed when asked if he was disappointed to have been relieved of penalty duties.

“It wasn't good enough. I went in to speak with the manager and said I'd spoken with Robin [van Persie] and told him he could take them.

“At a club like this, to miss two penalties like I did and not hit the target, it wasn't good enough.”

Following the England striker’s conversation with Sir Alex, United were subsequently awarded a penalty against Fulham in the FA Cup fourth round.

But with Robin van Persie on the bench, responsibility fell to veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs to dispatch the ball from 12 yards. He made no mistake, slotting home past Mark Schwarzer to give United an early lead.

Rooney's admission suggests it's likely he won't take the Reds' next spot-kick, although Sir Alex remains confident the striker will, at some point, return to penalty-taking duties.

Well done Wayne:), a mature decision to do for the sake of the team. I am sure he will be back on penalty duties again when he has more practice because of his current bad luck with them!

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex's faith in full squad

Sir Alex Ferguson has placed his trust in all the players in his Manchester United squad ahead of what promises to be an exciting push for glory this term.

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The Reds can open up a 10-point lead at the Barclays Premier League summit with victory away to Fulham ahead of Manchester City's clash with Liverpool on Sunday. The manager firmly believes he has enough depth and talent at his disposal to challenge for all the top honours with Real Madrid and Reading up next in the Champions League and FA Cup respectively.

After utilising his squad to good effect thus far, decisions are going to prove difficult with the games continuing to come thick and fast but Sir Alex will have no qualms about throwing any of his charges into the fray.

"I think the freshness is good," he explained. "If you trust players and believe in them, then why not play them? There's not a player I'm reluctant to play.

"Everybody can take part in the games, without question. When we played West Ham at home, I was surprised by how strong a side Sam Allardyce put out that night, but we made 10 changes and they played really well. It was a good performance and I was quite pleased with that. I made 10 other changes the next week.

"It's simply because these are international footballers. There's only Alexander Büttner and Nick Powell who don't have full senior caps. Nick Powell's had an injury for the last few weeks, although he's back in training now. He's one player who could make a difference to us. He's a talented boy. Büttner's also settled in very well, but he's not an international. But everyone around about him is, so why not play him?"

:)

[bbfan1991]

Man Utd line up to start at Fulham - De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani, Rooney, Valencia, RVP.

Man Utd subs: Anderson, Giggs, Smalling, Hernandez, Welbeck, Kagawa, Amos.

I like the look of that strong line up, hopefully a win for United. Glad to see Jonny Evans back, plus Nani and Antonio Valencia have a vital opportunity on the wings to try and find some form.

[bbfan1991]

Vital win and United are 10 points clear until tomorrow when City play at least:):D.

It was an end to end game with both sides having chances to score, although Fulham were hard to break down until Wayne Rooney finally broke them down in the second half with a quality individual move for his goal.

Our defence were awesome and DDG too, who produced some good saves and kicks etc, so he must have been buzzing hearing the fans shout his name and showing support.

Carrick and Cleverley worked hard in Midfield and I enjoy their partnership and understanding.

A clean sheet feels nice. It was so funny when the floodlights went off before half time too!:joker:

[bbfan1991]

http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BCHncffCUAAHjpO.jpg

Fair play to the United fans who made this flag:worship:.

[bbfan1991]

Report: Fulham 0 United 1

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

[Brother Leon]

We're Man United..We'll play in the dark.

[bbfan1991]

Vote: Man of the Match

United went 10 points clear at the Barclays Premier League summit with a 1-0 win at Fulham.

Wayne Rooney was the matchwinner with his second-half strike enough to earn another precious victory, as the goal that evoked memories of Cristiano Ronaldo's famous effort at Craven Cottage in 2007. The No10 is an obvious contender for Man of the Match, after also hitting a post, but we have four other options in our poll.

David De Gea surely silenced any critics with a splendid performance, with two saves in the first half right out of the top drawer. The touching of a Bryan Ruiz shot onto an upright was probably in the world-class category. The Spaniard also caught all the crosses thrown into the box and kicked with confidence.

In defence, Jonny Evans returned from injury and looked as though he had never been away. The Northern Ireland international put his body on the line, particularly late on, and made several crucial interceptions. The centre-back's long ball forward also means he claims an assist for the winner.

Nani also warrants a place on our short-list in his first league start since September as he tricked his way down both flanks and was often an outlet in the attacks. Although some of his crosses were disappointing, he is regaining his sparkle and can be a key figure going forward.

Rio Ferdinand was immaculate, alongside Evans, and helped ensure a clean sheet on the road was maintained. One vital header from deep inside his own area towards the end summed up his presence as this was another fine display by the veteran campaigner.

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

[bbfan1991]

Tour 2013: More destinations revealed

ManUtd.com will be making a series of special announcements about Manchester United’s 2013 Tour from Monday morning onwards.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/40E70231DF7A4E0686441244319F1757.ashx?20130202T204 8229511

The club announced, in December, a friendly match in Sydney on 20 July – United’s one and only game in Australia during the tour – as part of the team’s pre-season preparations. And throughout this week we will confirm more cities Sir Alex’s men will be visiting in July.

Make sure you visit the official club website at 03:00 GMT on Monday morning when the first announcement will be made. Others will follow on Tuesday 5 February and Thursday 7 February - we will confirm specific times for these announcements in due course.

United's official travel partner Thomas Cook Sport will be making supporter travel and accommodation packages available for the 2013 Tour in due course. Register your interest here for updates.

You can also sign up for more information on Tour 2013, including priority ticket updates and to enter exclusive competitions, by visiting www.ManUtd.com/Tour2013.

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex hails excellent win

Sir Alex Ferguson described Manchester United’s tight 1-0 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage as “an excellent result” and highlighted his side’s dogged commitment as the defining factor in a win that extends the Reds’ top-of-the-table advantage to ten points.

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Wayne Rooney struck in the second half to clinch a valuable three points that puts pressure on rivals Manchester City, who play Liverpool on Sunday.

“It's an excellent result for us and I'm very pleased with that,” said Sir Alex. “They've had a great home record over the years and that's a really important result for us. It's a good position [being ten points clear], we're pleased.

"It was a fantastic, battling performance," he told MUTV. "There was a great determination about us. I thought they were really up for it, the players, making sure they weren't going to lose the game.

"This is not an easy place to come to, as everyone knows, and over the years they've been difficult to beat here. It's a good performance, a really good game, an important result... they're all important now. It's three points for each team you play against, it doesn't matter if it's the top, the bottom or the middle, they all count."

Rooney got the crucial goal with little over ten minutes remaining, but David De Gea’s key saves and the willingness of United’s back four to put their bodies in the way of shots and crosses was equally influential.

“When you look at our performance, you saw players who were prepared to put their body on the line," the boss added in an interview with ESPN. "We blocked shots, had great headers out of the defence, it was a really determined effort by the players and we still played our football into the bargain.

“Fulham had some great chances and our goalkeeper, Rio and Jonny were terrific. We had a few chances ourselves, in the second half in particular – clear chances for Robin van Persie, Chicharito.

"In the first half we hit the woodwork three times. I think we've deserved to win, but it was a smashing game. There were so many chances in the match and some terrific football."


It was a vital win indeed:):D.

[bbfan1991]

Reds all backing De Gea

Wayne Rooney says everybody at United is fully behind David De Gea after the Reds' No1 silenced any critics with an outstanding performance at Fulham.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/B3BF65D845EE4857890D4274ED7579FF.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,1,563,

The Spain Under-21 international kept a clean sheet at Craven Cottage and pulled off some stunning saves to once again prove his quality. Despite evidence to the contrary, the media continue to cast doubt over the youngster's grip on the goalkeeper's position at the club.

However, Rooney was joined by Jonny Evans and Sir Alex Ferguson in praising the former Atletico Madrid man for his display in West London after his last trip to the capital ended with harsh criticism for his part in the build-up to Clint Dempsey's late equaliser for Tottenham.

"He was superb," stated Rooney. "I think he's been great for us over the last few weeks as he's made some great saves.

"I know he got a little bit of criticism after the Tottenham game but he made five or six world-class saves in that game and it wasn't the biggest mistake I've ever seen.

"We're all behind him and backing him. He's a great player for us and for the future as well."

Commanding centre-back Evans claims he was not surprised to see De Gea pull off a magnificent fingertip save to divert a Bryan Ruiz shot against the woodwork.

"He made some outstanding saves, especially the one from Ruiz, which he tipped onto the post," explained Evans. "We’re used to seeing that from him. We didn’t necessarily think, ‘great save’, because we’re used to him doing that. I think people underestimate his shot-stopping ability."

The manager explained how it is important for his first-choice keeper to relish the challenge at Old Trafford, no matter how difficult sections of the media may make it for him at times.

"It's not fazed him, for sure," Sir Alex stated. "He's enjoyed this game tonight. We've said that to him - Eric Steele has in particular - to enjoy playing here. It's a challenge and it's not easy for a young goalkeeper, but he's enjoyed tonight.''

Well said Sir Alex and Wayne:). United and us fans are behind David De Gea!

[bbfan1991]

Rooney spots similarities

Wayne Rooney hopes that his winner at Fulham can prove to be a lucky omen for Manchester United after extending the lead at the top of the table to 10 points.

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The England international netted his 10th goal in 10 games in a manner similar to the way Cristiano Ronaldo bagged an all-important late strike during the 2006/2007 title-winning campaign.

"It was obviously a little bit similar," he admitted afterwards. "I think, after that [Ronaldo's winner], we went on to win the league and went on a great run that season. Hopefully that can happen again after today.

"I think, as you run through, that you always try and assess the situation and what you feel is best to do - if you feel you can score or if a team-mate is in a better position to score. But I fancied the shot and, thankfully, it's gone in."

Rooney conceded United had to dig deep to earn another vital three points with the Cottagers creating chances themselves throughout the 90 minutes.

"It did feel significant," he added. "It was a tough game. It's always difficult coming here and they made it difficult for us. We had a few chances in the first half - hit the post and crossbar three times, I think - bu they made it difficult in the second half.

"We just had to keep going and believe we could get the goal, and thankfully we did. After that we hung on really well. It's a massive three points for us."

The focus shifts to Manchester City as the champions look to reduce the deficit at the top in Sunday's home clash with improving Liverpool.

"We're in a good position, of course, but we're not going to get carried away," insisted Rooney.

"We need to just keep going and taking each game as it comes and see where we are with three or four games to go. That'll be the time we can really believe we're going to win it.

"You never know about tomorrow. The most important thing for us was winning today and then we'll see what happens. Hopefully, City will drop points but, if not, we'll have to just keep going."

[Brother Leon]

I was at Cottage and he looked chuffed when we kept singin his name. Kept giving us a thumbs up and thanks. Really want him to shut everyone up.

[bbfan1991]

Evans: It's good to be back

Jonny Evans is back playing after a month on the sidelines through injury and he relished the hard slog seeing out United’s victory against Fulham on Saturday.

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The 25-year-old defender put in a hard shift at Craven Cottage as the Reds held out for an important 1-0 victory courtesy not only of Wayne Rooney’s 79th minute strike but some resolute defensive work.

Evans admitted to feeling rusty after a month out with a troublesome hamstring problem. “It’s good to be back but I got cramp in my calves in the last ten minutes!” he told MUTV. “It took me a while to get into the game in the first 20 minutes. Once I got over that I felt all right. I’m just glad to be back out there.

“It was a tough game. Once we scored it actually gave them a bit of impetus to put pressure on us. Our main concern was not wanting to sit back and invite the pressure, but that turned out to be the case. We defended well and won some good headers to see out the game.”

Rooney’s late intervention felt like it could be more broadly significant in the title race. “It was a good time to get the goal and I think I should get an assist for that,” Evans joked. “Wazza took the goal brilliantly. He showed great composure and put it right in the bottom corner.

“It does feel [like a significant result], especially going ten points clear, even with City having a game in hand. We had a great result at Fulham last year when we won 5-0, but in seasons gone by it has been really tough for us. It’s a hard place to come and we had to grind out the result. We had quite a few chances but once the goal went in it was a bit of a relief. After that we just had to defend well.”

I am glad you are back for us Jonny too:).

[bbfan1991]

I was at Cottage and he looked chuffed when we kept singin his name. Kept giving us a thumbs up and thanks. Really want him to shut everyone up.

Cool, that is nice of him. Wayne Rooney is in superb form right now and for me he is the heartbeat of this United team, although RVP is too and our entire squad is full of quality.

He has definitely matured and put past mistakes on/off the pitch behind him and is totally committed to the United cause and will go down as our top goalscorer:).

[bbfan1991]

I would have preferred a Liverpool win, although Manchester City dropping points is a result for United.

United cannot afford to get complacent because there are still more twists and turns to come in this title race IMO.

[bbfan1991]

Wayne backs Welbeck

Wayne Rooney has urged critics to stop judging Danny Welbeck purely on his goals return.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/954726FD151C45C1B8B4C7119C22AE9C.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=5,0,673,497

Welbeck, 22, came second behind Steven Gerrard at the FA’s England Player of the Year awards on Sunday night, but has found the net just once for Manchester United in 2012/13.

Rooney, however, is at pains to point out that the young forward hasn’t always been deployed as an out-and-out striker.

“We're not too concerned about him not scoring too many this season. He’s a fantastic player who works hard and brings a lot of energy to the team.

“He hasn’t been playing up front a lot – he’s been playing out wide. He’s been doing a job for the team, which, as players, we’re all grateful for.”

Rooney admits he’s suffered similar criticism in the past when he’s dropped deep and his goal tally has, naturally, slowed.

“Everyone labels Danny as a striker and I have had that at times when I have played in different positions. Someone will bring up the fact that I haven't scored for eight games when I hadn't played up front!

“Danny has been out wide a lot this season. He is a great player and his time will come when he gets that run up front. I am sure then he will score goals.”

Spot on Wayne and I believe that Welbz has the potential to improve:).

[bbfan1991]

Loans: Bebe in top form

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/loan-watch-bebe-shines-for-rio-ave.aspx

[bbfan1991]

Tour 2013: Third date due soon

Following the announcement of Manchester United’s summer visit to Hong Kong, ManUtd.com will reveal another pre-season destination on Tuesday.

http://www.manutd.com/~/media/8A96AB47716C4C6AA66AFB332C178AA2.ashx?20130204T130 4001755

With games already confirmed for Sydney (20 July) and Hong Kong (29 July), a further city and date will be revealed at 01:00 GMT on Tuesday morning. All of the matches are part of the club's Tour 2013, presented by Aon.

Tickets for the game against the Australian A-League All Stars in Sydney have been selling extremely well – the first two batches of tickets were snapped up in minutes when they went on sale in December. A third phase of tickets is scheduled to be released in April 2013; in the meantime, fans can sign up to a waiting list on the Football Federation Australia website. Tickets for the match against Kitchee FC at Hong Kong Stadium will go on sale on 20 February at www.cityline.com.

Fans can register their interest for travel and accommodation packages with United's official travel partner Thomas Cook Sport.

To register for official tour emails, including priority ticket updates and exclusive competitions, please visit www.manutd.com/tour2013.

[bbfan1991]

International Reds

Javier Hernandez is the only United player on World Cup duty this week as he is away with Mexico for their qualifier against Jamaica.

The prolific striker will be playing for points while his Old Trafford team-mates are in friendly action as he seeks to add to his impressive tally of 28 goals in 43 games for El Tri.

Meanwhile, Nani and Antonio Valencia could be in direct opposition in Wednesday's international between Portugal and Ecuador.

The friendly match takes place at the Estadio Dom Afonso Henriques in Guimaraes and is likely to see the two wingers line up against each other.

United's contingent in England's clash with Brazil is down to four after Michael Carrick's withdrawal. Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley, Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck are looking forward to pitting their wits against the South Americans at Wembley.

Patrice Evra is in the France squad for their glamorous game against Germany and Robin van Persie also has an attractive fixture to relish as Holland entertain Italy.

Jonny Evans travels with Northern Ireland to Malta after returning from injury during the win at Fulham while Anders Lindegaard was not on the bench at Craven Cottage but is still currently in the Denmark party for the trip to Macedonia.

Chile continue to count on youngster Angelo Henriquez, with the teenager in Spain for the friendly against Egypt after an encouraging start to his loan spell at Wigan. Shinji Kagawa is back in Japan's plans for their encounter with Latvia in Kobe.

At Under-21 level, Phil Jones' absence from England's tussle with Sweden on Tuesday means Ben Amos and Wilfried Zaha, who is still with Crystal Palace, will be representing the Reds.

[bbfan1991]

De Gea beats Rooney to award

David De Gea is the recipient of ManUtd.com's latest Man of the Match award after a superb display in the weekend win over Fulham.

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The Spaniard produced two top-class saves and generally commanded his penalty area at Craven Cottage in a clean sheet that will have gone a long way to silencing any critics.

He picked up 44% of the votes in our poll, beating matchwinner Wayne Rooney (38%) into second place. Jonny Evans delivered an accomplished defensive performance on his return from injury but was some way back in third with 9%.

Nani, who looked bright on his first league start since September, and Rio Ferdinand, who also impressed alongside Evans, rounded off our shortlist.


Well done to David De Gea:), no doubt that has annoyed the press. In David We Trust!

[bbfan1991]

United confirm Yokohama game

Manchester United have today announced the first team will play a pre-season game in Japan against Yokohama F. Marinos, Tokyo, as part of Tour 2013, presented by Aon.

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The game, sponsored by Kagome, the club’s official partner in Japan, will take place on 23 July at The Nissan Stadium and the team is looking forward to being welcomed by some of United’s 4 million Japanese followers.

Kagome, along with match promoters Disk Garage, invited Manchester United to play in Yokohama. This match will be an exciting opportunity for Japanese fans to watch the Reds play against one of Japan’s best football teams.

Manchester United chief executive David Gill said:

"Manchester United has great memories of playing in Japan and our game against the Yokohama F. Marinos will play an important part of our pre-season preparations. The Nissan Stadium is one of the best in the world and Manchester United has a connection with it, having become the first English team to win the FIFA Club World Cup there.

"The club’s three main priorities when arranging a pre-season tour is to first and foremost allow the team to prepare for the season ahead, to engage with our global fan base and to connect with our family of commercial sponsors. I am confident that our visit to Yokohama will be successful in delivering all these objectives."

Akira Kaetsu, president of Yokohama F. Marinos, said:

"We are very honoured to be given this opportunity to play against Manchester United, an outstanding team that represents the world both in name and reality. We, Yokohama F. Marinos, will show our best performance during the 2013 season from 2 March,

so that on 23 July, as a team that represents Japan, we can make a great impact on the soccer fans of the world. We look forward to seeing you at the Nissan Stadium."

Aon is delighted to be the Presenting Partner of Manchester United’s 2013 Tour, offering its expertise in risk management, insurance, reinsurance brokerage and human resources solutions. Greg Case, president and chief executive officer of Aon, said:

"Being chosen by Manchester United as the ‘Presenting Partner’ for its 2013 tour is further demonstration of the strength of our relationship. This is a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate how our global partnership provides value for our clients, colleagues and communities, and it will show our clients and prospects, particularly in Asia, how the issues we help them with, such as risk management or health care, are equally relevant and important in the world of business and the world of sport."

Ticket information

Tickets for this exciting match between Yokohama F. Marinos and Manchester United will be on pre-sale from 8 February and general sale from 7 April. Tickets can be purchased from Ticket Pia (www.pia.co.jp). For more information on the tour, and to register for email updates, please visit www.manutd.com/tour2013.

[Brother Leon]

****ing midweek internationals. As if Sunday 4pm and Madrid midweek wasn't enough.

[bbfan1991]

Blomqvist recalls Toffees move

Treble-winning United winger Jesper Blomqvist celebrates his 39th birthday today (Tuesday 5 February).

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And with the Reds welcoming Everton, another of the Swede’s ex clubs, to Old Trafford this weekend, we thought we’d present you Jesper’s recollections of his transfer to Goodison Park in 2001.

Speaking to Inside United, the club’s official magazine, Blomqvist recalled his last meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson. He provides a fascinating insight into the manager and, as Jesper says, might make one or two people think differently about him.

“It was pretty obvious it was time for me to go,” Blomqvist said. “I left the club in November 2001 but hadn’t played since May 1999 because of injury.

“I’d had a chat with the gaffer in the summer and he explained he couldn’t renew my contract. I obviously understood where he was coming from. I was really happy that he let me continue to train at the club, though, and I played one or two games for the Reserves.

“He also got in contact with Walter Smith at Everton and asked him if he would take a chance on me at Everton. I’m really grateful to Sir Alex for everything he did. I completely understood I couldn’t stay at United and I was so glad I wasn’t just kicked out of the door.

“To be honest with you, I felt a little guilty about the whole situation. The club had paid a lot of money for me and I had only managed one season. I felt embarrassed and guilty that I wasn’t able to repay them on the pitch.

“I said sorry to Sir Alex because I felt like I’d let him down and he just said: ‘Jesper, don’t worry. This is the nature of football. You helped us to win the Treble and we’re very grateful for that.’

“Those words lifted a stone from my heart – I’d not played for two years and I felt guilty for taking up the club’s time and money. But he helped me realise I didn’t have to feel bad.

“I think that says a lot about him. The reason he’s such a great manager is because of the way he treats people. Sometimes people forget there’s a person behind his tough persona.”

Blomqvist left Old Trafford having made 38 appearances for United. He went on to play 18 times for Everton.

[bbfan1991]

Evra: Now it's time to deliver

Manchester United have a nine-point Barclays Premier League lead and a mouthwatering Champions League tie with Real Madrid to look forward to, but Patrice Evra says the hard work to reach this position will count for nothing if the Reds fail to make the most of it.

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Everton’s visit to Old Trafford this weekend must not get lost in the anticipatory buzz around the forthcoming trip to face on Real Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu and, speaking exclusively to Inside United, Evra states that United must show no let-up in striving for trophies in this crucial period.

“It’s a really important time for us,” says the Frenchman. “It’s important that we do well in the league in February, but we also have the Champions League game against Real Madrid. This is the time when you have to win your games and show that Manchester United is the number one team. It won’t be easy, but this is the right moment.”

Everton have already beaten United 1-0 at Goodison Park this term, and the 4-4 draw with the Toffees in Manchester last spring harmed the Reds’ title ambitions as a similar league advantage was surrendered. This year, there is added focus.

“I am really happy with what we are doing in the league and the other competitions,” says Patrice. “Nobody forgets the big disappointment of losing the title last season. It’s really important that we just keep going because the league is not finished in February. We have a lead but nothing is done yet.

“We just have to take it game by game and aim to win every match. That’s the right attitude to have. In every game this season we have had the right attitude. That’s why I think the fans and the players are very happy this year because we really want to show we are champions. We have to keep going that way.”

[bbfan1991]

Van Persie is January's star

Robin van Persie has been named United's Player of the Month for the second successive month after starting 2013 with a bang.

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The reigning Footballer of the Year fired in a brace at Wigan Athletic in the first game of January and has not looked back since, notching five goals in five matches during the month.

After scooping the accolade for the first time in December, it is clear the striker is becoming a firm fans' favourite following his summer switch from Arsenal.

Van Persie garnered over half of the vote, with almost 7,500 fans opting for him ahead of fellow candidates Ryan Giggs, Patrice Evra, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck.

Giggs finished in second spot after a tremendous contribution, particularly in the FA Cup, with Evra finishing third in recognition of his consistency at left-back and ability to cause problems in opposing boxes from set-pieces.

Youngsters Jones and Welbeck completed our short-list after enjoying an impressive month in defence and attack respectively.

Fulham boss Martin Jol said of van Persie recently: "He is the main man. He sets them up with little flicks and combination football and he also scores the most goals. He scores over 30 goals a season and will be top scorer again, as he was last year. He is like Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Wherever he goes, they will be champions. Van Persie has that quality."

Well done to Robin Van Persie:):D.

[bbfan1991]

****ing midweek internationals. As if Sunday 4pm and Madrid midweek wasn't enough.

I know yeah, how pointless is this England game? I won't be happy if any of our players come back injured.

[bbfan1991]

RIP to the Busby Babes. Never forgotten:(.

http://thebusbyway.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/munich_clock.png

[bbfan1991]

To mark the 55th anniversary of Munich, we've made 9 clips of MUTVs documentary available free on http://ManUtd.com http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Munich-Remembered/2013/Feb/video-munich-documentary-nine-parts.aspx …

[Brother Leon]

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Beuatiful photoshop. Put a lump in my throat abit.

[Ryan57]

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A sad sad day. If they'd survived I'm more than certain we'd of been up there with Real Madrid and AC Milan in terms of European Cups.

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson reveals he is still affected by Munich air disaster

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has described how he is still deeply affected by the Munich air crash.

Today marks the 55th anniversary of the accident which claimed 23 lives when a plane carrying Manchester United back from a European Cup tie in Belgrade crashed on take-off following a refuelling stop in Munich.

Amongst those killed were eight Manchester United players, including Duncan Edwards, Roger Byrne and Tommy Taylor, who would have been key figures in England's 1958 World Cup campaign, and part of the first Three Lions team to beat Brazil, the opponents at Wembley this evening.

Now 71, Ferguson was 16 when the accident happened and said he is still affected by it.

He told the BBC: "I've been affected since a young boy. It was a sad time,"

"For many it's probably long forgotten but for someone like me who remembers the day, you won't forget it."

"When you were caught up in the aftermath of it and the publicity, and when the papers detailed what had happened, you couldn't help but feel that enormous loss for anyone football-minded," he added.

"That has carried on for a long, long time and every year you have to remember that."

Ferguson also paid trbute to those people who helped to rebuild Manchester United, which went on to win the European Cup 10 years laer.

"How we rose to get over that is remarkable in terms of [manager] Sir Matt [Busby] and Jimmy Murphy and all the staff at the time," he said.

"It was a fantastic group of young men who were destined to be great and that was the tragedy of it in how it was taken away from them."

Old Trafford played host to a match less than two weeks after the crash, a fifth-round FA Cup tie with Sheffield Wednesday.

England manager Roy Hodgson has also spoken about the importance of remembering the Munich air disaster.

He said: I remember that night extremely well,"

"I remember sitting at home as an 11-year-old and hearing the news and being absolutely devastated.

"So many great players, and a footballing generation in Manchester lost their lives.

"It is a sobering thought but it is important to remember those things."

[bbfan1991]

Learning about the past

Ryan Giggs tells ManUtd.com how the current players learned about the air disaster in the lead-up to its 50th anniversary (in 2008) and discusses the impact it had on them...

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Can you recall when you first learned about Munich?
As a fan growing up, you’re aware of Munich but as a kid you don’t really know too much about it. I gradually learned more as I joined the club full-time and began to see Sir Matt Busby around Old Trafford. I used to see him regularly because the room where we used to pick up our wages as apprentices was near to his office. Then we had Sir Bobby Charlton coming down to watch the youth team, which he still does today. We had never seen Sir Matt manage or Sir Bobby play so we used to ask what they were like. Inevitably, Munich began to come up around those questions and I began to learn more about it.

Patrice Evra has talked about United's "strong identity" and his urge to learn about the club. Do you agree current players need to understand the history?
Yes, I do. New players, especially the foreign players, are joining a club which they think is great and offers them everything that comes from United being successful over the last 10 to 15 years. But also when you actually come to the club, you learn more about the support that we’ve got worldwide and you gather more information about the history. We all watched a DVD about Munich recently. It was really important for the squad to watch that and learn about what happened. Not only about the crash itself but also the success they had before it and how the team moved forward in the aftermath, from winning the next game to winning the European Cup 10 years later.

Did anything surprise you when you watched the DVD?
Yes, there were things I didn’t know about the crash. I didn’t know how soon United played again afterwards, just 13 days later, and that players like Bill Foulkes and Harry Gregg who survived the crash were in the team. I thought that was unbelievable. But it wasn’t just the DVD that surprised me. Sir Bobby also spoke that day as someone who witnessed every thing first hand. It was great to hear him speaking about his experiences of playing in Europe at the time and how different it was then. He gave us a picture of how the players prepared for games, for example. Now if we’re playing in a big game like a Champions League semi-final, we’ll watch videos and know everything about the opposition. Everything. Then I think Sir Matt would go on one scouting mission and that would be it. The Babes couldn’t see videos of the players they were up against and the system they used. Once Sir Matt went to watch Real Madrid and when he came back, his players asked him what they were like. He didn’t want to tell them because Real Madrid were that good! It was great to hear stories like that from Sir Bobby. His talk was a real insight into how football has changed and how good that team was.

It must be difficult to appreciate how good the Babes were, when you can only watch a few minutes of footage from the era…
It is difficult. The first thing that struck me was how big Duncan Edwards was, he was massive! Sir Bobby played with Denis Law and George Best but he still regards Duncan as the greatest he played with. He must have been some player, equally at home playing centre-half or centre-forward.

What was the general response from the squad after your meeting on Munich?
It was quiet. At the end, Sir Bobby asked if there were any questions but nobody spoke up. I think the players were still in awe of Sir Bobby talking and still affected by the DVD. I’m sure everyone had a question though and if one person had asked theirs, then everyone else would have done the same. A lot of the players didn’t know beforehand what they were coming in for, they didn’t know a lot about it. After all, some of the players who’ve joined us are from different countries and are still young at 19 or 20. It was interesting to see the effect it had on them. Everyone was moved.

How important is it for everyone – players and supporters – to know what happened at Munich and the story of how the club recovered?
I think it’s very important, to know how the Busby Babes played and how successful they were before the air disaster and to know how Sir Matt built another great team. There are so many things that are relevant to us today and we need to carry on their legacy. For example, fans want to see young players coming through and doing well which they do on a regular basis at this club. And both as individuals and as a team, we have to play in the right manner, to excite supporters and get people off their seats. That has got to go on because it’s one of the things that sets this club apart. It’s also a club that never stands still, it always goes forward. Sir Alex keeps producing great teams, just like Sir Matt did, and that will go on throughout the future of this club.


It is good that the current players had a meeting and the foreign players in particular know about how the Munich air disaster affected United and how the club slowly began to rebuild.

My thoughts are with the victims families on this sad day:(.

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex states title mission

Sir Alex Ferguson says his players are showing “great appetite” to deliver on a strong Barclays Premier League campaign so far and reclaim the title, but the Reds boss says there is still plenty of hard work ahead.

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The current nine-point gap at the top of the table is convincing evidence of United’s focus on domestic duties, and the challenge Sir Alex is conveying to his players is of capitalising on the current situation.

“You hope that the players realise that the league is there for them [to win],” the boss tells this month’s issue of Inside United, on sale now.

“It’s obviously a big challenge and we’ve got the FA Cup and the Champions League as well, and managing the squad is going to be important when it comes to picking the right teams. That’s down to myself and the staff.

“It’s always an important time. The players have shown great appetite for it – they showed that against Tottenham in the way they fought like hell to get a result and were unlucky it went against them at the end. But we’re definitely in the right shape.”

In the next week, Sir Alex’s men face Everton and Real Madrid and the Reds boss hopes that a healthy squad with plenty of competition will stand United in good stead in all competitions.

“We’ve got players back from injury, which is important, and I usually find that during the second half of the season when the big games come along everyone is fit!

"We haven’t had a great run in the FA Cup for the last few years and haven’t been in the final for nearly six years, that’s a big attraction for us and this month we have the first game against Real Madrid, which is going to be a highlight.

“[In the league] you hope that the return we’ve had from the big games is going to be significant. We’ve won at Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and we were 30 seconds away from a really good result at Tottenham. All in all we’ve had a good return from these kinds of games and hopefully they will prove significant at the end of the season.”

[bbfan1991]

Ferdinand focused on Reds

Rio Ferdinand is fully focused on chasing three trophies with United rather than worrying about an England recall.

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In an exclusive interview on Inside Carrington, the defender admitted he is still willing to play for his country again if the call arrives but is content to concentrate on his duties at Old Trafford.

Despite clearly remaining one of the top centre-backs in the country, the veteran star was overlooked again in Roy Hodgson's squad for the Wembley friendly against Brazil.

"I'm not sitting there thinking about trying to get back into the England team," Ferdinand told MUTV. "I'm just playing football for Manchester United.

"That's what I love doing and that is what's at the forefront of my mind. Everything I'm doing is for playing for Manchester United and doing the best I can for United.

"If that, in time, ends up in me getting a call-up for England, then great and fantastic. If it doesn't, I won't really lose any sleep over it. I'm here fighting for titles and couldn't be any happier if I'm honest."

The midweek international fixtures ensure Carrington is a quieter place at the moment but Ferdinand and fellow experienced campaigners Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs manage to use that to their advantage.

"It's quiet but it's good," he opined. "I think the plus side of it is the senior pros at the club get to train with the younger lads in the squad and the Reserve-team players who make up the numbers.

"So you get to see how they're progressing and it's good they're involved because you can speak to them and get a bit closer to them in that sense.

"This is a good time, especially for the likes of myself, Giggsy and Scholesy, as we can work on our fitness. If we have to put in extra mileage to keep ourselves teetering on the edge, we can do that this week."


Good man Rio:).

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie says club's coach is winning points for team with his training sessions

Robin van Persie has credited Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen with putting the club on course for the Premier League title by ‘winning points for us through his training.’

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Sir Alex Ferguson’s team moved nine points clear of closest challengers Manchester City at the weekend, with the champions drawing at home to Liverpool 24 hours after United’s 1-0 victory at Fulham.

With Van Persie scoring eighteen goals in 22 league games since his summer transfer from Arsenal, the £22 million forward has been cited as the key factor in United’s title pursuit. But the 29-year-old claims that the attention to detail of fellow Dutchman Meulensteen has been crucial to United’s progress so far this season.

“The way he (Meulensteen) trains is an exceptional,” Van Persie said.“He is truly one of the best coaches in the world. I have had a lot of good trainers, but it’s the way he prepares our team for games. Every match is different, so every training session in the build-up to games is unique.

“We know exactly what to expect and he wins points for us through his training. We’ve won a lot of games by the odd goal and they are point winners, which we train for. For instance, against Chelsea I scored after a low cross from Antonio Valencia on the right. It might seem a fluke, but the whole week before the game was spent working on that move.

“Another example is my goal against Wigan, when I cut the ball inside and shot with my right foot. Again this situation, we trained on.

“Training is really good. It’s a very pleasant environment to work in.” Speaking to the Dutch television station NOS, Van Persie claims that he has become a better player since leaving the Emirates for Old Trafford.

“Every day I work on new things,” Van Persie said. “I become alert to small details that make me better. I go into work every day whistling. From the first day, they have made me feel welcome, the boys made me feel right at home.

“I feel better and fitter. In the last week, I played Wednesday and Saturday. In those games I played with ease.” Van Persie, due to play for Holland against Italy in Amsterdam on Wednesday night, has described next week’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid in the Bernabeu as the ‘icing of the cake’ of his season so far at United.

Real could be boosted by the return of Portuguese defender Pepe for the last 16 first-leg tie, with the centre-half returning to training last Friday following ankle surgery last month.

Pepe has been told he must prove his fitness in time for this weekend’s clash with Sevilla in order to be considered for the United game.

RVP:worship:.

[bbfan1991]

Rooney key to England win

All four United players in the England squad started the win against Brazil with Wayne Rooney hogging most of the headlines.

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The in-form striker opened the scoring in the first half and claimed an assist for Frank Lampard's strike during a 2-1 triumph.

Michael Carrick's withdrawal left Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck and Rooney to represent the Reds at Wembley with Welbeck starting in a wide role on the left.

Rooney had a header spectacularly tipped away by Julio Cesar in the 10th minute but he was penalised for a push and the hosts conceded a penalty when Jack Wilshere was adjudged to have handled a Ronaldinho cross. Ronaldinho's spot-kick was saved by Joe Hart, who also stopped the rebound and Cleverley dived in to save a certain goal by thwarting Neymar.

Welbeck stabbed over the bar following a neat move involving the impressive pair Rooney and Wilshere before Rooney netted in the 26th minute, pouncing to stroke into the net after Julio Cesar kept out Theo Walcott.

Cleverley made way for Lampard at the break and the Chelsea midfielder restored the lead after Fred had levelled for the South Americans, punishing an error by Gary Cahill. Collecting a pass from Rooney, the veteran campaigner steered a superb shot past Julio Cesar and in off an upright.

Welbeck was then replaced by James Milner after a typically lively performance while Smalling made a vital late clearance when Neymar's cross looked to pick out Fred as England picked up only a fourth-ever win against the Brazilians.


Well done to Wayne Rooney on his goal:), he is in top form right now and also congratulations to the other United players who took part in the game. I am glad that there were no injuries!

[bbfan1991]

Evra: Japan holds fond memories

Patrice Evra has special memories of Yokohama, one of the cities Manchester United will visit during Tour 2013 presented by Aon.

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Four tour matches have been confirmed so far - one apiece in Hong Kong and Australia plus two in Japan, the country in which the Reds won the Club World Cup in 2008.

Yokohama F·Marinos will host United on Friday 26 July and Evra says the trip will bring back great memories.

“It was special [to win the trophy],” the Frenchman told ManUtd.com. “It wasn't easy after Vida got sent off in the final, and we only won 1-0, but the reception of the fans and the atmosphere – the fans were desperate to see United win that competition. And when we lifted that trophy, to be the world champion club, that was just amazing.”

Having experienced the hero’s welcome afforded to his good friend Ji-sung Park during past visits to Asia, Evra says he is looking forward to seeing the reception given to Shinji Kagawa in his homeland.

“I remember we played a friendly against Japan for France and the Japanese fans went crazy whenever Shinji touched the ball,” he recalls. “It'll be the same as when Ji was in Korea – I always used to joke with him that there is God, then the King of Korea, and then Ji-sung Park! I think Shinji will be the same.”

[bbfan1991]

United anounce Osaka game

Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester United will play a second pre-season game in Japan this summer, against Cerezo Osaka in Osaka, as part of the 2013 Tour, presented by Aon.

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The match, sponsored by global club partner Yanmar, will take place on Friday 26 July at the Osaka Nagai Stadium. And with more than 4million United followers in Japan, the team can expect passionate support and an electrifying atmosphere.

Yanmar, Japan’s leading engineering company, has a longstanding relationship with Japanese football and is delighted to be hosting the Yanmar Premium Cup match in Osaka.

Manchester United chief executive David Gill said:

"We first visited Japan more than 20 years ago and our fans have always shown great support for the club. We are all looking forward to returning and playing a great game against Cerezo Osaka, which will allow us to prepare for the 2013/14 season.

"The 2013 Tour, presented by Aon, will also allow the club to engage with our loyal Japanese fans, as well as work with our family of commercial partners."

Cerezo Osaka president Masao Okano said:

"We at Cerezo are proud to join the Yanmar Premium Cup. Our club and the city of Osaka is happy to bring this match with Manchester United to the fans in Osaka. We will promise to play our best for victory and to show the premium match to all the fans over the world."

Aon is delighted to be the presenting partner of Manchester United’s 2013 Tour, offering its expertise in risk management, insurance, reinsurance brokerage and human resources solutions.

Aon president and chief executive officer Greg Case said:

"Being chosen by Manchester United as the presenting partner for its 2013 tour is further demonstration of the strength of our relationship. This is a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate how our global partnership provides value for our clients, colleagues and communities, and it will show our clients and prospects, particularly in Asia, how the issues we help them with, such as risk management or health care, are equally relevant and important in the world of business and the world of sport."

Tickets for the match in Osaka will be on pre-sale from Friday 8 February and on general sale from Sunday 7 April. To purchase, visit Ticket Pia or www.manutd.jp for more information.

[bbfan1991]

International Reds

Antonio Valencia and Nani lined up on opposite sides as Ecuador won 3-2 in Portugal.

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Valencia opened the scoring in only the second minute with a close-range header, claiming his first goal of the season, but Cristiano Ronaldo equalised and Nani provided the assist for Helder Postiga to put the hosts in front.

Nani was replaced in the 73rd minute and Valencia came off late on after Ecuador turned things around to win a topsy-turvy game.

Javier Hernandez was unable to inspire Mexico to victory in a World Cup qualifier with Jamaica as a 0-0 draw ended a 19-match winning streak at the Azteca Stadium. Jobi McAnuff hit a post for the Reggae Boyz but Mexico had enough chances to win and their display drew boos from the fans. Chicharito was denied by a brave block by Donovan Ricketts in the final seconds.

Robin van Persie was withdrawn at the break, with Arjen Robben taking his place, during Holland's 1-1 draw with Italy. Marco Verratti's stoppage-time leveller earned a share of the spoils for the Azzurri.

Earlier in the day, Shinji Kagawa set up two goals in Japan's 3-0 success against Latvia in Kobe, supplying killer passes for Keisuke Honda and Shinji Okazaki.

Patrice Evra completed the full 90 minutes at left-back as France lost 2-1 at home to Germany, with the visitors coming from behind to clinch victory. Jonny Evans only played the first half of Northern Ireland's fixture in Malta at centre-back, before being replaced by former Red Craig Cathcart, in a goalless draw.

Angelo Henriquez was an unused substitute in Chile's 2-1 triumph against Egypt, as was Anders Lindegaard in Denmark's 3-0 defeat to Macedonia with Leicester's Kasper Schmeichel preferred in goal.


Well done to Antonio Valencia on his goal:), hopefully it will give him some confidence to get back to top form once he returns to United.

[bbfan1991]

Parker: Title challenge

Former United defender Paul Parker believes the Reds will prove to be stronger than Manchester City in the title race.

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Sir Alex Ferguson's side are taking absolutely nothing for granted but currently enjoy a healthy lead at the Barclays Premier League summit approaching a difficult assignment against Everton on Sunday.

City have amassed an impressive 53-point tally, losing only twice all season in the league, but remain adrift due to United's best-ever haul at this stage of a Premier League campaign. Nonetheless, Parker feels the champions are finding it difficult to come to terms with the extra responsibility of trying to retain the trophy.

"Nine points is a big gap at the moment and everything suggests City should not be able to catch up," Parker told ManUtd.com. "Anything can happen as the old saying goes but City, in my opinion, haven't really evolved as champions in the sense that you have to show something different in the following season.

"Everyone knows how good you are and respects that but opponents and fans are expecting something extra to be added to the squad. When we lost the league in 1992, Dion Dublin came in so we could go more direct if we were in trouble but the most important thing was, from November, the boss added Eric Cantona so we could play in a different way with a different dimension in the final third.

"It opened the door for us and mostly the same players from the previous season were finding the ball in front of them more. Denis Irwin scored more goals, Mark Hughes suddenly didn’t have three players trying to stop him, Brian McClair moved into a different role, Paul Ince and Bryan Robson played differently, and even Paul Parker scored a goal! Things changed.

"We won that first title and then Sir Alex made a bigger signing, definitely in terms of price, with Roy Keane in 1993. Roy was a different player and added a new dimension but, this time, in the centre of the park. He was just as effective tracking back in the defending third as he was going forward. That’s what Sir Alex does and what makes the difference in training and around the place. Everyone knew about Roy at Nottingham Forest and had seen his goals and lung-busting runs and we appreciated what a good player he was.

"It’s a case of lifting the players with something different and City didn’t do that. Coaches are getting wiser and wiser tactically and you have to find something different or even a lesser side will stop you scoring. City have found it difficult to break teams down in virtually every game they’ve played and it has become a battle for them. But it’s got to be the right character that comes in – Mario Balotelli was clearly a negative influence – and you can’t keep buying in bulk. It doesn’t work and has never worked. Look at Mark Hughes at QPR."

The ex-England international, currently working as a TV pundit in Singapore, thinks it is the hunger instilled in the squad from the manager that keeps United chasing silverware season after season.

"United may not appear to have City's spending power but what they do have is players who know each other inside out and a manager who knows how to get the best out of them on the pitch," he explained. "It may not be that easy to win the league once and you gain respect for it but, for everybody to take you seriously, you have to retain it.

"All of a sudden, people think: ‘Wow, here we go’. I was fortunate enough to play for United when we won the league and, at the start of pre-season, the manager warned us all that we had not done anything at all because we’d only just scratched the surface.

"So, in our second season, we did the Double. That means you have achieved something. It’ll be said a thousand times to other players after me that it’s never enough to win a league title medal at Manchester United. It doesn’t suddenly make you a United great.

"Sir Alex isn’t interested in players who think like that and, if he senses that anybody is happy with picking up one medal and believing they have cracked it, they will generally find they are gone in the following season."

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex wary of Everton threat

Sir Alex Ferguson is determined not to witness a repeat of last season's home game against Everton when the Toffees visit Old Trafford on Sunday.

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On that occasion, a victory would have almost certainly secured a 20th Premier League title, but the Reds threw away a 4-2 lead in the dying stages of the game to come away with only a point.

And although United are currently flying high, on a 13-game unbeaten run in all competitions, the United manager says the Reds can expect a similarly tough encounter this weekend.

"It's a tough game on Sunday," Sir Alex said at his pre-match press conference. "We were 4-2 up with seven or eight minutes to go. It was unexpected and we have to anticipate the unexpected in the run-in. That was a bad blow for us and it cost us the league.

"Everton are very experienced and, if you look at their record, they’ve only lost three games this season [the same number as United]. They're obviously hard to beat.

"But the team is playing well, I’m pleased with their form and I’m pleased that the players we’re changing around, when I’m making different team selections, are buying into it well.

"They’re all contributing in their own way and that gives us a better chance in terms of dealing with the various competitions we’re in now."

United began the 2012/13 season with defeat away at Everton, on a night in which Toffees target man Marouane Fellaini caused the Reds' defensive line untold problems. Full-back Leighton Baines has also drawn widespread praise this term for his performances.

But they're not the only Everton players Sir Alex's men will need to monitor on Sunday.

"[There's also] players like Pienaar, who’s been really good since he came back from Spurs. He’s actually improved since he came back from his short spell at Tottenham.

"Nikica Jelavic had a great season last season and is in a bit of a lull at the moment in terms of his goals. Now they’ve brought the big lad on, Victor Anichebe, and he’s a different player to Jelavic.

"You also look at the experience and consistency they’ve got at the back with Silvain Distin, Tim Howard, Phil Jagielka and Phil Neville. They play every week so they’ve got a good unit there.

"David Moyes has made gradual progress because when he first took over I don’t think he had any money to spend, I don’t think he had a squad anything like what he has now. Given time you can do these things and I think that’s a great value that Everton have got out of David – each year he has progressed to good levels.

"They’re challenging for a top-four place now. I think they have a genuine chance of being in the top four."


Sir Alex is right that Everton will be a tough game:). I just hope that United can get the vital win on Sunday and a little payback from last season!

[bbfan1991]

Petrucci's long-term aim

Davide Petrucci admits he is hoping to catch Sir Alex Ferguson’s eye during his loan stint with Peterborough.

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The United boss is a frequent visitor to London Road and, of course, is in regular contact with his son Darren, the Posh manager. Although the Championship club are in a real battle against relegation, the 21-year-old is keen to add his qualities to the mix, particularly after being an unused substitute last time out, and has been made to feel welcome at his new club.

"I like it here," he told MUTV. “It’s a new experience for me and I’m very excited. Hopefully, I can do well here.

"It’s a great thing to have, knowing that he [Sir Alex] speaks to his son every day so you want to do as well as you can every day so he can hopefully tell him something good and I can go back there and play.

"I think 80 per cent of players do this step. Unless you’re Wayne Rooney or a player like that, you have to start in the Championship and get experience. I want to do well and hopefully go back to United and play one day for the first team."

Adapting to his new surroundings has been made easier by the presence of United colleague Scott Wootton, although the defender has returned to Carrington for treatment on a hamstring problem.

"It’s a bit weird as I’ve been at United for four-and-a-half years now," he conceded. "Obviously, everything is different but it’s a step forward for me and something you have got to do when you’re young. Both the Premier League and Championship, even though I’ve only played a couple of games in it, are very physically but hopefully I can get used to playing football against men and do well.

"Scott was already on loan here and is such a nice guy and friendly with everyone so, when I came here, I was introduced to the group and have had no problem with them."


Good luck to Davide on his loan spell and I do think he has the potential to make it at United if he continues to keep learning and improving as a player:).

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex handed FA fine

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D46569872B10474EA8DB52304E52FB72.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,28,550,231

The Football Association published the following statement on their official website at 14:00 GMT on Friday 8 February:

"Following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today, Sir Alex Ferguson has been fined £12,000 in relation to media comments made after Manchester United’s game at Tottenham Hotspur on 20 January 2013.

"It was alleged that the Manchester United manager’s post-match media comments implied that the match official was motivated by bias.

"Ferguson had denied the misconduct charge and requested a paper hearing at which the Independent Regulatory Commission found proven the breach of FA Rule E3."


Meh, it is better than a ban I guess and it proves the ABU's wrong who say that he does not get punished:p.

[bbfan1991]

Cofie joins County on loan

John Cofie has joined Notts County in a one-month youth loan deal.

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The young Reds striker has already spent time away from Old Trafford this season with Sheffield United, scoring twice in eight starts for the Blades.

After returning to Manchester and playing for both the Under-21s and the Reserves recently, he has linked up with the Magpies and will wear the No19 shirt for his new club.

The 20-year-old forward is eligible for Saturday's League One fixture against Crewe Alexandra at Meadow Lane.


Good luck to John Cofie with his loan spell:).

[bbfan1991]

Evans up for the fight

Jonny Evans refuses to acknowledge talk of any fatigue as United approach a crucial week in terms of glory at home and abroad.

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The Reds tackle Everton on Sunday before travelling to Spain to face Real Madrid in the mouthwatering Champions League tie of the round.

Some pundits have intimated that a prolonged pursuit of the European Cup would hand Manchester City an advantage after they were knocked out of the competition, but the Northern Ireland international, who represented his country in Malta in midweek, thinks this is certainly not the case.

Despite a nine-point gap at the top of the Barclays Premier League, Evans insists the squad is fully focused on the task in hand against the Toffees, particularly considering recent results against David Moyes' men.

"We have been here before," he stated. "Last season, it was eight points and we let it out of our grasp. We have to make sure we pick up the three points against Everton and then go into the Champions League game which is coming into play.

"This period is always crucial for Manchester United. We like to be involved in every competition. It is better to be involved. Sometimes mentally, if you have a game and then don't have another one for a week, you switch off. When the games are coming thick and fast, you don't get a chance. You are constantly engrossed in all the games coming up.

"It is a benefit - the more games the better. It stops you from switching off. When you win one game, you want to win the next. It builds momentum."

Evans stresses that Sir Alex Ferguson is a master of being able to shuffle his pack for busy periods of the season and the players benefit from his careful management.

"My first season after being on loan [at Sunderland], we won the Carling Cup and the league and got to the Champions League final," he recalled. "That is what this squad is for. You generate momentum. At the time, I never thought there were so many games.

"We came through Christmas brilliantly. That is partly down to the squad and the manager being able to rotate the squad and having the confidence in the players so they don't feel as though they are fatiguing. They are always mentally prepared for all the games."

Despite Everton's impressive recent record against the Reds, there are no thoughts of revenge for Evans, merely respect at what Moyes has achieved at Goodison and the team he has built.

"I suppose you can go back through the whole league and look at games we slipped up on last year and say that game cost us," he said of the 4-4 draw at Old Trafford. "I suppose at the time of the season, that game came up just before the City game, although you could look at that one and say City cost us because we lost away there.

"They have obviously improved. The matches against Everton over the time I have been involved in the first team here have always been tough. They work really hard and put lots of balls into the box. They have played Marouane Fellaini up front and other powerful people like Nikica Jelavic and Victor Anichebe. You always know you are in for a physical game from a defender's point of view. We know it won't be easy.

"They have added that attacking flair to their game. It has surprised a lot of people. As much as they are big and strong and put the balls into the box, they also have people who can hurt you on the floor. That has been the most impressive thing."

[bbfan1991]

Boss: Young fit for Everton

Sir Alex Ferguson has declared Ashley Young fit for Sunday’s clash with Everton and played down fears over Phil Jones, who contracted shingles earlier this month.

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Speaking at his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss also confirmed the fitness of Michael Carrick and the Reds’ plethora of international stars, although he is yet to speak to Javier Hernandez following Mexico’s 0-0 draw with Jamaica on Wednesday.

“So far everyone has come back fit from their excursions into the rest of the world,” Sir Alex told reporters. “The only one we’re waiting on is Chicharito. I’ve not had anything back that says he’s not fit so I expect everyone to be fit from their games.

“On our own front, Ashley Young is fit again, Michael Carrick should be okay and Phil Jones will hopefully be okay, irrespective of Stuart Pearce coming out and declaring he had shingles - which we thought was doctor confidence. We’re disappointed in that, but it’s not anything serious for the boy. It’s a mild condition that has surfaced but he should be okay.”

Sunday’s match with the Toffees offers a chance to build on a nine point lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League, but after last season’s 4-4 draw at Old Trafford, Sir Alex is taking nothing for granted.

“Everton are very experienced and they've only lost three games this season. Our memory of last season is disappointing - we lost the title versus Everton! But we're playing well, I’m pleased with our form. I'm changing the team around and everyone who has played has done well, which creates competition.”


I am glad that Ashley Young is fit again and that Michael Carrick and Phil Jones will be fit for Sunday:).

[bbfan1991]

Preview: United v Everton

Date, time and coverage: Sunday 10 February, 16:00 GMT.

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/Preview-manchester-united-v-Everton.aspx

[bbfan1991]

Rio Ferdinand: Manchester United defender gets Real ahead of showdown in Madrid

The United defender tells Simon Hart why he is focusing on facing old friend Cristiano Ronaldo next week – and wants revenge over Spanish giants:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/rio-ferdinand-manchester-united-defender-gets-real-ahead-of-showdown-in-madrid-8486170.html

Rio Ferdinand can't half shout. Even first thing on a Monday morning. The cameras are rolling in the interview suite at Carrington, Manchester United's impressively appointed training ground, and Ferdinand is in pleasingly reflective mode, but when voices come through the wall behind him, he quickly raises his own a good few decibels and calls for quiet.

It is a reminder of the other Rio: that this laid-back, thoughtful fellow with long limbs stretched out in front of him in his United training kit, happens also to be one of the most commanding defenders of his generation, and still the most expensive in British football history.

For more than a decade Ferdinand has been at the heart of the United team and all the clamour, and glamour that surrounds them.

Next week he will be featuring in one of this season's starriest storylines, with United meeting Real in Madrid in the Champions League round of 16. His past experiences have taught him the importance of the match.

He recalls the words shared with Sir Bobby Charlton on a rainy night in Moscow in May 2008 after he had just won the Champions League. "

I remember standing at the bottom of the stairs waiting to go up and Sir Bobby came over and said a few nice, kind words – just enjoy the moment and stuff.

Then it hit home, the history and that he's been there, he's done this, he knows what it's like and he's had the time to come out and speak to me before I go up and lift the trophy. It almost got a bit emotional.

"It was so loud and so much was going on, everyone jumping around, and he took it down a notch or two and it just hit home when he spoke to me, the enormity of what we'd achieved."

And so to Madrid. "It'll be a game that everyone will be tuning into because there's so much attached to it," he acknowledges – not least Cristiano Ronaldo's reunion with his former team-mates.

Ferdinand admits that the friendly text messages between the two have dried up of late. "We've had a few texts, but when you get into a situation like this when you're coming up against a friend, all the texts and the conversations go to one side and you don't really speak until you actually get the game over and done with."

That said, he predicts a "fantastic reception" for Real's Portuguese icon at Old Trafford on 5 March in the return leg. "The fans appreciated him when he was here and since he's been gone they sing his name.

He came here a young boy and left a world-class player. He showed a lot of respect when he left and still does."

Ferdinand and Co know Ronaldo's game better than anybody but can that help them stop him? "You get as many people around the ball when he's got it as possible!" he says with a laugh. "

But no, Madrid are that good a side you have to make sure you're set up right and that your team are in good positions all over the pitch to defend. That is the most important thing.

"There are going to be times in the game that you're going to be left one-on-one with Ronaldo and other strikers that they've got, and we've got to be capable of defending and doing well in those situations. And I think the team that does best in those situations will come out of it victorious."

Along with Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, Ferdinand is a survivor of United's last meeting with Madrid, when they succumbed to Vicente del Bosque's galacticos in the 2002-03 quarter-final.

They lost 3-1 at the Bernabeu before a 4-3 victory in a "crazy game" in Manchester featuring a famous hat-trick from another Ronaldo.

"The away game – they really played us off the park if I'm honest," Ferdinand remembers. And then at our place Ronaldo scored a hat-trick.

I thought our keeper [Fabien Barthez] could have done better to be honest," he smiles, "but he scored a hat-trick and Becks [David Beckham] got two that night as well."

Ferdinand's abiding memory is of the trouble he had trying to stop the "brilliant" Raul. "Raul was just difficult to get up against. He played off [the front] and asked you the question: 'Do you want to come in here and mark me? If you come in here someone else will run in the space that you leave or I'll just get it, turn and play it in the space that you leave.'

In terms of making you think, he definitely was the most intelligent player I've played against."

Indeed, for Ferdinand, only Lionel Messi – a scorer in United's 2009 and 2011 Champions League final defeats to Barcelona – has proved as tough an opponent. "Messi, in the two Champions League finals we played against him, was the main difference really."

Those are not happy memories for United and they have kindled a determination to return to Wembley, venue for this year's final as it was two seasons ago, to make amends. "It'd be nice to go back there and put what happened last time right. We went there and we didn't give a great account of ourselves."

Quite what this United side are capable of remains to be seen. Disappointment stalked them last season, their first without a trophy since 2004 and one marked by the "embarrassment" of a Champions League group-stage exit.

Ferdinand recognises that the current Premier League leaders have much to prove. "It is too early to judge this team. A few new players were bought in this summer and last year and I think we've got to win something until we can really judge ourselves against anyone else."

At least they appear to have tightened up defensively after an autumn in which they leaked goals freely. "We were conceding far too many goals but we were playing too open football and it wasn't really a compact unit as we've been used to. In the last month we've sorted that out a little bit. We're looking a lot stronger."

This being United, though, they are unlikely to "park the bus" at the Bernabeu.

"The way we play, we don't really alter our game too much for any opposition. We've got to be wary of a few things they're good at, and certain individuals, but we've got to make sure that we're right in our own game plan and the way we play and that when we do get the ball we make sure we put them under pressure."

So same old United then? "Watch this space" is the concise reply. Millions certainly will.

[bbfan1991]

Revealed: The ultimate football factory - Manchester United have included a graduate from their youth set-up in EVERY first-team squad since 1937… that’s 3,623 games

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2275551/David-Beckham-Duncan-Edwards-George-Best--Manchester-United-youth-team-graduate-EVERY-SQUAD-1937.html#axzz2KKAFxZrs

An awesome record that United have:amazed:.

[bbfan1991]

Deflated Shinji Kagawa striving to pump up Manchester United career after overcoming injury frustrations

Getting through a frustrating spell in your first season with Manchester United is one thing, but Shinji Kagawa is striving to come out the other end and play the best football of his career.

http://mancunianmatters.co.uk/files/mancunianmatters/imagecache/full_image/shinji%20kagawa%20mufc%20mncomps%2005.jpg

The 23-year-old playmaker began life at Old Trafford with a string of promising performances, but just three months into his career he suffered a series on injury setbacks.

And after managing to force his way back into the first-team, the Japan midfielder is raring to make up for a poor start – if only to make up for his own self disappointment.

“I’m not satisfied so far, but then I am always very critical of my own performances,” he told manutd.com “Even worse, though, I got injured. I had to go through the frustrations that come with getting injured in my first season with the team.

“Now I’m just doing my best to catch up on what I have missed. There’s a lot of pressure when you play for this club, but all I can do at the moment is keep working hard every day to bring out the best in me.

“I’m confident my hard work will pay off.”

Kagawa joined from German champions Borussia Dortmund on a four-year deal and is regularly deployed by Sir Alex Ferguson in a strikers’ support role.

After netting 17 goals in one of Europe’s best leagues last year, Kagawa has gone a long way in replacing former Reds ace Park Ji-Sung as East Asia’s football icon.

And Kagawa admitted that his move to England was benefitted by advice given to him for the South Korean midfielder.

“For me, personally, the fact that an Asian player, Ji-Sung Park, played for the club had a big impact on me. I used to watch United matches on TV when I was little,” he added.

“But the weather is not as good as I imagined [laughs]! It rains a lot and it’s often cloudy.

[bbfan1991]

Full Interview:

How are you enjoying life as a Manchester United player?

I’m in a fantastic environment, training everyday with top players. At the same time, being with a big club like Manchester United, I know we are always expected to win trophies, which I haven’t accomplished yet. All I can do is work hard every day. I love playing at Old Trafford, though, and I’m always amazed by the atmosphere of the stadium. We’ve managed many come-from-behind wins this season, which is very difficult. But if we go 1-0 down and then equalise, the feeling of unity between the supporters and players is incredible. Those moments encourage the players and make us feel like we can score another goal at any time.

Which of your United team-mates are you closest to?

I talk a lot with Alexander Büttner, who’s also in his first season with the team. We have that in common. Also, I spend a bit of time with David De Gea because I take English classes with him. I’m working hard to study English so I can communicate better with my team-mates.

Have you learnt much about Manchester United's history?

Yes, I know about all those historical events in the past, like the Munich air crash. For me, personally, the fact that an Asian player, Ji-Sung Park, played for the club had a big impact on me. I used to watch United matches on TV when I was little.

How have you found life in Manchester?

The weather is not as good as I imagined [laughs]! It rains a lot and it’s often cloudy. But I’m used to it now. My house is relaxing and I’ve found some nice restaurants. Most of all, I’m able to focus only on football in Manchester, which is very good for a football player. Once in a while I’ll visit London for a short break.

How does United compare with Borussia Dortmund?

Dortmund is a team with young players who don’t have much experience. But we were united and worked very hard as a team. Here at Manchester United we have a lot of experienced players who know how to play in big games. The club have won many titles and I feel every single player has a lot of potential. We’re particularly blessed with a lot of attacking players, who can create various openings in the game, and world-class strikers like Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney.

How would you assess you Manchester United career so far?

I’m not satisfied so far, but then I am always very critical of my own performances. Even worse, though, I got injured. I had to go through the frustrations that come with getting injured in my first season with the team. Now I’m just doing my best to catch up on what I have missed. There’s a lot of pressure when you play for this club, but all I can do at the moment is keep working hard every day to bring out the best in me. I’m confident my hard work will pay off.

Did the time you spent on the sidelines through injury help you study United’s style of play and help your own integration into the team?

I watched those matches from the sidelines imagining myself playing on the pitch. Since I am new to the club I have to learn the styles of my team-mates. As an attacking player, I always think how I should play to make the most out of my team-mates’ abilities and their established styles. That’s the same whether I’m on or off the pitch.

You’ve played on the left side of midfield, in the centre of midfield and behind a main striker. Which do you believe is your best position?

I have the most experience, from my time at Dortmund, in playing behind the striker. However, I just want to be part of the team. I will play wherever the managers wants me to play.

What have you made of United's team spirit?

It’s difficult to develop that ability to come from behind and win. But with so many experienced players in the team, we have a mentality here at United to play calmly even when we’re losing. Although we’ve had many comebacks this season and we might make it look easy, it’s actually very difficult. I can tell you this from my experiences with Dortmund.

How impressed have you been with Robin van Persie?

He’s a player who can do a crucial job to win in almost every game. He is a top player, obviously. It’s a wonderful experience for me to be able to play with him. For the team, it’s always encouraging to have players like van Persie and Rooney when you’re attacking.

What would you consider a successful season?

A big club is expected to win every game and also to be the champions. So that’s definitely our goal. I’ll do my best to contribute to the team so that, come the end of the season, I can feel I’ve made a contribution to what will hopefully be a title win.


Shinji Kagawa seems a nice, hard working and intelligent guy:). He wants to improve and I am sure he will to become a success at United.

[bbfan1991]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21391194?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

An interview with SAF:). Lots of issues could be covered!

I am not looking forward to whenever the time comes for him to retire...

[bbfan1991]

QPR's Fabio says split from twin brother Rafael has worked

http://e1.365dm.com/12/07/660x350/Fabio-Da-Silva-QPR-PreSeason_2800766.jpg

Queens Park Rangers full-back Fabio admits it has been difficult to adapt to life away from his twin but thinks it is better for them to be at different clubs.

The Da Silva brothers joined Manchester United in 2008 but Fabio decided to move on last summer in search of regular football and joined QPR on a season-long loan deal.

Fabio reckons the change has helped both himself and Rafael, as they can now concentrate on their own games.

He explained in The Independent: "Now we have split, it's better. I tell you, when me and him play together we look at each other. When I make a mistake I'm not saying he feels - he doesn't lose confidence but he gets less [diminished] a little bit.

"Now [this season] when he plays and he has a good game and another good game he gets confidence. When I was there sometimes I was not playing or not playing well. Maybe he feels that I am down... because we lived together [in Manchester].

"Sometimes when he plays he is happy. Sometimes when I play I am happy. Now we are getting more mature. He is there. I am here."

Fabio added: "We discuss everything together. He knew I wanted to leave United to play more games. To play consistently. He agrees with me. He thinks it's good for me to leave United to play more football. I enjoy it.

"I know it hasn't been a good season for Queen's Park Rangers but I try to improve and to help."


I am pleased for Fabio:), looking forward to seeing him back at United next season.

[bbfan1991]

United kit for next season leaked:

http://www.redmancunian.com/2013/02/05/video-manchester-united-leaked-home-shirt-for-2013-2014/

Well I really like the look of that design:).

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex to rotate in key week

Sir Alex Ferguson has indicated he will make full use of his squad in the next two games, which mark an important week in United’s season.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/1D373C9FF54641B78DCDD63E200D2966.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=40,81,825,665

The Barclays Premier League leaders host high-flying Everton on Sunday before travelling to Real Madrid for the first leg of a mouth-watering Champions League tie three days later.

The Reds will be aiming to come out the other side with a nine-point league lead still intact, and with a positive result at the Bernabeu to take back to Old Trafford.

And Sir Alex revealed he will continue his policy of rotating his players to give his side the best possible chance of success in both encounters.

“It will be different teams,” he said at his Friday press conference. “The team on Sunday will not be the same as the team that plays on Wednesday.

“I trust the squad of players I have. They are all internationals, they are all good players and there is no reason why I can’t play them.

“They’re all contributing in their own way and that gives us a better chance of dealing with the various competitions we’re in.”

Sir Alex will be relieved that the clutch of players who were away on international duty this week appear to have returned unscathed.

While asserting that “there is not a domestic manager who can agree to friendly internationals at this time of year”, the Reds boss admitted England’s win over Brazil on Wednesday may actually have benefitted two of his players.

“I was happy for Wayne Rooney and Chris Smalling to play full games at Wembley because they have not had a lot of football anyway,” he said.

“In fairness, [England manager] Roy Hodgson was quite fair with us in terms of who played a full game and who played parts. He did that with us all, particularly the teams playing in Europe.”

One player who looks set to miss both the Everton and Real clashes is Paul Scholes, who has not featured since last month’s FA Cup win over Fulham.

“Paul has a little bit of a knee injury,” Sir Alex revealed. “He has missed the last couple of games. He started training on Thursday and should be okay next week.”

Sir Alex also confirmed he has not yet talked to Scholes about whether he will play on next season, insisting there is “plenty of time”.


As City lost to Southampton earlier (yay) I hope that we play a full strength team tomorrow vs Everton to try and get a vital win, which would extend our lead to 12 points at the top and show that we have learnt from the mistakes of last season:):D.

[bbfan1991]

Vidic endorses De Gea

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic is backing David De Gea to build on his Man of the Match performance in last weekend's "massive" win over Fulham.

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De Gea kept a vital clean sheet as the Reds prised all three points from the trip to Craven Cottage with a late winning goal from Wayne Rooney. The Spanish goalkeeper's display may have confounded his critics in the media but it did not surprise his skipper, Vidic, who believes his young team-mate is rising to a difficult challenge.

"I think it's hard for David because Edwin van der Sar was here for many years and set a high standard," Vidic told MUTV. "Edwin was an experienced goalkeeper and it's hard to replace him.

"David is a young goalkeeper, he's 21. He's maybe made one or two mistakes but that's normal, everyone does that. I think people should have more understanding for that.

"David's had some great games and I'm sure the more games he plays, the better he will become, no doubt."

The next task for De Gea and co is to keep out an Everton side that scored four times at Old Trafford last season and inflicted the Reds' first defeat of the current campaign. Vidic insists the visit of David Moyes' side has been the only focus for him while doing some "good work" at Carrington this week, even if knock-out ties against Real Madrid and Reading in the Champions League and FA Cup are also on the horizon.

"I think at this stage of the season we cannot think about what will happen in two or three weeks, you have to think about the next game," stressed Vidic.

"This is the standard we try to set for ourselves and the new players coming in have to follow that. It's vital. Everton is a really, really important game for us. It's like a final, definitely."

Vidic hopes all the players can pick up from where they left off at Craven Cottage last Saturday.

"It was a big win, a massive win," he acknowledged. "If you look at the results over the last few weeks, they've been going well for us. We knew how important it was to keep that going at Fulham.

"The players gave everything in that game because it's not easy to play against Fulham. At home, they are a really dangerous team, a tough team to play against. It was vital for us to get three points at this stage of the season and good for the confidence."

Vida:worship:.

[bbfan1991]

Live: United v Everton

United welcome Everton to Old Trafford in the Barclays Premier League on Sunday 10 February (kick-off 16:00 GMT) and you can follow it live on ManUtd.com.

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

[Legend killer]

Rotation is the key this week HOWEVER there is also over rotation to the point where it is totally worthless IE: Playing Giggs and Scholes in the centre where you might aswell just give the other team the points and not even play the match. As long as this does not happen tomorrow he has my full backing

[Brother Leon]

Collar on the new kit :amazed:

[Legend killer]

Eric was part of the design team

[bbfan1991]

Rafael: All about the points now

Manchester United defender Rafael appreciates Everton will be tough opponents but the Brazilian is fully focused on taking another step towards regaining the Barclays Premier League crown.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/5D3EE2C0971B4A2F8FF12358A9D4256B.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,2,533,802

The Reds go into this game in hand already nine points clear of second-placed Manchester City following the champions' shock 3-1 defeat at Southampton on Saturday. But Rafael and his team-mates need no reminding that Everton caused a famous upset at their expense last season, coming back from 4-2 down to draw 4-4 on a dramatic afternoon at Old Trafford.

"Right now, I think we have to get the points in all the games," insisted the right-back in an exclusive interview with United Review, the Reds' official match programme.

"It’s important to take three points. It doesn’t matter how we get them, we just have to get them.

"It’s always difficult when we play against Everton. They have a good team and you can see they are always in the top five, at least, this season. When we play them at Goodison Park and at home, it is a tough game to play and, this time, it will be no different."

Rafael feels the team have learned from the bitter experience of last season and is determined the Reds will not face similar frustration this weekend.

"We scored a lot of goals but conceded what were maybe silly goals ourselves," admitted the South American.

"Of course, we have learned from that. We can’t concede two goals at the end like we did. I remember it was an unbelievable game. It was tough for us because we drew and maybe it cost us the league but we’ll definitely learn from it."


Spot on Rafael:).

[bbfan1991]

Come on Manchester United later, what a good chance we have to extend the lead to twelve points after Manchester City's slip up.

Everton a tough team and have been a bogey side lately, they tend to always play well against us and will be up for it like we are.

[bbfan1991]

United team to play Everton:

De Gea, Rafael, Evra, Vidic, Evans, Jones, Cleverley, Valencia, Giggs, Rooney, Van Persie.

Subs; Amos, Anderson, Smalling, Hernandez, Carrick, Nani, Welbeck.

[Legend killer]

Team for Madrid

De Gea
Raf Vidic Rio(very close to putting evans in his place TBH) Evra
Nani Carrick Clev Kagawa
Rooney RVP

Of course I would have Rooney to make a 3 in midfield without possession. Hopefully when Ronnie decides to drift outwide he comes down Raf's side because he will be going into the pocket

[Legend killer]

Team for Madrid

De Gea
Raf Vidic Rio(very close to putting evans in his place TBH) Evra
Nani Carrick Clev Kagawa
Rooney RVP

Of course I would have Rooney to make a 3 in midfield without possession. Hopefully when Ronnie decides to drift outwide he comes down Raf's side because he will be going into the pocket

Also if Jones is fit after watching what Fergie did in the Spurs and Everton game today we can be sure Jones will be starting and man marking Ronnie

[bbfan1991]

What a vital win by United:). Twelve points clear, but the title race is not over yet and it won't be until it is mathematically certain that Manchester City cannot catch up with us. Plenty of games to come yet, so no complacency.

The lads all put in a great performance. Rafael was my MOTD, he was brilliant linking up with the attacking players and tracking back doing his required defensive duties.

Rafa is of the best RB's in the league for me because he has consistently improved and is playing well.

Nemanja Vidic, Wayne Rooney, Phil Jones and Ryan Giggs were all in fine form too!

[bbfan1991]

Boss: City loss altered plan

Sir Alex Ferguson says he opted to take advantage of Manchester City’s shock defeat to Southampton by fielding his strongest team against Everton – a decision that was vindicated after United secured a 2-0 win to move 12 points clear at the top.

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Speaking after Sunday’s comfortable win at Old Trafford, the Reds boss revealed he had originally planned to rest several players ahead of Wednesday’s goliath meeting with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions Leagaue but changed his made following Saturday's events at St Marys.

“We have got to win our games anyway, so it didn’t matter what happened to City on Saturday,” Sir Alex told Sky Sports. “That’s the way we should look at it and I’ve been saying that for week. If we concentrate on our own game then we’ll be okay.

“I was going to make about seven changes but when I got the result, I felt this was a more important game for us because it could give us a comfortable lead. We can make changes later on in the season. It is realistic; we knew that if we got a good result today then we’d be in a positive position.

“The first half, I thought they dominated for 20 minutes in terms of possession and had a couple of chances from corner kicks. They had some great deliveries from Leighton Baines but we saw it through. In the second half, we played much better without scoring the goals. We were in control.”

In the end, goals from Ryan Giggs and Robin van Persie were enough to seal a slender yet routine win over the Toffees at the Theatre of Dreams. The former, who broke the deadlock on 13 minutes, has now scored in every single Premier League season - 21 in total.

When asked if there are any superlatives left to describe the 39-year-old United legend, Sir Alex was dumbfounded and could not find the words to describe the evergreen star, who rolled back the years to produce another performance of great energy and verve.

“I think they have all been used up and I don’t think he needs any himself,” the boss said. “He lives on and is a fantastic human being. Today, at 38 years of age, or 39, or he might even be 40, he was up and down the pitch and showed fantastic energy for the game. It was wonderful to see.”


I did think that Sir Alex Ferguson would play his strongest line up;), Ryan Giggs' record of scoring in every Premier League season he has played for United is incredible!

[bbfan1991]

Injury concern for Jones

Phil Jones appears to be the main injury worry for Sir Alex Ferguson as the Manchester United manager plots his team to take on Real Madrid.

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Jones started in a defensive midfield role on Sunday and helped to nullify the threat of Marouane Fellaini - a talisman in Everton's previous two positive results against the Reds (4-4 draw, 1-0 win). But the versatile young United player was in the wars, limping heavily at the end of the first half and ultimately having to withdraw from the match early in the second period.

"He got a kick in the calf and we'll have to monitor it," Sir Alex told MUTV.

Jones was replaced in the 56th minute by Michael Carrick, who was taking a well-earned break from the starting eleven. United's other substitution in the match was also enforced, as Chris Smalling came on for Jonny Evans at centre-back for the last nine minutes plus injury time.

"Jonny Evans had a bit of cramp," reported Sir Alex. "I think he's just lacked a couple of games. He only had forty-five minutes for Northern Ireland in midweek. He had to travel to Malta for that. We'll see what he's like tomorrow."

The manager admitted he was relishing the Real Madrid match and another chance to pit his wits against Jose Mourinho, a spectator at Old Trafford on Sunday.

"I had a chat with Jose before the game, he was in good form," said Sir Alex. "We're both looking forward to the game on Wednesday. It'll be terrific."


I hope that Phil Jones and Jonny Evans will be OK.

[bbfan1991]

Mourinho: The world is waiting

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho travelled to Manchester on Sunday to watch United beat Everton ahead of this week’s mouth-watering Champions League fixture between the two European giants.

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The Los Blancos boss, speaking exclusively to MUTV at Old Trafford, struggled to contain his excitement when asked about Wednesday night’s match at the Bernabeu.

“We have to feel very privileged to play this match,” he said. “People think we’re under pressure because one of the big teams will soon be out of the biggest competition. But Real Madrid and Manchester United staff, as well as the players, feel privileged. It’s the kind of match you want to play and we have to prepare as best we can.”

Madrid warmed up for the clash with a 4-1 win over Sevilla on Saturday night, with ex-Red Cristiano Ronaldo grabbing a 10-minute hat-trick. Mourinho was able to rest a number of other players, however, although he insists tiredness won’t be an issue come Wednesday evening.

“It’s such a big match,” he said. “Everybody wants to play. Nobody will be tired.

“It’s a match the world is waiting for. They are not waiting for other matches in the Champions League. So I hope we can give the world of football what they’re waiting for.”

Wednesday night also acts as the latest instalment in the managerial rivalry between Mourinho and Ferguson. Now firm friends away from the football pitch, the pair have met 14 times down the years, with Sir Alex emerging victorious just twice.

Mourinho knows this season’s matches against United won’t be easy but says his “We’ve had so many matches between us, with Porto, Chelsea, Internazionale and now with Real Madrid. In every club I meet Sir Alex. I’ve won games, I’ve lost, I’ve drawn.

“[This time] I want to win and he wants to win. But I believe the loser, in the middle of being a bit sad, will have a little bit of space to feel a little bit happy because their friend has won.”


Too right Jose, what an exciting game this will be!:amazed:

[bbfan1991]

Giggs: Focus was crucial

Ryan Giggs claimed mental powers proved decisive as Manchester United overcame a physical test against Everton at Old Trafford.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/32739F9561F4498D9FC4BF0B23EB67B1.ashx?h=179&la=ar-SA&w=480&rgn=0,49,800,346

Focus and concentration were the buzz words for the Reds' longest-serving player in his post-match interview, as he assessed a job well done by the runaway league leaders.

"We had to have the concentration, we knew what happened here against Everton last year, they're a tough side," said Giggs. "We knew that if we concentrated, we'd have a great chance."

Giggs took the first goalscoring chance that came his way, beating Tim Howard via the same post that was struck without success by Robin van Persie moments earlier.

"Obviously it was an important goal in the game, that was the main thing," reflected Ryan, who has now maintained his record of scoring in all 21 Premier League seasons.

"My goal set us off and after that we played some good stuff. We had to really, against a really good Everton team. The main thing was obviously getting the result. The performance wasn't as important but I think we played well."

The victory was the Reds' 12th in 14 league games since the shock November defeat at Norwich, with the other two matches being the 1-1 draws at Swansea and Spurs. The destiny of the 2012/13 title race is now firmly in United's grasp, and Giggs feels there is enough quality and crucial know-how at Old Trafford to complete the mission.

"If we continue the good form and get the results, we'll be okay," he said.

We've been in really good form and we've got players on the bench or not even getting on the bench who would walk into any other team. The squad we've got at the moment is really strong and we've got to keep that up until the end of the season.

"We've got enough experience in the squad but you never take anything for granted. We've just got to keep playing well. The strength of the squad should see us there if everyone stays fit. But you never know what happens. You've just got to concentrate and do our job."

With the Everton match safely done and dusted, Giggs allowed himself a glance at the next game on the horizon - Wednesday's trip to the Bernabeu as the UEFA Champions League resumes.

"It doesn't come any bigger than playing Real Madrid, it's a fantastic match. We'll look forward to that now."

[bbfan1991]

Vote: Man of the Match

United went 12 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League on Sunday with a 2-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford.

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The Reds took the lead through Ryan Giggs on 13 minutes and the Welshman is one of six United players on our Man of the Match shortlist. It wasn't just the goal that's earned Giggsy his nomination, though. He was tenacious in midfield, tackling well and playing key passes throughout the match.

Former Everton man Wayne Rooney was also superb, getting stuck in to a number of challenges and enjoying the freedom of a deeper role. It allowed him more touches of the ball and Rooney was particularly influential in the first half.

Right-back Rafael shone throughout, keeping Leighton Baines very quiet on Everton's left flank while also chipping in at the sharp end of United's attacks. It was his ball that played in Robin van Persie for the Reds' second goal, a fact not lost on the Dutchman, who was quick to acknowledge the Brazilian's contribution.

Central defenders Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic were immense against a physically imposing Everton side. Vidic, in particular, made a number of key defensive headers, as well as a brave block to deny Kevin Mirallas. Evans, meanwhile, almost made his mark in attack, twice going close in a second-half goal-line scramble.

David De Gea rounds out our shortlist following another confident performance between the posts and a second successive clean sheet. His diving first-half save from Leon Osman's volley was terrific, as was his smart stop to deny Nikica Jelavic after the break. He also showed willingness to come for crosses and dominate his area.

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


Rafael Da Silva was MOTM for me:).

[bbfan1991]

Report: United 2 Everton 0

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

[Legend killer]

Seriously Rafa should be our captain next year he is the EXACT guy you would want with you going into a war he lives and breathes the shirt

Get him signed to a 10 year contract ASAP

[bbfan1991]

Loans: Trio on target

http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2013/Feb/loan-watch-goals-for-petrucci-cofie-and-bebe.aspx


I am glad that the loanees are doing well:).

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex wary of Real aims

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Real Madrid’s indifferent form is a boost for Manchester United ahead of Wednesday’s colossal clash in the UEFA Champions League – although the Reds boss is wary of underestimating a team that has set its sights firmly on European success.

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Los Blancos are currently 16 points adrift of La Liga leaders Barcelona and have recently slipped up against Granada, Valencia and Osasuna to all but end their hopes of retaining a Spanish title that was won in such admirable fashion last season.

As a result, the pressure is on manager Jose Mourinho to deliver on the continent and end an 11-year wait for the European Cup, meaning the Portuguese is likely to rotate his squad domestically in order to prioritise the much-hyped second round tie with United.

“I think their target is the European Cup,” Sir Alex said when quizzed on Real’s priorities. “They got a bad start in the league and were chasing their tail a bit because Barcelona’s form has been incredible. I think Jose has set his targets firmly on the European Cup, no doubt about that.

“It can be harder for us but there’s a bit of pressure for them too. At this moment in time we’re involved in three things. Jose has still got the semi final of the Copa del Rey, they play Barca next week and then again in a league game before we play them on the Tuesday at Old Trafford. So they’ve got a big programme themselves.

"You look at English football and say it’s a very, very difficult programme and every game is hard but you look at Madrid’s programme at the moment and it’s also very difficult. Every game is hard.

Maybe in Jose’s situation he can make changes simply because the priority is the European Cup, but Real never want to lose to Barca so he has to play a strong team in that game. But I think both teams are in a programme of playing game after game so it’ll be interesting."

When asked if the media speculation regarding Mourinho’s future at the Bernabeu might affect the self-proclaimed ‘Special One’, Sir Alex stated his belief that his great friend will thrive in the spotlight and praised the former Chelsea manager’s work in the Spanish capital.

“It’s always been important to them, the European Cup, and I don’t think it (pressure) necessarily applies to Jose as I think he’s done a great job there. He’s really built up a terrific squad of players and could play two teams, like us. I don’t think it applies to him but you never know in football.

“I don’t think there’s any secrecy in his own desire to win the European Cup as, don’t forget, he’d be the only person to win it with three different teams so it’s a fantastic challenge for Jose.”

The two managers have enjoyed a friendly rivalry since first competing against one another during United’s Champions League defeat to Porto in 2004. And although Mourinho has the better record from 14 previous meetings, Sir Alex is adamant he’s still on top.

“I think he’s pitting his wits against me,” the boss joked. “I think it’s a great challenge – the two biggest clubs in the world and obviously it’s a big game for us.”


I am so excited for this match:D. SAF and Jose are friends too, which gives an edge to it and the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo is facing his former team and that both teams are the most worldwide known clubs etc!

[bbfan1991]

Ronaldo destined for greatness

Sir Alex Ferguson believes it was "obvious" that Cristiano Ronaldo would one day be recognised as one of the world's greatest footballers.

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The Manchester United manager joked to reporters that he might resort to underhand tactics in a bid to shackle his former star during Wednesday's UEFA Champions League last-16 tie in Madrid.

“Ronaldo’s form, I have to say, is pivotal to everything Real Madrid do," Sir Alex said. "His goal tally - 179 goals in 178 games - tells its own story. I think I will have to bring a bit of blackmail to it and tell the true story of him!

"He's a fantastic player and I knew he would do well and improve tremendously in Madrid. He was still youngish when he left us and it was obvious he was going to be a top player in the world, no doubt about that.

“When he first came, he was a boy who wanted to display all his tricks and technical abilities but, bit by bit, he overcame all the little flaws in his game because he’s an absolutely rounded player.

“His last game of his last season for us... well in almost every one, he created five chances, sometimes more, by himself. He was unbelievable.”

Earlier this season, Ronaldo sent ripples throughout football by telling reporters "I am unhappy and the club knows why", prompting rumours of an imminent departure from the Spanish capital and a possible return to United, where he made just under 300 appearances during six trophy-laden years.

Ronny, as he’s affectionately known, has since declared his displeasure has passed but says he is still not ready to sign a new deal, whilst openly admitting that he "misses" Manchester. However, when quizzed on the topic, Sir Alex is cautious and admits he can’t imagine how a reunion might occur.

"Everyone goes on about that but I don’t see it," added Sir Alex. "He’s got two-and-a-half years left on his contract and to try and buy that at the moment, you’d be talking about hundreds of millions. It rules out everyone, including Barcelona. I think Madrid are trying hard to get him to a new contract and I think that’s happening.

"The glare of publicity he gets in Madrid is different to here. The players here, I think, are quite well protected – especially in the training sessions. There are cameras everywhere at Madrid as everyone knows. I think he will miss a lot of things here [at United] but that's not stopped him progressing as a footballer. His progress has been brilliant.”


Nice praise by Sir Alex Ferguson for Cristiano Ronaldo:), although obviously I hope that United emerge victorious out of the two legs.

It was a pleasure seeing him develop into a world class player at United and that was down to SAF, his staff and the players. His development after coming to United as a young man and leaving a more mature and older one six years after is amazing!

When CR7 is back at Old Trafford I hope he gets a cheer before and after the match and that there will be no ''Viva Ronaldo'' chants during it for competitive reasons only;).

[bbfan1991]

Famous four

Manchester United's legendary striking quartet of Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have their say on the current crop of forwards at Sir Alex Ferguson's disposal.

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12040/8493017/Famous-four

[the truth]

mouth watering stuff...I give man utd have got a chance though

[bbfan1991]

Evans ready for Real

Jonny Evans has stressed that Wednesday night's Champions League blockbuster is not all about Cristiano Ronaldo.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/81B97B2FA62D4113BC94E90405BBF264.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=0,2,532,801

Much of the pre-match focus ahead of the first leg has inevitably centred around the former United idol but Evans is fully aware of the galaxy of talent at Jose Mourinho's disposal, even if Ronaldo emphasised his status as the main danger-man with a brilliant hat-trick against Sevilla at the weekend.

The Northern Ireland international feels the Portuguese star has adjusted his game in La Liga and is an obvious threat to the Reds' European aspirations.

"I am sure one or two of the lads have kept in contact and Nani was on international duty with him," said Evans. "I don't know if he has spoken to anyone but I am sure he is looking forward to the game as much as we are. But I don't think it is just about Cristiano Ronaldo. It goes back further. There is the history of the two clubs. It is the glamour tie of the round. Everyone is looking forward to it.

"Cristiano has changed his game. He has adapted. When he was playing here, he was a right or left winger and expected to work back a lot. That was the way we played.

"I don't think Real Madrid play like that. He has adapted his game to suit them. But they don't just have Cristiano Ronaldo who can hurt you. They have a lot of different players who can cause you problems. He will be the one everyone will be looking to as the man to stop and we have to make sure we keep him quiet."

Evans also feels that the pressure is on United as well as Real, even though Mourinho's men have had to make the trophy an obvious priority this term after falling so far behind in the Spanish title race.

"We have had a great recent record in the Champions League until last year," explained the centre-back. "We have gathered that experience to make sure that we do progress and get to finals and semi-finals.

"I suppose Real Madrid have always had that. You are expected and if you don't do it, there is uproar. We have that pressure on us. I am sure it will be a great occasion and everyone is looking forward to it as much as we are."

[bbfan1991]

Reds primed for run-in

The toughest lessons are indelibly imprinted on the memory and Gary Neville believes that Manchester United’s surrender in the 2011/12 Barclays Premier League title race is fuelling the Reds’ charge for success on all fronts this term.

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On that basis, the 12 points that currently separate United and nearest challengers Manchester City should be viewed as impressive but not impenetrable.

Neville, who has been the through most epic season finales in United’s recent history, urges the players to allow the momentum of the season’s run-in to propel them onwards.

Now a club ambassador, Neville wrote in his United Review column for the Everton game: “After being eight points clear last year with six games to go only to lose the title, knowing the players in that dressing room, they’ll be saying: “There’s no way that will happen again.’

"There’s a mechanism that kicks in which says to you: ‘I’ve been here before, I know what happened last time we were in this position.’

“Another important difference from last year is that we look a better team. Since Christmas, not only are we still scoring goals, we’ve got more defenders back and we’re conceding fewer. Conceding one or none is far better than the twos and threes we were letting in previously.

"In the last [seven] league games we’ve had [four] clean sheets and let in three goals – that’s a significant improvement; in defensive terms, it’s championship-winning form.”

Striking a balance between defensive solidity and a goal threat will be crucial at home and abroad according to the Reds legend. “We’ve got a real balance now at a key time of the year, going into February and with the Campions League resuming,” he added.

“Around now, the fixtures give you a real concentration and tightness. The games creep up on you and start to fall away really quickly. [But] you can always have bad experiences in life, and the players and manager will be so on-guard.

"Every single second in every single match, nothing will be taken for granted and concentration will be total. I’m sure the players will be telling themselves those messages because they can feel they’ve got a really good chance this season.”

[bbfan1991]

Shinji inspired by tie

Shinji Kagawa is hoping to play a key role in United's "inspiring" Champions League matches against Real Madrid.

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The Reds travel to Spain on Tuesday aftomorrow ahead of Wednesday night's Last 16 first leg at the Bernabeu and Kagawa, like all Sir Alex's men, is keen to be involved.

"I'm looking forward to it," he said. "If I’m picked I’ll do my best to help the team reach the next stage of the competition."

By his own admission, though, the Japanese midfielder lacks Champions League experience. Indeed, he's never played in the competition's knockout stages, having finished bottom of Group F with Borussia Dortmund in 2011/12.

"I played in the Champions League with Borussia Dortmund last season but unfortunately we couldn’t perform to our potential," Kagawa said.

"We were too young, we didn’t have enough experience and got knocked out in the group stage.

"However, United has a great history and we finished top of our group this season.

"The games against Real Madrid are going to be inspiring. It’s tough to play against Real Madrid, though."


I hope you are too Shinji:).

[bbfan1991]

Biggest game in Europe

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United versus Real Madrid is European football's ultimate glamour match.

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The Reds travel to Spain for the first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie, with the eagerly-awaited game taking place at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night.

It will be only the ninth time the two clubs have met - United have come out on top twice, Real Madrid have won three and there have been three draws. Sir Alex insists the opponents mirror United in terms of history and global appeal and feels there is no bigger game in the competition.

“I think it is [the ultimate match-up in the European Cup], probably even more than a United/Barcelona game,” he told Inside United.

“United and Madrid have that romance about them and that honour and worldwide appeal so it probably is the biggest game you can get in the European Cup.

“I think as soon as the draw was made there was that anticipation about the tie – it’s one that you really look forward to. It’ll be a fantastic spectacle between two of the biggest clubs in the world and if we can come back from Madrid with a decent result then we’ve got a great chance.

“I think we have a good chance of scoring there, I really do,” he added. “And if you do score then it certainly gives you a better chance when you get them back at Old Trafford.”

The match will, of course, reunite the Reds with Cristiano Ronaldo who has continued to develop into one of the game’s greatest-ever stars since his switch to Madrid in 2009.

Sir Alex keeps in regular contact with the Portuguese international who, he believes, will be given a hero’s welcome on his return to his former home.

“He’ll get a great reception when he comes out before the game [at Old Trafford] because he was such a fantastic player for us,” said the manager.

“But after that, when the game starts, they can boo him as much as they like! [Laughs].”


Spot on SAF about the game and Cristiano Ronaldo, i'm so excited for tomorrow:):D.

[bbfan1991]

Evra: Let's show the true United

Some thrive on pressure, others wilt in its presence, but Patrice Evra says Manchester United travel to Real Madrid for Wednesday’s blockbuster Champions League last 16 first leg tie relishing the opportunity of playing in a match between two football superpowers.

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The Frenchman’s one clear objective is that the Reds do not miss an opportunity to "show who we really are”, whilst it is also tempting to ponder what effect victory over two legs against Real could have on United's season.

“It could lift everyone,” Patrice told Inside United this month. “If we can beat Madrid then the response it provides for other teams is important. Don’t forget, last year we were knocked out in the first stage of the Champions League and maybe people have that image of Manchester United in Europe. We have to change that.

"That’s why I think this is the perfect year to show who we really are. We can’t miss this opportunity to show ourselves, it would be a massive disappointment.”

Evra says it is “a privilege” not pressure to play in these games against Jose Mourinho’s men. “Lots of people think it brings a lot of pressure to play in this kind of game. No way!” he says. “You can’t concentrate on pressure. Everyone dreams of playing in games like this.

“You just have to be a kid. Not on the pitch, of course! But before you start the game, you have to be like a kid who’s dreamed of playing this game and so you don’t want to miss your chance to do well. When the game comes you have to be focused and concentrate because it will be difficult and we will have to fight to win. And when it’s time to face Madrid, we will be ready when the referee blows the first whistle.”

Evra could come face to face with his former team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, now terrorising defences in La Liga. The narrative of a hero returning to face his old club is difficult to ignore, but Evra is keen for it not to dominate the tale, nor provide a happy ending for his good friend.

“We have already been texting each other,” Patrice says of Ronaldo. “I hope he will get a great ovation from our fans because what he did for United was unbelievable. I miss him too.

"We have played against Ronny many times in training, and me and Rafa know what he can do. He is a top-class player. For me, he is the best player in the world. He will be a tough opponent but we have to make sure we are friends out of the pitch, and enemies on it! It will be emotional for Ronny because he loves Manchester United. I hope the emotion will get to him. That will be perfect for us.”

What Ronaldo does or does not do at the Santiago Bernabeu will be up to the likes of Evra and Rafael to control, but on his return to Old Trafford next month Patrice says there is one way fans can help contain him.

“We don’t have to wind him up before this game because when he is angry he is at his best,” he says, before joking: “So, let’s just be nice. We can say, ‘Welcome home, Ronny. It’s so nice to have you back, we love you, you are the best player’. We can kill him with love!”


Patrice Evra always makes me laugh:D.

[bbfan1991]

United undaunted by Real trip

Jonny Evans says Manchester United are undaunted about facing Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in the tie of the round in the Champions League.

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The Reds have had some glorious battles with the Spanish aristocrats in the past and head into the showdown in great heart after extending the lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League to 12 points over the weekend.

Although Evans has never played at the imposing arena, he visited a Real home match in the Spanish capital when still a schoolboy.

"We can't be daunted," he insisted. "We are Manchester United. Teams look up to us as well. I am sure the same pressures will be on them.

"We have to treat it like another game. You are playing against better players but we play against Premier League opposition every week and it is one of the best leagues in the world.

"You are coming up against different opposition and players who can hurt you. It is just as if we were playing against Manchester City or Liverpool. We are playing against top players and have to make sure we are spot on."

This trip to the 85,454-capacity stadium will certainly be different this time around to the one he made a decade ago to watch the likes of Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo take on Valencia from the stands. At least it has given the centre-back a taster of what to expect in midweek.

"I have never played there," Evans stated. "I went to watch a Real Madrid game with my family when I was about 15. The Galacticos were playing and I remember thinking what a fantastic stadium it was. It was a night-time game and the atmosphere was superb. I am sure it will be something similar.

"I think these are the nights as players that you do relish. They are great experiences.

"We probably take it for granted that we are going to be playing in stadiums like this. It is a weird feeling as we don't get to appreciate it at the time. Looking back it would be nice to remember."

[bbfan1991]

Rio spells out Madrid mission

Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United need to show experience, courage and ability in the Bernabeu on Wednesday night.

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The defender was left out of Sunday's 2-0 defeat of Everton which is being viewed as a pointer to him starting against Real Madrid and it is clear he has the temperament to handle the big occasion.

All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo but Ferdinand is aware of the threat Real will pose throughout their line-up, even if he cheekily hopes his former team-mate finds it difficult returning to Old Trafford for the first time in the second leg.

"We're going to have to use all of our experience, courage and ability to make sure we stop not only Ronaldo but all of them as Real are a great team," he told MUTV. "They have got so many other weapons.

"We could shut Ronaldo down for 90 minutes and the game finishes but other players will be in there that can still hurt us. So we've got to be compact as a team and work hard."

Looking ahead to the second leg, Ferdinand added: "I think it's going to be an emotional, great night for Ronaldo. Hopefully, he gets too emotional and doesn't handle it! I think he's got a great rapport with our fans and there's a mutual respect between them which is great."

[bbfan1991]

Rafael wins accolade

Rafael was a worthy winner of the latest ManUtd.com Man of the Match following his tremendous display against Everton.

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The right-back was outstanding throughout the 2-0 victory, defending with resilience and getting forward with his usual flair. Indeed, it was his run and prodded through ball that allowed Robin van Persie to round Tim Howard and claim the second goal.

There was plenty of competition for the accolade with Ryan Giggs finishing in second place in our poll after opening the scoring with his right foot to extend his record of scoring in every Barclays Premier League season.

Another who put in a sterling effort was third-placed skipper Nemanja Vidic, who was imperious in the air and put his body on the line when Everton did threaten inside the penalty box. Wayne Rooney, David De Gea and Jonny Evans were further down the pecking order in terms of the voting as the Reds exacted revenge for last season's costly 4-4 draw and the opening-match defeat at Goodison Park.


Well done to Rafael, he deserves the MOTM because he was brilliant and his improvement has been outstanding and for me has been one of our most consistent players this season:).

[bbfan1991]

Madrid paper aims 'hooligan' jibe at Manchester United's Wayne Rooney


• Marca raises temperature ahead of Real Madrid tie
• Wayne Rooney is 'football player and hooligan rolled into one'

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Wayne Rooney has been described as a "hooligan" and "freckled demon" by Marca as the Spanish sports newspaper seeks to raise the temperature ahead of Wednesday's Champions League match between Real Madrid and Manchester United.

Rooney is depicted on the front page of the Madrid-based daily under the banner headline "El Coco" (meaning "bogey man), while inside, a characteristically forthright piece warns of "a barrel packed with gunpowder" heading for the Bernabéu and recalls the United striker's past confrontations with Real players.

"Wayne Rooney is a football player and hooligan all rolled into one," writes Marca's Hugo Cerezo. "To look at him, you'd think he was one of the 4,000 British fans on the terraces … yelling and drinking beer and jumping the queue to get in through Gate D.

"But Rooney will run out on to the turf at the Bernabéu and face players who have bones to pick with him. Pepe, [Ricardo] Carvalho, [Iker] Casillas and Cristiano Ronaldo may well relive their encounters with the English bad boy."

Marca also rakes over Rooney's past indiscretions at the World Cup in 2006, when he was sent off for treading on Portugal's Carvalho and Ronaldo encouraged the referee to dismiss him, and a fracas with Casillas in England's friendly against Spain more than eight years ago. It also makes reference to Rooney tweeting that Pepe was "an idiot" after the Real defender trod on Lionel Messi's hand during a Copa del Rey match against Barcelona last season.

Rooney's former team-mate Gary Neville responded on Twitter that Marca's verdict was "harsh".

Marca are vile:mad::bored:.

[bbfan1991]

Super sub to super boss? Solskjaer reveals Man United job is his 'dream'

As Peter Schmeichel warns Jose Mourinho he WON'T be Fergie's successor

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed his ultimate dream is to return to Manchester United as manager.

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The former Red Devils super-sub played at Old Trafford for more than 10 years before retiring in 2007 and taking a job managing the club's reserve team.

In 2011 he left to manage Molde in his native Norway, but he has now said he wants to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as boss at United.

He told Spanish paper Marca: "Maybe it sounds stupid but my dream is to manage United. But I am not saying it is going to happen.

"I worked with Alex Ferguson for 15 seasons as a player and then as reserve-team coach.

"His methodology has influenced my philosophy. Almost everything I know I learnt from Sir Alex.

"Both of us believe in ourselves, we always want to win and we put our faith in youngsters and work hard."

Jose Mourinho has been heavily linked with the hotseat at Old Trafford when Ferguson retires, but ex-United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel says the Real

Madrid boss WON'T get the job.
He told El Mundo: "He will not be the successor. I don't think the club would be happy with everything Mourinho brings with him.

"He's a great candidate for his qualities as a manager but the club doesn't want all the things that come with him."

[bbfan1991]

United stay to train in Manchester away from Jose's prying eyes... but one thing's for sure, Van Persie is not holding back judging by this two-footed challenge on Vidic

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2277465/Manchester-United-train-Carrington-instead-going-straight-Madrid.html#axzz2Kh6KA2Nm

[bbfan1991]

Strong squad for Madrid

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has named a 22-man squad for the Champions League trip to Real Madrid.

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The Reds have included Phil Jones and Jonny Evans despite both players being substituted with knocks during the weekend win against Everton.

Anders Lindegaard is back in the squad after missing the last two games, as is Ashley Young who has not featured since last month's victory over Liverpool, but there is no Paul Scholes, who has been sidelined recently with a knee problem.

Squad: De Gea, Lindegaard; Büttner, Evans, Evra, Ferdinand, Jones, Rafael, Smalling, Vidic; Anderson, Carrick, Cleverley, Giggs, Nani, Valencia, Young; Hernandez, Kagawa, Rooney, van Persie, Welbeck.


Great news about there being a strong squad:). Not surprised about Paul Scholes not travelling because even though he trained this morning has probably been given some more time to recover from his injury.

[Brother Leon]

Haven't been this excited for a match for a long while. What the CL is all about. **** an easy draw tbh. Gotta face the big guns eventually, might aswell knock MAdrid out now. COME ON UNITED!

[Legend killer]

I read Raf called Ronnie out

Ronnie will be joining Bale in Raf's pocket come tomorrow night

[Brother Leon]

Would put Jones in too away from home. Done a great job on Bale & Felliani. Let's be real, Rafael will need help as great as he is.

[Legend killer]

Where????

[Brother Leon]

As one of the midfield 3,most likely. As much as I would like a Nani,Kag,RVP & Rooney attack we have to be weary ourselves.

[Legend killer]

If I see Young or Tony ahead of Nani I will be fuken furious. There seems to be this view that Nani does not work hard defensively when in fact he works just as hard as Young or Tony. The difference being our interchange going forward is 100XX better then that with either of the other 2 and he can actually beat a man

DE GEA
RAF VIDIC RIO EVRA
NANI CLEV CARRICK KAGAWA
ROONEY
RVP

Feel bad leaving Evans out and it IS VERY close between him and Rio. Also if/when Kag or nani come off Giggs should be ahead of BOTH tony and young on the wing which is PATHETIC tbh and shows how bad Young and Tony are. Would swap Ando for Clev after 65mins to add that bit of bite going forward

AND AWAY GOAL IS A MUST we don't want a bloody repeat of that PATHETIC showing at the Etihad last year where Fergie was more concerned on not losing the game rather then winning it

[Brother Leon]

Raf and Nani won't handle Ronaldo and Marcelo. Vice Versa though. Probably going to be decided on that flank. Tbh, Di Maria & Arbeloa can be got at aswell. It's a shame Young is out. He's been great in the tough away games on the break, which is how we will play.

[Legend killer]

You do realise Ronaldo does not play down the wing right????? Guy may spend 15% of the whole match in a wide area so there is no point in worrying about picking wingers who will help cover him and let's just hope it's down Raf's side and not Paddy's. As for Young don't get me started on that waste of space 18 mil SMHFH

If Tony starts tomorrow expect us to lose he OFFERS ZERO going forward and if you plan on playing a counter attacking game he will **** that up too with his constant stopping and starting letting players catch up to him

[Ryan57]

Valencia hasn't been the same player this season. I'm thinking the rumour back last year of him having a back injury could be true.

I highly doubt Nani will play. I think it'll be similar to the Spurs game a few weeks back.

[Legend killer]

If jones is fit it will be exactly the same as the Spurs game Fergie has been plotting his tactics for this game for a while now

[bbfan1991]

Real is the perfect test

Champions League ties don’t come bigger than United against Real Madrid and, according to Peter Schmeichel, they don’t come any better for the Reds.

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While Jose Mourinho’s star-studded La Liga champions cast an imposing spectre, former Reds stopper Schmeichel expects United to be galvanised by the challenge, rather than daunted by it.

“It’s probably the best draw we could have got,” the Dane told ManUtd.com. “I’d far rather we be drawn against Real Madrid than Shakhtar Donetsk; at least this way nobody is in any doubt of exactly how good our opponents are.

“It’s as tough a game as you can get, and I’ve always felt that we’re much better against stronger teams. Certainly our results so far this season have shown that, and they should provide plenty of cause for confidence.”

United travel to Madrid on Tuesday assured of returning to a 12 point lead at the head of the Barclays Premier League table and an FA Cup fifth round tie with Reading.

Schmeichel feels that, having plugged a defence which had been porous throughout the opening months of the campaign, the invariably attack-minded Reds are perfectly primed for one of the season’s toughest opponents to date.

“While we’ve definitely improved our defending recently, we’re playing to score goals, and we know that whoever we play against we’re going to make chances and score,” he said.

“I’m very optimistic. We go into this game knowing how hard it will be against Real Madrid, but also knowing that we can beat them – and if we manage that then it doesn’t matter who we get in the quarter finals, because there’s no cause to fear anybody after that.”

[bbfan1991]

Ando will enjoy Real test

Anderson says a combination of concentration and enjoyment will be vital to Manchester United’s mentality in Wednesday’s Champions League encounter with Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.

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The Reds touched down in Spain on Tuesday afternoon ahead of the first-leg clash in the pick of the last 16 ties. But while the Brazilian midfielder insists that the players are fully focused on the task in hand, he adds that it is just as important to enjoy an occasion as big as Wednesday night.

“These are the games you want to play in. We know we have to be very focused but it’s also important to enjoy games like this,” he told ManUtd.com.

“It will be a hard game. Of course, Madrid are a big team but we are a big team too, with quality players and experienced players. We are playing well and looking forward to it.

“Concentration is going to be very important. Everyone knows it’s not a normal game – it’s a big match – but you have to try
and play your normal football and work hard together as a team. Hopefully we can come back with a good result and finish the job at Old Trafford.”

Of course, Wednesday’s meeting will see a reunion with Anderson’s close friend Cristiano Ronaldo. The Brazilian says the pair remain in regular contact but maintains football will come before friendship come kick-off.

“I talk a lot with Cristiano, but not just him. Pepe is my friend too, we played in Portugal together. We are all great friends, but when you step out on the pitch no-one is friends because we all want to win!”

[bbfan1991]

Rafael prepared for Ronaldo

Rafael hopes he is perfectly prepared for the likely assignment of keeping Cristiano Ronaldo quiet in Wednesday's Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

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Sir Alex Ferguson hinted some time ago that he would pin his faith in the Brazilian to keep Ronaldo in check, which may seem a tall order considering the former United favourite's current form.

However, Rafael has been impressing all term and was the outstanding player in Sunday's 2-0 victory against Everton, while also managing to stifle man-of-the-moment Gareth Bale during the recent draw at Tottenham.

Not only will these factors give confidence to the South American but he has also stressed that Ronaldo is not an unknown quantity after coming up against him in training many times at Carrington.

When asked by United Review about Bale, Rafael replied: "He’s quick. I have to say that he is very quick! If you concentrate, and that’s the key word, and read the game, it helps.

"It’s important because he’s quicker than me, even though I am quick as well. Sometimes if you can read the ball before it gets to him, it can be effective."

In terms of whether marking Bale could be seen as good practice for coming face-to-face with Ronaldo, he said: "Of course. They are both very quick but maybe they are just different. Ronaldo is right-footed and plays a different type of game. He can come inside and shoot with power but both of them are tough players to come up against.

"I think I know Ronaldo as I trained with him. I know what he can do because I played and trained with him a lot. So he’s not the type of opponent where you would say he is good but I don’t know what he can do. I know what he can do. I trained with him so, yes, it could be a help.

"To be honest, he helped me a lot when I arrived here. He took me aside and helped me outside of the pitch a lot because I did not speak English very well and obviously he is Portuguese.

"For me, he’s the best player in the world. I think he is the complete player and I really like him. I think he is the number one."


Good luck tonight Rafael in trying to stop Cristiano Ronaldo:).

[bbfan1991]

Madrid will miss Casillas

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea is ready to renew his rivalry with Real Madrid - albeit without a familiar face at the opposite end of the Bernabeu.

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Real's legendary number one Iker Casillas will miss Wednesday's Champions League match after suffering a fracture in his left hand and De Gea admitted it's a significant piece of team news when asked about it at United's pre-match press conference.

"Every time Iker Casillas is not there, he is a great loss," said De Gea, a former servant of Real's local rivals Atletico Madrid.

"It is a great loss because he is the captain of Real Madrid and Spain. But Real have two other keepers who can play as well as Casillas does."

When Casillas came off with the injury, early in last month's Copa del Rey match at Valencia, he was replaced by substitute keeper Antonio Adan. But Jose Mourinho has since signed the more experienced Diego Lopez, who began his career at Real and was in goal when Los Blancos beat Sevilla 4-1 at the weekend.

Ex-United star Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in that game, as De Gea is acutely aware.

"Everyone knows how well he can play and it is very hard to save his shots," said De Gea. "No-one can hit shots like him. But we will do everything in our power to contain him."

When asked about his own form in this, his second season in England, the Reds' number one said: "Of course, when you arrive at a new club it is normal there will be some low points. It is important to improve and I am now much better than when I first arrived at United."

Speaking at the same press conference, Sir Alex Ferguson praised De Gea's progress. "David has shown his character because he has taken a lot of criticism, sometimes unfair criticism.

"But what we at United are good at is developing people, bit by bit. It's like a young child learning to walk. He moves forward, he wobbles. He gets up, wobbles, gets up again and now he's walking."


In David We Trust:).

[bbfan1991]

Sir Alex: We can rule Europe

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United can win the Champions League this season - if the Reds can next knock out one of the favourites in Real Madrid.

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The runaway leaders of the English league lined up Wednesday's clash with the Spanish champions by racing through the group stage, qualifying well before Christmas with a couple of games to spare. Sir Alex's men have since demonstrated their powers on the domestic stage, going 12 points clear of Manchester City in the table and marching into the last 16 of the FA Cup.

"Our team is capable of winning the Champions League," said Sir Alex at a pre-match press conference in Madrid. "There is a great spirit about the players.

"People keep saying we're not as good as past United teams but sometimes we get foggy impressions about the past and I do so myself at times.

"The reality is this team doesn't know when it's beaten which is a great quality.

"The acid test is tomorrow and we have to get through it if we are to win this trophy."

The United boss is buoyed not only by form, but by the fitness of his squad with Paul Scholes being the only notable absentee from the plane to Spain.

"I think it's a good time for us to be playing Real Madrid," said Sir Alex. "We have a fantastic lead in our league and we have everyone fit. When you come to this part of the season you [often] have two or three players injured. We don't have that, which is a bonus.

"We're ready for tomorrow. Since the Champions League started, almost every year we have played one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"When I started as a coach many years ago, I dreamt I'd be playing against the top teams as a manager and you get the opportunity to do that in the Champions League on a regular basis.

"There is a special significance when you play the big teams and you'll see that tomorrow. It's just a shame we and Real are meeting this early. I wish it had been at Wembley, in the final."

When asked what kind of game he expects, Sir Alex replied:

"It won't be 0-0 tomorrow night, I can assure you of that. This match can live up to expectations. History always plays a part in this type of game, as does the two teams' desire to go forward.

"Real Madrid are one of the best counter-attacking teams in Europe. Their speed from box to box is fantastic. But we have to play our own game too. Our intention is to win and to score."

As ever, the United manager kept his team-selection cards close to his chest, although he did indicate there could be at least one change from the line-up which overcame Everton at the weekend.

"We didn't play Shinji Kagawa on Sunday because he had a long trip back from Japan," said Sir Alex. "I wanted him fresh in case I decide to use him tomorrow so I rested him against Everton. He will certainly be involved at some stage tomorrow."

[bbfan1991]

Match preview: Real v United

Date, time and coverage: Wednesday 13 February, 19:45 GMT kick-off. Live on Sky Sports.

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

[bbfan1991]

I am so excited for tonight:):D. Good luck to the lads and come on United!

[bbfan1991]

TV dates for April announced

Four of United's Barclays Premier League fixtures have been moved to accommodate live television coverage - although each of them is still subject to change.

http://www.manutd.com/sitecore/shell/~/media/D4CE02588AB445038D63A88E95BEC7BA.ashx?h=359&la=ar-SA&w=240&rgn=188,2,547,541

The Reds' derby against second-placed Manchester City is provisionally scheduled for Monday 8 April, although this will be moved to Saturday 6 April (12.45pm) if the Reds qualify for the Champions League quarter-finals.

Of course, last season's clash with the Blues at the Etihad Stadium also took place on a Monday night.

United's trip to Stoke City will be live on Sunday 14 April unless Sir Alex's side reach the FA Cup semi-finals and another Monday night game, against Aston Villa, and a Sunday trip to Arsenal await the Reds unless the the team reaches the last four of the Champions League.

If the Gunners make the European semi-finals, and are due to play on the Tuesday, then the game will also be switched.

[bbfan1991]

Cristiano Ronaldo rules out Manchester City move as his heart belongs to United

http://e0.365dm.com/13/01/660x350/Real-Madrid-Cristiano-Ronaldo_2883743.jpg

Cristiano Ronaldo admits he would find it impossible to turn out for Manchester City because his heart still belongs to United.

The Portuguese superstar spent six years at Old Trafford prior to making a record-breaking switch to Real Madrid in the summer of 2009.

Ronaldo has enjoyed four goal-laden years in Spain, but speculation regarding his long-term future at Santiago Bernabeu has intensified this season.

Few clubs could afford to acquire his talents, but reigning Premier League champions City are among a select group of clubs who possess the riches required to make a deal happen.

Ronaldo has, however, attempted to bring an end to the rumours suggesting he could return to Manchester in blue rather than red.

Ahead of Real's UEFA Champions League clash with United on Wednesday, Ronaldo told The Sun: "To play for City not United? I'm not going to do that. Why? Because my heart's in Manchester United, that's why.

"I can say it would be very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very difficult to play at Manchester City. Very difficult because of Manchester United."

Ronaldo, despite claims earlier in the campaign that he was feeling unsettled in Spain, insists it is his intention to honour his contract in Madrid, but he has refused to rule out the possibility of making an emotional return to Old Trafford at some stage in the future.

He added: "I am a player of Real Madrid and I'm happy here, my family is happy and everything is going well for me here. The future? I don't know - only God knows the future.

"I can't say I'm never going back to Man United, but I can say I'm good here and I want to be here.

"Let's leave it at that and see what God gives me in the future, but I repeat I am happy here at Madrid."


Respect to him for that:worship:, although tonight he is the enemy. I hope United fans give him a good reception before and after the game, which I am sure we will:).

[Legend killer]

Big boy rumour lads Jones and Carrick in the centre with Kag also playing looks like Clev has been dropped

[Brother Leon]

Hmm. Looks like He's gone for abit of everything in that middle three if true.

[Legend killer]

Kag is the only player in our Centre midfield who is actually able to keep the ball under pressure correct decision playing him

[Legend killer]

Also im not to keen on Jones in midfield yes he can man mark a player however he is completely limited with the ball however Fergie has not faith in Ando

[bbfan1991]

Rafael handed Ronaldo task

Sir Alex was speaking exclusively to MUTV. To see more of this interview, tune in to Matchday Live at 18:30 GMT on Sky channel 418.

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

Brazilian defender Rafael will be handed the task of stopping Cristiano Ronaldo in the Bernabeu tonight, as Manchester United take on Real Madrid in the Champions League Last 16.

Media speculation has been rife around how Sir Alex intends to shackle the Portuguese forward, particularly after Phil Jones successfully man-marked Marouane Fellaini in last Sunday's 2-0 win over Everton. But the Reds boss, speaking exclusively to MUTV in Madrid, has revealed it will be right-back Rafael who'll be asked to keep tabs on the former United ace.

"The responsibility will be with Rafael," Sir Alex said. "Rafael's maturity this season has been fantastic. Obviously Robin van Persie has been sensational but, outside that, Rafa and Michael Carrick are having their best seasons ever.

"He's Brazilian so he doesn't fear a thing. I trust him and have faith in him tonight."

Sir Alex admitted Ronaldo, who spent six seasons at Old Trafford, has progressed even further since signing for Real Madrid, but is confident he knows enough about the 28-year-old to negate his prodigous talent.

"He's flourished since he's come to Madrid," the manager said. "You'd have to be stupid not to respect his goalscoring record. But if one team knows about Ronaldo it's us. We had him for six years so we know everything he can do on a football pitch. We probably have an advantage in that respect, when it comes to facing Ronaldo."


What a test for Rafael tonight:).

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United team vs Real Madrid: De Gea; Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Carrick, Jones, Kagawa, Welbeck, Rooney, Van Persie.

Bench: Lindegaard, Smalling, Valencia, Anderson, Giggs, Cleverley, Hernandez.

[Ryan57]

Big boy rumour lads Jones and Carrick in the centre with Kag also playing looks like Clev has been dropped

Was that from Twitter? Just wondering due to the accuracy. :p

[bbfan1991]

A Journalist tweeted it, who is in Madrid;).

I am not surprised that Vidic is not in the line up, his condition is being monitored by the Doctors for a few months after he had surgery on his injury and they are chosing which games he plays in atm.

Big game for the lads. Come on United:devil::).

[bbfan1991]

FT- Real Madrid 1 United 1. I will take that and a vital away goal for the second leg at Old Trafford, so it is all to play for.

David De Gea, Danny Welbeck and Phil Jones were MOTM for me:).