De Gea: 9.0
Evra: 8.5
Evans: 8.0
Ferdinand: 8.0
Rafael: 8.0
Young: 8.0
Carrick: 8.5
Cleverley:7.5
Valencia: 8.5
Rooney: 8.5
RVP: 9.0
Replacement: Man Of The Match:
Chicharito: 9.0
Giggs: 8.0 De Gea
Monday, 29 October 2012
Overdue win delights Carrick
Having seen a string of impressive performances go unrewarded
at Stamford Bridge in recent seasons, Michael Carrick feels Manchester
United's thrilling victory at Chelsea was long overdue.
The Reds edged a game shrouded in controversy as Chicharito turned in a late winner against the nine-man hosts, but the midfielder cared not a jot as the Blues' lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League was trimmed to one point.
"It's a huge three points," Carrick told MUTV. "Not winning here for a long time against our biggest rivals, we wanted to put that right and we wanted to win for that.
"Plus the fact that if we had lost today we would've been well adrift. I know there's a long way to go, but it wouldn't have been a good position for us to be in. So for those two reasons it was a big result.
"Over the last three or four years we've had some really great performances here and not come away with what we deserved, so today it was sweet to get the three points.
"We've really played some great stuff and the performances have been spot on, so to come away with no wins has been disappointing and we felt the next win was close. We have had some decisions not go our way and it's been tough for us here, but maybe that turned around for us today. We'll take what we get!"
Chelsea, United and Manchester City are now separated by a single point at the head of the table and, buoyed by the Reds' impressive form at imposing venues this term, Carrick insists it is key to keep winning such headline-grabbing encounters.
"Especially against your rivals – the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea, Arsenal next week – it's important you take points off them," said the midfielder.
"That's why it was important and next week is just as important. It's a good start to the season. We've obviously had a couple of defeats but we've bounced back and we're still in a good position, so we can be happy."
The Reds edged a game shrouded in controversy as Chicharito turned in a late winner against the nine-man hosts, but the midfielder cared not a jot as the Blues' lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League was trimmed to one point.
"It's a huge three points," Carrick told MUTV. "Not winning here for a long time against our biggest rivals, we wanted to put that right and we wanted to win for that.
"Plus the fact that if we had lost today we would've been well adrift. I know there's a long way to go, but it wouldn't have been a good position for us to be in. So for those two reasons it was a big result.
"Over the last three or four years we've had some really great performances here and not come away with what we deserved, so today it was sweet to get the three points.
"We've really played some great stuff and the performances have been spot on, so to come away with no wins has been disappointing and we felt the next win was close. We have had some decisions not go our way and it's been tough for us here, but maybe that turned around for us today. We'll take what we get!"
Chelsea, United and Manchester City are now separated by a single point at the head of the table and, buoyed by the Reds' impressive form at imposing venues this term, Carrick insists it is key to keep winning such headline-grabbing encounters.
"Especially against your rivals – the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea, Arsenal next week – it's important you take points off them," said the midfielder.
"That's why it was important and next week is just as important. It's a good start to the season. We've obviously had a couple of defeats but we've bounced back and we're still in a good position, so we can be happy."
Duo on Ballon d'Or shortlist
Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie are on the shortlist of 23 players nominated for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award.
The contenders for FIFA's World Footballer of the Year award were announced on Monday with 11 of the names different from the 2011 list.
Rooney is rewarded for another impressive year at Old Trafford while van Persie's explosive final months at Arsenal contribute to his recognition. Former United favourite Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are expected to battle it out for the award with the Barcelona superstar striving to win it for the fourth consecutive year.
Sir Alex Ferguson is one of 10 managers up for the Coach of the Year prize - alongside fellow Barclays Premier League bosses Roberto Mancini and Roberto Di Matteo.
Ballon d'Or nominees: Sergio Aguero (Man City), Mario Balotelli (Man City), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Didier Drogba (Chelsea, now Shanghai Shenhua), Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (AC Milan/PSG), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Neymar (Santos), Mesut Ozil (Real Madrid), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Wayne Rooney (Man United), Yaya Toure (Man City), Robin van Persie (Arsenal/Man United), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Xavi (Barcelona).
Ballon d'Or Coach nominees: Vicente del Bosque (Spain), Roberto Di Matteo (Chelsea), Sir Alex Ferguson (Man United), Pep Guardiola (ex-Barcelona), Jupp Heynckes (Bayern Munich), Jurgen Klopp (Borussia Dortmund), Joachim Low (Germany), Roberto Mancini (Man City), Jose Mourinho (Real Madrid), Cesare Prandelli (Italy).
The contenders for FIFA's World Footballer of the Year award were announced on Monday with 11 of the names different from the 2011 list.
Rooney is rewarded for another impressive year at Old Trafford while van Persie's explosive final months at Arsenal contribute to his recognition. Former United favourite Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are expected to battle it out for the award with the Barcelona superstar striving to win it for the fourth consecutive year.
Sir Alex Ferguson is one of 10 managers up for the Coach of the Year prize - alongside fellow Barclays Premier League bosses Roberto Mancini and Roberto Di Matteo.
Ballon d'Or nominees: Sergio Aguero (Man City), Mario Balotelli (Man City), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Didier Drogba (Chelsea, now Shanghai Shenhua), Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (AC Milan/PSG), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Neymar (Santos), Mesut Ozil (Real Madrid), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Andrea Pirlo (Juventus), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Wayne Rooney (Man United), Yaya Toure (Man City), Robin van Persie (Arsenal/Man United), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Xavi (Barcelona).
Ballon d'Or Coach nominees: Vicente del Bosque (Spain), Roberto Di Matteo (Chelsea), Sir Alex Ferguson (Man United), Pep Guardiola (ex-Barcelona), Jupp Heynckes (Bayern Munich), Jurgen Klopp (Borussia Dortmund), Joachim Low (Germany), Roberto Mancini (Man City), Jose Mourinho (Real Madrid), Cesare Prandelli (Italy).
Wide men win plaudits
United wide boys leave Chelsea exposedRefereeing
controversies overshadowed an exciting game and an interesting tactical
battle – but both coaches made intriguing decisions in response to the
Branislav Ivanovic and Fernando Torres dismissals. With Roberto Di
Matteo constrained by the absence of Frank Lampard, Chelsea's starting
lineup was predictable and the pre-game tactical questions concerned Sir
Alex Ferguson's approach. After United went into an early lead his
overall strategy was difficult to deduce – David Luiz's unfortunate own
goal forced Chelsea to take the initiative while the away side
concentrated upon counterattacking, a scenario that played into the
hands of United's players. In selecting a formation with width, rather
than the diamond he has experimented with recently, Ferguson was seeking
to attack purposely down the flanks, particularly the right. Chelsea
have been vulnerable down the left this season primarily because Eden
Hazard's advanced, central positioning leaves Ashley Cole exposed. This
was a particularly bad match to leave the left-back alone against two
opponents – Antonio Valencia has frequently outperformed him in recent
years, with the Ecuadorian possessing both the defensive qualities to
track Cole's runs, and the natural drive to attack him. In direct
battles between the two, Cole coped reasonably well with Valencia, who
completed only one of his six attempted dribbles – but enthusiastic
support for Valencia came from the right-back Rafael da Silva. United's
second goal was a perfect illustration of Chelsea's problem down the
left this season.
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
Ognjen Vranjes is being watched by United's scouts.
Ognjen Vranjes is being watched by Reds scouts. The 22-year-old right-back is currenly plying his trade in Russia for Krasnodar and has been impressing for Bosnia.
United Want To Buy Ilkay Gundogan.
United and Spurs are keeping tabs on Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan. The 21-year-old shone in the recent Champions League draw with Manchester City when Sir Alex was amongst the crowd.
De Gea To Real Madrid?
De Gea, an £18.3 million buy from Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2011, is
expected to retain his place in goal for United against SC Braga in
Tuesday’s Champions
League Group H tie at Old Trafford.
But the 21-year-old has yet to consolidate the No 1 jersey at Manchester
United following a difficult start to life in the English game
having been signed as a youthful replacement for Edwin van der Sar following
the Dutch goalkeeper’s retirement at the end of the 2010-11 campaign.
The Spain Under-21 ‘keeper was dropped by Sir Alex Ferguson at the turn of the
year following an unconvincing performance, a 3-2 Old Trafford defeat
against Blackburn and De Gea lost his place at the start of this season when
he was replaced by the Dane, Anders Lindegaard, in the wake of a poor
performance against Fulham in August.
While Ferguson and United’s goalkeeping coach, Eric Steele, remain convinced
of De Gea’s ability and long-term potential, Real have been made aware of
the Madrid-born youngster’s struggle to adapt to life in Manchester and the Premier
League
Monday, 22 October 2012
Boss bemoans slow starts
Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United must break the
bad habit of conceding early goals in order to be successful this
season.
The Reds had to come from behind once again to ensure maximum points against Stoke City on Saturday after an 11th-minute Wayne Rooney own goal had put the visitors ahead. Rooney netted at the right end just before the half-hour mark before further strikes from Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Rooney again sealed a 4-2 victory.
Sir Alex was pleased with the result, but wants to see an improvement from his players in the way they are starting matches.
"We keep starting badly in games, in the first 20 minutes," the manager told MUTV. "We conceded an early goal against Fulham, an early goal against Tottenham, an early goal today – we’re giving ourselves uphill fights. But there’s a goal threat about us, that has to be said, and some of the movement from the forwards was excellent.
"You don’t want it to happen [going behind] but the forwards are digging us out of a hole at times. Hopefully we’ll get it sorted. It was an own goal, the first goal, and you obviously can’t account for that. The second goal was a really slack goal for us to lose.
"There’s no doubt our attacking play has been the strongest part of our game [thsi season]. But we’re letting in goals at home and that’s disappointing."
The combination play between United's starting front men of Rooney, van Persie and Welbeck caused the visitors all sorts of problems and Sir Alex was delighted to see the two Englishmen in the trio score their first club goals of the season.
"The more games Wayne gets, the better he's going to become and I am pleased he’s off the mark with his two goals and Danny's off the mark too," added the boss. "I think that’s about 15 [different] goalscorers already this season so that’s good.
"We saw that flexible movement we have up front where Robin ended up wide left and put in a great cross for Wayne to score [the first goal] with a fantastic header. That kind of movement does bother teams and I’m glad they have started to gel quite well that way."
Today's match was United's chosen game to show support for Kick It Out's latest anti-racism campaign. Sir Alex said on Friday that all his players would be supporting the campaign by donning special T-shirts during the warm-up. Rio Ferdinand, however, opted not to wear one.
"I’m disappointed because I said in the press conference yesterday that all the players would be wearing the T-shirt," stated Sir Alex afterwards. "We did that in support of the PFA and every player in the country should have adhered to that. We’re all wearing the badges and he goes and lets us all down. We’ll deal with it, don’t worry."
The Reds had to come from behind once again to ensure maximum points against Stoke City on Saturday after an 11th-minute Wayne Rooney own goal had put the visitors ahead. Rooney netted at the right end just before the half-hour mark before further strikes from Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Rooney again sealed a 4-2 victory.
Sir Alex was pleased with the result, but wants to see an improvement from his players in the way they are starting matches.
"We keep starting badly in games, in the first 20 minutes," the manager told MUTV. "We conceded an early goal against Fulham, an early goal against Tottenham, an early goal today – we’re giving ourselves uphill fights. But there’s a goal threat about us, that has to be said, and some of the movement from the forwards was excellent.
"You don’t want it to happen [going behind] but the forwards are digging us out of a hole at times. Hopefully we’ll get it sorted. It was an own goal, the first goal, and you obviously can’t account for that. The second goal was a really slack goal for us to lose.
"There’s no doubt our attacking play has been the strongest part of our game [thsi season]. But we’re letting in goals at home and that’s disappointing."
The combination play between United's starting front men of Rooney, van Persie and Welbeck caused the visitors all sorts of problems and Sir Alex was delighted to see the two Englishmen in the trio score their first club goals of the season.
"The more games Wayne gets, the better he's going to become and I am pleased he’s off the mark with his two goals and Danny's off the mark too," added the boss. "I think that’s about 15 [different] goalscorers already this season so that’s good.
"We saw that flexible movement we have up front where Robin ended up wide left and put in a great cross for Wayne to score [the first goal] with a fantastic header. That kind of movement does bother teams and I’m glad they have started to gel quite well that way."
Today's match was United's chosen game to show support for Kick It Out's latest anti-racism campaign. Sir Alex said on Friday that all his players would be supporting the campaign by donning special T-shirts during the warm-up. Rio Ferdinand, however, opted not to wear one.
"I’m disappointed because I said in the press conference yesterday that all the players would be wearing the T-shirt," stated Sir Alex afterwards. "We did that in support of the PFA and every player in the country should have adhered to that. We’re all wearing the badges and he goes and lets us all down. We’ll deal with it, don’t worry."
Carrick: Still work to do
Michael Carrick says two wins out of two in the Champions
League this season is pleasing, but he insists there is still plenty of
hard work left to ensure qualification for the knock-out stages.
The Reds currently sit top of Group H having taken maximum points from their opening two matches against Galatasaray and Cluj.
A double-header with Portuguese side Braga is next up with the pair facing each other at Old Trafford on Tuesday night before meeting in Portugal in two weeks time.
"We are not getting carried away," Carrick told PA Sport. "We cannot afford to think that just because we have had a good start it is going to be an easy ride. That is not the case
"It could come back and bite us. We will go into this game [against Braga] like any other and just look to put ourselves in an even better position without looking too far ahead.
"It can be quite tough in the Champions League to judge [who will qualify from each group]. Some people might pick out two teams in a group and say they will be the top two and the others will struggle. Quite a lot of the time, that is not the case.
"It isn't necessarily the teams that catch your eye [namewise] who are the ones that cause you problems. We know even in Cluj, it wasn't straightforward. The lads had to play well to get a result. That is the nature of European football.
"Braga are a good team. You have to respect them for getting to this stage to start with. It is not easy in any league to go through the whole season near the top [and qualify for the Champions League]. You have to respect them. They are going to be of a certain standard and we have to match it."
With six points already in the bag, Carrick says the players are determined to have qualification for the last 16 wrapped up as soon as possible and ensure there is no repeat of last season's early exit.
"It does help the league form if you can get through early. The manager can change things around and rest players," added the 31-year-old.
"He can use the squad and give players game time. The pressure is off. He can start planning ahead knowing the next stage is already secure.
"It's not always possible though. Sometimes it can go down to the last game, which in itself is not always a bad thing. But it's definitely better to get it done and dusted. We hope we can do that."
The Reds currently sit top of Group H having taken maximum points from their opening two matches against Galatasaray and Cluj.
A double-header with Portuguese side Braga is next up with the pair facing each other at Old Trafford on Tuesday night before meeting in Portugal in two weeks time.
"We are not getting carried away," Carrick told PA Sport. "We cannot afford to think that just because we have had a good start it is going to be an easy ride. That is not the case
"It could come back and bite us. We will go into this game [against Braga] like any other and just look to put ourselves in an even better position without looking too far ahead.
"It can be quite tough in the Champions League to judge [who will qualify from each group]. Some people might pick out two teams in a group and say they will be the top two and the others will struggle. Quite a lot of the time, that is not the case.
"It isn't necessarily the teams that catch your eye [namewise] who are the ones that cause you problems. We know even in Cluj, it wasn't straightforward. The lads had to play well to get a result. That is the nature of European football.
"Braga are a good team. You have to respect them for getting to this stage to start with. It is not easy in any league to go through the whole season near the top [and qualify for the Champions League]. You have to respect them. They are going to be of a certain standard and we have to match it."
With six points already in the bag, Carrick says the players are determined to have qualification for the last 16 wrapped up as soon as possible and ensure there is no repeat of last season's early exit.
"It does help the league form if you can get through early. The manager can change things around and rest players," added the 31-year-old.
"He can use the squad and give players game time. The pressure is off. He can start planning ahead knowing the next stage is already secure.
"It's not always possible though. Sometimes it can go down to the last game, which in itself is not always a bad thing. But it's definitely better to get it done and dusted. We hope we can do that."
Johnstone eyes top spot
Young goalkeeper Sam Johnstone accepts he needs to be patient
but is striving to push David De Gea and Anders Lindegaard for the
first-team spot at United.
The highly-rated keeper had a taste of life in Sir Alex's side during the DHL pre-season tour and has started the campaign in impressive form at Under-21 and Reserves level. Although still a teenager, the Preston-born shot-stopper appreciates he needs to be ready for when his opportunity comes.
"You've got to up your performance with the first-team so it helps you step up," explained Johnstone to MUTV. "You have to have a lot of hunger anyway just to be able to want to go up and play, get your chance and do well.
"Having a taste of it makes you hungrier to go for it, give it a good go and do your best. As a goalkeeper, you've got to be patient but, also, your chance can come very quickly so you have to be ready as well.
"Obviously, David and Anders are top keepers. David is young and Anders has got an older head on him but both are playing and doing well, which shows the manager has got faith in them and doesn't have a problem playing whoever.
"But I want to work hard to push those two and show I can step up if I'm needed."
The 19-year-old is also determined not to rest on his laurels after helping the Reserves sweep the board in terms of trophies in 2011/2012.
Warren Joyce's side have continued that form into this campaign by topping the Barclays Under-21 Premier League table and winning both Manchester Senior Cup ties.
"The lads have to realise we've done that but that's gone," he insisted, when asked about the impressive haul of silverware. "People are watching you now and not remembering you for last season.
"Warren always says before we go out for a game that there could be someone watching in the stands and it's the first time they've seen you and don't know if you're good. So you have to perform and show them.
"I think it's very important to kick on and not just relax because we've won something."
The highly-rated keeper had a taste of life in Sir Alex's side during the DHL pre-season tour and has started the campaign in impressive form at Under-21 and Reserves level. Although still a teenager, the Preston-born shot-stopper appreciates he needs to be ready for when his opportunity comes.
"You've got to up your performance with the first-team so it helps you step up," explained Johnstone to MUTV. "You have to have a lot of hunger anyway just to be able to want to go up and play, get your chance and do well.
"Having a taste of it makes you hungrier to go for it, give it a good go and do your best. As a goalkeeper, you've got to be patient but, also, your chance can come very quickly so you have to be ready as well.
"Obviously, David and Anders are top keepers. David is young and Anders has got an older head on him but both are playing and doing well, which shows the manager has got faith in them and doesn't have a problem playing whoever.
"But I want to work hard to push those two and show I can step up if I'm needed."
The 19-year-old is also determined not to rest on his laurels after helping the Reserves sweep the board in terms of trophies in 2011/2012.
Warren Joyce's side have continued that form into this campaign by topping the Barclays Under-21 Premier League table and winning both Manchester Senior Cup ties.
"The lads have to realise we've done that but that's gone," he insisted, when asked about the impressive haul of silverware. "People are watching you now and not remembering you for last season.
"Warren always says before we go out for a game that there could be someone watching in the stands and it's the first time they've seen you and don't know if you're good. So you have to perform and show them.
"I think it's very important to kick on and not just relax because we've won something."
Atletico target Chicharito
Atletico Madrid want Hernandez to replace Falcao
Atletico Madrid are hoping that Manchester United's Javier Hernandez can be the man to fill Radamel Falcao's boots should the striker depart as expected in January. Falcao, 26, has become the most sought-after striker in Europe and Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are queuing up to meet his £46m release clause in the next transfer window. The Colombian has already expressed his desire to leave the Spanish capital and Atletico hope to lure Mexican Hernandez as his replacement. The 24-year-old arrived in England for a fee of around £7m in 2010 but despite making an instant impact at the club he has fallen behind Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck and summer arrival Robin van Persie in the Old Trafford pecking order this season. Hernandez - who netted 20 goals in his debut campaign at United when he started the Champions League final -has just started just one Premier League game this season and has netted just once in seven appearances. Fiorentina are also interested in a January move for the man nicknamed 'Chicharito' but they are only willing to pay £8m and will be gazumped should Atletico be funded by the sale of Falcao.
Atletico Madrid are hoping that Manchester United's Javier Hernandez can be the man to fill Radamel Falcao's boots should the striker depart as expected in January. Falcao, 26, has become the most sought-after striker in Europe and Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are queuing up to meet his £46m release clause in the next transfer window. The Colombian has already expressed his desire to leave the Spanish capital and Atletico hope to lure Mexican Hernandez as his replacement. The 24-year-old arrived in England for a fee of around £7m in 2010 but despite making an instant impact at the club he has fallen behind Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck and summer arrival Robin van Persie in the Old Trafford pecking order this season. Hernandez - who netted 20 goals in his debut campaign at United when he started the Champions League final -has just started just one Premier League game this season and has netted just once in seven appearances. Fiorentina are also interested in a January move for the man nicknamed 'Chicharito' but they are only willing to pay £8m and will be gazumped should Atletico be funded by the sale of Falcao.
Sunday, 21 October 2012
MUFC Players Rating Vs Stoke City
De Gea: 8.0
Evra: 8.5
Evans: 8.0
Ferdinand: 8.0
Rafael: 8.5
Welbeck: 8.5
Carrick: 8.0
Scholes:7.5
Valencia: 8.5
Rooney: 9.0
RVP: 9.0
Replacement:
Nani: 8.0
Chicharito: 7.5
Anderson: 8.5 Man Of The Match:
W. Rooney
Evra: 8.5
Evans: 8.0
Ferdinand: 8.0
Rafael: 8.5
Welbeck: 8.5
Carrick: 8.0
Scholes:7.5
Valencia: 8.5
Rooney: 9.0
RVP: 9.0
Replacement:
Nani: 8.0
Chicharito: 7.5
Anderson: 8.5 Man Of The Match:
W. Rooney
Javier Hernandez To Fiorentina?
Fiorentina are launching an £8million bid for Javier Hernandez, who scored in both of his international games during the break, while the Daily Mirror suggests Juventus are joining AC Milan in showing an interest in Nani.
Rooney glad to be off the mark
Wayne Rooney was thrilled after another afternoon of
milestones yielded three important points for Manchester United at Old
Trafford.
The striker's first goal of the season, first career own goal and 200th strike at club level for the Reds and Everton all contributed to a rollercoaster game against Stoke City which the hosts ultimately deserved to win - despite going behind through Rooney's error.
"It was my first own goal but thankfully we came back from that and managed to go in at the break in the lead, that was great for us," Rooney told MUTV.
"I think it was a good performance from us. Stoke put a lot of high balls into the box and in the main we dealt with it well. There was just that one slip when I’ve scored the own goal. I was marking Ryan Shawcross and he ran me in there, there were bodies in the way and it [Charlie Adam's free-kick] just hit me.
"I think it was important that I moved on from it quickly and didn’t let it affect the rest of my game. I think overall we deserved the three points."
Rooney's first goals for anyone this season came while he was on international duty last week, when he netted a brace in England's 5-0 win over San Marino and then followed up with an away strike in Poland. Now he's done the business at club level as well, joy rather than relief is his overriding emotion.
"I think as long as I’m playing well it doesn’t really concern me that much if I’m not scoring for United. Obviously as a forward you want to score. I’m delighted to get off the mark and to get amongst the goals. Hopefully there’s more to come but if I can keep up my performances, playing well and
working well with the team, I’ll be happy with that."
Wayne gave great credit to the creator of his first goal, which he plundered with a fine header from van Persie's glorious left-wing cross.
"I think when you’ve got quality like that, someone who can deliver a ball into the box, then you know if you make a run you’ve got a chance of getting on the end of it. Thankfully it’s a great ball and I’ve managed to head it home. I think it was a great goal.
"That’s the first game we’ve started together up front and we’ve both scored. I’m sure it will get better and better, we have to keep working on that – not just the attacking but the defending side of it as well. We’re both pleased with the way it’s going and when we’ve also got Danny who’s also scored today and Chicharito came on, we’ve got great attacking options. It’s down to the manager to pick from them."
It was ten years ago this weekend that Rooney scored his first-ever goal in senior club football - when Everton beat Arsenal. He's rightly proud to have reached a double century in only a decade.
"I didn’t know I’d reached 200 club goals until after the game. I’m obviously delighted with that," he added."
The striker's first goal of the season, first career own goal and 200th strike at club level for the Reds and Everton all contributed to a rollercoaster game against Stoke City which the hosts ultimately deserved to win - despite going behind through Rooney's error.
"It was my first own goal but thankfully we came back from that and managed to go in at the break in the lead, that was great for us," Rooney told MUTV.
"I think it was a good performance from us. Stoke put a lot of high balls into the box and in the main we dealt with it well. There was just that one slip when I’ve scored the own goal. I was marking Ryan Shawcross and he ran me in there, there were bodies in the way and it [Charlie Adam's free-kick] just hit me.
"I think it was important that I moved on from it quickly and didn’t let it affect the rest of my game. I think overall we deserved the three points."
Rooney's first goals for anyone this season came while he was on international duty last week, when he netted a brace in England's 5-0 win over San Marino and then followed up with an away strike in Poland. Now he's done the business at club level as well, joy rather than relief is his overriding emotion.
"I think as long as I’m playing well it doesn’t really concern me that much if I’m not scoring for United. Obviously as a forward you want to score. I’m delighted to get off the mark and to get amongst the goals. Hopefully there’s more to come but if I can keep up my performances, playing well and
working well with the team, I’ll be happy with that."
Wayne gave great credit to the creator of his first goal, which he plundered with a fine header from van Persie's glorious left-wing cross.
"I think when you’ve got quality like that, someone who can deliver a ball into the box, then you know if you make a run you’ve got a chance of getting on the end of it. Thankfully it’s a great ball and I’ve managed to head it home. I think it was a great goal.
"That’s the first game we’ve started together up front and we’ve both scored. I’m sure it will get better and better, we have to keep working on that – not just the attacking but the defending side of it as well. We’re both pleased with the way it’s going and when we’ve also got Danny who’s also scored today and Chicharito came on, we’ve got great attacking options. It’s down to the manager to pick from them."
It was ten years ago this weekend that Rooney scored his first-ever goal in senior club football - when Everton beat Arsenal. He's rightly proud to have reached a double century in only a decade.
"I didn’t know I’d reached 200 club goals until after the game. I’m obviously delighted with that," he added."
Sir Alex: We must start better
Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United must break the
bad habit of conceding early goals in order to be successful this
season.
The Reds had to come from behind once again to ensure maximum points against Stoke City on Saturday after an 11th-minute Wayne Rooney own goal had put the visitors ahead. Rooney netted at the right end just before the half-hour mark before further strikes from Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Rooney again sealed a 4-2 victory.
Sir Alex was pleased with the result, but wants to see an improvement from his players in the way they are starting matches.
"We keep starting badly in games, in the first 20 minutes," the manager told MUTV. "We conceded an early goal against Fulham, an early goal against Tottenham, an early goal today – we’re giving ourselves uphill fights. But there’s a goal threat about us, that has to be said, and some of the movement from the forwards was excellent.
"You don’t want it to happen [going behind] but the forwards are digging us out of a hole at times. Hopefully we’ll get it sorted. It was an own goal, the first goal, and you obviously can’t account for that. The second goal was a really slack goal for us to lose.
"There’s no doubt our attacking play has been the strongest part of our game [thsi season]. But we’re letting in goals at home and that’s disappointing."
The combination play between United's starting front men of Rooney, van Persie and Welbeck caused the visitors all sorts of problems and Sir Alex was delighted to see the two Englishmen in the trio score their first club goals of the season.
"The more games Wayne gets, the better he's going to become and I am pleased he’s off the mark with his two goals and Danny's off the mark too," added the boss. "I think that’s about 15 [different] goalscorers already this season so that’s good.
"We saw that flexible movement we have up front where Robin ended up wide left and put in a great cross for Wayne to score [the first goal] with a fantastic header. That kind of movement does bother teams and I’m glad they have started to gel quite well that way."
Today's match was United's chosen game to show support for Kick It Out's latest anti-racism campaign. Sir Alex said on Friday that all his players would be supporting the campaign by donning special T-shirts during the warm-up. Rio Ferdinand, however, opted not to wear one.
"I’m disappointed because I said in the press conference yesterday that all the players would be wearing the T-shirt," stated Sir Alex afterwards. "We did that in support of the PFA and every player in the country should have adhered to that. We’re all wearing the badges and he goes and lets us all down. We’ll deal with it, don’t worry."
The Reds had to come from behind once again to ensure maximum points against Stoke City on Saturday after an 11th-minute Wayne Rooney own goal had put the visitors ahead. Rooney netted at the right end just before the half-hour mark before further strikes from Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Rooney again sealed a 4-2 victory.
Sir Alex was pleased with the result, but wants to see an improvement from his players in the way they are starting matches.
"We keep starting badly in games, in the first 20 minutes," the manager told MUTV. "We conceded an early goal against Fulham, an early goal against Tottenham, an early goal today – we’re giving ourselves uphill fights. But there’s a goal threat about us, that has to be said, and some of the movement from the forwards was excellent.
"You don’t want it to happen [going behind] but the forwards are digging us out of a hole at times. Hopefully we’ll get it sorted. It was an own goal, the first goal, and you obviously can’t account for that. The second goal was a really slack goal for us to lose.
"There’s no doubt our attacking play has been the strongest part of our game [thsi season]. But we’re letting in goals at home and that’s disappointing."
The combination play between United's starting front men of Rooney, van Persie and Welbeck caused the visitors all sorts of problems and Sir Alex was delighted to see the two Englishmen in the trio score their first club goals of the season.
"The more games Wayne gets, the better he's going to become and I am pleased he’s off the mark with his two goals and Danny's off the mark too," added the boss. "I think that’s about 15 [different] goalscorers already this season so that’s good.
"We saw that flexible movement we have up front where Robin ended up wide left and put in a great cross for Wayne to score [the first goal] with a fantastic header. That kind of movement does bother teams and I’m glad they have started to gel quite well that way."
Today's match was United's chosen game to show support for Kick It Out's latest anti-racism campaign. Sir Alex said on Friday that all his players would be supporting the campaign by donning special T-shirts during the warm-up. Rio Ferdinand, however, opted not to wear one.
"I’m disappointed because I said in the press conference yesterday that all the players would be wearing the T-shirt," stated Sir Alex afterwards. "We did that in support of the PFA and every player in the country should have adhered to that. We’re all wearing the badges and he goes and lets us all down. We’ll deal with it, don’t worry."
Friday, 12 October 2012
Lille full-back Lucas Digne says he’s pleased to be linked with United and Chelsea
Lille full-back Lucas Digne says he’s
pleased to be linked with United and Chelsea, as speculation grows that
the Premier League giants could go head-to-head for the young Frenchman
in January. “I am naturally very pleased to have been named in the
French under-21 squad and welcome the news that my selection is followed
in Britain by Manchester United and Chelsea,” Digne said
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the favourite to land the vacant manager’s position at Bolton Wanderers.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the favourite to land the
vacant manager’s position at Bolton Wanderers. Club chairman Phil
Gartside was apparently in London when Solskjaer pulled out of a
speaking engagement at the Leaders in Football conference at Stamford
Bridge. The 39-year-old has also been linked with bossing Blackburn.
Rooney inspired by captain Keane
Wayne Rooney hopes to replicate the
leadership style of former team-mate and Manchester United legend Roy
Keane when he skippers England against San Marino on Friday night.
The Reds striker will lead the Three Lions for the first time in a competitive international in the absence of the suspended Steven Gerrard and injured Frank Lampard.
Though traditionally more of a walker than a talker, 26-year-old Rooney is not hesitant when asked how he intends to captain his country and which former skipper has inspired him most.
“Roy Keane, without a doubt, having played with him for a couple of years and seen how he played on the pitch and dealt with things off it,” Rooney explained. “He was vocal on the pitch and helped me off it. He was a great captain.
“I was lucky enough to play with him and, hopefully, I can gain some of his qualities in my own game. I had a few rollickings off him and we had a few debates. We both wanted to win and sometimes, when you want to win, it’s not always about sitting down and talking quietly.
“You have a go at each other purely to try and get the best out of each other. If you saw the way he was with the other senior players, it was the same as with the younger players.
“He was not afraid to tell everybody how he felt and how he wanted them to perform. He treated everyone the same. He wanted to win and he wanted his team to win. That was a great quality.”
Rooney played alongside the talismanic Keane for just over a season, before the Irishman suddenly left United in the early stages of the 2005/06 campaign. However, Wayne clearly relished his time with
the legendary leader.
“I respected him. He was one of the best players in Premier League and Manchester United history. He is the type of player I like - when he had a go at me, I wanted to show him what I could do. I wasn't fearful. It was about desire and passion.
"I’m not going to change because I’ve got the armband. I’m quite vocal on the pitch. I speak to players and tend to play with determination, which I hope can lift the players and fans. I’ve always tried to help young players.
"It’s a great honour to captain the team and, hopefully, it will be a successful night for us.”
The Reds striker will lead the Three Lions for the first time in a competitive international in the absence of the suspended Steven Gerrard and injured Frank Lampard.
Though traditionally more of a walker than a talker, 26-year-old Rooney is not hesitant when asked how he intends to captain his country and which former skipper has inspired him most.
“Roy Keane, without a doubt, having played with him for a couple of years and seen how he played on the pitch and dealt with things off it,” Rooney explained. “He was vocal on the pitch and helped me off it. He was a great captain.
“I was lucky enough to play with him and, hopefully, I can gain some of his qualities in my own game. I had a few rollickings off him and we had a few debates. We both wanted to win and sometimes, when you want to win, it’s not always about sitting down and talking quietly.
“You have a go at each other purely to try and get the best out of each other. If you saw the way he was with the other senior players, it was the same as with the younger players.
“He was not afraid to tell everybody how he felt and how he wanted them to perform. He treated everyone the same. He wanted to win and he wanted his team to win. That was a great quality.”
Rooney played alongside the talismanic Keane for just over a season, before the Irishman suddenly left United in the early stages of the 2005/06 campaign. However, Wayne clearly relished his time with
the legendary leader.
“I respected him. He was one of the best players in Premier League and Manchester United history. He is the type of player I like - when he had a go at me, I wanted to show him what I could do. I wasn't fearful. It was about desire and passion.
"I’m not going to change because I’ve got the armband. I’m quite vocal on the pitch. I speak to players and tend to play with determination, which I hope can lift the players and fans. I’ve always tried to help young players.
"It’s a great honour to captain the team and, hopefully, it will be a successful night for us.”
Silvestre: Why I'm back at United
Mikael Silvestre has revealed the motive behind his return to
training at Manchester United - his aim to sign for another Barclays
Premier League club.
The French defender, who spent nine trophy-laden seasons with the Reds from 1999 to 2008, is currently a free agent after his contract with German side Werder Bremen expired in the summer. Sir Alex Ferguson invited Silvestre back to Carrington, to help him maintain his fitness as he seeks a fresh challenge.
“I am back here to train,” Mikael told MUTV and ManUtd.com. “I came a few weeks ago and had a chat with the gaffer just before the Capital One Cup game. I said I was coming back to Manchester until Christmas and he said, 'Come and train and stay fit until you move to somewhere else'.
“When you are training with the lads you feel like you are still capable of playing in the Premier League. I am fit, that is the main point, and I still have the hunger for the game. So this level is still the level that I am targeting.
“I have always kept in touch with the club and I almost know everybody here still. There have been some changes in my four years away but there is also a lot of continuity within this club."
A veteran of over 350 appearances as a versatile United defender, Silvestre is perfectly qualified to cast an eye over the left-back berth. The Frenchman believes the recent acquisition of Alexander Büttner should inspire competition for places with his compatriot Patrice Evra.
“I only saw the highlights of the game when Alex started and scored [against Wigan Athletic]. It doesn’t get better than starting at Old Trafford and scoring a goal," said Silvestre.
"Patrice has been there and has been solid in this role, but there hasn’t been any cover for him so he has played a lot of games for United and France. That has demanded a lot of Patrice and it is important to keep the players on their toes and to have fresh legs. There are so many games so you need to rotate at some point. Especially because United full backs do not just sit back and defend, they go and attack and provide width too.”
The question of what the future might hold for Silvestre beyond a playing career remains unanswered, as he considers the different routes and roles available to him within football. However, with one business interest already to his name, the ex-Red could yet make a clean break from the beautiful game.
“I keep thinking about what I will do when I stop playing but I am not sure. Football is my life of course, but I don’t know in which position or area I might stay on.
"I have started a rum business, which is called Rhum St Barth, based in St Barth's [a French island in the Caribbean].
"We started it a year and a half ago but we are just entering the UK market. In fact I will be in London this weekend at the UK Rum Festival to promote it. We are selling in Sweden, in the States and obviously France, and we want to go global.
"So I also have rum on my mind, as well as football!"
The French defender, who spent nine trophy-laden seasons with the Reds from 1999 to 2008, is currently a free agent after his contract with German side Werder Bremen expired in the summer. Sir Alex Ferguson invited Silvestre back to Carrington, to help him maintain his fitness as he seeks a fresh challenge.
“I am back here to train,” Mikael told MUTV and ManUtd.com. “I came a few weeks ago and had a chat with the gaffer just before the Capital One Cup game. I said I was coming back to Manchester until Christmas and he said, 'Come and train and stay fit until you move to somewhere else'.
“When you are training with the lads you feel like you are still capable of playing in the Premier League. I am fit, that is the main point, and I still have the hunger for the game. So this level is still the level that I am targeting.
“I have always kept in touch with the club and I almost know everybody here still. There have been some changes in my four years away but there is also a lot of continuity within this club."
A veteran of over 350 appearances as a versatile United defender, Silvestre is perfectly qualified to cast an eye over the left-back berth. The Frenchman believes the recent acquisition of Alexander Büttner should inspire competition for places with his compatriot Patrice Evra.
“I only saw the highlights of the game when Alex started and scored [against Wigan Athletic]. It doesn’t get better than starting at Old Trafford and scoring a goal," said Silvestre.
"Patrice has been there and has been solid in this role, but there hasn’t been any cover for him so he has played a lot of games for United and France. That has demanded a lot of Patrice and it is important to keep the players on their toes and to have fresh legs. There are so many games so you need to rotate at some point. Especially because United full backs do not just sit back and defend, they go and attack and provide width too.”
The question of what the future might hold for Silvestre beyond a playing career remains unanswered, as he considers the different routes and roles available to him within football. However, with one business interest already to his name, the ex-Red could yet make a clean break from the beautiful game.
“I keep thinking about what I will do when I stop playing but I am not sure. Football is my life of course, but I don’t know in which position or area I might stay on.
"I have started a rum business, which is called Rhum St Barth, based in St Barth's [a French island in the Caribbean].
"We started it a year and a half ago but we are just entering the UK market. In fact I will be in London this weekend at the UK Rum Festival to promote it. We are selling in Sweden, in the States and obviously France, and we want to go global.
"So I also have rum on my mind, as well as football!"
Cleverley nets new deal
Manchester United are ready to reward Tom Cleverley's
remarkable progress - by doubling his wages just ONE year after his
current contract. Talks are now underway to bring the England
midfielder's salary into line with some of the superstars at the club,
after he confirmed his status as one of the most exciting young players
in the country with a string of superb performances. Cleverley is now a
fixture in the England team, and is seen as a key part of Sir Alex
Ferguson's new-look United side as he looks to create a team that can
dominate the Premier League for the next decade. Crucially, the
23-year-old has begun to show the goals instinct that his manager has
been hoping to see, and with his pivotal role in the United team, the
Old Trafford board accept the player will demand a bigger deal. He is
currently on around £40,000 a week after signing a contract at the start
of last season, but that was before he made any impact in both the
Premier League or on the international stage. Now though, Cleverley can
expect to double his money, to reflect his status at the club... even if
that will still leave him a long way short of some of the top earners
at Old Trafford, such as Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie, who command
more than twice that figure.
Monday, 8 October 2012
MUFC Players Rating Vs Newcastle.
Dea Gea: 8.0
Evra: 9.0
Ferdinand: 8.5
Evans: 8.5
Rafael:8.0
Kagawa: 7.5
Carrick: 8.0
Cleverley: 9.0
Rooney: 9.5
RVP: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0
Replacement:
Giggs:8.0
Scholes: 8.0 Man Of The Match:
Rooney
Evra: 9.0
Ferdinand: 8.5
Evans: 8.5
Rafael:8.0
Kagawa: 7.5
Carrick: 8.0
Cleverley: 9.0
Rooney: 9.5
RVP: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0
Replacement:
Giggs:8.0
Scholes: 8.0 Man Of The Match:
Rooney
Robin van Persie is facing a possible three-match ban.
Robin van Persie is facing a possible three-match ban after being accused of elbowing Yohan Cabaye
in the win at Newcastle. Alan Pardew has called for the FA to look at
an off-the-ball clash between van Persie and the French midfielder, who
collapsed in a heap clutching his head.
Evans hungry for more Goals
Jonny Evans is targeting more goals for Manchester United
after his headed opener helped seal an emphatic and impressive 3-0 win
over Newcastle United.
The Northern Irish defender connected with Robin van Persie’s left-wing corner at the Sports Direct Arena to seal his first goal of the season and only the second of his Reds career. Now, after contributing to an excellent victory and an encouraging team performance in the north east, Evans is looking to make more of an impact at the opposite end of the pitch from where he normally operates.
“As a defender, you want clean sheets but scoring a goal put a bit of gloss on my own performance so it was nice to chip in,” Jonny told MUTV. “As soon as I made a connection with it I thought it was going in, so I was delighted with that and hopefully I can add a few more.
“You could see by the way that we started that we wanted to come out and put on a good performance. I think the main thing was that we defended and attacked as a team. We were a real unit out there and we made it hard for a good Newcastle side.
“They had big powerful lads with good goal scoring records, especially up at the Sports Direct Arena. We knew we were in for a hard game but we were up for the challenge and thankfully we were able to keep a clean sheet.
“We were seven points behind Chelsea (before the game) so it was a big gap and if we had dropped points it would have been a big task. Although it is still early on in the season, you don’t want to give a team that kind of advantage so early on.”
Tom Cleverley scored United’s third goal against the Magpies on Sunday, curling an audacious effort into the top corner after cutting inside from the
left flank. The strike, quite comically, caused much debate after the match as to whether or not the midfielder meant it.
And although Cleverley insists his finish was deliberate, Evans is not buying it: “There is no way he meant that. To try and shoot from there, especially to bend it, he definitely didn’t mean it. I think he was looking for Robin van Persie at the back post but it went in.
“But that was a really important time for us to score a goal because they kept pumping the ball in the box and were getting one or two chances. It was important for us to get the 3-0 lead.”
The Northern Irish defender connected with Robin van Persie’s left-wing corner at the Sports Direct Arena to seal his first goal of the season and only the second of his Reds career. Now, after contributing to an excellent victory and an encouraging team performance in the north east, Evans is looking to make more of an impact at the opposite end of the pitch from where he normally operates.
“As a defender, you want clean sheets but scoring a goal put a bit of gloss on my own performance so it was nice to chip in,” Jonny told MUTV. “As soon as I made a connection with it I thought it was going in, so I was delighted with that and hopefully I can add a few more.
“You could see by the way that we started that we wanted to come out and put on a good performance. I think the main thing was that we defended and attacked as a team. We were a real unit out there and we made it hard for a good Newcastle side.
“They had big powerful lads with good goal scoring records, especially up at the Sports Direct Arena. We knew we were in for a hard game but we were up for the challenge and thankfully we were able to keep a clean sheet.
“We were seven points behind Chelsea (before the game) so it was a big gap and if we had dropped points it would have been a big task. Although it is still early on in the season, you don’t want to give a team that kind of advantage so early on.”
Tom Cleverley scored United’s third goal against the Magpies on Sunday, curling an audacious effort into the top corner after cutting inside from the
left flank. The strike, quite comically, caused much debate after the match as to whether or not the midfielder meant it.
And although Cleverley insists his finish was deliberate, Evans is not buying it: “There is no way he meant that. To try and shoot from there, especially to bend it, he definitely didn’t mean it. I think he was looking for Robin van Persie at the back post but it went in.
“But that was a really important time for us to score a goal because they kept pumping the ball in the box and were getting one or two chances. It was important for us to get the 3-0 lead.”
Sir Alex eyes defence dilemma
Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a selection headache in defence
for probably the first time this season with Chris Smalling close to
being available again.
The manager has had to contend with Smalling and fellow England international Phil Jones being sidelined since the start of the season while Jonny Evans was still recovering from an operation in August and Nemanja Vidic has also undergone surgery.
The Reds defended superbly at Newcastle with each individual member of the back four impressing but Smalling will be looking to earn a place in the line-up, starting with the home fixture against Stoke City following the international break. With Sir Alex full of admiration for Evans and Rio Ferdinand in particular, it will be no easy task for the former Fulham defender to force his way into the side.
"Ferdinand and Evans were magnificent [at Newcastle]," enthused Sir Alex. "Absolutely brilliant. That kind of form definitely gives you a solid base. It gives us a security and enables the midfield players and front players to get on with their jobs. They cleared everything.
"We've got to get consistency in the performances and in the results. Once we get that, we'll get into a rhythm. We've got the squad to deal with all the games, we've got a really good squad. And after the international break, we'll have Chris Smalling back which will be another addition to our squad which is very important."
The manager has had to contend with Smalling and fellow England international Phil Jones being sidelined since the start of the season while Jonny Evans was still recovering from an operation in August and Nemanja Vidic has also undergone surgery.
The Reds defended superbly at Newcastle with each individual member of the back four impressing but Smalling will be looking to earn a place in the line-up, starting with the home fixture against Stoke City following the international break. With Sir Alex full of admiration for Evans and Rio Ferdinand in particular, it will be no easy task for the former Fulham defender to force his way into the side.
"Ferdinand and Evans were magnificent [at Newcastle]," enthused Sir Alex. "Absolutely brilliant. That kind of form definitely gives you a solid base. It gives us a security and enables the midfield players and front players to get on with their jobs. They cleared everything.
"We've got to get consistency in the performances and in the results. Once we get that, we'll get into a rhythm. We've got the squad to deal with all the games, we've got a really good squad. And after the international break, we'll have Chris Smalling back which will be another addition to our squad which is very important."
Praise for Wayne
Wayne Rooney produced a master class yesterday to announce he is very
much back in business. He was at the centre of Manchester United’s best
display for some time in the 3-0 win at Newcastle. The season started
horribly for the player — poor against Everton, dropped, then injured.
The star of the show was Robin van Persie and Rooney’s Old Trafford
future was coming under the spotlight. But you cannot keep a player of
this man’s ability down for long. Looking fit again and firing on all
cylinders, he was everywhere at St James’s Park. Helping out his
defence, available for a ball from the back, on a wing to cross the ball
and in behind Van Persie directly through the middle. When he is in
this mood, he still ranks for me among the best in Europe. His touch,
passing and energy made Manchester United tick.
Alan Shearer, The Sun
Alan Shearer, The Sun
Saturday, 6 October 2012
Chicharitio to Real Madrid?
Javier Hernandez could be Real Madrid bound with United asking for one of Jose Mourinho's players in return. Those forwarded include Sergio Ramos, Raul Albiol, Raphael Varane and Nuri Sahin, who is currently on loan at Liverpool. However, Alicia Johnson's report cites Kaka as the 'dream target'.
Van Persie work paying off
Robin van Persie has made a commanding start to his
Manchester United career, but the striker is still putting in the hard
yards behind the scenes.
Far from resting on his laurels, the Dutchman is working hard at Carrington to make up for missing nearly all of Arsenal’s pre-season campaign before he joined the Reds. And his endeavours have not gone unnoticed.
"The refreshing thing for me is he’s doing extra work in training because he’s not had any pre-season games," said Sir Alex Ferguson at his Friday press conference.
"It’s quite remarkable considering he’s got seven goals in [his last] seven games. I’m pleased with that and I think his fitness will improve even more.
"He’s a good passer of the ball with good vision in his passing, too. The goal he made last week for [Shinji] Kagawa against Tottenham is evidence of his passing ability."
Van Persie hit 37 goals for the Gunners last season and Sir Alex was asked if it was possible the 29-year-old could emulate that tally in his maiden campaign with the Reds.
"I would love that to happen," the boss said. "In my experience, and where we are at the moment, we need two strikers to get over 20 goals. If we get that, we definitely have a chance."
United fans enjoyed the sight of van Persie starting alongside a deep-lying Wayne Rooney for the first time in Tuesday’s Champions League win over CFR Cluj.
Sir Alex explained that he opted for the duo in an intriguing three-pronged forward line that also featured Javier Hernandez to combat Cluj’s threat on the counter-attack.
"For the last couple of years, Wayne has played a lot in behind one striker," he said. "But Cluj are a useful side who rely on the counter-attack, so we tried to avoid that as much as we could.
"In fact, their goal was from a counter-attack, but we tried to force them onto us so we could counter-attack ourselves.
"Chicharito was occupying the main two central defenders so we’d have a wee bit more space for Rooney and van Persie."
Far from resting on his laurels, the Dutchman is working hard at Carrington to make up for missing nearly all of Arsenal’s pre-season campaign before he joined the Reds. And his endeavours have not gone unnoticed.
"The refreshing thing for me is he’s doing extra work in training because he’s not had any pre-season games," said Sir Alex Ferguson at his Friday press conference.
"It’s quite remarkable considering he’s got seven goals in [his last] seven games. I’m pleased with that and I think his fitness will improve even more.
"He’s a good passer of the ball with good vision in his passing, too. The goal he made last week for [Shinji] Kagawa against Tottenham is evidence of his passing ability."
Van Persie hit 37 goals for the Gunners last season and Sir Alex was asked if it was possible the 29-year-old could emulate that tally in his maiden campaign with the Reds.
"I would love that to happen," the boss said. "In my experience, and where we are at the moment, we need two strikers to get over 20 goals. If we get that, we definitely have a chance."
United fans enjoyed the sight of van Persie starting alongside a deep-lying Wayne Rooney for the first time in Tuesday’s Champions League win over CFR Cluj.
Sir Alex explained that he opted for the duo in an intriguing three-pronged forward line that also featured Javier Hernandez to combat Cluj’s threat on the counter-attack.
"For the last couple of years, Wayne has played a lot in behind one striker," he said. "But Cluj are a useful side who rely on the counter-attack, so we tried to avoid that as much as we could.
"In fact, their goal was from a counter-attack, but we tried to force them onto us so we could counter-attack ourselves.
"Chicharito was occupying the main two central defenders so we’d have a wee bit more space for Rooney and van Persie."
Angelo Henriquez Settling In
Manchester United coach Warren Joyce says new signing Angelo Henriquez will soon settle in at Old Trafford.
The Chilean teenager moved to United in August from Universidad in his homeland and after scoring in the Under-21s’ 4-2 victory over Newcastle United he found the going much tougher when he was marked out of the game when United took on Sunderland.
“It’s a long-term project,” Joyce told MUTV. “Angelo is a great lad. He’s come to the country and fitted in well.
“He’s working hard in training but we had three forwards up there [at Sunderland] even if we didn’t play like that in the first half. It wasn’t just one up front – we had three forwards looking for rotations but we didn’t retain the ball long enough to get into positions where we could develop those situations.”
The Chilean teenager moved to United in August from Universidad in his homeland and after scoring in the Under-21s’ 4-2 victory over Newcastle United he found the going much tougher when he was marked out of the game when United took on Sunderland.
“It’s a long-term project,” Joyce told MUTV. “Angelo is a great lad. He’s come to the country and fitted in well.
“He’s working hard in training but we had three forwards up there [at Sunderland] even if we didn’t play like that in the first half. It wasn’t just one up front – we had three forwards looking for rotations but we didn’t retain the ball long enough to get into positions where we could develop those situations.”
Sir Alex May Retain Keeper Rotation
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says he has yet to decide
who to play in goal when his club visit Newcastle United on Sunday
amidst signs he may continue his policy of rotation.
David de Gea had a fine game in goal when United won at Cluj on Tuesday but Anders Lindegaard has played in the last four Premier League games and Sir Alex said the form showed by both his keepers in recent games was symptomatic of the competition for places across the whole of the club.
‘He [De Gea] was excellent,” Sir Alex said on Friday. “He is an outstanding goalkeeper, the young lad; he is getting better all the time.
“I don’t know whether I should play him on Sunday or not but the way we have been doing it in the last few weeks has worked quite well for us.
“Everybody wants to play, goalkeepers are no different, but the way I look at it at the moment is getting the two of them experience will help me in the long term
“Obviously at some stage one of them will take over if he shows a real consistency in top-level performance and he has shown a maturity.
“At the moment neither of them have got that big-game experience. They will get that in time.”
David de Gea had a fine game in goal when United won at Cluj on Tuesday but Anders Lindegaard has played in the last four Premier League games and Sir Alex said the form showed by both his keepers in recent games was symptomatic of the competition for places across the whole of the club.
‘He [De Gea] was excellent,” Sir Alex said on Friday. “He is an outstanding goalkeeper, the young lad; he is getting better all the time.
“I don’t know whether I should play him on Sunday or not but the way we have been doing it in the last few weeks has worked quite well for us.
“Everybody wants to play, goalkeepers are no different, but the way I look at it at the moment is getting the two of them experience will help me in the long term
“Obviously at some stage one of them will take over if he shows a real consistency in top-level performance and he has shown a maturity.
“At the moment neither of them have got that big-game experience. They will get that in time.”
Victor Wanyama To United?
Manchester United are being linked with a January move for Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama with one newspaper report today claiming that Sir Alex Ferguson’s brother Martin has been watching the 21-year-old.
The report isn’t new; United were linked with Wanyama at the beginning of August when it was reported that scouts from Old Trafford had watched Wanyama play in some of Celtic’s pre-season friendlies and in their Champions League qualifier with Finnish side HJK Helsinki.
Martin Ferguson has been detailed to watch Wanyama in Celtic’s Champions League games to assess how well he performs against much tougher opposition than he will meet week-in, week-out in the SPL.
However, Sir Alex is notoriously reticent for splashing the cash during the January transfer window and a summer move is perhaps more likely for the Kenya international. Wanyama – described as being a defensive midfielder in the mould of Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote – joined Celtic in the summer of 2011 in a £900,000 move from Belgian side Beerschot AC and soon became cemented his place in the first-team. He is now valued at around £7million.
The report isn’t new; United were linked with Wanyama at the beginning of August when it was reported that scouts from Old Trafford had watched Wanyama play in some of Celtic’s pre-season friendlies and in their Champions League qualifier with Finnish side HJK Helsinki.
Martin Ferguson has been detailed to watch Wanyama in Celtic’s Champions League games to assess how well he performs against much tougher opposition than he will meet week-in, week-out in the SPL.
However, Sir Alex is notoriously reticent for splashing the cash during the January transfer window and a summer move is perhaps more likely for the Kenya international. Wanyama – described as being a defensive midfielder in the mould of Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote – joined Celtic in the summer of 2011 in a £900,000 move from Belgian side Beerschot AC and soon became cemented his place in the first-team. He is now valued at around £7million.
Thursday, 27 September 2012
Kevin Strootman To United?
United links with a January bid for PSV midfielder Kevin Strootman,
after he was apparently given the green light for a move away from
Holland in the New Year. “Strootman has had a good time in Eindhoven,
but he decided that he wants to prove himself in a better league,” his
agent Chiel Dekker told the Dutch media. “If an agreement is able to be
reached with a potentially interested club, PSV will allow Kevin to
leave in January.”
Capital gains for Fletch
Timely return of Fergie’s big game hunterFor the
ultimate ‘big game’ player it was a relatively low-key return. But for
Darren Fletcher last night’s Capital One Cup third round tie with
Newcastle was as momentous as any in his career. Starting a match for
the first time since November 2011, it was an occasion that many feared
would never come when it was revealed last year that he was battling to
overcome ulcerative colitis. In his darkest moments, Fletcher too must
have questioned if a career that has already defied the odds would come
to a premature end. No matter then that he was playing in a competition
Sir Alex Ferguson usually reserves for blooding his youngsters or
stretching the legs of fringe players. And who cares if there were
swathes of empty seats inside Old Trafford for a match that had clearly
failed to capture the imagination of supporters. As far as Fletcher was
concerned, last night was always going to be about much more than a game
of football.
Tom eyes more goals
Tom Cleverley hopes his first senior goal for the Reds, in
Wednesday's League Cup win over Newcastle, will now spark a flurry of
goals for the midfielder.
Cleverley's excellent 58th-minute strike proved to be the decisive goal in an entertaining tie at Old Trafford as Sir Alex's men ran out 2-1 winners.
The 23-year-old admitted the drought in front of goal has been playing on his mind, especially after he struck the ball wide in the first half after being put clean through. But he hopes that having finally broken his duck, the floodgates will now open.
"It's been playing on my mind a little bit because I've always scored goals when I've gone out on loan but I've not been doing it for my club and country," he told MUTV.
"The gaffer gave me a bit [of stick] at half-time for missing the chance in the first half so it was nice to stroke that one in. Hopefully that sets me off on a run now.
"I practice those sorts of finishes a lot in training with Rene [Meulensteen] and when it came to me from Welbs [Danny Welbeck] I always knew what I was going to do. Luckily it found the back of the net. I've got that first one now and hopefully more will come."
Cleverley was full of praise for his fellow youngsters on the night, four of which made their senior debuts.
"It was quite a young team but I thought everyone did fantastically well," added the England international.
"I think all the young lads can be pleased with their performance – there won't be many tougher strike forces to play against than Newcastle's in a physical sense.
"It was fantastic to have both Wazza [Wayne Rooney] and Fletch [Darren Fletcher] back as well," he continued. "Fletch is a big-game player who can bring positive things to any squad in the world and Wazza came back and put in a great performance. "We've been a bit unlucky with injuries but that's what we've got a squad for – as players get injured, others are coming back. There is good competition in the squad at the moment and we're winning games so it's all good."
Cleverley's excellent 58th-minute strike proved to be the decisive goal in an entertaining tie at Old Trafford as Sir Alex's men ran out 2-1 winners.
The 23-year-old admitted the drought in front of goal has been playing on his mind, especially after he struck the ball wide in the first half after being put clean through. But he hopes that having finally broken his duck, the floodgates will now open.
"It's been playing on my mind a little bit because I've always scored goals when I've gone out on loan but I've not been doing it for my club and country," he told MUTV.
"The gaffer gave me a bit [of stick] at half-time for missing the chance in the first half so it was nice to stroke that one in. Hopefully that sets me off on a run now.
"I practice those sorts of finishes a lot in training with Rene [Meulensteen] and when it came to me from Welbs [Danny Welbeck] I always knew what I was going to do. Luckily it found the back of the net. I've got that first one now and hopefully more will come."
Cleverley was full of praise for his fellow youngsters on the night, four of which made their senior debuts.
"It was quite a young team but I thought everyone did fantastically well," added the England international.
"I think all the young lads can be pleased with their performance – there won't be many tougher strike forces to play against than Newcastle's in a physical sense.
"It was fantastic to have both Wazza [Wayne Rooney] and Fletch [Darren Fletcher] back as well," he continued. "Fletch is a big-game player who can bring positive things to any squad in the world and Wazza came back and put in a great performance. "We've been a bit unlucky with injuries but that's what we've got a squad for – as players get injured, others are coming back. There is good competition in the squad at the moment and we're winning games so it's all good."
Reds relishing Chelsea tie
United are already relishing the Capital One Cup fourth round trip to Chelsea, according to Darren Fletcher.
There was only one club higher in the Barclays Premier League table than the Reds when the draw was made and yet it pitted Sir Alex's side with a taxing trip to the league leaders. A similar thing happened, of course, in last season's FA Cup third round when United had to travel to Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.
Yet Fletcher is far from daunted about the prospect of facing the European champions twice in quick succession next month, before another blockbuster encounter with Arsenal the following weekend.
"It's exciting," he insisted to MUTV. "It is what it's all about. This club is all about big games and that's another one.
"We want to progress in the competition. So we'll be going to Chelsea and looking to win.
"We know it's going to be difficult as they have started the season very well but the manager has got a big squad to choose from. Those three games will be massive so I'm sure everyone will play a part.
"We want to be in the next round and want to win every competition we're in."
There was only one club higher in the Barclays Premier League table than the Reds when the draw was made and yet it pitted Sir Alex's side with a taxing trip to the league leaders. A similar thing happened, of course, in last season's FA Cup third round when United had to travel to Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.
Yet Fletcher is far from daunted about the prospect of facing the European champions twice in quick succession next month, before another blockbuster encounter with Arsenal the following weekend.
"It's exciting," he insisted to MUTV. "It is what it's all about. This club is all about big games and that's another one.
"We want to progress in the competition. So we'll be going to Chelsea and looking to win.
"We know it's going to be difficult as they have started the season very well but the manager has got a big squad to choose from. Those three games will be massive so I'm sure everyone will play a part.
"We want to be in the next round and want to win every competition we're in."
Tuesday, 25 September 2012
SAF Want to Buy Semith Kaya
Galatasaray vice-president Ali Durust claims Sir Alex has made an enquiry for Semih Kaya. The Turkish club official is quoted by Metro as saying: "It
is true to say that Sir Alex Ferguson had talked with our president
about Semih. He asked for the price of a possible transfer, but that
question is yet to be answered." Kaya featured against the Reds in the
Champions League last week.
Lingard waits on cup call
Jesse Lingard is hoping to be involved in Manchester United's
Capital One Cup tie against Newcastle United at Old Trafford on
Wednesday night.
The promising midfielder was on the bench for last season's 3-0 league defeat at Newcastle's Sports Direct Arena and he was also an unused substitute for the Reds' League Cup exit to Crystal Palace in November. Some eye-catching involvement on United's DHL pre-season tour suggested he is getting closer to his senior competitive bow.
After scoring his first reserve-team goal of 2012/13 in last week's Manchester Senior Cup win over Bury, the 19-year-old is keen to become the latest homegrown talent to appear for the senior side.
"There will probably be some younger lads involved against Newcastle and we’ll have to wait and see if the boss calls me up," Lingard told ManUtd.com. "Hopefully he will."
If selected, Lingard would relish the opportunity to play with some established first-team stars.
"You need the experience of the older players to be there with you and help you along the way," he added.
"Newcastle are a strong team as well, so it should be a good game."
The promising midfielder was on the bench for last season's 3-0 league defeat at Newcastle's Sports Direct Arena and he was also an unused substitute for the Reds' League Cup exit to Crystal Palace in November. Some eye-catching involvement on United's DHL pre-season tour suggested he is getting closer to his senior competitive bow.
After scoring his first reserve-team goal of 2012/13 in last week's Manchester Senior Cup win over Bury, the 19-year-old is keen to become the latest homegrown talent to appear for the senior side.
"There will probably be some younger lads involved against Newcastle and we’ll have to wait and see if the boss calls me up," Lingard told ManUtd.com. "Hopefully he will."
If selected, Lingard would relish the opportunity to play with some established first-team stars.
"You need the experience of the older players to be there with you and help you along the way," he added.
"Newcastle are a strong team as well, so it should be a good game."
Evra embraces left-back battle
Patrice Evra insists he will never take his place in the team
for granted despite being a virtual ever-present for the last few
seasons.
The Frenchman has topped the appearance charts for near enough the last five seasons and established himself as one of the best left-backs in the game. The recent arrival of Alexander Büttner has brought both cover and extra competition for the position which Evra insists he is determined to hold on to.
"You have to fight for your place every day," he told PA Sport. "Last season I played a lot of games and maybe if I play well these days people just accept that as normal. But it is not normal playing well for United.
"When you play a bad game people criticise you too quickly. My target is simple: football is like a pyramid and I want to stay on the top. It is easy to reach the top of the pyramid but to stay there is the hardest part. I always try to stay on the top. I tried last year, I will try this year and the year after that. I have
been really happy with my form. I am confident with myself and with my quality. I've been here six years and I want to be the best. That is my target every year.
"My biggest challenge is from myself," adds Evra. "I am not being arrogant but I am my biggest challenge. People forget very quickly how I got to become United’s left-back. There was Gabriel Heinze and Mikael Silvestre. When I hear people say Patrice never had someone to fight him for his place I just say they have to remember I fought with two great left-backs. They have bad memories!
"I will keep fighting, too. It is too easy for people to say that now we have bought another left-back, ‘Oh yes Patrice Evra will have to fight for his place now.’ Patrice Evra has always fought for his place. It doesn't matter if someone is there or if they're not, I will fight because you have to respect the shirt. When you play for Manchester United that is the big challenge."
The Frenchman has topped the appearance charts for near enough the last five seasons and established himself as one of the best left-backs in the game. The recent arrival of Alexander Büttner has brought both cover and extra competition for the position which Evra insists he is determined to hold on to.
"You have to fight for your place every day," he told PA Sport. "Last season I played a lot of games and maybe if I play well these days people just accept that as normal. But it is not normal playing well for United.
"When you play a bad game people criticise you too quickly. My target is simple: football is like a pyramid and I want to stay on the top. It is easy to reach the top of the pyramid but to stay there is the hardest part. I always try to stay on the top. I tried last year, I will try this year and the year after that. I have
been really happy with my form. I am confident with myself and with my quality. I've been here six years and I want to be the best. That is my target every year.
"My biggest challenge is from myself," adds Evra. "I am not being arrogant but I am my biggest challenge. People forget very quickly how I got to become United’s left-back. There was Gabriel Heinze and Mikael Silvestre. When I hear people say Patrice never had someone to fight him for his place I just say they have to remember I fought with two great left-backs. They have bad memories!
"I will keep fighting, too. It is too easy for people to say that now we have bought another left-back, ‘Oh yes Patrice Evra will have to fight for his place now.’ Patrice Evra has always fought for his place. It doesn't matter if someone is there or if they're not, I will fight because you have to respect the shirt. When you play for Manchester United that is the big challenge."
Rooney to return
Wayne Rooney has an outside chance of making the squad for Manchester
United’s Capital One Cup tie against Newcastle at Old Trafford on
Tuesday night. The 26-year-old striker has not played since suffering a
gash to his thigh against Fulham last month. But he has been training
for more than a week and has moved into contention for a place in Sir
Alex Ferguson’s squad. If he does not feature then he should play
against Tottenham on Saturday. Midfielder Darren Fletcher will start on
Tuesday as he continues his rehabilitation after being diagnosed with a
bowel condition last year. Fletcher, who came on as a substitute against
Galatasaray in the Champions League last week, has not started a game
for United since last November. Ferguson said: "He will play against
Newcastle and that is the perfect game for him to start back. It will be
his first 90 minutes for 10 months. It’s a big one for him."
Monday, 24 September 2012
Man United Players Rating vs Liverpool
Lindegaard: 8.5
Evra: 7.5
Ferdinand: 8.0
Evans: 8.0
Rafael: 9.0
Nani: 7.0
Carrick: 8.0
Giggs: .0
kagawa: 8.5
Valencia: 8.5
RVP: 8.5
Replacement:
Scholes: 7.5
Chicharito: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0 Man Of the Match (for me)
Rafael
Evra: 7.5
Ferdinand: 8.0
Evans: 8.0
Rafael: 9.0
Nani: 7.0
Carrick: 8.0
Giggs: .0
kagawa: 8.5
Valencia: 8.5
RVP: 8.5
Replacement:
Scholes: 7.5
Chicharito: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0 Man Of the Match (for me)
Rafael
Friday, 21 September 2012
United want to sign Angelo Ogbonna and Sofiane Feghouli
Reds are keen to sign Torino centre-back Angelo Ogbonna and Valencia midfielder Sofiane Feghouli.
Torino’s sporting director Gianluca Petrachi confirmed: “I guarantee
there are observers of many foreign clubs who follow our games,
including United’s scouts... Last year we refused £10m for him but it is
clear he is worth more than £16m.”
Captain calls for calm
Reds captain Nemanja Vidic has appealed to both United and
Liverpool supporters to be on their best behaviour when the teams meet
on Sunday.
The match is the first at Anfield since the recent publication of the Hillsborough Independent Panel’s review of the disaster that claimed 96 Liverpool fans’ lives in 1989. The findings cleared Liverpool supporters of any wrongdoing and Vidic and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will mark the occasion with a show of solidarity by releasing 96 red balloons before kick-off.
Vidic, who grew up in a war-torn Yugoslavia, has pleaded for fans to show similar respect on Sunday and reminded supporters that “football is important, but it is never more important than life”.
“There is a lot of history with these two clubs,” Vidic told journalists following United’s Champions League victory on Wednesday night. “We have some history, some tragedies. They have as well.
“I think we should respect each other because we are big clubs who are respected around the world. We have to show an example, be on top of the bad situation and behave well.
"Football is important, but it is never more important than life,” he said. “After this game, everyone should be talking about the football, and that’s all. I hope that will be the case.”
Vidic also acknowledged the players’ role in helping to keep emotions in check on Sunday.
“It’s probably the biggest derby in the world and we have to show we are capable of keeping a good atmosphere and setting a good example. It’s important to not do any stupid things in the game, to go there and play football. It’s what we dream of – to play that derby and for it to be all about the football, not about the fighting or any other things.”
The match is the first at Anfield since the recent publication of the Hillsborough Independent Panel’s review of the disaster that claimed 96 Liverpool fans’ lives in 1989. The findings cleared Liverpool supporters of any wrongdoing and Vidic and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will mark the occasion with a show of solidarity by releasing 96 red balloons before kick-off.
Vidic, who grew up in a war-torn Yugoslavia, has pleaded for fans to show similar respect on Sunday and reminded supporters that “football is important, but it is never more important than life”.
“There is a lot of history with these two clubs,” Vidic told journalists following United’s Champions League victory on Wednesday night. “We have some history, some tragedies. They have as well.
“I think we should respect each other because we are big clubs who are respected around the world. We have to show an example, be on top of the bad situation and behave well.
"Football is important, but it is never more important than life,” he said. “After this game, everyone should be talking about the football, and that’s all. I hope that will be the case.”
Vidic also acknowledged the players’ role in helping to keep emotions in check on Sunday.
“It’s probably the biggest derby in the world and we have to show we are capable of keeping a good atmosphere and setting a good example. It’s important to not do any stupid things in the game, to go there and play football. It’s what we dream of – to play that derby and for it to be all about the football, not about the fighting or any other things.”
Papers: Reds to shake
United put Suarez row aside for Anfield tribute
Every Manchester United player will shake hands with Luis Suarez on Sunday. Liverpool star Suarez served an eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra last October — then caused uproar by refusing to shake the United defender’s hand when the sides met in February. Sunday’s game will be Liverpool’s first at Anfield since the publication of the Hillsborough report, which cleared their fans of blame for the 1989 disaster which claimed 96 lives. A United insider revealed: “On a day such as Sunday, which is bound to be full of all kinds of emotion, no one wants anything to happen that will tarnish the match. Luis and Patrice will shake hands just as every other player will shake hands. They want to show unity between United and Liverpool. It is only proper that the right example should come from players on the pitch.”
Every Manchester United player will shake hands with Luis Suarez on Sunday. Liverpool star Suarez served an eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra last October — then caused uproar by refusing to shake the United defender’s hand when the sides met in February. Sunday’s game will be Liverpool’s first at Anfield since the publication of the Hillsborough report, which cleared their fans of blame for the 1989 disaster which claimed 96 lives. A United insider revealed: “On a day such as Sunday, which is bound to be full of all kinds of emotion, no one wants anything to happen that will tarnish the match. Luis and Patrice will shake hands just as every other player will shake hands. They want to show unity between United and Liverpool. It is only proper that the right example should come from players on the pitch.”
Sir Alex rules out Rooney
Sir Alex Ferguson has no fresh injury concerns ahead of
Sunday’s meeting with Liverpool, confirming that everybody who featured
against Galatasaray is fit for the trip to Anfield.
Speaking at his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss also gave an update on the fitness of Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young, who are both unavailable this weekend due to a gashed thigh and bruised cartilage respectively.
“Everybody is available who played on Wednesday,” Sir Alex told ManUtd.com. “I know there were reports on Rooney being available but that’s not the case. He’s not far away, he’s working hard and we just need to get him into football training now.
“It is bruised cartilage for Ashley Young, which will take a few weeks more. We will take our time with Young, he’ll be okay in two to three weeks' time.”
Speaking at his weekly press conference at Carrington, the boss also gave an update on the fitness of Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young, who are both unavailable this weekend due to a gashed thigh and bruised cartilage respectively.
“Everybody is available who played on Wednesday,” Sir Alex told ManUtd.com. “I know there were reports on Rooney being available but that’s not the case. He’s not far away, he’s working hard and we just need to get him into football training now.
“It is bruised cartilage for Ashley Young, which will take a few weeks more. We will take our time with Young, he’ll be okay in two to three weeks' time.”
Thursday, 20 September 2012
Papers: The Kagawa effect
Kagawa offers new dimension to United
Ryan Giggs called it. The 38 year-old has seen it all and, on the eve of this encounter, he name-checked Shinji Kagawa as an addition who could add a dimension to Manchester United – especially in the Champions League. “Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key,” Giggs claimed. “He keeps the ball and gets into positions where he is hard to pick up.” The playmaker provided compelling evidence of that ability last night even if, in truth, those around provided yet more evidence that United do not really like these group matches, and that some of their defensive failings are turning into something of a malaise. Maybe familiarity has become a burden but United were saved by the woodwork and the failure of the officials to award Galatasaray a first-minute penalty. Kagawa is the fresh blood, of course. He’s also, quite convincingly, already, the real deal.
Of course, today’s papers are dominated by United’s 1-0 win over Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League, with many leading on Sir Alex Ferguson’s reaction to his side missing a third consecutive penalty this season, after Nani’s spot-kick was saved by Fernando Muslera. In The Sun, the boss is quoted: “To be honest, I have no idea why Nani took it. I think he just ran and grabbed the ball, Robin (van Persie) should have taken it.”
Elsewhere, David Anderson of The Mirror claims David De Gea has taken a step towards convincing Sir Alex he can be the Reds’ undisputed number one choice this season by keeping a clean sheet against the Turkish champions. Writing in his column, Anderson says: “Mao Tse Tung said 'the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step' and on Wednesday night, De Gea took that step.”
Ryan Giggs called it. The 38 year-old has seen it all and, on the eve of this encounter, he name-checked Shinji Kagawa as an addition who could add a dimension to Manchester United – especially in the Champions League. “Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key,” Giggs claimed. “He keeps the ball and gets into positions where he is hard to pick up.” The playmaker provided compelling evidence of that ability last night even if, in truth, those around provided yet more evidence that United do not really like these group matches, and that some of their defensive failings are turning into something of a malaise. Maybe familiarity has become a burden but United were saved by the woodwork and the failure of the officials to award Galatasaray a first-minute penalty. Kagawa is the fresh blood, of course. He’s also, quite convincingly, already, the real deal.
Of course, today’s papers are dominated by United’s 1-0 win over Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League, with many leading on Sir Alex Ferguson’s reaction to his side missing a third consecutive penalty this season, after Nani’s spot-kick was saved by Fernando Muslera. In The Sun, the boss is quoted: “To be honest, I have no idea why Nani took it. I think he just ran and grabbed the ball, Robin (van Persie) should have taken it.”
Elsewhere, David Anderson of The Mirror claims David De Gea has taken a step towards convincing Sir Alex he can be the Reds’ undisputed number one choice this season by keeping a clean sheet against the Turkish champions. Writing in his column, Anderson says: “Mao Tse Tung said 'the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step' and on Wednesday night, De Gea took that step.”
Nani's spot of bother
Nani is confident the next Manchester United penalty will end up in the back of the net.
The Portuguese winger became the third Red to miss from the spot in as many matches when his tame shot was saved by Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera on Wednesday night.
“I was waiting for the goalkeeper to make a movement but he was very clever and didn’t move until I’d chosen a side,” Nani told MUTV after the match. “He made a great save.”
Javier Hernandez and Robin van Persie have also missed penalty kicks this term, while Wayne Rooney, Nani and Ashley Young all wasted efforts from the spot during the summer’s pre-season tour.
Nani shrugged off the suggestion that United’s penalty woe was becoming a serious problem, however.
“This is just a moment. Everybody has missed a chance. Next time it doesn’t matter who’s going to take the penalty – we’ll score, 100 per cent.”
Meanwhile, Sir Alex joked that he didn’t want any more penalties in the foreseeable future and admitted he thought Robin van Persie should have taken responsibility from the spot on Wednesday.
"Maybe the confusion arose from the fact that Chicharito took it on Saturday when Robin wasn't available and today Nani grabbed the ball because he wanted to take it.
"Robin van Persie, to me, takes great penalty kicks. I don't see why he shouldn't take them."
The Portuguese winger became the third Red to miss from the spot in as many matches when his tame shot was saved by Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera on Wednesday night.
“I was waiting for the goalkeeper to make a movement but he was very clever and didn’t move until I’d chosen a side,” Nani told MUTV after the match. “He made a great save.”
Javier Hernandez and Robin van Persie have also missed penalty kicks this term, while Wayne Rooney, Nani and Ashley Young all wasted efforts from the spot during the summer’s pre-season tour.
Nani shrugged off the suggestion that United’s penalty woe was becoming a serious problem, however.
“This is just a moment. Everybody has missed a chance. Next time it doesn’t matter who’s going to take the penalty – we’ll score, 100 per cent.”
Meanwhile, Sir Alex joked that he didn’t want any more penalties in the foreseeable future and admitted he thought Robin van Persie should have taken responsibility from the spot on Wednesday.
"Maybe the confusion arose from the fact that Chicharito took it on Saturday when Robin wasn't available and today Nani grabbed the ball because he wanted to take it.
"Robin van Persie, to me, takes great penalty kicks. I don't see why he shouldn't take them."
Steel satisfies Sir Alex
Sir Alex Ferguson was satisfied by the solid manner in which
United overcame Galatasaray to post a winning start to the new Champions
League season.
Though the visitors struck the woodwork twice in the first period, their menace diminished as United grew in stability in the second period - even if a spate of missed chances made for an uncomfortable end to the game.
"Galatasaray have got more experience in their team and in the first half we gave the ball away and they counter-attacked well from that," Sir Alex told Sky Sports. "I think [there was a] lack of concentration at times. It's unusual for us to be as frivolous with the ball.
"In the second half we did much better in that respect. I was pleased with the second half - it was more solid, we had better concentration and we saw it out really well.
"They never made any chances and all the chances fell to us - we could have scored four or five in the second half. They were very confident in their play and possession. You get that with these European teams.
"It's not a problem; you just have to be patient and make sure that when you're in possession you make it count and with missing the chances we did in the second half, we keep ourselves on the edge."
Nevertheless, Michael Carrick's early strike proved sufficient to get United off to a winning start in Group H, though the early pace-setters are Romania's CFR Cluj after a surprise victory over Braga in Portugal.
That result tees up an intriguing tie in Transylvania next month between the top two, though Sir Alex was just relived to see his side get off to a
better start than in last term's ill-fated campaign.
"I think getting three points in the first game is a bonus," he said. "If you go back to last season we got a point in Benfica, then a point at home... so three points are really important. With Cluj beating Braga away sets up a really interesting game for the next match."
Though the visitors struck the woodwork twice in the first period, their menace diminished as United grew in stability in the second period - even if a spate of missed chances made for an uncomfortable end to the game.
"Galatasaray have got more experience in their team and in the first half we gave the ball away and they counter-attacked well from that," Sir Alex told Sky Sports. "I think [there was a] lack of concentration at times. It's unusual for us to be as frivolous with the ball.
"In the second half we did much better in that respect. I was pleased with the second half - it was more solid, we had better concentration and we saw it out really well.
"They never made any chances and all the chances fell to us - we could have scored four or five in the second half. They were very confident in their play and possession. You get that with these European teams.
"It's not a problem; you just have to be patient and make sure that when you're in possession you make it count and with missing the chances we did in the second half, we keep ourselves on the edge."
Nevertheless, Michael Carrick's early strike proved sufficient to get United off to a winning start in Group H, though the early pace-setters are Romania's CFR Cluj after a surprise victory over Braga in Portugal.
That result tees up an intriguing tie in Transylvania next month between the top two, though Sir Alex was just relived to see his side get off to a
better start than in last term's ill-fated campaign.
"I think getting three points in the first game is a bonus," he said. "If you go back to last season we got a point in Benfica, then a point at home... so three points are really important. With Cluj beating Braga away sets up a really interesting game for the next match."
Sir Alex hails Fletcher's return
Central midfielders earned the biggest cheers of the night as
United beat Galatasaray 1-0 at Old Trafford - firstly for Michael
Carrick scoring the only goal, and secondly for Darren Fletcher's
long-awaited comeback.
The latter's entrance in the 79th minute, as a substitute for Paul Scholes, ended a ten-month absence dating back to another Champions League home game - the 2-2 draw with Benfica on 22 November 2011, when he also scored his last goal for the Reds. Fletcher then took an extended break after he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
"He's been out for a long time," acknowledged Sir Alex on MUTV, "and I think the supporters recognise what a difficult time the lad's had.
"That [the crowd's ovation] was a mark of respect to a really honest and tremendous young lad.
"I was pleased for him. He didn't do great but he didn't do badly. Taking into consideration it was his first game for ten months, I think he acquitted himself very well. "
The latter's entrance in the 79th minute, as a substitute for Paul Scholes, ended a ten-month absence dating back to another Champions League home game - the 2-2 draw with Benfica on 22 November 2011, when he also scored his last goal for the Reds. Fletcher then took an extended break after he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
"He's been out for a long time," acknowledged Sir Alex on MUTV, "and I think the supporters recognise what a difficult time the lad's had.
"That [the crowd's ovation] was a mark of respect to a really honest and tremendous young lad.
"I was pleased for him. He didn't do great but he didn't do badly. Taking into consideration it was his first game for ten months, I think he acquitted himself very well. "
MUFC Players Rating Vs Galatasaray
De Gea: 8.5
Evra: 8.0
Evans: 8.5
Vidic: 8.0
Rafael: 8.0
Nani: 7.0
Scholes: 8.0
Carrick: 9.5
Valencia: 8.0
RVP: 7.5
Kagawa: 8.0
Replacement:
Chicharito: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0
Fletcher: 7.5 Man Of The Match (for Me):
M. Carrick
Evra: 8.0
Evans: 8.5
Vidic: 8.0
Rafael: 8.0
Nani: 7.0
Scholes: 8.0
Carrick: 9.5
Valencia: 8.0
RVP: 7.5
Kagawa: 8.0
Replacement:
Chicharito: 8.0
Welbeck: 8.0
Fletcher: 7.5 Man Of The Match (for Me):
M. Carrick
Wednesday, 19 September 2012
Man Utd boss Ferguson told he must sell to buy.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson may be forced to sell to buy in January.
The Daily Express says Ferguson was yesterday left to count the cost of failing to get out of the group stages of the Champions League last season as Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward reiterated he has nothing left in the transfer pot for January.
The club announced a post-tax profit of £23million but that included a £28m tax credit.
Woodward said: “The net player capital expenditure for the current quarter will be around £29m.”
That means Ferguson has to find £4m in sales to fulfil a £25m-a-year net spend promise to shareholders when the company was floated on the New York Stock Exchange.
The Daily Express says Ferguson was yesterday left to count the cost of failing to get out of the group stages of the Champions League last season as Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward reiterated he has nothing left in the transfer pot for January.
The club announced a post-tax profit of £23million but that included a £28m tax credit.
Woodward said: “The net player capital expenditure for the current quarter will be around £29m.”
That means Ferguson has to find £4m in sales to fulfil a £25m-a-year net spend promise to shareholders when the company was floated on the New York Stock Exchange.
Powell poised for Europe
After a dream debut for the Reds in the Barclays Premier
League, Nick Powell has turned his attentions to making his mark in the
Champions League.
The 18-year-old came off the bench to net a fine fourth goal in Saturday’s 4-0 win over Wigan on his Reds’ bow, prompting Sir Alex to hail him as the man to “fill Paul Scholes’ boots” in the future.
Having spent years watching the Reds on TV in the Champions League, Powell is hoping to experience the competition for himself in the coming few months as United look to successfully navigate their way through the group stages.
“Growing up I always watched a lot of United in the competition and I can’t wait to be involved - it’s one of the biggest competitions around,” he told ManUtd.com. “Obviously everyone wants to win the Premier League, but being the best in Europe would be a great thing.
“The team want to improve after what happened last season and we’ll all be pushing hard to do well.
“It's a competition I've dreamt of playing in. When you watch the likes of United, Real Madrid and Barcelona, you want to play against them because they’re the best in the world,” he added.
“I’m just looking forward to experiencing the whole atmosphere of the games. You can get a lot of lively atmospheres in Europe – I’ve heard all about the Galatasaray fans and how much noise they make. Hopefully it will be a good game on Wednesday.”
The 18-year-old came off the bench to net a fine fourth goal in Saturday’s 4-0 win over Wigan on his Reds’ bow, prompting Sir Alex to hail him as the man to “fill Paul Scholes’ boots” in the future.
Having spent years watching the Reds on TV in the Champions League, Powell is hoping to experience the competition for himself in the coming few months as United look to successfully navigate their way through the group stages.
“Growing up I always watched a lot of United in the competition and I can’t wait to be involved - it’s one of the biggest competitions around,” he told ManUtd.com. “Obviously everyone wants to win the Premier League, but being the best in Europe would be a great thing.
“The team want to improve after what happened last season and we’ll all be pushing hard to do well.
“It's a competition I've dreamt of playing in. When you watch the likes of United, Real Madrid and Barcelona, you want to play against them because they’re the best in the world,” he added.
“I’m just looking forward to experiencing the whole atmosphere of the games. You can get a lot of lively atmospheres in Europe – I’ve heard all about the Galatasaray fans and how much noise they make. Hopefully it will be a good game on Wednesday.”
Papers: Rooney set to return
Rooney makes stunning recovery from injury
Wayne Rooney could make a shock return for Manchester United in Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Galatasaray. The striker was expected to be out until October after suffering an horrific thigh injury against Fulham on August 25. The 26-year-old received a deep gash in his right leg in an accidental clash with Fulham’s Hugo Rodallega. But Rooney has stunned United’s medics with his swift recovery and has been back in training for five days, reports The Sun. And Rooney could even be on the bench for United's Champions League opener at Old Trafford. The England striker will almost certainly be available for Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Liverpool at Anfield. Rooney, who is wearing light strapping to avoid infection, took his first steps towards a comeback last week with a light outdoor session and gym work. And he stepped up his recovery by taking part in full training on Tuesday.
Wayne Rooney could make a shock return for Manchester United in Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Galatasaray. The striker was expected to be out until October after suffering an horrific thigh injury against Fulham on August 25. The 26-year-old received a deep gash in his right leg in an accidental clash with Fulham’s Hugo Rodallega. But Rooney has stunned United’s medics with his swift recovery and has been back in training for five days, reports The Sun. And Rooney could even be on the bench for United's Champions League opener at Old Trafford. The England striker will almost certainly be available for Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Liverpool at Anfield. Rooney, who is wearing light strapping to avoid infection, took his first steps towards a comeback last week with a light outdoor session and gym work. And he stepped up his recovery by taking part in full training on Tuesday.
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Patrice Evra to return for Manchester United against Galatasaray
Patrice Evra is in line for a return to the Manchester United
starting line-up in their Champions League opener against Galatasary at
Old Trafford on Wednesday after reporting for training on Tuesday
morning.
The France full-back missed Saturday's win over Wigan Athlteic with a minor knock suffered on international duty and was forced to watch as the new arrival Alex Buttner made an eye-catching debut.
While Evra will still be regarded as the first-choice left-back, Buttner's goal, assist and overall solid performance suggests the 31-year-old has greater competition for his place than in previous years.
With the exception of Wayne Rooney, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, United look at full strength for the visit of the Turkish side.
Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa were both training, along with the midfielder Darren Fletcher, who is closing in on a long-awaited comeback from a chronic bowel condition.
After last year's disappointment when United were knocked out in the group stage, Sir Alex Ferguson has already asserted there will be no repeat this year.
It is one of the reasons why he took no chances with the fitness of Van Persie at the weekend and the midfielder Ryan Giggs is in no doubt about the key to United's success.
He said: "Robin has the experience of playing in Europe with Arsenal. The goals he has got will hopefully give us that extra edge this season.
"Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key. He keeps the ball and gets into positions where he is hard to pick up. I am sure they will both be very good additions in Europe for us."
Giggs added: "We need to win our home games. Usually 10 or more points gets you through, which means winning at home and trying to draw away.
"We didn't manage it last year because we didn't perform at Old Trafford the way we have done in the past."
The France full-back missed Saturday's win over Wigan Athlteic with a minor knock suffered on international duty and was forced to watch as the new arrival Alex Buttner made an eye-catching debut.
While Evra will still be regarded as the first-choice left-back, Buttner's goal, assist and overall solid performance suggests the 31-year-old has greater competition for his place than in previous years.
With the exception of Wayne Rooney, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, United look at full strength for the visit of the Turkish side.
Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa were both training, along with the midfielder Darren Fletcher, who is closing in on a long-awaited comeback from a chronic bowel condition.
After last year's disappointment when United were knocked out in the group stage, Sir Alex Ferguson has already asserted there will be no repeat this year.
It is one of the reasons why he took no chances with the fitness of Van Persie at the weekend and the midfielder Ryan Giggs is in no doubt about the key to United's success.
He said: "Robin has the experience of playing in Europe with Arsenal. The goals he has got will hopefully give us that extra edge this season.
"Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key. He keeps the ball and gets into positions where he is hard to pick up. I am sure they will both be very good additions in Europe for us."
Giggs added: "We need to win our home games. Usually 10 or more points gets you through, which means winning at home and trying to draw away.
"We didn't manage it last year because we didn't perform at Old Trafford the way we have done in the past."
United Want to Buy Lucas Evangelista
United are continuing to monitor Lucas Evangelista, according to Record.
The Desportivo Brasil midfielder's trial at Anderlecht and speculation
linking the youngster with Fluminense aside, it's still reported the
Reds have an option to sign the 17-year-old.
United Want to Buy Lucas Evangelista
United are continuing to monitor Lucas Evangelista, according to Record.
The Desportivo Brasil midfielder's trial at Anderlecht and speculation
linking the youngster with Fluminense aside, it's still reported the
Reds have an option to sign the 17-year-old.
Giggs' Turkish memories
Ryan Giggs admits his first experience of playing against
Galatasaray - Wednesday's Champions League opponents - is one that will
stay with him forever.
The Reds were famously welcomed 'to hell' on arrival in Turkey in November 1993 on their first ever trip to Galatasaray. The game ended goalless, with United being eliminated from the competition on away goals following the 3-3 draw at Old Trafford two weeks earlier, but the night will forever be remembered for the raucous home fans and altercation between Bryan Robson and the Turkish police.
"I remember it [the whole experience] vividly. It's one of those memories that will always stick with you," he told ManUtd.com. "When we arrived at the airport, there were all the banners and thousands of fans screaming at you.
"There were things thrown at us when we were driving away on the coach, fans outside the hotel chanting all night making sure we didn't get any sleep and people phoning the hotel rooms. It had everything.
"But they were a good team and a good club. It is a fantastic game to be involved in, especially away from home. It is an atmosphere a lot of the lads won't have witnessed before.
"The atmosphere back then was something I tried to enjoy as much as I could," he adds. "The manager told us to go on the pitch and sample the atmosphere. The fans had been in the ground for hours and hours so it was buzzing 90 minutes before kick-off.
"We were stood in the middle of the pitch watching the fans chant. It was one stand to another. It was a brilliant atmosphere if I am honest but obviously the game didn't pan out the way we wanted.
They were a good team then and they will be a good team now."
The Reds kick-off this season's Champions League campaign at Old Trafford on Wednesday night against the Turkish side, with Giggs insisting only victory will do.
"We need to win our home games and perform at home," he insists. "We usually say 10 or more points gets you through so if you win your home games and try and draw away from home, you are usually through.
"We didn't manage it last year and didn't perform at Old Trafford the way we have done in the past. We want to try and rectify that. "
Five summer signings have bolsted both numbers and quality in the squad with the veteran midfielder backing Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa to shine in Europe.
"Robin has the experience of playing in Europe with Arsenal. The goals he has got will hopefully give us that extra edge this season.
"Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key. He keeps the ball. He gets into positions where he is hard to pick up. I am sure they will both be good additions."
The Reds were famously welcomed 'to hell' on arrival in Turkey in November 1993 on their first ever trip to Galatasaray. The game ended goalless, with United being eliminated from the competition on away goals following the 3-3 draw at Old Trafford two weeks earlier, but the night will forever be remembered for the raucous home fans and altercation between Bryan Robson and the Turkish police.
"I remember it [the whole experience] vividly. It's one of those memories that will always stick with you," he told ManUtd.com. "When we arrived at the airport, there were all the banners and thousands of fans screaming at you.
"There were things thrown at us when we were driving away on the coach, fans outside the hotel chanting all night making sure we didn't get any sleep and people phoning the hotel rooms. It had everything.
"But they were a good team and a good club. It is a fantastic game to be involved in, especially away from home. It is an atmosphere a lot of the lads won't have witnessed before.
"The atmosphere back then was something I tried to enjoy as much as I could," he adds. "The manager told us to go on the pitch and sample the atmosphere. The fans had been in the ground for hours and hours so it was buzzing 90 minutes before kick-off.
"We were stood in the middle of the pitch watching the fans chant. It was one stand to another. It was a brilliant atmosphere if I am honest but obviously the game didn't pan out the way we wanted.
They were a good team then and they will be a good team now."
The Reds kick-off this season's Champions League campaign at Old Trafford on Wednesday night against the Turkish side, with Giggs insisting only victory will do.
"We need to win our home games and perform at home," he insists. "We usually say 10 or more points gets you through so if you win your home games and try and draw away from home, you are usually through.
"We didn't manage it last year and didn't perform at Old Trafford the way we have done in the past. We want to try and rectify that. "
Five summer signings have bolsted both numbers and quality in the squad with the veteran midfielder backing Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa to shine in Europe.
"Robin has the experience of playing in Europe with Arsenal. The goals he has got will hopefully give us that extra edge this season.
"Shinji is that kind of player who will thrive in Europe, where possession is key. He keeps the ball. He gets into positions where he is hard to pick up. I am sure they will both be good additions."
Papers: Anders eyes job share
Lindegaard on his De Gea job-share
Anders Lindegaard claims David De Gea will have to share Manchester United's No 1 spot with him. De Gea began the season in goal, before Sir Alex Ferguson axed him for his poor display against Fulham and brought in Lindegaard. The young Spaniard did not command his area against the Cottagers and Lindegaard feels he has drawn level with him in the goalkeepers' pecking order after starting the last two games. “At this point I see David's and my roles as co-workers rather than No 1 and No 2,” said the Dane, who insisted last week that he and De Gea are friendly rivals. “He has his strengths and I have mine and the gaffer is world class at picking the right teams and I trust in that and I accept his decision.” Lindegaard, 28, expects Ferguson to alternate between them and was delighted to register United's first clean sheet of the season in Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan at Old Trafford. “I'm happy to play,” he said. “Look at Old Trafford, it's amazing to play in front of that crowd. It's so historic and I'm just happy to play whenever I can.”
In The Sun, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger outlines his fear that he will be haunted by former striker Robin van Persie, following his summer transfer to United.. “I’d have preferred him to go to a foreign club, so that he doesn’t haunt us,” the Gunners boss is quoted. “You have to accept it, it’s part of life. Obviously, it hurts to see him in another shirt.”
Elsewhere, The Guardian says United and Liverpool are in talks about a tribute to the Hillsborough victims and their families, prior to Sunday’s meeting at Anfield. Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Brendan Rodgers have appealed for supporters to cease chanting about tragedies suffered both clubs.
Anders Lindegaard claims David De Gea will have to share Manchester United's No 1 spot with him. De Gea began the season in goal, before Sir Alex Ferguson axed him for his poor display against Fulham and brought in Lindegaard. The young Spaniard did not command his area against the Cottagers and Lindegaard feels he has drawn level with him in the goalkeepers' pecking order after starting the last two games. “At this point I see David's and my roles as co-workers rather than No 1 and No 2,” said the Dane, who insisted last week that he and De Gea are friendly rivals. “He has his strengths and I have mine and the gaffer is world class at picking the right teams and I trust in that and I accept his decision.” Lindegaard, 28, expects Ferguson to alternate between them and was delighted to register United's first clean sheet of the season in Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan at Old Trafford. “I'm happy to play,” he said. “Look at Old Trafford, it's amazing to play in front of that crowd. It's so historic and I'm just happy to play whenever I can.”
In The Sun, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger outlines his fear that he will be haunted by former striker Robin van Persie, following his summer transfer to United.. “I’d have preferred him to go to a foreign club, so that he doesn’t haunt us,” the Gunners boss is quoted. “You have to accept it, it’s part of life. Obviously, it hurts to see him in another shirt.”
Elsewhere, The Guardian says United and Liverpool are in talks about a tribute to the Hillsborough victims and their families, prior to Sunday’s meeting at Anfield. Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Brendan Rodgers have appealed for supporters to cease chanting about tragedies suffered both clubs.
Sunday, 16 September 2012
EXCLUSIVE: Manchester United Players Ratings Vs Wigan
A. Lindegaard: 8.5
A.Buttner: 9.5
N.Vidic: 7.5
R.Ferdinand: 7.5
D.s. Rafael: 7.5
Nani: 8.0
P. Scholes: 8.5
M.Carrick:8.0
R.Giggs: 8.0
D .welbeck: 8.5
Chicharito: 8.0
Replacement:
RVP: 8.0
J. Evans: 8.0
Powell: 8.5 Man Of The Match (for Me):
A.Buttner
A.Buttner: 9.5
N.Vidic: 7.5
R.Ferdinand: 7.5
D.s. Rafael: 7.5
Nani: 8.0
P. Scholes: 8.5
M.Carrick:8.0
R.Giggs: 8.0
D .welbeck: 8.5
Chicharito: 8.0
Replacement:
RVP: 8.0
J. Evans: 8.0
Powell: 8.5 Man Of The Match (for Me):
A.Buttner
Büttner in debut dreamland
Alexander Buttner feels he's laid down a marker at Manchester
United after scoring on his debut - and helping the Reds to keep a
first clean sheet of the season.
Speaking after Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan Athletic, the delighted 23 year-old Dutchman told MUTV: "If I play I want to let him [Sir Alex Ferguson] see that I can do a good job. Today I think I did that.
"I'm happy that I can play my first minutes in the first team. It's great that we won and I scored and gave a pass for Chicharito to score. It's a dream for me."
Büttner found out he'd be replacing the injured Patrice Evra at left-back on Friday but said he didn't feel nervous until the time ticked close to kick-off.
"I was told yesterday I was going to play. I wasn't nervous until I was standing on the field, looking around. I think it's normal to be a little bit nervous if you play in front of so many people.
"In Holland, I played in front of 23,000 so it's beautiful to play for so many more people.
"I'm happy today. I've scored my first goal in my first game and I'll never forget it."
Speaking after Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan Athletic, the delighted 23 year-old Dutchman told MUTV: "If I play I want to let him [Sir Alex Ferguson] see that I can do a good job. Today I think I did that.
"I'm happy that I can play my first minutes in the first team. It's great that we won and I scored and gave a pass for Chicharito to score. It's a dream for me."
Büttner found out he'd be replacing the injured Patrice Evra at left-back on Friday but said he didn't feel nervous until the time ticked close to kick-off.
"I was told yesterday I was going to play. I wasn't nervous until I was standing on the field, looking around. I think it's normal to be a little bit nervous if you play in front of so many people.
"In Holland, I played in front of 23,000 so it's beautiful to play for so many more people.
"I'm happy today. I've scored my first goal in my first game and I'll never forget it."
Sir Alex's European focus
Sir Alex Ferguson feels the UEFA Champions League can
continue to produce upsets but is adamant his Manchester United side
will not be on the receiving end again this year.
The Reds failed to progress from the group stages in 2011/12 after losing in Basel in the final fixture but there is a real determination to put things right - starting with Wednesday's home match against Galatasaray. Sir Alex clearly remains focused on trying to land a fourth European Cup for the club.
"We've had opportunities in the competition," he stated. "We've lost two finals to Barcelona and won two in the last decade or so but we want to do better. Certainly, we'll do better than last year - no question about that.
"The European Cup is incredible. There's an atmosphere in the build-up to a European final and great charisma about it. Also, without question, it elevates your status within the game like the Real Madrids and AC Milans. We want to be up there in terms of the number of trophies won in European football."
When asked if the standard of some of the perceived lesser lights in the Champions League has improved recently, the manager replied: "We've seen some examples of that over the last few years. For instance, the Cypriot team [Apoel Nicosia] getting to the quarter-finals and Basel beating us and getting to the next stage against Bayern Munich.
"There are a couple of other examples of the lesser-known teams doing well and Monaco played Porto in the final one time, which was a surprise. But, at the end of the day, you always think one of the big ones is going to win it.
"It doesn't do the competition any harm, to be honest with you and who would have predicted Chelsea winning it last season?
"The only thing you can think about is qualifying. Manchester City are with Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Real Madrid and it's going to be a tight group. It doesn't mean to say City can't get through as the other teams will be saying City are strong but the two who go through will deserve it.
"If we don't go through, we will be criticised and pilloried for it and quite rightly. We've had our warning and I don't anticipate going out this time."
The Reds failed to progress from the group stages in 2011/12 after losing in Basel in the final fixture but there is a real determination to put things right - starting with Wednesday's home match against Galatasaray. Sir Alex clearly remains focused on trying to land a fourth European Cup for the club.
"We've had opportunities in the competition," he stated. "We've lost two finals to Barcelona and won two in the last decade or so but we want to do better. Certainly, we'll do better than last year - no question about that.
"The European Cup is incredible. There's an atmosphere in the build-up to a European final and great charisma about it. Also, without question, it elevates your status within the game like the Real Madrids and AC Milans. We want to be up there in terms of the number of trophies won in European football."
When asked if the standard of some of the perceived lesser lights in the Champions League has improved recently, the manager replied: "We've seen some examples of that over the last few years. For instance, the Cypriot team [Apoel Nicosia] getting to the quarter-finals and Basel beating us and getting to the next stage against Bayern Munich.
"There are a couple of other examples of the lesser-known teams doing well and Monaco played Porto in the final one time, which was a surprise. But, at the end of the day, you always think one of the big ones is going to win it.
"It doesn't do the competition any harm, to be honest with you and who would have predicted Chelsea winning it last season?
"The only thing you can think about is qualifying. Manchester City are with Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Real Madrid and it's going to be a tight group. It doesn't mean to say City can't get through as the other teams will be saying City are strong but the two who go through will deserve it.
"If we don't go through, we will be criticised and pilloried for it and quite rightly. We've had our warning and I don't anticipate going out this time."
Second half thrills Sir Alex
Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with the speed of Manchester
United's play in the second half as Wigan Athletic were beaten 4-0 at
Old Trafford.
Speaking on MUTV, the manager praised his players for remaining in top gear and extending the winning margin as last season's narrow title defeat to Manchester City continues to frustrate him.
"It was a pleasing part," said Sir Alex, of the conviction to keep going forward with the points safely in the bag.
"Last year, we lost the league on goal difference and it won't happen again.
"I thought the first half of the game never got started. Wigan were taking a minute for every goal-kick and slowed the game down. They kept possession well and are quite an aggressive team to play against, giving a lot of fouls away and stopping the game that way.
"Once we got the speed of the game right in the second half, it made a difference for us as we became more aggressive in terms of getting the ball back and making good tackles in midfield. That set a pattern with the crowd as it got them up. Scoring the first goal is always important in these type of matches and we ran out good winners."
Although disappointed with Javier Hernandez's early penalty that drew a comfortable save out of Ali Al-Habsi, Sir Alex was thrilled to see Paul Scholes grace another landmark appearance with a goal.
"It wasn't a great penalty," the boss confessed. "It can affect you a little bit in the sense you think you're having a good start but have to start again. We had a lot of strikes on goal in the first
half without scoring. Danny Welbeck, in particular, had five strikes on goal.
"In the second half, we played the way we want to play and should play all the time with pace, speed and very good penetration. It turned out to be a good day for us.
"It's fantastic Paul scored - that is what we always remember him for as a young player, ghosting into the penalty box. Obviously, as he's got older, he doesn't need to do that as we prefer him to play in central midfield but he scored on his 100th appearance, 200th, 300th, 400th, 500th, not his 600th, but now on his 700th appearance and it's fantastic."
Speaking on MUTV, the manager praised his players for remaining in top gear and extending the winning margin as last season's narrow title defeat to Manchester City continues to frustrate him.
"It was a pleasing part," said Sir Alex, of the conviction to keep going forward with the points safely in the bag.
"Last year, we lost the league on goal difference and it won't happen again.
"I thought the first half of the game never got started. Wigan were taking a minute for every goal-kick and slowed the game down. They kept possession well and are quite an aggressive team to play against, giving a lot of fouls away and stopping the game that way.
"Once we got the speed of the game right in the second half, it made a difference for us as we became more aggressive in terms of getting the ball back and making good tackles in midfield. That set a pattern with the crowd as it got them up. Scoring the first goal is always important in these type of matches and we ran out good winners."
Although disappointed with Javier Hernandez's early penalty that drew a comfortable save out of Ali Al-Habsi, Sir Alex was thrilled to see Paul Scholes grace another landmark appearance with a goal.
"It wasn't a great penalty," the boss confessed. "It can affect you a little bit in the sense you think you're having a good start but have to start again. We had a lot of strikes on goal in the first
half without scoring. Danny Welbeck, in particular, had five strikes on goal.
"In the second half, we played the way we want to play and should play all the time with pace, speed and very good penetration. It turned out to be a good day for us.
"It's fantastic Paul scored - that is what we always remember him for as a young player, ghosting into the penalty box. Obviously, as he's got older, he doesn't need to do that as we prefer him to play in central midfield but he scored on his 100th appearance, 200th, 300th, 400th, 500th, not his 600th, but now on his 700th appearance and it's fantastic."
Powell eyes goals aplenty
Nick Powell was delighted to display his goal threat after
capping his United debut with a superb long-range effort in the Reds'
victory over Wigan.
The 18-year-old cracked home the fourth goal of a rousing second-half display from the hosts, and is keen to bring attacking menace to United's midfield after excelling as a striker with Crewe Alexandra last term.
"It's great to make my debut," Powell told MUTV. "To then cap it off with a goal is what I've been working for. Dario (Gradi, Crewe's director of football) used to say my game isn't just attacking and defending, it's about goals as well and I proved that last season and hopefully I can do that for United."
Despite his impressive cameo, however, the summer signing from Crewe insists that he will keep his feet on the ground and continue learning from his elder peers. "My dad will keep me in touch, I'll tell you that," he laughed. "No, I'm just going to go home, have this great feeling and I'll keep myself on the ground.
"When I first came on it scared me a little bit, to be fair, because I'm only used to 5,000 people now and then, but it's a great atmosphere - the fans are great. It wasn't the hardest game because they made it easier for me but I'm happy to be on the pitch getting minutes.
"I learn every day, especially from the midfielders - Scholes, Carrick, Giggsy - they're all great, they've all been through it and won trophies. That's what I want to do, so I hope to learn off them every day."
The 18-year-old cracked home the fourth goal of a rousing second-half display from the hosts, and is keen to bring attacking menace to United's midfield after excelling as a striker with Crewe Alexandra last term.
"It's great to make my debut," Powell told MUTV. "To then cap it off with a goal is what I've been working for. Dario (Gradi, Crewe's director of football) used to say my game isn't just attacking and defending, it's about goals as well and I proved that last season and hopefully I can do that for United."
Despite his impressive cameo, however, the summer signing from Crewe insists that he will keep his feet on the ground and continue learning from his elder peers. "My dad will keep me in touch, I'll tell you that," he laughed. "No, I'm just going to go home, have this great feeling and I'll keep myself on the ground.
"When I first came on it scared me a little bit, to be fair, because I'm only used to 5,000 people now and then, but it's a great atmosphere - the fans are great. It wasn't the hardest game because they made it easier for me but I'm happy to be on the pitch getting minutes.
"I learn every day, especially from the midfielders - Scholes, Carrick, Giggsy - they're all great, they've all been through it and won trophies. That's what I want to do, so I hope to learn off them every day."
Saturday, 15 September 2012
Manchester United show interest in Ogbonna, Ranocchia
Manchester United are following Italy defenders Angelo Ogbonna and Andrea Ranocchia.
The two players will be on the pitch when Torino play host to Inter on Sunday evening, and Manchester United will send scouts to watch the two defenders in action.
The Red Devils are looking to reinforce their back line in January and have singled out Ogbonna and Ranocchia as the most likely candidates.
Torino have so far managed to reject the temptation of cashing in on Ogbonna, but they certainly wouldn’t be able to resist a big money offer from one of the interested clubs.
Club president Urbano Cairo revealed earlier this week that the 24-year-old could leave if one of the clubs match the €20 million asking price.
Inter are also demanding the same amount if they are to part ways with Ranocchia, which clearly suggests United will have to splash the cash in order to sign one of the two Italy internationals.
The two players will be on the pitch when Torino play host to Inter on Sunday evening, and Manchester United will send scouts to watch the two defenders in action.
The Red Devils are looking to reinforce their back line in January and have singled out Ogbonna and Ranocchia as the most likely candidates.
Torino have so far managed to reject the temptation of cashing in on Ogbonna, but they certainly wouldn’t be able to resist a big money offer from one of the interested clubs.
Club president Urbano Cairo revealed earlier this week that the 24-year-old could leave if one of the clubs match the €20 million asking price.
Inter are also demanding the same amount if they are to part ways with Ranocchia, which clearly suggests United will have to splash the cash in order to sign one of the two Italy internationals.
Juve To Challenge United for Youngster
Serie A side Juventus will challenge Manchester United for young Italian striker Domenico Berardi. The 18-year-old has caught the attention of a number of clubs although he has only broken into the first-time at Serie B side Sassulo
this season and reports from Italy earlier this week claimed United
boss Sir Alex Ferguson has sent representatives to watch Berardi and
monitor his progress.
“Many scouts are following him,” Sassulos director-general Nereus Bonato said. “I would say all the top clubs are.
“An 18 year-old who has made his debut certainly triggers some interest, but let me make it clear that there have been no talks.
“Clubs will continue to follow him and maybe in January we will ask them for some more information.
“Manchester United? A few British clubs have made moves. There have been requests to the club and although we have received some rumours about clubs in the Premier League there has been nothing direct.
“Meanwhile, we have to put him in a position to give his best and to work for the good of the team. In time, you’ll see.”
Berardi broke into the Sassulo first team under new boss Eusebio di Francesco and Sassulo have surged to the top of Serie B with a 100 percent record in their opening three games. He scored in the win over Crotone and is now being linked with Juventus.
“We have good relations with the Bianconeri,” Bonato added. “If they are interested in Domenico then we will happily sit down and talk with them but we then must evaluate any proposal but he will not move from Sassulo before next June.”
“Many scouts are following him,” Sassulos director-general Nereus Bonato said. “I would say all the top clubs are.
“An 18 year-old who has made his debut certainly triggers some interest, but let me make it clear that there have been no talks.
“Clubs will continue to follow him and maybe in January we will ask them for some more information.
“Manchester United? A few British clubs have made moves. There have been requests to the club and although we have received some rumours about clubs in the Premier League there has been nothing direct.
“Meanwhile, we have to put him in a position to give his best and to work for the good of the team. In time, you’ll see.”
Berardi broke into the Sassulo first team under new boss Eusebio di Francesco and Sassulo have surged to the top of Serie B with a 100 percent record in their opening three games. He scored in the win over Crotone and is now being linked with Juventus.
“We have good relations with the Bianconeri,” Bonato added. “If they are interested in Domenico then we will happily sit down and talk with them but we then must evaluate any proposal but he will not move from Sassulo before next June.”
Sir Alex hails milestone men
Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to Ryan Giggs, Paul
Scholes and Rio Ferdinand as the trio near personal milestones for
United.
Giggs will make his 600th Premier League appearance if he is involved against Wigan, while Scholes and Ferdinand are one shy of 700 and 400 senior outings for the club respectively.
Sir Alex credits the players’ longevity to the way they have looked after themselves and believes Giggs is perfectly capable of playing into his 40s.
"My personal feeling is that Ryan can play for another couple of years," the Reds boss said.
"Paul's a different physical specimen to Ryan and he's had his injuries – two knee injuries, an eye injury – and yet he's playing his 700th game. It's phenomenal.
"Rio's also playing his 400th game. It's a landmark for the three players and it's a great example to the younger players about what can be achieved if they
sacrifice in football. These players have done that or they would never have got to this stage."
While Giggs and Scholes can no longer play every week, they undoubtedly still have plenty to offer the side, as the latter proved in his inspirational cameo at Southampton in United’s last game.
The pair have spent two decades under Sir Alex’s tutelage and the boss counts himself fortunate to have been able to work with them for so long.
"You can’t judge Ryan’s performances at the moment because I haven’t played him!" said Sir Alex. "But he will be involved in a lot of games this season, as normal, and I’m sure we'll see his ability.
"Paul came on against Southampton and it was like opening a door to another room. He brought order to the game. His selection and accuracy of passes changed the game.
even though he was only on the pitch for 25 minutes. Southampton didn't know what to do with him.
"That's a great credit to the lad. He'll always produce quality. He could be playing in 10 years in a former players’ game and still show what a fantastic player he is.
"I'm lucky to have worked with them both. It’s not a matter of being proud to have had them. It’s more a matter of saying, 'I'm lucky to have had two devoted players like that'. It's been brilliant."
Giggs will make his 600th Premier League appearance if he is involved against Wigan, while Scholes and Ferdinand are one shy of 700 and 400 senior outings for the club respectively.
Sir Alex credits the players’ longevity to the way they have looked after themselves and believes Giggs is perfectly capable of playing into his 40s.
"My personal feeling is that Ryan can play for another couple of years," the Reds boss said.
"Paul's a different physical specimen to Ryan and he's had his injuries – two knee injuries, an eye injury – and yet he's playing his 700th game. It's phenomenal.
"Rio's also playing his 400th game. It's a landmark for the three players and it's a great example to the younger players about what can be achieved if they
sacrifice in football. These players have done that or they would never have got to this stage."
While Giggs and Scholes can no longer play every week, they undoubtedly still have plenty to offer the side, as the latter proved in his inspirational cameo at Southampton in United’s last game.
The pair have spent two decades under Sir Alex’s tutelage and the boss counts himself fortunate to have been able to work with them for so long.
"You can’t judge Ryan’s performances at the moment because I haven’t played him!" said Sir Alex. "But he will be involved in a lot of games this season, as normal, and I’m sure we'll see his ability.
"Paul came on against Southampton and it was like opening a door to another room. He brought order to the game. His selection and accuracy of passes changed the game.
even though he was only on the pitch for 25 minutes. Southampton didn't know what to do with him.
"That's a great credit to the lad. He'll always produce quality. He could be playing in 10 years in a former players’ game and still show what a fantastic player he is.
"I'm lucky to have worked with them both. It’s not a matter of being proud to have had them. It’s more a matter of saying, 'I'm lucky to have had two devoted players like that'. It's been brilliant."
Rooney making good progress
Wayne Rooney is recovering well from the horrific leg gash he sustained against Fulham three weeks ago.
The striker required surgery on a wound that missed his femoral artery by mere millimetres, and yet his Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the striker will return soon.
"Wayne's doing very well," Sir Alex said. "The scar's healed well and he's training terrifically.
"The issue now is when do we decide to bring him into the game? We have to take the medical advice on that one.
"He's training very well but he’s not back in football training yet. All his work is being done with the physios at this point in time."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex confirmed both Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa trained on Friday, despite suffering injury scares during the week.
Van Persie limped out of Holland's World Cup qualifier against Hungary at half-time, while Kagawa withdrew at the 11th hour from Japan's clash with Iraq.
The striker required surgery on a wound that missed his femoral artery by mere millimetres, and yet his Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the striker will return soon.
"Wayne's doing very well," Sir Alex said. "The scar's healed well and he's training terrifically.
"The issue now is when do we decide to bring him into the game? We have to take the medical advice on that one.
"He's training very well but he’s not back in football training yet. All his work is being done with the physios at this point in time."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex confirmed both Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa trained on Friday, despite suffering injury scares during the week.
Van Persie limped out of Holland's World Cup qualifier against Hungary at half-time, while Kagawa withdrew at the 11th hour from Japan's clash with Iraq.
Sir Alex credits Martinez
Sir Alex Ferguson praised Wigan Athletic from the boardroom
to the dressing room ahead of his fifteenth league meeting with the
Latics.
Wigan's steady improvement since their 2005 promotion to the top flight is reflected in their results against the Reds - after 14 straight defeats (15 if you include the 2006 League Cup final), they finally beat United 1-0 in the last meeting.
That surprise win at the DW Stadium in April helped Roberto Martinez's side to comfortably retain their top-flight status - Wigan went on to finish three places and seven points above the drop zone - and also dealt a huge blow to United's title hopes.
"When you come to the end of the season and you drop points it has a big impact," Sir Alex said on Friday.
"I think it was Everton [4-4 at Old Trafford] which killed us. But you could easily say it was the Wigan game. I thought they played very well that night as they were fighting for their lives to avoid relegation. It was an understandable result in such a tight game."
The United boss admires his opposite number at the DW Stadium, and his loyalty to the Latics.
"There’s a consistency and continuity in the management at Wigan," said Sir Alex. "Roberto Martinez turned down opportunities to speak to two or three clubs over the last few years and they also have a great chairman in Dave Whelan.
"They could be a club on the rise in the next few years. I don’t think they’ll ever get massive crowds – it tends to be a rugby league town – but
they’re doing well on the football pitch.
"They've changed to playing with three centre-backs and it’s proven useful for them. It suits them in many ways. The great thing about Roberto Martinez's teams is they try to play football all the time and that's a great credit to him."
Wigan's steady improvement since their 2005 promotion to the top flight is reflected in their results against the Reds - after 14 straight defeats (15 if you include the 2006 League Cup final), they finally beat United 1-0 in the last meeting.
That surprise win at the DW Stadium in April helped Roberto Martinez's side to comfortably retain their top-flight status - Wigan went on to finish three places and seven points above the drop zone - and also dealt a huge blow to United's title hopes.
"When you come to the end of the season and you drop points it has a big impact," Sir Alex said on Friday.
"I think it was Everton [4-4 at Old Trafford] which killed us. But you could easily say it was the Wigan game. I thought they played very well that night as they were fighting for their lives to avoid relegation. It was an understandable result in such a tight game."
The United boss admires his opposite number at the DW Stadium, and his loyalty to the Latics.
"There’s a consistency and continuity in the management at Wigan," said Sir Alex. "Roberto Martinez turned down opportunities to speak to two or three clubs over the last few years and they also have a great chairman in Dave Whelan.
"They could be a club on the rise in the next few years. I don’t think they’ll ever get massive crowds – it tends to be a rugby league town – but
they’re doing well on the football pitch.
"They've changed to playing with three centre-backs and it’s proven useful for them. It suits them in many ways. The great thing about Roberto Martinez's teams is they try to play football all the time and that's a great credit to him."
Rafael on the attack
Rafael is relishing the chance to continue his forays forward in Saturday's clash with Wigan Athletic after already opening his goal account for the season.
The Brazilian has been joining the attack with increased purpose this term and, after scoring for his country in the Olympics, he nodded home during the last Old Trafford outing against Fulham. It was his third goal for the club after earlier efforts against Arsenal away in 2008/09, and at home to Wigan in the following campaign.
"When I was younger, I played as a striker," Rafael told United Review, the official matchday programme. "I like heading the ball and it was great to score [against Fulham] – it was a really good cross by Ashley [Young] and I was in a good position. I enjoy getting forward – I just love football!
"Of course, as a player you can always improve something. I think I need to improve my defending and I have said this since I arrived here. I keep working hard at that and I will keep working to try and improve."
Rafael is hoping the Reds can erase memories of last April's 1-0 reverse at the DW Stadium, a result that proved costly during the title run-in.
"I didn’t play but I remember watching and it was a bad game at such an important time of the season," he explained. "It was very bad. Hopefully things will be different because we are at home, but we know it will be hard because Wigan are a better team than they were earlier this year."
The Brazilian has been joining the attack with increased purpose this term and, after scoring for his country in the Olympics, he nodded home during the last Old Trafford outing against Fulham. It was his third goal for the club after earlier efforts against Arsenal away in 2008/09, and at home to Wigan in the following campaign.
"When I was younger, I played as a striker," Rafael told United Review, the official matchday programme. "I like heading the ball and it was great to score [against Fulham] – it was a really good cross by Ashley [Young] and I was in a good position. I enjoy getting forward – I just love football!
"Of course, as a player you can always improve something. I think I need to improve my defending and I have said this since I arrived here. I keep working hard at that and I will keep working to try and improve."
Rafael is hoping the Reds can erase memories of last April's 1-0 reverse at the DW Stadium, a result that proved costly during the title run-in.
"I didn’t play but I remember watching and it was a bad game at such an important time of the season," he explained. "It was very bad. Hopefully things will be different because we are at home, but we know it will be hard because Wigan are a better team than they were earlier this year."
Friday, 14 September 2012
SAF Liverpool Vs Man United Match
On facing Liverpool next week after the Hillsborough report: "It
shouldn't need what happened this week to change things [between United
and Liverpool supporters]. Two great clubs, ourselves and Liverpool,
should understand each other's problems. The fact we're playing them
after the findings we've been reading about in the last few days does
brings a focus to it. Both clubs have suffered such tremendous
fatalities through football. Maybe it's a line in the sand now in terms
of how supporters behave towards each other. The reputation of both
clubs doesn't deserve trouble. You hope supporters of both teams support
their club and that's the end of it."
EXCLUSIVE: Scholes And Ferdinand on Giggs 600 PL Games
On landmarks for Giggs [600 Premier League games], Scholes and Ferdinand:
"My personal feeling is that Ryan can play for another couple of years.
Paul's a different physical specimen to Ryan and he's had his injuries -
two knee injuries, an eye injury - and yet he's playing his 700th game.
It's phenomenal. Rio's playing his 400th game. It's a landmark for the
three players and it's a great example to the younger players about what
can be achieved if they sacrifice in football. These players have done
that or they would never have got to this stage."
EXCLUSIVE: Team News Today
Sir Alex on team news for the Wigan match: "On the injury front, everyone's fit, Apart from the ones we know about - Phil Jones and Chris Smalling.
Jones was a bad blow for us. He got an injury in training last weekend.
He'll be out for 8-10 weeks. We expect Smalling to be back training
inside a month. But with Jonny Evans now back we're in better shape at centre-back than we were a couple of weeks ago."
EXCLUSIVE: SAF On players returning from internationals:
SAF: "You always have concerns
about players travelling [long distances] in international breaks - we
had Chicharito, Valencia and Kagawa.
They've all done it before, although with Shinji we don't know exactly
how he reacts to travelling back from long distances. Hopefully he'll be
okay."
EXCLUSIVE: SAF On Fletcher Return
On Darren Fletcher: "Darren's training well and played
in the reserves on Tuesday night. The next step is when we can involve
him in a game in the first team. He's in the squad tomorrow, simply
because I think it will give him a boost. It's a chance to progress. At
this moment in time everything's going fine for him. We understand the
condition he has to deal with - that can change but hopefully he's
managed to conquer it in terms of his diet and how he handles it. Things
are going well at the moment."
Injury boost for Reds
Summer signings Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa are fit
for the Barclays Premier League visit of Wigan Athletic on Saturday, but
Phil Jones could be sidelined for up to 10 more weeks.
There was speculation van Persie and Kagawa could miss the game after picking up strains on international duty in midweek, but Sir Alex has confirmed they will be available to face the Latics.
The news is not so good for Jones, who recently underwent surgery on a knee injury sustained in training, but Chris Smalling is not far off a return to action. Meanwhile, Darren Fletcher has been included in the squad as he continues his recovery from illness.
"On the injury front, everyone's fit, apart from the ones we know about – Jones and Smalling," said Sir Alex at his Friday press conference.
"Jones was a bad blow for us. He got an injury in training last weekend and he'll be out for eight to 10 weeks.
"We expect Smalling to be back training by the end of the month. There's a little bit of comfort in that sense, given our centre-back situation. But with Jonny [Evans] back we're in a better position than we were a couple of weeks ago.
"Darren's in the squad tomorrow, simply because I think it will give him a boost. It's a chance to progress. At this moment in time everything's going fine for him."
The Reds boss expressed his concern about the distances his players travelled with their respective countries in midweek, with Japan's Kagawa, Ecuador's Antonio Valencia and Mexico's Javier Hernandez
all involved in long-haul trips for World Cup qualifiers.
"You always have concerns about players travelling in international breaks – we had Chicharito, Valencia and Kagawa," he said.
"They've all done it before, although with Shinji we don't know exactly how he reacts to travelling back from long distances. Hopefully he'll be okay."
There was speculation van Persie and Kagawa could miss the game after picking up strains on international duty in midweek, but Sir Alex has confirmed they will be available to face the Latics.
The news is not so good for Jones, who recently underwent surgery on a knee injury sustained in training, but Chris Smalling is not far off a return to action. Meanwhile, Darren Fletcher has been included in the squad as he continues his recovery from illness.
"On the injury front, everyone's fit, apart from the ones we know about – Jones and Smalling," said Sir Alex at his Friday press conference.
"Jones was a bad blow for us. He got an injury in training last weekend and he'll be out for eight to 10 weeks.
"We expect Smalling to be back training by the end of the month. There's a little bit of comfort in that sense, given our centre-back situation. But with Jonny [Evans] back we're in a better position than we were a couple of weeks ago.
"Darren's in the squad tomorrow, simply because I think it will give him a boost. It's a chance to progress. At this moment in time everything's going fine for him."
The Reds boss expressed his concern about the distances his players travelled with their respective countries in midweek, with Japan's Kagawa, Ecuador's Antonio Valencia and Mexico's Javier Hernandez
all involved in long-haul trips for World Cup qualifiers.
"You always have concerns about players travelling in international breaks – we had Chicharito, Valencia and Kagawa," he said.
"They've all done it before, although with Shinji we don't know exactly how he reacts to travelling back from long distances. Hopefully he'll be okay."
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