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.
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