The Red Devils News

Wayne Rooney Targets More Goals For Manchester United

2009-11-19T06:46:00.000+08:00

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney believes that he needs to be scoring more goals for his side, particularly owing to the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid.

The Portuguese player was a veritable goal-machine for the Red Devils - most notably during his last three seasons at the club, when he found the net no less than 91 times in all competitions.

Thus, Rooney - who scored 'only' 61 goals over the same period - believes that he should work harder to fill the void if United are to win the Premier League for the fourth time in succession.

"I've still got a lot to improve on and a lot to learn," he is quoted in The Sun as saying.

"I can score more goals.

"I need to score more goals, particularly now Ronaldo's gone."

The former Everton forward has seven league goals to his name this season.

Adithya Ananth, Goal.com UK

Nemanja Vidic Set To Return For Manchester United

2009-11-19T06:33:00.000+08:00

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic could be set to return to action for the Premier League champions against Everton this weekend.

The Serbian has been out of action for three weeks with a calf problem.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson discussed the player's fitness with his national team coach, Raddy Antic.

Vidic played 70 minutes of the World Cup warm up game against South Korea at Craven Cottage on Wednesday.

He is now in line to step up his rehabilitation with an appearance against the Toffees on Saturday.

Source: http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/11/18/1632895/nemanja-vidic-set-to-return-for-manchester-united

Nemanja Vidic Is The Envy Of The Premier League – Sir Bobby Charlton

2009-05-19T21:21:00.001+08:00

Sir Bobby Charlton, 71, has added his voice to the growing contingent readily offering commendation to Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic, and has singled out some areas of his game for specific tributes.

The Serbian has begun to accumulate a number of in-house end-of-season awards and remains a front-running candidate to claim further accolades due to his sturdy and consistent season.

"It’s normally the glamour players who get these prizes, but Nemanja deserves this," Charlton explained to the club's official website.

"He has been such an influence. He is the envy of the whole league and he has been a brilliant, brilliant player for us."

Sir Bobby continued by examining the areas of Vidic's game that helps separate the Serbian international from other defenders.

"Nemanja is unbelievable in the air,” Charlton said. “He wins absolutely everything. He is so powerful and brave, and he has a fantastic leap to get above the strikers. And he also comes up for set-pieces and scores goals.

"As a defender he makes the full-backs, the goalkeeper and the midfielders in front of him all feel secure. He is a player you can depend on and put your trust in, and that’s important.

"I like that he doesn’t try to do too much, he sticks to his task of defending, and does that job very well.

"It’s hard for me to imagine that Manchester United would be congratulated and lauded for our defensive capabilities. We’re not supposed to be defensive!

"But alongside Rio Ferdinand or young Jonny Evans, Nemanja has dominated our area this season, and you also have to give credit to Edwin van der Sar and his other colleagues in defence," the World Cup winning striker concluded.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Ryan Giggs Omits Cristiano Ronaldo From His Best Manchester United XI

2009-05-19T21:18:00.001+08:00

Ryan Giggs, the most decorated player in Premier League history, won an incredible 11th title following Manchester United's goal-less draw with London rivals Arsenal.

While Cristiano Ronaldo's goals have not come as thick and as fast as last year, he has still contributed significantly to the club's challenge on two major fronts during the season run-in but, when Giggs was asked to name his favourite players of the United teams he has featured in, there was no room for the Portuguese international.

His ten outfield were picked with little qualms, but Giggs admits to struggling to select between record-breaking clean-sheet accumulator Edwin van der Sar, and exemplary shot-stopper Peter Schmeichel.

"Peter was one of the best players I played with," Giggs is reported to have told the Daily Mail. "He was a match-winner who would save the game for United because he was such a good goalkeeper.

"Now I play with Edwin. They are both great goalkeepers. It wouldn't matter who played in goal."

The versatile veteran, who has adapted his game from a hard-to-track dribbling left flanker, to a central midfielder, opted to pick the whole of the midfield treble-winning side of 1999, and reserved notable commendation for Paul Scholes.

"He does things I couldn't do. The time he has on the ball, his range of passing and ability to score goals make him probably the best I've ever seen."

Up-front, Giggs decided to nominate French legend Eric Cantona, and powerful English workhorse Wayne Rooney, explaining their place in the history of United thus, "They are players who have come through the system. Players from different countries and background that sums up Manchester United."

Giggs' XI
Schmeichel/Van der Sar
Neville - Stam - Ferdinand - Irwin
Beckham - Scholes - Keane - Giggs
Cantona - Rooney

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Nemanja Vidic Expresses Surprise At Scooping Manchester United Awards

2009-05-18T20:00:00.001+08:00

Aside from a blip against Liverpool, Manchester United's Serbian centre-back Nemanja Vidic has been a reliable and consistent component of a defensive line that has been chopped and changed throughout the season due to a host of injuries and suspensions.

The defender, along with Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo, Edwin van der Sar, and Rio Ferdinand, dominated the PFA Player of the Year nominations, but Vidic missed out to versatile veteran midfielder Giggs.

The 27-year-old, though, did scoop the individual in-house end-of-season accolade, and shared his thoughts with MUTV.

He said, "It's a great night for me. It has been a really good year. I am surprised I got it but I have really enjoyed it."

He continued, "To be honest I don't have so many individual awards. That's why I am a bit confused and my speech is not the best. Next time my speech will be a bit better."

Portuguese international Ronaldo claimed United's goal of the season award in recognition of his long-range goal scored against Porto away from home in the Champions League.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Manchester United Boss Sir Alex Ferguson Hails Chelsea Star Frank Lampard

2009-05-18T18:53:00.001+08:00

Frank Lampard has long been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League and has even upped his game this season, prompting temporary Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink to claim that he is the "complete box to box midfielder".

His form may have gone un-noticed by his peers - he was controversially snubbed for the PFA Player of the Year awards - yet Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, speaking after leading his side to a record-equalling 18th league title, has declared Lampard to be an "exceptional" footballer.

Ferguson told The Sunday Times, "He is an exceptional player, a huge asset to his team. Every time he plays he goes from box to box and he hardly misses a game.

"You pay attention to players who can get goals from midfield and he’s been averaging 20 goals every season.

"As I say, Frank Lampard is exceptional."

Despite being omitted from certain end-of-season awards, Lampard could find himself as a front-running candidate for goal-of-the-season due to his chipped strike versus Hull City earlier in the season.

Then-manager Luiz Felipe Scolari said at the time that it was one of the greatest goals he had seen.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Ferguson: I Want Carlos Tevez To Stay At Manchester United

2009-05-14T12:36:00.002+08:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has publicly stated his desire to keep Carlos Tevez at the club, after he fired a crucial goal on the way to the Red Devils’ 2-1 win over Wigan Athletic this evening.

Tevez cancelled out Hugo Rodallega’s first-half opener within four minutes of coming on as a substitute to replace Anderson, before Michael Carrick sealed the comeback with an 87th-minute winner.

And speaking after the match, Ferguson gave the biggest hint yet that the Argentine is wanted at Old Trafford on a permanent basis.

“He [Tevez] is a fantastic little player,” he said to Sky Sports.

“He knows I want him to stay. I’ve had a chat with him today, [chief executive] David Gill has had some meetings with him today and it has progressed.

“We hope we get what we want [an agreement]. I keep saying that the situation has not changed.

“We’re not negotiating with a football club and that is the problem. Carlos himself is OK and the terms he has been offered are good.”

Speaking about the match, which leaves United within a point of a third successive Premier League title, the Scot paid tribute to his team’s second-half display.

Ferguson said, “We were against a very determined Wigan side.

“It was a real tough hurdle today and the team were fantastic in the second half in terms of their determination, not giving in and keeping going until we got a little break and at the end of the day we were the better team in the second half.

“The first thing I said [at half-time] was keep your discipline because the referee was annoying them with a lot of decisions – but you can’t beat the referee.

“Cristiano Ronaldo could have had a hat-trick tonight and we had a lot of chances – I felt he should have also had a penalty.

“We just needed to stay patient.”

Chris Myson, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Wigan Athletic 1-2 Manchester United

2009-05-14T12:31:00.002+08:00

Manchester United came from behind to beat Wigan at the JJB. Goal.com rates the performers…

WIGAN ATHLETIC

Kingson: 6.5 - A first league start for the Latics and could not have imagined he would have such a quiet night. No chance with the two goals but dealt with everything else comfortably enough.

Melchiot: 6.0 - Had few problems against Anderson but found Evra a tougher opponent.

Boyce: 7.5 – A super defensive display, kept a very close eye on Berbatov and foiled numerous United attacks.

Bramble: 7.0 - Lost Berbatov early on but improved as the game wore on although he found Tevez a handful.

Figueroa: 6.5 - Was outpaced by Ronaldo on occasion but generally held him in check and also got forward well, hitting two good efforts just over.

Valencia: 6.5 – Looked a threat whenever he had the ball and his pace caused United problems. Great break early on but supplied a poor finish when he only had Van der Sar to beat.

Cattermole: 7.5 - Gave the United midfield no peace but also got forward. A great ball up to Rodallega for the opener and had a decent shot just on half-time.

Scharner: 7.0 - In central midfield tonight and his pressing forced the United midfielders into mistakes early on. Made several vital tackles in the second half particularly on Rooney and Ronaldo.

Brown: 6.5 - Gave United no space and was a bustling, harrying presence.

N'Zogbia: 6.5 – Offered a useful attacking outlet and had a good free kick saved by Van der Sar in the first-half.

Rodallega: 7.5 – Gave Vidic a really tough evening, beat him for the goal before slotting home with a confident finish.

Substitutes

Mido: n/a

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar: 7.0 – A decent display, saved well particularly from N’Zogbia and Rodallega in the first half.

O'Shea: 7.5 - Defensively he did OK and a great run and pass handed Carrick the chance to slot home the winner.

Vidic: 6.0 – Seemed unnerved by Rodallega. Was beaten by the Colombian for the opener and struggled to recover his composure. Good ball into Ronaldo in the build-up for the second goal.

Evans: 5.5 - Looked nervy, caught out by Valencia and Rodallega early on and will have been relieved that neither man could profit from his mistakes.

Evra: 7.0 – Valencia’s pace gave him plenty to think about defensively but attacking-wise he looked to get forward at every opportunity and posed a threat.

Carrick: 8.5 – Missed a great chance early on but redeemed himself by setting up the first and grabbing the second with a fine strike.

Scholes: 6.5 – Had a tough evening against a stubborn Wigan midfield but barely put a pass astray.

Anderson: 6.0 - Got forward frequently but couldn’t offer the invention to break Wigan down and was replaced by Tevez on the hour mark.

Ronaldo: 7.0 - A super cross for Carrick early on but gave it away far too frequently. Improved in the second half and should have finished it late on but fired over.

Berbatov: 7.5 - Helped set up two great moves early on and was involved in all of United's best attacking moments.

Rooney: 6.5 - Worked incredibly hard but guilty of missing two great chances, a gilt edged header early on and another shot just before half time.

Substitutes

Tevez: 7.5 - Scored within minutes of his arrival and was a real handful.

Giggs: n/a

Park: n/a

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Manchester United Close In On Title With Wigan Win

2009-05-14T12:25:00.001+08:00

A very late Carrick goal handed the champions all three points at the JJB and leaves them just one point away from yet another title.

Wigan Athletic 1-2 Manchester United

Manchester United look to be closing in on yet another Premier League title after coming from behind to secure a hard-fought victory at a rain-swept JJB Stadium.

A thrilling first-half saw chances aplenty for both sides but with Wigan, crucially, heading into the interval with the lead.

Indeed the home side might have gone ahead in the opening minutes when a mistake by Jonny Evans allowed Antonio Valencia clear through on goal.

Yet whilst the Ecuadorian’s run into the box was impressive, his finish wasn’t, and he chipped a poor effort wide of goal.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men came storming back and had chances of their own as early as the tenth minute.

Dimitar Berbatov handed Wayne Rooney a glorious opportunity to score but the England international conspired to head his cross well wide with only Richard Kingson to beat.

Minutes later and a flowing move from the visitors saw Rooney and Berbatov combine again to tee up Michael Carrick who prodded another effort just wide.

Yet the league leaders were not having it all their own way and were grateful to Edwin van der Sar who did well to punch a Charles N’Zogbia free kick to safety.

The Dutch shot stopper was also called into action shortly afterwards when Hugo Rodallega beat Evans but could only fire straight at the veteran.

However, Wigan were not to be denied and just before the half-hour mark they took the lead.

A long ball by Lee Cattermole up to Rodallega saw the striker challenging with Nemanja Vidic in the air.

As the ball dropped, the bounce seemed to confuse both players but Rodallega was quickest to the rebound and swept it past Van der Sar with a composed finish.

The goal knocked United out of their stride and with the wet conditions playing a part, they struggled to regain their earlier fluency.

However, as the half drew to a close they finally managed to slip into gear once again.

A lovely move involving several players eventually saw Ronaldo slip in Rooney for a shot but again the England striker couldn’t find the target despite being well-placed.

Undeterred Wigan sprinted down the other end of the field with Rodallega shooting straight at Van der Sar as the half ended in much the same exhilarating fashion as it began.

The home side began the second half in determined fashion and with United unable to force Kingson into a save, Ferguson changed things on the hour mark sending on Carlos Tevez for Anderson.

It was to prove to be an inspired substitution as within minutes of his arrival the Argentine had pulled the Red Devils back on level terms.

For the first time all game Carrick found himself in space outside the area. The midfielder hit a low shot which looked to be heading wide before Tevez flicked it past Kingson for the equaliser.

With half an hour still remaining the visitors went in search of the winner but were frustrated by a combination of some superb Wigan play and poor finishing.

Both Rooney and Ronaldo saw decent efforts flash wide of the target and with time running out the champions looked to be heading for a frustrating draw.

Yet with just five minutes remaining Ronaldo and O’Shea combined to tee up Carrick who slotted home a sumptuous left-footed finish to leave United just one point from the title.

Wigan: Kingson, Melchiot, Boyce, Bramble, Figueroa, Valencia, Cattermole, Scharner, Brown, N'Zogbia (Mido, 82), Rodallega.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, O'Shea, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Carrick, Scholes (Giggs, 75), Anderson (Tevez, 58), Ronaldo, Berbatov (Park, 88), Rooney.

GOALS

1-2 Manchester United (Carrick, 86)

1-1 Manchester United (Tevez, 62)

1-0 Wigan Athletic (Rodallega, 29)

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Manchester United Midfielder Darren Fletcher Will Miss Champions League Final

2009-05-12T09:43:00.001+08:00

Darren Fletcher, the Manchester United midfielder who was sent off in the dying minutes of his side's Champions League semi-final victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last week, will not have his red card rescinded, and will be suspended for the final in Rome, UEFA have confirmed today.

Barcelona's Daniel Alves and Eric Abidal will also miss the final, after they picked up suspensions due to cards awarded in the Catalans' semi-final with Chelsea.

UEFA confirmed that there was no dispensation available to them to grant Fletcher under the current rules, and issued a statement which read, "The Control and Disciplinary Body decided not to admit the protest submitted by Manchester United in relation to midfielder Darren Fletcher's red card in the Uefa Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal.

"Similarly, the Control and Disciplinary Body did not admit Barcelona's protest against the red card of Eric Abidal and the caution of fellow defender Daniel Alves in the semi-final second leg against Chelsea.

"All three players are therefore suspended for one UEFA club competition match and will serve their bans when Barcelona meet Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League final in Rome on 27 May."

The statement continued, "In reaching its decision, the Control and Disciplinary Body concluded (i) that the protests had not been submitted within the required 24-hour deadline of a match for filing protests – as specified in the disciplinary regulations – and (ii) that even if they had been admitted they would have been rejected as unfounded as there were no grounds for contesting the referees' original decisions.

"The decisions of the Control and Disciplinary Body can be appealed within three days of the dispatch of the written decision," it concluded.

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Patrice Evra Warns Manchester United Against Complacency & Hails Carlos Tevez

2009-05-12T09:41:00.001+08:00

Manchester United are on course to emulate the silverware successes they achieved at the turn of the millennium, when they scooped three Premier League titles on the trot, together with a Champions League coup in '99. They require just four points from three league games to secure their third successive crown and, in addition, they are 90 minutes away from retaining the European Cup; only Barcelona now lie in their way.

French left-back Patrice Evra believes the derby win over local rivals Manchester City gave Sir Alex Ferguson's men a further lift as they go into Wednesday evening's tie against Steve Bruce's Wigan Athletic outfit.

"We’re nearly there," Evra explained to MUTV. "If we win against Wigan, it will be very important for winning the title. But it’s not finished yet. Now we need a good recovery before we play our next game."

Evra was also insistent that the double-hopefuls need to take things one game at a time. "We have a Champions League final to look forward to, but we have to put that to the back of our minds and concentrate on the league,” he said.

"The win against City was very important for the team. When you play in the league after playing in the European Cup, [it] can be tough. It’s the Manchester derby and we are all very happy, it was an important three points. Liverpool won and went top [on Saturday], so we knew we had to do our job."

Regarding Carlos Tevez, who is the subject of endless speculation as he is fast approaching the conclusion of his two-year loan spell, Evra said, "It was very crucial for the team to get the second goal just before half-time.

"‘Carlitos’ is a world-class player and he showed his quality. You could tell City felt a bit down after that goal. I am very pleased for Carlitos. Whenever he plays, he respects the shirt of Manchester United.

"He is a great professional."

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Darren Fletcher Accepts Champions League Ban

2009-05-11T16:26:00.001+08:00

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has accepted the one match European ban he has received for being sent off in the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.

Th Scottish midfielder was sent off for a clumsy-looking tackle he made on Cesc Fabregas. Replays showed that he appeared to get a boot on the ball, but the referee decided to award a penalty to the Gunners and hand a red card to Fletcher.

United have appealed against the decision and will hear the results on Monday, but a UEFA ruling means the ban cannot be overturned.

The 25-year-old says he has already accepted the fact that he will not play in the Champions League final in Rome against Barcelona.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Fletcher said, "I just have to accept it. It is the final decision on it tomorrow but I have got to get on with it.

"I have got to make sure I am fully focussed on winning the Premier League and let the lads take care of the [Champions League] final."

The Scottish midfielder has become a key part of the United midfield this season, playing mainly in the 4-3-3 formation used by Sir Alex Ferguson.

He has been at Old Trafford since 2000, graduating from the club's academy in 2001, and has since made 130 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils, scoring ten goals.

Nick Turner, Goal.com

Sir Bobby Charlton Hails Manchester United

2009-05-11T16:14:00.001+08:00

Manchester United legend, Sir Bobby Charlton, has heaped praise on the club's class of 2009 by claiming it is the best squad the Red Devils have ever assembled.

United were tipped to complete a unique quintuple this season, by winning all the competitions they entered.

But this dream vanished when the club crashed out of the FA Cup at the semi-final stage to Everton in a penalty shoot-out.

But Charlton, who led the club to its first European title back in 1968, admitted he was overjoyed watching the club's performance against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final on Tuesday.

Speaking to The Daily Star, Charlton said, "This could be the greatest United team – absolutely – and it probably already is.

"It is a different game now and you can’t really compare eras – but it’s just magic what they are doing and you have to enjoy it while it’s here.

"It was really nice, at the end of Tuesday’s game, that a lot of Arsenal fans stopped to applaud."

The ex-United player also had high praise for club manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who he feels has shown a lot of desire this season.

"The way Sir Alex has turned things around from a few weeks ago is just incredible."

Having already won the Carling Cup and the Club World Cup, United are on course to win the Premier League this season and are also in the Champions League final, where they will play Barcelona in Rome.

Nick Turner, Goal.com

Manchester United's Carlos Tevez Dispatches Manchester City

2009-05-11T16:08:00.001+08:00

Carlos Tevez sent a message to his manager Alex Ferguson, putting in a fantastic performance and scoring a sublime goal as the Red Devils sunk the Citizens

Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City

Two first half goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and an excellent Carlos Tevez were enough to see Manchester United past Manchester City. Ronaldo struck with a free-kick before Tevez added a second with a high quality effort.

Manchester United had the early chances, with Tevez striking from 25 yards in the 6th minute. The shot was well struck but Shay Given dealt with the attempt comfortably, pushing the ball wide of his post.

The Citizens were willing to venture forward, Robinho showed good skill on the left, beating his man and then playing Elano into space in the box. Elano had time to steady himself but dragged his shot into the side netting at the near post.

Ronaldo attacked Micah Richards on the left flank, the Portuguese turned skillfully onto his right foot and cut inside, striking the ball well from 20 yards but it was straight at Given who caught easily.

United continued to press as Vincent Kompany conceded a cheap foul on the right flank, felling Park Ji-Sung. Ryan Giggs took the free-kick but wasted the opportunity.

Kompany slipped in his own half, losing possession to Ronaldo who then fed Dimitar Berbatov in the centre. The Bulgarian was fouled 30 yards from goal by Stephen Ireland. Ronaldo stepped up and dispatched his trademark free-kick into the bottom right hand corner in the 18th minute, it got a deflection off the corner of the wall and looped around Given into the net. 1-0 to Manchester United.

The home side seized the momentum as Patrice Evra back heeled to Tevez on the edge of the box on the left. The Argentinian attacked Nedum Onuoha and cut onto his right foot, creating half a yard and unleashed a wonderful effort on goal. Given was stranded as the shot hit the crux of the bar in the far corner.

Manchester United extended their lead in the 44th minute, Darren Fletcher played a long ball up to Berbatov on the left. Controlling sublimely, the Bulgarian and played in Tevez who had taken up a central position 20 yards from goal. The Argentinian engineered half a yard and curled his shot round Given's outstretched left hand, the ball struck the inside of the post and rippled the back of the net. 2-0 to the Red Devils.

The second half began with a good chance for the visitors. Elano played an elavated through ball to Robinho who controlled the ball on the run into the box. Attacking from left to right the Brazilian shot under pressure from Rafael and sent it well wide.

Manchester City pressed forward again, Robinho controlling well in crowded penalty area and feeding Wayne Bridge on the left flank. The Englishman hit an excellent cross towards Felipe Caicedo at the far post but Nemanja Vidic did well to hold off the Ecuadorian and prevent an effort on goal.

Paul Scholes, on as a substitute, sent a lovely crossfield ball to Giggs on the left, the Welsh wizard won his side a corner but the home side waste the opportunity.

The Citizens broke with Robinho on the left who then played in Valeri Bojinov in the centre. The Bulgarian substitute shaped to shoot but his effort was deflected and went out for a corner.

Tevez continued to be excellent, picking the ball up 40 yards from goal the Argentinian drove at the Citizens defence, rounding two defenders easily and smashed the ball goal wards from 20 yards. His shot wasn't controlled and soared over the woodwork.

Edwin Van Der Sar was tested for the first real time 86 minutes into the game, Martin Petrov, on as a substitute, picked the ball up 25 yards from goal on the left. The Bulgarian immediately smashed the ball towards the top left hand corner and the Dutch keeper produced a wonderful save to deny the shot.

Wayne Rooney, who had replaced a broody Ronaldo, attempted a long distance lob a minute later at the other end. It was speculative effort and limped well wide of the target.

Scholes made a darting run forward which was spotted by Rooney, the former Evertonian hit a long pass with the outside of his right boot that split the defence and released his team mate. Scholes didn't have the pace to finish the opportunity and was tackled by Richard Dunne in the penalty area.

From the resultant corner Fletcher made a good run to the front post and headed goal wards. His header was creeping wide but Tevez stole in inches from the back post, the Argentinian connected with his header but only helped the ball onto the post, almost colliding with the woodwork in the process.

Manchester United held out for the win and returned to the summit of the Premier League, three points clear of Liverpool with a game in hand against Wigan Athletic.
Owen Watson, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City

2009-05-11T16:00:00.001+08:00

The red half of Manchester is celebrating victory in the derby, a result that sends them back to the top of the league. Goal.com rates the performers …

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar: 6.5 – Had very little to do but saved well from Petrov in the dying minutes.

Rafael: 6.5 - Came forwards well and had a couple of good shots but looked less than convincing defensively and was beaten by Robinho on several occasions.

Vidic: 8.0 - A super display by the Serbian who blocked everything and seemed to be on the end of every City ball that came into the United box.

Evans: 7.0 - Came in for Rio Ferdinand and a strong display that ensured the England international wasn’t missed.

Evra: 6.5 – Perhaps didn’t get forwards as often as usual but still looked comfortable at the back.

Park: 7.0 - Relentless running as always and combined well with Rafael and his front two before he was taken off on the hour mark.

Fletcher: 7.5 - Put his Champions League disappointment aside with an excellent, hard-working performance, winning countless balls in midfield and never shirking a challenge.

Giggs: 7.0 – Calm and composed in midfield and barely put a foot wrong.

Ronaldo: 7.5 - His free-kick needed a deflection to beat Given but he looked a threat whenever he had the ball before he was given a rest on hour mark.

Tevez: 8.5 – Hit the bar twice, once with a super strike and late on with a header, before scoring the second with a great finish

Berbatov: 7.5 - Did superbly to take the ball down and set up Tevez for the second and combined well with the Argentine all afternoon in a classy showing.

Substitutes

Scholes: 6.5 - Given the last half-hour and provided some sharp passing.

Rooney: 6.0 – Arrived with Scholes but couldn’t add a third.

O’Shea: 6.0 – Replaced Evans late on and did a job.

MANCHESTER CITY

Given: 6.5 - A little unlucky with the first goal as the deflection seemed to wrong-foot him. No chance with the second but distributed well and coped with everything else thrown at him.

Richards: 6.0 - Up against Ronaldo for most of the game and couldn’t live with his pace.

Dunne: 5.5 - Found Tevez a tough customer and was beaten by the Argentine for both power and pace on several occasions. Good challenge to get back and deny Scholes late on.

Onuoha: 6.0 - Some poor clearances but otherwise didn't do too much wrong.

Bridge: 5.5 - Found Park and Tevez a handful and barely got forwards at all.

Elano: 6.5 - Hot and cold from the Brazilian. Saw plenty of the ball and made some great passes, particularly up to Robinho at the second of the second half but was also guilty of giving it away far too often and his set-pieces were poor.

Ireland: 6.5 - Gave away the free-kick from which Ronaldo scored but otherwise battled well in midfield and made some great runs but City failed to pick him out far too often.

Kompany: 7.0 – Helped out his defence well but couldn't drive his team forwards.

De Jong: 6.5 - Solid job in midfield and covered a lot of ground but offered little to the team going forwards.

Robinho: 5.5 - Worked hard but was only an occasional threat and had a quiet game. Ought have scored at the opening of the second but fired well wide.

Caicedo: 5.0– An ineffective showing, held the ball up well enough but had no sights of goal and was replaced in the second half.

Substitutes

Bojinov: 6.0 - Had one shot that was deflected wide.

Petrov: 6.5 - Decent shot late on.

Evans: n/a

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Zoran Tosic Waiting Patiently For Manchester United Debut

2009-05-09T14:43:00.002+08:00

Manchester United midfielder Zoran Tosic, a recruit from Partizan Belgrade who arrived during the January transfer window, is showing patience as he waits to make his first-team debut for the Red Devils.

The 22-year-old, who has featured for the full Serbian national team, has not appeared since coming from the bench for United against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup. He has impressed observers with his displays for Ole Gunner Solskjaer's reserve team, but acknowledges that his acclimatisation is perhaps not yet quite complete enough for him to take the field in the Premier League.

"It was the best moment of my life when I came on," he told uefa.com, speaking of his appearance against Spurs.

"75,000 people. I think I did well in that game.

"Now I hope we will win the championship and try to win the Champions League then, after that, when next season starts, I'm going to get the chance to play.

"I'm happy here in Manchester. I haven't played a lot of games for the first team, but I have come to the best club in the world.

"I know I have time. I have to practise, get stronger, get faster, be better in all aspects. I feel the [upcoming European] Under-21 championship will help me and I can prove I'm a United player."

Help in settling-in has been forthcoming from all at the club, but particularly from fellow Serb Nemanja Vidic; United's rock sold centre-back.

"He has helped me a lot, not only on the pitch but off it too," Tosic added.

"English football is a bit different to the other leagues so he told me some things about how I should play and different things that I would have to get used to.

"A player that learns to play in The Premier League can play wherever he wants."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Manchester United Hitting Form For The Big Games - Alex Ferguson

2009-05-09T14:39:00.001+08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson believes his Manchester United side are rising to the challenge of becoming multiple champions in the right way and at just the right time.

Ahead of a crucial derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday - a game that could see them tighten their grip almost unshakably on a third consecutive Premier League title - the Red Devils' boss confidently stated that his players are up to the challenge.

“Cristiano [Ronaldo] and a lot of our players are smelling the big games now. Look at the last few weeks," he stated to The Times. We have had some fantastic performances against Porto, Arsenal twice, in the second half against Tottenham and at Middlesbrough. The team has come to top form at the right time. I’d like to say it is all down to our preparation, but, to be honest, it is not. The players like the big-game situation. They have proved they can handle it and we’re in good form now.”

Having claimed that City will be “desperate” to win at Old Trafford for the second season running, Ferguson believes his ex-player Mark Hughes, now City boss, will struggle to bring in the top players he wants this summer.

“You can have a checklist of players but it’s reduced by 50 per cent because other clubs don’t want to sell,” Ferguson said, adding that his own club “won’t be going for a lot of players” in the summer and had not yet identified any summer targets.

Graham Lister, Goal.com

Manchester United Announce Indian Sponsorship Deal

2009-05-09T14:36:00.001+08:00

Manchester United have announced a new five year sponsorship deal with Indian telecom giants Bharti Airtel.

Starting next season, Airtel will be able to offer their mobile customers video clips of Manchester United’s games.

The value of the deal wasn’t disclosed at an Old Trafford press conference that was attended by manager Sir Alex Ferguson and star players Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney.

"This partnership demonstrates the enduring strength of the club internationally," said Manchester United CEO David Gill highlighting the club’s power to find partners during global meltdown.

"Football is definitely seeing a growing interest amongst the young population in India. We are making a pioneering effort to bring them rich football content on their mobiles,” said Sanjay Kapoor, the deputy CEO of Airtel.

Airtel users will get opportunities to participate in training sessions with Manchester United Soccer Schools coaches, to attend matches at Old Trafford and travel into Europe with United to UEFA Champions League games.

Fletcher offered hope on red card

2009-05-07T17:43:00.002+08:00

Manchester United could appeal against Darren Fletcher's suspension from the Champions League final, according to Uefa general secretary David Taylor.

Fletcher was harshly sent off in the semi-final, but Taylor told United manager Sir Alex Ferguson they could challenge the decision.

"The likelihood is we'd refer it to our disciplinary body.

"They'd see if there were circumstances to justify a departure from procedure," Taylor told BBC World Service.

Fletcher, who was an unused substitute in last season's Champions League final win over Chelsea, was dismissed towards the end of the semi-final second-leg victory over Arsenal for a challenge on Cesc Fabregas that resulted in a penalty.

However, replays made it clear that the United player had in fact made contact with the ball.

Ferguson said the decision was "a tragedy", while Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted the call was "very harsh", but initially Uefa said there was no right of appeal unless the referee made an error in identifying the player.

Taylor has offered United a sliver of hope that Fletcher, 25, could turn out against Barcelona on 27 May, although he admitted the likelihood was that the decision would stand.

"I must stress there is normally no way these matters can be overturned," he warned.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/8037362.stm

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo Brushes Off Transfer Speculation Once Again

2009-05-07T17:39:00.000+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has yet again made it clear that he has no desire to leave Premier League giants Manchester United any time soon.

The 24-year-old versatile winger was used as a front-man against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final second leg on Tuesday and, after scoring twice to help the Red Devils progress to the final, he has insisted that he is only concentrating on taking more silverware back to Old Trafford.

The 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year has continuously been linked with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid since last summer.

However, the 62-time capped Portugal international has said that there is no substance to the reports, asserting that he is committed to Manchester United.

"I've responded to this question many times. I am very happy at Manchester and I want to stay here," Ronaldo told The Sun.

"I am very focused on winning the Champions League."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Darren Fletcher's Red Card Stands, UEFA Tell Manchester United

2009-05-07T14:19:00.001+08:00

UEFA have informed the Red Devils they have the right to appeal the decision, but the only instance in which it will be overturned is if it was a case of mistaken identity...

Manchester United have been notified by UEFA that Darren Fletcher's red card in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal will not be revoked.

Although TV replays showed that the Scotland international touched the ball, the 25-year-old was dismissed for a tackle on Cesc Fabregas, which subsequently earned the Gunners a penalty.

Referee Roberto Rosetti's decision to give the midfielder his marching orders in the 75th minute means that he will not play in the final at Rome's Stadio Olimpico on May 27.

UEFA head of communications Rob Faulkner has revealed that the only way in which Fletcher's dismissal would be overturned is if the official had sent off the wrong person.

"Manchester United have the right to file a protest within 24 hours of the match," Faulkner is quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

"However a protest against a caution or sending off is only admissible if the referee's error was to mistake the identity of the player."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Barcelona-Manchester United Would Be The Dream Final - Laporta

2009-05-07T14:16:00.001+08:00

With the Spanish league title almost won and one cup final already to look forward to, Barca's president wants a trip to Rome...

Joan Laporta believes that Barcelona against Manchester United would be a perfect Champions League final in Rome and thinks that beating Chelsea would make the next month very enjoyable.

The Blaugrana took a huge step towards winning la Primera Division at the weekend and are already in the Copa del Rey final; now he wants a showpiece encounter with the current world champions.

Manchester United beat Arsenal on Tuesday night to reach the final for the second consecutive year and Barca will be aiming to stop Chelsea repeating that feat also.

"Barca against Manchester United will be a dream final. We just need to make one last push," the Barca president told RAC1.

"If we qualify then we will start a great run-in to the season with the league now virtually wrapped up."

Barcelona prepared for the match at Stamford Bridge with an historic victory against Real Madrid in the Bernabeu, but Laporta stated that the players had already moved on.

"That game has passed and now we are focused on the Champions League semi-final only," he added.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Cristiano Ronaldo Confident Manchester United Can Retain Champions League

2009-05-07T14:11:00.001+08:00

The 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year says he knew all along that the Red Devils would reach the final for a second successive year...

Cristiano Ronaldo is full of belief that Manchester United can successfully defend their Champions League title after booking their place in the final.

The Red Devils beat Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, giving them a 4-1 win on aggregate over the two legs.

The 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year, who scored twice in north London, was full of praise for this team-mates following their emphatic victory over the Gunners.

He also said that he was always confident United would go all the way to Rome this season, and that he knows no reason why they cannot become the first team to retain the trophy since the European Cup became the Champions League in 1992.

"I have always believed we were going to win it again," Ronaldo is quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

"That is what we have been trying to do and now we are in the final, so we have a great opportunity.

"It was not an easy match. Arsenal are a good team, so to score three goals at their own ground is just amazing.

"The whole team were superb and we deserve to be in the final."

Darren Fletcher was shown a straight red card for a tackle on Cesc Fabregas inside the Manchester United penalty area in the 75th minute, which means he will miss the final.

The Scotland international midfielder appeared to have won the ball, and team-mate Ronaldo has said that 'Fletch' was extremely unfortunate.

"I am tremendously disappointed for Darren," Ronaldo remarked.

"He has played in most of the games and now he cannot play in the final. He deserves to - but that is football."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Alex Ferguson Backs Manchester United To Retain Champions League

2009-05-07T13:45:00.002+08:00

The Scottish tactician says their win against in the semi-final proves there is nothing that can stop them achieving their objective...

After comfortably brushing Arsenal aside in the Champions League semi-final, manager Alex Ferguson is tipping Manchester United to retain the trophy in Rome on May 27.

Leading 1-0 from the first leg at Old Trafford, the Red Devils scored two away goals within the first 11 minutes at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday to pile the pressure on the Gunners.

United booked their place in the final by winning 3-1 on the night and 4-1 on aggregate, and the Scot believes their performance over the two legs prove they can beat anybody on their day.

"We have the quality, the energy, the drive and the ambition to make history and there’s no doubting our hunger to do it," Ferguson is quoted as saying by The Sun.

"Manchester United should have won this cup more times than we have and now we have another opportunity.

"When the chips are down, these players don’t let me down.

"You also saw that we play under pressure. We weren’t overawed by Arsenal’s aggressive start.

"But we kept playing our football and once we transferred the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo it was a big problem for them.

"This team has only been put together over the last two or three years but tonight you saw a real maturity in our performance.

"Good players will always be judged by the belief they have and tonight there were no individual performances. They were all star men."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Manchester United Capitalise On Arsenal Errors To Cruise Into Champions League Final

2009-05-06T07:33:00.001+08:00

A blistering start from Manchester United stunned Arsenal and sent the Red Devils on the way to a comfortable 3-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium which sends them through to the Champions League final...

Arsenal 1-3 Manchester United [1-4 On Aggregate]

A blistering start from Manchester United stunned Arsenal and sent the Red Devils on the way to a comfortable 3-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium which sends them through to the Champions League final.

The visitors got off to a dream start as both Ji-Sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo scored within 11 minutes after errors from Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs and then goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.

They controlled proceedings for the rest of the first half as Arsenal struggled to make any sort of impact going forward and made it 3-0 after the break when Ronaldo capped a tremendous counter-attack.

Robin van Persie did score a late consolation from the penalty spot after Darren Fletcher was harshly sent off and subsequently ruled out of the final after being adjudged to have fouled Cesc Fabregas.

But it is United’s fans who can now begin planning their trip to Rome, while followers of the Gunners have to deal with a fourth successive season without any silverware after a desperately disappointing performance.

The big Arsenal team news saw Robin van Persie return to the line-up to partner Emmanuel Adebayor in attack. Johan Djourou got the nod over ex-Red Devil Mikael Silvestre in the centre of defence.

United sprung a surprise with Park named in the starting XI ahead of both Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov, who were on the substitutes’ bench.

The first of the visitors’ two early goals came in the seventh minute. Anderson broke from midfield and found Ronaldo on the left, before the Portugal international flashed the ball across the face of goal. Just as Gunners full-back Gibbs was set to clear the danger for the home side, he slipped, allowing Park to gain possession and score by calmly chipping over the onrushing Almunia.

Four minutes later, the Gunners were completely stunned when United made it 2-0. There didn’t seem to be a huge threat when Ronaldo lined up a free-kick from the right around 40 yards from goal. However, the forward’s powerful, dipping effort avoided the grasp of Almunia and found its way inside the near post, prompting wild celebrations from the away side.

On 18 minutes, a curling effort from Rooney was superbly tipped round the post by Almunia as the visitors threatened to run riot. From the resulting corner, Ronaldo found space to head Anderson’s delivery narrowly wide.

It took half an hour for Arsenal to register their first meaningful attempt on target. Samir Nasri weaved his way into space on the left and crossed for Fabregas, who could only direct his looping header straight at United keeper Edwin van der Sar.

Two minutes later, Ronaldo had the chance to test Almunia with another long-range free-kick. This time, though, the Spaniard saved comfortably.

The World Player of the Year was involved again just prior to half-time, testing Almunia with a left-footed shot after good work from Darren Fletcher.

In the 51st minute he was at it again, cutting past Djourou from the right and forcing Almunia into a sharp stop at his near post.

Arsenal began to exert more pressure leading up to the hour mark, forcing a number of free-kicks and corners, but they soon paid the price as United scored with a ruthless counter-attack.

After United cleared a corner, Ronaldo linked with Park at the edge of United’s area. He carried the ball into Arsenal’s half before finding Rooney on the left, allowing the Englishman to find Ronaldo, who had made a tremendous supporting run, with a square pass. After an impressive night, Ronaldo made no mistake - slamming a shot past Almunia into the roof of the net.

On 64 minutes, van Persie forced van der Sar into a strong parry with a decent attempt from 20 yards. Substitute Nicklas Bendtner struck the side netting in the 71st minute after doing well to beat John O’Shea.

As the tie was drifting towards a quiet conclusion, there was a nasty sting in the tail for United. Inside the final 15 minutes, Fabregas bore down on goal from Nasri's clever lofted pass, but was halted by a Fletcher challenge, with the Scot making contact with the ball. However, a penalty was awarded and Fletcher sent off, meaning he will be out of the final.

Van Persie took an impressive resulting penalty - finding the top corner – but it was scant consolation for the second best Gunners or their home supporters.

Chris Myson, Goal.com

Manchester United’s Darren Fletcher Is ‘Terribly Unlucky’ - Sir Alex Ferguson

2009-05-06T07:30:00.002+08:00

Fletch's sending off was a harsh decision, according to the United boss.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insisted midfielder Darren Fletcher was “terribly unlucky” after the Scot picked up a red card that will rule him out of the Champions League final.

The Red Devils cruised into the final with a 4-1 aggregate victory over Arsenal yet their evening was marred by a straight red card shown to the midfielder for a foul on Cesc Fabregas

Speaking to ITV Sport after the game the United boss rued the decision and admitted there was nothing the club could do about it.

“You can see the ball has moved a different direction, an angle away from Cesc Fabregas and I think he’s terribly unlucky, but unfortunately we can’t appeal it,” he explained.

“I think the referee is probably the best in Europe, he may look at it and have a view on it but there’s nothing you can do about it.”

Fletcher will now be forced to watch the final from the sidelines and Ferguson revealed he would have expected him to play some part in the game.

“You see his performance tonight, and all the big games over the last few years, Darren’s always been a key player for us,” he said.

“I can’t tell you what my team would be for the final, depends who the opponents were of course, but you would think that Darren would figure largely in it.”

Despite the sending off, United enjoyed a superb win and were helped by a great start which saw Ji Sung Park score after only nine minutes, which Ferguson admitted was a great help.

“I think obviously we got the break, we got the first goal with the defender slipping and Ji Sung Park takes advantage of that,” said the United boss.

“The performance in terms of confidence and wanting to play and play our football was really terrific.”

The reigning champions will now meet either Chelsea or Barcelona in Rome and Sir Alex tipped the Premier League side to make it through.

“Obviously Barcelona are fantastic. I watched them on Saturday night and I was drooling watching them,” he added.

“At Chelsea though, they [Barcelona] have a centre back problem and it may cost them and I think maybe Chelsea will go through.”

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Arsenal 1-3 Manchester United

2009-05-06T07:26:00.002+08:00

Manchester United are through to the Champions League Final following tonight's 3-1 semi final second leg win against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Carlo Garganese rates the players on show in North London...

ARSENAL

Almunia -4.0: Was brilliant in the first leg, and kept Arsenal in the tie. Tonight, he ended any chance they had of making the final with a terrible error on Ronaldo's free kick. Later saved well from Rooney and Ronaldo, but the damage was already done.

Sagna -6.0: Arsenal's backline was shaky once again, but Sagna did not do anything terribly wrong. Committed as usual.

Toure -5.0: Solid for spells of the game, but was found wanting at key moments. Needed to be Arsenal's defensive leader, but was not.

Djourou -5.0: When the much-maligned Mikael Silvestre is missed, then you know it has not been one of your better nights. No understanding whatsoever with Toure.

Gibbs -4.5: "He was magnificent in the first leg." Almost everyone bizarrely said that after the first leg, apart from Goal.com colleague Sulmaan Ahmad and myself. Hate to be a told-you-so, but Gibbs cost Arsenal the tie tonight with a monumental slip for Park's opener.

Walcott -4.5: A big disappointment in both legs. Made no impact whatsoever against Evra, and was far too one-dimensional. No space, no Walcott.

Song -5.0: Song is supposed to be a holding midfielder, but again he didn't protect his defence. How Wenger could ever consider him a worthy replacement for Mathieu Flamini is a mystery.

Fabregas -6.0: Tried to put his foot on the ball and play, but it is quite clear that it is not the same Fabregas this season as the one of years gone by. Won the penalty.

Nasri -7.0: Easily Arsenal's best player tonight. Was lively throughout, and looked capable of making things happening. Unfortunately did not have the support of his team-mates.

Van Persie -6.5 Along with Nasri, the only Arsenal player who showed any kind of spark. Unleashed a few shots, and scored his side's consolation from the penalty spot.

Adebayor -4.0: Adebay-who? The most embarrassing 180 minutes of football you will ever see from a supposed centre forward. Beyonce won't be impressed.

Subs

Eboue -6.5: Judging on Eboue's penetrating second half showing, he should have started the game.

Bendtner -6.0: A few lively moments.

Vela -N/V: Did not have a chance to get into the game.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar -6.5: Another very easy evening for the veteran Dutchman. Aside from the penalty, the only save of note Van der Sar had to make was a 20-yard shot from Van Persie at 3-0.

O'Shea -6.5: The hero at Old Trafford, O'Shea was steady if not spectacular at the Emirates. Occasionally troubled by Nasri, the Irishman did almost all that was asked of him.

Vidic -7.5: Won everything in the air, and breezed through the evening without even having to get out of second gear.

Ferdinand -8.0: Once again marked Adebayor out of the game. Ferdinand and Vidic, if it was not already obvious, are the best centre back duo in the world.

Evra -8.0: Won every single duel against Walcott, and did not give the Englishman a kick. Back to his best after a shaky spell around a month ago.

Fletcher -7.5: Plenty of bite in the midfield, which helped Man Utd. overpower Arsenal in the middle-of-the-park. Harshly sent off when he clearly won the ball, and will now miss the final.

Carrick -7.5: Again showed his opposite number Song how you should play the midfield holding role. Did not waste a pass.

Anderson -8.0: One of the most under-rated players in the Premier League. He is world class, and the most important player in the centre of United's midfield.

Ronaldo -9.0: If he has underperformed in big games the last few seasons, the same cannot be said this campaign. Ronaldo has scored in every knockout round, and tonight blasted home two goals, as well as making Park's first. Man-of-the-match.

Park -8.5: Lots of energy, Park never stopped running for his team. A superb finish after just eight minutes that all but ended the tie. Involved in the third goal too, making the pass to Rooney.

Rooney -8.0: Linked up intelligently in attack, and provided the assist for Ronaldo's second goal. Almost scored himself with a beautiful curling shot. The best player in the Premier League this season.

Subs

Giggs 6.5: A few tricks and flicks, but nothing to get too excited about.

Rafael 6.0: Held his position.

Berbatov 5.5: Made little impact.

Carlo Garganese, Goal.com

Manchester United Star Rio Ferdinand Returns To Training

2009-05-04T23:23:00.002+08:00

The roaming defender appears to be ready to feature in the club's concluding leg of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.

Manchester United's chances of progression to the Champions League final have been bolstered today as Sky Sports have reported that sturdy defender Rio Ferdinand has been seen resuming training today, in preparation for protecting the club's slender one-goal advantage over Arsenal.

There was initial trepidation over the England international's chances of featuring in United's trip to Ashburton Grove, as the early forecast on the injury was that Ferdinand had cracked a rib after colliding with Arsenal striker Eduardo da Silva in the first leg at Old Trafford.

Defenders Patrice Evra and Wes Brown were both absent from training, and Arsene Wenger will therefore be hoping to get the most out of pacy winger Theo Walcott, who could line-up against either Jonny Evans or John O'Shea.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will be without Mikael Silvestre (groin), Gael Clichy (back), William Gallas (knee), Robin van Persie (groin), Eduardo da Silva, (groin), and Tomas Rosicky (hamstring).

The game kicks-off on Tuesday evening at 19:45 BST.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Ryan Giggs Confident Of Manchester United's Chances Against Arsenal

2009-05-04T23:15:00.001+08:00

The Welsh midfielder believes the Red Devils can progress to the Champions League final if they repeat their first leg performance at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening...

Ryan Giggs feels that Manchester United can overcome Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final if they play as well as they did in the first-leg.

The Red Devils take a 1-0 lead to the Emirates Stadium for the second leg on Tuesday evening, although it might have been more had they capitalised on the numerous chances they created at Old Trafford last Wednesday.

Nevertheless, the former Wales international is certain that the holders will book their place in the final if they produce a repeat performance.

"If we play to the ability we did in the first half last week we will have no problems," Giggs is quoted as saying by The Sunday Sun.

"We went out to get the crowd going and play at a quick tempo. That is what we do when we are at our best.

"Arsenal are a top team and they are capable of scoring goals so we are under no illusions about how difficult this is going to be.

"But our form in Europe has been excellent and we are in a good position."

The 2009 PFA Player of the Year has warned his team-mates not to lose sight of exactly who their opponents are, insisting that they must keep it tight defensively.

“You have to look after Arsenal's quality players,” he said. “They have so many match-winners; [Cesc] Fabregas, [Emmanuel] Adebayor, [Theo] Walcott, [Robin] van Persie, if he is fit. The threat is obvious, so you have to try and nullify it.”

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Champions League Stat-Attack

2009-05-04T23:11:00.001+08:00

Goal.com examines the key numbers of this season's Champions League tournament and provides some highlights and points of information from yesteryear...

"Statistics are like women; mirrors of purest virtue and truth, or like whores to use as one pleases."
Theodor Billroth

Number-crunching. Totting up. The time has come to sift through the statistics and uncover the truths, half-truths, improbabilities and implausibilities of this edition of Europe's premier competition and indeed, some gems of information from the past.

Some managers, like the legendary Valeri Lobanovsky, a semi-finalist with Dynamo Kyiv in 2002, placed huge credence in the unravelling of statistics, while others in the brethren, like Brian Clough, twice a winner with Nottingham Forest, paid little or no attention to the malleable sets of figures.

However, the numbers don't lie and the figures do indeed, add up. And we'll start with the reason all the clubs set out to compete in the first place: money.

UEFA had a pot of €585.6 million to distribute among the 32 clubs that initiated the group stage of the tournament, with each side pocketing a cool €3m before a ball was kicked. Add to that sum an additional match bonus of €400,000 and performance bonuses of up to €600,000 for a win. The 16 teams that overcame the first hurdle earned €2.2m apiece; the eight that won those ties saw their bank balances rise to the tune of €2.5m. Each semi-finalist was given €3m for taking part and the finalists themselves will earn much more than that. The losing side will earn €4m, while the winners will take home €7m as well as the trophy.

The trophy. The sixth design of the same cup. This particular trinket has been in use since 2006 and cost €6,800 to manufacture. The reason a new trophy was commissioned? Liverpool's Lazarus impression in 2005 in Istanbul earned the club their fifth European Cup/Champions League honour and in line with UEFA regulation, the Reds were permitted to keep an 'original' in their cabinet at Anfield. After Steven Gerrard spent the night spooning it, that is. Real Madrid, Ajax, Bayern Munich and AC Milan are the other four clubs possessed of an original in the cupboard.

Liverpool's possession of the Real Thing is thanks in no small part to the interventions of Bob Paisley; the veteran manager oversaw three wins, 1977, 1978 and 1981, making him the only coach in the tournament's rich history to win a hat-trick of prizes.

Seeking to emulate that feat this season is Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United, who seems to be making it his life's work to knock Liverpool off their perch. The Scot was a winner in 1999 and of course, against Chelsea last season.

The Pensioners, along with Arsenal, are looking for their own slice of history this term; for one, they do not want to join Reims (1956, 1959) and Valencia (2000, 2001) in becoming the third side to appear in two finals and lose both. Also, one of the London teams could become only the sixth capital city side to lay their hands on the cup, following the successes of Real MADRID, Red Star BELGRADE, Steaua BUCHAREST, Ajax AMSTERDAM and Benfica of LISBON.

Guus Hiddink can earn a place alongside the legends of the game by becoming the third man to win the European Cup/Champions League with two different teams. Ernst Happel, of Feyenoord in 1970 and Hamburger SV in 1983, and Ottmar Hitzfeld of Borussia Dortmund in 1997 and Bayern Munich in 2001, go ahead of the Dutchman, who achieved success with PSV Eindhoven in 1988. To have a shot at that feat, he must overcome Pep Guardiola's Barcelona. Should Barca pip Chelsea to a final spot and indeed, go all the way to a third European honour, then Guardiola will join Miguel Munoz (Real Madrid) and Carlo Ancelotti (AC Milan) as only the third individual to win the cup as a player and coach of the same club.

Chelsea and Barcelona are goalless heading into the second-leg of the semi-final; history suggests that we will not be heading for penalty kicks on Wednesday evening as no semi-final has ever ended scoreless after two legs.

Last season, Barcelona were on the receiving end of a 1-0 aggregate defeat to Manchester United. The Red Devils are still defending an unbeaten streak that incorporated those two encounters; their record-breaking run now stands at 24 games. Also, the Old Trafford team stand to become the first defending champions to reach the final since Juventus in 1997.

With three sides featuring in the semis, England will again provide at least one finalist, as they have done each year since 2005. Like last season, the gatecrashers to the Anglo love-in are Barcelona. The Premier League's dominance is such that out of the last 12 semi-finalists, nine have represented the EPL.

In contrast to that might, this season's competition saw for the first time representatives from Cyprus and Belarus; however, both Anorthosis Famagusta and BATE Borisov were eliminated at the group stage. Also making their debuts this term were CFR Cluj and UEFA Cup winners, Zenit St Petersburg.

Only one player has featured in every minute of every game this season and that honour goes to Petr Cech of Chelsea. The Czech goalkeeper has racked up 990 minutes in 11 matches, which is 90 more than John Terry. For the Blues, Nicolas Anelka has featured 11 times in the competition, though sometimes in a substitute's role.

Barcelona's Iron Men are Gerard Pique, who has played all but one match, as has Victor Valdes. Also with a decade of appearances are Xavi and Leo Messi, who have played 807 and 747 minutes respectively.

With the injuries, suspensions and other tournaments in mind, it is perhaps no surprise that utility-man John O'Shea has played more minutes than any other Manchester United performer, appearing 10 times in the process. Cristiano Ronaldo has featured in 10 matches too though. The only United man to play in all 11 ties is Wayne Rooney. The England forward has been in action for a grand total of 804 minutes.

Denilson of Arsenal has been in action for his side more often than any other. The diminutive midfielder has managed 853 minutes for his side in 10 games.

Leading the goal scoring charts is Lionel Messi with eight strikes, while club-mate Xavi heads the assists list with six - the same number as Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery. Despite his best efforts, Cristiano Ronaldo still does not merit a place at the top of either chart. However, the Portugal winger has fired 26 shots on goal and a further 18 off-target, leading both of those categories.

The most important stat of all is that only two of the four teams remaining can advance to the final in Rome.

Goal.com

Champions League Preview: Arsenal - Manchester United

2009-05-04T23:03:00.002+08:00

Events in north London will reveal the Premier League's first, perhaps only, Champions League final representatives...

Kick-Off: Tuesday May 5 2009, 20:45 CET, Emirates Stadium, London (0-1 on aggregate)

Work To Do

Whatever the reasons for the sudden mutual respect between Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson in the lead up to last week's first leg encounter – a quiet confidence in their sides' abilities? A realisation that Rafael Benitez is more unhinged than the pair of them combined? – the fact remains that both gaffers would find elimination painful to swallow.

At Old Trafford, United would have been out of sight were it not for Manuel Almunia's goalkeeping performance, eventually having to settle for John O'Shea's 18th minute strike. Although the Gunners weren't as defence-minded as Chelsea were during their trip to Barcelona's Camp Nou, it was clear that both were content to leave the bulk of the work for the return leg. Not taking an all-out gamble on bagging an away goal, then, was a gamble in itself.

Five Years

Wenger has reason to believe that progress can be made in north London, though, for Arsenal are unbeaten in 24 Champions League matches at home – a five-year run – and have lost just once in United's last ten visits overall. Furthermore, they're yet to even concede a goal at home during this campaign, drawing only with Fenerbahce in Group G.

United have been a bit unpredictable on their continental travels this term. Group E draws at Villarreal and Celtic were followed by a 3-0 win at Aalborg. They went on to huff, puff and fail to score at Inter, before an early Cristiano Ronaldo screamer was enough to overcome Porto. Still, they haven't lost in the 11 away games since Milan dished out a beating in 2007.

Gulf?

Few who saw the first leg would disagree that there's a gulf between these sides, even if it has closed somewhat in recent weeks as the Gunners improve. Although Wenger's men are capable of producing something special, it must be remembered that they're playing the holders – a side 12 points clear of them in the Premier League with a game in hand. Some of the damning assessments of Arsenal's display last week were harsh, then, as it was always a big ask to go through.

Both sides were in domestic action over the weekend, but we didn't learn a great deal. Each put out very impressive looking second-string sides, and carved out comfortable wins: Arsenal 3-0 at Portsmouth, United 2-0 at Middlesbrough. Neither hit top gear, nor took unnecessary risks, and the first-teamers will benefit from the rest.

The Red Devils' approach could be similar to their Porto quarter-final: hit early, then work hard, knowing this time that their opponents would need three goals. Arsenal have more to offer than the Portuguese, though, and 'Fergie' could yet end up abusing copious amounts of chewing gum before a finalist emerges.

FORM GUIDE

Last Five Results

Arsenal

02/05/09 Portsmouth 0-3 Arsenal - Prem
29/04/09 Man Utd 1-0 Arsenal - CL Semi 1st Leg
26/04/09 Arsenal 2-0 Middlesbrough - Prem
21/04/09 Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal - Prem
18/04/09 Arsenal 1-2 Chelsea - FA Cup Semi

Manchester United

02/05/09 Middlesbrough 0-2 Man Utd - Prem
29/04/09 Man Utd 1-0 Arsenal - CL Semi 1st Leg
25/04/09 Man Utd 5-2 Tottenham - Prem
22/04/09 Man Utd 2-0 Portsmouth - Prem
19/04/09 Man Utd 0-0P Everton - FA Cup Semi

TEAM NEWS

Arsenal

Boss Wenger rang the changes at the weekend, resting all but Bacary Sagna, Alex Song and Theo Walcott of his potential starters. Denilson and Nicklas Bendtner, who bagged a brace against Pompey, are in their gaffer's thoughts after strong performances. "I know on Tuesday we will not win with 11 players," Wenger said after the game. "You win with 14 players."

Robin van Persie and Mikael Silvestre will face late fitness tests – the latter more in hope than expectation – while Gael Clichy, William Gallas and Eduardo da Silva remain sidelined. Andrey Arshavin is ineligible.

Song could drop into defence if Wenger doesn't want to throw a fringe man like Johan Djourou in at the deep end.

Possible starting XI: (4-4-2) Almunia; Sagna, Toure, Djourou, Gibbs; Walcott, Fabregas, Diaby, Nasri, Van Persie, Adebayor.

Manchester United

Edwin van der Sar, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher and Rio Ferdinand were all completely omitted from the squad as United beat Middlesbrough at the weekend, and all could return. Jonny Evans on stand-by if Ferdinand, who suffered bruised lungs during the first leg, doesn't make it. He has returned to training, though.

O'Shea, Nemanja Vidic and Wayne Rooney started, yet will likely line up again on Tuesday. Patrice Evra, though, will require a late fitness test after limping out late on.

Wes Brown is unlikely to be risked following his recent return to full training, but reports suggest that Gary Neville could return if Evra remains crocked, with O'Shea moving to the left.

Other players who performed well at the weekend include Park Ji-Sung, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, although Michael Carrick, Fletcher and Anderson could well return to the midfield, leaving Park, Giggs and Carlos Tevez on a strong Bench.

Possible Starting XI: (4-3-2-1) Van der Sar; O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Fletcher, Anderson, Carrick; Ronaldo, Rooney; Berbatov.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Arsenal

Skipper Cesc Fabregas needs to be the man here. It's the biggest test of his first season as captain, and he's been back from injury long enough to be nearing something like top form. He's also the key to unleashing Emmanuel Adebayor, who's been a bit hit-or-miss of late.

Manchester United

It would be a bit silly to single out anyone other than Cristiano Ronaldo for a Champions League semi-final. As always, everyone's asking whether or not the Portuguese powerhouse will light up the big stage, albeit with slightly less venom following his Porto winner.

The hustle and bustle of Rooney has been crucial of late, and the experience of Giggs a great bonus. It's CR7 who will be expected to produce the special moment, though.

PREDICTION

The Gunners are overdue the Champions League title, it must be said. And even though this isn't the best batch of Wenger's reign, they're certainly a self-assured bunch who believe in their home advantage.

If United score in normal time, it's all over. However, I think they're in for a very tough game, and may rue not finishing off the Gunners at Old Trafford.

Extra time could decide it: United have the experience, but Arsenal displayed their 'mental strength' to oust Roma previously – and in every other game of 2009 according to 'The Professor' – and are to be written off at your peril.

Arsenal 1-0 Manchester United
Greg Ptolomey, Goal.com

Manchester United Boss Ferguson Backs Wayne Rooney For Footballer Of The Year

2009-05-04T13:39:00.001+08:00

Fergie is convinced that his young charge has been far and wide the best player this term...

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has put forward the argument that nobody is more deserving of the FWA (Football Writers' Association) Footballer of the Year award than Wayne Rooney.

The England international is currently in top form, having scored twice and set up three goals last weekend against Tottenham Hotspur, as well as impressing against Arsenal in midweek and Middlesbrough on the weekend.

"I don't think anyone could argue with him as Footballer of the Year. He's certainly been consistent enough," trumpeted Ferguson in a recent interview in The Observer.

On top of his invaluable offensive contribution, Rooney has continued to show himself to be more than prepared to make sacrifices for the team, doing no small amount of tracking back from the wide-left role that he is looking increasingly suited to.

"Wayne is actually starting to enjoy playing on the left now. He's still scoring goals, but in a different way," added the United boss.

"Where he eventually settles down depends on the make-up of the rest of the team, but he's capable of playing anywhere in a forward position and the great thing is he's happy to make any position work."

Rooney, 23, recently went on record as saying that he would happily spend the rest of his career at Old Trafford.

Manchester United Edge Arsenal In Champions League

2009-04-30T07:57:00.001+08:00

The holders dominated an exciting game but have only a John O’Shea goal to show for their efforts.

Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal

Manchester United and Arsenal met for the first time in European competition in a entertaining game at Old Trafford which ended with the home side gaining a narrow advantage to take into the second leg.

The holders began the game in impressive style and had Arsenal on the back front from the off as they poured forward with real pace and verve.

Wayne Rooney was the man who went closest in the opening minutes, sending a looping header back across goal, albeit with the help of a deflection, which Manuel Almunia did superbly to scramble away.

Less than a minute later and a slip in the penalty area by Kieran Gibbs could have proved costly for the Gunners.

Cristiano Ronaldo picked up the loose ball and drilled in a low cross but, unfortunately for United, there was no-one on hand to poke the ball home.

Carlos Tevez, preferred to Dimitar Berbatov in attack, was the next to get in on the act, teeing up Ronaldo for a shot which the Portuguese international fired straight at Almunia.

Yet United were in full flow and continued to create chances, seemingly at will, against an Arsenal side powerless to prevent the red tide.

With just over 15 minutes gone Ronaldo and Tevez combined well to send John O’Shea out wide.

The utility man curled in a superb cross for Tevez to head home but the striker’s effort was too close to Almunia who saved brilliantly.

Yet it was to prove only a temporary reprieve, as from the resulting corner Sir Alex Ferguson’s men grabbed the goal their opening salvo had threatened.

A long corner was picked up at the far post by Michael Carrick who returned the ball across goal and found O’Shea who thrashed the opener into the roof of the net.

The goal roused the Gunners somewhat, but it took until almost the half-hour mark before Arsene Wenger’s men carved out a decent opportunity.

Theo Walcott was the man to initiate matters, cutting inside from the right and playing in Emmanuel Adebayor who set it back to Cesc Fabregas who fired low but straight at Van der Sar.

It was to be the Arsenal’s best chance of the half and the visitors also had Almunia to thank after he pulled off another superb save on the half-hour mark.

Some good work from Tevez down the right saw the Argentinean cross for Ronaldo who looked destined to score but could only watch in agony as Almunia saved his point-blank header.

As the half progressed the visitors manage to gain a foot-hold in the match but despite enjoying some decent possession at times, they struggled to create any clear-cut openings and will have been relieved to have gone in at the break just one goal down.

The second-half began more evenly with both sides threatening yet failed to trouble either goalkeeper.

In fact it took until just over the hour mark before either side had a clear sight of goal.

The chance fell to the Gunners with Adebayor taking a long ball and beating Rio Ferdinand before lashing a shot well over the bar.

With a second goal not forthcoming for his side, Ferguson opted to changes things sending on Ryan Giggs and Dimitar Berbatov for Anderson and Tevez.

And within minutes of the substitutions, the Red Devils very nearly did double their lead after Ronaldo struck the crossbar with a thunderous shot from long range.

United continued to press with Carrick going close with a low shot before Giggs did find the back of the net, only to be denied a goal on his 800th appearance by an offside flag.

With time ticking away Arsenal could have grabbed an equaliser, substitute Nicklas Bendtner heading a free kick high and wide but ultimately neither team could add to O’Shea’s strike leaving the tie intriguingly poised.

Manchester United: Van der Sar; O'Shea, Ferdinand (Evans, 87), Vidic, Evra; Fletcher, Carrick, Anderson (Giggs, 67); Ronaldo, Tevez (Berbatov, 67), Rooney.

Arsenal: Almunia; Sagna, Toure, Silvestre, Gibbs; Diaby, Song; Walcott (Bendtner, 71), Fabregas, Nasri; Adebayor (Eduardo, 83).

GOAL

1-0 Manchester United (O’Shea, 17)

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal

2009-04-30T07:53:00.001+08:00

Manchester United defeated Arsenal 1-0 in their Champions League semi-final first leg at Old Trafford. Goal.com rates the participants.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar -6.0: An easy evening for the Dutch veteran, who did not have a single save of note to make. Did all the simple things with minimal fuss.

O'Shea -8.0: The Irishman rarely grabs the headlines, but he will tonight. Apart from scoring the winner, O'Shea's all-round play was exemplary. He created Tevez's gilt-edged chance on 15 minutes.

Vidic -7.0: You barely noticed Vidic this evening, but that was mainly because Arsenal made so few in-roads into his territory. Very comfortable.

Ferdinand -8.5: Marked Adebayor, and barely gave the Togolese hitman a kick. Anticipated Arsenal's forward passes, and made the game look very simple.

Evra -7.0: Has been in really poor form recently, but was back to something approaching his normal self tonight. Not troubled at all defensively, he also supported the attack well.

Fletcher -6.5: Did the dirty work in midfield without really making too much of an impact.

Carrick -7.5: Showed his opposite number Song how you should play the midfield holding role. Also proved useful in advanced areas, providing the assist for O'Shea, and shooting just wide.

Anderson -8.5: Dictated the tempo in midfield, particularly in the opening period, and bossed the likes of Song and Diaby. Somewhat surprisingly subbed on 66 minutes.

Ronaldo -8.0: Has occasionally been accused of not performing in the big games, but he was a livewire throughout today. Hit the crossbar with a thunderbolt, but may be disappointed with his first half headed miss.

Tevez -8.0: The best player on the park in the opening 45 minutes. Arsenal could not cope with his movement. Created a great chance for Ronaldo, but should have scored himself on 15 minutes.

Rooney -7.0: Almost scored within 60 seconds, and put in a shift for the team. Not a trademark outing, and not as effective as Tevez and Ronaldo, but still a good showing.

Subs

Giggs 6.5: A few tricks and flicks, but nothing to get excited about.

Berbatov 6.0: Did not make the same impact that Tevez did.

Evans N/V: Only played the last few minutes.

ARSENAL

Almunia -9.0: At least two world class saves, among countless other stops in the first half, to keep Arsenal in the game. Almunia's denial of Tevez was miraculous. Man-of-the-match

Sagna -6.5: Perhaps the best of a shaky Arsenal backline, and did not disgrace himself against Rooney. Made very little headway as an attacking force though.

Toure -6.5: Positionally all over the shop in the first half, and lost Ronaldo for his headed chance. Improved considerably after the break.

Silvestre -5.0: Horrible in the first 45 minutes, he was at fault for the goal, and was sleeping on two other opportunities. After nine years at the club, Silvestre gave Manchester United yet more good service tonight.

Gibbs -4.5: A horror-show by the Arsenal left back. He may be young, but he was exposed time and time again down his left-hand side. What was Sky Sports' Andy Gray watching when he said the youngster had been "fantastic"?

Diaby -5.0 Very disappointing. Offered Gibbs no defensive support, and carelessly lost possession on numerous occasions.

Song -4.5: Was supposed to protect the Arsenal defence, but failed miserably. Song was a tactical disaster, pushing up when he should have held, and vice-versa. Constantly in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Walcott -6.0: A few bursts of pace, but did not get enough of the ball to run at Evra. A shame because Evra has been shaky of late.

Fabregas -6.0: The only Arsenal player to put his foot on the ball in the first half, Fabregas created little, and still failed to supply Adebayor.

Nasri -5.0: Never really got in the game did the Frenchman. In fact, you would have been forgiven for thinking that he was not even on the pitch.

Adebayor -4.0: One of those nights for Adebayor, who lost almost every ball that was played up to him. How he lasted until the 83rd minute is a mystery.

Subs

Bendtner -6.0: Missed Arsenal's best chance of the match, as he headed wide.

Eduardo -N/V: Did not have a chance to get into the game.

Carlo Garganese, Goal.com

Arsenal confident class of 2009 will come of age

2009-04-29T19:07:00.002+08:00

MANCHESTER (AFP) - Kolo Toure believes the youthful current crop of Arsenal stars can emulate the battle-hardened class of 2006 and book their ticket to this season's Champions League final.

The Gunners face Manchester United in the first leg of their semi-final at Old Trafford on Wednesday with Toure the only survivor from the 'Invincibles' squad that went through the 2003-04 Premier League campaign unbeaten.

That squad, constructed around the French trio of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires, broke up after the 2006 Champions League final defeat by Barcelona but Toure believes the north London club is once again on the verge of something special.

"True we lost Thierry Henry, but Emmanuel Adebayor is playing really well; we lost Robert Pires, but we have Samir Nasri," the Ivory Coast defender said.

"All those players have been replaced. The good thing about this team is we have a lot of young players who want to show they have the quality.

"I remember that a team like Ajax - nobody was expecting them to win, but they won (in 1995) and had a really young team as well."

Arsenal will miss the creative edge provided by top-scorer Robin van Persie, who is ruled out by a groin injury, and cup-tied Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin.

But they will take heart from the fact that they have already beaten United this season (2-1 at the Emirates in November) and by the current form of captain Cesc Fabregas, who has been revelling in the role of a deep-lying forward akin to that in which Steven Gerrard has thrived at Liverpool this season.

The brace Fabregas claimed against Middlesbrough on Sunday were his first goals since October and Toure is confident the Spaniard's guile, combined with the presence of Adebayor and the pace of Theo Walcott, will pose the holders problems. The key, he believes, will be matching their offensive contribution with equal vigour in defence.

"We know when we play football against Manchester United, they struggle a lot," Toure argued. "They're are a really good team going forward, but, like us, at the back they have conceded a few goals.

"We have the same type of team - we both like to play, but sometimes you can be caught out at the back. The team that will win will be the one which defends the best."

United's performance against Tottenham at the weekend would not have reassured their fans on that score, although their forwards more than compensation as they turned a 2-0 defict into a 5-2 victory.

The half-time introduction of Carlos Tevez proved critical and the Argentinian forward will hope to have earned a starting slot in a United side that looks certain to see Ryan Giggs make his 800th appearance for the club.

The veteran was rested for the Spurs match and is relishing the prospect of another high-stakes showdown with Arsenal, against whom he scored the goal of his career in the 1999 FA Cup semi-final.

"They don't come bigger than that - a Champions League semi-final at Old Trafford," said the newly-crowned players' Player of the Year. "I can't wait.

"But I'm more interested in beating Arsenal rather than the 800th appearance. They are things I'll look back upon when I finish and I'll be proud. But first and foremost, hopefully I'll be celebrating with a good result."

Toure could have former United defender Mikael Silvestre as his centreback partner at Old Trafford but the French defender has only a 50-50 chance of playing against his old club because of a back spasm while the daunting task of containing Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to fall to teenager Kieran Gibbs, as regular left-back Gael Clichy has his own back problem.

"Kieran is intelligent and I think he is going to perform very well on Wednesday," Toure said. "But it is not only about him, it is about all the players. If we are focused and defend together, then nobody can beat us."

The performance of United's left-back, Patrice Evra, could be just as critical. The Frenchman was given a torrid time by Aaron Lennon on Saturday and Arsenal supporters will expect to see Walcott test him in similar fashion.

John O'Shea's experience should ensure he gets the nod at right-back ahead of Brazilian teenager Rafael.

VAN DER SAR MAKES CASE FOR DEFENCE

2009-04-29T18:59:00.002+08:00

Edwin van der Sar is convinced Manchester United are better prepared than Ajax were to successfully defend their Champions League crown.

United are bidding to become the first club to achieve such a feat since the competition adopted its new format in 1992 and tackle Arsenal in an all-English semi-final at Old Trafford as favourites to reach Rome on May 27.

Four years after the relaunch, van der Sar was part of an Ajax side that became one of three on the trot to fall at the final hurdle, beaten on penalties by Juventus 12 months after AC Milan had been overcome.

But the veteran keeper does not feel the comparison between his young Dutch team-mates and Sir Alex Ferguson's present-day Red Devils is valid.

"This side is much better equipped to retain the trophy than Ajax were," he said.

"Then we had loads of injuries and a lot of young guys had to fill gaps left by older and more experienced players.

"It is hard to say whether we have a bigger chance to win the trophy but we are certainly better equipped to."

The strength in depth available to Ferguson means John O'Shea should start at right-back with Wes Brown not considered fit enough to replace Gary Neville and Rafael probably not experienced enough.

And it would be no massive surprise, either, should Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez find themselves on the bench despite Saturday's heroics against Tottenham, especially if Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs are required to defend the flanks, as they were in Porto in the last round.

In times gone by, a meeting between Ferguson and Gunners boss Arsene Wenger would have provided ample opportunity for a petty squabble.

Not any more, it seems, with Ferguson happy to declare his admiration for the Frenchman and his team and criticise those who lambasted Wenger earlier this season.

"You had me out of the door three years ago," said Ferguson, as he assessed the criticism Wenger has had to endure.

"You had me in a bath chair down on Torquay beach. That is the cynical world we are in.

"But Arsene has always kept his principles the same.

"I like the way Arsenal play and also his use of young players.

"His consistency hasn't changed and Arsenal have reaped the rewards."

There are many common threads; a commitment to passing football, a willingness to embrace youth and a refusal to abandon tradition. Above everything else, they share a hunger and fierce determination to win.

"The history and tradition of both clubs has been the highest for years now," said Ferguson.

"We always looked over our shoulders at Arsenal and they looked over their shoulders at us.

"Our league is very tough. The top four are probably the best teams in Europe. That is shown in the fact we have three teams in the semi-final again.

"But ourselves and Arsenal have certainly been the dominant forces.

"Those epic times are back with us and I am looking forward to a great match."

RED DEVILS IN KL OPENER

2009-04-29T18:57:00.000+08:00

Manchester United will open their summer tour of Asia against a Malaysian Select XI in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, July 18.

United's whistle-stop visit - they will arrive on July 17 and leave immediately after the game - should at least be some compensation for having to cancel a trip to the country two years ago due to arguments over their presence during the AFC Asian Cup.

The Red Devils have specifically asked for an earlier 5.30pm kick-off to allow more supporters to get to the 90,000-capacity Bukit Jalil, where the Commonwealth Games were held seven years ago. It will be United's fourth visit to Malaysia.

Earlier this week, the Red Devils confirmed they will close their four-match trip in Hangzhou in China. They are also set to play matches in Jakarta and Seoul, where they received such a rapturous welcome two years ago.

Alex Ferguson Believes Manchester United Can Retain Champions League Title

2009-04-29T13:49:00.002+08:00

'Fergie' thinks that Manchester United can hold onto their Champion's League trophy.

Sir Alex Ferguson has attested that his Mancheter United side have what it takes to be the first team to retain the Champions League title.

"You say to yourself it would be great if we could be the first do that [retain the Champions League trophy]," said the United boss, as quoted in the Daily Express.

"We are good at winning things for the first time and maybe that is a good omen for us."

If Manchester United are able to win the Champions League for the second year running, it would be the first time that particular feat will have been achieved by a club since the competition's format changed from the European Cup.

Milan, Ajax and Juventus all made it to the finals the year after winning, but none of the teams were able to raise the trophy after the last game. Ferguson, however, feels that his team are capable of being the exception.

"Some might say I am tempting fate but at Old Trafford we have always set our sights high," continued Ferguson.

"No one is saying it will be easy, and we will certainly need to enjoy that little rub of luck and freedom from injury that can make you or break you."

Stephen Crawford, Goal.com

Nani's shortcomings highlight question of Ryan Giggs's successor

2009-04-28T15:56:00.002+08:00

Evergreen has featured in many descriptions of Ryan Giggs since he landed the Professional Footballers' Association's player of the year award on Sunday night but the inaccuracy of the tribute must torment Sir Alex Ferguson. Not only is time marching against the great Welshman, he is also a glaring illustration that a problematic succession at Manchester United is not confined to the manager's chair.

While 35-year-old Giggs accepted the votes and applause from fellow professionals to take the top award for the first time in 18 seasons, this weekend brought a new low in the Old Trafford career of his heir apparent, the Portugal international Nani. Hauled off at half-time by Ferguson with United trailing 2-0 to Tottenham Hotspur, the 22-year-old responded in a way that confirmed to his many doubters inside Old Trafford that he is not fit to succeed Giggs on or off the pitch; he left the stadium before United had completed their latest stirring recovery and kept their noses in front in the race for the Premier League title.

United say that Nani did not break any club rules by making a hasty exit and no disciplinary action is therefore planned. The player's representatives claimed he was "very upset" at being replaced and received permission from the club to go home. To those United supporters who witnessed the winger outside the stadium on Saturday, however, and the many who posted on internet message boards yesterday, it was a lack of professionalism that should hasten his exit permanently in the summer.

Bought for £18m from Sporting Lisbon in 2007, Nani, according to Ferguson, would be groomed to replace Giggs on United's left wing while Anderson, the £17m signing from Porto on the same day, would follow suit for Paul Scholes. Almost two years later the search for Giggs' successor continues – United have since also acquired Zoran Tosic from Partizan Belgrade – while Nani's development appears to have gone into reverse.

Saturday was only the sixth time this season that he has started a league game for the champions. Not once has he lasted longer than 70 minutes in those six. In fairness to the winger he has scored six goals during this campaign, although even that roll-call illuminates where he resides in the order of selection at Old Trafford, the opponents being Middlesbrough, West Bromwich Albion, Blackburn Rovers, Southampton and Derby County. The Portugal international remains capable of moments of individual brilliance, but it is his lack of game intelligence that has left a greater impression on an Old Trafford crowd now exasperated with his anonymous talent. In stark contrast to compatriot and fellow Sporting Lisbon product, Cristiano Ronaldo, there has been scant improvement in Nani during his two seasons with United.

Nani claimed that his grievance at Old Trafford on Saturday stemmed from his own performance level. "I was not satisfied with my work against Tottenham but I accept the orders of the coach with the half-time substitution," he said last night. "In the second half the team changed in every respect but I alone am not responsible for the bad performance in the first 45 minutes. I finished the game unhappy with my work but I still believe I can demonstrate my level at United."

Whether he will get that opportunity, or can take it, is in serious doubt. Ferguson has been tolerant with Nani to some extent, giving up on his attempts to curb the winger's somersault goal celebrations, for example, and dismissing the head-butt on Lucas Neill last season that brought him a three-match ban as a sign of "immaturity". But the manager must be acutely aware that patience with the Portuguese is fading at Old Trafford.

Nani is, unsurprisingly, close to Ronaldo and shares the same agent, Jorge Mendes. It is suspected the 22-year-old may follow Ronaldo out of Old Trafford at the end of this season should the world player of the year get his wish to join Real Madrid, with Italy and Internazionale, coached by another Mendes client, Jose Mourinho, a possible destination.

"My head is in Manchester United and the rumours about other clubs are not true," added Nani. "I am at the best club in the world and it is my desire to stay here. My dream is to secure a place in the first team. I have not shown my best this season because of injuries but I am a professional and I will fight for this club. I do not have any problems with the coach. I will always be grateful to the manager for this opportunity and I am still learning. I will never reject the challenge to be a star for this team." A genuine star, Giggs, meanwhile, looks ahead to Arsenal and his 800th appearance for United.

Ryan Giggs: Manchester United Must Be At Their Best To Beat Arsenal

2009-04-28T15:36:00.002+08:00

The Welsh wizard has warned that the Gunners could easily destroy the Red Devils' dream of retaining the Champions League trophy if they are not on top form...

Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs believes that Arsenal will duly punish them in the Champions League semi-finals if they are not at the top of their game.

The former Wales international suggested that the Red Devils' objective is to successfully defend the trophy, which they won for the third time in the club's history last season.

He feels it would be a shame not to have the chance to do so, having overcome a potential banana skin in the form of Porto during the quarter-finals, because they failed to hit peak form against a Gunners side they know are capable of beating anybody on their day.

"It is a massive challenge for us. There’s a reason why no team has ever retained it — and that’s because it’s really difficult," Giggs is quoted as saying by The Sun.

"We had to go to Porto in the quarter-finals when it was a case of backs against the wall against a very good team.

"But we came through and we need two similar performances against Arsenal because they’re playing well at the moment.

"Arsenal are a top, top team. They always have been. Over the years they’ve been our biggest challengers so when you play against them you’ve got to raise your game.

"Arsenal can pass any team off the park if you’re not on your game. They are a dangerous side, so we’ve got to be mentally and physically prepared and we’ve got to play well."

The newly crowned PFA Player of the Year looks set to be named in the starting XI for the first leg at Old Trafford on Wednesday, a feat he says he could never have imagined.

"I’ve got to be honest, if you’d asked me when I was 19 or 20 if I thought I’d be playing in a Champions League semi-final at 35, I’d have said no.

"But I look after myself and it helps when you’ve got such good players around you."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Vidic Compliments Everton On Their FA Cup Victory Over Manchester United

2009-04-20T17:21:00.001+08:00

The Serb was in gracious mood after his team were defeated at Wembley today...

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic scored a spot-kick in the Red Devils' loss on penalties to Everton this afternoon, but the Mancunians dreams of a 'quintuple' still came crashing down in the FA Cup semi-final.

The game ended goalless after extra-time, with the Toffees claiming victory in the shoot-out. Although it was painful for the Serb to admit, Vidic acknowledged that his side had lost to a worthy opponent.

"We're disappointed because this is a trophy we wanted to win,” he told MUTV.

"We played some good football and created chances, but in the end it came to penalties – and that’s just a lottery. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. In the Champions League final we won.

"But today we didn’t score our penalties. You have to congratulate Everton."

As for netting his own penalty, Vidic minimised its importance, before stressing it was vital for the team to regroup ahead of other testing challenges, adding, "I practice in training and I also took penalties for Red Star Belgrade and Spartak Moscow.

"It’s nothing new, but there's always the possibility you'll miss, especially in games where there is pressure. I scored, but it’s not about me scoring. The team didn’t win. We need to forget this game now.

"We must take it and recover for the next game. It’s going to be hard, but we have Wednesday’s match against Portsmouth and we need to be focused. It helps that some players were rested. They are going to be fresh and I hope we have a good game at Old Trafford."

Alex Ferguson picked a youthful side for the game today, and the centre-back was proud of the performance of his young team-mates, even in defeat.

"We played well, so we don’t need to be disappointed about that. We played offensively and tried to score.

"We had young players in our team, they showed some quality. We know they are capable of doing that. We just didn’t take our chances."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Manchester United 0-0 Everton

2009-04-20T17:16:00.001+08:00

It required penalties but Everton ousted Manchester United to book themselves a date with Chelsea in the FA Cup final. Goal.com rates the performers…

MANCHESTER UNITED

Foster 6.0 - Looked nervy from the outset and almost got himself in trouble trying to dribble around Saha in the first half. Another shaky moment late on saw him hit Vaughan with a clearance.

Rafael Da Silva 7 - A moment of inexperience saw him bring down Baines and he was booked on the half-hour mark but he did well to deny Pienaar just before the break and looked good on his return to the side.

Ferdinand 7.5 - United look so much more confident at the back with him in the side and he was imperious in defence. Awful penalty though.

Vidic 8 - After a slump in form, he looked back to his best and alongside Ferdinand formed a fearsome partnership.

Fabio Da Silva 6 - Allowed Neville in early on but put in a solid shift before injury saw his afternoon end early.

Welbeck 7 - Wasteful at times but looked lively and was always willing to run forwards. Curled a great shot over the bar late on.

Gibson 6.5 - Struggled to get into the game initially but improved and justified his inclusion in the team.

Anderson 7 - Covered an awful lot of ground, getting back to help his defence as well as prompting things going forwards. Still looks hopeless in front of goal, mind you, and wasted some good set pieces.

Park 6.5 - Full of running, as ever, and had a decent effort just wide on the hour mark but replaced shortly afterwards after producing little.

Tevez 6 - Typical Tevez, effervescent as ever and didn’t give up but it simply wasn’t his day.

Macheda 6.5 - Didn’t look out of place and had a strong early shot that flew just wide. Combined well with Tevez and Welbeck but couldn’t continue his fairytale start to his United career with another goal.

Substitutes

Evra: 6.5 – Replaced an injured Fabio but still looks far from his best.

Scholes: 6.0 – Brought some experience to the midfield.

Berbatov: 5.0 - Came on but had little impact and an awful penalty summed up his afternoon.

EVERTON

Howard 8 - Flapped at a corner late on but that was his only error and made himself a hero with some good penalty saves.

Hibbert 7 - A few shaky moments against Welbeck but provided good width and combined well with Osman

Jagielka 7.5 - Might have conceded a penalty for a challenge on Welbeck but escaped, looked impressive otherwise and kept his nerve to net the decisive spot kick..

Lescott 8 - Brilliant challenge to deny Welbeck mid-way through the first half and a dominant display by the centre-half.

Baines 7.5 - A super display down the left, always looked to get forward, provided some good crosses and banged home a smashing penalty.

Osman 6.0 - Willing to get forwards and try his luck on goal but was too often second to the ball and looked tired.

Neville 7.0 - Grew into the game and was a commanding presence who led his team by example.

Fellaini 6.5 - Found it hard going against Vidic and Ferdinand but still always looked a threat in the air.

Pienaar 6.0 - Some tricky moments but little end-product.

Cahill 6.0 - Manchester United kept him very quiet in truth and aside from a great shot just after the break he offered little.

Saha 6.0 - Almost profited from Foster's hesitancy early on and a good header set up Pienaar shortly afterwards but had few sights of goal.

Substitutes

Rodwell: 6.0 – Some nice moments on the ball and valuable experience gained.

Vaughan: 6.5 - Came on late and could have won it but a scuffed shot was deflected wide. Crucially scored his penalty.

Gill Clark, Goal.com

Everton's Pienaar Unfazed By Manchester United Clash

2009-04-16T18:47:00.001+08:00

The Toffees' South African is relishing the biggest game of his career...

Bafana Bafana midfielder Steven Pienaar says Everton’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United on Sunday will be the biggest game of his career.

“It will definitely be on top. I’ve played in a lot of important games and I think this one will also go down in the history books and I’m looking forward to it,” Pienaar told EvertonTV.

Having played in some of Germany’s grandest fixtures, Pienaar insists he will not be daunted by Wembley’s 90,000 capacity crowd.

Indeed, in his Dortmund days it was normal for him to perform in front of numbers not dissimilar to those which will await him on Sunday.

“When I was at Borussia Dortmund we used to play every weekend in front of 83,000, so it’s quite close. At Ajax (Amsterdam) when we played AC Milan in the Champions League I played at the San Siro which was also a big stadium.

“For me, this is like a normal game, it’s just that it’s a semi-final. Like when you play at home with all the supporters behind you, you have to enjoy the moment.”

Manchester United Midfielder Carrick Hopes There's More To Come From Cristiano Ronaldo

2009-04-16T18:41:00.001+08:00

The deep-lying ball-pinger wants to see more of the same from difference-maker Ronaldo...

Cristiano Ronaldo's 40-yard 65mph wonder-strike was the sole separator between Manchester United and FC Porto in the concluding leg of their Champions League quarter-final, and midfielder Michael Carrick is hoping to see similar strikes throughout the remainder of the season's run-in.

Speaking to Setanta Sports News, Carrick said, "We started quite brightly and held our game together well and to score like that was just what we needed.

"It was an unbelievable strike. We've seen him do it many times and hopefully [we'll see him do it] many times more. It put us in the driving seat as we could control the game but the longer the game goes on, you know they're going to throw things at you.

"But I thought we defended well as a team and deserved to win."

Sir Alex Ferguson's men kept their sheet clean, and so the resultant 1-0 win ensured United became the first British team to claim a victory in Porto's Estadio do Dragao.

"We believed that, right from the minute we got the result at home, we really believed we could come here and win," Carrick added. "We knew we were not at our best that night. We knew we were a lot better than that.

"I think we showed that tonight," he concluded.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Sir Alex Ferguson: Defensive Stability 'Key' To Manchester United's Win Over Porto

2009-04-16T18:37:00.002+08:00

The United boss lauded the centre-back partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic following the 1-0 Champions League quarter-final second leg victory...

After watching his side progress to the Champions League semi-finals following a 1-0 win over Porto in the quarter-final second leg on Wednesday, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson praised centre-backs Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

The Red Devils, who were without Ferdinand for the first leg at Old Trafford, looked much more comfortable defensively at the Estadio do Dragao and were rarely put under severe pressure.

The Scot suggested that, with his first-choice partnership at the heart of defence available, the holders stand a fantastic chance of retaining the European trophy.

"They did well, they had good concentration at the back - they defended very, very well," Ferguson told Sky Sports.

"That was key for us. If we can get back to that foundation of not conceding away goals then we can do well.

"The stability at the back, the recognition of Ferdinand and Vidic together, it's always going to be a great start for your team."

It was Cristiano Ronaldo's 40-yard screamer that ensured United's progression to the last four, a goal which Ferguson described as amazing.

"Unbelievable - a magnificent hit,” the veteran boss said. “He took them all by surprise from 40-yards out - the goalkeeper had no chance."

The Red Devils will rekindle their rivalry with Arsenal in the semi-finals, and the 67-year-old is expecting a magnificent spectacle.

“It’s going to be a great semi-final,” he enthused. “There'll be some great football in that one."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com

Paul Scholes Remains Confident Of Manchester United Victory Over Porto

2009-04-15T14:35:00.001+08:00

Manchester United veteran Paul Scholes is retaining a positive outlook ahead of the second leg of his side's Champions League quarter-final against Porto in Portugal tomorrow night. The tie is currently poised at 2-2 after last week's Old Trafford first leg, so United must win tomorrow's game if they are to progress as they trail on away goals.

"It is a big game for us and there is no doubt it is going to be difficult," Scholes told The Manchester Evening News.

"But all we have to do is win a game and with the players we have got I am sure we are capable of doing that.

"Winning last Saturday does boost your confidence and going into a big game like Porto we needed that win. It was a big victory for us at Sunderland.

"We didn't play too great but the win is what matters."

United won 2-1 on Wearside, with Italian teenager Federico Macheda netting a slightly fortuitous winner. Scholes thinks that the youngster might have a crucial role to play in United's future.

He concluded, "It is great for Kiko [Macheda]. To be able to bring a young player on like that and he scores with his second touch is fantastic.

"He looks like a great goalscorer and, hopefully, there will be more to come. I am sure the lads will make sure he keeps his feet on the ground."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Sir Alex Ferguson Unhappy With Manchester United's Lack Of Focus

2009-04-08T08:56:00.001+08:00

Another game without a clean sheet for Manchester United; it's now four in a row since they last stopped the opposition scoring. The Red Devils must travel to Porto in need of a win...

The Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, rued his side's lack of concentration as Porto snatched a late draw in the Champions League quarter-final first-leg at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils had led 2-1 with just three minutes left on the clock, but were outdone by a late strike from Mariano Gonzalez.

Cristiano Rodriguez gave Porto an early lead, but United turned the tide through goals from Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez.

Ferguson acknowledged that Porto deserved a result from the encounter but could not hide his disappointment at his team's capitulation.

He told ITV1, "First half they were the better side but second half we improved and got more possession. But getting the goal [through Mariano] the way they did, we should really have defended that. It was a bad goal to lose.

"It's been a hard two days for them, but they were lacking in concentration.

"You get a 2-1 lead with four or five minutes left, you really should see it out.

United now face the prospect of facing Porto in the Estadio do Dragao looking for a win, something which has never been done by a visiting Champions League side.

Before that, there is Premier League duty with which to contend, and Ferguson is under no illusion about the enormity of the task facing his side.

"We've got a game on Saturday [against Sunderland], there's still a lot going for us, but it's a difficult game now in Porto, no question of that."

Peter Staunton, Goal.com

Porto Snatch Late Draw At Manchester United In True Footballing Feast

2009-04-08T07:56:00.002+08:00

Manchester United 2-2 Porto

There was a throwback to 2004 as Porto came from behind to register a crucial late leveller at Old Trafford. The visitors led through Rodriguez before goals from Rooney and Tevez turned the game into Manchester United's favour. However, Mariano Gonzalez had the last say...

First Half:

It took some time for the real Manchester United to stand up as the defending champions started as a pale shadow of their usual selves. United did not register a strike on target until after the ten minute mark, by which time Porto had made Edwin van der Sar work twice and pick the ball out of the net once.

After only two minutes, Lisandro Lopez turned Jonny Evans and tried van der Sar from distance, earning a corner. Porto's second effort, two minutes later, yielded a deserved goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo misplaced a pass while clearing a corner; the resulting cross saw Evans surrender his clearance to Cristian Rodriguez, who made no mistake. The Uruguayan buried a left-footer into the United bottom corner - the first goal conceded in this competition by van der Sar since last season's final.

Lisandro had another shot sting the palms of van der Sar following more sloppy defending, before United gradually got going, shaking the shackles of a uncharacteristically sloppy start.

Twelve minutes in and John O'Shea crossed sumptuously for Ronaldo to force Helton to work, and show Porto they were actually in a game. United were level moments later after a fatal error from Bruno Alves.

Under no pressure, the Portugal defender laid a back pass towards Helton but failed to spot Wayne Rooney behind him, who cleverly anticipated the ball through. He bid his time and chipped over the goalkeeper for parity.

Nonetheless, Porto stuck to their task; Lucho Gonzalez took a hold of proceedings temporarily too; he provided two good crosses in the space of a minute for Rodriguez, who headed at van der Sar, and Lisandro, who narrowly failed to make contact at the back post.

Rui Meireles was next to examine the credentials of van der Sar with a fine long range drive, and O'Shea's mistake allowed Hulk to bend the ball narrowly past the post on the half hour.

From there, it was United on top; Rooney used the length and breadth of Old Trafford to try and get things going. Paul Scholes too, was beginning to exercise a semblance of authority with his passing. United's best chance of the remainder fell to the veteran also; his header from Park's cross was just over the top.

Second Half:

United started the better side after the break, enjoying a good deal more possession than they did in the previous 45 minutes. It took only five minutes for the hosts to trouble Helton, when Park Ji Sung's half-volley from the edge of the box forced the Brazilian to save.

Rooney was next to try his luck as Porto struggled to find a way out of their own half; the mercurial England forward executed a clever chip from an improbable angle outside the box, but Helton backtracked and tipped over.

From Ryan Giggs' corner, Nemanja Vidic made Helton work to give Giggs another chance to cross. From his second bite of the cherry, the Serb nodded off target.

Porto maintained their positivity and broke with relish whenever possible. Fernando exercised a discreet dominance in the centre of midfield while Cristian Rodriguez was becoming a linchpin, easing his side into enemy territory. He provided a chance for Hulk, who squeezed a shot wide after turning Evans.

Rodriguez then found Lisandro on the edge of the box, whose on-target effort forced United to concede a corner. Aly Cissokho picked up the rebound and struck powerfully on van der Sar's goal.

The Portuguese league leaders then had a legitimate call for a penalty; Hulk tricked Evra and escaped to the byline, as he tried to turn back into play, he was swept into the air by Carlos Tevez but no decision was forthcoming.

As the game ebbed towards the last 15 minutes, the Red Devils had a great chance to sneak a lead on the night; Gary Neville provided an accurate cross, with which Rooney was inches away from making contact.

The hosts ramped it up a notch and another inspired substitution gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side the advantage on the night. Gary Neville's throw caught Porto napping in their own area, and Wayne Rooney's back-flick found Carlos Tevez in front of Rolando to smash home from close range.

There was to be a twist in the tale though and more than a passing echo of 2004. Two minutes were on the clock when Lisandro jinked his way down Patrice Evra's flank, after the Portuguese side played themselves again into an attacking position. His back post cross found substitute Mariano Gonzalez, who bundled past van der Sar from close range.

Ryan Giggs' late free-kick whistled over the bar as United now contemplate a task achieved by no English side - winning in the Estadio Dragao.

Line-Ups:

Manchester United (4-3-3): van der Sar - Vidic, Evans (Neville 71'), O'Shea, Evra - Fletcher, Scholes (Giggs 71'), Carrick - Ronaldo, Park (Giggs 58'), Rooney

Porto (4-3-3): Helton - Bruno Alves, Rolando, Sapunaru, Cissokho - Fernando, Lucho, Meireles (Costa 78' (Madrid 90')) - Lisandro, Rodriguez (Mariano 78'), Hulk

Goals:

Manchester United: Rooney 15', Tevez 85'

Porto: Rodriguez 4', Mariano 88'

Cards:

Manchester United: -

Porto: Bruno Alves 75', Helton 90'

Referee: Konrad Plautz (AUT)

Peter Staunton, Goal.com

Champions League Preview: Manchester United - Porto

2009-04-07T12:01:00.000+08:00

The reigning Champions League title holders will welcome Porto to Old Trafford on Tuesday evening in what should be an intense encounter...

Kick off: Tuesday, April 7, 20:45 CET, Old Trafford, Manchester

No Mour Exits

Federico Macheda’s glorious debut goal heralds a bright future, but Manchester United take to the pitch on Tuesday night determined to settle a score from the past.

The memories of the last minute equaliser that sent the Red Devils tumbling out of the Champions League in 2004 still burns brightly in the minds of everyone associated with the side.

As Jose Mourinho sped down the Old Trafford touchline in tumultuous celebration, so went with him the dreams of European success for the Reds.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has stressed in the build up to the meeting with Porto that such an event cannot happen again.

Firebrand Scouser Wayne Rooney wasn’t at the club to witness these scenes, but his re-introduction from suspension alongside Paul Scholes boosts a United camp that has shown signs of flagging as it reaches the business end of the season.

After Sunday’s error strewn blockbuster 3-2 win against Aston Villa, the Scot will also be happy to welcome back Nemanja Vidic for the visit of the Portuguese.

The presence of the granite Serb was sorely missed as Jonny Evans, Gary Neville and John O’Shea all failed to deal with the size and pace of the Midlanders attack.

A repeat of such calamitous defending could have dire consequences for United’s hopes of progressing in the competition due to the importance of away goals.

Concede two again, and the last minute interjection of an Italian starlet could have little impact on the destination of the Champions League trophy this year.

No Hopers? Not A Chance

When the Champions League draw was announced, it was widely described as a bye for Manchester United. Porto are determined to prove this wrong.

The Dragoes pedigree certainly shouldn’t be dismissed. They are the only side in Europe yet to taste defeat in domestic action, finished ahead of Arsenal in the group stages of the continent’s premier club competition and sit comfortably at the summit of the Portuguese top flight.

This position was fortified at the weekend after a 3-1 victory in the derby match with Guimares.

Os Tripeiros’ strength of character was on show as they fired back for the win after they fell behind to an early goal from Vitoria.

This came without suspended centre forward Lisandro Lopez. The Argentine international has been in explosive form this term, lying in second place in the race for the top scorers’ award in the Champions League.

Lopez isn’t the only player capable of applying pressure to the creaking backline of their glamorous hosts.

New boy Hulk has been a real handful for any defenders standing in his way, whilst the goal threat from midfield in the form of Lucho Gonzalez should worry the Mancunians faithful.

Head coach Jesualdo Ferreira will also be able to call on his charges impressive dispatching of Atletico Madrid in the last round. The foundations of this were secured in a dominant, goal grabbing performance in Spain.

If the Dragoes front line strikes again, then the continent will be forced to acknowledge the very real threat posed by the men from Oporto.

FORM GUIDE

Manchester United:

5th April vs. Aston Villa (H) WON 3-2 (PREM)

21st March vs. Fulham (A) LOST 2-0 (PREM)

14th March vs. Liverpool (H) LOST 4-1 (PREM)

11th March vs. Internazionale (H) WON 2-0 (CHAMP LG)

7th March vs. Fulham (A) WON 4-0 (FA CUP)

Porto:

4th April vs. Guimares (A) WON 3-1 (LIGA)

15th March vs. Naval (H) WON 2-0 (LIGA)

11th March vs. Atletico Madrid (H) DREW 0-0 (CHAMP LG)

7th March vs. Leixoes (A) WON 4-1 (LIGA)

28th February vs. Sporting Lisbon (A) DREW 0-0 (LIGA)

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United:

Sir Alex Ferguson will be grateful to call on the returning trio of Nemanja Vidic, Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes after their domestic suspensions kept them out of the weekend action.

Rio Ferdinand (groin), Anderson (thigh) and Dimitar Berbatov (foot) are still out, whilst long term absentees Wes Brown (foot), Rafael (ankle) and Owen Hargreaves (knee) remain on the sidelines.

Last starting XI (vs. Aston Villa): Van der Sar, Neville, O'Shea, Evans, Evra, Nani (Macheda 61), Carrick, Fletcher, Ronaldo, Giggs, Tevez (Welbeck 87).
Subs Not Used: Foster, Park, Gibson, Martin, Eckersley.

Squad: Van der Sar, Foster, Kuszczak, O'Shea, Neville, Vidic, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra, Eckersley, Ronaldo, Nani, Fletcher, Gibson, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, Park, Rooney, Tevez, Welbeck, Macheda.

Possible starting XI: Van der Sar, Evra, O’Shea, Vidic, Evans, Ronaldo, Carrick, Fletcher, Park, Tevez, Rooney.

Porto:

Argentine hot shot Lisandro Lopez returns for Porto after sitting out the game with Guimares through suspension. He is joined by fellow South American Freddy Guarin, who has shaken off an ankle injury to make the trip to Manchester.

Romanian international Christian Sapunaru’s (ankle) faces a fight to be fit for the match as he requires a scan on an injury.

Club captain Pedro Emanuel (knee), Nelson Benitez (groin) and Jorge Fucile (ankle) remain on the treatment table, whilst teenage striker Rabiola has been left out of the squad.

Last starting XI (vs. Guimares): Helton, Rolando, Bruno Alves, Sapunaru, Cissokho, Meireles, Costa, Fernando, Gonzalez, Farias, Hulk

Squad: Helton, Nuno, Bruno Alves, Cissokho, Rolando, Sapunaru, Stepanov, Madrid, Fernando, Gonzalez, Mariano, Meireles, Guarin, Costa, Farias, Lopez, Hulk, Rodriguez, Sektioui.

Possible starting XI: Helton, Bruno Alves, Rolando, Sapunaru, Cissokho, Meireles, Costa, Fernando, Gonzalez, Hulk, Lisandro Lopez.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Manchester United: Cristiano Ronaldo will be fired up to face Porto. The United No. 7 left the field on a stretcher the last time the sides met. He’ll be hoping for a repeat of his match winning exploits against fellow Portuguese Sporting Lisbon last season rather than another ignominious exit.

Porto: Another solid performance from centre back Bruno Alves should justify his position at the top of many club’s summer shopping lists. Strong in the tackle and dominant in the air, it’s easy to see why the Portuguese international is attracting admiring glances from Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid.

PREDICTION

Anyone tuning in for a repeat of the weekend’s rollercoaster ride at Old Trafford is going to be disappointed.

Porto and Manchester United will be a cagey affair, in which I expect the extra class of the Champions League holders to tell.

A narrow victory for the Red Devils will leave everything still to play for when the sides meet at the Estadio do Dragao in two weeks time.

Manchester United 1-0 Porto

Matt Monaghan, Goal.com

Player Ratings: Manchester United 3-2 Aston Villa

2009-04-06T09:04:00.002+08:00

Manchester United won a thriller at Old Trafford to go back to the top of the table. Goal.com rates the performers…

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar: 7.0 – Looked confident despite the shambles of a back four in front of him. Made a succession of good saves and was quick to claim crosses.

O’Shea: 5.0 - Started at right back, moved to centre back but looked suspect in both positions and United will be desperate for Ferdinand and Vidic to return.

Neville: 5.0 - Had a torrid afternoon, couldn’t cope with the pace of Agbonlahor and ought to have given Carew more to think about for the second goal.

Evans: 6.0 – A sloppy, nervy showing and missed the calming influence of Ferdinand and Vidic beside him.

Evra: 6.0 – Didn’t do enough against Agbonlahor for the second goal but helped out his attack and it was his ball which forced Milner to back-pass for the opener.

Nani: 5.0 – A completely ineffective display. Seemed reluctant to provide width, kept coming inside and provided very little threat.

Carrick: 6.0 – A fairly anonymous display, aside from a rising shot just before half-time. Passing was off but improved towards the end and some good work set up Ronaldo for his second goal.

Fletcher: 6.5 – Did not lack for effort and did well to clear off the line from Carew early on. A great strike late on also forced Friedel into a fine save.

Ronaldo: 7.5 – Two brilliant strikes but loses marks for another petulant display. Took the slightest contact to knock him off the ball and allowed Petrov to rob him whilst he simply stood and watched as Villa roared up the other end and scored.

Giggs: 7.0 – Like his team-mates toiled for most of the game but involved in two of the goals and therefore an important contribution.

Tevez: 6.5 - Hard working but again little end-product. Got back brilliantly to stop Shorey late on whilst O’Shea just stood and watched.

Substitutes

Macheda: 8.0 - Came on and won it with a sensational late strike.

Welbeck: 6.5 - A late sub but almost scored, forcing Friedel into a great save.

ASTON VILLA

Friedel: 7.5 – Had no option but to pick up Milner’s backpass but had no chance with any of the goals. Good saves from Fletcher and Welbeck late on.

Luke Young: 6.5 - Back in his preferred right back position and looked so much happier. Might have got tighter to Macheda for the winner.

Davies: 7.0 – A much improved display from last week but will be distraught to concede a late-winner.

Cuellar: 7.5 – Made some great blocks and for so long kept United out.

Shorey: 6.5 - Seemingly out of favour, O’Neill handed Shorey his first start since November and he did okay.

Milner: 6.5 – A silly back pass gave the free-kick away from which Ronaldo scored. However, he worked incredibly hard to make amends and posed United problems.

Barry: 8.0 – A very, good display. Controllled large sections of the game and a superb cross to set up Carew for the equaliser

Petrov: 7.0 – Strong, battling display, stole the ball off Ronaldo to set up Villa’s second.

Ashley Young: 7.0 – Looked a constant threat, particularly on the break, and his delivery was good.

Carew: 8.0 – His aerial ability was a major threat. Forced Fletcher to scrape off the line early on, before equalising with a strong header. Set up Agbonlahor for the second goal.

Agbonlahor: 7.0 - Had the beating of Neville and O’Shea and his pace caused United all sorts of problems. A great header for the second goal ended his recent goal drought.

Substitutes

Reo-Coker: N/a

Manchester United, Porto, And Sir Alex Ferguson's Bad Memories

2009-04-05T12:55:00.001+08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson spoke to the press ahead of Champions League week, sharing his thoughts on all things Porto.

Manchester United are hosts to Porto this coming Tuesday, in a Champions League tie that stirs up memories in the knighted gaffer's mind. It was five years ago that Sir Alex Ferguson first faced-off with the Special One, Jose Mourinho's Portuguese side emerging the eventual victors of the Champions League that season.

"We were robbed," claimed Sir Alex, referring to both legs of United's last 16 clash with Porto all those years ago.

"Absolute robbery."

Still haunted by the memories of Paul Scholes' disallowed goal amongst a catalogue of other incidents that the gaffer feels harshly done by, Fergie has made sure that his homework is well and truly done this time, in order to prevent another shock defeat at the hands of the Portuguese champions.

"We’ve done the work on Porto," said Ferguson.

"I watched them on holiday and took all the DVDs away and watched the last six games they played."

Wary of the threat that Porto's attack poses, especially on the counter, Ferguson paid homage to Lisandro Lopez and his Brazilian strike partner Givanildo Vieira de Souza, famously nicknamed 'Hulk'.

"Big, powerful lad," the Red Devils' gaffer said of Hulk.

"He’s quick, with a good left foot. I’m surprised he’s not in the Brazil squad."

"The boy Lisandro is a finisher, a real striker," added Ferguson.

"And Porto have a lot of Argentinians. [Tevez] will obviously give me information."

In spite of the years gone by, and having studied up well on United's Portuguese equivalents, the bad taste still remains in Fergie's mouth, and he is determined not to have history repeat itself.

"I’m very mindful of the last time we met them. It just shows you football can be that way.

"That night sticks in the mind because Scholes’ goal was clearly a goal and the most ridiculous decision was when Cristiano Ronaldo was brought down going through, the linesman flagged for a foul and the referee went against it.

"They got a free-kick for it and scored a goal. It will be a difficult tie."

Having vented his frustrations of the past, Sir Alex looked beyond the current leg, attesting that Barcelona are, in his opinion, likely to pose the biggest threat, but that the strength inherent in Premier League teams may well lead to another all-English final.

"The threat as I see it is Barcelona," he said.

"They’re playing well enough to cause anybody problems. We’ve avoided them in the draw and have to be pleased about that.

"Because of the competitive nature of our Premier League I think an English team will win the Champions League again this year and it could be another all-English final. There could be three English teams in the semis again, that’s how strong we are."

Stephen Crawford, Goal.com

Skipper in waiting

2009-04-05T12:46:00.000+08:00

Rio Ferdinand will be handed the captain's armband on a permanent basis once United's most experienced campaigners have called time on their Old Trafford careers.

Since joining the club in the summer of 2002, the England international has not only developed into one of the Reds' most important and consistent performers, he has become a natural leader as well.

He has already skippered the Reds on a number of occasions over the last few seasons, including last season's Champions League final, in the absence of club captain Gary Neville and United's record appearance holder Ryan Giggs. And Sir Alex confirmed the 30-year-old will become the full-time bearer of the armband in the coming years.

"When players first come to the club you don't know enough about them [to see whether they're captain material], it's only in the last few years that I've seen that with Rio," explained the United boss.

"He had a casualness about him when he first joined as a young lad which sometimes frustrated you, but he's matured and has a great strength of character.

"He's a good leader now and I think he will be our captain when Neville and Giggs hang their boots up."

Despite seeing Ferdinand substituted late on in England's victory over Ukraine with a groin problem in midweek, Sir Alex remains hopeful he will be fit to face Aston Villa on Sunday.

"He didn't train on Friday, but we hope he will on Saturday," revealed the boss. "He's got a good chance for Sunday, although if he does play he may be struggling by Tuesday. However, the important thing is to get him ready for Sunday."

Manchester United Is The Only Team For Me - Carlos Tevez

2009-04-03T08:05:00.002+08:00

Carlos Tevez has insisted that he cannot imagine playing for any team other than Manchester United.

Manchester United have a contractual agreement with Media Sport Investments, the agency that own the rights to Carlos Tevez, that see to it that the pint-sized striker stays at Old Trafford until the end of this season.

It is believed that a bid in the region of €30 million would have to be placed in order to make Tevez's stay at United a permanent one. And in spite of many links to other top European clubs, Tevez has claimed that he can only see himself playing for the Red Devils.

"My loan deal ends in June but I cannot think of any team except United," he told Sport magazine.

"The United fans love me and my family is very happy, both in Manchester and in England.

"My thoughts are only about winning titles with United, and if this happens then I hope I will still be here next season.

"I do not want to play with any other team. I always follow my heart, and my heart is telling me it will be impossible for me to leave English football."

The Argentine was also full of praise for his current gaffer, claiming that Sir Alex Ferguson's approach to managing has had a massive effect on his career.

"He is always the boss," he said.

"There is never any doubt who is in charge, but he is also a gentleman.

"From the moment I arrived, he has treated me with respect as a person.

"His greatest quality is that, for him, there are no star players – everyone is equal, whether they cost many millions or are a young player who hasn't played many times for the team.

"When I see him work he reminds me of Carlos Bianchi, who was my coach at Boca Juniors in Argentina.

"Both have had a big influence on my career, and both know how to treat people."

Tevez also expressed his thoughts on whom he believes to be amongst the world's greatest footballers, saying that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the two most talented players he has ever seen, and confessing that he would love to have Messi play alongside him at Old Trafford.

"Sometimes [Ronaldo's] performances are almost from a different planet," he said.

"He is a truly special talent and the only other player who I think is on the same level as him today is my Argentinian team-mate Lionel Messi.

"He is at Barcelona now, but I think they could play very well together – they are the only men in football who can win a game on their own.

"They are complete because they are both superb dribblers who also have a very good eye for goal. I would love to have them both with me in the same team."

Stephen Crawford, Goal.com

Rio Ferdinand Doubtful Ahead Of Manchester United Clash With Aston Villa

2009-04-03T08:02:00.001+08:00

Rio Ferdinand has returned to Manchester United a serious doubt for this weekend's clash with Aston Villa.

Fabio Capello has revealed to the press that Rio Ferdinand has been sent back to Old Trafford with an injury after limping off the pitch during England's World Cup qualifying win over Ukraine on Wednesday.

Capello failed to confirm the nature or severity of the injury, leaving that up to his club side, but it suspected that the defender has aggravated a groin strain that he has been troubled with in the past. In light of this, Ferdinand looks a serious doubt for Manchester United's all important Premier League tie with Aston Villa this weekend.

"He was in a bit of pain and I will have to speak to the doctor," Capello told the press.

The 30-year-old will now be assessed by the club doctors at Old Trafford ahead of the clash with Villa, a game that United will surely be looking to make a statement in as their recent Premier League results have not been indicative of what the current Club World Cup champions are capable of producing.

And with Nemanja Vidic ruled out of the fixture due to suspension, Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking to his fringe players to step up and take the reigns at the heart of United's defence whilst hoping that Ferdinand makes a quick recovery.

Stephen Crawford, Goal.com

Teddy Sheringham: England Ace Wayne Rooney Could Follow The Fate Of Gascoigne

2009-04-03T07:59:00.001+08:00

Teddy Sheringham is worried that Wayne Rooney could one day seriously injure himself because of his all-action style...

Legendary Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham, who famously downed Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final with a last minute goal and then an even later assist, has explained that English powerhouse forward Wayne Rooney risks an injury similar to the one that Paul Gascoigne sustained nearly two decades ago due to his unapologetic battling bulldog spirit.

In the 65th minute of England's 2-1 victory over visiting Ukraine on Wednesday evening, Rooney challenged Oleksandr Aliyev, but followed through on the player once he won the ball.

In the aftermath of the game, Sheringham believes Rooney needs to start exercising caution.

The former England international told This Is London, "Wayne won the ball but the actual follow-through is terrible and on three fronts he was lucky.

"First of all he didn't injure the player badly, secondly he didn't get sent off, and thirdly he could have injured himself.

"It was similar to how ‘Gazza’ did his knee and he was never the same," Sheringham warned. “He could end his career with a challenge like that.”

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Manchester United Midfielder Owen Hargreaves Is 'Feeling Good' - Sir Alex Ferguson

2009-04-03T07:57:00.001+08:00

The United boss has spoken out over the current state of Hargreaves' rehabilitation. The Scot has given his assurances that the midfielder’s recovery is going to plan...

Owen Hargreaves has been a long-term absentee from Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United first team plans due to a recurring knee injury.

During the 2007-08 campaign he only featured intermittently, but he has received two operations this season in order to remedy his problematic patella tendonitis, a condition when jumping and landing exercises cause too much strain on the tissue and the tendon in the knee.

Both of his knees have been subject to the tendonitis and have consequently both been operated on.

According to various reports, the Canadian-born England international has now made a return to Manchester United's Carrington training ground in a bid to continue with his rehabilitation.

Sir Alex Ferguson has moved to quash the fears that the latest operation, which took place in January, had not been a success.

The moxie Scot believes his defensive midfielder will have made a full recovery, and will be ready for extended first team action, over the summer.

He told the Daily Mail, "His operations have gone perfectly well, he's feeling good."

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Wayne Rooney Wants To Be Manchester United Lifer

2009-04-02T14:34:00.001+08:00

'Wazza' has pledged to stay at Old Trafford for the rest of his playing days...

Manchester United golden boy Wayne Rooney says he wants to finish his career at the club.

Rooney has been a mainstay at Old Trafford since his unforgettable hat-trick against Fenerbahce on his debut and there is every indication that the the best is yet to come from the super-talented 23-year-old.

The ex-Everton prodigy has three-and-a-half years to run on his contract. But when that's up, he is hoping to sign another one, to keep him a Red Devil for the rest of his playing days.

"I've always said that as long as United want me I'm happy to stay at the club," Rooney said in a recent interview for Inside United magazine.

"I don't want to leave. I love United and I have no reason to think about moving. I'm sure I'll be here for a long time.

"I hope I'm still at United when I'm the same age as guys like Ryan [Giggs], Paul [Scholes] and Gary [Neville]."

Rooney's first concern though is from what seat in the stands to watch United's next game, at home to Aston Villa, after his sending-off at Fulham a couple of weekends ago.

Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Manchester United History

2009-04-01T15:49:00.000+08:00

Discover the amazing history of Manchester United, from their humble beginnings as Newton Heath in 1878 which was the works team for the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway workers in the local area. The club became one of the best in the Edwardian era but in 1902 following a brush with insolvency the club changed hands and became Manchester United Football Club.

The aftermath of World War II led to struggle until the great Matt Busby arrived. He defined the aura and style of the club we know today, under Matt Busby’s guidance during the 1950s Manchester United began to become a forice as Scotsman built a side based on players he had groomed through United’s youth structure and assembled a great side which became known as the “Busby Babes” who met their tragic end at Munich in 1958.

The club slowly recovered under Busby’s return from injury suffered in the Munich Disaster and in the early 1960s began to piece together a side including legends such as Best, Law and Charlton who helped win the European Cup in 1968.

Following Busby’s resignation in 1969 and several failed replacements the club struggled and found themselves relegated to the second division in 1974. Baron years followed with only the occasional FA Cup triumph able to lift the united fans spirits.

It was not until Sir Alex Ferguson replaced Ron Atkinson that the new era slowly started to begin and today United are once again the most admired and feared team in the land thanks to Sir Alex Ferguson.

It all could of been so different as an impatient Manchester United board are reported to have been close to sacking Ferguson in his first few years. See how he blended the best home-grown talent such as Beckham, Giggs, the Nevilles and star signings like Cantona, Ronaldo and Rooney.

England Coach Capello Envisages Free Roles For Rooney & Gerrard

2009-03-30T08:45:00.001+08:00

The Italian wants his two stars to continue to express themselves when England have the ball...

England coach Fabio Capello has revealed that he intends both Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard to play in 'free roles' when their side is in possession.

Gerrard lined up nominally on the left during yesterday's 4-0 friendly victory over Slovakia at Wembley, with Rooney playing just off main striker Emile Heskey. The two men interchanged at will though, and roamed about the pitch to good effect, with Rooney scoring two goals.

"I want Rooney and Gerrard to be very free to move around when we have the ball," the Italian told Sky Sports News.

"That is the way I want them to play. I am very happy when Rooney plays.

"He is different to the other players and has always done well with the national team. I was sure he would score goals for us. I told him some things about the movement he needed to do in front of goal.

"But he is a very big talent. He can do everything."

Capello also revealed that it was always his intention to withdraw Steve Gerrard and Aaron Lennon from the action at half-time, protecting them for future challenges, something which perhaps hints at starting role for the Tottenham Hotspur man on Wednesday night against Ukraine.

"I decided before the game that Lennon would play until half-time and it was the same with Gerrard," he explained.

"They are both in fantastic form so I didn't want to play them too much. I want them to be fresh for the next game.

"Lennon in particular I tried to protect. He is so quick and sometimes when they are playing against someone like that, the defenders will try to bring them down."

Meanwhile, Capello also dismissed suggestions that he should recall Michael Owen, reiterating that he only picked players who were in form and fit, regardless of prior achievement.

He concluded, " I have to choose players to play against the Ukraine, not against history. I have chosen the best players who are in good form at the moment.

"It is impossible to choose someone who has only played for 20 minutes. Why didn't he play the last game?"

Fabio Capello Credits Liverpool And Manchester United

2009-03-30T00:13:00.002+08:00

The England coach give thanks to Fergie and Rafa for their parts in developing the likes of Gerrard and Rooney...

England coach Fabio Capello has thanked Sir Alex Ferguson and Rafael Benitez for the way they have developed Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard, after the two impressed in England's friendly against Slovakia.

Rooney was named man-of-the-match, as the Three Lions thrashed Slovakia 4-0 at Wembley yesterday, while Gerrard provided an excellent contribution to the England cause.

The Italian coach was clearly impressed with the teamwork of both players and felt they linked up very well during the course of the game.

After years of confusing formations and poor performances, Capello seems to be potentially solving one of England's biggest problems, namely accommodating their biggest stars.

Speaking to Setanta Sports, Capello said, "I always said the important players, the big players, can play together. You just have to find their position on the pitch.

"It is not really down to me. I am manager of England but when I choose the players it is because they have done very well at their clubs.

"It is the managers of Manchester United and Liverpool who have been the most important."

Capello and his men must now concentrate on their World Cup qualifier against Ukraine on Wednesday night, where a win could potentially see them go a massive eight points clear at the top of the Group 6 table.

Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson And Wayne Rooney Had Bust-Up, Reveals Lawrenson

2009-03-29T23:58:00.001+08:00

Rooney's explosive temper appears to be landing him in trouble off the pitch as well as on it...

Former Liverpool player and BBC television pundit Mark Lawrenson has claimed that Wayne Rooney and manager Sir Alex Ferguson had a huge row following Manchester United’s 4-1 defeat to Liverpool.

Speaking to BBC Radio Five Live, Lawrenson insisted that the falling-out between the pair led to Rooney being left out of United’s next game against Fulham.

The champions lost that game 2-0 at Craven Cottage, with Rooney starting on the bench and then coming on the pitch, only to be sent-off after picking up two yellow cards.

Speaking about the situation, Lawrenson suggested that Ferguson had continuing problems with his fiery striker but backed the Scot to resolve their differences.

“We are told he had a massive row with Fergie and he left him out at Fulham,” he said.

“It is an ongoing problem, but if anyone can deal with it, it is Sir Alex.”

Rooney’s sending-off, and United’s defeat to Fulham, has meant it has been a bad couple of weeks for the Red Devils, who have seen their lead at the top of the Premier League cut to just one point.

Liverpool, who routed the European Champions 4-1 at Old Trafford a week earlier, are now hot on their heels, although they have played a game more than their bitter rivals.

The Reds now have the opportunity to claim top spot next weekend as they play before United and Rooney will not be in action as the Old Trafford outfit take on Aston Villa, due to suspension.

Having scored twice for England yesterday against Slovakia in a man-of-the-match display at Wembley, his absence is likely to be sorely felt.

Liverpool's Martin Skrtel Waiting For Manchester United Slip-Up

2009-03-26T08:58:00.002+08:00

The Reds defender is backing their rivals from up the East Lancs Road to crack under the pressure...

Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel thinks that the pressure exerted by him and his team-mates on Manchester United will be too much for the Red Devils to handle, and Liverpool's 19-year-long drought for the league title will come to an end this season..

Liverpool mauled their rivals 4-1 at Old Trafford a week and a half ago, and United slipped up again when they were beaten 2-0 in west London at the weekend by Fulham. Skrtel is sure that there will be further errors from Alex Ferguson's men as the season's end nears and the pressure grows ever more intense.

"I think yes, because there are eight games left or so," he told deniksport.cz.

"They are also in the UEFA Champions League. A lot of points are still up for grabs, and although they have a match against Portsmouth in hand, they will not have it easy against them.

"I just hope that we will stay in-form, they will slip-up and we will jump over them in the table."

The Slovak also feels that his club manager Rafa Benitez deserves much of the credit for Liverpool's more sustained title challenge this year, and hailed the effect the Spaniard has had on his personal game, adding, "It is good for us players as well as for the fans and the whole club, because Benitez has done a great piece of work during his time at Liverpool.

"He is enormously popular here and I think that he is a coach
of great qualities. He has also helped me personally.

"He has taught me a lot. Thanks to him we work a lot on tactics and game discipline. I have improved in both aspects."

Liverpool thrashed Aston Villa 5-0 at the weekend, a result many felt has ended the Midlanders push for a top four finish. The Villans face United next though and Skrtel did not rule Martin O'Neill's men out from still having a vital part to play in the destination of this season's Premier League crown.

He concluded, "It will not be an easy game for them. Aston Villa are still aiming for a Champions League spot and will not give them anything easy.

"We will see. It would be great if they could play better than against us and steal a point or three from United."

Henrik Larsson Blasts 'Diver' Cristiano Ronaldo Ahead Of Portugal - Sweden Clash

2009-03-26T08:44:00.001+08:00

One iconic No. 7 is going to have a word with the referee ahead of Sweden's forthcoming game with Portugal...

Sweden striker Henrik Larsson has claimed that his former Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo is inclined to hit the ground a little too easily when tackled, and is warning his team-mates not to fall into the tricky winger's traps.

He also revealed that he will be speaking to the referee ahead of the Swedes' World Cup qualifier with the Portuguese in Porto on Saturday, as he fears that his nation's qualification hopes are under real threat from the Red Devil.

"I intend to speak with the referee before the match to warn him about Ronaldo diving," English tabloid The Daily Mail reports Larsson as telling reporters in Portugal earlier.

"We must be careful, as a team, not to get caught out by that, but so must the referee. I will be having a word with him and telling him to keep an eye out for it."

Ronaldo has become notorious in England for his alleged theatrics when tackled, though his club manager Alex Ferguson has pointed out that the player is subject to some excessively rough treatment from defenders, and referees should be offering the player more protection.

Sweden play Portugal in Porto on Saturday, kick-off 21:45 GMT.

Manchester United Defender Rio Ferdinand Salutes Britain's Armed Forces

2009-03-26T08:04:00.001+08:00

The England defender has hailed the sacrifices made by his country's servicemen and women...

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was on duty with the England squad yesterday, meeting some of Britian's disabled ex-servicemen, wounded in recent conflicts, to sign autographs and chat.

He took the time to thank all members of the United Kingdom's Armed Forces for the sacrifices that they made, believing that it put the task ahead of him and his team-mates into perspective.

"They are the heroes," he told The Manchester Evening News.

"You are speaking about people who are going out and risking their lives for the country.

"We have seen so much on TV about how these guys go about their work and the sacrifices they make for our well-being, for us to be able to share the same room is a privilege.

"We know how to play football and lose matches but what they do is a bit different to losing a game of football.

"They are more worthy of the word hero than we are."

Meanwhile, Chelsea defender John Terry, attending the event along with David Beckham and Ferdinand, also spoke of his pride in the veterans' sacrifice, and how he would have liked to have served his Queen and country, though he wasn't sure he was up to it.

"They love their football, they like to look up to us but I would like to be in their shoes and do what they do," the Blues skipper told The Daily Telegraph.

"It's great they want to do that and they are brilliant at their job. I would love to [serve], of course. Put your life on the line for the country – I would love to, but I don't think many of us could."

Foster Out To Pip Van der Sar To Manchester United's No. 1 Shirt Next Season

2009-03-26T07:59:00.001+08:00

England hopeful Ben Foster has acknowledged that his World Cup dreams could hinge on his ability to play his way into Sir Alex Ferguson's first team plans...

Edwin van der Sar's understudy at Manchester United, Ben Foster, was deemed to be a surprise inclusion in Fabio Capello's latest England squad as the League Cup winning shot-stopper has struggled to establish himself in Sir Alex Ferguson's first team, despite being 25 years old.

In order to secure his plane-seat to the World Cup in South Africa in 2010, should the Three Lions qualify, Foster acknowledges that he may need to play his way into the first team at Old Trafford, which could prove an laborious task considering Van der Sar's record-breaking season guarding goal.

"The biggest club in the world against the biggest competition in the world - that is the dilemma," he explained to Sky Sports. "Playing for England is a hugely important thing but I am also at the biggest club in the world. I will only get one chance at that and I don't want to give it up.

"I have to come back next season and get into the manager's face as much as I can. I want to be playing and I want to get into the World Cup squad next season."

England's current No. 1, David James, will be 40 by the time the world's most prestigious international football tournament begins next year. Meanwhile, the chasing pack - Robert Green, Scott Carson, Paul Robinson and Joe Hart - have continually failed to exert themselves as automatic choices.

By securing the No. 1 spot for Ferguson's trophy-chasing side, the corresponding jersey for the national team would presumably follow, but Foster is not taking this for granted.

"Possibly that is true," he said. "Playing for United does not guarantee you anything but it would certainly make it easier. I am up for the job but it is proving tough enough to get into the United squad at the moment."

He still concluded by saying, "It certainly feels good to get that little bit of recognition."

Foster has received just the solitary international cap to date, handed to him by former manager Steve McClaren in February 2007.

Premier League Referees Could Force Cristiano Ronaldo To Real Madrid

2009-03-26T00:05:00.001+08:00

The press in Madrid have pounced on the latest rumblings of discontent from CR7…

Spanish daily AS have picked up on a story from England’s Daily Mail suggesting how Cristiano Ronaldo might finally have an excuse to ditch Manchester United and the Premier League for Real Madrid and the Primera Division.

Both papers highlighted how the Portuguese ace is growing tired of the lack of protection being offered by the referees in the Premier League following his latest round of confrontations with the match official during last weekend’s game at Fulham.

Even the player’s manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, has opined that his star winger is being ‘systematically fouled’ by opponents.

“It has become a tactic,” Ferguson was quoted as saying by The Daily Mail. “Someone fouls him, then someone else. The referee thinks he is diving and the crowd are screaming.”

The Scotsman also used a Champions League clash with Villarreal as an example of the disparity between referees in England and the rest of Europe.

During that game back in November at El Madrigal, Italian referee Roberto Rosetti sent off the Yellow Submarine left-back, Joan Capdevila, for a rash tackle just above Ronaldo’s knee. And Ferguson admitted that such a foul in England would probably have not drawn a red card.

It is precisely that extra protection from La Liga referees and a less physical approach in the Spanish game that AS is convinced will attract Ronaldo and tempt him to seek an exit from Old Trafford.

It is widely believed that Madrid already have the funds ready to sign the FIFA World Player of the Year. Furthermore, it has also been whispered that an agreement has been reached with Ferguson to allow the two parties to negotiate a transfer this summer - which, if true, means that it is now strictly up to Ronaldo whether he wants to leave United for the Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester United Captain Gary Neville Becomes Unlikely Role Model For Liverpool Kids

2009-03-25T23:57:00.003+08:00

A politician believes that Liverpudlian youngsters can learn a thing or two from Gary Neville.

For Liverpool youngsters who harbour an unswerving allegiance to the red side of the Mersey, the news that their hated north-west rivals' captain - Gary Neville - is to be treated as a potential role-model will come as a sour recommendation.

A Conservative MP, Chris Grayling - the Shadow Home Secretary - committed the Malapropism by declaring that Neville's professionalism is an attribute that kids from the streets of Toxteth can learn from.

Grayling - born in London and raised and educated in Buckinghamshire - is quoted by The Times as saying, "I have spent time on the streets of Toxteth with some very good youth workers, who told me that kids are growing up without any parental guidance at home.

"If I was to pick out a good role model, it would be Gary Neville, an estimable professional over a long period of time," he concluded.

The news will no doubt be looked on with scorn by young Liverpool fans, who will be reminded by their elders of Neville's stinging comments about their city's people.

"I can't stand Liverpool. I can't stand Liverpool people, I can't stand anything to do with them," he is reported to have said.

Patrice Evra: Manchester United Will Not Slip Up Again

2009-03-25T23:53:00.002+08:00

The French international is confident that the Red Devils' will turn around the form which has seen them lose twice in a row...

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has insisted that their recent defeats to Liverpool and Fulham are just minor setbacks which will not be repeated.

The Red Devils' lead at the top of the Premier League has been cut to just one point as a result of their recent losses, although they still have a game in hand.

The Senegal-born French international says losing is not something that United are used to, and he is sure they will get back to winning ways when they return to action.

"In three years, it is the very first time that I have experienced two defeats in a row," Evra told French publication L'Equipe.

"I am sure it is just a little accident."

The 27-year-old is currently with the France squad ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifying home and away fixtures against Lithuania, and Evra says he is only concentrating on helping Les Bleus pick up six points at present.

"Anyway, I have to forget about the club now. I will think about Manchester again after the two matches against Lithuania."

Manchester United's Michael Carrick Pleased To Avoid All English Tie

2009-03-24T08:03:00.001+08:00

Michael Carrick was pleased to hear that Manchester United would not face another English team in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Manchester United are set to entertain FC Porto at Old Trafford for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

The Red Devils are hosts to the Portuguese outfit on April 7 before travelling to the Estadio do Dragao eight days later.

Whilst fully anticipating a tough game against the Portuguese champions, Michael Carrick admitted that he is pleased to have avoided English opposition at this stage in the competition.

"There was always going to be a chance that the English teams would play each other and I think we thought it was our turn," he told ManUtd.com.

"It’s tough to play another English side because you know each other so well and that’s been proved in the past when Liverpool have played Chelsea. They’ve got each other again and in recent years the games have been tight and tough games.

"When you play in European competitions it’s nice to play a team from another country and in that respect we’re happy with the draw.

"It’s only a good draw if we get through so we’ll have to wait and see what happens. But we’re feeling upbeat about it."

This is the fifth consecutive year that Liverpool have had to face Chelsea in this competition with the winners of their upcoming tie getting the chance to play either Barcelona or Bayern Munich in the semi-finals.

The fourth English squad in the competition is Arsenal, who face Spanish
side Villarreal with the eventual victors facing United or Porto in the semi-finals.

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney Escapes Further Ban After Red Card At Fulham

2009-03-24T07:59:00.002+08:00

The Red Devil has escaped further censure for his bad-tempered display at Craven Cottage on Saturday...

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has managed to avoid the further three match ban many feared he would be awarded following his show of petulance at Fulham on Saturday after being sent off for receiving a second yellow card when he hurled the ball back at referee Phil Dowd for a free-kick to be taken.

Dowd has confirmed that he wasn't sworn at by Rooney, and there will therefore be no upgrading of his standard one-match ban for receiving two yellow cards. The FA will be writing to the player though to formally warn him over his future conduct after he punched the corner flag on his way to the tunnel after his sending off.

"We have clarified with Phil Dowd that there was no abuse from the player after he was dismissed," an FA spokesman is reported as saying in The Times.

"In relation to the incident when he punched the corner flag, the referee did not see that and we have written to Wayne Rooney reminding him of his responsibilities."

That means that the England international is now set to miss only United's game with Aston Villa, which takes place at Old Trafford on April 5.

Paul Scholes was also sent off for United, for deliberate handball, as Fulham dented the Mancunians' title hopes just a little by beating them 2-0.

Bulgaria Confirm Manchester United Striker Berbatov Will Miss Ireland Clash

2009-03-24T07:53:00.001+08:00

The ice cool striker will not be appearing in Dublin this week...

Manchester United front-man Dimitar Berbatov has definitely been ruled out of Bulgaria's World Cup qualifier with the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, due to the effects of the knock he took on the ankle during the Red Devils' weekend defeat at Fulham.

"There’s no chance of Berbatov playing against Ireland and Cyprus. The injury will prevent any kind of football-related activity for the next two weeks," explained team doctor Mihail Iliev, speaking to The Irish Times.

"I have talked to the Manchester United medical staff and I am expecting a fax with the details of the medical scans.

"We are talking about a muscle tear, which means his foot will be immovable for two weeks. It is most likely that he aggravated his old ankle injury."

The Irish take on group leaders Italy, in Bari four days after their game against the Bulgarians at Croke Park, in what could be the pivotal fixture in Group Eight. Both sides are locked on ten points after four games with the Azzurri leading the men in green on goal difference.

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has been left with a 25-man squad for the two fixtures after Espanyol full-back Steve Finnan, who has missed his country's last two qualifiers with injury, withdrew with a recurrence of his persistent hamstring problem.

Neville Southall Backs Everton To Beat Manchester United In FA Cup Semi-Final

2009-03-23T23:28:00.001+08:00

The Toffees legend believes being tagged underdogs will help his former club progress to the final...

Legendary Everton goalkeeper Neville Southall is confident his former club can overcome Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final and go all the way to this year's final.

The former Wales international, who made 578 appearances for the Toffees between 1981-1998, feels that labelling the Red Devils as favourites to win the tie could work in the Merseyside outfit's favour.

"I wouldn't be worried about playing United because nobody outside of Everton expects them to lose," Southall is quoted as saying in The Sun.

"That means there's no pressure on the boys and there's everything going for them.

"They'll be relaxed but will want to do the job. I'm sure Phil Neville will be sat there thinking it would be fantastic to put United out.

"Everton are a hard team to beat and in a one-off game we shouldn't be scared of anybody. There's nothing to fear as they've got enough to get a result against United."

The 50-year-old has also been hugely impressed with how well David Moyes' side have performed this campaign given the size of their squad and the number of injuries sustained.

"I think they've done fantastically so far this season," he explained. "It's a small squad but they have a really good work ethic and an amazing team spirit.

"Sometimes you can have too many players and struggle to keep everybody happy, so I think the size has worked in Everton's favour.

"They have to get a striker in during the summer and probably a couple of wide men. But having a small squad has worked quite well for them because it's kept everybody together.

"Moyes has been able to pick pretty much the same team every week, apart from when it comes to the strikers, so that's been a bonus.

"And he's got the likes of Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott and Neville who can fill a variety of positions. That's helped enormously and Moyes has bought well considering he hasn't got a huge amount to spend.

"I hope we end the season strongly by winning the FA Cup and finishing in the top four. What Moyes has done is remarkable and if he gets us there it will be beyond anyone's expectations.

"Whatever happens, it's been a really good season but Europe is the one we've got to crack."

Manchester United Boss Ferguson Still Fuming Over Rooney Red Card Decision

2009-03-23T14:20:00.001+08:00

Fergie looks to be doing his best to bite his tongue as he doesn't want to land his young charge in even more hot water...

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is still aggrieved by referee Phil Dowd's decision to send off Wayne Rooney during the dying minutes of their shock defeat away to Fulham on Saturday.

With just two minutes of regulation time remaining and Man United 2-0 down, their fiery frontman was shown his second yellow card for dissent and for throwing away the ball, albeit in precisely the direction it needed to go but with no small amount of venom.

"The ball was thrown to where the free kick was being taken - did it hit the referee? No," Ferguson fumed on MUTV.

"But there's no point talking about the referee - we didn't play well enough in the first half and that's why we lost."

At this point the United manager will be secretly hoping that Rooney escapes with 'just' the one-game ban. According to News of the World, the England striker's petulant reaction to the red card, during which he berated the referee before storming off the field and punching the corner flag on the way out for good measure, is likely to earn him a three-match suspension.

In this case, Rooney would not only miss the coming game against Aston Villa, but also the following ones against Sunderland and Everton, all of which are potentially pivotal to United's ever more difficult title defence.

Sir Alex Ferguson Laments Poor Manchester United Performance

2009-03-22T11:04:00.002+08:00

Fergie didn't bother trying to hide his disappointment regarding United's defeat at Craven Cottage...

Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney both saw red at Fulham as Manchester United sank to a 2-0 defeat, their second loss on the trot.

A blatant handball from the former allowed Danny Murphy to put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot on 17 minutes amid a hugely disappointing first-half display from the Red Devils.

United made some tactical changes at the interval and looked a completely different, well-drilled outfit thereafter, but their numerical disadvantage meant that piling forward left them exposed at the back. Zoltan Gera made good use of this fact and sealed the win for the home side with a late clincher.

"I was disappointed with the first half, I must admit," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the press.

"We didn't get started at all and that's cost us the game.

"They were lively and they got stuck in, and we expected that. They lost 4-0 to us a few weeks ago so we expected a response from them. We didn't meet that challenge. I think we can thank Edwin van der Sar for keeping us in it.

"In fairness to the team, in the second half they responded to the half-time talking and I think we were unlucky not to get something out of it. Their goalkeeper's made some terrific saves but we've missed a few chances ourselves.

"It's inevitable that one of their counterattacks will put you in trouble, and that cost us the game. We did really well and we were unlucky. If they'd have got the goal back then they may have even won it. In fairness they kept going and good credit to them for that."

United's consecutive defeats have shortened the gap between the league leaders and a chasing Liverpool to just four points, a deficit that could be shortened further should 'Pool overcome Aston Villa on Sunday.

"As I've said, when you lose games in March and April it can cost you," said Ferguson.

"Fortunately, we have a slender lead at the moment but it's not a lot. Obviously I'm hoping we go away for the internationals and come back at our best.

"We've got a home game against Aston Villa in our next game and that's absolutely crucial."

Player Ratings: Fulham 2-0 Manchester United

2009-03-22T10:59:00.001+08:00

Fulham condemned nine-man Manchester United to their first back-to-back defeat in the league in almost exactly four years with a disciplined display. Goal.com rates the performers on the pitch.

FULHAM

Schwarzer – 8.5: Didn’t have a single save to make in the first half but it was a different story in the second, and he did not let his side down. Made at least four superb saves when United were really laying siege to his goal.

Paintsil – 7: Made a few well-timed tackles and interceptions and shackled Ronaldo closely whenever the Portuguese drifted over to his flank.

Hangeland – 8: Rock solid in the air and very assured on the ground, always at the right place and the right time to intercept any crosses or through balls.

Hughes – 7.5: Combined well with Hangeland and cleaned up anything that got past his defensive partner. Together, they completely shut the door on United in the first half. Wasn’t intimidated by Ronaldo’s speed or trickery.

Konchesky – 6.5: Wasn’t afraid to bomb forward in the first ’45 and that pinned O’Shea back. Whipped in a number of telling crosses and he rarely looked troubled at the back.

Davies – 6.5: Very dangerous with his through balls on the counter. Involved in almost every attack in the first half and retreated to the back in the second to help his side defend.

Etuhu – 7: Lingered right in front of the back-four and barely allowed any space or time for Ronaldo to exploit. Also kept Fletcher very quiet. His passing out of defence wasn’t the best, though.

Murphy – 8.5: Never stopped running all over the pitch to win tackles. Coolly smashed home the opening goal from the spot. Faded away late in the game after picking up what looked like an ankle sprain.

Dempsey – 6: Very energetic in the beginning, constantly swapping flanks with Davies. Faded away as the game wore on and restricted himself to hopeful shots from distance.

Johnson – 6.5: Didn’t have too many look-ins at goal but always posed a threat playing behind Zamora. Assisted the second goal.

Zamora – 7.5: Had numerous shots at goal from distance but caused United’s defence endless headaches with his runs into the box. Used his strength and power to outmuscle the opposition backline time and again. Won the penalty for the opening goal.

Substitutes:

Dacourt – 5.5: Replaced the injured Murphy to strengthen the midfield line and he did his job.

Kamara – 6: Got into the game straight away and almost caused immediate panic in the United backline.

Gera – 7: Started the move for the second goal and finished with aplomb with a delightful acrobatic scissor-kick.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar – 7: Made a number of crucial saves in the first half to keep his side afloat. Could do little to stop the well-taken penalty and can’t be faulted for Gera’s wonderful goal as he was left exposed by his defenders.

O’Shea – 5: Wasn’t afforded the opportunity to overlap in attack in the first half. Played more as a midfielder in the second half as United pushed forward but had little impact.

Evans – 5: Struggled horribly to contain Zamora. Showed no understanding with the rest of his defensive team-mates.

Ferdinand – 6: As the more experienced centre-back, he didn’t make any extra effort to help cover for his young colleague. Looked nervous at the back and never offered any signs of assurance to his goalkeeper.

Evra – 5.5: Made the effort to attack but his runs down the wing produced little results other than the odd free-kick. Caught out of position a few times and left his flank wide open for Fulham to strike the killer second goal.

Park – 6.5: Back-tracked diligently to help retrieve the ball out of defence into attack. Could have brought his side levelled midway through the second half but his toe-poke from four yards out was blocked by Schwarzer. The only player to show any fight when his side was being run ragged.

Fletcher – 5: Almost anonymous. Had a brief spell early in the second period where he came to life but other than that, made no significant impact to the game whatsoever.

Scholes – 3: Sent off after just 17 minutes for an obvious handball on the line – two hands, mind you – to block Zamora’s header. Clearly didn’t learn his lesson from the UEFA Super Cup defeat to Zenit when he was sent off for a similar offence… although it was less blatant this time. Only just.

Ronaldo – 5: Kept losing the ball and going to ground in the first half. Saw a lot more of the ball and had more space to attack in the second, but wasted his energy and focus protesting and throwing tantrums.

Giggs – 5: Started off brightly with a few of his typical surging runs but disappeared completely from the game after that. His contributions were restricted to corner kick deliveries, which were poor.

Berbatov – 3: Had all of three touches of the ball in the first half. Showed no fire or urgency when his team went a goal down.

Substitutes:

Rooney – 5: Did so well to breathe new life to his team’s attack after coming on for the second half. Created chances, spaces and openings for his team-mates but promptly let them down by foolishly getting himself sent off late in the game and will now miss the clash against Aston Villa.

Tevez – 5: Got himself into a decent scoring position on a few occasions but never really had a clear-cut chance.

Manchester United Shot-Stopper Van der Sar Spurns Chance Of International Comeback

2009-03-22T10:56:00.001+08:00

The Dutchman's phone keeps on ringing, but he will not answer the call of an international comeback...

Edwin van der Sar has been in record-smashing shot-stopping form this season for Manchester United, as his recent 22 hour + streak without concession in the Premier League is testament to.

His club prowess has not gone un-noticed, and Netherlands manager Bert van Marwijk - in light of the nations injury troubles when it comes to the goalkeeping position - has made an audacious attempt at luring van der Sar out of international retirement. Marwijk's request, though, was refused by van der Sar.
The Dutch boss is without Maarten Stekelburg (dropped by Ajax), and Henk Timmer (substandard performances for Feyenoord), while FC Utrecht's Michel Vorm may be called upon.

Van Marwijk explained to The Herald: "Against my better judgment I called Edwin because of our present difficulties. We had agreed the book was closed before we had these injuries and while I knew what the answer would be, I still called him."

Van der Sar retired from international football after the European Championships in 2008.

The veteran glovesman, however, did acquiesce to an emergency call-up to help the nation compete in their World Cup qualifiers against Iceland and Norway.

Fulham Down Nine-Man Manchester United

2009-03-22T01:18:00.001+08:00

We have a title race; Manchester United have lost consecutive league games to allow Liverpool and Chelsea a glimpse of the top of the table. Murphy and Gera netted the strikes to give Fulham the win over nine-man Man United...

Fulham 2-0 Manchester United

Fulham had not won against United here since 1964, and against a frustrated rival, executed their gameplan to perfection to stop the rot. Home form, a boon earlier in the season, had begun to wobble of late but this result will augment the Cottagers' European hopes.

Fulham triumphed thanks to a Danny Murphy penalty and a goal on the break by Zoltan Gera with two minutes to play. Each goal brought a United dismissal; Paul Scholes was sent off prior to the Murphy penalty for handling, while Wayne Rooney blew his top in the wake of Gera's clincher.

There were off-days for Ronaldo, Berbatov and company, and despite battering Fulham for large swathes of the second half, Manchester United fell.

Not a good day at the office for Sir Alex. It may be, for him at least, squeaky bum time.

First Half

Sir Alex Ferguson shuffled his deck, making some alterations to the side that lost to Liverpool last weekend; Dimitar Berbatov replaced Wayne Rooney in an attacking capacity for the visitors in one of their more noteworthy changes, but it was Ferguson stalwart who was to be the chief protagonist in the first period.

Fulham, for their part, named the same XI that won at Bolton Wanderers last week and started on the front foot. Clint Dempsey went close early on with a drive, before United had a decent chance of their own. Patrice Evra, booked for diving at the end of the half, crossed from the left but Berbatov couldn't direct his header on the target.

The hosts maintained control of the game, dictated the pace in the opening stages and made United uncomfortable on a ground on which they triumphed 4-0 only a fortnight ago.

Bobby Zamora had a clutch of first half chances, but couldn't convert. He sent the first of a few speculative drives wide on the quarter hour.

Fulham's early dominance was rewarded as soon as the 17th minute, when the Cottagers were given a penalty and Ferguson's side reduced to ten men.

Simon Davies fired in a corner, which was flicked on by Zamora. His effort prompted a hand ball on the line by Paul Scholes, who was shown the red card. Danny Murphy, not for the first time in his career, netted a penalty against the Red Devils.

The northern side failed to ruse themselves and were lucky not to be two-down on 20 minutes when van der Sar saved from Zamora.

Zamora was again repelled by the occupied Dutchman before Dempsey stuck narrowly wide on the half-hour, as United continued to be sub-par.

Dickson Etuhu, from a Dempsey cross, made van der Sar work again; Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans could not get to grips with their adversaries. Zamora, one of the more prominent first half performers, then unleashed a vicious strike, which was well-fielded by van der Sar.

The champions went in at half-time a shadow of their selves; their game was blighted by a lack of responsibility and a palpable crisis in confidence in possession.

Second Half

No doubt on the end of the hairdryer treatment at half-time, it was a vastly improved Manchester United that appeared after the break. Park Ji Sung fired narrowly over immediately, as the world champions attempted to gain parity.

United dictated the second half tempo, but with their new-found attacking instincts now functioning, there remained the danger of a counter attack.

Nonetheless, a Ronaldo header, from Darren Fletcher's cross served to remind the Londoners who they were dealing with. Just wide on that occasion.

A Zamora shot, from an unlikely angle alleviated the Fulham pressure and gave United a jitter before Rooney fed Ronaldo to shoot straight at Schwarzer on the hour.

Fletcher was next to try his luck, before a combination of Rooney and Ronaldo almost prized Hodgson's side open. The Scouser crossed from the right and Ronaldo, frustrated to the point of a booking, could only direct his header at Australia's number 1.

The custodian had to be on full alert moments later, pulling off an incredible pair of saves to protect Fulham's clean sheet. Park fired from close range and was denied; Rooney's follow up was shut out by Schwarzer in stunning fashion.

The wave of pressure never let up; Ferdinand, as well as Ronaldo and Rooney had another chance apiece as the game ebbed towards the last 15 minutes.

However, that threat of a counter-attack ultimately outdid the Champions League holders. Pouring forward, Ferguson's side were caught by Andy Johnson running down the right. The Red Devils had scant cover when Johnson sent the cross over. Subsitute Zoltan Gera was well placed in the box to control and fire an overhead shot into the corner to sink United.

Wayne Rooney's temper then further agonised Sir Alex; throwing the ball away, the England forward was handed a second yellow card to reduce his side to nine men.

Line Ups:

Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer - Paintsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Konchesky - Etuhu, Murphy, Davies, Dempsey (Gera 82') - Zamora (Kamara 77'), Johnson

Manchester United (4-4-2): van der Sar - O'Shea (Tevez 70'), Evans, Ferdinand, Evra - Fletcher, Scholes, Park, Giggs - Ronaldo, Berbatov (Rooney h/t)

Goals:

Fulham: Murphy PEN 18', Gera 87'

Manchester United:

Cards:

Fulham: Paintsil 42', Dempsey 70'

Manchester United: Scholes SENT OFF 17', Evans 27', Evra 45', Ronaldo 55', Rooney 81', 88' SENT OFF

Referee: Phil Dowd

Unfinished business

2009-03-21T15:51:00.001+08:00

Rio Ferdinand was pleased to avoid the English sides in the Champions League quarter-final draw on Friday, and says United will be aiming to rectify defeat to FC Porto in 2004 when the teams meet next month.

“We've got unfinished business with Porto after they beat us at Old Trafford a few years ago,” Rio told ManUtd.com. “I'm excited about the game and looking forward to it.

“It's a decent draw. It's a bit of a cliche, but at this stage of the tournament whoever you play is going to be difficult. We’ll have to be on top of our game to get through.”

United are certainly in the more favourable half of the draw, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Chelsea all battling it out for a place in the final, where United, Porto, Arsenal or Villarreal will await them.

“I'm pleased to have avoided the English teams at this stage,” added Rio “Emotionally and physically it would have been draining – probably more than against a European team – because there's so much that goes along with playing English sides in this tournament. We know that firsthand from playing Chelsea last season.

“But we don't look too far ahead at the semi-finals. We're just focused on the quarter-final and won't be disrespecting Porto by looking at who we can play in the next round. We have to beat them first.”

Even before that, the Reds’ immediate task is getting over last Saturday’s 4-1 humbling at the hands of Liverpool. The wounds cut deep, but Ferdinand insists the result is behind the players and they’re focused on Saturday’s rare 15:00 GMT kick-off against Fulham.

“Saturday and Sunday were bad days,” he admits. “I've got a lot of friends who are Liverpool fans and I didn’t talk to them. It's out of our system now though, we've trained well this week and had four good solid days getting ready for Fulham.

“You don't ever want to lose to a team that are near you in the league, let alone your big rivals. You'd probably rather it happened against someone else, but that's part of playing football, you've got to take the rough with the smooth.”

United don’t take kindly to such defeats, so it’s a case of watch out Fulham. “We need to try and win every game we play,” adds Rio. “That's the way it is at this stage of the season. There's no time for saying we could afford to draw this game or that.

“Every game is different - the games we've played against Fulham will have no bearing on the one on Saturday. They'll come out and try to stop us playing and we've have to be able to deal with that.”

Rio was speaking to ManUtd.com, BBC Radio and PA Sport.

Ferguson: Liverpool Boss Benitez Has Spent More Than Manchester United

2009-03-21T08:44:00.001+08:00

Rival Premier League managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Rafa Benitez have found something else to disagree about...

Rafael Benitez might have got the better of Sir Alex Ferguson last weekend, when Liverpool went t oOld Trafford and resoundingly beat Manchester United 4-1, but the Scot has taken a snipe at the Spaniard by refuting Benitez's claim that Ferguson has spent more on transfers.

Benitez said last week that Ferguson had spent £100million more on players than he had, but the United boss was far from convinced and instructed his staff to calculate each manager's spending since Benitez took charge at Anfield five years ago.

According to United's figures, Benitez has spent £24 million more than Ferguson - and the Scot expects his Liverpool adversary to outspend him again significantly this summer.

Ferguson is quoted by ITV Sport as saying, "I was amazed at that one. I got some of the people in the sports technology department to check that out.

"He's well ahead of us in spending in the last five years.

"He said our spending power is more than theirs but he has spent £24 million more than we have.

"I think you will see Rafa producing an absolute spending spree [this summer], I think that's an absolute certainty now he has signed a new contract.

"There's talk about a recession but I don't think there will be one at Liverpool this year."

ITV Sport calculate that in terms of net spending - taking into account income from player sales - the clubs are roughly equal. Liverpool's net spending on players over the last five years is £82.5 million, while United's has been £85.5 million. Chelsea spent £154.8 million net on players over the same period, while Arsenal splashed just £3.4 million in net terms.

Ferguson also claimed that while his policy involved developing home-grown talent through United's youth system, as well as signing established stars, Benitez was more focused on bringing in established players.

He said: "There's a balance - we have signed 18 players in the last five years and eight of those have been young players. There's a balance, it's about doing the thing correctly."

Alex Ferguson Pleased With Manchester United's Porto Draw

2009-03-21T08:40:00.001+08:00

The supreme Red Devil is contemplating the match-up with the Portuguese side with a certain amount of relish...

Alex Ferguson has reacted to Manchester United being paired with Porto in their Champions League quarter-final tie positively, and feels that it gives his men a real chance of claiming a semi-final spot once again.

"This is a good draw for us," the Scotsman told ManUtd.com. "You sometimes wonder if being at home first is a good or a bad thing but I think in this modern-day competition there's no indication of what is better.

"The only thing you hope is that you don’t lose a goal in the home tie."

The fact that United have such strong Portuguese connections themselves, with wingers Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo, of course, being prominent members of the Red Devils squad, is also something which Ferguson feels will work to United's advantage in the tie, scheduled for April 7 and 15.

"We’ve met Porto before and obviously we respect any Portuguese team," Ferguson added.

"We have had a huge Portuguese influence in the club, firstly with Carlos Quieroz but now with Cristiano and Nani. So we understand Portuguese football.

"We're happy with the draw and we're looking forward to the tie."

Premier League Preview: Fulham - Manchester United

2009-03-21T08:33:00.002+08:00

Manchester United will be desperate to hit back after being humbled by Liverpool last week, with Fulham in the firing line...

Kick-off: 1500 GMT, Saturday March 21. Craven Cottage, London.

The Cost of Complacency

After humiliation at the hands of a bitter rival, Sir Alex Ferguson will be desperate for his troops to get back on the front foot this weekend against Fulham.

Manchester United were diabolical in last Saturday’s 4-1 defeat to Liverpool. Blunt in attack, second best in midfield and comical in defence, the Red Devils were more pub team than record breaking quintuple chasers.

The Scot’s selection will certainly make interesting reading at Craven Cottage if his threat to purge out any complacency in the ranks is to bear fruit.

It was damning that the best performer in United colours was the industrious Park Ji-Sung. The Korean’s talent may be limited in comparison to Cristiano Ronaldo, Anderson and Patrice Evra, but Ferguson knows there is no use for genius without application.

Luckily for the Reds, their opponents this weekend should provide the perfect springboard for a glory filled end of season.

Fulham have acquiesced to 3-0 and 4-0 defeats at their hands already in this campaign and a similar scoreline will send a message out across Europe that the beating handed out by Rafael Benitez’s men was just an aberration.
The Right Or The Wrong Time?

As Roy Hodgson watched Manchester United’s 4-1 mauling by Liverpool, he must have been in a quandary as to whether this was a good or bad result for Fulham.

Was it a sign of terminal decline or did it re-light the fuse propelling the Red Devils to an unprecedented level of success? Either way, his side are going to be the first to find out.

This isn’t to overlook the south west Londoners achievement of collecting a valuable 3-1 win at Bolton Wanderers on the same day.

The Blunderers lived up to their nickname in this game as they handed the goals to their visitors. But victory cemented the Cottagers’ position in mid-table and moved them to within three points of securing their Premier League status for another year.

If they catch Manchester United in another hospitable mood, the scrap for mere survival could become elementary as the race for the final place in the inaugural Europa Cup hots up.

A victory over the Premier League and European champions would signal how far Fulham have travelled under Roy Hodgson’s stewardship and make the fans dream of dusting off their passports for a trip to the continent next season.

FORM GUIDE

Fulham

March 14 vs. Bolton Wanderers (A) won 3-1 (PREM)
March 11 vs. Fulham (H) lost 2-1 (PREM)
March 7 vs. Manchester United (H) lost 4-0 (FA CUP)
March 4 vs. Hull City (H) lost 1-0 (PREM)
February 28 vs. Arsenal (A) drew 0-0 (PREM)

Manchester United

March 14 vs. Liverpool (H) lost 4-1 (PREM)
March 11 vs. Inter (H) won 2-0 (CHAMP LG)
March 7 vs. Fulham (A) won 4-0 (FA CUP)
March 4 vs. Newcastle United (A) won 2-1 (PREM)
March 1 vs. Tottenham Hotspur (N) 0-0 [4-1 pens] (W) (LEAGUE CUP)

TEAM NEWS

Fulham

Clint Dempsey is still a concern because he's had a nasty case of food poisoning. Aaron Hughes is sidelined, but Hodgson's squad is otherwise in tact.

Last starting XI (vs. Bolton Wanderers): Schwarzer, Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Konchesky, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey, Johnson (Nevland 90), Zamora (Kamara 84).

Possible starting XI: Schwarzer, Pantsil, Hangeland, Baird, Konchesky, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.

Manchester United

Nemanja Vidic is suspended after his Liverpool horror show, meaning that Jonny Evans is likely to step in. Gary Neville and Darren Fletcher have also recovered from injuries and are available for selection.

Last starting XI (vs. Liverpool): Van der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick (Giggs 74), Anderson (Scholes 73), Park (Berbatov 74), Rooney, Tevez.

Possible starting XI: Van der Sar, O’Shea, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Ronaldo, Park, Giggs, Fletcher, Berbatov, Rooney.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Fulham: Andy Johnson should be raring to go against the Mancunians. The predatory striker would have watched the Liverpool game with glee as the Red Devils’ back line imploded. After bagging a goal against Bolton in fortuitous circumstances, the England international should be looking to poach another on Saturday.

Manchester United: After last weekend’s defensive disaster, Jonny Evans will need to bring a sense of normality to proceedings. Nemanja Vidic’s suspension ensures he’ll be thrust back into the first team picture for the trip to London. The Ulsterman has been a terrific understudy all season, and won’t let Sir Alex Ferguson down.

PREDICTION

The mark of real champions is the ability to get over any setbacks immediately. With Sir Alex Ferguson at the helm, Manchester United should do just that on Saturday.

Roy Hodgson saw the Reds show signs of weakness last weekend, but his side will be shown the lesson that a wounded beast is at its most dangerous at that time.

Fulham 0-3 Manchester United

CHAMPION LEAGUE QUARTER FINAL DRAW: RESULT

2009-03-20T19:28:00.001+08:00

Quarter Final 1
Arsenal vs Villareal

Quarter Final 2
Manchester United vs FC Porto

Quarter Final 3
Chelsea vs Liverpool

Quarter Final 4
Barcelona vs Bayern Munich

Semifinal 1
Winner of Quarter Final 1 vs Winner of Quarter Final 2

Semifinal 2
Winner of Quarter Final 3 vs Winner of Quarter Final 4

Final
Winner of Semifinal 1 vs Winner of Semifinal 2

Milan Would Have Beaten Manchester United - Gattuso

2009-03-20T08:53:00.001+08:00

Rossoneri midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has said his side would have dealt with Manchester United differently...

Gennaro Gattuso, never known for mincing his words, has won many fans through his no-nonsense attitude, which extends to life off the pitch - as he demonstrated again this week.

Ringhio has been sidelined by injury but spoke at the opening of a special sports centre for children in his home town of Schiavonea, near Cosenza.

Il Corriere dello Sport, reports that he talked of lower wages, the Champions League and Milan’s league position.

“In times like these, the lowering of wages would be a case of common sense; I have already spoken to [Milan’s vice-president Adriano] Galliani about it. If the club asks anything of me, I am ready to do it," he said.

And regarding the Champions League exit of Milan's city rivals, the Italian international continued, “If we had faced Manchester United, we would have won. The Champions League is always unpredictable, and it is vital for us to get back into it. One year in the UEFA Cup is enough for us.”

The hard man also dealt with the future of the Rossoneri, “If we can beat Napoli we should be third, but next year, if [Paolo] Maldini goes and we don’t keep [Giuseppe] Favalli, we need another defender to help Thiago Silva out.

“When will I return? The doctors said it would be at least five months, that means I can’t even start thinking about it until May,” he concluded.

Cristiano Ronaldo Wants To Play In The Bernabeu - Pepe

2009-03-20T08:49:00.001+08:00

The defender has declared that he hopes him to be with the Spanish side next year...

Pepe has yet again reiterated his belief that Cristiano Ronaldo will soon join Real Madrid by saying that he wants to play in the Bernabeu.

The Manchester United winger has been linked with a move to the Spanish
capital for some time now and could well leave England this summer.

Pepe told Marca that his Portuguese team-mate "wants to play in the Santiago Bernabeu" and that he thinks he will join the club.

"I would love Cristiano to join Madrid. He has already said in the press that he wants to come and I hope that next year he is with us," he said.

Aside from Ronaldo, Pepe spoke about two of his current team-mates; Julien Faubert and Raul, the former of whom stepped on his hand last weekend and injured him.

The defender says that he "did not intend to hurt me and apologised later" and that there is "no problem" before admitting "it is difficult to play for Real Madrid and he must be given time to settle in".

He then went on to praise his captain Raul and spoke about the defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League.

"For me, Raul is a player to look up to. If he is selected for the national team one must congratulate him because what he has done is not easy and he would defend Spain as if it were his own son," he said.

"Liverpool played a very strong game against us. They had chances and took them whilst we were wasteful and paid for it."

Finally, the Portugal international gave his opinion on the upcoming elections, saying that the new president has to "give stability and make Real Madrid what it once was".

He singled out Florentino Perez for praise too, saying "many people talk about Florentino Perez, he did great work for the team and bought stability to the club".

Ramon Calderon: Cristiano Ronaldo Will Join Real Madrid

2009-03-17T19:24:00.002+08:00

The ousted supremo has not only insisted that CR7 will be a Blanco next season, but has also boasted that it is all because of him that the Portuguese will be at the Bernabeu.

Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon may have been booted out of the Santiago Bernabeu offices earlier in the year, but that has not stopped him from pursuing his obsession with Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo.

The lawyer, who no longer has any say in how the club is run, expressed his certainty that Ronaldo would sign for Madrid as he looked back at his tumultuous two-and-a-half year term at the ‘White House’.

“I believe that my work at Real Madrid was good. We won six titles, I doubled the club’s income and in addition, one of the best players in the world will join the club as soon as the current season is over, and that is all thanks to my work,” he crowed during an interview with Cadena SER programme ‘El Larguero’.

“The past summer was not an appropriate time to make big signings but Madrid will always attract those superstars because they have the money to pay the players what they want.”

Although Calderon did not specifically mention Ronaldo’s name, AS believes that the ex-supremo is indeed referring to the Red Devil after he dismissed rumours that he had a conversation with Milan playmaker Kaka’s relatives in an airport.

“I do not want to create false expectations because the rumour is untrue,” he affirmed. “In any case, what is necessary is that the next president who comes in must sign the best players in the world.”

Finally, the 57-year-old revealed that he will not be attending the re-staging of the botched General Assembly, nor will he run again for the presidential elections.

“I must not attend the Assembly as I have been ordered to stay away from it. I just wanted to say today that I will not hide from anybody and if the courts summon me, I’ll be more than happy to testify,” he concluded.

“And I will not appear in the elections either. I left my current term because it was killing me and I had to think about all the damage it was doing to me and to my family.”

Arsenal's Arsene Wenger: Manchester United Still Favourites For Premier League

2009-03-17T19:21:00.001+08:00

The French tactician admits the title race is far from concluded, but feels that the Red Devils' game in hand gives them a great advantage...

Manchester United had the chance to move seven points clear of Chelsea and ten ahead of Liverpool when they hosted the Reds at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Instead, Rafa Benitez's side gave the Red Devils an absolute mauling, running out 4-1 winners to close the gap at the top of the table to just four points.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has had his say on the weekend's events, and while he believes that either one of the top three clubs could yet win the Premier League this season, he feels the balance is still in United's favour.

"There are two things I'd like to say. Firstly, congratulations to Liverpool for winning with an emphatic score, but I think... it is a very flattering score," Wenger is quoted as saying in The Independent.

"For big spells in the game, Manchester United dominated but they made mistakes on the day that usually they don't do. Some players looked a bit mentally tired.

"It opens up the race for the title, even though I still believe Manchester United are in a strong position with the game in hand."

Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand Won't Blame Vidic For Liverpool Defeat

2009-03-15T17:51:00.001+08:00

Rio has declared that he won't hold his defensive partner responsible for United's drubbing by the Merseysiders...

On the scale of things, Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic had a fairly terrible day at the office on Saturday. Receiving a straight red for bringing down Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard and making a mistake that allowed Fernando Torres to convert an equaliser, it really was not the big Serbian's day.

Speaking to MUTV, Rio Ferdinand gave his thoughts on the 4-1 defeat at Old Trafford.

"The sending-off and third goal came at a really critical time. I thought the referee's decision to send Vida off was debatable as I could have got over there to cover," he said.

"Vida has been one of our most consistent players this season and everyone is allowed to make a mistake, so we won’t be getting on his back."

After a refusal to castigate his fellow defender, Ferdinand summarised the game from his perspective.

"It was a nervy start from both teams but we took the lead and started to get a foot in the game," he continued.

"Even when they were 2-1 up, we started to turn the screw in the second half and Carlos Tevez had a half-chance".

The England stopper only displayed positivity despite suffering such a horrendous defeat, claiming that his team would use the loss as a learning experience.

"Losing any game is disappointing, losing to your big rivals is even worse and the scoreline compounds that," he said.

"But we have to turn this into a positive. This game will have torn out any sub-conscious complacency there may have been. We got a rude awakening today that if we don’t go out and work hard as a collective unit then we won’t get the results.

"We now have time to dust ourselves down and get our minds on the game against Fulham next week. It would have been nice if that game was right round the corner but we have to deal with what’s in front of us."

Liverpool Storm Past Manchester United To Close Gap At Top

2009-03-14T23:21:00.002+08:00

Liverpool came from behind to hit four goals at Old Trafford and reduce the gap at the top of table on a miserable day for the champions who also had Nemanja Vidic sent off.

Manchester United 1-4 Liverpool

After swatting aside Inter and Real Madrid in midweek, Manchester United and Liverpool renewed Premier League hostilities at Old Trafford.

Both sides made changes for the hotly-anticipated clash, Carlos Tevez replacing Dimitar Berbatov for the champions who also included Anderson and Park Ji-Sung in their starting line-up at the expense of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

Liverpool, meanwhile brought in Lucas Leiva for the injured Xabi Alonso and were also forced into a late change with Sami Hypia coming in for Alvaro Arbeloa after the Spaniard suffered a hamstring injury in the warm-up.

United began the game brightly and with only three minutes on the clock had opened up Rafael Benitez’s side.

Carlos Tevez out on the right squared a ball to Park inside the box who looked to shoot but his effort was blocked and flew over the bar after a vital challenge by Jamie Carragher.

After a slow start Liverpool quickly warmed to their task with skipper Steven Gerrard once again urging his side forwards.

With only 10 minutes gone the skipper burst inside the box before trying to cut inside Nemanja Vidic but the Serbian did well to deny him sight of Van der Sar’s goal and clear the danger.

Yet Liverpool’s other talisman Fernando Torres was also causing problems in the usually unflappable United defence.

The Spaniard showed superb skill to turn inside Rio Ferdinand and weave into the box but he needed an extra touch to surge past John O’Shea which just allowed Vidic to clear.

A game that had been slow to get going was beginning to warm up nicely and mid-way through the first-half Old Trafford saw its first goal.

A super ball by Tevez inside Carragher and Hypia found Park inside the box. The Korean latched onto the ball but Reina came out quickly to deny the United man but only succeeded in bringing him down and conceding a penalty.

Up stepped Cristiano Ronaldo who calmly slotted his kick past the Liverpool keeper to hand his side the lead.

The goal filled the home side with confidence but it was short-lived as a mistake by none other than Nemanja Vidic ensured that United’s advantage lasted only five minutes.

A long ball upfield by Martin Skrtel was badly misjudged by the centre-back who allowed the ball to bounce over his head.

Facing his own goal the Serbian was then beaten to the ball by Torres who advanced on goal before slipping the ball effortlessly past Van der Sar.

United looked stunned but were quickly back in action at the other end as they sought to re-establish their lead.

Tevez almost profited from a moment of indecision from Reina, after the Spaniard fumbled a Ronaldo free kick, before Michael Carrick thrashed a shot inches over the bar.

Yet at the other end Torres was looking a real threat for the Reds and only minutes before half-time there was to be even more drama in an already action-packed first period.

A splendid ball from Torres into the United box saw Patrice Evra upend Gerrard and once again referee Alan Wiley showed no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

Skipper Gerrard dusted himself down to take the kick and planted it past Van der Sar to hand the Reds a priceless lead at the interval.

A grim-faced United emerged from the break and within minutes had hit the post. A right-wing cross from Ronaldo took a deflection and Reina could only watch as it rattled his near post before grabbing it gratefully.

Ten minutes later and a Tevez cross again had Reina struggling before, back-pedalling, he just managed to tip it over his bar.

United were dominant and were only inches away from grabbing an equaliser on the hour mark.

A Ronaldo cross to the far post found Rooney guiding the ball back to Tevez right in front of goal but Skrtel did just enough to deny the striker from close range.

Yet in truth United were struggling to penetrate a Liverpool side happy to defend their lead and, with time ticking away, Sir Alex made a triple substitution sending on Berbatov, Giggs and Scholes for Anderson, Carrick and Park.

However, minutes after the substitution and Manchester United found themselves down to 10-men after Vidic was sent off for hauling back Gerrard as he surged goalwards.

From the resulting free-kick Fabio Aurelio lifted a brilliant effort over the wall and low into the corner of Van der Sar’s goal to seal victory.

Yet there was still time for even more joy for the visiting side. Another long ball forward found substitute Andrea Dossena lifting a neat finish over Van der Sar as United shipped four goals on a day their lead at the top was also cut to just four points.

Manchester United: Van der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick (Scholes, 74), Anderson (Giggs, 74), Park (Berbatov, 74), Rooney, Tevez.

Liverpool: Reina, Carragher, Hypia, Skrtel, Aurelio, Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard (El Zhar, 90), Riera (Dossena, 68), Torres (Babel, 81).

GOALS

1-4 Liverpool (Dossena, 90 + 1)

1-3 Liverpool (Aurelio, 76)

1-2 Liverpool (Gerrard, pen 44)

1-1 Liverpool (Torres, 28)

1-0 Manchester United (Ronaldo, pen 23)

Sky Pundit Andy Gray Tips Manchester United For Premier League Title

2009-03-14T11:01:00.001+08:00

The owner of one of the most famous Scottish accents in England can't see beyond the Red Devils for this campaign's crown...

Andy Gray, a man who collected a fair few winners' medals of his own during a lenghty playing career with Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton, thinks that Manchester United are now certainties to win the Premier League.

Sky Sports' expert summariser, whose voice is heard by countless millions during televsion coverage of the English top division, has said today that the title race is as good as over, whatever Liverpool manage to achieve in tomorrow's match-up with the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

"I think the league’s done, I think United will definitely win the league," Gray told ManUtd.com.

"They know how to get the job done, and that's the most impressive thing. They have already won the Carling Cup and the Club World Cup, but you can always fall down in knockout competitions.

"You just need one off-day where you’re below par, a referee’s decision going against you and you’re out of the tournament. That’s the biggest threat I think. Four of the biggest teams in the country will be in the FA Cup if Arsenal get through their quarter-final, and the Champions League is extremely tough. Now they’re at the sharp end."

And Gray was full of praise for key individuals in the United team, hailing their defenders and central midfielders in particular as reasons for their dominance this season.

"When you’ve got two centre-backs like [Rio] Ferdinand and [Nemanja] Vidic you’ve got a pretty good basis for anything," he added.

"As a pair, they’re as good as anything United have had. [Steve] Bruce and [Gary] Pallister come to mind, but for the modern game Ferdinand and Vidic are just about exactly what you would want.

"I thought United might struggle in the middle of midfield this year. Everyone’s been waiting for Michael Carrick to step up and just say: ‘You know what, I’m going to play game in, game out and start influencing every game.’

"With Scholesy at 34 and Giggsy at 35, Anderson still young, I thought the big teams like Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal might find them wanting, but they haven’t.

"Carrick has played a lot of games this year, and you can count on it being him and one other in the centre for the big games. Darren Fletcher is a real steady Eddie, you’d want him in your squad every time – he’s a much better player than people give him credit for.

"But I think this is the year when Michael has stepped forward as a United player. Keane’s gone, Scholesy’s 34, Giggsy’s 35, these fantastic players might not be able to do a whole season. I was waiting for somebody to step up, and I think it’s been him."

Guus Hiddink Wants Liverpool Victory At Manchester United

2009-03-14T10:58:00.001+08:00

The Chelsea manager isn't strictly neutral when it comes to watching tomorrow's lunchtime epic in the North West...

Guus Hiddink has admitted to taking a highly partial stance when it comes to tomrrow afternoon's eagerly awaited Premier League heavyweight battle between Manchester United and Liverpool.

The Chelsea manager has revealed that he will be keeping a close eye on proceedings at Old Trafford, and that he is hoping for a vicotry for Liverpool that will provide a huge boost to his own team's lingering hopes of claiming the league title.

His Chelsea side face Manchester City at home on Sunday, aware that even with a hundred per cent league record under the Dutchman of three wins in three outings, they are still seven points behind United. Hiddink feels that the Blues will have to win every single remaining league match if they are to have any chance of catching Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils.

"Our first concern is our game of course against Manchester City," Hiddink told The Daily Telegraph.

"We have the possibility to watch. It will be a beautiful clash to watch and if Liverpool can do some harm then great because it will make for a more exciting end to the season. But United look very determined and if they win then they can do the same to Liverpool.

"When I said we could win the league we were on schedule at that time but United have not made any mistakes since and neither are we. Until it is impossible, then we will fight."

As for Didier Drogba, who has made something of a return to form since Hiddink's arrival at the club, the Dutchman refused to be drawn on what was different with the player, and also asserted that he had found no trace of the rumoured 'cliques' at the club.

"I don't know what is different," he said of Drogba.

"I only saw him in the World Cup, and after, not so much in person, but he is very committed for the team, he has responded very well to the team and contributes very well in the team.

"I didn't find any isolated group of players within the team. It's easy when you have won games to say as a manager that it has improved but I have not seen what happened before. It is more interesting to see the reaction when things have not gone well in one or two games than it is when you have won a few."

Giggs Urges Manchster United To Use Caution Ahead Of Liverpool Clash

2009-03-14T10:52:00.002+08:00

Veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs is wary about the threat posed by Manchester United's weekend opposition, Liverpool...

Liverpool disposed of historic heavyweights Real Madrid in convincing, and unforgiving, fashion midweek with a 4-0 scoreline that could easily have been doubled had it not been the heroics of Iker Casillas.

Manchester United too progressed to the final eight in the Champions League by slaying Serie A side Inter, but even though both will be riding a high wave, veteran versatile midfielder Ryan Giggs has warned his United side of a strong Liverpool performance when the Merseysiders visit Old Trafford on Saturday.

"They've proven again this season they are a top European side, something they've managed to do over the last four or five years," Giggs asserted to This Is London.

"But this year I feel they've improved, they've got good players, and so we're not going to be complacent. We know we will need to play well to win. If we do then it will obviously make it difficult for them to win the title.

"The games might be running out and the momentum is with us, but we still have to go out and win. I'm sure after their great result and performance the other night they'll be looking forward to the game as much as we are.

"No matter what is riding on the outcome, United versus Liverpool is one of the games of the season, and as they're our closest rivals right now, along with Chelsea, it makes it a massive game," he concluded.

Premier League Preview: Manchester United - Liverpool

2009-03-14T10:48:00.002+08:00

This week's English action kicks off with the undisputed pick of the round as Rafa's Reds travel up the East Lancs Road in the hope of keeping their title dreams alive...

Kick-off: Saturday, March 14 2009, 12:45 GMT. Old Trafford, Manchester.

In The Bag?

For Manchester United, a win this weekend would all but guarantee them a third consecutive Premier League crown. They already sit seven points and a game in hand ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea, so three points against their North West rivals would all but decide the title race.

Funnily enough, the Red Devils began 2009 as outsiders on the domestic scene. Their sojourn in Japan for the Club World Cup - and the stuttering form of Luiz Felipe Scolari's Blues - allowed the men from Merseyside to gallop clear at the tabletop at the turn of the year.

But a run of 11 straight league wins since Boxing Day has seen United reclaim their perch at the summit of the standings. They will hope to continue that trend when they host the Reds on Saturday lunchtime, and none more so than Scouse striker Wayne Rooney.

"I grew up an Everton fan, my whole family are Everton fans and I grew up hating Liverpool – and that hasn't changed," the former Goodison Park hero said on Thursday.

"I think coming to Old Trafford will be a difficult game for them. They know they need to win, they need the three points. I'm sure they will be up for it and we certainly will be too.

"It will certainly end Liverpool's chances if we win and that's why we're looking forward to it."

United come into the clash in high spirits and surrounded by talk of a 'Quintuple' after their Champions League triumph over Inter, but their upcoming opponents should take even more confidence from their midweek exploits.

All Or Nothing

You wouldn't have known Liverpool were struggling for form if you watched their demolition of Real Madrid on Tuesday evening.

Having grabbed a 1-0 win in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu thanks to an air-tight defensive display, the Mersey giants then proceeded to put four unanswered goals past a helpless Iker Casillas in the return fixture, thus booking their sport in the quarter-finals.

However, as is so often the case with Rafael Benitez's side, their European efforts are in no way reflective of their domestic situation. For example, the impressive victory in Spain two weeks ago was followed up immediately by a disastrous 2-0 defeat at Middlesbrough. Many would would tipping a similarly sluggish showing at Old Trafford this weekend.

Liverpool haven't fared especially well in their arch-rivals' den over the past few years; in fact, the last time they returned with three points in league play was in 2004, when Danny Murphy was the hero. However, they are yet to lose against a Big Four opponent this term, and they will hope to replicate their 2-1 victory over Sir Alex Ferguson's champions at Anfield earlier in the campaign.

The Reds, who have won just three league games since their 5-1 mauling of Newcastle United at the end of December, are well aware that defeat against United would end their title chase once and for all. And Martin Skrtel has assured the Kopites that they will be going all-out for the win.

The Slovakian centre-half, who starred against Los Blancos, said recently, "Any result other than a win would mean a definite end to our title hopes.

"Despite the point difference, we are going into the match with the goal of winning. We will see if we can do it but, one thing is for sure, we are in a good mood after beating Real."

And as United would draw level with Liverpool on 18 English championships should they win this season, there is no lack of motivation for Benitez's boys.

FORM GUIDE

Manchester United

Mar 11 Man United 2-0 Inter (Champions League)
Mar 07 Fulham 0-4 Man United (FA Cup)
Mar 04 Newcastle 1-2 Man United (Premier League)
Mar 01 Man United *0-0 Tottenham (Carling Cup)
Feb 24 Inter 0-0 Man United (Champions League)

Liverpool

Mar 10 Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid (Champions League)
Mar 03 Liverpool 2-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
Feb 28 Middlesbrough 2-0 Liverpool (Premier League)
Feb 25 Real Madrid 0-1 Liverpool (Champions League)
Feb 22 Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City (Premier League)

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United

Ferguson's defence remains light on personnel, with Gary Neville, Wes Brown and Rafael da Silva all sidelined, but Rio Ferdinand is expected to start after coming through Wednesday's win over the Nerazzurri unscathed. The very capable Jonny Evans will be on stand-by.

Rooney is likely to partner Dimitar Berbatov in attack, although Carlos Tevez - who scored at Anfield in October - may well feature in some capacity.

Possible XI: Van der Sar - O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra - Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs - Berbatov, Rooney

Liverpool

Albert Riera should return to the starting lineup after missing the midweek mauling of Madrid through suspension. Ryan Babel will most probably make way, despite a bright showing against the Merengues.

Danish defender Daniel Agger is still hampered by a back problem, but Yossi Benayoun - who hasn't played since scoring at the Bernabeu last month - is a chance to make the squad as he recovers from a hamstring problem.

Possible XI: Reina - Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio - Mascherano, Alonso - Kuyt, Gerrard, Riera - Torres

PLAYER TO WATCH

Manchester United

After his controversial comments during the week, all eyes will be on Wayne Rooney as he attempts to kill off Liverpool's title hopes. The 23-year-old is perhaps not in the finest form of his career, but everyone knows what the former Evertonian is capable of.

Liverpool

At the other end of the park, Fernando Torres will be aiming to notch up his first strike against Man United. The ex-Atletico Madrid star has already shrugged one monkey off his back this week by netting against his old crosstown rivals, and he'll be the man the Reds look to as they attempt to re-enter the title race on Saturday.

PREDICTION

The Mancs must fancy themselves to effectively close the book on their rival Reds' domestic campaign. A draw would do them little harm, while the visitors cannot afford anything but a win. With the virtual threat of elimination hanging over their heads, Rafa's mob might well produce a continental-class performance - but don't count on it.

Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool

Liverpool's Mascherano & Kuyt Confident Ahead Of Manchester United Clash

2009-03-13T00:01:00.001+08:00

The Reds duo believe they can overturn the World Club champions if they play at the same tempo which saw them thrash Real Madrid 4-0...

Javier Mascherano insists Liverpool can claw themselves back into the Premier League title race by claiming victory over Manchester United on Saturday.

The Merseyside outfit, who beat the Red Devils 2-1 at Anfield in September, can move to within four points of the league leaders if they do the double at Old Trafford.

The Argentina international admits that winning three points away at United is far from easy, and he is looking to their 4-0 thumping of Spanish giants Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday evening as inspiration.

"We have to go to Old Trafford and win so we will see what happens," Mascherano is quoted as saying in The Sun.

"But if we play like we did against Real, it will be difficult for any team to beat us. It was a fantastic display. We were pressing all the time and didn’t let them play."

Team-mate Dirk Kuyt is just as confident that Liverpool will give United a run for their money, as he believes the Reds tend to up their game in key fixtures.

"If we can beat Madrid 4-0, we at least have a chance at United," Kuyt affirmed.

"We have shown this year we can get good results against big opponents so, hopefully, we can do the same again."

Ferguson Pleased With Manchester United Victory Over Inter

2009-03-12T07:54:00.001+08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken out after his side progressed to the last eight of Europe's elite club competition...

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his happiness after Manchester United defeated Inter 2-0 on Wednesday.

United had to work hard to progress, but goals from Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo did prove to be enough to see the defending European champions move into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Ferguson, who is eyeing his third European title, admits he was relieved to get through to the next round after what he called a difficult draw.

“I thought it was a really difficult draw given their experience, so we are happy to get through, it was a good result for us,” he told the Manchester Evening News after the match.

“We started very well and I thought it could be one of those nights when we are going to score a few goals.

“But then we started doing flicks and passing balls into space where no one was and back heels – it was practice football. Inter should have been level at half time.

“We played a team at its maximum potential in terms of experience and they played to their maximum. To get through that is a big plus because we will be better in the next round.”

The Red Devils now turn their attentions back to domestic matters, with Liverpool set to visit Old Trafford in a crucial Premier League match this weekend.

Inter Played Well, But Manchester United Were Strong - Van Der Sar

2009-03-12T07:48:00.002+08:00

The Dutch goalkeeper is pleased his side have qualified for the quarter-finals...

Manchester United managed to defeat Inter on Wednesday evening by a 2-0 scoreline, a good result after their initial 0-0 draw at the San Siro a fortnight ago.

The Champions League encounter was full of goal-mouth action and Jose Mourinho's side will consider themselves unlucky not to have at least found the net once.

"Inter played very well, similar to us two weeks ago, they had more opportunities," admitted United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar to the microphones of Sky.

"Today, it was Inter who suffered some misfortune, with the downward header of [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic and the shot off the post by Adriano," he explained, referring to the two occasions where the Nerazzurri hit the woodwork.

Now, United progress in the competition, looking to defend their champion status.

"We played too slow, but we are in the quarters. We are very strong and very happy," concluded the ex-Juventus goalkeeper..

The Red Devils now await the draw on Friday to see who their opponents will be in the next round of Champions League action.

Player Ratings: Manchester United 2-0 Inter

2009-03-12T07:42:00.002+08:00

Early goals in each half from Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo saw Manchester United through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Goal.com rates the performers...

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar 6 - The veteran Dutchman didn't have a great deal to do in all honesty. Inter's golden chances were missed, as opposed to saved.

O'Shea 6 - The defender had a bit of a roller coaster ride. Mario Balotelli caused him no end of problems during the first half, and the Irishman conceded a number of free-kicks. He also should have scored or played in Berbatov as he charged through.

Ferdinand 6 - Didn't look fully comfortable, fitness wise, and lost track of Ibrahimovic on a couple of occasions.

Vidic 7.5 - Gave United a dream lead by making a fool of Vieira and glancing his header into the net. From then on he was solid and composed, although Inter did get their act together.

Evra 6.5 - Overlapped Giggs all night, but wasn't really utilised properly. Did what he had to do, including a crucial head-flick with the taller Ibrahimovic lurking.

Ronaldo 8 - In Italy, he turned in his best performance in recent memory. Here he scored his first Champions League goal of the season with a powerful header, but he never quite reached the heights of the first-leg, although he always gave Inter something to think about.

Carrick 5.5 - It never really happened for Carrick, who was below par. Although his early corner assisted Vidic, he gave the ball away too often thereafter.

Scholes 5.5 - It wasn't Scholes' best game by any stretch of the imagination. His passes never really came off and he lacked composure at key times, uncharacteristically. Hooked for Anderson.

Giggs 8.5 - Like the first leg, the wily Welshman was heavily involved. During the first half he had a couple of hairy moments with arrogant flicks that went nowhere, but by and large he was stunning as captain. He drifted all over the place and was instrumental in setting up the second goal.

Rooney 7.5 - Rooney more often than not ends up stuck on the left in Europe, but he made the most of it on the night. His tracking back stopped Maicon from marauding on a couple of occasions, although he was eventually booked for his troubles. Like Giggs he was keen to drift inside.

Berbatov 6 - Was close to pulling out at the last minute after pulling up in the warm-up, and it showed throughout. Should have scored on the hour mark.

Subs:

Park Ji-Sung tracked back well in place of Rooney and Anderson replaced Scholes. These were merely fresh legs, and not tactical replacements.

INTER

Julio Cesar 7 - His defence couldn't really cope with the aerial threat, but from direct shots he did well to beat the ball to safety.

Maicon 7.5 - You know what you're going to get with Maicon, and he was Inter's main threat throughout. He ran for 90 minutes and, although he had to be covered by the centre-backs, he was more valuable as a winger.

Cordoba 7.5 - Was surprisingly good, getting across to cover in wide areas. However, he was less assured with the ball in the air.

Samuel 7.5 - He dealt with Ronaldo quite well, although he was booked eventually for giving him personal attention. Still one of the better performers, getting things moving from the back and making key interceptions, even though he wasn't expected to play.

Santon 6 - It was a massive test for the youngster and he was exposed at the second goal, losing the ball in a key area. Otherwise, it's clear that we'll see him again at this level.

Zanetti 6.5 - Foraged for scraps and worked hard without ever really making a big splash.

Cambiasso 7 - Played some quality passes and was usually available to link up. However, he never really imposed himself as he might have. He put in a good shift, but could have made a bigger difference.

Vieira 4 - The former Arsenal man was completely bamboozled at the first goal and never really got going. Hooked for Muntari at the interval.

Stankovic 6 - The midfielder curled a shot wide during the first half and might have done better with a close-range effort which had bounced in front of him. However, he was making good runs and was hooked for Adriano too early.

Ibrahimovic 7 - The Swede should have scored at some point during the contest. One chance went into the turf and hit the bar, one shot whizzed across goal and wide - he never really had the conviction. However, he brought others into play and was untouchable at times.

Balotelli 7 - Had a good game overall, although he faded badly. The youngster gave O'Shea massive headaches during the first half and produced a couple of passes of real quality. He was better on the left than when he popped up on the right, however.

Subs:

Adriano was unlucky to hit the post just after coming on, Muntari had a frustrating second half and was booked, and Luis Figo was given a few minutes at the end.

Vidic, Cristiano Ronaldo See Manchester United Past Inter

2009-03-12T07:36:00.002+08:00

Champions League holders Manchester United sent Italian champions Inter tumbling out of the competition thanks to headed goals from Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo early in each half...

Manchester United 2-0 Inter (2-0 on aggregate)

Sir Alex Ferguson involved both of his wily veterans, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, from the start, in a line-up which also featured Rio Ferdinand and John O'Shea, who'd struggled with injuries over the last few days. Wayne Rooney started to the left of Dimitar Berbatov in attack. Jose Mourinho's injury-influenced line-up was more intriguing. Patrick Vieira came in for Sulley Muntari, with Walter Samuel miraculously recovering to start alongside Ivan Corboda. Mario Balotelli played in a left-biased attacking role, preferred to Adriano.

First Half

It was a lively and crucial opening ten minutes at Old Trafford. United had a lot of pent up frustration from the goalless first leg, but were ahead within four minutes this time. Cristiano Ronaldo won a corner on the right which was taken by Michael Carrick. Nemanja Vidic gave Patrick Vieira the run-around before leaping and glancing the ball into the left-hand corner.

However, the momentum would gradually switch in favour of Inter for the duration of the opening period. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was always heavily involved and did well with the multitude of balls clipped in his direction.

Although Inter were clearly improved in comparison to the first leg, United would continue to carve out openings before the half-hour mark. There were quick-fire penalty appeals as Ryan Giggs caused havoc cutting in from the left. Samuel touched his Berbatov-bound cut-back, but he'd slipped and couldn't have done much about it. Moments later, Giggs' flick hit the arm of Stankovic, whose proximity was too close to interest the referee.

Inter would have chances before long as they grew into the game, and they were clear-cut. Douglas Maicon whipped in a free-kick from the right which found Ibrahimovic at the far post. The Swede connected with a downward header, but it bounced into the turf and onto the bar.

Soon after, Ibra prodded the ball inside to Dejan Stankovic, who curled an effort just wide of Edwin van der Sar's post.

United, at the other end, might have killed the tie through an unlikely hero. Giggs drifted out to the right and played the ball inside to Wayne Rooney, who perfectly played in the advanced John O'Shea. The defender, though, failed to lift the ball over Julio Cesar, with a pass to Berbatov the better option.

Still, Inter managed to carve out two more great chances before the interval. First, Stankovic couldn't tame Ibrahimovic's flighted pass, hitting over after the ball bounced in front of him.

Then, Mario Balotelli's glorious defence-splitting pass was battered wide of the left-hand post by Ibrahimovic, who'd timed his run well.

And thus they trooped off to the dressing room, with more questions than answers in the Mancunian air.

Second Half

Those questions were answered after another four minutes of play by Cristiano Ronaldo. Sulley Muntari had come on for Vieira and the visitors started brightly, but United hit them with a deadly sucker-punch.

Giggs was drifting around again, taking advantage of Davide Santon's carelessness, with the ball eventually ending up with Rooney on the left. His cross was attacked by Ronaldo, whose bullet header found the net.

Inter had to respond, so Jose Mourinho sent on Adriano for Stankovic. Within a minute the Brazilian had hit the inside of the post after playing a one-two at pace with Esteban Cambiasso.

Around the hour-mark, the Red Devils looked to kill off the Nerazzurri. Julio Cesar had to smother at the second attempt as Berbatov tried to force the ball home, before the 'keeper batted Rooney's long-range drive away soon after.

Ibrahimovic had a good opportunity to attack a cross with his head on 73 minutes, but the little Frenchman managed to get a slight touch on it and the hitman couldn't make solid contact.

From then on, it was a case of professionally closing out the tie for United, which they did by playing high-tempo keep-ball.

Julio Cesar had to make a good save from a 30-yard Ronaldo set-piece piledriver to prevent further calamity, but the real damage had been done.

It was a strong performance from United, who progress to the quarters at the expense of the Italian giants. At full-time, Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho finally had their handshake, with the gutted Portuguese giving the Scot a hug.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: Inter Will Beat Manchester United

2009-03-11T18:59:00.002+08:00

Despite the sides being level after their first leg, the German believes Jose Mourinho's side will do the business in Manchester...

Former Inter striker and current Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is backing Inter to dump European title holders Manchester United out of the Champions League.

The Nerazzurri are currently in Manchester as they prepare for the blockbuster clash later tonight. The Red Devils are favourites to win, however, Rummenigge, who played at Inter for three seasons, believes that the Italians can shock Old Trafford.

"It was tough for the Italian teams in the first leg, but I am convinced that Inter will go through. I am sure of this," the German told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.

"Away from home the Nerazzurri will have more chance of scoring; they can dictate the game in the way they want. It's the English team who will need to attack."

The Nerazzurri have never had the success they have wanted in the Champions League. Mourinho has a great record against Sir Alex Ferguson, though, and he will be hoping to repeat the memorable night of 2004, when his Porto side eliminated the Red Devils at the Theatre of Dreams.

Manchester United Star Cristiano Ronaldo: Italian Women Are The Best

2009-03-11T18:54:00.001+08:00

The Portuguese ace has admitted that he could play in the peninsula one day because he loves Italian football and much more about the country…

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo will face Italian giants Inter in the Champions League this evening. The Red Devils will try to build on the goalless first leg draw to progress to the quarter-finals of the competition.

And the European and World Player of the year has revealed his passion for the Belpaese in an interview with Turin-based daily Tuttosport.

“Will I ever play in Italy? Never say never in life,” he smiled.

“I do gladly travel there, like I did last summer, because there are the most beautiful and sexiest girls in the world…

“All jokes aside, I truly admire your brand of football and you are world champions. I particularly like [Alessandro] Del Piero; he is a unique and extraordinary footballer - a true professional for all the people who love this sport.”

The 24-year-old also reiterated how close he came to joining Inter before the Red Devils swooped in.

“Yes, I was close to moving to Inter but Arsenal and Juventus were also interested,” he asserted.

“[Inter scout Luis] Suarez came to Lisbon but my agent, Jorge Mendes, told me that [Sir Alex] Ferguson wanted me at all costs.”

Jose Mourinho Not Eyeing Manchester United Job – Report

2009-03-10T19:05:00.002+08:00

Inter's head coach has denied recent speculation claiming he is looking to replace Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford...

Recent reports in the British press claimed that Inter head coach Jose Mourinho had suggested he is ready to take over the reins at Manchester United when current manager Sir Alex Ferguson leaves.

However, the 46-year-old Portuguese boss has dismissed the speculation, insisting he would not make such claims, especially as the Nerazzurri are due to travel to Old Trafford on Wednesday evening for Champions League business.

"Jose did not give an interview or speak with anyone about Alex Ferguson’s job," Mourinho's advisor, Eladio Parames, revealed to The Sun.

"The contents of the article are ridiculous. First, it shows a lack of respect to Sir Alex, whom Jose is a great admirer of and believes will manage Manchester United for many years to come.

"Jose has a deal with Inter, which he plans to honour, and it shows a lack of respect to Manchester United in a week in which Inter are preparing to face them in an important Champions League match."

The former Chelsea boss also wanted to clear up reports which alleged that he was overly confident of Inter claiming victory against United.

“Jose would not say that he will definitely beat Manchester United in Wednesday’s game,” the advisor explained. “Of course he wants to beat United, but that is a different thing.”