Next Macth

Chelsea vs Manchester United - Barclays Premier League - 01,03,2011 - 19:45 - Stamford Bridge




Match Highlights

วีแกน 0-4 แมนฯยูไนเต็ด - พรีเมียร์ลีก 26-02-2011




Clip Wigan Athletic 0-4 Manchester United - Barclays Premier League - 26,02,2011

Last Match

Wigan Athletic 0-4 Manchester United - Barclays Premier League - 26,02,2011

17' [0-1] J. Hernandez
74' [0-2] J. Hernandez
84' [0-3] W. Rooney
87' [0-4] F.d. Silva

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 13 ธันวาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Manchester United 0-1 Aston Villa



single strike from Gabriel Agbonlahor was enough for Aston Villa to earn a win over Manchester United.


Villa survived a late United onslaught to claim their first Old Trafford win since 1983.

Needing victory to move level at the top with Chelsea, Agbonlahor's first-half effort instead left United three points adrift.

Villa are now third in the Barclays Premier League as they added United to the scalps of Chelsea and Liverpool this season.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 6 ธันวาคม พ.ศ. 2552

West Ham United 0-4 Manchester United




Manchester United cruised to a comfortable victory at West Ham United.


Paul Scholes gave the champions the half-time lead with a 20-yard left-foot shot in stoppage-time at the end of the first half, his 99th Premier League goal.

Darron Gibson added a second on 61 minutes with a superb effort and United wrapped up the victory with two goals inside a minute.


Antonio Valencia made it 3-0 on 71 minutes and Wayne Rooney immediately added a fourth beating Rob Green who was substituted shortly afterwards through feeling unwell. United lost Gary Neville and Wes Brown to injury.

วันพุธที่ 2 ธันวาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Macheda inks new deal




Federico Macheda has penned a new four-year contract with Manchester United.


The 18-year-old has been an instant success since breaking into the United line-up last season, scoring winning goals against Aston Villa and Sunderland.

Those strikes went some way to helping the Red Devils claim the Barclays Premier League title - their 18th league championship.


Although Macheda has only made four appearances this season, manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes the young Italian has a bright future.

We are delighted by the new four year deal," said Ferguson.

"Everyone at the club recognises the fantastic talent he has and we hope to see that develop in the next years, so he becomes a well rounded player."

Macheda came off the bench in United's 2-0 Carling Cup win over Tottenham Hotspur this week and has a further opportunity to shine in next week's Champions League tie with Wolfsburg in Germany.

The Italian U21 international, who joined from Lazio at 16, was delighted to extend his stay with the Old Trafford club.

"I am very happy to commit my future to Manchester United," said Macheda. "I really enjoyed myself last season when I came on and I hope to get more chances like that and contribute to the team's success."

Manchester U. 2 - 0 Tottenham H.



Darron Gibson was the unlikely hero as holders Manchester United secured a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The 22-year-old midfielder scored both goals in a re-run of last season's final as Tottenham again finished second best.


Gibson, making a rare start, showed marvellous composure with both efforts in the 17th and 38th minutes to put United firmly in control.

วันจันทร์ที่ 30 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd board warming to Inter Milan boss Mourinho

Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho's character is growing on the decision-makers at Manchester United.

The Daily Mail says those closest to the former Chelsea manager insist he is far from content in Italy.

That, given half a chance, he would be back here in a flash. While nothing is ever straight-forward with the self-anointed Special One, his most likely suitors at Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool might just want to consider how they would respond should he suddenly become available.

At United they see changes in Mourinho. They see a more mature manager with more humility after his experiences at Chelsea and Inter, and they see someone who was utterly charming when he came to Old Trafford last season for the first knock-out stage of the Champions League.

They also see him as someone chief executive David Gill could work with.

Portsmouth 1-4 Manchester United



Manchester United kept up the hunt for the title with a comfortable win at Portsmouth.


Avram Grant's reign at Chelsea ended with defeat on penalties to Manchester United and his first match in charge of Portsmouth saw Wayne Rooney score two crucial spot-kicks within his hat-trick at Fratton Park.

Grant, who has taken over from Paul Hart and will be rubber-stamped as manager next week when paperwork is completed, could not have asked for a tougher opening match than against the Barclays Premier League champions but there was hope of a result when Kevin-Prince Boateng levelled, also with a penalty.


Sir Alex Ferguson will have no complaints with the way Rooney wrapped up the points after the break. Ryan Giggs added the fourth late on.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 22 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Fletcher delighted Valencia amongst the goals for Man Utd

Darren Fletcher was delighted to see Antonio Valencia get on the scoresheet for Manchester United in their 3-0 victory over Everton.

As the direct replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, Valencia has been cajoled into increasing what was a minimal goals output at Wigan.

He only scored seven for the Latics last season and, including the deflected effort against CSKA Moscow that UEFA have credited him with, the Ecuador international now has four for United.

He is also starting to impose himself on games, with his forceful running unhinging a disappointing Everton outfit who seemed intent on containment.

"Antonio is a top-class player," said Fletcher. "He is getting used to the way we play and he was in the groove again.

"He is a really strong physical lad who can get goals. We have seen that in training and I believe he is going to get a lot for Manchester United."

Manchester United 3-0 Everton




Manchester United beat Everton to move into second place in the Barclays Premier League.


Darren Fletcher put the champions in front with a spectacular volley after 35 minutes.

Michael Carrick added a second on 67 minutes and Antonio Valencia made sure of the points with a deflected shot 14 minutes from time to cut Chelsea's lead at the top to five points.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 15 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Foster upset being dropped at Man Utd




Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster admits he's disappointed with being dropped earlier this season.

A blunder against Chelsea in the Community Shield was quickly forgotten. Less easy to dismiss were the mistakes he made in the Manchester derby, first in losing the ball to Carlos Tevez near his own box to gift the Blues their first leveller, then going down far too easily and effectively providing Craig Bellamy with a tap-in for City's third.

Michael Owen's stoppage time winner ensured United still won and it took another late goal, this time a deflected effort by Patrice Evra, to salvage a point for the Red Devils after Foster had been brushed aside in an aerial duel with Kenwyne Jones for Sunderland's second goal.

"I thought I started off well but then there was a period of two or three games where I made a few mistakes," he said.

"But they were the only ones I made really and I was disappointed to find myself out of the team."

It would take a brave man to confront United manager Sir Alex Ferguson about the situation and Foster has no intention of doing that just yet.

วันเสาร์ที่ 14 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd legend Cole: Man City making all the right noises

Manchester United legend Andy Cole says Manchester City are heading in the right direction under Sheikh Mansour.

Cole, in his column for the National in Abu Dhabi, is convinced City are getting the important decisions right.

He wrote: “The step up from where City have been placed in recent years is massive.

“The top four is such a hard group of teams to break into yet they have already beaten Arsenal, the team playing the best football in England at the moment. And while City have dropped points by drawing, they have only lost one of their 11 league games this season

“City are sixth in the table, with a game in hand on most of the teams above them. They were 13th this time last season. The club have undergone a big change and there have been a lot of player movements, but City are moving forward in the right direction.

“I see that every week when I watch my son play for City’s Under 15s. The club’s new resources are not just being lavished on first-team players, but on the infrastructure. There were bound to be some growing pains, because City have gone from a club who went for the second tier of players and now they go for the first.

“When I played there, the big signing was the Greek striker Georgios Samaras for £6million (Dh30m). With respect to him, now City sign world-class players."

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 8 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Chelsea boss Ancelotti slams Man Utd players for crowding ref

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti blasted Manchester United's players for crowding the ref throughout last night's 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

Ancelotti was particularly unhappy with the way United players appeared to try to get one of his players sent off.

In a stormy second half, United midfielder Darren Fletcher waved an imaginary card in an apparent attempt to get Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho dismissed.

Ancelotti said: "The Manchester players protested a lot. I don't know why. I don't like this. At the end of a very difficult match, all the players worked very hard - and sometimes it can happen."

Ancelotti admitted Drogba might have been offside for Chelsea's goal but said: "It was very difficult for the linesman to see. There was a lot of concentration of players in the box.

"We are in good position in the Premiership and in the Champions League. The players have done very well. We have to continue, because there will be other strong matches like today."

Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United




Chelsea moved five points clear of Manchester United at the top of the table with this victory.


Captain John Terry netted a second-half winner at Stamford Bridge.

Terry glanced home a 76th-minute free-kick from Frank Lampard - although United claimed Didier Drogba was in an offside position.

United had their chances, Wayne Rooney twice going close, but the Blues made it a club record of 11 straight home wins.

วันเสาร์ที่ 7 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd's Berbatov: Individual moment will decide Chelsea clash




Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov believes today's clash at Chelsea could be decided by a piece of individual brilliance.

It is one of the few occasions in the domestic campaign when United will meet an equal number of star names in opposition ranks.

"In this match it doesn't really matter whether you play at home or away," said Berbatov, addressing that woeful United record at the Bridge. "It is always 50-50.

"There are players who have the quality to decide a game like this in a second.

"But when I look at our dressing room, I see guys I know I can depend upon, just like they can depend on me.

"Everyone supports each other on the pitch, which is something we must have.

"We know it is going to be difficult. Chelsea have some really great players. But we have a really strong team too. They need to be wary of Manchester United because I believe we have

Man Utd legend Law tells Chelsea's Drogba to end antics

Manchester United legend Denis Law says Chelsea striker Didier Drogba will never get the recognition he deserves unless he stops his play-acting.

He warned Drogba that he will never gain the reputation that his talent deserves unless he cuts out the theatrics that have seen him labelled a footballing con-man.

Law, a former European Footballer of the Year who scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for United, told the Sunday Mirror: “Drogba has made a reputation for throwing himself on the floor at the slightest physical contact. But he really doesn’t need to do that because he is such a terrific player.

“Have you seen the sheer size and strength of the man? He is terrifying. He can rattle even the toughest centre-half.

“But he’s got to realise that he won’t get the recognition that his talent deserves until he stops the other antics. He’s got to stop and think about how he wants to be remembered.”

Law added: “To be fair to Drogba he has changed a wee bit over the last 12 months or so and I think he’s a better player for it. But there are still times when I can’t understand why referees and the people who run the game let him get away with it.

“It’s a shame because when he’s concentrating on the best parts of his game he is up there with the best in the world.”

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 5 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd boss Ferguson to make personal check on £12M Di Maria




Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is planning a raid for Benfica star Angel di Maria.

The Mirror says Ferguson is set to watch 21-year-old Di Maria in action against Everton tonight to make one final check on him ahead of a potential £12million transfer-window deal.

Ferguson's spies have been tracking the speedy and skillful South American for months, but they went onto red alert when he tortured David Moyes's men in the Europa League a fortnight ago.

Di Maria also comes highly recommended by Argentina coach Diego Maradona, who has promoted him to his full team after he scored the goal that secured gold for his country at last year's Beijing Olympics.

Man Utd's Fletcher: Beating Chelsea important psychologically

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher admits they would gain a mental edge on Chelsea if they can win in London this weekend.

United are trailing behind Premiership leaders Chelsea in the current standings.

"There's a long way to go yet in the title race, but Sunday's game could be important psychologically," he told MUTV. "We'll just concentrate on ourselves - we know we're capable of going there and winning. It won't be easy, but we'll go there with a game plan and the manager will have a lot of options for the side he wants to pick and we'll try and get a result."

After years of duking it out for top honours at home and abroad, United and Chelsea have few secrets. Nevertheless, Fletcher insists the reigning champions are capable of inflicting a rare home defeat on the Blues.

"They're a top side," he said. "We've both been challenging for the title over the last five or six years and there's great respect between the two sides. We know what to expect, it'll be a great challenge for us at Stamford Bridge. They've got a great record there, but it's up to us to go there and try and get the win."

วันพุธที่ 4 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2552

Manchester United 3 CSKA Moscow 3




As expected, United dramatically reached the knockout stages of the Champions League - but not without the mother of all frights.

Goals in the final six minutes from Paul Scholes and Antonio Valencia - albeit via a huge deflection - saved United from a first Champions League home defeat since February 2005, after CSKA Moscow had stunned Old Trafford by roaring into a 3-1 lead.

The Russians, who looked a team transformed from the sides' meeting in Moscow a fortnight ago, repeatedly took advantage of defensive generosity from the Reds, striking before the break through Alan Dzagoev and Milos Krasic. Michael Owen had briefly levelled in-between, but Vasili Berezutski struck early in the second half to seemingly put the game beyond United.

Inevitably, the Reds rallied late on, especially after the introduction of substitute Wayne Rooney and, after Scholes had headed home on 84 minutes, Valencia's 20-yard strike took a huge deflection off Georgi Schennikov and flew past the impressive Igor Akinfeev.

From the first whistle, the signs suggested United were in for a tough evening. An unfortunate ricochet threatened to deal the Reds' hopes a blow inside 20 seconds, as Dzagoev led a break of three visitors against two home defenders, but he could only fire over the bar from 20 yards. Two minutes later, Deividas Semberas chanced his arm from similar range, and his low drive skidded just past Edwin van der Sar's post.

In response, Valencia latched onto a fine through-ball from Wes Brown, but the Ecuadorian's attempted shot was blocked by a sliding challenge from Schennikov deep inside the CSKA area. Owen was then the beneficiary of some intricate build-up play from Nani and Valencia, but the Reds' number 7 could only scuff his shot, allowing the visitors to clear.

After a rocky opening, United gradually took control, with the midfield axis of Scholes and Darren Fletcher increasingly influential. The pair almost combined to put United ahead on 14 minutes as the former passed infield for the latter, but Fletcher's powerful shot arced agonisingly past Akinfeev's right-hand post.

However, CSKA served a quickfire reminder of their own need to take points back to Russia, as Tomas Necid escaped the attentions of Jonny Evans and fired straight at van der Sar. In the same passage of play, Owen took advantage of a ricochet to burst into the area, but could only toe-poke his effort straight at Akinfeev.

Macheda then drilled a left-footed effort just past the post after a sumptuous turn, but the visitors moved into a shock lead on 25 minutes. Dzagoev latched onto a chested pass from Necid, but his opening appeared to have gone after being herded wide by Jonny Evans. Despite the tight angle, the Russian struck a powerful effort across van der Sar's chest and high into the net.

The goal galvanised United's support and players, and the hitherto pin-drop atmosphere was suddenly cranked up. On the field, United responded by drawing level within four minutes. A fine decoy run from Gary Neville fashioned space for Valencia to cross, Nani gently caressed the ball in behind the CSKA defence, and Owen swept his shot unerringly
Normal service was resumed, but only for a matter of seconds. The visitors notched an immediate reply as Dzagoev dummied a ball infield, Necid sprung the offside trap with another neat chested pass, and Krasic rounded the exposed van der Sar and tucked away his finish.

CSKA were suddenly oozing confidence; hurtling into challenges and constantly foraging for further gaps to exploit. While United were understandably shell-shocked initially, a strong finish to the half saw Akinfeev smartly deny Macheda and Scholes. Nevertheless, the Reds went into the interval staring at a shock defeat.

That prospect seemed a grim reality after three pivotal minutes of the second half. Firstly, Vasili Berezutski stole at the back post to head in Dzagoev's free-kick, then Darren Fletcher was booked for a perceived dive deep inside the CSKA area - a decision which baffled and enraged the vehement Stretford End.

Just a day after the birth of his first child, Rooney's introduction at the expense of Nani further fanned the flames of support, and inevitably prompted sustained United pressure. Akinfeev was stretched by Scholes' thunderous free-kick, but time and again the final ball proved just too heavy for the hosts.

Akinfeev produced another haunting validation of pre-match praise from Sir Alex Ferguson with 11 minutes remaining as he made a superb double save to thwart Owen and Rooney. Moments later, Macheda headed against the post, but the Russian international was also equal to Rooney's powerful follow-up.
When Akinfeev then turned Scholes' blockbuster over the bar, all hope had seemingly been extinguished. United continued to press, however, and Gary Neville's inch-perfect free-kick was powerfully headed home by Scholes on 84 minutes to set up a grandstand finish, which was duly capped by Valencia.

The first of four added minutes had barely started when the Ecuadorian took aim from 25 yards. His drive appeared to be heading off target but struck Schennikov in the chest and spun into the space previously occupied by the committed Akinfeev.

With time still remaining, United continued to pour forward for the most unlikely of victories, but the Russians, who were reduced to 10 men after the injury-time dismissal of Semberas for a second booking, deservedly held on. Even in taking the easy route and qualifying with two games to spare, United had reached it the hard way.

วันเสาร์ที่ 31 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Manchester United 2-0 Blackburn Rovers




Manchester United stayed within two points of Chelsea at the Barclays Premier League summit.


Goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney saw Manchester United overcome Blackburn Rovers at Old Trafford.

Berbatov made the breakthrough in the 55th minute and Rooney sewed the match up two minutes from time.

United should have extended the scoreline but substitute Gabriel Obertan missed two great chances on his league debut.

วันศุกร์ที่ 30 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd target Adler at Anfield for Liverpool defeat




Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler was in the stands at Anfield on Sunday to see Manchester United's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.

The young Germany international has been linked with United as an eventual successor for Edwin van der Sar, who was between the posts for the Liverpool loss.

Leverkusen general manager Rudi Voller insisted that Adler's trip to the North West was purely coincidently and refused to reveal if his goalkeeper was heading to England.

"I am delighted to see players being so much involved with their job they travel long distances to witness other matches," he told the Rheinische Post.

"I am happy to see Rene being linked to big clubs right now, this is the best signal we have that we have a very good player on our hands and not so much wrong when setting up our squad."

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 29 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

News in Brief Manchester United

A review of the news from around the grounds of each Barclays Premier League club.

Striker Michael Owen scored his third goal of the season in the Carling Cup victory against Barnsley but remains bewildered by what some people expect of him. Owen found the target in the 59th minute of the 2-0 win with a clinical finish at Oakwell following a ball from Fabio. Danny Welbeck had earlier put United in the driving seat after five minutes when he headed home a corner from Anderson. "A start and a goal, you can't ask for more than that. It is how people judge me unfortunately," said Owen. "I started a game against Bolton and was pretty pleased and thought I played pretty well. Then I looked at the papers and was given a three or four. But in this game I played pretty average and scored a goal and I'll probably get seven out of 10. I think I deserved a five in this game and seven or eight from the Bolton game."

วันจันทร์ที่ 26 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd No2 Phelan: We can't dwell on Liverpool defeat

Manchester United No2 Mike Phelan says they won't dwell on yesterday's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool.

United were undone by a Fernando Torres-inspired Liverpool, but Phelan insists there's no point in focusing too much on what happened.

He told BBC Sport: “We didn’t really get into out stride today. It was a disappointing result. We’re disappointed for the supporters and the team’s disappointed in that we didn’t really put up the best performance we could have done.

“We will probably look at it again and again and again and talk to the players about it but we have to move on. Another game comes around pretty quickly so we’ll put this one to bed, we’ll analyse it and move on to the next game.”

On the tightness of the league this year, he added: “We’re just part of many teams that can achieve something this year. We know that we have to win as many games as we possibly can and it just makes the league a little bit more interesting.

"There’s a lot more teams now (who) will have a case to push on. I think we’ve done that with Liverpool. We’ve given them a little bit more belief than possibly we should have done but that’s the nature of the game.”

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 25 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd boss Ferguson risks more controversy after questioning ref in Liverpool defeat

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson questioned the experience of ref Andre Marriner after defeat at Liverpool.

Ferguson is already facing disciplinary action for his 'unfit' attack on Alan Wiley after his side's draw against Sunderland three weeks ago, but it did not stop him turning his anger on Marriner after a 2-0 win for Liverpool at Anfield.

Seething at key decisions that went against United, when Michael Carrick was denied a penalty and Jamie Carragher escaped with a yellow card for hauling down Michael Owen on the edge of the area, Ferguson said: "It is a very difficult atmosphere here. There was a wounded animal aspect to the game, and it was something we didn't overcome. I think it affected our players, and it affected the referee.

"This sort of atmosphere is hard to handle for a referee. Whether he had enough experience or not, I don't know, but he will certainly learn from it.

"We lost out to one or two major decisions. It was a clear penalty kick, when Carragher went right over the top of the ball on Carrick. The referee was only six yards from it, and it was a bad decision.

"But the one everyone will be talking about was when Carragher brought Owen down on the edge of the box. The laws of the game were altered to prevent professional fouls of that nature. Carragher is their best player and captain, and if he goes, it is a different game.

"The referee was only four or five yards from that one, so he can't use a covering defender as an excuse. Michael was clean through and, with his pace, he is going to get away from him.

"Their fans were fanatical, and they put the referee under pressure all the time. With every decision, it was the same."

He added: "Liverpool were the better team and deserved to win, but there were so many controversial things that happened, we have to feel aggrieved at some of them."

วันศุกร์ที่ 23 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd's Neville: Rooney influence as great as Keane

Manchester United captain Gary Neville says Wayne Rooney is as big influence on the club as legend Roy Keane.

Rooney is battling to be fit for Sunday's clash at Liverpool and Neville said: "Sir Alex said Wayne could easily be one of the best players in the world.

"Personally, I wouldn't swap him for anybody - he has such a big influence on our team. Sometimes the world's best player accolades go to people who are the most eye-catching and skilful.

"Rooney obviously has great skill but he also has incredible team qualities - his workrate, his defending and his goalscoring abilities all stand out.

"He's simply a fantastic all-round player."

Neville compares Rooney's influence on United to that of former captain Roy Keane.

He added: "Wayne's very important, he's infectious and sets the tone.

"Obviously we have a few people who do that but he has a fantastic desire that transmits itself to the rest of the team. In some ways, you see a little bit of Roy Keane's character in Rooney and the way he plays.

"There are always areas in which players can improve - even players who are over 35 will say they can improve. So certainly Rooney in his early 20s is someone who will get better with experience - and that is great for United fans."

Man Utd skipper Neville: I do respect Liverpool




Manchester United captain Gary Neville expects a white-hot atmosphere at Liverpool on Sunday.

Neville can once more expect plenty of stick when he runs out at Anfield. It has been like that for some time.

He said: "I don't get a great reception at Anfield I must say - I'm not their favourite son. No United players get a good reception at Anfield but it's the same for their players at our ground and it is to be expected.

"I've never said I don't respect Liverpool. You have to respect a team that has been as successful as they have and has the history and tradition they have.

"But I'm a United fan and the rivalry is well documented. United fans want United to win and Liverpool to lose - and it's the same the other way."

Despite the stick, Neville still relishes these encounters. He added: "The atmosphere in Liverpool-United games is great - if you're winning!

"Obviously, the atmosphere at Anfield is great and it's the same when they come to Old Trafford. There are a variety of reasons why this fixture is so important - the cities are very close yet have different cultures.

"Both clubs have enjoyed great periods at different times in the past 40 years and now we're level on the number of championships won.

"It's always been a really great game to play in. We never want to lose but it's the same for both teams.

"Liverpool has been the biggest game of the season for a long time, going back 30 years or more, and our rivalry with Liverpool is bigger than it is with Manchester City."

Man Utd's Vidic: Valencia froze under Ronaldo pressure

Nemanja Vidic has revealed how new Manchester United teammate Antonio Valencia struggled to cope at the start of the season with the pressure of succeeding Cristiano Ronaldo.

But the Serbia defender believes Valencia is now showing his true worth after hitting two goals in two games for the Barclays Premier League champions.

Vidic said: "At the beginning of the season, Antonio had some difficulties because he was bought to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.

"The media paid special attention and were watching his every move, and the pressure paralysed him a little.

"He is a real artist, gradually gaining confidence and playing better and better with each match. Scoring will help him even more."

วันพุธที่ 21 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd's Ferdinand likens Valencia to Scholes

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has likened Antonio Valencia to Paul Scholes.

Valencia proved the matchwinner at CSKA Moscow last night and Ferdinand told MUTV: "I think Antonio Valencia is in the Paul Scholes mould, in the way that he approaches the game.

"He's a very humble lad. He comes in and does his work and then goes home. He's most comfortable out on the football pitch. He's been very impressive so far and I'm sure he'll keep improving.

"He's scoring goals now as well, which is great."

Liverpool boss Benitez: I would never coach Man Utd!

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has laughed off the prospect of succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

Benitez, discussing his future with El Mundo Deportivo, was asked if he could ever see himself managing United.

"No way," replied Benitez. "I coach Liverpool, I'm a 'Red', I'm from Liverpool. The chance of joining United has never entered my mind. Never."

On the prospect of returning to Spain, Benitez added: "I am very happy at Liverpool and my family is settled. But it goes through our heads that the cycle will end soon, in football you know everything is decided by the results."

Man Utd watching Bastia youngster Sony Mustivar




Manchester United are watching SC Bastia youngster Sony Mustivar.

The 19 year-old is inside the final year of his contract and France Football he is being tracked by United.

Mustivar, 19, is a France youth international and has been a regular with Ligue 2 Bastia this season.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 18 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd's Rooney rates Man City on par with Arsenal



Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney admits Manchester City's spending power makes them a genuine title challenger.

While many at Old Trafford have wrote-off City, Rooney told the Daily Star Sunday: "Manchester City have started the season really well, they have bought some really good players. I can’t see a reason why they won’t be challenging along with Arsenal.

“The financial resources which City have at their disposal give them a really good chance. They have a chance to be up there in the top five.”

Man Utd not getting carried away being top - Evans



Manchester United defender Jonny Evans insists no-one is celebrating at the club after going top yesterday.

Victory over Bolton and defeat at Aston Villa for Chelsea saw United leapfrog their nearest rivals to again takeover at the top of the table.

But Evans told MUTV: "It's a good day for us.

"But we were watching the Chelsea game in the changing room before the game and we know it's going to be quite an up-and-down season. A lot of teams in the Premier League are improving all the time and they're getting closer and closer to the top. It's making it a really exciting league."

Man Utd boss Ferguson on verge of losing rag over defending

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will read the riot act to his defenders after another sloppy goal conceded in victory over Bolton Wanderers.

Ferguson admits he's losing patience with the manner of the goals they're conceding this season.

"I think in past years we've had runs of games without losing goals, which have been important in terms of winning the championship," he said. "We have to get back to that.

"Today's was a slack goal to lose; a soft header from the back post. We shouldn't be losing goals like that, but Bolton are a handful and you have to give them credit.

"I can't analyse the goal today in the same context as the Manchester City game, which were complete errors, or the second goal against Sunderland. These are bad errors."

วันศุกร์ที่ 16 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Ferguson: Man Utd's Owen can make World Cup squad




Although Ferguson believes Capello knows almost all of the men he wants alongside him in the battle for the world's biggest prize, the United chief insists Owen could still make it.

"There may be two or three places up for grabs," observed Ferguson. "Fabio maybe will have a number up to 25 in his mind. He will then have to eliminate from that to make 23.

"Michael Owen has a good chance because he is a striker and England don't have a tremendous number of them. The form of Carlton Cole will have encouraged him and Peter Crouch's goals don't do him any harm.

"Along with Wayne Rooney I think those three will go to South Africa, then it is a fight for one more."

He added: "Michael has to play more games.

"Maybe we shouldn't have played him against Wolfsburg. He felt his groin two days before, so we should have left it alone.

"He did train three days later but we know that part now and we wouldn't do it again."

Man Utd boss Ferguson can't believe criticism of Bolton's Megson




Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson can't believe the criticism Bolton counterpart Gary Megson has received.

Although a close friend of Sam Allardyce, who left such an imprint on Bolton, Ferguson knows what a big job Megson took on when he succeeded Sammy Lee - and he just cannot understand why the Bolton faithful keep giving him so much stick.

"Gary Megson has had criticism, which beggars belief," said Ferguson.

"Bolton are a better team than people give them credit for.

"They have always been a determined side. But when Sam was there he elevated them to a higher level. When he left, he was a big man to replace.

"But Megson has kept them up. They are physical and determined - and they never give in."

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 15 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd, Man City head-to-head for Maicon

Manchester United and Manchester City are ready to go head-to-head for Inter Milan fullback Douglas Maicon.

The Manchester Evening News says Sir Alex Ferguson and Mark Hughes are monitoring the Inter Milan right back, who is also interesting Barcelona.

The fierce rivals have already locked horns over Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez in the last two seasons, while the rivalry between the two clubs has heightened further this season with the Blues' cheeky poster welcoming the Argentina striker to Manchester and United's last-gasp derby victory.

And now they are set to go head-to-head again in the January transfer window.

Maicon would cost around £20m, which would be no problem for either of the Manchester clubs.

วันพุธที่ 14 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd coach Joyce hails Obertan debut

Manchester United reserves assistant manager Warren Joyce was pleased with Gabriel Obertan's debut this week.

Obertan had 45 minutes in the Manchester Senior Cup victory over Oldham and Joyce told manutd.com: "Obertan, some of the quality touches and his movement were excellent, and his fitness levels looked really good as well.

"I think (physio) John Davin's shown him one or two tricks during his rehab! Some of his touches were excellent.

"He was inventive, he received it well and his movement off the ball was good as well, so he can be very pleased.

"He's been desperate to get that 45 minutes under his belt, he's been desperate to do even more training than he's done."

Agent expects Man Utd, Real Madrid to try again for Jovetic




The agent of Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic expects Manchester United and Real Madrid to try again for the player.

Since his brace against Liverpool, Jovetic has been linked with some of Europe's biggest clubs.

“Manchester United and Real Madrid wanted him before Fiorentina signed him. I won't exclude the possibility that these two teams could return for Jovetic in the future,” Vlado Borozan told fiorentinanews.it.

“However, his price is now £25m. He is worth more of less the same as [Wolfsburg striker] Edin Dzeko."

วันอังคารที่ 13 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd targets Rui Patricio, Hulk boast new buyout clauses




Sporting Lisbon are among Portuguese clubs to include new buyout clauses in their stars players' contracts.

Futebol Finance says Manchester United target Rui Patricio, the Sporting goalkeeper, is one such player. Sporting recently inserted a £16 million buyout clause in his deal.

Another player to have been linked with United, Porto centre-forward Hulk, can be signed for a staggering €100 million.

วันจันทร์ที่ 12 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Obertan preparing for much-anticipated Man Utd debut tonight




Gabriel Obertan is set to make his debut for Manchester United tonight.

Obertan was snapped up from Bordeaux in the summer by Sir Alex Ferguson, who had been attracted by the player's potential and received positive reports from the player's club boss, former United defender Laurent Blanc.

The Frenchman's career has stalled in recent times due to injury and almost as soon as Obertan had completed his £3million move to the Old Trafford outfit, Ferguson revealed he would be sidelined for a matter of months after developing spinal problems.

However, the player is now ready for action and will make his bow in a Manchester Senior Cup tie against Oldham this evening.

Also included is Brazilian full-back Rafael Da Silva, who has recovered from a shoulder injury.

Agent reveals Man Utd want Wolfsburg's Dzeko




Italian agent Silvano Martina has revealed Manchester United are chasing Wolfsburg ace Edin Dzeko.

Martina is close to the Dzeko family and told Tuttosport: "Dzeko is like a golden child. He transforms himself on the pitch. He has world class qualities and the hunger of a real striker.

"It's not a secret that he is aiming for a big club. An Italian side would be good for him, but I think there is something with Manchester United.

"Could he play for Juventus? Absolutely, but I didn't speak with him or his father about that."

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 11 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Chelsea join Man Utd interest for Vasco da Gama starlet Alex




Brazilian teenager Alex Teixeira Santos is being watched by Chelsea and Manchester United.

The News of the World says the Vasco da Gama midfielder is considered the star of the team and is valued at around £8million. He could even make the full squad in South Africa next summer.

Teixeira, 19, scored twice in the second round against Uruguay and is noted for his pace, creativity and dribbling.

At the end of last season the Brazilian club said they didn't want to sell the player for another two years.

They now have serious financial problems and a deal could even be possible in January.

"I am aware that some English clubs are enjoying my work,'' said Teixeira.

"My dream is to play in Europe and I am convinced that this will soon be a reality.''

Apology not enough as refs seek action against Man Utd's Ferguson


Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson may still be charged by the FA over comments made about ref Alan Wiley.


The Mail on Sunday says Ferguson yesterday interrupted a holiday in New York to apologise to Wiley, whom he branded as not fit enough to referee a Premier League game, following last Saturday's 2-2 draw against Sunderland.

However, Alan Leighton, the head of the union which represents referees, insisted that Ferguson's surprise move had only made things worse and the Football Association should still punish him severely.

Leighton, national secretary of Prospect, the professionals' union which represents referees, said: "If anything, what Sir Alex Ferguson has said makes things worse. The FA should charge him and take serious action against him.

"He's apologised for causing embarrassment to Alan Wiley, but not for calling him an unfit referee. In addition he has extrapolated it to being an issue about referees in general in England being unfit.

"I think he's bringing the game into disrepute. The FA's own disciplinary rules talk about four types of offence in public comments. 'The implication of bias does not apply, but by questioning Alan Wiley's fitness he has questioned the integrity of another participant. The rules also say personally offensive comments should be avoided.

"And to suggest that we've got unfit referees in general is to the detriment of the game as a whole because it damages the confidence of fans, players and everyone else involved in the game."

วันศุกร์ที่ 9 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Le Havre insist Pogba battle still on with Man Utd

Le Havre refuse to accept Manchester United's signing of Paul Pogba.

Both FIFA and United announced the French teenager's transfer this week, but Le Havre insist the move has not bee rubberstamped.

A Le Havre statement read: "As opposed to what Manchester United specifies on its official site, FIFA did not validate the transfer of Paul Pogba but has, like it systematically does in this type of case, issued a provisional international certificate.

"The decision of the international authority is a non event and normal procedure. This procedure has been the same for the previous cases of Charles N'Zogbia, Laure Lepilleur and Gael Kakuta and we know today the result of each one of these cases.

"Like FIFA specifies in its decision, the delivery of the provisional international certificate does not prejudge anything resulting from the case file."

However, the provision of the certificate means Pogba is able to join the United Under 18 side for the time being.

Man Utd's Ferdinand accepts fitness demands of Capello




Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand accepts England coach Fabio Capello's requirements for next year's World Cup squad.

The Italian will insist on the squad being 100 per cent focused on trying to lift football's major prize for the first time in 44 years.

Ferdinand said: "It's only right for him not to take players if they are injured. If we want to win, we need everyone firing and going on all cylinders. This manager is very black and white in his thinking. Either you are fit or you are not.

"Too many times in the past we've been umming and ahhing on too many players in previous tournaments. This manager doesn't work like that. He doesn't take anything for granted or chance.

"If he feels someone is going to have a positive effect on the team, then they'll be on the plane. If you're carrying an injury, I very much doubt you'll get on the plane.

"That is the big difference with this manager. He wouldn't allow a distraction.

"There have been distractions over the last few World Cups, whether they've been injuries or loads of other things.

"This manager will try and keep things as football orientated as possible."

Man Utd run rule over Port Vale youngster




Teenage Port Vale goalkeeper Daniel Lloyd-Weston will join Manchester United on trial this week.

The 18-year-old has been handed a two-game test with the Red Devil's academy.

Lloyd-Weston will be hoping to impress during his brief trial spell with Sir Alex Ferguson's youth stars.

He is expected to line-up for United in the Academy League and the Manchester Senior Cup in the coming weeks.

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 8 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Cole: Sheringham rift began before Man Utd

Manchester United legend Andy Cole admits his rift with former teammate Teddy Sheringham began well before they worked together at Old Trafford.

In an extract from Glory, Glory, a book written by Andy Mitten about United in the 1990s, Cole said of Sheringham: “Our problems started when I made my England debut.

“I replaced Teddy. I was making my debut. Maybe I was naive, but I think he should have wished me all the best.

“I was nervous, as anyone would be.

“Instead, he walked straight past me and blanked me. It's not like I told Terry Venables to take Teddy off.

“So I was devastated when Teddy Sheringham signed for United because I couldn't stand him.

“We played a friendly in Milan in 1997, just after he'd signed. He said something on the pitch. I didn't like it. 'I'm only trying to help you,' he said. 'I don't need your help,' I replied.”

Man Utd's Hargreaves: I can see light at end of tunnel




Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves can see light at the end of the tunnel after returning to training this week.

The England international played his last match for the Red Devils in September 2008 and has since had two knee operations.

"It is difficult to say an exact date but I do feel I can see light at the end of the tunnel now," the 28-year-old told the Manchester Evening News.

"Coming back to Manchester was a big step. Having people from United around me also makes me realise I am getting closer.

"I am coming back to have a massive effect and to play well and for us to win titles.

"It is not about getting back for one game or for one day, I want to come back and be back for another six or eight years.

"I have thought about playing again a lot. It is human nature to have doubts obviously.

"I had little moments but I never had one moment of major doubt that I'd be back."

วันอังคารที่ 6 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd scout Roma starlets Caprari, Piscitella

Manchester United's Italian scout David Williams continues to be active in the local market.

Williams was spotted at Roma's Allievi Nazionale clash with Empoli, with the game finishing at 1-1.

United have already raided Empoli for teenage fullback Alberto Massacci, but it was two Roma starlets who Williams was checking this weekend.

Wide players Gianluca Caprari and Giammario Piscitella are both targets for United as Williams monitors their progress this month.

Man Utd get close look at Peterborough keeper pair

Manchester United are taking a close look at Peterborough United goalkeepers Joe Lewis and James McKeown this week.

Posh manager Darren Ferguson is keen for the pair to continue receiving specialist coaching while he searches for a replacement for his former goalkeeping coach Andy Dibble. They will receive expert tuition from United's Eric Steele, a star of the Posh team that won the Fourth Division Championship in the 1973-74 season.

Ferguson told Peterborough Today: "Three coaches were highly recommended to me and I spoke to them all yesterday. They are all strong candidates for a very important position.

"Joe and James will spend the week at United and come back to us next Monday to start preparing for the Bristol City match.

"It means Kevin Russell and I can concentrate on the outfield players."

วันจันทร์ที่ 5 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man City's Adebayor: We'd have beaten Man Utd if I'd been playing




Manchester City ace Emmanuel Adebayor was gutted to miss their derby defeat at Manchester United.

Adebayor, who missed the Manchester derby because of a three-match ban imposed for a stamp on Arsenal striker Robin van Persie, said: "No way did United deserve to beat us. I am sure I would have scored had I been on the pitch."

The Togo ace also told the People: "I had a bad afternoon against Manchester United because I am sure that if I had played that day then I would have scored a goal.

"It was a shame that we lost in added time. United did not deserve to win - a fair result would have been a draw."

Man Utd's O'Shea: Rooney has found selfish streak




Manchester United defender John O'Shea says Wayne Rooney has taken his game to a new level because he's discovered a selfish streak.

Rooney, 23, has responded with six league goals for the Red Devils plus nine in eight World Cup qualifiers as the Three Lions' booked their place in South Africa.

O'Shea said: "You know you are guaranteed the effort but we have wanted him to be more selfish when he gets the chance.

"He really is world class and strikes fear into defenders because they know his attitude and his desire. It makes us glad he's on our side."

วันเสาร์ที่ 3 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Man Utd deserved to lose





Patrice Evra admits Manchester United were poor for their 2-2 draw with Sunderland.

United needed Evra's deflected shot to rescue a point at Old Trafford and the Frenchman said: “It was a big disappointment because it was a poor display.

“We are very disappointed about the way we played. It was a bad game. We drew, and one point is a bonus. We are pleased to get a point, but I don’t even know if we deserved it.

“We are very frustrated because it looked like we didn’t have any energy or power. It was a bad game for us. You have to say Sunderland played very well. We just didn’t look sharp. Our game was slow, we lost a lot of challenges and in the first half we were very poor.”

Such was Evra’s disappointment, he isn’t even claiming the goal that rescued a point for United.

He told manutd.com: “I just tried to strike it towards goal and it came off Anton Ferdinand. It was a good goal for us, but it’s an own goal. Next time I’ll make sure I score a proper goal!”

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 1 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2552

Rooney to put birth of first child ahead of Man Utd




Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney says he will put the impending birth of his first child ahead of the club.

Rooney’s wife Coleen is due in late October, just when the Red Devils are set to tackle Liverpool at Anfield but said he would be prepared to miss that match as well as the Champions League fixture in Moscow four days earlier.

"The baby's due the day we play Liverpool," said Rooney. "If Coleen goes in to have it before then, then I won't go to Moscow because I want to be there at the birth.

"If anything happens around that time then I'm sure I'll stay back. But if everything goes to plan then I'll be playing because that's my job and what I'm paid to do.

"I haven't spoken to the manager about it yet, but I want to be there for the birth of my child."

Goal hero ! Michael Carrick was upset for Michael Owen.




Manchester United goal hero Michael Carrick was upset for Michael Owen after he broke down in yesterday's 2-1 win over Wolfsburg.

“It's not ideal for Michael but hopefully he won't be out for long and he'll be back scoring goals sooner rather than later,” said Carrick, whose team have now won eight matches in a row in all competitions after their defeat by Burnley in August.

“He's had some bad luck and it's not easy for him but I'm sure he'll be back playing well.”

United too reliant on Giggs.




Ryan Giggs showed his enduring quality at the weekend with a match-winning substitute appearance for Manchester United against Stoke, but United's reliance on him is a little worrying.

Giggsy came off the bench to set up both goals in a 2-0 win, and he - along with Wayne Rooney - is one of the few truly creative players they have left after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez.

The ball he squared for Dimitar Berbatov was simple but exactly the sort of incisive play United had been lacking; you could see how much Berbatov appreciated it because he went straight over to Giggsy after scoring.

He is such an intelligent player he has been able to adapt his play over the years to account for his loss of pace. When I played with him early in his career, he was the kind of player who you could knock balls over the top for and he would chase anything.

But while everyone marvelled at his pace and dribbling ability, he was always very clever. He is extremely sharp both on and off the pitch; you need to be careful when you are talking to him, because he will pick up on every little detail in a conversation.

He has been a great professional, and he knows how to get the best out of his body. He also learned early in his career how to keep a low profile. It is not that he never goes out and socialises, but he knows how to do it without thousands of flashbulbs going off in his face.

It is great for United that they can still call on a player of his ability, but also worrying because he is nearly 36 and does not have too many miles left in the tank. Sir Alex has rationed his performances in recent years, and on Saturday he managed to make a decisive contribution in a little over half an hour.

For United fans, it is a concern that they do not have another wide player even 50 per cent as effective as Giggsy has been for nearly 20 years.

Nani was very poor against Stoke. When you come up against a side like Stoke who get bodies behind the ball, you want somebody with a cutting edge but Nani proved completely ineffective. He is very hit and miss, and when he is not performing, he can be pretty awful.

Likewise Antonio Valencia didn't really do it. He will be given time to prove himself following his summer move from Wigan, and at least he has the weapon of extreme pace, but he doesn't really have a trick to beat a player.

As a defender, if you stand him up you know you can keep him quiet because he is unlikely to beat you with skill - you don't always need to take the ball off him. When you compare the wingers of today with those I played with, like Lee Sharpe and Andrei Kanchelskis, the modern generation have maybe sacrificed some skill in favour of pace and it doesn't always pay off.