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2009-07-30T03:13:00.000-07:00

2007-10-30T01:06:00.000-07:00

Ronaldo confident Man Utd can win Double

Cristiano Ronaldo is backing Manchester United to win the Premiership and Champions League Double this season.
Ronaldo said: "I believe we'll win the Premier League and Champions League this season.

"We have the team, we have the players and we believe we can do it. There's a good chance we will.

"I'm at one of the best clubs in the world and I must think like that. If I was still playing for Sporting Lisbon I wouldn't say that but I play for Manchester United and we always have the opportunities to win the big trophies every season.

"All the players feel good, feel sharp, feel quick and they are showing on the pitch their great desire to play for Manchester United."

The Red Devils have bagged 16 goals in their last four games, with Saturday's 4-1 thrashing of Middlesbrough their eighth straight victory.

Ronaldo, 22, added: "The last three or four games, we've scored many goals and it's not just me - many players are scoring goals and this is good for our motivation. The team are more confident now. We are playing well - the last three weeks we've been fantastic and we need to keep it going."

2007-10-30T00:58:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Rooney: Ref rows are over

Manchester United ace Wayne Rooney believes he's shaken off his ill-discipline.
He said: "When I look back now and see myself shouting at the referee, I think it is better to show them a bit more respect really.

"You've got to remember when I first starting playing first-team football I was only 16.

"Any 16-year-old playing in big games will have their emotions all over the place. You are going to be a bit short-fused.

"But with age it has got better each year.

"It's a big week with Arsenal coming up so, hopefully, we can beat them."

2007-10-30T00:53:00.000-07:00

Carrick hands Man Utd boost

Michael Carrick is back in training at Manchester United.
Carrick has recovered from his elbow injury and returns to training just as Paul Scholes is facing three months out due to a knee injury.

2007-10-30T00:48:00.001-07:00

Man Utd's Ferdinand hit by injury scare

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand could miss Saturday's crunch match at Arsenal.
The Daily Mail says Ferdinand reported to United's Carrington complex on Monday but went for a scan instead of training.

The England centre half fears a recurrence of a groin problem that forced him to miss four of United's final six games in the run-in to regaining the title last season.

Coming on the day when it was also revealed midfielder Paul Scholes will be ruled out until February, it was hardly the news manager Sir Alex Ferguson needed before the clash with rival Arsene Wenger and his Premier League leaders.

Ferdinand was replaced by Gerard Pique 20 minutes from the end of Saturday's convincing 4-1 win over Middlesbrough, a victory that lifted United to the top until Arsenal took a point from Liverpool on Sunday.

United insiders expect Ferdinand to bite the bullet for Saturday's crucial lunchtime showdown at the Emirates, which is likely to be one of a handful of matches this season that settle the destination of the title.

But there is concern that Ferdinand's injury will have to be addressed in the long term if it keeps returning to bother the defender, who is 29 next month.

2007-10-30T00:45:00.000-07:00

Hargreaves: Man Utd STILL better than Arsenal

Owen Hargreaves insists Manchester United are a better team than table-leaders Arsenal ahead of Saturday's big clash.
The England star said: "They've played extremely well and played some good football, but I still think that we're the top team in England. It'll be a fabulous game for the fans to enjoy but we'll be very confident going into the game.

"We've got some time to focus and look at some tape of Arsenal and look at what they do well. We look good, our offensive play is very good. But we have some things we can work on, even going forward. We had some wonderful moments against Boro but at times we were a bit complacent.

"We could have scored more goals so we have some things we can work on - and that's a great thing. We're winning comfortably and we're not even hitting top gear yet."

Hargreaves made his return against Boro after struggling this season with various knee problems.

But the midfielder, who signed from Bayern Munich for £17million this summer, is hoping his injury problems are now behind him.

Hargreaves added: "I felt a bit stiff and sore afterwards but that happens with injuries like this. It has been a frustrating time, very stop and start. I have spoken to a lot of doctors and specialists who have explained it is not really a problem with the knee, it is more a structural problem. I have been trying to play through it but it has been difficult at times.

"Now I am fit, I just want to try to remain that way for the rest of the season."

2007-10-30T00:41:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Ronaldo: Real Madrid couldn't tempt me

Manchester United wing ace Cristiano Ronaldo is convinced they're a better team than last season.
He warned: "With Carlos Tevez, Nani and Anderson, we are more heavyweight this season.

"Now, when teams come to shut up shop, we have more ways of unlocking them. It's exciting. We're certainly better than last year. And if defenders want to put the boot in, I'll keep taking it. I'm used to it now."

Ronaldo added: "I was delighted that Real Madrid were so interested in signing me, but United have become everything to me. I'm going to be here for many years and I'm going to be very happy."

2007-10-27T02:11:00.000-07:00

Man Utd rule out TV rights breakaway

Manchester United joint chairman Joel Glazer ruled out a breakaway from the Premier League over the way clubs negotiate their TV rights.
Glazer said: "I think the collective TV rights model is working very well. It's a major reason why the Premier League is the most popular league in the world. All games are competitive and it, of course, attracts the world's top players."

Some in the game had speculated that the club might try and split from the collective deal. But Glazer said that had never been the case. "We're very supportive of the current model. It's something we've said from the outset."

2007-10-27T02:08:00.000-07:00

Middlesbrough boss Southgate doesn't regret Fergie row

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate doesn't regret rowing with Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson last season.
Southgate, who takes his struggling Boro side to Old Trafford today, still showed a hint of defiance about the feud, saying: "I had to show I'm not frightened of taking on any of the other managers, no matter how experienced they are.

"People had it in for us so I fought our corner. I'm not intimidated by them, and if I was then I think my team would feel the same way. I liked the fact that we'd got up a few people's noses. You need a bit of a siege mentality to do well."

2007-10-27T02:06:00.000-07:00

Ferguson delighted with Man Utd rookie Anderson

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted with the recent impact made by summer signing Anderson.

Ferguson said: "Anderson has settled in really well. He's only 19 but has shown great football qualities and knowledge, and everybody has been very pleased with his performances. We took a bit of a risk with him but we are seeing the dividends now.

"I am looking forward to seeing him develop as he has great desire to learn. I think this group of players have a great chance if they stay together.

"Their achievements will always be measured in relation to what previous squads have done, but this squad is young enough to develop and get better."

2007-10-27T02:02:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson fan of Middlesbrough academy

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he's a fan of Middlesbrough's academy.
He said: "Middlesbrough are struggling because they lost players like Mark Viduka and Yakubu in the summer. It is very hard to replace players like that, as Gareth Southgate is discovering. I think that is why they are not doing as well this year.

"But they will be OK. They produce a lot of good young players up there and I am sure that will continue."

2007-10-27T01:57:00.000-07:00

Man Utd eyeing Atletico Madrid keeper De Gea

Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea is being tracked by Manchester United.
The Sun says De Gea, who impressed in this summer's Under-17s World Cup in South Korea, has not yet signed a pro contract and United are trying to convince him to join them.

2007-10-27T01:41:00.000-07:00

Rooney tips Man Utd pal Anderson for big things

Wayne Rooney is tipping teammate Anderson to become a Manchester United star.
He said: "Anderson has come in and done really well. A lot of people don't realise how young he is.

"But he has great confidence and belief in his own ability and has produced some good performances recently."

2007-10-27T01:30:00.000-07:00

Man Utd try again for Bayern Munich's Sagnol

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is reviving his interest in Bayern Munich fullback Willy Sagnol.
The Sun says Ferguson is keeping a close eye on the France right-back and could move in the January transfer window.

Fergie rates the Frenchman highly and United need cover in that position.

Sagnol, 30, is returning to fitness after four months out with a leg injury. Crucially, he could be available for Champions League duty, as he has not played in Europe with Bayern so far this season.

2007-10-27T01:27:00.001-07:00

Gab: We're Batty for Tevez
Carlos Tevez can become Argentina’s greatest player since Diego Maradona following his move to Manchester United. That is the belief of former World Cup ace Gabriel Batistuta — the man who scored more goals for Argentina than any other player. He said: "Carlito is definitely at the right club at the right time in his career. Playing alongside Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, he can achieve everything he wants. He is already a fantastic, world-class talent and at his new club he has every tool required to become a true Argentine great."
Mark Irwin, The Sun

The Daily Mail reports that United's 37-year-old goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is ready to open talks on a new contract in December. "I expect to hold talks with the relevent people in December," he says.

2007-10-27T01:24:00.000-07:00

Scholes blow for United
Manchester United fear they could be without Paul Scholes for their Premier League clash with Arsenal in 10 days' time. Scholes was forced to pull out of United's Champions League match with Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday after suffering a knee injury in training. Scholes had a hospital scan yesterday, and Sir Alex Ferguson met with his medical staff this morning to decide the best course of action. It is feared Scholes may need a cartilage operation.
David McDonnell, Daily Mirror

The Mirror says United are keeping tabs on Athletic Bilbao teenagers Javi Martinez and Markel Susaeta. The 19-year-old midfielder are Spain U21 internationals, with Martinez said to be valued at £15million. According to the paper, the Reds are also interested in Sporting Lisbon playmaker Miguel Veloso.

United can rule the world. That's what Sir Alex has told his young players, apparently. "The last time we had a youthful squad like this, back in 1999, we won the Treble," he told The Sun.

2007-10-27T01:19:00.000-07:00

Troubled Saha is out again

The informed talk within Ukraine's football community this week is that Dynamo Kiev centre forward Sergei Rebrov will miss Tuesday night's visit of Manchester United through an injury that exists largely in his head. It is cruel talk about a man who has given his country so much but back in Manchester another troubled centre forward - United's Louis Saha - must be aware that he, too, must soon prove to a sceptical public that he has the mental fortitude to succeed at the highest level. Saha is again missing from Sir Alex Ferguson's squad - a knee injury causing his withdrawal on this occasion - and the pattern of the France international's behaviour is becoming depressingly familiar. Optimistic words from his manager follow each comeback. Each return is then promptly aborted.
Ian Ladyman, Daily Mail

Other United forwards in the newspapers are Carlos Tevez, quoted in The Sun on his habit of sticking out his tongue when shooting, and Fraizer Campbell who scored twice on his debut for loan club Hull City. "Fraizer jolly good fellow" is the headline for The Sun's Hull 3-0 Barnsley match report. The Sun also has news of an unusual birthday gift for Wayne Rooney, a guitar signed and resprayed in Man City blue by Oasis star Noel Gallagher.

2007-10-27T01:14:00.000-07:00

Hargreaves set to start

United's injury list is finally shortening, with Owen Hargreaves and Patrice Evra set to face Middlesbrough, and Michael Carrick and Louis Saha in contention for next weekend's trip to Arsenal.

Hargreaves's return is a major filip. He has been absent since the win over Sunderland in September with tendonitis in his knee. Sir Alex expects the 26-year-old to start against Boro, but conceded that Hargreaves is unlikely to play the full match.

“Owen is ready to play and he should start,” the boss said on Friday. "We did the right thing. We tried our best to get him through without an injection, but he had it and is ready to play. It's been a frustrating time for him, but it's a long season and if he's back, and stays back, then that is terrific news."

Carrick, who fractured his elbow in the win over AS Roma at the start of October, faces a scan on Monday to assess the progress he has made. "If he get’s the all-clear, then he’ll start training with us and will be available for the Arsenal game," said the boss.

Evra, who tweaked a calf muscle in the warm-up before United's 4-2 victory over Dynamo Kyiv, could also be available for the Teessiders' visit, while Saha is on the road to recovery from a knee injury and should be included in the squad that travels to the Emirates Stadium next Saturday.

Reds skipper Neville is ready to make his long-awaited comeback, as soon as he posts some much-needed playing time, possibly in a Reserves match. "All Gary needs is an extra game," added the boss. "We’re trying to fix something in the next seven days. But he is ready to play. Friday was his 16th training session in a row, which is good."

2007-10-27T01:12:00.000-07:00

Neville back in the frame

Gary Neville may find himself back in United's first-team squad when the Reds welcome Middlesbrough to Old Trafford.

A series of injuries have forced the Reds' captain to miss more than seven months' action, but Sir Alex told English press on Friday that Neville, 32, has regained full fitness and trained without incident for more than two weeks.

The United boss told Manchester United Radio of his desire to reintroduce Neville to first-team action, although he admitted a Reserves run-out is perhaps more realistic at this stage.

"Gary's doing great," Sir Alex said. "We'll probably just wait for the next Reserves game to play him. But I've got him in the squad so he can be involved again. [On Saturday I imagine] he'll train in the morning and then join up with us in the afternoon."

Neville, also speaking to the club's radio station, said he can't wait to take the field again, although concedes he may have a difficult time forcing his way back into the side. "I've made myself available," he confirmed. "But with the way Wes [Brown] is playing – and Danny Simpson has been great, too – it might be a case of easing me back in over the space of a couple of weeks."

His injury nightmares began when he picked up an ankle knock against Bolton Wanderers in March. At the time, it was hoped he would return in time to skipper United against Chelsea in last season's FA Cup final. That date came and went, before calf and thigh injuries further delayed his return.

"It's been too long," he sighs."Missing the end of last season was bad enough but then for it to go into this season is doubly frustrating. Hopefully it's over now and I can get back into the team.

"The worst part about it has been going into the gym every day. It's okay for a couple of weeks but after that it's just mundane and boring. The physios try to make it as exciting as possible for you, but there's only so much excitement you can get out of a rowing machine or a bike.

"Most of all, I miss going out on the pitch. I'm seeing the lads playing well and they're getting good results and I want to be part of it. Coming in every day and then not being able to train with my mates is hard. An hour and a half on the training pitch flies by, but an hour and a half in the gym can feel like three days."

Neville is unlikely to play on Saturday, but he knows exactly what United are up against. "Middlesbrough have always been well prepared at Old Trafford. Bryan Robson and Steve McClaren both knew the strengths of United inside out, which meant they were always a little better prepared than other teams who came here. Gareth Southgate will have learnt a little from Steve and they'll set their stall out to make it difficult.

"We've had some tricky moments against them, although Saturday is just another game we have to win. If we play as we did against Aston Villa and Dynamo Kyiv, it's going to be very difficult for Middlesbrough. Teams can't contain us when we're playing at full speed."

2007-10-27T01:07:00.000-07:00

Scholes sent for second scan

Paul Scholes will visit a specialist on Monday to ascertain the extent of his knee injury.

Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful the influential 32-year-old midfielder will not face a long spell on the sidelines.

Scholes picked up the injury as he turned in training at the Olympic Stadium in Kyiv the night before United's Group F clash. He had a scan upon his return to Manchester, but the results were inconclusive.

Now a visit to another specialist is required to determine the true nature of the problem.

"The first scan did not clearly show the problem," said Sir Alex. "We’re sending Paul to another specialist on Monday to ascertain what damage, if any, there is. It could be something, it could be nothing.

"Obviously he is out of the Middlesbrough match. It was a strange one, he just felt a click in his knee when he turned in training on Monday.

"Hopefully it’s not going to be a long one, but we’ll know better on Monday."

2007-10-27T01:05:00.000-07:00

Park eyes January return

Ji-sung Park has his sights set on a return to action in January, having stepped up his recovery from knee surgery.

The Korean livewire damaged cruciate knee ligaments against Blackburn last March but, after an arduous road to recovery, he can finally see light at the end of the tunnel.

"At the moment I am trying to recover as hard as I can,” Park told Ilgan Sports.

“Recently, I started jogging and step-by step I am moving closer to a return in January. I am not yet training with the other players at the moment, I am training alone," he added.

In Park's absence, competition for midfield and attacking berths has been heightened by a host of new signings, but the 26-year-old is keen to stake his claim when he returns.

"Competition is fiercer than before with the signing of players like Nani," he said. "It is important that I have the confidence to perform to my best when I return."

2007-10-20T01:30:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Scholes won't write-off Chelsea

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes won't write off Chelsea's title prospects this season.
"Having big names like Drogba and Lampard back will make a massive difference to Chelsea," he said. "They both have a big influence, which is why Chelsea struggled to win without them.

"One they are settled in the team again, I am sure they will be up there challenging."

Like Chelsea, he felt it was only a matter of time before United hit winning form once their key players were back.

"Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo are top players for us and they proved that with the number of goals they scored last season," he said. "But we lost Wayne to a broken foot on the opening day and Cristiano was suspended, so we were bound to miss them.

"We were also playing decent teams at the start, so in a way we expected tight games."

Scholes is still not completely happy with United's form, although a club record run of clean sheets has ensured Sir Alex Ferguson's men were able to record narrow wins until they finally put four past Wigan prior to the international break.

"When you look at the overall start to the season, we probably have not played as well as we would want," he said. "But the key thing is that we are still up there. We have put together a decent run in the league and things are looking better."

2007-10-20T01:26:00.001-07:00

Tevez: Ronaldo Man Utd's main man

Carlos Tevez is happy to declare Cristiano Ronaldo as Manchester United's main inspiration.
"Today Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the Premier League," Tevez told the Daily Mail. "He has the characteristics to be the No 1 in the world.

"Ronaldo is the key to United. He is sensational, our leader on the field."

2007-10-20T01:18:00.000-07:00

Ferguson wants Giggs at Man Utd after retirement

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits Ryan Giggs will have a role with the club once he retires.
"Without doubt, Ryan is still a big influence in the dressing room," said Ferguson. "He sets a tremendous example and I hope he stays here a lot longer.

"He has never shown any inclination to go into coaching but he certainly has a role to play once he has finished because we need to recognise the deeds of our great players."

2007-10-20T01:16:00.000-07:00

Tevez: I didn't think Man Utd players would accept me

Carlos Tevez admits he feared the reception he would receive from Manchester United's senior players when he first moved to Old Trafford.
"When I arrived in the summer I must admit that I had doubts after all that had happened," Tevez told the Daily Mail. "In particular I didn't know how the senior players at the club would be with me.

"Yes, I was nervous for the first time in a long time. But from the very first day players like Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand did all they could to help me. I was amazed.

"These players are the stars and the symbol and image of this great club. In many ways they sum United up.

"United are superb in terms of professionalism. No detail is missed and that is one of the reasons I set the club apart from the others. With players like Giggs and Scholes at its heart the club will not fail."

Tevez added: "I am at Manchester United because of Sir Alex Ferguson. He has total confidence in me and he was key to my arrival here.

"I suffered an awful lot in order to leave West Ham but now I am very satisfied with what I did. It was painful and people talked about my reputation but it has been worth it.

"Ferguson is like a master to me, like a teacher. He is always giving me advice and helping my football get to the right level, the next level.

"That is so valuable because when I first came to England at West Ham there was nobody there to do that. Even the best players need help.

"His assistant, Carlos Queiroz, is the one next to the players in training all the time. But Ferguson is in control, make no mistake. I remember after my first goal for United against Chelsea. Ferguson was very emotional with me. But then he just asked me for some more goals!"

2007-10-20T01:10:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss defends Rooney over England performance

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has defended Wayne Rooney's role in England's defeat against Russia this week.

Ferguson defended Rooney after his striker came under fire for conceding the penalty with his tug on Konstantin Zyryanov.

While TV replays showed the incident had happened outside the box, many wondered why Rooney was in the left-back slot anyway and why he felt the need to commit such an obvious offence.

"I thought Wayne was probably England's best player," said Ferguson. "But his eagerness to help the team cost him.

"It was a foul but it was not a penalty. He didn't haul him back or anything. The lad just took advantage of the situation."

2007-10-20T00:54:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Tevez influence growing
tribalfooball.com - October 19, 2007

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Carlos Tevez's influence is growing within the team.
Ferguson said: "Carlos Tevez is playing very well at the moment.

"His last performance for us against Wigan was his best so far.

"He is proving to be a really influential player now."

2007-10-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Tevez: No Mourinho, no Chelsea

Manchester United ace Carlos Tevez believes Jose Mourinho's exit has weakened Chelsea this season.
"Chelsea always are a dangerous team but I don't think they will be in the race for the title by the end of this season," he told the Daily Mail. "The exit of Jose Mourinho and the injuries have damaged them too much to recover. When we played them we were greatly superior and I think that is the way it will be this season.

"Arsenal are more dangerous and I think that, at this moment, they have the best young players in Europe. For me it is not a surprise that they are leading the league table and they are our big rivals this season.

"But I do have a doubt about them. What I don't know is if they are prepared to cope with the pressure that will come during their worst moments of the season. That's what we all have to deal with at some stage. It's hard and their players are very young. We'll see what happens.

"During the first part of the season we were struggling ourselves with injuries and suspensions but I think we are arriving at our perfect point now.

"This is a winning club and we are obliged to win titles. That makes me very motivated and I am sure that we will do it."

2007-10-20T00:50:00.000-07:00

Tevez's double

Carlos Tevez's younger brother Miguel has joined Manchester United on a 2½-year deal. Miguel Tevez impressed on his two-week trial at Old Trafford during the international break. Miguel, 17, was brought to boss Alex Ferguson’s attention by his assistant Carlos Queiroz. The midfielder began his career with Argentine side Boca Juniors - his brother’s first club.
Neil Custis, The Sun

United are linked with another 17 year-old in the Daily Mail, namely Macaulay Chrisantus who helped Nigeria to win the recent World Under-17 Championships and has reportedly been the subject of a £1.5m bid from Spurs. The Daily Mirror says Louis Saha has not trained all week and will miss Saturday's trip to Aston Villa. The Mirror's news pages report the 15-month jail sentence handed to Sir Alex Ferguson's assailant at Euston station in London, and show United topping the table for fan arrests in the Premier League.

2007-10-20T00:47:00.000-07:00

Carry on Giggsy

Ryan Giggs this week signed a new contract to ensure he'll be pulling on the red shirt for another 18 months. But Sir Alex Ferguson believes the Welshman can carry on beyond summer 2009.

That would see Giggs pass his 36th birthday and most likely pass Sir Bobby Charlton as United’s all-time highest appearance-maker.

“We hope Ryan can play for even longer [than the end of his new contract],” said Sir Alex. “He's looked after himself and is an example of professionalism.

“I signed him when he was 14, so he’s coming up for his twentieth year at the club, that’s only a year less than me. It’s absolutely phenomenal that he’s been running up and down the wing for such a long time. It’s amazing.

“He could only have done it by looking after himself and following the procedures of a professional footballer - training properly and living the right lifestyle. You very rarely hear gossip about Ryan in the newspapers, he’s never been a high-flyer.”

And even when Giggs does hang up his boots, there will be a role for him at the club. Contrary to the path taken by recently retired Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Giggs may not take up a coaching role.

“It’s our intention that he will stay on at the club,” added Sir Alex. “Players like Ryan, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have played all of their football lives here.

“Ryan is not showing an inclination to stay in the coaching at the moment. But I think all players should prepare to
become a coach. Some players don’t want to stay in the game. Many great players have been the same. But then, all of a sudden, it comes to walking out the door and they have to ask where they are going. They end up falling back into the game.

"I’ve had several players here that have said they’d never be a manager in a million years. But then I hear different and I find myself giving them the call and saying, ‘welcome to hell’. It’s difficult. You maybe don’t want to be a manager. But you’ve had a great playing career and you don’t want to miss the drug. They miss the Saturday morning feeling. That’s what does it for them.”

Sir Alex feels that it is vitally important that United’s great players are fully acknowledged for their services to the club.

“We need to make sure we recognise the deeds of our great players," he said. "There are particular jobs that we need former players to do. Bobby Charlton, for example, is fantastic in his role as an ambassador for the club, as well as his role as a director. The amount of travel he does for the club is incredible.”

2007-10-20T00:45:00.000-07:00

Van der Sar ready to return

Edwin van der Sar is hoping to make his comeback from a toe injury against Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Dutch goalkeeper, who turns 37 at the end of the month, feels he has overcome the injury that forced him out of the 1-0 win over Birmingham City three weeks ago.

He didn't play for his country in the recent two-week international break, but he believes he is now ready to take over the reins from stand-in keeper Tomasz Kuszczak.

"My foot feels good," he told the Press Association. "I went away with the national team last week and, in my opinion, I could have played on Saturday. But the progress was not quick enough. There was no point in taking a risk and aggravating it, so I decided not to play and focus on tomorrow's game.

"I'm not worried about it. I have been lucky in my career so far that I have not had many injuries. It is strange to have two weeks without playing a game. Last year, I had a calf injury but that is about it.

"I am looking forward to playing again. When you are injured you have to work harder than when you are fit. That is why everyone wants to get back as quickly as possible to get playing again and feeling part of the team."

2007-10-20T00:43:00.000-07:00

Boss hopes for birthday boy Vida

Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping to make Nemanja Vidic's birthday weekend by declaring him fit to face Aston Villa, while Edwin van der Sar has confirmed he could play.

Vidic, 26 on Sunday, was withdrawn from the Wigan game a fortnight ago after just 21 minutes, and he has since missed Serbia's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Armenia and Azerbaijan. However, the big defender could now return to action in United's trip to the Midlands.

“We don’t have many changes from Wigan. I’m hoping that Vida will be ready,” said the boss at his pre-match press conference.

Van der Sar limped off with a toe injury against Birmingham City, but he is also expected to return at Villa Park. However, the Reds are still without Owen Hargreaves, Gary Neville and Louis Saha. The Frenchman is still troubled by a knee injury, although he could make Tuesday's Champions League match with Dynamo Kyiv.

"Owen isn't ready," said the boss. "We've had to follow the procedures laid out by the doctor that gave him the injection, and part of that means he won't play against Aston Villa. I think after next Saturday (Middlesbrough) we'll be talking about him getting close then.

"Gary is doing very well," he added. "We've already had a few practice matches for him and we're trying to organise another for Wednesday to bring him on a bit. He's very close now. There was no set-back [when he missed the Liverpool Reserve game], it was too early."

Sir Alex happily had no new injuries to report as Rooney, Ferdinand, Ronaldo, Nani, Fletcher and O'Shea all returned fit after playing for their countries in midweek.

2007-10-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Evra inspired by World Cup rejection

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra claims his omission from France's 2006 World Cup squad has had a positive effect on his career.
The 26-year-old told L'Equipe: "I have to make my presence felt either in Manchester or with France but I don't want to burn myself out.

"Before Slovakia in August it had been nearly two years since I had been called up. It was good for me and I think it was my best match for France. I had some good criticism and I have to continue this way."

Evra admitted being left out of France's journey to the 2006 World Cup final, where they lost on penalties to Italy, had hurt him - but served as useful motivation.

"That's what gave me my determination," he said. "But it was a tough blow never having played in a World Cup. It hurt me seeing my team-mates on TV. I said to myself 'Pat, this year it's make-or-break'.

"I worked like a madman and I did weights work which I never did before because I considered football to be mainly a ball game.

"But to do well in England you need strong legs. I am not the same Evra I was when I started at Manchester."

2007-10-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

Liverpool's Gerrard: Rooney too hard on himself

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is too hard on himself over his England form.
Gerrard said: "He's been a bit hard on himself.

"He has suffered a lot of big injuries and he has not played for England for a while.

"If he gets a run in the side and stays fit, there is no reason why Wayne can't do for England what he does with United because the talent is there.

"If he and Michael are scoring goals and playing well, we're confident we can beat anyone."

2007-10-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

Man Utd bid £7M for Partizan Belgrade wonderkid Jovetic

Partizan Belgrade wonderkid Stevan Jovetic is wanted by Manchester United.
The Sun says Sir Alex Ferguson has already made a huge £7 million bid for the 17-year-old Montenegro international.

United's bid is a massive one for a teenager but Jovetic is special and Ferguson is acting quickly to snap him up.

The striker made his senior international debut in a friendly against Hungary last season.

Jovetic has played 54 games for Partizan and bagged 18 goals, including six this season.

2007-10-13T20:41:00.000-07:00

Tevez: Man Utd boss Ferguson fantastic for me

Carlos Tevez has lifted the lid on his relationship with Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Fergie's praise and personal touch has boosted Tevez's morale at Manchester United.

The Old Trafford boss has even described his summer signing as 'Strong as a lion and hard as nails'.

Tevez, 23, told The Sun: "The help I've had from Alex has been very important. I know he has total belief in me and I'm very grateful to him because of it. He called me a lion. He's started doing it at training because I turn up just after getting out of bed with my hair all messed up. And when my hair is like that, I look like a lion apparently!

"Sir Alex knows a lot about football and I'm learning a lot with him. He makes me feel relaxed and valued and he calls me by my first name."

Former Hammers boss Alan Pardew hardly picked Tevez and played him out of position.

But the former Corinthians ace eventually managed to win over Pards' successor Curbs and keep the Irons up as the row over his ownership raged.

However, Tevez is now looking to the future.

He added: "The main difference between United and West Ham is that the coach believes in me at my new club.

"I'm feeling physically stronger with every game. That makes me feel good and everything else, like scoring goals, comes as a result."

He added: "When I look around the dressing room and see my team-mates there, I realise I'm at one of the most important clubs in the world. That is a dream come true.

"The most surprising thing about the squad is even though all the players are stars, they are all actually really humble and are good people. They've made me feel good and I've now got various friends in the squad like Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. We've been out a few times for meals and we have a good time together.

"Manchester is quite a small city and I don't go out much. But when I do, it's to eat with friends and family and there's this Italian restaurant I like. I'm doing quite well with my English now. The club forces me to speak it and I've got a teacher giving me lessons.

"I understand the boss and my team-mates perfectly."

2007-10-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson gives Fletcher all-clear

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has cleared Darren Fletcher to play for Scotland in Wednesday's Euro2008 qualifier against Estonia.
Scotland boss Alex McLeish said: "I spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson last night and he's given the green light to Darren to join us. He's fit to play. He's trained the whole week at United and he's available to us for Wednesday."

2007-10-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Rooney shrugs off England scoring heroics

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney shrugged off breaking his England scoring drought yesterday, instead focusing on Wednesday's looming date in Russia.

He compared the game against Russia to when England earned a goalless draw with turkey in Istanbul to qualify for Euro 2004.

"We have got the job done today and we've got a similar game in Russia to the one we had to tackle in Istanbul a few years ago," said Rooney.

"We know it will be difficult and it will be a tough game - but we've got to go out there and attempt to do the job we know we have to do.

"It was a nervy night over there in Turkey. We had a few chances and could have won it.

"But we went out there and did a job and I am confident we can do the same again.

"There is definitely the belief and quality in this squad to get the same sort of result.

"There are a few younger players in the squad now - but the same, if not more, quality."

2007-10-13T20:32:00.001-07:00

Reds' fixture changes

The Premier League have announced changes to two of United's December fixtures, including the Reds' highly anticipated clash with Northwest rivals Liverpool.

United were due to welcome Fulham to Old Trafford on Saturday 1 December but will now face Lawrie Sanchez's men on Monday 3 December (20:00 GMT kick-off, live on Setanta Sports).

Meanwhile, United's visit to Anfield – originally scheduled for Saturday 15 December – has also been rearranged, and will now take place a day later, on Sunday 16 December (13:30 GMT kick-off, live on Sky Sports

2007-10-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ronaldo nets poll win

United fans have backed Cristiano Ronaldo to continue his 2006/07 form and top the Reds' scoring charts come the end of the season.

More than 7000 ManUtd.com visitors participated in the poll, which saw the Portuguese winger blitz the field with a staggering 54 per cent of the votes.

Ronaldo scored 23 times last season and has already found the net four times during the current campaign, inlcuding one against former club Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League.

Meanwhile, England international Wayne Rooney, who also scored 23 times last season, placed second in the poll with 30 per cent of the votes, while summer signing Carlos Tevez rounded out the top three. Tevez took some time before netting his first United goal but has now scored twice in his last three league appearances.

Poll Results:
Who will finish top scorer in 2007/08?

54% – Cristiano Ronaldo
30% – Wayne Rooney
13% – Carlos Tevez
2% – Louis Saha
1% – Other

2007-10-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Simmo staying focused

Danny Simpson is refusing to get carried away, despite an impressive league debut against Wigan during which he set up United's fourth goal.

The 20-year-old entered the fray just before the half-hour after injuries to Nemanja Vidic and John O'Shea forced a reshuffle in the United defence.

Simpson looked completely at home in the right-back slot and capped his display with a fine centre for Wayne Rooney to head home eight minutes from time. It was a hugely proud day for Simpson, but he insists the real hard work is still to come.

"Just because there might be a bit of hype about you after a couple of games for the first team it doesn’t mean you’ve made it," he told ManUtd.com.

"You’ve almost got to work even harder when that happens to prove that you can stay in there.

"I was really pleased that I was able to set up Wayne for the fourth goal. All the lads came running over to me and it was just a really mad feeling, especially as all my family were at Old Trafford that day.

"To be playing with the likes of Ronaldo, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs – players you’ve grown up watching – was just amazing.

"And having Rio [Ferdinand] next to me in the defence was brilliant. He never stopped talking to me and helped me so much with my positioning and marking."

Simpson knows he faces a tough task in trying to gain a regular run in the side, but believes this season's influx of new players has really benefited the team.

"The addition of the new players in the summer has meant there is a good group of young lads at the club now and it makes training really good fun and exciting," he said.

"There’s good competition for places because everyone is working hard to get their chance. That can only help the team."

2007-10-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Edwin out of action

Edwin van der Sar is the latest confirmed casualty ahead of the next round of Euro 2008 qualifiers, with the Reds' goalkeeper pulling out of Holland's squad on Thursday.

Despite injuring his toe in United's 1-0 win at Birmingham City and missing the Reds' recent clashes with AS Roma and Wigan, van der Sar linked up with the Dutch national team earlier this week in the hope of being fit for Saturday's Group G meeting with Romania.

But the 36-year-old couldn't shake off the injury and will now focus his energies on making his United comeback at Villa Park on Saturday 20 October.

"This is a pity," Holland manager Marco van Basten told the Dutch press. "He is an important player, our captain."

2007-10-12T01:47:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson scouts Atletico Madrid's Raul Garcia

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a personal check on Atletico Madrid midfielder Raul Garcia on Sunday.
El Mundo Deportivo says Ferguson attended Barca's 3-0 thumping of Atletico with the mission to run his eye over Raul, a player his scouts have been following since his early days at Osasuna.

Ferguson likes Raul's versatility and is aware of the youngster's smooth transition into Atletico's midfield since his summer arrival.

Raul is under consideration by United for the 2007/08 season.

2007-10-12T01:46:00.000-07:00

Barcelona concerned over Chelsea, Man Utd interest for Iniesta

Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in Barcelona's sparkling midfielder Andres Iniesta.
DiarioSport says there's concerns among Barca directors that they could lose 23 year-old Iniesta in the next 12 months due to his relatively affordable £40 million buyout clause.

Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United and Chelsea are all following Iniesta closely this season.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson watched Iniesta in action on Sunday in Barca's 3-0 thumping of Atletico Madrid.

2007-10-12T01:43:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson makes personal check on Dos Santos

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a personal check on Barcelona superkid Giovani dos Santos on Sunday in their 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid.

El Mundo Deportivo says Ferguson was in the Nou Camp to run his eye over the Mexico international, who he has been following since the 2004 Nike Premier Cup, which was held at United.

Ferguson sees Dos Santos as an ideal solution for the left-side of his midfield, but will face competition from Chelsea.

Pini Zahavi, the celebrated agent, is now in charge of Dos Santos' affairs and close to both Premiership clubs. However, he is currently speaking with Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain about a new deal for Dos Santos.

2007-10-12T01:39:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Rooney can't stand media spotlight

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney admits he doesn't like the media spotlight.

Although Rooney is one of the most gifted, instantly recognisable and, it has to be said, wealthy Premier League stars, he remains a fairly level-headed individual.

Life may appear to be a series of glossy photo-shoots but he regards himself as normal; boring even.

"I am used to the spotlight but I hate it really," he reflected.

"I am a private person and when I finish training I either go over to my aunt and uncle's or just sit in and watch TV all day.

"It's quite boring really. I have just started playing golf, although I am not the best, and I play a bit of pool and also on the computer, but that's about it. People who write different things don't know me."

2007-10-12T01:37:00.000-07:00

Man Utd's Rooney: Ferguson right to hold me back

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is happy manager Sir Alex Ferguson delayed his return from a fractured foot injury.
While Rooney still believes he could have been back sooner, he acknowledges wiser counsel eventually prevailed.

"If I had played earlier, I would not have been being fair to myself," he said. "I would not have been 100% fit and there would still have been a risk of it breaking again.

"Obviously, if there was a chance to play I would have loved to do so, but in the end, the right decision was not to."

Aside from hitting the goal trail again - something he badly needs to do for England having failed to hit the target in competitive combat since Euro 2004 - Rooney has also shown flashes of temper, which has threatened to land him in more trouble with referees.

Yet he insists any disciplinary problems are now a thing of the past, even if no-one should expect to see him smiling during Saturday's Wembley encounter with Estonia - at least until England are winning.

"I don't get fed up with people talking about my temperament because I don't think there is a problem," he said.

"If we are not winning I am not smiling, if we are winning I am.

"That tells you how much I want to win the game.

"Losing or drawing a game can cost us the league or a cup. I want to win all the time. If I don't, I am not happy."

2007-10-12T01:36:00.000-07:00

Zieler impressive for Man Utd

Manchester United's young German goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler enjoyed an outstanding game in yesterday's 1-1 draw with Liverpool's reserve-team.
Zieler made a string of superb saves in a game which saw Kieran Lee's late equaliser cancel out Jay Spearing's opener for Liverpool.

The German keeper was snapped up by United after starring in the Nike Premier Cup.

2007-10-12T01:29:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson has no Neville concerns

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists there's no major concerns over the fitness of captain Gary Neville.

Neville pulled out of a comeback for the Manchester United reserve team against Liverpool last night and Ferguson tried to dismiss concerns about the defender's long-term future yesterday, saying that his captain was "over his last injury" and "only needs games now".

United maintain that Neville's omission from last night's match was a precautionary measure, rather than a reaction to a new problem, but The Times says there is concern about his susceptibility to injury. Since the start of the 2004-05 season, he has missed 52 of United's 123 league matches.

2007-10-12T01:23:00.000-07:00

Fluminense twins to solve Man Utd fullback problems

Fluminense twins Rafael and Fabio Silva will arrive at Manchester United as genuine contenders to succeed captain Gary Neville at fullback, it has been revealed.
The Times says United are planning for life without Neville with Wes Brown having enjoyed an almost uninterrupted run at right back since March.

In the longer term, Sir Alex Ferguson has high hopes for Danny Simpson, who made his Barclays Premier League debut against Wigan Athletic on Saturday, and Rafael and Fabio Silva, the 17-year-old Brazilian twins, who hope to receive clearance to join the club from Fluminense in January.

2007-10-12T01:21:00.000-07:00

Man Utd not better than England - Rooney

Manchester United aren't as good as England, insists Wayne Rooney.
Debating his poor England form, Rooney was asked whether it was because about the idea United are better than the Three Lions.

"No," he said. "Look at those playing for England.

"Michael Owen scores nearly every time he plays and there's Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. There are players there who are match-winners so I don't think it's any different."

2007-10-11T04:31:00.000-07:00

Pique: I'm happy I stayed with Man Utd

Gerard Pique is delighted he chose to stay with Manchester United this season.
The young Spaniard was wanted by Real Zaragoza after starring for the Spanish Liga club while on-loan last season.

"I am pleased that I will be staying. Since coming back from being on loan I just wanted to stay here and try to play," Pique told the Manchester Evening News. "I am not playing a lot at the moment but I am feeling confident I can work and find a place in this team. The defence is working well and the team is doing well so it is difficult to break into the team. But every time I have the chance I will try my best.

"Just to join the team and be on the bench is a nice experience. I am just working to be a better player and hopefully start some games as well.

"When you are young every season is crucial. At this age every year you have to grow up as a player so every season is crucial.

"It is important this year but no more crucial than others. It has the same importance."

"It was nice to hear the manager say I was one of the best players against Coventry," he added. "But I always think of the team first and we didn't play well. It was a horrible night.

"We have to forget that now. If not and you continue thinking about that game then you will just go down and down. It is not good for you.

"You have to forget and if you start another game you just have to do your best."

2007-10-11T04:28:00.000-07:00

Transfer Rumours:

Although the transfer window will not open again until January, a number of players are already being linked with mid-season moves to Old Trafford.

Following rumours that United are set to rival Arsenal for the signature of defender Miguel Veloso, Sporting Lisbon have denied that the Reds have first option to sign the Portuguese U21 international.

"Manchester United do not have a preference on him (Veloso) or any other players of Sporting Lisbon," said a club spokesman, following predictions that Veloso would follow former Sporting prospects Ronaldo and Nani to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Monaco striker Jeremy Menez is tipped to be at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war between United and Liverpool, who have both been alerted by the 20-year-old striker's displays this season.

According to the tabloids, United are definitely looking at the younger end of the market, with 17-year-old Nigerian starlet Macauley Chrisantus also linked.

The striker starred in Nigeria's triumphant World Under 17 championships, and is expected to leave his current club Abuja in the near future, with all Europe's top clubs allegedly interested.

2007-10-11T04:21:00.000-07:00

Papers: Ron's Euro mission
Ronaldo: My Euro dream
Cristiano Ronaldo insists he is more intent on winning the Champions League with Manchester United than lifting the World Player of the Year award. The 22-year-old Portuguese could top last season's Player and Young Player of the Year awards by following the likes of Ronaldinho and Zinedine Zidane in scooping the FIFA trophy. But Ronaldo said: "It's always nice to be recognised individually but the most important thing is winning things as a team with Manchester United. "The priority for us this season is the Champions League and retaining the title."
Darren Lewis, Daily Mirror

Meanwhule, AC Milan star Kaka has nominated England as one of the two destinations which could tempt him if he ever decides to leave Italy and says United and Arsenal would enter the equation - probably ahead of Chelsea or Liverpool.

Ex-United keeper Mark Bosnich insists he still has time to resurrect his career.

2007-10-11T04:19:00.000-07:00

Papers: Arsenal could slip

You've still got a lot to prove
Patrice Evra believes just one defeat will open up the chinks in Arsenal’s armour. The Gunners have had an explosive start to the new season with seven wins and one draw. That has put them two points ahead of Manchester United at the top of the Premier League with a game in hand. But Old Trafford defender Evra believes there could be a fragility beneath. The French left-back said: “There is no doubt that Arsenal are a stronger side than they were last season. But I don’t think we will know about this Arsenal team this season until they lose. That’s the important time when you look to see how a team reacts. It is how you bounce back. We know we can do it. We had a difficult start to the season but we have shown great strength and character and are winning now without conceding any goals."
Neil Custis, The Sun

Meanwhile, Carlos Tevez has echoed Evra's sentiments by warning Arsenal that United are ready to regain pole position in the title race. The Argentine also believes Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the Premier League.

2007-10-11T04:15:00.000-07:00

Fergie's fight for Super Men
Manchester United and Liverpool are set to fight it out for £6.5million-rated Monaco strike star Jeremy Menez. SunSport can reveal that both Premier League giants have sent scouts to watch the gifted Frenchman.
Menez, 20, has notched three goals in nine appearances for Monaco this season. And Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez and his United counterpart Alex Ferguson are both keen on landing the hitman.
Menez is a France Under-21 international and has already been tipped for greatness, with some pundits comparing his play-making skills with those of French legend Zinedine Zidane.
Antony Kastrinakis, The Sun

Elsewhere, The Times report on an interview Cristiano Ronaldo gave Austrian newspaper Heute. The Portuguese winger said: “Chelsea without Mourinho, that’s a completely different team. You can never write Chelsea off, but I have a feeling that this will not be a good season for them.”

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, meanwhile, has had his own words about the Reds' no.7. Drogba is quoted in The Sun as saying Ronaldo won't repeat his goal-scoring feats of 2006/07. "I do not believe he has the rhythm to follow up last season's achievements. He is not a machine."

The Daily Mail claim United midfielder Anderson's stellar performance against Wigan came after senior players of the squad warned the Brazilian of the perils of partying. The paper says the 19-year-old was told by team-mates his future at the club could be in jeopardy if he failed to "concentrate on his career".

Round up by Nick Coppack

2007-10-11T04:14:00.001-07:00

Nani surprises Sir Alex

Sir Alex Ferguson has been pleasantly surprised by the way Nani has settled since moving from Sporting Lisbon, and the Reds boss predicts a bright future ahead for the Portuguese winger.

The 20-year-old has played in 11 of United's opening 13 fixtures in 2007/08, seven of which have been starts.

“There's tremendous potential in the boy,” he said. “We’re really quite bullish about him.”

It was initially expected that Nani would be used in a way that allowed Ryan Giggs regular rests. However, a combination of injuries and a relatively seamless settling-in period have led to a more permanent involvement.

“Our long-term view was that he'd come in for Giggs now and again," said the boss. "But he's played quite a few times already and what we've seen so far are things that you only pick up after the player joins. He’s quicker than I thought – very, very quick, in fact. He’s also a marvellous crosser of the ball.

"He’ll settle in more as he learns the language. He's keen, and he’s doing all right with his English. There’s great potential there, and he’s only 20, so he's only going to get better."

2007-10-11T04:13:00.001-07:00

Neville misses out

Gary Neville has not been named in Brian McClair's Reserves squad to face Liverpool tonight.

United's captain has not played for the first-team since damaging ankle ligaments against Bolton on 17 March last season.

The 32-year-old, who has been training for over a fortnight, has been troubled by calf and thigh problems this season - a frustrating follow-up to a successful ankle operation in the summer.

But he had appeared to be well on the road to recovery as Sir Alex Ferguson pencilled the defender in to face Liverpool to boost his match fitness.

Neville's next opportunity for Reserve team action isn't until Thursday 1 November, when the second string take on Stockport County in the Manchester Senior Cup.

McClair has named a young side to face Liverpool, with David Gray, Kieran Lee and Dong Fangzhuo the only players boasting first-team experience.

United team: Zieler; Gray, R Eckersley, Chester, A Eckersley; Lee, Cleverley, Hewson, Barnes; Dong, Fagan.
Subs from: S Evans, Woods, C Evans, Drinkwater, Welbeck.

2007-10-11T04:10:00.000-07:00

Carrick hails Reds' solid base

Michael Carrick says United's solid backline has provided the perfect platform on which to build this season's title challenge.

The Reds registered a ninth clean sheet in 12 games, and the sixth consecutive in the league, last weekend against Wigan.

Rio and co. currently hold the best defensive record in the country, with just two goals conceded, and Carrick believes it will stand the Reds in good stead over the course of the campaign.

"At this level it's a great achievement to go that many games without conceding and it's giving us the base to go on and win games," he told Manchester United Radio. "I think our defensive record last season was brilliant too. It's not something we've suddenly changed or worked on.

"We have fantastic players here and everyone's willing to work for the team. For the last year or so, that part of the game has been very strong."

The 26-year-old midfielder is currently recovering from a fractured elbow and is likely to be out of action for another month or so.

He admits to feeling frustrated by his stint on the sidelines, but is confident he'll return to a winning team and, after last weekend's goal blitz against Wigan, a free-scoring one.

"We had an indifferent start but recently we've put a great run together and everyone's really digging in and working for each other," he says. "It's great to play in a team like that and I'm sure the boys will keep it going and score even more goals."

2007-10-11T04:07:00.000-07:00

Trio nominated for FIFA award

Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez have made FIFA's shortlist for the World Player of the Year award.

AC Milan's Brazilian midfielder Kaka is being touted as the favourite to win the prestigious accolade, although he faces stiff competition, particularly from the likes of United's very own Cristiano Ronaldo, who was instrumental in the Reds' title success last season.

The successor to last year's winner, Italy's inspirational defender Fabio Cannavaro, will be announced at the FIFA World Player Gala 2007 on 17 December in Zurich.

World Player of the Year shortlist: Buffon (Juventus, Italy), Cannavaro (Real Madrid, Italy), Cech (Chelsea, Czech Rep), Ronaldo (United, Portugal), Deco (Barcelona, Portugal), Drogba (Chelsea, Ivory Coast), Essien (Chelsea, Ghana), Eto'o (Barcelona, Cameroon), Gattuso (Milan, Italy), Gerrard (Liverpool, England), Henry (Barcelona, France), Juninho (Lyon, Brazil), Kaka (Milan, Brazil), Klose (Bayern Munich, Germany), Lahm (Bayern Munich, Germany), Lampard (Chelsea, England), Marquez (Barcelona, Mexico), Messi (Barcelona, Argentina), Nesta (Milan, Italy), Pirlo (Milan, Italy), Ribery (Bayern Munich, France), Riquelme (Villarreal, Argentina), Ronaldinho (Barcelona, Brazil), Rooney (United, England), Terry (Chelsea, England), Tevez (United, Argentina), Thuram (Barcelona, France), Torres (Liverpool, Spain), Van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid, Holland), Vieira (Inter Milan, France).

2007-10-08T20:41:00.001-07:00

Man Utd's Martin: Gaffer told me home truths

Lee Martin admits he held crunch talks with Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of signing on-loan with Plymouth Argyle.
Martin was shipped out by Ferguson after he flopped in the United side upset by Coventry in the Carling Cup.

"He sat me down and said there are a few things I need to work on, which I agree with," said Martin.

2007-10-08T20:39:00.002-07:00

Man Utd's Ronaldo writes off Chelsea chances

Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has wrote-off Chelsea's title chances this season.

The Portuguese winger, who launched his autobiography last week, feels the departure of Jose Mourinho will be a major blow for Chelsea to overcome.

Ronaldo told the Sunday Mirror: "We were under more pressure last year because we had not won the championship for a few years, but there is always pressure to win with Manchester United. I believe we are going to win the League, the Champions League - or both."

He added: "Over the last few years the title has been between Manchester United and Chelsea, but that will change this season.

"Chelsea will miss Mourinho because he is a great manager.

"I know we are not playing the best football at the moment, but I think our top form is coming."

2007-10-08T20:39:00.001-07:00

Benfica coach Camacho thrilled with "incredible" Man Utd experience

Manchester United had a new addition to it's coaching staff for two weeks last month - Benfica junior coach Sergio Camacho.

Camacho was given the chance to work with the players at United by their assistant manager Carlos Queiroz and he said: "It was a dream come true. In fact, it was more important than that.

"Manchester United is another world. The infrastructure that they have, how they work, how to train, the tranquility with which they prepare for games, the structure that supports the team, the patience they have to integrate their reinforcements, everything is fantastic.

"The chance came after I approached Carlos Queiroz. He said it would be difficult, but I sent him my resume, he liked it and spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson and soon I was accepted."

Camacho, 35, actually was part of United's coaching staff for their 1-0 win at Birmingham City: "I was next to the players, on the pitch. I spoke with Carlos Queiroz, who showed me what to look for during games. It was incredible."

Camacho is working towards his coaching badges and revealed he actually rejected an offer from Porto to take charge of Benfica's junior setup in Leiria.

2007-10-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Leicester keen on Man Utd defender Evans

New Leicester City boss Gary Megson is seeking to stiffen his defence with Manchester United youngster Jonny Evans.
The News of the World says Megson hopes to take the Northern Ireland international on-loan.

2007-10-08T20:34:00.001-07:00

Arsenal, Man Utd battle for Sporting Lisbon pair

Arsenal are ready to battle Manchester United for two of Sporting Lisbon's brightest prospects.
United enjoy a close relationship with Sporting and have first refusal on their best talent, but that hasn't stopped Arsenal from expressing interest in midfielder Miguel Veloso and youth prospect Rabiu Ibrahim.

Nigerian Ibrahim, 16, is yet to make his debut at Sporting, but has won over Arsenal scouts after his performances in the U17 World Cup in South Korea this year.

2007-10-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

O'Shea: Man Utd have best two defenders in Europe

John O'Shea has hailed Manchester United's defensive partnership Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand as the best in Europe.
O'Shea said: "It's a pretty happy camp at the moment, especially with the defensive situation with the clean sheets.

"Rio and Nemanja are definitely a major factor to it - you cannot ask for two better central defenders in Europe, in my opinion.

"I hope they will stay clear of injury because they have been a major influence on keeping the clean sheets."

Vidic had to be substituted because of concussion during Saturday's 4-0 win over Wigan. But that was mainly as a precaution, and there are suggestions that the Serbian defender is in line to be given a new contract.

United do not normally hand out new deals until 12 months before a player's contract expires - but such has been Vidic's impact they may make a special case for him.

As O'Shea made clear, Vidic also gives opponents a headache at the other end of the pitch.

"Nemanja is big goal threat as well," he said.

"You know if the ball is going towards him when he makes a run there's a good chance of it being a goal. Other teams are picking up on that now, and he's becoming really tightly marked."

2007-10-08T20:22:00.002-07:00

Keane: United for the title
Arsenal beat the Invincibles' best run to make it a 10-game winning streak, but Roy Keane still believes Manchester United will be champions. Keane saw his Sunderland side give the Gunners a real fright, battling back from going two goals down to level, only to see Robin van Persie bag the winner for the third time in a week. The victory puts the Gunners two points clear of second-placed Manchester United, but former Old Trafford captain Keane believes Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be on top when it counts. "I think it's shaping up to be the same old title race between United and Arsenal, but I'd still take United at the end of it," said the Sunderland chief. "I think they'll have the edge. It's nothing to do with the results over the weekend, I just think United are a touch ahead."
Ann Gripper, The Mirror

Elsewhere, The Daily Express quote Sir Alex on his delight at the squad's depth. The United boss said youngsters Danny Simpson, Anderson and Gerard Pique were "outstanding" in the Reds' 4-0 victory over Wigan Athletic on Saturday. "If we are to win something, it will be by using the whole squad. And I am confident with the squad I have got here – the one who stepped in showed why. I'm proud of them."

The Times singled out Anderson for praise as the young Brazilian stamped his authority on the match after coming on for the injured Nemanja Vidic. "Ferguson is convinced Anderson is good enough to replace Paul Scholes when the 32-year-old retires and nobody who witnessed his performance in this match would argue with the United manager," Kaveh Solhekol wrote.

Meanwhile, the Manchester Evening News picks up on reports from Sunday's papers that Nemanja Vidic is set to be offered a new and improved contract.

2007-10-08T20:22:00.001-07:00

Neville ready to return

Reds skipper Gary Neville could make his long-awaited return to action this week for United's Reserves.

Brian McClair's side take on Liverpool on Thursday and the 32-year-old has been pencilled in to play for some much-needed match practice.

Neville has been in training for over two weeks now, but he hasn't played since March. An ankle injury, which required surgery in the summer, kept him out at the end of the last term, while this season calf and thigh injuries have prevented him turning out for the first-team.

"We're hoping to use Gary against Liverpool Reserves this week. That's the plan," says Sir Alex Ferguson. "He's getting better and he's improving all the time.

"He's over his last injury and he has been training now for over two weeks and he is at a good level," added the boss. "He's been out for so long that he needs games now and hopefully he can start on Thursday. It will be a good introduction for him game-wise."

2007-10-08T20:20:00.001-07:00

Young trio impress Giggs

Ryan Giggs was quick to salute the input of United's young stand-ins after the Reds' impressive 4-0 victory over Wigan Athletic.

Gerard Pique, Danny Simpson and Anderson were all outstanding against Chris Hutchings' side, turning in performances that belied their tender years.

"Pique came in at centre half and did a good job, and so did Simmo," Giggs told MUTV. "They got two assists really, so overall it was a really good performance from them both."

Brazilian midfielder Anderson was a first-half substitute at Old Trafford, and caught the eye with his superb passing, forming a promising partnership with Paul Scholes.

"In the second half Anderson was really involved in a lot of the play," admitted Giggs.

"He worked hard, showed some great touches, some great passes and he's still only young and finding his feet, but he put in a really good performance."

While many of United's stars will now jet off to link up with their respective national teams, Giggs will remain at Carrington after retiring from international football earlier this year.

Far from missing out, however, Giggs is adamant that such a timely mid-season break validates his decision to call time on his Welsh career.

"I look forward to not playing, really," he admitted. "This is why I retired from international football, to get the break and to look forward to playing for United and being fresh again."

2007-10-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

More honours for Ronny

Cristiano Ronaldo's brace against Wigan on Saturday was enough to earn him the ManUtd.com Man of the Match accolade.

More than 1000 fans voted in the poll, which saw the Portuguese winger pushed all the way by striker Carlos Tevez, whose tireless performance attracted 34 per cent of the vote. But it was two-goal hero Ronaldo who took home the prize for the second straight league match, with an impressive 41 per cent.

The Reds' no.7 has now scored four goals in his last five appearances, including winners against Sporting Lisbon and Birmingham City.

This latest honour comes on the back of Ronaldo's inclusion in the 2006/07 FIFPRO World XI. The only United player in the side, Ronaldo's place in the midfield alongside Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) and Kaka (AC Milan) was confirmed on Friday 5 October.

The FIFPRO World XI is voted for by professional footballers around the world.

2007-10-06T21:50:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson delighted as youngsters stand up

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with his young players after yesterday's 4-0 thrashing of Wigan Athletic.
Although Carlos Tevez took the man-of-the-match honours and Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney the other scoring plaudits, Gerard Pique - on his second Premier League start - and Danny Simpson - on his first - excelled, as did Anderson who played a major role in two of United's four goals.

"It was difficult," reflected Ferguson. "The injuries disrupted our rhythm, which always gives you a problem.

"They have put a lot of strain on us, so the ones who came in deserve great credit."

2007-10-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson hails Tevez goal

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hailed Carlos Tevez as his team thumped Wigan Athletic 4-0 yesterday.
For 53 long minutes, it looked like being another blank day for United as Ferguson's injury-hit side struggled to make their dominance tell.

But Tevez came to the rescue with a fine solo run and finish, after being released by Anderson - and with Cristiano Ronaldo adding two goals and Wayne Rooney completing a 4-0 scoreline, Ferguson's team recorded their sixth successive win and leapfrogged Arsenal at the top.

"We needed a spark - and Carlos provided it," said Ferguson.

"There were challenges coming in from all angles. But he kept his nerve - which was the right thing to do.

"The second-half performance was absolutely superb. We speeded the game up, and the flow was much better.

"There was excellent interplay between the strikers, and it seems to be coming together.

"While there is still a long way to go, I have a lot of confidence in this squad

2007-10-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

Saha eager to spark goal glut

Fit-again Louis Saha is desperate for the chance to fire Manchester United towards major honours this season. Major knee problems and a catalogue of muscle injuries mean the Frenchman was starting only his 67th game in nearly three years with United in Tuesday's Champions League win over Roma. "I hope I will be starting more games from now on," he said. "My fitness is getting better with every match, I am working hard and I have just been waiting for my chance. It is very hard when you are trying to get your confidence back to a certain level and then you get another injury. You have to try and build yourself back up again and in the end it becomes as much a mental battle as a physical one. But I do feel I have enough strength in both areas to get my form back again and I am not worried about it."
Charles Carrick, Daily Telegraph

All the tabloids reflect on the news that Michael Carrick will be out of action for six weeks with an elbow injury.

2007-10-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

Boss salutes defensive starlets

Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with United’s convincing 4-0 victory over Wigan Athletic, and had particular words of praise for youngsters Gerard Pique and Danny Simpson who were thrown into the action.

Pique started the match at right-back, but switched to the centre to partner Rio Ferdinand just before the half hour mark after both Nemanja Vidic and John O'Shea had gone off injured.

As a result, Simpson was introduced in the 29th minute and the 20-year-old defender came of age during only his second appearance for the club, adding an assist to his name following his excellent cross for Wayne Rooney for United's fourth goal.

“Danny's a very confident boy,” Sir Alex told MUTV. “He’s so quick and is a tremendous defender. He’s improving his technique all the time and he is one of the players that I would not consider going on loan this year because he’s valuable to us.

"Pique also came in today and was absolutely outstanding. He was one our best players against Coventry [in the Carling Cup] and is improving all the time."

Carlos Tevez opened the scoring for United on 54 minutes after shaking off two Wigan defenders before calmly slotting past Chris Kirkland.

“The challenges were coming in first from Kilbane and then from the goalkeeper but he kept his nerve, which I think is the most important thing in that situation, and composed himself enough for a good finish,” added Sir Alex.

“Wigan set their stall out with one up as most teams are doing. But we got the spark in the second half and earned a good victory.”

Cristiano Ronaldo capped a fine performance with the next two goals on 59 and 76 minutes, before Wayne Rooney completed the rout after another clinical move.

“It was only his second headed goal for us,” acknowledged the United manager. “Wayne should get more [headers] because he’s a good header of the ball. It was a great move and fantastic ball in from Danny Simpson.

“That’s three in three games for Ronaldo and someone said to me ‘do you really think he’ll score more than 20?’ We’ll just have to see, but I certainly hope so.”

2007-10-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

Goal spree delights Giggs

Following United's goal-shy start to the campaign, Ryan Giggs was delighted to see United back to their free-scoring best against Wigan Athletic.

The Reds plundered four second-half goals against Chris Hutchings' Latics, and Giggs admits that it was only a matter of time before United rediscovered their goal touch.

"We know there's goals within this team, goals from everywhere," he told MUTV. "It's always nice to see Carlos, Wayne and Cristiano, lads who want to score goals, on the scoresheet.

"It was a great individual goal from Carlos. It was a great through-ball from Wayne, Carlos didn't panic, went round the keeper and it was a great finish. It's always important to get that first goal."

While Giggs welcomed United's return to goalscoring ways, he also paid tribute to the Reds' backline, who notched a sixth-successive league clean sheet.

"We looked really solid, and we have done throughout the season really," he said. "Today again, we limited them to hardly any chances. The one chance they did have, Tomasz made a great save, so everyone's contributed to keeping a clean sheet."

2007-10-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

Boss hopeful on injuries

Sir Alex Ferguson has indicated that United’s injury situation may not be as bad as first feared despite losing Nemanja Vidic, John O’Shea and Louis Saha through injury against Wigan.

Saha aggravated his knee in the warm-up and was forced to withdraw from the squad after initially being down as a substitute.

Vidic lasted 21 minutes before being replaced by Anderson after receiving a bang to the head, while O’Shea, who temporarily took Vidic’s position in the centre of defence, left the fray eight minutes later with a dead leg.

The additions of Saha, Vidic and O’Shea to United’s seemingly ever-growing injury list, means there are now enough players in the stands to field a complete side. But with the international break now upon us, Sir Alex is hopeful things will be looking up when domestic action resumes on 20 October.

“Louis felt his knee in the warm-up and in Louis’ situation we had to withdraw him unfortunately,” the boss revealed on MUTV.

“Nemanja’s been taken to hospital and he has concussion so they’re giving him some tests. John O’Shea has just got a dead leg. He’ll be OK in a couple of weeks I’m sure.”

The United manager also revealed that both Darren Fletcher and Owen Hargreaves are making good progress with their recovery from leg and knee injuries respectively.

“Hopefully Darren will be back soon,” said Sir Alex. “He starts full training on Monday which is good news.

“I hope Owen Hargreaves will be available in two or three weeks time as well.”

2007-10-06T21:14:00.000-07:00

Simmo 'buzzing' after Wigan win

After a clean sheet and an assist on his Premier League debut, it's little surprise that Danny Simpson was beaming after United's win over Wigan.

The Salford-born defender replaced dead-leg victim John O'Shea against the Latics, and capped a highly impressive display with a perfect cross for Wayne Rooney to head in United's fourth goal.

"It was magnificent, I'm buzzing," Danny told MUTV after the game. "It's a Premier League game, playing with Ronaldo on the right wing and it's a good feeling. I don't know what else to say. Hopefully there'll be a few more feelings like this to come.

"I had family and friends here, so obviously I've had a few texts from everybody. I'm looking forward to going and seeing them now, to see what they have to say.

"(For Rooney's goal) I saw Scholesy get the ball and thought that if I made the run he'd give it me. I took a touch, looked up and we've been practicing it a lot in training with Rene Meulensteen, and I just clipped it in and luckily Wayne was on the end of it."

The 20-year-old defender is hopeful that his impressive shift at Old Trafford will persuade Sir Alex Ferguson that he can be regularly used at senior level.

"The gaffer has said I'm staying here as cover," Simpson revealed. "Obviously we've got a few injuries and hopefully I've shown him today that, when the lads are injured, I can come in and do a job for him.United's four-goal romp against Chris Hutchings' side was their most emphatic victory of the season, and the Reds served up plenty of the attacking football that has become their hallmark.

Following so many narrow victories, Simpson conceded that it was inevitable that some unfortunate team would cop a hiding from the hitherto goal-shy champions.

"It was a matter of time before we did that to a team," he said. "We've been getting a lot of chances, it's just that we've not been taking them. Today we deserved that win, and hopefully we can carry on."

2007-09-23T03:14:00.000-07:00

Man Utd tracking Sporting Lisbon's Veloso

Manchester United have been linked with Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso.
The Portugal U21 international impressed against United last week and has been mentioned as a potential successor to Paul Scholes at Old Trafford.

Real Madrid and Atletico are also keen on Veloso, but United have the inside-running courtesy of their close relationship with Sporting.

2007-09-23T03:04:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson tips Mourinho to raid Chelsea

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Jose Mourinho will return to haunt Chelsea.

"It's a great job, for anyone," the Manchester United manager insists in advance of Chelsea's visit to Old Trafford this afternoon. "Even though Jose has gone, they still have untold resources at that club. I don't think you can say that's the end of Chelsea or their title challenge.

"They have still got the same group of players, they are all well paid, there is no obvious reason why anyone would want to leave. The only thing I can foresee happening is Jose turning up at a substantial club and wanting to buy one or two of them. You never know."

2007-09-23T02:59:00.000-07:00

Man Utd target new left-back signing

Manchester United chief David Gill admits they could be in the market for a new left-back in January.
He told BBC Sportsweek: "We've lost Mickael Silvestre for the season to injury and we are always reviewing the situation with transfers."

2007-09-23T02:58:00.001-07:00

Sir Alex: I saw it coming

Sir Alex Ferguson says Jose Mourinho's departure is not such a shock.

Football fans woke on Thursday to news that the Chelsea boss had left Stamford Bridge, despite leading the club to five trophies (including two league titles) during his three-year stint and never losing at home. But while most have expressed amazement at the 44-year-old's exit, United manager Ferguson insists it's long been on the cards.

"I don't think it was as big a shock as some people, particularly Chelsea fans, are making it out to be," Sir Alex told Manchester United Radio. "There were definitely signs that things weren't right there. I've obviously spoken to Jose a few times over the years and I'm not surprised by what's happened. I've sent him a message and told him I'll miss my glass of wine with him on Sunday.

"It's a loss to the English game because he's such an amazing and controversial character. I think the game really needed that at the time he arrived in England."

Sir Alex is determined not to let events at Stamford Bridge hinder United's preparations going into Sunday's crucial Barclays Premier League match, although he admits the Reds' Carrington training centre was unusually lively on Thursday.

"There was a lot of discussion on the training ground and in the dressing room about what's going on at Chelsea. Some of the lads know the Chelsea players and they've been getting little bits of information here and there. There was definitely a buzz about the place."

Chelsea will now travel to Old Trafford with former Director of Football Avram Grant in the hot seat. Grant won't have had much time to inject his own ideas into the mix and Sir Alex believes the Blues will still resemble a typical Mourinho outfit.

"They're chained to 4-4-2 and I think that's how they'll play on Sunday," the Reds' boss said. "They still have the same players and we still have to just concentrate on performing well and getting the result we're after."

2007-09-23T02:57:00.001-07:00

Giggs eyes winning streak

The Reds have beaten Chelsea just once in the last five Old Trafford meetings, but stand-in skipper Ryan Giggs believes United are good enough to take all three points from Sunday's Barclays Premier League fixture.

After a shaky start to the season that saw the Reds head into last month's home game against Tottenham second from bottom, United have dug in and ground out results. The football hasn't always been breathtaking (and the goals have hardly been flying in) but four 1-0 wins on the bounce have steadied the ship and eased fans' fears.

"We're quite capable of going on a good run," Giggs said. "Hopefully we can keep winning and extend that to 10 or 11 games. Each win and each performance breeds confidence throughout the team."

It's a confidence that begins with goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar and the back four, particularly the central pairing of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

"We're looking very good at the back," Giggs confirmed. "We're not letting in many goals and that's what we were all about last season. Defensively, if we keep it tight we know we'll get chances at the other end.

"Right now we're keeping clean sheets and still nicking the wins, but I think the goals will come soon."

Chelsea go into Sunday's encounter still reeling from Jose Mourinho's shock departure and with injury clouds looming over Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Claudio Pizzaro and Ricardo Carvalho. They've also failed to win in their last three outings.

Even so, Giggs says the Blues can still pose problems.

"I don't think Chelsea's injuries come into consideration. Whenever the big teams play each other form goes out the window because they have special players who can make things happen. It's always going to be close and the last few years have shown that."

2007-09-23T02:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday too soon for Reds duo

Thigh injuries have ruled Owen Hargreaves and Gary Neville out of Sunday's clash with Chelsea at Old Trafford.

The pair have both trained this week, but Sir Alex Ferguson expects them to return either side of next Wednesday's Carling Cup tie with Coventry City.

"Owen Hargreaves is in training and improving all the time, he's in contention for Coventry," Sir Alex told his pre-match press conference.

"Gary Neville has joined first team training, but the Coventry game will be too early for him. We'll be looking at 7-10 days. For Sunday's game against Chelsea we'll be relying mainly on Wednesday's squad."

No new injuries were collected in United's win over Sporting Lisbon, giving Sir Alex a bulging squad for the visit of the Blues, who face their first game since the departure of manager Jose Mourinho.

2007-09-22T06:10:00.000-07:00

Everton fan: Man Utd's Ronaldo left me in excruciating pain

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is at the centre of an official police probe after an Everton fan claimed he was stamped on during a match.

Merseyside Police have confirmed they are speaking to witnesses and studying CCTV to establish precisely what happened during Saturday's match at Goodison Park when Everton faced Manchester United.

Carl Lloyd, 34, told the Daily Post that the Portuguese winger sank his studs into his right arm.

The joiner alleged the incident happened during the Premier League clash as he leaned over the advertising hoardings to retrieve the ball when it went out of play.

Mr Lloyd, of Wallasey, Merseyside, said he needed hospital treatment and said: "I've been in excruciating pain.

"I don't know if I'll work again any time soon.

"I couldn't believe what happened.

"All I was doing was trying to retrieve the ball."

A spokesman for Merseyside Police confirmed Mr Lloyd had made an official complaint and the investigation is ongoing.

2007-09-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson heaps pressure on Chelsea's Grant

Sir Alex Ferguson has paid a warm tribute to departed Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and claimed Avram Grant has a "big test" on his hands trying to replace him.

The Manchester United boss has always held Mourinho in high regard even though the Scot has tended to come out second best in matches between their teams, feeling he can spot elements of his own character in the extrovert Portuguese coach.

Even towards the end of last season, when their rivalry hit its most controversial phase, personal attacks were kept to a minimum.

In fact, Ferguson's major complaint of Mourinho was the quality of wine he served up on his first trip to Stamford Bridge as an opposing boss three years ago.

And, aside from lamenting what he will do now with the bottle he had bought in especially for Sunday's Old Trafford showdown between United and Chelsea, Ferguson will miss not having his old foe in the visitors' dug-out.

"Jose leaving Chelsea is a disappointment for the game," said Ferguson.

"He was terrific for football and terrific for Chelsea. He brought something fresh and new to our game and I enjoyed the competition with him. I wish him well but I just don't know what I am going to do with my wine now."

2007-09-22T05:39:00.001-07:00

Man Utd's Rooney: Good time to face Chelsea

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney admits it is a good time to be facing Chelsea.

Ahead of tomorrow's clash, Rooney said: "It has been frustrating being out and it would be great to make up for it on Sunday.

"I was delighted to be back against Sporting. Now I'm as close to fully-fit as possible for Sunday's game.

"It may not be a title decider so early on but it's a massive game.

"It could be a good time to play them. They're missing Lampard and Drogba, two very big players for them."

2007-09-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

Hargreaves: Man Utd bigger than I expected

Owen Hargreaves admits Manchester United is "bigger than" he expected.

The England midfielder told the Daily Mail: "I've been impressed with everything at Manchester United.

"It's bigger than I anticipated, and better organised than Bayern. There's more attention to detail, and there's a lot more banter in the dressing room.

"We play music before a game, which is something you'd never do in Germany.

"I've never known a dressing room that is more together and I think that's down to players like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville. They are very humble. Good guys."

The softer side of Sir Alex Ferguson has also taken him by surprise. "He's been fabulous," says Hargreaves.

"One of the first times I saw him he just came over, put his arm around me and asked me how I was doing. I don't think I'd ever had a manager do that to me in my life."

2007-09-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

Fergie amazed by Jose's exit

Sir Alex Ferguson claims that Chelsea had put ridiculous pressure on Jose Mourinho. The Blues announced this week they wanted Mourinho to win two Champions League titles in six years. United manager Fergie admitted: “It is amazing to put pressure on the lad to win two European Cups.” Meanwhile, United No 2 Carlos Queiroz reckons an ‘attitude problem’ could have cost Mourinho his job. Queiroz said: “Maybe the attitude he brought to the club created some obstacles. Maybe his attitude to the new policy of the club made it easier to take this option to leave.” And Queiroz believes that fellow Portuguese Mourinho will now head for Spain. He added: “I don’t think he will stay in England because the biggest clubs are all stable. Spain seems like a league that would better suit him.”
Staff reporter, The Sun

Meanwhile, The Sun claims Didier Drogba will follow Jose Mourinho out of Chelsea. Friends say the Ivory Coast striker, 29, is “furious and upset” after Mourinho’s sacking.

Ahead of Sunday's big match at Old Trafford, it's reported that new Chelsea boss Avram Grant will miss his team's last day of training because of his religious beliefs. Grant will observe the Jewish festival of Yom Kippur from Friday night until Saturday and will then fly in Roman Abramovich's private jet to Manchester where the squad are staying overnight.

2007-09-22T04:06:00.001-07:00

Queiroz: I'll quit United
Carlos Queiroz has dropped a bombshell by revealing he is ready to quit Manchester United. Queiroz, 54, is frustrated with his Old Trafford assistant role and is looking at other options. He is in his second spell as Alex Ferguson’s No 2 after an unsuccessful term at Spain’s Real Madrid. Queiroz said: “I need to reflect on what I want to do in this last part of my career. In December I’m going to stop and think about myself. My contract is perpetual and caters for various options. But I only have one life and one career. I am going to think about it and go for the route that makes me most happy."
Neil Custis, The Sun

Elsewhere in The Sun, Sir Alex says Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez can be legends at Old Trafford. "There is no questioning their ability and to have three players of their ability available again bodes well," says the boss.

Potentially good news ahead of Sunday's big match with Chelsea at Old Trafford - the Blues suffered a shock draw at home to Rosenborg on Tuesday in their first Champions League match this season. Afterwards Jose Mourinho admitted he is concerned by Chelsea's start to the season. "Of course I'm alarmed," quotes the Daily Mirror. "I'm not happy. And I have no good news from the medical department. The news I want is that [Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard] will be back for training, but that's not coming."

2007-09-22T04:05:00.001-07:00

Fergie chases Rabiu
Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to raid Sporting Lisbon again - this time for Nigerian whizz-kid Rabiu Ibrahim. Ibrahim, 17, has caught Manchester United's eye and Fergie is hoping his relationship with Sporting Lisbon can give him the edge on Liverpool and Chelsea, who have been watching the attacking midfielder. Sporting's past discoveries have in cluded United stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani.
Staff reporter, Daily Mirror

Following his winning goal in Lisbon, Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he felt sorry for his former team. The United winger kept his celebrations muted after scoring the only goal of the game.

Elsewhere, The Sun report that Jose Mourinho's future as Chelsea manager was doomed after a dramatic bust-up with his trusted skipper John Terry. The reports came after Chelsea confirmed Mourinho had left the club by mutual consent.

2007-09-22T04:00:00.001-07:00

2007-09-22T03:58:00.000-07:00

Warrior Vidic set goals target

Nemanja Vidic has quickly become a cult hero among United supporters not only for his classy yet no-nonsense style of defending, but also for the threat he poses in the opposition box.

Vidic will once again be an integral part of United's defence as the Reds aim for a fifth clean sheet in a row on Sunday against Chelsea.

The 25-year-old Serbian centre-half scored the winning goal in an outstanding performance last weekend against Everton at Goodison Park. He followed it up with another commanding display in Lisbon on Wednesday, prompting praise from his manager.

"Nemanja always asks a question of defenders," said Sir Alex. "He wants to know whether they have the courage to put their head in front of his.

"He is a throw back to the old style of defender, but there's no question he can play, there is not a doubt about that. He doesn't mess about in terms of clearing the ball. He acts like a defender and that's a real asset to this squad."

Belgrade-born Vidic, a £7million signing from Spartak Moscow in January 2006, scored four goals in 38 games last season, and having got off the mark against Everton, Sir Alex has challenged the all-action defender to not only maintain his high standards as part of United's back four but also to beat his goals tally of 2006/07.

"He got me four goals last season and has already got one this year," said Ferguson. "I think he can easily get between five and 10 because he has got just the right qualities."

2007-09-22T03:57:00.000-07:00

Giggs: Sunday is no title-decider

Ryan Giggs believes the result of Sunday's United-Chelsea clash at Old Trafford will have little bearing on the eventual outcome on this season's title race.The Blues will pitch up at Old Trafford with a new manager following the shock departure of Jose Mourinho on Thursday.Avram Grant, formerly the club's director of football, will take charge of his first match as Blues boss on Sunday, with Steve Clarke assisting.Giggs is expecting a tough encounter and says United are determined to come out of the game with a positive result. But the stand-in skipper insists the match is by no means a title decider."Whether we win or lose the game, I don't think it'll have too much bearing on where the championship goes," he told this month's Inside United Magazine. "It's all about being consistent across the entire season."Chelsea are a solid team with good experience. They have great discipline so it's hard to create chances against them, but we've done all right in the last few years."They're normally tight affairs so you like to try and score the first goal. But it's all about having consistency against all the teams you have to play against. Hopefully we can get the result we want."

2007-09-22T03:55:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex will miss Mourinho

Sir Alex Ferguson paid a brief but glowing tribute to former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, and admits that he will miss the challenge of squaring up to his Portuguese counterpart.But, at the manager’s pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s fixture between the two teams, this was no lingering farewell, nor was it a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Sir Alex was to the point, clearly determined not to let the goings-on at Stamford Bridge overshadow the need for three points at Old Trafford.“Jose leaving is a disappointment for the game,” he said genuinely. “I think that he was terrific for football and, of course, for Chelsea. I enjoyed the competition with him and I think he brought something fresh and new to our game. I just don’t know what I’m going to do with my wine now! “What has he done? He’s been fantastic and brought unparalleled success,” he added. “It’s certainly a challenge for the man that replaces him. At the moment it’s Avram Grant, and it’s a big test for him. “I wish Jose well, but that’s as far as I want to put it,” he said, before declining to take any more questions on the matter. “What happens at Chelsea doesn’t matter to us, we’ve got to focus on our game because it’s still the same set of players that we will be facing. And that’s a challenge enough for us.“When you play Chelsea it’s always a big game. I don’t think it will be a defining moment, but it’s important. “If you look at the record between the two teams over the last three or four years there is nothing in it. Very few goals are scored. It’s always a tight, tight game.”

2007-09-19T21:10:00.002-07:00

Fergie hails Man Utd matchwinner Ronaldo

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hailed matchwinner Cristiano Ronaldo and immediately declared there was more to come from the Portuguese after last night's victory at Sporting Lisbon.
After a quiet start, Ronaldo suddenly sprung to life after the hour, arriving with perfect timing to head in Wes Brown's looping cross.

It was Ronaldo's first goal of a campaign that has already been shortened by a three-match ban imposed for his dismissal at Portsmouth last month.

But now he is up and running, Ferguson expects his brilliant young winger to hit top form again.

"He scored 23 goals last season and it is absolutely realistic that he could at least achieve that again," Ferguson said.

"We expect him to improve as a footballer. We expect to see the development in his football.

"He has two great feet, he is marvellous in the air and there is no reason why he can't do even better than he did last year."

After spending seven of his formative years at Sporting, the home fans have clearly not lost their affection for the Madeira-born star.

He was afforded a standing ovation when he was replaced by Carlos Tevez four minutes from time.

"That is a rarity in modern football," observed Ferguson.

"Cristiano is obviously one of their former players and it probably reflects how grateful they are to have nurtured such an incredible young talent.

"Sporting developed him for seven years, now we are fortunate to have him for what we hope will be the best years of his life."

2007-09-19T21:10:00.001-07:00

Man Utd, Liverpool hit back at UEFA claims

Liverpool and Manchester United have denied suggestions from Uefa that financial reasons are behind their opposition to President, Michel Platini's plan to allow cup winners into the UEFA Champions League.

William Gaillard - Platini's special adviser - says the former France international feels the Premier League duo's stance is financially motivated.

"I know G14 have said this, but from our discussions it seems the main opposition is at Liverpool and Manchester United, who have investors out to make a quick buck on their investment and are only looking at the financial risks of the reform plan and not the sporting merits," Gaillard told Reuters .

"Basically by giving away a spot in their league to cup winners, they see this as reducing their chances of entering the lucrative Champions League."

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry retorted: "I made it absolutely clear (to Platini) last week that I was representing the views of the majority of English Premier League clubs when I said we do not support the reform plan.

"I didn't even discuss this issue with our owners prior to last week. Bottom line is that allowing the cup winners into the competition devalues the Premier League."

Parry's United counterpart David Gill echoed that view, telling Reuters : "We completely refute the allegations.

"Our decision to oppose the plan for the Champions League regarding the cup winners is based on merit and follows consultations with, in particular, Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Alex Ferguson, both of which have extensive experience in this competition.

"The decision is in no way dictated to by our club's owners."

2007-09-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

Man Utd boss Ferguson grateful to Van der Sar

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admitted they relied heavily on goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar after victory at Sporting Lisbon last night.

"When I bought him three years ago I felt Edwin was going to be one of my best signings," said Ferguson. "I should have done it years ago when I had the chance but I let it slip through my fingers.

"He still has such great enthusiasm even though he has 120 caps for Holland and has won everything as a player.

"It is marvellous for our other keepers that they have someone like that to learn from."

2007-09-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

Ronaldo grabs Man Utd winner on Lisbon return

Cristiano Ronaldo made a triumphant return to Sporting Lisbon as he grabbed Manchester United's winner tonight.
Ronaldo spent seven years wearing Sporting green before he left for Old Trafford in 2003 with a ?12.2million price tag and became a megastar.

But the brilliant Portugal winger had warned there would be no old pals act at the Jose Alvalade Stadium, the ground on which he first came to Sir Alex Ferguson's attention in a friendly meeting between the teams four years ago.

And Ronaldo matched his words with deeds as he arrived with perfect timing to finish off Wes Brown's low cross and provide the Red Devils with only their third Champions League away win in 15 encounters.

Having refused to state yesterday whether he would celebrate any goal, Ronaldo restricted himself to a low, double-fisted salute before an almost apologetic bow to the home supporters, who offered the winger a standing ovation when he was replaced by Carlos Tevez four minutes from time.

His efforts ensured United headed home with three precious points - but Edwin van der Sar had equal claim on hero status among the visiting faithful, the veteran Dutchman producing two outstanding saves to deny Liedson and Tonel.

2007-09-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

Man Utd had bid for Kerzhakov rejected

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is following Sevilla striker Alexander Kerzhakov.
It's emerged that Sevilla rejected a £12 million bid from United over the summer, insisting Russia international Kerzhakov was not for sale.

2007-09-19T20:57:00.000-07:00

Chelsea's Drogba, Lampard out of Man Utd clash

Chelsea stars Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard won't be fit for Sunday's Premiership crunch match against Manchester United.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho confirmed that neither player is expected to be back for Sunday's clash at Old Trafford as Chelsea remain in the grip of a goalscoring crisis.

Lampard (thigh) and Drogba (knee) contributed more than 50 goals last season and Mourinho is bemoaning their absence.

"I am getting no good news from the medical department," he said. "I don't think they will be back for Sunday.

"The news is not getting worse but I want them to tell me the players are ready to train. But there is no good news."