Papers: Time to rebuild
Tevez, Nani and Park set to be ditched
Sir Alex Ferguson will reshape his humiliated Manchester United squad after their Champions League debacle against Barcelona. Shell-shocked Fergie has decided he will not take up the option to buy Carlos Tevez, while Nani and Ji-Sung Park could also be high-profile victims of the Rome drubbing. The United manager believes Lyon’s Karim Benzema represents better value for money than Tevez – and to meet Lyon’s £30million asking price there will be fall guys. Nani has failed to impress in his second season at United, while Park may be sacrificed so Fergie can bring in Wigan’s £15m-rated midfielder Antonio Valencia, a long-term target. Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak is on his way out this summer after failing to impress in three years, with Fergie keen to give England goalkeeper Ben Foster more first-team opportunities next season. United will not take up the option to buy Tevez unless the player’s advisers, led by Kia Joorabchian, lower their asking price by a third to around £18m.
David McDonnell & John Cross, The Mirror
Meanwhile, The Sun claim Cristiano Ronaldo is about to "throw Manchester United into turmoil and demand a move out of Old Trafford". If he does, The Express believe he won't be going to Real Madrid. The paper report Madrid have stopped their pursuit of the Reds winger.
(Source : manutd.com)
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Full Time : Barcelona 2-0 Manchester United
Barcelona: S.Eto'o 10' , Lionel Messi 69'
Manchester United: -
Im not going to discuss anymore about this final but here's some of our weakness this season (Source : Manchester United Official Forums)
What United Lacked in the UCL Final
1. Strikers who score:
As a team.... Man Utd lack goals. Ronaldo is the only player who consistently scores goals for Manchester united at the moment. None of our strikers are prolific. Tevez is a fantastic player, but doesn't score a lot. Berbatov has been a big disappointment, no matter how many people bang on about his assists and all round play (Did we really pay £30mill for another player who is good at getting the ball to Ronaldo?) Rooney is a fantastic footballer all round, but he really doesn't score consistently. Not since Van Nistelrooy have we had a striker who you just knew would score almost every game. And we really, really lack one. Ferguson tried to sign Torres for years, and unfortunately when he got fed up of chasing him, Liverpool took the gamble. Look at Eto'o - 1 chance, 1 goal. A lethal finisher that United just don't have. Benzema from Lyon anyone?
2. Several Creative Players:
Barcelona - Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Henry (They even SOLD Ronaldinho) Their team is brimming with brilliance. Their attacks are filled with flicks, step overs, backheels, and chips. Ronaldo is the only player for united who fits that bill. Scholes used to be the man, but he is now too old. Carrick constantly attempts audacious passes, which work extremely well against weak opposition, but against a team like Barcelona.... it just gives them possession of the ball 9 times out of 10, and then United had to run around like madmen for 10 minutes to get the ball back. He really needed to play it simple in the final, but he lacked a plan B. Park, who I have a lot of time for, works all day, but never ever looks like scoring.... To the point that when he does score EVERYONE is surprised. Anderson is a quality young player who is strong in possession, but again, he cant buy a goal, and has not been providing that many assists either. Fletcher can tackle, and he can harass, but nothing else - While I respect him as a footballer - I subscribe to the Barcelona viewpoint, you shouldn't need to have a player who stops other teams from playing, you should have players who can OUTPLAY the other team, just like Barcelona did so effectively in the final. Giggs has been good this season, but in my humble opinion - and I will take some heat for this - he either plays really well, or like a ghost that you wouldn't even know was on the pitch. Unfortunately for us it was Giggs the ghost that turned up against Barcelona.
3. Have United spent wisely over the past few years?:
This is a touchy topic. People tend to get offended if Fergie's transfers are analysed. He has made some master moves, some big mistakes, some yet to be proven, and some average transfers. Here's my view - Please note the grade represents the transfer deal, not the player - Feel free to hate me for my opinion:
A+ Ronaldo - Absolute genius and a bargain
A+ Vidic - Again an absolute find. Wonderful
C- Tevez - Should have bought him outright for a cheaper fee instead of this mess
D Berbatov - £30mill.... 30 MILLION POUNDS. I won't say how I really feel. Imagine the players you can get for 30mill (Torres £23)
D Hargreaves - Unlucky with injuries, but he was never going to set the world alight - Too Expensive
C+ Anderson - Good buy, but yet to truly excel - Expensive
D- Nani - I can see why he looked like a good buy, but he is all flair and no substance - Expensive
B Da Silva twins - Look like a good pair for the future - Cheap!
B- Carrick - Decent buy, but £18 mill is a bit steep
FAIL Lets not forget - Kleberson, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba, Howard, Veron, Smith, Forlan
OLD Grades: A+ Ferdinand / A- Rooney / A+ Evra / (These were years ago and don't count)
All in all I think that Fergie should be given great praise for being a wonderful manager, but not for being wonderful in the transfer market. He has done well, and he has done poorly.... All in all he would say he has been ok when you balance out the Djemba-Djemba's with the Ronaldo's? Is that fair?
Compared to the Barcelona, or Ac Milan, Man Utd's transfer dealings haven't been as shrewd.
4. Too Many Similar Players
Rooney, Park, and Tevez - Lots of running - Not a lot of goalsFletcher and Anderson - Lots of strength - Not a lot elseBerbatov and Carrick - Wonderful control and vision - Not a lot of goalsGiggs and Scholes - Old, but usefulVidic and Ferdinand - Legends! No problem having similar players if they are this good!This is why Man Utd won the premiership, lots of quality in depth, but not a lot of variety. Everyone was talking about the strength of Man Utds bench during the premiership games, and it was truly high. Against Barcelona, did you get excited and think that either Tevez or Berbatov would score when they came on..... Like Sheringham or Solskjer 10 years ago! No...... Me neither.Before the match the pundits were saying that they picked Man Utd to win because they had a plan B and could win the game with a number of different playing styles. The truth is that if united have time on the ball to pass it around, and if Ronaldo is able to get into the game, were golden - If not...... There is no plan B against strong opposition.
5. Ferguson's Tactics
Here is where I will really get hung out to dry. I think Ferguson is a tactical genius, but I think he got it wrong for the final.
Park - Had 2 early opportunities to score and messed them both up - Had a terrible gameMy Alternative - Put Tevez, who may get you a goal, on from the start and Ronaldo on the wing (allowing Ronny to get into the game and run at Barca) Tevez will do all the work Park would, and he can actually shoot!
Giggs - Played no part in the game and looked lost - Another player who had a Terrible game
My Alternative - Drop Giggs - Keep Rooney on the left, Start Scholes, who is very creative in midfield - sub him later when he is tired
Carrick - His passing was awful - Had a really, really terrible game
My ADVICE - Stop trying crazy passes!!!! Just keep possession of the ball and work your opportunities!
Ronaldo - Started well, but was lost up front on his own.
My ADVICE - Start on the wing, run at Barca, and drop back deep to get possession if you are not getting into the game. Link up with Tevez and Swap sides with Rooney if you are getting no joy on the right.All this is easy to say in hindsight, but these would have been my tactics even before the game went wrong. Ferguson's a legend, and I am nothing but a piece of Roy Keane blown snot compared to him, but I can still give my opinion.... And my opinion is that he got this one very wrong.
6. A Will To Fight
ROY KEANE.... ROY KEANE!!!! I missed you tonight. Who pushed united forward when they were 1 down? No one. Who encouraged them to keep trying after the 2nd goal. No one. United lacked fight and character.
Barcelona: S.Eto'o 10' , Lionel Messi 69'
Manchester United: -
Im not going to discuss anymore about this final but here's some of our weakness this season (Source : Manchester United Official Forums)
What United Lacked in the UCL Final
1. Strikers who score:
As a team.... Man Utd lack goals. Ronaldo is the only player who consistently scores goals for Manchester united at the moment. None of our strikers are prolific. Tevez is a fantastic player, but doesn't score a lot. Berbatov has been a big disappointment, no matter how many people bang on about his assists and all round play (Did we really pay £30mill for another player who is good at getting the ball to Ronaldo?) Rooney is a fantastic footballer all round, but he really doesn't score consistently. Not since Van Nistelrooy have we had a striker who you just knew would score almost every game. And we really, really lack one. Ferguson tried to sign Torres for years, and unfortunately when he got fed up of chasing him, Liverpool took the gamble. Look at Eto'o - 1 chance, 1 goal. A lethal finisher that United just don't have. Benzema from Lyon anyone?
2. Several Creative Players:
Barcelona - Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Henry (They even SOLD Ronaldinho) Their team is brimming with brilliance. Their attacks are filled with flicks, step overs, backheels, and chips. Ronaldo is the only player for united who fits that bill. Scholes used to be the man, but he is now too old. Carrick constantly attempts audacious passes, which work extremely well against weak opposition, but against a team like Barcelona.... it just gives them possession of the ball 9 times out of 10, and then United had to run around like madmen for 10 minutes to get the ball back. He really needed to play it simple in the final, but he lacked a plan B. Park, who I have a lot of time for, works all day, but never ever looks like scoring.... To the point that when he does score EVERYONE is surprised. Anderson is a quality young player who is strong in possession, but again, he cant buy a goal, and has not been providing that many assists either. Fletcher can tackle, and he can harass, but nothing else - While I respect him as a footballer - I subscribe to the Barcelona viewpoint, you shouldn't need to have a player who stops other teams from playing, you should have players who can OUTPLAY the other team, just like Barcelona did so effectively in the final. Giggs has been good this season, but in my humble opinion - and I will take some heat for this - he either plays really well, or like a ghost that you wouldn't even know was on the pitch. Unfortunately for us it was Giggs the ghost that turned up against Barcelona.
3. Have United spent wisely over the past few years?:
This is a touchy topic. People tend to get offended if Fergie's transfers are analysed. He has made some master moves, some big mistakes, some yet to be proven, and some average transfers. Here's my view - Please note the grade represents the transfer deal, not the player - Feel free to hate me for my opinion:
A+ Ronaldo - Absolute genius and a bargain
A+ Vidic - Again an absolute find. Wonderful
C- Tevez - Should have bought him outright for a cheaper fee instead of this mess
D Berbatov - £30mill.... 30 MILLION POUNDS. I won't say how I really feel. Imagine the players you can get for 30mill (Torres £23)
D Hargreaves - Unlucky with injuries, but he was never going to set the world alight - Too Expensive
C+ Anderson - Good buy, but yet to truly excel - Expensive
D- Nani - I can see why he looked like a good buy, but he is all flair and no substance - Expensive
B Da Silva twins - Look like a good pair for the future - Cheap!
B- Carrick - Decent buy, but £18 mill is a bit steep
FAIL Lets not forget - Kleberson, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba, Howard, Veron, Smith, Forlan
OLD Grades: A+ Ferdinand / A- Rooney / A+ Evra / (These were years ago and don't count)
All in all I think that Fergie should be given great praise for being a wonderful manager, but not for being wonderful in the transfer market. He has done well, and he has done poorly.... All in all he would say he has been ok when you balance out the Djemba-Djemba's with the Ronaldo's? Is that fair?
Compared to the Barcelona, or Ac Milan, Man Utd's transfer dealings haven't been as shrewd.
4. Too Many Similar Players
Rooney, Park, and Tevez - Lots of running - Not a lot of goalsFletcher and Anderson - Lots of strength - Not a lot elseBerbatov and Carrick - Wonderful control and vision - Not a lot of goalsGiggs and Scholes - Old, but usefulVidic and Ferdinand - Legends! No problem having similar players if they are this good!This is why Man Utd won the premiership, lots of quality in depth, but not a lot of variety. Everyone was talking about the strength of Man Utds bench during the premiership games, and it was truly high. Against Barcelona, did you get excited and think that either Tevez or Berbatov would score when they came on..... Like Sheringham or Solskjer 10 years ago! No...... Me neither.Before the match the pundits were saying that they picked Man Utd to win because they had a plan B and could win the game with a number of different playing styles. The truth is that if united have time on the ball to pass it around, and if Ronaldo is able to get into the game, were golden - If not...... There is no plan B against strong opposition.
5. Ferguson's Tactics
Here is where I will really get hung out to dry. I think Ferguson is a tactical genius, but I think he got it wrong for the final.
Park - Had 2 early opportunities to score and messed them both up - Had a terrible gameMy Alternative - Put Tevez, who may get you a goal, on from the start and Ronaldo on the wing (allowing Ronny to get into the game and run at Barca) Tevez will do all the work Park would, and he can actually shoot!
Giggs - Played no part in the game and looked lost - Another player who had a Terrible game
My Alternative - Drop Giggs - Keep Rooney on the left, Start Scholes, who is very creative in midfield - sub him later when he is tired
Carrick - His passing was awful - Had a really, really terrible game
My ADVICE - Stop trying crazy passes!!!! Just keep possession of the ball and work your opportunities!
Ronaldo - Started well, but was lost up front on his own.
My ADVICE - Start on the wing, run at Barca, and drop back deep to get possession if you are not getting into the game. Link up with Tevez and Swap sides with Rooney if you are getting no joy on the right.All this is easy to say in hindsight, but these would have been my tactics even before the game went wrong. Ferguson's a legend, and I am nothing but a piece of Roy Keane blown snot compared to him, but I can still give my opinion.... And my opinion is that he got this one very wrong.
6. A Will To Fight
ROY KEANE.... ROY KEANE!!!! I missed you tonight. Who pushed united forward when they were 1 down? No one. Who encouraged them to keep trying after the 2nd goal. No one. United lacked fight and character.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Next Match : Manchester United vs Barcelona(Champions League Final)
Venue : Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Predicted Formation:
Ins and Outs:
Manchester United : Darren Fletcher (suspended), Ben Foster (injury), Owen Hargreaves (injury)
Barcelona : Dani Alves (suspended), Eric Abidal (suspended), Theirry Henry (could be fit in time), Iniesta (could be fit in time)
Statistics:
- Manchester United's last defeat in the Champions League was to AC Milan 2 years ago.
- Manchester United are now undefeated in the Champions League for 25 games and counting
- Manchester United manage to keep 8 clean sheets in 12 games
Form Guide: In 14 games since March's back-to-back Premier League defeats, United have won 11 and drawn three games, ensuring an 18th league title and a berth in Rome. The final victory of that run came at Hull on Sunday, where Sir Alex Ferguson had the luxury of resting a hatful of players who are likely to start on Wednesday. Barcelona have also been resting players ever since they clinched their own domestic crown, meaning little can be read into successive La Liga defeats against Mallorca and Osasuna. (Source : manutd.com)
Referee : Massimo Busacca 
He officiated the semi-final first-leg tie between Manchester United and Barcelona last year, and was the man in the middle for United's 1-0 win at Porto this season. The 40-year-old already has experience of a European showpiece after reffing the UEFA Cup final in 2007. This will be the Swiss official's 33rd Champions League tie.
Manchester United vs Barcelona (Champions League semi-final 2nd leg, season 07/08 highlights):
Manchester United Celebrations (Champions League Final, last season):
Friday, May 22, 2009
Next Match : Hull City vs. Manchester United (Premier League)
Venue : Kingston Communication Stadium (KC Stadium)
With all the attention focused on Rome, i guess this will be the starting 11
Venue : Kingston Communication Stadium (KC Stadium)
Predicted Formation:
With all the attention focused on Rome, i guess this will be the starting 11
Injury List:
Manchester United : Ben Foster, Rio Ferdinand (could be fit in time), Owen Hargreaves
Manchester United : Ben Foster, Rio Ferdinand (could be fit in time), Owen Hargreaves
Hull City : Manucho (loan tied)
Form Guide:
A win would leave United with a best final points total (90) since the 1999-2000 season. With only one win in the past 22 games, freefalling Hull now sit just above the relegation zone having undone the good work that put them in sixth place at Christmas. They have conceded the second highest number of goals in the Barclays Premier League (63), while the Reds have scored the second highest total (67). The reverse fixture was a pulsating 4-3 victory for United at Old Trafford in November, with goals from Ronaldo (2), Carrick and Vidic proving enough. (Source : manutd.com)
A win would leave United with a best final points total (90) since the 1999-2000 season. With only one win in the past 22 games, freefalling Hull now sit just above the relegation zone having undone the good work that put them in sixth place at Christmas. They have conceded the second highest number of goals in the Barclays Premier League (63), while the Reds have scored the second highest total (67). The reverse fixture was a pulsating 4-3 victory for United at Old Trafford in November, with goals from Ronaldo (2), Carrick and Vidic proving enough. (Source : manutd.com)
Referee: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire)
Prediction : Draw
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Full Time : Manchester United 0-0 Arsenal
The Barclays Premier League season 2008/2009 Champions, Manchester United !
We retained our trophy for the third consecutive year! What an achievement for the club! That equals Liverpool's record.
Trophy Presentation
Part one:
Part 2 :
Part 3:
Starting 2pm later...Electricity Consumption in Anfield and in anywhere in Liverpool will decrease. The reason is , all Liverpool fans will switch their TV off and will not use the internet or listen to the radio to avoid any news of MAN UTD winning the trophy. Other report also says that shops in Liverpool will all be empty because all the people will have no courage to go out to avoid any humiliation or to avoid news as well. All the pubs in Anfield or Liverpool will be full tonight, increase in beer sales due to suddent out pour of Liverpool fan soaking suling and moaning for their EPL title lost. I wonder how the authorities will handle the number of drunk people lying in the streets of Liverpool after we lift the trophy , haha :)
Analysis of Manchester United's squad : http://espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item268563/Squad-the-key-to-United-success/
The Barclays Premier League season 2008/2009 Champions, Manchester United !
We retained our trophy for the third consecutive year! What an achievement for the club! That equals Liverpool's record.
Trophy Presentation
Part one:
Part 2 :
Part 3:
Starting 2pm later...Electricity Consumption in Anfield and in anywhere in Liverpool will decrease. The reason is , all Liverpool fans will switch their TV off and will not use the internet or listen to the radio to avoid any news of MAN UTD winning the trophy. Other report also says that shops in Liverpool will all be empty because all the people will have no courage to go out to avoid any humiliation or to avoid news as well. All the pubs in Anfield or Liverpool will be full tonight, increase in beer sales due to suddent out pour of Liverpool fan soaking suling and moaning for their EPL title lost. I wonder how the authorities will handle the number of drunk people lying in the streets of Liverpool after we lift the trophy , haha :)
Analysis of Manchester United's squad : http://espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item268563/Squad-the-key-to-United-success/
Friday, May 15, 2009
Next Match : Manchester United vs. Arsenal (Premier League)
Venue : Old Trafford
Today is the day for Manchester United to equal Liverpool's record of 18 championship wins. This can also shut their(Liverpool fans) big mouth up! We, Manchester United fans HATE Liverpool FC in our veins as they are arrogant and proud, thinking that they are the best team in England based on their record(but did not won the Premier League since 1990). Say something nice to them, they WERE the best team but not now.
Look at Rafael Benitez refusing to face the fact that we're the best team in England. http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5327136,00.html
Predicted formation:
Injury List :
Manchester United : Owen Hargreaves, Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand
Arsenal : William Gallas, Manuel Almunia, Gael Clichy, Tomas Rosicky, Eduardo
Form Guide: Arsenal have lost three of their last four and appear low on confidence. However, the possibility of upsetting the party at Old Trafford will motivate Arsene Wenger’s men. United, on the other hand, are riding a wave of confidence after seven straight wins, and require one point to edge over the line in the title race. There's also the added incentive of lifting the trophy at home. (Source : manutd.com)
Referee : Mike Dean
Prediction : United to draw or win
Venue : Old Trafford
Today is the day for Manchester United to equal Liverpool's record of 18 championship wins. This can also shut their(Liverpool fans) big mouth up! We, Manchester United fans HATE Liverpool FC in our veins as they are arrogant and proud, thinking that they are the best team in England based on their record(but did not won the Premier League since 1990). Say something nice to them, they WERE the best team but not now.
Look at Rafael Benitez refusing to face the fact that we're the best team in England. http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5327136,00.html
Predicted formation:
Injury List :
Manchester United : Owen Hargreaves, Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand
Arsenal : William Gallas, Manuel Almunia, Gael Clichy, Tomas Rosicky, Eduardo
Form Guide: Arsenal have lost three of their last four and appear low on confidence. However, the possibility of upsetting the party at Old Trafford will motivate Arsene Wenger’s men. United, on the other hand, are riding a wave of confidence after seven straight wins, and require one point to edge over the line in the title race. There's also the added incentive of lifting the trophy at home. (Source : manutd.com)
Referee : Mike Dean
Prediction : United to draw or win
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Full Time : Wigan Athletic 1-2 Manchester United
Wigan Athletic : H.R. Martinez 28'
Manchester United : C.A. Tevez 61', M.Carrick 86'
Highlights :
Manchester United now only need one more point in 2 games to retain their Premier League crown ! Another outstanding performance by the players again, secured three precious points for United at the JJB. Carlos Tevez came off the bench and equalised for Man United , he was the man of the moment. From my point of view, i think its just a matter of time for Manchester United to get the second goal. As expected, Michael Carrick fired a long shot to score the winning goal 4 minutes from time. The good news for all United fans will be, Carlos Tevez will be awarded a permanent contract according to Sir Alex Ferguson. "Tevez, please stay" the fans
"I thought we showed our commitment and our courage to go and get the three points. You have to be proud of how we kept going... That is what the club is all about, commitment and courage." John O' Shea
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Next Match : Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester United (Premier League)
Venue : JJB Stadium
Injury List:
Wigan Athletic : Mido (could be fit in time), Won-Hee Cho
Manchester United : Wes Brown, Owen Hargreaves, Jonny Evans
Form Guide: Wigan are without a win in the last five games but sitting 11th in the Barclays Premier League, they are safe and have little to play for other than pride. However, Steve Bruce is likely to fire up the troops as he faces his former club and manager. Sunday’s 2-0 derby win over Manchester City leaves United needing just four points to secure a third successive title. The Reds come into the game on the back of six straight wins and will look to emulate last season’s display at the JJB where a 2-0 win sealed the title. (Source : manutd.com)
Referee: Rob Styles (Hampshire)
Prediction : United to win
Monday, May 11, 2009
Full Time : Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City
Manchester United : C.Ronaldo 18' , C.A.Tevez 45'
Manchester City : -
Highlights :
4 more points to retain our Premiership title. Wow, Thats another stunning free-kick from Cristiano Ronaldo again! Carlos Tevez also scored just before half time with a wonderful strike, hitting the post and went in, assisted by Dimitar Berbatov. According to Sir Alex, he said that United did not played well throughout the game, but we won the game. When Cristiano Ronaldo was subsituted out of the game by Sir Alex Ferguson, he got angry, threw a jacket and kept shaking his head because he wanted to score and continue playing. Sir Alex Ferguson also said that it is a healthy reaction and should not be a major issue. Lets see more from Cristiano Ronaldo in mid-week against Wigan.
Manchester United : C.Ronaldo 18' , C.A.Tevez 45'
Manchester City : -
Highlights :
4 more points to retain our Premiership title. Wow, Thats another stunning free-kick from Cristiano Ronaldo again! Carlos Tevez also scored just before half time with a wonderful strike, hitting the post and went in, assisted by Dimitar Berbatov. According to Sir Alex, he said that United did not played well throughout the game, but we won the game. When Cristiano Ronaldo was subsituted out of the game by Sir Alex Ferguson, he got angry, threw a jacket and kept shaking his head because he wanted to score and continue playing. Sir Alex Ferguson also said that it is a healthy reaction and should not be a major issue. Lets see more from Cristiano Ronaldo in mid-week against Wigan.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Next Match : Manchester United vs. Manchester City (Premier League)
Venue : Old Trafford
Predicted Formation:
Injury List :
Manchester United : Owen Hargreaves, Wes Brown
Manchester City : Craig Bellamy, Benjani
Gary Neville is back while Wes Brown is set to miss the remainder of the season. (Source : ESPNsoccernet.com)
Form Guide: United’s midweek Champions League triumph over Arsenal was the fifth straight win since losing the FA Cup semi-final to Everton on penalties. The Reds will be desperate to avenge last year’s 2-1 home defeat to City but more importantly three points would leave the champions needing a maximum of four points from the remaining three games to retain the title (86 points is the highest possible total Liverpool can achieve). City come to Old Trafford on the back of four straight wins including an impressive 2-1 away victory over United’s FA Cup conquerors Everton, only their second away league win this campaign. Mark Hughes' men currently lie eighth and are battling with West Ham, Fulham and Spurs for seventh place in the league and with it, Europa League football next season. (Source : Manutd.com)
From my point of view, I think Manchester United can win this, they are back in form after beating Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in midweek. The title is United's to lose. By the time United takes on City, Liverpool MAY be on top of the league on goal difference but played 2 games more than United. All the best to the Red Devils and destroy the blue heart of Manchester.
Prediction : 3-0 to United. I also predict that Dimitar Berbatov and Cristiano Ronaldo will be one of the scorers today.
Previous result against Manchester City this season :
1. Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United (Barclays Premier League)
Wayne Rooney, the only scorer of the game. I remember only Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney is playing in front and took a corner kick , passed around during the 89th minute while the other players stayed behind and defend. Manchester City nearly equalised in the dying minutes but it was well saved by the flying dutchman Edwin van der Sar. Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off by Howard Webb after the referee spotted him handing the ball. Suprisingly, Rafael Da Silva kept Robinho quiet throughout the game. Will Rafael play again ?
Previous results against Manchester City last season:
1. Manchester United 1-2 Manchester City (Barclays Premier League)
2. Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United (Barclays Premier League)
Venue : Old Trafford
Predicted Formation:
Injury List :
Manchester United : Owen Hargreaves, Wes Brown
Manchester City : Craig Bellamy, Benjani
Gary Neville is back while Wes Brown is set to miss the remainder of the season. (Source : ESPNsoccernet.com)
Form Guide: United’s midweek Champions League triumph over Arsenal was the fifth straight win since losing the FA Cup semi-final to Everton on penalties. The Reds will be desperate to avenge last year’s 2-1 home defeat to City but more importantly three points would leave the champions needing a maximum of four points from the remaining three games to retain the title (86 points is the highest possible total Liverpool can achieve). City come to Old Trafford on the back of four straight wins including an impressive 2-1 away victory over United’s FA Cup conquerors Everton, only their second away league win this campaign. Mark Hughes' men currently lie eighth and are battling with West Ham, Fulham and Spurs for seventh place in the league and with it, Europa League football next season. (Source : Manutd.com)
From my point of view, I think Manchester United can win this, they are back in form after beating Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in midweek. The title is United's to lose. By the time United takes on City, Liverpool MAY be on top of the league on goal difference but played 2 games more than United. All the best to the Red Devils and destroy the blue heart of Manchester.
Prediction : 3-0 to United. I also predict that Dimitar Berbatov and Cristiano Ronaldo will be one of the scorers today.
Previous result against Manchester City this season :
1. Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United (Barclays Premier League)
Wayne Rooney, the only scorer of the game. I remember only Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney is playing in front and took a corner kick , passed around during the 89th minute while the other players stayed behind and defend. Manchester City nearly equalised in the dying minutes but it was well saved by the flying dutchman Edwin van der Sar. Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off by Howard Webb after the referee spotted him handing the ball. Suprisingly, Rafael Da Silva kept Robinho quiet throughout the game. Will Rafael play again ?
Previous results against Manchester City last season:
1. Manchester United 1-2 Manchester City (Barclays Premier League)
2. Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United (Barclays Premier League)
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Full Time : Arsenal 1-3 Manchester United
Arsenal : Robin van Persie 75'(pen)
Manchester United : J.S.Park 7', C.Ronaldo (10', 60')
(Aggregate : Arsenal 1-4 Manchester United)
Arsenal : Robin van Persie 75'(pen)
Manchester United : J.S.Park 7', C.Ronaldo (10', 60')
(Aggregate : Arsenal 1-4 Manchester United)
Highlights:
The first win at the Emirates Stadium leads Manchester United to Rome. United will be there on the 27th of May to defend the Champions League trophy. Once again, Manchester United players worked very very hard and got what they deserved. Park Ji Sung scored the opener by punishing Gibbs from making a mistake. Minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo scored his trademark freekick, 40 yards away from goal to confirm a final spot at Rome. Manchester United also kept Arsenal quiet throughout the first-half. 15 minutes after the restart, Cristiano Ronaldo scored again to make it 3-0. A Ronaldo back heel to Park, swept on to Rooney, played into the patch of Ronaldo in a raid clinical in its execution, game over for Arsenal.
The bad news will be, Darren Fletcher will be suspended for the final at Rome after being sent off by the refree. I think it's a harsh decision and Fletcher should not be sent off. However, Robin van Persie scored from the spotkick to make the scoreline look nicer.
(Source : Manutd.com)
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Next game : Arsenal vs Manchester United (Champions League semi-final, second leg)
Venue : Emirates Stadium
Venue : Emirates Stadium
Aggregate : Arsenal 0-1 Manchester United
Predicted Formation:
Rio Ferdinand should be back in time for the big clash against Arsenal. Edwin van der Sar, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, Anderson and Cristiano Ronaldo will be back to the starting 11 after being rested during the Middlesborough game.
Injury List
Manchester United : Gary Neville, Owen Hargreaves
Arsenal : Robin van Persie(could be fit in time), Gael Clichy, Mikael Silvestre (could be fit in time), William Gallas, Tomas Rosicky, Andrei Arshavin (Cup-tied, not injured), Eduardo
Statistics:
Head to head against Arsenal: Won 83, Drawn 45 , Lost 77.
Manchester United in the Champions League this season : Won 5 Drawn 6 Lost 0
Arsenal in the Champions League this season : Won 5 Drawn 3 Lost 3
(Statistics last updated at 3/5/09)
- Manchester United are unbeaten in the Champions League for 24games, the longest run in history. They last lost to AC Milan 3-0 at the San Siro 2 years ago during the second leg of the semi-final.
- Arsenal haven’t conceded a goal in the Champions League at the Emirates for more than a year and they haven’t conceded a Barclays Premier League goal at home in 2009.
- Manchester United have never been knocked out of European competition by an English club.
- This game is the 39th clash between Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. Both managers have won 15 and eight matches were drawn.
Prediction : 1-1 draw or maybe a defeat
Full Time : Middlesborough 0-2 Manchester United
Middlesborough : -
Manchester United : Giggs 25' , J.S Park 51'
Highlights:
7 more points for Manchester United to clinch their 3rd Premiership Title in a row. Sir Alex Ferguson did not really rest most of his key players for this game. Wayne Rooney passed the ball intelligently to Ji Sung Park and finished beautifully. 6 points adrift from Liverpool, i guess Liverpool fans will be dissapointed to see Manchester United finish off Middlesborough in style (Liverpool LOST 2-0 to Middlesborough at the Riverside stadium). Lets hope that the struggling Newcastle will get a result tomorrow at Anfield. Attentions can switched currently to Tuesday's Champions League trip to the Emirates Stadium. The prediction for this match is 100% correct
Pictures:
The world has stopped for 4 seconds!
PFA Player of the year and the man of the match
Park finishes the ball off in style.
Celebrations !
Middlesborough : -
Manchester United : Giggs 25' , J.S Park 51'
Highlights:
7 more points for Manchester United to clinch their 3rd Premiership Title in a row. Sir Alex Ferguson did not really rest most of his key players for this game. Wayne Rooney passed the ball intelligently to Ji Sung Park and finished beautifully. 6 points adrift from Liverpool, i guess Liverpool fans will be dissapointed to see Manchester United finish off Middlesborough in style (Liverpool LOST 2-0 to Middlesborough at the Riverside stadium). Lets hope that the struggling Newcastle will get a result tomorrow at Anfield. Attentions can switched currently to Tuesday's Champions League trip to the Emirates Stadium. The prediction for this match is 100% correct
Pictures:
The world has stopped for 4 seconds!
PFA Player of the year and the man of the match
Park finishes the ball off in style.
Celebrations !
Half time : Middlesborough 0-1 Manchester United
Middlesborough : -
Manchester United : Giggs 25'
No teams dominated the game, both teams played well but its fair for Manchester United to be in front at half time. Ben Foster made a save to stop Tuncay from scoring. The current man of the match for me will be the PFA player of the year, Ryan Giggs as he pass the ball intelligently and scored a goal. More to come from Manchester United.
Middlesborough : -
Manchester United : Giggs 25'
No teams dominated the game, both teams played well but its fair for Manchester United to be in front at half time. Ben Foster made a save to stop Tuncay from scoring. The current man of the match for me will be the PFA player of the year, Ryan Giggs as he pass the ball intelligently and scored a goal. More to come from Manchester United.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Next game : Middlesborough vs Manchester United (Premier League)
Venue : Riverside Stadium, Middlesborough
Injury List
Manchester United : Gary Neville, Owen Hargreaves, Rio Ferdinand
Middlesborough : Chris Riggott, Emanuel Pogatetz
Sir Alex Ferguson says he will make as much as 8 changes to the squad that won Arsenal in midweek to rest some key players for the big one next Tuesday. “I have got a squad, and I intend to use it,” says Sir Alex. “The midfield will change and the players up front will also probably change. I’ll bring some freshness into the team in some important areas. That will be my predicted formation.
Form Guide: After a brief blip in March, Sir Alex’s men have won the last four league games and head to the Riverside on a high after a scintillating performance against Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday. Middlesbrough, on the other hand, have won just one of their last eight matches in all competitions and currently reside in the relegation zone. Gareth Southgate’s men are desperate for points and will take heart in the fact United have won just three times from the last eight visits to the Riverside. (Source : Manutd.com)
Middlesborough have a good record against the "Big Four" sides at home in recent years and are one of only two clubs to have beaten Liverpool in the league this season. They are unbeaten at the Riverside since the turn of the year, though five of those seven games have been draws, so perhaps this match-up is not the foregone conclusion it first appears. The Riverside stadium is also not a playground for Manchester United, lets just hope United can get a win there.
My point of view is, it will be a hard hard game as Middlesborough will fight for their lives to get out of the relegation zone and there is not much games left. It will be even harder for Manchester United as Sir Alex Ferguson will be fielding a much weakened side to rest some of the key players to prepare for the second leg clash against Arsenal. This will also be a chance for the "arrogant" Liverpool to close the gap, but lets hope this does not happen. Victory would give Sir Alex Ferguson's leaders a six-point cushion over second-placed Liverpool, with both teams having four games left to play.
Referee: Mark Halsey
Prediction : 0-2 win to United or maybe a draw
Previous result against Middlesborough this season:
1. Manchester United 1-0 Middlesborough (Barclays Premier League)
Dimitar Berbatov rescued the Red Devils from a draw by scoring from a volley into the back of the net. Cristiano Ronaldo argued with Emanuel Pogatetz during the half time interval in the tunnel while both teams were heading into the dressing room. A penalty should be awarded to Manchester United before the break from a foul by Pogatetz for choking Cristiano Ronaldo down to the ground to clear the ball away. However, refree Martin Atikson (the refree who hates United) did not gave the penalty to Manchester United. Park also missed an open goal to extend the lead. Apart from attacks, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic played well to keep the clean sheet.
2. Manchester United 3-1 Middlesborough (Carling Cup)
Manchester United eliminated Middlesborough out of the Carling Cup. Sir Alex Ferguson fielded a mixture of youngsters and some senior players for this one. Rodrigo Possebon suffered an injury by a hard tackle from Emanuel Pogatetz during this fixture. Goals from Ryan Giggs, Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo secured a spot for the next round in the Carling Cup.
Previous encounters against Middlesborough at the Riverside Stadium :
1. Middlesborough 2-2 Manchester United (Season 07/08, Premier League)
2. Middlesborough 2-2 Manchester United (Season 06/07, FA Cup)
3. Middlesborough 1-2 Manchester United (Season 06/07, Premier League)
4. Middlesborough 4-1 Manchester United (Season 05/06, Premier League)
5. Middlesborough 0-2 Manchester United (Season 04/05, Premier League)
Venue : Riverside Stadium, Middlesborough
Injury List
Manchester United : Gary Neville, Owen Hargreaves, Rio Ferdinand
Middlesborough : Chris Riggott, Emanuel Pogatetz
Sir Alex Ferguson says he will make as much as 8 changes to the squad that won Arsenal in midweek to rest some key players for the big one next Tuesday. “I have got a squad, and I intend to use it,” says Sir Alex. “The midfield will change and the players up front will also probably change. I’ll bring some freshness into the team in some important areas. That will be my predicted formation.
Form Guide: After a brief blip in March, Sir Alex’s men have won the last four league games and head to the Riverside on a high after a scintillating performance against Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday. Middlesbrough, on the other hand, have won just one of their last eight matches in all competitions and currently reside in the relegation zone. Gareth Southgate’s men are desperate for points and will take heart in the fact United have won just three times from the last eight visits to the Riverside. (Source : Manutd.com)
Middlesborough have a good record against the "Big Four" sides at home in recent years and are one of only two clubs to have beaten Liverpool in the league this season. They are unbeaten at the Riverside since the turn of the year, though five of those seven games have been draws, so perhaps this match-up is not the foregone conclusion it first appears. The Riverside stadium is also not a playground for Manchester United, lets just hope United can get a win there.
My point of view is, it will be a hard hard game as Middlesborough will fight for their lives to get out of the relegation zone and there is not much games left. It will be even harder for Manchester United as Sir Alex Ferguson will be fielding a much weakened side to rest some of the key players to prepare for the second leg clash against Arsenal. This will also be a chance for the "arrogant" Liverpool to close the gap, but lets hope this does not happen. Victory would give Sir Alex Ferguson's leaders a six-point cushion over second-placed Liverpool, with both teams having four games left to play.
Referee: Mark Halsey
Prediction : 0-2 win to United or maybe a draw
Previous result against Middlesborough this season:
1. Manchester United 1-0 Middlesborough (Barclays Premier League)
Dimitar Berbatov rescued the Red Devils from a draw by scoring from a volley into the back of the net. Cristiano Ronaldo argued with Emanuel Pogatetz during the half time interval in the tunnel while both teams were heading into the dressing room. A penalty should be awarded to Manchester United before the break from a foul by Pogatetz for choking Cristiano Ronaldo down to the ground to clear the ball away. However, refree Martin Atikson (the refree who hates United) did not gave the penalty to Manchester United. Park also missed an open goal to extend the lead. Apart from attacks, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic played well to keep the clean sheet.
2. Manchester United 3-1 Middlesborough (Carling Cup)
Manchester United eliminated Middlesborough out of the Carling Cup. Sir Alex Ferguson fielded a mixture of youngsters and some senior players for this one. Rodrigo Possebon suffered an injury by a hard tackle from Emanuel Pogatetz during this fixture. Goals from Ryan Giggs, Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo secured a spot for the next round in the Carling Cup.
Previous encounters against Middlesborough at the Riverside Stadium :
1. Middlesborough 2-2 Manchester United (Season 07/08, Premier League)
2. Middlesborough 2-2 Manchester United (Season 06/07, FA Cup)
3. Middlesborough 1-2 Manchester United (Season 06/07, Premier League)
4. Middlesborough 4-1 Manchester United (Season 05/06, Premier League)
5. Middlesborough 0-2 Manchester United (Season 04/05, Premier League)
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