Sir Alex says sorry to fans

"I don't know where to start to be honest. My apologies go to our fans tonight because that was not a Manchester United performance."

- Sir Alex Ferguson

30/11/2011 23:00, Report by Gemma Thompson

Sir Alex Ferguson apologised to United fans after the Reds were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.

Glenn Murray's extra-time header, albeit from a marginally offside position, secured a famous 2-1 victory for the Eagles who put on a dogged display throughout the quarter-final tie.

Sir Alex was full of praise for Palace's effort, but hugely disappointed by his own side's performance.

"I don't know where to start to be honest. My apologies go to our fans tonight because that was not a Manchester United performance," he told MUTV.

"I don't want to take anything away from Crystal Palace - I wish them every success and I hope they get to the final. It was a fantastic, mammoth effort from all of them. Every one of their players worked their socks off to get to the semi-finals.

"We maybe played too many short passes, but I'm not going to dwell on it and go into the ins and outs of it all.

"When it went to extra-time I thought we must win it, but it wasn't to be. Their second goal was offside from what I've seen on the cameras, but I can't take it away from Crystal Palace, they fought hard to get the result and they deserve it. It's a very disappointing night for Manchester United."

source : Manutd

Q&A: Justin Young

30/11/2011 15:13, Report by Gemma Thompson

The Vaccines front man Justin Young on suffering as a young Red and hanging out with Wazza at Glastonbury…

Why United?

My dad and brother both supported Southampton but I wanted to follow another team. I was about five at the time and I saw United on TV and they were wearing red (same as Southampton) so that was it for me; they were my team. I haven’t got a better reason unfortunately.

What are your earliest memories?

They’re not great to be honest. The first few times I saw United live was at The Dell - the first game we lost 3-1, the following year it was 6-3 to Southampton and they won again 1-0 the year after.

Who was your hero growing up?

Initially I used to have pictures of all the players up on my wall. If I saw a photo in newspapers or magazines I’d always cut them out. One time I cut out a picture of a player in a United shirt that I didn’t recognise and put him on my wall. My dad saw it and laughed: ‘that’s Gary Rhodes, he’s a celebrity chef who supports United!’ My first real hero was Beckham – I absolutely loved him and even grew curtains in tribute!

Tell us about your first visit to Old Trafford...

My dad arranged to bring me up to a game against Derby [in April ‘97] but he couldn’t get tickets in time so he planned to try and get some from a tout. Unfortunately they were charging a lot and dad didn’t have enough money so we went home without seeing the game. I was gutted. He did soften the blow by buying me a kit before we left though.

How often do you get to games nowadays?

Once or twice a season depending on work commitments. I was at the Chelsea game last month, which is one of the best matches I’ve seen here, and I came to the Newcastle match at the weekend. The guy who books our gigs is a big United fan so I’m hoping he’ll organise dates around matches!

Is there any football rivalry in the band?

A bit, yeah. Our manager and tour manager are die-hard Tottenham followers and they’ve managed to successfully convert the other guys in the band into Spurs fans. So I’m flying the flag for United on my own.

Have you ever met any of the players?

I’m friends with Winston from Mumford & Sons – he took me to the Chelsea game – and he introduced me to Rooney backstage at Glastonbury. He’s my favourite player and I must admit that being in the presence of greatness left me pretty speechless. I didn’t really know what to say apart from ‘hello!’

What do you make of the modern-day rivalry between United and City and do you expect the Blues to push us closest for the title?

Unfortunately I think they’ll do well this season. They have bought well and seem to be gelling a bit better. City have never been that good in my lifetime until now, but we’ve got a strong squad and with Sir Alex leading us you always have to feel confident.

The Vaccines’ double A-side single ‘Wetsuit / Tigerblood’ is out on 4 December.

source : Manutd

Fans' chance to meet Rooney

19/11/2011 22:12, Report by Adam Bostock

Wayne Rooney will be meeting lucky Manchester United fans this week when his official new DVD and Blu-ray goes on sale.

The new release, Wayne Rooney: Goal Machine, celebrates his scoring feats for the Reds by showing more than 150 of his goals for the club, from the simple tap-ins to the sublime and the spectacular. A special bonus feature shows the striker himself picking his top ten.

Fans who purchase the DVD or Blu-ray from the Old Trafford Megastore from Monday 21 November to Wednesday 23 November will get the chance to receive one of 200 Golden Tickets to an official signing session with Wayne on Thursday afternoon.

ManUtd.com will be giving away copies of the DVD in a special competition - look out for details from Monday.

source : Manutd

Webchat: Phil Jones

ManUtd.com hosted an exclusive live webchat with United defender Phil Jones at Carrington on Thursday, 17 November.

Thank you to everyone who submitted a question either before or during the webchat. Sorry that Phil couldn't answer them all - we received thousands!

Signed shirt winner: Phil felt the best question was, "If you were asked to play in a World XI at centre-back, who would you like the other three defenders in the line-up to be?" The fan who asked it, Ryan Walters from Tenby in Pembrokeshire, Wales, will receive a United shirt signed by Phil himself. Congratulations Ryan.

The questions and answers below are in reverse order, the last question appearing first.

Thanks for your time, Phil. Here's the final question - which is your favourite goal that United have scored so far this season? Kyriacos Theocharides, Nicosia, Cyprus

Nani's goal against Chelsea was a good one, where he bashed it into the top corner. But I'll say the second goal in the Community Shield because it involved about five players and it was a great finish.

I am number 4 for my team too! Is there any reason behind why you chose it? Fatik Khan, India

I didn't choose the number. I was given it. I wasn't bothered, really. A number's a number at the end of the day. I could be 99 and it wouldn't bother me. It doesn't mean you're any higher or lower in the pecking order.

Is it difficult to switch between playing in a friendly international in midweek to playing a competitive game for United a few days later? Stephen Carr, Dundalk, Ireland

No. It's football and it's what I do. It's my job. You always have to adapt to different situations. It's a natural switch. Anyway, no international game is ever a friendly. I still go out and give 100 per cent every time I'm on the pitch.

Which three words would you use to describe your personality?Pu Zhang, Spain

Cheerful, fearless and optimistic.

What was it like meeting Sir Alex for the first time? Julie Hutcheon, UK

It was in Seattle, on the US Tour. He came over, I shook his hand and we talked for about 10 minutes. I was really nervous. He was great, though, and he's been fantastic to me since he's been here. When you see him on television you think to yourself, 'I wouldn't like to cross him!', but at Carrington he's relaxed and chilled and you can have a laugh with him.

What kind of a rush do you get when you are playing a game and in which ground do you get the biggest buzz? Reece Timmins, UK

Old Trafford and Wembley are great. You get shivers down the back of your neck when you walk out at those grounds. I don't get really nervous. I get a few butterflies but I'm not a nervous person. When I do get nervous, I just think: 'Calm down. I'm going out, I'm kicking a ball around and then I'm going home.' That's how I look at it.

Which team-mate is the toughest to play against in training? Dan Lear, Bristol, UK

Nani. He's tricky. If he makes me look silly though, I usually give him a little pinch on the back of the arm!

Which upcoming youth players do you think have a big chance in breaking through to the first team?Tyrone Wright, Manchester, UK

Let's be honest, there are a lot of very talented players in our youth and rokeserve teams. I think Will Keane is a good player. Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison are top as well. Larnell Cole and Zeki Fryers look good as well. Those are the guys who have stood our for me when we played Aldershot and when I watched them at Leeds. They sometimes come and train with us as well. To be fair, all the young lads at the club are talented. If they weren't they wouldn't be here.

Where is you favourite holiday destination?Sameer Varma, India

I'd have to say Dubai. There are loads of shops, nice hotels and good restaurants, and good weather. You can go on safari adventures, you can go up the tallest building... It's nice.

Are you worried that your versatility could count against you and stop you making one position your own?Gareth Robins, Carterton, UK

No, not at all. I think versatility is always an advantage. It allows you to play more. I don't see how it could be a disadvantage. Hopefully in time I'll nail down a regular place in a set position. For now, though, I'm just happy to play football.

Who are the team jokers off the pitch at United, and have you been the victim of any pranks yet?Kevin Kevin, USA

Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney are the main ones. They try and make me the victim but it always backfires. I make a swift exit.

If you were able to celebrate your birthday anywhere you wanted, where would you do it? Fariz Attamimi, Singapore

Las Vegas. I'm going there for my 21st in 2013 and I can't wait.

If you were going to give advice for somebody who wants to make it in football, what would your top five tips be? Robert Ormson, Runcorn

You have to be focused and you have to know what you want. You have to make a lot of sacrifices. It's not easy when you're growing up to stay in when all your mates are going out. That's tough. You also have to be prepared to give absolutely everything. You can't give 50 per cent or even 99 per cent - you have to give everything you've got when you're on the pitch and on the training ground.

What has been your favourite moment in a Manchester United shirt so far? Luke Joyce, Sutton Coldfield

My favourite moment was probably winning the Community Shield. I'd never won a competitive trophy before. That was really nice and probably my favourite moment so far. I've had a lot of good moments so far but that was probably the best one. I thought to myself at Wembley: 'I've been here two minutes and I've already got a trophy.' I used to think, 'I can't stand that club when they always score in the last minute.' But now I love it. I'm not complaining one bit.

Do you have any pre-match rituals? Shanker Vasu, Malaysia

Yeah. This sounds really stupid... but it depends on whether we're home or away. The fixtures list United on the left when we're at home and on the right when we're away. So this weekend I'll put my right sock on first because it will be Swansea v United. Next week, if I play against Benfica at Old Trafford, I'll put my left sock on. Also, when I walk onto the pitch, I'll take the first step across the white line with the foot that corresponds to whether we're home or away. This will sound proper over-the-top, but you know when you go to a hotel room and there are two towels hanging down? When I was on international duty last week, I picked the towel on the left because we were at home against Spain. I know it's weird but I can't help myself. Nobody knows about it so nobody has ever noticed... although I guess the secret's out now.

It's injury time... which would you rather do, score the winner or stop a goalbound shot?Aakash Karia, London, UK

Either way you're going to be the hero. But, taking into consideration the fact that I haven't scored a competitive goal in my career yet, I'd have to say score a goal. And then run out of the stadium.

As we all know you're a very versatile player. Which do you consider to be your best position and is there any position you can't play in? Mark Noble, Ipswich, UK

I used to play right midfield when I was younger. I also played striker when I was younger. The only positions I've never played in are left midfield, left-back and goalkeeper. My favourite position is centre-back and I think that's where I'll end up as my career develops. The bottom line is that I enjoy playing football and I'll play anywhere. I think I'd be decent in goal, to be fair. I'd fling myself around a lot.

What's your favourite TV programme? Jake Forte, Beziers, UK

I don't have one. I like watching MTV Cribs, Family Guy... I'm not really into soaps or X-Factor or Big Brother. I do like The Only Way Is Essex and I liked The InBetweeners when that was on. I don't like I'm A Celebrity, either. Why would I want to sit and put myself through watching people eat disgusting food?

In your short time at Old Trafford what different things have you learned about your game?Mark Hughes, Manchester

I think I've come on a lot. Not that I wasn't technically good before - I was reasonable - but when you're training with these guys every day you're bound to improve. My feet have quickened, I can shift the ball a lot quicker. And the more I keep training with these guys the better I'll get. I'm looking forward to that.

If you were to score the winner in a Champions League final what would your goal celebration be like? Danny Spittle, Stourbridge, UK

I'm not sure but it would probably be worthy of a yellow card (laughs)! I'd probably jump into the crowd, take my top off, slide on my knees... I'd probably run out of the ground and then come back in again. I have no idea... that would be amazing, though.

What do you remember about your first day at United? Georgian-Sorin Maxim, Denmark

It was in Seattle. I remember coming in with the other Under-21 lads - Danny Welbeck, Chris Smalling and Tom Cleverley. The team had been training and we were sitting in the lunch room eating. Then the squad came in and shook my hand and introduced themselves. I was nervous. Who wouldn't be? I was meeting all these players I'd grown up watching.

Did the older players in the squad make you do any sort of initiation ceremony when you joined the club? Erik Jonsson, Sweden

They didn't, no. I got away with it! They were all telling me I'd have to do a song. I just told them I wasn't doing one. I probably would have done it if they'd made me. What would I have sung? I'd have probably sung something like The Script's The Man Who Can't Be Moved.

What does it feel like being compared to Duncan Edwards and being touted as the captain of England one day?Jason Ho, Manchester, UK

It's incredible to hear people saying that. To be mentioned in the same sentence as Duncan Edwards is a huge honour. He was playing well before my time but I certainly knew about him growing up. It inspires me to go on and become a better player. It makes me want to work even harder in training. As for the England captaincy, it's nice as well. But I need to keep my feet on the ground and play well for Manchester United. Then I'll keep getting the chance to play for England. If I could captain England one day then I think that would be the pinnacle of my career.

Phil, who has impressed you the most at United since you joined the club? Luke Clark, UK

It would be horrible for me to single out one individual player because there are so many talented footballers here. Everybody's good in their own different, talented way. Some people have quick feet and are skilful, others have their own talents. But Giggs probably stands out the most, just because of how physically fit he is. He just keeps on going. You'd never believe how old he is. I'm not calling him old, by the way! He's still young, but his desire to keep playing and keep winning is incredible.

Do you have any fears or phobias? Alan Flatley, Kilkelly, Ireland

When I go abroad I can't go in lifts. I don't mind it in England but I can't do it when I go away. When I was young we went away on holiday to Greece and we got stuck in a lift for a few hours. It was horrible. I felt so claustrophobic.

If you were asked to play in a World XI at centre-back, who would you like the other three defenders in the line-up to be? Ryan Walters, Tenby, UK

Wow, that's a tricky one. Good question. At left-back I'll choose Roberto Carlos. At right-back we'll go with Dani Alves. Alongside me in the middle I'll say Gerard Pique. That would be a good back four.

How does it feel to have made such an impact in such a short period of time at the club?John Alexander, Northern Ireland

It's nice. I probably didn't expect for it to happen this quickly but I'm loving every minute of it. I love playing football and hopefully it can continue if I keep playing well.

How does playing for Manchester United compare to playing for Blackburn Rovers? Nicola Rea, Preston, UK

Obviously the standard of football is different - that's no disrepect to Blackburn as they were fantastic to me. But playing with better players makes you a better player. The tempo we play at is a lot quicker and the fan base at United is ridiculously huge. It's massive all over the world. Even now, we're probably gettig questions in from people in 80 different countries in the world.

As a footballer do you set your goals short or long term? Theodosis Charalambous, Cyprus

I think you always have a long-term goal in the back of your mind. You want to be the best you can be. But I tend to set short-term goals because they're more achievable.

What do you want for Christmas?
Shaun Birch, Stroud

My mum keeps asking me this! I don't know. This is going to sound like I'm about 40 but I want some nice paintings and pictures to put around my house. House things... ornaments, tables, chairs. Stuff like that. I've got an obsession with clocks. I've got a pool table and a massive circular one just behind it. I do like watches, too, but I've only just started to get into them.

What is the best thing about Manchester?Robert Hatton, Warrington, UK

Manchester's a great city. It's got shops and nice restaurants as well as quiet places to go. My favourite restaurants are Wings, Gaucho Grill, Piccolinis, San Carlo... I went to Rosso's, Rio's place, and it was fantastic. I had lamb shank and it was to die for. The meat just capitulated off the bone...

If you play the FIFA / Pro Evo video game do you put yourself in defence, midfield or even up front? Richard Fry, Burghclere, UK

I'm a FIFA man. All day. I don't use myself on FIFA - I'm too slow! If I do pick myself I play at centre-back. I didn't really get involved in FIFA on the US tour because I'd just joined the club, but I remember playing with Rio Ferdinand once and we won. Wayne Rooney thinks he's the FIFA god but I think he's all talk, no action. I played Danny Welbeck the other day and he's currently 6-5 up in terms of games. But I'd like to put it on record that I'm the bestFIFA player at the club. I have the finger co-ordination to be the best at this club (on PS3, not X-Box).

You seem to have settled in quickly at United. Has playing with Danny Welbeck, Tom Cleverley and Chris Smalling at international level helped you in this?Arman Zamanzadeh, Iran

Yeah, absolutely. I knew them well from the Under-21s setup and grew up with them in that age group. We knew each other's game and we understood each other. It's also nice to come into the club and know you can speak to somebody straight away and not be shy or nervous. Coming to a club like Manchester United can be nerve-wracking but I settled in straight away. Everybody - players and staff - have made me feel very welcome

Suarez charged by FA

16/11/2011 17:36, Report by Adam Marshall

Luis Suarez has been charged by the FA following the on-field spat with Patrice Evra during United's 1-1 draw at Anfield last month.

Sir Alex admitted recently that Evra was keen to press on with the matter after claiming a racial term of abuse was used by the Uruguayan as they clashed on the field.

The full statement reads: "The FA has today charged Liverpool's Luis Suarez following an incident that occurred during the Liverpool versus Manchester United fixture at Anfield on 15 October 2011.

"It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Manchester United's Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules. It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Patrice Evra. The FA will issue no further comment at this time."

Liverpool issued their own statement in response to the charge, insisting: "We will discuss the matter fully with him when he returns from international duty, but he will plead not guilty and we expect him to request a personal hearing."

source : Manutd

Your questions for Phil Jones

Phil Jones is taking part in a live webchat this Thursday, 17 November, at 13:00 GMT.*

Join us then or log in to submit your questions in advance now.

The fan asking the best question, as selected by Phil, will win a shirt signed by the player.

15/11/2011 18:56, Report by Adam Bostock

ManUtd.com is hosting an exclusive live webchat with Phil Jones on Thursday 17 November* – and you can post your advance questions now.

Jones has impressed Manchester United fans, players and pundits alike since his summer transfer from boyhood favourites Blackburn Rovers. The 19 year-old has made 17 competitive appearances for the Reds so far, in a variety of positions from right-back to centre-back and, in one game away to Liverpool, in central midfield. He also occupied the latter position for England twice during the international break, mixing it with Xavi and Iniesta in the friendly win over world champions Spain before lining up against Sweden.

With the domestic action returning in earnest this month with games in the Barclays Premier League, Carling Cup and Champions League, Jones will be rolling up his red sleeves once again on the trail to hopefully collecting more silverware with United. He already has one winner's medal of course, from the Community Shield win over Manchester City.

You can post a question for Phil during Thursday's live chat, or submit your question now in advance by logging into or registering with ManUtd.com. The fan whose question is considered to be the best by Phil will win a United shirt signed by the man himself.

*The webchat is expected to start at 13:00 GMT on Thursday, subject to United's training schedule and Phil's other commitments.

source : Manutd

Visa card for Malaysian Reds

11/11/2011 16:40,

Manchester United is pleased to announce the launch of Manchester United Visa in partnership with Maybank, Malaysia’s largest banking group.

To celebrate the launch, club legend Gary Pallister will be attending a bus tour around Kuala Lumpur and allowing fans to have a glimpse of the Premier League trophy.

Much more than a standard Visa card, Manchester United Visa enables fans in Malaysia to interact with the club in a whole new way with regular rewards and privileges, including earning points every time the team wins a Premier League game. Points earned can then go towards receiving items signed by the players. There will also be the opportunity to win a once in a lifetime trip to Old Trafford to watch United take on rivals Liverpool as well as watch the team train.

United’s Commercial Director, Richard Arnold welcomed the deal. He said:

“When the team last visited Malaysia in 2009 we were overwhelmed by the reception we received, with over 200,000 fans visiting the team during the tour’s training sessions, signings and games. The passion, loyalty and enthusiasm of our Malaysian fans is something we recognise and we are hoping our relationship with Maybank and the launch of Manchester United Visa will allow us to give something back. This partnership is an important part of our on-going plans to engage with the club’s fans around the world.”

Chairman of Maybank, Tan Sri Dato’ Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor said:

“The launch of this co-brand card is part of Maybank’s strategy to work with leading brands to continuously offer distinct value to customers."

source : Manutd

Sir Alex's fairytale

Sir Alex admits his 25 glorious years in charge of United have been something of a "fairytale".

The boss celebrates the remarkable landmark on Sunday after being appointed in 1986 and is vowing to continue in the job for as long as his health allows him.

"It's been a really fantastic spell for me and something you don't think is going to happen," he stated. "It's been a bit of a fairytale to last so long and I appreciate that.

"I've been very fortunate to have some of the best players in the game and, when I look back on these players I think about how fortunate I am. It's incredible when you look at who's been here - Bryan Robson, Norman Whiteside, Brian McClair, Mark Hughes, Paul Ince, Roy Keane, Eric Cantona. What a collection of fantastic players.

"It's hard to think I actually controlled all these players for so long. Today, we have so many players with different personalities from different cultures."

Even though the manager has overseen many changes to the game, he is still very much up for the challenge of keeping United competitive on all fronts.

"I'll continue as long as I feel healthy enough to do it," he insisted. "In management, things change as the years go on. It's different now even to seven or eight years ago. A lot of things have changed."

source : manutd

Boss: Class of 92 no one-off

"It's ridiculous to think that, in 2011, you can only pick a boy who lives near Old Trafford. Barcelona signed a boy from China, one from Japan and that sums it up."
- Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex has predicted that the success of introducing so many players into the first-team from the Class of '92 will happen again.

Many pundits view the emergence of the likes of Gary Neville, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt at the same time as unique with the boss able to promote so many youth-teamers into his starting line-up.

Last season's FA Youth Cup victors drew some flattering comparisons with the stars of yesteryear and are continuing to make progress through the ranks at Old Trafford.

And the manager is in no doubt that the club will continue to reap the benefits of a productive Academy system, particularly now the rules are being changed to allow the scouts to cast a wider net.

"The class of 1992 wasn't a one-off," he insisted. "It will happen again. A club like Manchester United will always keep chasing the dream that we'll get another bunch of lads like that again.

"If the Academy system changes to how it should be, then we're capable of doing that. It's ridiculous to think that, in 2011, you can only pick a boy who lives near Old Trafford. Barcelona signed a boy from China, one from Japan and that sums it up."

The move to Carrington has been a major factor in helping United develop young talent and provide first-class facilities for all the staff with more enhancements of the complex planned.

"The club is massive now," added Sir Alex. "The great thing was that we moved from The Cliff to Carrington. That was the best thing that ever happened to the club.

"The Cliff had a great history but it was too small. We couldn't have achieved what we've achieved now had we stayed. There's no way we could have accommodated 110 staff at The Cliff as we do at Carrington."

source : manutd

Sir Alex Ferguson will never really leave Manchester United behind

As the great Scot celebrates 25 years at Old Trafford, those who followed Matt Busby know how tricky the succession will be.

•  Daniel Taylor

• guardian.co.uk, Friday 4 November 2011 11.42 GMT

The Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, does not like talking about retirement. Photograph: Dave Thompson/PA

It was not the best of starts. The first match, a quarter of a century ago, was a 2-0 defeat on a bumpy pitch at Oxford United. In the dressing room, Alex Ferguson was finding it hard to disguise his nerves.
"I can remember him naming the team," Peter Davenport says. "He went through the defence and midfield and said: 'Right, up front, Frank and Nigel. OK lads?' There was a pause, then Robbo said: 'Nigel? Who's Nigel?' Fergie points at me and goes: 'Him, Nigel Davenport.' He'd got me confused with the actor from Howards' Way."
What has happened over the following 25 years identifies Ferguson as a man of phenomenal staying power and consistency. Sir Matt Busby was 62 when he closed his reign at Manchester United. Brian Clough left the game at 58. At Liverpool, Bob Paisley lasted until 64. Bill Shankly was 60. Nobody has managed longer than Ferguson at the highest level. Or with greater competitive courage. Never has a manager been so relentless in his ambition and so deeply embedded in the business of winning football matches and forming history.
He turns 70 next month and the mind goes back to 2003, when Sir Bobby Robson reached that age. Ferguson sat behind his desk at United's training ground and blew out his cheeks in disbelief. He was asked whether he could see himself going on so long and his response was delivered like a slap. "No bloody chance."
It has been an epic run. The 25th anniversary arrives on Sunday, and still there is no sign of the system getting the better of him. Retirement, Ferguson once said, is for other people. As long as he has his health, he says, he will continue to work, and he cites the cancer diagnosis of his father, Alexander, within a week of retiring from the Fairfields shipyard in Govan. "There are too many examples of people who retire and are in their box soon after. Because you're taking away the very thing that makes you alive."
But there will come a time when Ferguson has to cut himself free. Retirement isn't something he can file away in a drawer and when it comes to the lessons of history, the Busby handover and the ordeals of the men who replaced him, the critical question is how Ferguson will make his retreat and whether the club can manage the loss without repeating the mistakes made before.
Wilf McGuinness inherited the team from Busby in 1969 and, by his own admission, was never fully accepted by the senior players. Probably because he was not Busby. Now 74, his affection for United still shines brightly but he, better than anybody, understands how difficult it can be to replace the man behind an empire.
"Did I feel I had the full respect of all the players all the time?" he says. "Sadly, the honest answer has to be 'not really'."
He lasted eight months before Busby reappointed himself as manager. Or "four seasons", as McGuinness prefers to describe it: "Summer, autumn, winter and spring – and summer was the most successful."
McGuinness recalls it as "a supremely harrowing period". A mutinous one, too. McGuinness dropped Bobby Charlton and Denis Law and tried to assert some authority. One player went to the Sunday Times with his grievances, complaining on condition of anonymity that Busby's replacement was so bad at his job he would waste £1m if he were given it to spend. The transfer record at the time was £165,000.
It may be that the manager second in line to Ferguson has the more desirable job. The first man in will have to possess unbreakable self-belief, if such a man exists. Every trophy, every memorable achievement, every European campaign will be set against his predecessor's record. Every defeat will be accompanied by sniping that he is not a patch on the last man.
"You're going to need someone very experienced," Ferguson says. "It's not going to be a job for a young manager."
David Gill, the United chief executive, will be in charge of the process, though he says Ferguson will be prominently involved. "It would be a collective body, not a big body, but we would get all the input to make sure we make the appropriate choice. There won't be meltdown. It will clearly be a sea change for the club and we have to be ready."
But United made similar noises in 2002, when Ferguson was supposed to retire, and the man they chose, Sven-Goran Eriksson, is now regarded at Old Trafford as a dodged bullet. Since Eriksson took the call to inform him Ferguson had changed his mind, he has closed out his time with England then hopped between jobs with Manchester City (11 months), Mexico (10 months), Notts County (seven months), Ivory Coast (three months) and Leicester City (12 months). Six jobs on three continents, five of them since 2006.
José Mourinho is the name at the top of every betting-shop board, ahead of Pep Guardiola and David Moyes third, but for now all that can be said with certainty is that whoever comes in will be spared some of the issues that faced Ferguson when he replaced Ron Atkinson in 1986.
Atkinson had let his team grow old, whereas Ferguson has unselfishly hoarded players who may not reach their potential until well after he is gone. His goalkeeper, David de Gea, could be at Old Trafford for a decade. Ditto a back four of Rafael da Silva, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Fábio da Silva. "These young players are the future of Manchester United," Ferguson says, and there is a stark contrast to be drawn with the club he found 25 years ago.
One of Ferguson's first instructions to United's board was to start clearing out the older players and replace them with younger versions. A friend asked Ferguson what he made of the youth policy Atkinson had left behind. "What youth policy?" he replied. "He's left me a shower of shit."
Frank O'Farrell also inherited an ageing team. He took over from Busby in 1971 and lasted 81 matches. He reflects on it being "a bit like following Lord Olivier on stage".
O'Farrell, like McGuinness, ran into problems with the older, more established players. "I once made Denis Law substitute and he didn't want to sit on the bench to watch the game," he says. "He wanted to stay in the dressing room."
In the words of McGuinness, Busby was "the perfect role model for any aspiring manager, but an extremely difficult act to follow. Matt had so much knowledge, but he was also an immensely mature character with that wonderful deep voice. He had a certain aura, a magnetic presence which exuded calmness and reassurance. In contrast, I was not particularly mature and my voice was not remarkable in any way, except for being loud."
O'Farrell has just put his memories into a book that will make hard reading for anyone who considers Busby to be flawless of character. All Change at Old Trafford depicts Busby as a man who could not let go.
"When I arrived, Matt was still in the manager's office and there were workmen constructing a new small office for the new manager – me – down the corridor," O'Farrell, who is now 84, says. "The alarm bells started ringing. Matt was not manager any more, but he was still going to keep the office."
Busby had taken on the role of "junior director" but, according to O'Farrell, he interfered with team matters to the point where he became "a hindrance". Busby had "a streak of vindictiveness" and at one point berated O'Farrell for leaving out the 34-year-old Charlton and criticised him for playing Martin Buchan, one of the new manager's signings.
"A lot of the senior players had a close relationship with Matt, even playing golf with him, and they'd take their gripes to him," O'Farrell says. "I suspect he would be saying he would have done things differently. Matt questioned my decisions and created discontent. He wasn't the manager, but he couldn't let go."
The point is relevant because Ferguson has said that after he steps down as manager, he will stay at Old Trafford in a new role. What that will be is not clear, but a boardroom position is possible. O'Farrell has said that would be a mistake. "What happened once could happen again. Sir Alex will find it almost impossible to remain a part of the club and resist still being a counsellor and guru to his old players."
This is not a subject the man himself is willing to debate at length. Ferguson does not like to talk about retirement, and tends to greet questions on the subject with one of those stares that can make you feel as though you have sawdust in your mouth. When it is unavoidable, like this week, he will shift awkwardly in his seat, like a pools winner who has forgotten to tick the no-publicity box.
At his press conference this week the first question about his anniversary was met by his stock rebuttal: "I'm nae getting into that." Later, his position relaxed and, as he reminisced on the last quarter of a century, the 37 trophies and some of the lead performers – "Robson, Whiteside, McClair, Hughes, Ince, Keane – God – Cantona. What a collection" – before enthusing about the new generation, we were reminded of the fundamental reason why he does not want to contemplate a future without football.
Football is the thing that makes the most sense of his life. Twenty-five years at Manchester United? "It's a fairytale," Ferguson said.
And retirement? "All I can say is that I'm looking forward to the next 25 years."
source : theguardian

Anderson rated doubtful

03/11/2011 12:05, Report by A Marshall & N Coppack

Anderson has emerged as a doubt for United's Barclays Premier League clash with Sunderland on Saturday.

The Brazilian midfielder was substituted during the second half of the 2-0 win against Otelul Galati and could miss the encounter with Steve Bruce's Black Cats, joining Chris Smalling, Ashley Young and Tom Cleverley on the sidelines.

Skipper Nemanja Vidic is available for domestic duty despite his European suspension but the boss is waiting for a clearer picture of the injury situation following the Champions League victory.

"Vidic will be back but maybe Anderson is the one player who picked up an injury last night," said the boss. "We'll see what he's like. He could be doubtful.

"There will be no returns for Young, Smalling or Cleverley though."

There is no update on Michael Owen after he was injured during the lead-up to Antonio Valencia's opening goal on Wednesday night.

"Michael injured his thigh when he made the run across the front post for the first goal," explained Sir Alex. "It's a killer for him. He started the season well, he's been training terrifically. His two performances in the League Cup have been great. He made the goal last night, no doubt about that. I hope he's not out for too long. We've assessed him this morning, he's had a scan but we don't have any results from that yet."

Michael Carrick returned to full training this week but Darren Fletcher wasn't available for the Galati game.

source : manutd.com

Chinese fans queued outside the Olympic Stadium in Beijing on Friday to visit United's 'Champions Experience'.

Champions arrive in Beijing

28/10/2011 14:53, Report by Richard Johnson

United's 'Champions Experience' opened its doors to the public of Beijing on Friday, on the doorstep of the iconic Olympic 'Bird's Nest' Stadium.

The experience takes fans through the history of each one of the Reds’ 19 league title wins, displaying artefacts which rarely leave the Old Trafford museum, such as the first ever league medal won by United, shirts worn by Denis Law, Teddy Sheringham and Ruud van Nistelrooy, and boots worn by Wayne Rooney and David Beckham.

The finale to the exhibition is a stunning Epson 3D projection showcase, which shows United’s stars in a completely new dimension.

The experience has previously been to Shanghai and was well received by the Beijing fans with over 2,000 visitors on Friday alone.

As well as the Champions Experience, the Barclays Premier League Trophy Tour is also on site, which gives fans a chance to see a number of interactive displays, as well as get close to the silverware.

If seeing United memorablia isn't enough, there are also giveaways happening all day and the chance to enter a lucky draw to win a shirt signed by members of the United team.

The experience is free to the public and open from 10am to 6pm on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th October.

source : www.manutd.com

Chicha at The Christie

12/09/2011 13:45,

Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez proved to be a hit with teenage cancer patients when he took the Barclays Premier League trophy on a special visit to The Christie in Manchester.

The Mexican striker toured the renowned cancer hospital and showed off the team’s famous silverware to patients in the teenage and young adult oncology unit. Former Reds midfielder Mickey Thomas joined Chicharito in signing autographs and chatting to football fans on the wards while coaching staff from the Manchester United Foundation engaged patients in a range of games to help promote the benefits of physical activity during their cancer treatment.

As one of the official charity partners of Manchester United, The Christie was a key destination on the club's 10-day local trophy tour of Manchester United Foundation projects, schools and supporters' clubs.

After posing for photos with patients and the Premier League trophy, Chicharito said: “I'm very happy, it's a pleasure to be here and visit these people. They unfortunately have some problems but hopefully with this visit and the trophy, we can make them happy today. That's the most important thing.

"It's very important for Manchester United players to visit places like The Christie because we can see another side of life. After all, we are very lucky, firstly because we're very healthy but also because we do what we love which is playing football. I've always said I'm a lucky guy.

"The patients were very happy to meet me and see the trophy. They enjoyed it and that's the most important thing."

Cancer patient Quang Pham, a 19 year-old from Hanoi, Vietnam studying in Manchester, said: "It's so amazing to meet Chicharito. He's my favourite player, I was just speechless when I saw him. I can't believe I've had my picture taken with him and the Premier League trophy. Everyone at Christie's was really happy to see him here."

Jenny Haskey, head of corporate fundraising and sporting events at The Christie, added: "We were delighted Chicharito came to visit our teenage cancer patients and show off the trophy. These patients are going through the most difficult times of their lives so visits like these are a great motivational boost."

The trophy was later put on display at The Christie to allow other patients to have their photograph taken with it.

The official charity partnership between The Christie and Manchester United has raised more than £300,000 for the teenage and young adult cancer unit since 2007. For more information about The Christie charity, please visit www.christies.org.

source : manutd