Boss: Draw was a travesty

26/11/2011 17:19, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson felt his Manchester United players were hugely unlucky not to take three points from the tussle with Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

The Reds went ahead through Javier Hernandez shortly after half-time but were pegged back by Demba Ba's penalty after Rio Ferdinand's tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa inside the box. Despite carving out a host of chances, the champions were unable to beat Tim Krul and his solid defence for a second time, even though the Magpies went down to ten men after Jonas Gutierrez's red card.

"It was a fantastic performance from us," said Sir Alex. "Alan Pardew said Newcastle were the better team in the first half - I don't know what game he was at! Chicharito had four clear chances and we played some great football. The second half was just an onslaught and to not get three points from that is just a travesty.

"I'm not concerned if we're playing like that. Most of the time, we'd score three or four goals in that game. Their goalkeeper made some fantastic saves, there were shots blocked, cleared off the line and we had one or two bad misses. So it's just an incredible result."

The boss was obviously upset to see referee Mike Jones point to the spot after consulting his assistant on what looked to be a clean challenge by Ferdinand in the second half.

"I think it was everyone's view [that it was a fair tackle], including the referee as he thought Rio won the ball because he gave the corner kick," explained Sir Alex. "He let the assistant referee over-rule him.

"We had a situation a few weeks ago when the linesman gave a penalty kick to Sunderland for handball [against Nemanja Vidic].

"The referee [that day] was put in a terrible quandary in between what to do as he knew fine well it wasn't a penalty and over-ruled his linesman. It's what the referee should have done today."

The manager also bemoaned the crucial touch from Michael Carrick which meant Hernandez was in an offside position as he tucked in Ryan Giggs' injury-time cross.

"We kept making chances and that's the normal pattern of these last 15-minute surges," he added. "We do get chances and usually do okay. We were unlucky with the offside as, if Michael doesn't touch it, Chicharito is onside.

"They had a few blocks and put their bodies on the line all the time. Give credit to Newcastle but we absolutely slaughtered them and we just couldn't get the result. It's disappointing in that respect but, if we play like that every week, I'll be very happy."

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

International Reds round-up

15/11/2011 22:30, Report by Adam Marshall

International Reds

Phil Jones (ENGLAND v Sweden)

Nani (PORTUGAL v Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Darron GIBSON (REP.IRELAND v Estonia)

Anders Lindegaard (DENMARK v Finland)

Senior internationals only

Phil Jones played the full 90 minutes for England in the 1-0 friendly win against Sweden at Wembley.

The United youngster stormed through the visiting defence in the first half and rolled his finish inches wide when he looked set to score his first goal for Fabio Capello's team. Instead, an own goal by Daniel Majstorovic proved the difference between the two teams. Danny Welbeck withdrew from the squad through injury.

Nani hit an absolute screamer in Portugal's 6-2 battering of Bosnia-Herzegovina that ensures the winger will get the chance to star in another major tournament next summer. The United ace collected a ball in the middle of the Bosnia half and unleashed a right-foot rocket to add to Cristiano Ronaldo's opener.

Portugal eventually won comfortably with a couple of late goals ensuring the scoreline was maybe a little misleading and Nani came off with seven minutes to go after a good evening's work.

Darron Gibson's Republic of Ireland also clinched a place at Euro 2012, as expected, with a 1-1 draw enough to seal a 5-1 aggregate triumph over Estonia. The midfielder did not feature in the Dublin draw.

Anders Lindegaard kept goal as Denmark won their fifth game in a row, coming from behind to beat Finland 2-1. A mistake at the back allowed Kasper Hamalainen through on goal and, although Lindegaard saved, Alexei Eremenko converted the rebound. However, the Danes hit back thanks to goals in quick succession by Daniel Agger and Nicklas Bendtner.

source : Manutd

De Gea on track with Spain

15/11/2011 12:08, Report by Adam Bostock

United goalkeeper David De Gea helped Spain’s next generation notch a fifth consecutive win in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers on Monday night.

The Reds’ number one kept a clean sheet as goals from Iker Muniain, Thiago Alcantara and Marc Bartra secured a comfortable 3-0 win over Switzerland – the same team De Gea and company defeated in July’s final.

“We were crowned European champions in the summer but the great thing is that good players are continuing to come through,” said Spain’s Under-21 coach Luis Milla.

“We have to continue along this path − the process of qualifying remains on track."

Two other young Reds, Will Keane and Robbie Brady, were also in action for their country’s Under-21 sides. Keane collected his second England cap at that level as a 78th-minute substitute, as Stuart Pearce’s side lost 2-1 by conceding an injury-time goal in Belgium. Liverpool pair Jordan Henderson and Martin Kelly had earlier combined to give the visitors a first-half lead, the latter heading in from his team-mate’s free-kick.

England remain top of qualifying Group 8 however, having won their first four fixtures in a row including last Thursday’s 5-0 thumping of Iceland when Keane made his debut.

The Republic of Ireland, meanwhile, are third in Group 7 after United winger Brady scored a penalty and set up the other goal for Aidan White in their 2-0 home win over Liechtenstein.

source : Manutd

Hernandez hails youth benefit at Manchester United

COMPETITION ... Javier Hernandez has hailed the depth of Man Utd's squad

JAVIER HERNANDEZ believes Manchester United's youngsters are keeping the established players motivated.

The 23-year-old may be considered a first-choice forward alongside Wayne Rooney but Danny Welbeck has made a big impression this season.

And with the likes of fellow-youngster Phil Jones making an immediate impact after his summer transfer from Blackburn, Hernandez thinks there is a healthy rivalry within the squad.

The Mexico international said: "You look around on the training pitch and there are almost 30 players but only 11 can start a game so it's tough.

"It's not a problem. I've come to learn that there will always be competition, at any club.

"You'll always have disappointments. It helps you improve, though.

"On the training ground everybody wants to do their best, they want to prove what they can do and earn a spot in the team.

"We have a lot of young players who are hungry to do well and that helps inspire the rest of the squad.

"They may have been here for many years and won a lot of trophies but they still have a lot of desire.

"I think we have a good mix of youth and experience and that will be very important for us." 

source : The Sun

Papers: Step up for Scholes?

14/11/2011 09:30

Scholes ready to move up managerial ladder

Paul Scholes is ready to move up the Manchester United managerial pecking order – as his ‘boss’ Warren Joyce heads back to Hull City. Reserve team manager Joyce, 46, will be allowed to return to Humberside, where he was Tigers gaffer from 1998-2000. And assistant Scholes is set to step into his shoes at United. Hull could snap up Joyce without paying compensation, with Sir Alex Ferguson using the move to promote Scholes. Joyce takes charge of United reserves while Scholes listens and learns from the vociferous coach. Now the Old Trafford legend could assume control to see if he can cut it at that level. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer previously did the job before moving to Norway. Hull have considered MK Dons boss Karl Robinson, but are swaying towards Joyce – with Nick Barmby, 37, likely to be in his backroom team at the KC Stadium.
Alan Nixon, Daily Star

Meanwhile, the Guardian report that there has been a delay in the row involving Patrice Evra and Liverpool's Luis Suarez. The FA have told Evra he may not be able to prove his racism claims against Suarez due to linguistic subtleties. Suarez has categorically denied racially abusing the Frenchman and the FA's investigators are having to consider the different context with which words that would be considered offensive in England are commonly used in Uruguay and other Spanish-speaking countries.

source : Manutd

McIlroy: Best XI is tough task

14/11/2011 10:49, Report by Adam Marshall

"It's so hard to look at all the different eras because, in every one, there's been great players. It's one of the hardest things I've ever done."

- Sammy McIlroy

Sammy McIlroy may have managed at international level but he admits picking United's all-time best XI was one of the "hardest things I've ever done."

The former Reds midfielder, who played for and managed Northern Ireland as well as taking charge of several league clubs, was on a legends' panel for Manchester United's Greatest Ever XI, the official 4-disc DVD set out today.

"It's so hard to compare players from all the different eras, because there have been great players throughout Manchester United's history," McIlroy told ManUtd.com.

"I made my debut in 1971 and it's hard enough just choosing between all the players I was lucky enough to play with - Bryan Robson, Lou Macari, Alex Stepney, George Best, Jimmy Greenhoff, Willie Morgan, Brian Kidd... I could go on and on and on. Picking just the one team is so difficult but that's a measure of Manchester United as a club - the biggest in the world with so many fantastic players."

McIlroy accepts the final line-up showcased on the DVD will have been influenced by the age of the fans voting on ManUtd.com earlier this year.

"You hear young kids say Cristiano Ronaldo was better than George Best or that Eric Cantona was better than Denis Law," said McIlroy. "Football is all about opinion. I'm sure the fans could pick numerous teams and they'd still be great sides."

ManUtd.com will review the XI, position by position, as this week unfolds.

source : Manutd

Chicha: Life is amazing

13/11/2011 12:09, Report by Nick Coppack

"In some ways I’m still getting used to wearing this shirt and being around these incredible players, seeing my name on a Manchester United teamsheet... it’s amazing. Some days I wake up and I just can’t believe it." – Javier Hernandez

In part two, Javier Hernandez talks to Inside United and ManUtd.com about his love for Manchester United, competition for starting berths and training in the snow.

Missed part one? Read it now in our exclusive interviews section. or in this site

Just how much are you enjoying life at United? 

It’s unbelievable. In some ways I’m still getting used to wearing this shirt and being around these incredible players, seeing my name on a Manchester United teamsheet... it’s amazing. Some days I wake up and I just can’t believe it. I’m living in this great country, playing for the best club in the world in the best league in the world. I’m so thankful for that.

It’s now even harder to win a spot in the Reds’ attack with Danny Welbeck, Mame Biram Diouf and Kiko Macheda all back in the United squad. How do you deal with the competition? 

It’s not a problem. I’ve come to learn that there will always be competition, at any club. You look around on the training pitch and there are almost 30 players, but only 11 can start a game. So it’s tough. You’ll always have disappointments. It helps you improve, though. On the training ground everybody wants to do their best, they want to prove what they can do and earn a spot in the team.

Did you know much about Welbeck before the start of this season? 

Yes, I’d seen him play quite a few times, and not only last year when he was on loan at Sunderland. I remember when I was in Mexico and I was watching Manchester United on television – Danny was just starting to come into the team and be given a few chances. You could see he had a lot of potential then, and was improving all the time. He was a good prospect then and now he’s even better. He’s had a great start to the season.

You haven’t scored from outside the area for United yet – though we know you can score those goals from your time at Chivas! What are the chances that you’ll fire one in from long-range this season? 

You never know! I think part of the reason I haven’t done that yet is because of the instructions I receive from Sir Alex. My job is to play very high, right on the last man. To be honest I don’t mind how I score goals – whether or not you score from one metre or from the halfway line, it counts the same. A goal is a goal.

You’ve been a very busy footballer in the last few seasons, playing in summer international tournaments as well as the regular season. Do you ever worry about doing too much, or are you happy you get enough rest? 

No, not at all. I love to play football. If somebody wants me to play in outer space then I’ll do it! I’d be happy to. Sometimes you can look at the schedule for Manchester United and for the national team and think, “Wow, this is a lot.” But I grew up wanting to play football and now I’m lucky it’s my job. I love it.

Sometimes players from the warmer countries can’t get used to the climate in England. Are you ready for your second Manchester winter? 

It was very different! Very cold. I’d never seen a winter like that anywhere. It was the coldest one for many years. And maybe it felt even colder for me because I spent something like 22 winters in Mexico and a winter in Mexico isn’t like winter at all. It never snows! Training in the snow was a bit of a challenge, but it was all new to me so I enjoyed it.

Winning the 19th league title last season was a huge achievement for United. Can this squad lift the trophy again?

I’m sure we can do it. We have a lot of young players who are hungry to do well, and that helps inspire the rest of the squad. They may have been here for many years and won a lot of trophies, but they still have a lot of desire. I think we have a good mix of youth and experience, and that will be very important for us.

source : Manutd

Reds duo aid England win

12/11/2011 19:18, Report by Adam Marshall

 

Young Reds Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck played their part in England's battling 1-0 win over Spain at Wembley.

The world champions were beaten by Frank Lampard's close-range header in the 49th minute after a Darren Bent effort came back off the inside of a post.

Jones worked hard in midfield even though Spain predictably dominated possession and his shift came to an end when he made way for debutant Jack Rodwell 11 minutes after the interval.

United were represented on the pitch again when Welbeck replaced Bent on 64 minutes and he kept Gerard Pique and company on their toes for the closing stages, including setting up a chance for Rodwell as Fabio Capello's team enjoyed a night to remember.

"The most important thing was the performance of Jones, Rodwell and Welbeck," commented Capello afterwards. "They will be important for the Euro 2012 finals."

source : Manutd

Hernandez nets for Mexico

12/11/2011 11:54, Report by Adam Marshall

Fixtures

Thursday 10 November
Gabon v Brazil

Friday 11 November
Cyprus v Scotland
Bosnia & Herzegovina v Portugal
Denmark v Sweden
Estonia v Rep. of Ireland
Mexico v Serbia
Paraguay v Ecuador
Guinea v Senegal

Senior internationals only

Javier Hernandez led the Reds in international action by getting on the scoresheet for Mexico in their 2-0 win against Serbia.

The scoreline flattered the Mexicans and the United striker was given a rough ride by defenders Branislav Ivanovic and Aleksander Kolarov. Chicharito was an inch away from supplying a touch to Carlos Salcido's cross that found the net anyway for an early opener.

After City's Kolarov was sent off for another foul on the striker, pushing him inside the box, there was a flare-up involving Hernandez as he was jostled by the bruising opponents. When the fuss died down, the unflappable hitman calmly scored from the spot with two minutes remaining.

In the Euro 2012 play-offs, Republic of Ireland have one foot in the Euro 2012 finals after an emphatic 4-0 triumph away to Estonia. Darron Gibson didn't make the bench but both he and Under-21 starlet Robbie Brady will hope to be in the squad for next summer's finals in Ukraine and Poland, providing Giovanni Trapattoni's men complete the job in Dublin.

Nani won his 50th cap for Portugal in a 0-0 draw away to Bosnia-Herzegovina that keeps things on a knife-edge going into the second leg on Tuesday.

Antonio Valencia earned praise from the local media for his performance but Ecuador slipped to a 2-1 reverse in Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier. The midfielder was reportedly "outstanding" and the "engine" of his team and helped set up the Tri's late goal.

On the friendly front, Darren Fletcher captained Scotland to a 2-1 success in Cyprus, although he was substituted after 63 minutes in Larnaca.

Anders Lindegaard didn't see in any action in Denmark's 2-0 friendly win over Sweden but Mame Biram Diouf scored the fourth goal for Senegal in their 4-1 crushing of Guinea. Fabio came off at half-time in Brazil's 2-0 victory over Gabon on Friday.

source : Manutd

Chicharito: I almost quit

11/11/2011 12:10, Report by Nick Coppack

"I talked a lot with my parents, my grandparents, my sister and my girlfriend about my situation, and they helped me realise that this is what I was meant to do. I know now that I’m a very lucky guy and I’m glad I made the decision to keep playing." – Javier Hernandez

For the last 18 months defenders have struggled to pin down United's fast-moving, fast-talking goal machine, Javier Hernandez. 

Thankfully, the club's official monthly magazine, Inside United, managed to halt the speedy Mexican for long enough to speak to him about his first impressions of Old Trafford, comparisons to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the day he almost quit football all together.

You can read part one below. Part two will follow on Sunday...

A few years ago, in Mexico, you thought about quitting football – how close did you come?
Very close. It was about three years ago and I had a lot of questions about whether or not this was the path God wanted me to follow. I wasn’t playing much football, I was being kept in the Reserves... I was disappointed younger players were coming through and getting ahead of me, and it really got me down, even away from football. I talked a lot with my parents, my grandparents, my sister and my girlfriend about my situation, and they helped me realise that this is what I was meant to do. I know now that I’m a very lucky guy and I’m glad I made the decision to keep playing. That experience taught me a lot. Sometimes, if you want something, but you don’t have it, then you can get mad with everyone around you and mad with yourself. I learnt it’s important to enjoy your life and enjoy your football. Ultimately, only God knows what path you will take and whether or not you will fulfil your dreams.

There is a perception that in ‘Latin’ countries, Real Madrid and Barcelona are acclaimed as the two biggest clubs in the world. What is the general view of Manchester United in Mexico?I am definitely aware the interest has increased since I have been at Old Trafford [laughs]. I’m so thankful to my Mexican fans, though – I have only nice things to say about them and I’m very grateful for their support. But even before I signed, Manchester United was huge, definitely one of the biggest clubs. And it’s not only in South America. In the USA in pre-season, you could see how many people came to watch the team and look for autographs outside the hotel. I read something recently that said the club had something like 330 million fans in the world. That’s amazing. I’ve also seen some footage from when United went to Asia in 2009. The love that people have for this club is spread all over the world and it’s an honour to play here. If you say the words ‘Manchester United’ in any part of the world, people know who you’re talking about.

You watched United play Bayern Munich at Old Trafford on your first trip to Manchester. What do you remember about that experience, and what were your first impressions of the stadium and the fans?
It was an unbelievable feeling. I remember the atmosphere around the ground. It was such an important game and you could really feel it – the fans were great. I couldn’t believe I was sitting inside Old Trafford, the Theatre of Dreams. This was something I had only ever seen on television, only dreamt of being inside. I had heard so many people talk about Old Trafford, but to be there was something very special. It made me so excited to know that in three or four months I might be playing there.

You were visibly upset after the Champions League final against Barcelona. Is that the biggest disappointment you’ve had in your career so far?No, not at all. Far from it. It was difficult, sure, but if you ask every person in the world if they want to play in a Champions League final for one of the biggest clubs, then I think they would say yes.

It was a fantastic experience in my first season at the club. There are more positives than negatives from a personal point of view. The one big negative, of course, is that we lost the match. At least I know that we have a strong team and we have every chance of reaching another final. I’m confident there will be more opportunities for success in the future. So although it was disappointing not to win, those are the kind of occasions you aim to be involved in as a footballer. I’ve definitely had worse moments in football.

You suffered a concussion during pre-season, which meant you missed the start of this campaign; how did you get the knock and how do you feel now?I just headed the ball on the wrong part of my head. It was a very strong cross, the ball moved in the air, and it hit me on the back of my head. A bit like the goal against Stoke, except a lot harder! It was a little scary, of course. I think all injuries – in football or in life – are scary and it’s never nice to have bad headaches or be throwing up. But I knew I would be OK. This had happened twice before in Mexico, when I’d clashed heads with another player. So I knew what was happening to me, I knew the symptoms and knew I’d feel OK again.

What’s your impression of defenders in the Premier League?There are a lot of differences to the defenders in Mexico, but I think a lot of that is down to the style of play. I think you have to play differently in every position. The Premier League is quicker, it’s more physical, so you have to adapt. I would say defenders in England have to be a lot sharper, ready to make a tackle or a block in a split second. Because of that, I think some of the best defenders in the world play here – they have to, because the strikers are so good. But I can’t single out one defender over another as my toughest opponent. If I’m honest, I’ve never had an easy game in the Premier League.

People have compared you to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – had you heard of him before you joined United?
Of course. He was a legend at this club, just an unbelievable player. When all the people made those comparisons, the only thing I can say is that I’m not even 10 per cent of Ole. He was incredible. Just turn on MUTV and watch any of the old footage featuring him – he was special. To be honest, I don’t like comparisons very much. Back in Mexico I was always being compared with my father, who was also a striker, and I never liked that. I think everybody is different and deserves to be judged on their own.

source : Manutd

Boss has personal touch

11/11/2011 10:00, Report by Adam Marshall

"Just in the way he speaks with you in the team-talk, before important games he can make you feel like it’s the last game you’ll play in your life so you go out there and want to give everything you have. It’s great - you just need to be there to see it."
- Dimitar Berbatov, MUTV

Dimitar Berbatov feels Sir Alex is one of the best man-managers in the game as the boss always manages to motivate his troops.

The Bulgarian has had to make the most of his opportunities due to squad rotation this term but realises the manager is always acting in the best interests of the team with his selections.

"Every player is different," he explained to MUTV. "Some players need to be pushed and others need to be talked to separately. For me, he just needs to come to me and tell me what to expect from the game and the training ground, then it is up to me to show I can play every game.

"I cannot speak for other players, but it is always good when the manager comes to ask how you're feeling and makes you feel calm before you play the game. For me, he knows how to motivate you and how to speak with you, about football or some issues you have outside of football.

"Just in the way he speaks with you in the team-talk, before important games he can make you feel like it’s the last game you’ll play in your life so you go out there and want to give everything you have. It’s great - you just need to be there to see it."

Berbatov believes Sir Alex always has his eye on the bigger picture, even if he's keen to mix with the players and keep spirits high.

"Every time a players retires or goes to another club, he always a back-up plan on how to replace the player and build the team again," added the former Spurs striker.

"The way he treats players is unbelievable. Even when not playing or you’re injured, he's still speaking with you and encouraging. He makes you feel special and lets you know your place in the team.

"Even when we’re on the training ground or go to lunch, for example, it’s like he is one of the team - joking around and telling stories, asking quiz questions.

"He really likes the quiz questions and it's good because he relates with the players and he's really good like that."

source : Manutd

Papers: Pele sticks boot in

11/11/2011 09:16 

Stuart Pink writes in the The Sun...
Pele sticks the boot in

When Sir Alex Ferguson dubbed Wayne Rooney "The White Pele", the real deal was flattered but was hardly in agreement. Typical of the attitude that made him the world's greatest footballer, Brazilian legend Pele feels Rooney, 26, has a long way to go before he can be talked about in the same breath as him. Pele, 71, told The Sun on a visit to London: "I am a very big fan of Rooney. He always fights for the team. He is not too technical, his strength is his heart. He's a good player. But you can't really compare him to me. I scored a lot of goals. I don't know if Rooney has." The England striker shouldn't feel too disheartened — just look at what he has to say about Lionel Messi, the most breathtaking star in the game today and a contender to his status as the finest player ever. He said: "I think a 'great' player is defined by their performances at the World Cup. For example, watch Lionel Messi play for Barcelona. He is very good. Exceptional. But for Argentina, he's completely different. Compare him to Zinedine Zidane. He won the World Cup and was at the top for 15 years. He was a more complete player than Messi. Before Zidane there was Johan Cruyff, Franz Beckenbauer, Michel Platini and Bobby Moore. Great players who won World Cups or, in Cruyff and Platini's case, starred in them. Wayne's aggression is a big part of his game - you cannot take that away from him. In my time we didn't have many yellow cards and red cards. Now, the players are very well protected. But a player does have a responsibility to behave himself. It's hard to change the personality of the player but maybe they can adjust."

The Times pick up on the story that Great Britain will open their London 2012 Olympic football campaign at Old Trafford.

source :  Manutd

Papers: Vidic to Madrid?

10/11/2011 09:18 

Ian Ladyman writes in the Daily Mail...

Vidic next in line for AlexSir Alex Ferguson is prepared to rip the heart from his defence next summer and sell Nemanja Vidic to Real Madrid. Real coach Jose Mourinho continues to eye Vidic as he looks to build a team that can wrest the Champions League crown from their great rivals Barcelona. Ferguson understandably will not countenance letting his club captain go in the forthcoming January transfer window. But Sportsmail understands that, remarkably, Ferguson will consider selling Vidic next summer if his old friend Mourinho comes up with enough money to enable United to buy a replacement. With doubts over Rio Ferdinand’s long-term future at Old Trafford, selling Vidic at a time when young defenders such as Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans are still developing would appear to be a huge risk. However, it is understood that Ferguson is no longer convinced that Vidic is 100 per cent committed to life at United and has been less than impressed with the Serb’s efforts so far this season.

Elsewhere, the Daily Star carry quotes from goalkeeper David De Gea, who's warned Manchester City that the Reds are good enough to continue winning silverware. And plenty of it. “United can still win it all,"he said. "It is still not decided that City will finish first.” De Gea also praises Sir Alex Ferguson, calling him "an incredible coach, without doubt the best in the world.”

The Mirror report Rio Ferdinand has received a boost after being left out of Fabio Capello's current England squad. Despite his absence, Ferdinand has been reassured by the manager that he will definitely be going to next summer's European Championships.

source : Manutd

Papers: Inter will sell Wes

Wesley Sneijder

Jeremy Cross writes in the Daily Star...

United can nab WesleyInter have told Manchester United they are free to sign Wesley Sneijder – but only if they break the bank. Sir Alex Ferguson has been told he can sign Sneijder in January if he can stump up a club record £40m. Ferguson tried to sign the Dutch star in the summer, but failed to strike a deal with the Italian giants. However, Starsport understands that Inter bosses have softened their stance and are willing to cash in on their prize asset.Ferguson has kept close tabs on Sneijder and is keen to make another move for the midfield ace when the transfer window opens in the New Year. He is desperate to bolster his midfield as United try to keep pace with Premier League leaders Manchester City. Sneijder, 27, remains Ferguson’s No.1 target and the United boss reckons the Dutchman can fill the boots of Paul Scholes, who retired at the end of last season.

Elsewhere, The Sun claims David Gill flew to Zurich yesterday to meet fellow members of the European Club Association board as the organisation plots its next move in its "war with football's rulers". "The ECA's biggest gripe is over the number and scheduling of internationals, especially friendlies," The Sun claims. "They also want compensation for releasing stars to play for their countries, better insurance arrangements if players get injured and a greater say in how the game is run."

There's little else United-related in the papers today. Instead, column inches are dominated by England's new St George's Park coaching facility and the FA's failed battle with FIFA to allow the England team to wear Rememberance poppies on their kit for Saturday's friendly against Spain at Wembley.

Round Up By Nick Coppack 

source : manutd

Papers: Reds target Pozuelo

Alejandro Pozuelo

Andreas Pereira

United have got Poz-itive vibesAccording to The Sun, United are keeping tabs on Real Betis striker Alejandro Pozuelo with the 20-year-old hitman rated in the £4.5million class. Barcelona and Villarreal have also been trailing the Seville-born starlet, who has played only 218 minutes of football in La Liga. United's scouts were spotted at recent matches and Alvaro Vadillo has already been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford.

The same newspaper claims Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo could return to the Theatre of Dreams to play in Rio Ferdinand's testimonial next year, although the event has not been confirmed.

Tomasz Kuszczak's interview in the Polish media has been picked up by several newspapers, including The Daily Mail. "I don't want to slander or criticise Sir Alex Ferguson," he stated. "It's not my style. I've talked to Ferguson recently and asked him to let me leave the club now, before the January transfer window." Sheffield United boss Danny Wilson has confirmed making an enquiry for the Pole and Doncaster are also admirers, it has been revealed in The Sheffield Star.

Andreas Pereira's suggestion that he has sealed a move to United in January is also covered in a number of newspapers. The Guardian pick up on the PSV Eindhoven teenager's comment that the personal touch from Sir Alex helped convince him to head to Manchester when he turns 16.

Finally, Luis Suarez has had his say on the on-field row with Patrice Evra during the recent 1-1 draw with Liverpool. His quotes are repeated in The Daily Telegraph as he says: "The FA will have to clear it up with him, because there is no proof at all that I have said anything racist. I didn’t say anything like that to him. Depending on who ends up in the wrong, one of us will have to apologise."

source : Manutd

Papers: Asamoah tracked

 The Daily Mail writes...

Manchester United are tracking Udinese’s Kwadwo Asamoah. The Ghana midfielder, 22, can play on the left or in the centre and is valued at £8million by the Serie A club.

The Mail, who have gone a little transfer crazy today, also claim Nani is a target for Juventus, Schalke are vowing to keep Klaas-Jan Huntelaar supposedly from United's clutches and Leeds want Tomasz Kuszczak, even though Alex McCarthy looks set to join the Yorkshiremen from Reading.

The Sun, and others, claim as an exclusive that Fabio Capello will pick star striker Wayne Rooney for Euro 2012 - despite his suspension. However, the United ace looks unlikely to be included in the squad for the friendlies with Spain and Sweden as the Italian tries out other options. Rooney regrets his red card in Montenegro: "Obviously it's devastating for me but it's something that's my own fault so I can't really complain," he is quoted as saying in The Times. "It was stupid by me - I regretted as soon as I did it. It's no excuse but I still feel the punishment is a bit harsh. All the details we have been waiting on have come through, so we'll be making a decision as to whether we will be appealing. Even if it's reduced by one game, it will be a bonus for me."

Finally, L'Equipe reveal that Laurent Blanc left Patrice Evra out of the France squad because of a personal issue that could also lead to the left-back missing the Reds' game with Sunderland on Saturday. "He needs rest," said Blanc. "He has been hit by a family drama that will prevent him from being with us." It's reported that one of Evra's brothers died at the age of 42 from a heart-attack before the derby match against City.

source : Manutd

Papers: Five more years

03/11/2011 09:30

David McDonnell writes in the Daily Mirror...

Nev: Boss can stay for another five seasonGary Neville reckons Sir Alex Ferguson has the hunger and desire to carry on in charge of Manchester United for another five years. Former United skipper Neville, who retired last season, paid tribute to Fergie ahead of his former manager’s 25th anniversary in charge at Old Trafford this weekend. And, far from slowing down, Neville said he could see the Scot - who turns 70 on New Year’s Eve - continuing until he has racked up 30 years at the club. “He has now done 25 years in the job and is still here, why should he leave?” said Neville. “He feels as determined as ever and it’s a continual challenge to be at United. “I know that from being a player. I know that from being a fan. That will keep him young. There was a period when people were talking about him retiring, but that has gone away. He knows the club, he knows how to make it successful. We have been developing a new side with a lot of young players coming into the squad and hopefully we can continue to bear the fruits of that. It wouldn’t surprise me if he was to go on for even five more years.”

The Mirror claims Wayne Rooney is "ready to be the next Paul Scholes," after his run-out in midfield against Otelul Galati.

Meanwhile, the Daily Star report that Danny Welbeck and Phil Jones have been left out of Stuart Pearce’s England Under-21 squad for the European Championship double-header against Iceland and Belgium, which suggests the pair will be named in Fabio Capello’s full squad for the friendlies against Spain and Switzerland.

The paper also features quotes from former Red Kieran Richardson says Sunderland are ready to gatecrash Sir Alex's anniversary celebrations this weekend. “Going back is a big event for me. We’ve been to Old Trafford before and taken something from the game and that’s what we’ll be aiming to do again," he said.

Round Up By Gemma Thompson 

 

source : manutd

Jones relishing Spanish test

10/11/2011 15:30, Report by Gemma Thompson

"Psychologically, it would be massive for us to get a positive result. It would be a real boost for us all to go into the championships knowing we have beaten a really good team."
- Phil Jones

Phil Jones is hoping he can transfer his impressive form at club level to the international stage, should he feature in England's friendly with Spain on Saturday.

The talented defender, who has earned plaudits aplenty since joining the Reds in the summer, picked up his first international cap last month in England's 2-2 with Montenegro which sealed qualification for Euro 2012.

The 19-year-old has been tipped to start against the world champions at Wembley on Saturday and Jones admits a positive result against the Spaniards would be a big boost to the squad.

"Psychologically, it would be massive for us to get a positive result. It would be a real boost for us all to go into the championships knowing we have beaten a really good team," he told reporters at an England press conference.

"It's always nice to test yourself against the best. We know they are a good team, but we are a good team as well. There is a good mix of experience and youth players as well. Hopefully that will be enough for us to have a go on Saturday and give a good account of ourselves. I'm sure if we get in amongst them and play the way we know we can, we will have a good chance.

"I can't wait for the game," he added. "If I am asked to play it would be a great honour to represent my country against one of the best teams in the world.

"It's just a real honour to be in and around the national team. Hopefully my performances at club level can show that I am worthy of being here more regularly."

As for England's chances next summer, Jones added: "I don't see why we can't surprise a few people. We have a great squad, with a great mentality. I'm sure we can go there with a great chance of getting to the final stages, if not going all the way.

"We have got a lot of experience in the squad, as well as youth now. That combination will hopefully be enough to go to the tournament with a fantastic chance."

source :manutd

Tomasz issues statement

10/11/2011 13:10, Report by Adam Marshall

United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak has issued the following statement to ManUtd.com following media stories earlier this week.

"In response to recent press reports in the English media, I would like to set the record straight by clarifying that I did not use the word ‘slave’ in a recent interview I gave to the Polish newspaper SuperExpress, about my current position at Manchester United Football Club.

"At no point during the interview did I use the word ‘slave’, or imply that the Club was treating me like a ‘slave’. Indeed what I did say has either been misinterpreted or mis-reported.

"It is important to clear this mis-information up because I have the utmost respect for the Club and have not described my relationship with the Club in this way because it is simply not the case."

source : manutd