Manchester United Forum

[guoquanyap]

bolton is always our gd neighbour....:D

[OreoCookies]

Originally posted by RVN


so, let them draw all the way then, if we win our matches, we gain 2 points over them. :)

If they remain unbeaten all the way, that's going to be a very tough new record for any team to beat... :(

It'd be hard for Man Utd to justify ourselves as the better team then... :o

[OreoCookies]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
bolton is always our gd neighbour....:D

Let's hope the same can be said when we meet them at the Reebok Stadium in a couple of weeks' time... =p

[Alienz]

Originally posted by OreoCookies


A ban could be considered fair, if it was for three-months or so... A light punishment for a small negligence, to make it sound positive...

But to ban a player for more than half a year for missing a drugs test - which he subsequently passed a short while later - makes little sense to the very word spelt J-U-S-T-I-C-E... :(
I think it is quite fair tho.......... not taking the drugs test is quite serious.....

[Kiwi8]

Originally posted by OreoCookies


Trying to cheat the system is not really that easy... At least Rio provided a sample within 48-hours of missing his first test... Some drugs will take longer than 48-hours to flush out of the player's system, and it is only fair if the FA takes this into serious consideration...

It is getting easier and easier. Nowadays drugs can dissipate from the body in a very short amount of time. That is why the best time to test a player is straight away after the game that he played in. Since Rio Ferdinand did not provide a sample at that instant, and only provided one late after he was called back, that late sample has no value whatsoever in establishing whether he took drugs or not to enhance the game that he took part earlier.

Hence there is the importance of making "Missing a doping test" to be equal to "Failing a doping test".

It's just like taking your exams. If you do not sit for your exam w/o a valid reason, you will be automatically be awarded failure for the exam.

[Kiwi8]

Originally posted by OreoCookies


A ban could be considered fair, if it was for three-months or so... A light punishment for a small negligence, to make it sound positive...

But to ban a player for more than half a year for missing a drugs test - which he subsequently passed a short while later - makes little sense to the very word spelt J-U-S-T-I-C-E... :(

As I said earlier, the subsequent doping test's result is irrelevant in determining whether or not a player took drugs to enhance his earlier game since it would have been tested late.

Taking the doping test's result out of the whole picture, "Missing a doping test" = "Failing a doping test". Simple as that.

[Kiwi8]

Originally posted by OreoCookies


If they remain unbeaten all the way, that's going to be a very tough new record for any team to beat... :(

It'd be hard for Man Utd to justify ourselves as the better team then... :o

What's the use of having an unbeaten record if in the end a team draws most of its matches and another team got the title becos it won more matches to compensate for its losses?

As we can see, 3 points are for a win, 1 point for a draw. Let's take for example 2 games by a team.

Suppose a team wins 1 match and loses another match.
Total number of points obtained = 3

Suppose a team draws both matches.
Total number of points obtained = 2

Hence there is more incentive to win than to play for a draw. That is why FIFA decided to make a win 3 points instead of 2 points previously.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


not as if he wan ma.....Cantona come fr leeds oso kana ban....now rio come fr leeds oso kana ban......but when rio come back will he do wat cantona did w us......lead us to a higher level?.....wait to be seen.....;)

Hope he'll come back stronger and re-pay SAF's faith...

[RuMmYtUb]

Dec 21 - Manchester United have made a formal approach for Leeds striker Mark Viduka.

The move will test the resolve of Leeds chief executive Trevor Birch, who has stressed repeatedly that his strategy for saving the financially-stricken club is to keep the current players and avoid relegation.


But a bid of £7million would be impossible for Birch to turn down if, as expected, the player wants to leave. Viduka, 28, is under a long-term contract but his value will rapidly diminish if he is not sold in the next 12 months.


The short-term gain of selling him would not make a major impact on Leeds' long term debts of almost £80m. It would, though, remove from the wage bill a player who earns more than £65,000 a week.


The main stumbling block to a deal is Viduka's salary, as United would not match his wages. But United are desperate to sign a striker in the January transfer window to supplement Ruud van Nistelrooy, Diego Forlan and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

-----------------------------------------------------

Source (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=42555&seg=EPL&teamid=)

Sian ler 2 big strikers up front...:rolleyes:

[NanDesKa]

eh, wad's 65,000 a week to man utd?

[leslielai]

Time to plunder Leeds for Viduka, Milner and Smith. :evil: :evil: :evil:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by leslielai
Time to plunder Leeds for Viduka, Milner and Smith. :evil: :evil: :evil:

I'll leave out Viduka... same style as RvN...:(

[leslielai]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


I'll leave out Viduka... same style as RvN...:(

He is big, strong and can hold up the ball. That can relieve some of the duties for Kleberson in the central. Fergie will be able to make him into a great partner for RVN. I say we should sign him. :D

[Ch3tah_39]

man utd shld look for some young striker..
pacy one shld be better....:) defoe will be a gd choice..

[RVN]

http://www.people.co.uk/homepage/sport/page.cfm?objectid=13744939&method=thepeople_full&siteid=79490

United discuss Viduka bid and also a defender. ;)

[RVN]

And yeah, I'm kind of worried about Wes Brown too. It's not that he's a bad defender, it's just that he makes one or two crucial mistakes in each game because he tries to do something too fancy. His communication skills with goalkeepers aren't too flash either.

[reload2003]

Originally posted by leslielai
Time to plunder Leeds for Viduka, Milner and Smith. :evil: :evil: :evil:

aGrEE...:bounce: :bounce:

[RVN]

Some paper saying that if we appeal and go to court, we might be banned from the CL, how the **** they can do that is beyond me, must be media bull**** of the highest order :mad: :mad: :mad:

[ccloh]

i dont think getting players from leeds is a long term soln for winning the CL. u definitely need some extra to win the CL. some experience players in the bigger stages.

[leslielai]

its called increasing the squad depth. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[leslielai]

sell Fletcher, he's not gonna make it big.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by leslielai
sell Fletcher, he's not gonna make it big.

....
you're too harsh on the young lad.

[leslielai]

hanah. young lah .. defend him all you guys want. just watch :sarcastic

but he's good enough for the other mid table epl clubs though.

[OKK77]

Originally posted by leslielai
Time to plunder Leeds for Viduka, Milner and Smith. :evil: :evil: :evil:

And that Yorkshire club can bid farewell to Premier League. \=

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by RVN
Some paper saying that if we appeal and go to court, we might be banned from the CL, how the **** they can do that is beyond me, must be media bull**** of the highest order :mad: :mad: :mad: :laugh:

[RuMmYtUb]

FT : 2-1 win @ White Hart Lane.

Well deserved victory, everybody played well... gd tempo to the game and we were clinical up front, though RvN could've had a hattrick...

[OKK77]

At the top! At the top! At least for a week! *pops champagne* Must detonate a H-bomb at the end of the season!

[leslielai]

Originally posted by OKK77


And that Yorkshire club can bid farewell to Premier League. \=

:D

bet they're praying real hard for a sugar dad with at least a hundred million GBP to spare. 60 to clear outstanding debts and 40 into rebuilding the squad.

[OKK77]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
FT : 2-1 win @ White Hart Lane.

Well deserved victory, everybody played well... gd tempo to the game and we were clinical up front, though RvN could've had a hattrick...

First half and second half were really in contrast. Fletcher and Gary Neville gave me a couple of heart attacks.

[guoquanyap]

great football....but not gd to lead during the christmas....jinx.....:(

[Ch3tah_39]

3pts in the bag...gd gd... lead by 1pts...
hope after christmas man utd can maintain their gd form

[guoquanyap]

why no one notice we abit jinx this season....we got the jinx CS...now oso lead in the christams period.....:mad: :mad:

[leslielai]

don't be too superstitious ;)

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by leslielai
don't be too superstitious ;)

they hav stat to back it up.....

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
great football....but not gd to lead during the christmas....jinx.....:(

Aiya our most dangerous form would be after Boxing day..!!

[ccloh]

jinx or no jinx, the show still go on. it is time for utd to shift to 5th gear now.

[RVN]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
great football....but not gd to lead during the christmas....jinx.....:(

why no good, dun be silly, its always nice to be at the top. ;)

[RVN]

STRIKER Louis Saha will drop a bombshell on Fulham today when he demands to join Manchester United.

Saha, 25, who has long been watched by United, will turn down the offer of a new contract from Fulham boss Chris Coleman.

The striker said: “I understand the position of the manager — but this is an opportunity I cannot let go by.

“I cannot say no. United is my dream and I want to go there. It’s now Sir Alex Ferguson needs a striker.

“In six months, the facts of the matter will have changed perhaps.”

Saha made his desire to leave Fulham for United known within hours of Saturday’s Premiership defeat by Chelsea at Loftus Road.

It will certainly shock Fulham fans, who were convinced Saha was ready to pursue his career with them.

United — who are in need of firepower to support main striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy — are expected to post a £7million bid for Saha within days.

Now they can do so sure in the knowledge Saha has decided his future lies with them.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003590255,00.html

[OKK77]

Originally posted by RVN
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003590255,00.html

Another tabloid news. \=

So, Viduka or Saha? Or both?!

[RuMmYtUb]

Saha is wad ****...:rolleyes:

[RVN]

Now threathening us with 'unprecedented repercussions' if we take Rio case to High Court. Jeez I hate this guy. He's been nothing but a pain in the ass with this whole Rio situation. He already pressured the fa into rashly overdoing Rio's punishment, now he threatens Man Utd??? He didn't even know what happened! He wasn't there when rio missed the training session! He was prolly at some dinnertable in Geneva chewing on some food or something. Did he care so much when Davids, Stam, Bosnich was taking drugs? NO. But all of a sudden he's this big enforcer. He should **** right off. :mad:

[guoquanyap]

re-election is coming ma......:sarcastic :sarcastic

[guoquanyap]

saha wan to come huh....hmmmm....abit overated leh him....hopefully if really sign him he wont be that expensive....5million pound will be gd....:D

[spinelli]

:sarcastic

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by spinelli
:sarcastic

:confused: :confused:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by spinelli
:sarcastic

For saha ?

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Saha is wad ****...:rolleyes:

Whats wrong with saha being with us, hes fast and strong too and can score goals too. ;)

[ralliart_ray]

saha vs defoe?

[Thumper]

As a Fulham fan, It really worries me that Saha Could be leaving. But does Man Utd really need another Striker? Scholes is in good form supporting RVN, Forlan seems to also be knocking in goals recently and Ole Gunner should be back soon. Maybe the money could be better spent elsewhere?

Anyway Speculation is rife that Saha will go to man Utd and Fulham will be using the money to buy Wiltord, how true the latter is i'm not sure :rolleyes:

I hope Coleman can persuade Saha to stay!

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


Whats wrong with saha being with us, hes fast and strong too and can score goals too. ;)

Dunno ler, juz dun like him, juz feel he's not gd enuff...
Though i'll take Defoe anytime.

[RuMmYtUb]

Dejan Stankovic (http://skysports.planetfootball.com/article.asp?id=178262&cpid=21)

By Nadia Carminati
Lazio coach Roberto Mancini has urged Manchester United to make a bid for Dejan Stankovic, even though the midfielder appears destined for Internazionale.
The Serbia-Montenegro international looks set for a move to Inter in 2004, either in January or at the end of the season, and Mancini is resigned to losing the services of his skipper.

Stankovic was linked with a switch to Old Trafford some time ago, but is set to continue plying his trade in Italy.

"I think he will go to Inter or Juve," explained Mancini.

"I think those are the teams.

"I don't know if any offers will arrive from abroad.

"If I was Real Madrid or Manchester, I would move for him.

"Stankovic wanted to stay here, if things had been different, it would have allowed a different decision.

"If we would have thought before, when the moment was right, everything would already be done."

[RVN]

Nah we don't need Stankovic, there just no place for him in midfield, striker and a defender in Jan. ;)

[genesis113]

Originally posted by RVN
Now threathening us with 'unprecedented repercussions' if we take Rio case to High Court. Jeez I hate this guy. He's been nothing but a pain in the ass with this whole Rio situation. He already pressured the fa into rashly overdoing Rio's punishment, now he threatens Man Utd??? He didn't even know what happened! He wasn't there when rio missed the training session! He was prolly at some dinnertable in Geneva chewing on some food or something. Did he care so much when Davids, Stam, Bosnich was taking drugs? NO. But all of a sudden he's this big enforcer. He should **** right off. :mad:

because his tail was stepped by our CEO Gills. He wants revenge.
The way he proctected himself from being accused for the death of Cameroon star Foe, we know he's simply a coward wf a president tag.

[knee_JerK]

people in power make the rules...

people in power enforce the rules...

just too bad that rio is caught at the wrong time and wrong place.... just boil down to pure lousy luck...

i think fergie will drag the issue to allow rio to play at least until the transfer window open...

will not be a win-win if man utd brings the matter to civil court and is thrown out of the CL for a couple of seasons... will only lower the standard, and make the big names leave the club, and a terrible loss of revenuw... common, lets face it, every big name wanna play in the CL, scholes is 29, giggs is 31, dun think they can stand staying in man utd without CL soccer for a few seasons...

anyway, i cannot stand sepp blatter... he sounds like a insecure prick.

[Alienz]

Rio can't take it through civil courts - Blatter

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has blocked Rio Ferdinand's path to civil action over his eight-month ban imposed for missing a drugs test.
The Manchester United defender is still considering his options after being hit by what he called the "thunderbolt" of the massive suspension imposed last Friday after his failure to take a drugs test at his club's Carrington training ground on 23 September.

Old Trafford officials are furious with the verdict and in particular Blatter's regular interventions during the three months between the failed test and the actual hearing.

Privately they accuse Blatter of jumping on a populist bandwagon by urging the Football Association to clamp down on a drugs problem he has previously claimed did not exist.

And now he has entered the debate again and insisted under the laws of the game Ferdinand cannot take his case to a civil court should he wish to pursue the matter beyond an initial appeal.

"According to the statutes of Fifa and its member associations, in this case, no recourse may be made to civil courts," said Blatter.

"The highest court would be the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne."

Blatter denied weekend suggestions that he had threatened United with expulsion from the game should Ferdinand opt to take his case into the civil courts but the controversial Swiss is clearly on a collision course with one of the world's biggest clubs.

He has already clashed once with United chief executive David Gill over the Ferdinand issue and is also embroiled in a separate battle with the Red Devils over their membership of the influential G14 group which Blatter refuses to recognise.

Having rounded on the FA for the length of time they took in setting up the hearing, Blatter has "noted with satisfaction that this case has finally been dealt with and a decision passed".

However, he also hinted the threat of an increased penalty on Ferdinand had not yet been lifted, saying: "Fifa will not make any comment until it has received the decision, the reasons for the decision and the file on the case from the FA."

Blatter's comments only increase United's isolation on the Ferdinand issue.

As it stands, the 25-year-old has 14 days to decide if he will appeal against the suspension, a hearing which would be chaired by an independent QC but include two members of an FA council United believes is determined to make an example of their £29.3m record signing

[ccloh]

well that is blatter. head of fifa, the highest power in football of course got very high pride. think he scared if the case bring the civil court and rio win the case then he is like small fry like that. lucky he is not us president if not everyday we will have terrorist attacks all over the world. come think of it, he and brush not much difference also.

[guoquanyap]

haiz....to sue or not to sue.....jialet sia.....

[guoquanyap]

Dec 23 - Alex Ferguson has a dislike of buying players in mid-season, preferring to conduct his transfer business during the relative calm of the summer months.

But as the Manchester United manager becomes accustomed to the idea that he will be without Rio Ferdinand for a significant part of the season, the Scot has reluctantly added a defender to a list of priorities that previously contained only the names of centre forwards.

Having failed to land his main targets, Ronaldinho and Harry Kewell, last July, Ferguson has been resigned for some time to the fact that he would have to stray from his personal principles and buy another goalscorer to lend support to Ruud van Nistelrooy. Now he has another area of potential weakness.

Although Wes Brown moves ever closer to a first-team comeback after an ankle injury, United are not overstaffed at the centre of their defence and only Brown and Mikael Silvestre remain of those players who Ferguson believes are naturally suited to the position.

Even before the Ferdinand saga began, Ferguson was aware of the numerical deficiencies in his squad, saying: "It would have been nice to have an extra defender and we have explored that avenue thoroughly.

"I would say that we are still a little bit light in defensive areas. Only time will tell if we have enough flexibility to cope."

Gary Neville said at the weekend that the partnership between Ferdinand and Silvestre was beginning to resemble that of Gary Pallister and Steve Bruce a decade ago. He also suggested that the club have the best pool of central defenders in Europe.

However, with Ferdinand on the road to suspension and Brown just one nasty fall away from another injury, United have no room for manoeuvre. For example, an injury to Silvestre - arguably United's most consistent player - could be decisive.

Unfortunately for Ferguson, it will prove as difficult to land a top-class central defender as it will to reel in a centre forward. Remember, this is a player United need for the present, not somebody who may take six months to settle in.

With United's success on the balance sheet outstripping even that

Given that United currently sit top of the Premiership and can reflect on another impressive performance in winning their Champions League group, Ferguson will feel that his squad have coped.

Ferguson does have money to spend. United are prepared to release around £20million to their manager, and although he won't want to spend all of that, it does give him a degree of authority in the market place.

Ferguson's main problem is timing. The Scot's reluctance to buy in January is largely due to the fact that most suitable players have already played in Europe and are therefore ineligible for the Champions League.

Take Vincent Kompany. The 17-year-old Anderlecht defender is one of the most suitable candidates available and currently plays for one of United's feeder clubs. He has, however, played a full part in Anderlecht's Champions League campaign and was recently given a mid-season pay rise to reflect his rapid rise to prominence.

Of more interest to Ferguson is Carles Puyol, Barcelona's experienced and hugely capable defender. United enquired about the 25-year-old in the summer but were put off by a price tag in excess of £10m. Little has changed.

Elsewhere in Europe are players such as Marseille's Daniel van Buyten and Kevin Hofland of PSV Eindhoven, while Ferguson retains an interest in another versatile full back, Nicolas Burdisso of Boca Juniors in Argentina.

Van Buyten is ineligible for the Champions League, while Hofland's recent fall from grace in Holland is such that the only advantage he offers Ferguson is that he would come at a fraction of the £15m valuation his club placed on him when United first showed an interest more than two years ago.

With Europe offering such scant pickings, Ferguson will examine again the possibility of bringing Gareth Southgate to Old Trafford. Ferguson considered the move earlier in the year and is attracted to Southgate's experience and his availability for Europe.

Given that Southgate is now in his 34th year, it would be an extraordinary move. But Ferguson's need is short-term for once. The obstacles Ferguson faces in replacing Ferdinand are real but he will not be deterred.

For evidence, just look back to the last significant and high-profile signing he made in the month of January. The player? Andy Cole from Newcastle.

http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=42736

[ccloh]

there is always something called LOAN. funny always see utd youngster loan out but never see utd "borrow-in". i suppose "borrow-in" a defender is better than buying one. if that player can click and perform well then we go into buying ???

[RuMmYtUb]

Can we have Walter Samuel ? :D

[RVN]

Man Utd

A partner for Ruud van Nistelrooy seems top of Sir Alex Ferguson's wish list.

Fulham striker Louis Saha has said he wants to sign, West Ham's Jermain Defoe is another name in the frame and PSV Eindhoven say United are interested in Mateja Kezman.

With Rio Ferdinand banned and United competing in the FA Cup, Premiership and Champions League, Ferguson may decide to bolster his defence.

Nicolas Burdisso, 22, of Boca Juniors, Bayer Leverkusen's Brazilian defender Lucio, Nottingham Forest's Michael Dawson and Gareth Southgate have all been linked.

As have Juventus' Lilian Thuram, AC Milan's Alessandro Nesta, Valencia's Roberto Ayala, and Inter Milan's Fabio Cannavaro but they are all cup tied and cannot play for United in this season's Champions League.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3340729.stm

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Can we have Walter Samuel ? :D

fergie missed the chance to sign chivu....think he onli cost roma ard 10million pound.....:mad: which is a steal imo :mad:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


fergie missed the chance to sign chivu....think he onli cost roma ard 10million pound.....:mad: which is a steal imo :mad:

10 meh ?
i thought was somewhere around 17 - 20..
dammit italian clubs always buy players @ a steal.. :mad:

[RuMmYtUb]

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he expects striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to sign a new contract in the near future.

Although mischievous rumour has linked the Holland star with a move to Real Madrid in recent weeks, the United manager revealed that he expects 27-year-old Van Nistelrooy to extend his present deal, which is not due to expire until 2006.

'We are on the point of agreeing a new contract with him and hopefully we will be able to give more details of it quite soon,' Ferguson told MUTV.

'You can't get upset about the reports, we just have to trust the situation and concentrate on our relationship with Ruud.

'Real Madrid are renowned for bringing up these kind of stories. They have done it with all their big signings.

'Ruud is very happy here, he has two and a half years left on his current contract and I am trying my best to make sure he stays.'

Fulham today claimed that United were one of a number of clubs which had approached them over striker Louis Saha. And Ferguson admitted that he was on the look-out for new attacking talent.

'What we could do is bring a younger player in that has the qualities we require and is free to play in Europe,' he added. 'That is not beyond the realms of possibility.'

Ferguson also hinted his legal dispute with major United shareholder John Magnier had diluted his passion for horse racing.

The pair are currently embroiled in a battle over the ownership rights to record breaking Group One winner Rock of Gibraltar, a dispute which looks set to end in the courts.

'I used to like racing,' said Ferguson when asked about his hobbies. 'But I am not as keen on it now as I used to be.'

------------------------------------

*fingers crossed*

[ccloh]

Originally posted by RVN
Man Utd

A partner for Ruud van Nistelrooy seems top of Sir Alex Ferguson's wish list.

Fulham striker Louis Saha has said he wants to sign, West Ham's Jermain Defoe is another name in the frame and PSV Eindhoven say United are interested in Mateja Kezman.

With Rio Ferdinand banned and United competing in the FA Cup, Premiership and Champions League, Ferguson may decide to bolster his defence.

Nicolas Burdisso, 22, of Boca Juniors, Bayer Leverkusen's Brazilian defender Lucio, Nottingham Forest's Michael Dawson and Gareth Southgate have all been linked.

As have Juventus' Lilian Thuram, AC Milan's Alessandro Nesta, Valencia's Roberto Ayala, and Inter Milan's Fabio Cannavaro but they are all cup tied and cannot play for United in this season's Champions League.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3340729.stm

lucio seems a good deal to sign. he is definitely better defender than rio. i'll go for that provided bayer leverkusen is willing to selling.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by ccloh


lucio seems a good deal to sign. he is definitely better defender than rio. i'll go for that provided bayer leverkusen is willing to selling.

Yes Lucio is good, damn solid and even score goals at a good rate for defenders..

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Yes Lucio is good, damn solid and even score goals at a good rate for defenders..

Ya for Brazilian wise i tink he's alot better than to so call "worldclass" leaking defender Roque Junior of Leeds hahaha :laugh: sori Leeds fans

[RVN]

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he expects striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to sign a new contract in the near future.

Real Madrid have been casting admiring glances at the free-scoring Dutchman, who took his United tally to 97 in less than three seasons with the second goal at Tottenham on Sunday.

Ronaldo and van Nistelrooy's former Red Devils team-mate David Beckham both outlined what a good signing the Dutchman would be.

However, Ferguson, who kept faith with the former PSV man and eventually signed him for #19million in 2001 just 12 months after he suffered cruciate ligament damage, insisted he was not unduly worried about the rumours.

And, after chatting to the player over the last few weeks, the United manager revealed in an interview with MUTV he expects the 27-year-old to extend his present deal, which is not due to expire until 2006.

"We are on the point of agreeing a new contract with him and hopefully we will be able to give more details of it quite soon," he said.

"You can't get upset about the reports, we just have to trust the situation and concentrate on our relationship with Ruud.

"Real Madrid are renowned for bringing up these kind of stories. They have done it with all their big signings.

"Ruud is very happy here, he has two and a half years left on his current contract and I am trying my best to make sure he stays."

Ferguson's observations were aired on the same day Fulham complained about an "unsolicited and unwelcome" approach from United over their striker Louis Saha.

The Cottagers named United as one of a number of clubs who have expressed a formal interest in the Frenchman, who declared at the weekend that a move to United would be a "dream".

Ferguson, who also confirmed there were no problems with the extension to his own contract that still remains unsigned, admitted there was a chance of bringing a new face in, without revealing who his intended target might be.

"It is not easy because we want someone who can play European football and at this stage of the season that is very difficult," he added on MUTV.

"What we could do is bring a younger player in that has the qualities we require and is free to play in Europe. That is not beyond the realms of possibility."

Meanwhile, Ferguson also said he would continue to back Rio Ferdinand over his eight-month ban for missing a drugs test.

The long-serving United boss has previously stated he would pick the England central defender as long as he is able to.

In line with Football Association regulations, United today requested written evidence of the reasons behind the lengthy sentence imposed on Ferdinand last Friday for his failure to take a drugs test.

The demand went in within hours of the club receiving confirmation of the ban and once the reply is issued - expected to be early next week - Ferdinand will have 14 days to respond.

"Rio was wrong not to go but we will keep supporting him because there was no evidence to support the punishment he has received," said Ferguson.

"We know we are going to be criticised but we are entitled to support someone we feel is innocent.

"It is not an easy situation for him because no-one is unbreakable. We keep talking to him and he keeps saying he is fine but it is a very difficult situation to assess.

"He said he really wanted to play at Tottenham on Sunday and I admire that. He showed great character and temperament to get on with it."

Ferguson also hinted his legal dispute with major United shareholder John Magnier had diluted his passion for horse racing.

The pair are currently embroiled in a battle over the ownership rights to record breaking Group One winner Rock of Gibraltar, a dispute which looks set to end in the courts.

"I used to like racing," said Ferguson when asked about his hobbies. "But I am not as keen on it now as I used to be."

http://www.4thegame.com/club/mufc/news/143786/.html

[RVN]

Fulham last night turned down a £5.5m bid from Manchester United for their striker Louis Saha, though the champions did make a breakthrough when they said Ruud van Nistelrooy had provisionally agreed a new contract, despite firm interest from Real Madrid.

The Premiership leaders are still optimistic about adding the Frenchman to their payroll when the transfer window re-opens in January. For that to happen Saha, having spoken of his desire to go to Old Trafford, will have to agitate for a move.

Fulham's manager Chris Coleman insisted the player would leave "over my dead body" and the London club seem unwilling to entertain the idea unless they receive an offer upwards of £10m.

"The club can confirm it has received unsolicited and unwelcome inquiries from a number of clubs, including Manchester United," said Fulham's chief executive Jim Hone. "However it has been made clear to those clubs that Fulham does not wish, and has no financial requirement, to sell the player, who is under contract until 2006. It is not in our plans to sell a player whose value to Fulham far exceeds any current offer."

Whether that is enough to deter United remains to be seen, particularly as they know Saha wants to join them. Ferguson's admiration for the player extends well beyond this season, first inquiring about his availability during Peter Kenyon's time as chief executive last season. "We are looking [for a new striker] and it's not beyond the realms of possibility," the United manager said last night.

High among Ferguson's considerations is that his potential transfer targets should be available for the Champions League, requiring them not to have played in either that competition or the Uefa Cup.

Saha fits that bill, as does Jermain Defoe of West Ham and Mark Viduka and Alan Smith of Leeds. A striker is Ferguson's priority regardless of Rio Ferdinand's eight-month ban for missing a drugs test and, in a move that will delight the club's corporate backers, he is close to finalising a £1.5m-deal for Dong Fangzhou, an 18-year-old forward with Dalian Shide of China.

About the only certainty is that any new arrivals at Old Trafford next month will be linking up with Van Nistelrooy, rather than replacing him. To Ferguson's disquiet, Madrid appear to have been wooing the prolific striker through the media recently, much as they did with David Beckham.

United are worried that Madrid's president Florentino Perez is apparently briefing journalists about his desire to make Van Nistelrooy his latest signing. United's directors have subsequently accelerated their negotiations with Van Nistelrooy and his Dutch agent Rodger Linse about a deal that elevates him from the middle reaches of the club's earners to the top bracket alongside Roy Keane and Ryan Giggs. Van Nistelrooy has given his word and the contract should be signed in the next fortnight.

"You can't get upset about it," said Ferguson of Madrid's tactics. "They are renowned for it. It's happened with all their signings - not just with Beckham but with Ronaldo, Figo, Zidane. More importantly, I can assure you I'm trying my best to make sure it won't happen again. We have to put it to one side and concentrate on our relationship with Ruud, which is very good. Ruud is very happy here, I've had a chat with him and we're on the point of signing his new contract. He's still got 2 years left of his present deal anyway, and he's a Manchester United player."

The offer for Saha stems from Ferguson's dread that, with Ole Gunnar Solksjaer already sidelined, an injury to Van Nistelrooy would be a critical setback to United's season. Ferguson traditionally likes to have four strikers and, privately, there are lingering reservations about Diego Forlan's ability to trouble Europe's most accomplished defenders.

"I'm not surprised, to be truthful," said Coleman. "Louis is a terrific player and has been banging in the goals. But it doesn't matter which club comes in for him, we don't want him to go. The chairman has told me we don't have to sell any of our players.

"He's invaluable to the club and even if we got £20m for him we wouldn't sell because we would then have to find another striker halfway through the season and it would take him time to settle in. It's too disruptive."

Hone added: "Louis has consistently maintained that he is happy at Fulham FC and understands the importance of playing regular first-team football at this stage in his career. "Neither the club nor Louis believes it would be beneficial for his future, to become a squad member elsewhere. Media speculation surrounding any player can become unsettling and is not welcome; Louis is very much part of our future and is simply not for sale at this stage."


Up the price, Coleman is playing the old "aren't going to sell him for less than ..." trick. In other words, he's telling Man Utd that a bid upwards will be worth talking about, then we'll see.

[RuMmYtUb]

4get about Saha lar...
he's not someone tat can win us the CL..

[RVN]

Rio Ferdinand has been assured of his starting place when Manchester United host Everton on Boxing Day.

Ferdinand is facing an eight-month ban after his failure to attend a drugs test but has been given the full backing of manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Elsewhere, Cristiano Ronaldo is in contention to replace Darren Fletcher.

United will be looking to maintain an impressive recent record against Everton.

Since their 1995 FA Cup Final reverse against the Blues, Sir Alex Ferguson side have won 14 of their 16 Premier League meetings, drawing the other two.

United (from): Howard, Carroll, G Neville, Ferdinand, Silvestre, O'Shea, Fortune, Forlan, Fletcher, P Neville, Butt, Keane, Kleberson, Ronaldo, Giggs, Scholes, Van Nistelrooy, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba.

[RuMmYtUb]

We'll need the 3 points to pile pressure to the chasing pack.. :)

[RVN]

AN injury blow to Roy Keane has sparked a Boxing Day scrap for his Manchester United place.

The Reds captain has been ruled out of the Old Trafford encounter with Everton because of a hamstring problem.

And Sir Alex Ferguson's medical staff are now battling to get the influential Irishman ready for United's tough trip to Middlesbrough on Sunday.

"Roy felt his hamstring tighten at Spurs on Sunday and he's out for the Everton match," Fergie told M.E.N. Sport.

"It's not a pull, and the fact that he came off as soon as it started to tighten gives us hope for the Middlesbrough match at the Riverside on Sunday."

Keane's absence could provide a window of opportunity for a frustrated Nicky Butt.

He has been kept on the sidelines by Phil Neville's impressive form as United's new anchor-man, and been forced to deny rumours of a fall-out with his boss.

Competition

But the England player, who has started just eight games for United this term, will face competition from Kleberson for the Keane vacancy against the Merseysiders.

The Brazilian has appeared in six of United's last eight matches, and an upturn in his form - after dislocating his shoulder two games into his Old Trafford career - has added to the competition in the Reds' engine-room.

United went to the top of the league after the Tottenham victory at White Hart Lane and Fergie said: "We played well at Spurs but once again we went to sleep after getting into a commanding position.

"But we are up where we want to be at this stage of the season. It is not going to be an easy league to win and we have to keep the pressure on."

The Reds will find solace in their impressive recent record against Everton .

Since their 1995 FA Cup Final reverse against the Toffeemen, Sir Alex Ferguson side have won 14 of their 16 Premier League meetings, drawing the other two.

Ferguson has already assured Rio Ferdinand of his place in the starting line-up, while Cristiano Ronaldo is in contention to replace Darren Fletcher.

Provisional squad: Howard, Carroll, G Neville, Ferdinand, Silvestre, O'Shea, Fortune, Forlan, Fletcher, P Neville, Butt, Kleberson, Ronaldo, Giggs, Van Nistelrooy, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba.

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/sport/football/manchesterunited/stories/Detail_LinkStory=76634.html

[RuMmYtUb]

Time for Butt to reclaim his play...
Would love to see Kleberson display his neat touches.. :D

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Time for Butt to reclaim his play...
Would love to see Kleberson display his neat touches.. :D

There still Phil Neville and Eric Djemba Djemba vying for the central position, 4 players fighting for that 2 central spot.

[RVN]

Nicky Butt's New Year's resolution is to regain his place in the Manchester United line-up.

The England midfielder is ignoring speculation linking him to a January move to Tottenham Hotspur and says he will make every effort to re-establish himself as a regular starter at Old Trafford.

"Basically getting back into the team and playing regularly is what I hope for in 2004. I am sure if you ask any of the lads that question they will say the same thing.

"It's been difficult not playing but it is always like that at this club and hopefully in the next few months I will start getting games," said Butt.

Butt has been edged out by England team-mate Phil Neville since the full-back was switched to a midfield role, as well as by the emergence of teenager Darren Fletcher and the summer signing of Kleberson and Eric Djemba-Djemba.

Watching from the wings he feels United are in a position of strength as they go into the Christmas games as Premiership leaders - but he says no-one at Old Trafford will be taking anything for granted.

"Every year it is getting harder. You seem to have more teams buying big and getting better players and putting pressure on the defending champions and I think that is good for English football.

"Winning games is what we need to do and as long as we are in the top two or three by February or March we know what it takes to win the title in the closing days of the season," he said.

http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,742349,00.html

[ccloh]

msut get the 3-pt against everton no matter what.

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by ccloh
msut get the 3-pt against everton no matter what.

still quite confident can get a win against everton at home...but not too sure against boro at riverside....tough place to go man......

[guoquanyap]

http://skysports.planetfootball.com/images/playerpics03_04/holland/ajax/vandervaart_rafael.jpg

http://skysports.planetfootball.com/article.asp?id=178625&cpid=23

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
http://skysports.planetfootball.com/images/playerpics03_04/holland/ajax/vandervaart_rafael.jpg

http://skysports.planetfootball.com/article.asp?id=178625&cpid=23

Why those dutch players like to go Barca ar... is that a trend ? :mad: :mad:
I think Old Trafford would be a better place for you Mr van der Vaart...:D

[NanDesKa]

bring in hierro? :D :rolleyes:

[RVN]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
bring in hierro? :D :rolleyes:

another blanc, no thanks. :alien:

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by RVN


another blanc, no thanks. :alien: any idea where can we contact manuel sanchis now? :laugh:

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Why those dutch players like to go Barca ar... is that a trend ? :mad: :mad:
I think Old Trafford would be a better place for you Mr van der Vaart...:D

dun understand why he wants barca, they ain't even certain to be in the CL next season, If we managed to bought him for next season, imagine this attack

a attack like this..


ronaldo/solskjaer....keane.......kleberson......van der vaart/giggs

...................scholes.......................

..................ruud........................

damn that looks strong.. ;)

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


dun understand why he wants barca, they ain't even certain to be in the CL next season, If we managed to bought him for next season, imagine this attack

a attack like this..


ronaldo/solskjaer....keane.......kleberson......van der vaart/giggs

...................scholes.......................

..................ruud........................

damn that looks strong.. ;)

Beats me too...
Ronaldinho's there... If he chose Barca when the era of Figo-Rivaldo-Kluivert's 3 prong attack i still can understand... but now Barca is... sh!t.

Only Beckham's unfazed by Barca... If i'm a player, heading towards Spain, only Real would be my wish list..

[RVN]

Diego Forlan netted twice for United in the 3-2 friendly victory over Burnley at Carrington. The game was arranged to give certain players from both sides some much-needed match fitness. David Bellion also scored in a game that Wes Brown took part in following his long spell on the sidelines.

Manchester United were in Christmas Eve action in a behind closed doors friendly against fellow Lancashire side, Burnley at Carrington.

The friendly was arranged to give players from both sides returning from injury a chance to regain some match fitness. Sir Alex Ferguson particularly keen to work on the fitness of Wes Brown, who started the game, especially with Rio Ferdinand's 8-month ban looming large.

Roy Carroll, David Bellion, Diego Forlan, Nicky Butt, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kleberson, Quinton Fortune and Eric Djemba-Djemba were other first-team players in action, with the rest of the side made up of reserve and youth team players.

In this type of friendly, the result is of little importance, but United fans will be pleased to know that it was a 3-2 victory for the Red Devils. On-form Diego Forlan netted twice for United, with David Bellion also on the scoresheet as the hosts led 3-1 at the break. Marc Pugh netted for the Clarets in a second-half where many of the bigger name players in action were substituted, but United held out for the victory.

The game was also a beneficial ninety minutes for the visitors, as it gave their boss Stan Ternent time to give trialist Rangers 'keeper Jesper Christiansen a game in the Burnley jersey. Luke Chadwick, on loan to Burnley from United, played in the game. David May and Lee Roche were other Burnley players in action who would have been familiar faces to Ferguson and some of the United team.

Overall, a pleasing game for United with the result an added bonus. Sir Alex Ferguson will be pleased that Wes Brown, the main purpose of the friendly, played some football against competitive opposition following the long lay-off with injury and their were also games for players who may be lacking some match fitness.

http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s237/st41301.htm

[Ch3tah_39]

woo thats great friendly...
wes can get some match practice ;)

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Why those dutch players like to go Barca ar... is that a trend ? :mad: :mad:
I think Old Trafford would be a better place for you Mr van der Vaart...:D

Partly bcos Johan Cruyffs the famous dutch was a hero at Barca b4?

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by orca_sea


Partly bcos Johan Cruyffs the famous dutch was a hero at Barca b4?

Hmm mayB...
Hope Brown can be back ASAP following Rio's ban...
hope to see Brown in action again..:D

[cracker]

not trying to be a wet blanket.....why u guys looks forward to the return of Wes Brown ?
IMHO, he is just an average, of cos he supposed to be groomed to partner Rio as the next great pair of central defender.

..the last great pair of central defence tat Utd had was the Stam & May combination after Pallister & Bruce.


I think Gary Nevile did quite ok when he was asked to handle tat role..but his disadvantage is his ht.

[ccloh]

Originally posted by cracker
not trying to be a wet blanket.....why u guys looks forward to the return of Wes Brown ?
IMHO, he is just an average, of cos he supposed to be groomed to partner Rio as the next great pair of central defender.

..the last great pair of central defence tat Utd had was the Stam & May combination after Pallister & Bruce.


I think Gary Nevile did quite ok when he was asked to handle tat role..but his disadvantage is his ht.

not that we have other choice when rio is suspended. slashing $$$ to buy another defender might ended up too cramp in the defence later on. brown is ok lah. since rio can have lapses of mis concentration being allowed by fergie, dont see why brown cant do it.

gray neville is too short and small size for a central defender. somehow his behaviour looks more like ashley cole, always want to pick a fight with the opponent.

[RVN]

Sir Alex Ferguson hosts Everton at Old Trafford this afternoon looking forward to a new year which, he hopes, will see the club make two significant signings that will help safeguard the club's status among Europe's elite.

The Manchester United manager freely concedes that he may lack the spending power of title rivals Chelsea, who are widely expected to invest more tens of millions of pounds belonging to their owner, Roman Abramovich, when the transfer window opens next month - although Ferguson is expected to add a central defender and forward to his own squad.

News yesterday that central defender Wes Brown is close to a return from long-term injury was highly welcome at Old Trafford, but it is the imminent signing of contract extensions by Ferguson himself and by his striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy that gives the United manager the greatest cause for optimism.

"We're working along with Ruud's agent in terms of his future and I hope to be able to tell you more in a few weeks," said Ferguson of a striker who has scored 17 goals to date and is, by general consensus, in the form of his life. He's very happy and we're on the point of signing a new contract with him even though he still has two and a half years left.

"Our lawyers and David Gill have been pretty busy the past week or so but we are just about there with my contract. It's great for the players to always know who the manager is going to be, and also the staff. Hopefully, in the new year, there will be cause for a double celebration."

Mindful of the problems created by the advanced announcement of his "retirement" in the summer of 2001, Ferguson, currently under contract until 2005, is expected to sign a new three-year deal with a one-year roll-over option. Van Nistelrooy, meanwhile, is expected to commit himself to the club until 2009.

Brown, meanwhile, has declared himself ready to join United's title drive. He took a major step on the road to a Premiership return by completing the full 90 minutes of a behind-closed-doors training game against Burnley at United's Carrington training ground on Christmas Eve.

With Rio Ferdinand facing an eight-month ban, Brown's return could not be any better timed. Brown ruptured the cruciate ligaments in his left knee on the final day of last season, having done exactly the same thing to his right leg three years earlier.

Ferguson feels that the England international may need another reserve game before he could be considered for selection but, with a packed Christmas programme looming, Brown might edge his way back into the first-team picture.

"If the manager needs me I am there to be put in," Brown said after Wednesday's match. "I got through the full game and everything went well. There is no problem with my knee now, it's just a question of getting in as many matches as I can."

Following today's meeting with Everton, United visit Middlesbrough on Sunday, a repeat of the fixture exactly one year ago today which saw United suffer a humbling 3-1 defeat and left a furious Ferguson demanding an improvement in the season's second half.

"You get wake-up calls like that," said Ferguson reflecting on that match a year on. "And the consistency of the team has been terrific since that. In the year since, we have lost Laurent Blanc, Seba Veron and David Beckham, but brought five players into the squad so, squad-wise, we are better this year."

The results tend to bear Ferguson out. This season, United own the best attacking and best defensive records in the Premiership, conceding 13 goals in 23 League and European matches. In the 34 League games since that defeat at the Riverside, United have collected a staggering 27 victories.

The season would now appear primed to develop into a three-horse race, with Chelsea's spending power just one intriguing aspect of the title contest.

Referring to Chelsea's expected explosion into the January transfer market, Ferguson said: "I don't think we can eliminate that from our thoughts. It is quite possible that will happen with them. But I think the three-horse race is terrific for us, I'm enjoying this thoroughly and I only wish it were five teams up there, not three."

He added: "Arsenal drew last Saturday at Bolton, the week before it was Chelsea who lost to Bolton. What that tells you is that if you make mistakes among the top three, the positions change instantly."

Roy Keane is out of today's game, leaving Kleberson to take his place in an attacking United midfield that will see the Brazilian and Paul Scholes support Van Nistelrooy. The hamstring injury is also likely to keep Keane out of Sunday's visit to Middlesbrough.

http://sport.independent.co.uk/football/man_united/story.jsp?story=476109

[RuMmYtUb]

We'll be happy to see a world class striker and defender... or thereabouts...
to able to retain our title, and if possible the CL too.. :D

[RVN]

latest striker target Djibril Cisse. ;)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/3348503.stm

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN
latest striker target Djibril Cisse. ;)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/3348503.stm

This guy's sure join the GH revolution.. :laugh:

[guoquanyap]

later against everton....get a win and remain top of the table.....:D

[RuMmYtUb]

Yes Chelski lost points to Charlton.. !!!
:evil:

[RVN]

F*cking hell,why the hell is Ruud, Giggs and Scholes on the bench, Phil Neville not even on the bench, hes rested plus Keane injury, 5 major changes. :eek:


Carroll

G Neville
Ferdinand
Silvestre
O'Shea

Ronaldo
Butt
Kleberson
Fortune

Bellion
Forlan

Subs: Carroll, Eric Djemba Djemba, Giggs, Scholes, Ruud

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RVN
F*cking hell,why the hell is Ruud, Giggs and Scholes on the bench, Phil Neville not even on the bench, hes rested plus Keane injury, 5 major changes. :eek:


Carroll

G Neville
Ferdinand
Silvestre
O'Shea

Ronaldo
Butt
Kleberson
Fortune

Bellion
Forlan

Subs: Carroll, Eric Djemba Djemba, Giggs, Scholes, Ruud

tough game coming ahead.....boro away, villa away......

[kengbeng]

This keeps the players fresh for the next game. 2 games in 3 days is no joke. Hope this gamble by SAF pays off.

[RuMmYtUb]

Match starting very soon...
Hope we'll have a good BOXING DAY !

[guoquanyap]

great football for the first 10mins and last 10mins....ronaldo has been very very fresh....:D

/me take a look at the sub bench.......great future ahead.....:D

[RVN]

2-1 at half time

i think fergie needs to put on some of his good players. i would really like it if ruud and forlan were upfront

also bring on some of the midfielders and we will win!

[Alienz]

United can cope without Rio - Pallister

Manchester United can manage without banned defender Rio Ferdinand, according to former Old Trafford favourite Gary Pallister.
Pallister believes the impending eight-month loss of Ferdinand is no handicap - and neither was Eric Cantona's absence in 1995 when United were robbed of the chance of completing a second successive Premiership and FA Cup double.

Cantona was banned for an identical period after attacking a spectator at Selhurst Park, and many people blamed the resulting ban as the reason United were pipped by Blackburn in the title race and lost to Everton at Wembley.

Not Pallister, who said: "No team is a one-man band. It applied in 1995 in Eric's case and it applies now. Of course it affected the dressing room when Eric was banned.

"He was the focal point of our side, the talisman who could open up defences when opponents came to shut up shop at Old Trafford.

"We missed him at times that season but it wasn't the reason we lost out on the double.

"Eric was a joy to play alongside and to watch. He was fantastic but it gets my back up when people say we lost out in the title and FA Cup in 1995 because Eric was suspended.

"You can never rely on one person. It has to be a strong team and that's what we had.

"We had enough chances to win that vital final league match at West Ham instead of drawing to allow Blackburn to win the championship. In fact, we had enough chances to win two matches.

"That result knocked the stuffing out of us and we suffered because of it at Wembley against Everton. But it wasn't down to Eric's ban.

"If Rio does serve a long suspension then United now have the back-up.

"In the return of Wes Brown they have a ready-made replacement. As good a defender as Rio is I don't think it will derail the team this season."

[tranze]

SIBE HENG!!!!
KNN
Heart Attack!!!

[RuMmYtUb]

Wah siao liao, 3 points secured but our defence is really very lean after Silvestre's injury scare.....
hope his injury's juz minor....
stupid jeffers...!!! :mad: :mad:

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Wah siao liao, 3 points secured but our defence is really very lean after Silvestre's injury scare.....
hope his injury's juz minor....
stupid jeffers...!!! :mad: :mad:

sent by arsenal.....:mad: :mad:

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Wah siao liao, 3 points secured but our defence is really very lean after Silvestre's injury scare.....
hope his injury's juz minor....
stupid jeffers...!!! :mad: :mad:

lack of sportmanship by jeffers and rooney, both were trying to injured our players. Heard O'Shea was also injured damm our defence is stretched to the limit. :mad: :(

[guoquanyap]

ronaldo is my MoM today......;)

[RVN]

Fergie just said Keane will be fit for the boro match but O'Shea and Silvestre out for Sunday. :(

Phil and Fortune will probably take over from both of them in the defence. Brown might be on the bench.

Butt, Kleberson and Ronaldo played well today to stake their place in the team. :)

[guoquanyap]

wau lau....sliv injured rio going kana ban....big hole in the middle man.....transfer window opening soon......:cool:

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RVN
Fergie just said Keane will be fit for the boro match but O'Shea and Silvestre out for Sunday. :(

Phil and Fortune will probably take over from both of them in the defence. Brown might be on the bench.

Butt, Kleberson and Ronaldo played well today to stake their place in the team. :)

ronaldo should be rest.....took too much knocks today....

[RVN]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


ronaldo should be rest.....took too much knocks today....

Fletcher will play against boro then. :rolleyes:

Expect Keane, Scholes, Ruud and Giggs to play too cos Boro are our bogey team. :(

[RuMmYtUb]

I'm beginning to like Kleberson !

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
I'm beginning to like Kleberson !

abit lack of fittness leh....show toward end of the game.....

[RVN]

For me this was a great improvement from Manchester United over other 2nd-half performance's.

Brilliant start of the 1st half, we totally controlled it, and got a goal in from a surprise scorer, Nicky Butt.
Everton began to take control and that lead to an Own-Goal by Gary Neville, which was plain silly, but he redeemed himself by assisting Kleberson for the winner.
I love watching Kleberson play, great passing, great crosses, he brings alot of excitement to the team, as does young Ronaldo, Kleberson deserved his goal.
Ronaldo turned on after 30minutes, after the half-hour mark, he was just wonderful on the ball, there was just no stopping him, improving on every game, might of got himself a goal.
Bellion should be moved to the right wing, he does well down there, has the pace, the creativity, flair and a fairly decent cross, and has showed before what he can down that right-flank.

2nd-half was superb, Ronaldo totally owned the left-wing, including setting up Bellion for his goal

Rooney and Jeffers showed no remorse and total malice on there challenges on Cristiano Ronaldo and should have been sent off. :mad:

Everton's 2nd goal came as a dissapoitment to me, sloppy marking, at no time was Howard ever at fault, overall the defence were sloppy which is disappointing, shame about the 2nd goal of course. :(

Cristiano Ronaldo deserved his Barclaycard Man of the Match award, enjoy that bottle of champaigne. :bounce:

[RVN]

Manchester United are sweating on the fitness of John O'Shea and Mikael Silvestre, who both picked up injuries in the nail-biting win over Everton.
O'Shea was forced out of the 3-2 success early in the second half to be replaced by Paul Scholes while Silvestre was the victim of a robust challenge from Francis Jeffers.

Silvestre incurred a knee injury in the tackle while Republic of Ireland international O'Shea suffered a thigh strain in the win at Old Trafford.

Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson will assess the pair's condition on Saturday but the defensive duo are both unlikely to be fit for Sunday's trip to Middlesbrough.

"O'Shea is a hamstring while Mikael's is maybe a sore one with his knee injury and we will have to assess that tomorrow," said Ferguson.

"We will have to wait and see how the players are first (before deciding whether to sign a defender during the transfer window)."

As for the performance against The Toffees, Ferguson was satisfied with his players after making several changes to his starting line-up.

"I thought we played very well and our attacking play was very good," he added.

"It was good for the players who came in to have the chance to express themselves and stake a claim as Man Utd players."

Gary Neville's own goal had cancelled out Nicky Butt's opener for the hosts who earned victory through efforts from Kleberson and David Bellion.

The unfortunate Neville admits his intervention had a detrimental impact on United's pattern of play.

Neville said: "I thought my own goal affected the smoothness of the performance.

"We started brightly, our passing was good and then there was a bad mistake from me.

"They got a bit of a lifeline and put us on the back foot but our goal before half time changed the game around before we got a bit sloppy at the end."

http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,7-1116991,00.html

[genesis113]

Originally posted by RVN
Manchester United are sweating on the fitness of John O'Shea and Mikael Silvestre, who both picked up injuries in the nail-biting win over Everton.
O'Shea was forced out of the 3-2 success early in the second half to be replaced by Paul Scholes while Silvestre was the victim of a robust challenge from Francis Jeffers.

Silvestre incurred a knee injury in the tackle while Republic of Ireland international O'Shea suffered a thigh strain in the win at Old Trafford.



The Jeffers still think he's in Gooner's color. he's just a jerk in soccer.

I think sunday's line-up might be

howard;
g neville, rio, silvestre/keane, fortune;
fletcher/ronaldo, p neville, butt, giggs
scholes,
ruud.

I hope Kleberson can play, he's getting better in every match, he looked more closer to a World cup winner now.( but his fitness is a bit worrying, he seemed like puncture at the closing stage of this match)

hoping we can beat the boro this time.

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


sent by arsenal.....:mad: :mad:

Ya lor.. earlier on b4 the match he(Jeffers) must hav received a call(fr wenger) "Monsieur Francis..in goodwill of helping your former club.. i hoped that u can try your best in "cutting down" anyone of the important personnel from the devils.. The Gunners will be deeply in debt with your act."

:mad: Blast tat damn Wenger!

[RVN]

a bit to arrogant line-up imo we played pretty well none the less, and we're 4 points ahead of chelski. :D

both o'shea and silvestre out with injuries, o'shea set to miss the 'boro match... silvestre doubtful, playing djemba at right back and fortune at left didn't work at all today, we've gotta bring in a new deffender in january... :(

**** jeffers and also rooney for being a spolit brat. :mad:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN
a bit to arrogant line-up imo we played pretty well none the less, and we're 4 points ahead of chelski. :D

both o'shea and silvestre out with injuries, o'shea set to miss the 'boro match... silvestre doubtful, playing djemba at right back and fortune at left didn't work at all today, we've gotta bring in a new deffender in january... :(

**** jeffers and also rooney for being a spolit brat. :mad:

Actually at first i thought it was arrogant, but really no choice becoz we have Middlesbrough to deal with tomorrow... really muz rest the likes of Giggs, and RvN..

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


abit lack of fittness leh....show toward end of the game.....


Ya the dying few minutes to him seemed never-ending...
I think Bellion's first touch is still very poor though he scored the decisive winner...
Hope Fergie and his coaches can do something about that..:(

[VipeR247]

First time watching ron playing left flank in the absence of giggs and i've got to admit he played very well! Could be in contention for giggs replacement in the near future :)

[Alienz]

United face defensive headaches

MANCHESTER, England (AFP) - Manchester United stayed top of the Premiership with a 3-2 win over Everton, but the win came at a cost with Reds boss Alex Ferguson facing a defensive crisis ahead of Sunday's trip to Middlesbrough.

John O'Shea limped out of the Old Trafford game on Boxing Day with a hamstring injury and is definitely out of the match at the Riverside, while Mikael Silvestre is doubtful after picking up a knee injury following a clash with Everton substitute Francis Jeffers.

"We will assess Mikael in the morning but it is a sore one," said Ferguson.

"John O'Shea has a hamstring injury and he is definitely out of the Middlesbrough game."

If Silvestre does not make it, Ferguson must decide whether to play Gary Neville or Roy Keane alongside Rio Ferdinand in central defence or recall Wes Brown, who has played just two reserve team games since his second cruciate knee ligament operation in the summer.

Cristiano Ronaldo was almost another casualty for United after suffering a late lunge from Wayne Rooney who was booked for his troubles.

"There were some tough tackles going in on the young lad and I don't think the referee handled it very well," said Ferguson.

United went into the match without skipper Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ryan Giggs but they deserved their win here after dominating most of the game.

Nicky Butt gave United an eighth minute lead before a Gary Neville own-goal brought the teams level.

Brazilian Kleberson restored the lead on the stroke of half-time with David Bellion ensuring the three points in the second half although Duncan Ferguson gave the Merseysiders hope with a headed goal in the last minute.

Everton manager David Moyes was not too downcast even though his team suffered their 15th defeat in 17 matches against United and he also refused to condemn Rooney for his tough tackling, although he took him off after 70 minutes.

"It is another learning experience for him," said Moyes. "He is doing very well and progressing as we want him to."

[RVN]

Dec 27 - Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has launched his bid for Middlesbrough defender Gareth Southgate by provisionally offering Uruguay striker Diego Forlan as a straight swap.

Ferguson, desperate to fill the gap left by Rio Ferdinand's impending suspension, has enquired about the former England defender, whom Boro are resigned to losing when his contract expires in the summer.

Ferguson has indicated to Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren that he would be prepared to swap Forlan for Southgate - as long as United land two other strikers in the January transfer window.

The United boss is confident that he can prise both Mark Viduka from Leeds and Fulham's Louis Saha to Manchester but he will also be watching closely for any sign that Juventus are willing to sell France international David Trezeguet.

A move to Old Trafford would be a dream for Southgate, 33, who has been anxious to experience European football and he would be eligible to step straight into United's team for the later stages of the Champions League.

Forlan was originally a Boro target before Ferguson swooped two years ago to hijack the £7million deal for United after the player flew into Gatwick Airport.

Although Forlan's goalscoring record is not outstanding - his first Premiership goal came after 27 appearances - Middlesbrough still appear keen on the 24-year-old and feel that he is still the best option available to end their goal drought.

http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=42962&seg=EPL&teamid=

[RVN]

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a defensive dilemma for the trip to Middlesbrough.

Quinton Fortune will replace hamstring injury victim John O'Shea at left-back but, with Mikael Silvestre (knee) rated extremely doubtful, Ferguson must decide whether to use Roy Keane or Gary Neville in central defence or recall Wes Brown, who has yet to make a first-team appearance since his second cruciate knee ligament operation in the summer.

Keane, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Phil Neville should all return after being left out of the starting line-up to face Everton.

Manchester United (from): Howard, Carroll, G Neville, Ferdinand, Wes Brown, Fortune, Forlan, Fletcher, P Neville, Butt, Keane, Kleberson, Ronaldo, Giggs, van Nistelrooy, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba.

[RuMmYtUb]

:laugh: :laugh:

Forlan <----> Southgate...
this is a ****ing joke.. :laugh: :laugh:

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
:laugh: :laugh:

Forlan <----> Southgate...
this is a ****ing joke.. :laugh: :laugh:


Yeah it is ridiculous, 23 years old for 33 years old, thats silly, I doubt this source of story as SAF have said he wants to buy young players in the team, not another old player like Southgate (reminds me of Blanc). :rolleyes:

[RVN]

WHILE Cristiano Ronaldo basked in the glory of his finest display for Manchester United, it was an altogether contrasting afternoon for the other 18-year-old on show at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney can do no wrong for England, but has endured a frustrating first half of the season at Everton which continued yesterday with his seventh yellow card of the season, for a cynical lunge on Ronaldo.

That Everton boss David Moyes brought Rooney off for his own protection with 20 minutes to go says everything about the simmering frustration and anger that is eating away at the England striker and threatening to undermine his superb talent.

Only two weeks ago, Rooney once again lost the fragile hold on his volatile temperament when he pushed Portsmouth's Steve Stone during Everton's 2-1 victory at Fratton Park.

On that occasion, Rooney was so sure he had been sent off, he walked towards the tunnel, only to be stopped at the touchline and told to return after only being issued with a caution for his moment of stupidity.

Yesterday, he could have been forgiven for doing the same when he his dreadful challenge sent Ronaldo spinning into the air and left 60,000 United fans baying for a red card.

Referee Mike Dean could quite easily have sent off Rooney for his moments of madness, but showed great commonsense in simply issuing a caution and warning Rooney to cool his temper.

The Old Trafford crowd, dismayed at what they saw as an injustice when the red was not brandished, were relentless in their abuse of Rooney and Moyes took the sensible course of action by hauling Rooney off.

"Today was another learning curve for Wayne," said Moyes: "A lot of players have difficult moments, not just Wayne Rooney. If just one of those things that players, particularly good players have to deal with."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had no such worries and was effusive in his praise of match-winner Ronaldo.

Fergie said: "I thought Ronaldo had a fantastic game. He was sensational at Charlton, but today he really showed what he's all about.

"He is 18 and that's why we are using his sparingly. But in a couple of years, he'll be a truly outstanding player and we are all thrilled by him."

The only black mark for United were the injuries to defensive duo Mikael Silvestre and John O'Shea.

Frenchman Silvestre injured his knee under a crunching challenge from Francis Jeffers and could be out for a long time, while Irish international O'Shea pulled a hamstring which will keep him out for up to a fortnight.

Fergie added: "We will have to assess them in the morning but, of course, it's a blow when any of your first-team players get injured. It's too early to say how long they'll both be out."

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/sporttop/content_objectid=13759630_method=full_siteid=50143_headline=-FOOTBALL%2D%2DWAYNE%2DSPARED%2DRED%2DDISGRACE-name_page.html

[Alienz]

Football legend Best held for allegedly beating his wife: report

LONDON (AFP) - Former Manchester United and Northern Ireland football star George Best spent 11 hours under arrest Friday in connection with an alleged assault on his estranged wife Alex, a top-selling British newspaper said Saturday.

Best, 57, was arrested after a drunken tiff with his wife in the south England town of Reigate where he and Alex once shared a house, The Sun tabloid said.

"A 57-year-old male was arrested on December 26 at approximately 2 am in Reigate, in relation to an allegation of assault," police said, refusing to confirm his identity or the victim of the alleged assault.

"He has been released without charge and no allegation is being pursued by any party," police said.

The reported arrest is the latest drama in the life of the football legend who split from 31-year-old Alex in September after failing to give up drinking despite undergoing a liver transplant in July 2002.

"We just wanted a nice Christmas. It was meant to be amicable," Alex was quoted as saying by The Sun.

"He started drinking and then this happened," Alex said, reportedly pointing to a bruise on her lip.

Best was one of the stars of the Manchester United team that won the European Cup in 1968 and a combination of talent and good looks made him Britain's first 'superstar' player.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN



Yeah it is ridiculous, 23 years old for 33 years old, thats silly, I doubt this source of story as SAF have said he wants to buy young players in the team, not another old player like Southgate (reminds me of Blanc). :rolleyes:

I dun mind Southgate joining our ranks, if he comes cheap like 1 or 2 m... but not Forlan to the other direction...

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RVN



Yeah it is ridiculous, 23 years old for 33 years old, thats silly, I doubt this source of story as SAF have said he wants to buy young players in the team, not another old player like Southgate (reminds me of Blanc). :rolleyes:

it's really crazy....:rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Dolphin1977]

Did u guys realised that ronaldo play better on the left hand side? against everton, we see the same ronaldo that terrorized bolton's defence....

it could be SAF plot to play him on the right hand side, makes him gething use of his right leg, so that he can dribble into the box when his on left hand side......

[RVN]

O'Shea ruled out for 3 weeks according to sky. :(

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN
O'Shea ruled out for 3 weeks according to sky. :(

Fug..:mad: :mad:
Defensive crisis liao....
How about Silvestre ?
He looked bad that night....

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Fug..:mad: :mad:
Defensive crisis liao....
How about Silvestre ?
He looked bad that night....

sent for hospital scan on his knee, no words on the results yet, could be even worse. :mad: :(

Bugger, we might have to buy 2 defenders in Jan. :mad:

Brown could play today, but hes more likely on the bench.

http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=42982&seg=EPL&teamid=

[ccloh]

if not coming out of fergie's mouth regarding the transfer of southgate with exchange of forlan, all talkings are RUBBISH.------------------------------+

[leslielai]

relax man, we can always put Keano, Butt and Phil into defence. Phil's a defender anyway. :rolleyes:

just play 3 defenders tonight with Keano doing the necessary cover for the defence. this should work.

[RVN]

Originally posted by ccloh
if not coming out of fergie's mouth regarding the transfer of southgate with exchange of forlan, all talkings are RUBBISH.------------------------------+

Who am I to comment on the tabloids, its obviously full of crap stories. :alien:

now theres talks of us moving for Figo, yawn. :yawn:

[RVN]

Originally posted by leslielai
relax man, we can always put Keano, Butt and Phil into defence. Phil's a defender anyway. :rolleyes:

just play 3 defenders tonight with Keano doing the necessary cover for the defence. this should work.

Never seen Butt play in defence before, Djemba is clearly not a defender after he played in the defence replacing Silvestre and look out of sorts. Keane and Phil can play there, Assuming Silvestre doesn't play tonight, Keane or Gary Neville appears to be the obvious choice to partner Ferdinand in the heart of the back four. Wes Brown still short of match-fitness. Fortune to play at left-back. Which presumably would put Kleberson and Scholes into the midfield? Or perhaps United allow Scholes to freelance between the midfield and van Nistelrooy? That would allow Kleberson and Butt to team up in the midfield blending both Kleberson's creativity and Butt's defensive skills - with Scholes still available to provide additional cover going in either direction....

[leslielai]

Originally posted by RVN


Never seen Butt play in defence before, Djemba is clearly not a defender after he played in the defence replacing Silvestre and look out of sorts. Keane and Phil can play there, Assuming Silvestre doesn't play tonight, Keane or Gary Neville appears to be the obvious choice to partner Ferdinand in the heart of the back four. Wes Brown still short of match-fitness. Fortune to play at left-back. Which presumably would put Kleberson and Scholes into the midfield? Or perhaps United allow Scholes to freelance between the midfield and van Nistelrooy? That would allow Kleberson and Butt to team up in the midfield blending both Kleberson's creativity and Butt's defensive skills - with Scholes still available to provide additional cover going in either direction....

a Kleberson/Scholes partnership in midfield would be a good combination tonight considering the current of Kleberson right now, we can't simply leave him out.

Scholes can also be deployed as a third striker behind Ruud and Forlan. that leaves a gap in midfield for Keane to partner Kleberson (Kleberson to do the going forward and Keane to do the backruns)

------------------Forlan----Ruud-----------------
----------------------Scholes----------------------
----Ronaldo----Keane----Kleberson------Giggs-----
-------------Fortune---Rio---Gary---------------

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


sent for hospital scan on his knee, no words on the results yet, could be even worse. :mad: :(

Bugger, we might have to buy 2 defenders in Jan. :mad:

Brown could play today, but hes more likely on the bench.

http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=42982&seg=EPL&teamid=

I think Fergie muz put his attention on defence ....
But he still insists his top priority is to get a striker cos not many good centre backs available on the market.... :mad: :mad:

[RVN]

Steve McClaren got an indication of the progress Middlesbrough are making when he glanced at the Manchester United side that faced Everton.

A number of top names were rested ahead of the game at the Riverside Stadium, a sure sign that Middlesbrough are considered hard to beat under former United number two McClaren.

Boro extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a draw at Blackburn on Boxing Day. Markus Babbel's second goal of the game deep in stoppage time denied Middlesbrough a victory.

McClaren said: "We will learn the lessons and move on because we have a great game to look forward to.

"Manchester United played a weakened team against Everton. It shows they have a bit of respect coming to Middlesbrough.

"We've had some great games against them in the past and I am sure this will be another good one."

Danny Mills' fitness will be reviewed ahead of the game after a bout of flu caused him to miss the match at Ewood Park.

Ugo Ehiogu is also looking to make his first start since April after tearing his cruciate ligament. McClaren could decide to draft Ehiogu in and rest veteran defender Colin Cooper.

Gary Neville has warned his Manchester United team-mates they must buck their ideas up if they are to hold onto their championship crown.

United head to Middlesbrough on the back of four straight victories since their November defeat at Chelsea.

It's a run which has seen the Old Trafford outfit sweep back into their familiar position at the top of the table, their latest success over Everton allowing them to leapfrog Arsenal who briefly reached the summit a couple of hours earlier.

Despite the impressive statistics, Neville remains concerned.

"We seem to be quite consistent in getting good results but we have not really hit the heights yet," he said.

"We will certainly have to play a lot better to get where we want to be."

While five big names, including Ryan Giggs, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Paul Scholes, are ready to return for United, their chances have been hit by injuries to John O'Shea and Mikael Silvestre.

O'Shea's hamstring strain has already ruled him out and Silvestre appears unlikely to recover from the bang on the knee.

While Quinton Fortune can slot into O'Shea's left-back berth without a problem, if Silvestre doesn't make it, Sir Alex Ferguson will have to decide whether to pull Neville or Roy Keane into an unfamiliar central defensive role alongside Rio Ferdinand or risk Wes Brown.

Brown completed only his second game since a summer cruciate knee ligament operation in a closed-doors friendly against Burnley on Christmas Eve and, despite Ferguson's view to the contrary, believes he is ready for a first-team return.

Middlesbrough (from): Schwarzer, Mills, Downing, Southgate, Cooper, Ehiogu, Queudrue, Mendieta, Boateng, Greening, Zenden, Ricketts, Davies, Juninho, Riggott, Jones, Maccarone.

Man Utd (from): Howard, Carroll, G Neville, Ferdinand, Fortune, Forlan, Fletcher, P Neville, Butt, Keane, Kleberson, Ronaldo, Giggs, Scholes, Van Nistelrooy, Bellion, Djemba-Djemba, Brown.

[RuMmYtUb]

Can we dun start Bellion ?
He keeps losing possessions...:mad:

Boro very strong lineup..
Zenden, Mendieta and Juninho very dangerous players..

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Can we dun start Bellion ?
He keeps losing possessions...:mad:

Boro very strong lineup..
Zenden, Mendieta and Juninho very dangerous players..

Bellion won't start, Ruud and Giggs sure will play after being rested, Ronaldo won't play either, 2 games in 2 days is too much for him. But I am not convinced about Fletcher, he also lose possessions a lot too, maybe play Kleberson on the right. I go for this line-up.

Howard

P Neville-----G Neville-----Rio--------Fortune

Kleberson------Keane-------Butt-------Giggs

---------------Scholes-------------

---------------Ruud------------

Subs: Carroll, Brown, Eric, Fletcher, Forlan

[Spock]

Oh no..gary neville in central defence...:(

[RVN]

Originally posted by Spock
Oh no..gary neville in central defence...:(

other alternatives include Brown and Keane, Silvestre would have been the better choice though. :(

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


Bellion won't start, Ruud and Giggs sure will play after being rested, Ronaldo won't play either, 2 games in 2 days is too much for him. But I am not convinced about Fletcher, he also lose possessions a lot too, maybe play Kleberson on the right. I go for this line-up.

Howard

P Neville-----G Neville-----Rio--------Fortune

Kleberson------Keane-------Butt-------Giggs

---------------Scholes-------------

---------------Ruud------------

Subs: Carroll, Brown, Eric, Fletcher, Forlan

OmG, G.Neville back to central..

Silvestre's been a revelation these days... central role is the way for him! :D

[RVN]

Manchester United will not be breaking any transfer records when the January trading window opens.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson says the time has passed when prices would rise when it was discovered he was chasing a player, and is adamant any offers will be based United's own valuation.

"The days of clubs holding people to ransom have gone. Nobody is paying big money, but we put a value on people which is sensible. Any big move now it is not just the fee, it is the salary. Salaries can be just as crippling.

"Everyone has been reined in. I also think wages have reached a ceiling. The money is just not there. Italy have felt the draught more than anyone.

"Apart from Chelsea. It used to be the case when somebody spent money it went down through the lower levels but that doesn't happen now they are just keeping it. Every club plays the game and everyone will try to get the most they can out of United and Chelsea now because we are the only ones with any money."

The United manager has also played down claims United might be ready to sell when trading re-starts next week.

Nicky Butt has been linked with a possible move to Tottenham Hotspur but Ferguson added: "Nobody has phoned us about Nicky. Probably because I am not taking any phone calls! Nobody has faxed me and I am not having any phone calls. It is Christmas cheer and I am doing my Scrooge."

Meanwhile, Manchester United will not buy a new defender even if Rio Ferdinand is forced to serve the whole of his eight-month ban.

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed he is ready to make a move when the January transfer window opens, but says he has his sights set on adding to United's attacking options not bolstering the best defence in the Premiership.

Although Ferdinand could be out of the game from February to the end of the season should efforts to overturn his suspension for missing a random drugs test fail, the United boss reckons he has enough defenders on his books without investing in another.

"I'm not thinking about a defender," he told the Manchester Evening News Sunday Pink. "One reason is because Wes Brown is coming back, but I also think we are well covered there. Hopefully Wes will be fine but we have John O'Shea, and there is also Gary Neville and Roy Keane who can play there."

Sir Alex admits he is taking a gamble but says: "We don't want any injuries and that's for sure, and a lot depends on what happens to Rio and his appeal because that plays a part too, but I am not looking to bring a centre-half in.

"The striker is a different matter. We are looking for someone who has not played in Europe, which narrows the field down a bit."

Since Sir Alex revealed he was ready to break with tradition and sign a player mid season United have been linked with Leeds United's Mark Viduka and Fulham striker Louis Saha. The names of Manchester City's Nicolas Anelka and Bolton's Nigerian star Jay-Jay Okocha have also been mentioned in some quarters but the Reds' boss is giving no clues.

"There has been a lot of speculation. It's not as easy as everyone thinks but we are looking. We just have to persevere along the lines that maybe we will be able to get somebody in, and that is all I am saying."

[RuMmYtUb]

Gd.. dun wanna get exploited by other teams..

Why nv consider Fernando Torres b4 ?
young n gd.

[ccloh]

one again, rivaldo might be a gd buy given no transfer fee involved and i believe he has not played for milan in CL b4. as for the salary, well rivaldo is renowned for getting high salary but the situation now is different, no club wants him and if he doesn't scale down his salary, his career will just end there like that.

he definitely can add a different dimension to utd attacking option but if fergie is looking for someone like rvn then i guess will have to rule him out already.

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Gd.. dun wanna get exploited by other teams..

Why nv consider Fernando Torres b4 ?
young n gd.

he will be damn expensive...:alien: somemore he jus signed a new deal....onli chelsea can afford.....

[guoquanyap]

match starting.....riverside....not a easy place to visit....hopefully we will put up a gd performance and come away w 3pts.....;)

[RVN]

Silvestre is fit. :)

Howard

G Neville
Silvestre
Rio
Fortune

Fletcher
Keane
Phil Neville
Giggs

Scholes

Ruud

Subs: Carroll, Brown, Kleberson, Butt, Forlan

[guoquanyap]

sliv in.....

[kengbeng]

Own goal by Danny Mills. :)

[guoquanyap]

match damn rough.....hopefully can come away w a win w no injuring.......

[RuMmYtUb]

match damn fiery... turning into a street brawl soon..

[cracker]

will fulham thrashing by Villa expedite Saha's departure from the Cottage ?

[genesis113]

Maybe bcos of the link btw Southgate and United, the Boro players as well as Mcclaren feeling upset, and want to hurt United as much as they can. :mad:

Why Juninho always think only other people could lose the ball, but not him? :mad:

[leslielai]

****ing useless. alright Fletcher supporters, where're you guys?

[cracker]

Originally posted by leslielai
****ing useless. alright Fletcher supporters, where're you guys?

Giggs is equally "****ing useless" till now !!!!,,missing couple of chances !

[leslielai]

Originally posted by cracker


Giggs is equally "****ing useless" till now !!!!,,missing couple of chances !

at least he is creating space, running into the area and taking the chances. yea he missed a couple, at least he got the tries.

[RuMmYtUb]

Wah resolute defence... had to endure playing with 10 men....
3 points collected, hope tmr Saints can get something out of the gunners !
:evil:

[Alienz]

yes UTD survive :)

[cracker]

Utd will start 2004 as the leader and hope will finish as one by E/May !!!!!


Next FA Cup third rd clash at Aston Villa.

[guoquanyap]

wow really hard-earn victory man.....*pwew*

[RVN]

Originally posted by leslielai
****ing useless. alright Fletcher supporters, where're you guys?

Fletcher - whats the problem? You, or most of you, seem to be expecting miracles working for the under 20's? You make excuses for a young 18 years old "import" yet have nowt kind to say about a young "home grown" talent. So what if he has couple of bad games, you were all singing his praises a few weeks ago!!!

Come on, give the lad a break will ya? how the **** was Mills not sent off for elbowing Giggs, As for the 2 yellows against him, neither merited a booking, never mind the ultimate red. Those two bookings were a farce. Lack of consistency from the ref. :mad:

[RVN]

Sir Alex Ferguson defended Darren Fletcher after the young Scot was sent off during the 1-0 win at Middlesbrough for two reckless challenges.
The midfielder was shown two yellow cards by referee Matt Messias, who had been jeered off at the interval for booking George Boateng but failing to penalise Roy Keane for a clean tackle from behind.

Ferguson felt the official was wrong to dismiss Fletcher, but did not believe Boro deserved anything from the match as again their shot-shy forward line failed to sparkle.

"I don't think it was fortunate," stated Ferguson, whose side won with a Quinton Fortune shot that deflected off Danny Mills.

"They didn't make a chance in the whole match. Tim Howard didn't have a save to make.

"They had lots of corners and long throw-ins, but I think we defended very well.

"The referee has made a rod for his own back. The first booking is ridiculous. There should have been four or five sent off on that principle. But we don't want that.

"There was nothing nasty in the game. Two tackles and the young boy's sent off.

"He's only starting his career. He's never been that type of player, but he's been sent off.

"Maybe it got the crowd going and they were at them. Their staff went after him in the tunnel. But decision-making is an important part of the referee's job to get that right.

"We stopped spreading the play and, in fairness to Boro, they upped the tempo and fought like tigers, so you've got to give them a lot of credit."

Ferguson again remained tight-lipped on the January transfer window, but stressed he will not neccesarily move for a defender to replace Rio Ferdinand.

"I'm assessing the situation," he told Sky Sports. "We may have a look and do something if the right person comes along. We might be tempted.

"The Rio ban doesn't come into the equation."

http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,31-1117126,00.html

[ccloh]

giggs and fletcher are not striker in nature, they don't score is common, what the fuss abt. their main role is to create chances for striker to score.

[RuMmYtUb]

Yesterday's red card is really too harsh.. :(
The first offence should not be yellow card.

[RVN]

We never go too public on our transfers unless we have to. I think it`s fairly clear that we have expressed an interest for both Saha and Viduka. At the moment they look the main choices. We`ve tried to keep a lid on it, but the signs would indicate that we are preparing to start a bidding war.

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by genesis113


Why Juninho always think only other people could lose the ball, but not him? :mad: wad makes u think so?

[RVN]

Roy Keane believes Sir Alex Ferguson should buy more than one player when the transfer window opens on Thursday.
The Manchester United skipper - who weeks ago encouraged Ferguson to sign an extra striker - reckons the time is right to make a double swoop.

"We probably came up short last season, especially in Europe, with the squad we had, and I still think we could do with one or two players and probably the manager is thinking the same," said Keane.

"A few weeks ago when [Paul Scholes] Scholesy was injured and Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] was still out, you were saying 'Please God nothing happens to the other players like Ruud [van Nistelrooy]', and the manager is probably looking at things like this.

"Who's to say who he will buy in the next few weeks?

"We made a few buys in the summer, but having said that we also lost one or two players, and the manager is always looking at the bigger picture."

At the weekend Ferguson reiterated his plans to sign a striker, stressing he was not likely to land an extra defender, even though he could lose Rio Ferdinand for the latter half of the season if he is forced to serve the whole of his pending eight-month ban.

United have been linked with Leeds frontman Mark Viduka for several weeks, but there is also speculation that Ferguson could make a move for the Aussie's Elland Road partner Alan Smith.

Fulham's Louis Saha is thought to top Ferguson's list of priorities, and United are also said to be interested in Manchester City's French star Nicola Anelka.

At the weekend Bolton's Nigerian playmaker Jay-Jay Okocha was the latest name to be put forward as a possible to make a move to Old Trafford.

Roy Keane believes Sir Alex Ferguson should buy more than one player when the transfer window opens on Thursday.
The Manchester United skipper - who weeks ago encouraged Ferguson to sign an extra striker - reckons the time is right to make a double swoop.

"We probably came up short last season, especially in Europe, with the squad we had, and I still think we could do with one or two players and probably the manager is thinking the same," said Keane.

"A few weeks ago when [Paul Scholes] Scholesy was injured and Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] was still out, you were saying 'Please God nothing happens to the other players like Ruud [van Nistelrooy]', and the manager is probably looking at things like this.

"Who's to say who he will buy in the next few weeks?

"We made a few buys in the summer, but having said that we also lost one or two players, and the manager is always looking at the bigger picture."

At the weekend Ferguson reiterated his plans to sign a striker, stressing he was not likely to land an extra defender, even though he could lose Rio Ferdinand for the latter half of the season if he is forced to serve the whole of his pending eight-month ban.

United have been linked with Leeds frontman Mark Viduka for several weeks, but there is also speculation that Ferguson could make a move for the Aussie's Elland Road partner Alan Smith.

Fulham's Louis Saha is thought to top Ferguson's list of priorities, and United are also said to be interested in Manchester City's French star Nicola Anelka.

At the weekend Bolton's Nigerian playmaker Jay-Jay Okocha was the latest name to be put forward as a possible to make a move to Old Trafford.

Roy Keane believes Sir Alex Ferguson should buy more than one player when the transfer window opens on Thursday.
The Manchester United skipper - who weeks ago encouraged Ferguson to sign an extra striker - reckons the time is right to make a double swoop.

"We probably came up short last season, especially in Europe, with the squad we had, and I still think we could do with one or two players and probably the manager is thinking the same," said Keane.

"A few weeks ago when [Paul Scholes] Scholesy was injured and Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] was still out, you were saying 'Please God nothing happens to the other players like Ruud [van Nistelrooy]', and the manager is probably looking at things like this.

"Who's to say who he will buy in the next few weeks?

"We made a few buys in the summer, but having said that we also lost one or two players, and the manager is always looking at the bigger picture."

At the weekend Ferguson reiterated his plans to sign a striker, stressing he was not likely to land an extra defender, even though he could lose Rio Ferdinand for the latter half of the season if he is forced to serve the whole of his pending eight-month ban.

United have been linked with Leeds frontman Mark Viduka for several weeks, but there is also speculation that Ferguson could make a move for the Aussie's Elland Road partner Alan Smith.

Fulham's Louis Saha is thought to top Ferguson's list of priorities, and United are also said to be interested in Manchester City's French star Nicola Anelka.

At the weekend Bolton's Nigerian playmaker Jay-Jay Okocha was the latest name to be put forward as a possible to make a move to Old Trafford.

http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,744574,00.html

[LiquidSilver]

our superstar

SCHOLES! (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/football/story/0,1870,227372,00.html?)

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by LiquidSilver
our superstar

SCHOLES! (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/football/story/0,1870,227372,00.html?)

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by LiquidSilver
our superstar

SCHOLES! (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/football/story/0,1870,227372,00.html?)

Scholesy ROX !~

:bounce:

[genesis113]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
wad makes u think so?

haha,
he just couldn't stop arguing wf the linesmen and the ref whenever he lost the ball.

[ccloh]

Originally posted by LiquidSilver
our superstar

SCHOLES! (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/football/story/0,1870,227372,00.html?)

that is what i called a geninus footballer not some giggolo jerk like david beckham

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by genesis113


haha,
he just couldn't stop arguing wf the linesmen and the ref whenever he lost the ball. :D sorry ar, dint watch the match.
:P

[orca_sea]

Actually the standard of refereeing iz quite doubtful recently.. like tiz morning match.. both Phillips n Gunner GK shld hav kanna carded but they all get away wif it sia.. i tink if Colina iz the ref..i tink both would b out of match lor..Phillips for his incident inside Gunners' penalty box during the corner.. n Gunners GK at tat ball tossing incident..

[King_Henry]

Originally posted by LiquidSilver
our superstar

SCHOLES! (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/football/story/0,1870,227372,00.html?)

that is what i called a geninus footballer not some giggolo jerk like david beckham

[kengbeng]

http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/031230/21/ei1pk.html

United set for Robben talks

PSV Eindhoven president Harry van Raay says that winger Arjen Robben could leave in the summer, with Manchester United ready to pounce.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reports that Robben, 19, will travel to Old Trafford this week for preliminary talks with United boss Alex Ferguson, who is thought to have identified Robben as the long-term replacement for Ryan Giggs.

And when asked if Robben would leave Eindhoven in the summer, van Raay said: "The chance is 50 per cent.''

The newspaper also claims that United are looking to seal a deal for Robben as early as next month, although the pacy forward would remain at the Philips Stadion until the end of the season at the earliest.

Robben shot to prominence with PSV after joining the club from Groningen in 2002.

He has since scored 16 goals in 48 league appearances for the Eindhoven giants, and is expected to be a member of Dick Advocaat's Holland squad for the Euro 2004 finals in June.

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by kengbeng
http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/031230/21/ei1pk.html

United set for Robben talks

PSV Eindhoven president Harry van Raay says that winger Arjen Robben could leave in the summer, with Manchester United ready to pounce.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reports that Robben, 19, will travel to Old Trafford this week for preliminary talks with United boss Alex Ferguson, who is thought to have identified Robben as the long-term replacement for Ryan Giggs.

And when asked if Robben would leave Eindhoven in the summer, van Raay said: "The chance is 50 per cent.''

The newspaper also claims that United are looking to seal a deal for Robben as early as next month, although the pacy forward would remain at the Philips Stadion until the end of the season at the earliest.

Robben shot to prominence with PSV after joining the club from Groningen in 2002.

He has since scored 16 goals in 48 league appearances for the Eindhoven giants, and is expected to be a member of Dick Advocaat's Holland squad for the Euro 2004 finals in June.

yeah! get him at all cost! :bounce: :bounce:

[guoquanyap]

we hav been so poor in the transfer market recently......it's time to change thing ard.....

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by kengbeng
http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/031230/21/ei1pk.html

United set for Robben talks

PSV Eindhoven president Harry van Raay says that winger Arjen Robben could leave in the summer, with Manchester United ready to pounce.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reports that Robben, 19, will travel to Old Trafford this week for preliminary talks with United boss Alex Ferguson, who is thought to have identified Robben as the long-term replacement for Ryan Giggs.

And when asked if Robben would leave Eindhoven in the summer, van Raay said: "The chance is 50 per cent.''

The newspaper also claims that United are looking to seal a deal for Robben as early as next month, although the pacy forward would remain at the Philips Stadion until the end of the season at the earliest.

Robben shot to prominence with PSV after joining the club from Groningen in 2002.

He has since scored 16 goals in 48 league appearances for the Eindhoven giants, and is expected to be a member of Dick Advocaat's Holland squad for the Euro 2004 finals in June. is he good.

[ccloh]

19 is still to young to solve immediate strike option issue. it will take few season for the young chap to train up and get to the level of giggs. buy in cheap should be a great deal but not that kind of $$$ pay for ronaldo

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by ccloh
19 is still to young to solve immediate strike option issue. it will take few season for the young chap to train up and get to the level of giggs. buy in cheap should be a great deal but not that kind of $$$ pay for ronaldo

we actually going to pay ard 5-7million for ronaldo onli....but becos of chelsea interest which make us no choice but to double our bid.....so far it prove to be $$ well spent.....i rather spend abit more if that person really capble of big thing in the future......

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
is he good.

Yes he is gd.
Wonderkid.

[RuMmYtUb]

Dec 31 - Jermain Defoe's second five-game ban of the season was rubber-stamped by the FA yesterday - flattening West Ham's heavy-handed attempts to get their brilliant but flawed, 21-year-old striker off his third suspension of the season.

West Ham, however, have had their attempts to put their promotion campaign back on track improved because Manchester United and Chelsea, the big-spending clubs tracking the player, have dropped their interest.


It means that 15-goal Defoe looks certain to stay at least until the end of the season as there are no other clubs willing to match West Ham's £10 million valuation.


Jermaine Defoe (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=43252&seg=EPL&teamid=)

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Yes he is gd.
Wonderkid. yet to see him play.
compared to van de vaart?

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
yet to see him play.
compared to van de vaart?

Both juz as gd, van der Vaart might be ahead because of his constant exposure at international levels with Holland.

[leslielai]

we need a new Keano :(

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by leslielai
we need a new Keano :( :confused:

[leslielai]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
:confused:

Captain Keano doesn't have too much time left, probably another 2 seasons or so. So we need someone to be his understudy.

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by leslielai


Captain Keano doesn't have too much time left, probably another 2 seasons or so. So we need someone to be his understudy. after keano, got ferdinand. if not howard can oso.
all the new signings all cmi to be captain?

[leslielai]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
after keano, got ferdinand. if not howard can oso.
all the new signings all cmi to be captain?

Oh if you're taking about candidature for the future captain, we've got a few. Namely people like Rio, Gary (if he bucks up), Giggs, O'Shea or even Kleberson.

What I meant was a playmaker like Keano, a midfield anchor... paiseh. :D

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by leslielai
we need a new Keano :(

I believe Butt got the ability to b the next Keano lor.. ;)

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by leslielai
we need a new Keano :(

Djemba x2 ;)

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Djemba x2 ;)

not now, but i'm sure he will improve in future.

[RuMmYtUb]

http://www.footballchannel.com/imx/article/small/lsaha3.jpg

Dec 31 - Manchester United look set to fail with a second attempt to prise Louis Saha away from Fulham.

The Old Trafford club are preparing another bid for the Frenchman after having an offer of close to £5million rejected. But that will fail unless a vastly-improved offer is made to provoke the striker into making a transfer request.


Fulham directors and manager Chris Coleman have made it clear they are not ready to sell and have said he is worth at least £15m. The club will listen to offers next summer if they do not qualify for Europe but will try to stop Saha from leaving in the January transfer window.


Fulham have convinced the 25-year-old that he is better off starting regularly for them rather than becoming a bit-part player at Old Trafford. Saha has said he is happy to stay but if United's interest unsettles him enough, he could be on his way.


Sean Davis was the last Fulham player to ask to leave and the club eventually said they would not prevent him from going. His transfer request was accepted in the summer and a £5.5m deal was agreed with Everton before it broke down over a medical.


Meanwhile, there are new claims today about the deterioration in the relationship last season between former Fulham manager Jean Tigana, chairman Mohammed Fayed and senior players.


One report claims that senior players voiced their concerns to Fayed after Tigana sat in the corner of the dressing room reading a novel rather than give a team talk before one of the legs against Hertha Berlin in the UEFA Cup. Fulham lost the tie 2-1 on aggregate.


Louis Saha (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=43323)

[guoquanyap]

wont be easy for saha to join us....and it wont come cheap too.....

[StormTrooper]

i prefer fergie to go for smith

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by StormTrooper
i prefer fergie to go for smith

really hav to depend on fergie lor....anyway transfer window open tml.....:D

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by StormTrooper
i prefer fergie to go for smith

Share the same sentiments :D

[leslielai]

I'm a great admirer of Saha. :D

With him as a striking partner for RVN, we'll have so much surplus for our midfield department. Solskjaer and Forlan will be our 2nd set of strikers and Scholes can be back in his most comfortable position right behind the 2 targetmen.

A midfield boasting of Scholes, Keane, Kleberson, Giggs, Djemba Djemba, Butt, Phil Neville, Fortune, Fletcher, Bellion and Ronaldo would be more than enough to see us through the rest of the season.

I do not see much of a problem for our defence except that we need the cover while Rio is away. Southgate looks like a great addition but definitely not when we have to offer Forlan in exchange.

Woo lala .. the title will be well within our reach if there is no problems with the squad. :o

[RuMmYtUb]

Here's some good comments about Arjen Robben...

Wonderkid Robben (http://www.football365.com/You_Say_We_say/MailBox/story_95369.shtml)

:D :D

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by leslielai
I'm a great admirer of Saha. :D

With him as a striking partner for RVN, we'll have so much surplus for our midfield department. Solskjaer and Forlan will be our 2nd set of strikers and Scholes can be back in his most comfortable position right behind the 2 targetmen.

A midfield boasting of Scholes, Keane, Kleberson, Giggs, Djemba Djemba, Butt, Phil Neville, Fortune, Fletcher, Bellion and Ronaldo would be more than enough to see us through the rest of the season.

I do not see much of a problem for our defence except that we need the cover while Rio is away. Southgate looks like a great addition but definitely not when we have to offer Forlan in exchange.

Woo lala .. the title will be well within our reach if there is no problems with the squad. :o

Easier said than done...
IF Saha comes, he won't come cheap either...

[leslielai]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Easier said than done...
IF Saha comes, he won't come cheap either...

We NEED a striker of his calibre. A 10 million bid should be somethin that Fulham wouldn't turn down. Thats another 10 million left for your wonderkid and another defender. He might be a wonderkid and someone to look forward to BUT please bear in mind that a midfielder is NOT our top priority.

[stipe]

well... now they want 15mil.... would you pay 15mil for saha?

looks like a doomed deal to me...

http://www.tribalfootball.com/december/englinews9311203.html

[Ch3tah_39]

15mil is no no..
rather man utd look for another striker...:) not even saying 10mil

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by leslielai


We NEED a striker of his calibre. A 10 million bid should be somethin that Fulham wouldn't turn down. Thats another 10 million left for your wonderkid and another defender. He might be a wonderkid and someone to look forward to BUT please bear in mind that a midfielder is NOT our top priority.

Huh? when did i mention a midfielder is a top priority ?
We desperately need striker n defender..

[RuMmYtUb]

Jan 1 - PSV Eindhoven's Arjen Robben seems ready to commit his future to the Dutch club despite being linked with a move to Manchester United following comments from PSV president Harry van Raaij, who suggested Robben was close to the exit door.

Van Raaij was speaking after contract talks failed to bear fruit but the 19-year-old's father now claims they are ready to return to the negotiating table. Hans Robben was also at pains to stress that a move to United is unlikely.


"There is nothing concrete going on between Manchester United and us. Quite the contrary. We are speaking to PSV to see if we can get a better deal in Eindhoven than Arjen has at the moment," Robben snr said.


"If PSV are willing to invest in new and experienced players, Arjen wants to think about a longer stay in Eindhoven."

Arjen Robben (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=43346&seg=EPL&teamid=)

[Totti76]

Originally posted by leslielai
we need a new Keano :(
Ya a replacement for for keano.. I recommend Gattuso! He has the same attribute as keano. They simply just want to win & he is also no stranger to British soccer.
As for a striker.. I just cant figure out why SAF has to buy someone who must b eligible for Champion Leag. Does he only wants him for half season? :confused: Come on..its for the future. Waste 10 mil pound on someone who has not proven in Euro...thats a risk. Arjen Robben is good but he is more like a young giggs..add him to the squad is great...Robben on the left, Ronaldo on the right.
Kezman looks gd...fast n deadly. haha..why all comes from PSV..hmm:rolleyes:
Share ur view guys:D

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by Totti76

Ya a replacement for for keano.. I recommend Gattuso! He has the same attribute as keano. They simply just want to win & he is also no stranger to British soccer.
As for a striker.. I just cant figure out why SAF has to buy someone who must b eligible for Champion Leag. Does he only wants him for half season? :confused: Come on..its for the future. Waste 10 mil pound on someone who has not proven in Euro...thats a risk. Arjen Robben is good but he is more like a young giggs..add him to the squad is great...Robben on the left, Ronaldo on the right.
Kezman looks gd...fast n deadly. haha..why all comes from PSV..hmm:rolleyes:
Share ur view guys:D

with our current squad, we're good enough to retain the premiership, but still lacking in CL. thats why fergie needs players to be able to play in the CL so that the squad will be able to compete with the cream of europe.

if its for the future, fergie can well wait until the end of the season to bring in young players which he already did with ronaldo and company.

[Totti76]

Originally posted by StormTrooper


with our current squad, we're good enough to retain the premiership, but still lacking in CL. thats why fergie needs players to be able to play in the CL so that the squad will be able to compete with the cream of europe.

if its for the future, fergie can well wait until the end of the season to bring in young players which he already did with ronaldo and company.
Well brudder i cant say that i totally agree with u. Yeah EPL we can still retain it. By buying Saha or Viduka..u think we can win CL this season?? i still dun think so. Ok may b Saha, but over 10 mil? I say forget it..add a few mil u may get a better striker say Kezman or even Torres. Smith is gd but u can see he need some anger management. Look at the news, that we r link to Southgate? I guess he will cost abt 5-6 mil, worth it? Mexes will cost less than that & he is only 22..i think. This is wat i mean..gd player n for the future.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by Totti76

Ya a replacement for for keano.. I recommend Gattuso! He has the same attribute as keano. They simply just want to win & he is also no stranger to British soccer.
As for a striker.. I just cant figure out why SAF has to buy someone who must b eligible for Champion Leag. Does he only wants him for half season? :confused: Come on..its for the future. Waste 10 mil pound on someone who has not proven in Euro...thats a risk. Arjen Robben is good but he is more like a young giggs..add him to the squad is great...Robben on the left, Ronaldo on the right.
Kezman looks gd...fast n deadly. haha..why all comes from PSV..hmm:rolleyes:
Share ur view guys:D

Yea i really admire Gattuso, but it's impossible for him to move over to England to don MU's jersey.
He's winning everything in Milan..

[ccloh]

dont buy a player that can play in CL then what's the pt of buying ??? if any key players rule out due to injury or suspension, who else can u turn to.

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by Totti76

Well brudder i cant say that i totally agree with u. Yeah EPL we can still retain it. By buying Saha or Viduka..u think we can win CL this season?? i still dun think so. Ok may b Saha, but over 10 mil? I say forget it..add a few mil u may get a better striker say Kezman or even Torres. Smith is gd but u can see he need some anger management. Look at the news, that we r link to Southgate? I guess he will cost abt 5-6 mil, worth it? Mexes will cost less than that & he is only 22..i think. This is wat i mean..gd player n for the future.


i admit, even if we buy a world class striker and another world class defender, we still won't win the CL unless we're very lucky. saha is overpriced, so forget about him. smith need to be tamed yes, but so did keano and cantona. we never lacked fiery characters in the team and i'm sure fergie will have his way with smith.

as i said, we can buy any player for the future during the off-season. no point to buy now if the player cannot play in CL.

[Ch3tah_39]

Originally posted by StormTrooper



i admit, even if we buy a world class striker and another world class defender, we still won't win the CL unless we're very lucky. saha is overpriced, so forget about him. smith need to be tamed yes, but so did keano and cantona. we never lacked fiery characters in the team and i'm sure fergie will have his way with smith.

as i said, we can buy any player for the future during the off-season. no point to buy now if the player cannot play in CL.

now we need a striker to replace ruud when he is unfit to play...
we need someone who can score constantly....:)

[orca_sea]

I believe Kluiert iz a veri gd choice

[ralliart_ray]

both will rock the world...

[Ch3tah_39]

Originally posted by orca_sea
I believe Kluiert iz a veri gd choice

i tot he and ruud dun gum!!:confused:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by orca_sea
I believe Kluiert iz a veri gd choice

They juz can't click...
u juz have to see when Holland plays, with both of them starting, they can't win (Scotland will remember this).

With either only v.Nistelrooy or Kluivert, they win...

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by Ch3tah_39


i tot he and ruud dun gum!!:confused:

u're rite...they dun gum.....how can they be gum when they cristise each other publicly.......

[guoquanyap]

guys abit late but still......WIsh U guYs a HapPy NeW YeaR....:D

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
guys abit late but still......WIsh U guYs a HapPy NeW YeaR....:D

Same here Happy New year to All! :D :D (Hope Man U will win the league n Champions League as well! =p )

[leslielai]

Saha Saha Saha Saha !

[StormTrooper]

smith! smith! smith! smith!

[RuMmYtUb]

Sir Alex Ferguson is hailing rookie American goalkeeper Tim Howard as Manchester United's star performer during the first half of the Premiership campaign.

While Ruud van Nistelrooy has maintained his phenomenal scoring streak and Rio Ferdinand has shrugged off the mountain of publicity surrounding his missed drugs test to finally find the form which made him a star of the 2002 World Cup, it is Howard who has impressed Ferguson the most.

A complete unknown in this country when he was snapped up from Major League Soccer outfit New York Metros in the summer, Howard has shown no signs of being overawed by his new surroundings.

Brave in the air and an agile shot-stopper, almost from the moment he made his debut against Juventus on the US tour in July the 24-year-old has looked a worthy replacement for Champions League-winning captain Peter Schmeichel.

Howard has described comparisons with the great Dane as nonsense - but already he appears likely to succeed where the likes of Massimo Taibi, Mark Bosnich and Fabien Barthez have failed.

'Tim Howard has been the star of the show this season,' Ferguson told MUTV.

'He is quick, alert, agile, courageous and has speed. It's all there for us to see.

'I thought I would have to leave him out for a bit in October, but it hasn't happened.'

Having dumped Barthez from his first-team line-up following a couple of high-profile blunders in the European exit to Real Madrid, Ferguson was expected to swoop for a big name in the summer.

Instead, he pursued the hunch of goalkeeping coach Tony Coton who had heard good reports about Howard and insisted he was up to the demanding task of being United's number one number one.

'If you look at the other players we brought in during the summer Kleberson had played in a World Cup final; Eric Djemba-Djemba was a Cameroon international; Cristiano Ronaldo had been playing in Portugal's top league with Sporting Lisbon, and David Bellion had been in the Premiership with Sunderland,' said Ferguson.

'Tim didn't have any of that experience, so there was bound to be a question mark over him.

'But Tony Coton was insistent and said `Once you see him there will be no questions'. That was a big statement, but he was right.'

Although Howard was beaten by a long-range Thierry Henry free-kick in his first competitive game on British soil - the Community Shield tussle with Arsenal - he redeemed himself with penalty saves from Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Robert Pires as United clinched the trophy after a shoot-out.

He retained his place for the Premiership opener against Bolton the following week, and so good has Howard's form been since that Barthez was quickly deemed surplus to requirements and is now back in France hoping to rebuild his career with Marseille.

Spanish international Ricardo has also been allowed to leave Old Trafford on loan, leaving Roy Carroll as the remaining goalkeeping understudy.

Ferguson may be tempted to give Howard a rest for Sunday's FA Cup tie at Aston Villa. But injuries permitting, there is no doubt who will be between the posts when the season enters its crucial latter stages.

'Maybe Tim was slightly fortunate that he played his first game in New York against Juventus, because it is his home state,' said Ferguson.

'He was fantastic that night. That is when I thought `We have a signing here'.

'After that I decided to play him in the Community Shield against Arsenal to see how his temperament stood up to play in a biggish game in front of a big crowd.

'He was probably a bit disappointed with the goal he conceded - but other than that he did well again. Now we are seeing someone who is improving all the time.'

Howard is not the only American to impress at Old Trafford this season. Teenage duo Jon Spector and Kenny Cooper are making their mark at junior level.

Ferguson believes Spector in particular has a big future and he is not ruling out the possibility of further shopping trips to the States.

'There is an untapped market in America,' he said.

'The kids over there have a fierce will to win. They are real competitors, probably something to do with the way they are brought up.'

Praise for Howard (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=287325&cc=4716)

[StormTrooper]

way to go tim!!

[ccloh]

hmm guess tim howards can get the rookie of the yr this season in epl. but then he is not a rookie as he already playing football in us before joining utd. he a bit the too old for young player award also. player of the year, well he is too green to be nominated too.

[RVN]

Ruud van Nistelrooy has reiterated his commitment to Manchester United and indicated that his new contract should be finalised this month, elevating him from the middle bracket of earners at Old Trafford to the top niche alongside the likes of Roy Keane and Ryan Giggs.
United have accelerated talks because they are mindful of interest from Real Madrid, but from the Dutchman's remarks it does not appear that there is anything for Sir Alex Ferguson to worry about. "The talks are going very well and I am positive about the outcome," said Van Nistelrooy, who has 2 years of his current deal to run. "I do not expect any problems and quite probably the negotiations are going to be finished soon.

"The manager knows what I feel. I want to stay here for a long time - that is why I am so happy that everything is going so well. It is fantastic to be part of a club with such big names and huge tradition."

Ferguson claimed yesterday that Tim Howard has been the club's best player this season. An unknown when he was snapped up from New York-New Jersey Metros in the summer, the 24-year-old US international goalkeeper looks to have finally filled the void left by Peter Schmeichel.

"Tim Howard has been the star of the show this season," Ferguson said. "He is quick, alert, agile, courageous and has speed. It's all there for us to see. I thought I would have to leave him out for a bit in October, but it hasn't happened."

[RuMmYtUb]

French striker Djibril Cisse plans to sign for Liverpool in the summer despite reported interest from Manchester United.

Auxerre 22-year-old Cisse has been a long-time target for Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier.

He told the Daily Star: 'I still intend to sign for Liverpool. It has always been very precise with them, although I have signed no deal. We all know where we are because we have been talking for a long time, so it is not necessary to talk every week.

'My manager, Guy Roux, has already spoken directly with Liverpool.'

Indifferent form in first half of the season has left Liverpool sixth in the Premiership with a fight on their hands to qualify for next season's Champions League.

As a result, Houllier's position as manager has been called into question. However, Cisse insists Houllier's position is not key to his Anfield move.

'I still want to go to Liverpool. Gerard Houllier's position makes no difference,' he said.

Cisse has heard Sir Alex Ferguson may be interested in his services, but suggested the United manager would be wasting his time trying to sign him.

'There has been no direct contact with United. I don't really know that much about it but I have heard something. But I am already advanced with Liverpool and they have my priority. I am not thinking about another club.

'If I leave at the end of the season it will be for Liverpool and not another club.'

Djibril Cisse (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=287343&cc=4716)

[ccloh]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
French striker Djibril Cisse plans to sign for Liverpool in the summer despite reported interest from Manchester United.

Auxerre 22-year-old Cisse has been a long-time target for Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier.

He told the Daily Star: 'I still intend to sign for Liverpool. It has always been very precise with them, although I have signed no deal. We all know where we are because we have been talking for a long time, so it is not necessary to talk every week.

'My manager, Guy Roux, has already spoken directly with Liverpool.'

Indifferent form in first half of the season has left Liverpool sixth in the Premiership with a fight on their hands to qualify for next season's Champions League.

As a result, Houllier's position as manager has been called into question. However, Cisse insists Houllier's position is not key to his Anfield move.

'I still want to go to Liverpool. Gerard Houllier's position makes no difference,' he said.

Cisse has heard Sir Alex Ferguson may be interested in his services, but suggested the United manager would be wasting his time trying to sign him.

'There has been no direct contact with United. I don't really know that much about it but I have heard something. But I am already advanced with Liverpool and they have my priority. I am not thinking about another club.

'If I leave at the end of the season it will be for Liverpool and not another club.'

Djibril Cisse (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=287343&cc=4716)

most probably he can't wait to be ROTTEN down there :D

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by ccloh


most probably he can't wait to be ROTTEN down there :D

its good for us isn't it? he'll find it so disappointing at liverpool after arriving that he'll just conveniently jump at the chance to leave for united. :D

[Kiwi8]

Hmm... u all so evil sia... :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
French striker Djibril Cisse plans to sign for Liverpool in the summer despite reported interest from Manchester United.

Auxerre 22-year-old Cisse has been a long-time target for Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier.

He told the Daily Star: 'I still intend to sign for Liverpool. It has always been very precise with them, although I have signed no deal. We all know where we are because we have been talking for a long time, so it is not necessary to talk every week.

'My manager, Guy Roux, has already spoken directly with Liverpool.'

Indifferent form in first half of the season has left Liverpool sixth in the Premiership with a fight on their hands to qualify for next season's Champions League.

As a result, Houllier's position as manager has been called into question. However, Cisse insists Houllier's position is not key to his Anfield move.

'I still want to go to Liverpool. Gerard Houllier's position makes no difference,' he said.

Cisse has heard Sir Alex Ferguson may be interested in his services, but suggested the United manager would be wasting his time trying to sign him.

'There has been no direct contact with United. I don't really know that much about it but I have heard something. But I am already advanced with Liverpool and they have my priority. I am not thinking about another club.

'If I leave at the end of the season it will be for Liverpool and not another club.'

Djibril Cisse (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=287343&cc=4716)

Neve seen him, but seeing him declare he wants to go to liverpool ages now, Its not a snub beside we ain't after him either, so why the press must called it a snub then, rather silly. :mad:

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by RVN


Neve seen him, but seeing him declare he wants to go to liverpool ages now, Its not a snub beside we ain't after him either, so why the press must called it a snub then, rather silly. :mad:

yeah man

[kengbeng]

As if we wanted him. :laugh:

[RVN]

Ruud van Nistelrooy is expecting Aston Villa to be a much tougher proposition on Sunday than the Midlands side that tamely capitulated at Old Trafford last month.

Van Nistelrooy, who weighed in with two goals as the Red Devils cantered to a 4-0 victory, is keenly aware of the progress David O'Leary's side has made since then.

Since that league defeat, Villa have not lost a match, recording four wins and a draw, including impressive victories over Chelsea in the Carling Cup quarterfinals and a 3-0 defeat of high-flyers Fulham.

"I expect this to be a very hard game," van Nistelrooy told MUTV.

"Aston Villa have not been defeated since the last time we played them and no doubt they will want to continue that good run.

"But we have had some good results as well and beating both Tottenham and Middlesbrough in our last two away games should give us extra confidence."

Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg has already warned of the threat posed by van Nistelrooy, who will be looking to repeat his FA Cup heroics against the Midlanders.

Two season ago at the same hurdle Villa led United 2-0, only for United to hit back with three goals in the last 13 minutes, with van Nistelrooy grabbing a double.

"That was a really great night," the Dutchman reflected on the memorable victory. "It was the same stage of the competition and I can still remember it quite clearly.

"Ole Gunnar Solskjaer got us back into it, then I scored twice. The fans were superb and really spurred us on."

Van Nistelrooy will go into the game still three short of his century of goals after failing to increase his tally over the festive period.

Given the regularity of his scoring, it seems only a matter of time before he reaches the landmark and there could be many more to come as van Nistelrooy admitted he is now close to extending his stay with the Old Trafford outfit.

"The talks are going very well and I am positive about the outcome," he said.

His value to United is there in black and white - he has scored 17 goals so far this term after netting an incredible 80 times in his first two seasons following his #18.5million move from PSV Eindhoven.

"I do not expect any problems and quite probably the negotiations are going to be finished soon," he admitted.

"The manager [Sir Alex Ferguson] knows what I feel for this club. I want to stay here for a long time, that is why I am so happy that everything is going so well."

[RVN]

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson is planning few changes as Manchester United take the trip to Aston Villa for Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie.
Teenager Darren Fletcher may be the one to stand down from the side which won at Middlesbrough last weekend with Brazilian World Cup winner Kleberson favourite for a recall.

Ferguson will also check on the fitness of skipper Roy Keane before confirming his starting line-up. The former Republic of Ireland star missed the Boxing Day win over Everton because of a slight hamstring problem, and aggravated the injury late in the Middlesbrough game. Keane is expected to make it but England midfielder Nicky Butt is on standby.

With John O'Shea sidelined as he recovers from a hamstring problem, England defender Wes Brown returns to the squad. He missed the first half of the season following cruciate ligament surgery and is likely to be on the bench.

Squad: Howard, G.Neville, Ferdinand, Silvestre, Fortune, Kleberson, Keane, P.Neville, Ronaldo, Giggs, Scholes, van Nistelrooy, Forlan , Fletcher, Butt, Brown, Bellion, Carroll

[NanDesKa]

heskey may prove to be a good buy? :D

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by NanDesKa
heskey may prove to be a good buy? :D

:laugh: :laugh:

[NanDesKa]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


:laugh: :laugh: simi lah.
change of manager may do himself good k? :mad:

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by kengbeng
As if we wanted him. :laugh:

I tink Man U realli wanted tiz guy instead - Arjen Robben

http://www.voetbalfocus.nl/imgs/robben-a1.jpg

[Alienz]

Solskjaer back in training

Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is moving closer to a return after resuming training with the first team.
The Norwegian has been out of action for more than three months following a cartilage operation on his knee on 23 September.

But manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed the player is now pencilled in for a reserve game against Birmingham on 15 January.

He told MUTV: "Ole trained with the first team. He didn't do an awful lot, but at least he did something. We've pencilled him in for a comeback game against Birmingham reserves. He'll be a welcome boost to us all because he is such a fantastic professional."

The Scot also revealed that Wes Brown is also close to being available for the first team following a knee problem.

Ferguson added: "Wes has been training, he's back and just needs games now."

[Alienz]

Ferguson hoping Man Utd's name is on Cup

MANCHESTER (Reuters) - Alex Ferguson insists his Manchester United team will be taking the FA Cup seriously this season as they bid to win the competition for the first time since 1999.

United were embroiled in controversy when they decided not to defend the trophy in the 1999-2000 season after being told to compete in the World Club Championship in Brazil.

Since then they have suffered a series of early exits from the competition, fuelling a belief that Ferguson no longer takes the FA Cup seriously.

But as he prepares his side for Sunday's testing third round tie at Aston Villa, he insists it is still a high priority.

"It hasn't changed for us. We like to be involved in it but we have had difficult draws in the last five years, Middlesbrough away, Villa twice," Ferguson told reporters on Friday.

"We have some stinking draws. In the FA Cup you like a home draw but we haven't got it, so it makes it more difficult for us to get over this one at Villa Park.

"Any trophy is special. Winning trophies in England is not easy. There are a lot of big clubs vying for the same thing. We all want to win it.

"Sometimes your name is on it and that is what we hope for this year."

United won at Villa Park at the same stage in 2002 when they came from two goals behind to win 3-2.

"I look upon the Villa game as a really tough match. You couldn't get a harder away draw in the FA Cup," he said.

"Two years ago we were 2-0 down with 13 minutes to go and then two great goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy clinched it for us. It has that special thing about it."

Ferguson said he is looking to sign more players in the transfer window and backed the under-fire transfer system.

"We are looking at some situations but it is not easy. That has been well documented since the Champions League started," he said. "Maybe it is frantic at other clubs but certainly not here.

"A lot of clubs complain about (the transfer window) but I think you should give it a chance. The important thing about it is that every club is the same in Europe."

[stipe]

not a flaming thread... but i honestly do think that gary neville speaks too much for his own good... i feel that he has the tendency to give unwarranted interviews that sometimes has contrary effects to what is originally intended...

i feel that united players should only have one captain voicing their view and i tend to side with keano.

[kengbeng]

Originally posted by orca_sea


I tink Man U realli wanted tiz guy instead - Arjen Robben

http://www.voetbalfocus.nl/imgs/robben-a1.jpg
Think that Cisse guy is trying to score points with the Pool fans. :laugh: