Manchester United Forum

[hush66]

I also think that 10 million pounds for a 20-year old promising player is well worth the money. Must be those Irish idiots who are pressurizing the club to not spend so much! :mad: :mad:

[ccloh]

wait till this comming summer, new transfer talk will be re-open again don't worry. moreoever, after euro2004, there might be some hidden talents emerge also.


would like to see a clean sheet against boro for today match. 1-0 is very fine with me.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


cos we are a plc mah....:alien:


Originally posted by RVN
Becos United are a PLC unlike arsenal and are a high-profile club, press always want to write about us all the time. :( :alien:

Grrr... :mad:

[RuMmYtUb]

I feel very true, w/o Rio our defence somewhat leaky..
http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,31-1122824,00.html

[pyu]

I personally think 10 million pounds is good money for Robben.

For a player that is highly rated and targeted by several big clubs around Europe, that is very acceptable.

Besides, didn't we pay 12.6 million pounds for Cristiano Ronaldo and he didn't even play more than 30 games for Sporting Lisbon?

Robben has played far more and what more, is a highly lauded Dutch youth prospect.

I hope Ferguson and the board realise this before Roman walk in with his millions... :alien:

[RVN]

Up the offer, beside Robben is still keen to join us. :(




PSV Eindhoven starlet Arjen Robben is not happy that his transfer to Manchester United is no closer to being completed, but he is still hopeful a deal can be done.
His father and agent Hans confirmed earlier on Tuesday that the move had stalled, with the two clubs unable to agree a fee for the Dutch international.

The Dutch champions are believed to be looking for a fee close to €15 million for their young forward, but United are only thought to have offered somewhere between €7 and €10 million.

Robben is still hopeful his dream move will be completed, saying: "It could be I stay here.

"But in the world of football everything is possible and it could happen very quickly.

"What today is coming to end, can go through tomorrow.

"It can still go in any direction. But at the moment PSV and Manchester United haven't agreed anything.

"Of course I don't like that the deal hasn't been completed and I could jump up and down, but that will not help.

"I haven't got anything in my own hands. The clubs have to agree first, then I come back in the picture.

"It would be fantastic if I could play for Manchester, but at the moment I just have to wait.

"For now I have to focus on the football."

[ccloh]

if there is strong interest from both side, i believe the transfer will still go through this summer. the only scary thing is if chelski purposely come in to engage in the price war thing.

[RVN]

Horse racing tycoons John Magnier and JP McManus have increased their shareholding in Premiership champions Manchester United, taking it to 28.89 percent.
Their Cubic Expression Company Limited confirmed to the Stock Exchange that it had increased its shareholding in United.

The company confirmed it had acquired eight million ordinary shares in Manchester United plc, increasing Cubic Expression's holding to 75,736,960, or 28.89 percent.

The duo's stranglehold on The Red Devils is tighter than ever which may bring even more frustrated reaction from the champions' fans.

Magnier has been embroiled in what appears to be a personal feud with boss Sir Alex Ferguson over ownership rights of horse racing sensation Rock Of Gibraltar.

That led to Magnier fuelling further to the fire surrounding the club's, and in particular, Ferguson and members of his family's involvement in transfer matters.

United will now have to up their appeals for calm from disgruntled Old Trafford supporters, who are unimpressed their beloved boss is being called into question over what they see as a private matter.

A faction of fans, known as 'United 4 Action' are already planning a demonstration against Magnier and McManus at Cheltenham in March when the pair will have horses running at the Gold Cup meeting but officials at the club will look to try and patch up the split between two stubborn and powerful forces, with Ferguson having recently inked a new deal.

http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,1-1123006,00.html

This is bad news for Fergie. I wonder if Fergie will settle for an out-of-court settlement now? there has to be an ulterior motives from them to buy so many shares, they've made their intentions clear, at any rate. :( :mad:

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RVN


This is bad news for Fergie. I wonder if Fergie will settle for an out-of-court settlement now? there has to be an ulterior motives from them to buy so many shares, they've made their intentions clear, at any rate. :( :mad:

the problem now is that even if fergie wan out-of-court settlement....those 2 ******* dun agree.....

[RVN]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


the problem now is that even if fergie wan out-of-court settlement....those 2 ******* dun agree.....

You don't spend the money they have spent just to settle a score. If they sacked Fergie and the share price collasped, they'd end up losing whatever the horse is worth anyway. These are businessmen, especially Magnier, who only think in $$$$$$$$$ and don't let their heart or feelings rule their brains. Whatever, it be an utter chaos for us if they takeover the club. :mad: :alien:

[guoquanyap]

hmmm...whether ole will play tonite.....hope he play...got to get back his match fitness.....

then we got ruud, saha, ole and forlan to choose from.....:D

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
hmmm...whether ole will play tonite.....hope he play...got to get back his match fitness.....

then we got ruud, saha, ole and forlan to choose from.....:D

Definitely Ruud and Saha...
Saha excites me ! :D
3 goals in 2 matches... hope tonite time for Boro to be torn into pieces :evil:.. too bad no live telecast :(

[guoquanyap]

why no live...:( :mad:

[guoquanyap]

Kleberson, Nicky Butt and Quinton Fortune start for Man Utd at home to Middlesbrough, who recall Joseph-Desire Job and Stewart Downing.

[guoquanyap]

Man Utd: Howard, O'Shea, Brown, Silvestre, Fortune, Kleberson, Scholes, Butt, Giggs, van Nistelrooy, Saha. .....

gOgOgO!!

[guoquanyap]

...........

[guoquanyap]

wow heng ruud scored b4 half-time.....:bounce: :bounce:

[samwise]

giggs score at 63

JOB SCORES AT 80!

[hush66]

Originally posted by samwise
giggs score at 63

JOB SCORES AT 80!

It tells us how much a person you are to come into the Man Utd thread to rub salt into people's wounds. Sigh.

[samwise]

Mr Hush66...

for your kind information, i did not rub salt in this forum, i merely help you to update this forum with the latest scores!

even if you go to the official sites, the score is the same! Job did score in 80th minute! So What Did I Do Wrong???

!See for yourself! (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=108972&cc=4716)

You want a frank opinion?

I think your club is plagued by the takeover bid and your favourite manager is jumpy!

I think your defence sucks! And your used-to-be gilat goakie is now terrified and scared, becuase your back line is not covering his balls (every sense of the word!)

And you know what?

I think in the next match, Kevin Keegan will pile a few more pacy strikers to upset your back line.

AND

Chris Coleman will be looking forward to playing McBride and doing a good one over your 13mil pound Striker.

[RVN]

another ****t team we lost, **** we going to throw away the title now at this rate. :mad:

[genesis113]

I remember the year when we lost Jaap Stam.
We need miracle now to retain the title
We need miracle now.....at least to secure the second place.

Sigh.......

[RVN]

Its easy to blame the defence and 8 goals in 3 games is a disaster but we should be easily putting away teams at home like southampton and Boro. We normally expect dodgey matches in their ground but at Old Trafford ?? :mad:

we should have bought some defender during the january transfer window. :(

[samwise]

since Mr Hush66 invited me here... let me do some more maths...

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/tables?league=ENG.1&cc=4716
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/tables/default.stm

23 goals conceded in 25 games.

before last 3 games: 15 goals conceded in 22 games (0.681 per game)

Last 3 games: 8 goals conceded in 3 games (2.67 per game)

[yash99]

damn it.. Sir Alex shld have bought a world class def and the stirker.. although i hated "sala" but im begining to like him for bringing in the goods...

[RVN]

Ok, I'm not gonna frustrate myself. We're just so beatable atm, I dont think we can win the title. I wont pop a vein, I just hope we get things in order and if we dont, I look forward to next season. We're screwed, cause we're stuck with this crappy defense that's getting us no where, and we'll go no where. No point in exciting myself, hopefully we can pull it together, but if recent performances are anything to go by, we're not gonna win anyhting this season. :( :alien:

Get rid of Wes Brown, this guy is ****ing up our defence. :mad:

[cracker]

I hope with this defeat,,,SAF has enuff of Mr. Brown.


5 pts behind with 13 games to go and -7 goal difference..


It is going to be very tough !

[RVN]

It's not out of reach yet, but I fear it will be before long - if we bring in the right players in the summer (another striker, defensive back-up, a more experienced creative midfielder), with Rio back, and ship some of the **** out (Forlan and Brown for starters) then we can talk about winning the title, but the current team just don't seem good enough, I'd love them to prove me wrong, but I don't think they can.

:mad: :(

Damm I hate Boro, stupid bogey team we seem to always struggle. :mad:

[martinweng]

Originally posted by RVN
Ok, I'm not gonna frustrate myself. We're just so beatable atm, I dont think we can win the title. I wont pop a vein, I just hope we get things in order and if we dont, I look forward to next season. We're screwed, cause we're stuck with this crappy defense that's getting us no where, and we'll go no where. No point in exciting myself, hopefully we can pull it together, but if recent performances are anything to go by, we're not gonna win anyhting this season. :( :alien:

Get rid of Wes Brown, this guy is ****ing up our defence. :mad:

er..i remember last season when man utd becomes champ, they got a banner boasting "we've got rio, we've got o'shea, we've got brown"

looks like mr. brown is the mole..

[martinweng]

Originally posted by samwise
Mr Hush66...

for your kind information, i did not rub salt in this forum, i merely help you to update this forum with the latest scores!

even if you go to the official sites, the score is the same! Job did score in 80th minute! So What Did I Do Wrong???

!See for yourself! (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=108972&cc=4716)

You want a frank opinion?

I think your club is plagued by the takeover bid and your favourite manager is jumpy!

I think your defence sucks! And your used-to-be gilat goakie is now terrified and scared, becuase your back line is not covering his balls (every sense of the word!)

And you know what?

I think in the next match, Kevin Keegan will pile a few more pacy strikers to upset your back line.

AND

Chris Coleman will be looking forward to playing McBride and doing a good one over your 13mil pound Striker.

i believe fulham can upset man utd, but man city? come on...

they are a division 1 club after all...a division 1 club belongs to where they come from...not sticking their nose, trying their luck @ the EPL...

but if they upset man utd, i wouldnt be surprised...

[RVN]

martinweng, stick to your own forum, you obviously taking the piss at our defeat. :alien:

[RuMmYtUb]

SAF made a wrong move..
solved the striking department but did not have an adequate replacement for Rio..
Damn, now Conceed 8 Goals In 3 Matches, Defending Was Awful, No Creative Right Winger, 5 Pts Behind Arsenal..
there goes the title...:mad:
needless to say CL assault..

[RVN]

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has taken a swipe at his side's defensive frailties, following their 3-2 defeat to Middlesbrough.
Ferguson's side have now shipped eight goals in three Premiership outings since Rio Ferdinand began his eight-month ban for missing a drugs test.

"We can't keep conceding soft goals like we did tonight," Ferguson admitted.

"We have been in this situation before but it is not a healthy one to be in."

Ferguson added: "There was a slackness about our defending and sometimes we are trying to run the ball out of defence or pass our way out when we should be putting our foot through the ball to clear it."

United must now hope to rediscover the winning feeling in Saturday's FA Cup tie with out-of-form Manchester City.

Wes Brown's participation is in doubt after he left the field at half-time and did not return.

Diego Forlan had a chance to steal a point on United's last attack but planted an injury-time header against the crossbar to give 'Boro the result they deserved.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/3480101.stm

good lord brown is out, dun wanne see him play in our defence ever again. :mad:

[leslie_lai]

Axe Brown, Gary Neville and Darren Fletcher when the transfer window opens.

Silvestre still has some potential. Just move him back to where he belonged, the left.

3 TOP CLASS defenders will have to be brought in together with a permanent right winger.

[pyu]

At this point in time, probably any team with a decent attacking plan can pierce the weakened defence at will.

*SIGH*

Southampton did it through industry and some flair, Everton did it with long aerial balls, Middlesbrough did it almost effortlessly.

I think City will smell blood and go for the kill....

[ccloh]

a bad result. hopefully this is something to make them learn the lesson the hard way. last season after losting to man city twice, the team started to wake up and chased up the 11-pt lead to eventually land the title. now 5-pt gap only and this must be the turning pt.

[yulee]

Maybe SAF is too preoccupied with his impending court case and the on-going war with M&M. Another performance like that who says SAF might not be on his way out? :eek:

[Fearless]

Originally posted by leslie_lai
Axe Brown, Gary Neville and Darren Fletcher when the transfer window opens.

Silvestre still has some potential. Just move him back to where he belonged, the left.

3 TOP CLASS defenders will have to be brought in together with a permanent right winger.

You have been playing CM far too long. This is real life, do you really understand what you're talking about? Telling Fletcher, sorry, you suck, you can go.

If your players don't meet the mark, you should train them harder etc. not just sack / change players.

Just my 2 cents.

FEAR

[martinweng]

Originally posted by RVN
martinweng, stick to your own forum, you obviously taking the piss at our defeat. :alien:

chill chill chill...

im juz trying to voice out those fans' banner...

[martinweng]

take pride in ur club..at least got ppl hate ur club...

nobody hating newcastle...sigh..:(

[ccloh]

Originally posted by martinweng
take pride in ur club..at least got ppl hate ur club...

nobody hating newcastle...sigh..:(

there is nothing to take pride in like what u say that got ppl hate ur club. every club will have supporters and anti-supporters. it is part of the soccer game nowadays.

u can pour all those remarks when utd lost but not if u have the intention of trying to indirectly attack some supporters. that is a show of very low class of a human to human relationship.

if ur remark is like utd lost ha ha 'cos the defence was lousy, this particular player is under-performance that day, that particular player is having a bad luck day etc, all are welcome to this forum.

however if u r like certain (anti-utd) supporters in this forum (F****, M****, etc) every remarks they made is having the ultimate intention of getting the utd supporters then i'm sorry that u r not welcome here.

the rule is as simple as that.

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by ccloh
a bad result. hopefully this is something to make them learn the lesson the hard way. last season after losting to man city twice, the team started to wake up and chased up the 11-pt lead to eventually land the title. now 5-pt gap only and this must be the turning pt.

last season and this season is very diff.....last season arsenal still seem abit unstable at the back.....but this season arsenal is very strong and i dont see them losing alot of points in the remaining matches......


it will be very very hard to catch them this season......

[guoquanyap]

not to mention arsenal has a easier run to the title.....

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
not to mention arsenal has a easier run to the title.....

we still gotta visit highbury.. :mad:
with this kind of defence i dunno wad will happen..:(

[Yellowfin]

Maybe we won't win the title this year but the title is still up for grab until the last few game.

I hope by the next few games, SAF have sort out the defence.

Will there be repeat of this game on cable.

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by Yellowfin
Maybe we won't win the title this year but the title is still up for grab until the last few game.

I hope by the next few games, SAF have sort out the defence.

Will there be repeat of this game on cable.

no repeat....catch all highlight at epl hightlight and GOALS show......anyway jus saw the ruud goal....well built up to the goal......but defence really cant make it.....

[pale]

The Defence simply cannot make it. With the pressure building up, the back four is gonna cock up more. Brown is juz back from 9 months lay off and it shows. O'Shea is having the second season curse. Silvestre has yet to show leadership..while Gary looks lost too. Even Tim Howard starts to look shaky but I dun blame him coz if yr defence cock up..sure effect him. After all..it's TIM's first season.

NOw if Chelsea beat Arsenal. Then we'll really have a one hell of a fight towards the end.

I hope the guys will wake up. The seasons when we won titles were based on a solid defence and strong minds. As of now..it is sorely missing. Maybe distracted with the fight between Alex and the Irish Chaps..Maybe becoz Rio not playing. But they better wake up their ideas.

Anyways..Even if they win nothing this season..I will STILL SUPPORT them!!

COME ON...MAN UTD!!. FIGHT BACK TIME!!!

[RVN]

maybe it's time for Fergie to try out O'Shea alongside Silvestre in central defence, or move Roy Keane into the back four until the summer. I'd rather Keane stayed in midfield, but we have enough central midfielders to cope without him there.

Get rid of Brown in the summer, Get Rio a reliable partner once he complete his ban and some defensive cover.

[ccloh]

the ball is round season not end yet, so still can catch up. when CL re-started, arsenal, utd and chelski will have more matches to play and players will have to rotate. it is the time when the depth of the squard has to come in.

arsenal maybe unbeaten in EPL so far but in europe, their performance shows no sign of consistency.

bring back keane to defence don't think is a good soln. keane won't be playing in all matches due to his age and fitness. that won't solve the problem either. last season when rio was injuried for a period of time, the make shift defence almost every game also changed ppl so utd is not new to this situation also.

i supposed instead of having 4 defenders, utd should put 1 more man infront of the 4. a very very very defensive midfield who doesn't cross the half-way mark most of the time perhaps only time he goes up in during corner. keane can't do that as he also want to involve in the attack. i believe phil neville and butt will take turn to take up that position, as this guy will fly in all the tackles and chances of seeing red and get suspended is high so need a standby.

[hush66]

Originally posted by samwise
Mr Hush66...

for your kind information, i did not rub salt in this forum, i merely help you to update this forum with the latest scores!

even if you go to the official sites, the score is the same! Job did score in 80th minute! So What Did I Do Wrong???

!See for yourself! (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=108972&cc=4716)

You want a frank opinion?

I think your club is plagued by the takeover bid and your favourite manager is jumpy!

I think your defence sucks! And your used-to-be gilat goakie is now terrified and scared, becuase your back line is not covering his balls (every sense of the word!)

And you know what?

I think in the next match, Kevin Keegan will pile a few more pacy strikers to upset your back line.

AND

Chris Coleman will be looking forward to playing McBride and doing a good one over your 13mil pound Striker.

It is as simple as an exclamation mark at the end of your earlier post (and which is lacking in the 1st part of that same post) that shows that you are not merely stating a fact. Couple that with the posts/threads you started right before and after the post, the evidence is clear. If you are merely "updating this forum", do it the way I did without show of bias.

Anyhow, I do agree with you on some points. Man U's defence does suck. The whole team's defending really needs some overhaul. With regard to the goalie's mental state, I'm not sure. Did you see the goals? Could they have been saved (by even Ian Walker)? If they were due to some goalkeeper's error, then I could concede that his "balls" are shaking. If, on the other hand, they were due to the whole team's defence, then I really like to know how you could read Howard's mind.

Lastly, I didn't invite you here. You invited yourself in.

[Ch3tah_39]

hmmm man utd lost... defence arr damn..

[stam]

time to look forward....

[yulee]

Ferguson focuses on title
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insisted his bid to retain the Premiership title would not be affected by "off-field nonsense".
Ferguson is currently locked in a legal dispute with Irish horseracing tycoon John Magnier over the stud rights to Rock of Gibraltar.

"I'm determined nothing will interfere with my focus on my work," he said.

"Following all the off-field nonsense I am in good shape after the massive message of confidence from the fans."

Ferguson's pledge came on the same day that Magnier and his business partner J P McManus upped their stake in Manchester United.

Through their investment company, Cubic Expression, the duo raised their stake to 28.89% by buying shares from Dutch media tycoon John de Mol.


Magnier and McManus would only need to hold 29.9% of the club to launch an automatic takeover bid.

But the pair are not thought to be interested in assuming outright control at Old Trafford.

Instead Magnier and McManus are understood to want three representatives on the United plc board.

That would allow the Irish duo to exert greater influence, not only on Ferguson's future at the helm, but in the running of the club as a whole.

It has also emerged that Ferguson met with influential Celtic and Manchester United shareholder Dermot Desmond this week.



Though the pair met to discuss Liam Miller's move to Old Trafford in the summer, the United boss is believed to have sought Desmond's advice on his dispute with Magnier.

Irishman Desmond is a close associate of Magnier.

It has emerged that Ferguson and Magnier are keen to settle the dispute as soon as possible and avoid the argument reaching Dublin's High Court.

[RVN]

TYCOON John Magnier has declared a truce with Manchester United after deciding against mounting a take-over battle for the club.

The Irish multi-millionaire could have increased his stake in United yesterday to more than 30 per cent and forced a £700million bidding battle for Old Trafford.

Instead, he bought £20million worth of shares from TV Big Brother creator John de Mol, taking his holding up to nearly 29 per cent.

"He is within a hair's breadth of taking the club, but decided it was in everyone's best interests for him not to do so," said a city source. Magnier's peace deal with United will give him either two or three directors on the board.

But his war with manager Sir Alex Ferguson over the disputed ownership of racehorse Rock Of Gibraltar will still go to the High Court in Dublin.

Magnier stepped back from the brink of launching a bidding contest for United after receiving a "conciliatory" reply to 99 questions he posed over the club's financial affairs.

Last night, the message was sent to Sir Alex Ferguson that his job was safe and that he is "crucial" to the club.

That should appease angry United supporters, who have backed Sir Alex in the bitter dispute.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/sporttop/content_objectid=13941714_method=full_siteid=50143_headline=-THEY%2DTHINK%2DIT%2DS%2DALL%2DOVER%2D%2D%2D%2DIT%2DCOULD%2DBE%2DNOW-name_page.html

[RVN]

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson could never have imagined the loss of Rio Ferdinand would have such an impact on his team's premier league title challenge.

When the England defender started his last match at Wolverhampton Wanderers three weeks ago before beginning an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test, United were a point ahead of Arsenal at the top of the table.

Since then, the champions have conceded eight goals in three matches, still managing to beat Southampton 3-2 and Everton 4-3 before Wednesday's 3-2 home defeat by Middlesbrough left them five points behind Arsenal.

"We can't afford to lose another game," Ferguson said. "We've been slack in defence and if we keep doing that, we can say goodbye to the league."

Ferguson described Middlesbrough's goals as "soft" after diminutive Brazilian Juninho twice exploited poor marking to score with headers and Joseph Desire Job evaded two defenders to clinch victory.

But Ferguson should not be too surprised by his side's defensive frailty.

Since the days of Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister in the early-to-mid 1990s United have never consistently fielded a reliable central defensive pairing.

Dutchman Jaap Stam, Norwegians Ronny Johnsen and Henning Berg and France's Laurent Blanc all filled the void with varying success but it was not until Ferdinand and Mikael Silvestre were paired this season that a genuine partnership was formed.

Ferdinand was beginning to find his feet following his 30 million-pound transfer 18 months ago, while Silvestre had wanted to move into the middle from left back, the position he occupied for most of his first four seasons at the club.

United conceded only 14 goals in 21 matches and when it became clear that Ferdinand faced a lengthy suspension Ferguson brushed off concerns by saying that Wes Brown would step in after recovering from his latest injury.

LOST PATIENCE

Brown duly returned to the side after six months on the sidelines but has looked rusty and Ferguson lost patience when he substituted him at halftime against Middlesbrough.

The real problem for Ferguson, however, is that he has few options.

Fullbacks John O'Shea and Gary Neville can play in the centre and midfielder Roy Keane could also drop back but all three offer more in their regular positions and it remains a mystery why Ferguson chose not to obtain reinforcements during the transfer window.

Middlesbrough's Gareth Southgate would have been a perfect choice and the England international gave another trademark display of canny defending in his side's victory at Old Trafford.

Ferguson is clearly aware of the problems but has missed the opportunity to do something about them.

"It is not a quirk of fate to be conceding so many goals from situations like that," he said. "We are giving the opposition too much room and that is very disappointing."

Although United's attack is still sharp with the goal threat of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Louis Saha, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, they cannot hope to win a ninth title in 12 seasons, let alone the Champions League, with such a porous back line.

Ferguson, distracted by off-pitch controversies, will need all the experience gained in more than 17 years at United to solve that particular problem.

http://www.reuters.co.uk/newsPackageArticle.jhtml?type=sportsNews&storyID=457049&section=news

I always rated rio. But you cant tell me that coz we have ONE player out, we suddenly leak goals everywhere, they need to start working their bollox off in trainnig and get a settled backline, brown got to be dropped, enough is enough, he has his chance but fail to defend properly. :mad:

[Ronaldo7]

sad but true :(

[yulee]

Is there anybody to stop Arsenal now...:(

[RVN]

but if you want to challenge a side like arsenal who are ruthlessly efficient, then you need to be more efficient yourselves.

we may not have set the world alight with flair, but we were much more on arsenal's pace in terms of league form when playing one up front. We can score goals like them, but we ain't defending properly not keeping clean sheets unlike them, thats causing us dearly. :mad:

[hush66]

We're losing points to teams that we should not be losing points to: Southampton (away), Fulham (home), Chelsea (away), Wolves (away) and Boro (home). 13 more games to go; not too many but there's still hope of catching up. Hate to admit it but the title is no longer ours to win. We have to wait for Arsenal to lose points in order to catch up.

[fatherboard]

Originally posted by hush66
We're losing points to teams that we should not be losing points to: Southampton (away), Fulham (home), Chelsea (away), Wolves (away) and Boro (home). 13 more games to go; not too many but there's still hope of catching up. Hate to admit it but the title is no longer ours to win. We have to wait for Arsenal to lose points in order to catch up.

why sound so sad, cheer up.
man u still got one big game against arsenal, althought it's at highbury. but not easy for the gunners to win too... while ars still have to entertain chelski on away, this title is still wide open.

well if man u don't drop pts, they still got hope for a championship. althought i gunners fan, but i still hope man u can put a fight till the end. like that more interesting mah...:D

Originally posted by RVN

Get rid of Brown in the summer, Get Rio a reliable partner once he complete his ban and some defensive cover.

don't get rid of Brown, he's a good def. he's still young, everyone makes mistakes, and learn from that. he will be back more determine, more fire and passion in him. well see ars, cygan's performance last season is terrible, he came back from that and this season providing some good performance at the back.


FB.

[pale]

If i rem correctly...b4 Brown got plagued by injury. He was performing quite well. Like I said Nine months lay off can tell on yr performance. It's a shame we have no time to ease him back.

I really dun see any other option. expect maybe play 3 at the back and g0 3-5-2

[Totti76]

HUH?? I never see Brown perform well before....he may hv block some goals..but overall performance he never rated above 8/10
I only remember him score a few own goals...guess he scores the most own goals among the denfenders..:(
SAF say he get rid of Stam cos he cant improve Brown...guess even Nesta cant improve Brown either...Y?? Simply becos he not good on the ball...he always hv that kan-chong spider style.
He is already wat 24-25?? How long do we hv to wait??
Just let him go man...
3-5-2?? No way...we will end up like Spurs..(sorry spurs fans)
Winning formation in UK is 4-4-2....with pacy winger down both flanks...Well may b I hv little tactical knowledge :D but thats wat i think..

[guoquanyap]

Saha wins France call-up

Anelka eyes France return
Manchester United striker Louis Saha has been called up by France for the friendly international against Belgium in Brussels.

Uncapped Saha's summons comes just three weeks after his £12.8m move to Old Trafford from Fulham.

But there is no room in Jacques Santini's squad for Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka.

Anelka, capped 28 times, appealed to Santini for a fresh start after falling out with the French coach.

Saha's will convince the striker he made the right move to Old Trafford.

His goalscoring feats at Fulham - which earned him his move to Manchester United - were never enough to attract the attentions of the French management.

Anelka has been in good form for City this season, scoring 12 Premiership goals.

But with an embarrassment of striking riches including Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet, Santini feels he has no need to bring Anelka back into the fold yet.

Meanwhile, Diego Forlan has been included in Uruguay's squad to face Jamaica in Kingston on February 18.

ronaldo oso inclued in the squad to face england on the 18th of feb....

[derrace]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


no repeat....catch all highlight at epl hightlight and GOALS show......anyway jus saw the ruud goal....well built up to the goal......but defence really cant make it.....


Hi gqy, erm , which day is the highlights? and what time?

Channel I got ya?


thanks

[RVN]

MALCOLM GLAZER, the American sports tycoon, is set to launch an £800 million bid to take over Manchester United within weeks, a move that could safeguard the future of Sir Alex Ferguson but which is contingent on the manager settling his bitter feud with John Magnier.
Glazer, 75, increased his stake in United to 16.31 per cent yesterday and, with the possible financial assistance of a Russian billionaire, is expected to buy a little less than half of Magnier’s shareholding once the Irishman has reached a settlement in his legal dispute with Ferguson.

Glazer, the owner of the successful Tampa Bay Buccaneers American football franchise, has spent the past two months requesting feasibility studies into buying the club and three of his sons are working closely with Mehmet Dalman, of Commerzbank, as they prepare to put those plans into action.

They hope to secure the backing of a Russian billionaire — rumoured to be Ralif Safin, the founder and former head of Lukoil, Russia’s largest oil company — but first must come an out-of-court settlement between Ferguson and Magnier, the club’s biggest shareholder, in their dispute over the stud rights to the racehorse, Rock Of Gibraltar.

Sources have indicated that this could be achieved within a fortnight after a thaw in relations between their respective legal teams over the past 48 hours, but, with neither party willing to lose face, the situation remains delicate.

If satisfied that his conditions have been met, Magnier will sell up to half of his 28.89 per cent shareholding — registered in the name of Cubic Expression — to Glazer, who would then pass the 29.9 per cent barrier that would trigger a formal takeover bid. Magnier and his business partner, J. P. McManus, would, however, intend to remain in the background, having requested representation on the club’s plc board.

If successful, Glazer intends to appoint his own executives, not least from his own family, but he has no plans to dispense with the services of Ferguson, whose future has been endangered by his fallout with Magnier.

In the context of the unsavoury atmosphere of recent weeks, during which Magnier and McManus had made clear their opposition to Ferguson and the United plc board, the prospect of a takeover by a less hostile figure such as Glazer may be seen by some of the club’s supporters as the lesser of two evils. While they may not be Old Trafford regulars, at least three of Glazer’s six children — Joel, Edward and Bryan — can, unlike Magnier and McManus, claim to be United supporters.

However, groups such as the Independent Manchester United Supporters Association (IMUSA) and Shareholders United, which have led demonstrations against Magnier and McManus in recent weeks, are sceptical about Glazer’s motives. “Our message to any potential suitor is exactly the same,” Jules Spencer, chairman of IMUSA, said. “Manchester United is not for sale.”

The reality, though, is that the situation has been changed by Cubic Expression’s latest investment in the club, which took it to within 1.01 per cent of the 29.9 per cent ceiling that would force it to launch a takeover.

Whatever their next move — most probably to have at least one representative elected to the plc board — Magnier and McManus have succeeded in undermining Ferguson’s position and in rendering the plc board all but powerless.

A takeover would cast considerable doubt on the future roles of David Gill, the chief executive, and his fellow directors, given the list of 99 questions asked by Cubic Expression about corporate governance in a series of letters to Sir Roy Gardner, the plc chairman. Gill took the job last September with big plans, including extending Old Trafford to accommodate a further 5,000 spectators, but others are soon likely to govern what direction the club takes.

Central to Glazer’s takeover is his belief — fiercely contested by some of those who have helped to make United one of the most recognisable sports brands in the world — that the club is not being marketed to its full potential. Although Peter Kenyon, Gill’s predecessor, boasted of United’s 50 million supporters worldwide, Glazer believes the present regime has failed to turn those fans into customers and that, contrary to popular perception, the club has undersold itself in the developing markets.

Future media rights are another reason why Glazer and his allies believe their gradual accumulation of shares in United — as opposed to the rapid takeover route, as practised by Roman Abramovich at Chelsea — will reap dividends in the long term. When their existing contract expires, Premiership clubs hope to negotiate their own television rights for overseas transmission, a development that has long been identified as a potential source of great wealth for United.

THE MAJOR PLAYERS

Cubic Expression 28.89%
Malcolm Glazer 16.31%
Mountbarrow Investments (owned by Harry Dobson) 6.48%
Legal & General Investment Managers 3.11%

[yulee]

The M&M mafia still have the upper hand since they control the most shares this point in time...There are rumours that Glazer might buyer out M&M then make a bid for control of MUFC

[RVN]

http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,1563,1147126,00.html

United may rise to 75,000 capacity

Club want to consolidate status as England's richest

Daniel Taylor
Friday February 13, 2004
The Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk)

Manchester United are to discuss raising Old Trafford's capacity close to 75,000, with work to extend England's largest football stadium perhaps starting before next season.
Although the matter has yet to be examined officially by the plc board, United's directors are investigating increasing the 68,210 capacity by putting in seats linking the top tier of the North Stand to the Stretford End and the East Stand.

The Premiership champions confidently expect to continue playing in front of sell-out crowds and the extra seats would generate increased revenue to consolidate their status as the country's biggest and richest club.

Initially, United looked at extending the South Stand but abandoned that idea because of the cost and difficulties in buying the railway line and the row of houses behind that side.

Sir Alex Ferguson has said his remaining ambitions at the club are to win the European Cup again and to play in front of 80,000 fans. United's manager is understood to be delighted by the proposals.

[RVN]

SIR ALEX FERGUSON last night admitted Manchester United are paying the price for Rio Ferdinand's drugs ban.

As Ferguson watches United's defence and title challenge disintegrate before his eyes, he has conceded that the Reds are desperately missing the England centre-half.

Ferguson was confident United could cope without Ferdinand when he was suspended for eight months for failing to take a drugs test.

The United manager felt the champions had enough strength in depth to deal with the loss of the £30million star.

But Ferguson has changed his tune after seeing United concede an alarming eight goals in their last three league games.

The yawning gaps in United's backline and their inability to deal with set-pieces were clear for all to see as they sank to their fifth league defeat of the season at home to Middlesbrough.

Ferguson puts it all down to Ferdinand's absence, especially because he felt he was forming a great defensive partnership with Mikael Silvestre.

You could almost see the envy dripping from Ferguson's mouth when he compared Middlesbrough's central defensive pairing of Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu with the shambles at the heart of his backline. "When you think of Middlesbrough, your mind instantly goes to the solid partnership at the back and the foundation is undoubtedly Southgate and Ehiogu," he said.

"They've built an understanding to the point where they think almost as one, like the partnership we had with Gary Pallister and Steve Bruce, which was the backbone of our team a few years ago.

"It's a frustrating thought for me because we were well on the way to seeing a similar and equally good pairing between Ferdinand and Silvestre.

"Unfortunately that pairing has been broken and I think that showed in our recent match against Southampton. We've been without him for a few games now and you're bound to miss a player of that quality."

Ferguson has tried to use Wes Brown to fill the chasm left by Ferdinand, but the 24-year-old has struggled badly.

Brown has just returned after nine months out with a serious knee injury and even he admits he is well off the pace.

The England centre-half is trying not to be deterred by all the flak aimed at him.

"The criticism is going to happen," he admitted. "The lads were playing brilliantly, but now Rio's out for a while, I've just come back into the side and we're letting goals in.

"I've not been playing top notch so I understand the criticism. I've had my ups and downs, but I won't let it get to me.

"It's just down to sharpness and that sharpness you need as a player just isn't there for me at the moment. But it comes with time, practice and playing games. In the meantime, I've just got to be mentally strong." Brown looked so uncomfortable against Boro Ferguson hauled him off.

Ferguson said: "We have some work to do at the back, but people must remember that when Wes Brown played against Southampton it was his first full game after nine months out."

Despite Brown's deficiencies, it is clear that Ferguson must accept most of the blame for United's dodgy defence.

He knew he would be without Ferdinand when he was banned in December, yet he still didn't bring anyone in during the transfer window.

That decision has backfired on Ferguson and now he must soldier on in the Premiership and Champions League with just Brown, Silvestre and John O'Shea. The likes of Ronaldo and Raul will hardly be quaking in their boots at the thought of coming up against those three in Europe.

Ferguson's team selection is also open to question and he claims the Reds have missed Gary Neville. Yet against Boro, he still rested Neville because he wanted to keep him fresh for tomorrow's FA Cup showdown with Manchester City.

[RVN]

http://eur.news1.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/xp/empics/20040212/11/1058707877.jpg

**** liao, very unlike him, sadly Scholes goona get 3-match ban. :mad:

Referee Paul Durkin has admitted that had he seen Paul Scholes's push on Doriva during Middlesbrough's 3-2 win over Manchester United the midfielder could have been punished.
The official missed the altercation which took place during the first half of Wednesday's five-goal thriller at Old Trafford despite being close to the incident.

Durkin had his back to the altercation as it ensued, leaving the FA free to let their video advisory panel review the tape and hand out punishments if necessary.

"If I'd seen it I think I think I might have done something about it," said Durkin.

"None of the match officials saw what went on. I was later told about it by one of the observers."

Scholes could be charged with violent conduct and if found guilty would receive an automatic three-match suspension.

http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,53-1123247,00.html

[RVN]

Sir Alex Ferguson goes into Saturday's Valentine's Day clash with local rivals City expecting there to be little love between the two teams and instead, plenty of crunching challenges. This is what the boss had to say at his Friday press conference...

Injury News
”There are no injuries. Of course, Louis Saha is Cup-tied so I have to think about team selection that way. But, everyone else is fit.”

Defensive Concerns
”It’s quite right that there is criticism. We’ve lost four goals in the last two games from set-pieces. There has been a slackness in our defending but I don’t think you can put that down to the absence of Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville. Obviously that is an issue, you still miss those players, but we should be defending better – we want to get to the root of that.”

Assessing City’s Form
"The Premier League is the place where everyone wants to be – that applies to City also. Cup runs are one thing, but Kevin will be concerned about their position in the league. The funny thing about being down at the bottom of the league is that it’s not easy to win games. That has been City’s problem. They’ve been drawing a lot of games, but draws are not really any good.”

City Dragged Into Relegation Fight
”Three points are what you’re looking for, and it’s very difficult to get them when you are down at the bottom. Every year we see teams down there and say, ‘it’s ok, they’ll get clear’ – it doesn’t work that way. So, although the Cup is a nice sideshow – there will be great excitement, City will have a great support in the old scoreboard end – but the most important thing for Kevin will be to keep his side in the Premier League.”

Praise For Kevin Keegan
”He always believes his teams play the right way. No matter which team Kevin has managed, they’ve always had an attacking instinct about them. That’s got to be admired. In the present day game it would be easier just to shut up shop and hope you win games that way. That’s not Kevin’s style.”

Derby Not Just For The Fans
”It’s not just about the fans. It’s also about the players on the pitch. What you’re going to see is a terrific atmosphere. That does help players. Given that kind of a platform, it can’t be better for footballers. But, at the end of the day you hope you’re going to see a really exciting Cup-tie – I think it will be – and hopefully we can come out right.”

Atoning For Boro Defeat
”The great thing about football is that you’ve always got another game. It was a disappointment on Wednesday and no matter whether it’s a Cup or League game, we want to do better.”

Valentine’s Day Clash
”There won’t be a great deal of love, but there will certainly be plenty of tackles.”

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=53412&itype=466&icategoryid=122

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by derrace



Hi gqy, erm , which day is the highlights? and what time?

Channel I got ya?


thanks

monday hightlight.....time not sure leh.....catch wednesday GOALS lor.....should be ard 10pm or 11pm.....

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RVN
http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,1563,1147126,00.html

United may rise to 75,000 capacity

Club want to consolidate status as England's richest

Daniel Taylor
Friday February 13, 2004
The Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk)

Manchester United are to discuss raising Old Trafford's capacity close to 75,000, with work to extend England's largest football stadium perhaps starting before next season.
Although the matter has yet to be examined officially by the plc board, United's directors are investigating increasing the 68,210 capacity by putting in seats linking the top tier of the North Stand to the Stretford End and the East Stand.

The Premiership champions confidently expect to continue playing in front of sell-out crowds and the extra seats would generate increased revenue to consolidate their status as the country's biggest and richest club.

Initially, United looked at extending the South Stand but abandoned that idea because of the cost and difficulties in buying the railway line and the row of houses behind that side.

Sir Alex Ferguson has said his remaining ambitions at the club are to win the European Cup again and to play in front of 80,000 fans. United's manager is understood to be delighted by the proposals.

expand to 100,000 lah....then can fight w nou camp.....:D

[stam]

FA CUP 5th ROUND
MAN UTD VS MAN CITY!!!

LETS HOPE WE PROCEDE TO NEXT ROUND!!!

[RVN]

hoping (obviously) for a backlash reaction from us, however i'm a bit worried, we all know about our ability to leak goals like there's no tomorrow (and that other teams know this and attack more on the back of the fact). :(

We better win or else I be ****ing :mad:

[StormTrooper]

nothing new to me..........united always make things difficult for themselves.

[stam]

solved the attack, now comes the defence problem...:mad:

[RVN]

Roy Keane has launched a broadside at Manchester United's younger generation and warned them never to forget how lucky they are to play for the club.

The combative Irishman was a frustrated spectator on Wednesday as the Red Devils slumped to the 3-2 home defeat against Middlesbrough that leaves them five points adrift in the title race.

Like manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Keane is extremely concerned about his team's defending, blaming the current problems on the side as a whole rather than just the back four.

The United skipper believes a lack of concentration is a major factor behind the malaise that has seen eight goals conceded in their last three Premiership outings.

However, he is equally fearful that some of the younger players are falling short of the blinkered ambition shared by the elder members of a squad that is widely accepted as the most focused and driven in the Premier League.

"We have worked extremely hard to get to the top but it is a lot harder to stay there," said the 32-year-old.

"We have one or two young players who have done very little in the game. They need to remember that and not slacken off.

"They need to remember just how lucky we all are to play for Manchester United and show that out on the pitch."

Keane will be back at the heart of the United midfield on Saturday when they entertain neighbours City in an eagerly-awaited FA Cup fifth-round encounter.

On paper, it looks like a banker home win but the Cork-born star, who skippered United to their record 10th success in the competition five years ago, knows on current form nothing can be taken for granted.

"I have been critical of our defence recently but it is down to the whole team, not one section of it," he said.

"A lot of the goals we have been conceding are from set- pieces when we are all back anyway.

"It is stating the obvious to say Rio Ferdinand is missing but having to cope without certain players is part of football.

"You can make all the excuses you want but the players representing Manchester United on Wednesday night were good enough to win.

"There were some positives to take out of that performance and in the end we were unlucky not to win but you can't be going 2-0 down like we did the other night.

"It boils down to a lot of things. We need to be focused and fully concentrated from the start and that comes from training.

"You can't slacken off in training and expect to switch it back on a Saturday.

"You have to prepare properly and stay focused on what your job is. When you are playing for Manchester United nothing should get in the way."

City arrive at Old Trafford on the back of a 14-match run without a Premiership win.

It is almost 30 years since they last recorded a victory at the home of their local rivals and their chances of breaking that sequence have been dealt a huge blow by the absence of top scorer Nicolas Anelka with a groin strain.

They do however have the memory of their unbelievable comeback in the previous round against Tottenham to fall back on and Keane acknowledges the Blues are probably not as bad as recent results suggest.

"The fact there will be 9,000 City fans there should ensure a brilliant atmosphere," said Keane, who has won the trophy three times with United and was a beaten finalist with the Red Devils and former club Nottingham Forest.

"We are all looking forward to the game and I'm sure their players are as well.

"Results-wise they aren't having a good time of it but I know one or two City fans and they say the performances haven't been that bad.

"There is a fine line between playing well and winning football matches and I'm sure City will be confident, especially when they look at the goals we have been conceding.

"But we are determined as well. The disappointments we have had in the FA Cup in the past few years make the competition more important to us than ever this season."

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.dor?STORY_NAME=soccer/04/02/13/SOCCER_Man_Utd_Keane.html&TEAMHD=soccer

[hush66]

Tell them like it is, Roy!

He'll make a great manager, I think. :D

[Totti76]

Originally posted by RVN
hoping (obviously) for a backlash reaction from us, however i'm a bit worried, we all know about our ability to leak goals like there's no tomorrow (and that other teams know this and attack more on the back of the fact). :(

We better win or else I be ****ing :mad:

RVD we have the same feeling...If we lose tonite!!:mad:
Ever had that feeling of cursing man u to lose when see them play so badly even though we seem to have the 3 pts in the bag?eg. match like man u vs everton recently....
Sometimes i do...may b its love turn to hate...:laugh:
I kind of looking forward to the next season already with a better defender coming in. :(

[ccloh]

have any1 noticed that SAF is w/o an assistant coach, things get very bad. the season when utd finished 3rd and this season.

[Totti76]

Originally posted by ccloh
have any1 noticed that SAF is w/o an assistant coach, things get very bad. the season when utd finished 3rd and this season.
Yup..true. but i think utd wun get anyone in now...next season may b..

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by ccloh
have any1 noticed that SAF is w/o an assistant coach, things get very bad. the season when utd finished 3rd and this season.

it's been like this everytime ma....that why i said get a gd assistant is a mus and asap.....

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


it's been like this everytime ma....that why i said get a gd assistant is a mus and asap.....

who will be the "ONE"? Martin O'Neil??

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by orca_sea


who will be the "ONE"? Martin O'Neil??

he dun come over as manager enough liao lor....:alien:

[stam]

get 1 assistant manager quick...but usually after 1 2 season, they get lured away by other clubs...:mad:

[Ronaldo7]

Man Utd v Man City

Old Trafford
Saturday, 14 February 2004
Fifth Round
Kick-off: 1230 GMT
Referee: Jeff Winter (Cleveland)
Replay date: Sunday, 28 February - KO 1500 GMT
Full live commentary on this website



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

Gary Neville is set to be recalled by United for this fifth round derby clash after he missed the midweek defeat by Middlesbrough with a thigh strain.

Roy Keane should also return and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be on the bench but Louis Saha is cup-tied.

City are without star striker Nicolas Anelka, cup-tied goalkeeper David James and full-back Sun Jihai.

Anelka's place will go to Jon Macken while Icelandic international Arni Arason will replace James.




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

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

Manchester City (from): Arason, Dunne, Distin, Van Buyten, Tarnat, Wright-Phillips, Sibierski, Reyna, Bosvelt, McManaman, Barton, Macken, Fowler, Ellegaard, Wiekens, Jordan, Elliott.

[hush66]

To the next round of FA Cup we go. The defence still a little shaky. And with Gary Neville getting a 3-match ban soon, the defence is really going to suffer.

[RVN]

Defence still really shaky, sign, :mad:

[cracker]

The partnership of Silvestre and O Shea looks slightly better than Mr. Brown and Silvestre.....
though Gary Nevile's red card will give some headache to Fergie..

Maybe Phil Nevile will take the right,,,O'Shea and Silvestre at the central with Fortune taking the left spot......Just no more Mr. Brown from now on !

[RVN]

Originally posted by cracker
The partnership of Silvestre and O Shea looks slightly better than Mr. Brown and Silvestre.....
though Gary Nevile's red card will give some headache to Fergie..

Maybe Phil Nevile will take the right,,,O'Shea and Silvestre at the central with Fortune taking the left spot......Just no more Mr. Brown from now on !

Yep, I suppose this will be the defence line-up against leeds next saturday,

why gary go and head-butt mcmanman for what, totally unnecessary. :mad:

[kengbeng]

I think that Scouser Mcmanaman went to provoke Gary. You know the way scousers are....

[pale]

Originally posted by kengbeng
I think that Scouser Mcmanaman went to provoke Gary. You know the way scousers are....

Ehh..u can say Macca Provoke Gary but Plz say say things like u know the way scouser's are...

Be Nice La:D

Anyways.. FA cup seems the highest chance of silverware.

[Totti76]

Originally posted by kengbeng
I think that Scouser Mcmanaman went to provoke Gary. You know the way scousers are....

Well done Man U..except for the red card..whether it was provoked or not...it simply stupid for Gary to do that..:mad:
Now we got to look forward to next sat...Battle of the Roses..

[kengbeng]

Originally posted by pale


Ehh..u can say Macca Provoke Gary but Plz say say things like u know the way scouser's are...

Be Nice La:D

Anyways.. FA cup seems the highest chance of silverware.
Oh well. Just a passing remark. :D

It is well-documented that Gary doesn't like scousers and vice-versa. Heh.

[guoquanyap]

ronaldo played very well today and scored 1 goal....of cos not to forget howard w some excellent saves.....

overall gd work to recover fr the 2-3 defeat to boro.....

[Ch3tah_39]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
ronaldo played very well today and scored 1 goal....of cos not to forget howard w some excellent saves.....

overall gd work to recover fr the 2-3 defeat to boro.....

great... ronaldo 2nd goal...
howard reali is the best buy this season...:)

[Yellowfin]

Ronaldo still not very good at defending.

One of the goal is due to him not marking a Man City player at the far post. He just stand there and like in a dream world. :D

I guess he is still inexperience in defending when the team needed him the most.

Man U really need an experience defender to provide guidance and stablility to the defence.

[stam]

the 2 goals conceded will due to inefficient marking....totally no pple marking the man city players when they shoot.:mad:

lucky got howard, make a few good saves!

[cracker]

Originally posted by stam
the 2 goals conceded will due to inefficient marking....totally no pple marking the man city players when they shoot.:mad:

lucky got howard, make a few good saves!

the second goal was from a direct freekick,,,,,fowler took it while Utd was still organising the defence...which is the current practise.

[ccloh]

Originally posted by Yellowfin
Ronaldo still not very good at defending.

One of the goal is due to him not marking a Man City player at the far post. He just stand there and like in a dream world. :D

I guess he is still inexperience in defending when the team needed him the most.

Man U really need an experience defender to provide guidance and stablility to the defence.


utd not only need experience defender. it needs some1 who can organize the defender, read the game well and is a rock sitting infront of the keeper. this is what utd is lacking defender after bruce-pallister and jaap stam.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by cracker


the second goal was from a direct freekick,,,,,fowler took it while Utd was still organising the defence...which is the current practise.

copy henry's :mad:

[RuMmYtUb]

Goalkeepers: James (Man City), Robinson (Leeds), Kirkland (Liverpool)

Defenders: P Neville (Man Utd), Mills (Leeds/Middlesbrough), Carragher (Liverpool), Bridge (Chelsea), A Cole (Arsenal), Terry (Chelsea), Campbell (Arsenal), Southgate (Middlesbrough)

Midfielders: Beckham (Real Madrid), Lampard (Chelsea), J Cole (Chelsea), Butt (Man Utd), Jenas (Newcastle), Scholes (Man Utd), Dyer (Newcastle), Hargreaves (Bayern Munich)

Strikers: Heskey (Liverpool), Rooney (Everton), Vassell (Aston Villa), Owen (Liverpool), Smith (Leeds)


Gary Neville's not in the England setup.. :(

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Goalkeepers: James (Man City), Robinson (Leeds), Kirkland (Liverpool)

Defenders: P Neville (Man Utd), Mills (Leeds/Middlesbrough), Carragher (Liverpool), Bridge (Chelsea), A Cole (Arsenal), Terry (Chelsea), Campbell (Arsenal), Southgate (Middlesbrough)

Midfielders: Beckham (Real Madrid), Lampard (Chelsea), J Cole (Chelsea), Butt (Man Utd), Jenas (Newcastle), Scholes (Man Utd), Dyer (Newcastle), Hargreaves (Bayern Munich)

Strikers: Heskey (Liverpool), Rooney (Everton), Vassell (Aston Villa), Owen (Liverpool), Smith (Leeds)


Gary Neville's not in the England setup.. :(

Gary was too heated liao, Sven not impressed with him.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


Gary was too heated liao, Sven not impressed with him.

Mills oso hot headed !! :mad:

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by ccloh



utd not only need experience defender. it needs some1 who can organize the defender, read the game well and is a rock sitting infront of the keeper. this is what utd is lacking defender after bruce-pallister and jaap stam.

tink the best soln iz to get Stam bac lor.. :(

[RVN]

Originally posted by orca_sea


tink the best soln iz to get Stam bac lor.. :(

impossible, fergie never buy back a player he sold, yesterday saw him score a good free-kick for lazio in a 3-0 win over empoli and organise their defence well, how I wish he was still in our side, sign all becos of the book, he was sold. :(

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by RVN


impossible, fergie never buy back a player he sold, yesterday saw him score a good free-kick for lazio in a 3-0 win over empoli and organise their defence well, how I wish he was still in our side, sign all becos of the book, he was sold. :(

Ya but if both parties r willing to compromise like SAF willing to give in etc. then it will b the best in the Red Devil's interest... but i know tat impossible..sigh:(

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Mills oso hot headed !! :mad:

veri true.. and something he machiam MOB sia..threatening lar.. inflicting rough, reckless tackles on ppl lar.. damn man he..:mad:

[RVN]

G Neville absence of 3-match going to add more headache to our defence, I feel Wes Brown should be left on the bench, sei bei unsteady, I go for this defence line-up for now,

P Neville--------O'Shea-----------Silvestre----------Fortune

Play Butt or Scholes with Keane in midfield with Ronaldo and Giggs on the wings, Saha and Ruud upfront.

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by RVN
G Neville absence of 3-match going to add more headache to our defence, I feel Wes Brown should be left on the bench, sei bei unsteady, I go for this defence line-up for now,

P Neville--------O'Shea-----------Silvestre----------Fortune

Play Butt or Scholes with Keane in midfield with Ronaldo and Giggs on the wings, Saha and Ruud upfront.

Ya tink tatz the best we can offer liao..:(

[RuMmYtUb]

Neville yesterday was quite irresponsible and nv use his brains to think...considering one of the more experienced players of the club.... now our defence really as thin as paper... :(

[RVN]

We had some knowledge ourselves from pretty reliable sources just before Christmas. Didn’t happen and don’t know why but now The Sunday Mirror and The People pick up on it.


This from The Mirror:


Sir Alex Ferguson is planning an amazing &L&20million raid for Wayne Rooney.

Sunday Mirror Sport has learned Everton fear Rooney, 18, will leave in the summer.

And Manchester United boss Ferguson is favourite to land the striker.

A friend of Rooney’s said:

"I will be extremely surprised if Rooney isn't wearing a United shirt next season.

"It has become common knowledge among his close friends and family members that something will happen in the summer.

"Naturally, Wayne will be heartbroken to leave Everton. But his relationship with David Moyes is questionable, the club are facing a battle to beat the drop and he realises that a move to a club with so much talent will almost certainly improve his game."

And a well-placed Everton official told us:


"The indications are that Wayne will be sold in the summer.

"The club are facing a dilemma with Rooney. They have no money to strengthen the team and he is their only saleable asset.

"He's had a wretched season for his club. He is first choice for England but not for Everton.

"If you put him in a classy side he would be fantastic."

Also, The People reckon that Diego will defo go this summer. Probably to Valencia.

http://www.manchesterutd-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=143031

Forlan going, I am all for it, he hasn't really performed for us at all. 20m for Rooney sound ridiculous, we had better use that amount of money and buy some decent defenders. ;)

[leslie_lai]

Rooney SUCKS and we do not need another striker even if Forlan leaves.

Spend the money on some good defenders instead.

[orca_sea]

Originally posted by leslie_lai
Rooney SUCKS and we do not need another striker even if Forlan leaves.

Spend the money on some good defenders instead.

Ya..mayb Kelvin Hofland of PSV

[Totti76]

Better use the $$ to buy a defender n Robben...
10 mil for Robben n 15mil for a good defender...yeah??
Without Giggs somehow man u kind of short of ideas...

[RVN]

Originally posted by Totti76
Better use the $$ to buy a defender n Robben...
10 mil for Robben n 15mil for a good defender...yeah??
Without Giggs somehow man u kind of short of ideas...

Dun forget Scholes, he is a good player too. Think is both Giggs and Scholes are getting old, so we need to buy some young guns to replace them when they retires from football.

[Totti76]

Originally posted by RVN


Dun forget Scholes, he is a good player too. Think is both Giggs and Scholes are getting old, so we need to buy some young guns to replace them when they retires from football.
of cos scholes is a good player..may b Robben is to replace scholes then C. Ronaldo to replace Giggs...when he used to english game...or may b Vicente from Valencia...saw him play last season...really impress me. This season I not so sure....hear he wasnt getting much regular game..

[RuMmYtUb]

Robben or van der Vaart can replace Giggs..
We need someone like Hofland oso..

[hush66]

Originally posted by RVN
A friend of Rooney?s said:

"I will be extremely surprised if Rooney isn't wearing a United shirt next season."

Maybe his friend was talking about Leeds United. :laugh:

[Iorick]

United and SAF should go for Mexes. The last time he played against English opposition, he did rather well....(against Arsenal)=p
Anyway, i would prefer SAF get 2 central defenders or 1 central and 1 versatile fullback-cum-centreback in the summer cause he never did quite replace Blanc and May since their departure....
My choice would go and get the speedy Mexes and the tall Van Buyten(would be fun to snatch from City in the summer.:D )

[ccloh]

crazy going for rooney ??? i'm sure there are better youth striker very much much better than him. search in spain, italy and france sure can gfet one.

[guoquanyap]

aiya taboilt lah....

[Ch3tah_39]

da ma de... sell forlan for wat...:mad:

[RVN]

Might be tabloid ****, but can you said he played well for us, i won't mind if he goes, everytime I see him play, he seem to ****ed up every chance he had to score. :mad:

[Ch3tah_39]

Originally posted by RVN
Might be tabloid ****, but can you said he played well for us, i won't mind if he goes, everytime I see him play, he seem to ****ed up every chance he had to score. :mad:

but he improved.... he still younger den rvn and saha...
he scored this season mostly he hav the chance or he shot on target more often when he hav the chance...:(

[RVN]

Can't see him getting into the first team I am afraid, we signed Saha to pair him up with Ruud upfront, Ole is also fit again. Forlan is further down the pecking order.

Sad to say, I think both he and Butt could be leaving in the summer. Butt case is also a lack of first-team football too.:(

I think its a shame he didn't make it. He's a nice enough feller but he lacks that "killer" instinct so necessary in a striker. I think it is 8 goals he has this season, 9 last season, 17 in all. Not too bad, but he ain't good enough for us.

Wish list for this summer: young striker and a defenders.

Miller will come, hope for Robben, Mexes or Van Buyten

[wadeva_lah]

see lah, snatch and snatch from middlesborough.. now lelong away..
sheesh

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN
Can't see him getting into the first team I am afraid, we signed Saha to pair him up with Ruud upfront, Ole is also fit again. Forlan is further down the pecking order.

Sad to say, I think both he and Butt could be leaving in the summer. Butt case is also a lack of first-team football too.:(

I think its a shame he didn't make it. He's a nice enough feller but he lacks that "killer" instinct so necessary in a striker. I think it is 8 goals he has this season, 9 last season, 17 in all. Not too bad, but he ain't good enough for us.

Wish list for this summer: young striker and a defenders.

Miller will come, hope for Robben, Mexes or Van Buyten

or Hofland :D

[ccloh]

as long as forlan is still in OT, don't believe those news. sell forlan to get rooney that is one hell of a joke. if he really want to get some1 who can make a difference and got youth on his side, robinho i believe is the best choice.

[guoquanyap]

FA cup facing westham or fulham at home....nice draw.....:D

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by ccloh
as long as forlan is still in OT, don't believe those news. sell forlan to get rooney that is one hell of a joke. if he really want to get some1 who can make a difference and got youth on his side, robinho i believe is the best choice.

we hav read lots and lots of positive report abt robino and degio, but who really watch them play before.....anyway they are non-EU and hav not enough Cap........cant get a playing permit for them......

i feel we should concentrate geting robben....dun let him slip off like wat happen to ronaldohino again.....:mad:

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


or Hofland :D

why u keep mentioning hofland? u watch him play b4? or u jus play too much CM? :cool:

as far as i koe....he was once a target but fergie felt he not gd enough.....

[Totti76]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


we hav read lots and lots of positive report abt robino and degio, but who really watch them play before.....anyway they are non-EU and hav not enough Cap........cant get a playing permit for them......

i feel we should concentrate geting robben....dun let him slip off like wat happen to ronaldohino again.....:mad:
Didnt really see them play b4..but saw highlight of their match...not bad. Maradona n Pele wont praise a player if they r not good enough.. But ur worry is share by me...esp south america player..:rolleyes:
Yes..shld get robben..saw him play..he is gd.
Y hofland?? cos there arent many classy defender ard tat we can buy..Mexes, Buyten, Lucio to name a few..Nesta n Chivu are untouchable. Just hope tat we dun get another Blanc will do...:laugh:

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


why u keep mentioning hofland? u watch him play b4? or u jus play too much CM? :cool:

as far as i koe....he was once a target but fergie felt he not gd enough.....

Few times only.. :blushed:
During PSV's CL assault... wonder why SAF dun wan him liao..
ok nvm den, get Lucio, i guess no one will doubt his abilities :D

[RVN]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
FA cup facing westham or fulham at home....nice draw.....:D


Could have been better, could have been worse. Happy we got the home advantage. Even though Fulham have battered us at Old Trafford already this season. :mad:

Would dearly want revenge if we meet Fulham.
,shame Saha can't play. :(

If it is West Ham, wish for another 6-0.=p
hopefully not the 1-0 loss in 2001 was it when Barthez decided to not bother trying to save DI Canio's shot!:alien:

[ccloh]

on paper looks easy draw for utd but better be caution abt that. guess won't want to ended a draw game and go into the replay. one time kill it off the best

[Iorick]

Hoping West Ham would beat Fulham cause with their recent sale of Defoe, they a bit lightweight upfront and most probably wont put a lot stress on United's much criticised defence. :D

Also this time round, United do not have Barthez and West ham dont have Di Canio so no chance of an upset...but if kena Fulham, must play more cautiously.=p

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by Iorick
Hoping West Ham would beat Fulham cause with their recent sale of Defoe, they a bit lightweight upfront and most probably wont put a lot stress on United's much criticised defence. :D

Also this time round, United do not have Barthez and West ham dont have Di Canio so no chance of an upset...but if kena Fulham, must play more cautiously.=p

westham play very well when against fulham and mus depend on van de sar then manage to draw....both are dangerous

[RVN]

Gary Neville hopes his sending off against Manchester City last weekend turns out to be a lucky omen.
That is because the last time he was shown a red card Manchester United went on to complete their most successful season of all time.

Saturday's dismissal was only the second of Neville's career, the first coming at Tottenham on 12 December 1998 during the season they won the Champions League, Premiership and FA Cup.

Neville will find himself a reluctant spectator when United face West Ham or Fulham at Old Trafford in the quarter-final of the FA Cup - but things could have been worse for the England full-back.

He will serve a three match suspension after his out-of-character head-butt on Steve McManaman during Old Trafford's derby cup tie, and that also rules him out of the Premiership away games against Fulham and Manchester City which fall either side of the quarter-final.

Claims that Neville would be banned for four games after he was also shown a yellow card for alleged ungentlemanly conduct have proved incorrect.

He remains one booking short of the five card automatic one-match ban and walks the disciplinary tightrope this weekend when United face Leeds at Old Trafford.

If he is booked in that game his ban would be extended to include the home clash with Tottenham on 20 March.

[RVN]

Sir Alex Ferguson faces an anxious wait with 14 members of his Manchester United first-team squad away on international duty.

Teenage sensation Cristiano Ronaldo could come up against Nicky Butt, Phil Neville and Paul Scholes during England's friendly in Portugal on Wednesday night, while John O'Shea and midfielder Kleberson are also on a collision course for a meeting at Dublin's Lansdowne Road where the Republic of Ireland face World Cup holders Brazil.

Wales skipper Ryan Giggs expects to see Darren Fletcher lining up against him for Scotland, while goalkeeper Tim Howard may have earned himself the chance to play against Ruud van Nistelrooy in the Holland-America friendly in Amsterdam.

New-boy Louis Saha is on international duty with France for the first time and could play against Belgium, and Roy Carroll may be involved Northern Ireland's game against Norway.

The player with the longest round trip is Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan who is in Kingston, Jamaica, for Wednesday's friendly against the Caribbean side.

The United manager expects to have all his players back in time for training on Friday morning.

http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,774574,00.html

[RVN]

DIEGO Forlan could be set to jet out of Manchester on a low cost flight to Valencia.

The Uruguayan forward has failed to justify his £7.5 million price tag since signing from Independiente two years ago and looks set to leave in the summer, with Valencia favourites to secure his signature for a reported £1 million.

The deal would represent a massive loss for United, but they seem set to decide that with Forlan unlikely to get many starts following the capture of Louis Saha they will have to accept whatever money they can get in a depressed transfer market.

Forlan has scored eight times for United this season, but he has an overall record of 17 strikes in 89 games and a terrible late miss in the recent 3-2 defeat to Middlesbrough could have sealed his exit from Old Trafford.

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/sport/football/manchesterunited/stories/Detail_LinkStory=81503.html

did seem pretty inevitable after saha arrived, what with solskjaer coming back. i think forlan would need a good long run in the team to find scoring form - and he ain't gonna get that now, and 1m is a joke, surely we can get a better sum then that considering he still an international player for his country, 3m or 4m would sound better.

[guoquanyap]

wau lau 1milion pound sell for wat?!?....might as well keep and use as back-up since his salary is not that high at all....wait he go valencia and make a name for himself then fergie pai say man.....

[RVN]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
wau lau 1milion pound sell for wat?!?....might as well keep and use as back-up since his salary is not that high at all....wait he go valencia and make a name for himself then fergie pai say man.....

Aiyah, the gaffer will have something up his sleeves, good for him if he do well in Spain, dun think fergie will be bother how he plays in Spain. But its too far-fetched at the moment, he is still our player. Forlan is okay as a squad player but he is never going to be in the same class as ruud, ole, saha etc. So then you have the dilemma of a player that wants first team football and is never going to get it on a regular basis, no matter how hard they try and i'm pretty sure he does try unbelievably hard but no matter how hard he tries he ain't got what it takes. :(

[guoquanyap]

if i am fergie, i will jus keep forlan and oso he is the crowd faourvite.....:D

[RVN]

Where does this fans favourite Forlan come from? Everytime he warms up a groan goes up around the crowd. I don't think he is good enough and never will be. However if he is happy to stay as a squad player then he is worth keeping. lol. :D

[leslie_lai]

WTF is with you guys? Forlan scored some very important goals for us too didn't he?

ONE PATHETIC MILLION is like spare change to Man Utd. I don't see why they should sell him. The squad depth is already as bad as it is currently and I don't see why we should offload Forlan.

The defenders are the ones Fergie should boot, NOT Forlan.

And I really hope he does not get all senile and squander 25 million on that English bull. 25 million can be put to so much better use. Joaquin, Robben and probably an experienced TOP CLASS defender.

We've already got quite abit of options for midfield and Liam Miller is on his way soon and I'm sure he will be the ideal replacement when Keano retires in the very near future.

[leslie_lai]

I'm really keepiong my fingers crossed that United would not be haunted by Veron, Beckham and very soon Forlan when we meet their respective clubs in Europe and the premiership for Chelsea because they are all more than capable of making the current United defence look like a buncha fools.

Beckham will be able to run circles and dance around Wes Brown, Silvestre and Gary Neville (minus O'Shea).

Veron will be able to excecute his defence splitting passes from midfield for his team mates who will be able to convert them into goals.

Forlan, despite his lack of pace and fanciful touches on the ball, will still be to net some goals.

I'm looking forward to the day all these happens and make all of ya eat your words but at the same time I hope not because it wouldn't do United any good. :rolleyes:

[leslie_lai]

Oh ****ing get rid of a certain Scot by the name of Darren and an African by the name of Quinton as well if Forlan really has to go. The money might come in handy for a newly furbished dugout for the reserves or a end of season bonus for the top players.

[Iorick]

Originally posted by leslie_lai
I'm really keepiong my fingers crossed that United would not be haunted by Veron, Beckham and very soon Forlan when we meet their respective clubs in Europe and the premiership for Chelsea because they are all more than capable of making the current United defence look like a buncha fools.

Beckham will be able to run circles and dance around Wes Brown, Silvestre and Gary Neville (minus O'Shea).

Veron will be able to excecute his defence splitting passes from midfield for his team mates who will be able to convert them into goals.

Forlan, despite his lack of pace and fanciful touches on the ball, will still be to net some goals.

I'm looking forward to the day all these happens and make all of ya eat your words but at the same time I hope not because it wouldn't do United any good. :rolleyes:

I highly doubt that Becks will be that big a threat if RM meets United in the Champions League. His only lethal weapons are his crossing and free kicks and Raul and Fat Ron are not exactly strong with their heads. The bigger threat comes from the brillance of ZZ and Figo, threading through balls to R&R whose finishing is lethal almost all the time

Poor Veron is becoming like another Bogarde at Chelski, with his well timed=p injuries and still earning a fat wage, imo, Lampard and Makelele are CR first choice M Cs so i dont think Veron would come back to haunt United in CL.

"Making Scousers Crying" Forlan is still suitable for the EPL though i dont know about his big match pedigree, comtemplating selling him would be wrong as technically the 4th striker b4 Saha arrived (one that goes the famous initials DB) is absolutely pathetic the few times i seen him in action. At least Forlan is good shooting with either foot(his only redeeming feature). Wild speculation could suggest SAF going for a player plus cash swap with Valencia's Ayala(:D ) or the wunderkid Vicente(if Robben deal fails).

[wes]

Originally posted by RVN
Where does this fans favourite Forlan come from? Everytime he warms up a groan goes up around the crowd. I don't think he is good enough and never will be. However if he is happy to stay as a squad player then he is worth keeping. lol. :D

he become fan fav ever since he score twice against liverpool.....
anyway,i agreed wif leslie and guoquanyap shld keep forlan...
sign saha becos man utd need at least 4 striker......if sell forlan off liao back to same old problem again...no international class striker is going to sign for man utd to be backup(as its obvious either scholes or saha is first choice to partner RVN),unless mayb man utd feel is time to promote the american youngster cooper or local kid eddie johnson to first team...

[cracker]

Originally posted by RVN
Where does this fans favourite Forlan come from? Everytime he warms up a groan goes up around the crowd. I don't think he is good enough and never will be. However if he is happy to stay as a squad player then he is worth keeping. lol. :D


The crowd refers to those at Old Trafford or those at kopitiam ?

If it is the former,
1) I envy u being able to watch at Old Trafford
2) U must have super hearing capability to detect the groans.

[ccloh]

Originally posted by leslie_lai
I'm really keepiong my fingers crossed that United would not be haunted by Veron, Beckham and very soon Forlan when we meet their respective clubs in Europe and the premiership for Chelsea because they are all more than capable of making the current United defence look like a buncha fools.

Beckham will be able to run circles and dance around Wes Brown, Silvestre and Gary Neville (minus O'Shea).

Veron will be able to excecute his defence splitting passes from midfield for his team mates who will be able to convert them into goals.

Forlan, despite his lack of pace and fanciful touches on the ball, will still be to net some goals.

I'm looking forward to the day all these happens and make all of ya eat your words but at the same time I hope not because it wouldn't do United any good. :rolleyes:

pls lah. beckham again, nobody in the whole of OT will miss him and think he can really run circle and dance ard defenders ??? he can't even dribble a ball properly pass a defender. he can't do it with utd, he can't do it with england and he still can't do it with real madrid either.

veron case is 'cos there is no accomodation for his style of play in fergie's tactic. u can fill both veron and scholes together and then who will fill the void of a governer in the midfield ??? u can't play veron in scholes's role, though he got the vision and the skills but he don't have the faster pace as scholes.

as for forlan, unless david bellion has become suddenly improved a lot if not selling away forlan make no sense.

[RVN]

Originally posted by ccloh


pls lah. beckham again, nobody in the whole of OT will miss him and think he can really run circle and dance ard defenders ??? he can't even dribble a ball properly pass a defender. he can't do it with utd, he can't do it with england and he still can't do it with real madrid either.

veron case is 'cos there is no accomodation for his style of play in fergie's tactic. u can fill both veron and scholes together and then who will fill the void of a governer in the midfield ??? u can't play veron in scholes's role, though he got the vision and the skills but he don't have the faster pace as scholes.

as for forlan, unless david bellion has become suddenly improved a lot if not selling away forlan make no sense.

Ronaldo has started to whip those crosses aka like Becks for Ruud to score. We don't miss Becks.

Could be SAF found out Veron is injury-prone so decided to sell him to cut the cost on him. That poor fella going to be out for this season. :D

Up to Fergie to decide whether Forlan stay or goes lor. ;)

[Ronaldo7]

Ex-River Plate coach chases Man Utd assistant job
tribalfootball.com - February 18, 2004

Former River Plate coach Manuel Pellegrini is applying for the assistant manager's job at Manchester United.
Chilean Pellegrini, nicknamed the 'Engineer' in South America, has twice lifted the Argentine championship with River and is convinced he can help United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

His lawyer Luis Incera said: "He has been invited to send his CV to United."

:rolleyes:

[RVN]

TIM HOWARD has revealed how he is gripped by fear and physically shakes in the dressing-room before he plays for Manchester United.

United's American goalkeeper has been a revelation since moving to Old Trafford for £2.5million last summer but admits his cool appearance between the posts is all an act.

And Howard, who will face United team-mate Ruud van Nistelrooy when the USA take on Holland in a friendly in Amsterdam tonight, said: "I really do feel pressure but I think the goalkeeper in me tells me just to try to make it look good."

"But it's all a facade. There have been times when I've been so nervous but I just try not to let it show.

"There have been games this season where I've felt really anxious and literally been shaking beforehand. Arsenal was one, the two pre-season games in America went that way, and Rangers at Ibrox was really intense.

"I still get nervous but I'm starting to settle into a groove. But I still get anxious, as I think every player does."

After a mid-season blip culminating in United's shock Premiership defeat to Middlesbrough, Howard was back to his best in the 4-2 FA Cup victory over local rivals Manchester City and pulled off a series of magnificent saves. But the 24-year-old cannot believe he has established himself as United's No.1 so soon after moving to Old Trafford.

He admits he is plagued - and spurred on - by feelings of self-doubt. "United could have bought any goalkeeper in the world and they bought me," said Howard. "It just doesn't make sense.

"You could analyse it all you want but in the end it just doesn't make sense. I'd go crazy if I tried to figure out how I got here or why I got here because to me it's totally unbelievable.

"At United, players like Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs and Ruud van Nistelrooy are the heroes. The goalkeeper is never going to be the hero, nor should he be. My job is just to be consistent and help the side win the games."

When his form dipped for the first time this season and doubts were raised over his consistency, Howard revealed he forced himself to raise his game.

While he never admitted he became complacent after such a blistering start to his United career, Howard did admit he had allowed his level to drop below the required level. "I challenged myself after the few games before we played City," said Howard. "I had been through periods like that before, in terms of my form, but not since I'd been at United.

"You still have to make saves, even if you're not feeling up to par. I had to go back to basics and be aggressive once more."

Howard produced arguably the save of the season from City's Joey Barton in the FA Cup clash, a point-blank stop which drew high praise from van Nistelrooy. "Everybody thought that shot was in but Tim somehow managed to get his right arm up and stop it," said the Dutchman.

"It was a truly incredible save and it's those kind of things that make you really appreciate having a goalkeeper of Tim's quality."

For his part, Howard cannot wait to face his Old Trafford team-mate. "Ruud's one of the best strikers in the world without any doubt," said Howard.

"His work-rate is phenomenal and what sets him apart. A lot of players have talent but don't have the work ethic to go with it. Ruud has both which is what makes him such a great player."

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/sporttop/content_objectid=13961802_method=full_siteid=50143_headline=-TIM%2DS%2DTERROR-name_page.html

[guoquanyap]

so messy internal.....:mad: too much distraction man.....

[guoquanyap]

Feb 18 - Louis Saha is set for his France debut tonight against Belgium in Brussels.

The Manchester United striker was called up to the full squad for the first time last week and now looks almost certain to make his first international start.

France are missing their first-choice strikers Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet through injury, while Djibril Cisse is suspended and Nicolas Anelka is out of favour.

Saha, who has scored three goals in three games since his £12.82million move from Fulham, said: "The no-shows will give me more time to play. I'll show myself a bit more."

[RVN]

IT IS only when Paul Scholes is missing from the Manchester United line-up that you appreciate how influential he has become.

And such is his contribution to United’s cause that it was fitting that Saturday’s Manchester derby was a suitable game on which to make his 400th appearance for the club.

Scholes may be a player who shuns the limelight, but his exploits on the field attract the attention of the headline writers.

Although primarily a midfield player, Scholes (29) has scored 111 goals for United as well as 13 in 58 appearances for England.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is one of Scholes’ biggest admirers.

He said: “When you assess the great players that have been at this club over the years, Paul will be up among them.

“You have to remember that he has had two or three operations that have kept him out, but he has always come back really strong.

“His scoring record is astonishing. He has been a marvellous player for us.”

It says much about the impact Scholes has made at Old Trafford that when he broke the 20-goal barrier last season, he became the first Reds midfield player to do so in a season since Sir Bobby Charlton.

Scholes has already won seven Premiership title and two FA Cup winner’s medals.

And, with several years still ahead of him, he looks sure to add to that impressive collection.

http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/SPORTW04.html

[guoquanyap]

hope to see ronaldo start against england today.....:D

[RVN]

Manchester United's future stars triumphed in The FA Youth Cup 4-2 against Norwich to progress into the last eight of the cup that they are defending.
The young Red Devils had to fight for their 4-2 victory against a battling young Cannery outfit, but quality prevailed in the end and Brian McClair's outfit were victorious at Old Trafford.

Nicky Howell shocked United on the 14th minute with a fantastic strike but a Matthew Halliday O.G leveled up the match at half-time.

After the break United's youth seemed to have more passion and it paid off when young Red Mark Howard headed home to put United 2-1 up. Skipper Howard then got another goal from a header from a lovely Phil Picken cross. 3-1 United.

Young, promising Cardiff born striker Ramon Calliste got a goal from the penalty spot on the 84th minute to round off the game but not the scoring.

Adam Smith rounded off the scroing right at the end with a lovely 19-yard shot. 4-2 United.

They will play either Blackburn or Gillingham away in the quarters. ManUtdWeb will keep you updated.

United: Heaton, Howard, Hogg, Spector, McShane, Jones, Picken (Calliste), Martin, Ebanks-Blake, Eagles (Neumayr), Eckersley.

http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s237/st46064.htm

[Ronaldo7]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
Feb 18 - Louis Saha is set for his France debut tonight against Belgium in Brussels.

The Manchester United striker was called up to the full squad for the first time last week and now looks almost certain to make his first international start.

France are missing their first-choice strikers Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet through injury, while Djibril Cisse is suspended and Nicolas Anelka is out of favour.

Saha, who has scored three goals in three games since his £12.82million move from Fulham, said: "The no-shows will give me more time to play. I'll show myself a bit more."


Belgium 0 France 2
Louis Saha crowned his France debut by netting the second goal in Les Bleus' record-breaking 2-0 victory over neighbours Belgium in Brussels


;)

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by Ronaldo7



Belgium 0 France 2
Louis Saha crowned his France debut by netting the second goal in Les Bleus' record-breaking 2-0 victory over neighbours Belgium in Brussels


;)

Saha ROX since joining us ! :D

[RVN]

Louis Saha's dream start to 2004 has continued with a goalscoring debut for France which may go some way to booking his place at the European Championships.
The £12.8m United new-boy set up the opening goal for Sidney Govou and converted a Zinedine Zidane pass to seal a 2-0 win for the reigning European Champions away to Belgium.

Saha's club strike partner Ruud van Nistelrooy was unfortunate to have a goal ruled out in the first half of Holland's 1-0 win over America in Amsterdam. Supposed United target Arjen Robben netted a fine individual strike for the winning goal. Kasey Keller was preferred as goalkeeper for the Americans ahead of United's Tim Howard.

Paul Scholes, Phil Neville and Nicky Butt featured in England's 1-1 draw in Faro against Portugal. Debutant Ledley King scored for England, bundling the ball past the goalkeeper after a mis-hit clearance from a Portuguese defender. Cristiano Ronaldo played
the entire second half for the Euro 2004 hosts, and gave another steady performance in keeping with his recent fine club form.

Elsewhere in international action, United team-mates John O'Shea and Kleberson took part in a hard-fought 0-0 draw between the Republic of Ireland and Brazil in Dublin.

Ryan Giggs and Darren Fletcher also came head-to-head as Wales met Scotland in Cardiff. The hosts handed out a resounding 4-0 thumping to Berti Vogts' side, as Robert Earnshaw bagged a hat-trick before substitute Gareth Taylor netted late on.

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=53698&itype=466&icategoryid=120

[Iorick]

SAF must get Arjen Robben at all costs......... after missing out on duff and kewell and with Arsenal poaching reyes, United need a long term successor to our 30yr old welsh wizard fast....
Hope the fans screw M&M upside down if they were the ones behind the failed transfer of Robben.

Like who would believe that Robben visited Old Trafford in January for a winter break trip and a tour of OT.:rolleyes: Most prob it was to conclude the pre-season transfer ala Stam transfer a few seasons back.
If all else fails, forlan plus cash for vicente would be nice.:D =p

[guoquanyap]

nice to see saha scored on his debut for france that will boast his confident alot....we are going to see more of him....:evil:

[ccloh]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
nice to see saha scored on his debut for france that will boast his confident alot....we are going to see more of him....:evil:


he will be back against leeds this weekend :D

[RVN]

http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s237/st46154.htm

an hour for ole and an hour for wes brown probably the most important points.

ole created united's goal with a cross from the right, looked comfortable fitness-wise, could well get a place on the bench versus the scum.

wes gave away the penalty that danny cuntface murphy scored for them, otherwise looked comfortable at the back.

bellion was the one who tapped in ole's cross for the goal, another good 90 minutes for him.

and eric djemba djemba played the full 90 as right back - obviously being tested out as cover for gary during his ban. had a very impressive game there.

of the young lads, kieran richardson was the brightest - hit the woodwork twice and worked his arse off. showing creative potential.

[RVN]

The season starts now for disgruntled Manchester United captain Roy Keane.

For the second time in a week Keane has launched a scathing attack on some of the Red Devils' younger brigade, who the Irishman has accused of believing they have made it in the game even though they barely have a medal to show for their efforts.

Seven days after highlighting the problem ahead of the FA Cup win over Manchester City, Keane has lifted the lid on a slack training ground attitude which so far appears to have gone unchecked.

The Irishman is expected to lead his side into Saturday's Barclaycard Premiership encounter with relegation-threatened Leeds at Old Trafford and feels United cannot afford to lose another game if they are to stand any chance of retaining their title.

And for that tall order to be achieved, some of Keane's fresh-faced team-mates need to heed some harsh words.

"One or two of the younger players have slackened off in training," the 32-year-old midfielder told MUTV.

"People on the outside obviously don't see it and maybe the coaches don't notice it either but I am on the training pitch with them and I don't like what I see.

"You can't slacken off in training then produce a performance on match-day as though you were flicking a light switch.

"I have mentioned it to the players concerned but sometimes it goes in one ear and out of the other, so you have to do it in a more public way.

"They think they have done it all when they have done nothing."

United's win over City last weekend has been lauded in most quarters as an outstanding display by the 10 home players remaining after Gary Neville's first-half dismissal.

Keane, though, remains distinctly concerned at the form of a defence which has now leaked 10 goals in four games and needs to be tightened up considerably ahead of Wednesday's return to Champions League action against Porto.

"There wasn't that much of an improvement in the defence," he said.

"Even though we only had 10 men, the same principles still apply. We gave them too many chances, they got too many crosses in and had too many free headers.

"Admittedly we were very good going forward so maybe you can't have the best of both worlds, but there is still lots of room for improvement.

"As far as I am concerned, the season starts here. We have been jostling for position up to now but it is time to step up to the plate.

"History shows that we have always been there at the end and I'm sure we will be there again but we cannot afford to lose any more games."

The presence of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on the right-hand side of United's midfield in their second-string encounter with Liverpool at Altrincham last night suggests manager Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to draft the Norwegian back into his squad for the first time since September.

Ferguson was at Moss Lane, where Wes Brown was also given some much-needed match action as he looks to recover from his second cruciate knee ligament problem.

With Arsenal engaged in a crunch clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, a win on Saturday could see United haul back some of the Gunners' current five-point advantage.

Leeds have not won at Old Trafford since 1981 and given their recent form, and the likely absence of Mark Viduka, the unhappy record does not look like coming to an end.

"Leeds are in big trouble," said Keane. "They have some good players but that doesn't always make a good team. Obviously something has gone wrong."

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.dor?STORY_NAME=soccer/04/02/20/manual_073309.html&TEAMHD=soccer

[ccloh]

Originally posted by RVN
The season starts now for disgruntled Manchester United captain Roy Keane.

For the second time in a week Keane has launched a scathing attack on some of the Red Devils' younger brigade, who the Irishman has accused of believing they have made it in the game even though they barely have a medal to show for their efforts.

Seven days after highlighting the problem ahead of the FA Cup win over Manchester City, Keane has lifted the lid on a slack training ground attitude which so far appears to have gone unchecked.

The Irishman is expected to lead his side into Saturday's Barclaycard Premiership encounter with relegation-threatened Leeds at Old Trafford and feels United cannot afford to lose another game if they are to stand any chance of retaining their title.

And for that tall order to be achieved, some of Keane's fresh-faced team-mates need to heed some harsh words.

"One or two of the younger players have slackened off in training," the 32-year-old midfielder told MUTV.

"People on the outside obviously don't see it and maybe the coaches don't notice it either but I am on the training pitch with them and I don't like what I see.

"You can't slacken off in training then produce a performance on match-day as though you were flicking a light switch.

"I have mentioned it to the players concerned but sometimes it goes in one ear and out of the other, so you have to do it in a more public way.

"They think they have done it all when they have done nothing."

United's win over City last weekend has been lauded in most quarters as an outstanding display by the 10 home players remaining after Gary Neville's first-half dismissal.

Keane, though, remains distinctly concerned at the form of a defence which has now leaked 10 goals in four games and needs to be tightened up considerably ahead of Wednesday's return to Champions League action against Porto.

"There wasn't that much of an improvement in the defence," he said.

"Even though we only had 10 men, the same principles still apply. We gave them too many chances, they got too many crosses in and had too many free headers.

"Admittedly we were very good going forward so maybe you can't have the best of both worlds, but there is still lots of room for improvement.

"As far as I am concerned, the season starts here. We have been jostling for position up to now but it is time to step up to the plate.

"History shows that we have always been there at the end and I'm sure we will be there again but we cannot afford to lose any more games."

The presence of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on the right-hand side of United's midfield in their second-string encounter with Liverpool at Altrincham last night suggests manager Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to draft the Norwegian back into his squad for the first time since September.

Ferguson was at Moss Lane, where Wes Brown was also given some much-needed match action as he looks to recover from his second cruciate knee ligament problem.

With Arsenal engaged in a crunch clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, a win on Saturday could see United haul back some of the Gunners' current five-point advantage.

Leeds have not won at Old Trafford since 1981 and given their recent form, and the likely absence of Mark Viduka, the unhappy record does not look like coming to an end.

"Leeds are in big trouble," said Keane. "They have some good players but that doesn't always make a good team. Obviously something has gone wrong."

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.dor?STORY_NAME=soccer/04/02/20/manual_073309.html&TEAMHD=soccer

hmm wonder who is he pointing the figure at ????

[RVN]

Paul Scholes has been left facing a potential three-match ban after being charged with violent behaviour over a clash with Middlesbrough's Dorriva during Manchester United's 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford on February 11.

Scholes was caught on camera pushing Dorriva in the face with both hands but the incident was missed by referee Paul Durkin.

The Football Association studied the incident on video and decided to proceed with charges. Scholes has until March 5 to respond.

**** liao, Gary and Scholes facing 3-match ban. :mad:

[guoquanyap]

if it's a arsenal man....surely he will jus away w a warning.....that is how biased the FA is....:sarcastic :sarcastic

[guoquanyap]

now all the remaining 13 matches is a must win for us....on more loss, we are not going to lift the epl trophy.....:mad:

hope chelsea win arsenal tml....and that will open the championship race again.....

[Ch3tah_39]

still got hope..... :)
but man utd cnnt lose liao... they hav to fix the bloody defence problem manz

[RVN]

Ya lor, we have to win all our premiership matches to stand any chance of winning the title. Defence is pathetic, really need sorting out like what Keano said.

[RVN]

OLE Gunnar Solskjaer played his way into contention for tomorrow's clash with Leeds with an hour-long outing for Manchester United's reserves last night.

The Norwegian, fighting back to fitness after five-months out with knee ligament trouble, laid on the goal for David Bellion in a 1-1 draw with Liverpool.

Solskjaer has been in the squad for the last two matches, against Middlesbrough and Manchester City, without making the bench.

United's medical staff have mapped a tentative course back to match fitness for the 31-year-old, who also played an hour for the reserves a fortnight ago but missed a second-string game last week with a thigh strain.

There was more good news for the Reds as Wes Brown played over an hour and generally looked strong and decisive - although he did give the ball away to Liverpool striker Milan Baros, then fouled the Czech to concede the penalty for the Merseysiders' equaliser.

Cover

Eric Djemba-Djemba also pulled on a shirt for the first time since Boxing Day - and he is being lined up as a replacement for Gary Neville at right back when the stalwart defender begins his three-match ban in a week's time.

The Cameroon star has been missing, first on compassionate leave to check his sick mother into a French hospital, then on international duty at the African Nations Cup. He played 90 minutes.

Neville can play against Leeds tomorrow and against Porto on Tuesday but misses games at Fulham and Manchester City, and the FA Cup quarter-final against either Fulham or West Ham.

He will slot into a back four expected to be unchanged from last week's FA Cup win over City - but Sir Alex Ferguson may rest key players for the Champions League knockout first leg at Porto.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, who played 82 minutes for Holland on Wednesday, may be left on the bench, which would mean Louis Saha , still on a high after scoring on his international debut for France, playing his first match as a solo striker.

Leeds are in desperate need of a boost in their battle against the drop, but have been hit by the news that Mark Viduka won't be allowed to play - the Australian Soccer Association having invoked the five day ruling.

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/sport/football/manchesterunited/stories/Detail_LinkStory=81845.html

[guoquanyap]

chelsea chelsea chelsea....:cool:

[Ronaldo7]

FERGIE RAISES GUNNERS DOUBTS
Friday 20th February 2004

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has started his mind games on Arsenal as he seeks to knock them from the top of The Premiership.
United skipper Roy Keane has voiced his concerns that they may have given Arsenal too big a lead to cut back, but Ferguson is hopeful that they will still slip-up.

Arsenal go into the weekend clash at fellow title challengers Chelsea currently five points clear of United and are still unbeaten this season in The Premiership.

With United taking on relegation-threatened Leeds at Old Trafford, Ferguson hopes that by the end of the weekend their title challenge is very much back on track.

The wily old Scot is hoping that United will be able to overturn the deficit between both sides like they did last season to claim the championship.

Ferguson believes their desire to stay unbeaten could have a detrimental effect on them and even raised doubts over Arsenal's financial position claming that the North London club are fighting to avoid the money problems which have afflicted Leeds this year.

"I read this week that Arsenal could go into administration next year. You would hate to think anything like that could happen to a club with such tradition and history," said Ferguson.

"Arsenal have the added incentive of going undefeated and they will all be fully charged up trying to make sure they don't lose a game.

"But I know from past experience that is a big burden to carry. I was with Rangers in 1967 when we went unbeaten right to the last game of the season and eventually lost.

"You would have to say it is very difficult to go through an entire season without losing but we are almost in March and it hasn't happened yet.

"It makes tomorrow's game a bigger one for Chelsea, so hopefully it will prove to be a pivotal weekend."


:evil:

[RVN]

mind games, hope for arse slip-up. =p

[Totti76]

Originally posted by RVN
mind games, hope for arse slip-up. =p
I hope they slip down the table =p
n smell our smoke (pi yan) :evil:

[RVN]

Paul Scholes is set to become the third Manchester United player to be suspended by the Football Association in recent weeks after the England international was charged with violent behaviour.

Scholes, who has until March 5 to respond to the FA, was involved in an off-the-ball incident with Doriva, of Middlesbrough, at Old Trafford on Feb 11, when he appeared to strike the Brazilian.

Sir Alex Ferguson said United would help the midfielder fight the charge, which FA guidelines recommend should carry a three-game suspension for anyone found guilty - the same had the matter been dealt with as violent conduct under the laws of the game.

Ferguson said: "We received the notification on Friday morning about Paul Scholes. We'll look at the video again, obviously, and I'll have a chat with Paul about it.

"The referee [Paul Durkin] didn't seem too concerned about it at the time, but we'll see because there was nothing in it really. Paul pushed him away with his hand after the boy had elbowed him. We can appeal and we'll definitely do that."

The loss of Scholes would add to United's disciplinary problems of 2004.

Rio Ferdinand is suspended until next season after failing to take a drugs test last September while Gary Neville starts a three-game ban next Saturday after his red card against Manchester City in the recent FA Cup tie, when he butted Steve McManaman.

Scholes will hope that if found guilty he finds the commission in a lenient mood, not sticking to the disciplinary guidelines as is sometimes the case.

Earlier this week Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, who pleaded guilty to improper behaviour, was fined £10,000 for throwing the ball at the back of Kevin Phillips's head after the match at Southampton.

Yet referee Steve Dunn confirmed that had this happened during the game he would have shown the German a red card for an act he considered violent conduct.

When Arsenal defender Sol Campbell appeared before a commission for a retaliatory kick at United's Eric Djemba-Djemba in the Community Shield, the England international's charge was downgraded from violent behaviour to improper conduct and he was fined £20,000 rather than suspended.

Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has denied a charge of violent behaviour - allegedly using an elbow on an opponent during the FA Cup tie at Scarborough last month.


arse and chelsea players escaped scot-free, while our players had to be punished. :mad:

[redstorm]

Besides Saha, Ferguson should have bought another defender during the Jan 04 window in anticipation of Ferdinand's ban. He put too much faith in Brown and he screwed up the whole show. I think he will regret his decision if, touch wood, ManUtd don't land any title because of the weak backline.

[Iorick]

Originally posted by Totti76

I hope they slip down the table =p
n smell our smoke (pi yan) :evil:

Nah, i rather have arsenal throw away the title like last season and united win the title w/o kicking the ball:D :evil:

[cracker]

Another pathetic performance by Utd at OT !!!!

Silvestre twisted his ankle and was replaced by Mr. Brown whose main contribution was to be outjumped by Alan Smith to head in Leeds' equaliser after Scholes had given the home team the lead just 3 min earlier...

Utd crosses were sheer school boys...all being safely cleared by Leeds......Ole was introduced in the last 20 min...


With 12 games..and 7 pts behind Arsenal whom seem to be unable to lose......real slim slim hope liao....

[RVN]

Knn, smith equaliser, outjump who else but Brown. seem like Keane ranting on the youngster fall on deaf ears. :mad:

if it's only shear frustration to remove,i'll say"fu*k off the fa for charging rio with a ridiculous ban.kick mcmanus and magnier's a** for developing unrest." :alien:

damm it, FA cup our only good chance of silverware now, can't see us winning the CL or EPL. :(

[Totti76]

:sad: ITS ALL OVER!!
When Rio was gg to be ban...SAF shld consider getting a defender..No saying that we shldnt get Saha..but seeing Man C got Buyten on loan...why we miss the boat??:mad:
CL is even worse, how to progress (let alone winning it) with a defend unit like that??
FA Cup is only the hope now...hope we dun screw it!!

[ccloh]

come on no need to feel like that. conside last season at this pt, after drawing bolton 1-1, utd was 8-pt behind arsenal and in the end, no need for me to spell out the answer.

anything can happen. arsenal unbeaten so far doesn't mean they will win every game after that, they could draw more games than win. somehow after CL re-start, will be a different story already.

after rio, the defence does look bleak, but utd is not a team who usually play 1-0 and then put 10-men behind the ball to defence. utd is an attacking team. if the attack doesn't do much job on destroying, even a rock solid defence also no use as u will just keep drawing game and dropping pt.

for me, if doesn't win the title this season well try again next season no upset abt that. i believe i have see utd fail in winning the title more than it win (10-season in the 80's won nothing :() so use to it already :)

[RVN]

Gary got booked, now faces a 4-match ban, Scholes facing 3-mathc ban, silvestre got injured, rio missing, our defence is screwed, fortune is useless, keep giving the ball away. :mad:

Brown again at fault for the goal we conceded. :mad:

[Ch3tah_39]

reali hav to say the title race is almost over liao... chelsea slip, man utd slip... arsenal winning... kaoz... :( hate to see this...

[pale]

It ain't over till the fat lady sings...and I ain't seeing no fat ladies yet:D .

Tomorrow...I'll still wear my Man Utd jersey proudly to play soccer with me friends. No doubt..the Arsenal fans among thems will shoot me down pretty badly but I'll keep my chin up:bounce:

12 more matches to go.

[guoquanyap]

pathetic performance.....haiz...i'm speechless...think fergie will turn his piority to CL now.....

maybe we will win CL this season.....:D

[guoquanyap]

i was puching the floor and cursing whenever ruud miss a open goal...he missed 3 very gd chances today....:mad:

really now is already march, is when all players should be hitting top-form....but wat i seen today is a bunch of tired legs and heck-care performance.....

damn dishearted......

[guoquanyap]

now even sliv is injured....:mad: :mad:

[RVN]

any idea why saha did not play, and Keane left on the bench after a full week rest, fergie must be complacent thinking his 2nd-string could do the job, obviously it didn't worked, now isn't the time to rest players. :mad:

with the problem with our defence, would be even more hurting now if silvestre is out. :mad:

what are our options? Keano dropping back with O'Shea, Djemba Djemba to take Gary place, Phil or Fortune for the left-back spot. I had enough of Brown. :alien:

[guoquanyap]

no idea why saha not playing.....i think fergie wan to rest saha for the coming cl match.....

but think he rest the wrong person...he should rest ruud rather than saha as ruud look really tired....

bad move bad move.....

wan to drop those ppl who not performing oso cannot mah...short of ppl man......that how pathetic it is.....

[RVN]

silvestre injury caused by smith challenge. :mad:

http://www.alansmith17.com/gallery/foto/smithy1630.jpg
http://www.alansmith17.com/gallery/foto/smithy1628.jpg

[Whitelion]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
no idea why saha not playing.....i think fergie wan to rest saha for the coming cl match.....

but think he rest the wrong person...he should rest ruud rather than saha as ruud look really tired....

bad move bad move.....

wan to drop those ppl who not performing oso cannot mah...short of ppl man......that how pathetic it is.....

This is being too over confident I would say:D

[LiquidSilver]

saha took a knock in training and keane is only allowed to play once a week by fergie n thats for the porto game

[RVN]

Originally posted by LiquidSilver
saha took a knock in training and keane is only allowed to play once a week by fergie n thats for the porto game

oh but Keane didn't play in any international game in mid-week, so he was rested for a week, strange decision by Fergie to rest him some-more. IMO at this stage of the season, we need all our first-team players available to play for us. :o

[Ronaldo7]

Originally posted by ccloh
come on no need to feel like that. conside last season at this pt, after drawing bolton 1-1, utd was 8-pt behind arsenal and in the end, no need for me to spell out the answer.

anything can happen. arsenal unbeaten so far doesn't mean they will win every game after that, they could draw more games than win. somehow after CL re-start, will be a different story already.

after rio, the defence does look bleak, but utd is not a team who usually play 1-0 and then put 10-men behind the ball to defence. utd is an attacking team. if the attack doesn't do much job on destroying, even a rock solid defence also no use as u will just keep drawing game and dropping pt.

for me, if doesn't win the title this season well try again next season no upset abt that. i believe i have see utd fail in winning the title more than it win (10-season in the 80's won nothing :() so use to it already :)

yes . anything is still possible

[yulee]

Dejavu...The title's Arsenal's to loose. Manyoo needs to sort themselves out - if they can't even win over teams at the bottom end eg. Wolves, Leeds they must have some seriious issues...

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN
Gary got booked, now faces a 4-match ban, Scholes facing 3-mathc ban, silvestre got injured, rio missing, our defence is screwed, fortune is useless, keep giving the ball away. :mad:

Brown again at fault for the goal we conceded. :mad:

Agree, our squad will be thin like hell.. deep sh!t..

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
pathetic performance.....haiz...i'm speechless...think fergie will turn his piority to CL now.....

maybe we will win CL this season.....:D

optimistic but dream on...:(

[Ch3tah_39]

Originally posted by pale
It ain't over till the fat lady sings...and I ain't seeing no fat ladies yet:D .

Tomorrow...I'll still wear my Man Utd jersey proudly to play soccer with me friends. No doubt..the Arsenal fans among thems will shoot me down pretty badly but I'll keep my chin up:bounce:

12 more matches to go.

wat the fook u toking... yeah i said almost over and who cares man utd win anot, i am still a fan of man utd... alamak...

[guoquanyap]

Originally posted by yulee
Dejavu...The title's Arsenal's to loose. Manyoo needs to sort themselves out - if they can't even win over teams at the bottom end eg. Wolves, Leeds they must have some seriious issues...

u are rite....there is a serious problem as we cant even beat the 2 bottom club.....

[RVN]

Wes Brown has ****ed up. Again. Alan Smith literally used him as a ladder for the header goal. Talk about brilliant marking. From now on, as long as Wes Brown remains at United we won't win anything. I have totally lost faith in him now, cause it is mainly ALWAYS him that ****s something up for the opposition to score. Using the 'just-come-back-from-injury-need-to-get-settled' can only be an excuse for so long.I see Keano and Scholes out for lengthy periods, but they never play poorly as he is right now.:mad:

[wes]

no use keep blaming brown...
main culprits are those poor finishing....we shld have score more den 1 yesterday

[Yellowfin]

My opinion is that Man U players does not close down on the opponent as fast as they use to and the positioning of the players are quite inconsistence.

Sometime you can see 2 or 3 players challenge for the same ball or no one is around when there is a lose ball.

Man U used to pick up a lot of lose ball but not this season. But as long as Man U in the top 3 at the end of the season, I will be happy.

[Yellowfin]

Originally posted by guoquanyap


u are rite....there is a serious problem as we cant even beat the 2 bottom club.....

I agree, I remember SAF did mention that in order to win the EPL you have to win those bread and butter game.

[RVN]

Originally posted by Yellowfin
My opinion is that Man U players does not close down on the opponent as fast as they use to and the positioning of the players are quite inconsistence.

Sometime you can see 2 or 3 players challenge for the same ball or no one is around when there is a lose ball.

Man U used to pick up a lot of lose ball but not this season. But as long as Man U in the top 3 at the end of the season, I will be happy.

I think now we ought to concentrate on the FA Cup and do our best in CL and getting second place (and the automatic cl qualification), as I said, change the squad around a bit in summer, hope for luck and we can look for success next season, as things stand we've let things slip and short of a miracle unless arse ****ed up again but will lighting struck twice, look remote the way they are playing and are still unbeaten. :mad:

[StormTrooper]

Originally posted by RVN


I think now we ought to concentrate on the FA Cup and do our best in CL and getting second place (and the automatic cl qualification), as I said, change the squad around a bit in summer, hope for luck and we can look for success next season, as things stand we've let things slip and short of a miracle unless arse ****ed up again but will lighting struck twice, look remote the way they are playing and are still unbeaten. :mad:

the worst thing to do now is to give up. and the second worst thing is to hope for luck.

[RVN]

Originally posted by StormTrooper


the worst thing to do now is to give up. and the second worst thing is to hope for luck.

United wont give up. Thats the last thing I won't want us to do, I am implying if arse keep winning their matches, there is nothing we can do, can only hope for them to slip-up. Our team need to find the mental strength they showed at the end of last season.

[RuMmYtUb]

But to be champions, u can't lose more than 5 games...
now we're really dropping points..
Really need a miracle to happen..

[RVN]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb


Agree, our squad will be thin like hell.. deep sh!t..

It isn't that bad, Keane, Phil Neville, Djemba Djemba can be deployed in the defence. I hope Silvestre injury isn't serious.

We are not exactly short of midfielders. Kleberson, Butt and Scholes provides a very experienced central midfield pairing in case both keane and phil play in the defence.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by RVN


It isn't that bad, Keane, Phil Neville, Djemba Djemba can be deployed in the defence. I hope Silvestre injury isn't serious.

We are not exactly short of midfielders. Kleberson, Butt and Scholes provides a very experienced central midfield pairing in case both keane and phil play in the defence.

Djemba can't play defence, tat time saw him once as a substitute right back CMI. :mad:
Den again Gary and Scholes facing match bans, Rio out for months, if Silves's injury is serious den we gonna have a big problem next month, a visit to highbury...:(

[RVN]

Well, Djemba isn't good enough, that is true, but then we have no one who is. He would be the least bad option if we can get his mindset right in the stiffs over the next week or two. Fergie say he will appeal against Scholes ban. Gary can play against arsenal.

Fixture Gary misses
Fulham
Man City
West Ham/Fulham FA Cup
Tottenham

[RVN]

Channel 5
Thursday, Feb 26 2004, 03.30am Ch 5

Uefa Champions League 2003/04
"FC Porto Vs Manchester United" (Live)

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[orca_sea]

Have Faith guyz .. we United must stand UNITED thru thick n thin!:)

[RVN]

Phil Neville has warned his Manchester United team-mates that they they face an embarrassingly early exit from the Champions League if they don't buck their ideas up.

United will jet off for Portugal tomorrow for Wednesday's knock-out phase first leg encounter with Porto knowing their hopes of retaining the Barclaycard Premiership title are hanging by the thinnest of threads following the disappointing 1-1 home draw with Leeds.


The result has left the Old Trafford outfit seven points adrift of odds-on title favourites Arsenal and facing the prospect of having to win all their remaining games to stand any chance of keeping their crown.

Yet most seasoned Red Devils observers will acknowledge the below-par performance was in keeping with the vast majority of the campaign, the only difference being the eventual outcome as United failed to grind out a victory as they have done so often previously.

It is a situation Neville knows must change, especially now their European dream is at stake.

Porto may not be the toughest obstacle but they are the UEFA Cup holders and unbeaten in the Portuguese League and unless standards rise, Neville is fearing the worst.

"The manager told us before the game he didn't want us staggering into the Champions League but that is what we have done," said the England international.

"We need to start playing winning football again, even if it means doing it the ugly way.

"Wednesday's game is a massive one for us now and hopefully it will bring out the best in us as it has done in the past. But if we play anything like we have done in the last couple of weeks we will be out of the competition."

From a position of strength at the turn of the year, United have slumped dramatically, taking just eight points from their last six league games at a time of the season which traditionally sees them hitting cruise control.

Although they largely managed to keep a lid on the defensive problems that have been cited as a major reason for their sudden demise, Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a bleak month.

The appeal into Rio Ferdinand's eight-month ban for a missed drugs test will probably not be heard for another three weeks, while the caution Gary Neville picked up for a late second-half challenge on James Milner adds a single game suspension to the three he incurred for headbutting Steve McManaman seven days earlier.

If that was not bad enough, the extent of the knee and ankle twists Mikael Silvestre suffered in his first-half collision with Leeds goalscorer Alan Smith could rule him out for a significant period as well.

That would force Ferguson to keep faith with a rocky central defensive pairing of John O'Shea and Wes Brown unless he took the bold step of moving skipper Roy Keane into a position he dislikes.

In the end, it might all be irrelevant anyway as United now need Arsenal to lose at least twice - including the Highbury encounter between the pair at the end of next month - which seems unlikely for a team that has gone almost two-thirds of the campaign without suffering one defeat.

"We are not giving up but we have given ourselves a mountain to climb," said Neville.

"Leeds United are at the bottom of the table and we have aspirations at the top, so if we can't win games like that we are not going to win the Premiership.

"Now we have to hope Arsenal slip up, which is something they don't look like doing.

"There is talent in our squad but we are in other people's hands now and that is not a good position to be in."

http://www.4thegame.com/club/mufc/news/148622/.html

[wadeva_lah]

sign the latest american scoring sensation to play along side rvn.
able to play aside tim howard as well.

[pale]

We need Defenders more then another scoring sensation.

Look at Spurs..can score but alway kenna whack back.

Good Defence is the basis of all successful teams.

[ccloh]

still got the game against arsenal. if loose that one, most probably game over. a draw might have some hope and a win will definitely be some gd in the run-in.

u never kn, arsenal might only be beaten by man utd in the whole season of epl matches ended up giving the title to man utd. now that is something very significant.

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by pale
We need Defenders more then another scoring sensation.

Look at Spurs..can score but alway kenna whack back.

Good Defence is the basis of all successful teams.

Unless u have the attacking flair of Real Madrid, juz outscore ur opponents.

[pale]

Originally posted by ccloh
still got the game against arsenal. if loose that one, most probably game over. a draw might have some hope and a win will definitely be some gd in the run-in.

u never kn, arsenal might only be beaten by man utd in the whole season of epl matches ended up giving the title to man utd. now that is something very significant.

True true..beating Arsenal in Highbury could be the turning point.

PROVIDED we win the matches b4 and after we meet the Gunners.

We have 2 away games and 1 home b4 we go to highbury. Drop any more points b4 that and a victory at Highbury might just be a consolation. Sort of like win the battle but lose the war.

Things not quite the same as last season. Last season ..it was this time when we started getting players back and peaking while Arsenal were losing players. This season..we're starting to lose players to injuries and bans:mad: .

But with CL and FA cup matches coming...any thing can happen.

For me..If Man Utd can get the title this season then it'll be one hell of a achivement.

Cheers!!!:D

[RVN]

ROY KEANE wants Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson to start playing him in every game.

Keane has been left out of the starting line-up for the last two Premiership games in which the Old Trafford outfit have earned only one point.

The former Republic of Ireland midfielder was unhappy at being left out of the squad for the Middlesbrough defeat.

Then, after an international week, he was left on the bench for Saturday’s draw against Leeds.

Yet Keane believes he retired from international football so he could benefit from a week of rest.

The United captain feels he is fit enough after his hip operation to be playing all the time.

But Ferguson has been trying to conserve 32-year-old Keane’s energy for the big games.

Former United star Arthur Albiston believes the policy has to change.

Albiston said: “We’re at the stage where you must play your most influential players all the time.

“The game looked flat with Roy not on the pitch. We miss him.”

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2004082602,00.html

[Iorick]

Originally posted by pale


True true..beating Arsenal in Highbury could be the turning point.

PROVIDED we win the matches b4 and after we meet the Gunners.

We have 2 away games and 1 home b4 we go to highbury. Drop any more points b4 that and a victory at Highbury might just be a consolation. Sort of like win the battle but lose the war.

Things not quite the same as last season. Last season ..it was this time when we started getting players back and peaking while Arsenal were losing players. This season..we're starting to lose players to injuries and bans:mad: .

But with CL and FA cup matches coming...any thing can happen.

For me..If Man Utd can get the title this season then it'll be one hell of a achivement.

Cheers!!!:D

Hoping Arsenal is seriously drained of resources from playing in the Champions League(hoping for some very reckless Spanish tackling :evil: ) Then maybe we could have a chance to claw back the "huge" gap. Looks like the battle at Highbury will be decisive.

SAF said last season that it was the best achievement yet of winning the title from a seemingly impossible situation though i think this season, if he can pull off the title win, it would be better than 1999. IMO arsenal this season reminds me of the 1999-2000 season United had where we got 90+ points in the league and scored 97 goals in the league.

[RVN]

don't know how this game will go. I haven't seen much of FC Porto play since the UEFA Cup last season, and they looked good in that.

If we had our full team I'd be fully expecting a win, but as it is our solid central defensive partnership looks set to be our, Rio banned and Silvestre injured so we're probably going to have to rely on a Brown-O'Shea partnership and Brown has been off form since his serious knee injury and O'Shea hasn't played at ** much.

Attack-wise we should be full-strength and I'd be interested to see if they can click and start scoring most of their chances, unlike on Saturday

[pale]

Porto is top of the Portugal league now. 18 wins 5 draws ZERO loss so far. So far all 11 home matches have been wins for them.

CL is another story. 3 wins 2 loss 1 draw in group stages. Home is 2 wins and 1 loss. Away is 1 win 2 draw.

Looking at Man Utd's defence. I dun think SAF will play for draw. He'll have no choice but to go attack route and out score Porto.

Man to watch - DECO.

[RVN]

Manchester United have been dealt a blow after Mikael Silvestre was ruled out for three weeks with ankle ligament damage.

The French defender limped off during the first half of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Leeds after coming off worst in a 50-50 collision with Alan Smith.

Sir Alex Ferguson expressed his concern over Silvestre's chances of making Wednesday's Champions League trip to Porto and his fears have been realised with confirmation of the extent of the former Inter Milan player's injury.

"Mikael will be out for three weeks," Ferguson told the Manchester Evening News.

"It is a big blow for us but we will just have to get on with it."

The news is likely to see skipper Roy Keane moved into a central defensive role in Portugal on Wednesday, almost a year to the day since he turned in an outstanding performance in that position against Juventus in Turin.

Keane notoriously dislikes the job but, with Rio Ferdinand still waiting for a date for his appeal into his eight-month ban for a missed drugs test and Wes Brown still short of full match fitness despite his substitute appearance against Leeds, Ferguson has little option.

If Keane is virtually certain to start in central defence, Ferguson's major dilemma is who to play with him.

John O'Shea has looked uncomfortable in the role this season, so the temptation may be to switch Gary Neville inside, play brother Phil at right-back and O'Shea on the left flank at the expense of Quinton Fortune, who turned in a dismal performance against Leeds as United fell seven points behind Barclaycard Premiership leaders Arsenal.

In addition to both legs of the Porto clash, Silvestre is also set to sit out league trips to Fulham and Manchester City, plus the FA Cup sixth round tie against the winner of Tuesday night's replay between the Cottagers and West Ham at Upton Park.

It is for those three games that Ferguson's problems become really acute as he will also be without Gary Neville through suspension following his dismissal for headbutting Steve McManaman against Manchester City.

Neville's absence and Ferguson's stated aim of giving Keane some rest is likely to offer Brown another chance to stake his claim for a regular starting berth.

The England international has been blamed for the hesitancy which has crept into United's defending since his introduction for Ferdinand.

But injury-plagued Brown, who has just battled back from a second cruciate knee ligament operation, the latest setback to a career that saw him suffer a broken ankle at the start of last season, he has won valuable support from his manager.

Ferguson believes the unlucky Mancunian is not far away from hitting top form again and can fulfil the promise that got him into the United first-team as a teenager.

"I am not interested in what other people think," blasted Ferguson. "Wes will be back.

"I know what we know. The boy needs games and good training.

"Nine months out of the game is a long time, particularly as he has had three major injuries in his career and has only just turned 24.

"He has missed almost three years of football at this club which is a lot.

"There have been genuine signs that he is getting there and in a couple of games he will be back to his best."

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.dor?STORY_NAME=soccer/04/02/23/SOCCER_Man_Utd.html&TEAMHD=soccer

Fergie you did not listen to the fans!! You should have brought in cover like Southgate - now we will suffer as a consequence. :mad:

[guoquanyap]

this mus be a farking joke....:mad:

[ccloh]

let not so fast get angry or upset over the injury of silves. the match has not played yet.

[RVN]

We're really stuck it's time for both Brown and O'Shea to start performing. O'Shea been pretty poor all season by the standard he set last year.

[cracker]

With Silvestre out,,,,Keane most likely will partner his Irish counterpart O Shea in the central......

Regarding SAF's comment on Mr. Brown....there is one pt tat I agreed with the Scot...which is ....
"I know what we know. The boy needs games and good training.

[Seals]

damn alan smith.. injure Silvestre and score against man utd..

defence...

gary... keane...oshea... fortune

phlip... gary...oshea... fortune

any others plans???

[RuMmYtUb]

Feb 24 - Ruud Van Nistelrooy last night became the first Manchester United player to admit that the Premiership champions miss David Beckham.

United fly to Portugal today to face Porto in the Champions League knock-out stages stuck in a poor run of form and Van Nistelrooy said: "I think David's missed here as a player and as a person."


"From what I have seen of him with Real Madrid he's putting in great performances. That's a credit to him. With the language barrier, it's not easy to move to Spain."


United have been told that they will be reprimanded by Merseyside police over the reaction of four of their players to their winning goal at Everton on February 7.

Ruud missing becks (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=46701&seg=EPL&teamid=)

but i think we're missing Rio more instead !!! :mad:

[ccloh]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Feb 24 - Ruud Van Nistelrooy last night became the first Manchester United player to admit that the Premiership champions miss David Beckham.

United fly to Portugal today to face Porto in the Champions League knock-out stages stuck in a poor run of form and Van Nistelrooy said: "I think David's missed here as a player and as a person."


"From what I have seen of him with Real Madrid he's putting in great performances. That's a credit to him. With the language barrier, it's not easy to move to Spain."


United have been told that they will be reprimanded by Merseyside police over the reaction of four of their players to their winning goal at Everton on February 7.

Ruud missing becks (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=46701&seg=EPL&teamid=)

but i think we're missing Rio more instead !!! :mad:

more likely that he missed beckham's gay look than any other things.

[wadeva_lah]

Originally posted by RuMmYtUb
Feb 24 - Ruud Van Nistelrooy last night became the first Manchester United player to admit that the Premiership champions miss David Beckham.

United fly to Portugal today to face Porto in the Champions League knock-out stages stuck in a poor run of form and Van Nistelrooy said: "I think David's missed here as a player and as a person."


"From what I have seen of him with Real Madrid he's putting in great performances. That's a credit to him. With the language barrier, it's not easy to move to Spain."


United have been told that they will be reprimanded by Merseyside police over the reaction of four of their players to their winning goal at Everton on February 7.

Ruud missing becks (http://www.footballchannel.com/article.asp?articleid=46701&seg=EPL&teamid=)

but i think we're missing Rio more instead !!! :mad: will fergie ship ruud out becoz of this? :o

[RVN]

Originally posted by wadeva_lah
will fergie ship ruud out becoz of this? :o

No, ruud just signed a new deal with us. ;)

[RVN]

Of course we're missing him but that is mainly because Ole's been injured,the reason he's doing well in Spain is,the things that Fergie didn't like him doing at United he has stopped,like going to LA for MTV awards or whatever,putting showbiz before club football and being more concerned with his image than his football.

If Beckham was as professional and focused at United as he is at Madrid(and if he wanted to sign a new contract)he may have still been at United.


I don't want to go over the Beckham thing again but United are a team who respect and do whatever the gaffer tells them to,while Paul Scholes was thinking about the next game,Beckham was thinking about what to wear at the next fashion show he was going to,Beckham's departure was ultimately down to him not giving 100% to United,not understanding Fergie's desire for full commitment and professionalism by his players and him not wanting to sign a new contract.

We wouldn't of missed him if Solskjaer was fit and as of late from what i've heard,Beckham hasn't been great for Madrid. :laugh:

[wadeva_lah]

Originally posted by RVN


No, ruud just signed a new deal with us. ;) fergie dun see any player bigger than the club? :D

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by wadeva_lah
will fergie ship ruud out becoz of this? :o

No lar dun be foolish =p

[RVN]

Originally posted by wadeva_lah
fergie dun see any player bigger than the club? :D

true, but ruud is one of our important player in the team, no way will fergie ship him out . :alien:

dun be silly. :rolleyes:

[RVN]

Wes Brown will not let his head drop after being blamed for Manchester United's defensive crisis.

The 24-year-old England international was part of the Red Devils' party which headed out to Portugal this morning for the Champions League clash with Porto knowing captain Roy Keane is favourite to fill the central-defensive role vacated by Mikael Silvestre, who has an ankle injury.

With Rio Ferdinand also out, Sir Alex Ferguson looks set to snub Brown, even though the unlucky Mancunian was earmarked for the role once it was established United's record signing was intent on starting his eight-month suspension for a missed drugs test.

But even if Brown, who has now recovered from two cruciate knee ligament operations plus a broken ankle, starts tomorrow night's encounter at the new Estadio Do Dragao on the bench, he is confident he will eventually re-establish himself as a permanent fixture in Ferguson's first-choice line-up.

"I have to be confident in my own ability," he told MUTV.

"There is no point letting my head drop. I will keep my chin up and keep plugging away because I know my match-fitness will come back sooner rather than later.

"Fitness-wise I have not been 100% and that has shown over the past few weeks.

"But it is getting better. I am doing extra work and I am starting to get my sharpness back. It's all I can do at the moment."

Silvestre and Ferdinand were the only major absentees from the United squad, who are looking to put their poor Barclaycard Premiership form to one side against the unbeaten Portuguese league leaders.

Ferguson has already expressed concern about the badly-rutted pitch, but knows that excuse would offer little respite from the criticism which would accompany an exit before the quarter-final stage for the first time in seven years.

At least the Scot has Louis Saha available for his Champions League debut following the new France international's £12.8million transfer-window move from Fulham.

And, despite United's unimpressive league form, Paul Scholes reckons Saha's partnership with prolific Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy can be the spark that fires United to Champions League glory this term.

"Louis has been brilliant since he has been with us," said Scholes.

"He can hold the ball up, his pace makes him a phenomenal goal threat and he has already proved he can finish.

"He is a bit like Dwight Yorke and Teddy Sheringham in that he likes to drop off the main striker and his pace is frightening.

"He can do everything a quality centre-forward can do and we are grateful to have him in our team."

PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Howard, Carroll, G Neville, Brown, O'Shea, Fortune, P Neville, Forlan, Ronaldo, Fletcher, Scholes, Butt, Keane, Solskjaer, Kleberson, Giggs, van Nistelrooy, Saha, Bellion, Richardson, Pugh.

[ccloh]

give wes brown sometime. remember when rio 1st joined utd, lot of ppl also questions his ability and his worth and now since after he is banned, we do know of his importance.

[RVN]

Ole left out, maybe Fergie feel he is still short of match fitness. :rolleyes:

Manchester United's 21-man squad departed for Portugal this morning for the resumption of the team's Champions League campaign against FC Porto on Wednesday night.

The most noticeable absentee is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who doesn't make the squad, despite making his first-team return at the weekend.

Mikael Silvestre also misses out on the trip due to an ankle injury sustained during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Leeds. The French defender is expected to be out for up to three weeks.

Ronaldo returns to Portugal for the first time as a Manchester United player, while Louis Saha is also included.

Travelling Squad:
Carroll
Howard
G Neville
P Neville
O’Shea
Fortune
Butt
Keane
Kleberson
Ronaldo
Giggs
Fletcher
Nistelrooy
Forlan
Pugh
Bellion
Scholes
Djemba Djemba
Saha
Richardson
Brown

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsId=53984&itype=466&icategoryid=120

[guoquanyap]

ronaldo will feel right at home....and hopefully saha will get his first CL goal....and most importanly, keep a clean sheet....:alien:

[guoquanyap]

we will be playing 100th Champion league match.....*wootz*

[Spock]

omg...silvestre...

[RuMmYtUb]

Originally posted by guoquanyap
we will be playing 100th Champion league match.....*wootz*

Without our 2 solid centre backs :mad: :mad:

[ccloh]

frankly speaking i expect to see a different game especially the defence in this game from utd. porto is not any epl opposition which relies on high tempo and face pace. rather it is the inidividual skills that chain the team together. hence, not so worry abt utd defence. looking at the attacking lineup of utd, giggs, rvn, scholes, saha and ronaldo. these players will provide the fire power up front and cover up for the holes in the defence. a pity that ole wasn't in the squad. i suppose what fergie has in mind was since ronaldo knows the portugal's league very much than any other player in the team, his knowledge will be very much needed there and ole would probably be resting for this coming weekend game in which ronald will be resting.

[redstorm]

Originally posted by Spock
omg...silvestre...

"Mikael Silvestre could be set for a quicker return than anticipated, after responding positively to treatment on the ankle injury he sustained in Manchester United's draw against Leeds.

Reliable sources in France state that the original suggestion that Silvestre would be missing for three weeks is now looking pessimistic.

In fact, the France international could return in as little as ten days, after an MRI scan revealed no damage to his ligaments or bone in the joint."