MU - Manchester United

video Chelsea 1 - 0 Manchester United : Ferguson unhappy with referee

2009-11-09T09:39:00.001+07:00

Chelsea 1 - 0 Manchester United - Watch more amazing videos here
Captain John Terry put Chelsea five points clear of Manchester United at the top of the Premier League with a second-half matchwinner at Stamford Bridge.
Terry glanced home a 76th-minute free-kick from Frank Lampard to snatch a 1-0 win, although United claimed Didier Drogba was in an offside position.

United had their chances with Wayne Rooney twice going close but the Blues made it a club record of 11 straight home wins.

It was the home side who created the first goal attempt when Branislav Ivanovic burst down the right flank and let fly with a left-foot shot which Edwin van der Sar did well to hold at the near post.

United though were far more comfortable on the ball with the home side given little time to build from the back.

But a long cross from Michael Ballack in the 18th minute found the lurking Drogba on the edge of the six-yard box but the Ivory Coast striker failed to direct his header on to the target.

United, despite their dominance, had not created a clear cut chance.

In the 23rd minute, Chelsea won a free-kick but Lampard wasted the chance to test the United defence when he sent his curling effort beyond the far post.

Drogba was fouled by Wes Brown in the 27th minute in a central position 25 yards from goal.

It was another chance for the home side but again Lampard's free-kick was poor as he sent his effort straight into United's defensive wall.

Moments later Nicolas Anelka tried to beat Van der Sar from 35 yards but the United keeper dealt with it most comfortably.

Van der Sar was tested again when he made a one-handed save to keep out a curling shot from Anelka in the 32nd minute.

A quick counter attack from Chelsea saw Anelka put Deco free on the right flank but his cross eluded Ballack before arriving at the feet of Drogba. The Ivory Coast striker was unable to control the ball and it ran harmlessly into the arms of Van der Sar.

Drogba then broke into the penalty from the right flank but his angled drive ended in the upper tier of the stand as referee Martin Atkinson brought proceedings to a finish for the opening period.

In the 50th minute Drogba got the better of United's John O'Shea but his 25-yard shot went wide of the target.

Ivanovic was booked for a foul on Giggs in the 57th minute as the game began to open-up.

Ricardo Carvalho managed to get his body in the way of a fierce shot from Darren Fletcher moments later. It was a fine piece of defending by the Chelsea man.

A cross from Anelka fell kindly to Lampard on the edge of the penalty area but the England midfielder's shot was easily saved by Van der Sar.

Chelsea had gone over 14 hours since they last conceded a goal at Stamford Bridge.

It was time for the home side to make a change and Carlo Ancelotti opted to remove Deco in favour of Joe Cole, who was celebrating his 28th birthday.

Rooney should have punished Chelsea in the 66th minute when he took a return pass from Antonio Valencia on the edge of the penalty area. But the England striker sent his shot a foot wide of the far post.

Seconds later Rooney brought a fine save from Petr Cech with a 20-yard curler which was destined for the top corner until the Czech international intervened.

There was a worrying moment for Chelsea in the 71st minute when Drogba was kicked in the chest by Jonny Evans. Astonishingly, Drogba was then booked by Atkinson.

Chelsea were in front in the 76th minute when Ashley Cole was fouled by Fletcher on the left flank. Captain Terry rose to glance Lampard's free-kick into the corner of the net but United were furious that Drogba appeared to be in an offside position as the ball bounced beyond Van der Sar and into the net.

Rooney was booked afterwards and then Atkinson booked O'Shea and Carvalho in the 82nd minute as tempers flared. Valencia was lucky remain on the pitch with a two-footed challenge on Lampard but Atkinson handed him a yellow card.

Video Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 - 4 Arsenal : Gunners cruise past Wolves

2009-11-08T09:32:00.001+07:00

Arsenal secured an emphatic 4-1 victory against Wolves to keep the pressure up at the top of the Premier League table.
They got a helping hand in the first half from the home side, with both Ronald Zubar and Jody Craddock scoring own goals.
Arsenal kept their foot on the pedal, Cesc Fabregas and Andrei Arshavin extending their lead before Craddock got a consolation goal at the correct end.
Unbeaten in 13 matches in all competitions, Arsene Wenger's side are a clear and positive threat to Chelsea and Manchester United and are scoring goals for fun
Wolves, however, came close to making the breakthrough in the 10th minute when Nenad Milijas delivered a teasing corner.
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake peeled away from his marker but he failed to test goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, his close range header going wide of the post.
It was a good chance for the stirker, who was back in the side with Chris Iwelumo absent.
Arsene Wenger's side again found themselves on the back foot in the 18th minute and Milijas picked out Christophe Berra with a free-kick. But he got his bearings wrong and the ball was scrambled away.
Arsenal went ahead in the 28th minute and there was a stroke of luck about their effort.
Fabregas swung in a corner from the left and the ball took a deflection off Zubar, under pressure from Eduardo, for an own goal.
The home side tried to regroup but were undone again seven minutes later and by another own goal.
Eduardo was allowed plenty of space and raced forward only to see his chip deflected off Craddock.
The momentum had swung Arsenal's way and they were now firmly in the driving seat with the advantage of a two-goal cushion.
They extended their lead in stoppage time when Fabregas scored in front of the posts after a simple ball from Robin van Persie.
Arsenal went on the attack at the start of the second half and Andrei Arshavin tried to pick out van Persie in the 48th minute only for Hennessey to make the interception.
Five minutes later Thomas Vermaelen hosited the ball forward towards Eduardo but he failed to get a decent touch and the opportunity was lost.
Arsenal had taken the sting out of the game after their three-goal spell in the first half.
Wolves were finding it hard to string their passes together and there was an air of resignation among the home fans.
Fabregas then tried to release van Persie but Craddock was alert to the danger in the 63rd minute and made the clearance.
Arshavin came close to extending Arsenal's lead in the 63rd minute when he cut inside, only for Hennessy to turn away his effort.
Arshavin got his reward a minute later, latching on to Hennessey's clearance from a corner by Fabregas, thumping the ball beyond the goalkeeper.
It was becoming a rout as Arsenal were beginning to find gaps as Wolves tired.
Fabregas should have added a fifth goal in the 76th minute but sent his effort over the top from close range after van Persie had squared the ball into his path.
Substitute Tomas Rosicky was also wasteful in front of the posts before Wolves got a consolation goal on the stroke of full time.
Craddock scored at the right end this time when he powered home a header from substitute Matt Jarvis's corner.
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Video Atalanta 2 - 5 Juventus

2009-11-08T09:23:00.000+07:00

Juventus moved back to within four points of Inter Milan at the top of Serie A with an impressive high-scoring away win.
Mauro Camoranesi scored twice in the space of as many first-half minutes to give Juventus, who also had three goals disallowed, a comfortable lead at the break.
Jaime Valdes reduced the arrears early in the second half, but Felipe Melo soon restored Juve's advantage.
Fabio Ceravolo brought Atalanta back into it again, but two late goals from Diego and David Trezeguet completed a 5-2 win for Ciro Ferrara's side.
Simone Tiribocchi had the first chance for Atalanta in the 15th minute, but he failed to get a good enough touch on Valdes' through-ball and his shot went wide.
Juve saw the first of three goals disallowed for offside in the 28th minute, with Trezeguet clearly beyond the last Atalanta defender when he headed Martin Caceres' cross in from close range.
There was no doubt about Juve's opening goal as the Atalanta defence opened up to allow Camoranesi to replicate the goal he scored in midweek against Maccabi Haifa, heading in Fabio Grosso's cross.
He added his and Juve's second within 60 seconds, again taking advantage of some poor defending before placing his shot expertly from 15 yards.
Atalanta coach Antonio Conte refused to throw in the towel and continued to urge his players on.
And Chilean midfielder Valdes took his coach's advice on board to break free from the attention of Caceres and race onto a perfectly-weighted ball from Tiberio Guarente and slot the ball under Gianluigi Buffon in the 51st minute.
Juve reacted again and had two more goals disallowed, with Felipe Melo and Christian Poulsen both accepting the linesman's correct offside decisions without a murmur of complaint.
And Felipe Melo showed the perfect response with Juve's third goal in the 55th minute, which nobody could rule out.
He picked his spot in the top corner of Andrea Consigli's goal from 25 yards out to restore Juve's two-goal advantage.
But Atalanta hit back once again, with Valdes curling his shot just inches past the corner of Buffon's goal.
Ceravolo was more accurate when he cut in past Grosso to send the ball past Buffon and set up a grandstand finish in the 71st minute.
Yet the goal served to ignite the Bianconeri once again and Diego netted his first goal since the end of August to score their fourth in the 85th minute.
He needed two touches with his left foot, first to control a cross from Camoranesi and then to nudge the ball past Consigli into the far corner.
And Trezeguet wrapped up the win with his 177th goal in Italian football in the 87th minute, leaving Consigli no chance with his shot inside the near post after a fortunate touch from Paolo De Ceglie.

Video Barcelona 4 - 2 Mallorca : Barca pass Mallorca test

2009-11-08T09:14:00.000+07:00

Pedro bagged a brace and Thierry Henry scored his first goal of the season as Barcelona cruised to a routine 4-2 win at home to Mallorca.
Barca began the day a point ahead of fierce rivals Real Madrid at the top of the Primera Division.
The Catalans took to the field two hours before Madrid's derby clash at city rivals Atletico, in the knowledge a win would keep them top for another week, regardless of what happened in the capital.
Barca coach Pep Guardiola sprung several surprises as he left Xavi, Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Dani Alves out of the starting line-up for this match.
Their absence from the first XI meant a start for the in-form Pedro on the right and another chance for the misfiring Henry on the left, while Sergio Busquets came in alongside Yaya Toure and Seydou Keita in midfield and captain Carles Puyol was switched from central defence to right-back.
Even without four of their best players, this was still an impressive line-up.
And they were ahead within 12 minutes as Pedro latched onto Zlatan Ibrahimovic's sublime back-heeled pass and slotted the ball underneath Dudu Aouate.
The Tenerife-born forward almost got in again two minutes later when Aouate failed to hold Henry's fierce drive but the Israel keeper gathered at the second attempt.
At the other end, Jose Luis Marti blasted over the bar with a speculative effort.
Pierre Webo, who scored the only goal as Mallorca maintained their perfect home record with a 1-0 win over Racing Santander last weekend, then missed a great chance to equalise.
The Cameroon forward flashed a low, angled drive towards goal but Victor Valdes was equal to it and Barca remained in front.
But the Catalans' lead was gone a minute later when Gerard Pique could only flick Marti's corner into the path of the unmarked Nunes, who headed home from close range to silence the Nou Camp.
Barca struggled to find their rhythm after the goal and Mallorca were a match for their more illustrious rivals in the next 20 minutes.
But Barca struck a double blow before half-time to effectively end the islanders' hopes of taking anything from this match.
Aouate saved three times in quick succession from Pedro, Henry and Busquets but could do nothing to prevent the former from crashing home at the fourth time of asking five minutes before the break.
It was Pedro's second of the night and his eighth goal of the season.
Those goals have come in five different competitions, a feat not previously achieved by any other Barcelona player in history.
Henry, meanwhile, has been having a poor season by his standards and had yet to score in any competition prior to this match.
But that changed just before half-time, when the Frenchman intervened with an opportunist header to divert Busquets' effort past Aouate following Pedro's free-kick.
Messi replaced Pedro six minutes into the second half, while Xavi came on for Busquets shortly afterwards.
The hosts were cruising now, though, and the game lost its intensity until the final 10 minutes, when the introduction of Iniesta for Henry appeared to spark the Catalans back into life.
Iniesta set up Ibrahimovic with a fine pass but the Sweden striker fired into the side netting.
Messi then blasted over the bar from close range but was presented with a great chance to get on the scoresheet moments later after Josemi brought down Ibrahimovic and the referee awarded a penalty to Barcelona.
The Argentina winger sent Aouate the wrong way to make it 4-1 and, even though substitute Alhassane Keita grabbed a second for Mallorca at the death, it turned out to be a routine win for Barcelona.

video Atlético Madrid 2 - 3 Real Madrid : Real edge five-goal thriller

2009-11-08T08:58:00.000+07:00

Ten-man Real Madrid continued their remarkable run of success against city rivals Atletico at the Vicente Calderon, but they were given a huge scare after almost surrendering a 3-0 lead in an incident-packed 3-2 derby triumph.
Real have not lost a league game at this ground since the 1998/99 season, and they looked set to cruise to another victory as goals from Kaka, Marcelo and Gonzalo Higuain put them in total control midway through the second half.
However, the 65th-minute dismissal of Sergio Ramos gave Atletico a lifeline and the struggling hosts pulled goals back through Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero before mounting a sustained - if ultimately unsuccessful - bid for a late equaliser.
Real's win kept them within a point of leaders Barcelona, who beat Real Mallorca 4-2 earlier in the evening.
Aside from their total domination in this fixture, Real also have made a habit of scoring early goals here in recent years, with Raul netting after just 48 seconds two seasons ago and Ruud van Nistelrooy notching even quicker last season.
And it was a familiar story again today, with Kaka putting the visitors after just four minuntes.
The Brazilian was given far too much time on the edge of the box and he took advantage by rifling a shot past Sergio Asenjo's right hand and into the top corner.
That was the perfect start for Real, and they dominated for the next half-hour with Lassana Diarra, Pepe and Ramos all going close from distance.
And Asenjo was powerless to stop Marcelo making it 2-0 in the 24th minute as Madrid made their dominance count.
Karim Benzema's pass looked to have pushed Marcelo too near to the goalline, but the Brazilian spun and sent a thunderous shot into the roof of the net with his less-favoured right foot.
At that point it looked set to be a Real walkover, but going two goals behind actually sparked Atletico into life and they came within a whisker of getting a goal back in the 30th minute when Forlan struck the outside of the post from Simao Sabrosa's cross.
Poor control from Forlan then saw him spurn another opening, while at the other end Asenjo did superbly to keep turn behind Benzema's stabbed shot.
The final chance of the half fell to Atletico, and really should have seen Simao reduce the deficit, but he was denied by a brilliant one-handed block by Iker Casillas when clean through.
Atletico boss Quique Sanchez Flores decided to unleash Aguero at half-time, having started with him on the bench, but it was Real who began the second period better with Benzema twice going close.
Atletico were looking better with Aguero on the pitch, though, and they were starting to build some pressure before an awful defensive mistake from Luis Perea saw any momentum lost as he allowed Real to go 3-0 up.
The centre-back lost possession to Higuain on the edge of his own box, and the Argentinian charged into the area before coolly slotting past Asenjo.
There appeared no way back for Atletico, but they were handed a glimmer of hope when Ramos was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Aguero on the edge of the box.
As Ramos was making his way off the pitch, there was a commotion by the Real bench and it appeared as though coach Manuel Pellegrini had been struck in the face by something thrown from the crowd.
The referee came over to check on the Chilean, and play continued with Pellegrini still standing on the touchline and seemingly unhurt.
Back on the pitch, Atletico could not make the most of their dangerous free-kick as Simao fired wide.
Casillas then denied Tomas Ujfalusi and Cleber Santana as Atletico looked to make their numerical advantage count, and the home side did just that as strike duo Forlan and Aguero pulled goals back to set up a grandstand finish.
Forlan made it 3-1 in the 78th minute after slotting home Simao's cross, and then two minutes later Aguero muscled aside Pepe before firing a low shot past Casillas.
Atletico set up camp around the Real area and Aguero had a great chance to level in the injury time when faced only with Casillas, but the Spain number one saved with his feet as the visitors held on for the win.

TOP 5 gold Round 11 SERIE A 2009-2010

2009-11-07T16:49:00.000+07:00

5. Antonio Floro Flores 27’ (Chievo 1-1 Udinese)
4. David Trezeguet 35’ (Juventus 2-3 Napoli)
3. Marco Marchionni 4’ (Fiorentina 3-1 Calcio Catania)
2. Giuseppe Mascara 48’ (Fiorentina 3-1 Calcio Catania)
1. Marco Borriello 93’ (AC Milan 2-0 Parma)

TOP 5 gold Round 9 LA LIGA

2009-11-07T14:29:00.000+07:00

5. Haris Medunjanin 94’ (Espanyol 1-1 Valladolid)
4. Pierre Webo 18’ (Mallorca 1-0 Santander)
3. Alvaro Negredo 42’ (Xerez 0-2 Sevilla)
2. Gonzalo Higuain 53’ (Real Madrid 2-0 Getafe)
1. Giuseppe Rossi 51’ (Villarreal 5-0 Tenerife)

TOP 5 gold - CHAMPIONS LEAGUE round 4 (04-05/11/2009)

2009-11-05T18:29:00.000+07:00

5. Sergio Aguero 91’ (Atletico Madrid 2-2 Chelsea)
4. Zdravko Kuzmanovic 78’ (Sevilla 1-1 Stuttgart)
3. Milos Krasic 31’ (Man Utd 3-3 CSKA Moskva)
2. Marius Onofras 88’ (Unirea Urziceni 1-1 Rangers)
1. Andriy Shevchenko 81’ (Dinamo Kyiv 1-2 Inter Milan)

Ritchie De Laet

2009-11-05T08:43:00.001+07:00

Ritchie De Laet

2009/10 Premier League
Games	Goals	Assists
0	0	0

Full Name	Ritchie De Laet
Birth Date	November 28, 1988
Birth Place	Antwerp, Belgium
Height	1.88m

Weight	87.0 kg
Age	20
Position	Defender
Squad No	30

Profile Statistics Game Log

Ritchie De Laet Bio

De Laet made a shock move from Stoke City to Manchester United in January 2009 despite never having played a game for the Potteries club. The Belgian defender had moved to Stoke in the summer of 2008 for £100,000 from Royal Antwerp, by no coincidence one of United's feeder clubs, but despite appearing on the bench did not earn a first team bow.
He moved to Old Trafford on an undisclosed performance related transfer on a three-year contract.
The defender, who can play anywhere across the defence, got his only taste of first team football in England when on loan at Conference side Wrexham in October 2008 where he played three matches.

Champions League: Liverpool rocked, Inter salvo

2009-11-05T08:29:00.000+07:00

Liverpool's Champions League hopes are now hanging by a thread after they conceded a 90th-minute equaliser at Lyon.
Ryan Babel looked to have given the visitors a much-needed victory at Stade Gerland as he fired home a stunning strike with seven minutes to go, but Lisandro Lopez burst through to make it 1-1 and ensure his side progress.
In the other game in Group E, Fiorentina look well-placed to join Lyon in the knockout stages as they thrashed Hungary's Debrecen 5-2 at home. Adrian Mutu set them on their way in the 14th minute and, while Gergely Rudolph levelled on 38 minutes, Dario Dainelli, Ricardo Montolivo and Marco Marchionni made it 4-1 with three goals in nine minutes early in the second half. Adamo Coulibaly threatened a comeback with a header to make it 4-2 in the 70th minute, but Alberto Gilardino completed the scoring shortly afterwards.
Inter Milan staged a dramatic late comeback as they beat Dynamo Kiev 2-1 for their first win in the group stages.
Andriy Shevchenko, facing his former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, looked to have done serious damage to the Italian champions' hopes of making the next round with his 21st-minute goal, but Diego Milito levelled four minutes before time and Wesley Sneijder clinched the win in the 89th minute. The win puts Inter top of the group.
Barcelona, meanwhile, fell to third as they drew 0-0 with Russian side Rubin Kazan. Zlatan Ibrahimovic struck the post early on for the reigning champions, but they were unable to break down a strong defensive unit and now need results in both their remaining games.

GettyImages

Inter Milan's coach Jose Mourinho celebrates his team's late winner

Arsenal all but booked their place in the next round as they thrashed AZ Alkmaar 4-1 at Emirates Stadium.Cesc Fabregas caught goalkeeper Sergio Romero off guard to open the scoring on 25 minutes and Samir Nasri doubled their advantage with a fine solo effort just before the break. Fabregas added his second and his team's third with a superb finish on 52 minutes before Abou Diaby rounded off a sublime team effort for 4-0 in the 72nd minute. Jeremain Lens then grabbed a late consolation for the visitors after some poor goalkeeping from Manuel Almunia.
Standard Liege kept their hopes of reaching the next round alive as they beat Olympiakos 2-0 at home. Deludonne Mbokani fired home the first after half an hour before a Milan Jovanovic header secured the win in the dying moments.
Sevilla made it through despite dropping points for the first time as they were held 1-1 at home to VfB Stuttgart. Jesus Navas gave Sevilla an early lead, but Zdravko Kuzmanovic fired home from distance in the 78th minute to give his side a valuable point.
Rangers' hopes now look forlorn as they were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw at Romania's Unirea Urziceni. Lee McCulloch looked to have kept his side in contention with a 25-yard drive as the goalkeeper failed to make the save, but substitute Marius Onofras kept Unirea in second place with a stunning strike with two minutes left on the clock.

Video Lyon 1 - 1 Liverpool : Reds' hearts broken late on

2009-11-05T07:28:00.000+07:00

Liverpool's hearts were broken by a cruel last-minute equaliser that has all but ended their Champions League dreams for a traumatic season.
The much-maligned Ryan Babel had scored a wonderful goal with just seven minutes left and if Liverpool could have hung on to that lead they would still have had a realistic chance of reaching the last 16.
But Liverpool's season has been littered with shattering luck and bitter body blows, as well as beach-ball goals.
And when Lisandro struck an equaliser in the final seconds for Lyon - sending them into the last 16 - Liverpool knew their own hopes were left hanging by a thread.
Fiorentina's expected win over Debrecen keeps them firmly in second spot and Liverpool will need more than a miracle now after this devastating blow.
Daniel Agger passed a late fitness test on his back injury to play in this crunch Group E clash in the Stade Gerland, boosting the Anfield club's side who were eventually missing seven senior players as they battled for their European lives.
Fernando Torres was also in the starting line-up, while Alberto Aquilani was on the bench, Andriy Voronin partnering Torres up front.
Lyon made two changes from their side that won at Anfield a fortnight ago. Michel Bastos and Bafetimbi Gomis came in for Ederson and Sidney Govou, who were both in the bench.
At first Torres looked barely able to run, certainly with nothing like his usual mobility. The occasional sprint when needed was about his limit early on such is the severity of the serious groin injury he is carrying.
Lyon may have been lulled into a false sense of security against the Spanish ace, and when he found a yard of space in the box he almost had Liverpool ahead after 12 just minutes.
Emiliano Insua swung over a cross from the left, and the striker met it first -time eight yards to force a fine point-blank save from Hugo Lloris, who was to deny Liverpool twice more before the break.
Liverpool defended deep and in numbers, desperate not to concede early while Lyon had plenty of possession. They moved the ball around crisply and Bastos tested Jose Reina from 20 yards while the giant Gomis had Liverpool's keeper stretching again with a 25-yarder.
But Liverpool were searching for a breakthrough of their own, and another Insua cross gave Dirk Kuyt the chance of a clever lob, again Lloris needing to be at his best to touch the ball over the bar.
The French side then lost Anthony Reveillere and Miralem Pjanic to leg injuries with Lamine Gassama and Ederson taking their places.
Liverpool's third decent chance of the half came after a foul on Torres deep in his own half. Javier Mascherano's quick free-kick cleared Lyon's back line and allowed Voronin a clear run at goal. His shot was low, but again Lloris was up to the task, blocking the effort with his legs.
Agger was booked after 33 minutes for blocking Gomis' run on the halfway line, with Lisandro cautioned for a foul on Kuyt a minute later.
Lyon started the second period with a quicker tempo, and Lisandro hooked over an Aly Cissokho cross. The full-back's next cross saw Bastos head over the far angle.
As Liverpool pressed forward, the gaps were appearing behind them, and Gomis looked increasingly dangerous.
Liverpool's first change came after 67 minutes when Babel replaced Voronin, Torres being left on this time.
Then Lloris made yet another stunning save, turning away Lucas' effort with his left hand with Kuyt following up with an overhead shot that was kicked off the line.
Lyon brought on Govou for Gomis, before Reina had to make his first serious save of the night, blocking Lisandro from close range. Lisandro got away again after 78 minutes, turning Agger and then firing a curling shot just wide of the far post with Liverpool now playing with four men up front.
Torres' misplaced header gave Bastos another chance to run at Liverpool's defence, his shot being deflected for a corner.
But Liverpool broke from defence after a painful bout of head tennis to get the ball away and grabbed a sensational goal after 83 minutes. Yossi Benayoun spun the ball out to the left for Babel, who cut inside to unleash a thunderous drive into the top corner from 30 yards, before being engulfed by his team-mates.
Three minutes from the end Torres was finally taken off, David Ngog taking over up front. But with just seconds left, Liverpool's dream crashed. Lisandro got past Insua in the box and lifted his shot over Reina for the equaliser.

video Dynamo Kiev 1 - 2 Internazionale : Late drama seals win

2009-11-05T07:22:00.000+07:00

Two goals in the last five minutes spared Jose Mourinho's blushes at Dynamo Kiev and reignited Inter Milan's Champions League campaign.

Andrey Shevchenko, a legend at Inter's city rivals AC Milan, scored the only goal of the first half after 21 minutes and it looked like being enough for a shock win.

Inter piled on the pressure in the second period and it finally paid off as the in-form Diego Milito equalised in the 86th minute and Wesley Sneijder won it one minute from time.

Even a draw would have kept the Italians bottom of Group F, but as it was they went top - a point ahead of Rubin Kazan and Barcelona.

In just the second minute, Sneijder fired over the bar, while at the other end Milos Ninkovic could not find the target from distance.

After 18 minutes Samuel Eto'o sent a wicked strike over from a narrow angle - and just three minutes later his side were behind.

Artem Milevskiy controlled Roman Eremenko's throw into the path of Shevchenko, who controlled the ball on his chest before sending a looping volley over the reach of Julio Cesar.

Both sides produced some slick football, with one well-worked move from Inter finishing with a one-two between Diego Milito and Walter Samuel, but the former fired straight at Stanislav Bogush when he should have done better.

Shevchenko had chances for a second but could not match his earlier deadly finishing, first straying offside on the counter-attack to prevent a good chance, then pulling a shot wide from the edge of the box.

Mourinho made a double switch at half-time, bringing Mario Balotelli and Thiago Motta on for Esteban Cambiasso and Cristian Chivu.

Inter took the initiative from the restart, Dejan Stankovic firing from distance but preventing an easy save for Bogush.

After 50 minutes, Sneijder swung in a free-kick from right wing and Samuel flung himself at the ball, but his diving header was off target.

Just after the hour mark, Shevchenko headed the ball to Ninkovic, who took the ball away from Lucio with a neat first touch before dragging the ball just wide of the near post.

Milito then tried his luck but could not beat Bogush from an acute angle.

A string of set-pieces caused trouble for Bogush, never more than when Sneijder's delivery was headed onto the post by Samuel.

Samuel then touched the ball wide after being played in by a neat Eto'o through ball.

It looked like being Dynamo's day, but four minutes from time, Sneijder picked out Milito, who was all alone on the edge of the Dynamo box, and his scuffed shot caught Bogush off balance before dribbling over the line.

And moments later when substitute Sulley Muntari sent in an angled shot, Bogush allowed the ball to squirm under his body.

It was going just wide, but Milito turned the ball from an impossible angle against the keeper's knees and Sneijder followed in.

It was heartbreaking for Dynamo, but they contributed to their own downfall with some slack defending late on.

FK Rubin Kazan 0 - 0 Barcelona

2009-11-05T07:15:00.001+07:00

Champions draw blank and face uphill struggle

Rubin Kazan striker Gokdeniz Karadeniz is thwarted

Scoring Summary
FK Rubin Kazan	Barcelona

Match Stats
	FK Rubin Kazan	Barcelona
Shots (on Goal)	4(1)	19(5)
Fouls	11	12
Corner Kicks	3	6
Offsides	3	1
Time of Possession	25%	75%
Yellow Cards	2	1
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	5	1

Match Information

Stadium: Central Stadium Kazan
Attendance:
Match Time: 17:30 UK
Official(s):
Konrad Plautz (Referee)

Teams
FK Rubin Kazan	Barcelona
77 Sergei Ryzhikov	1 Víctor Valdés
4 César	5 Carles Puyol
76 Roman Sharonov	3 Gerard Pique
3 Cristian Ansaldi	22 Eric Abidal
9 Lasha Salukvadze	2 Daniel Alves
16 Christian Noboa	24 Gnegneri Yaya Toure
7 Sergei Semak	15 Seydou Keita
19 Vitaliy Kaleshin	6 Xavi
15 Aleksandr Ryazantsev	8 Andrés Iniesta
10 Alejandro Damian Dominguez	9 Zlatan Ibrahimovic
61 Karadeniz Gökdeniz	10 Lionel Messi
Substitutes
5 Petr Bystrov	Thierry Henry 14
29 Nukri Revishvili	Rafael Márquez 4
32 Andrei Gorbanets	Jose Manuel Pinto 13
88 Alan Kasaev	Maxwell 19
6 MacBeth Sibaya	Bojan Krkic 11
24 Aleksei Popov	Pedrito 17
11 Aleksandr Bukharov	Sergi Busquets 16
Substitutions
Aleksandr Bukharov for Karadeniz Gökdeniz (63)	Thierry Henry for Seydou Keita (82)
Yellow Cards
Sergei Semak (73)	Carles Puyol (75)
Sergei Ryzhikov (90)
· Club Squads: FK Rubin Kazan \| Barcelona

Updated: November 4, 2009, 8:45 AM UK

Rubin Kazan followed up their shock victory against Barcelona a fortnight ago with a defensive masterclass to leapfrog their Catalan opponents in Champions League Group F ahead of the evening game between Dynamo Kiev and Inter Milan.Barcelona were the victims of one of the biggest shocks in Champions League history when goals by Aleksandr Ryazantsev and Gokdeniz Karadeniz guided the Russians to a 2-1 victory at the Nou Camp a fortnight ago, also the first game they had won in the competition.
Although Barca dominated possession tonight they produced few clear-cut chances as the Russian champions produced a perfect defensive display and they could even have taken all three points had Alexander Bukharov taken his chances after being introduced as a substitute with a little under half an hour remaining.
Barca started brightly and should have been ahead in the third minute.
The visitors forced two corners before Zlatan Ibrahimovic left the home defence for dead and clipped the ball over the goalkeeper who had gone to ground only to see the ball hit the post and bounce out.
The Russians were working hard to close their visitors down and the bobbly pitch was preventing Barca from employing their usual slick passing game with Lionel Messi unable to make any real contribution.
However, the Catalan side were prepared to play a patient game and Xavi chipped just over.
Ibrahimovic then chested a lofted ball on to Messi who bustled through but he was denied by Sergei Ryzhikov smothering the ball at the Argentinian's feet and Seydou Keita failed to connect properly with a Dani Alves cross as Barca dominated.
Messi sent a shot wide but a rigid, disciplined Russian defence meant Barcelona were unable to create clear-cut chances and it was the hosts who almost took the lead five minutes before half-time.
Rubin broke quickly with a ball out to the right and with Eric Abidal nowhere to be seen Karadeniz found himself in acres of space.
The striker made his way into the box and sent in a fierce shot which Victor Valdes did well to save down at his near post.
The Russians then momentarily lost concentration when Ibrahimovic had a free-kick in a central position outside the area but rather than blast the ball, the Sweden striker played it short to Andres Iniesta but Ryzhikov was alert to save the shot.
Ibrahimovic produced a snap shot which was hit straight at the keeper and the half ended goalless.
The second period opened in the same fashion, the Russians closing down and stifling their opponents.
Yaya Toure sent in a fierce 25-yard shot which the keeper palmed down without anyone following up and Iniesta put a shot wide after wriggling through although Ryzhikov had it covered.
Alejandro Dominguez wasted a free-kick when he was in a promising position on the left by floating the ball onto the roof of the net.
However, Rubin had a great chance in the 74th minute when Dominguez sent a ball over the defence to Bukharov who was half a yard ahead.
However, the striker chose to chest the ball down rather than head it or shoot giving Valdes the chance to come out and smother.
Valdes then dived at Bukharov's feet as the Russia international ran in on goal and Carles Puyol cleared the danger with the goalkeeper out of his area as Rubin caused confusion in the visitors' defence.
Bukharov then went narrowly over from Dominguez's corner before substitute Thierry Henry had no time to react when he appeared to be be taken by surprise when the ball came to him yards from goal.
The former Arsenal striker then blazed yards wide in the final minute when Messi set him up on the left of the area but Henry was way off balance.

Ticket News: Besiktas and Carling Cup tickets available + Portsmouth and Villa apps

2009-11-04T22:40:00.001+07:00

Ticket News: Besiktas and Carling Cup tickets available + Portsmouth and Villa apps

BESIKTAS TICKETS AVAILABLE

Tickets are available for Man Utd's UEFA Champions League home game against Besiktas on Wednesday 25 November (Kick-off 19:45 GMT).

Tickets and hospitality can be purchased for this match online now or by calling 0161 868 8000.

One United Members can obtain a £5 discount on the price of match tickets so if you're not yet a Member, join One United today and start getting discounts on tickets plus many other great benefits.

Tickets for junior One United Members are priced at just £10 throughout the stadium.
For more information on hospitality packages please visit ManUtd.com.

CARLING CUP QUARTER-FINAL

In a repeat of last season's final, Manchester United will play Tottenham Hotspur in the Carling Cup quarter-final on Tuesday 1 December (Kick-off 20:00 GMT).

The Reds have been drawn at home and tickets are on general sale now. Supporters can purchase tickets online or by calling 0161 868 8000 . Tickets are priced just £10 for juniors throughout the stadium.
Season Ticket holders can choose to 'opt-out' of purchasing a ticket for the match by calling 0161 868 8000. The 'opt-out' deadline is 08:00 on Thursday 5 November. Season Ticket holders who choose not to opt out should monitor their bank accounts to ensure that payment is processed.
For information on hospitality packages available for the clash vist ManUtd.com.

PORTSMOUTH

Applications are now being accepted for Manchester United's trip to Portsmouth on Saturday 28 November (Kick-off 15:00 GMT).
For this game we expect to receive an allocation of approximately 2,434 tickets priced £34.00 for adults, £25.00 for over-65s and £14.00 for under-16s.
Executive Members and Season Ticket holders can apply for tickets to this game online or by calling 0161 868 8000. The deadline for applications is 08:00 on Friday 6 November.
Ballot results will be made available from Friday 13 November. The deadline for the cancellation of match tickets is Friday 27 November.
Coach travel is available to Fratton Park priced £30. Tickets can be booked online or by calling 0161 868 8000.

ASTON VILLA

United's first of three festive Barclays Premier League home games sees Aston Villa come to Old Trafford on Saturday 12 December (Kick-off 17:30 GMT).

One United Members can make an application for tickets to this game online or by calling 0161 868 8000. The deadline for applications is 20:00 on Friday 6 November.

Ballot results are expected to be made available from Friday 20 November and the deadline for cancellation of Members' match tickets is Friday 11 December.

Hospitality is available for this and all of United's home games this season. Book online or call 0161 868 8000 for more information.

Matchday 4 Recap: Tuesday

2009-11-04T19:51:00.000+07:00

Matchday 4 Recap: Tuesday

MU 3-3 CSKA

Gold: Owen 29', Scholes 84', Shennykov 90; (og) - Dzagoev 25', Krasic 31', Berezutsky 47'

MU: 1. Edwin van der Sar 2. Gary Neville 6. Wes Brown 7. Michael Owen 17. Nani 18. Paul Scholes 20. Fabio 23. Jonny Evans 24. Darren Fletcher 25. Antonio Valencia 27. Federico Macheda

CSKA: 35. Igor Akinfeev 2. Deividas Semberas 4. Sergey Ignashevich 6. Aleksei Berezutski 10. Alan Dzagoev 11. Pavel Mamaev 17. Milos Krasic 22. Evgeni Aldonin 24. Vasili Berezutski 42. Georgy Shchennikov 89. Tomas Necid

Milan 1-1 Real

Milan: 1. Nelson Dida 7. Pato 10. Clarence Seedorf 13. Alessandro Nesta 15. Gianluca Zambrotta 21. Andrea Pirlo 22. Marco Borriello 23. Massimo Ambrosini 33. Thiago Silva 44. Massimo Oddo 80. Ronaldinho

Real: 1. Iker Casillas 2. Álvaro Arbeloa 3. Pepe 4. Sergio Ramos 8. Kaka 10. Lassana Diarra 11. Karim Benzema 12. Marcelo 18. Raúl Albiol 20. Gonzalo Higuaín 22. Xabi Alonso

Gold : Ronaldinho (pen) 34' - Karim Benzema 29’

Atletico 2-2 Chelsea

Atletico: 1. Sergio Asenjo 3. Antonio Lopez 7. Diego Forlan 12. Paulo Assuncao 14. Florent Sinama-Pongolle 16. Juanito 19. Jose Antonio Reyes 20. Simão 21. Luis Perea 22. Pablo 23. Cleber Santana

Chelsea: 1. Petr Cech 3. Ashley Cole 5. Michael Essien 8. Frank Lampard 10. Joe Cole 11. Didier Drogba 15. Florent Malouda 21. Salomon Kalou 26. John Terry 33. Alex 35. Juliano Belletti

Gold: Kun Agüero 66', 90’ - Didier Drogba 82', 88'

Maccabi : 0-1 Juventus

Gold: Camoranesi 45'

Maccabi: 1. Nir Davidovitch 5. Jorge Teixeira 7. Gustavo Boccoli 8. John Culma 9. Vladimir Dvalishvili 17. Tsepo Masilela 18. Ali Osman 19. Shlomi Arbaitman 20. Yaniv Katan 21. Dekel Keinan 27. Eyal Meshumar

Juventus: 1. Gianluigi Buffon 2. Martin Caceres 3. Giorgio Chiellini 4. Felipe Melo 6. Fabio Grosso 11. Amauri 16. Mauro Camoranesi 18. Christian Poulsen 28. Diego 30. Tiago 33. Nicola Legrottaglie

Bayern 0-2 Bordeaux

Gold: Gourcuff 37', Chamakh 90'

Đội hình ra sân:

Bayern: 4. Edson Braafheid (33. Mario Gomez) 6. Martin Demichelis 9. Luca Toni 17. Mark van Bommel 18. Miroslav Klose (10. Arjen Robben) 21. Philipp Lahm 22. Hans-Jörg Butt 23. Danijel Pranjic 28. Holger Badstuber 31. Bastian Schweinsteiger 44. Anatoliy Tymoschtschuk

Bordeaux: 1. Cedric Carrasso 2. Mickael Ciani 4. Alou Diarra 5. Fernando 8. Yoann Gourcuff 17. Wendel (10. Jussie) 18. Jaroslav Plasil (25. Ludovic Sane) 21. Matthieu Chalme 27. Marc Planus 28. Benoît Tremoulinas 29. Marouane Chamakh

Champions League: Chelsea and Man Utd through

2009-11-04T09:56:00.000+07:00

Champions League: Chelsea and Man Utd through
Previous winners Manchester United and Porto were joined by Bordeaux and Chelsea in qualifying for the Champions League last 16 tonight, but AC Milan and Real Madrid could yet miss out on progression from the group stages.

Ronaldinho, AC Milan

GettyImages

Ronaldinho rifled his penalty into the back of the net

Bayern Munich are in danger of missing out in qualification from Group A after Bordeaux claimed a 2-0 win at the Allianz Arena.

The pressure mounted on Bayern coach Louis Van Gaal after strikes from Yoann Gourcuff and Marouane Chamakh secured qualification for Les Girondins, who are unbeaten at the top of the Group A standings.

Juventus are two points behind the French side and four ahead of Bayern following their 1-0 win at Maccabi Haifa, courtesy of Mauro Camoranesi's winner in first-half injury-time.

Chelsea booked their progression from Group D after a 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon Stadium. Sergio Aguero gave Atletico the lead in the 66th minute, but Didier Drogba - on his return to European action following suspension - netted twice in the last eight minutes to seemingly earn Chelsea the win.

It was not to be as Aguero struck his second goal from a free-kick in stoppage-time to earn Atletico a draw, but Chelsea are still assured of a place in the knockout stages.

That's because Porto triumphed over Apoel Nicosia in Cyprus, though they had to wait until late on to get the goal their dominance deserved.

Falcao on target six minutes from time after a nice feint and low shot across the keeper into the bottom corner.

Last season's runners-up Manchester United required a stoppage-time equaliser from Antonio Valencia to secure their place in the last 16 with a 3-3 Group B draw against CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford.

The winger scored the winner in Russia and his effort this time around capped a rousing fightback by Sir Alex Ferguson's side following strikes from Michael Owen and Paul Scholes.

CSKA Moscow squandered a 3-1 advantage, with Alan Dzagoev, Milos Krasic and Vasili Berezutsky the men on target.

Wolfsburg are in pole position for second place behind United after a 3-0 win at Besiktas. Zvjezdan Misimovic put the away side a goal to the good within ten minutes but they had to wait until the final ten to seal the game.

Christian Gentner and Edin Dzeko scored late on to ensure Wolfsburg secured all three points.

European giants AC Milan and Real Madrid, who have won the competition on seven and nine occasions, respectively, shared a 1-1 draw in Group C, with both teams a point above Marseille.

Karim Benzema gave Real the lead in the 29th minute, but Ronaldinho replied with a penalty 10 minutes before the break. Alexandre Pato had a goal controversially disallowed moments later before Dida denied Raul a late winner in a dramatic game at the San Siro.

Marseille could yet progress at the expense of Milan or Real after a 6-1 defeat of FC Zurich, with two goals in the opening 10 minutes and three in the final 10.

An own-goal from Silvan Aegerter put them on their way before Fabrice Abriel, Mamadou Niang, Vitorino Hilton, Benoit Cheyrou and Brandao were on target. The visitors' Alexandre Alphonse made it 2-1 after 31 minutes.

Fergie - Fletcher no diver

2009-11-04T06:09:00.001+07:00

United boss can't believe Fletcher was booked for diving

Sir Alex Ferguson described the decision to book Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher for diving as 'unbelievable'.

Fletcher was penalised by the referee early in the second half just moments after CSKA Moscow had taken a 3-1 lead.
The Scotland international appeared to be tripped in the penalty area by Vasili Berezutsky, only to be cautioned for diving.
Ferguson told Sky Sports: "I can't believe it, I just can't believe that one.
"It's one of the worst I've seen in my lifetime. Unbelievable."
Meanwhile, Ferguson praised the intensity of United's performance after the 3-3 draw at home to CSKA secured a place in the last 16 of the Champions League.
CSKA were on the brink of a shock win at Old Trafford when the Russian side held a 3-1 lead heading into the final 10 minutes.
But Paul Scholes' header gave United a lifeline and Antonio Valencia's injury-time shot deflected in off Georgy Schennikov to earn the point needed to guarantee progression from Group B.
Ferguson was disappointed to see his team concede three goals at home, but was happy with the response from his players in the latter stages.

Terrific

"The chances we made you have to say their keeper has made some fantastic saves," Ferguson said.
"We lost three goals at home and you don't like that. It was a surprise the third one after half-time and that gave them something to hold on to.
"I thought the intensity of our play, particularly in the last 25 minutes, was terrific."
Ferguson continued: "I don't know how many chances we did create, but it's something about United, just the history.
"We went for it and risked everything to get the result. I think we deserved it."
------sky sports-----------

Video Milan 1 – 1 Real: Euro giants share the spoils

2009-11-04T05:47:00.000+07:00

AC Milan and Real Madrid remain on course to qualify for the UEFA Champions League knockout stages after a 1-1 draw at the Giuseppe Meazza.

The European giants seldom hit the heights of their dramatic clash in Spain a fortnight ago but a point each leaves them joint top of Group C.
The first half threatened to produce a classic similar to the game in Madrid with the visitors raining shots on Dida's goal. It was no surprise when they took the lead on the half-hour, Karim Benzema scoring from close-range after the Brazilian keeper could only parry Kaka's shot into his path.
But Milan hit back within five minutes thanks to a controversial penalty. Pepe was harshly adjudged to have handled Gianluca Zambrotta's cross and Ronaldinho clinically put away the spot-kick.
The home side appeared to have got their noses in front moments later but Pato was penalised for a push on Alvaro Arbeloa before firing beyond Iker Casillas.
The second period failed to live up to the first with a series of niggling fouls disrupting play but both sides will be happy enough with a point.

Warm reception

Filippo Inzaghi, just one goal short of Gerd Muller's all-time record of 69 goals in European competition, was left on the Milan bench with Leonardo preferring Marco Borriello, who scored both goals in the 2-0 win over Parma at the weekend.
And Raul, who is just one goal behind Inzaghi on 67, was also benched as Real coach Manuel Pellegrini kept his faith in Gonzalo Higuain, whose brace earned three points against Getafe.
Kaka was given a warm reception on his return to Milan but, after he inspired Real to a bright start, that applause soon turned to jeers.
Sergio Ramos and Benzema both sent shots inches wide of the post, with keeper Dida clearly beaten on both occasions.
Milan threatened against the run of play when Clarence Seedorf sent Pato clear on Casillas, but the Real goalkeeper kept his composure to save with his right hand.
Real then took a deserved lead in the 29th minute when Kaka skipped past Seedorf, who practically invited him to shoot.
His effort took a slight deflection off Thiago Silva, which probably did enough to prevent Dida from holding onto the ball. It spilled into the path of Benzema, who shot into the far corner from a tight angle.
Milan responded and were gifted the chance to equalise when Zambrotta's cross hit the arm of Pepe, just a yard away from him, inside the penalty area.
Referee Felix Brych pointed to the penalty spot and Ronaldinho blasted the ball into the roof of the net.
The game was transformed and Milan looked to capitalise with Pato scoring what looked like a perfectly valid goal, but Brych saw something he did not like in the build-up and ruled it out.
There had been such a pace to the first half that the second 45 minutes simply could not carry on in the same manner, and so it was that the game lost its way slightly.
The best chance for Milan was squandered by Inzaghi - who, like Raul, was sent on as a final throw of the dice.
He was on the end of an inviting cross from Massimo Oddo in the 84th minute, but Pepe did just enough to unsettle the Milan striker, who lifted the ball over the crossbar from point-blank range.
And Dida saved Milan in the 89th minute with a fine reflex save to turn Raul's shot behind for a corner when it looked like the Spaniards were going to steal victory.

Video MU 3 - 3 CSKA Moscow

2009-11-04T05:28:00.000+07:00

Manchester United stumbled into the knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League after a lucky stoppage-time goal secured a 3-3 draw at home to CSKA Moscow.

Russian outfit CSKA appeared to be heading towards a famous win at Old Trafford after moving into a 3-1 lead early in the second half, but Paul Scholes gave United a lifeline before Antonio Valencia's wayward shot took a wicked deflection off Georgy Schennikov in the second minute of added time.
CSKA were lively from the off and, producing a much-improved performance from the 1-0 home defeat by United a fortnight ago, took the lead on 25 minutes through the impressive Alan Dzagoev's thumping finish.
United were playing in fits and starts, but drew level just four minutes after falling behind when Michael Owen's predatory instincts finally kicked in and he fired past Igor Akinfeev from close range.
But CSKA were back in front within another two minutes as Milos Krasic capitalised on the gaps in the home defence to skip past Edwin van der Sar and lift his shot into the net.
Any hope of a positive start to the second half for United quickly evaporated when CSKA scored a third goal on 47 minutes as the unmarked Vasili Berezutsky headed home a free-kick at the far post.
The Red Devils should then have had a penalty, only for Darren Fletcher to be booked for diving, while Federico Macheda headed against the post and Akinfeev produced a string of fine saves.
The famous late rally from United eventually materialised, though, as Scholes rose well to head home Gary Neville's free-kick with six minutes to go.
And the comeback was completed in stoppage-time as Valencia's deflected effort left Akinfeev with no chance to ensure United reached the last 16 with two games to spare.

Frailty

Within the opening 30 seconds Dzagoev had fired over after striding through a static United defence and only two minutes were on the clock when Deividas Semberas flashed a shot wide.
Given Sir Alex Ferguson had only just declared his faith in central defensive pairing Jonny Evans and Wes Brown to keep Chelsea out on Sunday should the respective calf injuries of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand keep them out, it was not an ideal start.
For a while it did not seem as though the frailty would matter.
Valencia justified his manager's declaration that his form has improved markedly over the past few weeks and although neither Owen nor strike partner Macheda - who was making his Champions League debut - could profit from the Ecuador star's incisiveness, it seemed only a matter of time before the hosts scored.
There was a sense of bewilderment therefore when the opening goal ended up in the home net.
Evgeni Aldonin floated a cross towards target man Tomas Necid, who chested it first time to Dzagoev, who found himself with only Evans to run at.
The young Northern Ireland star appeared to have done the right thing in shadowing Dzagoev down the channel. The Russian though had a pretty startling response, lashing a shot into the far corner from an acute angle which Van der Sar barely reacted to as it whizzed past.
Owen drilled home a typical poacher's effort in response but parity lasted two minutes as Krasic galloped into the box unchallenged, collected Necid's pass, skipped past Van der Sar and, after a neat pivot, tapped into an empty net.
If Ferguson had called for more solidity at half-time, the words fell on deaf ears as within two minutes of the restart, Dzagoev had floated a free-kick to the far post where Berezutsky nodded home.
The home cause was not helped when Fletcher was denied a certain penalty when he was chopped down by Berezutsky, the irritation only compounded when the Scot was booked for diving.
Wayne Rooney's introduction just before the hour mark offered England's most deadly striker the chance to provide baby Kai with the most appropriate arrival present as well as offering United a solution to their predicament.
He nearly managed it too, only to be denied twice by Akinfeev who made excellent follow-up saves after initially repelling Owen and Macheda's header had struck a post.
Akinfeev was beaten on 84 minutes as Scholes stole in unmarked at the near post to head home Neville's delivery from the right.
And the CSKA keeper was left helpless again in added time as Valencia's drive was heading wide before taking a heavy deflection off Schennikov.
In a frantic finale, CSKA finished the game with 10 men as Semberas was shown a second yellow card after tangling with United substitute Gabriel Obertan, who was also booked for his trouble.

Round 11 PREMIERSHIP - TOP 5 gold

2009-11-03T16:47:00.000+07:00

5. Deco 61’ (Bolton 0-4 Chelsea)
4. Matthew Etherington 44’ (Stoke City 2-2 Wolverhampton)
3. Fernando Torres 42’ (Fulham 3-1 Liverpool)
2. Francesc Fabregas 43’ (Arsenal 3-0 Tottenham)
1. Dimitar Berbatov 55’ (Man Utd 2-0 Blackburn)

Bruce can manage a top club

2009-10-03T11:31:00.000+07:00

Steve Bruce has all the qualities to manage one of England's top clubs – but Sir Alex Ferguson believes he can achieve that feat at the Stadium of Light.

With money to spend and a wealth of experience behind him, Bruce is already at a big club, according to Sir Alex. Asked on Friday if he thought Bruce would end up at one of England’s big clubs, the United boss retorted: “I don’t think Sunderland’s fans would be too pleased to hear that. They could be a massive club, you know. They already are in terms of history, stadium, training ground, and their fan base. It wouldn’t be doing them justice to say otherwise.”

Bruce has enjoyed or endured varied experiences at six different clubs in his managerial career, all of which should stand him in good stead. “If you go back through Bruce’s career, his experience of the other side of football is very useful.

“From being down there scrapping with Crystal Palace or Sheffield United, he recently almost took Wigan into a UEFA place. He’s learned a lot as he’s gone along. Birmingham didn’t have much money to deal with. They never had a big budget to buy players. That’s not easy in the Premier League. Now he has the chance to spend some money at Sunderland and it looks as if they could be good.”

Bruce has made some promising signings, notably with the capture of Darren Bent in attack, who Sir Alex pinpoints as the spearhead of an impressive front line that can also include Kenwyne Jones and former United youngster Fraizer Campbell. “The addition of Darren Bent now, who’s scored seven goals now, is a good one. He’s given a good return already. Steve has galvanised the club really well, and you can see something happening there... just hopefully not on Saturday!”

Sir Alex certainly won’t be taking
Sunderland lightly after they have notched four wins in seven games this term. “Everyone’s a threat if you don’t approach games the right way. We have to approach the game in the right way all the time. That’s what happens here. We have to make sure the attitude and the character of the team is always there. It will be. We have no problems there. The team is playing well and hopefully we get the result we want.”

It’s no surprise that, after Bruce’s loyalty and commitment to the United cause in the early years of Sir Alex’s Old Trafford reign, the Reds boss still has a fondness for his now opposite number. “He was a great player for us,” reminisced the boss. “The fantastic thing about Brucey was that he had this great ability to play on with injuries. He was always hobbling about the training ground, with knocks or hamstring strains. He’d just rub it better and play. It was unbelievable.

“I remember when we were going to play Liverpool at Anfield at the weekend and he’d picked up a hamstring injury on the Saturday before. He was on the treatment table all week. Then on the Friday I was doing some team shaping and the set pieces. He came running down the hill at The Cliff and said, ‘don’t pick your team just now, I think I’m OK’. I said, ‘You’re joking, it’s a hamstring pull’. Brucey came back, ‘Yeah, it’s all right, I’ve had them before’. He played the full game.

“Looking at his partnership with Gary Pallister – it went on uninterrupted for years. They hardly missed a game. It was a phenomenal partnership, and the right combination; they had the qualities you need. They were great characters too. You can laugh just thinking about them!”

That fondness will be put on hold on Saturday, however, as United seek to extend the league lead with Chelsea and Liverpool meeting on Sunday.

-------------manutd.com--------------

BOSS PONDERS MIDFIELD OPTIONS

2009-10-03T11:28:00.000+07:00

BOSS PONDERS MIDFIELD OPTIONS

Sir Alex Ferguson admits he has a growing dilemma of who to select in central midfield as he prepares for Saturday's match against Sunderland.

There is now an embarrassment of riches in the centre of the park for the Reds. Against Wolfsburg on Wednesday night, the rapidly improving Anderson and winning goalscorer Michael Carrick matched the standard set by Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes in the previous victory at Stoke City. With Ryan Giggs rolling back the years, Owen Hargreaves nearing a return and Darron Gibson showing great promise, Sir Alex has a problem, albeit "a good one”.

“Our two central midfielders – Carrick and Anderson – were fantastic against Wolfsburg,” Sir Alex said on Friday.

“Michael (Carrick) knows himself he's not a quick starter. But we got some juice (rain) on the ground on Wednesday night and he seemed to revel in that. His form is coming right. I thought he was fantastic and I was really pleased for him.

"Anderson impressed me too - his form in the last few weeks has been top, he’s looked very, very good - and I thought Fletcher and Scholes were outstanding at Stoke. It is giving me a real headache."

NEVILLE LAUDS OLD GUARD

2009-10-03T11:25:00.000+07:00

NEVILLE LAUDS OLD GUARD

It seems every man and his dog has been praising Ryan Giggs recently. And rightly so: the 35-year-old was United’s star man during September, scoring two goals and having a hand in no less than seven others.

Now, as the Reds prepare to take on Sunderland at Old Trafford, Gary Neville has labelled his team-mate “absolutely outstanding” in Saturday’s United Review.

“Ryan's been our most creative player in key moments,” the United skipper says. “He’s winning us matches and his performance levels are fantastic.”

But it’s not just Giggs who’s caught the captain’s eye.

“Scholesy is still a brilliant player for us, too,” he says. “He can still control the pace of matches for us – everything sticks with him and he never wastes a pass. They’re both still world-class players and they’re crucially important to the squad.”

Neville, who’ll be hoping to earn a spot in Sir Alex’s starting XI on Saturday, knows he could be in for a tough 90 minutes.

“Sunderland have some very good players. Darren Bent’s a proven goalscorer and Fraizer Campbell will always score goals. Kieran Richardson has certainly got over his fitness problems from last season and is looking a lot stronger, too

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SIR ALEX

2009-10-03T11:23:00.001+07:00

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SIR ALEX

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SIR ALEX

Each month in Inside United the boss shares his footballing pearls of wisdom. This month he waxes lyrical about the recent Manchester derby, Michael Owen's winner and former Reds forward Louis Saha.

What did you do after the Manchester derby? Did you go home and watch the highlights or did you go out and celebrate?
I was drained, to be honest with you! I got home, had a glass of wine and went straight to bed. That’s not always the case, though. I normally try and watch Match of the Day on Saturday nights but it’s easy to forget about MOTD2 on Sundays.

ManUtd.com recently ran a poll – Macheda v Villa or Owen v City: which goal gave you the biggest buzz?
Both of them! How can I possibly choose between those great goals? But if I have to pick one it has to be Michael’s goal against Manchester City, though, just because he scored it in the derby.

Louis Saha has started the season well for Everton. How do you look back on Louis’ time at Old Trafford?
I’m really happy for him. He’s a terrific player with plenty of ability. He’s had a lot of injury problems but it’s good to see him back playing regularly. Louis is almost the complete centre-forward – two-footed, good in the air, quick, aggressive, powerful.. and he has a marvellous shot. Unfortunately he picked up too many injuries and that was frustrating for us… and for him.

R. Giggs continues to shine

2009-10-02T07:38:00.000+07:00

Dimitar Berbatov is rarely described as animated. Indeed, the caricature of the Manchester United striker is that neither face nor body moves. At Stoke on Saturday, Berbatov broke into a smile and a sprint at the same time, the natural delight of a goalscorer accompanied by a desire to attribute credit where it was due. Running towards the left wing, pointing at the provider, his gratitude to Ryan Giggs was clear.

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Berbatov shows his appreciation for Giggs.

His sentiments are being shared by increasing numbers of others. One banner at the Britannia Stadium said: "Arise Sir Ryan Giggs". Written before the Welshman marked his first 22 minutes on the pitch with assists for Berbatov and John O'Shea in United 2-0's win, it is a cause that is gaining currency.

In Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton, the club already has a pair of knights. For Giggs OBE, recognition for a lifetime's work appeared to have arrived in April, when he was crowned Player of the Year by his peers. It had a valedictory feel; despite his magisterial performance in the January win against Chelsea, he had only started 12 Premier League games in the season. The obvious expectation was that a 35-year-old would figure less frequently in the future.

Instead, Giggs has now become the early front-runner for another award. At this formative stage of the season, he is among its most influential performers, playing a pivotal part in a quartet of invaluable victories, against Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester City and Stoke. While in the Champions League against Wolfsburg he netted his 150th goal for the club and added another assist for Michael Carrick's winner.

He has an official total of six assists in those five games, but an involvement in ten goals is a greater indication of his influence. Against Arsenal, his pass enabled Wayne Rooney to win a penalty, while his free-kick was accidentally converted by Abou Diaby for what proved the winner. At White Hart Lane, it was a perfectly placed Giggs free kick that brought the equaliser.

During the derby, his role in Rooney's opener was, admittedly, small, with a quick throw; the next three goals, however, were fashioned by a craftsman. Darren Fletcher headed in two balls from the left wing before Michael Owen, the recipient of an impeccable pass, scored the injury-time winner.

It illustrated that Giggs is capable of bisecting a defence with one ball while a set-piece expertise that has been obscured for several years has ensured Cristiano Ronaldo's free-kicks have not been missed. The Portuguese liked to operate with a flamboyant flourish; as Giggs showed when setting Berbatov up with a deceptively simple pass, making things look easy is a skill in itself.

That is one of Giggs' gifts. Other 35-year-olds can labour when running; he is blessed with the kind of natural fitness that gives his game a freshness. He no longer ranks among the game's sprinters, though that merely added to Micah Richards' difficulties in the derby. The younger Giggs would have had the acceleration to wave the right-back farewell on his way past; the footballing pensioner did not need to escape Richards. He simply beat him for a second occasion. The flecks of grey around the winger's temples may have added to the defender's embarrassment as Giggs jinked away from him again.

Speed was his original forte. If it is now skill, it is a sign of an ability to reinvent himself. Once a fixture on the left flank, he has been a second striker, a deep-lying central midfielder, a right winger, though this season has brought him full circle with a return to his old territory.

Minus Ronaldo, Giggs is now much the best option on the wings. Nani offers ingenuity, but can infuriate. Antonio Valencia, like a younger Giggs, has the pace without always providing the delivery. Ji-sung Park's game is based more on high energy than high quality. Yet there is a tendency for many of football's senior citizens to retreat to the centre of the pitch, rather than returning to the touchline as Giggs has.

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The 35-year-old is showing no signs of slowing.

It means that, apart from Ronaldo's remarkable final three seasons at Old Trafford and a couple of years when Andrei Kanchelskis was in his electrifying prime, he is likely to end his career having been United's premier winger for three-quarters of a two-decade career at Old Trafford.

Yet it is one that could have been curtailed several years ago. Giggs' brace against Juventus in 2003, an undoubted highlight of even his career, came at a time when Ferguson was pursuing first Damien Duff and then Arjen Robben. Chelsea's superior purchasing power then may be benefiting United now.

Familiarity can prevent appreciation. That may have been an issue in the third quarter of Giggs' time in the United team. Now, however, it has brought a belated sense of admiration, perhaps because each year has a deceptive sense of finality. This is the fourth successive season that threatens to prove the Indian summer of Giggs' career.

In 2006-07 as United won their first title for four years, he was shortlisted for the PFA Player of the Year award; the following campaign, he equalled Charlton's appearance record by scoring in the game that clinched the Premier League and passed it in the Champions League final, converting United's final penalty in the shootout; last season, of course, brought Giggs the elusive PFA prize. This could yet bring a repeat for the oldest winger in town. As a teenage prodigy, he started out being compared to George Best; given his longevity, Giggs may be 21st century football's answer to Stanley Matthews now.

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Fergie purrs over Giggs after landmark goal

2009-10-01T07:35:00.000+07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hailed the unbelievable contribution of Ryan Giggs after the Welshman netted his 150th goal for the club in the 2-1 Champions League win over Wolfsburg.

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Giggs celebrates his 150th United goal

Giggs reached the mark thanks to a deflected free-kick in the second half to equalise Edin Dzeko's shock opener, paving the way for United to go on and clinch victory through Michael Carrick.

Ferguson told ITV: He's unbelievable. With all the superlatives and praise he's had over the years, I don't know how you can add to it. He's a marvellous player."

Ferguson said he was pleased with the standard of performance from his side, in particular the battling qualities they showed in coming back to beat a strong Bundesliga outfit.

Ferguson added: "Their goal was a surprise but I thought it was a matter of time before we scored. We got a bit fortuitous for our goal with the deflection but the performance deserved it.

"I thought it was a very good performance. What they are good at is they never give in. No matter what the score is, they keep playing and they get their reward. Our performance level was very good.''

On Michael Owen, who limped off in the first half with a groin complaint, Ferguson added: "Groins are difficult to say - he could be out for maybe two to three weeks. But his fitness level is good so it shouldn't be too long.''

Giggs said: "It was a poor free-kick to be fair but we got that little bit of luck. (The goal) doesn't represent anything, obviously I'm proud to do it but it was more important that we got back in the game so soon after they scored.''

"It was a good performance, in the final third we were lacking that quality pass. We got that little bit of luck after they scored and showed great character to come back.''

The win United a clear advantage in Group B, with just a win and a draw required from next month's double-header against CSKA Moscow to hit the 10-point target Ferguson always sets for qualification.

"It is an opportunity for us,'' said Ferguson, who could find himself with the luxury of being able to rest key men for the final two qualifying games if all goes to plan. CSKA are a very young team but they play some good football. It is an important two games for us. If we can navigate those two games we are through.''

Amid the euphoria of victory, Ferguson could not have helped but notice the impressive performance of Edin Dzeko, the 23-year-old Bosnian, who is surely destined for greater things. "I would say yes he can on that evidence,'' said Ferguson, when asked whether Dzeko could play at a higher level.

The player's own manager, Armin Veh, was hardly going to disagree. "Edin scored a good goal tonight,'' said Veh. "But it wasn't just his goal. He caused problems for their defenders, mainly through excellent technique. When he plays like that he is bound to be of interest to other clubs.''

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Manchester United 2 - 1 VfL Wolfsburg (Carrick and Giggs on target)

2009-10-01T07:31:00.000+07:00

Carrick and Giggs on target

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Carrick gives United all three points

SCORING SUMMARY
Manchester United	VfL Wolfsburg
Ryan Giggs (59)	Edin Dzeko (55)
Michael Carrick (78)

MATCH STATS
	Manchester United	VfL Wolfsburg
Shots (on Goal)	18(8)	12(2)
Fouls	10	13
Corner Kicks	4	5
Offsides	8	0
Time of Possession	57%	44%
Yellow Cards	1	1
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	1	6

MATCH INFORMATION

Stadium: Old Trafford, England
Attendance:
Match Time: 19:45 UK
Official(s):
Viktor Kassai (Referee)

TEAMS
Manchester United	VfL Wolfsburg
29 Tomasz Kuszczak	1 Diego Benaglio
15 Nemanja Vidic	17 Alexander Madlung
5 Rio Ferdinand	5 Ricardo Costa
3 Patrice Evra	7 Josué
22 John O'Shea	4 Marcel Schäfer
8 Anderson	20 Sascha Riether
16 Michael Carrick	10 Zvjezdan Misimovic
11 Ryan Giggs	25 Christian Gentner
25 Antonio Valencia	13 Makoto Hasebe
7 Michael Owen	23 Grafite
10 Wayne Rooney	9 Edin Dzeko
Substitutes
18 Paul Scholes	Obafemi Martins 11
6 Wes Brown	Andrea Barzagli 43
24 Darren Fletcher	Karim Ziani 15
9 Dimitar Berbatov	Jonathan Santana 14
12 Ben Foster	André Lenz 12
17 Nani	Ashkan Dejagah 24
20 Fabio	Peter Pekarík 19
Substitutions
Dimitar Berbatov for Michael Owen (20)	Karim Ziani for Makoto Hasebe(73)
Darren Fletcher for Antonio Valencia (82)	Obafemi Martins for Grafite(82)
Yellow Cards
Nemanja Vidic (39)	Ricardo Costa (61)
· Club Squads: Manchester United \| VfL Wolfsburg

Updated: October 1, 2009, 8:50 AM UK

On the night Michael Owen's World Cup dream may have come to a shattering end, the great survivor Ryan Giggs became the ninth player in Manchester United history to score 150 goals for the club.

Last year's PFA Player of the Year is being championed for a knighthood by sections of the Old Trafford faithful. After all the plaudits that have accompanied one of the most astonishing careers of all-time, it is difficult to know what else there is to give the 35-year-old.
Yet knowing Giggs, victory will be his only prize. And he helped achieve that tonight by setting up Michael Carrick for the winner 12 minutes from time after Edin Dzeko had put German champions Wolfsburg in front just after half-time.
If it was a night of glory for Giggs, misery was the only appropriate word for Owen. Twenty-four hours can be a long time in politics, so the old saying goes. As he reflected on his misfortune, Owen must have thought the same is also true of football.
After speaking so forcefully about his World Cup dream and the hopes of playing for his country again, having done so with such success before, a racing man like Owen could hardly have hoped for a better pre-match double than a place in Sir Alex Ferguson's starting line-up and the sight of Fabio Capello in the stands.
Capello is known to be dubious about Owen's fitness record. Time and again he has deflected questions over England's fourth-highest goalscorer by demanding to know how often he has played. The platform was there for Owen to prove Capello's doubts were unfounded. He lasted 20 minutes.
That the former Liverpool star did little even in that short time to spark a strangely lethargic United side and his replacement Dimitar Berbatov made an instant impact only damaged the 29-year-old's cause still further.
Nothing is certain. But if Owen makes the plane to South Africa from here, he will have to be either very brilliant, or very lucky.
Berbatov's back-heel that sent Antonio Valencia clean through immediately showed United were not going to meekly sit back and toss away a couple of points to the German champions, who have emerged from nowhere thanks to the backing of car giants Volkswagen.
Having failed in very similar circumstances at Stoke on Saturday, Valencia could not be trusted to score with any confidence and again his finish lacked confidence as it bounced wide.
Berbatov also somehow squeezed a pass to Carrick then left him in an even better position. Unlike Valencia, Carrick has been a capable goalscorer in the past. The former Tottenham man is not having the best of seasons though and Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio was out in a flash and made a fine close-range save.
With their free-scoring strike pair Dzeko and Grafite threatening and Zvjezdan Misimovic a danger in possession, Wolfsburg could in no way be described as being overawed.
And, while United were the better side, seeing the visitors opening the scoring was not entirely unexpected. Makoto Hasebe received a return pass from Grafite and quickly looked up to see Dzeko on the far post being marked by Patrice Evra.
It was a clear mis-match and the Bosnian had little trouble rising above the Frenchman to steer a header into the bottom corner. Had United been unable to respond immediately, they would have been in big trouble. Thankfully for the champions, Giggs found the answer after Anderson had been brought down.
As the 35-year-old's first United goal came thanks to a huge deflection off Colin Hendry in 1991, there was something symmetrical about the sight of his 150th ending up in the net in very similar fashion as the ball cannoned into the Wolfsburg wall and left Benaglio helpless.
Giggs' contribution did not end there though. After Rooney and Berbatov had started the move, the Welshman stretched to push a pass into Carrick's path 12 minutes from time.
Under pressure to score after his earlier failure, Carrick celebrated like a relieved man as a first-time curling shot nestled in the net with Benaglio beaten in comprehensive fashion, this time in more orthodox fashion. Wolfsburg pressed at the end but Giggs was able to celebrate as a winner - and Owen headed to the treatment table.

Owen: I will play for England again

2009-10-01T00:28:00.000+07:00

Owen: I will play for England again

Michael Owen insists he remains as good a player as when he was England's leading striker and has vowed to prove his worth to England and Manchester United.

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Owen's hat-trick against Germany in 2001 remains a career highlight.

Owen, named European player of the year in 2001, has been blighted by injuries over the past few seasons and has struggled to re-create the form that saw him collect the Balon D'Or after winning three trophies with Liverpool and netting a hat-trick for England in their 5-1 demolition of Germany.

And despite a prolific 40 goals in 89 games for the national side, current England boss Fabio Capello has continued to overlook the striker, maintaining that he will only pick players on their form and not their reputation.

But after moving to United, and scoring the winner in the Manchester derby, things are looking up for Owen, who dismissed those who claim he is past his best.

"I am not slower now than I was seven, eight years ago,'' Owen told the Times. "No chance. With the hamstring problems early in my career, they knocked a yard off my pace straightaway, but since then I have been the same player and if anything I have improved.

"Game awareness is a good word for it. A lot of it is so instinctive it's hard to put down. It is your experience taking you into areas. You think, 'Would I have moved there as a kid, would I have anticipated that?"

After a period in the international wilderness, Owen is determined to be on the plane to South Africa next summer, but while he is desperate to return to the international fold, he admitted that Capello has never discussed the possibility of an England re-call.

"People think I'm past my thirties, I'm in my forties, the way they talk about me," Owen said. "I'm only 29. I'm not past it. It's not an easy squad to get into with the results the team are getting at the minute. But I'm as passionate as ever about extending my time with England.

"Capello has never talked to me about the situation. I met him after the Community Shield. I was getting on to the coach. He was coming down to get in his car to leave. He was there with Franco Baldini.

"Franco saw me and gave me the thumbs up. I walked over and shook both of their hands. Franco said, 'How are you? Are you feeling fit?' I said, 'Yeah, yeah, I'm feeling fine.' 'Good luck, we'll keep watching you.' That's the only contact.''

Owen also revealed his delight at his summer move to Old Trafford, a move that gives him the chance to re-ignite a career that had stagnated during a spell at St James' Park.

"I had felt a bit strangled at Newcastle" Owen told the Daily Telegraph. "There were certain games I would have five touches. Newcastle had some cracking players but we were just so low on confidence.''

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Michael Owen: New derby hero.

"I had a few butterflies [when he first metSir Alex Ferguson]" but after five minutes I lost that nervousness and was able to talk. I listened more than I talked which is pretty wise I would suggest!"

And the striker has certainly endeared himself to United fans after his last-gasp winner in the Manchester derby.

"To score such a dramatic goal against your arch rivals did a lot for me," Owen said. "I'd contributed to winning a game. I felt part of the club. I felt great among the lads and the fans."

Midfielder Ji-Sung Park has been ruled out

2009-09-29T23:58:00.001+07:00

Midfielder Ji-Sung Park has been ruled out of Manchester United's Champions League clash with Wolfsburg on Wednesday with a virus, though Patrice Evra and Michael Owen should be in contention.

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Park in action against Burnley this season.

Park, who started last season's Champions League final against Barcelona, missed training after contracting the virus, leaving Sir Alex Ferguson little choice but to rule the South Korean out. Better news for United is that Evra has recovered from a similar illness.

"Ji-Sung has a virus," said the United boss. "Patrice Evra had it at the weekend. After the Stoke game he felt a bit uneasy - he was in bed on Sunday and didn't come to training, but he came in for a bit yesterday, came in today and he should be alright."

Meanwhile, Manchester derby hero Michael Owen is expected to recover from a groin strain that forced him out of training.

"Michael should be alright for tomorrow," Ferguson said. "He had a tight groin in training yesterday, nothing serious. But obviously for the game tomorrow we didn't want to be pushing that. Other than that everyone's fit."

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Vidic brushes off loss of Ronaldo and Tevez

2009-09-29T23:56:00.000+07:00

Vidic brushes off loss of Ronaldo and Tevez
Nemanja Vidic is still trying to ignore talk about the impact of losing both Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez in the summer, determined that Manchester United's success this season will not be based on how the club deals with their departures.

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Serbian international Nemanja Vidic

The Serbia international, speaking ahead of Manchester United's Champions League date with Wolfsburg on Wednesday night, feels that the club's critics are desperate for United to fail this season so they can point the finger of blame at Sir Alex Ferguson for not adequately replacing the duo.

"Ronaldo and Tevez are quality players, there is no question about that,'' Vidic said. "But it is hard to say whether we have got over losing them. We will probably only know that at the end of the season.

"If we don't win trophies, people will say it is because they have gone, although that is not necessarily the case. At the moment we are doing well. We have had the best start in the four years I have been here. There is no question we have quality players but, for me, the really encouraging sign is that we are still not in the best form.

"You don't want to be at your highest level at this stage. We have to be ready for the most important games at the end.''

Vidic was also quick to praise striker Wayne Rooney, but believes his value to the side has long been overlooked with Ronaldo in the squad.

"It is wrong that people are suddenly looking at Wayne,'' he said. "He has always been an important player for us so, in that sense, nothing has changed. Sometimes he does things the fans don't see because he is doing a job for the team.

"This year he is even more noticeable because he is scoring goals and has a different role in the team. But we don't need to put pressure on him. We know all about his ability.''
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Ticket News: Wolfsburg, Sunderland - limited tickets still available

2009-09-29T08:08:00.001+07:00

LIMITED WOLFSBURG TICKETS AVAILABLE

You still have a chance to book tickets to see United's first home Champions League game of the season against Vfl Wolfsburg on Wednesday 30 September (KO 19:45 BST).

The Reds got off to a good start in Group B with a 1-0 win against Besiktas in Istanbul two weeks ago, and now United welcome Bundesliga's champions Wolfsburg to Old Trafford.

There are a limited number of tickets on sale for Wednesday's match.

Tickets can be purchased online, by calling 0161 868 8000, or by visiting the Megastore or Ticketing & Membership Services.

Click here to view ticket prices

LIMITED SUNDERLAND TICKETS AVAILABLE

A limited number of tickets are also available to for the Reds' Barclays Premier League game with Sunderland this Saturday, 3 October (KO 17:30 BST).

United moved to the top of the table with a 2-0 win over Stoke on Saturday and are looking to maintain that lead with the visit of Steve Bruce's Sunderland side.

Tickets can be purchased online, by calling 0161 868 8000, or by visiting the Megastore or Ticketing & Membership Services.

Click here for ticket prices.

Hospitality packages are also available for this game. Click here for more information or call 0161 868 8000 (option 2).

Edwin van der Sar : "I have the hunger to win again"

2009-09-29T00:29:00.000+07:00

"I have the hunger to win again"

Edwin van der Sar has vowed to deliver another Champions League title to the Man United fans before retiring.

The 38-year-old goalkeeper has not featured this season yet because of a finger injury.

However, the Dutchman refuted claims that he is intending to hang up his gloves at the end of the season.

Speaking to the Sunday Mirror, he said: "I don't want to pack it in. At the end of my holiday this summer, I was itching to go back to the training ground,

"I have the hunger to win the Champions League again. It does not matter that I won it in the past.

"The season could not start soon enough for me and it was unfortunate I got injured. After our pre-season tour in Korea, I said something about my future and the next day it was all over the back pages that I wanted to ruin [Ben] Foster's World Cup dream.

"That was nonsense. Foster got more playing time than ever last season because I was taking rests."

He also took time out to pay tribute to the man who has brought so much glory to Old Trafford in his time at the club, Sir Alex Ferguson.

"Alex Ferguson is the man who guarantees continuity at this club. He has built an empire and a group of loyal and trustworthy people around him and the team," said the goalkeeper.

"He does not need to be at the training ground every day. He does not even have to try and influence me to sign again.

"As a player you know what you have got at United because of all the staff around Fergie. They are all great people. The trick is that as a player here, you know you are employed by a multi-million pound football company,
but inside it feels as if you are surrounded by family."

There has been no official date as to when the giant stopper will be back in action.

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Dimitar Berbatov scores from Giggs' pass

2009-09-29T00:14:00.001+07:00

Berbatov hails evergreen Giggs

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has hailed Ryan Giggs as the master game-breaker after the veteran midfielder once again inspired his team victory at the weekend.

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Dimitar Berbatov scores from Giggs' pass

The 35-year-old Welshman came on as a second-half substitute against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium and set up goals for Berbatov and John O'Shea to secure a 2-0 win that moved United to the top of the Premier League.

Berbatov said: "The game changed when Ryan came on. He makes the right decisions. That is what got us the three points. You can see because of the number of years he has been able to play for Manchester Untied how much he helps by being on the pitch."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson threw Giggs into the action after watching Nani and £16 million summer recruit Antonio Valencia struggle to break down a Stoke side that Potters manager Tony Pulis later admitted were "flat".

Despite being top of the league the failure of United's other widemen to hit form must be a worry for Ferguson, who has repeatedly called on Giggs to spark United into life this season.

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Red View: Team news, O'Shea exclusive, famous late goals + more

2009-09-25T23:44:00.001+07:00

Red View: Team news, O'Shea exclusive, famous late goals + more

FOSTER TO START AT STOKE

Ben Foster will start for United against Stoke City on Saturday as the Reds will be without Edwin van der Sar for a further three weeks.

Tomasz Kuszczak impressed between the sticks against Wolves on Wednesday, but Foster keeps his place for league duty against his former club.

Van der Sar, who suffered a broken hand against Bayern Munich in pre-season, isn't expected back until mid-October.

"Edwin is still three weeks away," confirmed Sir Alex Ferguson at his Friday press conference. "It was a good opportunity for Tomasz to play on Wednesday, but Ben will play against Stoke."

The boss also confirmed that there were no fresh injury concerns from Wednesday night and all the players involved in the 4-3 derby victory over Manchester City are in contention for selection this weekend.

Sir Alex revealed his respect for the work Tony Pulis is doing at Stoke and believes the trip to the Britannia Stadium will be tricky for the champions.

"Stoke have a good home record, and I'm not surprised how they've started the season at all," he said. "They're a club on the up and they're going to be a force."
More: Hargreaves back in a month | Today at Old Trafford

O'SHEA READY FOR BATTLE

Sunday's dramatic win over City was an occasion to savour, but John O'Shea insists the Reds are fully focused on moving forward at Stoke on Saturday.

Having booked a spot in the Carling Cup fourth round by beating Wolves in midweek, United's attentions now turn back to the league, and O'Shea is well aware of the difficulties the champions will face against Pulis' side.

"The derby win was amazing, but that will soon be forgotten come five past three on Saturday when Stoke are getting in and about you," O'Shea told Red View.

"Stoke have really improved over the last year and made some good signings. They don't just have good battling qualities, they've got good footballing qualities too.

"I know Glenn Whelan, who plays centre midfield for them, from the Irish team and he's not only a good battler, but he's great from set pieces and is a good passer. So we know we'll have plenty of work to do."

The Reds earned a battling 1-0 victory over the Potters last season thanks to Carlos Tevez's late winner. And O'Shea is hoping for a repeat result this time round.

"We know from last season how tough a place it is to go and it was a crucial win for us, especially as it was our first game back after the Club World Cup," he added.

"We're under no illusions of how tough it will be, but we're playing well at the moment and hopefully we can pick up another three points."

Q&A: JONNY EVANS

Jonny Evans may be called upon for the rough and tumble of a visit to Stoke this weekend. If so, he’ll likely prove once again why he’s moved so seamlessly into the senior United side. Here he tells us what life is like in the first team…

How pleased were you with last season?
At the start of the season I didn’t expect to be involved as much as I was. To get the Carling Cup, especially the way we won it with a lot of young players playing, was very pleasing.

What are you striving for this year?
To be involved as much as I can. People say you can have a good first season because of the adrenaline that comes with it, but the second season is always harder. So I want to remain consistent, put in good performances and improve as a player.

How did coming through the ranks here prepare you for life in the first team?
I’ve had some great coaches along the way, particularly Paul McGuinness . He’s very intense and you can see how dedicated he is to Manchester United, he absolutely loves the club and puts everything into his coaching. Working with him in the youth team gives you an insight into what it means to work at Manchester United. He developed me as a person and as a player. He makes you realise you’ve got to put the work in for yourself if you’re going to become a better player.

Do you feel like you’re a fully fledged United player now?
You don’t sit down and think ‘I’m a United player now’ – especially not after a handful of games. There are plenty of players who’ve played up to 100 games for United and aren’t well remembered. You want to make your mark on the history of the club and be remembered. Only then can you say ‘I made it at United’.

What are the highlights of your United career to date?
I’d have to say the whole of last season. The Carling Cup and the Club World Cup and winning the Premier League. I don’t think many players get that in their whole career so to get that in one season was unbelievable.

Are we going to see a goal from you this season?
I don’t know why I bother going up for corners any more! I look up to Rio Ferdinand and he’s not scored too many goals, so I’m just following in his footsteps!

Who’s been your toughest opponent on the pitch?
I’ve played against some really good forwards but one of the toughest opponents I’ve played against is Rob Hulse at Derby last year. People wouldn’t class him up there with the likes of Torres and Drogba but he puts himself about, he’s really good in the air and he’s a player I didn’t enjoy playing against.

And what about on the training field?
I have to say Wayne Rooney … because if I don’t he’ll moan!

This interview first appeared in issue 207 of Inside United.

Fergie:" It was a fantastic goal"

2009-09-25T06:05:00.000+07:00

A powerful strike from youngster Danny Welbeck gave defending champions Manchester United a 1-0 victory over Wolves in the third round of the Carling Cup and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has vowed to continue to give his fringe players a chance to impress in the competition.

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Goalscorer Danny Welbeck - set up by Owen - models his celebration on Usain Bolt

United won the Carling Cup last season with a squad based on youngsters and Ferguson, who has a history of blooding players in the knock-out tournament, sees no reason why the Red Devils should abandon that philosophy this term.

"It does excite me that I can give the young lads a chance in this competition," said Ferguson. "It is the only thing we can do. It is good for them to get the experience of playing at Old Trafford. It is a good breeding ground for young players."

England Under-21 star Welbeck was the main beneficiary on Wednesday night, netting a stylish winner midway through the second half after exchanging passes with Michael Owen.

The born and bred Mancunian featured in last year's final, as well as the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Everton and is clearly making a positive impression on the Old Trafford hierarchy.

"It was a fantastic goal. The passing and the finish were top quality," said Ferguson. "The angle Michael Owen created made it easy for him."

Ferguson is now dreaming of a home tie with Peterborough in the next round of the cup, which would mean a match-up with son Darren, a former United player.

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Manchester United 1 - 0 Wolverhampton Wanderers

2009-09-24T08:13:00.000+07:00

Manchester United 1 - 0 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Welbeck gives holders victory

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Michael Owen was forced to play a lone role up front for United

SCORING SUMMARY
Manchester United	Wolverhampton Wanderers
Danny Welbeck (66)

MATCH STATS
	Manchester United	Wolverhampton Wanderers
Shots (on Goal)	15(8)	10(4)
Fouls	7	10
Corner Kicks	3	7
Offsides	5	1
Time of Possession	48%	52%
Yellow Cards	0	0
Red Cards	1	0
Saves	6	6

MATCH INFORMATION

Stadium: Old Trafford, England
Attendance: 51,160
Match Time: 20:00 UK
Official(s):
Peter Walton (Referee)

TEAMS
Manchester United	Wolverhampton Wanderers
29 Tomasz Kuszczak	13 Marcus Hahnemann
2 Gary Neville	6 Jody Craddock
6 Wes Brown	32 Kevin Foley
23 Jonathan Evans	16 Christophe Berra
20 Fabio Da Silva	3 George Elokobi
16 Michael Carrick	8 Karl Henry
17 Nani	7 Michael Kightly
28 Darron Gibson	14 David Jones
7 Michael Owen	35 Segundo Castillo
19 Danny Welbeck	9 Sylvan Ebanks-Blake
27 Federico Macheda	33 Stefan Maierhofer
Substitutes
40 Ben Amos	Carl Ikeme 30
5 Rio Ferdinand	Matthew Hill 26
30 Ritchie De Laet	Ronald Zubar 23
25 Antonio Valencia	Greg Halford 15
14 Zoran Tosic	Nenad Milijas 20
42 Magnus Eikrem	Kevin Doyle 29
41 Joshua King	Andrew Keogh 10
Substitutions
Ritchie De Laet for Federico Macheda (31)	Nenad Milijas for Segundo Castillo (46)
Antonio Valencia for Michael Owen (69)	Kevin Doyle for Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (66)
Joshua King for Danny Welbeck (81)	Andrew Keogh for Michael Kightly (77)
Red Cards
Fabio Da Silva (30)
· Club Squads: Manchester United \| Wolverhampton Wanderers

At a time when English clubs' recruitment of overseas youngsters is attracting the disapproving attention of FIFA, one of Manchester United's true home-grown talents sent their 10 men into the Carling Cup fourth round with a 1-0 win over Wolves.

Born in Longsight, a long stone's throw from Old Trafford, England Under-21 international Danny Welbeck calmly ensured Wolves were not able to profit from the dismissal of Fabio after just half an hour.
Welbeck finished in fine style after running on to Michael Owen's precise return pass, ensuring the holders' progress to the last 16 was smooth after a largely one-sided contest in which the loss of a player had barely any impact.
As expected, Ferguson changed his entire starting line-up from Sunday's dramatic derby draw with City.
Yet there were still opportunities for Michael Carrick and Nani, who both missed out at the weekend, plus Owen and Tomasz Kuszczak who, in their own individual way, had something to prove.
Owen has now shown his goalscoring instinct remains. Yet, as a 90-minute player he remains a bit of an unknown.
In fairness to the veteran forward, the presence of Federico Macheda and Welbeck alongside him meant he had to do more tracking back than he would normally expect and it was only after United's numbers were reduced that he really came into his own.
Kuszczak must have sensed a Premier League start at Stoke would follow an eye-catching display given Ben Foster's pitiful experience against the Blues, when he was directly responsible for one goal and hardly covered himself in glory with the last.
The Pole benefited from Fabio's departure too, producing a fine fingertip save to deny former United midfielder David Jones with the resultant free-kick.
All in all then, with the contest turning into a keenly-fought affair instead of the sterile stalemate that had gone before, the sending-off was no bad thing, except for poor Fabio, who cut a dejected figure as he made his way off the field.
In truth, the Brazilian could have no complaints.
Put in trouble by Jonny Evans' failure to win an aerial duel with the robust Stefan Maierhofer and Wes Brown over-running the loose ball which momentarily escaped his vision, Fabio looked like getting back to challenge Kightly.
Unluckily, he slipped just at the wrong moment, so in sticking out a despairing arm to prevent Kightly charging clear into the box, he brought the Wolves man down for what was ruled a professional foul.
Owen had United's best chance before the interval but could only turn a header straight at Marcus Hahnemann, who experienced his own Foster moment just before the break when his attempted clearance was charged down by Welbeck.
Fortunately for the veteran American, it bounced to safety.
A surging Welbeck run created an opportunity Darron Gibson should have done more with, and only Nani's poor cross prevented him setting up Carrick after Gary Neville had sent the Portugal wide-man racing forward.
The goal, when it eventually came, just emphasised the gulf in class.
Wolves thought they had the situation under control when Gibson rolled a sideways pass to Carrick 30 yards out.
But within an instant, the England midfielder had created space for Welbeck, whose first time pass was returned in equally promising manner by Owen, who succeeded in providing his young team-mate with an opportunity to run onto the ball, clear of the Wolves defence.
The finish was first-time too. Straight into the bottom corner, as befits a player currently making the graduation from England Under-19 to Under-21 duty and surely destined for even higher honours one day.
Welbeck departed to a standing ovation from United's lowest crowd for four years - which still exceeded 50,000 - for another teenager, Norwegian Joshua King, of whom very big things are expected.
With a bit more composure and a little bit of luck, King might have marked his debut with a goal too, although ultimately one proved to be enough.

Fergie wants family tie in draw

Sir Alex Ferguson wants a Carling Cup last 16 meeting with son Darren, manager of Championship side Peterborough. "Peterborough at home," he said. "All the family should be happy with that."

"It was a fantastic goal," purred Ferguson over Welbeck's winner. "There was some quality passing involved in the move and he took it really well. It was obviously a difficult job for him, playing with 10 men for so long, but the goal told you everything about the boy's quality. He earned it."
Ferguson had no complaints over Fabio's dismissal for hauling down Michael Kightly after the youngster had slipped as he attempted to make a tackle.
The Scot was delighted with his side's discipline in possession, which left Wolves chasing shadows for long periods under Kevin Doyle brought a bit of spark late on.
But, having changed his entire starting line-up from Sunday's breathtaking win over Manchester City, Ferguson felt vindicated in his selection policy which allowed him to introduce 17-year-old Norwegian Joshua King for his debut, another promising striker to emerge at Old Trafford.
"The boy has a really good future," said Ferguson. In fact, with Welbeck, Federico Macheda and Joshua King we have some really good young strikers. It is a long time since we had a group as good as that coming through the club."

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy accused his side of showing a lack of belief when they were facing 10 men.
"I preferred it when they had 11," said McCarthy. "Manchester United have done it many times before, against clubs who have been in the Premier League far longer than us.
"They pick teams off and get to the other end of the pitch by playing through you. We were in the game more before they had a man sent off. But the result was more about us, our confidence and our belief in beating a team with 10 men."
Yet McCarthy refused to castigate a team for whom Kightly and former United striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake were returning after extended periods on the sidelines. "We have been in the Premier League for three months," he said. "That doesn't make us a Premier League team. We are a football club that has got itself into the Premier League and for most of the time we have competed.
"Manchester United are arguably the best team in Europe. Liverpool have a similar set-up, and Arsenal. We are snotty-nosed kids coming up from the Championship.
"Is it a case of us coming up here and having our bellies tickled and for them to say, 'thanks for coming'? I don't like that. But it is part of the learning process."

Hargreaves return

2009-09-24T08:09:00.000+07:00

Hargreaves steps closer to United return

Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has taken another step towards recovery from his knee surgery, returning to the Red Devil's Carrington training ground to continue his rehabilitation.

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The midfielder has suffered in recent years.

The England star has been plagued by a tendinitis problem that preceeded his £18million move from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2007.

Although Hargreaves did manage to get through his first season at Old Trafford, and play in the 2008 Champions League final victory over Chelsea, the problem surfaced once more at the start of last season and it was decided to send him for surgery.

Under the guidance of renowned Colorado knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman, who counts Ruud van Nistelrooy and Alan Shearer among the players he has helped recover from ruptured cruciate ligaments, Hargreaves had operations on both knees.

The Calgary-born player has remained in the United States for an extended period of rehabilitation ahead of his return to Manchester. he has been accompanied by the physios who have been working with him across the Atlantic, and they will now offer the United medical staff guidance on the best way to manage his recovery.

Sir Alex Ferguson is determined not to rush Hargreaves' return, knowing the player could be a very influential figure if he does eventually regain full fitness. However, he has been registered to play in the group stages of the Champions League, withthe United manager optimistic he will be fit to play a role by the end of November.

"Hargreaves [has been included] because, having taken the medical advice, we think he'll be available for the last three Champions League group-stage games," said Ferguson when naming his 25-man Champions League squad. "He's a versatile player who can perform in so many positions, so he could be a very important player for us at that time of the season."

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Manchester United v Wolverhampton Wanderers

2009-09-22T23:42:00.000+07:00

Brown ready to start again

COMPETITION STATS
	Manchester United	Wolverhampton Wanderers
Goals
Reds
Yellows		Marcus Hahnemann 1
· Club Squads : Manchester United \| Wolverhampton Wanderers

Next Five Matches in Competition
Manchester United		Wolverhampton Wanderers
9/23	H: Wolverhampton Wanderers	9/23	A: Manchester United
· Club Fixtures: Manchester United \| Wolverhampton Wanderers

Updated: September 22, 2009, 3:37 PM UK

Manchester United defender Wes Brown refuses to get downhearted at the way his injury curse returned just as he was starting to fulfil his enormous potential.Sir Alex Ferguson has always viewed Brown as one of the most natural defenders he has worked with at United.
Yet, on too many occasions, the 29-year-old's progress has been halted. Cruciate operations on both knees, a broken ankle and a host of muscular problems have kept Brown on the sidelines for extended periods.
It seemed those problems were at an end though when Brown stepped into Gary Neville's right-back role and became an integral member of the United side that swept to a Premier League and Champions League double in 2008.
At that stage, with a place in Fabio Capello's England team for the first four games of their outstanding World Cup qualifying campaign also secured, the future looked bright for Brown.
Instead, after irritating Ferguson by dragging his heels over contract negotiations and then getting an ear-bashing for an own goal he scored at Liverpool, Brown's career was put on hold again by a ankle injury that ultimately kept him out for all but three games of the remainder of last season.
Brown's hopes of hitting the ground running this term were wrecked by a thigh problem suffered during a pre-season game in Munich, condemning the likeable Mancunian to spend the start of this term warming the bench.
Although the defender has made three appearances, his only starts came against Burnley and Arsenal last month and he did not even make the bench for Sunday's derby clash.
So once more, Brown has a sense of making up for lost time when he features in the Carling Cup tie with Wolves.
"It was frustrating not to be able to build on where I was at the end of 2008,'' he said. "Getting injured for most of last season was not very pleasant but I am used to it I suppose.
"There is no point thinking 'Why me?' I just get on with it and try to be confident. I am fit at the moment. That is the main thing.''
Brown will not be the only United player eager to make an impression against Mick McCarthy's men.
Ben Foster's disappointing performance against City seems to have opened the door to Tomasz Kuszczak while Edwin van der Sar completes the final stages of his recovery from a broken finger.
Kuszczak was always set to feature but the Pole must be aware an impressive display might allow him to keep his place for Saturday's Premier League trip to Stoke.
Darron Gibson gets another chance to build on a blossoming reputation, while Michael Owen is likely to start for only the second time this season after his match-winning exploits at the weekend.
Ferguson does have the option of pairing teenage duo Federico Macheda and Daniel Welbeck - who like Gibson was part of United's starting line-up for the victory over Tottenham at Wembley last March - together in attack.
However, as Welbeck operated in a wider role during the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Everton, there is a chance Ferguson will operate with three strikers, supplemented by Nani and Zoran Tosic, who are also expected to be involved.
Wolves manager McCarthy has vowed to be bold.
McCarthy, who will hand starts to strikers Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Stefan Maierhofer and winger Michael Kightly, believes going to Old Trafford to try and frustrate United would be a mistake.
He is not prepared for his team to sit back and defend for 90 minutes and try to catch United on the break.
McCarthy said: "We will play 4-4-2 against them and have a game with them.
"I don't know what team Sir Alex Ferguson will play but we will play whoever he turns out. But we are not going there to sit back and have them attack us for 90 minutes.
"That would be a recipe for disaster so we will be going up there and trying to make sure that we are on the front foot for the game.
"I have never beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford in anything but we want to try to win the game.''
While McCarthy is keen to progress in the Carling Cup, he is also not hiding from the fact he would swap a cup win for three points when the teams meet in the Premier League.
He admitted: "There is the next round at stake but we all know that if you are talking about three points at Old Trafford or getting through to the next round what would we take? We would take three points.
"The Premier League is the holy grail and we all want to make sure that we stay in it.''

Evra: Owen saved us from Fergie backlash

2009-09-22T23:39:00.000+07:00

Michael Owen's dramatic derby winner saved his team-mates from the dreaded "hairdryer" treatment from Sir Alex Ferguson, according to Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra.

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Patrice Evra thanks Michael Owen for saving the team from Fergie's wrath

Evra said it would have been "very difficult" to enter the dressing room after his side's match with Manchester City had the score remained 3-3, in a game Ferguson claimed his side should have won "by six or seven".

Sloppy errors by United goalkeeper Ben Foster and defender Rio Ferdinand gifted City two of their three goals, before Owen's controversial 96th minute winner earned the three points for his side.

''It would have been very difficult to go inside the dressing room if we had drawn,'' Evra toldMUTV. ''I think the manager would have given the hairdryer to everybody.

''But to score like that, in the last second of the game, was just amazing. The players on the bench were coming on the pitch, the fans, the atmosphere - this is why I say thanks to God I play in the Premier League and for United.''

The Football Association are investigating Gary Neville's over-the-top goal celebration, plus Craig Bellamy's clash with a fan immediately after Owen's matchwinner.

But Evra is now more focused on a title race in which everyone, apart from Chelsea, has now lost at least one game.

''It was important to win because City hadn't lost,'' he said. "When we were drawing, I was thinking that people would start to say that City are still strong because they never lose. Now everybody has lost, except for Chelsea.''

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Tickets available for United's next game

2009-09-22T06:48:00.000+07:00

TICKETS AVAILABLE TO SEE UNITED TAKE ON WOLVES

After the thrilling 4-3 derby win over Manchester City, United's next challenge comes at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carling Cup third round.

Tickets are still on general sale for this tie, which kicks off at 20:00 BST this Wednesday 23 September.

Supporters interested in purchasing tickets for the game can do so online, by calling 0161 868 8000 (option 1 then 4) or by visiting the Megastore or Ticketing and Membership Services.

Not yet a Member? Call 0161 868 8000 now and sign up as a One United Member to get a discount on tickets for all United home games.

All seats for under-16s are priced just £10 for this match.

Owen breaks City hearts

2009-09-20T22:06:00.004+07:00

Manchester United 4 - 3 Manchester City
Owen breaks City hearts
Owen snatches last-gasp winner deep into stoppage time
A last gasp Michael Owen strike deep into stoppage time earned Manchester United a 4-3 win over rivals Manchester City in a pulsating derby at Old Trafford.
Wayne Rooney had got the champions off to a dream start when he sidestepped the attention of two defenders before slotting home under Shay Given after two minutes.
City had started the game nervously but were gifted a way back into the match when Ben Foster allowed Carlos Tevez to nick the ball away from him on the left hand side of the area before setting Gareth Barry who passed the ball into the unguarded net from 20 yards.
United came out of the traps flying in the second period and were soon back in front when Darren Fletcher met a looping Ryan Giggs cross on 49 minutes.
However City answered back for a second time when Craig Bellamy was allowed to cut inside and fire an unstoppable strike into the top corner three minutes later.
The Red Devils piled on the pressure but couldn't seem to find away past Given as the Irishman saved twice from Dimitar Berbatov and Ryan Giggs in quick succession.
United weren't to be denied when Giggs, who was majestic on the left flank all match, crossed a free-kick from the left onto the head of Fletcher for 3-2 with ten minutes remaining.
Unbelievably the visitors came back for a third time when Craig Bellamy capitalised on a sloppy pass from Rio Ferdinand before finishing from an acute angle past Foster.
That wasn't the end of it as Giggs picked out the pass of the match finding Owen in space in the area as he delicately dinked over Given in the 95th minute - when only four were supposed to be added on.
Man of the match

Darren Fletcher. Two goals and an all-round superb performance. Closely followed by Ryan Giggs on his second half showing.

Moment of the match

Michael Owen's last-gasp winner will be talked about for some time. If there were any fans still doubting the signing of the former Liverpool man, they may well have changed their minds now.

Pass of the match

Giggs used all his experience in the heat of the battle to stay composed to find Owen with a superb ball in the sixth minute of injury time when most others would have hooked the ball back into the box.

Save of the match

Shay Given's second stop from a Dimitar Berbatov header was impressive although the Bulgarian should have scored.

Talking point

Where do you start? So many talking points on the pitch, Michael Owen's winner the obvious one to start with but the post-match chat will be dominated by the six minutes of added time that allowed Owen to score.

Goal of the game

Craig Bellamy's first goal, a stunning long-range effort from the Welshman from 25 yards out into the top corner.

Manchester United 4 - 3 Manchester City

2009-09-20T22:00:00.002+07:00

Manchester United 4 - 3 Manchester City

Owen wins derby classic

On a derby day none more dramatic Michael Owen converted himself into a Manchester United favourite with an injury-time goal that meant his team beat Manchester City 4-3. Darren Fletcher and Craig Bellamy grabbed two goals each in a truly, truly classic encounter.

Ferguson brands rivals City ''cocky'' ahead of derby

2009-09-19T08:44:00.000+07:00

Ferguson brands rivals City ''cocky'' ahead of derby

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has branded rivals Manchester City ''cocky'' ahead of Sunday's eagerly-anticipated derby clash at Old Trafford.

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The infamous Carlos Tevez billboard

Ferguson hit out at his local rivals after their 100% start to the season and warned opposite number Mark Hughes he must win the Premier League title to justify his £200 million spending spree.

The Scot, who has not held his tongue about the rise of Manchester's blue half, told Sirius XM Radio: 'The rivalry has gone up a notch in the last few months, with them signing all those players and then coming up with that advert and all their posters about Carlos Tevez. They've been a bit, how can I put it, cocky. Yes, a bit cocky. They've got seven centre forwards now, which is crazy, just amazing.''

Ferguson is keen to win his fourth consecutive title, but thinks City will have to pip his side to the post if they are to justify such a large investment.

''When you have spent that amount of money, and the wages they are paying, you have to win the league with that kind of investment,'' he said. ''That's where the difficulty will come for them.

''It's going to be very difficult for them to win the league when you see ourselves, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal because they've got to beat the four of us at some point to get the league.

''It's very difficult to get into the top four and it's even more difficult to get into the top one - and that's what this league is all about, being No. 1.''

Ferguson also claimed that he is unconcerned by Carlos Tevez's possible absence ahead of the match this weekend.

''I am not bothered whether Tevez plays or not - Manchester City's best player won't be playing,'' he said. ''Adebayor is their star player, there is no question about that. He has scored in every game so far.''

In another put-down to his big-spending rivals, Ferguson added that he will continue to view Liverpool as United's major local rivals.

''To me, Liverpool has always been the derby,'' he said. ''It is because of the history. My aim was always to do well against them. It is hard for me to think any other way.''

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Ferguson: Tevez, welcome to comeback

2009-09-19T08:41:00.001+07:00

Ferguson promises Tevez surprise welcome

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Carlos Tevez he is in for a nasty surprise if he thinks a good reception awaits him at Manchester United on Sunday.

Tevez spent two years with the Old Trafford outfit, during which time they won the Premier League title in successive seasons and reached two Champions League finals.

Yet the split came in acrimonious circumstances this summer.

Tevez accused Ferguson of disrespect, while the United boss continues to claim the South American had decided to leave the Red Devils long before the campaign reached its conclusion.

Providing he overcomes a knee injury, the former West Ham star returns to Old Trafford as a City player for the first time this weekend, hoping to receive a warm reception from the home supporters.

The mere thought brings a smile to Ferguson's face.

"He will get a surprise,'' said Ferguson.

"It is a different culture nowadays. It is very emotional.''

Any goodwill for Tevez amongst the United faithful has disappeared after he became the central figure in a poster, erected at the end of Manchester's busy Deansgate shopping centre that declared: "Welcome to Manchester.''

It played on City's claim to be the city's true club, given United's precise location is in the neighbouring borough of Trafford.

Ferguson felt it was a deliberate attempt to provoke United. And it seems to have worked.

"I'm sure of it,'' he said.

"That stupid poster upset us. It showed an arrogance. It was naughty. It showed a cockiness that wasn't required at the time because they hadn't done anything.

"The season hadn't even started.''

Ferguson is not convinced Mark Hughes even knew of its existence until the United camp started to make their displeasure known, which placed the Welshman in a difficult position.

"It probably came to his attention when I mentioned it,'' said the United chief.

"Some people run away with themselves. That put Mark in a position where he was being asked about it.

"He tried to brush it off. He said it was just 'a wee bit of devilment'. I think it was a wee bit of arrogance.''

The row could easily have been avoided if only United had been a bit quicker coughing up the £24million required to turn Tevez's 'lease' arrangement with Kia Joorabchian into a permanent deal.

Quite apart from whether Tevez was worth the money, Ferguson is convinced there was no chance of such a move being satisfactory to either the player or Joorabchian.

"We made an offer that was well in the compass of the player's ability,'' he said.

"When I read now that it is not £24million, it is £47million, there is no way we could even think about that.

"I thought £24 was the figure. Obviously it wasn't. They had obviously agreed it long before the end of the season.

"That goes without saying because they never came back to us.''

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Park delighted to sign new deal at Manchester United

2009-09-19T08:39:00.000+07:00

Park delighted to sign new deal at Manchester United

Park Ji-Sung has reacted with delight to the news that he has officially signed a new two-year contract at Manchester United.

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Park Ji-Sung in action against Burnley this season.

Park, 28, had been in discussions with the English champions over the summer as his previous contract was due to expire at the end of the 2009-10 season. However, the midfielder is now tied to United until the summer of 2012.

"I am so pleased to have this new contract," Park told the club's official website. "I'm really enjoying my time here and I appreciate all that Sir Alex and the staff have done for me, but I have to mention the fans too, as they are incredible.

"We have achieved great success over the last four years and won many trophies. It is a great experience for me to play at this magnificent football club along with other world famous players."

Park joined United from PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2005 and has made 86 Premier League appearances for the club, impressing with his work-rate and enthusiasm.

Sir Alex Ferguson described his decision to leave Park out of the squad for the 2008 Champions League final victory over Chelsea as the "hardest" of his career but the South Korean started the 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in May before being replaced by Dimitar Berbatov.

Ferguson said: "We are always pleased to secure the future of our star players and Ji-Sung has proved himself to be a fantastic professional and an important, versatile player in our squad. Therefore, we're delighted he's signed a new contract."

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Roy Keane: There's only one Keano

2009-09-19T08:37:00.000+07:00

Roy Keane: There's only one Keano

With an insatiable appetite for success and an aversion to failure bordering on the obsessive, Roy Keane cut a dominant figure in central midfield for Manchester United during the most successful period in the club's history.

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The skipper was a hard, but fair, player.

Perhaps the last true box-to-box midfielder to grace England's top flight, he possessed an ability to strike fear into opponents unlike any other and played with a passion and urgency that inspired team-mates around him to raise their performance levels.

The Irishman's story is a trophy-laden journey of misadventure, beginning at Cobh Ramblers in his native Cork and finishing with boyhood heroes Celtic. Keane's was a career that always courted controversy as well as championship medals.

After being handed his big break in England at Nottingham Forest by the legendary Brian Clough, Keane impressed Sir Alex Ferguson enough for the Manchester United boss to snap him up for £3.7 million in 1993 for a then British transfer record. Ferguson viewed the Irishman as the ideal long-term replacement for Bryan Robson and Keane quickly formed an influential midfield partnership with Paul Ince, before spending almost ten years providing the perfect defensive foil for the attacking flair of Paul Scholes.

Keane was a tough tackler and an exceptional ball winner, rarely leaving an opponent unscathed from a 50-50 challenge. But aside from his ankle-biting reputation, he was also a master of possession. In a United side renowned for passing its way through the opposition, most attacks started with the ball at the feet of the Irishman, conducting the tempo and dictating the rhythm of all United's play.

Aggression and determination were two characteristics Keane possessed in abundance and his 88 yellow cards and 13 dismissals for United tell the story of a man whose passion often boiled over into rage. He had confrontations with most of the Premier League's glitterati, most notably Alan Shearer and Patrick Vieira, and a 2001 clash with Alf-Inge Haaland provided perhaps the biggest controversy of his career.

In 1997, a tackle from Haaland had ruptured Keane's cruciate ligament, though at the time the Norwegian accused him of overplaying the injury. Fast forward four years and Keane was out for revenge. In the 2001 Manchester derby the Irishman flew in with a reckless challenge over the top of Haaland's knee, leaving the Norwegian with an injury that he claims eventually caused his retirement.

Keane was shown a straight red but a year later it was revealed in his autobiography that he had deliberately set out to injure Haaland in an act of revenge. For what was essentially pre-meditated assault and for bringing the game into disrepute, Keane was banned for five games and fined £150,000.

Keane also grabbed the headlines for the wrong reasons when, at a training camp with Ireland for the 2002 World Cup, he walked out after a blazing row with Mick McCarthy regarding the lack of organisation at the camp. Keane was branded a "coward" for walking away, but this was another demonstration of the single mindedness of a passionate individual trying to ensure his team had the best possible chance of success.

The Irishman's finest performance in the red of United came on a balmy night in Turin in 1999. At 2-0 down inside ten minutes of the Champions League semi-final second leg against Juventus, it appeared another season of European underachievement awaited United. Step forward Roy Maurice Keane.

Despite receiving a booking that ensured he would be absent from an unlikely final berth, the captain rolled up his sleeves and produced a stirring performance that Sir Alex Ferguson later described as the "most emphatic display of selflessness" he had seen on a football pitch. Keane scored the opening goal and covered every blade of grass as United fought back to win 3-2 and book a place in the Champions League final.

Keane watched the dramatic 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Nou Camp final from the stands, celebrating with his team-mates. But he later revealed: "Although I was putting a brave face on it, this was just about the worst experience I'd had in football."

Keane's ambition did not end with the 1999 Treble victory, as he led United to three consecutive Premier League titles, and scooped his greatest individual accolade, the PFA Player of the Year award for the 1999-00 season,

Keane was part of a rebuilding of United after Arsenal and Chelsea beat them to the Premier League crown in successive seasons, but there was always an underlying feeling that he did not have the same belief in his team-mates. After injury and outspoken comments saw him fall out of favour with Sir Alex Ferguson, Keane joined boyhood heroes Celtic; playing out a successful final season in which he lifted the Scottish Premier League before hanging up his boots for the final time in 2006.

A move into management seemed a natural step for Keane with Ferguson and pundits alike predicting more success; surely his ability to inspire and lift his team-mates and unrelenting desire to win were qualities that would naturally transfer from the pitch to the dugout?

Certainly, Keane's first foray into management in 2006 with Sunderland suggested that he could prove himself at an elite level. He transformed the Wearsiders from bottom-of-the-Championship relegation fodder to Premier League competitors in just ten months.

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After four years of waiting, he took his revenge on Haaland

A comfortable but unspectacular first season in the top flight followed, however Keane was given money to spend and most believed Sunderland could finish respectably once more. But he failed to see eye-to-eye with Sunderland's new owners and resigned to the similar cries of "quitter" that had resounded around him after walking out on McCarthy in 2002.

Keane bowed out of football for nine months, assessing his options before stepping back into Championship management with Ipswich Town. He has thus far failed to recreate the immediate success he enjoyed at the Stadium of Light, with his man-management skills increasingly called into question.

But whatever the Irishman's future in management holds, he can look back on a glittering playing career. Though he won few friends for his aggression and fiery temperament, you get the feeling that with a trophy cabinet bulging with championship medals and personal accolades, Keano's not too bothered what they think.

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Red View: Derby team news, City assessed, free Giggs goals video + more

2009-09-19T08:24:00.001+07:00

RIO IS REDS' ONLY DOUBT

Even if City are without several big-name strikers, United will still want to field a first-choice defence in Sunday's hotly-anticipated Manchester derby.

Whether Sir Alex Ferguson has that luxury rests on a training session at Carrington today (Friday) in which Rio Ferdinand needs to prove his fitness.

The central defensive stalwart made his first league appearance of the season only last weekend, when the Reds impressively won 3-1 at Tottenham Hotspur. But Rio then reported a groin problem in training the next day and consequently wasn't risked in Tuesday night's Champions League victory over Besiktas.

"The only concern I've got is Rio," said Sir Alex in his pre-match press conference.

"He missed the game on Tuesday and he was out before the Spurs match. Only one game back after injury is a concern - he needs a run of games to be at his maximum. He did some running on Monday but he wasn't right.

"He has to do some positive work in training if he's going to make the game on Sunday. We hope he's there because you want all your big players available."

If Ferdinand fails the fitness test then Jonny Evans will deputise once again.

More news: Sir Alex expects feisty match | Park signs new contract

GUEST BLOG: DAVID MAY

Ex-defender David May (above right) has a keen interest in the derby, not only as a fervent Red but also as an old team-mate of Blues boss Mark Hughes (above left)...

Sparky was one of the quietest people in our dressing room so although he was a fantastic player, with a great desire to win, I’d never have thought he’d go on to achieve what he has in management.

He did a great job with Wales and Blackburn and now he’s at a club that will hopefully match his ambition. He's certainly got the right financial backing. The money that’s come into Eastlands has spiced up the rivalry, and there’s maybe even a bit of jealousy from our fans because of City’s spending power, they’ve got a bottomless pit.

However I still think United will be the dominant team for the foreseeable future. City spent well during the summer but you can’t go out and buy the title in your first season. The main thing is to create a foundation - Sparky’s done that and over the next three or four years he can build on it. I think it would have been a big mistake if they’d bought Kaka because the players around him probably wouldn’t have been able to do what he demanded of them. I think Sparky’s bought sensibly in terms of who he’s brought in, I’d say he’s going in the right direction.

I think only two teams can win the Premier League this year, United and Chelsea. But City have got a great chance of breaking into the top four if they can sustain how they’ve started. I hope Sparky and City do well, just not as well as United!

YOUR DERBY TEAMS AND TACTICS

ManUtd.com's message board has been buzzing in the build-up to Sunday's big match, with United fans from far and wide posting their preferred line-ups and formations. Midfield seems to be the hot topic in the team debate...

Canto is God
Sunday's match is what footy is all about, don't you just love it? It’s the first really meaningful derby for a very long time, I think it’s crucial to our season. Win it and we are up and running, having beaten Arsenal, Spurs and the Blues on the bounce. Lose it and we will be playing catch-up to a City side that’s more than useful. They have found a way of playing that is extremely effective - De Jong's been a revelation in midfield. However their key strikers are missing, and I fancy us to beat them. Bring it on!

Hezz
The question in midfield is who should partner Fletcher? Given that City will most definitely put three (Barry, De Jong and Ireland) in the middle, we need Anderson's lung-busting running. He's strong and can battle with De Jong while Fletcher will need to keep Ireland in check. That leaves Barry - I think Giggs will be tasked to track his runs. Up front, Rooney and Berbatov should continue, with Wayne playing on the shoulder of Toure and Lescott and Berba in the hole to link up the midfield.

Hannibal-Lecter
I think Anderson should play alongside Fletcher, and Giggs just behind Rooney up front, but mainly there to keep the centre of midfield congested and get our close passing game going. Fletcher will be vital, we'll need him to break up play, stop Ireland dictating play and possibly even give Tevez a rough ride. Evra will also need to be at his best with Shaun Wright-Phillips in good form right now. I think it will be a close game. There's not much between us and City these days - we have the more solid defence, more experience and Rooney. But they in turn now have a very good defence, but perhaps a better, more creative, more balanced midfield.

More: Join the debate at manutd.com/talkingreds

Evra: City aren't the kings of Manchester yet

2009-09-18T08:14:00.001+07:00

Evra: City aren't the kings of Manchester yet

Manchester City may have been grabbing the headlines with their succession of star signings and 100% start to the season but Patrice Evra is determined to show Mark Hughes' side that United are still the "kings of the city" ahead of Sunday's highly-anticipated Manchester derby.

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Evra: Joined United from Monaco in January 2006.

United have enjoyed decades of superiority over their near neighbours but the vast financial resources of City's owners, Abu Dhabi United Group, means the side decked out in sky blue are perhaps closer than ever to the high standards set by their opponents in red in recent times.

City even secured the notable coup of snatching Carlos Tevez from under the nose of Sir Alex Ferguson over the summer and a run of four straight victories has led to speculation that Hughes and his men could well challenge for a Champions League place, and even challenge United's hegemony of the Premier League in coming seasons.

But having won three consecutive titles, Evra believes United will be keen to demonstrate that City have a long way to go before they can encroach on Ferguson's dominance, despite the very evident ambition on show at Eastlands.

"They want to show people that they are the kings of the city but they aren't yet," Evra told the Guardian. "This is a new Manchester City. They are going for the Champions League and it will be a difficult game for us because they haven't lost yet this season.

"They are ambitious, they want to stay in the top four, they have bought a lot of players and they have already beaten Arsenal 4-2 so they will be going into the game with a lot of confidence. But we are confident because we are Manchester United.

"We need to show that we are Manchester United, that over the years we have won a lot more than City, and we need to make sure we do that again. We have a lot of respect for City but we are Manchester United and every time we play City we really have to show that. They want to be kings of the city. Well, we have to make sure that doesn't happen."

City's capture of Tevez, despite United making an attempt to sign the Argentine on a permanent deal, was a real statement of intent from City but the forward is likely to be denied a return to Old Trafford on Sunday as he is suffering from a knee injury sustained on international duty.

Evra admits to being "angry" at seeing his good friend leave United and has warned the former Old Trafford favourite that if he makes a miracle recovery, there may not be a warm reception awaiting him following his decision to turn his back on Ferguson and the club.

"We have been joking a bit on the texts," Evra said. "He told me they were coming here to win. I'll wait for the reception he gets from the United fans but I think Carlito will do a great job for Manchester City. He is a good professional and he respected the United shirt a lot.

"The fans loved him. I don't know if they will boo him or clap him but I said to him, 'If they boo you, I will boo as well'.

"I think he might make it because he is a warrior and he wants to play against us. I was surprised he left and a little bit angry. I kept talking to him, telling him to stay. I tried to persuade him because I didn't want to lose my friend but he made a choice and I respect the choice.

"He had some good reasons and I just told him 'good luck'. It's not about one player or two players at Manchester United [though]. The team is more important than any one player."

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Evans relishing derby clash

2009-09-18T08:10:00.001+07:00

Evans relishing derby clash

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is relishing the chance to put one over Manchester City on Sunday at Old Trafford.

Empics

Evans: Ready for the weekend.

City's new-look side have started the season with a bang, chalking up four successive victories in the Premier League.

Manager Mark Hughes, the former United striker, invested heavily in the summer, thanks to huge financial backing from the Abu Dhabi United Group.

City are determined to break into the elite and it has become one of the most talked about derbies in recent years.

United for their part go into the match on the back of a fine victory against Besiktas in Istanbul in the Champions League and Evans is already looking forward to the next challenge.

"We all know about the big rivalry between United and City and it's always nice to get the upper hand on them, '' he said.

"They have put themselves up there now. It's a long season but fair play to them because they've got off to a good start.''

Evans, 21, could retain his place in the team and partner Nemanja Vidic should Rio Ferdinandcontinue to struggle with a groin injury.

Ferdinand was expected to play in midweek only to suffer a further setback after recovering from a calf strain, and Evans is comfortable in his ability to slot in if required.

"I feel very settled among the first team squad now,'' he told the club's website. "I also felt very much part of it last season, but it was kind of a new thing for me.

"Rio and Nemanja are the top centre-backs in the world and I'm learning a lot from them.

"Wes [Brown] and myself have both got a fight on our hands to get into the team, but I still think we will play a lot throughout the season.''

Evans also relished the Besiktas experience.

"It was a great atmosphere to play in and a few of the lads applauded their fans when we came off because you have to appreciate support like that,'' said the Northern Ireland international.

"Each European game differs, the stadiums, the pitches, the atmospheres... we knew it was going to be hostile but you learn from experiences like that.''

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson could freshen his side up against City with Ryan Giggs, Dimitar Berbatov, Darren Fletcher and John O'Shea all pushing for selection after being rested in midweek.

However midfielder Paul Scholes is sidelined through suspension after being sent off in the victory against Tottenham last weekend.

Silva move to Manchester United ?

2009-09-18T08:08:00.002+07:00

Silva: United move would be a golden opportunity

Valencia and Spain star David Silva has given fresh momentum to reports linking him with a transfer to Manchester United by claiming that a move to England would be "hard to resist".

GettyImages

Silva was a key member of the Spain side that won Euro 2008.

Silva, 23, was reported to be a target for both United and Liverpool over the summer but surprisingly stayed at Valencia, along with David Villa, despite the Spanish club's crippling financial problems.

The winger has started the new season in impressive form, scoring the opening goal in Valencia's 4-2 win over Valladolid on September 13, and it is believed that Sir Alex Ferguson remains an admirer of the Euro 2008 winner.

While Silva is committed to Valencia at present, he has hinted that the chance to move to Old Trafford would hold a strong appeal in the future.

"It's an honour for any player that a club of the prestige of Manchester United should follow them and that in itself is enormous praise," Silva said in the Daily Mirror.

"I am committed to Valencia and my dream is to win the title but in the future anything is possible. Valencia have rejected offers for me in the past few months and I am happy here. But I also know that the Premier League is a big competition and hard to resist."

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Paul Scholes - 20 years

2009-09-18T08:04:00.000+07:00

Fergie tells midfield star to forget about retirement

Paul Scholes can abandon any plans he had to retire at the end of the season as Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced that the 34-year-old still has much to offer Manchester United.

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Scholes celebrates his goal against Besiktas on Tuesday.

Scholes has been one of Ferguson's greatest servants at Old Trafford but hinted in May that the 2009-10 campaign would be his last, with persistent injury problems taking their toll on the cultured midfielder.

But he has started four of the club's seven games so far this season and underlined his lasting value to the English champions when scoring the only goal of the game in United's 1-0 victory over Besiktas in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

It has been suggested that Scholes will look to spend his final playing days at his boyhood club, Oldham Athletic, but Ferguson is not ready to loosen his grip on the man who boasts 419 Premier League appearances and 98 goals for United.

"I don't think this is his last season. Not the way that he plays," said Ferguson. "It's difficult to say how long he can go on for but what else has he got? He is a football man. He isn't going to drop through the leagues I am sure of it.

"Once you have played for United for as long as he has - 20 years - what else are you going to do? I have read that stuff about playing for Oldham in his last year. No chance!"

Scholes is no longer the dominant playmaker of years gone by but his impressive range of passing and superior vision means he is still a valuable asset to the United side. Fitness concerns restricted him to just 14 Premier League starts last season and Ferguson admits he may have to be more sparing in his use of the player as the campaign wears on.

"The best time to use Scholes at this moment in time is when he is fresh. That's the right time," said Ferguson. "I am seeing the fresh Scholesy. It's September and we have to look at the whole season. We will see what happens.

"He will not be playing the whole season. But that's why we have got a squad of players. He will miss more than he plays. But if I get 25 games out of him at the level we saw on Saturday at Tottenham and Tuesday in Turkey I think we will be delighted at that."

Tevez re-united

2009-09-17T07:54:00.002+07:00

Tevez to be re-United

Carlos Tevez is confident of winning his fitness battle to give Manchester City a huge derby boost. The Argentina striker damaged his knee playing against Brazil last week after a tackle by former City midfielder Elano. Tevez, 25, was expected to be out for three weeks but after sitting out last week's controversial clash with Arsenal, he has made excellent progress. Now he is hoping to get the all-clear to face old club Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.Phil Thomas, The SunThe Sun pays tribute to United's match-winner in Istanbul. The paper says Paul Scholes is "United's very own Duracell battery. He just goes on and on."Most of the daily newspapers make plenty of Wayne Rooney's reaction to being substituted in Turkey. Rooney would likely feel aggrieved at being subbed having scored three in an 8-0 win, and Sir Alex said it was always the plan to save his legs for City on Sunday. "Wayne's never pleased coming off. He has that energy where he wants to play all the time. He played as a lone striker for an hour and it was always the case that he was coming off."

Round up by Ben Hibbs

Besiktas 0 - 1 Manchester United

2009-09-16T09:06:00.001+07:00

Besiktas 0 - 1 Manchester United

Scholes header seals United win

GettyImages

Scholes gives Man Utd the points

SCORING SUMMARY
Besiktas	Manchester United
	Paul Scholes (77)

MATCH STATS
	Besiktas	Manchester United
Shots (on Goal)	9(1)	16(5)
Fouls	12	10
Corner Kicks	9	4
Offsides	2	6
Time of Possession	46%	54%
Yellow Cards	2	1
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	4	1

MATCH INFORMATION

Stadium: Besiktas Inönü
Attendance:
Match Time: 19:45 UK
Official(s):
Nicola Rizzoli (Referee)

TEAMS
Besiktas	Manchester United
84 Hakan Arikan	12 Ben Foster
27 Matteo Ferrari	23 Jonathan Evans
6 Tomas Sivok	15 Nemanja Vidic
19 Ibrahim Uzulmez	3 Patrice Evra
4 Ibrahim Kas	2 Gary Neville
28 Fabian Ernst	16 Michael Carrick
17 Ekrem Dag	18 Paul Scholes
11 Márcio Nobre	8 Anderson
15 Rodrigo Tabata	17 Nani
21 Serdar Özkan	25 Antonio Valencia
23 Filip Holosko	10 Wayne Rooney
Substitutes
25 Ugur Inceman	Michael Owen 7
1 Recber Rustu	Wes Brown 6
8 Nihat Kahveci	Dimitar Berbatov 9
5 Michael Fink	Tomasz Kuszczak 29
14 Rodrigo Tello	Ji-Sung Park 13
29 Yusuf Simsek	Darron Gibson 28
3 Ismail Köybasi	Fabio 20
Substitutions
Yusuf Simsek for Serdar Özkan(59)	Dimitar Berbatov for Michael Carrick (63)
Rodrigo Tello for Rodrigo Tabata (69)	Michael Owen for Wayne Rooney (64)
Nihat Kahveci for Filip Holosko(84)	Ji-Sung Park for Antonio Valencia (84)
Yellow Cards
Tomas Sivok (6)	Nemanja Vidic (90)
Márcio Nobre (53)
· Club Squads: Besiktas \| Manchester United

Updated: September 16, 2009, 8:05 AM UK

Paul Scholes popped up 13 minutes from time to ensure Manchester United's bid to reach a third successive Champions League final got off on exactly the right note in Istanbul.

Sent off at the weekend at Tottenham for some would say two typical Scholes tackles, the 34-year-old produced another skill he is well noted for, ghosting into the penalty area unseen to nod home after Hakan Arikan had saved Nani's blistering shot.

Scholes' effort gave United victory they just about deserved in a match of few chances.

It was just the right way to start atoning for that dismal performance against Barcelona in Rome last May, and it might have been even more only for substitute Michael Owen to toe-poke a close-range chance just wide.

Not that United had it all their own way. Ben Foster is proving to be a reliable performer as Edwin van der Sar's deputy, although he did have to survive one major scare.

It was one of those moments goalkeepers dread.

Foster set himself to save Serdar Ozkan's shot, only for the ball to flick off Jonny Evans and cannon skywards.

The United keeper could only turn and hope, knowing he was powerless to do anything about it.

Thankfully, the ball dropped just the wrong side of the crossbar for Besiktas' fans, who cranked up the volume to maximum just before kick-off and kept it there until half-time.

Not that United were affected. Indeed, they coped in fine style, content to knock the ball around and wait for openings to come.

The problem was, they did not. Adopting an attitude of which Nemanja Vidic would have approved, the Turks buffeted their opponents when they had to - as Wayne Rooney and Nani would testify - and always remained solid.

On his Champions League debut Antonio Valencia got past Ibrahim Uzulmez on a couple of occasions, without being able to deliver a decent cross, while a neat back-heel from Nani released Patrice Evra inside the penalty area.

With Cristiano Ronaldo making a goalscoring bow for Real Madrid in Europe's elite competition, Evra has been given licence to get forward far more than in the past.

He skipped onto Nani's well-executed pass with relish and drove a low cross to the near post. But Michael Carrick was not in the greatest of positions and turned it meekly wide.

As the giant monitor showed Ronaldo thundering home on of his trademark free-kicks, it was hard not to think United are still missing the world player of the year.

How could it be any other way given he has been the star man in a team that has reached successive Champions League finals.

However, as tends to happen with players who are no longer around, their legend can often exceed the reality.

As he delivered his interval team-talk, Ferguson was no doubt reflecting that United had lacked a cutting edge at times even with Ronaldo in the team.

And, in a group where away points might end up being at a premium, starting their campaign with one would not be a disaster.

Not that any side managed by Sir Alex Ferguson would simply settle for a draw.

A brilliant cross from Nani caused havoc in the Besiktas area and when Matteo Ferrari failed to clear, Michael Carrick only needed a good bounce to threaten.

Unfortunately for the England man, he didn't get it and instead could only knee the ball goalwards, where it was scooped up by Hakan Arikan.

As the home side, Besiktas had an obvious incentive to keep pressing forward and if Paul Scholes had not stepped in to make one of his well-timed tackles, Ozkan might have been presented with a clear sight of goal.

Instead, it was Rodrigo Tabata who let fly, although Foster, producing another solid display, made a comfortable save.

The introduction of Dimitar Berbatov and Owen, who was making his first Champions League appearance for four-and-a-half years, meant the departures of Carrick and Rooney, who did not look impressed as he walked off.

Yet, disappointed as he was, Rooney is too much of a team man not to celebrate when United score.

Nani deserved all the credit for a blistering shot that Arikan saved but could not hold.

Not for the first time in his long career, Scholes was on hand to finish off the rebound.