Manchester United FC

Slow Start for Manchester United

2010-08-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

As usual another slow start for Manchester United in the league. United drew with Fulham in an away fixture to share one point each.

Scholes gave the visiting team lead in the firts half. In absence of Rooney, United looked slow in attack with Berbatov and new signing Hernandez. Fulham came back after the half time and it looked to fininsh at 1 - 1 after 80 minutes. Things changed dramitically as Hanglehand scored an own goal to give United lead for the second time in the game. Just moments after the goal United got a penalty with Duff caught handling the ball in the box. Nani took the penalty but the goal keeper saved it to deny 2 goals lead for United.

More drama. Hanglehand scored on a corner to level the game just moments befor the 90 minutes of play. Hughes looked happy with the result and Sir Alex was not convinced woth the way game finished. Evans was not very comfortable against Zamore and co. Long balls and crosses were flowing in the whole game for home side.

For United Scholes scored for 150th time. The absence of Rooney made the difference. Owen and Giggs came in the second half but they looked never ever scoring.

Final Score:

Fulham 2
Manchecter United 2

Blackburn 0 - Manchester United 0

2010-04-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

Manchester United shared points in the match against Blackburn and failed to go top in English Premier League. Blackburn’s cautious and calculated approach was sufficient for them to share points with Manchester United.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson preferred experienced player and started with Giggs and Scholes in central midfield with Nani and Valencia on wings. As expected Rooney missed the game because of his injury and Macheda joined Berbatov upfront.

O'shea returned to take part in a premier league game after a long time.

Blackburn were cautious in the first half and Valencia had two good chances of which one was one on one with Robinson. Overall Manchester United never looked threatening in the first half. Samba got injured and Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce was forced to make first change in 33rd minute.

In the second half Blackburm were more attacking than before but Van Der Sar did enough to maintain a clean sheet. Ferdinand got injured and there is no news about the seriousness of his injury.

In the end moments Garry Neville blocked a shot from Steven Nzonzi and finally the game ended as a draw.

Final Score:

Blackburn 0 - 0 Man Utd

Teams:

Blackburn

Robinson
Samba (Nelsen 33) - Givet - Olsson (Diouf 70) - Salgado
Jones - Emerton (Dunn 46) - Grella - Pedersen
Nzonzi - Kalinic

Man Utd

Van der Sar
Neville - Ferdinand - Vidic - O'Shea (Evra 79)
Valencia - Giggs (Gibson 57) - Scholes - Nani
Berbatov - Macheda (Park 65)

After this draw Man Utd remained at second position in the league with Chelsea ahead them with one point and one game in hand.

Man Utd out from UEFA Champions League despite win over Bayern

2010-04-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

Manchester United’s hope of double of Champions League and Premier League ended after thrashing out from the UEFA Champions League despite a win over German giants Bayern Munich.

Wednesday night was full of drama at Old Trafford and many unexpected things happened with a bottom line that Bayern Munich secured a place in semi finals of Champions League after winning on away goals rule. The first leg at Munich ended 2-1 for the home side on last week. So Bayern visited Manchester with 2-1 lead on aggregate but United were having the advantage of away goals.

On Wednesday night the entire world has witnessed a great drama at Old Trafford in which Manchester United won the game 3-2 but can’t make to the semi finals.
United boss Sir Alex Fergusson stunned everyone by including Wayne Rooney in the first eleven. Another shocking inclusion was Gibson.

United equaled on goals on aggregate just three minutes after the start when Gibson scored to ensure United to go ahead if the match will not see any further goals. Score changed after seven minutes from kick off again in the favor of home team when Nani scored on an assist from Valencia.

Nani scored again just four minutes before the half time and score line became 3-0 for the home team. It was looking to be a similar game of Champion’s league that United have won 7-1 over AS Roma in 2006-07 season. That time also United were behind by 1-2 after the away leg, but in the home game United battered Roma 7-1 to ensure their position in the semi finals that year.

Olic scored just before the half time and signaled a threat for United, from this point Bayern were just one goal behind going to Champions League semi final. At the half time it was clear that there is a lot more action to come.

Second half started and United showed a cautious approach and Rafael was booked second time in 50th minute and was sent off. This really changed things around and Sir Alex Fergusson was forced to add more to defending options in order to deny any other goals from Bayern. So he substituted Wayne Rooney and send O Shea who played his first game in nearly five months. Bayern were full on attack with Schweinsteiger, Ribery and Robben in the midfiled with Olic and Gomez upfront. In 74th minute a wonder goal came from a volley from Arjen Robben and that goal created the difference between the two sides.

The final score remained 3-2 in favor of Man Utd but it was not enough to take them into last four of Champions League.

This is first time in nearly seven years that none of the English club has reached the semi finals of this competition.

Some people may question about Rooney’s inclusion, in spite of injuries, in the team. Alex Fergusson started with lots of experienced player on the bench and many young bloods on starting line up like Rafael and Gibson. He preferred Scholes and Giggs on bench with Berbatov and O Shea. Squad captain Garry Neville was not even on the bench. This approach from Sir Alex Ferguson was a little uncharacteristic because in past we have seen him having faith on experienced players in big games. On the other hand this may be due to the fact of weekend game against Chelsea.

This match will be among most beautiful defeat for the German Giants. Their calculated approach was enough to seal a place in the last four and they will play Lyon in the semi finals.

Rooney out for a month

2010-04-03T00:47:00.000-07:00

Ace striker Wayne Rooney will not take part in any action for at lease a month. Clearly he will be out from important home game against Chelsea and Champions League game against B Munich.

Four Devils among Top 50 highest football salary getters

2010-02-17T22:08:00.000-08:00

Four Manchester United players are among the top highest paid footballers in world made by Portuguese agency Futebol Finance. Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Ryan Giggs are in the list of “Top 50 footballers with highest salaries”.

Ex Man Utd player Cristiano Ronaldo is on the top of this list followed by Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Lionel Messi on the second and third position. Interesting thing is that all these three players are playing in Spanish League.

Manchester City’s Emmanuel Adebayor is the highest paid footballer currently playing in English Premier League. He is followed by Carlos Tevez (Manchester City), John Terry (Chelsea) and Frank Lampard (Chelsea).

For Manchester United, Rio Ferdinand is the player getting highest salary of £5.6million. He is one 18^th position in the world players list. Wayne Rooney (£5.2million) is on 20^th position. Dimitar Berbatov (£4.1million) and Ryan Giggs (£4.1million) are on 46^th and 49^th position respectively.

The whole list is as following:

1 Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid, £11.3million)
2 Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Barcelona, £10.4million)
3 Lionel Messi (Barcelona, £9.1million)
4 Samuel Eto’o (Internazionale, £9.1million)
5 Kaka (Real Madrid, £8.7million)
6 Emmanuel Adebayor (Manchester City, £7.4million)
7 Karim Benzema (Real Madrid, £7.4million)
8 Carlos Tevez (Manchester City, £7million)
9 John Terry (Chelsea, £6.5million)
10 Frank Lampard (Chelsea, £6.5million)
11 Thierry Henry (Barcelona, £6.5million)
12 Xavi (Barcelona, £6.5million)
13 Ronaldinho (AC Milan, £6.5million)
14 Steven Gerrard (Liverpool, £6.5million)
15 Daniel Alves (Barcelona, £6.1million)
16 Michael Ballack (Chelsea, £5.6million)
17 Raul (Real Madrid, £5.6million)
18 Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United, £5.6million)
19 Kolo Toure (Manchester City, £5.6million)
20 Wayne Rooney (Manchester United, £5.2million)
21 Robinho (Manchester City, £5.2million)
22 Iker Casillas (Real Madrid, £5.2million)
23 Victor Valdez (Barcelona, £5.2million)
24 Frederic Kanoute (Sevilla, £5.2million)
25 Deco (Chelsea, £5.2million)
26 Didier Drogba (Chelsea, £4.8million)
27 Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus, £4.8million)
28 Francesco Totti (Roma, £4.8million)
29 Luca Toni (Roma, £4.8million)
30 David Villa (Valencia, £4.8million)
31 Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich, £4.8million)
32 Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich, £4.8million)
33 Ashley Cole (Chelsea, £4.8million)
34 Fernando Torres (Liverpool, £4.8million)
35 Gareth Barry (Manchester City, £4.8million)
36 Patrick Vieira (Internazionale, £4.8million)
37 Charles Puyol (Barcelona, £4.3million)
38 Andres Iniesta (Barcelona, £4.3million)
39 Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid, £4.3million)
40 Andreas Pirlo (AC Milan, £4.3million)
41 Willy Sagnol (Bayern Munich, £4.3million)
42 Frank Ribery (Bayern Munich, £4.3million)
43 David Beckham (AC Milan, £4.3million)
44 Wayne Bridge (Manchester City, £4.3million)
45 Lassana Diarra (Real Madrid, £4.3million)
46 Dimitar Berbatov (Manchester United £4.1million)
47 Andrei Arshavin (Arsenal, £4.1million)
48 Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea, £4.1million)
49 Ryan Giggs (Manchester United £4.1million)
50 Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus, £4.1million)

Source: Top 50 highest football salaries

AC Milan 2 - Manchester United 3

2010-02-16T23:36:00.001-08:00

Man Utd have won the much awaited game against AC Milan in the first leg of Champions League Second Round.

Ace striker Wayne Rooney continued his dream form and scored twice after Scholes equalized for United in Reply to Ronaldinho's goal in the third minute. Seedorf scored in 85th minute to reduce the gap.

Final Score:
AC Milan 2
Manchester United 3

Manchester United v Portsmouth: Preview

2010-02-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

Manchester United will face the weakest team of Premier League on Saturday at Old Trafford with a great chance of going on top of the table.

The confidence level of the United players is sky high after the win over Arsenal last Sunday. On the other hand Portsmouth is struggling and was forced to sell their top player to sustain in the league financially. So it is expected to be a one sided game in favor of the Red Devils.

Team News
Manchester United
Rio Ferdinand will remain suspend and miss this tie. Hargreaves and O Shea will remain out due to their injuries. Vidic may come back to join Evans or Brown at the center back position. Sir Alex should go with the same combination in the mid field and upfront that played against Arsenal.

Portsmouth
Diop and Hreidarsson will miss this tie.

Manchester United must go for a kill in this game because it is a scoring game for United and this will help them to improve their goal difference.

Probable Line Up

Manchester United

Van Der Sar
Rafael - Vidic - Evans - Evra
Nani - Scholes - Carrick - Fletcher - Park

Rooney

Portsmouth

James
Belhadj - Ben Heim - Wilson - Finnan
O' Hara - Brown - Mokoena
Yebda - Boateng
Piquionne

Predicted Score

Manchester United 5
Portsmouth 0

Owen Hargreaves out of Manchester United Champions League Team

2010-02-04T01:05:00.000-08:00

England

’s defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves has been left out of Manchester United’s Champions League squad for the knockout rounds. Previously, Hargreaves was expected to come back in the Champions League tie against A C Milan.

Hargreaves has been out since September 2008. This 29 years old midfielder is an ex Byern Munich player. He has undergone surgery on both knees in December 2008 and January 2009.

Now the big question is whether he will be able to take part in the World Cup which is going to held in South Africa later this year. Hargreaves’ performance was eye catching in the game against Portugal in the last world cup. In fact he was the only English player to score a goal in the penalty shoot out in that game.

Hargreaves has been replaced by Ritchie De Laet, in the only change to their squad for the knockout rounds.

Reports last month suggested Hargreaves was under pressure with a lack of confidence after being out for so long.

This now makes it difficult for Hargreaves to play enough games to secure an England World Cup place. Consequently this may force Sir Alex Ferguson to think upon signing a central defensive midfielder in the summer transfer market.

Arsenal vs Manchester United: Pictures

2010-02-03T00:39:00.000-08:00

Arsenal 1 - Manchester United 3: Pictures

Almunia's own goal

Nani is congratulated by the team after the first goal

Wayne Rooney after scoring second goal of the match

Park scored third goal and sealed the game for United

Nani and Wayne Rooney showed great attacking display and destroyed the gunners

Andrey Arshavin tackled by Wes Brown

Song Billong closing Jonathan Evans

Chelsea Drew with Hull: Another good result for United

2010-02-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

Hull City and Chelsea have shared points after a 1-1 draw at . Both goals came in the first half.

Now the difference in Chelsea and Manchester United is only two points. So Man Utd will go on top of the table if they manage a victory over Portsmouth. On Sunday Chelsea will face Arsenal and it will be a do or die situation for Arsenal. Arsene Wenger knows that losing this game will virtually end their hopes of winning the trophy.

Final Score

Hull City 1
Chelsea 1

Manchester United: After Emirates triumph

2010-02-02T23:04:00.001-08:00

Mike Phelan, often known as right-hand man of Sir Alex Ferguson, has recently said that Manchester United's convincing victory over Arsenal has added to the self-belief of the team. This win has added a lot to the team’s hope of winning the Premier League for the fourth time in a row.

As usual United has failed to cover some easy points in this season, but now they are looking to come back on their track. Phelan added that the side is now finding their stride. "I just think the belief’s there now," the coach told the pres. "The players are starting to tune in to what we are trying to do on the training ground.”

In the game the combination of Nani and Rooney has worked well ahead of strong defensive midfield of Scholes, Fletcher and Carrick. Park also did well and added one more goal to his name against the rivals.

So clearly the players have now smelt that they can win the title for record fourth season in a row.

January Transfer Window closed with no major addition to Top four!!

2010-02-02T03:26:00.000-08:00

The Winter Transfer window has closed with no major addition to the so called top four clubs of English Premier League. The top four of English Premier League haven’t added or lost much new players to their squad.

The month of January is the month of change in English Premier League. Last season we have witnessed a few very important signings to the English Clubs in the mid season transfer window. One of them was Arshavin, who has not taken any time to prove his worth. The main reason behind the Top English clubs failing to sign big guns of soccer is the lack of money. The two most famous clubs Manchester United and Liverpool are in huge financial crisis and can’t spend like before. Chelsea, on the other hand have money to spend but their new boss Carlo Ancelotti never looked interested in signing new players. Although he knew well that he will lose players like Drogba, Mikel and Essian to AFCON in January, he was never in a mood to bring new players. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is famous for very calculative signings signed his old player Sol Campbell for free. Wenger was also looking interested for 20-year-old Chris Smalling.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has signed 20-year-old Chris Smalling from Fulham. He will join Old Trafford in July for a four year contract. Apart from Smalling United’s highly-rated striker Mame Diouf came back from loan to join squad.

Man Utd’s arch rivals Liverpool has signed free agent Maxi Rodriguez of Argentina.

Arsenal 1 - Manchester United 3

2010-01-31T22:21:00.000-08:00

Manchester United showed more character and deserved disciplined performance to completely outplay overconfident Arsenal in their Premier League tie at Emirates on Sunday. It was best team performance so far in this season. With this win, Manchester United has made a very strong chance of winning the league for the fourth time in a row. All they need to do is to continue their disciplined performance.

The pace and movement in the 1st half was exceptional from United Players and the gunners just could keep up. The crisp passing, and especially the early one, had them stretching the whole time.

The 5 man midfield strategy worked again for the red devils and good defensive work was shown by Carrick, Scholes and Fletcher in the midfield. Nani and Park were good at wings and now Sir Alex must consider that Nani can be a very strong weapon if used properly. In short, Nani has been a revelation the last couple of games and it helped United so much!

Rooney is on a different world right now. He is in form of his career. He is playing at such a high level, you wonder just how long this streak will last. His work rate, his anticipation and most importantly, his finishing was as good as one can expect. His 100th goal in the Premier League came at the perfect time. Now Sir Alex Ferguson will be happy with one striker strategy.

Park scored third time against Arsenal and showed a much disciplined role and never tried to do something extraordinary.

Man Utd came up again with second choice centre backs. Sir Alex was forced to sideline United’s first choice centre backs Rio Ferdinand (suspended) and Nemanja Vidic (injured), but the combination of Evans and Brown looked sufficient for Arsenal. Evra and Rafael also ensured to cancel out all threats from Clichy and Sagna from wings.

For Arsenal, Fabregas looked in decent touch as usual. Rosicky and Nasri looked under prepared for this crunch tie. Rest was done by overconfident Arshavin who missed at least four or five chances. Denilson was low on confidence and he almost scored an own goal in the first half. Song came back to team from AFCON and did good tackles to stop any attack from central midfield.

Arsenal came into the game with their first choice defense line up. Thomas Vermaelen’s injury in the mid week tie against Aston Villa didn’t proved to be a major one and he came up for the game. Clichy was stunned by great runs from Nani. After the first goal Gallas started to move upfront all the time. Consequently United’s counter attack provided two more goals to finish the game. Vermaelen scored a consolation goal for Arsenal.

Arsene Wenger’s planning was to attack with Arshavin didn’t proved to be result oriented for Arsenal. He lacked confidence to play with Bendtner for full 90 minutes. Although the weakest part of United’s composition was central defense, but Wenger played with one striker (in fact an attacking midfielder in Strikers position).

Fabregas’ crosses and moves were sometimes more demanding from Walcott and Rosicky. Almunia gain failed to handle the pressure of big game and scored an own goal, failing to clear Nani’s cross. In the second half he gave a direct ball to Nani to give him another easy chance to score more. Arsenal will have to rethink on the capability of Almunia.

In the next week Man Utd has an easy game against Portsmouth, while Chelsea and Arsenal will battle it out for the Capital spoils. Wenger knows that it is important to win against Chelsea to keep their hopes alive for winning the League.

Starting Line Up:

Arsenal

Almunia

Sagna – Gallas – Vermaelen - Clichy
Song - Denilson
Nasri – Fabregas - Rosicky
Arshavin

Manchester United

Van Der Sar

Rafael – Brown – Evans – Evra

Nani – Fletcher- Scholes – Carrick – Park

Rooney

Final Score:

Arsenal 1

(Vermaelen)

Manchester United 3

(Almunia (own goal), Rooney, Park)

Arsenal Vs Manchester United: Men to Watch

2010-01-29T00:19:00.000-08:00

Arsenal Vs Manchester United: Men to Watch

For Arsenal: Cesc Fabregas - Fabregas's role is instrumental behind the success of Arsenal in this season. His performance against Aston Villa (3-0 win at Emirates) was stunning. He can turn things around at his own.

For Manchester United: Wayne Rooney!! Who else? Arsenal's Sol Campbell has recently said that Arsenal will have to plan to stop Rooney. Rooney is scoring at a good rate and can take away the game in a blink of an eye.

Rio Ferdinand to miss Arsenal game

2010-01-28T22:01:00.001-08:00

Rio Ferdinand will miss the game against Arsenal due to a four game ban for violent conduct. Consequently he will miss games against Portsmouth, Aston Villa and Everton. Nemanja Vidic is almost sure to come back and join Jonny Evans at centre back position against Arsenal.

Ferdinand came back from three months injury to take part in game against Hull and he was found appeared to catch Hull's Craig Fagan in the face with a swinging arm. Normally this type of offense results in a three-match ban. But in this case the disciplinary panel of FA examined the appeal and an extra match suspension was added.

Although Manchester United are considering filing an appeal after Rio Ferdinand received a four-game ban for violent conduct, this may lead his ban to extend for one more game. This will cause him to miss the final of Carling Cup.

Arsenal Vs Manchester United: Preview

2010-01-28T00:50:00.000-08:00

Manchester United will take on Arsenal in the Premier League tie at Emirates on 31st Jan. Both teams will go with lots of injuries into this much awaited clash. Arsenal vs Manchester United is a match of great importance in the history of Premier League. This tie was considered as the league decider 4-5 seasons ago.

Arsenal’s Team News

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has recently said that ten players of his team are injured. Eduardo and Arsenal’s best signing of the season Thomas Vermaelen got injured in their previous game against Aston Villa. Sol Campbell did a good job as a substitute for Vermaelen. Nicolas Bendtner came back from injury and replaced Eduardo. Van Persie, Merida, Djourou, Gibbs and Diaby are among other players who will not be available for this crunch game due to injuries.

For Arsenal Eboue and Song have come back from AFCON and may take part in the game.

Manchester United Team News

Manchester United is fully spirited with a win over Man City n the Carling Cup Semi Final. Team’s success depends upon Wayne Rooney. He is in great form and has shown great displays in recent games.

Manchester United is also lots of injured players in their team. Berbatov is not fully fit and it will be difficult for him to play for 90 minutes. Recently returned Rio Ferdinand will be out from this game because of four match ban imposed by FA. Vidic may come back and join Evans at centre back position. Rafael and Evra will be on their full back positions.

In the midfield Sir Alex will go with the same combination that played in the carling cup game. Again Rooney will play as a lone striker.

Probable Line Up:

Manchester United

Van der Sar
Rafael Da Silva - Vidic - Evans - Evra
Giggs - Carrick - Scholes - Nani
Fletcher
Rooney

Arsenal

Almunia
Sagna - Gallas - Campbell - Clichy
Denilson
Nasri - Fabregas - Ramsey - Rosicky
Arshavin

Manchester United 3 – Manchester City 1: Match Review

2010-01-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

Finally Manchester United sealed a position in the Carling cup final after a dramatic game at Old Trafford against their arc rivals Manchester City. United’s superstar striker Wayne Rooney headed a cross from Ryan Giggs to send Manchester United into the Carling Cup final in the stoppage time of second half. At the end Manchester City did not looked very comfortable in handling the pressure of big game.

The result was an expected one but the way it came was not expected. After a goalless first half, Scholes scored in 52^nd minute to bring United equal on aggregate. Carrick made it 2-0 with just about 20 minutes left in the game. Carlos Tevez made it 2-1 and looked to have sent the semi-final into extra-time. But the final goal from Rooney sealed the game for Manchester United in the stoppage time.

Earlier in the Premier league Man City have faced similar situation when Owen scored in the stoppage time for United to win the game 4-3. Yesterday it was similar situation and City lost it 4-3 on aggregate.

For Manchester City Richards and Tevez came close to score but Van Der Sar denied them in doing so at both occasions. The game started in tight security and Man City showed great composure in both attack and defense. But games first goal came from 35 years old Paul Scholes when he stroked from 18 yards early in the second half.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson started the game with Rooney as a lone striker with Nani and Giggs on wings. Rooney’s dream form continued and he scored the most important goal of the game for United.

Teams:

Manchester United

Van der Sar

Rafael Da Silva - Ferdinand - Evans - Evra

Giggs - Carrick - Scholes - Nani

Fletcher

Rooney

Manchester City

Given

Richards - Zabaleta - Kompany - Garrido

Wright-Phillips - Barry - De Jong - Boyata

Tevez Bellamy

Final Score:

Manchester United 3 (Scholes, Carrick, Rooney) – Manchester City 1 (Tevez)

Facts of the game:

All the three goals came from English players for Manchester United
Garry Neville and Berbatov did not appear in the game. Neville was not even on the bench.
Sir Alex Ferguson preferred to play with single striker.
Carlos Tevez scored third time in two games against United.

Manchester United v Manchester City: match preview

2010-01-27T00:23:00.000-08:00

England ace striker Wayne Rooney will have to continue his form for his club Manchester United against rivals Manchester City in the second leg of Carling cup semi final. Rooney who has scored four goals in the game against Hull will be the key man for the home team. City showed a display of much disciplined performance in the first leg and won the game. Now the pressure is on United and it will be a game of attack and defense.

Manchester United Tactics
Team boss Sir Alex knows it very well that his team needs to score in this game, so he will give preference to Berbatov upfront with Rooney. Nani also showed great moves in the game against Hull and will get a chance to play in this game. Ferdinand will be available for this game and this will certainly boost the defense of the home team.

Manchester City Tactics
Manchester City’s strategy will be focused on to stop Rooney. They will depend upon their centre back Victor Kompany. Newly appointed coach Roberto Mancini is working on the defense of the team and City is becoming more difficult to concede a goal.

Probable Teams

Manchester United

Van der Sar

Raeaef Ferdinand Evans Evra

Nani Fletcher Scholes Giggs

Rooney Berbatov

Manchester City

Given

Richards Boyata Kompany Garrido

Wright-Phillips De Jong Barry Petrov

Bellamy Tevez

Score Predication

Manchester United 3 - Manchester City 1

Manchester United vs Hull City Preview

2010-01-23T01:12:00.000-08:00

Manchester United is set to go top of the premier league with a win at Old Trafford against Hull on Saturday.

In the last season Hull City 4-3 lost at Old Trafford. It was a great game where United won three points but Hull won hearts with their enthusiastic performance. Hull boss Phil Brown believes that his side can shock United at Old Trafford. Last time when Hull visited Manchester they drew with Manchester City in November. Phil Brown is spirited after the draw against Spurs at White Hart Lane.

In spite of Phil Brown’s positive mentality it is still very difficult to win at Old Trafford. Sir Alex knows that this win is important for United, because it will help them to go top in the table.

Team News
Manchester United's defeat at the City of Manchester Stadium in the Carling Cup semi-final, epitomizes a run of erratic results in the last two months were United's lack of depth has been found out. Wayne Rooney is having a dip in form and this has affected United rather adversely. The lack of options upfront with Berbatov and Owen showing very little consistency has Sir Alex scratching his head. The blossoming of Mame Biram Diouf though is a brilliant sign for United's future.

United have looked vulnerable against the top teams throughout the campaign. The Red Devils seem incapable of matching the quality on the ball of the two London sides, something that is absolutely essential to win the Premier League title.

Injuries
Manchester United
John O'Shea is out of the rest of the season with a major leg injury. Owen Hargreaves will remain absent. Rio Ferdinand will have to pass a fitness test on Friday, and may play in the game. Dimitar Berbatov is already suffering from his leg and may not play in order to keep him fresh for the second leg of Carling Cup.

In the coming week United have two huge games to play, first the derby clash and then a trip to Emirates to play high-flying Arsenal. Sir Alex may opt to rest few of his first team regulars this week to ensure that he has a fully fit squad for those two more crucial games. In this situation Sir Alex should try Owen Rooney combination upfront. He may also go for Mame Diouf along with Rooney upfront with Berbatov and Owen on bench.

Hull City
Hull will miss their most creative player Jimmy Bullard (out with knee ligament tear) and their skipper Ian Ashbee (out for the season). They will also miss the services of Seyi Olofinjana and Daniel Cousin who are at the African Cup of Nations.

Probable Line Up

Manchester United
Van Der Sar
Neville Brown Evans Rafael
Valencia Scholes Anderson Giggs
Owen Rooney

Hull City
Myhill
Zayatte Gardner McShane Dawson
Hunt Boateng Geovanni Barmby
Garcia Zaki

Score Prediction
Manchester United 3
Hull City 1

Man to Watch
Wayne Rooney
Boaz Myhill

Manchester United - after City defeat

2010-01-20T22:26:00.000-08:00

Manchester United still has great respect as an attacking team among the top analysts and managers. Roberto Mancini, once the successful manager of Internazionale, showed them every respect on Tuesday night in the first leg of Carling Cup Semi Final. His defensive policy, for the most part, shows that people are still terrorized by Manchester United’s attacking forces. This policy of containment worked very well and was enough to leave his Manchester City side with a 2-1 lead to take into the second leg.

Giggs goal helped United to take 1-0 lead. They should have scored more goals, but the opposition's goalkeeper, Shay Given, stood between the poles and denied every attempt. All he did was keeping his cool. He was asked simply to be his usual impressive self and had no need to be superhuman. Tevez looked enough for the rest and scored twice for the needful.

No one needs to tell United and Sir Alex about the unreliability of their squad. This was their seventh defeat in all competitions in this season. Seeing the left fixtures one can easily think of this number going into double figures.

Although, it would be no shock if United recover to eliminate City in the second leg. But the question is why United are giving so many unexpected results this season? Defeat against Burnley, Aston Villa (home game) and Fulham were shocking. In fact the way United lost these games was a matter of concern. 3-0 is a great margin for Fulham to prove that they are becoming a great force.

United qualified for the second stage of Champions league by finishing at the top of their group, but they lost their home game against Besiktas. The young guns failed o deliver when needed. It shows the lack of depth in the squad. Now United will face AC Milan in the second round of Champions League. This game will provide great entertainment. Last time when these two teams met was in 2006-07 season. At that time it was Milan who won 3-0 at Milan and qualified for the finals and eventually won the trophy.

Now the question is what will be the future of this team. The team must primarily be concerned about the medium and long-term prospects. Nobody has to tell Ferguson that key men are getting old. On Tuesday, Gary Neville had to confine his provocative gesturing to the sidelines, since he was an unused substitute. Paul Scholes, 35, was not introduced until the 88th minute and Ryan Giggs, 36, looked ageless in the autumn and may have other sprightly spells to come, but his impact was limited at Eastlands even if he was in position to knock home the opener. Edwin van der Sar, 39, had nothing to apologies for, but the veteran understandably does not dominate the goalmouth.

Some additions such as Anderson and Nani have still to convince and show their importance and worth. But, renewing the squad is a thorny topic in this financial climate. Sir Alex badly need to see Rio Ferdinand returning to the line-up, but at the centre-half's age a back condition will probably have to be managed anxiously rather than cured. Amid the various difficulties in the squad, Wayne Rooney can not make up for every deficiency in the team. He can not compensate for others fault every time. Also one must think on this that should Rooney be injured, jaded or disillusioned, United's niggling problems could turn into agonies of despair.

Man Utd 3 – Burnley 0

2010-01-17T22:48:00.000-08:00

As expected Manchester United took three points in the game against Burnley and retained their second position in the league. Spirited Burnley showed some great moves in goalless first half. Van der Sar returned to United and made some good saves in the first half. David Nugent came very close to scoring in the first half. For United Nani showed some good acrobatic stuff and made few attempts on goal.

After goalless first hour, Berbatov made Burnley pay on 64 minutes with a deflected effort before Wayne Rooney dispatched a low drive after Berbatov's shot was saved.

Substitute Mame Diouf headed Antonio Valencia's cross over the onrushing Brian Jensen to seal the game for home side. So the most satisfactory part was the last quarter of the game for Sir Alex Ferguson.

Starting Line Up:

Van der Sar

Neville Brown Evans Evra

Nani Carrick Scholes Valencia

Berbatov Rooney

Overall its always satisfactory if you win a game with such margin, and this was much needed result. More importantly the game brought good stats as Rooney became the highest goal scorer in this season with 15 goals. The other two strikers Berbatov and Mame Diouf scored goals. Nani and Valencia were good at wings and delivered great crosses and some attempts too. Carrick and Scholes did exactly what was needed from them. Van der Sar returned to squad and made good impact on game to add one more clean sheet to his name. Stand in centre backs Brown and Evans were also good in their defensive roles. Neville came upfront at times and as usual Evra gave his best to the game.

Final Score:

Manchester United 3

(Berbatov 64, Rooney 69, Diouf 90+1)

Burnley 0

In another game league leader Chelsea hammered Sunderland 7-2 and remained at the top of the table. Arsenal also won at Reebok stadium.

Manchester United v Burnley: Match Preview

2010-01-15T22:52:00.000-08:00

Manchester United will face Burnley in the Premier League match on Saturday. United will be without Darren Fletcher because the Scot was sent-off in last week’s 1-1 draw at Birmingham. Nemanja Vidic, who was suffering from a calf strain could be available.

In normal conditions United is expected to take all three points from this game but seeing the current form anything can happen. On the other hand Burnley have gone nine games without a win in the Premier League. But Burnley is the team who shocked United with a 1-0 win in August at Turf Moor. Still last time when Burnley won at Old Trafford was in 1962 and since then they have visited 10 times in the League, losing six and drawing four.

Probable Lineup for the game:

Manchester United (probable, 4-4-2)

Kuszczak
Rafael Brown Evans Evra
Valencia Carrick Scholes Giggs
Owen Rooney

Burnley (probable, 4-4-2)

Jensen
Mears Carlisle Bikey Jordan
Elliott Alexander McDonald Eagles
Blake Fletcher

Sir Alex to sign Sebastian Frey

2010-01-12T23:36:00.000-08:00

According to Fiorentina goalkeeper Sebastian Frey’s agent Giovanni Branchini Manchester United is willing to sign Seba in near future. Giovanni Branchini said that Frey is on United’s wish list, but Fiorentina is not in a mood of selling him till May.

It seems that Sir Alex Ferguson has started to think about signing an option for Edwin Van Der Sar. The 39 year Dutch goal keeper returned to training on Tuesday and joined the team on four day winter camp.

Sebastian Frey is currently playing for Fiorentina and his performance has helped his club to get into next stage of Champions League. Previously Frey has played for Parma and Inter.

In spite of his good reputation as a goalkeeper, Frey has only been capped twice by France and decided to retire from international football in 2008.

Seeing the current situation Sir Alex Ferguson must sign a goal keeper because Van Der Sar may retire after this season and Tomasz Kuszczak cant be considered as a long-term option. The speculations are high on this transfer but not in this window because Fiorentina don't want to discuss the issue until May.

It will be a good move for 29 years old Frey because it is great to play for Manchester United for any player from any part of world.

Van Der Sar return to training at United

2010-01-12T22:43:00.000-08:00

Edwin Van Der Sar has rejoined United for the first time after his wife's illness just before christmas. Van Der Sar's wife Annemarie van Kesteren suffered brain hemorrhage on 23rd December.

39 years old Dutch Van Der Sar went to see his wife in December end. According to reports latest medical tests have shown that his wife she has suffered no permanent damage and Van der Sar has flown to Qatar to be with the rest of his team-mates at their four-day winter training camp. Last time when Van Der Sar played for United was in November against Everton. United won that game 3-0.

Now when Van Der Sar is available Sir Alex may want him to play in the home game against Burnley. This game is very important because United have lost their away tie at Burnley.

Man United announce annual profit of 48.2 millions pounds

2010-01-11T22:03:00.000-08:00

The Champions of English Premier League have announced a profit of 48.2 millions pound in the financial year ended on 30^th June 2009. This was revealed on the club website. Red Football Ltd - the holding company of Manchester United Ltd have published the summary which says that the Group turnover for the year was 278.5 million pounds, seeing a rise of 22.3 million pounds.

Manchester United’s home stadium Old Trafford has staged 34 major events in this year. These events include 19 Premier League home games and six UEFA Champions League matches. Also red devils have secured a new sponsor – Aon. Aon will succeed AIG from the commencement of the 2010-2011 season. Manchester United also welcome back Audi as their car partner.

Manchester United, won the premier league title for the consecutive season in 2008-09. They were also crowned World Club Champions for the first time in December, 2008.

Man Utd failed to go on top of EPL table

2010-01-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Man Utd drew with Birmingham 1-1 and missed an opportunity to go top in the league. On saturday when majority of the games were called off due to bad weather, Man United drew with Birmingham and Arsenal shared points with Everton.

Jerome gave his team lead in the first half and Dann scored an own goal to bring Manchester United on level.

Rooney to captain United after Neville

2010-01-07T23:24:00.000-08:00

Superstar Wayne Rooney is almost set to take on the captaincy from Garry Neville after this season. Neville is set to hang his boot after this season. Neville is playing from last 18 years and it is unlikely fro him to join any other club.

Rooney is with United from last six seasons and has scored 112 goals in 261 appearances.

Birmingham City v Manchester United Preview

2010-01-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Manchester United is looking all set to take on Birmingham City on Saturday. United will definitely look to come back from 1-0 defeat at home in their FA Cup tie against Leeds.

Stats and history of this fixture is very much with the red devils but seeing the current form, Birmingham City can’t be underestimated. They haven’t lost in their last 11 games in EPL. Last time Birmingham lost in EPL was in October when Arsenal have defeated them 3-1. Birmingham has shared points with Chelsea, Liverpool (at Anfield) and Manchester City during these eleven games. They have won against Fulham, Wigan, West Ham, Stoke and Wolves.

Manchester United have shown mixed form during their last six games (all comptitions). They have won three and lost three. Although Man Utd is on second position in the English Premier League Table, they will have to fight hard to gain all three points from this game.

Probable Line Up for Birmingham game:

Kuszczak
Rafael Evans Vidic Evra
Anderson Scholes Carrick
Valencia Giggs
Rooney

Quick Facts about this fixture:

The Red Devils have won 1-0 on last three occasions in their last three meetings with Birmingham.
United striker Wayne Rooney has scored four goals in five Premier League starts against Birmingham.
Birmingham have scored just twice in their last 11 Premier League meetings with Man Utd.
Manchester United have won just once in their last five Premier League games with Mark Clattenburg as the referee.

Carling Cup Update:

Recently postponed Carling Cup tie between Man Utd and Man City is rescheduled on 19^th January and the second leg will be played on 27^th January.

Manchester United Transfers Rumours

2010-01-06T22:20:00.000-08:00

It is very uncharacteristic for Sir Alex Ferguson to do big business in January transfer window. This time it seems that there may be some exceptions in terms of signing. We have already heard speculations about Karim Benzema, Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben. But, seeing the financial position of the club it would be very difficult to sign any of these without selling any player from current squad.

Sir Alex may sign Serbian defender Uros Cosic who is regarded as new Nemanja Vidic. Uros Cosic is currently playing for CSKA Moscow. Another one who could come to Old Trafford is Cardiff teenager Adam Matthews. Arsenal Boss Arsene Wenger is also eyeing him. Cardiff has already lost some good talents to senior league clubs. Although team boss Peter Ridsdale has said that the club want Adam to stay with Cardiff and that's what they are hoping will happen.

Giorgio Chiellini, who is currently playing for Juventus is another probable name who can come to join United. Rivals Manchester City is also in the race for signing Chiellini.

Ferguson could also try to sign French international goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. In fact this transfer is much required to make a replacement for Edwin Van der Sar.

Players who may leave United are Nani and Macheda. Nani is almost set to leave the club whereas Macheda could go to Real Zaragoza on loan.

Nani could be used as part of an exchange deal for Benfica winger Angel di Maria. The 21-year-old Argentine is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in Europe.

Veron rejected an offer from Manchester City.

2010-01-06T02:09:00.000-08:00

Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has confirmed that he has turned down an offer from Manchester City.
The 34-year-old Argentine midfielder has also played for Chelsea. Currently he is playing for Estudiantes. He was awarded as South American Player of the Year last year.
Veron has scored 7 goals in 51 appearances for Manchester United. Veron has already played under Roberto Mancini, current City manger, during his career with Internazionale from 2004 to 2006.
He said “It's not a fact of money. First of all is the family, and second, I have made a decision and I want to respect it, that is what I feel and Estudiantes is the place where I feel comfortable.”

Perfect win for United

2009-12-30T20:21:00.000-08:00

Manchester United won the game against Wigan at home, with the same margin that they had in the reverse fixture of this game. Rooney, Carrick, Rafael, Berbatov and Valencia scored in 5-0 win to secure second position in the premier league at the end of this year.

As expected Manchester United dominated the game and the night became worse for the away team as their goal keeper Chris Kirkland got injured and couldn't continue after the first half.

United players started scoring in 28th minute when Rooney scored his 14th goal of the season. After 4 minutes Carrick swept in and Rafael added one more just before the half time. The game was virtually over at 45 minutes.

In the second half nothing changed and United players got the full control of the game in midfield. Berbatov and Valencia added to the score in 50th and 75th minute.

Now Wigan is just one point ahead of the last three in the table. They have the worst goal difference of -23 in this season.

In another game Arsenal defeated Portsmouth 4-1 (the same margin they had in the reverse fixture).

Final Score:

Man Utd 5
(Rooney 28, Carrick 32, Rafael 45, Berbatov 50, Valencia 75)

Wigan 0

Starting team:

Kuszczak
Evra
Brown
Vidic
Rafael
Park
Carrick
Fletcher
Valencia
Berbatov
Rooney

Edwin Van Der Sar to stay out of action indefinitely

2009-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Team’s first choice Edwin Van Der Sar will remain out of action for indefinite time as his wife has suffered brain hemorrhage. The 39-year-old Dutch goalkeeper, who has been missing from a long time, had been given permission to return to his home in Holland.

Sir Alex Ferguson told that there is no point in him being here. It will be the best thing for him to go and see his wife. Van Der Sar’s wife Annemarie van Kesteren, who is 36 years old collapsed last Wednesday when the family was planning to celebrate Christmas.

In this time Van Der Sar will receive treatment from the Holland team doctor. We hope for the quick recovery of his wife.

Sir Alex pleased with Team's Progress

2009-12-29T23:58:00.000-08:00

United manger Sir Alex Ferguson has said that he is pleased with the team’s performance over the mid season of 2009-10. He added that injuries to his defense are the main reason for this scenario.

Sir Alex will complete his 68 years on 31^st December and a thrashing win over Wigan can be a great gift for him. If it happens then Man Utd will be on 2^nd position at the end of this year just two points behind Chelsea.

United manger said that it is impossible to play in this league without proper centre backs, same thing Jose Mourinho had told in 2006-07 when Terry, Carvalho and Cech were missing games due to injuries. He was compelled to play Essian as centre back.

Man Utd v Wigan preview

2009-12-28T22:52:00.000-08:00

This will be the last game in this year for Manchester United and Wigan. It can be an easy fixture for the Red Devils. These two teams have played ten times against each other, and the result has remained every time. Guess what? Obviously United has won on every occasion.

The reverse fixture of this game was in August and United won it 5-0. This game brought 100th goal for Rooney and Michael Owen started his account of scoring.

This time there are no fresh injuries to United players. The are in good mood with a win at Hull.Rooney factor worked in that game but still a replacement for Ronaldo is essential. This transfer window is going to be crucial for the Red Devils.

Probable Team

Kuszczak
Rafael Brown Vidic Evra
Valencia Fletcher Scholes Giggs
Berbatov Rooney

Hull City 1 - 3 Manchester United

2009-12-27T21:08:00.000-08:00

Manchester United retained their second position in EPL by winning their game against Hull City at Kingston Comms Stadium.

Rooney gave United lead just before half time, otherwise the first half was looking goal less with some great saves from both goal keepers. Rooney fired a cross from Fletcher to find the Hull's net. In the second half Hull came level after getting a penalty. Then Rooney again helped his team to take lead when Dawson scored an own goal. In fact it was Rooney's effort that caused the goal. Berbatov scored from an assist from Rooney to seal the game with less than 10 minutes left in full time.

Starting Line Up:

Manchester United
Kuszczak
Rafael Vidic Brown Evra
Valencia Carrick Fletcher Giggs
Berbatov Rooney

Hull City
Myhill
Mendy Gardner Zayatte Dawson
Garcia Boateng Olofinjana Hunt
Altidore Fagan

Final Score:

Hull City 1
Fagan (59 pen.)
Manchester United 3
Rooney (45), Dawson (73 o.g.), Berbatov (81)

Hull v Man Utd preview

2009-12-25T22:25:00.000-08:00

Man United will visit KC Stadium without their best defenders as Rio Ferdinand, Garry Neville, John O'Shea and Jonny Evans are certain to miss out the game against Hull on Sunday. Team Boss Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful that one of either Vidic or Brown can comeback from injury to provide some strength to the defence. Goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar has not yet recovered from the knee injury so Tomasz Kuszczak will continue in goal. Evra may move to center back position because Sir Alex is looking set to not start with Fletcher and Carrick as the centre backs.

Wingers Ryan Giggs (hamstring) looks and Nani (foot) will also miss the game.

Probable Team

Kuszczak
Rafael Evra Vidic Fabio
Valencia Fletcher Carrick Giggs
Rooney Berbatov

Hull City will miss the charismatic Jimmy Bullard and Ian Ashbee.

Score Predication:

Hull 1
Man Utd 3

EPL Best 11 for 2009-10 (Mid Season)

2009-12-25T22:05:00.000-08:00

Cech

Cuellar Dunne Vermaelen Evra

Valencia Lampard Fabregas Giggs

Drogba Defoe

No Patience In Modern Football: Giggs

2009-12-25T21:56:00.001-08:00

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs believes that there's no patience in modern football. Everyone wants results quickly.

He was pointing on the sacking of Mark Hughes from Man city. He added that now you don't have as much time as you did 10 or 15 years ago and now it is difficult when you are trying to build a team. A few bad performances can cost your job because of pressure from media and fans.

Ryan Giggs is a Welsh footballer who has played for Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson for his entire senior club career.

Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen visited Royal Manchester Children's Hospital

2009-12-24T01:47:00.000-08:00

Manchester United's strikers Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen along with Ji-Sung Park, Gabriel Obertan and Jonny Evans have visited a children's hospital in Manchester on Wednesday.

Chelsea on top at Christmas - Good sign for the red devils

2009-12-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

Chelsea remained at the top of the points table at Christmas. This is probable good sign for Manchester United. From the last two seasons it is happening that the team at the top of table on Christmas ends the season not as winners.

Last time Liverpool was on the top and before that at was Arsenal who was leading the pack. Now his season Chelsea is on top, so United have still some chances. Chelsea will lose some top players like Drogba, Essien, Kalou and Mikel in January. This may help Chelsea to lose some points and United will come closer to the top position.

Sir Alex Ferguson - The Greatest Manager Ever

2009-12-23T21:56:00.000-08:00

Man United legend Dennis Law has said that Sir Alex Ferguson will go down as the best ever manager the game has seen. Sir Alex has been in charge for the red devils for 23 years with lots of glory-glory in his bag. He has won 11 league titles, 2 Champions Leagues, 5 FA Cups, 3 League Cups, 8 Community Shields, 1 Super Cup, 1 Cup Winners Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup.

This record is simply extraordinary and is sufficiant to make him world's ever greatest manager.

Man Utd Fixtures for this season

2009-12-22T21:31:00.000-08:00

Sunday, 27 December 2009
Barclays Premier League
Hull v Man Utd, 16:00

Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Wigan, 20:00

Sunday, 3 January 2010
The FA Cup
Man Utd v Leeds United, R3, 13:00

Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Carling Cup
Man City v Man Utd, SF, L1, 19:45

Saturday, 9 January 2010
Barclays Premier League
Birmingham v Man Utd, 17:30

Saturday, 16 January 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Burnley, 15:00

Tuesday, 19 January 2010
Carling Cup
Man Utd v Man City, SF, L2, 20:00

Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Hull, 19:45

Sunday, 31 January 2010
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal v Man Utd, 16:00

Saturday, 6 February 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Portsmouth, 15:00

Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Barclays Premier League
Aston Villa v Man Utd, 19:45

Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Uefa Champions League
AC Milan v Man Utd, R1, L1, 19:45

Saturday, 20 February 2010
Barclays Premier League
Everton v Man Utd, 15:00

Saturday, 27 February 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v West Ham, 15:00

Saturday, 6 March 2010
Barclays Premier League
Wolverhampton v Man Utd, 15:00

Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Uefa Champions League
Man Utd v AC Milan, R1, L2, 19:45

Saturday, 13 March 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Fulham, 15:00

Saturday, 20 March 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Liverpool, 15:00

Saturday, 27 March 2010
Barclays Premier League
Bolton v Man Utd, 15:00

Saturday, 3 April 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Chelsea, 15:00

Saturday, 10 April 2010
Barclays Premier League
Blackburn v Man Utd, 15:00

Saturday, 17 April 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man City v Man Utd, 15:00

Saturday, 24 April 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Tottenham, 15:00

Saturday, 1 May 2010
Barclays Premier League
Sunderland v Man Utd, 15:00

Sunday, 9 May 2010
Barclays Premier League
Man Utd v Stoke, 15:00

Fulham 3 - Manchester United 0

2009-12-22T21:27:00.000-08:00

Man Utd again lose to Fulham! But this time by 3-0, last time it was 2-0. Why they are losing so badly? "No Ronaldo" is the reason.

So it is essential to buy some good players in this transfer season. May be David Villa is the perfect one for this transfer season.

Also for CL we red devils need some good players.

Man Utd to face A C Milan in CL

2009-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Red Devils will face AC Milan in the Champions League next round.

Man Utd 3 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 0

2009-12-15T20:15:00.000-08:00

Manchester United defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-0 to go on top of the premmier league table on points with Chelsea. At Old Trafford Rooney, Vidic and Valencia scored one goals each to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Wolverhampton manager Mick McCarthy made 10 changes from the side that defeated Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 last weekend while United started with Rooney and Berbatov upfront. De Laet, Gibson and Obertan also got a chance to start. Paul Scholes made his come back in the side.

United got a penalty and Rooney scored in the 30th minute. Then Vidic made it 2-0 for the home side by converting a corner from Gibson just before the half time.

In the 65th minute Valencia scored to seal the win for the Red Devils.

Starting Line Up:

Manchester United
Kuszczak
De Laet
Carrick
Vidic
Evra
Valencia
Scholes
Gibson
Obertan
Berbatov
Rooney

Wolverhampton Wanderers
Hahnemann
Zubar
Mancienne
Elokobi
Hill
Halford
Foley
Castillo
Friend
Surman
Maierhofer

Final Score:
Manchester United 3
Rooney, Vidic, Valencia

Wolverhampton Wanderers 0

Next Match:
Fulham vs Manchester United 19th December 2009 15:00

Arsenal won at Anfield

2009-12-14T04:23:00.000-08:00

Arshawin for Arsenal!!

Last season Arshavin had scored four at Anfield but only managed to have single point for the Gunners, but on Sunday he scored a stunning short to win all three points for Arsenal.

Earlier Dirk Kuyt scored just before the half time to give the home side 1-0 lead. In the second half Glen Johnson scored an own goal to level the scoreline. The moment of magic came just before an hour of play when Arshawin fired one on the nets.

Starting Line Up:

Liverpool

Reina
Johnson Agger Aurelio Carragher
Gerrard Benayoun Mascherano Lucas
Torres Kuyt

Arsenal
Almunia
Sagna Vermaelen Gallas Traore
Fabregas Nasri Walcott Denilson
Song Billong Arshavin

Final Score

Liverpool 1
Arsenal 2

Villa stunned United with a gift from Gaby

2009-12-12T19:59:00.000-08:00

Agbanlahor scored in the 21st minute to give Aston Villa a shock 1-0 win over Manchester United. It was the first defeat for Sir Alex's side at Old Trafford in this season and first defeat after 1983 in this fixture at Old Trafford.

Earlier in the day Eveton drew with Chelsea 3-3 to give Manchester United a chance to go level on points with Chelsea at the top of the table.

Alex Fergueson started the day with Rooney as a lone striker and Darren Fletcher as right back. Nemanja Vidic came back in the side.

Starting Line Up:
Manchester United

Kuszczak

Evra Brown Vidic Anderson

Giggs Park Carrick Fletcher Valencia

Rooney

Aston Villa

Friedel

L Young Dunne Cuellar Warnock

Downing A Young Milner Petrov

Agbonlahor Heskey

Final Score
Manchester United 0
Aston Villa 1

Agbonlahor 21'

Next Match: Manchester United V Wolves 16 Dec 1:30 am

Ferguson to offer 12 months contract to Paul Scholes

2009-12-12T00:34:00.000-08:00

Manchester United's boss Sir Alex Ferguson is all set to offer a new one year deal to Paul Scholes. Scholes, who has recently celebrated his 35th birthday is one of the key players in Sir Alex's side. He has scored three goals this season in 15 games.

The consistent performance from Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Anderson is causing Paul Scholes' place in the playing eleven for 90 minutes from last few months. Scholes has played some very good seasons with Man Utd in last 10-15 years.

Manchester United v Aston Villa Preview

2009-12-11T03:32:00.000-08:00

Man Utd is all set to take on Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Saturday. This game is going to be of real importance for Sir Alex Ferguson as he mentioned earlier before the game in champions league. In the last year's game against Aston Villa, Manchester United made a good comeback to win 3-2 after being trailed 1-2.

Last season results:
at Villa Park
Aston Villa 0 Manchester United 0

at Old Trafford
Manchester United 3 Aston Villa 2

Probable Lineup:

Manchester United
Kuszczak
Neville Brown Vidic Evra
Fletcher Carrick Anderson Giggs
Valencia
Rooney

Aston Villa

Friedel

L Young Collins Dunne Warnock

Milner Petrov Sidwell A Young

Carew Agbonlahor.

Top Scorer for Manchester United this season:
Wayne Rooney 11
Dimitar Berbatov 4

Last Five Games Result:
Manchester United W L W W W
Aston Villa L W D D W

Man to Watch: Wayne Rooney

Match Timing:

December 12, 2009. 17:30

Manchester United move - A dream for Sol Campbell

2009-12-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

Former Arsenal and Portsmouth defender Sol Campbell admits that it will be a great move for him if Sir Alex offers him a short-term deal with Man Utd. Sol Campbell had some very good seasons with Arsenal.

Arsenal ended the group as winners despite defeat.

2009-12-09T20:25:00.000-08:00

In spite of defeat in the last group game against Olympiakos Arsenal ended their group as winners. The game ended 1-0 for Olympiakos. Arsenal played with their second line up and showed a good display with limited resources.

Final Score

Olympiakos 1
Leonardo 47'

Arsenal 0

Liverpool's pathetic Champions League campaign ended in miserable fashion

2009-12-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

Fiorentina ended at top of the group by defeating Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield in the UEFA Champions League. Benayoun scored just two minutes before half time to give home team 1-0 lead. New signing Aquilani made his first start and showed some good display.

In the second half Fiorentina scored twice (including one in the injury time) to win the game and finished their group as winners.

Final Score
Liverpool 1
Benayoun 43
Fiorentina 2
Jorgensen 63 Gilardino 90+2

Man Utd 3 - 1 Wolfsburg

2009-12-09T03:43:00.000-08:00

Owen treble sinks Wolfsburg:

Ryan Giggs is Man Utd's best ever

2009-12-09T02:16:00.000-08:00

Paul Scholes believes that his team mate Ryan Giggs is the best ever player of Manchester United. These two have played many games together and enjoyed some of the greatest moments in the history of the club. Recently 36 years old Giggs has scored his 100th goal for the club.

Scholes told BBC Radio Manchester: "He's the best this club has ever had, he's been fantastic to play with.

United to Play Aston Villa on 12 Dec in EPL

2009-12-09T01:55:00.000-08:00

Cup holders Manchester United will face Aston Villa on 12 December in their next EPL tie. The best line up for United for this game will be:

Van Der Sar
Neville Rio Ferdinand Vidic Evra
Nani Scholes Giggs
Valencia Rooney
Berbatov

League leader Chelsea will face Everton in their home game.

Manchester United finished at the top in UCL group

2009-12-09T01:41:00.000-08:00

Michael Owen scored a hat-trick to give his team win at Wolfsburg to end the group stage as winners. The game ended on 1-3 for Man Utd. The starting line up:

29	Kuszczak
28	Gibson
24	Fletcher
16	Carrick
3	Evra
13	Park
18	Scholes
8	Anderson
17	Nani
7	Owen
19	Welbeck
Subs:
12	Foster
25	Valencia
26	Obertan
42	Eikrem
43	James
45	Gill
46	Stewart

Match Stats:

Score:
Manchester United 3
Michael Owen (44, 83, 90)
deft.
Wolfsburg 1
Dzeko (55)

Clearly second line up for United. In this season Berbatov, Valencia, Giggs and Rooney are the first options for Sir Alex, but in this game he preferred to rest these players. The Cb's Vidic and Rio Ferdinand were still outlined.