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Is there any Manchester United fan?

Up Man U . Ya ka ga MUn  Beating Liverpool after three years of bacin rai man i was so happy today . But i rooted for Everton against Newcastle too but shearer and Bellamy were juss unstopable, plus that Yobo was given given a red card dat i dont think he deserved .Well I also see Forlan will be a vital figure in our quest for the Premiership
                                  a sha ruwa lafiya

Manchester is my middlename and united is what we are. It's so nice to have brothers around.Too bad it has been long. Anyways...I`ll keep an eye here.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
Man U is gone fellas. Don't be nostalgic. They had their times winning the league for couple of years in a row.
Anyway, I am a Liverpool fan beacuse " I(you) will never walk alone". Fairer than the red devils, dont you think.
Sai anjima

Oh no man, you got it all wrong, sorry to say but it is liverpool who had thier days. They still have the highest premier leage title records...but there is something about the teatre of dreams...we are a dream team. we are the best on the good side. There is absolutely no debate about these facts. once a manU forever a ManU. May God help us.

Arsenal 4 life 2001/2002 Premiership and FA cup winners oh and also the best striker in the business 2day Thierry Henry (golden boot winner).  

I see a foriegner is here. The wormest of all Welcomes, but one thing I have to say, The FA cup, the premiership and championship cups are all coming home this season, home to the teatre of dreams. Aint no doubt about it baby.

As it is called the Theatre of Dreams well my bro all u dreams have come true and now its over, u guys have won 18 league championships, 4 European cups and 6 FA cups. Man have u seen the way Liverpool r playing at the moment it is such a sad thing to watch lol.

I agree and sympathise with you about liverpool. Indeed this is thier worst season ever. We have to watchout for each other, 11 games all in vein. That reminds me of manchester last season, 8 early useless matchess all lost...that was our problem. But we must continue, manchester United is still on it. May God help us all my friend.

Yallabai, United fans suna ko in a duniya. Ai babu mai yin gaba da iyawa ko ba gaskiya ba. Allah ya bamu Sa'a mu samu another striker mai kyau then we will be unbeatable next season.

Wai ina masu surutai ne kwanaki meya faru ne yau akace fan's din arsenal sun koma black burn?

We just had a bad day that was all

QuoteWe just had a bad day that was all

u betta get use to loosin man, cuz the bad day will become bad days for arsenal.

I agree, Arsenal had a bad day, there defence was virtually off, and...well its a bad day, but its part of it, we had alotta these days, yet we remain the English giants....welcome to the game.

English giants man i think Liverpool has that title and the silver wear 2 prove it.

QuoteEnglish giants man i think Liverpool has that title and the silver wear 2 prove it.

point of correction venom, liverpools era waz in the 80s. football has changed alot since then. liverpool r out of it.

Well Arsenal r back where they belong on top of the Premiership table. But i have to say this is on of the best premiership seasons i have seen in a very long time, cause right now it could go 2 any1 of the top 3 teams. But God willing it is coming back home to where it belongs Highbury  :D :D :D

You know where the premiership home is my friend, for ten yrs we have brought the cup to old trafford 7 times. Beyond any reasonable doubt and contestations, we own the cup, u might have borrowed it a time or two, but thats all over now.


Manchester United, all others are seperated.

I don't see any reason why Arsenal fans keep comparing their club to Manchester. The record speeks for itself. 7 Premierships compared to Arsenals 2.2 campions league compared to Arsenals 0. zero is not even good cos they never ever went pass the quarter finals. Haba mutane. How can Arsenal be compared to United. A team in Europe is a team at the champions league stage. If you win any league thats good for you but not as good as winning in Europe. Ok let me continue. ten FA cups compared to Arsenals 8. and other smaller competition that arsenal never had the chance to play. The toyota cup, the super cup cos those are for european victory. There is nothing in the world I think that Arsenal can pass united right now. Maybe they are on top in the league but thats temporary. Compare the players. I think only two players will get first team action at Manchester and they are Pires and Henry. All the rest will be benched. Maybe Campbell will play instead of Brown. If someone can compare Arsenal and Manchester, then I am very sure that he can compare United States (as a country not their football team)with Nigeria. I think the difference is way too clear.

At the same time Arsenal are having a very good time right now but so as united. They are very arrogant at the moment and that will loose them the tite. The potential title decider will be played at Highbury but don't cancel out New Castle yet.

Please stop the comparison at least for some years to come. Look out for the young kyds Fletcher, Richardson, Lynch, Webber, Oshea, Brown and etc.

"there r only two kinds of football clubs in europe MAN UTD and THE REST.."

No man if u r talking about europe there is only 1 club in europe that has done it all and thats Real Madrid:

9 European Champions Cup Titles
2 UEFA Cup Titles
3 Intercontinental Cup Titles
1 Copa Latina Title
1 Super Cup

And at home they have:

28 Spanish League Titles
17 Spanish Cup Titles
6 Spanish Super Cup Titles
18 Regional Champion Titles

VENOM:
Ask real madrid to tell u about US.

Well Ibro I would agree that at home ur record is really good but man in europe ur record is not so good. U have teams like AC, Barcelona, Juven

This clearly proves what you said in the other topic Ibro. Manutd and the rest. I thought Venom was an Arsenal fan and now look at him talking about Madrid against United. Whether you like it or not its us Vs the rest. And talking about Europe. Yes Madrid is looking for its 10th. Hey even Liverpool won it four times and we are quite aware of that but the most consistant club in the champions league in the past decade is Manutd and thats a fact not to be argued about. They had been to at least the quarter finals in the last eight and no other club had achieved that. Madrid ofcourse deserve credit for their champions league outfit. Anyway the cup is now at the Manchester museum and the march will start on tuesday at the bernebau. Lets see who climbs the hill this time around. The champions league will be won by the winner of the tie. Go United Go United.

Arsenal W20 D7 L5
Man U W20 D7 L5
this is just they best season in a very long time. ?

so now what excuse do the arsenal fans av bout the performance of the gunners 2day??

we were just unlucky thats all

Ai dama you are always UNLUCKY.sai mun  hadu ma you will see what will  happen sorry for you gunners.

gaskiya the way man united r playin now, it will be very unfortunate for the gunners when they meet..it will be a sad story..

God willing we will be the 1s with da victory on that day  

United we hit back the title.

This has been a tremendous season for United fans like me. It was a difficult season but it is the season like this that makes victory worth it. Thank you to everyone at Man United who has given hope and enjoy to me. I trust that Man United will be doing even better next season. I am proud to be a Man United fan."

Thank you for making life seem tolerable. With poor economy, war in Iraq and ongoing terrorist threats, Manchester United have been a bright spot. Congratulations on a superb management and execution job. One regret!!!! it's over for awhile. Now we begin the speculation of forming next years championship squad. Go Red Devils

Manchester United have been crowned the 2002/03 Premiership Champions after Arsenal failed to beat Leeds United at Highbury on Sunday afternoon.

United started the day eight points clear of the Gunners after their 4-1 win over Charlton at Old Trafford, meaning Arsene Wenger's men had to beat Leeds - but they lost 3-2 to the Yorkshiremen in a thriller at Highbury.

That leaves Arsenal eight points behind us with them only having two games left to play. The title, having looked a distant prospect a couple of months ago, is back at Old Trafford!

It's the fifteenth League title in United history, and the eighth in the last eleven seasons. Watch out Liverpool - we're catching you up!

Congratulations to all the players, management and backroom staff who had a hand in the Championship triumph. The lads will be presented with the trophy after the match against Everton at Goodison Park next Sunday.

It's party time!

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has already set his sights on next season's Champions League following his side's eighth Premiership win in the last 11 seasons.

United were awarded the title as a result of Arsenal's failure to beat Leeds United at Highbury on Sunday afternoon but while they will want to retain their domestic crown in 2003/04, Ferguson emphasised the importance of the European title in his plans.

The Old Trafford chief, who did not watch the Arsenal match, told Sky Sports: "Now we have to get the big one again. Winning it twice is not enough.

"We are not far away, believe me. Everyone was excited by the Real Madrid adventure. We want it again. It has become as important as anything you can think of in football."

The 4-1 win at home to Charlton on Saturday meant United could sit back and watch Arsenal sweat in their two games in hand as the Gunners had to win against both Leeds and Southampton to have a chance at retaining their crown.

Arsene Wenger's side failed at the first hurdle, though, and Ferguson summed up his feelings at clinching the title, saying: "It is fantastic, the greatest achievement by the team.

"We were up against a terrific side but we showed perseverance, determination and a great ability never to give up. That's what got us the title.


 
Van: 'It nearly killed me'
 

"We had to overcome injuries early in the season but we had to bite the bullet and take the poison. I was surprised people had their doubts - I knew we would have all our main players back for the main part of the season.

"I never doubt Manchester United. I know their [the players'] capabilities. When you are with a group for a long time you know them. I know they take a challenge.

"After losing to Manchester City I asked them if they were hungry enough. These are young men who are very rich. You must ask that question."

Many would argue that Arsenal threw away the title after having a 10-point lead in November, but Ferguson was quick to put the title down to his side's recent form claiming: "We went on a fantastic run. You can't deny teams in that spell.

"Four years ago we stuttered and Arsenal won the title. You can never be sure in this league."

United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, whose hat-trick against Charlton at Old Trafford took his season's tally to 43, said: "It's unbelievable that we've won it.

"We've worked so hard and it's a great feeling, especially after the bad position we were in. They way we won it is unbelievable.

"I watched the game this afternoon but it was really hard - so nerve-wracking and exciting. When Viduka scored I jumped up and down.

"The five minutes of extra-time nearly killed me. I'm so overwhelmed."










Last Updated: 04 May 2003

Manchester United Beyond reasonable doubts...We are great! We were, we are, and we continue to achieve greatness. Manchester United ; May God help us to continue...
? ? Now, I know a number of people would be waiting for my post on this. Trully I must celebrate for we have won this title, in such an ispiring way... it was difficult but worth it, some how, the joy is more this way. But I'm also here to shake the hands of the people who made us champions.... who faught the battle to the end, who made us proove ourselves, whom where almost heroes... I'm here to put a hand on the arsenal fans shoulder. Yes  Arsenal, You have indeed done something worth praising, you have given us a challenge, the challenge!. Even though we are better...and distinquished your goals, I would not dishonour you. Remember...football is just a game, and Manchester United is our team...here at the theatre of dreams. I am exreemly delighted, knowing I celebrate your failure, but not your loss, in a way I morn with you, knowing you deserve something. But you all know and I also know, that beyond reasonable doubts...Manchester United deserves this title more than any one else. I dont want to make this too long, so I must stop here. I write this especially for Venom...I believe in som`n...and the others.
And as for us....MANCHESTER UNITED fans CONGRATULATIONS I'm really so happy for us all.
Saraki, a specially thanks to u.


I'm outta here

Congratulations Manchester United, you won the title against all odds; after other critics had long written your obituary. All ManU players should donate half of their salary to Van the Man for consistently giving a 110% whe every one else went to sleep. Sorry Arsenal, but the title was yours to lose and you lost it. All I need to say, really.

Ruud van Nistelrooy today revealed how he will help Cristiano Ronaldo set the Premiership alight - by standing clear and letting the Manchester United teenager weave his magic.

The Portuguese 18-year-old, snapped up from Sporting Lisbon for ?12million as David Beckham's replacement, produced a scintillating performance to inspire yesterday's 2-0 win at 10-man Charlton. Although van Nistelrooy admitted that United as a team were far from their best, he acclaimed the contribution of Ronaldo.

The midfielder's trickery left Charlton stumped time after time at The Valley, although the theatrical nature of several of his tumbles infuriated the home fans.

Van Nistelrooy, who bagged both goals after his run of scoring in 12 successive games had came to a halt in the defeat at Southampton, said: ``You don't need to help Cristiano - you just stay out of his way and let him get on with it.

``He was brilliant. He's so quick and gets the ball away from the feet of defenders and they don't know he's gone.

``All the crowd were against him but the free-kick decisions were right.''

After a poor first hour in south-east London, van Nistelrooy took advantage of Jason Euell playing him onside to slam a loose ball into the roof of the net.

And Euell's day went from bad to worse four minutes later when he was shown a second yellow card followed by a red after a mistimed lunge left Gary Neville grounded.

Van Nistelrooy's second came 10 minutes from time when Ryan Giggs' free-kick dribbled through to him at the far post. But the Dutchman made no mistake from two yards.

Van Nistelrooy believes returning to winning ways - despite the scrappy nature of the performance - was essential for United ahead of the start of their Champions' League campaign against Panathinaikos on Tuesday.

``Apart from Ronaldo, none of us played that brilliantly,'' van Nistelrooy added on MUTV.

``But we fought and didn't give anything away in defence or midfield. And we know that, if we keep the clean sheet, it's up to the strikers to score.

``Once we did that the game was there for us - which was important after the disappointing way we lost at Southampton.

``Yesterday, we worked together, to make sure they wouldn't score and hoped we would.''

Manchester United captain Roy Keane is set to miss their Champions League opener against Panathinaikos at Old Trafford.

The Irishman limped out of Saturday's win at Charlton with an ankle injury and Sir Alex Ferguson, looking ahead to Sunday's match with Arsenal, may opt to give Keane more time to recover.

Paul Scholes (hernia) and Kleberson (dislocated shoulder) are also sidelined, so teenager midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to make his European debut for United. :o :o :o

Sir Alex Ferguson has lashed out at claims that Cristiano Ronaldo is a diver after Charlton defender Chris Perry criticised the Portuguese winger in the aftermath of United's 2-0 win at The Valley on Saturday.

With Southampton's Kevin Phillips and Arsenal's Robert Pires also coming under the spotlight after appearing to collapse under little contact during Barclaycard Premiership matches at the weekend, the issue of players diving has become a hot topic.

But, while Ferguson admitted diving has become a problem in the domestic game, he stood up for his ?12.2million summer recruit from Sporting Lisbon. And, to emphasise his point, the Scot drew on Greek mythology. He said: "I have watched the video again and Cristiano would have needed the strength of Atlas not to go down."

He continued: "We have seen evidence over the weekend that diving is a problem in our game and I believe the introduction of foreign players has brought that part, but I don't think Ronaldo dived. It is easy to say he went to ground too easily, he would have been a fool to try withstand those type of tackles."

Ferguson is likely to offer Ronaldo a Champions League debut on Tuesday when United open their campaign against Panathinaikos at Old Trafford.

With half an eye on Sunday's Premiership encounter with Arsenal, ankle injury victim Roy Keane will not be risked on the bench providing Mikael Silvestre recovers from a knee problem, while long-term absentees Paul Scholes, Kleberson and Wes Brown are again missing.

It means either Phil Neville or Eric Djemba-Djemba will partner Nicky Butt in central midfield, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer likely to return in attack to support Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Saraki just a little note if you will. Next time do put your sources I mean from what site you get your information because not doing so is plagiarism and That's offensive.

Meanwhile Go Chealsea! Go Chealsea!! Go!!!    ;)

Manchester United assumed control of Champions League Group E after romping past a palid Panathinaikos at Old Trafford.

Neither goal machine Ruud van Nistelrooy or Ryan Giggs got in on the act as the Old Trafford extras took centre-stage.

Mikael Silvestre, Quinton Fortune, Nicky Butt and Eric Djemba-Djemba joined Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on the score-sheet.

The scoreline suggest a ruthless rout, but United were never forced to get out of second gear by their tame Greek visitors.

And after Rangers' 2-1 win with Stuttgart, a happy Sir Alex Ferguson can survey an early advantage at the top of the group table.

With Roy Keane and Paul Scholes out injured and Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, United took the field with a midfield brimming with power rather than prowess.

But by half-time the match was over as a contest, and three of the four 'battlers' who started in the engine room were on the scoresheet.

It was a defender who kicked off the scoring in the 13th minute, with Silvestre poking home follow a corner that caused a melee in the box.

Within 60 seconds it was two - and in spectacular style.  Fortune belted an unstoppable effort into the roof of the net from just inside the box.

On 32 minutes Solskjaer made it three with a left foot shot that owed everything to a horrendous howler from keeper Nikopolidis.

And sevcen minutes later Butt got in on the act with a fine header from Ryan Giggs' cross, his first United goal in 18 months.

Eric Djemba-Djemba came off the bench to finish things off with his first goal as a United player, but there will be sterner tests to come.

United, Chelsea, Arsenal & Celtic to reach knock-out stages - but only United can win Champions League, says El Tel


The Champions League gets under way in earnest tonight and Terry Venables reckons only one of our clubs has a chance of lifting the trophy...Manchester United.

While Chelsea have splashed out the millions and Arsenal sit on top of the Premiership, it is Fergie's boys who Venables thinks will pose the greatest threat to the Italian clubs who contested the final last year. And Real Madrid, of course.

Despite the loss of midfield superstars like David Beckham and Juan Sebastian Veron, the former England boss believes they are better equipped than ever to challenge for Europe's premier prize and bring the Champions League back to England for the first time in five years.

He said: "United have the squad and the experience to pull it off. In fact, I'd say they are even stronger than last year despite losing David Beckham. They will have learned from their quarter final defeat against Real Madrid when they played into Madrid's hands in the Bernabeu, showing them too much respect, and I am sure Alex won't make the same mistake again.
"They may have lost two players, but they have brought in five and strength in depth is now the key, plus their group isn't the most daunting to begin with.

"The only problem might be that back-to-back fixtures against Rangers are then followed by a trip to Panathanaikos so they will need to watch the card count in the 'Battle Of Britain' games. However, while United should qualify with ease I don't think Rangers will be joining them, but I am tipping their rivals from across the city, Celtic to use last year's European experience and qualify for the knock-out stages."
El Tel isn't so confident about the prospects of England's other two representatives, Arsenal and Chelsea. The Gunners, who perennially under-achieve in the Champions League, have been handed a tough group with the much-improved Inter Milan as favourites and the two other games aren't easy either.

Venables explains: "Arsenal should get through in second place although trips to Dynamo Kiev and Lokomotiv Moscow are never easy fixtures. Fortunately, both will be completed before November when the cold really sets in and the Gunners shouldn't have too many problems with either at home.
"However, beyond the first phase my biggest worry is strength outside the first team, particularly in defence. Even though I have tipped Chelsea to win the Premiership, I think they will have a tough job in qualifying from their Champions League group.

"If they do and the players have gelled by the time the knock-out stages begin in February then we will see what happens.
"Lazio have a good squad, Besiktas won a strong Turkish league and Sparta Prague will be on a high following the Czech national team's 3-1 win against Holland. The biggest concern for Chelsea is that Claudio Ranieri clearly doesn't know his best team as yet and there are bound to be teething problems with so many new players, but I am tipping them to make it through to the next stage anyway."

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)MANCHESTER UNITED FOOT BALL CLUB. :)

First and foremost, when the Premier League was founded, this was the type of game they had in mind - two tremendous teams, with no hint of mis-match for the neutral, full of fireworks, great football and always a surprise in store.

It is already a much bigger game for Arsenal. I was shocked at how easy Inter cut through them on Wednesday and Arsene Wenger will need to sort that out for a start.

None of the back four looked comfortable and they weren't helped by a very poor midfield performance - a repeat of anything like that and they will be in trouble again.
I'll say now, I do think United will shade it on Sunday. Arsenal are usually at their most potent on the back of a bad European result, but I just think that this time the hangover may be too much to cope with.  
They need to improve throughout the side. There was nothing that their fans could pin any hope on against Inter and they need the likes of Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires and Thierry Henry to come good when it matters... and boy does it matter on Sunday!
Some people are saying a trip to Old Trafford is the perfect game for them to bounce back in, but sometimes when you analyse football, you have no idea about what is going on in a dressing room.

I don't know how badly Arsenal will be affected and I don't know how Wenger will be motivating his troops right now.

I know that when you look at their squad and the players they have got, you couldn't possibly imagine them getting mullered as they did against Inter. But they did, and they will be desperate to silence their critics.

There was so much wrong with the performance against Inter, that it may well take more than a few days to put things right, or it could just be a complete one off. We will know come 4pm on Sunday.
I would be amazed if Martin Keown does not play at Old Trafford. Sol Campbell has had his problems and may not play on Sunday, while Kolo Toure, for me, has looked all over the place.

He may have pace and Wenger may be determined to make a central defender out of him, but right now he looks like a midfielder playing out of position and United will be ready to expose any more uncertainty at the back.

Even if Campbell does play, I would expect to see Keown in there to take care of Ruud van Nistelrooy, which will of course, renew their rivalry.

In complete contrast Manchester United could not have had a better build-up. If they had beaten Panathinaikos 2-1, then there would would have been one or two rumblings, but to thrash them 5-0 - and it could have been a lot more - just goes to show what a good side they are.

Time and again, they get the big results, when it really matters.

I've always said they are a leviathon and a law unto themselves. Even without the likes Rio Ferdinand, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes injured they keep picking up the wins.
It makes me laugh when people say they lack creativity now that David Beckham and Juan Sebastian Veron have gone - that is complete and utter tosh! They may well end up missing those two, but how can you say a side lacks creativity when they win a European Cup game 5-0, with five different scorers?

Basically Manchester United in great shape again. Tim Howard has settled in very well and young Ronaldo looks a hell of a talent - and they're supposed to be the new lads, who were bought with the future very much in mind.

Both sides' contrasting form only adds to what is now the biggest game in the domestic calendar - and one which never disappoints.

I disagree when people say the games are anti-climactic. Even the games that don't have goals are very tight and brilliant chess matches - especially for the neutral.

This time around, we've got Keown v Van Nistelrooy, the Community Shield left-overs and the midweek matches, which all add to the cocktail that will make it an irresistible match to watch.

PREDICTION: I'm going for a United win. Of course it will be tight, but I just think this is one European hangover that may linger longer than the others as far as Arsenal are concerned

Sol Campbell is likely to miss Arsenal's Premiership showdown with Manchester United following the death of his father, reports The Sun.

Campbell played in the Gunners' 3-0 Champions League defeat by Inter on Wednesday night despite his Dad suffering a stroke on Tuesday.

However, Arsenal have now told their England centre back to take as much time off as he needs.

This could signal a recall for Martin Keown alongside either Pascal Cygan or Kolo Toure for Sunday's Old Trafford crunch.

I got all my sources from WWW.SKYSPORTS.COM

and MANUTD.COM

Fergie's View: Arsenal preview  

19/9/03 3:00 PM

 Sir Alex Ferguson spoke to the press ahead of United's crunch Premiership clash with Arsenal. This is what the boss had to say...

Was the performance against Pana the best of the season?
"Yeah I would think so. It was a very good performance. I thought the speed of our play was good, we had a good determination to win the ball back off them and going in 4-0 at half-time was a perfect set-up for me because I was able to take some players off, bring the younger ones in and protect the ones who came off with the little injuries they had. So it was a good night for us and I think we deserved to get the praise."

On Tim Howard
"He's been superb. He's caught everyone by surprise. They thought maybe a few months getting used to English football, but the lad has been sensational. His save on Tuesday night was outstanding. It was a difficult one because the cross had come in from the right, the attacker's come in on the blind side of one of the defenders and it was a marvellous header by him, but it was a very, very good save."

Were you surprised by the Arsenal v Inter result?
"Yeah I was. Arsenal, you don't expect them to lose that way, but football's a funny game and they were chasing a bit. Once they lost the two goals it was always going to be difficult for them, and Inter Milan are a very determined team. But that doesn't make any difference to Sunday's game. They say that they'll be more determined coming to Old Trafford on Sunday, but we expected that. We expected an Arsenal team to be determined, they were determined on Wednesday, so it'll be a good game."

Should we beware a wounded Arsenal?
"As I said, I don't expect Arsenal to be any different in that respect. I think there's only so much effort you can put into a football match and I think Arsenal do it all the time. We're in this situation now that we are at the moment. Our form has been very good I think, there's a great atmosphere among the players, they're all keen to do well again this season they showed that last year, so for us it's an important game. It's not the crucial game as some may point to because there's so much time to go. It's only September. You don't get the cup now, you don't get the medals now. But what we hope is that by getting the result it will be significant by the end of the season."

How important is keeping the discipline?
"Well I think Manchester United's discipline's been fantastic. I don't know how many times we've won the Fair Play award, whether that's a significant achievement, but nontheless it does tell you we've got a good discipline among us and so we will be making sure our discipline is good on Sunday.

Injuries ahead of Sunday?
"We've got several little bumps and bruises which we've been carrying for a couple of weeks now. John O'Shea from internationals, Mikael Silvestre from internationals, Ole Gunnar from internationals, Nicky Butt from internationals and Roy with his ankle injury. But they've all been getting good treatment this week. We've had that extra day to recover from Tuesday night's game. With the game being Sunday it's really five days for us, so we've had a chance to patch up two or three of them and hopefully we'll get a strong side out on Sunday."

Will Phil Neville's performance in the same game last year be considered?
"Of course it will be. Phil's form this year has been outstanding. I think there's been a great turnaround in fortunes for Phil. He's back in the England squad, I think he's been great for them, I think he's getting recognition from a lot of the critics who were killing him a couple of years back and I think that helps. So I think with Phil you're seeing a maturing player who's doing a great job for us.

Not such an intense game so early in the season?
"Well I think the game, if you go to Highbury last year that was crucial time then. Obviously we had to get a result that night, we were just barely top of the league, we'd just gone top of the league and so therefore going away from there without losing was vital. I thought we were a bit unlucky to be honest with you. As their second goal proved. It was a mile offside but we rescued the game, we came away with something and there was nothing really, apart from Sol Campbell getting sent off, nothing really happened in that game. It was a good, competitive game played in the right spirit, well handled by the referee, great atmosphere and that's the kind of platform great players want. And now they've got that on Sunday again."

Ronaldo
"Well, he's only 18, first of all, and he's not 19 until February. So therefore there is a need to maintain a watch on the lad in terms of his fitness and things like that and give him a rest at the proper time. But also give him the work he needs to improve him, and we know young players need to be improved at that age. He's a very talented boy, there's no question about that."

Keane's injury
"Nothing needs to be done with the ankle. What you read in the paper about being out for six months or whatever it was is some cock-and-bull story anyway. His ankle's fine. All we need to do is decide if he's ready for Sunday."

Scholes
"Paul Scholes, hopefully, will go into training next week. It's a crucial week for us that'll decide the next step we take. If he comes through then it's possible we can get him back into the team."

Report by Steve Bartram

Come on Arsenal, I believe we can beat United on Sunday the only thing the would let us down is the back but know the Sol's dad is dead i believe if he plays he would play 4 him and he will be at his best on sunday. The only person the would kill the party is the hottest striker in europe now Ruud. If United should win it would be because of him.

Haha venom yaka tsorata? ba komai 3-1 ce ai

Man to tell u the truth I would be really happy if we can get a draw cause man the back has 2 many holes in it. I guess we just have 2 wait and see.

Salamu Alaikum

Yallabai Allah ya kaimu goben.

Hakane venom gwara a bari sai goben sannan ace wani abu kada a kuma ta shekarar bara inda kuka rika yin kuri ai kofin nakune amma sai kawai aka nuna muku ai na gaba yayi gaba.

Kafin goben kuma bara nayi maganar championsleague. ARSENAL 0-3 INTER

to shidai wannan wasan ban kalle shiba amma nasan cewa ba kawai cinsu akai ba an wulakanta su ne sai dai kuma ni bana son a ci Arsenal a Champions league. In san samu ne ma ManU da Arsenal da Chealsea duk su fito tare a semi finals tare da Madrid. ManU suci Arsenal Madrid suci Chealsea mu kuma muci Madrid a finals din. Wanna shi zai zamo 'perfect' a gareni.

Amma indai cinsu da Inter tayi zaisa mucisu to Allah ya kara 'Gunners' sai a yi hakuri.

'For' gobe kuma sai muyi addua Allah yasa Muci su Ameen summa Ameen. In za'a maimaita 6-1 dinna shekarar baya da naji dadi.

Kuma wai da kace wai Campbell zai buga wa Babanshi ball ai baka san mutuwar iyaye bane shi yasa ka fadi haka. Banaji zai iya yin wasa sai dai in dama can tsakanin nasu bashi da karfi.

Bissalam

Skipper Roy Keane is set to return from an ankle injury for Sunday's crucial Barclaycard Premiership showdown with Arsenal.

The Irishman was an unused substitute on Tuesday as United romped to their 5-0 Champions League win over Panathinaikos but is fit to face the Gunners.

Phil Neville, Quinton Fortune and John O'Shea know their places are most at risk from Keane's return.

Manchester United (from): Howard, Carroll, G Neville, P Neville, Silvestre, Ferdinand, O'Shea, Fortune, Butt, Solskjaer, Ronaldo, Keane, Djemba-Djemba, Giggs, van Nistelrooy, Forlan, Fletcher, Richardson.

Martin Keown is set to start for just the second time this season in Sunday's Sky Live game at Old Trafford following the death of Sol Campbell's father.

Campbell is not a definite absentee, but Arsenal have told him to take as much time as he needs to be with his family.

Arsene Wenger said: "You have to leave these decisions to the players. It can be a kind of therapy if he plays. You can get away and concentrate on something else. It is how everybody feels in that situation that dictates the attitude.

"But it will be left to Sol. We will respect whatever he decides to do at such a terrible time for him."

Keown is likely to partner Kolo Toure in the centre of defence, despite the young Ivory Coast international's inexperience in the position being exposed by Inter in midweek.

Wenger must decide whether to shuffle his pack elsewhere or give the side humbled at Highbury a chance to redeem themselves.

Dennis Bergkamp is in contention for a starting spot in attack, while Ray Parlour could replace Gilberto Silva in midfiled following a series of poor displays from the Brazilian.

Arsenal (from): Lehmann, Stack, Lauren, Cole, Toure, Campbell, Keown, Cygan, Vieira, Gilberto Silva, Edu, Parlour, Pires, Ljungberg, Wiltord, Henry, Bergkamp, Kanu, Aliadiere

 

   




Since the Premier League began, there have only been three winners of the prestigious trophy. Between them United and Arsenal have topped the final table in 10 of 11 seasons (let's please forget the 1994/95 season).

On Sunday the top two teams in England do battle again, with the victors sure to gain an early season psychological boost from overcoming their nearest rivals. Here we compare the squads in a bid to find out who will emerge from Sunday's showdown on top of the league:

Keepers - Both goalkeepers have played only a handful of games for their new clubs, but have already managed to impress in a short space of time. Tim Howard's athleticism and quick distribution have given United a reliability and also brought back the possibility of quick counter-attacks. Meanwhile, Lehmann had the unenviable task of replacing Arsenal legend David Seaman at Highbury, yet has so far made a seamless transition. The big German's style and demeanour between the posts is eerily reminiscent of the ponytailed one, and he fits perfectly into a fairly solid Arsenal backline.

Defence - United have conceded two goals so far this season in comparison to Arsenal's three, so clearly both backlines are fairly dependable. With Wes Brown still out injured, United are likely to start with John O'Shea at left back, Gary Neville at right-back and Rio Ferdinand will partner Mikael Silvestre in central defence to combat the pace of Thierry Henry. Arsene Wenger, meanwhile, will have to choose whether to play Martin Keown or Kolo Toure alongside Sol Campbell in the centre of defence. Much berated England left-back Ashley Cole will go up against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, while Lauren (fresh from his spectacular take-a-touch-and-finish own goal against Manchester City) will occupy the right-back berth. Wenger will have to consider whether to play the inexperienced Toure or risk another spat between Keown and Van Nistelrooy.

Midfield - Much for United hinges on the fitness of skipper Roy Keane, obviously. If he is passed fit to play, then he should start alongside Nicky Butt and Phil Neville, who of course reaped much of the acclaim for last season's win over Arsenal at Old Trafford. That day, Patrick Vieira was a frustrated figure and will feel he has a point to prove this time around. With Gilberto, Freddie Ljungberg and Robert Pires alongside him, the Arsenal midfield looks as ominously strong as ever. If United's three defensive midfielders can keep a tight rein on their London counterparts, as was the case last season, then they can go a long way to inspiring a home win.

Attack - Ryan Giggs and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be very busy on Sunday, as they will have to alternate between tracking back to help the defensive midfielders and sprinting forward to aid lone striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy upfront. If United can work the ball through the big Dutchman and lend him enough support, then there are goals to be had. Ideally, Paul Scholes would be doing this job, but he is almost certain to miss the game thanks to his much publicised stomach injury. Arsenal will rely on the brilliant Thierry Henry to undo United's defence, and he will be supported by the ever-dangerous Sylvain Wiltord. If Henry is given room to maneouvre in and around the box then United will be heavily punished.

Verdict - You might as well to toss a coin. These two teams are unquestionably England's finest and are fairly evenly matched in every department. Expect them to be separated by brilliant individual skill or goals from set-pieces. I'm going to stick my neck out and say a 1-1 draw. Given the absence of Scholes, this really wouldn't be too bad a result. As such, Arsenal will stay top, but they shouldn't get too comfortable.

True, the first half provided little in the way of excitement in front of goal and nerve-tingling football, but there was still a tense undercurrent which is invariably prevalent when these teams meet.

Still, there was no hint of the amazing scenes which occurred during the closing stages as Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira was dispatched to the dressing room and Ruud van Nistelrooy blasted a penalty against visitors’ woodwork.

Tempers flared and there were angry exchanges as the game descended into a running battle near the end.

In recent years the Premiership race has melted down to a virtual straight fight between United and Arsenal which unsurprisingly saw all league meetings between the clubs automatically billed as ‘title-deciders’. But this game was far from that and the reason for the remarkable events in the last ten minutes will surely be investigated by the FA Premier League.  

United have, of course, dominated the top division since its metamorphosis into the Premiership in 1992 and Arsenal have rarely been far off the pace. Other clubs have posted their intent along the way, but in the end only Blackburn Rovers, in 1995, have been the only other club to interrupt United’s hegemony.

Now, with Chelsea’s rouble-fueled revolution gaining some momentum and Liverpool winning matches on a regular basis again there seems a decent chance that this season’s race to the tape could in include a few extra serious contenders than usual.

Whatever surprises the next few months may hold there is no getting away from the fact that when the Red Devils and Gunners meet it’s always one of the highlights of the season.

Today’s clash at Old Trafford arrived too early in the season to have any real bearing on the outcome of the championship – not even United can claim to have annexed the title in September – but that didn’t stop it from receiving the customary media hype and overblown build-up.

United prepared for the showdown with a ridiculously easy 5-0 UEFA Champions League win over Panathinaikos, whilst Arsenal slumped to an alarming 3-0 defeat at home to Internazionale in their opening group game.

It was a beautifully warm  and pleasant day in Manchester as the match started with United attacking the Stretford End goal. The atmosphere as expected was crackling with both sets of fans raising the decibel level from the off.

Arsenal, wearing their ‘Brazil’ kit of yellow shirts and blue shorts were, without Robert Pires whilst United welcomed back skipper Roy Keane and Cristiano Ronaldo, both of whom sat out the midweek cakewalk against Panathinaikos.

And it was Ronaldo who had the fans on their feet in opening minutes of the game with a tricky run which threatened to undo the Arsenal defence. The roars grew in volume as he progressed but he was eventually dispossessed.

Ryan Giggs went inches wide with a curling free-kick in the 14th minute and Ruud van Nistelrooy headed onto the roof soon after from Giggs’ free-kick after Ashley Cole had fouled Ronaldo.

Keane’s name was taken in the 22nd minute after he’d clashed with Arsenal’s Cameroonian defender Lauren.

Cole moved forward from his left back berth to join the attack in the 25th minute and very nearly found a way past Tim Howard with a low short from just outside the area.

   

Ronaldo started to cause havoc on the right wing with a stream of tantalizing crosses which had keeper Jens Lehmann and the Arsenal defence under pressure. “There’s Only One Ronaldo,” bayed the Stretford End, and it’s unlikely that was a reference to David Beckham’s teammate at Real Madrid.

Arsenal began the second half in a really positive mood and had United retreating as they cpressed forward. Fredrik Ljungberg ended up on the ground following a mild collision with Gary Neville. The Arsenal’s roared the claims for a penalty, but it was a clear case of six of one and half a dozen!

An hour gone and still no goals in this tense contest, but this was, by no means, a disappointing match. The first half had been short-changed in the goalmouth action department, but otherwise it was totally in keeping with what could be described as typical encounter between these clubs. Both teams appeared to open up a little more after the break. There was more adventure and determination to put the emphasis on attack. The Old Trafford crowd recognized the change and reacted accordingly with a roar that nearly ripped the roof from its moorings.

Phil Neville, who put in a critically acclaimed midfield performance against the Gunners in the corresponding fixture last season, was enjoying himself again in an almost identical role. The crowd saluted him more than once after he’d broken down an Arsenal attack or robbed the ball in midfield.

Ronaldo opened up the Arsenal defence again in the 78th minute with a fabulous through ball which found van Nistelrooy. Lehmann’s goal was staright ahead, but unusually for the Dutchman his first touch let him down and Arsenal were able to clear the danger.

The volatile history of this fixture surfaced again in sensational fashion in the last ten minutes. Arsenal captain, who’d received a yellow card some minutes earlier for a foul on Quinton Fortune, was sent off in the 81st minute after clashing with van Nistelrooy.

Unrest broke out on the field with several players facing up to each other and it took a few moments for calm to be restored. Arsenal immediately replaced Dennis Bergkamp with the Brazilian Edu.

With the game entering its final stages everyone could be excused for thinking that was the end of the drama, but nothing could be further from the truth.

Two minutes into added time and with United pushing forward in numbers they were sensationally awarded a penalty after Martin Keown had felled Diego Forlan. ‘Handbags’ were drawn again as Arsenal reacted angrily to the decision. When the storm eventually subsided it was down to van Nistelrooy to provide the final decisive action of the afternoon.

United fans had already began their premature celebrations, but their cheers were instantly muffled when the Dutchman ran forward before crashing the ball against the face of Lehmann’s crossbar.

It was the Arsenal fans’ turn to celebrate, not only the penalty miss but the fact that the point gained had seen their side leapfrog over fellow Londoners Chelsea and back to the summit of the Premiership.

MANCHESTER UNITED: Howard; G Neville, Ferdinand, Silvestre,
O’Shea (Forlan, 76); Ronaldo, P Neville, Keane, Fortune; Giggs, van Nistelrooy.  
Substitutes: Butt, Carroll, Djemba-Djemba, Fletcher.

ARSENAL: Lehmann; Lauren, Keown, Toure, Cole; Parlour, Gilberto, Vieira, Ljungberg; Bergkamp (Edu, 82), Henry.
Substitutes: Pires, Wilford, Cygan, Stack.

Attendance: 67,639

Report by Cliff Butler.MAN UTD.COM

Patrick Vieira saw red and Ruud van Nistelrooy missed a last minute penalty as both Manchester United and Arsenal put themselves at the mercy of the football authourities after this gory goalless draw.

After 79 minutes of evenly contested and absorbing football, the contest exploded with Vieira lashing out at van Nistelrooy, earning his second yellow card in two minutes and his eighth dismissal as a Gunner.

The Frenchman had to walk for a blatant - if failed - attempt to kick the United striker after coming off worse in an aerial duel, but what followed was more deliberate and even more disturbing as both teams almost came to blows.

It was brought to the boil when, in injury time, Gary Neville tossed a hopeful ball into the box from the right where substitute Diego Forlan collapsed under Martin Keown's challenge.

Steve Bennett, whose performance in the Community Shield between the same two teams was equally controversial, will be scrutinised again, yet he was given little option but to penalise Keown.

After the obligatory delay caused by players contesting the decision, van Nistelrooy put the ball on the spot. And he added to the drama by crashing his effort against the bar and out.

Arsenal's understandable delight at seeing a point saved from what appeared to be a lost position spilled over into wild and uncontrolled emotion, as Lauren, Keown, Ray Parlour and Ashley Cole set about Van Nistelrooy.

The same happened after the final whistle, when both sets of players - and it has to be said lead by Arsenal -went face to face, pushing and shoving each other in an episode that brought back memories of the 21-man brawl between the two in 1991.

That time both teams were docked points, but what the Football Authorities will make of it this time around will be seen in the coming weeks. Hopefully both Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson will condemn their players' ugly behaviour in what is a match of global interest.

But the odds of that happening lengthened immediately after the match when Wenger pointed an accusatory finger at van Nistelrooy's actions, holding him responsible for all the fireworks.

Understandably angered by the Frenchman's inability to criticise his own players after an obvious loss of self-control, Ferguson put his faith in the FA to root out the protagonists.

Either way, it put a rotten cherry on top of a deeply unattractive cake.

It was almost forgotten in the mayhem that the point gained by Arsenal put them back top of the table, above Chelsea, who must be thrilled to see their two main rivals for the title occupying themselves with a woefully unnecessary squabble.

Though football disappeared into the shadow of fisticuffs, both managers actually had something to take from the contest, with Cristiano Ronaldo the man of the first half and Arsenal's defence the stars of the second.

The closest each team came to scoring from open play was in the opening 25 minutes. Van Nistelrooy put a header onto the roof of the net from an acute angle with the keeper out and Ashley Cole shot just past the post.

United and Arsenal enjoyed spells on the front and back foot, but it was the deeply regrettable end to a match top-heavy in controversy that will linger long in the memory. It will, however, also be headline news for some time to come.
MAN OF THE MATCH: ROY KEANE (MAN UTD)
Kept a cool head while everybody else lost theirs

Scott Barefoot reports.SKYSPORTS.COM

Allahu Akbar Allah ya kwaci yara ahannun manya,but no problem Allah ya kaimu gidansu na manta sunan gidan dan karamin dakinnan mui musu irin ta inter.

Arsenal escapes Old Trafford with 0-0 draw

=== Arsenal escapes Old Trafford with 0-0 draw ===


Manchester, England (Sports Network) - One of the most mouth-watering matches of the Premiership season, Manchester United and Arsenal, resulted in a bizarre scoreless draw Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford.

With the draw, Arsenal moves into first place, one point ahead of United and Chelsea.

Neither team could get their stars enough chances to create. Manchester United had a golden opportunity just before the final whistle, but star striker Ruud van Nistelrooy could not convert a penalty kick.

Arsenal's Martin Keown took down United's Diego Forlan in the area, who was playing a cross from Gary Neville. Van Nistelrooy took the penalty in added time and fired it off the crossbar much to the shock of the Old Trafford faithful.

Just minutes prior to the crucial miss, Arsenal's attempt to break the tie was weakened by the sending off of midfielder Patrick Vieira. The Frenchman was sent off for a second bookable offense after reacting to a challenge by van Nistelrooy in the 80th minute.

Only a few other scoring opportunities highlighted this match. Gunners striker Dennis Bergkamp had a chance to put his club ahead in the 34th minute, but his volley missed just right of the net.

Then just before halftime, United's Cristiano Ronaldo blasted a left-footed shot a few yards outside the box that was saved by Gunners goalkeeper Jens Lehmann.

Arsenal's defense was strong despite being without Sol Campbell, whose father passed away earlier this week.

Van Nistelrooy nearly got United on the board in the 56th minute, but his shot, taken just outside the six, was caught by Lehmann.

The tie for Arsenal may help ease the pain of Wednesday's shocking Champions League loss to Italy's Inter Milan, 3-0.


SOCCER.COM/NEWS

Arsene Wenger blamed Ruud van Nistelrooy for the mass confrontation that almost brought Manchester United and Arsenal to blows after their explosive goalless draw at Old Trafford
It was an aerial challenge involving van Nistelrooy and Patrick Vieira that preceded the Frencman's dismissal in the 81st minute - his eighth as an Arsenal player and the 52nd in Arsene Wenger's time at Highbury.

Vieira, prone on the ground, petulantly kicked out at the Dutchman, who became the main target for Arsenal's aggression in the disgraceful skirmishes that followed the final whistle.

And when Wenger was asked if he felt van Nistelrooy had cheated in the incident, he said: "Yes. I think van Nistelrooy does not help himself frankly.

He added: "He is a great player but his attitude... he is always looking for... looking to dive. He looks a nice boy but on the pitch it is not always fair behaviour.

"If Patrick had to go off van Nistelrooy should have gone off. He (Vieira) is 100% sure van Nistelrooy caught him (as the United striker went up for a high ball)."

Wenger added: "Patrick should not have reacted but you punish more the consequence than the source of the problem."

On the penalty incident where Diego Forlan tumbled under a challenge from Martin Keown, Wenger said: "Keown said he went for the ball. They both went for it and I think it was harsh decision."

Arsene Wenger stuttered to the conclusion that Ruud van Nistelrooy was "lookng to dive" against Arsenal on Sunday.

Reds striker Ruud was caught up in a tangle with Patrick Vieira which eventually led to the Arsenal captain retaliating and subsequently being sent off.

Asked whether he felt Ruud had cheated in the incident, Wenger responded: "Yes. I think van Nistelrooy does not help himself frankly. He is a great player but his attitude... he is always looking for... looking to dive. He looks a nice boy but on the pitch it is not always fair behaviour.

"If Patrick had to go off van Nistelrooy should have gone off. He (Vieira) is 100% sure van Nistelrooy caught him (as the United striker went up for a high ball)."

Wenger added: "Patrick should not have reacted but you punish more the consequence than the source of the problem."

Replays of the incident clearly show that van Nistelrooy did not dive, but simply moved out of the way as Vieira flung a leg in his direction. After the match Vieira admitted to raising his leg, which is why Steve Bennett gave the Frenchman his second yellow card of the match. Ruud didn't roll around on the floor, feigning injury, and yet he is accused of diving.

Wenger failed to comment on the incident after the final whistle where his own players pushed van Nistelrooy, the Frenchman using his customary response - that he didn't see the incident.
Ferguson, however, was quick to defend his Dutch striker, and hit out at Wenger for his comments about Ruud. "I am not here to talk about Arsenal's disciplinary record. That is for them," the Reds boss said.

"I can defend Ruud van Nistelrooy. I heard Arsene's comments about Ruud after the foul on Patrick. I was disappointed with that.

Ferguson continued: "He (Vieira) has reacted badly. Ruud has not dived. The referee had no option, no alternative. As for the behaviour at the end of game, I think the FA will be looking at that."

Arsenal's disciplinary record has constantly been a thorn in their side, and it certainly raised it's head at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Report by Ben Hibbs.MANUTD.COM

The Football Association has promised to deal with the ugly scenes at Old Trafford as quickly as possible.

Referee Steve Bennett has sent in his report from the goalless draw between Manchester United and Arsenal, which saw Patrick Vieira sent off and Ruud van Nistelrooy rounded on at the final whistle.

The FA has vowed to look into incidents during the game, as well as at the final whistle, when Martin Keown, Ray Parlour and Lauren, set about van Nistelrooy.

As well as the report, Soho Square officials will study video footage of the clash before taking any action against the players.

"As a result, The FA will now review the video tapes in detail and as a matter of urgency," said a statement on the FA's website. "The FA has also requested further videos of the various incidents from different camera angles.

"The FA will be looking at various aspects of player behaviour during the match and in the scenes following the final whistle and will make a further statement as soon as this process is complete."

   
FERGIE AT WAR WITH WENGER OVER RUUD
Sunday 21st September 2003

Sir Alex Ferguson leapt to the defence of Ruud van Nistelrooy after Arsene Wenger branded him a cheat.
Wenger hit out at Van Nistelrooy for his role in Patrick Vieira's red card in the 81st minute of a fiery encounter at Old Trafford.

Ferguson was clearly angered by Wenger's comments as he believes video evidence will clear the Dutchman.

"I'm backing Ruud absolutely. The great thing about today is that we have television evidence and I'm very disappointed at Arsene Wenger's comments in branding him a cheat," he declared.

"If I was to talk about Arsenal in the same manner, it would create headlines which would run for days.

"Ruud didn't dive, he was reacting to something. What was he supposed to do? He looked shocked that Patrick Vieira would do something like that.

"We know he didn't touch him but there was still intent there. He just looked at the referee as if to say 'what is he doing'? That's what I thought too.

"It's not for me to talk about Arsenal's discipline, it's for them to sort out, but our discipline was fantastic. We were in complete control of it."

Ferguson was also angered by the behaviour of the Arsenal players after van Nistelrooy had crashed his penalty against the underside of the bar and then at the final whistle.

"The referee will have to do something about that. I am not accepting it. There were the two best teams in the country here and the whole country was watching, and then you have that," he added.

Ferguson, who is facing an FA charge of his own after his outspoken comments to the match officials at Newcastle, added: "I think the FA will be looking at that, but it's not my problem.

"I have enough problems with the FA of my own. I'll probably end up in [prison] and they'll get off."

Wenger, however, was unsurprisingly unwilling to criticise his players for their reaction to van Nistelrooy.

"If you want to convince me that Martin Keown is a devil and van Nistelrooy is an angel then you will have a big problem," he insisted.

"Van Nistelrooy is quite provocative and I would say that every Arsenal player would confirm that.

"Of course, you cannot be unhappy when your opponent doesn't score a goal, but their attitude was not linked to the penalty. It was more linked to his overall attitude during the game."

Wenger was also unhappy at the penalty awarded by Steve Bennett, who sent off Francis Jeffers in the Community Shield clash between the two teams only last month, after Diego Forlan went tumbling.

"Martin Keown said he went for the ball. They both went for it and I think it was harsh decision which provoked a lot of incidents," he said.

After criticism of Robert Pires, Ferguson insisted during the build-up to the game that managers had a responsibility to stop their players diving.

However, Wenger responded: "Diving is not confined to one club but all 20. I agree that we all have to fight against it, but they have some work to do here, like everyone else."

TAKE POINTS OFF ARSENAL, SAYS SANSOM
Monday 22nd September 2003


Former Arsenal favourite Kenny Sansom believes his old club should be docked points for their behaviour at the end of the Manchester United game.

Sansom slammed the attack on Ruud van Nistlerooy as "absolutely crazy" and criticised Martin Keown and Ray Parlour for their part in the scenes at the final whistle.

The ex-England defender also urged Arsene Wenger to sort out the Gunners disciplinary problems - especially when they go head-to-head with arch rivals United.

"It was a game full of passion, but you can't say in the last 15 minutes that that was passion," he told Sky Sports News. "It was madness at the of the game. For five or six Arsenal players to have attacked Ruud van Nistelrooy was absolutley crazy.

"The Arsenal players, fans and people at the club will look at it and say 'we shouldn't have done that'. I think there will be fines for the players involved and points docked - I do think it is that bad."

Arsene Wenger also came under fire for his reaction at the end, when he refused to criticise his players and shifted the blame onto Ruud van Nistelrooy for his part in Patrick Vieira's red card.

"The message should be sent out by both managers when these sides meet. They need to talk to the players and say 'hey, we don't want any controversy'," he said.

"There's too many managers that say they didn't see it and deny things. The games's got to change. We've got to get more honesty back in football.

"If one of your players dives or makes a bad tackle, just come out after the game, straight into the press conference and say it. Tell the truth and it won't matter as much."  

Salamu  Alaikum jama,a ina fatan dai abokan hamayya kuna ganin abinda masannan balla na duniya kecewa.

SOLSKJAER TO HAVE SURGERY ON KNEE
Tuesday 23rd September 2003

Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is to undergo a knee operation later on Tuesday.

United are already without Paul Scholes, Wes Brown and Kleberson through injury and could now be forced to do without Solskjaer for as long as three months.

The news means exciting Portugese winger Cristiano Ronaldo may be given more starts on the right wing, a position he occupied during the explosive draw with Arsenal on Sunday.

"It is something we have tried to correct over the last few weeks but it is important Ole now has this operation so he can concentrate on the rest of the season," United said on their official website.

"Ole will be assessed after the operation to determine how long he will be out for."

Solskjaer, 30, is normally a striker but has often been used in a right-sided midfield role, especially since England skipper David Beckham left United for Real Madrid in July.


The lay-off would also see Solskjaer miss Norway's final Euro 2004 qualifier against Luxembourg on October 11 and a possible subsequent play-off.

Rio Ferdinand says United are expected to pick up three points and no less as Ferguson’s side travel to the Walkers Stadium to take on Leicester on Saturday.

For United these are the bread and butter fixtures that must be won if United are to retain their Premiership crown.

“These are the sort of matches where we are expected to go there and win, and hopefully we won’t disappoint,” Rio told ManUtd.com.

”If you don’t win these games, you’re not going to win the league. Whether it’s Arsenal, Liverpool or Leicester, you’ve got to win all your matches. That’s the way you have got to look at it, you have to win every game."

Despite picking up only four points from the last three league games, Ferdinand believes that particular statistic belies the performances United have produced in recent weeks.

”Against Arsenal we were the team that looked more likely to win the game, and obviously before that we beat Panathinaikos 5-0 - so, we’re in good shape at the moment,” he said.

With a full season under his belt, the ?29.1m signing is now a settled member of United’s side, but he has watched the latest batch of new-boys adapt to life at Old Trafford quicker than expected. And even though there is still some way to go before each of Fergie's five close-season acquisitions are fully inured, Rio is confident the further the season progresses the stronger the side will become.

”We’ve got a few new players who are still becoming accustomed to the Premiership,” Rio admitted. “But the longer they are here the better it will be for United.”

Another opportunity for the likes of Ronaldo, Djemba-Djemba and Tim Howard to further establish themselves as part of United’s first team will come on Saturday at Leicester. But United have already had their fingers burnt away from home this season with the defeat to Southampton. And Leicester are of a similar hard-working ilk.

Rio said: ”It should be a good game, they’re a quality side. We’ve played them before and they are hard to play against. Leicester have players with Premiership experience so I’m sure it will be a tough game.”

WENGER VOWS TO FIGHT FA CHARGES
Thursday 25th September 2003

Arsene Wenger indicated that Arsenal would fight all of the 12 misconduct charges facing them as he renewed his criticism of the use of video evidence against the club.

Arsenal face a six-figure fine if found guilty of failing to control their players during the ugly scenes which marred their goalless draw at Old Trafford last weekend.

Martin Keown, Lauren, Ray Parlour, Ashley Cole, Jens Lehmann and Patrick Vieira are also charged with a total of 11 separate counts, which could net them a total suspension count of 21 games.

Arsenal could still decide to accept some of the lesser charges, namely those of 'improper conduct' against Vieira, Cole and Lehmann, thereby allowing the suspensions to start immediately.

However, Wenger insisted they would be prepared to risk having all six players banned at the same time as they await personal hearings lasting two or three days.

He declared: "We are a team and, while we acknowledge that we've done wrong, that still means we must stick together and fight for our players.

"We'll do it more than ever now. We will defend our case as strongly as we can. What we can defend is the severity of the charges and who really hit who.

"Martin Keown over-reacted and knows that he shouldn't have done it but suddenly the whole country is really shocked, like there is never any violence in football or in our society.

"Of course, we could have them all the players suspended at once, but maybe I will then have a chance to play again!"

Wenger will also refuse to apologise for his own comments immediately after the game, in which he agreed that Ruud van Nistelrooy had been 'cheating' during his clash with Vieira.

He added: "I will take responsibility for our behaviour, which was not appropriate. But I said what I said and I will defend that.

"I have heard other managers call our players cheats and they've never had to explain themselves to the FA."

Ruud van Nistelrooy will remain on spot-kick duty for United’s next penalty - and Sir Alex Ferguson is certain Ruud will arrest his recent poor record from 12 yards.

So confident is Sir Alex Ferguson in his prolific Dutch marksman that the United boss won’t even entertain the thought of Ruud relinquishing the role as the team’s regular penalty-taker.

Ferguson said of van Nistelrooy: “The two saves were excellent – Lehmann in the Charity Shield and the Bolton keeper made a fantastic save at Old Trafford.”

Ruud had scored 19 out of 20 penalties since arriving at Old Trafford in summer 2001. But The Dutchman has failed to score from the spot this season.

However, Ferguson is concerned about his taken three, missed three record this term.

”What I think he did on Sunday, which was encouraging for me, he blasted it. There’s a lot of players who maybe try to overdo it trying to place the ball. But he hit it as if he really meant it.”

There was enormous pressure on Ruud’s shoulders before he took the penalty against Arsenal last Sunday, and his two previous penalty misses will undoubtedly have played on his mind.

But Fergie is in no doubt as to the outcome of the Dutch strikers next strike from 12 yards. ”He’ll take the next penalty there’s no doubt about that,” Ferguson said confidently, “and he’ll score it.”

Report by Ben Hibbs.

Leicester boss Micky Adams is hoping Paul Dickov will recover from flu in time to face Manchester United at the Walker's Stadium on Saturday.

Alan Rogers returns from suspension but Brian Deane, Craig Hignett and Keith Gillespie are sidelined by injuries.

Adams will make late selection decisions on James Scowcroft, who has been troubled by a hip injury, and Ben Thatcher, who has also been affected by flu.

Paul Scholes has been called into Manchester United's squad after recovering from his hernia problem.

The England midfielder had feared he may need surgery on a hernia problem but he came through training this week without any problems and manager Sir Alex Ferguson is happy to include him again.

He said: "He came through training this week. He's not suffered any reaction. He is a player we cannot replay and it is no risk to play him."

Kleberson (dislocated shoulder) and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (knee) are still absent however.

Leicester City (from): Walker, Impey, Howey, Sinclair, Rogers, Izzet, Scimeca, Nalis, Stewart, Dickov, Bent, Scowcroft, Thatcher, Curtis, Coyne, McKinlay, Priet.

Man Utd (from): Howard, Carroll, G Neville, P Neville, Silvestre, Ferdinand, O'Shea, Scholes, Fortune, Butt, Ronaldo, Keane, Djemba-Djemba, Giggs, van Nistelrooy, Forlan, Fletcher, Richardson.

People have praised Ruud for the way he kept his cool at the end of the game. I couldn't have done that if I'd been shoved around like he was. I just hope other teams don't think Ruud's going to be an easy touch from now on, and think they can just bully him. That's the downside from not reacting or retaliating. If you get a reputation for being reasonably tough and competitive it can stand you in good stead sometimes. I always felt, being small and slight, that it helped if I stood my ground. I had to show opponents they couldn't push me around.

I think the other downside from Sunday's game is that it puts the focus on Ruud now. Wherever he plays, he'll get a reaction from the opposition fans simply because of the newspaper headlines about him being a diver. I didn't take offence when they called him a diver because last season, he did dive. But I took offence at Wenger bringing it up the other day because Ruud didn't dive at all during last Sunday's game. As for whether Ruud will take the next penalty, I think it's a certainty he will. He's not going to shy away from that by any means. You can bet your boots if United are given a penalty on Saturday, he'll grab the ball straight away.MANUTD.COM

Sir Alex Ferguson spoke to the press before Saturday's game against Leicester. This is what the boss had to say...

FA Charges
"The response is that we have received the charges against two of our players. They are also sending the videos, which we are going to assess, probably on Monday – the tapes haven’t arrived yet. But until we see all the videos and see what the substance is to it, there is nothing we really need to say."

Strong squad
"We’ve got the blow with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, which was disappointing news for us. My experience of injuries is that when you start delaying, in particular knee injuries, it just ends up worse. So we just get the surgery over with and hopefully Ole will be back with us by December. But we feel we have a good squad, although we maybe could have done with another striker. Nonetheless, Paul Scholes is back. He trained this week and did very well and will be included in the squad for tomorrow, and it’s likely he’ll play. The treatment we gave Paul Scholes has worked. He’s settled down, we hope that he’s back now. He always wants to play Scholesy so he’s glad to be back as well. He’s a true footballer, and true footballers always want to play. He’s been kicking his feet wanting to get back and play. Mikael Silvestre is still feeling his knee a bit, but I think he should be ok for Saturday."

Leicester
"I watched their game against Leeds and they are what they are. They are straight forward, Leicester City. They make it hard for teams, they put a lot into their football and get a lot of crosses into the box. So, I think we are very channelled in how they will play. We are focusing exactly on how the game will go tomorrow and hopefully we are ready for it."

Fight for the points
"There’s every possibility we will have to fight like we did against Charlton. There are certain Premiership grounds you go to, and you can put the kettle on for the way the game is going to shape. Obviously we have a part to play, so when we have the ball we have got to make good use of it."

Scholes irreplaceable
"In terms of his ability to score from midfield positions, you would have to say he’s the best in the country. I don’t think anybody would disagree with that. If you look at his record, he has well over a hundred goals now for the club – that’s phenomenal. We wouldn’t be taking risks at this stage, not in October. He’s come through fine this week, he’s ready for the game and I think he will bring some freshness to us."

Ruud on the spot
"The two saves were excellent – Lehmann in the Charity Shield and the Bolton keeper made a fantastic save at Old Trafford. What I think he did on Sunday, which was encouraging for me, he blasted it. There’s a lot of players who maybe try to overdo with trying to place the ball. But he hit it as if he really meant it. He’ll take the next penalty there’s no doubt about that, and he’ll score it."

Transcript by Ben Hibbs.

Well done RUUD.

Manchester United have been drawn away to arch rivals Leeds United in next month's third round of the English League Cup while millionaires Chelsea entertain paupers Notts County.

Holders Liverpool face Blackburn Rovers again at Ewood Park, scene of a bitter Premier League meeting earlier this month, as Sunday's draw saw the top clubs involved in European competition enter the fray.

League leaders Arsenal have a relatively easy start at home to first division Rotherham, while fellow London clubs Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United will meet at White Hart Lane stadium.

London neighbours Chelsea spent more than 110 million pounds ($182.6 million) on players in the close season in a bid to build an all-conquering team and should have little trouble overcoming Notts County at Stamford Bridge.

The cash-strapped Second Division outfit, the world's oldest league club, are in administration and have been given until December 9 to resolve their financial woes or be kicked out of the Football League.

Manchester United reached last season's final, where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool, after not taking the competition too seriously in previous years. They won it 1992, Leeds in 1968.

The visit of record seven-times winners Liverpool to Blackburn, who won the trophy in 2002 after beating Tottenham Hotspur, is the only match between two representatives in Europe and one of four ties between Premier League clubs.

Managers Gerard Houllier of Liverpool and Graeme Souness of Blackburn became involved in a protracted slanging match in the media after Liverpool's Jamie Carragher had his leg broken in a nasty tackle by Lucas Neill in the September 13 meeting. Liverpool won that controversial match 3-1.

Newcastle United, whose poor start to the season included missing out on a place in the Champions League, were drawn at home to First Division West Bromwich Albion.

Southampton and Manchester City, who like Liverpool, Blackburn and Newcastle are in the UEFA Cup, visit Second Division sides Bristol City and Queen's Park Rangers respectively.

The 16 matches will be played on October 28 and 29.

Report by Rex Gowar, Reuters

NEW FERGIE DEAL ON THE CARDS
Tuesday 30th September 2003

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has told Sky Sports News the club are in talks aimed at negotiating a new deal with the manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 61-year-old Scot, in charge at United since 1986, signed a new three-year deal in 2002 after changing his mind about retiring.

"We would like Sir Alex to continue and Sir Alex would like to continue so we are holding discussions and I'm sure they will come to a positive conclusion," Gill said.

Ferguson has won eight league titles and the 1999 European Cup at United although he appeared to be on the way out when he went through his first four years without a trophy.

 
FERGIE PINPOINTS DANGER MAN
Monday 29th September 2003

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admits Aleksandr Hleb is the player he rates highest in the Stuttgart line-up.
The classy midfielder is somebody Ferguson and his United scouts have been aware of for some time, and the 22-year-old will be looking to confirm his potential in Wednesday's Champions League tie between the two clubs.

"I like Hleb," confessed the Red Devils manager. "We've seen him for some time now, when he played on the right, when he was younger.

"He's playing more central, and has very good speed about him.

"We respect his ability."

The Minsk-born schemer graduated from the Belarus Under-21 side into the full international line-up, and is gaining in stature as his career progresses.

After making his name with Bate Borisov, he was voted his country's Player of the Year in 2002, and attracted interest from Celtic during the summer

 

 

 



Saturday's game will be only the third Premiership meeting between United and Birmingham City.

United won both games last season - 1-0 at St Andrews, and 2-0 at Old Trafford – and the omens are good for all previous meetings.

Of the 89 matches between the two clubs, United have won 39 to Birmingham’s 25 with the spoils shared also on 25 occasions.

But you would have to go back to 1978 for the last time Birmingham bagged maximum points against United.
That defeat in Birmingham was a hefty one, City ran out 5-1 winners that day.

While a scoreline of that magnitude is unlikely on Saturday both teams have points to prove.

United have produced some fairly lacklustre performances of late – the 5-0 win over Panathinaikos, and the 4-1 defeat of Leicester are hardly conducive to good form considering the level of opposition.

And with Birmingham still unbeaten, United will be forced to fight out of the despondency of losing to Stuttgart on Wednesday. But United can expect an equally stubborn Birmingham side.

The Blues have only conceded two goals this season, and with their tireless determination, summed up by midfield headless-chicken Robbie Savage, United will need to plug the defence holes that let Stuttgart in on Wednesday and tighten up in the centre of the park.

While the record of not being beaten by Birmingham since 1978 can be considered a good omen, records are there to be broken, so United must be on their toes.

FERGIE BACKING BLUES FOR BIG TIME
Friday 3rd October 2003
 
Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed suggestions that he will drop his entire back four following the 2-1 reverse to Stuttgart in midweek, and claimed Birmingham City will soon become the biggest club in the Midlands.
The Manchester United boss was disappointed with his side's defensive performance in Germany, with Rio Ferdinand's display picked out for particular scrutiny by the media afterwards.

The big-money recruit from Leeds United is doubtful for the clash with Birmingham City in any case, after injuring his foot when conceding the penalty in the Champions League defeat with a foul on Kevin Kuranyi.

"Rio's a doubt but we will see what he's like nearer the game and give him every chance," explained Ferguson.

"I've read some nonsense that four of them are going to get axed.

"Axeing all four is a wee bit dramatic. There will not be many, if any changes."

Ferguson paid tribute to former United duo Robbie Savage and manager Steve Bruce.

"Birmingham are a very determined side, they have good legs in midfield and Robbie Savage will run all day for them," he added.

"But it is always a little bit more of a test when you want to recover from a disappointing European tie.

"Steve Bruce has experience at other clubs, which has helped him, and he has done very well. He has taken Birmingham into the Premier Division which many managers have tried beforehand, and consolidated well last season.

"If you go back to when I was a boy, Birmingham were the biggest club in the Midlands, with the biggest support.

"I think it's very likely that they will eclipse Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Midlands."

Thanx Saraki for all the updates 8)...u r a source man

 
Saturday 04th October 2003
 
Manchester United  3-0  Birmingham  

Manchester United put their Stuttgart horror show behind them as they condemned Birmingham City to a first defeat of the season with a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford.

Blues headed into this fixture without conceding a goal on their travels this term but after Maik Taylor's sending off, they could not contain the threat of their hosts, whose goals arrived courtesy of a Ruud van Nistelrooy penalty, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

The tempo of the encounter barely stepped above walking pace in the first half with Birmingham demonstrating the defensive stubbornness which has been their hallmark this season.

The champions struggled to find a rhythm despite dominating possession and their first menacing effort arrived on 15 minutes when Scholes drilled straight at Taylor from the corner of the box.

Scholes's header from Gary Neville's cross was also into the arms of Taylor while the England midfielder twisted and turned in the box but fired once again at the Blues keeper.

The turning point of the contest came with ten minutes of the first half remaining when van Nistelrooy's perceptive pass released Scholes in the box, who nudged the ball beyond the slow-to-react Taylor and came crashing down under the Northern Ireland international's challenge.

Referee Mike Dean had little alternative but to send off Taylor and substitute keeper Ian Bennett's first touch was to pick the ball out of the back of the net after van Nistelrooy tucked the spot kick into the bottom corner.

Birmingham wasted a superb opportunity to equalise early in the second period when full back Jamie Clapham advanced into the area on to a wayward United pass but shot tamely at Tim Howard, who deflected the ball clear with his legs.

But that five minute spell was all Blues had to offer as an attacking force and the hosts grabbed their second goal on 57 minutes through the effervescent Scholes, who smashed the ball low into the corner after being given too much space on the edge of the box.

Van Nistelrooy fluffed a great opportunity to add to his tally when blasting straight at Bennett while The Red Devils afforded themselves the luxury of bringing off Roy Keane for Diego Forlan.

The substitute had a hand in the third goal when he fed Ryan Giggs, with the visiting defence once more slack in their marking, and the Welsh winger fired into the far corner beyond Bennett.

Soccer Saturday pundit George Best admitted that Ruud van Nistelrooy's penalty was the turning point as Manchester United condemned Birmingham to their first defeat of the season.

Blues keeper Maik Taylor was sent off for hauling down Paul Scholes and after recovering from his Arsenal adhorration, the Dutchman drilled home his second spot kick of the week.

And from then on, admitted Best, there was only ever going to be one winner as United rounded off the win with goals from Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

"There's no doubt about it, Scholes was brought down by the keeper and he had to go off," said Best. "Once van Nistelrooy struck it away it was backs to the wall and Birmingham were penned in their own half for the second half.

"Scholes added a second and it was basically keep-ball for United. Giggsy finished it off with a lovely third goal and United took off Roy Keane and Phil Neville and gave Diego Forlan and Nicky Butt on for a run-out - and that's just what it was in the second half."

Best also watched Christophe Dugarry storm off to the dressing room after being subbed, but had little sympathy for the Frenchman.

"Dugarry seemed like he wanted to do some showboating at Old Trafford, but it just didn't work and he lost the ball time after time," he said.

"Steve Bruce took him off and he wasn't very happy, he just ignored the manager and went straight up the tunnel, so it will be interesting to see what happens there.

"But it just summed up one of those days for Birmingham."

United eased their way to three comfortable points with a 3-0 win over Birmingham City at Old Trafford this afternoon (Saturday).

Birmingham, occupying fourth place, and unbeaten so far this season, in the Premiership  before the kick-off were rarely in with a chance of extending their immunity to defeat.

A largely disappointing first half ended with United one goal to the good and Birmingham down to ten men after Ruud van Nistelrooy had netted from the penalty spot and Blues’ keeper Maik Taylor had been sent off.

Further goals after the break from Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs reflected United’s increasing superiority as the game wore on.

The points ensured United would stay on Arsenal’s shirt-tails after the London club had picked up a valuable 2-1 at Liverpool earlier in the day.

United were aiming to get back on course following the Champions League setback against VfB Stuttgart in midweek. Sir Alex Ferguson made just two changes to the side which went down in Germany. Darren Fletcher, who made his league debut against Leicester City last Saturday, returned in place of Cristiano Ronaldo, whilst in defence Quinton Fortune was preferred to John O’Shea. Both Ronaldo and O’Shea were included in United’s seven named substitutes.

Steve Bruce, the Birmingham City manager, who made more than 400 appearances as a central defender for United, was greeted warmly by the Old Trafford crowd as he made his way along the track to the bench.

Beautiful blue skies above Old Trafford as the match started, but despite the bright sunshine there was a chill in the air which felt more like winter than autumn.

United began the game attacking the Stretford End against a Birmingham City side which had adopted a 4-4-2 formation with French World Cup winner Christophe Dugarry and Mikael Forssell, on loan from star-laden Chelsea, forming the spearhead.

The game started slowly with neither side making any real impact in the attacking zones of the pitch. Birmingham keeper Maik Taylor was brought into play a couple of times to field shots from Paul Scholes, but he wasn’t unduly troubled.

The first real chance of the game arrived in the 22nd minute when skipper Roy Keane threaeded through a fine pass to van Nistelrooy. The Dutchman was faced with a tight angle but he still managed to get in a shot which went narrowly wide of the far post.

   

United, it has to be said, hadn’t been firing on all cylinders. Neat and tidy their play may have been but clear-cut were chances rare. But then, in the 34th minute, they were given the opportunity to move into the lead. Keane sent van Nistelrooy away into the Birmingham area, where he clashed with keeper Taylor. The Blues’ keeper had little choice to go for the ball, but the referee adjudged that he’d halted the Dutchman’s progress.

The penalty was awarded immediately and Taylor was shown the red card. Steve Bruce re-organised his side straight away, withdrawing Stan Lazaridis to send on substitute goalkeeper Ian Bennett.  

Van Nistelrooy, who was successful from the spot on Wednesday in Stuttgart, placed the ball before boldly thumping his shot past the new keeper.

Birmingham, without a league goal at Old Trafford since Frank Worthington’s penalty on 17th October 1981, moved forward in numbers in an attempt to repair the damage quickly, but Forssell was flagged offside as he prepared to shoot.

Seconds after restart and Birmingham were presented with a great chance to draw level.  Forssell found Jamie Clapham on the right, but the former Ipswich Town player hesitated which allowed Tim Howard to advance and close down the shot.

United fans behind the Scoreboard End goal screamed for a penalty early in half when Darren Fletcher fell to the ground following Stephen Clemence’s challenge, but the referee was having none of it.

The Reds were starting to dominate and it came as no real surprise when in the 57th minute they increased their lead. Phil Neville fed Scholes with short forward pass and, from fully 25 yards, the Reds’ diminutive star blasted home an unstoppable shot past Bennett.

The second goal put United in almost total control of the game, which allowed Sir Alex to make a couple of substitutions. Keane was taken off, to be replaced by Diego Forlan and, a few minutes later, Phil Neville departed the action with Nicky Butt leaving the warmth of the substitutes’ bench on this chilly afternoon.

Eight minutes from time and United wrapped the game up when Giggs took a pass from Forlan before slotting home the third goal from close range.

MANCHESTER  UNITED: Howard; G Neville, Ferdinand, Silvestre, Fortune; Scholes, Keane (Forlan, 66), P Neville (Butt, 71); Fletcher, van Nistelrooy, Giggs.
Substitutes: Ronaldo, Carroll, O’Shea.

BIRMINGHAM CITY: Taylor; Johnson, Cunningham, Upson, Clapham; Dunn, Cisse, Clemence (Tebily, 79), Lazaridis (Bennett, 34); Dugarry (Carter, 66), Forssell.
Substitutes: John, Morrison.

Attendance: 67,633

Report by Cliff Butler.

Ruud ready for happy rest  

4/10/03 5:14 PM

Reds striker Ruud van Nistelrooy says United “were not great” against Birmingham, but says the 3-0 win on Saturday is good for morale going into the ten-day international break.

Van Nistelrooy set United on their way to a 3-0 victory over Steve Bruce’s Birmingham from the penalty spot – his second successful spot-kick in as many games.

“We weren’t great today,” Ruud told MUTV. “But to go in at half-time 1-0 up against ten men, it’s a great position to be in. We got a few goals today which was good.”

Ruud provided the pass through to Paul Scholes before the United midfielder was brought down by Maik Taylor. And the Dutchman held his nerve to calmly stroke the ball past substitute goalkeeper Ian Bennett.

”It’s good to be back scoring penalties as quickly as I have done after the misses,” Ruud admitted. “I’m just happy that my last two have gone in.”

The Dutchman decided to vary his technique at Old Trafford. His last four penalties have been off the ground to the keeper’s right. But, this time, Ruud slotted the ball low to the keepers left.

Van Nistelrooy said with a knowing smile: ”You have to think about where you’re going to put the ball otherwise you can be…a bit easy to read.”

Ruud also paid tribute to Darren Fletcher, who made his full home debut. And the United striker was nothing but impressed. He said: ”It was fantastic to see him playing the way he did. He was so composed, so calm. He was beating players and passing the ball tremendously. We know we have a very talented side, a great young squad.”

Ruud can now put his feet up for the next few days as he is not involved with the Holland squad after being dropped as punishment to his reaction to being substituted against Czech Republic last month.

”I’ve got a break and obviously that’s disappointing,” Ruud said, ”but it’s gone now so I might as well enjoy a few days off.”

Report by Ben Hibbs.

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Manchester United are a drug free club, as he has vowed to sack anyone who is caught taking illegal substances.
The Scottish tactician says he will not tolerate drug taking of any kind, following confirmation that two, as yet unnamed, players failed doping tests recently.

"I would like our supporters to be sure of one thing: if there were any danger of one of our players dabbling in any kind of drug, be it to enhance his performance or for his social life, he would be quickly gone from Manchester United," Ferguson said

"Be assured that the manager, his coaches and medical staff would know."

Rio Ferdinand is still awaiting the outcome of a Football Association investigation after he missed a mandatory drugs test recently.

Ferguson has backed the England international throughout and is confident all of his players are 'clean'.

"Believe me, we have nothing like that at Old Trafford," he concluded.

pls y cant u post somethin that u think about MAN U.......all u do is COPY N PASTE from somewhere....i bet u dnt even knw what MAN u is up to! analyze football for sakes if u want us to listen to u.

we WILL C WHERE U WILL ALL END UP THIS SEASON!

Alex Ferguson din ma is a confimed case of a drug addict!

I am writng this post as a football fan and as a football fan I give credit where its due. All i have 2 say is KEANOOOOOOO that was such a beautiful goal he scored yesterday against Portsmouth. And another thing the goal that Ronaldo score he did not intend 2 socre that it was a pass 2 Butt and lucky 4 him the keeper did not save it. But all in all he did do a good job.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has stressed he is not concerned with Ruud van Nistelrooy's mini-goal drought, and is determined his side will not underestimate Rangers in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.
After seeing Celtic win at Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool in last season's Uefa Cup, Ferguson is under no illusions that the injury-hit Gers will be a tough task for his side.

"I think they'll come attacking, so it may be an open game," he declared.

"It was a great performance from both teams at Ibrox - one of those rare games in Europe where the pace of the game was relentless.

"The atmosphere was great, and I think we'll get that tomorrow, it should be a fantastic atmosphere as Rangers are bringing huge support down.

"The silly thing is people may think we look at this as three points, but they won't be easily achieved. It's a difficult game for us, we're not expecting anything but a hard game.

"I know what the Scottish nature is like, and that will raise itself tomorrow."

Ferguson feels the key game in the group could be Rangers' trip to Stuttgart rather than Tuesday's Old Trafford showdown.

"I think the most important game is the next game, particularly for Rangers," he opined.

"With Stuttgart playing Rangers next game, that's very important, I just hope we do the job and that gets us to nine points, which puts us in a good position."

Ferguson has warned against complacency from his troops after their 3-0 win over Portsmouth on Saturday.

"I think the crowd has been very good over the last two or three years," he added. "European games are always better. The floodlit games seem to bring out a better atmosphere.

"Celtic's performance last year was fantastic. I'm well aware they came to England and won and that raises the hackles in me. We don't want to be a victim of what happened to other English clubs last year.

"Rangers have done very little wrong in their experiences this year. I don't know exactly what ones are injured, but Alex (McLeish) would've wanted all his players. We're the same for any big game.

"Particularly (Ronald) de Boer, as he brings a lot of European experience to them. His experience is without question."

Van Nistelrooy's lack of goals, all relative of course in the deadly Dutchman's case, is not causing Ferguson too many sleepless nights.

"I'd prefer him to score and he would do himself but strikers do that when they are not scoring," he explained. "They don't think they are contributing, and think they are wonderful when they are scoring.

"It never changes with strikers.

"I thought he played well on Saturday. His work-rate and team play was fantastic so he's making a great contribution if he continues that way.

"Fortunately, Diego (Forlan)'s scoring goals so someone's getting them.

"Ruud probably knows he's not playing against Scotland (for Holland), although I'm not going to argue with that, so it is a distraction.

"I think it's not an easy situation for him. Hopefully, he can score quickly and put things behind him."

Ferguson is hoping his latest anniversary as United manager ends in success.

"I'm enjoying my work, coming in every day," he smiled. "Maybe we can make it happy birthday tomorrow."

Rangers' preparations for the UEFA Champions League tie with Manchester United have been rocked by the confirmation that influential Fernando Ricksen is out of the Old Trafford encounter.

The Dutch international, rumoured to be a target for Serie A side Udinese, hurt his ankle during the Scottish Premier League clash with Partick Thistle, and examinations have proved that the player has no chance of being fit for Tuesday's match.

"We'll have to change things around a bit," stressed Gers boss Alex McLeish. "But don't think for a minute that any of the players who will be travelling to Manchester in the morning will be going with fear.

"Ricksen's problem is not as bad as first feared but he is still not going to make it in time to face United. He should be fine for next weekend."

Tough-tackling Ricksen has the sort of experience the Glasgow side require going into the United match, as The Red Devils are firm favourites to win and virtually clinch their place in the knockout stages of the competition.

After winning 1-0 at Ibrox in a tense affair, United will be confident of repeating the three-point haul against their injury-hit opponents.

Rangers are also missing German Christian Nerlinger, and star man Ronald de Boer is on the club's long-term injury list, but Michael Mols is fit to play.

However, Sir Alex Ferguson is refusing to be over-confident as he fears Rangers' classy midfielder Mikel Arteta, who shone again in the win over Partick.

"We can get a result," said Ferguson. "But I'm not treating it lightly by any means.

"Rangers are here to get a result and make progress in the group.

"They have people who pass the ball, nice footballers like Mikel Arteta.

"We have to make sure they don't have the same joy as they did at Ibrox because Arteta ran the show in the first half."

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Utrecht star Pascal Bosschaart and watched him in action over the weekend.
The 23-year-old is considered one of the best young talents in Holland and is already wanted by PSV Eindhoven and his former club Feyenoord.

Left sided Bosschaart began his career at De Kuip, but he moved on from Rotterdam without playing a game and joined Utrecht.

He has not looked back since his move to Nieuw Galgewaard in 1997 and has gone on to play over 170 games.

Reds Devils chief scout Martin Ferguson watched Bosschaart play 90 minutes in Utrecht 2-1 win over Heerenveen on Sunday.

The player's agent Karel Jansen has told skysports.com that there is interest, but nothing official from the English champions.

"We have heard about the interest from England, but there is nothing official," Jansen explained.

"We already know about the firm interest from Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven, but Pascal is very happy and it is too early for anyone to ask which club he would prefer to move to.

"He is contracted until 2005 at Utrecht and that is as much as we know.

"We are going to have a meeting with Utrecht next week to discuss Pascal's situation and see what is happening."

United States starlet Freddy Adu has set his sights on clinching a move to Premiership champions Manchester United.
The 14-year-old is arguably world football's most talented prodigy and is tipped to illuminate the global stage for many years to come.

Adu has already established himself in the US Under-20 squad despite his tender years and is wanted by a string of leading European clubs.

Chelsea and Real Madrid are firm admirers of the attacker while The Red Devils have been long-standing suitors of the teenager.

United already have two Americans on their books in the guise of Tim Howard and Jonathan Spector, and are also monitoring the progress of another teenager - Danny Szetela.

But claiming the prized signature of Adu would be a feather in the club's cap and the Ghana-born youngster has paved the way for a dream move to Old Trafford.

Adu is initially expected to sign terms with MLS outfit DC United when he launches his professional career next year but he is keen to sample the delights of The Premiership.

"I would love to end up in England some day playing for Manchester United or a team like that," Adu told BBC World Football.

"I've loved them ever since I was a baby. I am aware (I am being tracked) and I am very excited by that.

"When a big team like Manchester United knows about me, then you have to been doing something good for them to notice you."

Diego Forlan is looking forward to the challenge Rangers will pose in tomorrow night's Champions League clash at Old Trafford.

Forlan is currently playing some of the best football of his United career and is relishing the prospect of lining up against Alex McLeish's side, as United go in search of what could be a crucial victory.

And having scored in his last three games, the 24-year old striker is hoping to get himself amongst the goals again tomorrow night.

"I'm happy to be playing and scoring goals," explained Forlan in the pre-match press conference. "I hope I can continue in that way and make sure that I when I get a chance I take it.

"It's always nice to play in the big games and every player always wants to be involved. But when it's the European Cup it means even more."

Victory against Rangers would send United top of Group E, providing that is Stuttgart are unable to get a win in Panathinaikos.

Rangers have only won once on English soil in a UEFA club compeitition - 2-1 at Leeds during the 1992/93 season - and they will make their Champions League trip to Old Trafford for the first time in their history.

Although United have never beaten Scottish opposition on their home patch, Forlan is hoping the Reds can build on last month's impressive victory at Ibrox.

He said: "I expect the same from Rangers tomorrow night as they gave in the first match. It's going to be a hard game but we hope we can win in the same way we did last time."

Report by Gemma Thompson

Rio Ferdinand has revealed he has no intention to leave Manchester United despite all the furore over his future recently.
The 25-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons over the last month after missing a random drugs test.

Ferdinand is awaiting his fate after being charged with misconduct for his failure to attend a routine drugs test.

Reports have even linked moneybags Chelsea with a move for the classy defender, but Ferdinand insists he has no plans to quit Old Trafford.

"I hear I was linked with a move to Chelsea recently but I've no intention of leaving either. United is the only place to be," Ferdinand told The Sun.

Ferdinand revealed he has not felt any extra pressure despite all the publicity surrounding his future and a possible two-year ban.

"I know how important it is that I concentrate on my football despite everything that's been going on," added Ferdinand.

"This is a different time to what I've been used to in my career but you just have to deal with it.

"If I had let things get to me and hadn't been doing the business on the pitch I'm sure the manager would have dropped me.

"I wouldn't have expected anything else. When you are at a club like United there is no room for passengers.

"I haven't sensed any extra pressure while I've been playing. In fact, it is where I have felt most comfortable.

"I have a job to do for my club. I'm getting on with it and focusing 100 per cent. I've been quite pleased with my form.

"While we have not been playing particularly well as a team, we have for the most part been getting the results."

The flying French forward is the Arsenal.com Player of the Month for October and will receive his trophy from lucky competition winner, Andy Moore from Hampshire, before the game with Tottenham.

Last season, Henry produced one of the greatest goals ever seen in a North London derby; running more than half the length of the pitch before planting his shot past Kasey Keller. His manager Ars?ne Wenger believes it was one of Henry's very best.

"It has come to be seen as one of his greatest goals," said the manager on Friday. "It is an individual goal of exceptional quality.

"He took the ball from of the edge of our box and then went and scored on the other side of the pitch. That takes a special talent. In terms of individual goals it is one of the greatest I have seen."

Wenger backed the view of Arsenal.com visitors, as he did over the awards to Kolo Toure in August and September.

"Thierry is in good form," said the manager. "Even on Wednesday night against Kyiv when he did not score he created three or four clear-cut chances so confidence-wise he is in great shape.

"Sometimes I feel I should rest him but he is still young and he has a natural potential to repeat the sprints he makes again and again so it is very difficult to do it."

Fergie: Ronaldo's my wing wonder
Sir Alex Ferguson has responded to his own players' claims that Manchester United miss David Beckham by insisting that Cristiano Ronaldo is the perfect replacement. While the United boss refuses to discuss Beckham, he is happy to talk up 18-year-old Ronaldo as heir apparent to the England skipper's Old Trafford throne. "Ronaldo can cross the ball fantastically well and he gets so much pace on his free kicks," said Fergie. "And his trickery is marvellous to watch. He gives us so much extra. There's a lot of work on with the boy and he's still only 18. But players of that age never have consistency, they have to develop it."
David McDonnell, Daily Mirror

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Fergie is a great deal happier
Sir Alex Ferguson will this week sign a new contract to remain in charge of Manchester United - and the revelation that his Old Trafford reign is to stretch to 20 years and beyond could not have been timed better. While Premiership titles and European trophies remain the tangible rewards for the most successful manager in United's history, the motivating force behind everything Ferguson has achieved in England has been his determination to put Liverpool in their place - and to keep them there. This is the man who was once asked what his biggest achievement had been at United. Was it ending the club's 26-year wait for the championship? Maybe the first Premiership and FA Cup Double of 1994? Surely it was the Treble topped off by that epic Champions League Final victory in Barcelona in 1999? No chance. "My biggest challenge was knocking Liverpool off their f***ing perch," was Ferguson's reply.
Simon Mullock, Sunday Mirror

OPTA'S GUIDE TO THREE-HORSE RACE
Wednesday 12th November 2003


 

Following defeat in Sunday's game with Manchester United, Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier was forced to concede that the 2003-04 Premiership title has already shaped up into a three-horse race.
Just 12 games into the campaign and Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have all put some distance between themselves and the rest of The Premiership, in what has been a record-breaking start to the season. "We know it will be difficult now," said Houllier. "We know it is looking like a three-horse race, but you never know."

If Liverpool are to force themselves back into the reckoning then they will be relying on the top three sides to slip up following their blistering start to the campaign.

Never before have the top three teams all won 28 points or more after only 12 games and with just three defeats between them, it looks as though the pace they are setting will be too much for the rest of the league.

Manchester United's Phil Neville is being typically modest about his rise to first team regular at Old Trafford this season.
The versatile England international has jumped ahead of World Cup star Nicky Butt in the pecking order at the club with some sterling work as a holding midfielder.

Neville, also comfortable in either full back slot, has helped Roy Keane rediscover a zest for getting forward by screening the back four, and managed to grab the vital winner himself in the Ibrox encounter with Rangers in the UEFA Champions League.

Sir Alex Ferguson recently admitted that the midfield area gives him the most selection headaches, but Neville is just delighted to keep learning from his colleagues.

"It's a great challenge to play in midfield," he told Sky Sports News.

"There's some great midfielders at Manchester United and it's fantastic to be playing alongside them, especially when I've been learning off Nicky Butt and Roy Keane.

"You can't help but fail to learn from them. They are great players who have played in the position for 10-15 years.

"They're the best in the business and all I can do is learn from them