EPL 2006 - 2007: Manchester United 30 - 7 Blackburn...Shots On Goal, Btw

Manchester United 4 - 1 Blackburn (United: Scholes 61, Carrick 73, Park 83, Solskjaer 90 - Blackburn: Derbyshire 29) Premiership leaders Manchester United came from behind to beat Blackburn 4-1. United overcame a first-half scare to keep their title challenge on course with an impressive victory at Old Trafford. The Red Devils went a goal down when Morten Gamst Pedersen's low cross from the left caused confusion in the 29th minute. It took a fine save from Edwin van der Sar and the base of the post to prevent a Michael Carrick own goal, but England Under-21 striker Matt Derbyshire followed up to finish the job. United drew level after an hour's play when Paul Scholes evaded the challenge of two Blackburn defenders and drilled a low shot past Brad Friedel. And they forged ahead in the 73rd minute when Cristiano Ronaldo cut the ball back into the path of Carrick who passed it low into the net before Park Ji-Sung made the result safe by scoring on the rebound after Friedel could only parry a Ronaldo free-kick. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, back in the fold after injury, added a late fourth. Man of the match Paul Scholes Scholes's goal was all United needed to go on to a comfortable victory. Sir Alex Ferguson believes Paul Scholes will be the key factor behind what, if any, silverware United win this season and this match proved why. After an uninspiring first-half performance by his team, the midfielder got hold of the game by the scruff of the neck and claimed the crucial equaliser. Thats Our Scholes!!!. Reference: guardian.co.uk, teamtalk.com, soccernet.com,

Mark Hughes, The Next Gaffer?

Mark Hughes has let it be known he would relish the opportunity to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United's manager. The one-time United centre-forward takes his Blackburn Rovers side to Old Trafford tomorrow amid speculation that he may be the man to step into the breach when Ferguson finally retires. Although at pains to stress how happy he is at Ewood Park, Hughes did little to discourage such a suggestion yesterday. Asked if taking over from Ferguson would appeal, he replied: "I want to go as far as my ability will allow me. If I do a good job here, which I think at the moment I'm doing, we'll have to see what happens in the future. A big job is something all managers aspire to." Asked whether the prospect of the United job might scare him, the 43-year-old former Wales manager said: "I've got to be careful what I say here . . . but I wouldn't be fazed by it, by any job. "I think you have to have confidence in your own ability, in your own philosophy of how the game should be played and how you approach getting the best out of a group of players. And you have to back yourself in that respect. I've seen it work in my previous job with Wales, I've seen it work here and I know that if I was at a different club it would work." Not that Hughes - who kept prefixing answers to questions about his future with "I've got to be careful here" - believes he would have an automatic right to the United job. "When Sir Alex makes his decision to leave there'll be lots of applications from all over the world," he said. But John Williams, Blackburn's chairman, has previously admitted that, when Ferguson steps down, he anticipates a strong mutual "attraction" between Hughes and United. It is understood that, should United offer adequate compensation, Williams would not stand in Hughes's way. For now the Welshman's concentration is on Blackburn, their FA Cup semi-final and their hopes of finishing sixth and qualifying for the Uefa Cup . "I'm very, very happy here," insisted Hughes, who only last May signed a new contract which will keep him at Ewood until 2009 - coincidentally the year when Ferguson has talked about possibly retiring. "There's a big challenge here and it excites me." Although his relationship with Ferguson as a United player was often awkward, the pair respect each other and Blackburn's manager is unstinting in his praise for the Scot. "I wouldn't say I'm in constant contact with Sir Alex but there are occasions when I pick up the phone and discuss things with him," he said. Hughes, who has every available coaching qualification, particularly admires Ferguson's appetite for innovation. "Since I left in 1995 United have certainly progressed and moved on in their thinking," he said. "That's the great strength of Sir Alex Ferguson: he's never stood still, never just banked on doing what got him results in the past. He's always looked to the future. The way the club is run and the players are prepared is certainly different from when I was there. "Sir Alex has always taken great pride in building and dismantling teams and another great strength of his has always been getting the right players for the right time, the right decade." Hughes - who would expect to face competition from Sunderland's Roy Keane - believes Ferguson still has unfinished managerial business. "For a club like United the Champions League is something they have to do well in. It's a prerequisite," he said. "Sir Alex would love to win another Champions League and I suspect he'll keep going until he no longer has the energy to challenge for it." Odds on the succession 6-1 Mark Hughes, Martin O'Neill 7-1 Roy Keane 8-1 Carlos Queiroz 16-1 Jose Mourinho, Marcello Lippi 20-1 Guus Hiddink, Sam Allardyce, Luiz Felipe Scolari, Sven-Goran Eriksson 25-1 David Moyes 33-1 Fabio Capello, Steve McClaren, Gordon Strachan 66-1 Bryan Robson, Paul Ince, Steve Bruce 100-1 Darren Ferguson · Courtesy of William Hill Reference: guardian.co.uk

Manchester United richest team, worth US$1.453 billion.

Despite having only the fourth-highest annual revenue at US$310 million ($233 million), United is reported by the American business magazine to be worth US$1.453 billion. Real Madrid is ranked second at US$1.036 billion ($779 million), but has the highest revenue of US$374 million ($281 million). Arsenal is the third most valuable at US$915 million ($687.5 million), but its revenue of US$246 million ($185 million) is only ninth overall. Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, FC Barcelona and Schalke round out the top 10. Man United was one of 10 English teams in the top 25, with four each from Italy and Germany, two from Spain, France and Scotland, and one from the Netherlands. Barcelona star Ronaldinho moved to the top of the richest soccer player list, relegating David Beckham to second. The Brazilian is worth US$29.5 million ($23.5 million), according to Forbes, with Beckham at US$29.1 million ($25.2 million). Beckham is likely to go back to the top spot when he moves to the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer this summer. The top 10 is rounded out by Ronaldo (AC Milan), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Michael Ballack (Chelsea), Thierry Henry (Arsenal), Zinedine Zidane (retired), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), John Terry (Chelsea), and Steven Gerrard (Liverpool). Forbes used revenues and operating income for the 2005-06 season and converted the figure into U.S. dollars based on June 30, 2006, exchange rates. Reference: eitb24.com

Paul Scholes Is Back.

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Paul Scholes' return from suspension can give Manchester United the final push in their hunt for silverware. Scholes will be fresh and hungry for Saturday's Old Trafford encounter with Blackburn after an extended break that began with a three-match suspension following his red card at Liverpool at the beginning of the month and has continued throughout the international break. The 32-year-old turned his back on the England scene after Euro 2004 and despite concerted attempts by coach Steve McClaren to get him to reverse his decision, Scholes has refused. And Ferguson is confident his side will gain the benefit as the Red Devils chase the first of six wins from their remaining eight games that will clinch the Premiership title. "Paul regards family life as very important," Ferguson told Sky Sports News. "He knows the travelling with the international team is tremendous and coming to his age, I think he felt it was time to give more time to his family. That is the reason he gave up international football. "His form this season has been absolutely fantastic and now we are getting him back fresh after a little break." Ferguson could also have Louis Saha and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back this weekend after recent injury problems. Such news would be particularly welcome ahead of next week's Champions League quarter-final with AS Roma. The Italian job represents another step on the road to a repeat of United's unprecedented 1999 Treble-winning campaign, with an FA Cup semi-final against Watford to be negotiated at Villa Park on April 14. Ferguson and his team have refused to discuss the possibility of another treble in any depth. And the Scot still believes the odds are against it happening again. "No-one talks about that," he said. "It is a possibility but more of an impossibility given the number of games we have. "The competition in the Premier Division has got harder in the last few years and the standard is better in Europe as well. "In 1999 we had no injuries to contend with either, while this year we are having to deal with one or two. "We are coping very well with them at the moment and if we do that we will have a go at everything because the players are playing with great confidence. "We have had a great season and I just hope it continues." No matter how many trophies United end up winning, Ferguson will remain at the helm next season to try and collect some more. Already the most decorated British manager of all-time, the Scot's hunger for success shows no sign of abating. And, while he accepts there are many potential candidates who would like the chance to replace him, Ferguson has made it clear the Old Trafford hot-seat will not become vacant for a while yet. "There are many people who would love this job but I have got a few more years yet," he said. Reference: teamtalk.com

Rumour Mill: Deco & Micah Richards, The Next Devils?

United line up £15m Deco deal Manchester United reportedly want to pair Barcelona star Deco with Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford so are lining up a £15million summer bid. Catalan giants Barca are planning to overhaul their squad at the end of this season and according to reports, Sir Alex Ferguson is planning to sign the unsettled Portuguese playmaker. Deco has already hinted he wants a fresh challenge after three years at the Nou Camp and it is thought that bringing him to Old Trafford would help ensure Ronaldo pens a new contract with the Red Devils. Although Ronaldo's new deal is expected to be five years, there are still disputes over the pay with the player holding out for more than £100,000 per week. Fergie fancies a move for Micah Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly planning an ambitious bid to lure Manchester City defender Micah Richards to Old Trafford. The United boss is hoping the England international becomes only the third City player in the past 70 years to make the switch to their Manchester rivals. Although the Eastlands club have insisted all season that Richards is not for sale, the Sunday Mirror believe this will not prevent Ferguson from joining Chelsea, Spurs and Liverpool in the race to sign him this summer. Chelsea will pose the main threat to capturing Richards but United and Liverpool will be boosted by the knowledge that the 18-year-old's family are keen for him to remain in the North-West. Ferguson is planning to spend big this summer even if his current squad win the Treble and Richards - alongside Owen Hargreaves, Gareth Bale, Deco and Nani - is at the top of a wish-list he will present to United's American owners. A source close to Richards said: "There is interest from United, but whether anything happens is another thing given the rivalry in Manchester." Only Welsh striker Wyn Davies in 1972 and goalkeeper Tony Coton 11 years ago have moved from City to United since the 1930s. Reference: teamtalk.com

Rumour Mill: Bayern Munich are "talking tough" with Manchester United over Owen Hargreaves

Bayern Munich have warned Manchester United they will not be bullied into selling Owen Hargreaves this summer. The England midfielder has been at the centre of a £20million tug-of-war between the two clubs since his performances at the World Cup last summer. So far the German champions have managed to resist United's advances despite repeated pleas from the 26-year-old to be allowed a move to the Premiership. Sir Alex Ferguson offered £20million for Hargreaves in the January transfer window but now Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has claimed his club have no need to sell. "We have had a large offer for Hargreaves from United and it remains valid until this summer," he said. "But he has a contract until 2010 and we are in the fortunate position that our finances are in top-class shape. "We'll be presenting another first-class balance sheet this year, so we can still say 'no' if a club like United come in with a large offer for one of our players. "There aren't many players of Owen Hargreaves' quality in the holding midfielder position and our aim is to build a team capable of great things." Nani gloat from Sporting Lisbon Meanwhile, Sporting Lisbon have warned Premiership clubs that it will cost £13.5million to sign winger Nani. The 20-year-old has been attracting interest this season following his displays in the Champions League, with Tottenham the latest club linked with a move for the Portugal international. The youngster is believed to have a clause which would see him leave for £13.5million, with his club appearing reluctant to let him go for less. A Sporting spokesman told Skysports: "The club that wants the kid have a price. Only by this money would we be disposed to let Nani leave. "We know of the interest of several English clubs for Nani, and that is normal because of his quality - but until this moment we have received no offer in writing." Nani has been compared with Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, who was signed from Sporting in 2003. United have been linked with a move for the Portuguese prospect following their previous business with the club. French side Lyon have also been suggested as a possible destination. Nani is represented by Jorge Mendes, who is also the agent of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho. "The decision depends on Sporting because the player has a deal," said Mendes. "But Nani is a player of enormous potential and other big clubs have asked about his situation." Highlights From 3 Previous Matches 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome and half a century of United's participation in Europe: Manchester United (plus Andy Cole) 4 - 3 European All-Star XI EPL 2006 - 2007: Manchester United 4 - 1 Bolton Wanderers FA Cup 2006 - 2007: Manchester United 1 - 0 Middlesbrough Reference: teamtalk.com, youtube.com

Hero's welcome - Beckham back at Old Trafford

Man Utd 4 - 3 European All-Star XI The intention of last night's match between Manchester United and a European All-Star XI was to mark the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome and half a century of United's participation in Europe, but it will be remembered for the return of David Beckham and the deafening ovation he received from the supporters who worshipped him for over a decade in United colours. The 31-year-old's previous visits to Old Trafford since his departure for Real Madrid in 2003 had been as an England player and, though injury prevented him from captaining the European team here, his appearance as a guest of honour was spectacular. Once it was announced that the former England captain would be introduced at half-time, the football - a 4-3 victory to United over a team predictably stripped of the stars on the eve of the match - was always going to be a subsidiary thought for the 74,343 in attendance. "I've waited for four years for this," said Beckham before turning his attentions to Sir Alex Ferguson, with whom an infamous falling-out led to the end of his United career. "You've got the best manager in the world at this club. It was the best time of my football career. I want to say thank you to the fans and the people of this club. Especially in 1998 [when he was sent off at the World Cup] I wouldn't have got through the things I did without the people of this stadium." Fifty years ago, under Sir Matt Busby, United became the first English side to compete in the European Cup and yesterday, though the players on display reflected the continent's present abundance of talent, Beckham's homecoming turned the evening into a celebration of the past. "I'd expect he'd get a great reception," Ferguson said. "He had great years here ... He was a great player." References: football.guardian

FA Cup 2006 - 2007: Dramatic Final Is Set at New Wembley

Watford will face Manchester United or Middlesbrough in the FA Cup semi-finals, while Blackburn will take on Chelsea or Tottenham. Monday's draw means the Premiership's top two sides could be set for a dramatic FA Cup final meeting at the new Wembley Stadium. Both teams must overcome tricky replays before confirming their place in the last four, with Chelsea meeting Tottenham at White Hart Lane and United facing Middlesbrough at Old Trafford. Blackburn will play the winner of Chelsea against Spurs and the top flight's bottom club Watford face a tricky tie against United or Boro. The ties will be played on the weekend of April 14 and 15. Venues are to be announced. First Match at New Wembley: Manchester United vs Chelsea? Btw, enjoy the New Wembley images below :) Aerial photograph of the stadium The arch by night Every seat at the stadium is close to the action with each having more legroom than in the royal box of the old stadium A great view of the entire stadium from the roof View from the west of the stadium just before sunrise View of stadium from the south View of the bowl from spectator seating on level 5 View of the pitch from the west end of the Stadium View of the pitch looking towards the north side of the stadium, the player’s tunnel and Corinthian seating. One of the wheelchair platforms on Level 5. There will be 310 places for wheelchair users and 310 for companions. These seats are located throughout the bowl on each of the five levels. "’I never played anywhere where I felt so comfortable and happy as Wembley." - Sir Bobby Charlton References: wembleystadium.com, teamtalk.com

Leeds, Liverpool and Man United Fan

Waste=Liverpool, Manchester City, Leeds United...Erk Leeds, do they play in the EPL? A Leeds Fan, a Liverpool fan and a Man u fan were all in Saudi Arabia, sharing a smuggled crate of booze. All of a sudden the Saudi police rushed in and arrested them. The mere possession of alcohol is a severe offence in Saudi Arabia, so for the terrible crime of actually being caught consuming the booze, they were sentenced to death! However, after many months and with the help of very good lawyers, they were able to successfully appeal their sentence down to life imprisonment. By a stroke of luck, it was a Saudi national holiday the day their trial finished, and the extremely benevolent Sheikh decided they could be released after receiving just 20 lashes each of the whip. As they were preparing for their punishment, the Sheikh suddenly said: "It's my first wife's birthday today, and she has asked me to allow each of you one wish before your whipping." The Leeds fan was first in line (he had drunk the least), so he thought about this for a while and then said: "Please tie a pillow to my back." This was done, but the pillow only lasted 10 lashes before the whip went through. The Leeds fan had to be carried away bleeding and crying with pain when the punishment was done. The scouser was next up and after watching the scene, said:" Please fix two pillows on my back, under my dress" But even two pillows & 1 dress could only take 15 lashes before the whip went through again. The Manc was the last one up (he had finished off the crate), but before he could say anything, the Sheikh turned to him and said: "You are from a most beautiful part of the world, your city has some of the best bars, nightclubs and restaurants in Europe, your city and football team is known throughout the world. For this, you may have two wishes!" "Cheers mate, your Most Royal and Merciful Highness", The manc replies. "In recognition of your kindness, my first wish is that you give me not 20, but 100 lashes." "Not only are you an honourable, handsome and powerful man, you are also very brave." The Sheik says with an admiring look on his face. "If 100 lashes is what you desire, then so be it. And your second wish? What is it to be?" the Sheikh asks. "Please tie the Scouser to my back." _________________________________________ Finally, Leeds United manage to get new sponsor. Hmm. It's written there already :O. Safe Hands? Liverpool players after their CL exit in 2006. (with all respect to Buddhists) To find out when was the last time Manchester City won their trophy: Click Here. References: jokefile.co.uk

FA Cup 2006 - 2007: Boro 2 - Man United

Manchester United's treble dream survived an FA Cup rollercoaster at the Riverside as they drew 2-2 with Middlesbrough. In front and in control following Wayne Rooney's clinical strike midway through the first half, United found themselves behind to a durable Middlesbrough side as Lee Cattermole and George Boateng found the net either side of the interval. But, just as on their last visit to Teesside, Sir Alex Ferguson's men were in receipt of a debatable penalty decision, referee Rob Styles ruling Boateng had handled Rio Ferdinand's flick-on. That allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to drill home his 17th goal of the campaign and earn an Old Trafford replay on Monday week. Middlesbrough were worthy of the result, which may have created some kind of record as Gareth Southgate's men have now required second games in every round of the competition. United have drawn twice themselves now and will probably not relish the return as much as Boro. With injuries already starting to bite, United lost Edwin van der Sar before kick-off. Still technically on loan from West Brom, reserve goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak was given an unexpected chance when Van der Sar limped out of the warm up with a calf injury. The Pole was called into the action early and reacted quickly to race out and block Stewart Downing's early effort after the young winger had darted past Gary Neville into the United box. For a long time after that, Kuszczak was a mere spectator as United assumed total control. Branded a cheat by Southgate on his last visit to Teesside after winning his side a controversial penalty, Ronaldo was predictably booed every time he touched the ball. The winger did not show any sign of the reaction affecting him, although he was upstaged by old-timer Ryan Giggs, who, in a role just behind lone striker Henrik Larsson, created mayhem with his direct running. It was hardly a surprise Giggs should be heavily involved in the move which saw the visitors seize the initiative, calmly feeding Rooney after Larsson - booked for diving himself on his final United appearance - had turned the ball into his path. Rooney has hardly been a prolific scorer this season, but the England star happily exploited the room Jonathan Woodgate offered him and belted his 13th goal of the season into the corner of Mark Schwarzer's net. Middlesbrough were not totally out of it, and Kuszczak needed to make another excellent save to deny Aiyegbeni Yakubu, who rolled Rio Ferdinand and let fly with a volley which the goalkeeper pushed out with a firm arm. Giggs was agonisingly close to finishing off a sublime chip from Gary Neville with a volley that bounced away off the post and it took a close-range Woodgate block to deny the Welshman, who had skipped past a couple of would-be tacklers. But the whole game was turned on its head in two minutes either side of the half-time interval. Cattermole and Boateng had bagged just a single goal between them before this encounter. But what a time for the central midfield duo to explode into life. First, Cattermole controlled with his chest before smashing home a volley on the turn after Kuszczak had failed to reach a Downing cross nodded back into the danger zone by Arca. Then, with most supporters still taking their seats for the second half, Boateng was left completely on his own to attack a Downing corner, the Dutchman getting enough force into his header to prevent Giggs being able to hook it off the line. Yet, in celebrating their lead, Boro made the fatal error of dropping back far too deeply. The Teessiders had already survived a couple of hairy moments when Ferdinand flicked Giggs' corner straight at Boateng. To the consternation of the home supporters, referee Rob Styles pointed to the spot, deeming the Boro skipper had deliberately handled. Ronaldo drove home his first goal outside of league combat this term to earn United another attempt at reaching the last four. References: soccernet.com

New Wembley: Lots of Toilets

Finally, the truth emerges. The new improved Wembley is later than John Inman for one reason: the Aussie chancers who have spent the last 34 years building our new national stadium have had to install 2,618 toilets (although the vast swathes set aside for executive suites probably took a bit of time to knock together too). But even the amount of dung flowing through that sphincter-boggling amount of Royal Doulton pales into insignificance compared to today's rubbish. First up, we have the news that Cristiano Ronaldo is demanding a figure roughly similar to the cost of the new Wembley in return for his continued presence in Salford. He wants £120,000 a week and, possibly, the home phone numbers of the entire female cast of Hollyoaks (the ones over 16, mind) before he'll even consider scrawling his name on some Old Trafford stationery. Once Lord Ferg has settled that deal, he'll turn his attention to snaffling Aldo Duscher, the man who knacked David Beckham's metatarsal before the 2002 World Cup. Ronaldo does things I have never seen anybody do, says Charlton Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed yesterday that contract negotiations with Cristiano Ronaldo were proceeding according to plan on the day the Portuguese winger received arguably the most glowing tribute yet. Sir Bobby Charlton, a Manchester United director and ideally qualified to discuss the quality of footballers to have played for the club over the past half-century, described the 22-year-old as possessing abilities he has not seen before, no mean praise from a former player who enjoyed his best years alongside the likes of George Best and Denis Law. "Ronaldo has just been fantastic," said Charlton. "It takes great players to grab the bull by the horns and lift people and he has been doing that recently. He does things I have never seen anybody else do. And he is as tough as hell. If you clatter him it doesn't bother him too much, he'll carry on. His goal at Fulham was just marvellous and I think he has been a better player than even people here realise." football.guardian

Champions League 2006 -2007: Man United get Roma

Liverpool drawn against PSV, Chelsea paired with Valencia, Man United get Roma The prospect of an all-English Champions League final remains a vibrant possibility after Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United avoided each other in today's quarter-final draw in Athens. Liverpool were handed what looks the easiest passage of the English teams, against Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven, who they beat and drew with during the group stages. But things don't look so easy for Chelsea and Manchester United, who face Valencia and Roma respectively. The final quarter-final, meanwhile, sees a meeting of two of the grand old men of European football, Milan and Bayern Munich. Certainly Liverpool secretary, Byrce Morrison, was ebullient after his club was paired with PSV. "It's one of the better draws for us and we've looking forward to playing them" he said. "We're beginning to get the feeling this is Liverpool's year. Let's hope we can win it again." Providing they overcome the Dutch champions, Liverpool will face the winners of Chelsea v Valencia in the semi-finals, with United or Roma taking on the winners of Bayern v Milan. On paper, Chelsea's tie with Valencia - twice nearly men in the Champions League during the past decade and victors over Internazionale in the last 16 - looks mightily tricky, but the club's chief executive, Peter Kenyon is confident of coming through: "It gives us a good chance," he said. "We'd rather be at home for the second leg, but overall we're happy with the draw. We've never got to the final, but we stand a good chance." But United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was more cautious about facing Roma, second in Serie A and conquerors of Lyon in the last 16. "We respect their last result," he said. "They have some great players like (Daniele) De Rossi and Mancini. Obviously we do not look beyond this game. We must concentrate on this game and we are looking forward to it." Quarter-finals: Milan v Bayern Munich PSV Eindhoven v Liverpool Roma v Manchester United Chelsea v Valencia (Ties to be played on April 3/4 and April 10/11.) Semi-finals: Winners of Chelsea or Valencia v winners of PSV Eindhoven or Liverpool Winners of Roma or Manchester United v winners of Milan or Bayern Munich (Semi-final ties to be played on April 24/25 and May 1/2.) The final of the 2006/07 UEFA Champions League will be played in Olympic Stadium Athens on 23 May 2007. Come on Man United, we could be there. References: football.guardian, uefa.com

FA Cup 2006 - 2007: QuarterFinal

Middlesbrough vs Man Utd, The Riverside Stadium Boro manager Gareth Southgate is banking on home ground advantage to upset favourites Man United. He has appealed Boro fans not to snub their FA Cup Q-final with the Red Devils again. Less than 18,000 Boro fans turned up the last time United came to Riverside for a televised FA Cup tie five years ago, and the Boro manager believes a near-full house would greatly aid his side. But our Man Utd are in prime position to win Treble (or at least double, but i do believe we could repeat the 1999-quest again) this season. We are heading the premiership table and still in the FA Cup and Champions League. The gaffer SAF, who in recent years has shunned this competition, will not be making this mistake again. He doesn't have to field our first 11. Thanks God, Lady of Luck is back :). My prediction: Of Course Man Utd will grab 3rd-away win in two-week. Glory-glory Man Utd. Woody Warning For Devils "We are going to try to win this competition but have got to do it the hard way by playing Man Utd. That is never easy but we have a decent record against them. On our day, we can beat anyone. It will be difficult because United are a special side who will probably win the League. And I hope they do because they're are good side who play attractive football." - Jonathan Woodgate, Middlesbrough Sidelined Players Manchester United have confirmed that French defender Mikael Silvestre suffered a dislocated right shoulder during their victory over Lille. Although club officials have not put a time scale on Silvestre's likely recovery, Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz was back on the bench for the Blues' win over Porto on Tuesday less than three weeks after suffering a similar injury in an FA Cup tie against Norwich. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been ruled out until the end of the month following minor knee surgery, Darren Fletcher will be sidelined for two months with ankle ligament damage, while Louis Saha could be out for four weeks after damaging a hamstring in training on Tuesday. References: teamtalk.com

Ronaldo opens contract talks with United

'We have talked and I hope to reach agreement as soon as possible' Cristiano Ronaldo has begun negotiations with Manchester United over extending his contract beyond 2010. Ronaldo has been in scintillating form for United this season - leading the team's scorers with 16 goals - and although he only signed his current deal at the beginning of last season, reported interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid appears to have nudged Sir Alex Ferguson into strengthening his hold on the Portuguese midfielder. However, despite Ronaldo saying today that he was keen to sign a new deal as soon as possible, Ferguson will still have been dismayed to hear his prize asset insist that he would like to play in Spain sooner or later. "We have talked and I hope to reach agreement as soon as possible," Ronaldo told Portuguese radio station Antena 1 today. "Nothing has been decided yet and I would like to stay. I would like to play in Spain one day, but I am happy here at Manchester." "You can never be certain of anything in life, but I am happy here and I want to stay here. In football there are no guarantees. If I don't leave now, if I leave in two, three, four, five years I would be happy, I am at a great club." Allan Smith, The Forgotten Man Sir Alex Ferguson is pinning his hopes on forgotten man Alan Smith to guide Manchester United through their ill-timed striker crisis. Less than a fortnight after Jose Mourinho claimed United were getting all the luck in the battle for silverware, suddenly the injury curse has struck Old Trafford. While lengthy absences for Darren Fletcher and Mikael Silvestre - who United officials confirmed dislocated his right shoulder against Lille - are a cause for concern, it is the problems up front which will cause Ferguson the most headaches. With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer out for another fortnight following minor knee surgery and Louis Saha sidelined for four weeks after suffering a hamstring strain in training on Tuesday, Henrik Larsson's return to Sweden next Wednesday could not have come at a worse time. References: football.guardian, teamtalk.com

Champions League 2006-2007: Larsson legacy is ticket to the next round

There has been a debate among Manchester United followers as to the effectiveness of Henrik Larsson since the 35-year-old Swede plumped for an English sabbatical at Old Trafford in January. A degree of scepticism has shaped that argument, but Larsson skewed future memories favourably in his direction last night when he rose to nod in the 72nd-minute goal that takes United into their first Champions League quarter-final for four years. It was by no means an unforgettable strike but it was the high point of an otherwise forgettable game and its significance will increase the longer United stay in the competition. However, that cannot be guaranteed if they replicate some of the sluggishness on display against a Lille team that is tenacious but far from electric. That is Larsson's concern no more. After Saturday's FA Cup tie at Middlesbrough, Larsson will be present here for the Uefa charity match next Tuesday, but then he is gone, back to Helsingborgs. Sir Alex Ferguson said "forget that" on Tuesday when asked if he might be able to delay the process by which Larsson returns and Ferguson reiterated the impossibility of that last night. "Helsingborgs have their priorities," Ferguson said, "and Henrik has promised that to them. He's got his family, too, there's no point in going on about it. I've spoken to the man and he's going back. That, unfortunately, is that." Ferguson is one who does not doubt the Larsson effect. This was the Swede's ninth start in his loan spell and his decisive header, from a sublime run and cross from Cristiano Ronaldo, was his third goal and his last competitive touch in the red shirt at Old Trafford. What is troubling Ferguson is that in the space of a week, as United enter the final weeks of what remains a possible treble, he has lost three strikers. Yesterday's news that Louis Saha's scan on his hamstring discovered damage that will keep him out for a month - up to six matches - follows the loss last week of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to knee surgery. Solskjaer could be fit again quickly but with regulations apparently forbidding the calling back of Giuseppe Rossi from loan at Parma, it was therefore symbolic that when Larsson departed to a rousing ovation, Alan Smith was his replacement. Smith was lively and sharp in his 15 minutes but he has begun just two games this season, both in the Carling Cup. There was, moreover, a new injury to Darren Fletcher on Tuesday in training that will mean two months out and then, as a contest that never truly caught fire petered out, Mikaël Silvestre dislocated a shoulder in a heavy fall. He was carried off on a stretcher. Throw in the fact that Paul Scholes is suspended for Saturday, plus the Premiership home games with Bolton and Blackburn, and United's European progress has come laced with anxiety. When available again Scholes is at least an attacking option. Here he was deployed in a three-man support unit for Larsson and particularly in the first half, Scholes drilled holes in the Lille defence. Larsson's non-control meant that the best of these passes, in the eighth minute, was squandered, but the two linked intuitively six minutes later. Wayne Rooney, on the left last night, was found by Scholes and it took a brave block from Matthieu Chalme to deny United an early opener. From the resulting corner John O'Shea, goalscoring hero of Anfield, rose unchallenged to nod a header on to the crossbar and with Lille neat but blunt, matters looked fair for United. Considering the verbal butting that has gone on since the first leg, this turned out to be grudge match missing a grudge. Peter Odemwingie bloodied the nose of Nemanja Vidic but that was 27 minutes in. Shortly before that Jean Makoun wasted a promising headed chance and there was then a comedy moment when Scholes attempted to take a quick free-kick in the style of Ryan Giggs. The stadium laughed as Lille flapped. But the ground fell quiet at the start of the second half. Lille had to score, of course, and Odemwingie came closest just two minutes in with a miscued header that fooled Edwin van der Sar and struck a post. An away goal then and the whole occasion would have been changed. As it was Gary Neville and Rooney were merely two of the United players with arms outstretched in pleading frustration as their passing game disintegrated. It is at times like that when personal inspiration is necessary. Larsson provided it, spinning on to a short pass, finding Scholes, who switched the ball out to Ronaldo. Booked earlier for an apparent dive, Ronaldo burst past his marker, reached the byline and sent in a come-hither cross. Larsson's forehead did the rest. A sweet finish. Champions League hero Henrik Larsson departed Old Trafford to a standing ovation Larsson 72' - It's United's first shot on target and it's hard on Lille, but it was a brilliant goal. Receiving the ball from Larsson on the halfway line, Ronaldo jinked his way up the left wing at terrific speed, yet still managed to dig out a pinpoint cross from the touchline to his team-mate. From nine yards out there was little doubt Larsson would glance the ball into the far corner - he's been one of the best headers around for the past decade. References: football.guardian, youtube.com, teamtalk.com

Manchester United Fact File

Record attendance: 76,018 vs Wigan 26/12/2006 (83,260 for United v Arsenal at Maine Road in 1948) Record league win: 10-1 v Wolves 15/10/1892 Division 1 Record league defeat: 0-7 v Blackburn 10/4/1926 Division 1 Record league appearances: 606 Sir Bobby Charlton 1956/73 Record league goalscorer: 199 Sir Bobby Charlton 1956/73 Record transfer fee received: £25, 000 000 for David Beckham to Real Madrid July 2003 Record transfer fee paid: £30,000 000 for Rio Ferdinand from Leeds United July 2002 References: squidoo.com, sporting-heroes.net

EPL 2006 - 2007: Discipline and Patience Won It For Us

How Ferguson sacrificed speed on the break for tighter defence Manchester United have been as enterprising going forward as any side this season, but on Saturday their approach was quite different. It was batten-down-the-hatches time - what we have, we hold. Their discipline was exceptional: the full-backs Gary Neville and Patrice Evra covered the centre-backs closely, and Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick never strayed forward to support United's attackers, forming a shield in front of their defence. It must be a long time since none of those four players either had a shot or made a decisive pass. In many ways United's performance replicated recent away displays at Lille, Fulham and Reading. This new template means they sit behind the ball, never conceding space, determined not to be caught on the counter, never a man short. Liverpool continuously knocked on the door, but United never lost their shape. Craig Bellamy could not find space behind the defence to run into, and Dirk Kuyt did not have a single clear chance. Liverpool, for their part, looked as firm as ever and they enjoyed most of the possession. There were half-chances: if Bellamy had been a little calmer he would have presented Kuyt with a goal, and the substitute Peter Crouch tested Edwin van der Sar. Liverpool needed United to come out of their shell. All the visitors offered, however, was occasional counter-attacking and little end-product. Ultimately their determination paid dividends. Ironically, it was the splendid Jamie Carragher's challenge on the ineffective Wayne Rooney that led to John O'Shea's introduction, and he earned United's glorious moment. United are probably, with Arsenal, the best counter-attackers in the league, but here they sacrificed that quality of quick support for midfield defensive protection. It proved successful for them in this smash and grab. Liverpool will be wounded, but they should not be seriously undermined. Barcelona are their next visitors; their spirit will be ready for the Catalans. - David Pleat, The Guardian. From Mancunian.Army If you think that we quite lucky to beat Liverpool at Anfield, think again. It's not just lucky, but first we need to have a good balance of tactical decision and patience. 2-thumb ups for Sir Alex. We often leave it till zero-hour to hurt the scousers. O'Shea did the same thing as Ferdinand's 90-minute-goal in Old Trafford last season, silenced the Kop. In our quest for 1999-Treble, Ole Gunnar Solskjær hit a shot which sent Liverpool's goalkeeper David James the wrong way to give United a 2–1 win. Solskjær's goal in the second minute of stoppage time sent Liverpool out of FA Cup and earned United fifth round match against Fulham. Enjoy the highlights below. Liverpool - Manchester United, March 3, 2007 A quick recap from a United perspective of the recent games between us and the Scousers. References: football.guardian, wikipedia.org, youtube.com

EPL 2006 - 2007: Last-gasp O'Shea Silences The Kop, March 3, 2007

John O'Shea plundered a dramatic stoppage-time goal as 10-man Manchester United won 1-0 at Liverpool to go 12 points clear in the Premiership. United produced a smash and grab victory at Anfield that could well see them clinch the title. They had been second best to Liverpool for long periods, and when they had Paul Scholes sent off with four minutes left, a point was surely the best they could have hoped for. But in injury time O'Shea scored in the six-yard box with what was only United's second shot on target in the whole match. Another Smash-and-Grab That, ladies and gentlemen, is a lesson in how to win a championship. United were thoroughly outplayed for most of the afternoon, and Liverpool will feel hard done by (though questions should be asked over their failure to convert dominance into many clear-cut chances), but champions win games they don't deserve to and that is exactly what United are doing at the moment. Chelsea should, realistically, close the gap back to nine points this afternoon against free-falling Portsmouth, but it's getting harder every week to see where United are going to drop points, even with Scholes likely to be suspended and Rooney's new injury. "Liverpool fell for SAF's masterplan hook, line and sinker. Tell Rooney to get injured so that super-sub O'Shea can come on and score the winner, after the ginger prince has got himself sent off to lull the scousers into a false sense of security. That's why he's the Premiership's best manager!" And to think that I saw it as a defensive manoeuvre - Paolo Bandini, Guardian Unlimited. Sources: football.guardian, teamtalk.com

Rumour Mill: United target winger Nani from source that produced Ronaldo

Manchester United have identified Nani, the Portuguese winger, for one of three major end-of-season transfers. Owen Hargreaves is a long-standing target and Sir Alex Ferguson's other priority will be to bring in a striker to fill the void left by Henrik Larsson's return to Helsingborg in nine days' time. In total, United could spend in excess of £60m in the summer, a figure that may be dramatically offset if Real Madrid or Barcelona manage to prise Cristiano Ronaldo away from Old Trafford, with a fee of around £45m under discussion. Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that Ronaldo is not for sale but it remains to be seen whether the Glazer family could turn down an offer in that region and United's interest in Nani will inevitably raise questions about whether he has been targeted as a possible replacement. Nani, like Ronaldo, has come to Ferguson's attention because of a succession of illuminating displays for Sporting Lisbon, the club that has also produced Luis Figo, Simao Sabrosa and Ricardo Quaresma. Carlos Queiroz, Ferguson's Portuguese assistant, has followed Nani's career since his early days in Sporting's youth academy, becoming a regular visitor at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, and United have now registered a firm interest in bringing the 20-year-old to Old Trafford in the summer. It is understood informal talks have been going on since the turn of the year. United are likely to face competition from several other clubs - Lyon are also confirmed admirers - but United have a feeder agreement with Sporting dating back to Ronaldo's £12m transfer in 2003 and they hope to capitalise on the Portuguese club's financial problems by not having to pay an exorbitant fee. The matter is complicated because Nani is currently going through a legal dispute to sever his ties with his agent, Ana Almeida, and sign for Jorge Mendes. Worryingly for United Mendes also acts as Jose Mourinho's agent and there is bound to be concern within Old Trafford that the player will also be offered to Chelsea, who have a habit of gazumping United's deals, most notably Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich and Arjen Robben from PSV Eindhoven. Mendes is generally viewed with suspicion at United because another of his clients, Ronaldo, is constantly linked to Barcelona and Real Madrid. Sporting have a reputation as a selling club and the indications from Lisbon last night were that they would not stand in Nani's way, providing a satisfactory fee could be agreed. The club are trying to rush through a new contract with him, one that will include a buy-out clause set at £20m. At present, Nani is one of the lowest-paid players at Sporting and his contract, which runs until 2010, stipulates he can leave for £13.4m. Nani has made it clear he wants to play for a major club and it would significantly help United in the negotiating process if he chose not to accept Sporting's improved terms. Ferguson is already convinced that Hargreaves will join in the summer, almost a year after United first confirmed their interest in the Bayern Munich midfielder. After that, a new striker must be found, with renewed speculation in the Spanish media this week about Fernando Torres of Atletico Madrid. United are also monitoring the potential availability of Samuel Eto'o from Barcelona, the Cameroonian striker having complained about feeling unwanted at Camp Nou. From Mancunian.Army + If Nani come to Old Trafford, could Ronaldo make his way to Spain...Please God, we could not afford to lose Ronnie, hes going to do another 'Giggs'. + Owen Hargreaves will complete the final-puzzle that we have searched for long time since Keano departure. + Could United lose another battle to Chelsea in 'transfer war' like they did before, most notably Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich and Arjen Robben from PSV Eindhoven. Damn you Chelski. Source: football.guardian

Could Ryan Giggs Silence the Kop in his 700th appearance

Last October, Paul Scholes marked his 500th appearance in Reds' shirt by scoring the goal that effectively knocked Liverpool out of the title race before the clocks go back. Could Ryan Giggs make the same headline in his 700th appearance when United entertain The Kop at Anfield on Saturday... The Welsh winger is second in the club's list of all time appearance-makers and is fast approaching Sir Bobby Charlton's record total of 759. When the Reds line up at Anfield on Saturday, it will be 16 years and a day since the United winger made his debut against Everton in the old first division. How fitting it would be if, on his 700th appearance, he also struck his 100th league goal. Click Here To View Ryan Giggs Statistics Sources: redcafe.net, manutd.com, bbc.co.uk, sporting-heroes.net