Ngongo
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Manchester United (Red Devils) | Special Thread
Manchester United (Red Devils) | Special Thread
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mfarisayo
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Papers: Reds in Neuer swoop?
28/04/2011 10:00
Mark Ogden writes in The Telegraph…
United ready to pounce for Manuel Neuer
An escalating war of words between Schalke and Bayern Munich has given United a chance to lure ace goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to Old Trafford. Germany keeper Neuer, 25, was credited by Sir Alex Ferguson as producing "probably the finest display of goalkeeping against us in my time at Manchester United", during the 2-0 Champions League semi-final first-leg victory against Schalke. Neuer has been regularly scouted by United as the club attempt to identify a successor to Edwin van der Sar, who has confirmed his intention to retire at the end of the season. But having been advised that Neuer favours a move to Bayern, United have shifted their attentions elsewhere, with Atletico Madrid's David de Gea and Ajax No 1 Maarten Stekelenburg now leading targets. Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness has warned, however, that his club will not pay an "astronomical" fee for Neuer. "We want Manuel," Hoeness said. "When there's a desire, we can find a solution. But Schalke's management must now not come up with an astronomical sum."
In The Sun, Patrice Evra has promised to take up yoga after Ryan Giggs inspired United to a 2-0 win over Schalke in the Champions League. The Welshman regularly credits yoga as the resource behind his prolonged career at Old Trafford, and now Evra is keen to follow suit: "Ryan says that is what makes him run fast and I'm going to sign up for it straightaway."
Elsewhere, Wayne Rooney has thanked United fans for their support this season and has promised to help the Reds lift a league and European Cup double. Rooney is quoted in The Guardian: "I'm delighted with my form at the minute and I'm grateful to the fans for supporting me. It's going to be a great end to the season if we can get to Wembley and win a Champions League final as well as the league."
Round Up By Mark Froggatt
28/04/2011 10:00
Mark Ogden writes in The Telegraph…
United ready to pounce for Manuel Neuer
An escalating war of words between Schalke and Bayern Munich has given United a chance to lure ace goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to Old Trafford. Germany keeper Neuer, 25, was credited by Sir Alex Ferguson as producing "probably the finest display of goalkeeping against us in my time at Manchester United", during the 2-0 Champions League semi-final first-leg victory against Schalke. Neuer has been regularly scouted by United as the club attempt to identify a successor to Edwin van der Sar, who has confirmed his intention to retire at the end of the season. But having been advised that Neuer favours a move to Bayern, United have shifted their attentions elsewhere, with Atletico Madrid's David de Gea and Ajax No 1 Maarten Stekelenburg now leading targets. Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness has warned, however, that his club will not pay an "astronomical" fee for Neuer. "We want Manuel," Hoeness said. "When there's a desire, we can find a solution. But Schalke's management must now not come up with an astronomical sum."
In The Sun, Patrice Evra has promised to take up yoga after Ryan Giggs inspired United to a 2-0 win over Schalke in the Champions League. The Welshman regularly credits yoga as the resource behind his prolonged career at Old Trafford, and now Evra is keen to follow suit: "Ryan says that is what makes him run fast and I'm going to sign up for it straightaway."
Elsewhere, Wayne Rooney has thanked United fans for their support this season and has promised to help the Reds lift a league and European Cup double. Rooney is quoted in The Guardian: "I'm delighted with my form at the minute and I'm grateful to the fans for supporting me. It's going to be a great end to the season if we can get to Wembley and win a Champions League final as well as the league."
Round Up By Mark Froggatt
mfarisayo
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- Nov 23, 2010
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Pick your Player of the Month
It was tough but we've managed to produce a shortlist of five for April's award. Watch our video recap, read our views, then vote for the months key man
Michael Carrick April Appearances 6, Goals 0
The midfielder's form has been getting progressively better and his Champions League performances have been nothing short of exceptional. Yes, he did lose the ball in the build-up to City's winner but he has silenced any critics this month.
Best moment: Pinging a quite crossfield ball over Jose Bosingwa's head and straight into Ryan Giggs' path to create the crucial goal for Wayne Rooney at Chelsea.
Ryan Giggs April Appearances 6, Goals 1
How long can he keep rolling back the years? After producing two top-class performances against Chelsea, assisting all three goals in the tie, he was just as influential in Schalke and became the oldest-ever Champions League scorer.
Best moment: Finally beating Manuel Neuer to give United a deserved lead in Gelsenkirchen.
It was tough but we've managed to produce a shortlist of five for April's award. Watch our video recap, read our views, then vote for the months key man
Michael Carrick April Appearances 6, Goals 0
The midfielder's form has been getting progressively better and his Champions League performances have been nothing short of exceptional. Yes, he did lose the ball in the build-up to City's winner but he has silenced any critics this month.
Best moment: Pinging a quite crossfield ball over Jose Bosingwa's head and straight into Ryan Giggs' path to create the crucial goal for Wayne Rooney at Chelsea.
Ryan Giggs April Appearances 6, Goals 1
How long can he keep rolling back the years? After producing two top-class performances against Chelsea, assisting all three goals in the tie, he was just as influential in Schalke and became the oldest-ever Champions League scorer.
Best moment: Finally beating Manuel Neuer to give United a deserved lead in Gelsenkirchen.
engmtolera
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- Oct 21, 2010
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Kama kawaida wazee wa MAN U we are too strong for schalke
Goals in quick succession from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney broke Schalke's resistance and left United on the brink of a third final in four years.
Manchester United FC can all but smell the Wembley turf after taking a huge step towards a third UEFA Champions League final in four seasons with victory at FC Schalke 04.
United, appearing in their 12th semi-final, completely dominated a Schalke side new to this stage of the competition and got the victory their superiority deserved through strikes from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney. The winning margin would have been greater but for the brilliance of home goalkeeper Manuel Neuer who made a string of fine saves before United finally broke through with two goals in three minutes midway through the second period, leaving Schalke with a mountain to climb in next Wednesday's return.
First impressions can be deceptive and so it proved here when Schalke midfielder Alexander Baumjohann forced a save from Edwin van der Sar after 29 seconds. It was in the other direction that the traffic would flow, virtually incessantly, for the rest of the match.
United's defensive impregnability had been the main feature of their away performances but here it was all about their attack, with Rooney in inspirational form on the ground where he lived the nightmare of a FIFA World Cup red card against Portugal in 2006. The England forward set the tone in the third minute when picking up the ball on the left corner of the box and curling a shot that, via a slight deflection from Atsuto Uchida, was headed for the far corner until Neuer got a fingertip to the ball.
United were looking dangerous every time they went forward. In the 14th minute Javier Hernández was put clear by Park Ji-Sung but failed to beat Neuer, and the Mexican then lashed a shot wide of the far post after getting clear on the right. For United beating the inspired Neuer was proving easier said than done. After throwing out a hand to thwart Giggs's downward header, the Germany goalkeeper stood tall to foil him again after Rooney had sent the Welshman running through on goal on the stroke of half-time.
The second period brought no respite for the hosts. Within moments of the restart Neuer turned over a Michael Carrick header, then Giggs blazed wide after doing the hard bit by wrongfooting two defenders. The Schalke supporters kept up their noisy backing, though, and their hopes were raised after 52 minutes when Jefferson Farfán's pace opened up United's left side and his half-cleared cross fell for José Manuel Jurado, but the Spaniard spurned the chance.
Schalke showed only briefly as an attacking force and United eventually got their goals. The breakthrough arrived after 67 minutes when Rooney ran infield from the left and, holding off Peer Kluge, slipped a pass through to Giggs who put the ball through Neuer's legs to become the oldest player to score in the competition. Two minutes later it was two as Rooney collected a threaded pass from Hernández and slipped a first-time finish low to Neuer's right.
The Liverpudlian Rooney's new Twitter account revealed he was listening to the Beatles in the build-up to this match. Schalke may have scored five at San Siro but recovering from this hard day's night at Old Trafford will take some doing.
Goals in quick succession from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney broke Schalke's resistance and left United on the brink of a third final in four years.
Manchester United FC can all but smell the Wembley turf after taking a huge step towards a third UEFA Champions League final in four seasons with victory at FC Schalke 04.
United, appearing in their 12th semi-final, completely dominated a Schalke side new to this stage of the competition and got the victory their superiority deserved through strikes from Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney. The winning margin would have been greater but for the brilliance of home goalkeeper Manuel Neuer who made a string of fine saves before United finally broke through with two goals in three minutes midway through the second period, leaving Schalke with a mountain to climb in next Wednesday's return.
First impressions can be deceptive and so it proved here when Schalke midfielder Alexander Baumjohann forced a save from Edwin van der Sar after 29 seconds. It was in the other direction that the traffic would flow, virtually incessantly, for the rest of the match.
United's defensive impregnability had been the main feature of their away performances but here it was all about their attack, with Rooney in inspirational form on the ground where he lived the nightmare of a FIFA World Cup red card against Portugal in 2006. The England forward set the tone in the third minute when picking up the ball on the left corner of the box and curling a shot that, via a slight deflection from Atsuto Uchida, was headed for the far corner until Neuer got a fingertip to the ball.
United were looking dangerous every time they went forward. In the 14th minute Javier Hernández was put clear by Park Ji-Sung but failed to beat Neuer, and the Mexican then lashed a shot wide of the far post after getting clear on the right. For United beating the inspired Neuer was proving easier said than done. After throwing out a hand to thwart Giggs's downward header, the Germany goalkeeper stood tall to foil him again after Rooney had sent the Welshman running through on goal on the stroke of half-time.
The second period brought no respite for the hosts. Within moments of the restart Neuer turned over a Michael Carrick header, then Giggs blazed wide after doing the hard bit by wrongfooting two defenders. The Schalke supporters kept up their noisy backing, though, and their hopes were raised after 52 minutes when Jefferson Farfán's pace opened up United's left side and his half-cleared cross fell for José Manuel Jurado, but the Spaniard spurned the chance.
Schalke showed only briefly as an attacking force and United eventually got their goals. The breakthrough arrived after 67 minutes when Rooney ran infield from the left and, holding off Peer Kluge, slipped a pass through to Giggs who put the ball through Neuer's legs to become the oldest player to score in the competition. Two minutes later it was two as Rooney collected a threaded pass from Hernández and slipped a first-time finish low to Neuer's right.
The Liverpudlian Rooney's new Twitter account revealed he was listening to the Beatles in the build-up to this match. Schalke may have scored five at San Siro but recovering from this hard day's night at Old Trafford will take some doing.
golwebo_mkuu
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after ferguson, there comes mourinho.....
mfarisayo
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Fergie: United spirit key to success
April 22, 2011
By ESPNsoccernet staff
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United's professionalism and spirit has been key to putting them on the brink of a Premier League and Champions League double, though he admitted the current side is lacking "the Ronaldo factor".
United were derided in some quarters earlier this season and were labelled the 'unconvinceables' for remaining unbeaten for a long stretch without ever really dazzling, while Marseille boss Didier Deschamps said the team "has a bit less fantasy than we have seen in the past".
But despite the criticism, United look certain to claim a record 19th league title and a place in the Champions League final appears guaranteed after a superb semi-final first leg demolition of Schalke on Tuesday.
And though Ferguson is happy to admit his side lack some of the glamour they had when former World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo led the line at Old Trafford, the wily Scot was more focused on praising the qualities of his current crop.
"This team might not have the 'Ronaldo' factor, but it doesn't understand the word defeat," Ferguson told Inside United. "It's determined, gritty and very professional, and it's produced some great moments.
"It's not as if we've been devoid of that ['fantasy']. Some of the football we've seen from the players this season has been terrific."
Asked whether the thought of overtaking Liverpool as the most successful side in English football history is helping to drive his side towards the finish line, Ferguson said: "I don't think it's on our minds at the moment.
"If we achieve it, it'll be great to reflect on, but at the moment we know we've got some hard games left. We look forward to the challenge, though. It's important to keep momentum going by winning games. That's vital.
"Draws don't come into it now, it's all about wins. We've got a big few games coming up and we need to win them."
United face Arsenal this weekend, knowing that a win would see them take a decisive step towards the title, and Ferguson said he is relishing the stage of the season that he once famously described as "squeaky-bum time".
"This is the greatest part of your job, having big game after big game," he said. "We've had some fantastic games over the years at this stage of the season, but we've also had some disappointments. You've just got to take the rough with the smooth.
"You just have to use your experience, and fortunately I've got a team of staff who have been with me for a long time. Having that continuity and consistency is a great thing - we know how to deal with situations.
"The players see how staff behave and how they conduct themselves in situations like we're in at the moment, and there's a lot of experience amongst the backroom team, which provides a calming influence.
"Two or three of the older players help too. The likes of Ryan [Giggs], Paul [Scholes], Rio [Ferdinand] and Edwin [van der Sar] - we've got enough experience to handle any situation that comes along."
mfarisayo
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Arsenal fight for pride to disrupt United charge
Jon Carter
Realistically only pride is at stake for an Arsenal side who have slipped out of the Premier League title race in recent weeks, but the chance to upset rivals Manchester United and halt their march to the trophy is still an attractive proposition.
When the fixture computer brought United and Arsenal together, just before the Red Devils face Chelsea, many thought that the game would have a significant impact on where the title would be heading. However, with United needing just six points (and a boost to their goal difference) even if Chelsea manage to take maximum points from their remaining fixtures, a draw is all the Red Devils need from Emirates Stadium to virtually assure themselves top spot.
United play relegation-threatened Blackburn and Blackpool in their final two fixtures but, while the title is beyond their reach, Arsenal are still facing a battle to finish in third place. With Manchester City only five points behind them (with a game in hand) and tough trips to Stoke and Fulham to come, a place in the automatic Champions League slots is far from assured.
The main problem for Arsene Wenger is that Sir Alex Ferguson appears to have the beating of him. While the contests between the two were fairly even back in the early years, Ferguson has taught his players how to beat the Gunners and has picked up six wins in seven games by getting his men behind the ball and hitting the opposition hard on the counter-attack.
It is a tactic that has served Ferguson well against the Gunners and the 2-0 win in the FA Cup earlier this season, where United played with seven defenders on the pitch, ensured that the club struck another mental blow to Wenger's philosophy, as well as a physical one.
United have the luxury of resting some star players again with a Champions League semi-final against Schalke coming up. Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Antonio Valencia are all in line for a bench role, with Chris Smalling, Rafael and Park Ji-Sung ready to plug the gaps.
Arsenal will welcome back long-term absentee Thomas Vermaelen for a reserve clash on Thursday, but the United game should come too soon for him; otherwise, it's full strength for the Gunners and there are no excuses to hide behind if the performance level is not there. With the end of a sixth trophyless season on the horizon, calls for Wenger's head have been heard with more regularity among the more reactive fans at Emirates Stadium, but if anything highlights the Frenchman's failure to take his young side forward, it is his record against United.
Arsenal player to watch: Johan Djourou. Despite Arsenal's failures of late, Djourou can consider the season a personal success as he has managed to complete a campaign without major injury. The Swiss defender will equal his highest number of starts for the Gunners in a single season (18) on Sunday, but came under fire in the 2-1 defeat to Bolton for his lack of leadership and aerial presence at the back. At 24, he is something of a Gunners veteran having made his debut for the first XI in 2006, but has work to do to convince fans that Arsenal do not need to spend.
Manchester United player to watch: Nani. Having been dropped for the hard-working Park Ji-Sung for the Champions League game with Schalke, the Portuguese midfielder will be ready to help his side's title charge at Emirates Stadium. Unlucky to have been left off the PFA Player of the Year shortlist, Nani has incredible pace and skill on the ball and is a constant threat down the flanks. His freedom of expression sometimes gets the best of him though and Arsenal fans will not forget his taunting of them in their 3-0 defeat in the FA Cup in early 2008.
Key Battle: Cesc Fabregas v Anderson. Fabregas has not been in the greatest form since his back-heel aided Barcelona's cause in their Champions League clash and the Arsenal captain needs a good performance to prove his commitment to the club. Rumours continue to circle about a possible £40 million summer move to Barcelona and if Fabregas' focus and vision return then the Gunners will be a threat. Battling with him in the middle of the park will be Brazilian Anderson, who was the subject of amorous glances from Wenger while plying his trade at FC Porto. His incisive passing was at its best against Everton and the midfielder's energy and drive from box to box will make him a tough opponent.
Trivia: Since 1992, United have done the double over Arsenal three times: In 1996-97 it was 1-0 and 1-2, while in 2004-05 United won 2-0 and 2-4. Last year, it was 2-1 and 1-3.
Stats: Since Arsenal beat Manchester United on penalties in the final of the FA Cup in 2005, they have won just three of their 15 games against them. United have won six out of their last seven games against the Gunners.
Odds: Arsenal (2.62), Man Utd (2.75) and the draw (3.25) are on offer at bet365 and Wayne Rooney to score first in a 1-0 win for United comes in at 26.00.
Prediction: Arsenal's confidence is shot - as shown by their one win since February 23 - and United are the best at playing against them. A draw would probably be a good result for the Gunners, even at home, but it would not stop United winning the league.
Arsene Wenger has not enjoyed success against Man Utd of late.
Jon Carter
Realistically only pride is at stake for an Arsenal side who have slipped out of the Premier League title race in recent weeks, but the chance to upset rivals Manchester United and halt their march to the trophy is still an attractive proposition.
When the fixture computer brought United and Arsenal together, just before the Red Devils face Chelsea, many thought that the game would have a significant impact on where the title would be heading. However, with United needing just six points (and a boost to their goal difference) even if Chelsea manage to take maximum points from their remaining fixtures, a draw is all the Red Devils need from Emirates Stadium to virtually assure themselves top spot.
United play relegation-threatened Blackburn and Blackpool in their final two fixtures but, while the title is beyond their reach, Arsenal are still facing a battle to finish in third place. With Manchester City only five points behind them (with a game in hand) and tough trips to Stoke and Fulham to come, a place in the automatic Champions League slots is far from assured.
The main problem for Arsene Wenger is that Sir Alex Ferguson appears to have the beating of him. While the contests between the two were fairly even back in the early years, Ferguson has taught his players how to beat the Gunners and has picked up six wins in seven games by getting his men behind the ball and hitting the opposition hard on the counter-attack.
It is a tactic that has served Ferguson well against the Gunners and the 2-0 win in the FA Cup earlier this season, where United played with seven defenders on the pitch, ensured that the club struck another mental blow to Wenger's philosophy, as well as a physical one.
United have the luxury of resting some star players again with a Champions League semi-final against Schalke coming up. Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Antonio Valencia are all in line for a bench role, with Chris Smalling, Rafael and Park Ji-Sung ready to plug the gaps.
Arsenal will welcome back long-term absentee Thomas Vermaelen for a reserve clash on Thursday, but the United game should come too soon for him; otherwise, it's full strength for the Gunners and there are no excuses to hide behind if the performance level is not there. With the end of a sixth trophyless season on the horizon, calls for Wenger's head have been heard with more regularity among the more reactive fans at Emirates Stadium, but if anything highlights the Frenchman's failure to take his young side forward, it is his record against United.
Arsenal player to watch: Johan Djourou. Despite Arsenal's failures of late, Djourou can consider the season a personal success as he has managed to complete a campaign without major injury. The Swiss defender will equal his highest number of starts for the Gunners in a single season (18) on Sunday, but came under fire in the 2-1 defeat to Bolton for his lack of leadership and aerial presence at the back. At 24, he is something of a Gunners veteran having made his debut for the first XI in 2006, but has work to do to convince fans that Arsenal do not need to spend.
Manchester United player to watch: Nani. Having been dropped for the hard-working Park Ji-Sung for the Champions League game with Schalke, the Portuguese midfielder will be ready to help his side's title charge at Emirates Stadium. Unlucky to have been left off the PFA Player of the Year shortlist, Nani has incredible pace and skill on the ball and is a constant threat down the flanks. His freedom of expression sometimes gets the best of him though and Arsenal fans will not forget his taunting of them in their 3-0 defeat in the FA Cup in early 2008.
Key Battle: Cesc Fabregas v Anderson. Fabregas has not been in the greatest form since his back-heel aided Barcelona's cause in their Champions League clash and the Arsenal captain needs a good performance to prove his commitment to the club. Rumours continue to circle about a possible £40 million summer move to Barcelona and if Fabregas' focus and vision return then the Gunners will be a threat. Battling with him in the middle of the park will be Brazilian Anderson, who was the subject of amorous glances from Wenger while plying his trade at FC Porto. His incisive passing was at its best against Everton and the midfielder's energy and drive from box to box will make him a tough opponent.
Trivia: Since 1992, United have done the double over Arsenal three times: In 1996-97 it was 1-0 and 1-2, while in 2004-05 United won 2-0 and 2-4. Last year, it was 2-1 and 1-3.
Stats: Since Arsenal beat Manchester United on penalties in the final of the FA Cup in 2005, they have won just three of their 15 games against them. United have won six out of their last seven games against the Gunners.
Odds: Arsenal (2.62), Man Utd (2.75) and the draw (3.25) are on offer at bet365 and Wayne Rooney to score first in a 1-0 win for United comes in at 26.00.
Prediction: Arsenal's confidence is shot - as shown by their one win since February 23 - and United are the best at playing against them. A draw would probably be a good result for the Gunners, even at home, but it would not stop United winning the league.
mfarisayo
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- Nov 23, 2010
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Owen's respect for rival bosses
United striker Michael Owen is full of admiration for the managers who'll meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
The forward feels Arsene Wenger deserves great credit for his 15-year stint at Arsenal, but says the Frenchman's record there makes Sir Alex's feats look even more impressive.
"Arsene Wenger is one of the best managers to have ever managed in the Premier League. He has turned the club around and done fantastically well over the years," Owen told Key 103. "That just highlights what our manager has done. It is amazing the success Sir Alex has had here in such a fiercly competitive business such as this."
Wenger's fading hopes of winning a fourth league title with Arsenal are now dependent on an unlikely combination of results for both United and Chelsea in the final three games. But first things first, the Gunners need to address their nine-point deficit on the Reds.
"Arsenal will be thinking they have to beat us this weekend to keep their chances alive," says Owen. "That's what makes it a good game. But it's not only about Arsenal, Chelsea can also win the league. We just have to think about ourselves and go for the three points."
mfarisayo
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Fletcher cautious after United return
April 29, 2011
By ESPNsoccernet staff
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is not expecting to slot straight back into first-team duties after recovering from a virus that has kept him out for nearly two months, with the Scotland captain insisting he will be happy to just "play some small part" in his side's run-in.
Fletcher has been absent since United's 3-1 defeat to Liverpool on March 6, but returned to action on Thursday night for United's reserves, playing 45 minutes in a goalless draw with Arsenal.
Whether the midfielder is thrown back in to face the Gunners' senior side on Sunday remains to be seen, but Fletcher's return to fitness gives United a timely boost ahead of seven days that will likely decide the fate of the Premier League title.
After a visit to Emirates Stadium this weekend, Sir Alex Ferguson's side face Schalke in the Champions League semi-final second leg before welcoming Chelsea to Old Trafford next Sunday.
Ferguson has previously indicated Fletcher would return immediately to his side when available but while the midfielder is keen to get back into the first-team picture, he insists he is not planning to rush into his comeback.
"That's nice to hear but the lads have done fantastic, it's going to be hard to get back in that team," Fletcher told MUTV. "We're in a great position with a month left and I want to give the manager another option and play some small part.
"It's great to be back and get some minutes under my belt. The plan was always just to play 45 minutes because I've been out for such a long time, I don't want to push too quickly and set myself back.
"It was a bad virus, originally it was supposed to be a week and it escalated. I lost a bit of weight and when you have to put the weight back on it's a slow process, and what should have been a couple of weeks ended up being a lot longer.''
On his chances of facing the Gunners, Fletcher added: "I'll see how I am. I don't want to rush it too quickly so I'll speak to the doctor and the manager, see how we're feeling and take it from there.''
One player who will be in contention to face Arsenal is Dimitar Berbatov, who will return after missing three games with a groin injury sustained in the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City earlier this month.
"Dimitar is fit again,'' Ferguson said. "He had a slight groin strain but he has trained all week.''
United hold a six-point lead over Chelsea in the Premier League title race and the Scot feels the next two games will be pivotal.
"We are in a good position," he said. "I think two months ago people were looking at these two games, Arsenal and Chelsea, as league deciders and they probably are now.
"We are going into the game in good form. I can make changes on Sunday and Wednesday also, with the strong squad we have got. We don't do a lot of training right now, it is about recovery and getting the energy back into them."
Ferguson, meanwhile, has hailed his team's resilience as they chase success on two fronts. Marseille coach Didier Deschamps' claim, ahead of his side's Champions League meeting with United, that Ferguson's current vintage lack "fantasy" has clung to the team.
But Ferguson told Inside United magazine: "It's not as if we've been devoid of that. Some of the football we've seen from the players this season has been terrific.
"This team might not have the (Cristiano) Ronaldo factor, but they don't understand the word defeat. They're determined, gritty and very professional, and they've produced some great moments.
"We know we've got some hard games left. We look forward to the challenge, though. It's important to keep momentum going by winning games. That's vital. Draws don't come into it now, it's all about wins. We've got a big few games coming up and we need to win them."
April 29, 2011
By ESPNsoccernet staff
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is not expecting to slot straight back into first-team duties after recovering from a virus that has kept him out for nearly two months, with the Scotland captain insisting he will be happy to just "play some small part" in his side's run-in.
Fletcher has been absent since United's 3-1 defeat to Liverpool on March 6, but returned to action on Thursday night for United's reserves, playing 45 minutes in a goalless draw with Arsenal.
Whether the midfielder is thrown back in to face the Gunners' senior side on Sunday remains to be seen, but Fletcher's return to fitness gives United a timely boost ahead of seven days that will likely decide the fate of the Premier League title.
After a visit to Emirates Stadium this weekend, Sir Alex Ferguson's side face Schalke in the Champions League semi-final second leg before welcoming Chelsea to Old Trafford next Sunday.
Ferguson has previously indicated Fletcher would return immediately to his side when available but while the midfielder is keen to get back into the first-team picture, he insists he is not planning to rush into his comeback.
"That's nice to hear but the lads have done fantastic, it's going to be hard to get back in that team," Fletcher told MUTV. "We're in a great position with a month left and I want to give the manager another option and play some small part.
"It's great to be back and get some minutes under my belt. The plan was always just to play 45 minutes because I've been out for such a long time, I don't want to push too quickly and set myself back.
"It was a bad virus, originally it was supposed to be a week and it escalated. I lost a bit of weight and when you have to put the weight back on it's a slow process, and what should have been a couple of weeks ended up being a lot longer.''
On his chances of facing the Gunners, Fletcher added: "I'll see how I am. I don't want to rush it too quickly so I'll speak to the doctor and the manager, see how we're feeling and take it from there.''
One player who will be in contention to face Arsenal is Dimitar Berbatov, who will return after missing three games with a groin injury sustained in the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City earlier this month.
"Dimitar is fit again,'' Ferguson said. "He had a slight groin strain but he has trained all week.''
United hold a six-point lead over Chelsea in the Premier League title race and the Scot feels the next two games will be pivotal.
"We are in a good position," he said. "I think two months ago people were looking at these two games, Arsenal and Chelsea, as league deciders and they probably are now.
"We are going into the game in good form. I can make changes on Sunday and Wednesday also, with the strong squad we have got. We don't do a lot of training right now, it is about recovery and getting the energy back into them."
Ferguson, meanwhile, has hailed his team's resilience as they chase success on two fronts. Marseille coach Didier Deschamps' claim, ahead of his side's Champions League meeting with United, that Ferguson's current vintage lack "fantasy" has clung to the team.
But Ferguson told Inside United magazine: "It's not as if we've been devoid of that. Some of the football we've seen from the players this season has been terrific.
"This team might not have the (Cristiano) Ronaldo factor, but they don't understand the word defeat. They're determined, gritty and very professional, and they've produced some great moments.
"We know we've got some hard games left. We look forward to the challenge, though. It's important to keep momentum going by winning games. That's vital. Draws don't come into it now, it's all about wins. We've got a big few games coming up and we need to win them."
mfarisayo
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 23, 2010
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Carrick braced for big week
Michael Carrick says fixture congestion will inspire and not hinder United as Sir Alex Fergusons side chase a Barclays Premier League and UEFA Champions League double.
After a dominant 2-0 win over Schalke in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday, the Reds are back in action with a run of three blockbuster clashes in just seven days.
First up is Sundays match with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, with Schalke visiting Old Trafford for the second leg three days later before a pivotal league encounter with Chelsea at the weekend.
Carrick feels United are up to the challenge, telling ManUtd.com: We thrive on it. We want to be playing in the big games and theyre coming thick and fast now. But, at the end of the day, if you want to be successful then its the name of the game - that is what we are here for.
Every game is such a big one now so its pretty easy to switch our focus and keep motivated. We just need to recover quickly and prepare for the next game which we are all looking forward to.
The Reds have performed well at the Emirates since the Gunners moved there in 2006, not least in the last two visits - in the league and Champions League - which both yielded 3-1 victories. Carrick is hoping to continue that run.
We are in a good position in the league, we have got the points in hand and we will go there to play like we would play regardless of what is at stake. We have done alright in the last year or two so hopefully we can carry that on.
You cant draw on them too much because it is a different game but we have confidence that we have been down there before and won. Hopefully we can take that into the game and win again.
mfarisayo
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 23, 2010
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ALEX FERGUSON reckons his team could be crowned champs next weekend - after beating Arsenal and Chelsea.
Manchester United will claim a 19th title with wins over their two nearest rivals.
They go to the Emirates tomorrow and Fergie said: "The form we are in we have a chance of doing that. We want to win these games.
"People have been inferring for some time that this is Arsenal's chance to beat us at their ground and win the league.
"Then it was Chelsea's chance to beat us at Old Trafford and win the league. I took a different view. My view was why can we not win these games?
"They are not easy but they're not for Arsenal or Chelsea either."
United have yet to beat a top-half team away this season but Fergie believes they can finish with a flourish.
He said: "Two months ago everybody was looking at these two games as league deciders.
"And they probably are now. We are going into the game in good form."
But Fergie added: "I think there's still drama ahead. The teams at the top will drop points.
"Chelsea are the dark horses in the sense that people seemed to think they were out of it.
"But I thought they had the easier run-in and are now on our coat-tails."
mfarisayo
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 23, 2010
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Roo is blend of Messi 'n Ronaldo
JAVIER HERNANDEZ last night insisted that Wayne Rooney is better than Lionel Messi - at shooting.
And he is also a better header of the ball than Cristiano Ronaldo.
Hernandez, Manchester United's latest sensation, ran the rule over his strike partnership with Rooney that has set the Premier and Champions League alight.
Mexican ace Hernandez, who should line-up against Arsenal tomorrow, has fired 17 goals in his debut season in England.
JAVIER HERNANDEZ last night insisted that Wayne Rooney is better than Lionel Messi - at shooting.
And he is also a better header of the ball than Cristiano Ronaldo.
Hernandez, Manchester United's latest sensation, ran the rule over his strike partnership with Rooney that has set the Premier and Champions League alight.
Mexican ace Hernandez, who should line-up against Arsenal tomorrow, has fired 17 goals in his debut season in England.
mfarisayo
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 23, 2010
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Arsenal: Key battles
Ex-Reds midfielder and MUTV pundit Mickey Thomas blogs on the head-to-head battles that could decide United's Premier League clash with Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday.
Arsenal versus United is always an exciting fixture in the football calendar, particularly when the result could determine the title race. But the pressure is on the Gunners to win this game otherwise they are out of the hunt.
Arsene Wenger's side have been disappointing of late so they'll be really fired up and desperate to win the game. The Emirates is a great place to play football though and we have a good record there, so hopefully we can get another positive result…
Van Persie v Vidic
Arsenal's Dutch striker is in fantastic form and has scored lots of goals in the league. Maybe Arsenal's season might have been different had he not been injured for so long. Van Persie will be facing the best centre-half in the country on Sunday though. In my opinion, Nemanja Vidic is the complete defender and if this is a physical contest, there will only be one winner.
Fabregas v Carrick
The Arsenal captain has not performed to his usual high standards this season but remains a quality player who cannot be taken lightly. Michael Carrick has been excellent in recent weeks so this battle is very intriguing. Big games are usually won and lost in midfield so this head-to-head will go a long way to deciding the game.
Koscielny v Rooney
Wayne has a good record at the Emirates Stadium, where last season he scored one of the finest counter-attacking goals I've ever seen. I'm extremely confident he will get the better of Koscielny and the rest of the Arsenal defence, which has looked a bit disorganised this season – particularly from set-pieces.
Ex-Reds midfielder and MUTV pundit Mickey Thomas blogs on the head-to-head battles that could decide United's Premier League clash with Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday.
Arsenal versus United is always an exciting fixture in the football calendar, particularly when the result could determine the title race. But the pressure is on the Gunners to win this game otherwise they are out of the hunt.
Arsene Wenger's side have been disappointing of late so they'll be really fired up and desperate to win the game. The Emirates is a great place to play football though and we have a good record there, so hopefully we can get another positive result…
Van Persie v Vidic
Arsenal's Dutch striker is in fantastic form and has scored lots of goals in the league. Maybe Arsenal's season might have been different had he not been injured for so long. Van Persie will be facing the best centre-half in the country on Sunday though. In my opinion, Nemanja Vidic is the complete defender and if this is a physical contest, there will only be one winner.
Fabregas v Carrick
The Arsenal captain has not performed to his usual high standards this season but remains a quality player who cannot be taken lightly. Michael Carrick has been excellent in recent weeks so this battle is very intriguing. Big games are usually won and lost in midfield so this head-to-head will go a long way to deciding the game.
Koscielny v Rooney
Wayne has a good record at the Emirates Stadium, where last season he scored one of the finest counter-attacking goals I've ever seen. I'm extremely confident he will get the better of Koscielny and the rest of the Arsenal defence, which has looked a bit disorganised this season – particularly from set-pieces.
sulphadoxine
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 1, 2010
- 2,257
- 649
NI mabao,mabao,mabao,mabao.Ananuka mabao,analala na mabao,anayaota mabao.Javier hernandez "chicharito"amezidi kuiteka ligi kuu ya england kila mwisho wa wiki unapowadia.Wasichoelewa wengi ni kwamba mtoto huyu wa mexico amezaliwa katika familia ya mabao.
Babu mabao,baba mabao,mtoto mabao.
Baba yake chicharito anaitwa Javier Hernandez Guitierrez na alikuwa mshambuliaji hatari sana wa timu ya taifa ya mexicona klabu ya guadarajara ambayo chicharito pia alichezea.
Babu mabao,baba mabao,mtoto mabao.
Baba yake chicharito anaitwa Javier Hernandez Guitierrez na alikuwa mshambuliaji hatari sana wa timu ya taifa ya mexicona klabu ya guadarajara ambayo chicharito pia alichezea.
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