Manchester United

[muckypups]

Tidy review in The Telegraph.. (via Red News).. puts me in the mood for tonight..

'According to the contorted logic of Sam Allardyce, the Bolton manager, you can lose a match with a poorly-taken kick-off. With Bolton technically and morally slaughtered by Manchester United, he had the nerve to complain it was because "we conceded three goals from our own dead-ball situations. . . gifted them three goals".

The Football Association clearly missed their chance: with Allardyce at the helm, any explanation of an England defeat need never have simply been that the opposition were superior, just dead-ball defiency.

The reality was that United produced an hour of exhilarating football, equalled this season by no side other than, occasionally, Arsenal. At the heart of Bolton's destruction for the second time this campaign - they lost 4-0 to United at home - lay three of the genuine jewels of the Premiership, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs.

The three bring to the game a magic which has been part of the Old Trafford formula ever since Matt Busby re-assembled the club post-war. Love them or envy them, for half a century United have been the antidote to industrial football - as personified by Bolton.

Who is bothered, beyond the Reebok Stadium, about Bolton's "percentage" game? Ronaldo, Rooney and Giggs looked at it, shrugged and galloped away. Three down after 25 minutes, Bolton were left scavenging like seagulls on a windswept beach.

Sir Alex Ferguson has generated a glorious brand of football. He may have stolen Rooney from Everton, he may lose Ronaldo to Real Madrid or Barcelona - "We're confident he'll stay," insisted Ferguson - yet Saturday's exhibition was the stuff of dreams, the two players conspiring with midfielder Ji-Sung Park to produce goals that would have had George Best nodding approval.

Allardyce was nearer the truth when, asked if the defeat left scars, he admitted: "We'll need a plastic surgeon." Optimistically, surgery might not be necessary for Gary Neville, who limped off with an ankle injury which will keep him out of England's games.

Bolton's rugged reputation, latterly dented, though they retain fifth place, depends on midfield control. Denied this by United's 4-2-3-1 formation - Michael Carrick and John O'Shea (in the absence of the suspended Paul Scholes) the playmakers, with Ronaldo and Park wide either side of Giggs in behind Rooney - Bolton were over-run.

Ronaldo danced past them with the poised arrogance of a John Travolta to present Park with the opening goal, and then collaborated with Rooney over a 60-yard sprint to glide a silver-plated pass from which Rooney chipped the second.

Park hammered the third when Jussi Jaaskelainen failed to hold Ronaldo's stabbed drive, and later substitute Alan Smith lobbed to a runaway Rooney for a fourth.

Gary Speed's late penalty did little to improve the sides' respective goal difference: United plus 50, Bolton minus three.'

[muckypups]

and from Oliver Kay in "The Times"

Only self-destruction can deny Manchester United the Barclays Premiership title and only self-indulgence can deny Cristiano Ronaldo the individual honours to go with it. Resentment, fuelled by the excesses that come with his genius, may cloud the judgment of some within the Professional Footballers’ Association and the Football Writers’ Association, but if the awards are to go to the player who has illuminated this season like no other, then nobody, not even Didier Drogba, of Chelsea, can hold a candle to United’s No 7.

This has not just been a wonderful season from Ronaldo. It has been extraordinary, the Portugal winger scaling heights of unplayable perfection rarely seen in English football in modern times. Thierry Henry enjoyed a similarly spectacular campaign for Arsenal’s “Invincibles” in 2003-04, but before that one has to look back at least as far as John Barnes, in the Liverpool team of the late 1980s, to find a flair player who set such a consistently high level of match-winning performances — and possibly back as far as George Best in his prime.

When Ronaldo comes to reflect on his annus mirabilis at Old Trafford, he will recall starting with a bang against Fulham, some courageous performances against a background of hostility on away grounds and six goals in three matches as he seemed almost to carry the team through the Christmas period. But this, against a Bolton Wanderers side who also had the misfortune to face Wayne Rooney on top form, was yet another strikingly high note.

He did not add to his total of 17 goals, but, in setting up all three of United’s first-half goals, two for Park Ji Sung and one for Rooney, he left most of the 76,058 crowd drooling. His combination with Rooney for the second goal, in the seventeenth minute, was breathtaking. Michael Carrick rose in the United penalty area to head away the danger from a throw-in by Gary Speed and, within 14 seconds, the ball was in the Bolton net, Ronaldo sprinting past two challenges and slipping a clever pass for Rooney to finish things off with an impudent dink.

Sir Alex Ferguson called the goal “unbelievable”, gushing over the “marvellous combination play and a marvellous finish”. Ronaldo, not known for his use of superlatives, at least not in English, called it “amazing”, talking about his joy at playing in such an exciting team.

That is encouraging for United, whose efforts to tie him to a new contract are proving less easy than they might have hoped. The 22-year-old is being offered £100,000 a week, but his agent, Jorge Mendes, has requested more money — and who can blame him, given that Carlos Queiroz, Ferguson’s assistant, lauded Ronaldo on Saturday as a player with a greater array of talents than Luis Figo, Zinédine Zidane and the original Ronaldo, all of whom he coached at Real Madrid?

It said everything about Ronaldo’s performance that it eclipsed even that of Rooney. The England forward’s second goal was another minor classic, slicing his shot across Jussi Jaaskelainen after Alan Smith, the substitute, sent him clear of Bolton’s woeful defence.

Park’s two goals were a fitting reward for his energy and movement, although United’s task was facilitated by a Bolton side for whom Speed’s late penalty was no consolation. Sam Allardyce was asked whether the match would leave scars. “Scars?” the Bolton manager asked. “We need a bloody plastic surgeon after that.”

[redrus]

40 million they are joking right!! it aint april fools day yet.

a good player but not worth half that price.

Sorry I forgot the laughing sarcastic piss taking gif....

redrus

[redrus]

VIEWS FROM THE BROADSHEETS/COMPACTS

Tuesday 20th March 2007

Ronaldo gets it again.

The Times:

Middlesbrough finally found an answer to Cristiano Ronaldo's precocious brilliance last night, but it came too late and, in any case, it was the wrong answer. A challenge by James Morrison in the dying moments earned the substitute a red card and reflected the frustration that has built up among Gareth Southgate's players at Ronaldo's gamesmanship and showmanship over the course of the campaign, but as he has done all season, the Manchester United winger earned and enjoyed the last laugh.

The match ended amid recriminations, with Carlos Queiroz, the United assistant manager, having to be pulled away from Malcolm Crosby, his Middlesbrough counterpart, and Alex Smith, the kit man, who had appeared to accuse Ronaldo of cheating. As ever, though, the player at the centre of the controversy smiled and shrugged it off. "Maybe someone doesn't like me because maybe I'm too good," he said afterwards, having won and converted the 76th-minute penalty that sent United into a semi-final against Watford.

As arrogant as Ronaldo's remark appears, it rings true. He has been too good for the rest of English football this season and it was no different last night. This was not quite the virtuoso performance of Saturday, when he ripped Bolton Wanderers apart, but yet again, when United needed inspiration, it was the Portugal winger who provided it, getting behind Jonathan Woodgate and enticing a rash challenge from the England defender in the penalty area. Some Middlesbrough players complained that Ronaldo had dived, but unlike in their league meeting at the Riverside in December, television replays suggested otherwise.

Middlesbrough nevertheless felt aggrieved, even if it was primarily Ronaldo's high-stepping footwork that drew that reckless challenge from Morrison as the clock ticked down. "Yes, we did lose our discipline in the last five minutes of the game," Southgate, the visiting team's manager, said. "James is a young kid and he will learn a lesson from that. We all, in that situation, would love to do what he did [clatter Ronaldo]. But you have to be mature enough to hold your ground and make the tackle."

Southgate's empathy with Woodgate was impressive as Morrison was certain to rile Sir his defence kept United at arm's length for the long periods of the first half. Alex Ferguson, but the United manager had no doubt about who was in the right. "They're all going on, but it's a clear penalty kick," he said. "I think they've got a guilt complex with him. If it had been any other player involved, they wouldn't have reacted like that. There's a stigma on the boy, which isn't deserved. He's a phenomenal player.

The Telegraph:

Cristiano Ronaldo is perhaps the most divisive figure plying his trade in English football, but while the Portuguese winger yet again prompted fury and adulation with his latest penalty controversy against serial victims Middlesbrough, the 22-year-old showed just why he is the one man separating Manchester United from the rest by capping a stunning solo performance with the goal that sent Sir Alex Ferguson's team closer to a second Treble.

Although Jonathan Woodgate appeared to knock Ronaldo off balance with a clumsy challenge inside the six yard box, Middlesbrough reacted bitterly to referee Mike Dean's decision to point to he spot.

Substitute James Morrison was rightly dismissed for a brutal foul on Ronaldo in added time and the United assistant manager, Carlos Queiroz, and his Boro counterpart, Malcolm Crosby, were involved in a bout of animated finger-wagging on the touchline after the final whistle.

Boro's protests were misplaced. Ronaldo was clearly impeded by Woodgate and his successful penalty, which enabled United to equal Arsenal's record of reaching 25 FA Cup semi-finals, ensured a victory the Premiership leaders deserved.

Unsurprisingly, Woodgate, Julio Arca and Mark Viduka were all restored to the Boro team after missing the weekend Premiership defeat at home to Manchester City, and it was clear from the early stages that United were facing determined opponents. Despite the now almost routine brilliance of Ronaldo, Ferguson's players made heavy work of the first-half.

With the suspended Paul Scholes watching from the sidelines, United too often fell into the trap of playing the ball across the Boro back four in the first-half. Although their passing was slick and precise, they could only sporadically break beyond the 18-yard line and put pressure on Mark Schwarzer's goal.

Having seen numerous similar attacking forays fail to bear fruit, United opted for a more direct approach and the blistering acceleration of Ronaldo enabled him to pick up Nemanja Vidic's long pass from defence and dance past full-back Andrew Taylor into the six-yard box on 34 minutes.

Ronaldo should have taken the opportunity to test Schwarzer from close range, but he unselfishly pulled the ball back for Alan Smith. The former Leeds forward was foiled brilliantly, however, by his one-time Elland Road colleague Woodgate, who arrived from nowhere to intercept and snuff out the danger.

Woodgate was imperious at the heart of the Boro defence. Deft through balls were blocked and important headed clearances were made by the on-loan Real Madrid defender, but even his acute awareness failed to prevent Wayne Rooney from springing the offside trap to bear down on Schwarzer three minutes before the interval.

Rooney raced on to Ryan Giggs' pass and burst into the penalty area, but his decision to take the ball around Schwarzer rather than place it underneath the goalkeeper allowed the Australian the time to recover, and he dived low at Rooney's feet to smother the ball and deny the United striker.

Boro, by contrast, barely threatened and Rooney and Ronaldo continued to torment Southgate's team as United upped the tempo after the interval.

The Indie:

Abuse accompanies almost every step from Cristiano Ronaldo these days but there is venom in the voice of Middlesbrough that exceeds any World Cup wound. Three times they have crossed the Portuguese international this season and three times he has cost them from the penalty spot; it would be no surprise if the Boro chairman, Steve Gibson, himself attempted to pay for Manchester United's irrepressible star to return to Iberia this summer.

Controversy plagued the 22-year-old again last night but whatever the opinions on Ronaldo, and they were wildly contrasting from the opposing dug-outs, his mantle as the sole destroyer of Middlesbrough's FA Cup ambition is beyond dispute.

Having won a dubious spot-kick at the Riverside in December and converted the contentious award that took this quarter-final to a replay, he was back on familiar ground when tripped by Jonathan Woodgate with 15 minutes remaining at Old Trafford. Again he beat Mark Schwarzer from 12 yards and again he was labelled a cheat, although this time it was a scurrilous accusation without foundation as contact was clearly made as he closed in on goal.

The claim was allegedly shouted at Ronaldo by the Boro assistant manager, Malcolm Crosby, moments after the decisive penalty secured United a record-equalling 25th FA Cup semi-final appearance, and so incensed Crosby's opposite number, Carlos Queiroz, that he had to be restrained by Sir Alex Ferguson as he attempted to confront his compatriot's accuser after the final whistle. Given that the visiting substitute James Morrison was sent off for a lunge on Ronaldo in stoppage time and Wayne Rooney was close to receiving a second yellow card in the subsequent mêlée, the winger's contribution cannot be overstated.

And to think this was not even Ronaldo or United's finest display in this season's FA Cup. Initially the Portuguese international stood out from an impressive crowd as he began in the same destructive manner that had unravelled Bolton in the League on Saturday. At times he appeared the only telling threat United possessed, but in the second half Middlesbrough marshalled him well. Up to a point.

Woodgate made key interceptions from Rooney and Ronaldo, but this was not exclusively a rearguard action from Boro as Mark Viduka and Ayegbeni Yakubu showed the strength and quality to unnerve the United defence, with the Australian closest to opening the scoring in the 16th minute. As in the original tie on Teesside there was an increased urgency about Boro whenever Stewart Downing was brought into play, although the England international illustrated why he is more suited to assisting than finishing when he squandered a glorious chance from Viduka's cut-back in the 54th minute.

The Guardian:

Gareth Southgate labelled Cristiano Ronaldo a "diver" earlier this season but there could be no disputing the penalty that took Manchester United into the semi-finals last night and the Portuguese international could not resist the temptation to taunt Middlesbrough's manager in the process. Ronaldo was quickly over to the visitors' dugout to signal to Southgate that the goal was dedicated to him.

His 18th goal of the season tees up a semi-final against Watford on April 14 and keeps United on course for a potential treble of the Premiership, the FA Cup and the Champions League. Simultaneously, it confirms Ronaldo's place as Middlesbrough's bete noire after a season in which he has won two and scored two penalties against them and tormented them at every opportunity. Ronaldo, one suspects, enjoys the role of pantomime villain and he broke into a wicked smile when asked why controversy stuck to him like a magnet. "Maybe," he said, "they don't like me because I'm too good."

It was a wonderful piece of chutzpah from a player who clearly believes it is him, not Jose Mourinho, who should be regarded as the Special One. Yet Ronaldo's attempts to provoke Southgate brought something approaching anarchy to the night, with the visitors guilty of losing all sense of control.

James Morrison, a substitute, was shown a red card after deciding to take his own retribution and scything him down. Carlos Queiroz, United's assistant manager, had to be restrained after allegedly hearing shouts of "cheat" from the opposition bench and, at the final whistle, Sir Alex Ferguson had to restrain him from confronting Southgate, plus the assistant manager Malcolm Crosbie and kit-man Alex Smith, all of whom seemed willing to prolong the argument.

Queiroz usually plays the placid role in the good-cop-bad-cop routine with Ferguson but here the roles were reversed as United's manager found himself in the highly unusual position of peacemaker.

When the dust had settled the outcome was a record-equalling 25th FA Cup semi-final for the Premiership leaders and, of potentially huge significance in the title race, a postponement of their trip to Chelsea on April 15. The match will now be played on May 8, setting up the tantalising prospect that United, currently six points clear, can win the league at Stamford Bridge.

Eleven days later, barring a near-unimaginable shock result against Watford, United could renew hostilities with Chelsea in the first FA Cup final at the new Wembley. A season shot with potential danger for Ferguson is threatening to become a year to rival 1999.

Stats:

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Heinze, Ronaldo, Carrick, Giggs, Richardson (Park 60), Smith (O'Shea 71), Rooney.

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Cathcart, Eagles.

Booked: Smith, Rooney.

Goals: Ronaldo 76 pen.

Middlesbrough: Schwarzer, Xavier, Woodgate, Pogatetz, Taylor (Huth 88), Cattermole (Morrison 62), Boateng, Arca (Rochemback 69), Downing, Yakubu, Viduka.

Subs Not Used: Jones, Lee.

Sent Off: Morrison (90).

Booked: Xavier, Woodgate, Pogatetz, Boateng, Rochemback.

Att: 71,325

Ref: M Dean (Wirral).

and..........

MATCH QUOTES

Tuesday 20th March 2007

'Jesus God', 'Guilt complex', 'I'm too good'

Ferguson:

"I don't know what they're going on about, Jesus God.

"It's because it's Ronaldo.

"There's been a stigma attached to the boy which is not deserved. He's a great player, a fantastic player, a phenomenal player.

"It is a shame. They are putting a stigma against the boy that he doesn't deserve.

"We have had some great players at this club in my 20 years here and Cristiano is up there with the best of them. He is phenomenal.

"But there's a guilt complex there. He had nine fouls against him in the first game, when he didn't have any protection at all. I hear people saying it wasn't a penalty, but it was clear."

About Ronaldo's Sky interview (below):

"I thought the interviewer was disgraceful, hoping the boy would slip up - but he was magnificent and they don't realise how intelligent he is. It was a poor interview and Sky should have a look at themselves"

And on the game:

"I was thinking extra time tonight I have to say. A big part of the FA Cup is luck but we were attacking all the time and deserved it.

"In the first game Ronaldo had 9 fouls against him. You need strong refs in these games and we didn't get that in the first game, and tonight they had all those bookings and the sending off"

The prospect of a party like 1999:

"5.30 kick off? Deary me, why don't they make it Saturday 11pm!"

"We're glad to be there. In the FA Cup we've had four Premiership teams in the run and two replays, it tells you we want to get there. The players' desire and ambition and the resolve they've shown is fantastic. I'm proud of them, I really am. It is a great feeling. We don't know where we're going, you hope you get the bit of luck you need. In 1999 we had everyone fit. At this moment we don't have everyone fit, but hopefully by that time we're getting nearer to a full squad."

Praise for Heinze:

"Heinze was magnificent tonight. That's his best performance of the season I think. I think the number of games has helped him. Gaby's needed a run of games and in the last few games he's been absolutely brilliant."

Ronaldo:

"Maybe some people don't like me, but maybe that's because I'm too good.

"For me it's a penalty.

"Why when Cristiano is involved is it always polemic? You need to see it on the television. I felt the contact. This is why I went down. He touched me.

"Yeah, but if you touch me I lose my movement and that is why I go down. Because he kicked me. Why does controversy follow me? I don't know. For me, it's a penalty. Maybe someone doesn't like, maybe because I'm too good. I don't know."

More:

"We'll go to the semi-finals and I'm happy.

"When you play Watford - and these are all difficult games - if you have a good team then you have a good chance to get to the final.

"I feel confident. I'm in good form and the team is very good too."

Smith:

"It's lovely to be back. You want to play with the best players and at Manchester United I've got the opportunity to do that. There's been a lot of speculation about my future but that's never been in doubt between me and the club. Hopefully typical performance for me, working hard, putting myself about. There's been times I've played and I wasn't ready. I know that.

"The Gaffers been brilliant, giving me time. If I'd have been bought back early I would have suffered. It's been refreshing to be giving time and tonight was a great occasion for me. I had a big smile on my face I can tell you that. I wear my heart on my sleeve and the lads have been incredible and the possibility of winnings things - I want to be part of that. Hopefully I can do that - stand up for this team when it's needed - more.

"It's a game I've been looking forward to this game so much. Sometimes when you've been out it's difficult but you've just got to go for it. We're getting players back from injuries and we've got a squad here that is all together (for each other)."

'Naive young manager' Gareth Southgate:

About the penalty:

"The referee felt it was and he gave it, end of story.

"Ronaldo is a fantastic player and is very, very good at what he does."

Again about the penalty:

"I've seen it a couple of times and I'm still not sure. The galling thing is that we've played them three times and we've conceded three penalties, and they all might not have been given."

On the sending off:

"Everybody in the heat of the moment is entitled to a reaction.

"In the cold light of day you can think logically about things. In the 85th minute of an FA Cup tie, though, things looks different.

"We're inexperienced on the bench, as we keep being told. There's inexperience on the field, too and we did lose our discipline in the last five minutes and that's unacceptable. But we'll learn from it in the future.

"As for James [Morrison], in that situation, we'd all be tempted to lash out when a guy's doing tricks like that. I'm not complaining - part of Ronaldo's game is to do these tricks and things - but he's a young kid. You've got to be mature enough to hold your ground. But there were some fantastic performances from my team out there. We pushed the best team in the country all the way, to the wire and they'll respect us for that."

RONALDO APPLAUDED BY BECKHAM

Tuesday 20th March 2007

"What he had to go through at the end of last season was tough but he couldn't have been at a better team and under a better manager."

More:

"He's had the support of the fans and the club and, with that, you have every chance of coming through those bad times and he has been pretty incredible this year."

redrus

[redrus]

DON'T GO

redissue

Tuesday 20th March 2007

Hargreaves warned off joining United

"Wherever I go, I keep bumping into people telling me not to go to United.

"I was at a training camp in Dubai and had people saying 'Go to Liverpool, not United' or whichever team they like it's up in the air.

"At Bayern, I've had people say 'You play here, you stay here'.

"Those who run the club have had a few words with me about joining United.

"I haven't discussed it with Ottmar Hitzfeld because we've been involved in a lot of games and he has only recently come back to take charge of the club.

"I'm sure there will be some conversations, though. I'm expecting it.

"But people have to realise most of my family come from the north west, around the Bolton area.

"I'm also the only England player who has never played in the Premiership. It's what I want to do."

redrus

[muckypups]

Well I've just watched a full replay of the match and though hardly scintillating I reckon we deserved the win, a stone cold penalty (sorry Gareth) perfectly taken..and I reckon Heinze was outstanding..great to see him back and getting games..

There are no guarantees but we should beat Watford.. and assuming Chelsea beat Blackburn..well, could be the first of two Cup Finals between us in a a matter of days.....

[chonabot]

40 million they are joking right!! it aint april fools day yet.

a good player but not worth half that price.

IMO he is worth as much as any other top player in the prem. If you disagree, try watching a few matches.

Certainly worth a lot more than Michael Carrick IMO.

[Seapok]

Chelsea-Man Utd game moved to May

Manchester United's potentially crucial Premiership trip to Chelsea has been re-arranged for Wednesday 9 May.

Chelsea were due to host United on 14 April, but with both sides reaching the FA Cup semi-finals, it was automatically postponed.

It means the match will now be the second-last game of the campaign for both teams.

United currently lead Chelsea by six points with both teams having eight Premiership matches remaining.

If United continue to maintain their current six-point lead by the time they play Chelsea, the title is likely to be secure because of their vastly superior goal difference.

The Old Trafford club have also confirmed the home clash with Sheffield United, which was due to be played on 10 April but was called off because of the Champions League quarter-final with AS Roma, has been put back to Tuesday, 17 April.

[muckypups]

From the Guardian via Red News..

imagine..

'Whisper it on Merseyside or in Milan, or even in those pockets of Lancashire and Hertfordshire where optimism lingers, but the suspicion grows that Manchester United and Chelsea are converging inexorably on the season's grand finale. A trio of possible meetings between the clubs, to be staged within just over two weeks in May, could decide this season's major honours. Sky have already brought us Judgment Day and Super Sunday Summit in recent times, though voiceover men everywhere will be struggling to contain their excitement at the dramatic sobriquets to come.

Three mouthwatering tête-à-têtes remains possible rather than probable at present. Both clubs still have to get through the Champions League quarter-finals, and then potentially beyond Liverpool or Milan in the semis, if they are to reach Athens, while Blackburn and Watford represent awkward hurdles in the last four of the FA Cup. But such has been their steamrollering progress in recent weeks that the likelihood of an unprecedented end to the campaign looms larger with each Cristiano Ronaldo penalty or reminder of Andriy Shevchenko's class. United are aiming to repeat their treble of 1999, while Chelsea have hopes of a staggering quadruple success. The rest can only watch in envy.

The pair's progress into the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday forced the postponement of their scheduled Premiership game at Stamford Bridge on April 15, with the match rearranged for May 9, the penultimate game of the season. The FA Cup final is due to take place at Wembley on May 19, with the Champions League decided four days later in Athens. There was excitement among former United and Chelsea figures yesterday at the thought of such a decisive fortnight.

"It is remarkable it might end with three games between two sides to decide the honours," said Alex Stepney, who enjoyed a brief spell at Chelsea before moving to United, with whom he won the European Cup in 1968. "The managers won't be jumping the gun but, if it does happen, what odds would you have got from the bookmakers at the start of the season? These are two outstanding sides who have dominated in recent times - United for as good as 14 years, and Chelsea as a powerhouse in the last few years. It's open to debate whether it's good for football in this country, but the possibility of two of our clubs getting to the European Cup final suggests British football is strong."

"It's a wonderful prospect," agreed John Hollins, a Chelsea stalwart as a player and a manager of the club in the 80s. "These sides have been superbly consistent, they've had that bit extra to break free of the other challengers, and they've been steered by wonderfully intelligent managers. Whatever their manager has tried, it's come off. Ronaldo has been a revelation . His goals, from whatever angle and with his head as well as his quick feet, have taken the pressure off Wayne Rooney, while Henrik Larsson's signing was a coup by Sir Alex Ferguson.

"Chelsea, dare I say it, have actually cut their squad back from having two players per position but have unearthed utility players of huge talent and value, such as Michael Essien and Lassana Diarra. Those players are invaluable when you're challenging on so many fronts. Both Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex have juggled their selections a bit to keep things fresh but, when they've taken a chance, they've got away with it. That makes it good judgment. At the end of May, though, crunch time could come when they play each other. They can draw in the league, but the others are cut-throat competitions."

The idea has been mooted that these sides could field relatively weakened teams when the FA Cup final returns to Wembley if they have a weightier European Cup to contest just four days later.

"If they both reach the FA Cup final, I'd like to think both clubs would go hel_l for leather in both competitions and not rest any of their big names," said Paul Parker, the former England defender who represented both clubs in the 90s. "Sir Alex wants a second European Cup to go past Sir Matt Busby, while Mourinho's ego needs the glory of winning the Champions League again. But neither can afford to treat an FA Cup final lightly, even if they have a Champions League final a few days later. "The FA Cup is still a big enough deal for both Sir Alex and Mourinho to treat with respect, and there would be nothing worse for either of them if they were to leave the new Wembley as the first team to lose there."

"It all boils down to that need to secure silverware," added Stepney. "People say the FA Cup is the third priority but I don't think any manager would put a team out that they don't think is capable of winning that game. The mystique is back with the Cup final at Wembley. The FA would consider Chelsea versus United to be a dream final. I'm not sure what Uefa would think but, if it all pans out, what a finale to the season this could be."

[redrus]

SCHOLES HOPEFUL

redissue

Sunday 25th March 2007

Well, expecting to win title, preferably at Chelsea.

"Winning that game is something we'll have to do to show we're worthy of being up there.

"You'd like to think so, wouldn't you? But we know there is a long way to go and a lot of hard work before we're in that position.

"It doesn't make any difference when we play Chelsea.

"Whatever position we are in we'll go there and want to do well. No matter what the circumstances, we won't be going to Stamford Bridge and taking our foot off the pedal.

"Winning that game is something we will have to do to show that we are worthy of being where we are now. We won't even be playing for the draw because that isn't the way we play, we always want to win.

"And they have beaten us at Stamford Bridge the last few years so it would mean a lot to go there and win."

LEAGUE IS 'TOP PRIORITY' AND CARRICK IS 'FANTASTIC'

redissue

Tuesday 27th March 2007

So says the Ginger Prince

"After not doing so well in the Premiership in the last couple of years, we're all more determined than ever to lift the trophy this year.

"The other competitions would be a bonus if we can do well in them. If we could win all three, that would be nice, but if I had to choose one, it would be the league. I think a lot of the players feel that way."

On Carrick:

"He's been fantastic. He's been a great signing for us and I think he's really helped us get to where we are. He's had a great season. His passing is brilliant, most people see that straight away, and not just that, he works hard for the team as well.

"I don't know if he is that much of a different player to Roy (Keane). They do a similar role. It's difficult to compare him to other players. I don't look at it like that. I just know that I can play alongside him and I feel comfortable alongside him in the team. He's got all the capabilities of a top midfielder and that's what you need at this club.

"I suppose he's freed me up a little bit to try and get forward more. I know he doesn't get forward that often. But he can do that, he's definitely capable of scoring goals. But he is more of a sitting midfielder, so he takes on that role and I can get forward."

redrus

[redrus]

NEVILLE OUT UNTIL MAY?

Tuesday 27th March 2007

The Times:

Manchester United's hopes of an unprecedented second treble have been dealt a significant blow after it emerged yesterday that Gary Neville, the club captain, could be out of action for up to another six weeks because of injury.

Neville is expected to miss the whole of next month and faces a race to be fit in time for the potential Barclays Premiership title decider against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on May 9.

It is not clear whether Neville has suffered a setback in his recovery from ankle ligament damage that he suffered in the 4-1 victory at home to Bolton Wanderers ten days ago or whether United's initial suggestion that he would be sidelined for three weeks was optimistic.

Certainly, the England defender's absence will be keenly felt as the club step up their three-pronged pursuit of Premiership, Champions League and FA Cup honours.

Neville is understood to be hopeful of regaining full fitness by the time United visit Stamford Bridge in their rearranged Premiership fixture — their penultimate and possibly decisive league game of the season — but assuming he does not return before then, Sir Alex Ferguson, the United manager, will be without his captain for as many as 11 matches.

redrus

[redrus]

RONALDO LIKES THE ATTENTION

redissue

Tuesday 27th March 2007

"It's a good sign to know that I have so many clubs interested in me, such as Madrid."

More:

"It means that I am valued and my work pleases, but I'm very happy where I am and I hope to stay at Manchester United for many years.

"The United players are by my side - but of course I believe I am one of the best.

"I have a good contract, in financial terms."

I'LL BE HERE FOR MANY YEARS

Monday 26th March 2007

Or at least until United have to cash in

Ronaldo has said once again that he intends to stay at United. Speaking after Portugal's game on Saturday he said:

"Am I the best in the world? I have been improving my game and I'm in a great shape this year. I feel mature. The Manchester United players are by my side and I also have a great help in the national team. But of course I believe I am one of the best.

"I have a good contract in financial terms and what really matters to me is to show my game. It's a good sign to know that I have so many clubs interested in me, but I'm very happy where I am and I hope to stay in Manchester United for many years."

He also confirmed that Belgium's goalkeeper, Stijn Stijnen, apologised to him after the game for comments made about putting him out of the game.

Clichy is a Ronaldo fan

Arsenal's Gael Clichy thinks Ronaldo is the best he's ever played against.

"Collectively, United are very strong and they have players that can individually make the difference like Cristiano Ronaldo.

"He is the best player I've ever played against. He is quick, skilful and clever.

"I have a photograph at home of one of our challenges during the FA Cup semi-final in 2004, even if that afternoon United beat us.

"If United have their injured players back quickly then they will win the title."

Gary Linekar on Ronaldo, in The Telegraph

There is something everyone who values the creative potential of football should do. Next time you get the chance to watch Manchester United in the flesh, get there early and get as close to pitchside as possible. Then watch Cristiano Ronaldo do his warm-up. It is breathtaking.

There are few players who I would watch going through the paces of their pre-match routine. But Ronaldo is not any old player: it is captivating to watch him work his way through his repertoire of tricks, flicks and skills. What is amazing is the speed at which he does it all. It's as if he needs the warm-up to get all his components calibrated for the superhuman feats that await. Watching him this season I've witnessed acts of manipulation of a football that verge on the physically impossible.

Ronaldo is still young at 22, but I believe that if he continues on this trajectory of development, he could become one of the greatest players ever. He has been unbelievable this season: he has turned from an exciting but flawed performer into a player who is impossible to defend against. He was accused in the past of being addicted to the step-over; now every decision he makes is the right one.

To put it bluntly, he has absolutely everything. His technique is remarkable, a truly sublime talent, but allied to that is an extraordinary ability to operate at high speed. He does not seem to slow up when he receives the ball and can perform his array of tricks at full sprint.

Then there's his shooting: he hits the ball with such power that the ball distorts and swerves in the air. How many goalkeepers have we seen rooted to their line as the ball defies physics as it swerves into the net.

Oh, and he can shoot with both feet, giving full-backs a headache about which way to steer him.

There is the one black mark that people hold against him: the allegations of diving. Yes, in the past he tended to throw himself down to the turf at every opportunity and that behaviour was certainly in evidence at the World Cup in Germany. However, as I have consistently argued in this column, a large element of that is cultural. I have played in Spain, it is part of their game and nobody makes a fuss about it. Ronaldo must be taken aback every time there is a furore over this issue.

To be fair to him, he has changed his game remarkably in this respect. It is very hard when a player has gained a reputation, but even the most one-eyed of fans must concede he has improved an awful lot. The accusations flying around after the FA Cup quarter-final with Middlesbrough were nonsense. He was moving at high speed in the box and a bad challenge came in. Yes, he doesn't do everything in his power to avoid the challenge, but then why should he? A dive? No way.

Ronaldo gets fouled as often as all exciting attacking players do, but how often do you see him getting into rucks or remonstrating with referees? He simply picks himself up and gets going again. Every time he gets whacked, he brushes himself down and goes again.

So what is his secret? Well he is obviously blessed with great natural gifts, but there is also his work-rate. On the pitch you can see it in the way he tracks back and gives the formation shape, and in the number of selfless runs he makes to create space for his team-mates. Again, go back to the warm-up, much of what seems spontaneous is the fruit of some hard labour. We should encourage the kids in this country to approach the art of dribbling the way Ronaldo does.

redrus

[muckypups]

Great round up as ever Red, thanks..must say I'm disturbed to hear that Neville is facing a lengthy (season ending?) injury, but hel_l.. we won the European cup with Keane on the bench back in '99..so..

Anyway, I spotted this in the Red News e-mail.. I think the writer may have a point...

Mail on Rooney

:

'During his three days in Spain this week, Wayne Rooney could do worse than call the country's most famous English resident, David Beckham.

As Rooney is finding out — and Beckham has known for years — being the English football team's most feted player is not always easy.

Being the most gifted footballer in a successful team will bring only glory. Being the best in a poor, struggling side is another matter entirely.

Pressure, expectation, scrutiny and, of course, blame comprise the hand luggage of the English talisman and right now Rooney is struggling to carry it all.

Is it proving too much for a young man who is still only 21? Most certainly, yes.

Rooney's behaviour on the field in Israel on Saturday was hardly out of character, while his post-match exchange with coach Steve McClaren bore the hallmarks of frustration and stress.

Are England's travails the only reason why Rooney is struggling? Most definitely, not. His problems this season have not been restricted to international football.

Despite some flurries of goals — a few of them brilliant — consistency has eluded him. Those who watch Rooney for United every week have recognised the symptoms of a young player some way from the top his game.

Rooney's innate competitiveness has been present, as have his unquenchable thirst for hard work and his capacity for isolated moments of quite staggering brilliance.

Those who witnessed his hat-trick at Bolton in late October or his goal against Portsmouth in the FA Cup fourth round at Old Trafford two months ago will be quick to testify to that.

But an analysis of the last 18 months of Rooney's life will provide an indication as to why he has struggled to play the consistently effective football of his early time with United and England.

Since United's tour of the Far East in the summer of 2005, he has played virtually non-stop football. With the exception of goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar and defender Rio Ferdinand, nobody played more games for United last season.

As his team struggled, manager Sir Alex Ferguson pushed Rooney on to a total of 48 games. So it has been this season, despite a difficult World Cup summer — both physically and mentally.

Once again, Rooney's workload has been high (39 starts so far) and why shouldn't it? In football, more has always been asked of the better players.

For some time, however, he has looked in need of a break. At United, his relative difficulties have not mattered.

Ferguson's team — and Cristiano Ronaldo in particular — have played football so exceptional that Rooney's fitful efforts have been good enough to warrant his retention.

With England, however, it is different. Such is the paucity of attacking players of genuine international quality, especially in the absence of Michael Owen, Rooney has been asked to carry a burden that would perhaps challenge him even were he at the peak of his powers.

As Beckham discovered as long ago as 2001 against Greece at Old Trafford, the English football team often require moments of individual brilliance to haul them through.

Could it be that right now Wayne Rooney is just too weary to deliver?'

[redrus]

Well if Gary Neville bothers you Pups, this could start a Chelsea fever......!

MORE INJURY WORRIES

Wednesday 28th March 2007- redissue

Ronaldo joins Neville in the treatment room

Cristiano Ronaldo has injured himself training with the Portuguese national team.

'At this time we don't know if he (Ronaldo) will play,' team doctor Onofre Costa told reporters on Tuesday. 'He sprained his heel.

'It doesn't look very serious but we are not sure if he will be fit.'

...things arn't that bad though. This from the Official site.

28/03/2007 15:34, Report by Ben Hibbs

Returning Scholes could be the key

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Paul Scholes is crucial as United look to edge closer to the Premiership title.

The 32-year-old midfielder was sent off against Liverpool at Anfield, but after serving his three-match ban he is available for the Premiership visit of Blackburn on Saturday.

Having chosen to retire from international football, Scholes is one of the few United players who has not been involved in the Euro 2008 qualifiers in the last two weeks.

Since being sent off against Liverpoool on 3 March, his only outing has been in the European Celebration match at Old Trafford on 15 March. Sir Alex, therefore, feels the playmaking midfielder should be fit and fresh as the season enters the final straight.

"Paul regards family life as very important," Sir Alex told Sky Sports.

"He knows what the travelling with the international team is like 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."

The United boss is likely to have Louis Saha back at his disposal following a hamstring injury, while Edwin van der Sar (calf), Ole Gunnar Solksjaer (knee) and Darren Fletcher (ankle) could also be recalled after recent lay-offs.

redrus

[redrus]

More FA stupidity....

FA PUNISH UNITED

redissue

Thursday 29th March 2007

Only 17,600 tickets due to standing fans.

The decision to play the FA Cup semi final at Villa Park has left United with an allocation of only 17,600. Watford will receive 17,800 tickets 600 more than their average home attendance with the FA saying it's United's fans fault for standing up.

The Independent Manchester United Supporters Association (IMUSA) reacted angrily to the FA's decision as they have repeatedly failed to consult supporters.

IMUSA chair Mark Longden said: "It's ridiculous. Watford have an allocation which virtually reflects their average home gate, while ours is a fraction of our attendance.

"I think the real issue here is why the supporters were not consulted. If Chelsea fans can go up to Old Trafford for their semi-final, there is no reason why United fans could not have gone down to Ashburton Grove, with a 60,000 capacity.

"It seems that every year we have these issues over venue and allocation, but no-one ever asks the supporters what they think."

An FA spokesman said: "The difference between the allocations is a total of 200 tickets, and we have to divide the stadium somehow.

"If you incorporate the hospitality areas, there will actually be more Manchester United fans inside the ground.

"The United allocation was also reduced on the basis of advice from Aston Villa's safety officer, due to the fact that they persistently stand when they go to Villa Park."

redrus

[redrus]

Hughes on United links

Fri, Mar 30 2007 14:06

Mark Hughes admits he would relish the chance to manager Manchester United but insists he is happy at Blackburn.

The Rovers boss is thought to be one of the leading contenders to replace Sir Alex Ferguson, when the Scot finally decides to stand down from the Old Trafford post.

After leading Blackburn into Europe and impressing during his time as Wales coach, Hughes feels he has shown enough to suggest his is capable of taking on a 'big job'.

The former United ace revealed: "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. I've got to be careful what I say here, but I wouldn't be fazed by it, by any job."

Hughes added: "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. You have to back yourself in that respect.

"At the moment I'm very, very happy here. There's a big challenge here and it excites me."

[redrus]

Man Utd's Ferguson favours Huntelaar over Torres

tribalfooball.com - March 29, 2007

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will bid for Ajax striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar at the end of this season.

Ferguson is leaning towards Huntelaar over another attacking target, Fernando Torres of Atletico Madrid, because he believes the young Dutchman can adjust quicker to life in the Premiership.

The Times says while Ajax are loath to lose Huntelaar, the clamour for the 23-year-old forward's signature is such that John Jaakke, the club's chairman, is thought to be confident of being able to name his price for the player, who would cost at least double the £6.8 million Ajax paid SC Heerenveen for his services just over a year ago, and possibly much more.

Ferguson has already sent scouts to watch Huntelaar, most recently in Ajax's 4-1 win over FC Twente just under three weeks ago, when the striker scored a hat-trick.

The United manager has been encouraged by the apparent ability of Dutch players to adapt quickly to the demands of the Barclays Premiership, a quality that may make Huntelaar seem like less of a gamble than Torres, whose style is more suited to the Continent.

The Times article;

United target Huntelaar to keep the momentum going

James Ducker.

Sir Alex Ferguson may have his hands full as Manchester United step up their pursuit of an unprecedented second treble, but the manager is already planning enthusiastically for next season.

Ajax are bracing themselves for a bid from United for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, their prolific young striker, who Ferguson is understood to have identified as one of his main summer targets along with Owen Hargreaves, the Bayern Munich and England midfield player, and Nani, the Sporting Lisbon winger.

Huntelaar has established himself as the new golden boy of Dutch football since failing to make the grade at PSV Eindhoven and has already drawn favourable comparisons to Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former United striker.

While Ajax are loath to lose Huntelaar, the clamour for the 23-year-old forward’s signature is such that John Jaakke, the club’s chairman, is thought to be confident of being able to name his price for the player, who would cost at least double the £6.8 million Ajax paid SC Heerenveen for his services just over a year ago, and possibly much more.

Ferguson is believed to retain a serious interest in Fernando Torres, the highly rated Atlético Madrid and Spain forward, although he would come at a far higher premium than Huntelaar.

Torres recently signed a new deal with Atlético that ties him to the club until 2009, but while the escape clause in the 23-year-old’s contract was reduced from £41.4 million to about £27 million as part of the agreement, that price may still prove too prohibitive for United, who are expected to spend about half of their estimated £40 million transfer budget on Hargreaves.

Huntelaar cost Heerenveen just £70,000 when he joined the club in 2004 after turning down the offer of a new contract with PSV, where he struggled to make much of an impact.

In his first season at Heerenveen, Huntelaar scored 20 goals in 38 appearances and followed that up with 21 goals in as many games during the first half of the 2005-06 campaign before Ajax came calling. He finished the season with a staggering 45 goals in 46 matches and has looked equally impressive this term, scoring 28 times in all competitions.

Despite being in Marco van Basten’s preliminary Holland squad for last year’s World Cup finals, Huntelaar did not travel to Germany but he has impressed for the national team since, scoring twice in the 4-1 win over Ireland last August.

Ferguson has already sent scouts to watch Huntelaar, most recently in Ajax’s 4-1 win over FC Twente just under three weeks ago, when the striker scored a hat-trick.

The United manager has been encouraged by the apparent ability of Dutch players to adapt quickly to the demands of the Barclays Premiership, a quality that may make Huntelaar seem like less of a gamble than Torres, whose style is more suited to the Continent.

Of more immediate concern to United, however, is the Premiership game at home to Blackburn Rovers tomorrow, when victory would open up a nine-point gap at the top, if only for a couple of hours with Chelsea not playing until later in the day against Watford.

While United are still in contention to win the FA Cup and Champions League, Park Ji Sung, the midfield player, wants to help to ensure that the Premiership title returns to Old Trafford after a four-year absence.

“It is possible for us to get the results to succeed in all competitions,” the South Korean said. “But my No 1 target is the Premier League.”

Park did the double of league and cup with PSV in the Netherlands and he believes the experience will hold him in good stead as United’s season enters its critical phase. “I have had a similar experience in the Netherlands,” he said.

“Even if we have bad results, we have to bounce back quickly and concentrate on the next game.”

redrus

[redrus]

Some quotes about tomorrow V's Blackburn.

Mark Hughes:

"I think United will win.

"Chelsea will run them very close, but I sense United have a real desire and a hunger to win the league this season, and that will take them over the line.

"They've been in this position before, a number of players know what it takes at this stage of the season to win titles and that is what will help them.

About Scholes, Giggs and Neville:

"It's fantastic because, more often than not in days gone by, once you got to 30, you were history.

"But they're special players, and credit to them as professionals that they are still playing.

"When you are at a club of the stature of Manchester United, it's in your own interests do everything in your power that you stay there for as long as you can.

"These days, with the amount of information out there in terms of preparation, nutrition and looking after yourself, everything these guys need, and need to know, is at their disposal.

"That is why they are playing at such a high standard for longer."

BBC:

Manchester United entertain Blackburn looking for the victory that will take them one match nearer to the crowning as champions of England for the 16th time in their history. The treble chasers are on the joint longest current winning run in the highest League, bidding for a seventh successive top flight victory and ninth in a row at home. If achieved, they'll re-establish their nine point advantage over Chelsea, who don't play at Watford until 1715 hours, thus leaving themselves needing just five more wins and a draw from their seven remaining matches to be guaranteed a first Premiership title in four seasons and record breaking ninth altogether.

The Red Devils are hunting for a 20th home game in League and Cup without defeat from their 800th top flight match under Sir Alex Ferguson. They've already won twice as many Premiership matches than Blackburn this season (24 to 12).

A well taken goal from Louis Saha secured the points in the reverse fixture in November, which has given the Red Devils the chance of 'doubling' Rovers for the fourth time in the Premiership, and first since 1997-98.

Blackburn Rovers have the toughest of all fixtures for their 250th away game in the Premier League all time with this visit to the Theatre of Dreams. The FA Cup semi-finalists have had a fortnight to ponder on a 2-1 home defeat by relegation haunted West Ham last time out.

Mark Hughes plots tactics against his old master, knowing that defeat could see Rovers dropping out of the top half of the table. They've already lost more Premiership games than they've won (won 12, lost 14) and lie six points outside the top six Uefa Cup places.

David Bentley, who was sent off against West Ham two weeks ago, scored a hat-trick in a seven-goal thriller in this corresponding fixture last season. It was Blackburn's first victory in 12 Premiership visits to Old Trafford.

redrus

[redrus]

Match Preview: United v Blackburn

Premiership | KO 15:00 | Sat 31 Mar

Manchester United v Blackburn Rovers

Form: United: WDWW, Blackburn WWWL

Team News: Paul Scholes is back after supension, while Edwin van der Sar, Patrice Evra, Louis Saha and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could all return from injury for the visit of Mark Hughes' side. Gary Neville, Darren Fletcher and Mikael Silvestre are still out, but Sir Alex Ferguson will be delighted to welcome back his returning quintet. Blackburn are deprived of the services of David Bentley through suspension, while Robbie Savage, Steven Reid and Andre Ooijer are all injured. New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen could return after a hamstring injury.

Form: United are unbeaten in 13 games, including six straight Premiership wins, and went into the international break on the back of quickfire home wins over Bolton and Middlesbrough. Rovers' run of four successive wins - which followed four games without victory - was halted by a controversial 2-1 home defeat to West Ham last time out.

Last Five Meetings

When Where Result First Goal

11.11.06 Away Won 1-0 Saha (64)

01.02.06 Away Lost 3-4 Bentley (35)

25.01.06 Home Won 2-1 Van Nistelrooy (8)

11.01.06 Away Drew 1-1 Saha (30)

24.09.05 Home Lost 1-2 Pedersen (33)

redrus

[redrus]

Vote for the next Manchester United manager

Written by Ahmed Bilal, Soccerlens.com

Posted on March 30th, 2007

Roy Keane. Mark Hughes. Marcello Lippi. Carlos Queiroz.

Who would you pick (in two years) as your next Manchester United manager?

Roy Keane

A strong push for promotion in his first year as manager with Sunderland and the respect he commands in the Manchester United dressing room (not to mention that he’s the most popular figure of these four) gives Roy Keane a good chance.

He lacks the experience though - should that count against such a distinguished and capable individual?

Mark Hughes

Quality player, quality manager. He’s turned Blackburn (albeit slowly) into a team that plays to win and is consistently in the run for Europe.

He has more management experience than Keane (Wales and then Blackburn) but does he command the same respect as the rest of the candidates?

Marcello Lippi

A strong fan favourite as Ferguson’s successor at Manchester United, Lippi has the ability and experience required to take over a big club such as Manchester United.

He is the strongest candidate, but unlike the other three, he hasn’t been proven in England. The Premiership is a different animal than Serie A or La Liga (Benitez hasn’t been able to crack it). Will Lippi be able to cope?

Carlos Queiroz

Ferguson’s right-hand man at Manchester United and the closest in terms to the players. Has the necessary experience (the Real Madrid experience shouldn’t count against him) but do the fans trust him, and does the board want stability instead of the chance to bring in a manager who will improve as time goes by at Manchester United?

Link to Vote.

Hughes out of that lot but, really, Guus Hiddink or failing that, Ottmar Hitzfeld....! Definately not, Queiroz.

Seriously....!

redrus

*forgot to mention that I voted for Keano though........ 55555555555555555555555555

Edited March 30, 2007 by redrus

[redrus]

United hit top form

The Guardian

Manchester United's ninth championship in 15 seasons is now so close that Chelsea's habit of scoring late winners has become no more irritating than a bothersome fly. Sir Alex Ferguson's players are so exuberant, their football so thrilling, it seems inconceivable that the Premiership trophy will not be prised, finger by finger, from Jose Mourinho's grasp.

If there was going to be a moment when United might crack, it arrived after that jolting two-minute spell when Nemanja Vidic departed with a dislocated shoulder, which could keep him out for the remainder of the season, and Matt Derbyshire stabbed Blackburn into the lead. This, before an increasingly alarmist crowd, was the point when United could either fold like a house of cards or reach their point of maximum expression. They took the route of champions, always assured, totally at ease with their vision of themselves at the top of the hierarchy. Not once did United send forward hopeful balls or try to score from improbable angles. Never did they rush or force the play when they could rely on their ability to pass and move.

Ferguson later described it as the most accomplished performance of the season, although it would have been more accurate if he had focused simply on the second 45 minutes because it has been a long time since Old Trafford was bewitched by such an exhilarating period of slick, attacking football or, indeed, that the stadium's acoustics have sounded so good. This was the Premiership at its most thrilling and, after the drudgery of England's internationals, an antidote for those who have come to see the beautiful game through tired and jaded eyes.

Scholes it was who instigated United's comeback, his splendid goal breaking Blackburn's resolve after 61 minutes, and it is easy to imagine Steve McClaren watching Match of the Day from behind his sofa. How McClaren must regret Scholes's decision that he wants no part in the pantomime of the England national team.

Rooney's performance could be summed up by the moment, in first-half stoppage time, when he was offside, having run clear, but decided he wanted to reacquaint himself with the art of finishing anyway, if only to see the ball caress the back of the net. His first effort hit Friedel's legs. His second struck the goalkeeper's shins and bounced away again. Friedel barely bothered to move for either shot.

In mitigation Rooney's head never went down and he made a significant contribution in the second half. Yet compare and contrast with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, scoring United's fourth goal barely five minutes after entering the field as a substitute. Solskjaer accepted his solitary chance with the look of a man for whom nothing could be more natural. Rooney still conjured a couple of moments of brilliance but there is evidence, too, that he is not as immune to insecurity and self-doubt as was once perceived and it is a legitimate cause for concern.

Giggs's name will also be circled in red in the Roma scouting report while Ronaldo was the usual blur of pyrotechnics, crossing for Carrick to make it 2-1 and setting up Park Ji-sung for the third with a free-kick that rebounded off Friedel. Ferguson described it as a "performance of champions" and the Stretford End sang: "We want our trophy back."

The Telegraph

It is when Paul Scholes is playing at his imperious best for Manchester United that one suddenly begins to feel sympathy towards Steve McClaren.

It is probably just as well that McClaren stayed away because there is nothing worse than seeing what you cannot have. Attempts by McClaren last summer to persuade Scholes to make himself available for England for the first time since the end of Euro 2004 proved futile, but England's loss has undoubtedly been United's gain.

Not only does Sir Alex Ferguson get Scholes all to himself, the 32-year-old is also unburdened by the draining side-effects that can come with playing international football.

Whereas Scholes was fresh, sharp and alert having rested-up during the international break, in contrast Wayne Rooney was heavy-legged, seemingly bereft of confidence in front of goal.

Scholes may see his United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo deny him the honour of being named Footballer of the Year this season, but if United do claim the title between now and May 13, his input will not have gone unnoticed and his goal in this game, a brilliant combination of fighting spirit and composure, dragged United back on level terms and set them up for an ultimately comfortable victory.

Blackburn manager Mark Hughes said: "We've seen him do that many times. In those situations he has a very cool head and great technical ability and awareness. Once he got past the last man I expected him to hit the net and he did.

"If you get players like Scholes in decent areas you know he's likely to deliver an end product. Since he returned from his eye problem, he has been sensational. He has had an influence on every game I've seen him play in."

For an hour of this game, United's pursuit of the title had been given its most demanding examination for months. Matt Derbyshire's first-half goal was a reward for Blackburn's early endeavour and the injury-enforced substitution of centre-half Nemanja Vidic, who faces at least five weeks out with a shoulder injury, left the home side without their most commanding defender.

Inspired by Scholes, however, United subjected Blackburn to a barrage of pressure in the second-half. However, goalkeeper Brad Friedel was equal to everything that United threw at him until Scholes dispossessed Christopher Samba and waltzed past Ryan Nelsen and Stephen Warnock before scoring on 61 minutes. With that, the Blackburn dam burst and wave after wave of United attacks brought three more goals in the closing stages with Michael Carrick, Ji-Sung Park and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer all joining Scholes on the scoresheet.

The Times

For an hour at Old Trafford on Saturday, Manchester United supporters could have been forgiven for wondering if their season had collapsed in the space of two first-half minutes. No sooner had Nemanja Vidic, the pillar of United's defensive solidarity, been taken off on a stretcher, probably not to be seen again this season, did Matt Derbyshire strike a chord with Chelsea fans everywhere by putting Blackburn Rovers a goal in front.

The United of last season would possibly not have recovered from two such devastating blows, but this team is a different proposition and so it was entirely appropriate that it was a player who best embodies the transformation in his side's fortunes who should provide the kick-start for an ultimately comfortable victory.

Paul Scholes may have been overshadowed by Cristiano Ronaldo for much of this term, but his contribution has been no less startling and in any other year he would be a shoo-in for the player of the season awards. Like the Portugal winger, who was at his rip-roaring best yet again, Scholes has overcome adversity to flourish. As he danced past two defenders before shooting with sublime accuracy across Brad Friedel, it was hard to compare the Scholes of now and the one of 12 months ago, who had cause to wonder if he would ever play football again because of an eye condition.

When Scholes equalised, there only ever looked like being one winner in a contender for game of the season, but for long periods it seemed as though Blackburn, and their outstanding goalkeeper, Brad Friedel, in particular, would breathe new life into the title race.

A hapless Wayne Rooney, picking up where he left off for England, had squandered two glaring opportunities — both superbly saved by Friedel — by the time Derbyshire scored and a raft of other chances went begging before United finally unearthed their shooting boots.

Michael Carrick claimed the second goal before Park Ji Sung and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer added gloss to a scoreline that reflected United's complete second-half dominance, if not Blackburn's gallant opening efforts.

A tough test away to AS Roma in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday evening has suddenly become tougher with Vidic out with a suspected broken collar bone and/or dislocated shoulder, but Hughes believes the treble is still a strong possibility for United. "It's a huge ask for them," the former United forward said. "I think the title will be theirs, without a doubt. They viewed this game as really crucial for them, but they've been able to overcome us and you sense they will have a real go on all fronts."

redrus

[redrus]

TOTTI SPITS HIS DUMMY

Monday 2nd April 2007

He doesn't like England or its football

Roma's Francesco Totti has said he expects to be man marked by United and that he isn't very fond of English football preferring the corrupt and negative Italian version.

"I am not worried about what Ferguson thinks of me as - as (Roma coach Luciano) Spalletti says - he will see for himself. I hope I will make him remember my name."

Totti told Sky that he was expecting to be man-marked by United.

"So they are going to put me in a cage?"

"The opponents always make a cage for me.

"When I grow up I won't be a footballer but I will go and work at the zoo with all the cages people have made for me."

And as if at 30 years old he hasn't already grown up he went on:

He added: "I don't like the way English football is even if some great players play there.

"I don't like English football and I don't like England either because of the weather."

Former rent boy Christian Panucci also had some unkind words for Ronaldo before Wednesday's game.

Panucci said: "Ronaldo's class is unquestionable. But I believe he abuses his dribbling talents and always exaggerates his falls. He knows we will not fall for his tricks." Thats rich, coming from an Italian....

redrus

[shedend]

As a football supporter I am angered by the way any time a British Club plays in Italy there is always crowd touble. I was there a few years a go and the police started hitting a group of away supporters with there batons and were literally laughing. They go right over the top and get away with it. The trouble reminds me of the late 70's early 80's we expierienced in the UK. At least we have improved our crowd control since then. These Italiens are in a different world and should be banned from all European Competitions for a long time like we were years a go. It is a pity they did not show as much courage (I will use with caution) during the second world war when they just ran a way or surrended.

Roma last year stabbed 3 x Boro fans if my memory is correct. BAN them and hit them with a huge fine.

I still think Utd will win at home and progress.

[nev]

thanks sheend i think we will win at home too.

italian cops are c**ts there was no need for there over reaction,they are well ov er the top, i heard that there are 11 stabbing victims in hospital one red in serious condition if this happened in england there would be calls to ban us.

happens every time in italy will the roma fans come to old trafford and large it, we all know what the answer to that is.

[shedend]

thanks sheend i think we will win at home too.

italian cops are c**ts there was no need for there over reaction,they are well ov er the top, i heard that there are 11 stabbing victims in hospital one red in serious condition if this happened in england there would be calls to ban us.

happens every time in italy will the roma fans come to old trafford and large it, we all know what the answer to that is.

I agree Nev. The question is will the so called hard core travel to Old Trafford=I don't think so. Their supporters will probably consist of families and season ticket holders. When Eufa study the footage of the crowd trouble maybe the so called hard coppers with their batons and helmets need to be singled out and then dismissed from the force as they are just thugs in a uniform. Big sticks for little boys was a quote I heard today.

Lets hope the eleven fans make a speedy recovery.

By the way Nev CFC can still pull it off on Spanish soil ......

[redrus]

I'm declining commenting on the situation other than;

One of my pals was stabbed last night, he's fine and they're all on their way home a little battered and bruised but, ok.

VIEW FROM THE PRESSBOX

Thursday 5th April 2007

Roma 2 United 1

The Guardian

This was a bruising night for Manchester United, both for their supporters and their players. While the fans fought ugly skirmishes with riot police, Paul Scholes's 34th-minute sending-off subjected Sir Alex Ferguson's team to a long, gruelling evening here in Rome and they will cherish the importance of Wayne Rooney's away goal.

Rooney's classy 60th-minute goal, his first in the Champions League since a debut hat-trick against Fenerbahce in September 2004, could be a significant factor when the teams renew hostilities at Old Trafford next Tuesday. United, however, will be without Scholes and Uefa is certain to take sanctions after the clashes in the away enclosure.

The violence, inside and outside the stadium, tarnished a pulsating evening in which Roma confirmed themselves to be accomplished opponents and the Italians could reflect on an array of missed chances to add to the goals from Taddei, their Brazilian midfielder, and Mirko Vucinic, a second-half substitute.

Serie A's second-placed club celebrated at the final whistle, yet 2-1 is not a score that will unduly faze United and Ferguson is entitled to be confident about his team's chances of progressing to the semi-finals. Cristiano Ronaldo, in particular, showed that he can trouble the meanest defence in the Champions League and Ferguson must believe his team escaped relatively lightly given Scholes's ignominious contribution.

United have never experienced a seething, whistling pit of frenzy whipped up by a 77,000 sell-out Stadio Olimpico crowd and this was a night when experienced players such as Scholes needed to be at their seen-it-all-before best. Instead the midfielder barely lasted a third of the match. His habit of hacking down opponents has been a stain on an otherwise illustrious career and, even though Ferguson complained about Herbert Fandel's referee- ing, the midfielder had already been lectured for two late tackles before his first yellow card.

Conspiracy theorists, Ferguson included, will note that Fandel was the referee when United were eliminated from the competition against Milan two years ago and Porto the year before. Of more importance, Scholes's absence was a debilitating blow and, within eight minutes, Roma broke menacingly, Mancini crossed from the left and Taddei scored with a deflection off Wes Brown.

In the second half, however, Ferguson's players counter-attacked gracefully, willing to press forward despite their numerical disadvantage and, added to a bit of good fortune, they made sure that, if Roma do hold the advantage, it is only a slender one.

In these moments Ronaldo's ability to occupy the minds of the Roma defenders was particularly important, if only to alleviate the pressure on Edwin van der Sar's goal. The Portuguese winger was always available to take a pass, holding up the ball brilliantly and, when he set off on those powerful leggy surges, he inspired something in the Roma defence that none of his colleagues seemed capable of: trepidation.

The Telegraph

On a turbulent night by the Tiber, Manchester United lost Paul Scholes, they lost the first leg, but they never lost their belief that they can reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. And they can. Wayne Rooney's precious away goal gave them that hope.

Roma will come to Old Trafford next Tuesday and defend as only Italians can, blocking and tackling, niggling and shirt-pulling, anything to protect the narrowest of leads. It was surprising to hear Roma's supporters celebrate long and loud at the final whistle, because they should have scored more against opponents reduced to 10 men for an hour.

Yet this was United, a team stoked with the fire of their manager. Sir Alex Ferguson does not recruit players who surrender meekly. Michael Carrick impressed with his coolness in trying circumstances. Edwin van der Sar, an athletic last line of defence, also excelled.

United's determination was embodied by Rooney. He relished this stage, the tirade of abuse from Roma fans, the challenge that doubled after Scholes deservedly walked for two yellows.

Just when people were beginning to doubt Rooney, worrying whether he had peaked at Euro 2004, the England striker delivered this bravura display, registering his first Champions League goal since that hat-trick on his United debut in the autumn after his pyrotechnics in Portugal. His goal, between efforts from Taddei and Mirko Vucinic, was a gem, chested down and driven in.

Danger lurked in every corner, down every avenue. Francesco Totti, the fans' beloved gladiator, began as the spearhead to Roma's 4-1-4-1 formation, yet also dropped deep to create, so confusing United's centre-halves, Wes Brown and Rio Ferdinand. How United missed Nemanja Vidic.

Still the menacing persisted. Cristian Chivu went close with a free kick, following a rash challenge on Marco Cassetti by Scholes, whose inability to tackle was again highlighted, again to costly effect.

The temperature began to rise in the tribunes, the dugouts and on the pitch. Ferguson, angered by a foul on Ryan Giggs, was ordered to calm down by the fourth official. Soon it was Roma's turn to be incensed, when Scholes foolishly went through the back of Christian Wilhelmsson and was deservedly cautioned under the totting-up process.

A man down, United were soon a goal down, Taddei seizing on Amantino Mancini's cut-back and sending a shot goalwards. Van der Sar appeared to have the Brazilian's shot covered, but it caught Brown and deflected in.

But there is real resilience in this side of Ferguson, and they struck an away goal after 60 minutes. Cometh the hour, cometh the man: Rooney. Ronaldo sent Ole Gunnar Solskjaer flying down the right, and the Norwegian's cross was superbly chested down by Rooney, and then lashed past Doni.

But back came Roma. Van der Sar somehow parried Mancini's piledriver, but he could do nothing with Vucinic's adept finish. Next Tuesday will be lively.

The Times

So much went wrong here for Manchester United last night that the first sensation their players may encounter as they awake this morning is relief that their dreams of a treble remain alive.

Such equanimity is unlikely to fill the minds of the club's supporters, after they became the latest English fans to be subjected to brutal treatment by the Roman police, but this was such an uncomfortable evening at times that things could have been even worse.

As with United's tie away to Lille in the previous round, this was a match overshadowed by ugly scenes in the stands and, as on that occasion, Uefa is likely to censure both clubs. But Sir Alex Ferguson is likely to concentrate more on what had happened on the pitch. His team, who lost Paul Scholes to a red card in the first half, were over-run at times by an AS Roma side built around the talismanic talents of Francesco Totti, and it took a display of considerable character to emerge with only a 2-1 deficit.

Ferguson called it a "creditable result", revelling in the goal scored by Wayne Rooney, but Roma showed enough quality to suggest that they could go through after the second leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Ferguson had described this beforehand as "the toughest of all the quarter-finals", illustrating a respect for Roma that has grown over the weeks since he expressed such surprise at their victory over Lyons, the French champions, in the previous round. All the scouting reports indicated that Roma exuded quality and would pose serious questions of United — not least in a tactical sense, given an unusual playing style that features Totti, a playmaker, as their farthest man forward. That is how it transpired, with the Italian team mustering 26 attempts on goal, scoring through Taddei, on the stroke of half-time, and Mirko Vucinic midway through the second half.

The red card put United on the back foot again, having recovered their composure until that point. Michael Carrick had been a calming influence, but his team-mates looked uncomfortable in defence throughout and finally, a minute before half-time, their resistance was broken. They were caught napping by Mancini's quickly taken corner, but it took a clever pass from Totti, inside John O'Shea, to find Mancini again in a crowded penalty area. The Brazilian winger beat Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and pulled the ball back to the penalty spot, where Taddei beat Edwin van der Sar with the aid of a sizeable deflection off Wes Brown.

It seemed that United's principal objective might now be damage limitation, but that is not their style. They re-emerged after half-time with a new game plan, with Cristiano Ronaldo operating as a lone striker, supported from wide positions by Solskjaer and Rooney.

Ronaldo should have scored four minutes into the second half, after another incisive pass by Carrick, but in the 60th minute that much-needed away goal arrived as Rooney showed composure to chest down Solskjaer's right-wing cross and beat Doni for his first goal in the Champions League proper in 17 appearances since his debut against Fenerbahçe in September 2004. Cometh the hour, cometh the man.

A third Roma goal would have left United with a mountain to climb on Tuesday, but, despite Totti's best efforts, it did not come, leaving Ferguson to wipe his brow with relief and start planning for what promises to be a dramatic evening at Old Trafford.

UEFA TO INVESTIGATE TROUBLE

Thursday 5th April 2007

No doubt more punishment for United

From the Guardian

European football's governing body, Uefa, announced an investigation last night after violence erupted before and during Manchester United's Champions League tie against AS Roma in the Italian capital, in a further blemish on football's reputation.

Ten English fans were in hospital with stab wounds after rival supporters clashed before the game; further confrontations broke out on the terraces between United fans and Italian police, after missiles were thrown during United's 2-1 defeat in the quarter-final first leg tie.

None of the 10 stabbed fans was in a serious condition, a British embassy spokesman said, although one was believed to have been stabbed in the neck.

As many as 18 other United fans suffered injuries as fighting broke out around the stadium, with local police firing teargas to deal with the outbreaks. There was an unconfirmed report of groups of up to 100 rival fans confronting each other.

Uefa's communications director, William Gaillard, who was in the stadium, said: "I only saw glimpses of what went on; I saw some missiles flying and the police charging. We will be waiting for the delegate's report, and the control and disciplinary body will be looking at the television images to see the dynamics of what actually happened."

Mr Gaillard admitted there was an "emergency situation" in football. "We had a number of meetings with police forces, because we believe with all the incidents we have had this year we are in an emergency situation. It is definitely very sad to see these scenes in European football," he added on Radio 5 Live.

As the reports of scuffles and worse filtered through, inside the stadium an uneasy peace prevailed. It was full to its 75,000 capacity, with United's 4,500 followers isolated in a section, with space to their right to separate them from Roma's fans. However, it was not an entirely neutral area, and bottles hurled from some in the Roma contingent landed in the middle of United's sector.

There were sporadic occurrences in the hour or so before the game; but, while ominous, the situation appeared under control. A thick line of police were nearer to United's fans than Roma's, who were being overseen by local stewards.

Some fans fought back, but the majority were scattered by the police charges. The seating in the area amounted to no more than a backless piece of plastic set upon benches, which meant fans and police were capable of moving up and down as if it were old-style terracing.

One United fan in the ground told BBC 5 Live: "At the time of the sending-off there were missiles exchanged between fans, and after the Roma goal their fans charged the United section. The police got involved with a baton charge, and all hel_l broke loose. You had seats being thrown at the police. Most of the missiles being thrown were bottles which were being sold inside the ground."

Uefa's investigation is expected to concentrate on what sparked the clashes. Roma could face action if their security arrangements are deemed inadequate. United fans could be singled out if it is judged they provoked the police; the club were fined earlier this year for their part in the disruption of a cup tie with Lille, at which fans were crushed into a section of the ground and police fired teargas.

The Times

The Independent Manchester United Supporters' Association is compiling a dossier to submit to Uefa and has asked supporters to submit statements and pictures of the incidents. "The club issued warnings to our fans making it clear that they thought that there was danger of attack from the Roma fans," the group said last night. "The Italian police were stationed on our side of the fence, in attack formation against United fans, in a way that only made sense if they were trying to protect the Roma fans from us. There is something very wrong here and we aim to get to the bottom of it."

redrus

Edited April 5, 2007 by redrus

[redrus]

Beeb reporter struck by Italian fan

Thursday, April 05, 2007

By Claire Regan in The Belfast Telegraph.

Well-known Northern Ireland sports commentator Joel Taggart has described how he was punched on the head during violent clashes that erupted before and during Manchester United's Champions League match in Rome.

The Belfast presenter was making his way into the Olympic Stadium in the Italian capital to watch his favourite football team in action when he was set upon by an apparent AS Roma fan.

He said the assailant ran up and punched him without warning on the side of the head before making off.

The BBC Northern Ireland man said he was not injured and was just thankful that the attack had not been more sustained or had involved a weapon.

"There were sporadic incidents of violence against United fans as they walked in to the stadium," he said.

"I saw another guy with a gash to the eye after getting hit by a baseball bat. Another man had his head bandaged after being attacked outside the stadium.

"I feel quite fortunate in my case because the man disappeared as soon as he had punched me and it would have been much worse if he had kept going or had used something like a knife instead of his fist.

"He just ran up as my friend and I were walking along. We weren't wearing shirts, but I guess he identified us as Manchester United fans because we were chatting about the game."

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph from the stands of the Olympic Stadium after full-time, Mr Taggart said he and his group of friends, who had flown to Rome together from Belfast, made their way on in to the stadium.

He said they were horrified to see violence erupt close to half-time when a column of riot police with shields and batons were seen moving into a section of the crowd where United fans were.

Both sets of supporters surged towards a barrier separating them after each goal.

At one stage, riot police with shields and batons were seen repeatedly striking Manchester United supporters. One female fan was seen being pushed in the face by a police officer while another supporter was repeatedly struck with a baton as he lay on the floor.

"When Paul Scholes was sent off, there was an exchange of bottles between the two sets of fans," Mr Taggart said.

"It all seemed to kick off after the first goal when the Roma fans charged towards the perspex divide. All hel_l broke loose and lasted for about five or ten minutes.

"My belief is that the Manchester supporters were in the wrong place at the wrong time as the police charged towards the divide to make sure it hadn't been broken.

"There were a lot of kids about. I saw a number of fans in need of medical attention. Two or three could be seen coming back to the stands in the second half with their heads bandaged. It remained very tense after the trouble."

Mr Taggart was one of thousands held back in the stadium for some time after the final whistle blew on AS Roma's 2-1 victory, in a bid to avoid fans clashing outside the stadium.

Belfast-born Radio Five Live commentator Alan Green was also in attendance.

He described the trouble as "pretty vicious".

"It is very, very nasty inside this ground now," he said speaking at half-time.

"I don't know if the Roma fans started this, but they are happy now as it is between the police and the United fans."

It was initially unclear how the clash broke out but it followed earlier reports that five people, including three United fans, had been injured on their way to the Olympic stadium in Rome.

Earlier Italy's ANSA news agency said that around 300 English fans were involved in a stand-off before the first leg quarter final tie.

While the Italians seem to forget....

Italian media hail Roma victory over Manchester United

By James Eve

ROME, April 5 (Reuters) - Italy's sporting press were unanimous in praising AS Roma's 2-1 win over Manchester United in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, first leg.

"Roma has made another historic step forward, has another victory that no-one will forget, and has laid down the foundations to add a few more," Corriere dello Sport said of Wednesday's match at Rome's Olympic Stadium.

Roma had never reached the knockout stage of the competition until this season but dominated the more experienced United after the 34th-minute sending-off of midfielder Paul Scholes in a match marred by clashes between United fans and police.

"Could Roma have made more of their one-man advantage, winning by a bigger margin, or being more precise and less rushed with the ball?" added Corriere.

"Probably. But it shouldn't be forgotten that (Luciano) Spalletti's team dominated almost uninterruptedly a team that is held to be among the best -- if not the best -- in Europe."

La Gazzetta dello Sport described Roma's performance as "beautiful, at times magic", though it admitted the return leg at Old Trafford next Tuesday would be tough.

It drew hope, however, not just for Roma but also for the other Italian side involved in the quarter-finals, AC Milan, by drawing a parallel between this season's Champions League and last year's World Cup.

"After the early elimination of the favourites, the way has been opened for teams that are solid in defence, lacking in style, but dangerous on the break.

"It's the spirit that is pushing Roma on and -- in a certain way -- is also keeping Milan on track."

The only cool note was struck by Turin-based Tuttosport, which rued Roma's "lack of killer instinct" and said the result was "a very narrow victory compared to what it could, and maybe should, have been".

"It will be like playing roulette," said the paper, as it looked forward to the return leg.

redrus

[mrbojangles]

I'm declining commenting on the situation other than;

One of my pals was stabbed last night, he's fine and they're all on their way home a little battered and bruised but, ok.

Sorry to hear about that Red. Hope he's OK

[scousemouse]

I'm declining commenting on the situation other than;

One of my pals was stabbed last night, he's fine and they're all on their way home a little battered and bruised but, ok.

Sorry to hear about that Red. Hope he's OK

sawadee red , this is coming from a scouser , what happened last night was not on at all and no footie fan wants to see that. Bloody Italian police had been reading one newspaper too many before the game and they need a good seein to. Chin up mate , your still going to beat the Italian scum and we'll look forward to seein you in the final

[muckypups]

Very sorry to hear that Red.. all the best to your mate, I reckon a speedy recovery will be guaranteed by a tidy win at Pompey.. and a thorough stuffing of the Roman hordes on Tuesday, and I'll say no more than I fully expect UEFA to decide it was all our (but you could insert any English club here) fault and draconian sanctions will be applied..

Which brings me to an article from "The Times" posted in Red News.. interesting..

The name is the problem. After all these years it still sticks in the craw. Champions League. A league of champions. At present contested by eight teams with three titles between them, the rest being a motley collection of runners-up, also-rans and, in the case of AS Roma, a team that finished fifth in a competition so corrupt that qualification ultimately extended to seventh place.

At first glance, reform is an urgent requirement and the proposal by Michel Platini, the Uefa president, to introduce additional league winners from smaller nations at the expense of fourth-placed underachievers from the fat cat leagues is more than a mere vote-winner.

First glances are notoriously unreliable, however. Look again and here is a competition that, while shamelessly money-orientated, loaded in favour of the few against the many and with a corrupting effect on domestic league competitions, actually works. The best teams in Europe do get to play each other; the matches do capture the imagination of a worldwide audience; from a business perspective, money is generated; from a supporter’s perspective, there has been a different champion in each season since the new format was implemented (which is the criterion always held up to espouse the worth of the NFL in the United States against our predictable old Premiership).

If the competition had retained its former title, the European Cup, there could be few objections. It brings together the best teams in Europe and the finest of them win the cup. By contrast, the Champions League frequently encounters the same difficulties that the comedian Harry Hill identified with the television programme Celebrity Fit Club. They’re not celebrities, they’re not fit and there’s no club.

Platini’s idea, the main plank of his presidential campaign, in fact, is that the lowest-placed qualifiers from England, Spain, Italy, Germany, France and Portugal should play-off for entry to the Champions League group stage, eliminating three. Yet natural selection eliminated two of the lowest qualifiers from those countries this season anyway, Chievo, of Italy, and Osasuna, of Spain, falling at their first hurdle. So Platini’s radical plan would have allowed entry for only one extra team from a smaller nation.

For argument’s sake, though, say all of the remaining entries went, too: so, no Arsenal, Benfica, Hamburg and Lille, to be replaced by genuine champions from elsewhere. If among the six new entrants were Red Star Belgrade, Dynamo Zagreb and Legia Warsaw, who were all eliminated in the third qualifying round this season, perhaps the prestige of the tournament would not suffer, even if the standard might. Yet what of MFK Ruzomberok, FK Rabotnicki and Slovan Liberec, who also fell at that final hurdle. Could you even put a country to those clubs? Go on, give it a try.

Ruzomberok are the champions of Slovakia, winning the league by six points from Artmedia Bratislava last season. This year, they trail the leaders by 16 points, so it is hard to imagine them as anything more than group whipping boys had they been allowed Champions League entry at the expense of, for instance, last season’s finalists, Arsenal. Ruzomberok’s domestic triumph, the first in their history, was largely down to the form of Erik Jendrisek, the striker who was sold to Hannover 96, the German side, last summer. Marek Sapara, the star midfield player, also left, for Rosenborg, of Norway.

Platini may reason that if the title-holders from the lesser football powers had more of a chance in the Champions League, their best players would be easier to keep, yet Jendrisek and Sapara were registered at their new clubs on August 1, 2006, when Ruzomberok were very much involved in the competition; unlike Hannover 96 and Rosenborg, who were mid-table teams last season.

The players did not leave for lack of opportunity, they left because competitions such as Germany’s Bundesliga are a clear step up in class and, probably, because the owners of Ruzomberok live in the real world and wanted the money.

Platini may take the wealth generated by the Champions League for granted, but it would soon evaporate if Tuesday night prime-time on ITV was reserved for Chelsea versus Rabotnicki, of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (look, you were never going to get it, don’t try to kid me), while Arsenal and Benfica pressed their noses against the glass. Fairytales are for FA Cup third-round day.

The Champions League is not about that kind of romance, it is about the magic that is created when the greatest players in the world gather in one city and go at it hammer and tongs. Ronaldo against Totti; Henry against Ronaldinho; Kaká against Gerrard. The television companies pay fortunes for real-life fantasy football and by now, at the quarter-final stage, the roll-call for every game should read like those teams created by a 10-year-old on his PlayStation. The richest markets would soon ratchet down the bidding if Platini delivered Slovan Liberec, champions of the Czech Republic (three strikes and you’re out, mister), where it was hoped Inter Milan would be.

Football and television do not have the same relationship throughout Europe. In 1999, Skonto Riga played Rapid Bucharest in the Champions League second qualifying round for the right to meet Chelsea. While in Latvia (Barry Venison, the television analyst, famously referred to Chelsea’s opponents as the Skontons and to this day is no doubt mystified at not being able to find the stamp from Skontonia in his passport), a local journalist explained that Skonto Riga paid the national television company to show their matches, not the other way round. If a game was very big, there might be a nominal contribution from the broadcasters, but the remaining fixtures were screened only because the club wished to attract maximum coverage for their sponsors.

This year, in addition to the six leading club football nations, the champions from Belgium, Russia, Turkey, Denmark, Bulgaria, Greece, Ukraine, Romania and Scotland made it to the group stage of the Champions League, which is reasonably representative. In all, 15 of the 32 teams had finished first in their leagues.

A shaded map of Europe would show that Scandinavia, central Europe and former Yugoslavia had not fared well; then again, these regions comprise nations with a history of selling their best players to foreign leagues. Even using the old format, when the competition admitted champions only, they enjoyed little success. There has never been a European Cup winner from Scandinavia and Red Star Belgrade’s victory in 1991 is the lone Yugoslav success. While the tournament as it is produces a repetitive list of competitors, for 15 seasons the trophy has proved impossible for a club to retain (indeed, it has not even stayed in the same country).

Where there is room for improvement is in the group-stage seeding. In a sport that lives for the moment, too much emphasis is placed on historical performance via the coefficient table, which takes into account five years of scorelines in European competition. The more European experience a team has, the higher its coefficient, meaning the seeding power remains in the hands of the wealthy, established elite.

As a result, despite winning back-to-back Premiership titles, going into this campaign Chelsea were the fourth English team by Uefa ranking, behind Liverpool (last title win 1990), Arsenal (2004) and Manchester United (2003). Overall, Chelsea’s position was fourteenth, narrowly ahead of Villarreal (no league title wins) and Deportivo La Coruña (2000).

This is plainly ridiculous — and it gets worse. At the end of each season, the oldest year drops off, sending teams lurching up and down the table. According to a statistician who updates the coefficient standings match by match, Deportivo are now 26th and falling, while Chelsea have risen to eleventh. Hooray for justice. But Newcastle United (no league title since 1927, no domestic trophy since 1955, no significant European trophy since 1969) are now ahead of them in ninth place. In Uefa’s world, Glenn Roeder has a better team than José Mourinho. Go figure.

If Platini is intent on reform, this is the area to investigate. Rather than insert teams that would weaken the competition and do little more than make up the numbers, he could look at changing a ranking system that maintains a minority stranglehold on the group stage, giving certain clubs the best of everything with no incentive to improve.

Use coefficient rankings to separate the various domestic title winners, by all means, but no team who have failed to win their domestic league are entitled to be seeded ahead of a genuine champion in a competition called the Champions League. As it stands, Arsenal could creep in via fourth place next season, a point ahead of Bolton Wanderers, and instantly be fast-tracked past Chelsea, Manchester United and most of Europe because of something that happened five seasons ago with a different team. Among those on the field for Arsenal in their final European escapade of 2002-03 were Stuart Taylor, Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires, Sylvain Wiltord, Lauren, Sol Campbell, Kanu and Francis Jeffers. Maybe Portsmouth should take that season’s coefficient rating instead.

The Champions League is flawed because a select few are overprotected and sending MFK Ruzomberok to sort them out is like confronting the Marines with a peashooter. If Platini is serious about change he needs to get reacquainted with football’s oldest cliché: the one about being as good as your last game. If he really wants a Champions League, history is bunk.