Man Utd boss Ferguson: Mouthy Liverpool should've appealed Suarez ban

11.02.2012

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has taken fresh aim at Liverpool over the Luis Suarez race controversy.

United have grown irritated this week at noises coming out of Anfield defending the Uruguayan, who was found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra.

And boss Ferguson said: "Why didn't they appeal?"

The situation has stoked up an already volatile fixture as the bitter rivals meet at Old Trafford this lunchtime.

Fergie said: "They have said plenty haven't they?

"We have just got on with our job and kept our dignity throughout and we will just concentrate on the game.

"We have kept our counsel, which is the right thing to do in these situations, and we'll keep it that way."

Liverpool ace Suarez tells Man Utd's Evra: My conscience is clear

11.02.2012

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez says his conscience is clear over his race storm withManchester United fullback Patrice Evra.

As bosses Alex Ferguson and Kenny Dalglish try to shrug off concerns over lingering bad feeling between the two players, the Uruguayan is adamant he will put it all behind him.

Ahead of today's lunchtime crunch, Suarez said: "Never have I experienced anything like the past few weeks.

"It has been very hard but I've tried to stay as professional as possible.

"What has happened will always be with me — but I go to Old Trafford with a clear conscience."

PREMIER LEAGUE: Rooney brace sinks Liverpool

11.02.2012

Wayne Rooney scored both goals as Manchester United moved back to the summit of the Premiership with a 2-1 over Liverpool at Old Trafford with Luis Suarez replying for the visitors.

With this game being overshadowed with United’s Patrice Evra and Suarez coming face to face for the first time since the Uruguayan served an eight game ban for racially abusing the Frenchman the first-half was low key with the host’s having the majority of the possession but without really threatening to score.

Paul Scholes had Man United’s best chance when he headed straight at keeper Jose Reina but the moment of controversy arrived just before the break as last man Rio Ferdinand, as television replays showed, just got the ball ahead of Suarez who claimed he had been fouled and wanted the England international to see red.

As the whistle blew for the break Suarez angrily kicked the ball into touch sparking a minor incident amongst the players.

The Uruguayan had been the subject of controversy after refusing to shake the hand of Patrice Evra before the game.

But within three minutes of the restart United had scored twice, both by Rooney.

The first followed a Ryan Giggs corner which was flicked-on and Rooney volleyed home. Then Jay Spearing was caught in possession and Antonio Valencia immediately slipped the ball through for the England international to double the host’s lead.

At this stage there seemed no way back for Liverpool who looked disjointed and shocked by the two-goal salvo. The home side easily retained possession and looked to be comfortably playing out time until with ten minutes remaining Liverpool were handed a lifeline.

Substitute Charlie Adam flung over a free kick which hit Ferdinand before falling kindly for Suarez to poke home from close range.

The men from Anfield increased the tempo but it was too late and United clung on for the tree points and their seventh league win over Liverpool at Old Trafford in eight matches.

Referee: Phil Dowd

Venue: Old Trafford

Attendance: 74,844

Man Utd scorers: Rooney 47,49
Liverpool scorers: Suarez 80

Chicharito delighted Giggs playing on at Man Utd

11.02.2012

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez is delighted Ryan Giggs is playing on next season.

Chicharito grew up watching Giggs – indeed, Hernandez was just two years old when Ryan made his Reds debut – and now the Mexican goal-getter says he learns from the veteran every single day.

"It is unbelievable news," Hernandez told manutd.com of Giggs' new deal. "Ryan is a great player. He is a legend here. He is a very good example for football players all over the world, not only those at this club. We are delighted about it. Of course you learn from him. It doesn't matter that I'm a striker and he isn't."

Man Utd ace Chicharito: We all know Liverpool special game

11.02.2012

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez says he's well aware of the rivalry with Liverpool.

The 23-year-old knows the importance of beating the Reds, stating the awareness of who they are playing is always in the back of their minds.

"I have learned a lot about the rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool," said Hernandez. "In Mexico we know a lot about this already.

"All over the world they know about the history of both teams, with so many titles in the Premier League and the European Cup. It is a very important rivalry.

"But when I came here I felt different. I learned a little bit more.

"We work just the same as we do for every game. But in the back of your mind, you know it isLiverpool and it doesn't matter where we are in the league."

Liverpool striker Suarez: Man Utd clash must-win for both teams

11.02.2012

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez says today's trip to Manchester United is a must-win for both teams.

Liverpool have already chalked up fantastic away wins at Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City— a fourth today would complete a remarkable set.

Suarez has no doubt what today's result means to both sides, with United hell bent on keeping pace with City at the top of the table and Kenny Dalglish's men desperate to win a place in Europe.

He said: "Both United and Liverpool need to win this one for our different objectives. Our challenge is to get back to European competition and I believe we can do it.

"Against Tottenham I wanted to play more minutes but it is normal that the coach gives me chances gradually. Eight matches out is an important factor."

Manchester United 2 - 1 Liverpool

FT		Manchester U. [2 - 1] Liverpool
44'			S. Downing
47'	[1 - 0]	W. Rooney
50'	[2 - 0]	W. Rooney
80'	[2 - 1]	M. Carrick	L. Suarez
EUR 100 bonus with Tipico! Copyright © 1998-2012 LiveScore Ltd.

Man Utd veteran Giggs: We must stay ahead of Liverpool

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs says they must keep themselves ahead of Liverpool.

United have wiped out an 11-title deficit but, ahead of the Merseysiders’ visit to Old Trafford this weekend, Giggs knows the champions’ work isn’t done.

The 38-year-old told Inside United: "They’re a club similar to us with massive history. We’re the two most successful teams in the country, so we know we’ve got to perform and play well to get anything from any game against them.

"We know we’re in for a tough game. It’s the club we tried to catch for so long and now we’ve caught them the challenge is to stay ahead."

Man Utd withdraw Cleverley from reserves for Liverpool showdown

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley did not feature in last night's reserves clash withManchester City.

Cleverley missed the 4-2 derby defeat.

The youngster may've been withdrawn from the game in order to be available for this weekend's huge clash with Liverpool.

Man Utd striker Will Keane thrilled with first team breakthrough

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United striker Will Keane was thrilled to make his first team debut againstBlackburn Rovers.

Both Will and twin brother Michael Keane have tasted first team action this season.

Will told manutd.com: "Yes, definitely. At the start of the season, the aim was just to progress in the Reserves and do as well as I could. Getting a call for the first-team [for the 3-2 home defeat to Blackburn] was a very proud moment and I just wanted to do well. It wasn't a great result but I made my debut and was just glad to play.

"Obviously the team wanted to win and it was an important game. But, for me personally, I was just buzzing to get on. It was amazing. I had a few chances to score as well but Chris Samba blocked one from me. It was a great feeling to get on and I've got to try to push on from here."

Man City thump Man Utd reserves

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester City thumped Manchester United reserves 4-2 last night.

The Reds took the lead twice in the game - through Jesse Lingard after 15 minutes and Larnell Cole early in the second half - only for the Blues to turn the tie around.

Harry Bunn, Gai Assulin, Omar Elabdellaoui and Jordi Hiwala struck for City.

Man Utd defender Michael Keane eyeing Europa League chance

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United defender Michael Keane sees the Europa League as a chance for more first team football.

Keane has tasted senior action in the Carling Cup this season.

He told manutd.com: "I hope the Reserves can go on and win the league and all the cups we're in. Maybe I could get involved in a few first-team games in the Europa League."

Man Utd legend Keane: Ferdinand, Rooney shouldn't be talking about next England coach

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United legend Roy Keane has questioned England players commenting on who should be the next manager.

Keane acknowledges Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is everyone's choice.

But he wrote in The Sun: "What worries me are the likes of Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand coming out and saying Harry should get the job.

"Some players are going on about how great Fabio Capello was, which was odd because they seemed to be saying different things in private.

"And whatever happened to players keeping their heads down?

"It shouldn't be down to the players who gets the job. OK, you might consult one or two senior players but the problem is that what they want seems to change every couple of years.

"They seemed to like Sven Goran Eriksson at first but then the complaint was he was too laid-back and wasn't passionate enough about the job so they wanted an Englishman.

"Steve McClaren was given the job and the problem with him appeared to be that he was too pally, joining in at training and calling John Terry 'JT' and Steven Gerrard 'Stevie G' so they wanted more of a disciplinarian.

"Then they decided Capello was too aloof and there was a problem with the language barrier so now we're back to them wanting an Englishman."

Man Utd boss Ferguson explains snapping up Man City kid Veseli

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has explained swooping for Frederic Veseli fromManchester City.

The deadline-day arrival from Eastlands is set to become a member of the United Reserves squad as he bids to impress the boss and earn an extended stay with the champions.

"It actually came about by chance that," Sir Alex told MUTV. "A member of our scouting department came and told us City had released this young lad from Switzerland and they'd watched him playing a couple of years back.

"There was nothing to be lost. We thought we'd take him until the end of the season and see how he does.

"Hopefully he does well."

Juventus continue to push for Man Utd contract rebel

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United contract rebel Paul Pogba continues to be linked with Juventus.

The Daily Mail says Pogba's agent watched Juventus beat AC Milan 2-1 in the first leg of the Italian Cup semi-final on Wednesday, amid growing claims in Italy that the Manchester United midfielder will head for Turin when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The 18-year-old was introduced for his Barclays Premier League debut in United's win over Stoke late last month as Sir Alex Ferguson opted to give him some valuable experience.

Man Utd to face Liverpool without Smalling, Jones

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United go into their clash with Liverpool hit by another defensive injury crisis.

The Daily Mail says defenders Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are not expected to feature for United until next week’s Europa League clash at Ajax.

United are expected to welcome back Tom Cleverley, however.

Man Utd veteran Giggs: Decisive week looming

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs admits they face a testing few weeks.

United lost 2-1 in the FA Cup at Anfield a fortnight ago but bounced back to beat Stoke 2-0 before that incredible fightback to draw 3-3 at Chelsea.

Liverpool's visit is followed by trips to Norwich and third-placed Tottenham.

Giggs said: "It's a tough run but these are the games you want to be playing in.

"We're not quite at the make-or-break part of the season but it's an important time and we know that if we win these games we'll be in good shape."

Man Utd legend Giggs on brink of game No900

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs is in line for another club landmark.

If Giggs, United's record appearance holder, plays tomorrow against Liverpool then his 900th game for the club will come on his Europa League debut away to Ajax next Thursday.

He said: "I'm proud because 900 is a lot of games, especially with a club I've supported and loved for so long."

Man Utd defender Ferdinand fires barb at departing Capello

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has fired a parting shot at former England coach Fabio Capello.

Ferdinand, who has already ruled himself out of the running to succeed John Terry as captain, tweeted the national team "don't need anything else lost in translation."

That was an apparent dig at Italian Capello, whose poor command of English has brought criticism.

Ferdinand added: "We need an English manager now. Harry Redknapp would be my choice by a distance."

Man Utd struggling to fill Old Trafford for Liverpool showdown

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United are struggling to fill Old Trafford for tomorrow's blockbuster against Liverpool.

The Sun says United are offering fans tickets to tomorrow's grudge match against Liverpool to try to ensure Old Trafford is full for the title run-in.

United sent a text message to all non-season ticket holders yesterday to make the shock offer.

The Liverpool game would be part of a package covering all of United's remaining home league matches.

Supporters have complained over big price hikes in recent years.

Bayern Munich beat Man Utd for Swiss dazzler Shaqiri

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United have lost out to Bayern Munich in the race to sign Basel starlet Xherdan Shaqiri.

The Switzerland midfielder has snubbed the chance of joining United in favour of securing a move to the German giants.

Shaqiri was instrumental in dumping United out of this season’s Champions League andSir Alex Ferguson was keen to lure him to Old Trafford in the summer.

However, Bayern have struck a £10m deal for the 20-year-old that will see him join them ahead of the start of next season.

Man Utd boss Ferguson says Tottenham's Redknapp right man for England

Fri, 02/10/2012

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Harry Redknapp for the England job.

Tottenham boss Redknapp is being widely tipped as the replacement for Fabio Capello, who resigned as England manager on Wednesday evening.

"There is no doubt Harry Redknapp is the best man," Ferguson said.

"The press have decided. Harry is the best man.

"He has the experience and personality and the knowledge of the game. He has changed the fortunes of every club he has been at.

"He is the right choice.

"You should try to get the best man with the best qualities. A young manager has no chance."

Ryan Giggs signs new Man Utd deal

Fri, 02/10/2012

Ryan Giggs has inked a new 12-month deal with Manchester United on the eve of their blockbuster with Liverpool.

The deal means the 38-year-old is set to play in a 22nd season for the Old Trafford club, for whom he made his debut in March 1991.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Ryan is a marvellous player. In many ways, he epitomises all my teams here at United; he has constantly re-invented himself, adapted to the changing nature of the game and retained that desire and hunger for success.

"In every training session and match, he is the example for others to follow.

"The young players in the dressing room have a great chance to learn from a player who will continue to break records that anyone in the game will find hard to beat."

Former Wales international Giggs said: "When I signed my first contract, I never thought I'd be able to play at United for 22 years but I feel good and I know I can still contribute to keeping the team pushing for honours.

"Winning the Club's 19th title was a great feeling but this club is all about what we do next and I'm really pleased I can be part of that."

Benfica announce Man Utd, Man City target Gaitan will be sold

Fri, 02/10/2012

Benfica have announced Nicolas Gaitan will leave in the summer.

Manchester United and Manchester City are chasing the Argentina winger.

Benfica are bracing themselves for offers when the transfer window re-opens in the summer and hope to raise €50 million in all of their dealings.

Club president Luis Filipe Vieira said: "The sale of players is the priority for Benfica but only if it is helping the club.

"Our aim is to break even and make around 50 million euros in the summer through sales."

Liverpool boss Dalglish snaps back at Man Utd pair Rooney, Neville over Suarez

Tue, 02/07/2012

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish hit back Manchester United identities Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville after Luis Suarez escaped dismissal during their draw with Tottenham.

Suarez's challenge on Scott Parker resulted in a yellow card and left the England midfielder doubled up in pain.

"If the referee sees that kick from Suarez and books him for it, it should be red," proclaimed Rooney.

The view was endorsed by former United team-mate Gary Neville in his role as Sky TV pundit.

At least Dalglish opted not to get involved in that argument.

"He just never saw him," said the Scot.

Then, when informed of what had been said he replied: "Who said that? Why don't you tweet Wayne back and give him your answer.

"I don't have a view on what they have tweeted, especially when I have not seen it. If Neville or Wayne were standing there and asked me the question, I could answer them.

"I don't think you can speak for either Gary or Wayne so unless they want to ask me the question, I will just plead the fifth amendment."

Van der Sar: No chance making Man Utd comeback like Scholes

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar says coming out of retirement hasn't crossed his mind.

Van der Sar insisted he was not about to follow in the footsteps of Paul Scholes, who came out of retirement last month.

"I got a few text messages from friends saying, 'What about you?'," Van der Sar told the Mirror.

"I'm quite happy at the moment. There's no doubt in my mind."

Van der Sar, 41, was not surprised at Scholes' u-turn, having spoken to the midfielder last year.

He said: "I was at Carrington and he was watching a training session and I said, 'So, how do you like it?'.

"He said, 'Not really. I miss it'.

"He was still there doing his work as an assistant coach with the reserve team so it was probably a little bit easier to get back in."

Man Utd boss Ferguson supports Capello in FA row

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Fabio Capello - not the FA - should be making all decisions relating to Team England.

According to Ferguson, the FA is not as powerful as that of Capello, who is in the final months of a £6million-a-year contract and has been charged with the task of securing glory at Euro 2012.

"There's nothing wrong with having an opinion," said Ferguson.

"I think what will happen in the next few days is there'll have to be a coming together of the FA hierarchy and Fabio Capello because he's the team manager, he has the importance of that position.

"Without question the most important person at a football club is the manager."

Man Utd legend Van der Sar: De Gea needs to buck up ideas

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar says David De Gea cannot dwell on his error-ridden start to his Old Trafford career.

The £18million man was recalled for Sunday's breathtaking Barclays Premier League game at Chelsea, producing a Jekyll-and-Hyde display that saw him flap at more than one cross but also make a stunning stoppage-time save.

Van der Sar told the Mirror: "It's always difficult if you're coming into a new club and new league, especially the English one. It's a very demanding one, can be a very tough one.

"He has to deal with that. They paid a lot of money for him and he has to come through that."

Man Utd star Rooney: De Gea fantastic against Chelsea

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney hailed David de Gea for his performance in their draw atChelsea.

The Spaniard has come under fire this season after some dubious displays since his £18m summer signing from Atletico Madrid.

But the 21-year-old pulled off two world-class saves to deny Juan Mata and Gary Cahill winners forChelsea in the 3-3 draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

“David made some fantastic late saves,” said Rooney, whose two converted penalties sparked United’s fightback from 3-0 down.

“He is still a young lad and has a lot to learn. He has made some great saves against Chelsea and I think he is going to be one of the best.”

Man Utd legend Van der Sar: Lindegaard has been magnificent

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has been impressed by Anders Lindegaard this season.

David De Gea had lost his place to Lindegaard, who impressed in goal before picking up an injury that has ruled him out for a month.

Van der Sar said: "I spoke to Anders and he's disappointed of course, that he's injured at the moment because he's really been magnificent."

Carrick convinced Man Utd comeback boost to title momentum

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick feels the manner of their fight-back at Chelsea will boost their title momentum.

Despite the fact that Sir Alex Ferguson’s side now trail leaders Manchester City by two points, Carrick says the heroic come-from-behind nature of events at Stamford Bridge could strike a blow to the Reds’ watching opponents.

Speaking to MUTV, the 30-year-old midfielder explained why his team are well and truly in the title hunt despite enduring a tough fixture pile-up: “We are still there but it’s a run of tough games for us at the moment.

“I think other teams who were watching that and seeing us go 3-0 down, they would have been thinking what a good afternoon it has been for them. Then for us to come back in the manner we did might give them a little dent and a boost for us.”

Man Utd striker Chicharito: We're always going for the win - that's our strength

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez says they can never be counted out.

The Mexican hitman believes Sunday's stunning 3-3 draw at Chelsea proves United will NEVER chuck in the towel.

Sub Chicharito's dramatic late header completed a memorable fightback from three goals down.

He said: "Even when it was such a difficult situation, we never gave up and we never accepted we were going to lose.

"We were still fighting until the very last minute and even after scoring our third goal we were still looking to score a winner.

"That is the strength and quality of this team. The manager always goes to win games and he always makes attacking substitutions to chase a positive result.

"That is why we will be fighting for the title right to the end of the season."

Roma star De Rossi admits Man City, Man Utd interest was tempting

Tue, 02/07/2012

AS Roma star Daniele de Rossi admits he was tempted by Premier League interest before committing to a new contract.

The Italy international had been strongly linked with a move to the Barclays Premier League, withManchester City reportedly keen to sign him.

Manchester United and Chelsea were also keep a close eye on De Rossi's situation.

"The negotiations have been lengthy and I cannot deny that I had doubts," De Rossi said. "I thought of many things, of alternatives and I spoke to many people during this time.

"I wanted to stay only if I was welcomed by the fans. Last year I saw the love from the fans towards me diminish and the fact that some of them questioned my strength as a player made me think of seeking alternatives.

"There was also the thought of ambition, the idea of playing somewhere else, to face the top teams in the world, not that we don't have that possibility here. Those things fascinated me and I did speak to other clubs. I was very tempted to see if I had the strength to play elsewhere.

"But in the end I made a choice not just of the heart but of the head. I have not remained here just to be a tourist in Rome and see the Coliseum. I believe a lot in this new project."

Juan Mata admits Chelsea boss AVB blew top after Man Utd fight-back

Tue, 02/07/2012

Juan Mata admits Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas blew his top after they blew their 3-0 lead againstManchester United.

United staged a stirring late comeback and Mata, who's stunning volley had put Chelsea 2-0 up, revealed his disappointment and Villas-Boas' fury after the game.

The Spaniard told The Sun: "I’d have preferred to win and not score.

"The coach was furious after the match. And also the players because in a match like this you’d never think we could waste a three-goal home advantage.

"How many times will Chelsea be in with a chance to defeat United, winning 3-0 after 50 minutes? I never believed they could pull level. It was bad news for us and confirmed the race for fourth place will not be easy."

Man Utd to insist on Berbatov contract option

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United intend to take up their option of another year on Dimitar Berbatov's contract.

The Bulgarian striker's deal runs out this summer but Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to activate a clause in his contract that allows the club to keep him for an extra 12 months, says The Sun.

And Berbatov, who has attracted interest from former club Bayer Leverkusen as well as mega-richParis Saint-Germain and Anzhi Makhachkala, would have no say in the matter as the clause was inserted when he joined from Spurs in 2008.

Man Utd legend Charlton admits concerns over their keepers

Tue, 02/07/2012

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton admits some concern over their goalkeepers.

David De Gea was brought in for big money from Atletico Madrid but has put in a number of error-strewn performances, while Anders Lindegaard and Ben Amos have also failed to make the No1 jersey their own.

United legend Charlton is concerned over the lack of physicality from the trio but believes their talents will eventually shine through.

Charlton said: "Edwin van der Sar created a position that was always was going to be difficult to fill. The defenders in front of him trusted him.

"But he's not there any more and we've got some young players. A lot of them seem to have underachieved from the start but are going to be quite capable once they settle in.

"If I had one criticism it is that they are not imposing players because they are physically not tall or big which I think is necessary for a goalkeeper.

"I've been to most of the matches recently and they all seem to have made mistakes, some less than others. But some are doing really quite well now."

Jovetic alerts Man Utd, Chelsea, Man City: I want England move

Tue, 02/07/2012

Fiorentina striker Stefan Jovetic has the Premier League's biggest clubs chasing his signature.

The Daily Star says Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City are all battling for the Montenegro international.

Jovetic’s agent has made it clear he would be available in the summer. The player said: “I am content in Italy but I’m always looking out to improve myself. I have been looking out for a chance to play in the Premier League and I am prepared for that challenge.”

City would want to do a player-plus-cash deal with Roque Santa Cruz or Emmanual Adebayor possibly in the mix.