The other reason why Neville deserved to get the red card

Neville congratulating Owen on his goal in a very weird and non-social manner (smashes on Owen's head), he deserves to go !

Barnsley fans 1-0 Manchester United Fans

Manchester United won the game 2-0 on Michael Owen and Danny Welbeck goals. However, the game’s most memorable incident occurred when two young Barnsley fans invaded the pitch, stole the ball from goalkeeper Ben Foster and slammed a decent-looking volley into the visitors net.

Check out the hilarious video of the now internet famous pair in action. Shall we blame it on the alcohol and drugs?

P.S. It was a fantastic goal! Atleast Barnsley fans taught something to the players "Accuracy"!

United Close In On Valencia Pair David Villa & David Silva

The Red Devils are on the verge of capturing the duo...

Manchester United are closing in on a £40 million double swoop for Valencia pair David Villa and David Silva.

Sir Alex Ferguson has been keeping his eye on the talented attacking duo, but was unable to complete a deal over the summer. But his hopes have been boosted by Valencia director Fernando Gomez, who admitted last night that the cash-strapped club may need to sell their prized assets.

"The club made a great effort to keep our players this summer but our economic situation remains very serious," Gomez is quoted as saying.

"It was a success to keep them, but there comes a point when you can't stand it anymore. We may have to sell Villa."

The 27-year-old Villa has been in supreme form for club and country, having followed up his performance as top scorer in Euro 2008 with a prolific campaign in World Cup qualifying. Silva, 23, is seen as a ready-made replacement in midfield for the ageing Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.
Hope to see them at Xmas at Old Trafford! They will be invaluable assets to the United squad after Ryan and Paul leave.

Police arrests 8 United and Barnsley fans after the Cup tie.. 4 away and 4 home fans.. including the ones who stepped on the pitch and scored!

Police on Tuesday arrested eight fans during disturbances at United's League Cup match at Barnsley on Tuesday, a police spokesman said.

In one incident a group of Manchester United fans broke into a food kiosk at the Oakwell stadium trapping eight staff, while they stole cash from the till and took all the stock, a South Yorkshire police spokesman said.

"Police officers responded by arresting three people from breaking into the kiosk.

"Some of these fans that broke into the food kiosk also threw food items at the Barnsley stewards," he said, adding that a police officer received a minor facial injury while trying to arrest one person.

Television footage showed two fans invading the pitch during the game.

In a separate incident after the match, two people were arrested after jumping onto a train line and stopping a Barnsley-Sheffield train, he said.

The town of Barnsley is located close to the northern city of Sheffield.

"In total, eight people have been arrested -- four away fans and four home fans," he said, adding all were in custody.

I must say, the away fans breaking into the play and snatching ball off Ben Foster was nothing but HUMOUROUS!

Controversial Phil Dowd to officiate United v Blackburn on Saturday!

Official sent off Scholes and Rooney at Fulham last season, the match United lost 2-0 to the West Londoners

See the video

"Rooney has lost his head", said the commentators.

Phil Dowd, who angered Fergie as he sent off Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney during the Red Devils' 2-0 defeat at Fulham last season, is expected to be named as the referee for United's Premier League with Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.

The appointment – which is likely to be confirmed today – is sure to be noted by Ferguson, who this week pleaded guilty to a Football Association charge of improper conduct after he accused Alan Wiley of lacking the fitness to officiate when he took charge of United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland on 3 October.

Ferguson then criticised Andre Marriner after the official failed to send off Jamie Carragher for a tackle on Michael Owen during United's loss at Liverpool on Sunday.

The former Premier League referee Jeff Winter has defended officials in the face of Ferguson's relentless criticism, accusing him of "not knowing the rules".

Michael Owen's 3rd goal for Manchester United

What a splendid goal, do check out the commentary of the commentators and I totally agree with them!

Any one learning how to play soccer, should see this video

Villarreal's Diego Lopez linked with Manchester United

If the Red Devils are looking for a new 'keeper, it may not take much to convince the Spanish glovesman to swap the Primera Division for Old Trafford.

Lopez revealed that he is tempted by a move to England after hearing about the rumours linking him with a transfer from Villareal to Manchester.

The 27-year-old goalkeeper is the subject of reports suggesting that Sir Alex Ferguson is weighing up a bid to land him at the end of the current campaign.

Manchester United are keen to find a top level replacement for Edwin van der Sar and the Spanish custodian has been on their list of possibilities for some time.

If the Red Devils did make a move then Lopez has made it clear that he would have to consider his options as he finds playing in England an exciting proposition.

"I'm aware of rumours and the Premier League is very attractive," The Sun quoted him as saying.

Lopez is a product of the Real Madrid youth ranks and has become Villarreal's first choice 'keeper after opting to move to El Madrigal for around €6 million in 2007.

His form for the Yellow Submarine saw him called into the Spain squad in August, when he was awarded with his first cap.

We certainly need a replacement for the present veteran Keeper who has nearly declared that he won't be available for service for more than this season. It is most likely that United will either buy Lopez or Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow Keeper who frustrated United to the core in the last UEFA encounter in Russia)

GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED!

Manchester United 2-0 Barnsley, Danny Welbeck scores his 2nd and Michael Owen scores his 3rd goal of his season + HQ Highlights

Man of the Match- Danny Welbeck scored a fantastic goal from a corner kick through an unmarked header.

Manchester United 2-0 Barnsley

Match Gallery
The Frenchaman was a debutant today and had a good game too, nearly scored as well!

Owen being congratulated by Anderson.

So who made it to the squad today? Who was booked and who was subsituted?

GK: Ben Foster made it to the game today. It might have been shocking to some after his poor performance lately but he actually did quite well.

Defenders: Neville (SENT OFF at 62'), Fabio (Booked), Brown, Evans

Midfielders: Welbeck (scored at 6' and also substituted by an impressive Serb - Zoran Tosic at 53' due to a minor injury) , Anderson, Rafael and Obertan (Debut)

Forwards: Owen (scored at 60'), Federico Macheda!

Danny Welbeck and Michael Owen gave Manchester United a 2-0 Carling Cup victory over Barnsley at Oakwell. The match wasn't greatly a classic one but I would like to talk through some important points in this comprehensive United victory.


Welbeck, pictured above, scored after six minutes with Owen scoring just before the hour mark on a tuesday night that saw Gary Neville sent off for the visitors. After Neville was sent off, Fabio took his place and soon after when Owen was substituted, there was no senior player in the whole United squad. United played quite decently actually in the last half an hour of the game with an average age of the players of about 19 or 20 years!


Barnsley had plenty of chances to score but consistently failed to find the target as their cup run came crashing to an end. They had about 12 shots out of which only a couple were on target, one hitting the cross bar and the other saved excellently by Ben Foster.


I must say the visitors started the match in a more aggressive fashion, pushing upfield at every chance with Danny Welbeck on the left and debutant Obertan on the right causing problems for the defence.


United continued to dominate the early exchanges as they looked completely in control, with Obertan drawing a superb save from Steele on 19 minutes as he looked certain to score on his debut! But just couldn't!!


But from then on the Tykes seemed to get the measure of their hosts, hanging on to the ball well and beginning to make chances. The first 15' belonged to United and the last 20-25 completely belonged to the Tykes.


And twice in the next 10 minutes Barnsley defender Stephen Foster had two good headers from corners that went first wide to the right and then just over the bar.


The changed pattern of the match seemed to wake United's dormant midfield up, and they once again began to hang on to the ball better and played the half out safely.


Just three minutes into the second half Owen had a chance to put the visitors well in control, being played through by a terrific ball from Anderson and having just the keeper to beat from inside the box.


But the fast-charging defender Foster came through in time to put on a bit of pressure, and Owen's atrociously feeble finish dribble weakly off the pitch.


It was just the sort of finish that would make Fabio Capello's life easier by removing any prospect of Owen going to South Africa next year - but the diminutive striker made amends 10 minutes later with a great bit of control that gave him the second goal.


Danny Welbeck was substituted by the Serb-Zoran Tosic. He looked extremely impressive and nearly scored from a great long range shot. The Serb was too comfortable with the ball but also was booked towards the end.



Anderson put the ball through to Owen from the left, but it was the striker's deft bit of control and short burst of acceleration that took him past three Barnsley players and gave him the space to fire a perfectly-placed shot into the bottom right corner. 2-0!


Barnsley refused to give in despite the second goal, and when Gary Neville was dismissed three minutes later for keeping his studs up on the follow through of an otherwise well-won challenge against Hammill. He was completely shocked and saddened to see the Ref's decision but I think he deserved it.


But Ben Foster showed the class that has earned him international honours with an outstanding diving save to his left that prevented a seemingly certain goal. It was completely athletic! Well done to the Englishman, if he keeps doing such good stuff, he should imagine that he has answered the critics coz u know! u have to perform well at United once people expect stuff from you.


It was a cruel blow to a side who deserved at least a consolation blow, and with the players' legs fading and the crowd's singing dying down, United closed the match out comfortably.


Though the holders were good value for their spot in the next round, Barnsley's players will be lamenting the lack of quality finishing that saw them blow all the chances they had to make a contest of it.


Gunnar Solskjær (Present United Reserves team manager and one of the most successful former United player) was also seen enjoying the game. One of the commentator commented "He must be enjoying his life, look 'He has a wrinkle in his smile'"!


There was a funny moment towards the end of the match when a couple of Barnsley fans stepped on the pitch, snatched the ball off Foster, started passing the ball amongst themselves and ACTUALLY SCORED! The funny thing was, that Ben Foster tried to stop them very seriously. Don't the players need more security than this? Anyone could have come and stabbed Foster!!

Fergie gives Rio Ferdinand two choices - "Either perform or get ready to be excluded from the senior squad"

Sir Alex Ferguson has told Ferdinand to lift his game or risk getting dropped - for both club and country.

The England centre-back has come under intense scrutiny amid a form slump that has seen him make some high-profile errors.

Ferdinand gifted Craig Bellamy a goal in the Manchester derby in September, and then contributed to the sending-off of England goalkeeper Robert Green after misjudging the flight of the ball against Ukraine in October.

The 30-year-old was also made to look the fool by Fernando Torres' pace and strength as the Reds striker scored in United's 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.

It is claimed that Ferdinand may be dropped for this weekend's home game against Blackburn Rovers, as Ferguson prepares to give young Northern Ireland defender Jonny Evans an extended run in the side alongside Nemanja Vidic (who was sent off against Liverpool).

The United boss said in The Sun: "He has to get good form. That's an important issue for the coach to pick the right team."

"In defence you've maybe got more options than other positions. He'll need to get his form right."

Patrice Evra blames Manchester United's defeat on poor attitude

"Shit!! Not again!! ........%$£%^&%$ "

Evra admitted the United defence had to take responsibility for Torres's decisive 65th-minute opener, when Ferdinand struggled badly against the power and pace of the Spanish striker. He said: "We know the game and we know Torres. He got a chance and he scored. He is a good striker but for a defender it is not good to concede those goals."

The United left-back did concur with his manager's view that Marriner erred in only booking Carragher when he pulled Michael Owen to the floor as the last man in the 80th minute. Evra claimed: "I don't think the referee has an easy job but I think he made some mistakes. Against Michael Owen, Carragher was the last man and didn't get sent off. It was important because, when you play 11 against 10, you have an advantage and it is difficult to understand why Carragher wasn't sent off. Maybe it was a factor but I would rather focus on the display of Manchester United and the performance was poor."

While Ferguson attempted to shift the focus on to Marriner's experience of such grand fixtures, or supposed lack of, he will no doubt share Evra's demand for a similar response to last season's defeat at Anfield, when United embarked on a 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

"Losing to Liverpool is the most pain you can have when you play for Manchester United," the defender conceded. "It's a great feeling when you win at Anfield but it's also a big pain when you lose. After the game there was silence and big disappointment in the dressing room. We need to show the same as last year now. We lost against Liverpool twice but won the league. We have to make sure we do that but also, at Old Trafford, we have to show the real United team."

Gabriel Obertan to make first appearance for United against Barnsley

The Frenchman will make his United appearance after he was bought in the summer.

The Carling Cup's reputation for launching United careers will continue on Tuesday night when Gabriel Obertan makes his long-awaited Reds debut.

The Frenchman's arrival at the club was announced on 8 July but he has had to wait until the final week of October to clock up his first senior appearance.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed to ManUtd.com on Monday, "He’ll play tomorrow against Barnsley, it’s a good start for him."

Obertan came to United with a back problem but after several months of careful treatment at Carrington, he's ready to stake a claim in the first team, possibly on the left flank.

"We're taking our time with him because we want him back at 100 per cent," said Sir Alex in a previous interview with us.

"Gabriel told us he'd been playing with a back injury for a year and a half (in France) and no-one thought about getting a scan done.

"We expect big things from him. At 16 he was one of Europe's outstanding young talents.

"He's very quick and he can play both sides or through the middle so he brings a real versatility to us."

Let's hope he can score a goal or two in his opener!

Barnsley vs Manchester United

Barnsely vs Manchester United
Tuesday, 7.45 PM GMT

The Premier League champions return to more mundane matters with a Carling Cup tie at Barnsley, yet manager will nevertheless challenge his players to show their strength of character and respond to their surprise defeat to Liverpool on Sunday. Ferguson is expected to make wholesale changes for the fourth round tie as he continues to give his fringe players the chance to prove themselves and stake their claim for a regular place in his first team squad.

Ferguson has so much strength in depth and talent at his disposal that he will feel comfortable naming an unfamiliar line-up, safe in the knowledge they should still have the ability to overcome the challenge of Barnsley, who are managed by former Old Trafford favourite Mark Robbins . "It was a disappointing performance (at Anfield) and Liverpool were better," Ferguson said. "We never got any luck in terms of refereeing decisions, but we have to hold our hands up and admit we weren't good enough. Part of the challenge at this club is how you react to disappointment. We lost 4-1 to Liverpool at home last season, which was a travesty at the time. But the players buckled down and we went on to win the league."

Strategy: There will be no let-up from Ferguson, even though on paper this looks like a comfortable win for United. No-one hates losing more than Ferguson and he will be desperate to take out his frustrations on his hosts from the Championship. Ferguson will challenge centre forwards Welbeck and Macheda make the most of a rare opportunity in his starting line up. Welbeck scored the winner against Wolverhampton in the previous round but Macheda's progress has stalled this season following his dramatic impact towards the end of the last campaign.

Ferguson claimed last summer that he didn't need to sign another striker, other than Owen, simply because both Welbeck and Macheda provided him with good options in this department. Now is the chance for the duo to prove their manager right. Nani and Valencia will be expected to deliver quality service from the flanks while Brown and Evans will marshal the defence. Ferguson will also be looking for an influential performance from Gibson in midfield.



GABRIEL OBERTAN WILL MAKE HIS FIRST UNITED APPEARANCE TOMORROW!


Predicted score - United wins 2-0 and let's hope this boosts their confidence levels to face CSKA and Chelsea in the upcoming fixtures.


GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED!

Vidic gets sent off thrice in 3 games against Liverpool

I jus dont know what excites the Serb against Liverpool that he gets sent off everytime he plays against them, be at home or at anfield!

Disaster happens at Anfield as United loses to Liverpool thrice in a row

Liverpool 2-0 Manchester United

It was one of the most dreadful afternoons Manchester United has ever had as they suffered a yet another mirror cracking display from the neighbourhood rivals.

Match Gallery

Gerrard with his hot wife - Alex Curran in stands

Torres's 80th minute goal, nearly dismantled United's defence
Now this is a yellow card offence, no?
This is such a normal site these days.. Owen on for Berba (ranked 4 by goal.com SHIT!)
Owen in action
Rooney shows his justificable frustration

MAN OF THE MATCH!

MATCH REVIEW

It was one of the worst performances ever seen from United this season and that too against one of the most successful teams in the Premier League - Liverpool! Liverpool have gained some solid form at a time when they were about to break down like a car breaks down at the beginning of a long journey. One felt that if they lost this one, their Premier League title hopes will certainly be over.. So there was a huge pressure on Rafael's men. Torres gave them an unassailable lead.

Rooney didn't get much support from his defenders and mid-fielders. Giggsy looked rusty and was clearly unable to break into the Liverpool defence. Berba was literally the waste-man of today's game. Valencia missed a superb chance when the ball deflected off the cross bar. IT WAS MIGHTY CLOSE! Thanks to Van Der Saar who made some remarkable saves in the 1st half but couldn't get hold onto Torres' lovely goal.

All in all, the match reminded me of the UEFA Champions league final which United lost 2-0 in a similar fashion.

In this game VIDIC got red-carded third time against Liverpool in a row! Also, Mascherena got sent off in the stoppage time of the 2nd half. So both these things repeated in this game.

Now, United need to focus on the mid-week Carling game against Barnsley.

Until then, GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED!

PLAYER RATINGS FOR MAN U

1) Van der saar- 7 - Made excellent saves
2) Evra - 6
3) Vidic - 5 - Effectively Useless and continued his red card record with the reds
4) Ferdinand - 6- Couldn't stop Torres from scoring
5) O Shea - 6
6) Scholes - 7 - Passes around the ball excellently Nani (sub) - 5
7) Valencia - 6 - Average
8) Carrick - 6
9) Giggsy - 6 - I wish he took more responsibility
10) Berba - 3 POOR! Owen (sub) - 6 - Stopped by enemy Carragher who was yellow carded. That could have been an effective equaliser but all went wrong for United today :(
11) Rooney - 7 - I wish he got better chances from the back.. This performance really reminded me of the 2-0 Barca Lose.

SAF acknowledged real reason for acting stupid with Referee- Alan Wiley!

United manager has acknowledged that his criticism of referee Alan Wiley's physical fitness was motivated by the poor performance of his team against Sunderland.

The Red Devils drew the game 2-2 at Old Trafford, and an apoplectic Ferguson branded Wiley's fitness as unacceptable after the match.

Now though he has admitted that his remarks were inappropriate and had a ulterior motive at their heart.

"We certainly weren't firing on all cylinders in that game," he said, according to Sky Sports.

"Our passing was woeful and quite out of character which is perhaps why my feelings afterwards got the better of me with regard to the referee.

"That's why I felt later that it was fair to apologise. I hope he has accepted my apology because I have always respected Alan Wiley, who is a good referee, and my remarks were not intended to be a slur on his integrity.

"I hope that I shall have the opportunity to speak to him personally."

Adopted from: Goal.com!

Manchester United on top of the pool after defeating Bolton 2-1 while Chelsea loses 2-1 to Aston Villa!

It was a weekend of immense joy for Manchester United as they re-gain the top place on the Premier League Table which they have enjoyed for the majority of the last three years.

UNITED 2-1 BOLTON

One can say it was a narrow win for United, but nevertheless they won it and it was a tough won. Now the Red Devils have got every single reason to celebrate as Diwali kicks in India! Funny enough, the whole of India and other parts of world (where indians reside) celebrated this day with loads of fireworks as it was the Indian festival of light- Diwali yesterday! So I take this chance to wish you all Happy Diwali! And Hope its a great season for Manchester United.

I must admit, at one time United took it lightly in the end as Bolton roared into the United defence in a very orthodox manner. It was a dream start for United with an own goal coming from the Bolton defender "KNIGHT" who should receive a Knighthood from SAF if not anyone else!!!

Ryan Giggs looked terrific on Saturday as he was easily able to break into the Bolton defence. The real stars of the game, in my opinion were Berbatov, valencia and van der Saar. Berbatov gave a decent effort and has been by ranked goal.com as one of the best for the week and so is the winger - Valencia. Berbatov celebrated the birth of Dea, his first baby girl, with great fashion and an amazing performance.

I must say he looked stunning with his elegant passing and some awesome accuracy. He was glued to the ball like Friction! This certainly was one of his better performances during his tenure at United so far. Valencia deserved to be man of the match along with Van Der Saar. The Equidorian made some great long-range attempts and successfully scored his goal of the season! If he hadn't scored, then United would have had to settle down with a draw and a 1 point trail to the Blues.

Van Der Saar felt comfortable to start with hardly any balls coming to him. It was the second half in which he performed so many breath-taking saves! and it was great to watch the Dutch come back after he broke his two fingers during a AUDI CUP match against Bayern Munich.

I must say it was a bit of tough win for United. Especially in the end, when Bolton was successful to score a goal from the header in the last quarter of the match. It was a very nervous moment for the Devils as it was a sensational goal.

Can you imagine? Van Der Sar didnt move at all to make an effort to stop the goal. But Van came with some amazing saves in the dying minutes of the match which made sure United win the game and take the impressive lead from Chelsea who lost at Aston Villa 2-1.

SAF was already seen panicing as the rate of his "iconic" chewing gum increased after van made one save after the other and Bolton looked as threatening as one could have ever imagined.

THIS is wat SAF had to say - "It was more tense than we would have liked. We made it hard for ourselves and we were panicking at times. But we got through it, just.''

My own personal Player Reviews and a few words describing their performance-

1) Van der Sar 7- Awesome!

2) Evra/O Shea 5/6 - Evra substituted by O' Shea, Both looked okay although O'shea was better in the few minutes he played.

3) Ferdinand 7 - Seemed to have recovered from the shock.

4) Neville- 7 - Class!

5) Evans - 6.5 - Improving but still confused

6) Ryan Giggs - 7.5 - The Father of United attack

7) Valencia - 8 - The wonderful finisher and extra-ordinarily aggressive.

8) Anderson/Scholes- 7/6 - Smart player/ over-agressive

9) Carrick - 6.5 - Dominant

10) Berba - 8.5 - TOO GUD!

11) Owen/ Welbeck - 6.5/6. Owen failed to finish well but received passes extremely smoothly. Welbeck hardly got chances.

GLORY GLORY and HAPPY DIWALI TO ALL THE theREDevilspot READERS!

See ya before the CSKA MOSCOW game this Wednesday!

Manchester United v/s Bolton KO at 15.00

Strong start for United so far!

Manchester United have started the season strongly and currently sit just two points adrift of in-form Premier League leaders Chelsea.

Other than the famous loss to Burnley in the opening week of the new season and their draw with Sunderland in their last fixture, the Red Devils have won every other game both domestically and in the Champions League.

Unbeaten in nine games, with eight of those matches being victories, Sir Alex Ferguson will be confident of returning to winning ways after what was a poor showing against Steve Bruce’s Black Cats.

It will how interesting to see how a number of players cope with the spotlight this weekend. Edwin van der Sar will play for the first time this season to replace Ben Foster, who has been the subject of criticism after some unconvincing showings between the sticks.

Rio Ferdinand will be looking for a strong defensive showing after a lacklustre start to the campaign for club and country, while Michael Owen gets another chance from the start.

United go into the game as overwhelming favourites and anything but three points will be considered a disappointment on Saturday.

On the rise

Bolton Wanderers go into the game on a decent run of form themselves. After an initially shaky start, Gary Megson’s side are now five matches unbeaten in all competitions, with four of those games being league fixtures.

Those results have pushed the Trotters up to 13th in the early season table, but Megson will know all to well how closely matched the sides in the bottom half are, and indeed his team sit just one point clear of the drop zone, while also being just one away from 11th.

This game marks the start of a difficult run of fixtures, with games against Everton, Chelsea and Aston Villa to follow in the league, with another game against Carlo Ancelotti’s Blues awaiting them in the Carling Cup.

So every point that can be gained in this spell will be considered vital, and despite going into this game as massive underdogs, Bolton will not see this as a game where they have nothing to lose.

FORM GUIDE

Manchester United

Manchester United 2-2 Sunderland
Manchester United 2-1 Wolfsburg (Champions League)
Stoke City 0-2 Manchester United
Manchester United 1-0 Wolves (League Cup)
Manchester United 4-3 Manchester City

Bolton

Bolton 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Birmingham City 1-2 Bolton
Bolton 3-1 West Ham United (Carling Cup, after extra time)
Bolton 1-1 Stoke
Portsmouth 2-3 Bolton

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United

Wayne Rooney is definitely out with a calf problem, which may also mean he is absent from Wednesday's Champions League trip to play CSKA Moscow. Owen Hargreaves is making good progress in recovery from his knee problem, but is still three weeks away from full fitness.

Dimitar Berbatov may add to United's striking problems by being absent due to the birth of his first child, but Michael Owen (groin) returns. Jonny Evans will get a late check on an ankle problem.

Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar makes his long awaited return and will replace Ben Foster.

Previous starting XI (2-2 H V Sunderland): Foster, O'Shea, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Nani, Fletcher, Scholes, Welbeck, Rooney, Berbatov.

Bolton

Bolton are likely to be without Sam Ricketts (ankle), who had to withdraw from the Wales squad in midweek, while there will also be a late fitness test for Sweden striker Johan Elmander.

Long-term absentee Sean Davis is still missing.

Previous starting XI (2-2 H V Tottenham): Jaaskelainen, Ricketts, Cahill, Knight, Samuel, Gardner, Muamba, Cohen, Lee, K Davies, Taylor.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Manchester United – Michael Owen

With Wayne Rooney out and Dimitar Berbatov not certain to play, the onus will be on the returning Michael Owen to make his mark from the start up-front. The former Liverpool star has tended to feature from the bench so far this season, and will be eager to stake his claim for a regular starting spot as next summer’s World Cup draws ever closer.

Bolton – Kevin Davies

As always, Kevin Davies will be a crucial figure to Bolton as he spearheads their attack. The Englishman had his best season in 2008-09 and has already made a good start to the current campaign. He will be looking to put pressure on Rio Ferdinand, who finds himself in the spotlight after some high-profile recent errors.

PREDICTION

Despite the absence of Wayne Rooney, Manchester United will be confident of securing a victory on Saturday before a big week which includes games against CSKA Moscow and Liverpool.

Bolton are on a decent run of form at present, but it is hard to see them getting anything against United, particularly at Old Trafford.

I’m not sure it will be a huge win, but the Red Devils should do enough to pick up the three points.

theredevilspot PREDICTION:

United 2-1 Bolton

Dimitar Berbatov becomes father of baby girl!

After scoring 3 goals in an international game against Georgia, (and still Berba's team didnt qualify), Dimitar was given the gift of a baby girl.

It is indeed a Manchester United moment. Now the big question is, will he perform well in today's game if he will play at all!

Well, if Berba doesnt start today, then it will Ryan Giggs or Federico Macheda... or Maybe Danny welbeck!

Anyway, Hope to thrash Bolton..

Another gud news - Chelsea is losing 2-1 to Aston Villa at the end of 60 mins!

Rooney ruled out of Bolton clash

Rooney picked up a calf injury during England's World Cup qualifying defeat in the Ukraine last weekend.

And despite returning straight to United's Carrington training ground for treatment, the striker will not be fit to face the Trotters, when Edwin Van Der Saar will be in goal.

Ferguson does retain an outside hope that Rooney will be available for Wednesday's Champions League trip to CSKA Moscow, although a return for the key clash with Liverpool at Anfield on October 25 is more likely.

"Calf injuries can be troublesome," said Ferguson. "We are trying our best to get him fit for Wednesday but I have my doubts on that. But Wayne should be fit for the Liverpool game.

"We know how difficult these things can be so we will not be taking any chances with the Moscow trip."

For Van Der Sar it is a welcome first appearance of the season after he broke two fingers during a friendly with Bayern Munich in July.

Ben Foster has had his difficulties in goal since and Ferguson has no hesitation in bringing the veteran Dutchman back.

"Edwin plays tomorrow," said Ferguson.

"He had a reserve game 10 days ago and has come through that fine. He has been training for quite a spell now but with a hand injury you don't take any chances and that game has given him a good confidence boost."

Ferguson also confirmed Michael Owen is available after a recent groin problem, although the Scot is still waiting for the return of Dimitar Berbatov, whose partner has had a baby in their native Bulgaria, to declare whether he is in the right frame of mind to play before deciding on his final line-up.

United eyeing David James for the January transfer window

At 39-year-old the England No 1 is unlikely to cost more than £1 million, but any decision from Old Trafford may well depend on whether 38-year-old Van der Sar is willing to renew his contract - an announcement the Dutchman has said he will make in December.

On the other hand, the English Goalkeeper is also demanded by Tottenham Hotspurs. It will certainly be a tough task for him to decide. One thing is for sure: He would love to leave the Pompey's coz of their poor performance and fears of relegations.

Glory Glory Man United

Against the run of play....

Looking at the recent matches United have played, i have made some pointers, which ought to help us look forward towards the next week.

1) United gave a terrific performance midweek against Wolfsburg (who are the reigning german champs) , which showed that even without C.Ronaldo ( C is for all the people who still confuse this name for the veteran brazilian) United are capable of performing in europe.
The Carrick strike was awesome, demolishing all talks of his bust up with fergie.

2) Everyone was expecting United to blow away Sunderland in the next match (even i thought so ) , and BOY were we dissapointed.
Agreed that the Berba goal was AWESOME, but overall ,the united performance that night was horrible. No link ups. no smooth passing, and Sunderland got a well deserved draw (though some beleive they deserved a win).
I personally beleive that Welbeck has a long way to go before playing first team, an i know many people will abuse me for saying this, but remember this is from a true Redevil..

3) The result of that performance was that ol Fergie took all his frustration out on the ref , Mike Wiley.
He was shocked to see such a negative performance by United, which resulted in Chelsea taking the ''top of the table '' honours.
That has resulted in Fergie being caught up in hot soup, which will have a negative effect overall on the team.

4) Finally i would like to say is that we, the United fans , have to keep FAITH.
There are many countless positives too (Edwin returning, Obertan gettin his first cap, etc).
But my point is that whatever happens, we have to keep faith, and see how United silence the critics by going top of the table again.......

so till next time....... GLORY GLORY MAN UTD!!!!



Aby7

Bad days for United! + Looking forward to coming good ones

This month, and specially this week, has not been one of the best for United!

1) Alex Ferguson's row with the refs

Unneccesary, eh?

2) Goalie crisis

Ben Foster has time to follow in the footsteps of Schmeichel and Van Der Sar

3) Rooney injury

For how long is he out?

4) Rio Ferdinand defending crisis

Shame!

In this post, I will be covering why United fans should be a little worried and why they've got something to cheer!!!

1) Sir Alex Ferguson will say sorry to FA bosses in a final attempt to escape a rap for his blast at referee Alan Wiley.

"A punishment should be a Uefa-type coaching ban, which is more than a touchline ban," said Leighton, head of officials' union Prospect.

The Manchester United manager has already apologised to Wiley in a statement released by the club and will continue his charm offensive with a letter to Soho Square.

Ferguson has been given until Friday to submit his response to the FA after they asked him to explain his astonishing outburst that Wiley was "unfit" in United's draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford.

It is understood United officials have drafted a written apology on Ferguson's behalf, which he will read when he returns from a family holiday to America in the next 24 hours

2) Ben Foster is making some solid mistakes in the goal area. It is getting bad to worse for the Englishman. Although he has been called for the England squad ahead of the Belarus game, in the place of Green who got a Red card. This is really the chance for Ben to prove the critics wrong and show that he can work well under pressure. Ben will have to get used to being under scrutiny at United!! That's how it works... But I feel really unfortunate for him as every move of his at United is compared to the big guns like van der sar and other great United goal keapers.

3) Rooney has injured himself!

Rooney injured his thigh region during the England World Cup Qualifier against Ukraine, which they lost 1-0.. It is still unclear as to for how long is out but it is certain that he is ruled out of the Belarus fixture on Wednesday.

4) Rio's defending crisis!

After giving a X-mas present to Craig Bellamy at Old trafford, Rio gave another pre-festival gift to Ukrainian striker - Andriy Schivchenko! It fetched England an unsuccessful penalty kick and a red card to the goali.. However, Rio has been backed up high officials including the England coach and fellow England players (Lampard, Terry and Wayne) and said to be an asset for the finals in South Africa!

Now something to look forward to:

1) Obertan to earn his first Man united senior team match very soon as he is fully fit now.

2) Michael Owen is back to training and should be fit for the fixture against Bolton
3) Owen Hargreaves is curious to return to the United squad! He is the real man in need isn't he...
4) We have our next 4 matches with relatively less stronger teams and can easily stretch our invincible form.

10 things you need to know about Manchester United target Igor Akinfeev

Manchester United are reported to be chasing CSKA Moscow and Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev.

With Edwin van der Sar about to hang up his size XXL gloves, and Ben Foster failing to impress in the United goal, it seems Sir Alex Ferguson has decided he urgently needs a brand new last line of defence.

But who is the £15 million-rated number one? Don't panic, MirrorFootball has compiled a dossier featuring everything you need to know...

1) He broke into the CSKA Moscow first team when he was just 17 years old and won the Russian championship in his first season.

2) In 2004, he became the youngest player ever to represent Russia when he ran out against Norway at the age of 18 years 20 days.

3) He has been voted goalkeeper of the year in Russia for three of the last four seasons.

4) In 2006, he went 362 minutes without conceding a goal in the Champions League, twice keeping clean sheets against Arsenal.

5) He was a member of the Russia team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2008, but conceded seven goals in two matches against Spain during the tournament.

6) His squad number at CSKA is 35.

7) He has been coached Rinat Dasaev, the USSR goalkeeper voted the best in Europe at Euro 88.

8) He is 6ft 1ins tall – shorter than Edwin van der Sar, Ben Foster and Tomasz Kuszczak.

9) His honours include the UEFA Cup, three Russian Premier League titles and three Russian Super Cups.

10) Now 23, he has also been linked with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Arsenal!

Foster gets England call in place of red carded Green

Last chance to impress?

Ben Foster has been called up to the England squad for the final World Cup qualifier, against Belarus on Wednesday, in place of the suspended Robert Green.

The Manchester United goalkeeper had been expected to have been in the squad for yesterday's game against Ukraine, in which Green was sent off, but was unavailable after his club claimed he had a chest injury.

Foster has featured regularly for United this season in the absence of the first-choice Edwin van der Sar but he has made a series of mistakes, most recently in the 2-2 draw against Sunderland last weekend, and is understood to have fallen out of favour with Sir Alex Ferguson.

Foster, who has been given the all-clear after scans on his chest, is likely to act only as cover for the Belarus game, with David James, who came on as a replacement for Green against Ukraine, and Paul Robinson already in the squad.

United keen on Boro winger- Adam Johnson

Manchester United have joined the queue of Premier League clubs waiting to sign promising Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson in a cut-price January deal, according to The Daily Mirror.

Johnson has rejected Boro's recent contract offers, and will be able to leave the club this summer on a Bosman free transfer. The Championship club value the player at £6 million but may have to settle for less with his contract expiring in June.

Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Fulham and Sunderland are all reportedly interested in the England Under-21 international.

However, Ferguson is favourite to win the race, and supposedly sees the boyhood Red Devils fan as a potential long-term replacement for Ryan Giggs.

Controversial Red Devil shines on his debut

U18's NEWS: Crewe2-1 United

United threw everything at Crewe Alexandra and dominated possession for much of the match, but still ended up losing 2-1 at Gresty Road.

The Railwaymen twice struck on the counter attack through forward Jason Oswell in the second half, before Will Keane pulled a goal back late on. But it wasn't enough.

Of some consolation was the eye-catching debut from 16-year-old French starlet Paul Pogba in midfield. After all the fuss around his move from Le Havre, it appears, even at this early stage, that he could be well worth it.

In the first half United played some great football, with Pogba spraying passes around from midfield and firing just wide from long-range.

Ravel Morrison also went close with a shot from 25 yards, but it just wouldn't dip under the crossbar.

Pogba continued to impress in the centre of the park. He is very strong on the ball and cultured in possession - comparisons with Patrick Vieira are inevitable.

With John Cofie and Robbie Brady on the bench, Paul McGuinness' young Reds just didn't have a cutting edge in attack. However, United started the second half with plenty of intent.

It was one-way traffic until Crewe struck on the counter attack to take the lead after 48 minutes through Oswell. Back to square one for United, who began again to pressure the home side. But Crewe once again struck against the run of play, with an overhead kick from Oswell.

Source: manutd.com

Now you see me, now you dont !!

Sir Alex Ferguson has apologised to referee Alan Wiley for any embarrassment caused by the sustained attack on the official's fitness after last weeks encounter between Manchester United and Sunderland.

I personally beleive that Sir Alex is a superb tactician. Mark my words, the next time Wiley officiates any United game, he is sure to be under pressure to give right decisions to the Red Devils. Not only Wiley, any referee now will now think twice (maybe not, coz it'll take a lot of time) before giving any decision......

The attack outraged referees, who have now put immense pressure on the F.A to take tough action, and have also demanded an answer from Sir Alex.

But the Scot already has his answer ready.

'' I Apologise to Mr.Wiley for any personal embarrassment my comments may have caused and to the F.A for going public with my views.''

''It was never my intention to bring te focus of intense media interest on Mr.Wiley and i will apologise to him personally.''

-Aby

Van Der Sar will be back soon (Bye Bye Foster, you were a nightmare)

United goalkeeper Van Der Sar made a somewhat low-key return to competitive action on Tuesday night, playing 90 minutes of the Red Devils' reserves 1-0 win over their Everton counterparts.

The Dutchman returned having recovered from the broken hand he sustained in pre-season, and kept a clean sheet!

There also appeared to be no further problems relating to the injury for the 38-year-old veteran, who will hope to displace Ben Foster as first-choice between the sticks for the remainnder of the current campaign.

Italian striker Federico Macheda scored the only goal of the game for United.

I certainly hope and wish that you guys that he produces as many clean sheets as possible for the remaining matches. We NEED! to defeat Chelsea and Im sure in the likes of Foster, that would have been hard. In fact, Foster was a nightmare by conceding so many goals in this season - as many as Van Der Sar condeded in the entire last season!

I pay tribute to Edwin by this save! What an incredible guy...

See ya soon :)

Berbatov's fine over-head kick goal against Sunderland 2-2!

What a super sexy goal!

Refs United vs Manchester United!

Alan Wiley, the official accused by Sir Alex Ferguson of not being fit enough to referee, ran farther than all but four Manchester United players during the 94 minutes of the game against Sunderland.

The FA has written to Ferguson asking him to explain his comments about Wiley by next Tuesday. The United manager could yet be charged with improper conduct.

Before he composes his reply, the Scot may want to consider that Wiley, The Times has learnt, outdistanced the average player in the 2-2 draw on Saturday by 205.8 metres. Refereeing officials believe that Wiley’s official ProZone statistics from the match at Old Trafford “100 per cent” disprove Ferguson’s claims that the Staffordshire referee “just wasn’t fit enough”.

Wiley covered 11,039.1 metres, the eighth farthest of any individual on the pitch. “Eighth is entirely credible,” a refereeing source said yesterday. “He had a bloody good game.”

ProZone shows that only four United players and three from Sunderland ran farther than Wiley, 49. His average distance from the ball was 17.7 metres. Elite referees in England are allowed an average of up to 20 metres.

Concern is growing among the close-knit refereeing fraternity about the long-term effects of constant criticism from managers, especially Ferguson. Several leading referees, including Graham Poll and Mike Riley, have retired in recent years in part because of the persistent sniping.

“They’re getting sick of it,” a senior refereeing source said last night. “Ferguson is the past master. It deflects any criticism from his team and players and he succeeds every time. Why doesn’t he just talk to the match delegate?”

Michael Owen returns to United training!

Michael Owen will return to full training with United after missing the draw against Sunderland, dispelling fears he would be out for at least three weeks.

He believes his quick thinking prevented a more serious groin injury when he limped off against Wolfsburg last week.

‘The older you get the more you get to learn your body,’ said Owen, 29. ‘Probably a few years ago I’d have carried on and pulled something and been out for a couple of months or weeks at least. I felt something coming. If I’d done another sprint I think I would have pulled my groin.’

Foster 's Future nearly screwed!

United have today confirmed that goalkeeper Ben Foster was left out of Fabio Capello's England squad due to a chest injury and nothing else.

Many observers guessed that the United keeper was left out because of his poor recent form, but the Red Devils have revealed that that is not the case, according to Sky Sports.

The 26-year-old sustained the injury during United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday. Foster, who made some high-profile errors during last month's Manchester derby, was beaten to a high ball by Black Cats striker Kenwyne Jones for one of Sunderland's goals. With Edwin van der Sar nearing full fitness, Foster also faces a battle to hang onto his spot between the sticks at Old Trafford.

United avoid defeat at home, superb goals by Berba and Evra, United settle with a draw! Match Highlights, Match pics and much more

Super over-head kick, this goal is inspired from his Liverpool game.

Final Score- Manchester United 2-2 Sunderland Who scored: Bent- 6', Berbatov- 51', Reid- 58' and Ferdinand (O.G.) 93'
Old Trafford 17.30 KO

It was all about Berbatov's lovely bicycle kick which thankfully ended up in the goal and United were 2-1! Adrenaline rushed among every United fan and there was every single possibility that they will ceetainly come back and win the game conviningly. United scored 2 goals in the game, both coming in the 2nd half, unsurprisingly! But they only had to settle down for a draw at the end after a super sexy 2nd half performance and an equally horrible 1st half effort.

Match Review

I will like to review the match in two parts.

1st HALF: Totally herendous for United. Conceded a hell ov-a goal from Darren Brent. Ben Foster looked terribly shaky and nervous. Where he could have passed the ball, he kicked it literally blindly which went nowhere. It was a sad moment for United but i feel the fella should have done better.

Celebrations after the 1st Sunderland goal

He hasn't earned even 0.1% of respect from England Coach Fabio Capello who was also witnessing the match.. Seems like he stayed in Manchester since Wednesday after reviewing the useless (well from his point of view) UEFA game against Wolfsburg which we won 2-1.. Towards the end of 1st Half, United started to pass the ball. Evra went up occasionally to support the midfielders. But what I think led down was poor midfielding.. They didnt take the ball responsibly.

2nd HALF: Much better for United.. They only conceded once which should have been saved idealy by Ben Foster but! holy shit! he again let it go :( United won loads of corners and free-kicks in the 2nd half. It was in the 2nd half when the Sunderland midfielder was red carded!

Former United player, Richardson, shown his second yellow card of the game which means that he must go off

and it was much celebrated by the loud United fans.. Berbatov scored from a dream bicycle kick. (On yer ride achievement accomplished in XBOX lol).

What a beauty this guy has in his feet. His goal against Liverpool 19/09/2010 was marvellous

Berba celebrates after a perfect overhead kick goal!

It was really magical. Rooney missed quite a few chances which should have been put in according to his standards. He must be one unlucky person today. Andy Reid equalised from a header (ben foster's header).

Andy Reid scores the second goal for Sunderland

It was one of the rarest goals I've seen United to concede. They certainly need to worry about their GK options. from 91st to the 94th minute, United gained about 6 odd corners out of which i guess the last one by Carrick was the best. Evra equalised in the last seconds of the 93rd minute (Please note- there were 4 extra minutes played lol!).

Wayne Rooney is a ferocious boxer and a beast.

Sunderland players are dejected after Evra's deflected goal (last touched by Ferdinand- Player No. 5 - in front of Rooney) in the 93rdminute.

It was, what I consider to be a very lucky OWN goal off Ferdinand (Sunderland) but not exactly a fluke. That ball could have gone anywhere but luckily found the net. 2-2.. Still the game looked far from certain and after the game resumed we heard the Ref's whistle which meant that United are still on top and Chelsea just one point and 3 goals less. Hope they lose against tomorrow's Liverpool derby and concede many goals so that they are way down in Goal Difference.

To be fair, United didnt look that threatening today and didnt deserve to win at all. It was Sunderland who came up with attacking moves and deserved to grab 3 points with pride. But united know their way!

See that?

Evra and Bardsley shake hands after the final whistle!

Player Ratings

1) Foster - 4
2) Evra- 8
3) Vidic-8
4) Evans- 6
5) O' Shea- 6
6) Anderson - 7
7) Nani - 6
8) Welbeck- 7
9) Fletcher- 7
10) Rooney- 6!
11) Berbatov- 8
12) Carrick- 7
13) Valencia- 6
14) Scholes- 5!

Match Highlights