When Apollo cursed the Bridge – is it just Greek myth?

If we cast our minds back, few would have predicted that the winds of change would be blowing over Stamford Bridge instead of Old Trafford. When the Glazers bought Manchester Untied, many were roaming the media world preaching predictions of doom in a way not even Cassandra herself would have dared. In order to ensure these rumours were not believed the Glazers appear to have reacted like Apollo and put in place a curse that has already taken care of the errant fan, who with no one now believing their doom-mongering stories have retreated to the hills to live a sheltered and distant existence. But the curse seems to have stretched to London and, for the present time, settled over Stamford Bridge.

Firstly the curse struck Shevchenko who in front of expectant millions could only resemble the Cossack statue in Odessa – confused and unable to strike having fallen from his horse in public. Then came the serious injury to Petr Cech, only to be followed by injuries to Cudicini and John Terry. And just when things seemed bad enough in the dressing room, the curse spread onwards and upwards up the Chelsea hierarchy. Stories were produced that seemed to ensure Mourinho was linked with a move away to Real Madrid. Then the curse struck their billionaire owner, with his love of Chelsea being too much for his wife, and his love of Shevchenko allegedly causing the breakdown of his relationship with the manager, having the knock on effect of the manager falling out with the clean shaven Rasputin (formerly known at Kenyon) and the child snatcher (Frank Arnesen) – whose major input appears to have the kidnap saga and expensive pursuit of John Obi Mikel – that made Manchester United £12m (oh great and gifted Apollo) and ended the enthusiasm of the once great Makelele.

In contrast, Sir Alex has appeared more relaxed than ever and is settled for another few years. The purchase of Michael Carrick has worked out better than expected, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes have been rejuvenated and even the departure of goal machine Van Nistelrooy has resulted in more goals being scored. And the special one status of one Portuguese man has also moved from Mourinho to Cristiano Ronaldo – who in a season of bewildering ability and football fantasy has been compared to George Best.

Perhaps I have over cooked the curse story a little but when you consider in the just the last few days, Frank Lampard has his wrist fractured by a shot from Wayne Rooney, you start to think, is there really more going on than meets the eye…

From Larsson to Berbatov?

It seems a strange time to be looking ahead to next season with so much still to play for in 2007. However, with the latest rumours suggesting a potential summer swoop for Berbatov, it led me to wonder what Fergie may get up to in the summer?

United’s strike force was given an injection of brilliance this season when Sir Alex Ferguson captured Larsson on loan in January. The Swedish striker’s contribution was about more than goals. It was certainly about influence. But was it also an insight in to United’s plans for the summer? Was it the beginnings of an outline of a question mark over the futures of Solskjaer, Smith and Saha?

Solskjaer is 34. The injuries this guy has suffered surely cast a doubt over his future. There is little point going into the stats of the “baby faced assassin” but for anyone in doubt about just how happy he really has made United fans feel, the record of 126 goals in 357 appearances (that’s an average of 2.8 a game despite 145 appearances coming as a sub) is there to be admired. Also, take a look at the banner held by the fans in the Stretford End reading 20 Legend. That says it all. I suspect this prolific marksman will only ever be known for missing one thing, and that will be life at Manchester United. Verdict: Gone

Saha turns 29 in the summer. Signed in 2004 for a fee of £12.8 million he has only just signed an extension to his contract in December 2006, tying him to United until 2010. He has 13 goals this season and averages just better than 1 in 3 since joining. Blighted by injury, brilliant against defenders. Verdict: One more season

Alan Smith, bought for £6m in 2005, is 26 and has a goals to game average of roughly 1 in 5. Most of 2006/07 saw him perform as a central midfielder but there still remains doubts over his goal scoring amongst fans. Like him yes, admire him, well... In eight seasons of top-flight football he has only managed to net double figures four times. Suggesting his role at Old Trafford will never be greater than 3rd or 4th choice striker. Verdict: Gone

Dong Fangzhou has just turned 22 and is at the beginning of his career at United. He may or may not be good enough for United but the signs are he will figure in and around the first team squad more next season. Verdict: Staying

Giuseppe Rossi has just turned 20 and clearly has a promising career ahead of him. He is contracted to United till 2010 but playing at Parma, where he has scored 2 goals in 5 appearances. In the 2005/2006 season Rossi made 12 appearances for United, scoring 4 times. This 1 in 3 average is something expected after his prolific goal-scoring record in the reserves. The only blight on his time so far came during his recent loan spell at Newcastle, where 13 appearances failed brought only 1 goal. What remains to be seen is whether his ability to play Premiership football is as black and white as we thought, when he was scoring freely in the reserves. Interestingly, Lupoli at Arsenal, the other starlet plucked from Parma, is due to return to Italy in the summer. Verdict: Staying

So what does this all mean? Well, of course only Manchester United truly know but for me the issue is this. If Rossi returns to Old Trafford, either a surprise sale of Saha will happen either with or instead of the more expected sale of Smith – with Everton and Aston Villa possible destinations. Only if Rossi is sold will both Smith and Saha stay. But United will make a move for a new striker and that striker will likely be ranked second in the pecking order, behind Wayne Rooney.

So I expect United to have the following options as strikers next term: Rooney, Saha, Rossi, Fangzhou + one more. However, who is out there that has the ability to come in and cement their place as one of United’s first choice strikers?

The first and most recent suggestion is Berbatov of Spurs. Cynics have already replied to this rumour by saying he is only heavily linked because he is poorly paid. However, it is clear to all that he has the attributes and goal scoring record in the Premiership to be a success at Old Trafford, and don’t Spurs know it. (Likelihood: 7/10). Another is Eto’o of Barcelona, who seems to either stay or move depending on the week. Heavily linked by the media to Arsenal he is undoubtedly talented. (Likelihood: 4/10). Next comes, Fernando Torres who was rumoured to have been the subject of a bid from United in January. The rumours have been so rife even his Coach appears to have resigned himself to losing this star of Spain. This guy is young and top quality but has not played outside of Spain. (Likelihood: 8/10).

Underneath these more obvious three can be found Huntelaar, who has scored 17 goals in 27 league appearances for Ajax this term and looks set to continue to impress. (Likelihood: 5/10) Then there is Fred: Aged 23 and contracted till 2009 this Lyon forward has 10 goals in 17 league appearances but with Mancini the pick of their players and the fact that Lyon demand silly money it’s a long shot. Likelihood 3/10. Then the mercurial Tevez who at 23 with Premiership experience makes some sense. He is incredibly talented but his confusing contract with West Ham was enough to put United off last summer and may keep their distance once again. Tempting though. Likelihood: 5/10

A quick look around also brings up the names of: Kone (PSV), Babel (Ajax) Adebayor (Arsenal), Defoe (Spurs), M Owen (New) and Ashton (West Ham) but these seem unlikely.

For me the smart money is on Torres or Berbatov, with Tevez and Huntelaar good outside bets. Over to you Fergie…

Liverpool 0 v United 1 - A review

Normally when John O’Shea comes on you sense Fergie has decided to shut up shop. So to see O’Shea perform like the artful dodger and pinch three points in front of the Kop was more than just a moment to remember. The result effectively ended Liverpool’s domestic season and gave United further belief that this is their year. Beneath the wild cheers of the travelling support you could clearly hear the groan of Liverpool fans. Fainter still – but still significant – was the sound of disappointment coming from West London.

Once again United emerged with 3 points from a game that had suggested a draw. Last week it was Ronaldo’s moment of individual brilliance. This was O’Shea’s moment. Liverpool could scarcely believe what had happened as John O’Shea span away to celebrate.

Football can be a cruel game. But it hands out pleasure in equal doses. Liverpool can and will consider themselves unlucky. But it was concentration that cost them. Ronaldo’s fierce strike from the freekick was well watched by Reina, particularly as Saha had come across him and the ball had moved on its way. In fact he did well to prevent it going straight in. But it was his team-mates that decided to simply stop and watch as O’Shea knocked in the simplest of chances. And that was the difference. That is not about luck. That is football.

Liverpool fans will point out that the momentum had long been with their team, that they had more possession and so have a right to feel aggrieved by the loss of all three points. Although Liverpool managed to the put the ball in the back of the net, which was rightly ruled out for offside, it couldn’t have escaped the attention of their supporters that Benitez’s team still lack a finisher. Wasn’t it strange that Benitez came out to describe Fowler as the best finisher at the club? Not because it was said of Fowler, but if he believed that why didn’t he do something about it rather spending so much money on Kuyt and Bellamy? Kuyt is a good player and has 10 goals this season but arguably Benitez may have been wiser to go for Berbatov who has scored 16. And Bellamy has scored 8 goals this season. That is 10 less than his replacement (McCarthy) at Blackburn. It is also two less than Ole Gunner Solksjaer. In fact, Crouch was for every reason Liverpool’s biggest threat on Saturday and he started on the bench, despite having scored 13 times this season.

Bellamy did cause United some problems by drifting into the space between Evra and Vidic. And he did well to drag Vidic out of his comfort zone and at times exposed the Serbian’s lack of pace when in the corners. But with Kuyt also dropping deep to receive there was little left in the penalty area to have a chance on goal. And when it finally did come it was generally well looked after the magnificent Rio Ferdinand and Edwin Van der Saar.

This was the best game I have seen Ferdinand have for some time. He was commanding rather than casual and decisive rather than deft with his touch. He was very well supported by the impressive Van der Saar who pulled off a number of important catches when the crosses entered the area at height and speed. He also pulled of a wonderful save to deny Peter Crouch and deny Liverpool a way back in to the match.

If we compare Liverpool’s wingers to Ronaldo and Giggs it is clear that both Pennant and Gonzalez come up short. Neither looks capable of that bit of brilliance. Whereas Giggs has shown it on and off for a staggering 700 games and Ronaldo continues to show it week in week out this season. Therefore, it was no surprise that it was Ronaldo who demonstrated in one move how lethal he could be when running direct at Liverpool. After skinning Riise with an outlandish nutmeg he raced at Liverpool’s penalty area and with one step over at full speed left Agger in his wake only for his shot on goal to be thwarted by the outstretched leg of Carrigher. No Liverpool player appeared to have the ability to do something out of nothing.

I was impressed with United’s ability to cope with the pressure Liverpool and the occasion put on them. But I was disappointed at how often our attacks fizzled out when a better final ball was needed. All too often Rooney’s flick or Larsson’s touch was not what it should have been. Admittedly a lot was asked of them when the game plan was too deploy Scholes and Carrick in front of the back four, meaning there was a bigger gulf than normal between midfield and attack. The gap certainly made it difficult for Larsson to have a real impact, although his technique and ability was demonstrated in an instant with a beautiful and clever back flick to lay the ball off for Ronaldo to uncharacteristically waste.

The Guardian saw fit today to describe United’s midfield as ‘porous’, a strange comment given the achievements of the season and the success in this game. But then they also gave the Man of the Match award to Jamie Carragher rather than Rio Ferdinand, despite Carragher’s nasty challenge (which incidentally failed to spark a millennium style fight) on Rooney and despite Liverpool losing. Carragher played well but was not better than Ferdinand or Van der Saar.

United’s midfield sat deeper but you are mistaken if you see this as anything other than tactical. Very little in Liverpool red got through it. Scholes and Carrick soaked up stray passes – particularly from Sissoko – and got their foot in when required. They also found time to retain possession when under pressure and fed Ronaldo and Giggs with well placed passes. Ultimately, their game plan cancelled out the supposed threat of Sissoko and Alonso. In fact the danger for United were passes out wide to Gerrard, who caused Evra a number of problems when driving forward on the inside right channel. Fergie saw fit to rectify this by bringing on the more defence minded Silvestre (what must Heinze be thinking). Fergie then moved Rooney out wide and instructed Giggs to operate in the centre of a 5man midfield. He also replaced Larsson with Saha as a direct response to the changes made by Benitez.

It wasn’t long before Rooney made a burst down the left flank, raising his foot to reach the ball before Carragher – whose mistimed and ugly challenge saw him catch Rooney around the knee and ended the young player’s involvement in the game. As Rooney hobbled off, O’Shea prepared himself to come on. As a substitution it appeared to have 0-0 written all over it.

John O’Shea is accepted as a Manchester United player but not loved. Indeed people next had earlier been asking me why he was even on the bench in the first place and why Fergie so often sees fit to play him in midfield. Sometimes it is difficult question to answer – after all, his ‘natural position’ is in defence. He is generally seen as ‘make-do’ option when he comes off the bench and is often greeted with a mix of concern and condemnation when he starts in central midfield. But there comes a time when we should praise a player that works his bollocks off for the team and the manager and accepts his role at United. And on Saturday, John O’Shea got his reward. And he got it by scoring in front of the Kop. Does it get any better?

To see the goal, click here

Player ratings: Van der Saar 7, Neville 6, Ferdinand 8, Vidic 6, Evra 6, Ronaldo 7, Scholes 7, Carrick 6, Giggs 6, Rooney 6, Larsson 6

Man of the match: Rio Ferdinand

Lille 0 vs Manchester United 1 - A review

Two key things happened on Tuesday night. Firstly, United showed an ability to adapt and overcome an awkward game that looked destined to end 0-0. Secondly, Lille made an incredibly poor error of judgement that could ultimately see them penalised by UEFA. There was nothing wrong with them protesting to the referee immediately after the goal was awarded, BUT to kick the ball out of touch and then for their coaching staff to blatantly encourage them off the field of play was as deliberate as it was disrespectful. To make matters worse their management have sought to blame this act on “an emotional moment”. According to their manager (Puel) "In France the tradition is to make a protest at the first pause in the game and then after the match”. I am not sure that the UEFA will share the sentiment that French tradition is more important than the rules.

So what will happen to Lille? I expect a heavy fine and perhaps a touchline ban to be the decision. Calls for Lille to be removed from the competition are a touch ITV – i.e. overly dramatic.

Returning to the game, the main pleasing aspect was United’s ability to give a patient and professional performance. It was this that led to United returning home with an important advantage and the bonus of having kept a clean sheet – something no other English club was able to do. In previous campaigns United would have conceded. With Van der Saar, Ferdinand and Vidic at the heart of defence United’s foundations are much stronger. There are games when it is necessary to reign in your attacking instinct, to wait, weather the storm and be patient in finding and executing the vital knock out blow. It can be a worrying thing to watch – after all, we are more accustom to watching United dominating possession and attacking at a high tempo. However, this performance showed maturity and great belief. Something that should – barring a poor performance at Old Trafford in two weeks time – see United progress into the quarterfinals.

Player ratings: Van der Saar 8, Neville 6, Ferdinand 7, Vidic 8, Evra 6, Giggs 8, Scholes 7, Carrick 7, Ronaldo 6, Rooney 7, Larsson 7.

Manchester United v Charlton - A preview

I expect United to push Charlton further towards relegation. Charlton are 19th in the league with a goal difference of –25. They have lost their last 4 away games. And without Darren Bent, their best marksman in the league is Hasselbaink with a paltry 2 goals. Yes, that is 2 goals. To put that into perspective that is one less than United’s defender Vidic and exactly the same as Darren Fletcher.

So why are Charlton suffering so badly this season? Well when I look down Charlton’s squad I go someway before seeing anything resembling quality. Young, Holland, Ambrose, Thomas, Kishishev, Lisbie, M Bent, Sorondo, Hughes. Yep still waiting. Charlton has some good players but not many very good players that can make a difference. In fact, Scott Carson and Darren Bent are arguably the only two to have made a positive impact. The rest are steady and steady players all to often find themselves in the Championship. And if I was to be truly cutting, I could say that with Alan Pardew at the helm they have the perfect manager to get them there.

Charlton will try their best to frustrate United but I expect the gulf in class to finally tell. Fergie may, with a question mark over Ronaldo and Carrick, turn to Park and Fletcher. But don’t count on it. If Ronaldo and Carrick can play, they will. There was mention that Rooney is suspended after picking up 5 yellows, but this has not been confirmed.

I expect Kuszczak to record his first clean sheet at Old Trafford. Something the guy needs given all the positive talk about Ben Foster at the moment.

Probable team: Kuszczak; Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Giggs; Rooney; Larsson

Prediction: 3-0

Player to watch: Scholes, having just scored I expect him to raid forward to good effect

Spurs 0 v Man United 4 - A review

Manchester United rolled over a Spurs team that now has much to reflect on. There was even time for some fun to be had. After a nasty knock to Van der Saar, John O’Shea went in goal much to the amusement of everyone not supporting Spurs. Thankfully, United were already four nil up when Rio Ferdinand decided to play one of his pranks by under-hitting a back pass into the path of Robbie Keane. To everyone’s amusement – including Fergie – John O’Shea tackled his international teammate to a chorus of cheers.

This was Manchester United’s day. Much had been made of this fixture as a potential banana skin. To be fair, until United got the breakthrough it was actually relatively close. As predicted, Spurs lacked fight but had enough quality upfront to pose a threat with Berbatov once again impressive. Lennon was strangely out of sorts - perhaps sensing for once his pace would not be enough when confronted by Evra. Both Giggs and Ronaldo have been schooled by Fergie and as a result were tireless in tracking back, something Malbranque and Lennon did not do, which left Huddlestone and Zakora more exposed. And as predicted this combination were no match for the guile and experience of Scholes and Carrick and were left further confused by Rooney dropping back to receive the ball.

Gardener was continuously turned inside out by the movement of Larsson. His defensive frailties were further exposed when Larsson once again got ahead of him to receive the ball. Gardener decided to lunge across him in a desperate attempt to get the ball. It was a clear penalty but was amazingly waved away by the referee. United players rightly protested at the absurdity of the decision. Something that should not be encouraged but something that surely played a part in the referee’s next decision. Ronaldo received the ball on the outside of the area. He burst past Lee Young Pyo at pace and went down under the challenge of Malbranque, who clearly left a foot in on the winger. Lets face it, when it happened everyone saw it as a penalty. The referee, like us, saw the leg go in and saw Ronaldo go down. He blew his whistle. It was not until half-time when the Spurs technicians decided to replay the incident from every conceivable angle on the big screens in the ground that talk of a dive was encouraged. The truth is we don’t know. If it was a dive, it was art compared to the work of Zakora a few months ago. What is clear is that the referee felt there was contact or intention of contact that resulted in Ronaldo going over.

Despite continuing protestations from the Spurs support, the game was shortly over. The Spurs fans were still booing Ronaldo when they conceded again. Robinson’s goal was attacked incessantly from the start of the second half. Spurs were helpless. Carrick supplied a precise corner onto the head of Vidic and the ball whistled past Robinson.

Spurs had moments. One provided by our own Gary Neville, who decided it would be okay to manhandle Chimbonda inside the penalty area in clear view of everyone. The amusing thing was it was okay, as the referee once again went against all common sense by waving play on. You win some; you Spurs some.

The game got more painful for the home fans when Cristiano produced one step-over at speed to once again outwit Lee Young Pyo and get to the by-line where he sent in a wicked low cross that Robinson failed miserably to deal with and Scholes had time to control the ball between his legs on the ground and slot it home and smile. This really was shaping up to be one of those days for United. The cherry was firmly put on the cake came when Saha – on for Rooney – picked up the ball and under a challenge, span his marker and ran at the Spurs defence. Looking up he provided a perfectly weighted pass to the feet of the unrushing Giggs, who subsequently lifted his shot over Robinson for United’s fourth.

The major difference between Spurs and United was fight, belief and ability. If the only fight Spurs possess is Zakora then they really have problems. A poor man’s Makelele is no answer at this level. Huddlestone was more boulder than builder, when it came to influencing the game. Gardener is so inept he rivals Titus Bramble as the countries worst central defender. And the belief of Paul Robinson had been cut to size by the young guns of Arsenal and has now been truly shredded by the visit of Manchester United.

Player ratings: Van der Saar 8; Neville 7; Ferdinand 7; Vidic 8, Evra 6; Ronaldo 7; Scholes 7; Carrick 7; Giggs 7; Rooney 7; Larsson 7

Man of the match: Vidic

Spurs v Manchester United - A preview

Sunday sees Michael Carrick return to White Hart Lane for the first time since his transfer. I suspect this will concern the Spurs fans more than the player. After all, he has more than enough ability to cope with the challenge of Zakora and Huddlestone. He also will have the luxury of playing alongside a certain Paul Scholes. And although Rooney and Ronaldo will no doubt catch the eye again, it is the combination of Carrick and Scholes that holds the key to ensuring United leave with all three points.

I think too many of the current Spurs team lack fight, which is why they have had problems on the road this season. If you want it summed up, look at Steed Malbranque - good going forward but provides no muscle to an already light- weight Spurs midfield. Zakora is the poor man’s Makelele. However, Spurs do have a decent forward line, something they always seem to focus on. Perhaps to mask the overall failings in the rest of the side. It wasn’t that long ago that I used to hear Spurs fans bragging about having Jurgen Klinsmann, David Ginola and Paul Gascoigne. Ever hear them mention that the same side also had Chris Perry, Dean Marney and Goran Bunjevcevic?

And they are still doing it. Berbatov looks a great buy and Keane, Defoe and Mido all have to be watched as they can all score goals. They also, in Lennon, possess one of the most exciting players playing on the wing in the Premiership. But behind that one is left to wonder how good are Dawson, Gardener, Assou-Ekotto, Zakora, and Rocha?

In fact, I am really looking forward to seeing Lennon run at Evra. But, I cannot wait to see Ronaldo vs Assou-Ekotto, Rooney vs Gardener and Larsson vs Dawson, as Spurs always look capable of conceding - particularly without King in the side. And Spurs may have England’s number one goalkeeper. But I would be prepared to wager that most strikers in the Premiership would say that felt more likely than not to score when one on one against him. For me, he lacks presence, which is perhaps why none of the bigger clubs have come in for him.

On paper, this is one of United’s three tricky away games, with the other two being trips to Liverpool and Chelsea. It is true enough to say that Spurs are usually stronger at home than they are away. However, it is also true that United have won at White Hart Lane on their last 5 visits.

Probable Team: Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Giggs, Rooney, Larsson.

Prediction: 0-2

Player to watch – Carrick

United v Watford – A preview

In the last two games Watford have managed to collect three valuable premiership points as well as beat West Ham in the FA Cup. A trip to Old Trafford is arguably not the fixture they need, particularly as it means they can’t play Ben Foster – who will be returning to Old Trafford in the summer. However, I believe it is just the fixture that United need. The three points are there to be collected and I believe the hunger is there to take them.

In terms of team news, the only main issue is the knee injury to Saha. This should see Rooney start alongside Larsson, and see Solskjaer back on the bench. I would like to see us rest Giggs and instead play Ronaldo and Park. Park may have failed to convert chances against Villa, but he put in a decent performance and deserves to start.

I suspect Watford to play a high defensive line and I expect them to attack, leaving space for United to exploit. If United play Rooney and Ronaldo we should see United win by some margin. I get the feeling Larsson may well be licking his lips in anticipation.....

Probable Team: Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Park, Rooney, Larsson.

Subs from: Kuszczak; Heinze; Brown; O’Shea; Fletcher; Richardson; Fangzhou; Smith; Silvestre; Giggs; Solskjaer

Injured: Saha

Player to watch: Rooney

Prediction: 4-0

Man United 2 v Portsmouth 1 – A review

A good victory over a stubborn Portsmouth team means the week at least ended on a positive. In particular, we witnessed another wonderful goal from Wayne Rooney. The look on David James’s face said it all. There really was nothing anyone could do, except look and admire.

Kuszczak seemed determined to make an impression. The challenge of Gary O’Neil was actually very good. To flick out his hand and push the ball away was impressive. He also caught the ball cleanly and commandingly on crosses and distributed well. He was unlucky not to keep a clean-sheet when having moved to cover the shot he was caught out as the ball took an unkind deflection. 2007/08 could see an interesting contest between him and Foster – if Fergie decides to keep both men at Old Trafford.

Solskjaer and Larsson failed to impress as a partnership, largely due to the impressive Sol Campbell and partly due to them playing similar roles. Larsson looked sharper with the introduction of Rooney and was so unlucky to have his wonderfully volleyed goal wrongly ruled out for being offside. For me, Rooney and Larsson look the best option, given Saha is still carrying a knock.

Giggs put in a tremendous effort and got his reward from providing the assist for United’s opener with a good run to the by-line and cut back for sub Rooney to gladly finish unmarked from 4 yards.

There was another very impressive performance from Evra down the left. If this form continues and if Bale arrives in the summer, Heinze must either look to play in the centre or consider options away from the club. That is no comment on Heinze but a compliment to Evra.

Park needs to turn energy into goals to really add value but his overall performance for the team is still significant. Vidic was once again an aerial threat from set pieces – and only failed to get on the score sheet because of a wrong decision from the officials. The ball was over the line but you can’t blame the referee when we only found out the goal should have stood when we had seen it from two different camera shots in slow motion.

Player ratings:
Kuszczak, 6; Neville 6; Ferdinand 6; Vidic 7; Evra 7; Park 6; Carrick 6; Scholes 6; Giggs 7; Solskjaer 5; Larsson 6.

Man of the match: Rooney

Arsenal v United: A review

The defeat to Arsenal is disappointing but nothing more, unless United allow it to be. I expect United to react positively to only their third defeat of the season by firstly, beating Portsmouth in the FA Cup and then by taking the 3 points against Watford at Old Trafford. One concern that once again raised its head on Sunday was United’s willingness to replace big players in games if they are tiring.

The reason for this comment is partly a reaction to Wenger’s alleged instruction to his team that United tire during the course of a game. And to those fans wishing to dismiss this idea immediately as nonsense, I would ask you to ignore where the message came from and think about it for a moment. Perhaps look back to the United v Chelsea game this season, a game which saw United really attack Chelsea early on and then, in the last 20 minutes, saw key players begin to tire, as they did against Arsenal on Sunday.

Utilising substitutes is part of the game. On Sunday, I believe United should have replaced Giggs with Park. I also believe Fletcher should have replaced Scholes, with an instruction to get stuck into the best player on the pitch on Sunday, namely, Fabregas. Bringing on Heinze was not a bad decision as such, but to do so at the expense of Ronaldo - who was capable of hitting Arsenal on the break – was curious. It was perhaps too trusting for United to rely on those players they tend always to rely on. I say too trusting because you need energy as well as experience to ensure you impact on a game for 90 minutes, particularly when facing a team as young and as attack minded as Arsenal. When I saw United backing off, I began to get concerned. However, if it had not been for two good finishes, we would all be singing United’s praises, so I accept the line is a thin one. And the best time to judge is at the end of the season.

Therefore this article is certainly not a comment on Fergie – it never would be - but instead seeks to explore the question that surrounds the reasons for United not trusting in substitutes such as Park and Fletcher during these pressurised moments.

United are famous for making changes late on (think Solskjaer) when needing to get back into a game but we are less remembered for making the right changes to close a game out. It was right for Scholes and Giggs to start the game – of course it was - but was it sensible for them to play the whole 90 minutes when younger players could have been used to chase down the ball and opposition? We will of course never know, but changes to the midfield may have helped to take some pressure off the defence. I believe Fergie finds it too hard to not rely on the same players - a loyalty which has brought more success than problems but knows that come the summer his hand will be forced. United need to reinforce by bringing in players that are good enough to take some of the responsibility off Scholes, Giggs and Neville. That is the reason for United's dogged pursuit of Hargreaves. It may be the reason for United's previous interest in Franck Ribery and could be why Bardsley has been sent on loan to Aston Villa till the summer. Only Fergie knows. Till then we will continue to see Scholes, Giggs and Neville used in the same way, as Fletcher and Park - as good as they are - are not yet big game players.

Therefore, I think Fergie will settle for the odd result, as experienced on Sunday. I also think he knows United are capable of winning the title this season and accepts that the experience, craft and will to win that Scholes, Giggs, Neville etc bring to the team outweigh the downsides associated with these player’s ages. And right here, right now, he is right to. As United's best chance of winning the Premiership, since 2002/03, is now. And despite Sunday's defeat and despite what some people may think, United are still very well placed to win the Premiership this season.

So we can thank Liverpool for beating Chelsea and we must thank Fergie for ensuring that United remain six points clear. And we owe Arsenal and Wenger a response too, but lets do that in May.

Arsenal v United – A preview

There is only one Premiership team that I look at and think: this team is capable of playing better football than United. That team is Arsenal. For that reason, this fixture is always – since Wenger started managing Arsenal - an interesting and exciting match-up. Gone are the days when Arsenal's attitude to defending was mocked in Monty Python sketches.

Make no mistake about it Arsenal are back to playing their best football and look –worryingly enough – like they are about to go on a run this season. A run, I believe, they will continue into next season and result in them winning the Premiership title. I also feel that Wenger’s approach to bringing in, and trusting in, young players needs to be matched at Old Trafford. Put simply, United need more Ronaldos, more Rooneys. United need the best young players coming to Old Trafford - players such as Ribery, Richards, Babel, Huntelaar, Gourcoff, Navas, Dos Santos and Gago to name just a few.

When Wenger singed Cesc Fabregas most other people did not know – and I include myself – what a gem he had found. Interestingly, Cesc has said spoken of his admiration for Paul Scholes, describing his as player ‘you want to emulate’. But if you were to ask any of the 70,000 + of the United faithful about Cesc you will hear nothing but high praise. And in the voices of those supporters - if we are being honest – you will hear more than a hint of jealousy. To see these two players go toe to toe is a football feast that any fan should cherish.

In my opinion, this Sunday will see one of Manchester United’s best ever central midfield players go up against one of Arsenal’s most creative central midfield players ever – and that at the age of 19. But don’t let the attention of just one young player control all your thoughts, as United certainly have two of their own. Both Rooney and Ronaldo have more than enough ability to create a victory that would see Arsenal lose for the first time at the Emirates. But while Sky’s cameras will likely zoom in on this pair I sense the key to a United victory lies in the performance of the midfield pairing. Lets be clear, United must play Carrick and Scholes in the middle and not use O’Shea as they did at OT. Possession of the ball will provide for the forwards but also take the pressure of our defenders. This is also an important game for Giggs. He will be up against a quick full back and will need to be as smart on the ball as he was once fast. He will need to cross when in a good position and must look to cut inside to change the angle of running and open up more opportunities for the strikers. Otherwise, the energy of Park must be considered. In defence, Ferdinand and Vidic must remain central and must not get pulled out of position by Henry or Adebayor and exposed for pace. This may mean a less adventurous role for Neville and Evra. And may mean a start for Heinze, but I doubt it.

The gap may be 15 points in the table but in my view you can’t put a piece of paper between these sides in terms of ability and talent. Both are more than capable of winning, and with Arsenal at home they must be considered favourites. After all, Henry is looking sharp and we know what that can mean. But talking of forwards, United possess a player whose sheer presence will remind Arsenal of losing the Champions League final – and I expect, if the game is tight, Fergie will use that player in an effort to ensure United have the Lars-t laugh.

Probable team: Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Saha.

Subs from: Kuszczak, Brown, Heinze, Silvestre, Smith, Richardson, Fangzhou, Solskjaer, Larsson, O’Shea, Fletcher

Prediction: 2-1 to Arsenal that will see a disappointing end to a good month for United

Mid term report

Van der Saar: A very impressive campaign so far and has rightly been rewarded with an extension to his contract. 8.5/10

Kuszczak: Only a couple of appearances this season but has looked useful and must not be unhappy with learning from Van der Saar. 5/10

Neville: Committed captain, fantastic fullback. Has got the balance spot on this term between going forward and marking his man. His crossing has been excellent but injuries stop him from getting a higher mark. 8/10

Evra: Has looked a solid signing this season, particularly going forward where he has arguably been better than Heinze. 7/10

Heinze: Has just got back from injury but is nearly back to his best. Occasionally looks vulnerable when up against pace but rightly deserves a starting place 7/10

Vidic: What a season so far. Very committed, strong in the air, strong in the tackle and a danger from set pieces at the other end. 8.5/10

Ferdinand: Has been in impressive form this season. His reading of the game continues to make him look graceful even when under pressure. His partnership with Vida is the best I have seen for some years. 8.5/10

Silvestre: Who? The guy has done nothing wrong but doesn’t have a prayer of having a big impact on this side this season. Hopefully, he will be content to play cup games and a few league games as he still has experience to offer the team. 4/10

Brown: His future suddenly looks less certain but he is still 3rd choice centre back and with his injury record, that may just be as good as it will ever get at United. He is a very good defender and well worth having around. 5/10


Scholes: Majestic on the ball despite now playing a little deeper. He makes everything tick and is a huge loss when not playing. It would be nice to see him get forward a little more and score more. 8.5/10

Carrick: Has fitted in well. Has brought a calmness to our play and has ensured possession of the ball with clever, quick and incisive passing. Good at breaking down attacks with minimum fuss, as shown against Chelsea this season. Needs to move quicker to receive the ball in order to get more time on it. 7.5/10

Fletcher: He has won over more of the crowd with his combative and committed displays. No longer seen as a poor replacement. Instead he is being seen as the useful squad player he is. 6.5/10

Giggs: Had a wonderful start to the season with some magical displays for both club and country. He did so well the Brazilians even started talking about him. His form has dropped a little recently but you sense the number of games has caught up with him a bit. Will benefit from having Park around. 8/10

Ronaldo: Has been absolutely fantastic and my player of the season so far, despite Rooney making it close. He has played more games, had to deal with the events of the summer and has produced exhilarating and more mature displays than ever before. 9/10

Park: It has been largely a season on the treatment table so far but expect him to be starting sooner rather than later, in order to keep Giggs fresh. 4/10

Richardson: He has the talent but he has repeatedly failed to deliver. The pressure of playing for United seems to be getting to him. The crowd have been on his back and as a result of his poor performances he has been playing reserve football. He still needs time, but will he get it? 4/10

O’Shea: The ‘John’ of all trades has put United first and as a result must be commended. He is always good but never better than that. I still think his best position is at full back. With Hargreaves potentially on the way and with Neville in need of some competition we may see him revert to fullback next season. 6.5/10

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Rooney: The boy wonder has been back to his best in recent weeks. And even when he isn’t at his best he is still head and shoulders above most. It has just been a pleasure to watch him and Ronaldo in action. We are watching one of the best there has been. 9/10

Saha: The goal against Chelsea showed the maturity and ability of the player. After the penalty-miss against Celtic he was under pressure. He answered it. Firstly with his left foot and secondly with a Gaelic shrug. This is his best season. 8/10

Solskjaer: He is just back (again). His experience at stealing a goal at crucial times could be significant this season. The best substitute the club has ever had. 7/10

Smith: Breaking his leg was a significant injury, mainly because the picture has changed now he is back. He has looked too slow but with the speed training he is on he may just come back to help lead the line in the FA Cup. 4/10

West Ham 1 v United 0

We failed to do what was needed. It is a simple as that. We may have ‘deserved a point’ but football is all about taking your chances. Zamora missed a clear chance to put the Hammers ahead but was foiled by a brilliant block from Van der Saar. Ronaldo was later denied by a wonderful save when put through on goal, after a slick pass from Saha. Saha looked lively all game and had several smart shots saved by the impressive Robert Green.

United played some okay stuff but were constantly boxed in by a well-organised West Ham side. West Ham had only 27% possession when they scored, so we were right to be frustrated. Fergie got it spot on about taking our chances but there was also a great deal of carelessness in our approach play too. Too often simple passes went astray. Too often shots on goal were forced from outside the area rather than being good chances. When that happens the keeper always has a better chance.

The result was partly due to Carrick and Scholes failing to break the midfield line, which would have allowed the forward players to receive the ball in more dangerous areas. Giggs was too often careless in possession and wasted a great chance by blazing it high and over. Rooney was well marshalled and looked frustrated. In general, West Ham got their tactics spot on and had a nice balance

The result is a set back but nothing more. It is, like the defeat to Arsenal, all about how we respond. If we put together another run like the one we have just been on then Chelsea really do have some competition.

United v City - A preview

Seeing Joey Barton play at Manchester United is nothing new but I don’t think it will be all that long before the talk of him playing at OT more regularly begins to fill the back pages. This season has once again shown us that he is a quality player, a player still in development and a player that needs to be improved further. However, he is capable of playing Champions League football and that means a move to one of the top four clubs is on the cards despite a new contract with Man City. Stuart Pearce is doing a decent enough job with City but without wishing to be disrespectful Pearce does not have the experience in management to take Barton any further as a player than one that stands out in a Manchester City side. To reach that next level he needs a new challenge under new management. I would welcome him at Old Trafford. I think everyone would welcome him, as they would Micah Richards. Another player so obviously destined for bigger things, although there is no reason for him to rush down a Chelsea sized cul-de-sac like Wright-Phillips. Successor for Gary Neville anyone?

Looking to the game, this is a double opportunity for United. It represents a chance for United to put one over on their local rivals and also go 9 points clear off Chelsea in time for us all to sit back and watch Chelsea take on Arsenal on Sunday. However, City should not to be ignored. If United get past Benfica on Wednesday night, I expect a relatively full strength side to ensure United put in a performance. And as good as Nicky Weaver has been this season, I still think they miss David James when away from home.

Probable Team: Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Brown, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Saha

Subs from: Kuszczak, Heinze, O’Shea, Richardson, Solskjaer, Silvestre, Fletcher

Prediction: 3-1

United v Benfica

This is a massive fixture for United. The result is massively important to the players, the manager, the club and the moneymen. Being Manchester United demands Champions League football next year. It really is as simple as that. Too wretched results from United’s two last outings at Celtic and FC Copenhagen have meant this fixture becomes a nail-biter for fans. In many ways it is vintage United. The good news is that as opposed to this time last year, United play at Old Trafford where a sell out gate should help make the atmosphere another great European evening at the Theatre of Dreams.

United’s confidence is high and I am sure Fergie will have the dressing room ready. Benfica have a number of good players and must be not be given too much time to settle and set their own tempo. Simao must be watched, as he remains their main danger man.

Probable Team:
Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Heinze, Ronaldo, Carrick, Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Saha

Subs from: Kuszczak, Brown, Silvestre, Evra, Fletcher, Richardson, Smith

Prediction: 2-0

Middlesbrough 1 v United 2

The pressure on Manchester United is building. With every fixture from now on in, there is a requirement to get the three points to stay ahead of the rest of the league and send out a message to Chelsea. The response to the pressure will probably determine the destiny of the domestic title but will also determine certain player’s careers. So far the pressure is bringing out the best in the players.

Under the guidance of Fergie the side is looking well balanced and the necessary appetite appears to have returned. Last season, the humiliation of a 4-1 defeat at the Riverside led to Roy Keane famously playing the pundit. This season, after United’s deserved 2-1 victory at the Riverside there is to be no post mortem. Put simply it is not needed.

The game saw the familiar line-up, with the only change being Fletcher coming in for Carrick. Central midfield is Fletchers’ best position and his favoured position. He was industrious throughout and acted as a willing worker alongside the majestic Paul Scholes. Cristiano will be remembered for the drama in the penalty area that led to Saha giving United the lead from the spot. There was no contact from Schwarzer on Ronaldo but the winger knew the keeper had over-committed and that contact would result in a spot-kick. He was already off balance when Schwarzer removed his hand and went down as a result. In my view, the attacker has got his team the penalty. Rightly or wrongly he has done the keeper . He isn’t the first and he sure as hell won’t be the last. Middlesbrough were rightly aggrieved and if the decision had gone the other way, so would the United contingent.

The penalty was not the turning point of the game. United missed a number of opportunities to kill the game off. In a season that has seen United now score 18 goals away from home, it seems odd to say that chances must be taken, but as the pressure grows so does the need to be ruthless. It is at this time that United may just begin to miss the killer instinct of a Van Nistlerooy. However, Saha and Rooney are playing well and the goals continue to be shared around the team.

Middlesbrough found a way back into the game from some fine work from Stewart Downing. It was his intelligent cross that led to James Morrison finishing to give the home side the belief that they could once again take points from this fixture. Middlesbrough’s hopes were dashed when two minutes after their equaliser Fletcher connected well with Giggs’ cross to head United in front. Game over.

With an important game coming up against Benfica on Wednesday, United did well to concentrate on ensuring the three points from a fixture that has seen Chelsea, Liverpool and Everton all drop at least 2 points. Perhaps this is why Gary Neville celebrated by punching the air. However, with the pressure yet to reach truly examining levels this result for United was only another important step in a long race to be the best team in the Premiership.

Player ratings:

Van der Saar 6/10
Neville 6/10
Ferdinand 7/10
Vidic 8/10
Heinze 7/10
Ronaldo 7/10
Fletcher 7/10
Scholes 8/10
Giggs 7/10
Rooney 7/10
Saha 8/10

Man of the match – Paul Scholes

Middlesbrough v United - A preview

This season Middlesbrough have won 4, drawn 1 and lost 2 at the Riverside this season. They have beaten Chelsea, West Ham, Everton and Newcastle, drawn with Liverpool and lost to Blackburn and got battered by Portsmouth.

They face a United team that has won 6, drawn 1 but have not lost on its travels, has scored 16 goals and conceded only 4. The memory of Middlesbrough’s 4-1 victory over United last term is still yet to be erased. I expect it to be erased tomorrow evening.

We can expect Middlesbrough to be solid but United, at their best, should have too much in attack for them.

Fergie may continue to have one eye on Wednesday but I expect to see Scholes and Saha return at the very least. Vidic will need to be 100% for Fergie to throw him in, so we may see Silvestre keep his place. Heinze could come back in for Evra but it is hard to chose one over the other right now. He may decide to hold Giggs back again but I hope he doesn’t as Richardson once again failed to really convince.

Probable team: Van der Saar, Neville, Ferdinand, Vidic, Heinze, Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Giggs, Rooney, Saha

Subs from: Kuszczak, Silvestre, Fletcher, Richardson, Evra

Prediction: 0-2

United 3 v Everton 0

You have to give credit to Sir Alex Ferguson for continuing to get it right on nights like this. Sensing that Everton were not at their strongest and knowing that the now vital game against Benfica is around the corner Fergie made 5 changes to the side that lined up against Chelsea. Out went Scholes, Heinze, Vidic, Giggs and Saha and in came, Richardson, Fletcher, O’Shea, Evra and Silvestre. With so many changes it was not surprising that the team failed to find its rhythm and relied on an inspirational finish from Ronaldo from 20 yards to give United the edge. Once the goal went you could sense United were comfortable, particularly as the defence never looked like conceding.

The game saw the in-form Patrice Evra score his first goal for the club with a clinical finish. A finish he has obviously always had since he started out in football career as a striker. United’s goal difference was improved further when John O’Shea, who had a steady game in the centre of midfield, steered the ball past Richard Wright with a clever finish from Evra’s cross.

The loudest cheer of the night came when Rooney, having been barracked all evening by the travelling Everton fans finally responded by kissing his badge in front of them. The roar from the Old Trafford faithful was instant as much as it was incredible, given Rooney’s long quoted statement of ‘once a blue, always a blue’. I suspect that his love of Everton is still very strong but he clearly dislikes being made a hate figure by the very fans that used to chant his name with such affection.

Rooney saved some of his energy for football. One very memorable moment coming when he nutmegged Carsley and then Stubbs only to ruin this sublime improvisation with a wild swing that swerved horribly wide of Richard Wright’s goal.

Phil Neville on his return certainly left his mark on a few United players, as if to demonstrate his commitment again to his new team. He was as committed and tenacious as ever and provoked a reaction from Rooney after one mistimed and hard challenge that left the England striker on the ground for some time. I suspect Fergie has witnessed it many times before at the Carrington Ground and he looked on like a man seeing two of his offspring having a spat.

It ended with three points for United after two years of draws in this fixture. Once again an improvement for United this term. Next up Middlesbrough away and the chance to open up a precious gap over Chelsea before returning to European football.

Player Ratings:
Van der Saar – 6/10
Neville – 6/10
Ferdinand – 6/10
Silvestre – 6/10
Evra – 7/10
Fletcher 6/10
Carrick 6/10
O’Shea 6/10
Richardson 5/10
Ronaldo 6/10
Rooney 7/10

United v Everton – A preview

For the last two seasons this game has ended in draws and Everton are more than capable of continuing that sequence tonight. Everton’s recent trip to Charlton was less than impressive and absence of Johnson, Cahill and Howard tonight is a big blow. But under Moyes you always know that Everton will give a good account of themselves. Indeed, their injuries and suspensions may actually galvanise them to produce a dogged performance that will test United over the 90 minutes. Even without Andrew Johnson they still pose a threat, particularly in McFadden, Arteta and Vaughan. United found out at Parkhead that a game can be turned on one freekick and must not allow Arteta to have a clear sight on goal. That boy can finish.

For United, the news is all about Saha and Ronaldo being doubts after picking up knocks against Chelsea. It is no secret that the lack of fitness and form of Smith, the injury to Solskjaer and the fact that Rossi is currently keeping Newcastle’s bench warm means United are seriously lacking alternatives for Saha, so hopefully he is okay to start. If not Giggs could be pushed up to support an eager Wayne Rooney. And with a knock to Ronaldo, the absence of Park is once again felt. If Ronaldo fails to start, I expect to see Darren Fletcher given the nod.

There is some good news in that both Solskjaer and Park are now back in training and should see some action over the festive period. I find it strange that Rossi has not been recalled given the issue with Smith. He is by no means the finished article but he provides a good option for United right now.

Lastly, Phil Neville will lead out Everton tonight and I hope he gets the warm welcome he genuinely deserves from Old Trafford.

Probable Team: Van der Saar, Neville; Ferdinand, Vidic, Heinze, Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Giggs, Rooney, Saha.

Subs from: Kuszczak; O’Shea, Evra, Fletcher, Silvestre

Prediction: 1-0 (Scholes)

United 1 v Chelsea 1

When the dusts settles from this fixture it is clear to me that it is Manchester United that will be the happier. Yes there was an opportunity for United to make a statement and to extend the gap to six points but only those pushing for TV ratings would not see that this ‘opportunity’ actually exists with every fixture played. It is worth noting that Chelsea has arguably the tougher of the coming fixtures. They face a tough and examining fixture against Bolton tonight and then a mouth-watering tie against Arsenal. For me, United will only miss their chance if they do not follow up the result on Sunday by seeing off Everton and then Middlesbrough this week.

United clearly had the better of the first half. United suffocated Chelsea in key areas and looked the better team going forward, with Ronaldo v Cole the most intriguing match-up. The Portuguese flyer was well watched by Cole but most of the time he had at least two players trying to stop him. It was Ronaldo who put in the first clear effort on goal with a well-struck freekick that forced Cudicini to turn the ball over the bar. The crowd were lifted. But more was to follow, as Carrick’s sliding interception was soon at Giggsy’s feet. He looked up and made delivered a decisive pass to Rooney who span inside looked up and delivered an inch perfect pass to the feet of Saha, leaving Carvalhio to turn away and provide a foot of space that invited the shot. Saha coolly moved the ball onto his left foot, looked up and fired a bending shot along the floor in off the post past the diving Cudicini. United had their breakthrough and the goal they deserved. Lampard was not allowed to drop off and receive the ball and Makelele, normally so noticeable, was neither effective in preventing attacks or in building them for Chelsea. Chelsea were left to shoot from long range, with Geremi’s drive from right back being the only memorable shot on target. Ferdinand and Vidic manfully handled Drogba and Shevchenko.

Chelsea came out in the second half and began to assert them influence on the game. The substitution of Geremi for Robben stating their intent, although Robben’s influence on the game was arguably summed up by Mourinho berating him for a cross field ball that failed to meet its target by some distance. Instead it was the powerhouse that is Michael Essien playing now at right back that drove forward into the space created from Giggs moving more centrally that helped Chelsea get back into the game. His crossing, running and sheer determination resulting in a cross that was deflected out for a corner. Lampard curled the ball into the area and Carvalho rose an inch higher that Heinze to direct a powerful header goal-bound, which Saha tried to head clear. In doing so, the ball came off the underside of the bar and prevented Van der Saar from attempting to save the situation. In fairness, Chelsea’s possession against a flagging United deserved an equaliser. United continued to create chances that suggested a second goal. Heinze put in a great cross that was taken on the chest by Ronaldo but the ball ran just the wrong side of the waiting Saha. When the whistle finally came it was clear that the race for the title is still very much on for both clubs.

Ratings:
Van der Saar – 7/10
Neville – 7/10
Ferdinand – 8/10
Vidic - 8/10
Heinze – 7/10
Ronaldo – 8/10
Carrick – 8/10
Scholes – 7/10
Giggs – 7/10
Rooney – 7/10
Saha – 7/10