Sep 23
Manchester United vs Wolves: Preview
I’m sure many of us are still riding high on the peak of cloud nine following the last gasp events of Sunday afternoon and who in their right mind can blame us! In fairness, you could even be forgiven for allowing this evening’s fixture against Wolves to have slipped the mind and altogether dipped off the radar.
Although however seriously United fans may or may not be taking the League Cup this season, you can bet your bottom dollar that the side Sir Alex decides to pick will be hell bent on putting on an impressive performance.
At the end of the day, as League Cup winners last season, the lads certainly have a trophy to defend and you would like to think that they will approach this task with a certain degree of gusto and determination. OK so lifting the League Cup clearly won’t be the pinnacle moment of any of these player’s careers but this competition does present the opportunity for fringe players and youthful exuberance to stake a claim.
Ferguson will undoubtedly want to win the game and his team sheet should reflect that exact point. It is between the sticks that I believe the United boss will have his toughest decision to make with Edwin van der Sar still crocked. Does Fergie opt to continue with Foster despite his somewhat calamitous performance against City in a drastic attempt to restore some confidence? On the other hand is it time the somewhat forgotten man amongst the goalkeeping ranks, Tomasz Kuszczak, was given a chance without the pressure of Premier League points being at stake?
Tonight should mark the return of Wes Brown back into the starting eleven and if Gary Neville gets the nod at right-back, Brown will likely partner Rio Ferdinand (as punishment for his mistake to continue his comeback from injury) in the centre of defence. Patrice Evra should be afforded the night off having played in every competitive game thus far this season so young Fabio da Silva could come in as a direct replacement at left-back.
In midfield Nani should take centre stage on the left wing with Danny Welbeck possibly lining up on the right-hand-side. Darron Gibson will be desperate for a start in the middle of midfield alongside Michael Carrick who will see tonight’s proceedings as the perfect chance to get his season up and running with a polished performance.
After his heroics on the weekend, Michael Owen will be rewarded with a start (although you would think that was part of the plan whether he scored on Sunday or not) alongside Italian Federico Macheda. I’ll apologise now for a team that will no doubt prove to be 99% wrong!
So what have the respective manager’s had to say in the build up to this third round tie? Well Sir Alex has, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, issued a warning to Macheda and Welbeck, urging them to assume a club>country mentality.
“Welbeck has been called away so much with every single England squad [the Under-19s and Under-21s] that I don’t know if he is our player or their player,” Ferguson said as quoted by The Times.
“Macheda has been away with the Italy youth teams all the time and has hardly been with us, either. They are away that much with the youth squads, they have forgotten where their real place is.”
Meanwhile Mick McCarthy has indicated that his Wolves side will look to attack from the off at Old Trafford which will hopefully make for an entertaining encounter.
“We are not going there to sit back,” the Wolves boss is quoted as saying by The Independent.
“We will play 4-4-2 and have a game with them. I have never beaten United at Old Trafford in anything. We want to try to win the game.”
Even with a starting eleven stripped of the likes of Wayne Rooney and the ever impressive Darren Fletcher, a victory should be well within our grasp. Wolves will see this as the perfect opportunity to attempt to get on the front foot which could prove their immediate downfall and with a few United player’s keen to prove their worth, we should end up ultimately having too much for the newly promoted side.
Prediction: 3-1 United
Related items from Red Rants:
- ‘Fabio will be one of the greatest left backs for Manchester United’
- Betting Tip: United to roar back to form against Wolves
- Man Utd v Everton: Preview
- Manchester United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers: Preview
- Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester United: Preview
Tags: Game Preview
September 23rd, 2009 at 16:25
Really up for this one. I view the Carling Cup as like a midpoint between the reserves and the first team. Losing at this stage would be pretty bleak as it would limit first team opportunities for a good number of players.
Personally I hope Tosic gets a run out as well, but can’t work out a way that he’d fit unless Nani is rested, which wouldn’t make much sense. I’m so excited to have this on a big TV, because on the computer screen I find Carrick and Gibson appear to be the same person
I don’t think it’ll be easy, but we are at home and these kids should be well up for it. Best case a decent half time lead giving Fergie a chance to blood some real youngsters (King looks a talent). Let’s see what Mickey can do from the start, playing alongside a target man (who doesn’t pass much).
September 23rd, 2009 at 16:26
Is it fair to make youngster pick club and country? I can see post 25, but every kid dreams of playing for the senior national team, and it’s not fair to make them possibly risk losing out on that for the possibility of making our full first team.
September 23rd, 2009 at 16:36
Don’t know if anyone’s mentioned this but Macheda has a new number: 27. A certain King has taken #41 and Eikrem #42.
Link for new player numbers.
September 23rd, 2009 at 16:41
@Johnsom33: I suppose there should be a middle ground depending on the game and the level which they are playing at, if the under 21’s and a qualifier then they should play for their National side, if a friendly and they are not considered a starter or any lower, like the under 19’s, or the potential for first team football then they should choose the club and consider their long term future with the club.
September 23rd, 2009 at 17:04
@Beachryan: Beachy why can’t you work out how to play Nani and Tosic in the same team. Nani is a RIGHT footed player, and his position really is Rt wing, with Tosic on the left. Depends if SAF is playing wide men or not really. SAF was saying on MUTV press interviews, that Nani was playing well this season, and is more FOCUSED than ever. Nice to hear SAF say good things about Nani. Not before time, it is long overdue!
Wolves I saw play against Man City, and they were outstanding, and that was at Wastelans too. They were very unlucky not to get a result, and City had all their big guns out too. So they could pull a fast one on us tonight, if we don’t shape up.
September 23rd, 2009 at 17:38
@ Craig – I meant if Welbeck was also playing (ie how to fit Tosic into RR’s team above)
I love midweek match days
Is there a chance Rafael and Fabio will both play? If so I’d give 10-1 that they won’t both finish the game without being injured.
September 23rd, 2009 at 17:52
Yay! Kuszczak will play today! I hope that United will win! And PIG will show that he’s really good goalkeeper!
Man United vs Wolves – live streams
September 23rd, 2009 at 18:07
@Beachryan: Oh right, I see what you mean now
. Rafael hasn’t healed from his dislocated shoulder yet, so can’t see him playing. Besides I would like to take another look at Richie DeLaet in our first team!
September 23rd, 2009 at 18:14
I think Rafael is still injured, but I hope both Macheda and WEllbeck play. For you guys looking for Man Utd v Wolves streaming, here is a good link:
http://tv.indonewyork.com
September 23rd, 2009 at 18:44
hargo’s arriving back to the club (from the states) today, isn’t he? any news?
September 23rd, 2009 at 18:49
@bildani: Read somewhere today he starts light training again this week but its all just paper talk so until the manager confirms it its bollocks, hopefully though he may mention it after the game today.
September 23rd, 2009 at 18:51
@radzio: I’m sure that as a Pole, you’re unbiased.
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:21
I would like to see De Laet on the right and Fabio on the left. Neville’s a senior member of the squad and him starting this game blocks the progress of one of these two exciting young players.
And I predict a Gibbo goal tonight, from 30 yards out, top right corner
If he plays that is 
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:25
PIG
Neville
Evans
Brown
Fabio
Welbeck
Carrick
Gibson
Nani
Owen
Macheda
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:34
Was really hoping de laet would start….oh well come on old nev
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:39
@Dan: You got the subs bench confirmed yet mate, like Taehr i was really looking forward to a start for de laet, hopefully tho he can come on as a sub cos he looks a super talent. Glad we finally get to see macheda, welbeck, fabio and gibbo feature again.
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:45
Subs: Amos, Ferdinand, De Laet, Eikrem, Tosic, Valencia, King
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:48
Cristiano ronaldo – 5 apps, 7 goals.
Seems he has got his 07/08 boots on again.
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:50
Yeeah!!! My mates Josh and Magnus on the bench.
So fucking awesome for them, glad to see especially Josh being there. Hope he gets some playing time, he is a great talent. Come on Josh! 
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:52
@Dan: 5 of those goals have been set-plays… 2 penalties, 2 free-kicks(only lucky) and 1 header from a corner. Dont get me wrong, I want Ronny to do well! But I want Real to burn in hell as well… Got some really tough bets with my mates for this season.
Dont wanna reveal too much, but bottom line is that Im gonna suffer if Real or Juve win their League, and United end outside the top four… 
September 23rd, 2009 at 19:54
David Jones & Ebanks-Blake on the opposite side. I had great hopes for both those lads. And keep an eye out for Tom Heaton, starting against Chelsea.
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:30
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:31
@Dan: What the fuck was he doing!! Christ!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:32
machedas been sacrificed for mini vida!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:33
i hope all you fuckers are happy now we get to see delat
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:34
Fabios face there just made me sad…
Unlucky Rafael twin, but you really saved us there. That would have been a goal.
DE-LIGHT IS ON!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:35
That was immense by the boy Ritchie…
Best full back in the world in a few years time? 
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:37
Fucks sake Nani, what are you doing?
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:37
Shame, Macheda could have had a blinder. Still, let see if our youngsters can overcome adversity.
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:46
Whats up with comical defending being our trademark these days?
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:47
@edwin: love your optimism there mate
every disappointment a blessing, eh? 
We just have to hold possession and play a patient game if we are to see this out. Keep the ball and find gaps in their defense; when they have possession and we retrieve it in our half, go on a swift counter, simplz! 
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:48
@Footy4Eddy: Lol. That was a terrible shank from Neville.
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:49
Pig better theb foster? No fucking way!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:49
HT
Doing well with 10 men
But still
wtf was that Fabio mate!!
Fergie sort it out!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:50
@gator: Don’t be so bitter eh, not DeLaets fault that your little Brazillian friend did something bloody stupid
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:51
@Dan: Oshea better theb De Laet? No fooking way!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:52
@edwin: Ive seen worse… Im looking at you Rio!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:54
@Footy4Eddy: Errrr WTF you on about Eddi, Nani is the only one entertaining the crowd, and bringing the cheers from an otherwise dead feckin football game. After watching Arsenals kids last night, our kids are MILES BEHIND in technique and just about everything else! Ketstone cop defending again. Some poor fans have paid 41 quid to watch that shite.
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:56
@edwin: Our youngsters couldn’t overcome a flea on a backyard door. Did you ever see such a piss poor performance from a MF as this one tonight!
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:57
..in all honesty, I would have preferred if Owen came off, as opposed to Macheda, just for the fact that Macheda is a more ideal target man. However, Owen is more experienced and can carve out more ideal chances as we are not gonna see many now we are down to 10 men. We just need to control possession (lookin at u, cazza), pick out gaps and break effectively when we win the ball in our half (lookin at u, nani). Typical United, eh? always do it the hard way
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:58
@Craig Mc: I know mate, he has done well. But there was just one moment when he fucked around for no reason when he could just have swung a ball in…
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:58
@Craig Mc: pro tackle and light at that. worse has been done to nani already tonight with no foul or card but just not by a final man
September 23rd, 2009 at 20:59
@Gabriel: So its come down to thet eh Gabriel, a home game, very big crowd, and you want us to do counter attacking football – the mind boggles mate!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:00
Is Carrick ever going to play well again?
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:00
The most exciting thing about our central midfield pairing is trying to guess which ones which…. And that’s not very exciting!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:00
@gator: That’s because Nani has been the only threat thus far, and double marked again I see –
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:01
@Craig Mc: True, our midfield isnt exactly controlling the match, but we have had more of the ball than Wolves.
@Gabriel: How true…… even in the mickey mouse competitions!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:02
@Ryan:
, never a truer comment mate. Naither of them have done themselves any favours with regard to getting into the 1st team. Lets see if they improve any in the 2nd half 
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:03
City are losing 1-0 to fulham
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:04
@Footy4Eddy: Carrick doesn’t deserve his place back over Anderson on current form mate!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:04
@Duffstuff: lol
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:04
gibson>carrick
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:04
@Duffstuff: Long may it continue
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:06
@Craig Mc: He doesnt even deserve his place over Scholes or possbly also Oshea as a CM right now!
Its been a long time since Ive seen a midfielder so unmotviated and not focused. Rome has destroyed him… 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:06
@Craig Mc: how is what I said solely counter attacking football?? I also said we should control possession, so as not to tire ourselves out chasing for it against 11 men. I also said we should look for gaps in their defense and break effectively if and when we retrieve possession in our half. That’s not limiting it to counter attack, just efficiently playing against more men. C’mon mate, don’t you know I play FM09 on moderate and am very good at it…
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:06
@Duffstuff: Apparently it was a Zoltan Gera Screamer.
go on fulham.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:06
@Dan: My left nut>Carrick
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:08
Nani is as useful as a blind reader.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:08
Fecking hell
Moyes’ men are havin a party. Everton have 4
COME ON UNITED!!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:09
Valencia anyone?
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:10
@Dan: That comment was as useful as a backpass to Foster…
Come on mate, he has done well tonight. Not his fault the movement in the box is woeful, Carrick being shite and he has Neville(!) as his overlapper.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:10
@edwin: Josh King anyone?!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:13
@Footy4Eddy: LOL. He’ll come on and sore a hat trick.
Never realised how shite Carrick has become.
Damn shame
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:13
@Footy4Eddy: BULLSHIT! Nani keeps getting into those key areas, then he fails to get the ball in. Its fustrating to see the least.
And while im at it, PIG has shown me why i have more faith in foster then him. His kicks have been shifty and he has looked lost when corners have come in.
Just my opinion.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:14
@edwin: If Josh scored tonight im gonna mock him all year!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:17
See, this is a great example.
Welbeck had the ball there, he couldnt wasnt going near the byline, so he cuts inside, and picks out the appropriate pass.
Nani would have tried to go down the byline and gets tackled.
As i write this, nani wastes yet another cross.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:17
@Footy4Eddy: Lol. You just want that to happen dont you!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:18
Jeez, Nani is really takin the mick, isn’t he?? Doesn’t he realise we are down to 10 men?? Why does he keep losing possession or beta yet, dribblin himself into a cul de sac?? As his No.1 fan would say, the mind boggles
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:18
He big he’s bad he’s Wesley Brown
the hardest man in all the town
with orange hair beware
come and have a go if you dare
love it.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:23
@edwin: Of cource!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:24
@Gabriel: All of this when he could show us all that he really is the business.
GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAALLL!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:25
@Dan: Mate… Please try to notice one thing. There are NO FUCKING STRIKERS in the box!
Who the fuck is he supposed to aim at?
And as we speak… DAAAAAAAAAANNNNY WEEEELBECKKK!!!!
I just love that lad, Manchester true and through. 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:25
welly>park
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:25
@Dan: His kicks have been shifty and he has looked lost when corners have come in.
Even if you replaced PIG with Foster you wouldn’t find this sentence out of place. Says a lot about our back up keepers. Hell, even EVDS has been shifty last season, and not exactly inspiring in confidence.
Bottomline: our ‘keepers aren’t the best in the world. Somehow our team manages to motor along despite that, which is amazing.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:25
WELBECK MA BRUVA!!!!
what a move!!!!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:27
Here comes Valencia!
well done Mickey!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:27
I just love Danny, he is just the type of players we want to see come through in this team. Manchester United born and bred, local lad with an exeptional talent.
Go on Danny!
What the fuck is Pig doing?
Foster<PIG? 
Dont fuck with me…
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:28
@Footy4Eddy: Eddy, rubbish.
He has been dilly dallying on the ball all night, there have been players in the box waiting but nothing.
Fact is, tonight, hes been pants to say the least.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:28
@gator: Danny>Berbatov
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:30
@Footy4Eddy: Cant wait until I get back between the sticks at OT!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:31
Wonderful play by Owen and Welbeck!!
See, that’s experience from Owen showing there. Carved out a lovely chance for Welbeck and the boy finished it beautifully. 
Now, we put Welbeck in the midddle, Nani and Valencia on the wings and we press them and play on the counter, yes Craig, on the counter. 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:33
@Dan: Who? Micky Owen?
Shortest striker in the Premier League mate, and Welbeck has stuck to the wing all night besides for the goal. Carrick is the least confident player in England at the moment, and Gibsons shot have been waaaaaay off tonight. Who else have been in the box, please tell me? 
We all know Nani is dilly-dally, but its not mostly hs fault that he has nobody to aim at in the middle tonight… Even Wazza can score on his head these days!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:34
@edwin:
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:35
Fucks sake Fergie, bring Josh on for Carrick!!!
Im gonna love you for it!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:37
Wes Brown>Ronaldnho
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:37
Brown has been immense!!! saved our asses quite a few times, especially from mistakes by Evans. Hope he really stays injury free this season, we might need that experience he definitely has in loads. Btw, did anyone see Nani fiddling with his mouthpiece??
That’s the first time i’ve seen a fottballer use one 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:39
@Footy4Eddy: id rather have both on the field
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:39
Josh is gonna come on!!!
Hahahahahahahahahahaha
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:40
@Footy4Eddy: Look!
Here comes Josh King!!!
Well done Danny! *Claps*
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:40
Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey, way to go Joshy boy!
This is just so fucking immense! 
If he scores Im gonna die laughing! 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:41
@Footy4Eddy: Bet you he’s gona score!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:42
@Gabriel: That would be amazing!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:42
@Footy4Eddy: King wins a freekick…..
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:43
@Footy4Eddy: Heads it clear from Wolves corner……….
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:45
@edwin: Scores 4 goals inside 5 minutes…
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:45
King= Next Ronaldo!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:47
@Footy4Eddy: King comes close!!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:47
Josh is imnense!!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:50
@Footy4Eddy: could have had two goals already!!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:52
wow shot goes out for a throw way to go de lat
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:52
@edwin: I know!
Cant believe I used to play with him outside my house. I feel so fucking proud! 
Way to go Joshy! 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:52
To be fair, king didnt look out of place at all. I personally didnt think him and eikrim were ready for the carling cup yet. King proved me wrong.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:53
FT
won with 10 men
Great finish Danny
King was immense.
I have a chance of going to the next Carling cup game at OT!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:55
Its gone into extra time at wastelands……….
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:58
@Gabriel:
Was that not an energy snack passed to him by Valencia?!
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:59
Wooohoooooo, Josh plaed! Just so fucking immense!
My former neighbour playing at Old Trafford in front of millions watching on TV, even impressing and nearly scoring two goals! 
Hope he gets more chances, because he is an incredible talent. Who else but me expected the chopstick feint there? 
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:59
@gator: You are a DeLaet hater aren’t you, but the lad played very well, and didn’t do anything stupid – a la Fabio
. DeLaet ran his arse off with the rest of the defence – so deserves praise that lad. All our shooting tonight bar the odd Gibson one, and Welbeck goal was more suited to rugby. They were playing 10 men though, so in the circumstances they did ok. Vintage stuff – so far off it that the crowd had to entertain themselves. Lot of tired players out there 2nd half. Shows the winning mentality though, we are hard to beat even down to 10 men.
September 23rd, 2009 at 21:59
My oberservations.
Nanis end product was not up to scratch to say the least.
Welbeck is a striker fergie, play him there.
King is immense
If we had a defence of De laet Vidic Vidic De laet, it would be the best defence in the world
Carrick can forget about south africa
Gibson is better then carrick right now.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:01
Oh yeah, and we are through to the next round!
Nice goal from Danny, bring them on I say! 
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:01
@Footy4Eddy: Well, he certainly impressed, and Im sure Im not the only one who wants to see him play more first team football.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:03
@Dan: Agreed on all points.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:04
@Ryan: was it?? was watchin on an internet stream and it looked like a mouthpiece to me
was just weird, thats all. 
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:06
@Footy4Eddy: I believe it was Mickey Owen who played the one two with Welbeck for his goal wasn’t it? If I am right, Mickey has saved our arses in last two games
I goal and 1 assist 
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:10
@edwin: easy man!! He came on simply to bring pace and energy to our frontline. Welbeck had tired out and we needed someone with pace and energy to burn to give them headache at the back so they wouldn’t just put 10 men in our half attacking us. Well played by Fergie I have to say, plus the boy did good but first team? He’s way off man. just ma opinion
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:13
STOP EVERYTHING! HOLD YOUR HORSES! If you are doing something, STOP and read.
Put this match out your minds lads, its not important in the grand scheme of things, because hes back lads, hes back.
Who you ask? The one whos looks have been known to stop men and women in their tracks. The man whos smell has gotten all men horney.
The man whos curley hair is wanted by all. Yes, thats right, Owen Hargreaves AKA the next best thing to god, has returned
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/09/09/23/SOCCER_Man_Utd_Hargreaves.html
Life will soon be complete- when bionicgreaves returns.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:13
To all you Nani haters – don’t get at him because I have had a go at your little love boys tonight. Apart from that goal, the artistry of which was down to Mickey Owen laying it on a plate for Welbeck – Welbeck did fuck all else tonight. Same goes for Macheda and Fabio. Josh King doesn’t look bad though. Blame Nani again – why not – when nobody except our defence and little Mickey played well tonight. So two finger salute to you all
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:17
@Gabriel: Welbeck didn’t do anything to be tired out. WTF running did he do. Apart from the goal he contributed NOTHING! Sorry but anyone who thinks otherwise is in denial. Gibson ran his arse off in the 2nd half – gotta give that to the lad, mainly because Carrick was not in the game, and when he was he was losing possession.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:19
@Craig Mc: He did more then nani.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:21
@Craig Mc: Welbeck played left wing mate which isn’t his position and to be fair to the lad but he scored I am still a sceptic about him though I must say and for me he should have gone out on loan for more game time.
Gibbo was great though, I do have a lot of hope in him to make it.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:21
@Craig Mc: Hes not being bloody blamed, we are talking about how frustrating he is. And he undoubtedly is. He gets into the right positions, and you just want him to put the ball into the box, and he doesnt. He just dilly dallys and loses possession.
He did this all night.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:25
King was good, but immense?
dont hope on the bandwagon too soon. i must admit he impressed me… energy, and confident shots.
but it was a “go out and try stuff” scenario… i do hope to see more of him tho… he looks promising… but on todays showing… immense he was not…
Nani headed ALL our attacks… but to no avail… hope he gets a better end product as the season progresses…
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:26
Wes Brown, what a player! And red Nev played well too. Our second string with 10 men beat a premiership team. Well done lads!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:26
Da@Dan: Its funny how you talk bout PIGs kicking when hes never been close to fucking up a packpass like ur mate benny. It was all smooth with the backpasses today no heart attacks like when foster has it.
@Red Ranter: Van de sar is still the second best keeper if not first in the league I think. Cech isnt as steady anymore. I would take Van de sar for another 4 years ahead of foster
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:27
@Dan: He was the only player who was double marked most of the night, that should tell you something. But it won’t because your a Nani knocker – but hey that’s your privilege. Like I said, he was the only one who was entertaining the crowd, and bringing cheers in a very drab otherwise 1st half. Anyone who isn’t biased and watches it back on TV will see that I speak the truth
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:27
@Craig Mc: mate, we needed pace/energy upfront to occupy their defenders and hence keep ‘em from piling all their players on us. This is football management 101. Welbeck wasn’t doing it, probably due to him playing on the wings all game, but a player with more energy was brought on to do that job and he did it well. Different horses, different courses etc. Same reason Micky Owen was brought off. Besides, when he was given an opportunity to score, he did with aplomb! The only real opportunity he had if I might add.
Carrick is another matter, something must be wrong with the lad. I’ve never seen a player’s form dip so much. I feel he’s so timid that Fergie’s hairdryer/doghouse treatment might be having the opposite effect on the lad. He probably needs a cuddle or something, maybe you could help him out there Craigy, eh?
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:28
@Wink: He looks promising, but too early to judge by a long way.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:28
@Taehr: You may well have a point there Taehr, my heart wasn’t in my mouth with the backpassing to the GK tonight.
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:30
oh on fabio….. the camera panned in on nev talking to fabio just as he was leaving the field… it wasnt a scolding… it was more like he was encouraging him, telling fabio to buck up and realise he took one for the team… i am sure nev was just being the big man and telling the boy to buck up…
honestly tho, fabio shoulda handled it better, but i reckon he took one for the team in an snap decision instance and made a poor choice…but it was still for the team…
(yes i know it just made the team have to run around with ten men for over an hour)
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:31
@Taehr: Tell me, how many back passes did he get today? How many does foster get on a regular bases? You need to get over yourself with your foster hate, its pathetic.
Would PIG have pulled off the van persie save? the rodellga save? the benitez save? Not likely, but you hate ben foster because someone who you think is more informed hates ben foster.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:33
@Craig Mc: Thats because it hardly happened. And even when it hardly happened, his kicks werent inspiring to say the least.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:33
@Stephen: yeah….. thats…. exactly what i was saying….
haha u ARE agreeing with me right? or did u mention that as a counter point?
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:34
@Craig Mc: In fairness mate Nani can be frustrating but wingers are by their nature, he is a talented player and will be an important player this season for us with his balls into the box and his trickery but he needs to make the right decisions at the right times but with games hopefully that will happen, Valencia for me is more of a worry seems out of his depth so far but will give the lad a chance.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:34
@Gabriel: Okay a little wager then Gabriel, I will watch the game back on MUTV and count the times Nani got passes and winning tackles on the wings, and into the box, and do the same with Welbeck – comparison eh? I know who will win out, and it won’t be Welbeck! Also the goal, would have been scored by Mickey, or Nani or anyone else who was put thru one on one. So don’t give me that ole chestnut mate! Nani’s attempt at goal the one chance he had he ballooned it admittedly. But he still got thru more work, with double marking on him than most. That’s what I saw, and I stick to it!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:36
@Stephen: Gibbo was good and he is definitely a box-to-box player. I reckon he should shoot less with his instep and put the his laces thru the ball. He always did that before but today he tended to use his instep more and the shots were just weak and easy for the keeper to collect. He seems confident and maybe a few sub appearances in some PL games might do him good. Carrick better watch out, he’s definitely falling down the pecking order…
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:36
@Wink: No mate agreeing with you, you can’t judge a player on four touches mate
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:37
@Stephen: Its the 1st under par game then that Nani has had Stephen. I think when you see the game back, you will notice the work he got thru. He did get the ball into the area, but none of our lot managed to get in on it.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:39
@Gabriel: Hope so pal, I really like the lad but his shooting looked more confident trying to caress the ball rather than leather it, for me he is getting better and taking more responsibility on and he seems to be a mix of Carrick and Hargo which can only be a good thing.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:41
@Dan: Get OVER YOURSELF Dan, you think your more informed, rather than others thinking it
.
And before you go off on one, I watch every reserve game and know the players equally as well as you!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:42
@Craig Mc: Mate I havn’t got time to re watch the game
, I havn’t even seen the derby game on TV yet never mind a league cup game 
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:43
@Craig Mc: mate, stop being so touchy! I never even mentioned Nani’s name in that post and you just had to bring him up. You know I know what ur like when it comes to lil’ man Nani, so why even bother?
Besides, Welbeck is a striker, not a winger. Everyone seems to recognize that apart from you mate. When he was in the box and received service, he scored! simplz! As far as i’m concerned, he did a good job. Nani on the other hand, a true winger, did not provide any string of quality service to the strikers! simplz!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:46
I’m not sure who makes me more nervous, Kuziack or Foster! Both good shot stoppers but that’s about it. Both decent back up keepers but not good enough to be first choice at the biggest club in the world.
I don’t hate either and would love for one of them to prove me wrong but I think there is more chance of Neville signing for Liverpool……
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:47
My match ratings, But I missed half of the first half so…
PIG – 7.5
Did ok. Good shot stopping, but still shifty on crosses. He was lucky to have a wolves attck made up of tools though.
Neville – 7.5
One dodgy clearance, but looked like the Nev of old.
Evans – 6.5
Looked rusty. Not bad but not good either.
Brown – 8
Defensive class, but some dangerous on the ball casualness. But did well.
Fabio – N/A, but I’d venture a 4, as that was braindead defending.
Welbeck – 7.5
In and out of the game… If he didn’t score, he would have played an average game.
Carrick – 5
Uninspired and dodgy. It is sad to see him play like this when we know of what he’s actually capable. But one thing is sure is that he needs an enforcer besides him to express himself fully.
Gibson – 7.5
Greedy goal hog! Anonymous in the first half, had some good sequences of play in the second. But still underwhelms me somehow!
Nani – 6.5
The good: He was concerned and involved in the game. THe bad: Terrible decision making.
Owen – 7.5
Runs here, runs there… Most of his offsides calls were level, but that’s the lot of Utd forwards. Good assist.
Macheda – N/A (personally)
Subs:
De Laet – 7
Started brightly when he came on, but faded later in the game.
Valencia – 6
Didn’t do much in his little time
King – 8
Showed good dispositions during his little time! One to watch for sure in the future.
….
Maybe King is less technical than Macheda, but a few reports going by that Macheda has gotten big-headed after last season’s explois might open him more prospects…
But quite a dull game in truth!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:48
@Dan: He did more than Nani
, I think when everyone watches the game back – they will see different. Like I said Mickey Owen made a couldnt miss goal on a plate for him. Speaking about Owen, he also got thru so much work tonight, no wonder some of our lads were knackered, they were doing the running for others who did piss all!
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:52
@Dan: To be fair Kuzczak got a few back passes tonight, but the Wolves players like they were on a stroll on mid-summer’s afternoon so he had ample time to play clean clearances.
Most people who’ve seen Kuzczak play more than the odd game know that he’s awful at clearances.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:53
@NicoQB: Pretty fair ratings there bro, but nobody calls 20 goal a season Lampard a goal hog, well bar me
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:54
@NicoQB: Rubbish ratings, complete Tosh mate
. My grandma could have done better 
. By the way Nico – I’ve had a few Ales with the rugby lads watching the game at my place tonight, so this stimulates the fighting mode in me 
. So try not to be offended, because I am not offending you deliberately mate. Others on here I might be 
. RedRanter will probably ban me from the blog when I am on the razzer (ale) 
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:56
@Ryan: All our GK’s give me a nervous breakdown Ryan
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:59
@Stephen: Well Stephen, tell that GF of yours to leave you alone for a bit then
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 22:59
Stephen – before I upset your future Missus, I meant fiancee
.
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:00
@Craig Mc: I wish, just got back from holiday to loads of work hastle
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:00
@Craig Mc:
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:00
I cannot believe we are debating the relative merits of Foster and PIG. Foster > PIG but both aren’t good enough and never will be to carry on the legacy of Schmeichel and EVDS.
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:03
@colver: Between the two we had Bosnich, Carroll and Howard lets not forget.
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:17
@Dan: Some1 more informed wtf u on about? I thought foster was shit when he got beaten in the champions league by a header against celtic. If my hate is pathetic ur ass kissing of him is worse. You say that PIGs kicking is shifty and he looks weak on set pieces. I dont remember us giving a goal away due to PIGs kicking?? do you? or even getting close? rather the ball is in the stands than at the feet of tevez. PIG isnt the best keeper but he is steady something foster is far from. At United we dont need someone who fucks up all the time. Hes made 4 errors already this season. 4! 2 in the CC..against arsenal and man city.. thats just too much and he will make more
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:19
@Craig Mc: Don’t worry I’m not one to be offended by commentors who are commenting while being on the piss!
Btw, I kinda expected your comments…
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:25
@Stephen: But Barthez was world class.
Bonkers, but world class.
Always thought he was the unlucky one who paid the consequences of some crap defending…
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:32
@Taehr: Once again, against Arsenal he was being hard on himself. The arshavin goal was a bloody screamer.
Against city he was poor but Ferdinand was no help. Rio was just as poor.
You should be the one knowing a bit more about our own goalies, Kuzczak has had a reputation for dodgy kicking long before Foster did. If anything Foster’s “supposedly” dodgy kicking is rather a novelty of sorts as his footwork was supposedly one of his strengths.
Calling Kuzczak steady is just ludicrous, He just had a good game against the worst attack I’ve seen against us for a long time, and he’s suddenly great?
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:45
@NicoQB:
September 23rd, 2009 at 23:51
@Dan: Ronaldo is a god and there is no denying it. Jeez I miss him bad.
September 24th, 2009 at 0:00
@NicoQB: Look, Fergie has even come out and criticized him on the Arshavin goal because he played it poorly and very slowly. He was caught sleeping and reacted poorly and then when he got there his weight distribution was so bad that the shot went right through his hands. When Fergie comes out and criticizes his keeper, you can bet your bottom dollar the lad is on borrowed time or on double secret probation.
September 24th, 2009 at 0:03
@NicoQB: Kuzczak may7 be a bit dodgy in his kicking when it regards location but he gets rid of the ball quicker and more efficiently than Foster. Foster dilly dally’s too much and is very indecisive not to mention a little slow upstairs. I feel a lot more comfortable with the Pole between the poles than with Foster.
September 24th, 2009 at 0:09
@NicoQB: When has Kuzczak not been steady? Name me a howler game he has had? Name me a game where he has made more than one major mistake? I can name half a dozen such contests for Foster. You are being harsh on Tomas just because of your own personal bias and preference for the English kid. Yes I am playing the race card here because you cannot back up a single solitary comment you have made with clear hard proof. The nerve to actually criticize Kuzczak when he has hardly played and hardly made the mistakes that Foster has made in just seven matches. Woefully unfair and wreaking of bias. Lets call things as they are. Kuzczak is not world class or even close to it but fundamentally he is a stronger keeper. He only has two weaknesses compared to the half dozen Foster has. Neither can kick a ball well and both are hesitant with high crosses. Other than that, I see no other weakness in Tomas’s game other than perhaps communicating with his back four But then again Foster speaks English and his back four have no idea what he’s doing nor do they look like they have any confidence in him. Today the back four seemed very composed and confident with PIG in goal. Enough said really.
September 24th, 2009 at 0:25
@Grognard: erm, I don’t think he was defending Foster. He was just pointing out that just because Kuszczak had a steady game doesn’t mean he begins to be hailed as our saviour.
I thought Nico actually was being fair on both our keepers, and if I recall right he doesn’t have any apparent bias towards Foster — so I think you played the race card on the wrong guy.
We all know Kuszczak is shit at clearances and dealing with crosses although Foster has better shot stopping ability. Both ‘keepers made their name with bottom of the table sides (Kuszczak with West Brom, and Foster with Watford) I think it’s ridiculous to be comparing both keepers because on current evidence I think they are both equally suspect.
September 24th, 2009 at 1:59
i always rated PIG over Foster who is just too eccentric for me..Kuszczak aside from that goal from the corner goal in the CL(for which he got murdered in the papers) has been unspectacular but a safer bet but it sad to see Carrick playing so sub-par when you know he is capable of so much more…i just still don’t get why Fergie persists with Neville even now
September 24th, 2009 at 2:01
Well my first reaction is about Nani.
What a shit performance!! I just don’t understand this guy and why, when handed the baton, he manages to drop it every time. He’s a fucking dufus of the first order.
He just proved to SAF every thing that he’s been questioning him about for the last 2 years. Poor decision making and poor final ball!!
In all honesty, and if I was SAF, I wouldn’t trust him to deliver my pizza, let alone an accurate cross into the middle!!
September 24th, 2009 at 2:16
@Grognard: I think PIG was much quicker to react than I’ve seen Foster do.
PIG is not the answer, but could be the answer to Ben Foster!!
September 24th, 2009 at 2:43
@colver: Well I think your statement there, is up for debate.
Each keeper has their problems, but it seems Foster’s are fatal.
I didn’t like the way PIG flapped at one cross, and his kicking does raise my heart rate a beat or two, but by and large he did assert himself on the defense and made a couple of quite good saves look easy.
On tonights showing PIG > Foster.
September 24th, 2009 at 4:10
RR – congrats on picking the team exactly!
September 24th, 2009 at 5:09
@Jim: I didn’t write the preview. But now that you say it, good job predicting the starting XI, Stephen Darwin.
September 24th, 2009 at 5:55
@Stephen: Hey bro… Any insider info about the team line up??? BTW, great job predicting the same team….
September 24th, 2009 at 6:02
@NicoQB: Too true, too true.
@Red Ranter: i also thought it was you and had a silent chuckle to myself when i saw the team line up. he jinxed his jinx by saying he would be 100% wrong in naming the team.
@Redrich: Pig is less strong physically. he couldnt get out from a wolves player’s blocking attention when the corner was taken…foster has not allowed himself to be boxed in yet… so i think foster is stronger physically too…
but i have given up on foster already
September 24th, 2009 at 6:32
Some news on OH….
http://www.newsnow.co.uk/A/372397841?-11193
Though the source is Tribal football…
)…..
I really hope at least once in lifetime they are reporting something which will turn out to be correct news bit.
I hope…. Fingers crossed..
September 24th, 2009 at 6:58
Didn’t get a chance to watch the game but watched the fabio incident on you tube. He did what the experienced and slow ferdinand should have done, he brought the player down and took on for the team, but you must applaud the lad, he is incredibly fast, he actually caught up with the wolves player but unluckily he slipped and was forced to tackle him with his hands, it was hilarious really.
September 24th, 2009 at 7:22
@Onkar: Not the same Stephen, mate. Stephen Darwin is a different bloke — and I’m pretty sure he was hazarding an educated guess, and it has nothing to do with any insider info.
September 24th, 2009 at 7:28
@spizzy: Absolutely agreed matey.. I mean I have seen replay of that Bellamy second goal about 4 to 5 times. For all that time I always felt that there was no scope for Ferdi to chase Bellamy down. What he should done was (in my view at least) should have tackled him and commit a foul. It would have been a RED CARD but it would have been out of the box so it might not have resulted in goal… But alas…
Bad mistake… Followed up by bad decision making… result a goal to SHITTY…. I was livid….
Young man yesterday just showed that he also has good head on his shoulder….
September 24th, 2009 at 7:32
@Red Ranter: Just kidding bro about the Insider Info…
i can understand it was like what we call as “Calculated Risk” …..
But… Wasn’t aware that there are there are two STEPHENs around…
Thanks for throwing some light on my IGNORENCE though…
Cheers…
September 24th, 2009 at 7:58
@Dan: You need to get over yourself with your blind foster love, it pathetic
September 24th, 2009 at 8:52
Ratings/thoughts:
Kusczak – 6.5 – Decent game. Got into good positions and didn’t really look troubled on longer shots. However didn’t come and claim corners that were 4 feet from him, could have paid. Clearly told at half time to stop hoofing it to the single 3 foot striker, but should some really have to tell him?
Red Nev – 7.5 – Very good. If an unknown youth (or Rafael!) had put in that performance we’d be purring. There’s not much point in hoping he’ll be able to play for much longer, but he is still class. Sheperding players into bad angles, staying up and timing tackles and can still whip in a ball. We’ll miss him. Also gets a mark for saying in the post match interview he wasn’t encouraging Fabio, he was telling him to get off the pitch!
Brown – 7 – Had a couple very good tackles, but his goal saving header was all his own fault, as happened a couple times he was caught upfield strolling around int he centre circle, allowing people in behind him. He kind of looked out of it to me. Also partly at fault for Fabio’s red, though it was a bit unlucky. Glad to have him back though.
Evans – 7.5 – Strangely chosen instead of Brown to mark the man Giant that was the Wolves forward. Tough assignment and battled fairly well. Has good feet for a defender, and was often used as an outlet from Kuscak in the second half instead of hoofing.
Fabio – N/A – Stupid. At home, 60 minutes left you don’t take a red. It was like Scholes a couple seasons back. Let it go and make sure the team has every shot of winning. Put us at risk. I understand why he did it but he should have thought about the situation.
De Laet – 7.5 – Is he actually really good? I think he just might be. Smooth and classy (comic shot aside) and only made one mistake all match. Interesting future ahead of this one.
Gibson – 7 – Part of a 2-man midfield that get opposition at bay for 60 minutes with 10 men, demonstrated good fitness and endeavour. Passing wasn’t notable, and shots were off radar, but he does have a bolt on him.
Carrick – 7 – Similarly, I think people criticising his perofrmance had made their mind up before the game kicked off. Had one or two wayward passes but so did everyone else. Kept the game ticking over and was really bossing it until Fabio’s blood rush. Showed good stamina to play for the 90.
Nani – 6.5 – Argh. Displays so many good things – tenacity, skill, pace – and so many bad things – ball watching, end product, inconsistency that he just makes it hard to know what to think. Our most threatening player without a doubt, but also our most wasteful. He is an enigma that boy.
Welbeck – 6 – Gets an extra point for the goal, but I thought he was useless up til that point. Wasn’t tracking back hard (I know you’re a striker but your team is down to 10 and you’re on the wing, follow your damn full back!) wasn’t able to do anything in the air, barely played in one cross – just did nothing. But did score.
Macheda – N/A – I’m not rating him to avoid having to give him a 1. He was sh*t for 30 minutes. Maybe he takes time to get going.
Owen – 7.5 – Really good showing. Displayed endeavour and effort throughout being played in a really uncomfortable role for him. If linesmen understood level = onside then he’d have had more chances, and did set up the goal. I was impressed with his work effort.
Overall – 7.5 – Definitely thought we’d win at the start, then that we’d lose when Fab came off. So the 1-0 grind out was one of those ‘I’ll take it’ results. Kids deserve credit for having the right mentality!
September 24th, 2009 at 9:05
@Red Ranter: @Onkar: I’m better looking
September 24th, 2009 at 9:07
@NicoQB: Mmmmm that’s debatable, he played in world class sides, us France but he was a liability at times, and if he made a mistake he would always go off at halftime with an injury.
September 24th, 2009 at 9:14
@Johnsom33: Mate, Dan is entitled to his view as much as you are and calling them pathetic simply because you don’t agree with them is poor.
September 24th, 2009 at 10:04
I thought Brown was brilliant. Game saving tackles, flying headers throwing your body in front of everything. He was like a ginger Vidic!
September 24th, 2009 at 10:08
@Traverse:
I just wish it was him up against Bellamy on Sunday and not O’Shea, Bellamy would still be sailing over the Trafford centre as we speak.
September 24th, 2009 at 10:09
As an aside, and keeping the fun goalie debate going – we’re playing at Stoke on Saturday => high annoying balls into the box all match – who should be between the sticks?
September 24th, 2009 at 10:12
@Beachryan: Nikolai Valuev?
September 24th, 2009 at 10:21
@Stephen:
September 24th, 2009 at 10:26
@ Stephen – Truth!
September 24th, 2009 at 10:26
@Beachryan: why does nev get a point for telling fabio to get off the pitch and NOT encouraging someone who did take one for the team?
September 24th, 2009 at 11:07
Been mentioned but i though ritchie de laet was outstanding once more last night, really everytime ive seen him play hes looked class.
Thing i noticed about him last night as well was just how well and how how frequently he was getting forward. For large parts of the game welbeck was staying inside with owen so in effect we had de leat playing the role or LM as well as the full back. I didnt actually realise that he could play on the left side i thought the right side was his position and the centre as well but a quick read up from a few fans and apparently he can play anywhere across the back 4.
I just wonder how long fergie can ignore him before he is given a few games in the prem, because for me he just could be our best option for the RB position.
Rafael out for god knows how long, oshea imo is not up to being the first choice full back at this club, neville can still make the occassional class performance and then theres brown. Theres no doubting brown is a class player and i love the guy i really do but from what ive seen of pre season and the end of last season (and last night), it does seem fergie is preferring him in the CB spot now but theres no doubting he can still come into the right side and do a job.
So for me it should be a choice of de laet or brown for RB, both have great qualities and i wouldnt be upset out of either of them being picked, but really de laet just looks absolute class and i do hope he isnt offloaded in the near future simply because there are too many players for too few starting spots because for me right now de laet might just be the best option for that RB slot but thats just my opinion.
September 24th, 2009 at 11:21
@ Wink – I was being kind of facetious, I can’t really work out why Red Nev didn’t do the nice thing either!
September 24th, 2009 at 12:40
@Stephen: Feel free to read comment 129
September 24th, 2009 at 14:20
@Johnsom33: I think the constant abuse aimed at Foster is now getting somewhat tiring, everyone has expressed their views maybe time to move on.
September 24th, 2009 at 16:50
Stephen, how many trophies did we win with Barthez, Taibi, Bosnich, Howard and co? It is no coincidence we returned to winning ways when we got our hands on Edwin Van de Sar. No coincidence either that we had that incredible clean sheet run with Edwin behind the sticks. Fact is we should aspire to have world class players in every position especially positions as critical as the goalkeeper. We are not short on cash. There are good keepers available. I do not understand it.
September 24th, 2009 at 16:58
@Stephen: Its nor abuse just because some people think he is rubbish. My whole point is that’s it hypocritical to say some one isn’t aloud tobput down foster anymore, then that same person turns around and won’t stop praising him.
Whats annoying is that foster is continually giving his detractors ammunition to keep attacking him, yet his supporters keep spouting off over and over to give him a chance. Well, he has a chance right now and he is blowing it.
Wether you love him or hate, both sides should be able to voice their opinion freely.
September 24th, 2009 at 17:18
@colver: We are £700m in debt mate, and we cannot buy anyone until Jan we did not know VDS was going to get injured.
September 24th, 2009 at 17:28
@Johnsom33: There has been abuse on this site, but he has only played 7 games but against City he did not do himself any favours.
September 24th, 2009 at 17:34
@Stephen: Was about to write who? But thought twice about being lazy.
So thank god for wikipedia:
He has two young children, a son and a daughter. He hunts deer, ducks and wild boar and goes fishing with his son.
Nikolai Sergeyevich Valuev (Russian: ???????? ?????????? ???????) (born August 21, 1973) is the reigning two-time WBA heavyweight boxing champion. Valuev stands 7 feet 2 inches tall and is the tallest and heaviest boxing world champion of all time.
blah blah blah
He wooed his wife, Galya, with poetry that he composed himself.
According to Valuev, he eats three kilos of meat daily.
September 24th, 2009 at 17:40
@NicoQB: He is a monster mate, he is fighting David Haye and he dwarfs him!
September 24th, 2009 at 18:13
@Stephen: Looks more like Sagat from Street Fighter to me!
September 24th, 2009 at 18:15
@Craig Mc: no i havent seen enough to hate i just wish he would have come on as a sub or started and not had to be thrown on bc of a red.(I think fergi had him coming on as a sub anyways) but to be fair to fabio it was a professional tackle as they say.
everyone seems to think he is the business and i have no reason to disagree, i would love to see more of him and im sure i will as we have a long season on 4 fronts to go.
but… anytime a player shoots from that close and it goes out for a throw its time to giggle.
it happens to the best of us and im sure the boys will give him shit this week bc of it. all in fun.
oh and nani looked like ronaldo’s twin out there. he runs like him dribbles like him and has the pace. he reminds me of ronaldo back when everyone in england was slating him for being a one trick pony with no end product and not enough goals.(and we all know how that ended)i think its just a matter of time before our little man nani proves his worth as well and even @Grognard: will get over our lost mancrush.
September 24th, 2009 at 18:18
@Wink: yea i saw that i think it was a consolation chat and not a chewing out. i wonder if he didnt wear long spikes
September 24th, 2009 at 18:23
@Gabriel: he may be a striker first and a winger second but in this team right now he has a better chance of getting games on the wing. i think that adding him on at 60min in a game where berba is playing will get him a goal as he can use his pace to get around defenders and play off of and use berba as a target/layoff man.
September 24th, 2009 at 18:27
@Onkar: its on espn as well they are not quite as dodgy
September 24th, 2009 at 18:28
So on the over-debated Foster discussion – this analysis makes me feel a bit bad for the lad:
Goal 1: Robbie Blake – Near post but no real chance of saving it, wonderstrike – In MOTD Goal of the Month comp
Goal 2: Arshavin – Maybe could have done better, but not half bad strike. In MOTD Goal of the Month comp
Goal 3: Defoe – A firm bicycle kick from 8 yards, into the top corner – In MOTD Goal of the Month comp
Goal 4: Barry – 100% Foster’s fault
Goal 5: Bellamy – Wonderstrike. Will win next months goal of the month barring a miracle
Goal 6: Bellamy – Should have stood up better, but still a 1on1.
So of the 6 goals the guy has conceeded, 1 was blatantly his fault, and 4 of the other 5 were once a season efforts.
September 24th, 2009 at 18:30
@spizzy: @Wink: +1
September 24th, 2009 at 18:36
@gator: I recognise that and that’s why I understand Fergie playing him on the wings. Besides, I reckon Fergie is trying to make him into a Ronaldo+Henry combo.
U’kno, a striker who can function as a winger too. Provides versatility when fergie decides to adopt his eye-guaging 4-5-1 european away tactics. 
Plus, the lad’s not doing half bad on the wings either! He’s well capable of beating a man. Strong, quick feet and has a good shot on him. I reckon he’s becoming a more versatile ‘forward’ the way fergie is utilising him, plus, he hasn’t lost that sharpness in front of goal as he showed last night. Could be a big player for us, moreso than the rest of our budding prospects, I feel.
September 24th, 2009 at 19:40
@Beachryan: Yeah, very true.
Van der Sar would never have got the mauling Foster is receiving for the same goals conceded.
I think much of it is due to fleet street looking to for stories to write.
September 24th, 2009 at 20:30
@Beachryan:
BUT, there are many other times when his flopping and weak clearances can/could have led to goals…So, we shouldn’t just judge him on the amount of goals he has let in.
It’s like saying that drunk driving is alright as long as you don’t kill anybody…
September 24th, 2009 at 20:38
@Beachryan: What about the two errors in the community shield? Foster isnt good enough for manchester united. We shouldnt settle for this injury prone, error prone. Maybe fulham but not united. Do you see reina, bufoon or cech making his errors as frequently as he does? They just dont. Van de Sar makes about two errors A SEASON…thats a quality goalkeeper. He will walk back into the side and that says it all
September 24th, 2009 at 20:43
@Lars: Well said mate…he was warned when tevez blocked his first clearance but he couldnt take a hint….Hes the luckiest man on earth foster to be playing for united
September 24th, 2009 at 20:58
Nanio once again proves his worth (i.e absence of…) very poor performance plenty of skillz but little end product, poor decision making and crossing was abismal.
RedNev – this is about our Nevs level of play now unfortunately – elder statesman providing solid support fot the up-and-coming reserves, experience was everything.
Gibbo – another solid performance great passing, solid tackling always available and ready to put a foot in – a good amount of shots on goal – nearly there i think
DeLaet – great performance very solid and aggressive, good feet, good in the air very calm under pressure definately want to see more first team appearances from this fella DeLaet>OShea me thinks….
- one more point i had mixed emotions that young Eikrem didnt get to show, i expect big things from this fella – very impressive for the reserves. always performs well very attacking great with ball at his feet and with an amazing array of passing. think this fella is the future of the utd attacking midfield, future scholesy i recon
September 24th, 2009 at 20:58
@Beachryan: Shhhh! Dont speak sense! Its wrong to be fair on foster!
@Taehr: Bullshit, van der sar has been average at best for the last 2 seasons, and that run last season was to more to do with our defence rather then VDS himself. VDS has a flap a match but because he is more established he doesnt get criticised nearly as much as foster!
September 24th, 2009 at 21:21
@Dan: 2 seasons?the season in which we won the double? He was fantastic that year…and a defense gets its confidence from its goalkeeper if you didnt know. Ofcourse he dont critised as much as foster, he dont give away goals as much, foster is capable of making an outstanding save but that is just not enough. He needs other things to make him good, kicking for one but he cant.
September 24th, 2009 at 21:43
@Taehr: Uuhhh….
Champions league final?
September 24th, 2009 at 22:19
@NicoQB: Yea he messed up…the final before he won it for us
September 24th, 2009 at 23:19
@Taehr: So what? My point was that Van der Sar mistakes are not a non-existing entity.
I’m starting to sound like an old stuck record, but it seems no one remembers the time when before our record setting defense went into history books, Van der Sar was attacked on many different fronts, namely his kicking, coming up for crosses, and reactions.
Is it any wonder when end of year awards for the past two seasons recognise Vidic and Rio first and foremost as the main reason for our watertight defence, and Van der Sar as something of an afterthought?
And penalties are a lottery for me. I’d take square, clean final victory anyday over penalty shootouts, which are for me something of an anti-climax.
September 24th, 2009 at 23:38
@Taehr: You want examples?
After Van der Sar screwed up our unbeaten defensve record with some dodgy goalkeeping (my memory disserves me here, but he did make a silly mistake in that case), we somehow became very permeable at the back and conceded instead of the usual clean sheet.
Van der Sar was very dodgy at that point but I didn’t blame him as I know that confidence, even for a goalkeeper, can be very cyclical. Heck, why do you think Schmeichel went to Sporting after 98-99?
Even he was bombarded on all fronts with respect to his performances and his penalty save against Bergkamp did not mask an underwhelming season (for him personally) by his standards.
THis year Foster had two poor performances (City and Charity shield). Most of the other goals he conceded were wonder strikes. We are only 6 matches in the season.
Looking at cold, hard facts, I would not say that the defence has been as catastrophic as some would like us to believe it is.
September 25th, 2009 at 0:42
@Beachryan: I believe SAF and Foster himself said that a better effort could have been mustered against Arshavin’s thunderbolt. And, frankly when you look at it, he was very late reacting to it, and made a poor decision not fist it away.
So by your reckoning, we could pin 3 of the 6 goals on him and couple that with a very, very dodgy performance in the Charity game, and you can see why folks are wringing their hands and shrugging their shoulders when his name is mentioned!
September 25th, 2009 at 0:45
@Beachryan: It’s not just about the goals. Honestly, I am more upset about the constant examples of poor decision making, not coming out to challenge a cross, poor footwork and balance and not preparing well for shots, lack of focus and poor communication with his teammates. He is actually very lucky to not have allowed another half dozen or so goals due to his ineptitude. Nobody is blaming him for the Defore goal or the first Bellamy strike. But then again, it’s not like he has wowed consistently with breathtaking saves that defy explanation. You see, great goalkeepers do this all the time. Csillas, Buffon, Neuer, Adler, Akinfeev, Frey are always defying logic and making great saves or series of saves to keep their team in games.
Manchester United is a great team. Great teams don’t ask their keepers to make a dozen saves a game like Given had to do the other day. They are good defensively and so a keeper has to have strong focus and concentration and be ready for those two or three chances he may get in a game. Foster is terrible at this. He’d be better off with a poor club where the ball is rebounding off him like a pinball all day. At least he would stay awake.
September 25th, 2009 at 1:50
@Grognard: Shhhh! Dont make valid arguments against foster Its not fair to his supporters.
September 25th, 2009 at 2:35
@Grognard: Great comment, mate. Manchester United are considered one of the best teams in the world and to be messing around with a maybe (at best) at goalie makes no sense at all.
We all know that VDS is coming to the end of his career, and you see it in his play once in a while. But we are not looking at displacing VDS with Foster, we are looking for a goalie to put between the posts for the next 5 years or so.
Is that person Foster?? Could we do better in the transfer market?? – these surely are the questions we need to ask ourselves, and not whether or not we give this guy a fair chance!!
September 25th, 2009 at 2:44
@johnsom33:
we can’t make any valid arguments against Foster/Nani/Berbatov/insert-another-player-here . It would be unfair to their supporters. 
September 25th, 2009 at 3:12
@Red Ranter: Funny how you grouped those three together, mate!
Perhaps a package deal for Sanchez, Silva and Villa, is what you have in mind!!
September 25th, 2009 at 3:35
I’ve only watched United in 2 pre-season games this year, in 1 ofthem, Foster conceded a goal (from a backpass of course) vs a Malaysian selection packed with junior players.So Kusczak > Foster. Foster hasnt improved at all.
On more cheery news, any concrete info on the beloved Hargo?
September 25th, 2009 at 3:35
@Footy4Eddy: hey mate, is this your friend? there’s an article on a Joshua King: http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2558/news/2009/09/25/1521472/manchester-united-debutant-joshua-king-happy-with-league-cup
September 25th, 2009 at 3:38
oh wait for it: http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BB4CEE8FA%2D9A47%2D47BC%2DB069%2D3F7A2F35DB70%7D&newsid=6640249
September 25th, 2009 at 4:14
@miele: Do you have a hard time watching the games where you live??
In any event, the pre-season is no way to judge the players or the team, mate!!
The season, proper, has been interesting to say the least. It’s not yet time to summarize because we really haven’t played enough yet. In a few weeks (maybe a month) we’ll have a handle on the players, individually, and the team as a whole.
Except Foster, who has generally stunk up the place!!
September 25th, 2009 at 6:19
@johnsom33: Poor babies. AWWWWW!
September 25th, 2009 at 6:21
@Redrich: @Grognard: I totally agree with you guys on the foster issue, I mean, his supporters asked us to give him time and he’d prove us wrong, and being the sane and open minded people we are,we did that and sadly he proved us right. Now when we point out his inadequacies, we are told to shut up. It’s this kind of attitude that really annoys me more than anything.People expect you to listen to their point but when you ask the same person to listen to your point of view they castigate you and belittle your arguments.
You would think that anyone with a serious desire for united to prevail this season would be crying for a better keeper, but the guys i see supporting foster in this blog are the same people who see this as a transition year and don’t expect united to win anything, so I guess that’s why they support this mediocre keeper because with him between the sticks it makes it a hell of a lot difficult for us to win anything.
But some of us are still hungry for more and want the scousers of the top with a 19 and a third consecutive CL final.
September 25th, 2009 at 6:24
@Redrich: Exactly mate. People just don’t get this. United is a massive team and we are not in the habit of giving long drawn out auditions to keepers in the hope that one day they cut the mustard. What are we supposed to do in the meantime, suffer and sacrifice the season so that we are fair to poor little Ben Foster? I don’t think so. He’s lucky as he got his chance due to EVDS injury, but I seriously doubt if he will get another crack at winning the job as Fergie is not about to throw in the towel so that Ben Foster supporters get their jolly’s. Look for a big signing in the summer. Fergie will not buy a keeper in January unless he feels EVDS has not come back well enough.
September 25th, 2009 at 6:31
@spizzy: Yes but they will say that we never gave him a long enough chance. They will argue that seven games is not a fair enough time to judge his abilities. They will argue that a more fair time period to assess his capabilities would be………………………………….5 years perhaps.
I am sick and bloody tired of arguing with this delusional group of optimists. They continue to see Foster as a glass half full and I see him as a glass empty and shattered on the asphalt outside of Old Trafford. It’s time to give up on this rancid piece of human refuse and move on. Fortunately I think Fergie is coming around to our way of thinking. Once EVDS returns, I seriously doubt if we shall ever see Gentle Ben again.
September 25th, 2009 at 6:37
@spizzy: Since the beginning of the season I have come around a lot more in regards to being more optimisitc and feeling this team can accomplish something. No I do not think they have a hope in Hell as far as Europe is concerned, but I do feel domestic trophies are possible and the league can also be won if Chelsea fall apart. If Chelsea continue to play well and believe in Ancelotti, they will be tough to beat. Liverpool and Arsenal cannot be ignored but I think they lack the depth to contend. Ferguson can count his blessings that Michael Owen has shown great promise to improve and be a real coupe for the Gaffer. But the reason I feel more optimistic is because of the play of Darren Fletcher and the impending return of both Owen Hargreaves and EVDS. Fletcher has proven to me that he is truly a difference maker and that he is truly a Roy Keane Lite version 1.0. As long as he and Wayne Rooney stay healthy, we have a shot of winning the whole thing. Bu tto win in Europe we need an out of this world talent like Ronaldo. And last time I heard he no longer plays for us.
September 25th, 2009 at 7:08
@Redrich: @Grognard: @spizzy:I agree guys…
I mean I don’t know why so much fuss about this foster guy.. I never ever imagined in my wildest dream as well that one day we will be debating about who’s better Foster or Pig. Not what you expect from Man UTD fans…..
I mean buck up guys. We should fight about whose better fit for us, that is Nuerer or Adler or any one else rather than fighting for incompetent back up keeper we have…..
I mean the thing here is I am seeing again again the point is made that he only conceded ‘N’ goals of which ‘N’ goals were unstoppable… Fuh…get it. Please try and understand 1 thing you take any damn team. The rebuilding starts from back to front. Its always defense first… And that’s why GK is so imp that he is last line of defense. When Defenders are moving up the pitch along with MF they should have confidence in their keeper that if they fell to make some clearance then GK is there to sort it out…Do everyone feels that Foster gives that confidence to our defense. I really doubt he does… Sometimes I even feel that he doesn’t seem to have any confidence in his own ability forget about passing it to defender…
Some one pointed out that last year’s clean sheet run was not up to VDS it was more to do with Ferdi-Vidic. I agree that it was also down to our great defense but, it wasn’t up to Ferdi-Vidic. As, if my memory serves me right then we had 10 different Back 4 combinations in 13 matches where Vidic and VDS were only two faces who were constant present. And that’s says a lot about the ability of VDS to marshal his back four…
See the point with GK is simple. You have to have qualities like shot stopping and great reaction abut along with that you should know how to marshal and control your back 4, confidence, clearance, distribution and most of all proper decision making to bail his team out of any situation. Can any one of Pro Foster person here say that he commands all the qualities (or even most of it for that matter)…
Secondly, the argument always about his great reaction saves… I have a honest opinion it is easier to pull of a reaction save than to act in a decision making circumstances. As the point is simple, what you need to make a reaction save is quick body reaction… In reaction saves you don’t have any time to think. So all you do is to react to the situation it’s more of a impulsive thing (More like a slip fielding in CRICKET rather than outfielder)… where if you are quick enough then you are good enough. But when you are called on to make some decision then it shows what you have in your bag. Decisions like to hold on to ball or punch, what to do with cross, corner or high should go and catch it or stick to your line and let your defenders deal with it. And I think all these things give confidence or lack of it to your defenders to act on. And for me that’s where Foster lacks. I mean he is quick enough to pull of classic reaction saves (RVP in Arsenal games) but, his decision making is not that great (Man Shitty Barry goal). I think that’s the problem.
As it is, I think my point is clear. You need to be more than just a good shot stopper which Foster I am afraid is not…
And Goal keeping is not just about the GA column (even though that is one of the most imp columns) it’s far more than that… Nuff said now. I rest my RANT on FOSTER Issue….
September 25th, 2009 at 7:18
@Grognard: As far performence in the domestic competition is concerned I was always sure that it won’t be as bad as you were anticipating it to be. I think we had few debates about it as well.
But, even the progress from Fletch is really me so happy and surprise as well. The boy has come a long way from what he was.. Brilliant…
And if OH is coming and EVDS is to come back soon I think thing are not looking as bad as they first appear..
But I see one problem in this… The problem is Fergi himself.. He should do what is best suited to our team be it in Europe or Domestic Competition i.e. play 4-4-2 rather than snooze football.. If he does that than we are in a good exciting season…
September 25th, 2009 at 8:11
@Grognard: Yeah Europe does seem like a dream several nights away from happening but I have seen glimpses in this team which indicate if the football gods smile our way we might make it to the final with lucky draws and the odd away goal, if we can avoid barca,real,inter, bayern, chelsea,liverpool and any other strong team we can make it.Now you will notice I said “make it to the final”, not win it because even if the gods prepare the path for us, the other side of the draw will contain a very,very strong side.
September 25th, 2009 at 8:53
@spizzy: I won’t have any problem facing Liverpool or for that matter Bayern as well.. As I see us getting past them not with ease but somehow surely….
September 25th, 2009 at 8:57
@ All: I agree Foster isn’t good enough to be our number one, but also acknowledge that we’re a bit stuck for the forseeable future. Until January at the very earliest we’re stuck with him or EVDS, assuming Edwin has a good comeback. So I’m taking the optimistic route and hoping that Foster doesn’t cost us too much in that time, and may even prove to be a useful backup as he gets some experience.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:20
@Beachryan: Foster can be useful back up.. That says it all.. He is a Back up Keeper and can never be No. 1. At least in my mind for sure….
September 25th, 2009 at 9:21
@Onkar: I dont think ribery and robben will be cowed by aou lackluster wing play and our famous 4-3-3. I’m just waiting to see the formation fergie plays against wolfsbug next week at OT.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:37
@spizzy: Thats why I say I feel we will some how go through.. And I think we do to have those somehow wins regularly. I think Bayern will fall in that category. What we typically call that “They were not convincing but win none the less and its all that matters”.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:40
@spizzy: Yeah but it will be interesting definitely to see what he does against wolfsbug. I hope FFS.. He will play simple 4-4-2. After all the match is at OT. But i won’t be surprised to see him going back to his SNOOZE football….
September 25th, 2009 at 9:46
Agree that we seem to have all but abandoned the 442 in Europe. The last time I recall it vividly was the first half against Chelsea in Moscow, when we tore them apart. He has definitely switched from the ‘however many you score we’ll get more’ to ‘we won’t let any in and 1-0 will be enough’. But I guess you could argue it works best in Europe, look at Chavski and Liverpool’s success in that competition. (overall, obviously not just winning it)
What annoys me is when we go somewhere like Besiktas and play like that. The only logic I can think of is that he is using it as training for when we play a class team away, and we’ll need to go 433. Like Wolfsburg for example.
On a side note, does anyone know if it’s true that Wolfsburg were once maanged by someone called Wolfgang Wolf?
September 25th, 2009 at 9:47
@spizzy: I really hate this time of the day.
I mean I leave in the part of time zone that, when I am awake no one else is around. See now only two of us are around (I suppose).
I hate this bloody thing. But… Can’t help it… Have to leave with it…
September 25th, 2009 at 9:53
@spizzy: Anything is possible but that is just too many good teams with too many world class players to stop. We have a few but lets face it, with Ronaldo we weren’t just good, we scared other teams into submission. We’re still good but I doubt we instill as much fear in our opponents anymore as well, our tactic in Europe are not going to scare anyone and our leaky defense and very suspect keeping is going to make many more teams attack more rather than defend and play for a draw and penalties. Honestly, if Fergie allowed the lads to play the same style and tactics as we employed on Sunday, we would be fine. But we know Fergie will press the chicken switch eventually.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:54
@Beachryan: I think its the same team did not get time to read but this what I found on Wiki….
If you want to have more info then refer to this link on wikipedia…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VfL_Wolfsburg
September 25th, 2009 at 9:57
I agree that we have a chance at domestic glory. The African Nations could well screw up Chelsea’s season. After all Chelsea started very strongly under Scolari but then fell to pieces. Once the new manager effect wears off the usual infighting will start and the old players will see their legs wear out. If we drop out of Europe early (which im anticipating) we’ll be able to concentrate on th league while Chelsea will have one eye on Europe.
For me the key factors for our season are:
1. Our defence stays injury free and avoids the bloopers it seems prone to. In particular Rio’s injuries worry me as does Brown’s and we need to blood a new centre back for cover.
2. Rooney continues his goalscoring form. Rooney has to be our main goallscorer this season because Berbatov just doesn’t ever look like being prolific for us and Owen isns’t going to be able to play every game. If Rooney gets thirty goals a season that will go a long way to giving us a good chance this season.
3. Anderson and Nani-with Carrick more mediocre than ever and Valencia looking average at best and Scholes and Giggs on their last legs and no certainty that Hargreaves will ever make a full comeback, we need Anderson and Nani to give our midfield some attacking thrust.
September 25th, 2009 at 9:59
@Beachryan: So far we have been more than fortunate despite Foster screw ups. If we can survive another few weeks of his gaffs and get away with wins we will be in good shape. EVDS on a bad day is ten times better than Foster at his best. If we are indeed going to go after a keeper like Neuer or Akinfeev, I doubt it will be in January. Neuer for example would not be easy to get from a club contending for the Bundesliga title as Schalke probably will be doing and further more, no #1 keeper is going to want to be a bench player for half a season because EVDS will not be benched in what is probably going to be his final year. Not unless he is playing poorly, and I seriously doubt that. So we will have to pay heavy post World Cup price for a keeper I’m afraid. But as I see it, it’s a must do deal as this position needs solidifying ASAP.
September 25th, 2009 at 10:01
@spizzy: Wolfsburg is an ok team but they are not the same team without their former manager Felix Magath. Their midfield is ok but certainly nothing Darren Fletcher on his own can’t neutralize. The key is to stop their two forwards Dzeko and Grafite. Stop them by cutting off their supply and they are easily beaten.
September 25th, 2009 at 10:05
@Onkar: Grog seems to be up late
. It’s got to be 2 am in canada right now. 
.
But like women, can’t live with it, cant live without it 
Fergies tactics in europe keeping you up grog?
The annoying thing is when you wake up and find comments questioning your arguments and you wish you had been around to answer them.
September 25th, 2009 at 10:05
@Onkar: The group stage has never been a worry for me. I predicted we would win 4 and draw 2. It’s the knockout stage that scares me because that is when we will be facing the big clubs from England, Spain, Italy and Bayern Munich. Personally, I think we will be very happy if we get past the round of sixteen and ecstatic if we make the semis. I just do not see the final as doable this season, unless we were to get a David Silva in January and he was not cup tied.
September 25th, 2009 at 10:11
@spizzy: It’s 2:05am as I write this. I tend to go to bed late these days and I wake up around 9:00. Privileges of being retired due to my back problem. Yes it can be frustrating because the time when I want to contribute and debate the most is when most everyone else is sleeping. Still, I manage. Fist thing I do in the morning when I wake up is get myself a coffee, go to the computer and got to Red Rants. It’s become a morning ritual for me like reading the paper at the kitchen table is for others. A great way to start the day, unless of course i have my band of blog brothers attacking me for my comments. On those days I kind of wished i never woke up.
And one day I hope to wake up and find out that Fergie has demoted Ben Foster and has signed Manuel Neuer and David Silva. I can dream can’t I? 
September 25th, 2009 at 10:13
@Grognard: I don’t know lot of things about the German Lad. but, I think we can certianly try our luck in January on BORUC from Celtic. He is also pretty good in what he does. What I really like about him is his Imposing presence in the box which I feel preety important for Keepers. And I think we may be able get him as Celtic.. well no great ambition…. for the lad.
BTW bro just because you track Bundes Liga.. What is the situation of HLEB (ex Arsenal). I thought he has moved to Wolfburg in summer but was not on there wiki page team sheet. Which team is he playing and hows he doing?? Any clue??? i mean he is one man from Arsenal team who really interests me. I really liked his cool and calm presence on the ball. And certinaly was a clever player…
September 25th, 2009 at 10:25
@spizzy: @Grognard: I know bro.. Some what aware of it. Thats what I like the most about you Grogy. I mean not many time I agree with you. We kinda have a debates some times even fights. I also remember I had huge personal attack on you after RONALDO exit. But one thing I like is your passion towards Man UTD and of course this blog. For me, it has also become a routine. I mean most almost every day I come to office in the morning and then the first thing I do is put log on to RR and be on it for whole day till I leave office. Some how I just can’t work without being on RR. May we all are addicted to Each other isn’t it???
But, don’t think that i won’t go after you because I admire you.. Next time when you will bring your Doom Marchants here I will be up for it facing you with my Opti bros like Craig, Madchester and company…
Beware of it
September 25th, 2009 at 11:14
@Onkar: Come on the OPTI’s eh Onkar – we are the BEST! Numero Uno
September 25th, 2009 at 11:23
@Craig Mc:
September 25th, 2009 at 11:45
@Grognard: My only concern is ‘What’s giong to happen to our team when Mr. Rooney takes his “annual sabbatical”?’
I’m not sure our replacement strikers can stand in for him during a 4-8 week injury.
September 25th, 2009 at 12:15
Well all our arguing and what not means nothing, foster starts against stoke tomorrow.
September 25th, 2009 at 12:46
@spizzy: You should know by now mate that SAF when making bold statements about players, like about Foster being Englands GK at world cup, NEVER backs down because he refuses to lose face. SAF is a winner, and he will be hoping to push Foster into being one. Whether it will ever happen – I am not sure at all
.
September 25th, 2009 at 17:13
@Gabriel: he is lanky like henry isnt he?
September 25th, 2009 at 19:32
@Onkar: Anybody on here who has read my posts for two years knows that I am a huge Artue Brouc supporter. When it comes to just having the shot stopping ability and reflexes to succeed, there is nobody better in world football. Yes he has a commanding presence as he is strong, intimidating and physical and he likes to shout at his players like Schmeichel but he is prone to moments of stupidity and lack of focus. Not as bad as Foster is but he did just come off an off season where his form was not always at the top level due to a messy divorce that seemed to play with his focus and concentration. Fundamentally he is strong but his other attributes although good, are not as good as Neuer or Adler. I would rate him third amongst my top five young and available keepers. Neuer, Adler, Boruc, Akinfeev and Frey are my choices for the best keepers out there that can be had for the right price. I rate Neuer a 10/10 and Adler 8.5/10 but Boruc is a drop in third place to 7/10 and tied with Akinfeev and Frey. Clearly the two German lads are supreme in my books, regardless of any bias that some may feel I have. I also am rather impressed by Marseille keeper Steve Mandanda of late. He is showing me an incredible ability as a shot stopper and possesses great reflexes and positioning skills. I need to watch more of Marseille to see how well he progresses.
As Alex Hleb, he is now playing with Stuttgart but so far his form has just been average with nothing great shown from him yet. He scored a goal a few weeks ago in a loss but he hasn’t yet had the impact that Stuttgart have been needing. Its going to take some time for both him and Pogrebnyak to fit in with the club as they are still feeling the hurt from losing Mario Gomez. Hleb is a good player and he of course has plenty of Bundesliga experience so he will come around. But as he was a former Arsenal player, I for one do not fancy him one bit.
September 25th, 2009 at 19:37
@Onkar: Hey mate, part of the fun of this blog is challenging each other and occasionally disagreeing about things. But we can both agree that we have a love for Man Utd and we can also agree that despite our occasional differences of opinion, we both respect each other’s viewpoints. I for one always like debating and chatting it up with you because you are a knowledgable fan but you also understand that although we all want the same thing, many of us have different views on how to get there. We both share the passion and the hunger and for that we are linked with the same common goal.
September 25th, 2009 at 19:46
@Karl: Berbatov is going to really have to up his game. He’s playing alright and he is much more aggressive then last season but he still needs to start putting the ball in the net. His shooting and heading have left me very frustrated. Hi shsots tend to be high and lack the composure he is famous for and his headers are always right at the keeper which means he is struggling with his confidence. A truly confident player aims and places his shots as well a shis headers more. Owen for example has been confident right from the beginning even when he was missing great chances. How do I know this? Because players who are confident or in form have no qualms about aiming for the corner of the goal. Owen has missed some great chances because he was aiming the ball and it just didn’t come off rarely has he shot a ball right at a keeper unless the keeper was coming out at him and he had no angle.
Berbatov has missed point blank efforts only because he has given either keepers or defenders a chance to clear the ball because he has aimed in the middle of the goal. He needs to really address this problem and work on it in practice to hopefully iron it out. If he does, then losing Rooney for a period of time may not be the catastrophe that many might think it would be. Owen I feel is fine and getting better every game, Macheda is capable of offering something in small doses as is Welbeck. If Rooney were to go down however, I would hope it’s no too serious and also that it happens before or during the January transfer period so that we can always bring in a quick fix player as insurance. Lets just keep our fingers crossed that nothing befalls our beloved Electric Roonaroo.
September 25th, 2009 at 19:51
@spizzy: I never thought that he wasn’t going to start. Fergie is committed to him until EVDS returns. But I totally believe that he is now aware very aware that Foster is not the keeper for the future. You can really tell Ferguson is not thinking Foster long term because he isn’t losing his temper or his patience when being questioned about him by the media. When Fergie believes in a player and is 100% behind them he usually gets upset with those types of questions and either says something nasty or just walks away. I am noticing a reserved nature in him here as I think he understands that what the media sees in actually what he sees and so he isn’t going to get all upset about that line of questions. That for me is a death knell for Foster. Loud and clear.