Sep 10
Exclusive: The Nemanja Vidic Interview
The pain of Manchester United’s comprehensive Champions League final defeat to Barcelona in May triggered a summer of upheaval at Old Trafford with star turns Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez seeking pastures new – but despite those defections the Premier League champions are still rightly among the leading fancies to land this season’s European crown.
During preparations for their opening Group B clash away to Turkish champions Besiktas, Red Rants caught up with United’s colossal defender Nemanja Vidic (arguably one of Ferguson’s best buys in the last 4 years) to find out what he makes of the new-look United and the prospects of Sir Alex Ferguson’s outfit reaching a third successive Champions League final…
Did your Champions League triumph in 2008 help to ease the pain of defeat to Barcelona in Rome?
Winning the Champions League in Moscow has made it easier for us to accept in a way because we know that we have already done it before. However, the desire to win the trophy again never wanes. I can assure you that everyone at Manchester United will be very unhappy if we fail to win the competition this season. The same goes for any competition we enter.
So Manchester United still has the highest expectations despite the rebuilding process that has gone on within the squad since the final in Rome?
Our expectations have not gone down at all because of the rebuilding. Our goals are exactly the same – to win the Premier League and to win the Champions League. We genuinely believe our fans will have many reasons to be happy this season and it is our intention to make that happen.
How are the players feeling as you prepare for the European campaign?
Well, none of us at Manchester United are thinking about last season’s final defeat to Barcelona anymore. It is time to look forward and I myself am fully concentrated on the new season that lies ahead. I’m only thinking about how we can become the best team in Europe once again and I believe that is something we are more than capable of achieving in 2010.
Do you have any predictions for the 2009/10 Champions League?
It’s too early for predictions because the final stages are so far away and the Champions League proper hasn’t even begun yet. However, generally I would agree with the experts that it’s between Real, Barcelona and the Premier League quartet. The Premier League is the best league in the world, so it’s logical that all the English clubs will have good odds of winning the competition while Barca are reigning champions and Real have quickly built a great team. There’s also always a surprise team in the Champions League every season too, so we really should be very careful with our predictions!
Losing Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez must have been felt strongly in the Manchester United dressing room. How much will you miss them?
It is true that we will miss Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez for their goals. We cannot deny that. However, this United squad really has enormous potential because we have so many talented youngsters, who are improving all the time. The club will continue to aspire to all the biggest goals no matter who leaves us. We can still win all the trophies on offer this season.
Luis Antonio Valencia is under pressure to fill the gap left by Ronaldo. Is he capable of doing that?
No one at Old Trafford expects Luis to take on Ronaldo’s role in the team but he has many qualities of his own that will help us. I believe he will become an important member of our team over the coming season.
And what impact can Michael Owen have in a Manchester United shirt?
Michael has proven his quality through the years so I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be successful. He can help us a lot, so we are all very happy to have him in our team. He is an important signing for the club. Manchester United has always had fantastic forwards and certainly we have such a situation in the current team as well. No matter who plays, I’m sure we will be lethal in front of goal. I believe Valencia and Owen will make our team better this season. They are very good players who will help us improve.
What is it like having to mark Michael Owen in training?
As a defender I can say with some certainty that it is really tough to mark Owen. He’s dangerous from all positions so you always need to be focused and on your toes. I’m sure our fans will soon realize that as well and see the best of him. I am pleased to be on his team.
Of all the strikers you have faced in the Champions League which have been the best?
It’s tough to pick out one name when it comes to Europe’s best strikers but if I could pick three I’d select Samuel Eto’o, Fernando Torres and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. These guys are at the top of their game.
Many people have begun to compare you with Jaap Stam. How does that feel?
I’m not bothering myself with comparisons between myself and Jaap Stam but it’s nice to hear such things. It feels good being compared to a player of such high calibre. He was a giant at United and a player I have a lot of respect for but I’ll try to make my own mark.
How do you find living in England?
Well, I’m not an English boy! However, I have grown accustomed to the lifestyle and I’m enjoying myself in Manchester. I always try to give the best. Winning three major titles in one season is not something that would happen every day and last season we won the league again. Everything can turn around overnight, so it’s really important that you always think only about the next match.
How do you spend your spare-time?
I really don’t have much free time in Manchester. On few rare occasions the club gives us two days free and we usually spend that time with our families. More or less I spend all my free time with my family. Sometimes people come to visit me, but that’s about it. I try to live a decent life. I don’t go to extravagant places and I don’t expose myself too much. My life is really very normal: training-restaurant-home!
Do you think Manchester United have any defensive issues to sort out this season?
No. The United defence is as hard as a rock. We have played together for a few years now and are a tight-knit unit. The manager demands total concentration and a fighting approach. All the players know their duties. Ferdinand, Brown, Neville and O’Shea are all seasoned professionals who know what it’s all about. We won’t win all the time, but we will always give our all.
On paper it has been argued that Manchester United look weaker this year. Will you prove them wrong?
Perhaps on paper we are weaker this season but on the pitch it is a different matter. Together, we have the determination and ability to prove to everyone that we can still accomplish all our goals this season. The season is very long and we know what it means to be a Manchester United player. Everyone gives their all against us. But that’s no problem for us. We are paid loads of money to win and that is what we intend to do.
We thank Nemanja Vidic for his time but before we end this, we’ll leave you with a compilation video of the man from Serbia…
Related items from Red Rants:
- Sky Sports and the Sun continue to be a disgrace
- Interview with Phillippe Auclair
- Some reads to while your time…
- Interview with Aon – Manchester United’s future sponsors
- Two Reasons Why United Aren’t Looking for Fullbacks
Tags: Interview · Manchester United Players
September 10th, 2009 at 8:15
This is Sweet RR. The fact that Vidic agreed for the Interview itself speaks of the quality and at the same time the Players’ good will. Indeed it is “V for Vidic”. Deep insights. Keep up the great work!!
Red Devil
September 10th, 2009 at 8:41
Red Rants is very brave for doing this, I would’ve just cowered in fear. Thanks!
September 10th, 2009 at 8:46
@RR You lucky bastard
,You actually got a sit down with vidic, we call him meja over here 
.
He has to put torres in the best striker list, twice last year he owned him on the pitch, etoo too, cause of the champions league final.
I’m sure he as a player tried to be an ambassador for the team and only give the positives, so I’m hoping he is not lying about the team and the spirit in the squad.
September 10th, 2009 at 8:49
Yeah RR you real;ly surprised…. Great to have an interview of such MAN. I mean he is just a BEAST.. I just loved to such an optimistic views from the man who has been such a CATALYST to our success in Back line.. I hope he will be here for many more years to come…..
Great work RR…..
September 10th, 2009 at 8:55
@spizzy: Coming to your point from previous post about the SPURS game bro…
I totally AGREE with it… I mean we should realize that Attack is the Best Form of Defence. And we should approach the game with that mindset…
I mean I stead of changing our way of playing to accomodate there attack.. You just go other way around….
I have sneaky feeling that if Berba starts then he will have a great game specially given the fact that he just had great outing for his country and he will be playing against the former team…
But, if I know Fergie he may not start with him.. And thats the problem…
September 10th, 2009 at 9:13
I hope to God that fergie starts Berbie this upcoming match, the guy needs to be paired more often with Rooney upfront; it would be nice to see their partnership result in terrorization of totthenburger’s defences!
September 10th, 2009 at 9:14
Nice!!! Vida’s a thorough professional and a very decent chap, hope he finishes his career here. We will need some one to keep the youngsters in line after Scholes and Giggs are done!
September 10th, 2009 at 9:54
Wow, props for getting the interview RR – good work!
Anyone else fear we’re going to get spanked this weekend? Valenica will likely have to be rested (played at altitude in Bolivia last night), Rooney and Fletcher both ran their socks off, Berbatov may have (anyone catch the Italy game?), Carrick must be demoralised having not even been on the bench and our defense is crocked.
What scares me is that it means that Anderson, Giggs, Scholes and Owen have been sitting around at Carringdon, so what are the odds Fergie roles with all of them on Saturday?
We keep hearing (as Vida says above) that the young players are going to be the ones making the difference this year – well let’s see them then!
September 10th, 2009 at 9:57
Dare Berbatov should have plenty of enegy. watched tha match bulgaria-italy and he did very little. that is little running. still i dont think he should start this weekend or ever. the club should cut it’s losses and sell him in the january transfer window. he is washed up. he’s confidence is down and because of his poor work rate he becomes a liability on the field. united cant carry players like berbatov.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:18
Vidic is a monster. A rock. How did you get a one on one with him? Man that shows the quality of the blog. Players and not just players but the very top players are willing to give their time for this blog. I’m amazed. Have you ever done any other interviews? On the game on Saturday, it is a definite that Mr Carrick will start alongside Mr Fletcher. If I had a million dollars I’d bet that money today to back that up. The Count SHOULD start no matter what. Even if he the sun’s rays somehow find their way into White Hart Lane. Park Ji-Sung is an unwelcome inclusion. Play him not throughout the 90 min. Negative tactics should become an abomination at Manchester United. Use them not. Nani should play the entire 90min. Giggs should not start because Saf finds it hard to sub him off. Patrice Evra should be on his toes and should better his outstanding performance vs Arsenal. Wayne Rooney & The Count should be played high up the pitch and should not be used in midfield anymore. Please please please. No dropping back for long periods at a time. That means Anderson should start alongside Fletcher. You know I was gonna say that. Yes Anderson. Let him rove in those areas where our strikers are usually instructed to. This will push Spurs back if it works well. However there’s no need to jump on my back because as I’ve already mentioned Mr Carrick will start and Anderson will get his customary 10 min. Then again it could be Mr Scholes to play 90min. Very likely Valencia should play a blinder and since he’s good with crosses that’s why it’s so important for our strikers to play high up the pitch to get to the end of em.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:25
@ Tom – that would be the same Berbatov that set up 2 and scored 1 on Saturday for Bulgaria? My lord he must be a handy player to be able to do that without running.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:31
@Jay wire:
For me I think it should Valencia, Fletch, Anderson and NANI. I won’t mind Carrick inctead of Anderson as well but please no Scholes or Giggs again.
Up front no two ways just play Berba and Rooney with Owen might replacing be one them if required. I am sure about back four though….
September 10th, 2009 at 10:34
Tom- I don’t know why a lot of ppl just have negative opinions towards other players without taking everything into consideration. We should cut our losses heh with Berbatov? We’ve heard it a million times how lazy he is. How he doesn’t do any running for the team like the Rooneys. Rubbish. He does his fair share when it’s needed. As much as Owen or Ruud. The manager is in the process of instructing Wayne to stop being all over the place because he’s a striker. If the manager finds the right way to play him as other supposedly “inferior” managers and coaches like Martin Jol, Ramos etc did with such ease and great success then we’ll all be singing different tunes. Which other strikers do you see running around crazy trying to mark the whole team? Zidane never ran around like a mad man but was highly effective. King Eric was nowhere near the likes of Keane but he did what he was called to do.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:36
@Beachryan: Absolutely!!! I was just going to write that. Man he has just put in a great performance and being catalyst for 3 goals and match afetr that people start that old bandwagon again.
The thing no one realisez that it is no coincedent that he has had the worst time in his career at OT compared all other teams he ever played and thats totally down to manager (who himself has agreed in the past that he is not sure how to use BERBA.). I don’t he is in as much fault as his manager is…..
I hope people will realize it one day. Its down to the way you use thats all………….
September 10th, 2009 at 10:49
Beachryan who did bulgaria play on saturday montenagro. who did they play against on wednesday italy. i think you would agree that there is a difference between a pub team and world cup winners. this i s the point that i think berbatov fans dont want to aknowelege. players like berbatov will frequently shine against weak opposition. and the invers is also true. berbatov will derail united’s campaign if saf perseveres with him. i fear he will please berbatov’s fans and do just that.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:49
In my opinion Carrick should play if he gets forward a lot. That is if we use him with Fletcher. But that’s not gonna happen with him. For me playing them together to some extent entails a repetition of duties. To some extent that is. Because Fletcher is now the DM and Carrick sits back as well. I wanna see some attacking football from all over the pitch. Playing them together will mean resorting to those long balls because that’s how Carrick plays. It could work though. If he plays accurate crossfield balls and the forwards can anticipate such effectively esp the wingers who’ll need to contribute heavily in attack. But for me playing Carrick and Fletcher means Rooney will have to drop deep because of the huge gap in midfield due to two CMs playing too deep in their half. It’s like playing Alonso and Mascherano. I think playing such players will work in a 3 man midfield supporting a 3 man attack like what Milan and Barca to
September 10th, 2009 at 10:50
@tom:
You have no idea what you are talking about do you?He’s washed up? Did you see the goal, nay the game against wigan? You call that washed up?
Err because of his poor work rate he becomes a liability to the team? How does he become a liability to the team? He is a forward, he’s not supposed to run around like a midfielder, now if you said he looses the ball or can’t pass I’d understand but then he does both of those things beautifully, so your argument is void.
United can’t carry… i wont even finish it coz that’s just absurd. You need glasses mate and good ones at that.
September 10th, 2009 at 10:57
Tom- Once again take everything into consideration. Even prior to the Italy match Lippi Italy’s coach admitted that the last time they played he had to use his WHOLE defence to subdue Berba and they still found it hard to contain him. He has been a success everywhere else. Germany, England and with his own national team. Know the history and circumstances surrounding a matter before following what the incompetent English commentators and journalists say
September 10th, 2009 at 11:06
I think anderson will get a start because he had nothing to do all week unlike fletcher, and he might be partnered by carrick, scholes or gibbo . Upfront I wouldn’t be suprised if owen starts and is partnered by berba or ronnie. Nani should get the nod on the left wing and park on the right. Nothing should change defensively though, but rio might get an outing since he was supposed to be back against spurs.
September 10th, 2009 at 11:09
@spizzy: Absolutely buddy… I mean some people just like those hardworking Blue Collar skills instead of quality and sheer class of the man.
They just can’t seem to understand that its in the use of the players and Fergie is definitely getting it wrong…
September 10th, 2009 at 11:45
spizzy, I express an opinion about a player who i think is not good enough to perform for united week after week and this makes me clueless. i think your watching united games with coloured glasses. that is you wait all game for a player to do something and when they you shout how good was that. the obviuos reply to you is what about the rest of the game and what about the last game and so on. Jay wire Lippi would say that to excuse his defensive play. Lippi is a bias coach who favours players for reasons he only understands. he continuously refuses to pick cassano who undoubtedly is the best italian player in seria a. lippi is the coach who would leave out baggio. undoubetedly the best italian player in the last 30 years. come to think of it i dont understand why lippi would say that about berbatov. i’m sure he wouldnt like him as a player. i agree berbatov is a technically gifted player. i remember commenting to a friend after watching a united match that berbatov doesn’t run because he doesnt need to. he lets his footwork do all the work. however after watching him more and more i had to change my mind. too often i yelled at the tv do someting you lazy bum when united needed a lift.
September 10th, 2009 at 12:05
@Beachryan:
September 10th, 2009 at 12:12
@tom: As a striker, how can he do anything if he does not receive the ball? The central midfield has been poor and this was the reason last year (and still is the case this year) why our strikers drift back to get involved in the play.
I’m sure you would prefer Giggs to play as a striker, as he did so successfully against Arsenal…
September 10th, 2009 at 12:16
HOW THE FUFGE DIDJA MANAGE THAT RR?
Is this our very own redranter who actually got in touch with the Nemenja Vidic?
Wow! Hats off
September 10th, 2009 at 12:26
@ Grognard from yesterday’s thread…
I agree about Hargo. But it seems to me that Diarra is developing exactly into that kind of player. WE know that Essien for all of his talents, is actually a very dirty player. Diarra tackles beautifully and directs the game like a true general. Word goes that with Madrid he even ventures forward and is a dangerous threat.
You know how I was high on Gourcuff last season. Well, recently with France Gourcuff looked second grade while Diarra looked the shit!!
Zidane famously said something about Beckham being bought and Makelele being sold:
“Why buy a Bentley when you’re selling the engine?” or somethnig like that…
I was looking forward to see Madrid phail with a capital PH, but Diarra may well spoil my day and turn out to be their most important player.
September 10th, 2009 at 12:34
@tom:
So by your opinion what is he supposed to do? Get on the ball all the time? Go defend? Sit back in midfield and help our weak midfield out?Run after a lost cause? He is a FORWARD, and last time i checked berba rarely puts a foot wrong, he will hold on to the ball, he will give killer passes, hell, he’s the most intelligent player we have.
Anyway we had the berba debate a couple of weeks ago, some elliot dude had posted an article trashing him and the general consensus was that berba was class and the guy didn’t know what he was talking about.I feel it would be a waste of time to rewrite and debate again about the same matter again, so that’s that from me.
September 10th, 2009 at 12:40
@spizzy: Bang on….
September 10th, 2009 at 12:42
Hmmm.. interesting.. Vidic puts his goals as 1.winning the Premier league and 2. The champions league..
Epl top 4’s don’t care anymore about the F.A cup anymore now, is it?
September 10th, 2009 at 13:03
@Merlinus: The top players rarely get to play at the FA, its mostly the young players in the reserve who play at the FA, i think it has lost some of its prestige.
September 10th, 2009 at 13:22
haha that video had the perfect soundtrack for vidic
September 10th, 2009 at 13:30
“We’ve had a good group of players training here at Carrington while the internationals have been going on – Ferdinand, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Anderson, Ji-sung Park… also young Fabio and Michael Owen. So we have a decent squad. In fact, it’s unusual to have that many players here [during the international break].” – SAF
Oh dear…?
———Foster———-
-Neville-Rio-Vida-Evra–
—Scholes—Anderson—
———Giggs———-
–Park———–Fabio–
———Owen———–
:p
September 10th, 2009 at 13:55
@spizzy: Berba’s only flaws is that
1. he is a bit trigger shy
2. he can gradually fade into a game (but then again midfield has to bear responsibility for that)
Even I’ll admit to these two.
But the other usual repetitive dross about laziness and not doing anything of worth in a match…oh well
We know better.
September 10th, 2009 at 13:58
@Beachryan: Oh dear, indeed!
My line-up:
———Foster———-
-Neville-Brown-Vida-Evra–
—Scholes—Anderson—
–Park———–Nani–
———Owen/Berba—Rooney—–
September 10th, 2009 at 14:27
@tom: I think you’ve been watching the games with a blindfold!
September 10th, 2009 at 17:15
We might get a new deputy!!!
Link here:
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/columnists/the-mole/Alex-Ferguson-taps-up-ex-Roma-boss-for-a-bottle-of-wine-article146709.html
September 10th, 2009 at 17:52
Hats off to RR! I am really curious how you pulled this one off?
September 10th, 2009 at 17:59
Anyone remember this little scuffle?
http://www.studs-up.com/2008/10/bark-and-bite/?page=11
September 10th, 2009 at 18:00
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKTn_czuGyo
September 10th, 2009 at 18:08
it’s clearly a coup for rr to get the interview, however, that was probably one of the blandest, most borings things i’ve ever read. there’s nothing remotely intyeresting in the conversation.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:18
@NicoQB: I don’t mind so much if a DMF is a dirty player. I am more concerned over the need for them to be versatile box to box players. If Diarra is shaping into this kind of player like an Essien, then i have no problem. But the game is still littered with too many one dimensional fouling machines who prey on forwards and midfielders just in front of their back four. I’d rather take that position and move them forward as part of the attack and open the game up. But managers are all cowards at heart and lack the courage to play attractive attacking football.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:23
@Worsel: Fair enough. I wasn’t expecting juicy quotes tbh. That said 90% of player interviews don’t give much away, unless you talk with agents.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:25
Very impressive Red Ranter, very impressive indeed. Getting an exclusive interview with one of my top three favorite United players was great. But I wouldn’t be me if I never mentioned one criticism. Why not the hard questions like is he going to leave United after the season and is it true his wife hates living in Manchester. It’s not you have invented them as they have been the main topic regarding him for a few months now. It would have been nice for him to rebuke the rumors and clear the air and put us all at ease.
Well done mate but I must admit a pet peeve of mine are Larry King style interviews. The kind that bring on a celebrity who is caught up in something scandalous or difficult and all Larry talks about and asks them are trivial questions that don’t get to the real issues. Don’t get me wrong, you did well with the interview and you were lights out in even getting him to agree to it, but I for one need to know if he plans on staying beyond this season. I love Vida and our defense cannot survive without him.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:30
RR, so you must set up an interview with Fergie and allow the Grognard to ask the questions.
Now that would be an interview that would rock the Internet to it’s core, don’t you think? Or a three man interview with me vs Anderson and Evra. Just watch the sparks fly then. But then In order to be fair and more positive, I would ask you to set up a love in interview session with Craig interviewing Nani with special guest Miss Kimberley herself and then Dan must have his session cuddling up to the reserves with a special one on one with Ben Foster on the specifics of goalkeeping. 
September 10th, 2009 at 18:34
Appreciate the feedback. Credit should go to the people that made this possible. It’s hard enough for bloggers to get interviews with players. Anyway, one step at a time, I’d say.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:50
@Grognard: Who are the other top 2?
September 10th, 2009 at 18:51
@Darth Red Diablo: Evra and Foster
September 10th, 2009 at 18:52
@Darth Red Diablo: Owen Hargreaves and Wayne Rooney
September 10th, 2009 at 18:53
Lennon would rip Neville apart if Harry decides to switch him to the left. No, no Neville for this please,too much risk. I’d rather have Fabio or De Laet but then thats not going to happen.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:53
@Red Ranter: Well done Red Ranter, you have outdone yourself here!
Congratulations on getting the interview, bet it was hard to stay calm under pressure from Nemanja. Well done mate, well done. 
September 10th, 2009 at 18:54
@Footy4Eddy:
You forgot to mention my love for Mr. Anderson. 
Seriously though, it’s good to see you back Eddy. I was a little worried about you because you seemed so upset and flustered the other day. I hope that some of your problems are things of the past or you have made a decision on how to deal with them best.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:56
@Darth Red Diablo: David May, twice.
September 10th, 2009 at 18:57
@Grognard: And me?
September 10th, 2009 at 19:02
@Grognard: Im doing alright now. Truth is my biggest problem was my mother having a nervous breakdown, went so far that she started asking me who I was, whether I was really her son. Creeped me out to be honest, and it got involved with other problems including football, partying, frienship, school and such. Got a much needed lift on Tuesday, when I cleared off the line in the last minute to make my team win the game 2-1. I didnt feel myself being tired until after the game, so much I was set off by what happen in the weekend… But I cleared off the line and won us the game, gave myself a confidence booster there and then. My mom is doing alright now as well, saying what happend was because she had some massive stress and questions buliding up insde her, you see she just lost her job. Being a lone parent for a 16 year old boy with the life that I have is difficult enough, losing your job and buliding up anxieties within just makes it worse…
Ive been thinking about my life a lot the last few days, trying not to listen to too many advices from people who end their sentances with “…Its your life, you know best”.
Like I didnt know that. So Ive thought alot about it, and gotback to my usual self again! 
Tunnel vision, as you call it. 
One step at a time, only thinking about the next challenge. So I hope to be back, but Im gonna go on some trials the next few weeks so I may be away of this blog a few times. But Im not gonna leave this place for good! 
September 10th, 2009 at 19:06
@Red Ranter: I’m kinda disappointed that you didn’t ask questions about
1. The Chuck Norris/Nemnja Vidic running jokes
2. the fact whether players themselves read unofficial fan-blogs like this one!
September 10th, 2009 at 19:12
@Footy4Eddy: Live strong!
I don’t know if you do it, but an occasional “I love you mom!” can do wonders.
September 10th, 2009 at 19:14
@NicoQB: My mother means more to me than anything, so I guess Ive said it at least a few times…
September 10th, 2009 at 19:20
What about his wife, RR? A good job otherwise!
September 10th, 2009 at 19:59
@Footy4Eddy: Good boy.
September 10th, 2009 at 20:18
@Darth Red Diablo: What about you?
September 10th, 2009 at 20:39
VIDIC IS THE BEST DEFENDER IN THe WORLD!!! If lescott is worth 24 mill imagine how much hes worth….
September 10th, 2009 at 21:36
Vidic ic priceless….
September 10th, 2009 at 21:38
Sssssshhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!
September 10th, 2009 at 22:02
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKTn_czuGyo
If you are bored…
September 10th, 2009 at 22:35
I was watching Red Cafe on MUTV and it was interesting when the Vidic leaving question came up, good old Paddy Crerand started laughing hard and basically said he talked to Vidic and Nemanja said he is very happy in Manchester and has no plans to leave. Now that’s what I like to hear. Problem is, I have learned not to trust the modern day footballer from abroad.
On a side note, I wasn’t aware until today that Hayley McQueen the host of Red Cafe is the daughter of Gordon McQueen, one of my all time faves. And she is a striking babe to boot. Way to go Gordy.
September 10th, 2009 at 22:43
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/blogs/football-banter/Oasis-Lily-or-Phil-Collins-Who-should-record-England-s-World-Cup-song-article151887.html
And I’m not even english…
Which was better?
World in Motion or Three Lions?
September 10th, 2009 at 23:17
@Footy4Eddy: What, did you get official EA endorsement?
September 10th, 2009 at 23:37
Let’s just have: Vidic-Ferdinand-Vidic-Vidic, Nani, Carrick (att), Fletcher (def), Valencia, Rooney, Berba.
Maybe use Anderson and Owen as subs.
Can’t wait to watch the game.
After the United game, I am off to the Big House for the Michigan- Notre Dame game
September 11th, 2009 at 0:22
@Red Ranter: Very nice scoop RR, be great if you could follow up with more interviews. Perhaps someone like Evra would open up a little more though!
They all seem to be drilled at what to say and what not to say. It so rare to hear them actually say anything close to what’s on their mind. Of course, Paul Gascoine was an exception here!!
September 11th, 2009 at 0:25
@[OPTI]Madschester United: Yep I think it’s gonna be a great game too.
Both teams like to attack and neither has a dominant MF, so lots of end to end stuff.
September 11th, 2009 at 0:32
@Grognard: He said it because it’s what you wanted to hear!!
It’s good that they talk to the pundits, but could they possible just become something slightly more lively than a freaking Zombie!
September 11th, 2009 at 0:34
@[OPTI]Madschester United: needs more Vidic….
September 11th, 2009 at 0:35
@onemanunited.wordpress.com: My god, man. If the Gaziers would ever read something like that, he’ll be gone by christmas!!
September 11th, 2009 at 0:40
@Grognard: My three favourite players would be…..
1. Wayne Rooney
2. Owen Hargreaves
3. Paul Scholes
September 11th, 2009 at 0:41
@Grognard: How else do you think she got the job, it’s sure as hell not for presenting skills!
September 11th, 2009 at 0:44
@Traverse: Aah, but women like her, have what it takes!
September 11th, 2009 at 1:20
Capello indicates what to do, after banning WAGS from the WC finals http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/09_02/FabioCapello_482×449.jpg
September 11th, 2009 at 2:24
@NicoQB: New Order rules.
September 11th, 2009 at 2:26
@Redrich: They are all trained seals and even worse, the muppets on MUTV are just as bad as they will never ever go down a risky path in questioning. I may not like the London media for all their United bashing but at least they ask the really important questions.
September 11th, 2009 at 2:28
@Traverse: No but she could present herself to me anytime. Jeez, I never thought I’d ever fantasize about shagging Gordon McQueen’s daughter. She truly is shagalicious, yeah baby!
September 11th, 2009 at 2:30
@Redrich: Gotta love the Cabbage Man. No nonsense and no parties. Good for him. How will they survive the month without parties, dressing like girls (I still can’t get that Rio image with the tank top out of my head) and shagging their energy away?
September 11th, 2009 at 2:33
@Grognard: I hate to say it mate, but you and I are too old, and too poor for the likes of these babes.
Fun to dream, though!!
September 11th, 2009 at 2:41
@Grognard: That’s right mate, these transvestite tendencies will not win you a WC!
September 11th, 2009 at 5:16
@Redrich: So true but one thing I have learned mate is that no matter how old you are, never lose the ability to dream and have delusions of grandeur. It gives you hope and it keeps the heart beating longer.
September 11th, 2009 at 5:23
@Redrich: I’m always reminded of something I remember reading about the 1974 World Cup and the evenings just before the final between West Germany and Holland. The Dutch were apparently allowed to have the wives and girlfriends stay those nights with the players and they supposedly partied hard and into the wee hours of the morning of the final. The Germans on the other hand were banned from seeing their wives for the last few days and although they were pissed off and even threatened to walk, they survived it and went on to twin the game because they had more energy, focus and that little extra on the day. The Dutch pool parties and orgies just took too much out of the Clockwork Orange who up to that moment were the class of the tournament and who looked unstoppable. It’s another case where the military and strict discipline of the Germans won out against thew free spirited hippy culture of the Netherlands. Capello and Italy always took the WC very seriously and limited their parties and so he knows exactly what he is doing. It’s going to be killer on party animals like Rio, Terry, Wassa Lennon etc.
September 11th, 2009 at 5:56
@Traverse: you’re right. Can’t we use vidic as DMF? He would scare palacios back to south america.
September 11th, 2009 at 6:14
Here’s a joke for you all. Why do young Italian players join youth academies? To pray to God to be noticed by an English club
September 11th, 2009 at 7:03
Hi.. There are stories regd Akinfeev some news daily in UK….
I know there might not be any substance in this story but, just wanted to know how is this goal???
I mean I have not seen him a lot.. So just wanted is he good enough to be in Man UTD….
September 11th, 2009 at 7:19
@Red Ranter: Very impressed. Well done. I think the questions were fine. This is the first time you’re interviewing for RedRants. We wouldn’t want it to be the last by alienating the interviewees. But, perhaps next time, throw in a hard-core question – maybe warn him before the time.
Well done.
September 11th, 2009 at 7:36
@Grognard: I lost my interest in MUTV during the Ronaldo debacle when twice in a row, the presenter said “This question is too negative so I’m not going to read it out”. What happened to objectivity? The entire incident showed me that not even they know anything and are just speculating and giving opinions like the rest of the world.
September 11th, 2009 at 7:40
@Footy4Eddy: Welcome back. Glad to ’see’ you’re in a much better mood.
Please promise me one thing. When you go on trials and get into United, please get Fergie to come read this blog? I have a few on-line questions for him
(Even if you play against United, just whisper it in his ear at half-time.)
September 11th, 2009 at 8:49
@Onkar: He’s an excellent keeper but he doesn’t speak a word of English. Ferguson has always said he demands his keepers be able to communicate to defenders so I wouldn’t take this rumor seriously at all. Besides, Akinfeev is good. Fergie of late only like poor keepers.
September 11th, 2009 at 8:53
@Karl: Watching a couple of their programs yesterday I found a lot of the same BS I face here. They just don’t like it when somebody calls in and is all negative and even they used the term doom and gloom. It’s like you are not allowed to question the Ferguson and Glazer regime whatsoever. I found the pablum barely palatable and would rather clip my toenails than listen to Paddy Crerand go on and on about patience and faith in the manager. Nauseating stuff really.
September 11th, 2009 at 8:55
@Karl: That’s right Karl, I also want Fergie to show up and then after Karl is finished with him, I want an hour locked up in a room with him where I can guarantee he will be Grognified.
September 11th, 2009 at 9:39
This is hilarious:
http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1946/atishay-inc/2009/09/10/1492457/atishay-inc-ten-things-a-football-newbie-would-say
September 11th, 2009 at 9:48
wow!!!
how on earth u met him and took a long interview? Well done lad!
September 11th, 2009 at 10:29
@tom: why would you want Berba to do the running for others (Mildfielders)? i mean that should just show you how weak our midfield is, if we expect the strikers to do the running which is meant to be done by the midfielders.
If you are hungry because of lack of money, don’t blame it on the shortage of food. In anycase when goals are not going in the strikers are slated, so when teams are over powering us in the middle, blame it on the midfield not the strikers “who are lazy”.
September 11th, 2009 at 10:33
Apparently Hargreaves is expected to be playing in our last 3 CL group games, and it came down to a choice between him, De Laet and Tosic – which obviously the curly-haired one won. I’m a bit dissapointed, thought he might feature before that – then again if he hasn’t played any football before the 23rd of September, maybe that’s about right. Fingers and toes crossed for him to stay healthy, wonderful player when fit.
September 11th, 2009 at 10:36
I’ve got everything crossed for a full recovery. I’m well aware that it might not happen, but I live in hope, because he is a midfield monster.
September 11th, 2009 at 10:51
@Grognard: in supplement she’s shaggedelic.
Man United is a religion, look at Crerand, Irwin, Macari and by the way Irwin’s daughter is also there.
September 11th, 2009 at 10:51
It’s the day before the game, here’s where my gloom and doom ends and i become a blind believer
.I have all week from sunday to spell doom but for now, We are the best and Yes, tomorrow we will absolutely demolish spurs 
.Can’t wait to see our back four show utter class and keep spurs out, I predict foster to have a clean sheet,fingers crossed 
, our midfield will silence all their detractors and will play like they has never done before, and ronnie and berba will each get a brace 
.
September 11th, 2009 at 11:01
@UnitedUnited: ha ha haah aha heh ehehehehe, this one is a killer, i actually meet many people who ask such question when i go out to watch the game in pubs.
September 11th, 2009 at 11:15
This isnt how Vidic speaks, nor how he writes..his English is not this advanced. Doesnt seem to be a word for word copy..
September 11th, 2009 at 12:08
@[OPTI]Madschester United: Are you an Irish or Wolverine fan?
September 11th, 2009 at 12:12
@Jay Jay: Who is Irwin’s daughter?
September 11th, 2009 at 12:26
woah! RR, props, how did you pull this one off. I like.
September 11th, 2009 at 12:41
@Grognard: “Fergie of late only like poor keepers” hope SAF reads this coz it might make him realise something about himself. Foster will cost us big tym.
September 11th, 2009 at 12:46
@spizzy: wow! spizzy, thats grand optimism right there. Though i woud gladly take a 1 nil in from spurs. We will be in a very good position if we manage 6/9 points from the games vs arsenil, spurs and man pity. we already have 3. Not bad
September 11th, 2009 at 12:56
@UnitedUnited: get out of here maen! thats so funny.
September 11th, 2009 at 13:28
@Ondii Oketchii: We have all of next week to moan, groan and rant about how much we suck, but I never take that attitude towards a match. I may change my view while watching the game, like i did against the arses and burnley but never prior to a match. I’m always optimistic that somehow united will put in an amazing performance and prove me wrong for criticizing fergie and the rest of them, except berba of course
, he’s pure class in my eyes. The first twenty minutes for me determine how much venom I’ll spew the following week.
September 11th, 2009 at 14:36
@spizzy: way 2 go. am the same though 4 me the amount of venom i’ll throw is normally dertemined like 1 hr before the game. The team selection sets my mood for the game, its when I see the likes of oshea, park, neville on the team sheet that I begin my venom spitting.
September 11th, 2009 at 16:41
So I just popped out for a quick coffee (in London) and saw a big young guy walking down the street in a Tosic jersey. Random.
September 11th, 2009 at 18:11
@Penn0r: What exactly are you trying to say or insinuate?
September 11th, 2009 at 18:14
@Beachryan: The only way to explain that is the bloke was probably of Serbian heritage. Otherwise, why would I waste money and buy a jersey of a reserve player?
September 11th, 2009 at 19:37
@Grognard: Good to see me back?
September 11th, 2009 at 19:47
@Beachryan: Must be Zoran Tosic himself.
September 11th, 2009 at 22:46
Not trying to insinuate anything – just nobody else noticed that is not Vidic-speak at all? not even remotely resembling.
September 11th, 2009 at 23:56
can any one give me any news on this young russian goalkeeper who is up for a move to united, i will be happy forany information on him thanks.
September 12th, 2009 at 0:12
@keith: Wiki is your friend.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igor_Akinfeev
September 12th, 2009 at 0:48
Thanks alot redrich your help is very much appreciated, what I would like to know how he is rated amoungst all of the united fans on this blog I would also like some feedback from grognard if possible as I do respect his opinion when it comes to goalkeepers. One more thing if I wanted to reply to someone in particular like I just did to Redrich is there a certain link that I can go to to bring their name up different to the regular text. By the way, am looking forward to sitting down with my son and watching tghe game tomorrow, I know that spurs are on form at the moment but I am predicting a united win
September 12th, 2009 at 0:54
@keith: Akinfeev is among the best young goalkeepers in the world at the moment. Grognard has been glowing in praise for Akinfeev countless times before on this blog. He is among his favourite keepers I believe. I also rate him quite high. I’m surprised you don’t seem to have heard much about him already.
One thing’s for sure, I doubt he’ll come cheap.
September 12th, 2009 at 0:57
@keith: Clicking on the light gray arrow to the right of the commentators name will allow you to reply to that specific comment. It’s a good thing to do as well, so we all know who you’re talking to!
September 12th, 2009 at 0:59
Thanks alot Redrich I do appreciate your help but what I would like is some feedback from other United fans on this site as to how they rate him and that would include you Grognade as I do respect your opinions on goalkeepers. Is there a link that I need to go to if I wanted to reply to a particular person like i am replying to Redrich so that their name is in a different colour text to the message.
Looking forward to sitting down with my son tomorrow and watching the game, I know that Spurs are an form but I am predicting a win to united with a very tight game.
September 12th, 2009 at 1:02
@Red Ranter: Thanks alot Red Ranter and I must apoligise for sending the same message twice but I must have done so by mistake
September 12th, 2009 at 1:06
@Redrich: Thanks alot Redrich as you can see that I have carried out your instructions and the first one was to the Red Ranter himself, what can I say.
By the way I notice that this site is very quiet at this time Iam certain all of us are not on GMT and surly I am not the only one at work after midnight.
September 12th, 2009 at 1:29
@keith: You’re right we’re not all on GMT, but it seems to get quiet this time of day, usually.
Perhaps if you join the ranks more often, you could stir things up a bit!
September 12th, 2009 at 2:04
Is Tevez really gonna miss the derby game because of injury, or is Sparky sheltering him from a shower of phlegm when he makes his OT return??
I think the latter.! This gutless Argie has no stomach for the big stage, and certainly not when there’s an element of adversity attached to it.
Where’s all you’re verbal bravado now, Carlos??
September 12th, 2009 at 2:23
@Red Ranter: “I doubt he’ll come cheap.”
Well I doubt he’ll come at all then!!
September 12th, 2009 at 2:50
Well I’ve just finished watching the England v Croatia game for the first time, and while England did dominate and take some/most of their opportunities, I thought Croatia played like a three legged horse. They seemed to be terribly motivated for such an important game, and handled the English pressure like it was a mere friendly.
It’s great we’re going to SA, and probably with a decent seeding too, but the nature of this game didn’t tell me a thing about our prospects there!!
September 12th, 2009 at 4:01
@Redrich: It does amaze me how so many will ask the simplest question s on here when all it takes is Google and wikipedia to usually open a plethora of sites containing info about the person place or thing.
September 12th, 2009 at 4:08
@keith: I have spoken about Akinfeev on many occasions in the past. I do not rate him as high Neuer, Adler, Boruc or Frey but I would place him right after that when it comes to keepers who are great and can be bought. No point mentioning Buffon and Casillas as they are lifers with their respective clubs.
Akinfeev is an excellent shot stopper and has tremendous reflexes. His distribution is good and his positioning and concentration is also good. My only concerns with him is he struggles a little mor eon crossed balls into the box (not as bad as Foster) and his lack of English could be a problem when communicating with his defense. On that I am in agreement with Fergie. I know that Neuer, Adler have workable English and Boruc has played in Scotland long enough to be fluent. Then again, they don’t really speak English in Scotland but at least Fergie will understand him and vice versa.
I like Akinfeev and I would not complain if we signed him but we will really be missing the boat if we don’t go after Neuer or at least Adler. Two of the very best young keepers I have ever seen and Neuer is one of the best I have ever seen period.
September 12th, 2009 at 4:11
@Red Ranter: True he would not come cheap, but then again who does these days? He would be a cheaper solution to Neuer, Adler, Frey or Boruc who all play with bigger clubs in bigger leagues that will demand more just because of their status and league. Players from Russia aren’t cheap but they aren’t overpriced either. Pavlyuchenko, Pogrebnyak, Arshavin and others have come for a lot less than i feel they are worth. Only Chelsea paid above the value of the very good Zhirkov.
September 12th, 2009 at 4:16
I’m thinking about what’s been going on at Stamford Bridge of late and the title of an old Elvis Costello song comes to mind “I don’t want to go to Chelsea”. The lyrics don’t work but I do like humming the title a lot.
September 12th, 2009 at 5:26
@Grognard: you still think boruc is good? i think he is been commiting far too many errors for a goal keeper of that class!
Neuer and Adler on the other hand are class.
September 12th, 2009 at 5:35
@Grognard: Also dont know much about frey but Lloris has successfully replaced him as france GK No.1. Lloris also rated by many to be the best young goalie (almost as good as casillas/bufoon)
September 12th, 2009 at 7:10
@Grognard: I know that, but it’s only fair to give a start to someone who’s dipping his foot in the water.
Wouldn’t give him a second chance though!
September 12th, 2009 at 7:20
@Grognard: Isn’t a bitch, when we got Valencia for about the same as Arsenal got Arshavin.
Value is, as SAF does!!
September 12th, 2009 at 8:16
@jos: Boruc big weakness is concentration and focus. When he is concentrating I think he is absolutely awesome. However, he had his marriage breakup cause him a lot of problems last year from what I heard. As that is no little thing as I can relate, it can really mess with a man’s mind. I think he is over that now and I expect a big season. He also needs a change of scenery. When it comes to raw save ability and reflexes, I doubt anyone is better than him except maybe Neuer. Of course Neuer is the complete package which makes him a better buy with less risk. Still Pee Wee Herman or the late Benny Hill would have been better in goal than Ben Frakken Foster.
September 12th, 2009 at 8:18
@jos: Frey is very flakey and a bit of weirdo. He’s a total head case other than that, he too is a great shot stopper but he put down Domenich many times in the press and this is why he is not in the French plans.
September 12th, 2009 at 8:22
@Redrich: It absolutely incenses me. I was on the Arshavin bandwagon way before Arsenal picked him up and I was a loud vocal promoter of him on this site. I find it amazing how I can know more about a player than Fergie. Hell Fergie is only now cluing to Neuer and Diego. Hell I was calling the name Diego last year too. He had a chance to get both Arshavin and Diego last year at much better prices but the old man was either not interested or asleep at the wheel. The day that really gets me pissed off is the noght of the UEFA Cup final at OT when Zenit beat Rangers. Arshavin put on a magical display right there in front of Fergie who was watching in the stands and still, he never signed him.
September 12th, 2009 at 11:07
Nemanja is a fucking legend!!!!