Mar 04
Newcastle Preview and Ronaldo’s Contract
Another midweek game, another game I’m sure to miss thanks to work. Living stateside, midweek games are tough on the fan. I guess I’d have to rely on the next best thing; the recorded game.
Yesterday, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea all won. And for all Arsenal’s troubles and Villa’s current position in the league, I suspect, with games like Villa’s capitulation against Stoke, the big four will wear a familiar look come May. [I may have to eat my words, but then, those words will taste sweet if one of other three finish out of the top four.]
Today we meet Newcastle. A team that has been in a state of perpetual shambles. Yet, we managed to draw that trainwreck of a side in our first game of the season. In my match day previews, every once in a while, I get the odd cretin from a rival club side sneaking in through the corridors of Newsnow to accuse me of being smug about our side [apart from other unprintable stuff; but we'll not go there]. But then, when you play the likes of Newcastle, West Brom etc., what else can you do? Again, I could eat my words at the end of the day [which would make them painfully bitter], but then, one must back ones’ convictions, and all that pap.
Right, before I earn the wrath of the superstitious of my United friends, enough sticking out my neck for the day.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo, according to various reports, is set to be offered a whopping £200,000 a week contract. One suspects the veracity of a news story, whose origins are from the eminently respectable News of the World, but let’s suspend our disbelief for now. Now, the line of thinking from United is obvious: make a statement of intent, both verbally and financially, on the club’s commitment towards retaining its prized asset/star/commodity — however one prefers to call him.
My line of thinking is slightly different. I tend to agree, more or less, with Scott over at RoM: outstanding player, but not worth £200,000 a week. It begs the question, if 140,000 — or whatever he’s on at the moment, with his image rights added to it — is not enough to keep him happy in a contract that goes till 2012, then I really don’t know what will. Real Madrid will knock bang on our doors, offering sums laughably below his market value, and we’ll have to endure another summer putting up with, not only Madrid’s shit, but even that of Ronaldo (actually it’s not him, he brings God into the picture.) In passing, anyone recall his ‘Only God knows’ antics from last summer? We’ll he’s already started a bit of it, recently.
Ok, I may be going overboard, but the overbearing presence of Real Madrid makes me want to throw up at the prospect of wading through another summer of bullshit, for want of a better word. And if Ronaldo plays the only God knows card again, I will eat my shoe. In preparation for such an unlikely event, I have a shoe made of butterscotch flavoured ice-cream in my freezer.
Back to today’s game. It would hardly be surprising to see Vidic returning to partner Rio at the center of our defence. Evans will earn a well deserved break to give his ankle more time. The boy’s done very well this season — adds weight to Fergie’s decision to sell Pique to Barca. He looks the real deal to me. He’s young, but defenders peak well in the late 20s. I see a bright future for him at United. I hope he does too. O’Shea should play at right back, despite reports of a heel injury — Neville’s not likely, as far as I’m aware, and Brown, I haven’t heard much about.
In the middle, Carrick should definitely play alongside Fletcher, as Scholesy and Giggsy get a game off following their involvement in the Cup. Of course, there is Anderson who, for his exploits as a sub last weekend, could get a run out today for about an hour, instead of Fletch. Ronaldo will inexplicably play, despite running himself to the ground for 120 mins on Sunday, again. I would go with Park and Nani. Upfront, there’s little doubt Rooney and the BerbaCount will play.
SAF as usual finds the right things to say on our title bid and, what I think to be, the ridiculous quintuple claims in the media:
“You hope to disturb your opponents and I have done it myself because you hope to get nearer, but we won’t take anything lightly and we go to Newcaste on Wednesday knowing that they are fighting for survival and that it won’t be easy. It will be nip-and-tuck for all teams in the division, so we will not be falling into any traps.”
Right, I’m off for now. See you later, when I get the time to log on.
Oh, and before I forget, my prediction: 2-0 to United. Call me cocky.
Related items from Red Rants:
- Man Utd vs Newcastle Utd: Preview
- Man Utd v Newcastle: Preview
- Update on Red Rants
- Manchester United confirm new contracts for Brown, Ferdinand and Carrick
- The Louis Saha Question and United 6-0 Newcastle Goal Videos
Tags: Game Preview
March 4th, 2009 at 9:17
cocky!!!
March 4th, 2009 at 9:43
Ronaldo should be rested now. Give Nani a whole game to find some wavelength of sorts, till now it’s only been cup games that he has done something good (and that’s cuz he got the minutes there).
March 4th, 2009 at 10:37
If Ronaldo is not rested in either of the next two games, Fergie will surely regret it. He is attempting to squeeze water from a rock. Ronaldo needs rest or he will be useless to us come the game vs Inter or any other big games in the future.
March 4th, 2009 at 11:29
I agree. Ronaldo BETTER be rested, or else we’ll regret it. Actually I wouldn’t mind him playing a 20-30min today, but he BETTER be rested for the weekend game. I want him to be all guns blazing for the Inter match (not just smoke from the barrel), which is easily our biggest match of the season.
March 4th, 2009 at 12:32
Sneaking in through the corridors of Newsnow – I am. Accusing you of being smug – I am.
However when you are a supporter of the best team in the world (at the moment) and your about to play probably the second worst team in the league (at the moment) then I suppose you can be smug.
But then again one reason Manchester United are on top year in year out is that SAF never takes a game lightly – yes he might rest a player now and again but it always seems (from afar)that every game is equally important (League Cup aside – but you have even won that now!)
And the reason Liverpool will never win the league with Benitez…..
Anyway I dont think we will get stuffed tonight and I am going for a low scoring draw.
March 4th, 2009 at 12:51
hello fellow manutd suporters, I have been following the topics of this board with great interest for a while now and has decided that what the hell lets get on board and do some ranting myself. Before I start ranting let me introduce myself to you all, I live in St.Helena a little Island in the middle of the SAO between south America and the coast of Africa. I have been following my beloved team for almost thirty years ( yes that is right you heard me correctly almost thirty years) I get to see every premier leauge game live via the supersport channell which means i see three on a saturday, three on a sunday and all midweek games including champions leauge, FA cup, and leauge cup, I am not too Fuss over the UEFA cup as that is only for second rated teams anyway. any way I am looking forward to the game at St.James park tonight and bringing the lead back to 7 points. I will not go on anymore at this time but will wait to see if I am excepted on this forum if I am you will be hearing alot more from me but if i am not accepted I will keeping reading here anyway
March 4th, 2009 at 12:54
Actually I wouldn’t mind seeing this starting line-up today:
—– VDS ——
Nev-Rio-Vida-Evra
Fletch-Giggs-Carrick-Park
Rooney-Berba
I know it’s not offensive enough, but Nani and Ronaldo can come off the bench in the second half, to strengthen us if needed.
It’s at this point that I really wish Tosic would already be “ready”, cos I would use him on the wings instead, resting Giggs, and playing Fletch in midfield.
March 4th, 2009 at 13:23
As some of the earlier posts have said i hope we see ronaldo rested tonight. He needs a rest, he plays every league game and cup game it seems. I dont know if it is fergie who is too scared to drop him in case he bickers about it and goes off on 1, or just ronaldo keeps saying he is ok to play even when maybe he isnt. I just hope fergie sees sence and rests him for the game today and maybe fulham in the cup on saturday so hes fresh for the inter game. I would expect us to beat newcastle today without ronaldo anyway and the same goes for the fulham game too. It would be nice to see nani get a run of a few games and ronaldo being rested would allow us to see him a bit more. Park will go on the right side im guessing with oshea shaking off his heel injury and playing as well. Ando, i really wanna see him start but i guess fergie will just go safe and play fletcher and carrick in the middle. I reckon we will see this team tonight:
VDS
OSHEA RIO VIDIC EVRA
PARK FLETCHER CARRICK RONALDO
ROONEY BERBA
March 4th, 2009 at 13:28
@Matt: @antsBoy: Surely he should start win the game and take him off, do not but him in the squad for Saturday then he gets a good week off.
If Chlescum and the Dippers had drops points last night then I can see sense in not playing him, but it will not be easy and my attiude is simply win the game, then we are a step closer.
He still have a week to rest, he is a young guy and wants to play so play him, if Fergie thinks he is tired then he would not play, I doubt SAF is scared of him.
March 4th, 2009 at 13:44
Stephen, well according to sky sports they reckon ronaldo will start on the left with flecther on the right. Now i know this aint the real team just a prediction but i have to ask 2 questions. First off, and i now its not frequent but why does fletcher play as a winger when we have injuries there. He in no way is a winger, he has no skill and cannot cross well so please any1 can they tell me why the hell he plays as a makeshift winger. Now yes i know he doesnt play there much but we must have better options than him playing there. Say ronaldo got injured tomorrow for the rest of the season, would we really be subjected to seeing fletcher play there all season. Surely nani or park or even rafael are better options. Maybe the reason why we play ronaldo every game is cos we dont have any1 who plays there. Maybe the RM is a position we should be looking at for bringing some1 in to be 2nd choice. We need some1 better than fletcher there.
My second question is why is ronaldo playing on the left all the time this year. After last year him scoring 42 goals why do we decide to make him switch sides. I must have seen him play on the left about 20 times this year and i dont see the point of it. Surely he must play in his favourite position, i really hope we arent changing his position to the left just for park to play in the games when he is needed for protecting rafael cos that just madness, we are meant to be an attacking side arent we. I hope for a game like 2day when we will see newcastle missing many key players, we go for it and dont play this defesnive drivvle we have seen all this year. Hopefully we play nani and ronaldo with ando and carrick in the middle. Lets hammer them like liverpool did a few weeks ago and get our 7 point lead back. Unfortunately i can see us making hard work of it and going for our drab defensive tactics, come on alex be bold and lets just destroy them.
March 4th, 2009 at 13:52
I think Nani and Park should start wide. Ronaldo on the bench. Carrick and Anderson in the middle. Rooney and Berbatov up top.
March 4th, 2009 at 13:53
@Matt: Ronaldo said he prefers the left, playing ahead of Evra. And Park offers better protection to our right back, which has been a weak point this season.
And Fletcher’s a decent winger. Gets into goalscoring positions well from the wing, makes it hard for the opposition winger and full back getting forward and he keeps the ball well.
March 4th, 2009 at 13:53
@Matt: Surely Park will start?
Ronaldo played all over the place last season, I agree that Fletch isn’t a winger and never looked like one, I suppose we are down on the fact that last season we played 4-3-3 more now we are very much a 4-4-2 side sometimes 4-5-1.
Hargraves could have played there, but Nani really isn’t playing great but I would play him above Park and Fletcher out wide, it is logic to me playing a natural wide man out wide?!?!!?
I am worried about tonight an fell we may drop points, which would not be the end of the world but playing Ronaldo would give us the best chance of winning, Fletch should be in the centre with Carrick, def not Anderson, with the Portuguese lads out wide.
March 4th, 2009 at 14:26
@antsBoy: Why start Giggs in the middle and Fletch on the right? It might as well be Giggsy on the wing and Fletch playing CM and Carrick attacking CM.
And does anyone know what in the world has happened to Brown? Seems like he is non existent. How many games has he played this season>? 4? 3?
March 4th, 2009 at 14:34
@Stephen: Why not Anderson?
March 4th, 2009 at 14:36
@UnitedUnited: I have a suspicion he only played last season because management did want him to leave on a free/cheap. Now that his contract is secured, its back to the doghouse.
March 4th, 2009 at 14:38
@Matt: ‘Fletcher has no skill’
Anyway we should really blowout Newcastle but as we all know teams up their games against United. I expect it to be 0-0 at HT and the game hinges on the next 15 minutes after that. Newcastle will come out fired up to beat us and we will need to deal with that. I reckon we should win 2-0 as RR said but Newcastle have a habit of falling apart after they concede and have no Shay Given to bail them out now so we could win emphatically. Rooney and Ronaldo to score.
March 4th, 2009 at 14:56
@UnitedUnited: Brown is apparantly injured! I don’t get any sense of it either, cuz he’d be the first choice RB for me. He also gells well with Ronaldo.
@Karl: I hope that’s not true! That would be grossly unfair!
March 4th, 2009 at 14:59
@Stephen: I dunno how Fletcher at RW is even concieved in a time when we have genuine wingers available. I seriously hope Nani is played today, I feel bad for him nowadays!
March 4th, 2009 at 15:18
Guys, my argument about not playing Nani today hinges on the Inter game. Whom do we need to start in that game? Nani or Park? Park definitely! Which means Nani should play the FA cup game against Fulham (since it’ll be best to rest Park). Playing Nani today means he will have played 3 games in a week, and Park sits simply on the bench! That’s crazy..he better be rested today for the start and come on in the second half.
@UnitedUnited: Umm..maybe cos Giggs has been in outstanding form in the last 2 months while playing there?
March 4th, 2009 at 15:24
@Rahul: I’d feel bad if he wasn’t playing like total shite and not learning from his mistakes. He seems to think he can just do whatever he feels is best for him and not the team. The difference between him and Ronaldo is that Ronaldo completely changed his style and worked at his mistakes as he got further adapted to the league. Nani has plenty of natural talent but has a very low football IQ. I just wish he had Park’s football brain. People say he’s like Ronaldo when he first joined, well Ronaldo was 17 when he joined and in his 2nd season was twice the player Nani is today. I’m not saying Nani can’t become a good, or even great player, but he seriously has to change his mentality and approach to the game
March 4th, 2009 at 15:29
@Karl: Nothing sinister just thinking if he is not 100% fit and Rooney who does need a game, might be too much of a gamble, Andy should and will play Sat.
March 4th, 2009 at 15:42
@Liam: I agree in all those points, he flatters to decieve, he has all the ability but half the footballing brain.
March 4th, 2009 at 15:42
This blog’s dying mate.. Pull it together!
March 4th, 2009 at 15:50
@Haydar: It’s gonna pick up closer to kick off!
March 4th, 2009 at 15:55
@antsBoy: I didnt see it that way, but good point..
@Liam: Its a catch 22 with Nani.
March 4th, 2009 at 16:03
whens the game in india.
March 4th, 2009 at 16:10
@adie: ESPN – Ek baje!!
March 4th, 2009 at 17:06
We’ve got to go out tonight and depress the rest of england with a commanding performance, really hope this is the case!
VDS
O Shea Rio Vidic Evra,
Ronaldo, Carrick, Fletcher, Park,
Berba, Rooney
look to bring on Anderson later, 3-0 to us
March 4th, 2009 at 17:28
when was the last time nani played in the premier league?
March 4th, 2009 at 17:32
browns injured… i dont think he is in the doghouse at all. but who knows what actually goes on there
March 4th, 2009 at 17:34
@Dan: when he got sent off near the end of the season
March 4th, 2009 at 18:04
@Wink: really? he hasn’t started any league game so far this season??
March 4th, 2009 at 18:24
Parks footballing brain ?
, hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.
Phoenix, couldn’t agree with you more mate. If we don’t win convincingly tonight, it will really boost L’fools confidence before the OT game. We don’t want that. Course it would help if Fergie didn’t fill our players brains with the thought “you will drop points lads”, and that feckin publically said to the media. Mmmmmm, hope this doesn’t give some of our players the leeway to have one of their unmemorable no score games. I want them to batter the magpies, I live up here now, don’t want to give the Georgie’s the artillary to take pot shots at me
.
March 4th, 2009 at 18:30
Ronaldo is the difference between us being champions of the world and being Liverpool. You pay him the money because he’s frankly worth every penny. Sure he has a personality and attitude that grates on one’s nerves but he also has the talent and ability to control and change a game with a single moment of brilliance. How unlucky for him that his shot with seconds left hit the post and didn’t go in because that moment would have been the best example of how great his presence and influence on our club is.
Lets also not forget his age. He is still very young and I believe is three or four years away from reaching his peak. So we still haven’t seen the very best of him. Pay him what he is worth and lets then rejoice that he will be with the club for a long time. This will assure him of the legend status he has deserved with the club but that was unsure as long as there was a chance of him leaving the club. United need to show him the love and open up the wallets. He is great and high profile and we would be idiots to let the like of Madrid steal him from us without doing one over on them and keeping him not for a short time more, but for a long time. Ronaldo is King. He may be an imperfect king but he’s ours and I want to bow to him for years to come.
March 4th, 2009 at 18:32
@Craig Mc: look for the boy Rooney to wreak havoc amongst the geordies with a little help from Ronnie and Berba!By the way, is Tosic fit yet?
March 4th, 2009 at 18:34
@Rahul: He started little over a week ago.
March 4th, 2009 at 18:37
@Wink: He’s injured, and he’s been injured for most of the season.
The idea he was only played last season was to convince him to sign a contract is based on nothing, and the fact he played so well should make it seem silly. Which it does to me.
March 4th, 2009 at 18:38
Anyone with Team news yet??
March 4th, 2009 at 18:42
i know its early, but any links pls?
March 4th, 2009 at 18:45
@phoenix red: I hope your right mate
, we could do with our forwards putting the ball in the feckin net from OPEN PLAY. Would love any of our team to step up and get us a few goals tonight. We owe the Geordies one, after they took 2 points of us at OT.
Regards Tosic, I watch the reserve games on MUTV, and he plays quite a bit. To be honest mate, I am beginning to wonder why we bought him, he seems very ordinary. I can’t see United material there, but maybe he will eventually prove me wrong. Can’t see it at the moment though Pheonix
.
March 4th, 2009 at 18:52
@Craig Mc: Ha Ha do you have mixed loyalties tonight bro??!!?!??
March 4th, 2009 at 18:59
@Craig Mc: thanks for that Bro, not good to hear! Hopefully he’s just taking time to step up to the Red Devil level, his compatriot Ljajic reckons he’s going to cause a stir when he arrives, cant fault the confidence of a 17 year old!
I thought we bought Tosic as a cover for Ronaldo!! Give him a go Fergie!
Do you reckon your little man Nani will get a run out? Are you goin to St James?
March 4th, 2009 at 18:59
@Craig Mc: Watching the game with the local pub’s Toon army???
March 4th, 2009 at 19:24
@Grognard: Love is a two way street, and love at a price?
He should show the club loyalty and sign a contract that is reasonable for both parties and stop this “only God knows” bollox, he is a great player and the best in our side, but he knows it and abuses that fact to the fans which isn’t fair. We deserve a bit of love also, and we can all marvel in his performances but he leaves all the fans hanging on a thread with his love for Real, this may stop him from becomming a United legend which will be sad.
March 4th, 2009 at 19:29
@phoenix red:
I know its early to these could change before kick off…
http://atdhe.net/live-tv-4314.html
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/542418
http://livefooty121.ucoz.co.uk/index/0-20
Come on the lads! I’ve got a cheeky quid on Rooney first goal, 4-1 to United final score! 85/1 lol Ooo tis fun!
March 4th, 2009 at 19:32
Yeah if you have the best player in the world benchmarking salaries goes out of the window. You pay him whatever you have to pay to keep him happy because he is one of a kind. As an attacking player he is the full package…he gives you goals, he beats defenders, heads the ball, is a damn good crosser when he can be bothered, provides more than his fair share of assists, and makes the game a joy to watch.
Best of all he is very direct, very predatory and defines the word cutting edge. I much prefer that to these “world class players” who play pretty passes all day but rarely make an impact.
Without Ronaldo we’d have no cutting edge at all in attack. We’d still be a great defensive team but that is not enough to be the best team in the world: you need to score goals as well! Even when Ronaldo is being marked out of the game he is still creating space for other players. And part of the reason our defense rarely gets a workout is because Ronaldo has the opposition on the backfoot the whole game because they are scared of our legendary ability to break with speed.
We get away with not having prolific strikers because we have a winger who scores more than our entire attack altogether each season. And this is a season when he is supposed to be playing badly, stuck out on the wing to accomodate Berbatov, and struggling with injuries and he still has twice as many goals as any other player…and unlike last season very few of these are penalties, because although he should have been given a dozen penalties already this season, referees hate him so don’t give them.
The guy also gives George Best a run for his money in the womanising department. Im a sucker for the tabloids and Ronaldo is always photographed with a succession of gorgeous girls. The latest is a Brazilian fitness instructor who is sex on legs!
By the way. IS the newcastle game on tv. if so which channel?
March 4th, 2009 at 19:47
@colver: How about playing for the best club in the World?
He has been stuck out on the wing to accomodate Berbatov? What how about to complement Berbatov.
March 4th, 2009 at 20:07
team news ne1?
March 4th, 2009 at 20:12
VDS
O’Shea
Ferdinand
Vidic
Evra
Ronaldo
Carrick
Fletcher
Park
Rooney
Berbatov
Subs:
Foster
Eckersley
Evans
Anderson
Scholes
Giggs
Tevez
March 4th, 2009 at 20:13
@t_reason: vds ferdinand, vidic, evra, ronaldo, carrick, fletcher, park, rooney, berbatov.
not sure whos at right back.
March 4th, 2009 at 20:20
@James: It’s not what Ronaldo’s own opinion of what it his preferred position that matters. Its the position at which he is the most effective and most people would agree that its on the right.
Similarly Beckham always claimed he preferred to play in CM. Does that make him a better CM than RM? I think not.
March 4th, 2009 at 20:22
@Dan: Why only 10 men??
March 4th, 2009 at 20:22
Evra starts? I think this was an ideal stage for Fabio to relieve him off some fatigue.
March 4th, 2009 at 20:22
anyone got a sopcast link?
March 4th, 2009 at 20:25
@despicable: i said im not sure who starts at right back…
March 4th, 2009 at 20:28
@NicoQB: I think giving reset to Evra on weekend match is more appropriate, we can see fabio then..
March 4th, 2009 at 20:28
Stephen, so far I don’t see an awful lot of chemistry between Berbatov and Ronaldo. Maybe that will come with time.
Personally I think Ronaldo’s best position is on the right side of an forward trio like last season.
March 4th, 2009 at 20:29
@Dan: Its ok, i understood, Why is Oshea being played although he is carrying an injury??
March 4th, 2009 at 20:30
@Dan: How to use a sopcast link??
March 4th, 2009 at 20:36
@ALL, match was supposed to start now, is it started??
March 4th, 2009 at 20:47
@despicable: Yep, it has now!
Come on United!
March 4th, 2009 at 20:55
dont tell me that was VDS…ah…something to fight for now….come on UNITED
March 4th, 2009 at 20:56
OH MY FUCKING GOD!
March 4th, 2009 at 20:59
@Liam: What happened??
March 4th, 2009 at 21:00
Terrible by vds, but where the f**k was oshit, and what the hell was park doing to gutirrez, f**king nothing, he just gave him the space to shoot, this is why players like him should not be in our team, say what u want but lets see what he offers to us now when we have to chase the match, im guessing he will offer us zilch.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:03
damn the game raising cnuts
March 4th, 2009 at 21:06
take a bow son!!! rooney with a wonderful equalizer
March 4th, 2009 at 21:07
@Matt: fuck off
my link cut out I don’t know who scored, BUT WE’RE LEVEL, YES
March 4th, 2009 at 21:08
Stick that in your pipe and smoke it Geordies!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:09
just missed the ga7oal. im ragin
March 4th, 2009 at 21:09
Great my link cuts out for 2 minutes and I miss a goal
March 4th, 2009 at 21:10
@realred: Who missed??
March 4th, 2009 at 21:11
Fuckin great game!!!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:11
Rooney! Boy Wonder!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:11
That was a beautiful goal !
March 4th, 2009 at 21:14
Shit there goes EVDS’s defensive record. But at least we scored. A Rooney goal is a good omen because it is usually followed by several more in quick succession followed by a goal drought of months. So I reckon he’ll get on the scoresheet at Inter!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:16
@despicable: http://www.ustream.tv/videoplayerpopup/channel/542418
just saw Rooney’s goal-good not great
March 4th, 2009 at 21:16
I dont know why, but the defence is making me worry. I having more butterflies than in the Inter game!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:17
great, just went off air
March 4th, 2009 at 21:20
Liam, god why every time i say something about park do you get so defensive of him, i and every1 on here knows he aint good enough for this team. Im making my point so dont tell me to fuck off just for stating my opinion. You can have your little park love in but dont swear at me for saying what i and every1 on various forums and every united fan i know in saying park is crap. Just watch him attack 2day its a joke he has 1 goal and about 2 assits in 25 odd games. I guess you think thats good enough, we may as well buy matthew etherington if he floast your boat. Bloody idiot.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:28
haha, somebody tell the serb that the ball is supposed to hit the nett, not him!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:29
@weezy: Thats for whom?? VIDA?? what did he do??
March 4th, 2009 at 21:32
@despicable: nothing major. vida throws himself at the ball at the back post and he flyies into the nett but the ball goes wide.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:32
anyone got a spocast channel I can watch the game on? all other links have gone shitty!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:33
Oh great I got myself some chinese commentary
March 4th, 2009 at 21:35
Yellow for that! How would you like it if I slapped you in the face idiot ref!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:35
@Matt: where is this everyone? If you can’t see what Park offers then I’m sorry I can’t help you and you are deluding yourself if you think everyone on thinks he isn’t good enough.
How was that only a yellow card! How come Rio gets the same punishment as a CAPTAIN talking to the ref as Taylor gets for giving Ronaldo a clothesline
March 4th, 2009 at 21:36
@ edwin: where you watching the game? i cant get a link
March 4th, 2009 at 21:37
@edwin: Sports Mania/VP14 copy that in. It’s good enough
March 4th, 2009 at 21:37
@Liam: Saying Fuck off for a difference of opinion is childish and uncalled for.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:38
Hahahah Sampdoria 2-0 Inter….poor Maureen…serie A isnt shit…Inter is…
March 4th, 2009 at 21:39
@Niall: Sopcast channel 6029. Be advised, its chinese commentary.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:40
How Taylor managed to stay on the pitch after banging Ronaldo’s face is beyond me. And bloody referee after consulting his assistant only gives a yellow.
Plus a yellow for Rio for dissent.
What a joke!
By the way VDS looked like PIG today – so nervous. Is there such a thing as too much rest? I remember the end of last season and some of this season’s start as well when many were calling for his retirement. I pray we’re not back to this VDS.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:40
Dont let me down Fergie, give these slackers what they deserve! Nothing less than the full hairdryer treatment! Thank God for Rooney!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:41
@Red Ranter: Sorry I just can’y stand comments like Fletcher has no skill and O’Shea and Park are completely useless, next time I’ll explain it in less crude terms
March 4th, 2009 at 21:43
wow rr always the voice of reason
im fukin ragin cant watch the game,ready to break this laptop
and by the way, dnt be silly guys, rest the great ronaldo??? hes superman aint he? how manyg ames on the trot now?
why fergie, hes just bk from an operation remember
and liam, Park is shite, he does nothin but retain possesion
@ least Inter are gettin pumped, 3 -0 at half time!!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:43
@edwin: Sports Mania/VP14 is Setanta coverage and English comm.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:48
Liam, what the hell has park offered in games attacking wise. Fair enough he is pretty decent in helping protect the defence out and running around but where is his strength, where is his skill. He cant shoot to save his life and many people on here have said that, he hardly crosses and hes about as strong as a 6 year old girl, i swear he will fall over from a strong wind hes so weak. I guess hes your type of player though so thats your decision and i aint gonna tell you to f off just cos ur opinion is different to mine but i dont know what you or fergie see in him. Hopefully park will prove me wrong and end the season on an almighty 3 goals and 2 asssits in about 40 games which will be a good return from him. Seriously hes good defensively but league 1 standard attacking wise, i like seeing the likes of giggs in his prime and beckham and now ronaldo on the wings, not a player like park and im sorry but no1 will ever change my opinion on him.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:49
i think if the fans don’t chase Ronaldo from the premiership the referees will..it is appalling to see the lack of protection offered to the best player in the world…regarding park..he is a reliable(good) squad player who is starting because we don’t have anyone better on the left flank
March 4th, 2009 at 21:51
any links please guys
March 4th, 2009 at 21:51
By the way has anyone noticed how poor our defense is at coping with pacey players. First it was Evra getting skinned by Lennon. Now Martins is giving our defence a run for its money. Im guessing it is exhaustion as much as anything else. But we should really invest in another defender this summer so we keep our defence fresh.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:54
Why was Taylor not sent off?? cunt ref.
March 4th, 2009 at 21:54
@colver: I really doubt that, i think if brown is fit, we have four center halfs, i don’t think there is going to be any more investment especially after buying some young defender, in last transfer window..
March 4th, 2009 at 21:56
Vidic is down! DAMN THE FUCKAS!
March 4th, 2009 at 21:57
@edwin: What happened, something serious??
March 4th, 2009 at 21:58
i hate Martins. I dont know why. Probably cos hes in the Nigerian National side. Wanker
March 4th, 2009 at 21:58
How come fucking Underpants is getting more protection than Ronaldo?
March 4th, 2009 at 22:00
Van der sar did well there. Do it for me!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:01
@NicoQB: Sir Alex obviously thinks he’s better on the left two.
I do as well.
Just because he’s in bad form doesn’t mean it’s because he’s being played out of position.
It’s just an easy excuse/solution.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:02
Good old sloppy United seems to be settling in. Giving the ball away like free ice cream on a hot day. Lord help us all. Scholes would be a fine substitute too.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:03
Hahaha! Serves you right Taylor!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:03
Who got that assist there Matt?
March 4th, 2009 at 22:04
YEEEES BERBA!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:06
working link:
March 4th, 2009 at 22:07
working link
March 4th, 2009 at 22:07
WAHEY MARTINS YOU CUNT HAHAHAHA!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:08
@edwin: What happ??
March 4th, 2009 at 22:11
Nearly gifted a chance on goal by an Evra miskick but the wanker pussied out. Plus hes diving all over the place. Filthy scumbag.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:12
@despicable: Taylor tried to chest it back to Harper at the edge of the box but left it short and Park nipped in and toe poked it to Berba before being hacked down and Berba tapped in
March 4th, 2009 at 22:13
Surely the linesman’s blind. Barcode’s keeper tipped it over!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:14
Liam, yeah he did get the assist but he had no idea berba was there, he got the ball played through to him and was trying to go round the keeper, as normal his strength was like a little girl he went down and luckily the ball ended up with berbatov to slot home, hardly a real assist in my books. Seriously people like you say nani is frustrating but i get so pissed off seeing park getting into good postions in a scoring chance and he just falls over. Makes me so angry, if he was even a decent player he would score them but ive said what park is already and im not gonna talk about him anymore even though that will be hard.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:16
Referee Bennet you blind spastic. That was a penalty.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:16
edwin ya mug whats wrong wi the super eagles???
March 4th, 2009 at 22:19
@realred: Im Ghanaian. We dont like each other. To put it nicely.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:20
fletch is abysmal, im sorry
give anderson 15mins
March 4th, 2009 at 22:20
@Matt: So what he was meant to teleport through the tackle? I haven’t noticed any spontaneous falls myself though. I doubt you moan when Ronaldo does it. Park has been one of our best players in the 2nd half
March 4th, 2009 at 22:26
Whats the time and the game, are we controlling the game??
March 4th, 2009 at 22:27
il let you off then….im nigerian btw!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:27
Damn it Rooney! Too much!
i have to say Ronaldo’s Playing well……..
March 4th, 2009 at 22:28
Did anyone else hear O’Shea’s shout there?
March 4th, 2009 at 22:30
LOL! Oh and before I forget………
2-1!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:31
@Liam: I did! Well in Sheasy!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:33
Anyone else notice VDS had been pullin off some saves, just pulled a nice one off just then!
March 4th, 2009 at 22:36
I must say, Berba has been shocking apart from the goal. Misplaced so many passes which is usually his best attribute
March 4th, 2009 at 22:42
What are the scores in other matches??
March 4th, 2009 at 22:44
Only caught the second half (band practice time clash). O’Shea looked awful, we all looked a bit tired, Rooney excluded. Difficult game against a determined team away from home and we turn round a deficit. 7 points ahead of our nearest rivals. Liverpool at Old Trafford our next home game. Not too shabby.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:46
A win is a win, even though it should have been more. Damn another record goes. Ah well, Id rather that than the win. Evening all.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:50
i meant next premiership game.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:57
It was a hard game, but we still won, while being down. Right now the most important thing are the 3 points. We should not give our opposition any hope. Was hard game and Newcastle worked hard, so I hope this fucks will do the same against the rest of the top 4.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:58
@Stephen: Welcome to the 21st century mate. Loyalty is a matter of how thick and flexible the wallet can get. It’s all about money today. Does a manager love me? Show me, not by playing me, but by paying me. That’s the modern day football. You will see this much more closely and more obviously when some of the old school guys like Giggs and Scholes are long gone. Todays player is nothing more than a soldier of fortune.
March 4th, 2009 at 22:58
Liam, i guess u and me are never gonna see eye to eye on players like park. You seem to like them, i cant stand them personally but thats just me. It does seem park is now a first teamer and the wing position to me is an important position. A 1st choice winger at our team playing the majority of games should be able to contribute 5 to 10 assists and get on the score sheet at least 5 times. I want this in a winger because thats what we have grown to expect out of our winger. Kanchelskis would score 10 goals a season, giggs was capable of getting 15 in his day, beckham would average between 5 & 10 but would provide at least 10-15 assists, as would giggs come to think of it. Now we have ronaldo, this being described as a bad season for him but he will still no doubt end up with 20 goals and countless assists. Now compare that to park who it seems is our first choice winger. A good season for him will be 3 goals and about 3 assists. Now i dont know about you but to me in an attacking sence that doesnt please me. After seeing these classy kinds of wingers from kanchelskis which is nearly 20 years ago to now i gotta say i have come to expect our wingers to be a bit special. Im sure you rate park because of his running around and defensive qualitites and yes he does a good job here. But i got news for you, hes not a defender. The wingers i mentioned did not get their place in the team because they could run alot and defend, no they got in the team because they were capable of scoring goals and winning us games if the strikers werent scoring for us. So why now do we replace this tradition of having scoring wingers to a player like park who can only dream of getting past 5 goals a season. For me a wingers main objective is to score goals and get assists and contribute to the attacking plays, the defending is left to the defenders. Yes when you play milan and the like you cant go all attacking or else you will loose but i hate the site of us playing defensive park against low ranked defensive teams, theres no sense in it. Hopefully liam you can see my point and see why i dont like seeing him play too often. I just cant see why we have changed our mentality with the winger position to a player like giggs back in the past now to a player like park. Im not saying talent wise just that giggs could score goals and now we play with park who will never score goals and just mainly defends, why the change in tactics. Its also no secret that parks inclusion in the team has disrupted our quick counter play and has pushed our star man onto the left wing out of his favoured position. Anyway enough on park today im not gonna talk about him no more, i guess boring defensive players are your cup of team liam but they aint mine. I appreciate your opinion and i aint gonna dispute it no more or tell you to f**k off either.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:07
@Matt: Boring defensive players? Jesus Christ, Tevez has something like 4 goals in the league this season, he must be boring and defensive, Carrick doesn’t score much so he must be boring and defensive. How many assists does Evra have this season? Stats don’t tell the whole story in football and I’m sorry #i don’t use them to rate a player. I’m sorry not every player on the team is as good as Ronaldo. I never said I wanted Park to be a first choice but I said he brings a lot to the team. Park has better positional sense than any player on the team bar maybe Vidic and Ferdinand(who didn’t look great tonight) and even if he is extremely unlucky with his shooting (I mean did you see the shot Rooney blocked?) doesn’t mean he dooesn’t create space for other people.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:09
Finally I got back from a morning visit to the hospital for my bimonthly steroid injections for my back. I feel wonderful. Banned from baseball for life, but feeling wonderful nonetheless.
Unfortunately never saw the game and like a dunce I forgot to record it so I will have to wait 4 hours to see it on delay re telecast. Glad to see United won the game. To be honest, that was the score I predicted because I knew it would be a tough game on the road, especially as we were tired.
Sorry to see the EVDS’s streak has ended but now we can get down to business and not worry about shit like that. Good to see Rooney score as well as Berba, but what’s with all the poison and negative commentary I just read through? Some of you are acting as if we just got murdered 4-0.
The last thing I expected was an easy game and I for one am just happy as Hell to see us just get three points in every game we play over the next two weeks. Winning ugly is better than not winning at all and we must not let the Chelsea’s or Liverpool’s or even Inter’s feel that there is hope for them. So well don to the boys.
After I watch the game this evening I may offer a review if I feel the game warrants it. Either way, we got the 3 points and that’s all that matters.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:10
@Liam: I Completely agree with liam, People only see the misses from Park, but they never see that he has got the positional sense to be there when required, he always finds space for himself in good area’s.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:11
I think we won the title tonight…
March 4th, 2009 at 23:12
@James: Its not an easy excuse or solution. He’s right footed so his natural side as a winger should be on the right. Plus the damning facts are that last season (you know the one where he scored 42 goals) he became the world player of the year when he was playing on the right. Only when he became so good that his ability transcended positions that he carried his world class form on the left.
And remember, how many goals can you remember Ronalo scoring in game, with his trademark dribble, cutting inside from the wing and shooting at goal (just like he almost did last minute against Tottenham in the leaue cup). I can definitely remember many more coming from the right than from the left.
Case closed.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:17
@Liam: Relax mate. Honestly, I feel your pain. One can get pretty frustrated with comments about players sometimes and we all cannot agree. Just don’t let it upset you like that. It really doesn’t matter what others think of Park. You love the player and his efforts and that’s enough. Debate and support your position all you want, just understand that there will be those who don’t agree. I for one am famous for not being a big Park supporter but I agree with you 110% that he brings a lot to a team and he has great positional sense. I’d add to that his endless energy, desire, and tremendous defensive marking skill which nullifies the oppositions wide threat. That said, he offers very little offensively and he is a terrible finisher. But offense is not why he is out there. He is out there to nullify the opponents wide threat and to cause havoc by annoying the opponent and pestering them. Few do it better than him. If others cannot appreciate that, don’t let it bother you too much. It’s frustrating but in fairness, he plays a position that historically has always been seen as a one dimensional attacking one. So in a way he has revolutionized that position by making it more defensive. We all need to accept that, accept him and be thankful for the things he does well. A tough road game during an intensively tiring period of games is just perfect for him. JS Park more than earns his money and has slowly gained my respect.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:19
@RedDevilEddy: I won’t go there mate unless we are ten points ahead with five or six games to go. Ask Barcelona if you want to know why?
March 4th, 2009 at 23:22
@NicoQB: I actually don’t understand the fact of playing wingers in reverse side, especially in spain if u see, both robben and messi are very frequently deployed in right side to cut in and attack. May be its a new way od thinking especially to keep full backs wrong footed..
March 4th, 2009 at 23:22
RedDevilEddy, maybe its a bit soon to say that mate but its looking good though. 7 points ahead with a game in hand and our next prem game is at home to the scousers in 10 days. If we win that we will definitely rule them out of the race and even if we loose we can still be 4 points ahead with a game in hand. I hope we beat those scouse twats cos i just cant stand them. Reckon it will be a tough game but we should get the win if im honest. It really is looking good though for us trophy wise. Whilst the way we have played has disappointed me, the way we have picked up wins and clean sheets has impressed me. Hopefully we win against fulham in the cup on saturday meaning we progress to the semis and then do the big 1 and beat inter. That game for me could make our season, loose and we could do a barca and drop points, but if we win i reckon we could do the quad. Hope we do it anyway.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:22
@Grognard: Yeah but I have to say Newcastle made it really difficult for us and the Berba goal was a bit of a godsend.
Still I think the Newcastle goal might be a blessing in disguise as hile VDS looked terrible in the first half, he really focused himself in the second.
MOTM: Rooney (or maybe Ronaldo)
WOG award: Fletcher – as usual he disappoints against minnows.. I expect him to play a blinder against Inter if he does play…
March 4th, 2009 at 23:23
@Grognard: I completely agree, even we can see what happened in epl to Hull city, also this miny slump that arsenal and villa are getting into.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:28
@Matt: Totally agree. A compilation of Lennon’s runs on Sunday would be greater than Park’s for his entire time with us. Not just Kanchelskis – Olsen, Coppell, Hill, Giggs.
At least Hargreaves can put a great centre over and it’s far from being his best position. I understand Park is doing a job but he does seem to be first choice now. Question – If Ribery was here, would we be playing Park for his defensive security or would we be attacking as the best form of defence? I hope that is taken as a rhetorical question. Please don’t say Park with Ribery to come on if needed.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:30
@despicable: Yeah I can understand the odd shifting of positions. But Ronaldo this season has been deployed mostly exclusively on the left and was half the player he was last year. Compare that to the ,last two matches before tonight where he was marauding on the right. Maybe there was something psychological what with him disappointed after the Real transfer fiasco, but Fergie’s stubborness to play him on the left surprises me. To a new person watching United for the first time this season they might be mistaken to think that Ronaldo is a left winger such has been tyhe degree to which SAF has played him exclusively on the left.
Oh well as long as he regains his form I’ll be happy to eat my words.
March 4th, 2009 at 23:39
What the hell are Aston Villa doing? I want Arsenal out of the champions league presto! Oh, I just love it when those biased french commentors are forced to expose the weakness of arsene’s team. To them arsenal are like the second coming of brazil 1970.
Btw, did anyone see the second episode of Special 1 tv? the one where arsene gets arshavin? It was a classic!
March 4th, 2009 at 23:43
J.S.Park…was MOM….fantastic performance…His cobra kung fu style Football Add Another Dimension in our game…priceless hard working midfielder
March 5th, 2009 at 0:01
@NicoQB: Case closed?
You never had a case in the first place. It’s just a stupid reason to complain.
The fact he’s played on the left hasn’t had any effect on his form. He likes playing there, Sir Alex obviously thinks he’s just as good there, case closed indeed.
Have a look at the last few Ballon D’or winners, and how they did the following season. Kaka and Ronaldinho spring to mind. It’s natural, stop making such rubbish excuses.
March 5th, 2009 at 0:12
TheThreeRs, thank god some1 is backing me up on the park debate. Im 18 years old and that doesnt even make me an experienced fan but in my time as a fan of this club our principles have always been the same. We always score goals and play attractive football and our players have their own roles in the team and they have been the same in all this time. The defenders defend, the strikers score, and the wingers are the creative ones who get the assists and a couple of goals a season. When i 1st started supporting this team we had giggs and beckham and these were proper wingers. They didnt get in the team because they helped out defensively, they got in the team cois they scored many goals and got many assists. Park doesnt do this and it feels weird seeing park get in the team when he doesnt score or create many goals. Im not used to seeing him nor feel comfortable seeing him play every game because he offers very little attacking wise and his 1 goal this year shows this. His job isnt meant to be to help out the defence but to score goals and he isnt doing this so for me he shouldnt be in our team. Liam earlier mentioned stats dont mean everything which to a degree is true, but his performances dont impress me much either. He will always play decently, a 6/10 performer every game but he will never show a bit of magic that can change a game ever. He just never does anything much except run around and except for games when we are on the back foot we dont need him busting a gut and in defensive positions cos we need him in attacking positions providing us with chances which he doesnt do. Liam then says carricks stats are poor cos he hasnt scored much goals or got much assists, well liam im sorry but its not carricks job to do that, he just passes the ball to the forward 3 and lets them do their job and he does that well and as for evras stats well hes a defender he isnt expected to score goals, his job is to defend and he does this brilliantly. It just makes me feel angry how we have changed this year almost to be completely defensive with mourinho like tactics with all the 1-0 scorelines and negative team selections. Last years football was amazing and we looked so much better than this year, i wanna see us return to playing like that and players like park arent helping us do that. Sorry if people dont like me criticising park but i grew up seeing genuine excellent players on the wing like becks and giggsy and now ronaldo and not average talent like park.
March 5th, 2009 at 0:35
Manucho scores late for Hull earning them an away win against Fulham, he was subbed on with 15 mins to go, 3 attempts, 1 goal
March 5th, 2009 at 0:38
@Matt: We play a completely different style to last season and wasn’t it Giggs on the wing for most of last season that we weren’t playing a 4-3-3? You know old, senile Giggs who can’t play on the wing. A lot of the performances last year weren’t all that. There were plenty of scrappy wins in there. Park is good at attacking, maybe you don’t notice because he doesn’t do stepovers every time he gets it but tonight he put a few good crosses in and linked up well around the box. There aren’t many wingers as good as him at top 4 clubs and I repeat, I never said he should start every match but he has been one of the better performers this season from what I’ve seen.
, that’s not a very apt comment because there is nobody to come in for Psrk with anywhere near Ribery’s class. Ribery is in the top 5 players in the world and unless CR moves to Madrid will never play for us and then we’d still only have 1 world class winger. I am however not opposed to giving Fabio the odd minnow game at LM because no way is he going to get Evra out of the team and he needs time to develop his defense but that’s also probably never going to happen…
@TheThreeRs: Obviously if Ribery was here he’d play over Park
March 5th, 2009 at 0:48
@James: You’re probably right about the argument of the season following the ballon d’or win,yet if I remember correctly fat Ronaldo and Zidane maintained very hight levels of performance after their respective wins.
So you argue I never had a case in the first place?
I gave you a reasoned argument of scoring more after cutting inside from the right. Try to counter that with a reasoned argument. Don’t just say he likes to play there so let’s play him there. Give me examples where he played superbly on the left. Truth is he scores more during the game when he plays on the right. Set pieces are another matter entirely as that is irrelevant of his position.
Also another point supporting my case: the level of his game this season (where he played mostly on the left) was nowhere near that of last season (where his primary position was on the right).
I’m not saying the positioning is the only factor contributing to his slump in form – I’m saying that it might just be one of the factors contributing, but its my view that it can be an important one.
And by the way, do you think Ronaldo is a tactical genious? Just because he likes playing in a position doesn’t make it the best for him – cue my Beckham example.
Right now I think if we had a player other than Ronaldo who could produce the goods week in week out on the left, which Nani is clearly not doing, Ronaldo would be playing on the right.
I’m waiting for a constructive riposte from your part, not just “stop spouting rubbish” type of answers…
March 5th, 2009 at 0:51
@phoenix red: Wow, that’s great for him. I haven’t heard of him getting minutes, hope he turns out good…
March 5th, 2009 at 1:01
@Matt: http://www.redcafe.net/f6/motm-vs-newcastle-238512/ notice any common names on there? thought all United fans think he’s crap?
March 5th, 2009 at 1:12
@Matt: His one two with O Shea for the goal was good and he got the assist for the second goal. He lends balance to the team and he’s got so many other attributes that helps the team’s cause. Yes he can’t create a piece of magic but that is why we have the others in the team. Same way not everybody in the team can play his role. Can you tell me at least one player who wouldn’t have whined for being dropped in the final after having worked his socks off during the campaign and having put in MoM displays against one the best teams in Europe? Yet he’s come into this season and has played well through out. Some of his passes today were good and he is a player who creates space for the others to work in. I can’t see why people hate him as if he is a piece of shit. He is a United player for heaven’s sake.
March 5th, 2009 at 1:25
@TheThreeRs: Sorry mate but Aaron is useless piece of crap that only shows up when the game means nothing. Never cared for him and would prefer Park every day of the week. And I’m not a Park fan. Don’t underestimate the value of such a player against good teams with wide threats. Had Park played the Carling Cup final Mr Lennon would have been totally neutralized which would hae taken away Spurs one bit of advantage all game.
March 5th, 2009 at 1:25
@NicoQB: yeah, saw a bit of him against Arsenal, his first game for Hull, during which he got busted/taken out badly by a gooner, inspite of the fact he was obviously hurt, he had to be dragged off the pitch to be subbed. Got to love his spirit. I saw him first playing for Angola in the African Nations Cup, loved his hunger and goals! I too would love to see this lad succeeding,if not for us, somewhere else. Its a real, almost fairytale story and i hope his loan spell works out well for him. Just saw his goal btw, a real RVN like stretch arriving late at the back post. Those Hull fans looked like they won the cup! I suppose they havent won since Dec!
March 5th, 2009 at 1:26
@NicoQB: Aston Villa is paying for not having a deep roster. Their lack of depth has left them with a starting eleven that is hurting and very tired but with no relief coming from the bench that is even noteworthy.
March 5th, 2009 at 1:38
Laugh, i nearly pissed myself at this!
March 5th, 2009 at 1:40
@phoenix red: I rate him more than Welbeck as he seems to have the striker’s instinct – some intangible talent for getting in good positions.
If he was playing for one of the lower league teams I’m sure people might have talked about him the same way they were raving for Zaki a while back. Fact is he looks like some kind of endangered species – the old fashioned finishing striker!
March 5th, 2009 at 1:41
Why do i always get these wrong first time?
Halftime tunnel bust up v Newcastle
March 5th, 2009 at 1:47
@NicoQB: i hear ya Bro! Aswell as that he’s got great strength and determination, hopefully Phil Brown sees this and gives the lad more of a run out
March 5th, 2009 at 1:50
@phoenix red: yeah making 2 of the best players in the world angry with 45 mins left to play was really a smart move by Taylor, who admitted that he was a shit footballer btw
March 5th, 2009 at 1:51
Unfortunately my internet connection was snail-like, so i saw the game in stops and starts, mostly stops! Does anyone have a link for highlights pls?
March 5th, 2009 at 1:54
@Liam: Thats what i was pissing myself about! Such a comeback! fucking eegit, still i guess he has his looks!
March 5th, 2009 at 2:11
@Liam: About your earlier discussion, some people think if you’re not adding to our goal tally, you’re not worth shit. I dont want to be a hypocrite here, because i was one of his detractors in the past, but his gutsyness has won me over not to mention the endless harrassment of opposition players.
As we’re the best team in the world, our fans expect(unrealistically in my opinion) world class perfomances from everyone on the pitch, Fergie is the master of balancing pure world class with more modest solid achievers. Some people might not see the finer subtleties of one of our “squad players” but i can guarantee the man that matters most can.
March 5th, 2009 at 2:32
@phoenix red: Hahaha!
Real funny, but I would hate it if either of them gets some kind of suspension resulting from the bust up.
Btw was it the same Taylor who gifted us the second goal. I reckon there were two Taylors on the pitch.
March 5th, 2009 at 2:56
@Aleksandar Macedonia: I was at the game mate, and from what I saw, Park was on his arse more than on his feet. I think he got his lucky pass to Berba from a defenders cock-up didn’t he? MOM?, if you say so mate
.
March 5th, 2009 at 3:08
@Grognard: Too many football players – soldiers of fortune eh Grog? Well there were a lot of feckin hacker mercenaries among the Geordie team tonight. Vidic, Ronnie were elbowed. Ronnie was continually hacked, but I did notice in 2nd half, when a defender approached he got rid of the ball quickly. I think he invites tackles so often, because of his myriad lengthy stepovers, when Defenders think right – take this arsehole
. Rooney was right, Taylor is a shit footballer, but then Taylor was right, the Roon is ugly, both in looks and temperament. 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 3:14
@Matt: Never a truer word spoken Matt, fall over is Parks alter ego isn’t it?.
. Think John Terry has taught Park his banana skin slip ups 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 4:16
@Craig Mc: what’s wrong with a player winning loads of FKs?
March 5th, 2009 at 5:59
Great yet scrappy game yesterday. I was particularily impressed with Park who showed tremendous determination and speed to set up Berbatov for the second goal. Carrick and Flethcher’s partnership in the middle seems to grow with every match- a very exciting prospect for the following three months.
March 5th, 2009 at 6:10
@Craig Mc: Craig, did you take the risk to your bollocks, put on your United jersey and go to St James Park to cheer on the lads? Just curious now that you live Thug Town.
March 5th, 2009 at 6:42
Well I finally got a chance to watch the game on delay and before I give my ratings, let me say how absolutely disgusted I am with two individuals. The ass clown who reffed tonights game, one Steve Bennett and the other a criminal name Steve Taylor who should serve a week in jail for his forearm mugging of Ronaldo and then blatantly dirty tackle from behind on Carrick which happened seconds apart. How in Gods good name was that cunt not sent off with a straight red and a review by the League for his criminal act on Ronaldo? That was a disgrace and completely despicable. If I was there they would have had to arrest me to keep from going after him and killing him. I was that fucking pissed off. How much abuse is Ronny supposed to take? Seriously folks? All game he was being hacked down from behind and all game the Assclown Bennett turned the other cheek. I am sickened and disgusted by the thuggery and criminal acts being performed in this league by talentless cunts who have no business playing at the highest level.
Now for my ratings;
EVDS – 6/10 Truthfully, I was getting sick and frakken tired of listening to the pair clown shoes who were broadcasting the game. For 90 minutes they were going on and on and on about how poor EVDS was all game and how he wasn’t himself. What a bunch of muppets. Yes he blew it on the goal and on another play that Rio blocked but other than that, he was fine. Hardly a performance the deserved that kind of verbal attack on him. You’d think he gave up seven tonight and 5 of them were his fault.
OK, not his best game but far from the joke they made him out to be.
O’SHEA – 6/10 Very unspectacular tonight but not terrible either. Gutierrez had him in knots a few times but nothing too bad.
RIO – 7/10 Steady and not really tested. Made some good clearances and made a great block of what looked to be a second goal for the Loony Toons.
VIDIC – 8/10 Another strong game and a brave performance. Tokk a few bumps and a nasty contusion under his right eye, but he was laughing and complaining that he had to come off for repairs. That’s how frakken tough he is. Missed what looked like a sitter of a header but it was a hard ball to judge on the bounce and with pace. Was stellar all night.
EVRA – 8/10 Glad to see the little man return to his dominant and offensive self. Made some great runs and crosses into the box and looked very dangerous. His defending was pretty good too as he made some vital touches and was the last man back on some breaks. A strong game.
RONALDO – 8/10 I thought there were many moments in this game when Ronaldo was magnificent and truly magical. My one complaint today was at times he was too unselfish. His runs and deaks and short passes were all great and his speed down the wings truly caused problems. Was in some great positions for a scoring opportunity but other players never got him the ball. And yes he showed his annoyance on every occasion. Totally felt sorry for the abuse he got and the ignorance of the referee to acknowledge these Class A muggings.
CARRICK – 7/10 There were moments when Carrick was absolutely brilliant tonight. His positioning, especially defensively was superb. His reading of the game was good and he did make some great passes that turned out to be nothing but they were imaginative and had finesse written all over them. I love midfielders with finesse. But there were also some poor passes on breaks that killed possible breaks by both Rooney and Berba that frustrated. Still, not a bad game but he could have been better.
FLETCHER – 6/10 Really bored me tonight. Worked hard but had nothing to show for himself. Never made too many errors but never made any statements of intent either.
PARK – 8/10 To all you Park haters……SHUTUP. The lad was super tonight with his work ethic and his transitional game. No he will never be the offensive player we prefer but his positional sense, his desire and marking ability and ability to frustrate players and win balls is fantastic at times. And although his touch betrayed him, that error forced the ball over to Berbatov for a goal. So he has some luck too.
He was always in the right place tonight and he was also good at forcing players to foul him because of his strong guarding of the ball. So lets be fair to the lad and give him credit for what he does offer us.
ROONEY – 8.5/10 MOM. Had a great game where all his skills were on display. His vision, pace, first touch and desire were there and his goal was sublime. A few close calls and some great desire made him lethal. His fiorst touch and turn on that goal was vintage RVN and a true strikers goal. He also played CB for a few minutes and had the long range vision to place a long ball to Park to help create the winning goal. My only knock on him is minor. On three occasions he missed passing to a wide open Ronaldo once and a wide open Berba twice on the far post and took a shot on two occasions instead. Some might think selfish but to be honest, I was glad to see this aggressiveness from him. It’s what’s made him a greater threat this season.
BERBATOV – 7/10 Quiet in the first half but much more involved in the second frame and with some luck could have had a few more goals. Carrick and Rooney missed getting him the ball when he was perfectly situated for a high percentage crack on goal. In fact quite often during this game I noticed United players just standing around when Berba has the ball and nobody with the common sense to move into an open position and then start a give and go. This is not Berba’s fault. I’m still of the belief he doesn’t get the service he deserves.
March 5th, 2009 at 8:24
@NicoQB: It was the other Taylor that gifted us the goal.
Park was overall really good last night. There are very few players with such a constant level of commitment and hard work ethic; he reads the game well, nullifies threats, creates space for others, makes a nuisance of himself.. sometimes i think he only gets caned because he doesn’t have flair and flash that we are used to seeing from out other attacking players.
March 5th, 2009 at 9:33
@Rahul: Maybe so mate, but flair and flash are what the United faithful have always been fed for years, and WE like it. No complaints about flair and flash
.
March 5th, 2009 at 9:37
@Grognard: Grog, you can’t tell us to shut up mate, no more than I can tell Nani haters to shut up –
. We all have our opinions, and like you said in another post, they DIFFER. Although, admittedly Grog Bro, I have told Nani haterz to shut up 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 9:47
@Grognard: Yeah Grog exactly. I said in my earlier post that I was there. We United fans made ouselves heard all night. Kept away from the pubs afterwards, because the Geordies were MAD MAD MAD that United were conquerers yet again. The Geordie crowd boo-ed United continuously after Berba scored our second goal. By the way Grog, the media kept calling Berba’s goal a tap in, but if you take a good look at it again, you will probably agree that it took a bit of skill to get it into the net from Berba’s position.
Couldn’t BELIEVE how Mike Ashley and his directors, up in the directors box, were cheering and shaking the hands of each other, back slapping etc when N’Castle scored. They thought they had the game won – what a come down they got afterwards eh Grog?
March 5th, 2009 at 9:50
@Liam: Don’t know Liam – ask Ronaldo!
March 5th, 2009 at 10:03
I thought Fletcher was one of the more poor performers yesterday. He made some really poor passes that went astray. Now O’Shea did the same, but we do not have the same level of expectation from him do we? We’ve come to accept him for what he is. That said, he did link up beautifully with Park a few times yesterday and helped in the first goal too.
To all Park bashers, can I say – “Please” Shut Up? You can’t expect to WIN all the time and have flair too (even if you’ve been pampered with it). He was easily one of our better players yesterday, even though a bit frustrating at times cos he ran into dead-ends. Learn to appreciate him for what he brings to the team, rather than magnify his so-called lesser skills!
March 5th, 2009 at 12:28
Regarding the Park debate I think we just have to drop our pre-conceived notions about what wingers should be. We’ve grown up with wingers like Giggs, Sharpe, Kanchelskis and co. So naturally we expect our wingers to be able to beat a man, provide pinpoint crosses, and provide dozens of goals and assists.
Park is different. His qualities are his ability to track back, run all day long, and neutralise any winger or full back in the world no matter how big their reputation. That means there isn’t a team in the world who can stretch us. They have to attack us through the middle which makes our life easier. That or try the other flank, which is tricky because Ronaldo has them on the backfoot all game.
What I would say is we over-use Park. He should be used more as a role player against the top teams in the UK and Europe. Against the teams that park the bus, pun intended, we need a winger with more of an end product. Nani could have been that guy but he seems to be going downhill this season. Tosic looks pretty ordinary from what Ive seen of him. So we end up over-using Park and some of us quite rightly moan about his limitations as an attacking player.
However we should all recognise that he is a big part of our defensive strength. We have always been a good attacking team, but the major improvement over the past couple of seasons has been our defensive improvements and Park is a part of that.
March 5th, 2009 at 12:56
@colver: Quote- “that means there isn’t a team in the world that can stretch us.” You’ll forgive my wry smile here Colver Bro. I think the whole of Geordieland would disagree with that statement mate. We were particularly stretched at times last night
.
March 5th, 2009 at 12:58
@antsBoy: He might have been your best player Antsboy, but he wasn’t OURS. And No mate, we won’t shut up, and who are you to tell us to do so???????
March 5th, 2009 at 13:25
@Craig Mc: Calm down mate. You know I said “Please” shut up…it wasn’t meant in any harsh manner, more in jest. But the fact remains that each one to his own opinion, some like Park, some don’t. That’s fair.
I don’t want the Park debates to turn into the old Rooney debates we had here, but the problem seems to be the same…some fans are never pleased with what they get from certain players. And I’m not pointing anyone out here. It’s just the way things are…
March 5th, 2009 at 13:29
Actually let me throw open this poll to everyone in here:
Whom would you want to start against Inter?
Nani or Park? If so why.
I hope this will clear any doubts as to why each member of our team is very important to us in his own special way.
March 5th, 2009 at 13:39
@antsBoy: I would love to see park run at Inter’s defence, he might be the quickest but he is clever enough to make opportunities for others rather than taking a shot from any place. If people haven’t seen please see the goals he scored for S. korea, some of them have been gems.
March 5th, 2009 at 14:48
Craig I didn’t watch the game, but I imagine part of it was tiredness on our part and a hangover from the League Cup game and the fact that most of our defence are struggling with injuries. But from what I heard Park had a pretty good game anyway.
antsboy, anyone without a personal bias will say Park against Inter. He can neutralise Maicon who is Inter’s most dangerous player. If we are chasing the game then maybe we could throw on Nani in the hope he produces one of his wonder goals.
March 5th, 2009 at 16:08
@colver: Surely the best form of defence is attack if Nani played then Mekon would be penned into his own half and would not be able to get forward?
March 5th, 2009 at 16:19
@Stephen: That is doubtful, may be work other way round that if nani is not up to mark maicon can leave him for others and run at our defence which will not happen if park is there because he knows that park can nick the ball of him and made him pay 10/10 days while doing that is easier when nani as he knows only 3-4 times out of 10 he can be caught also other midfileders of Inter are also very defensive to cover for nani, as he is very direct and easy to handle. which park can be tricky for anyne.
March 5th, 2009 at 16:34
Craig Mc comment 180, sorry for not responding quicker but thank christ there are some people who agree with me about park, and you say you were at the match so i guess if you were there and are saying it then it means more than some1 sat behind a computer saying he is great. You say he was on the floor all the time, well your right mate everytime i see him hes on the floor 10 times a game, sometimes he gets in good positions but because hes so weak he just falls over with the slightest contact. I swear to god a strong wind would knock him over. Fair play to park maybe i was a bit ott with him yesterday and yes he had an ok game and hes not a bad player, i dont mind him being in the squad and getting time in the games where we need him, but never in a billion years should he be playing every game.
As colver said in comment 191 maybe we have been so used to seeing genuine world class players on our wings seeing park makes me feel we are mad or something cos we are changing i dont know. But anyway as colver said (good post by the way) is that yes park offers us something different and i agree with that. Against inter i would start him but they are the kind of games we need him. Inter wont just sit back for 90mins playing long balls just being happy to sit back for 90 mins. Thats what 90% of teams in the prem do to us anyway. Against inter park will not let macion get any space, he will probs do a good job but thats against a team where if we get a 1-0 we will be chuffed, against say fulham at home a 1-0 would not be great cos we want more. Colver you make a good point about over using him and i agree with you. Against the top 4 teams and away to tough places fine play park but seeing him in home games to crap teams where we need to win and want a good solid victory, seeing park run back and help defend when we need him in attack is like having a waste of a player. In those games he is needed in attacks and hes still there further back than the RB. These are the games last year park never played in and this year he is and its annoying me. Nani needs games and gives us more attacking wise. People say hes inconsistent and he is but nani even inconsistent offers 10 times more than park does in attack even on 1 of his good days. Attack is the best form of defence and i just see park as a part of the reason for some of our negative displays this year, not berba as most people say. I guess its the kind of player you like, i like a proper winger like weve been used to all these years, im not a fan of a player playing cos he works hard and helps defend despite have very little ability.
March 5th, 2009 at 16:59
@Matt: Matt, you say Nani can offer 10 times more than Park does in attack in “1 of his good days”. Problem here is – How to know when will it be a good day for Nani??
Although I agree that against crappy teams we need to play Nani, since there is no danger from the opposing side to exploit him. It will give him good gametime, and help his development.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:05
@Matt: Matt bro, if we get Valencia as the word is, I don’t think Park will play as much. Featherweight players who can’t stay on their feet do irritate me no end, but the rough and tumble of the PL even brings the most robust players to the ground. So someone like Park has no chance does he
. I think our midfield as a whole are not very good at strength play, in the physical prowess department we are all too easily pushed of the ball. I like a strong midfield who cannot be pushed around, but hey that’s just me. I’m daft like that Matt. The Geordies rackon Man Utd were very lucky last night, and N’Castle unlucky, and could have been 3 up by half time. That is nothing to do with luck though, its the difference between the top teams and the rest of the league teams. We have players like Berba, who can do nothing for a good part of games, and seem all to quiet, then all of a sudden pop up unnoticed, and grab a goal. The Georgies didn’t have that. Shame isn’t it 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:08
@Rahul: We’ll know Bro, the same way as we know when it will be a bad day for Park
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:10
@Stephen: Some people on here don’t seem to believe in flying wingers and attack anymore Stephen. I’m beginning to wonder if Fergie does these days!
March 5th, 2009 at 17:12
@colver: Moral of that story is Colver mi man, don’t believe everything you hear Bro
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:14
@antsBoy: That would be a pointless poll Antsboy, because only the one with great footballing insight like me, would say Nani
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:19
@Craig Mc: We are at home in a must win game, surely it is logic Craig or should I call you Isaidso!!
March 5th, 2009 at 17:20
@Craig Mc: @Craig Mc: @Matt: IMO, It is inconsistent back 4( in terms of selection) and especially right back position is the reason behind Park playing in place of nani, if we would have had stable back 4 as last season, i would have played nani, but how can fergie play nani and rafeal on same side or say oshea and nani… There is no point criticizing fergie as he is doing what’s good for team not for any individual. Do you people believe in that or not?
March 5th, 2009 at 17:23
On this park debate, we are man utd, we should be scoring 3 goals minimum against any side in the world, we should be attacking any team we play, with our best attackers, park isnt. I use to say he cant pass or cross, and he couldnt, he’s improved but is far too inconsistent, Nani is the best left winger we have whether you like it or not, park isnt a winger, hes just a dog that stays wide chasing whatever he sees.
Inter milan couldnt score against a 21 year old inexperienced CB at the sab siro, what make you think they’ll pose more of a threat at old trafford? we should attack them! If we were to play defensively against a team thats not able to score against us at their stadium against jonny evans, then i will personally go to manchester and pull my hairdryer out on fergie himself. Can you imagine the message that sends out? the great man utd, play defensive at old trafford and scrap a 1-0 win? theres tactics yes, and then theres just playing good old attacking football.
Tactics ruin games, we shouldnt use tactics against inter, we should use players!
March 5th, 2009 at 17:23
@antsBoy: Antsboy, football and different opinions on players and performances will always be debated on football blogs and forums everywhere. What is the problem mate, is that some people feel that to have an opinion different to theirs, is cause for some great alarm. I couldn’t care less anymore about being in total harmony with everyone about everything – that just aint typical of life mate, and it aint typical of life and debate on the terraces of every football ground in the country. We can agree to disagree without folk getting all precious about it. I learnt that quite a while ago. I just say what I think, and what others think doesn’t offend me at all anymore. Life’s too short mate. On a blog like this are people with every kind of personality, and we are NEVER going to see things always the same. One mans meat etc! Anyway, no offence meant to you Antsboy
. By the way, I don’t need to calm down Bro, because I am not worked up 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:29
@Stephen: Call me whatever you like matey
. Which bit is logic Stephen mi man, enlighten me? Do you mean logic playing Park, or logic playing Nani, or logic that Fergie is probably going to play Giggsy instead of either 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:35
@despicable: I know Fergie believes always he is doing the best for the team Bro. I think you will find though, that whenever Fergie starts Nani, he is usually on the left side of midfield, with Ronnie on the right. That kind of blows the whole Rafael/Sheasy – Nani patroling and protecting the right flank out the water doesn’t it. I will be happy with a win mate, but I will rightly state, that whatever team Fergie chooses, there will always be players who don’t contribute to that win. As Rafa would say, and that is a fact mate
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:39
@Craig Mc: I have nothing against Park, but I would start Nani simply to attack Mekon, he is good going forward but defensively he is suspect, also we are at home and should take the game to them.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:42
@Craig Mc: Ya i am not denying that fact, but still if we see any other side in the europe they are filled with 2-3 defensive midfielders, i think still our team is very offensive compared to others and fergie is trying to build a better team may be tosic comes good, nani gets more consistent then we will have full attacking squad, but till then we have to accept the fact that transition takes time, You people saw how lucas was booed by his own fans, same goes with bendtner of ansenal, its too hard to accept so much of very young people, i know nani will come good, but things take time..
March 5th, 2009 at 17:43
@Dan: Dan you lil Genious mate, your posts always make me smile
.
I would pay a lot of money Dan to see you take your hairdryer and give it to Fergie, in BIG TIME Dan the Man style
.
We should attack yes, but not to the leaving of ourselves suckers on the counter punch. I do believe Fergie needs tactics though mate.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:43
@Craig Mc: Ya i am not denying that fact, but still if we see any other side in the europe they are filled with 2-3 defensive midfielders, i think still our team is very offensive compared to others and fergie is trying to build a better team may be tosic comes good, nani gets more consistent then we will have full attacking squad, but till then we have to accept the fact that transition takes time, You people saw how lucas was booed by his own fans, same goes with bendtner of arsenal, its too hard to accept so much of very young people, i know nani will come good, but things take time..
March 5th, 2009 at 17:47
@despicable: Errrr Bro, I do not think you will find the United faithful booing United players, whether it is Park, Nani or Giggsy that Fergie plays. Only time I heard booing, was when Ronaldo came back after the summer fiasco, and it was only the bitters amongst our fans who did that. It was very fleeting though, and died out as quickly as it arose.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:51
@Craig Mc: Your love for Nani forever shines thru bro!
March 5th, 2009 at 17:51
@Craig Mc: Well we’ve converted Grognard into a Park fan and I’m pretty happy with that result
. Btw I wonder if Giggs wasn’t here for so long would we have been used to all these ‘great’ wingers. Tbh Kanchelskis (bad spelling) didn’t totally float my boat. Foreign players used to look better than they actually were due to their limited numbers back then and considering he was moved out for the ‘kids’ says a lot about how Fergie rates him
March 5th, 2009 at 17:52
@Stephen: I don’t think Nani will be in the 17 players chosen Stephen. He is easy meat for Fergie to leave out these days, because players like Tev, Scholesy, Giggsy, Fletcher, etc, do not like sitting on the bench even, let alone being left out of the squad. They would be APOUTING for sure mate
.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:56
You guys should check out F365, they have an editorial up calling Ronnie a cheat.
The English media is despicable
March 5th, 2009 at 17:56
@NicoQB: Firstly, no, obviously Ronaldo’s not a tactical genius. He has a brilliant understanding of football though, and how to make use of his ability. And Sir Alex is a tactical genius, so I’d say between them two they have enough to decide what’s his best position.
Great games on the left? West Ham this year, Chelsea in the Champions League final, Arsenal in the Fa Cup final, Arsenal in the 4-2 win at Highbury, Aston Villa twice in the 06/07 season, the list goes on and on, and obviously it’s not just against weak teams either.
So yeah, if you’re going to come up with line’s like ‘case closed’, make sure you actually back them up with reason.
Which you didn’t.
March 5th, 2009 at 17:59
@Liam: Good for you Bro. I think Grog is changing his mind on a lot of players these days. He is the first to say though if he feels players he has bleeted about are improving. Like he has about Fletcher. I think it has more to do with that, than anybody converting him. You cannot possibly BELIEVE though, that anybody will ever be able to sway my AVID support away from Little Man Nani, now can you? Nani til I die
. Come on little man – kick some arse, and I will kick some with you 
.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:02
@Craig Mc: Nani probably wont get in the squad because he’s been ridiculously poor this season.
Has fuck all to do with how much time they don’t like being out of the team, especially seeing as Fletcher never complained last season and he was left out more than Nani.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:04
@Rahul: Why thank you Rahul, I am very faithful, a real loyalist mate. The type of person you would want covering your back down in the trenches. I cover Nani’s back, when the missiles are flying in his direction. I love good warfare Banter Rahul
.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:10
@James: I hope your not being serious mate – Fletcher was on the point of leaving for Everton, because of not getting enough playing time.
As for Nani – sheesh you want some warfare, Okay here it is. How the feck would you know that Nani isn’t playing well enough this season, when has he played IN PREM GAMES mate? If you are trying to say that he hasn’t played well in the cup games, WTF logic is that. He has played great in the cup games. In the CC final, he wasn’t playing with our best first team strikers, and the whole team were below par in my opinion that day. Anyway, you dote on Park mate with the rest of the legion, and I will stick with Nani.
.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:13
@Craig Mc: On the point of leaving, after four seasons of it. He didn’t complain though. Nani won’t wait for four years like Fletcher did.
You’ll stick with Nani? That says it all. You’re not being objective, you’re not having a reasoned argument, you’re being biased and silly.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:35
@Craig Mc: Warfare banter is always great, though I’m not so good in the military warfare, I’m better at flying combat!! And on the evidence of loyalty you provide, I’ll have you as my wing-man anytime!
March 5th, 2009 at 18:49
It’s horses for courses boys, they are both have their great points and both are at times infuriating, but that’s why we have a superb squad and will win trophies, great mix of quality.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:51
@Liam: WHOA!
Hang on there mate. I am no Park fan but I have come around to appreciating his contribution to the team. However, if it was up to me, the team would be looking for a long term solution on the left side of midfield who was a truly dynamic offensive threat. I never have and never will accept turning that position into a defensive one. Park is our wide defensive midfielder and he serves his purpose against certain teams and certain formations. But imagine a midfield consisting of Ronaldo, Carrick, Hargreaves and Ribery or Silva? THat’s what I want to see with the occasional sprinkling of a Scholes, Fletcher, Anderson, Tosic, Giggs and Park.
One thing many of you have still failed to notice is that I can dislike a player and even hate a player but if they play well, I will treat them fairly and give them the compliments that they deserve. Park has been a hard taste to acquire. Still, when he offers us efforts like he did yesterday, I’d rather play him that sit him. I like Nani a lot but I just haven’t seen form him the same level of play and consistency. Maybe it will come, maybe it won’t, but one thing is sure, we are playing for three more trophies and we need the best players out there.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:51
@Craig Mc: The Force works in mysterious ways
March 5th, 2009 at 18:54
@James: What you a prophet now? How do you know how long Nani will stay or go?.
With regards to silliness, I would take a good look at yourself mate. I don’t even know you, but you seem to think you know all about me – feckin amazing mate. What you don’t know anything about supporting people or loyalty then James? I like the lad Nani, I think he has a lot of skill, and with encouragement could be a terrific asset to United. I don’t remember seeing you around this blog much, so you won’t know then about ALL THE REASONED debates we have had about players over the weeks, months, etc. I don’t need to have reasoned arguements for liking a particular player/players mate. Don’t know if you frequent the terraces mate, but there is not much REASONED debating there, just a lot of fervent, fanatical, football fans, taking the piss out of one another, and tearing each other apart with unbelievable comedic banter. That reasoned enough for you mate? If you want to be all serious, and intellectual, and put forth profound argument, then talk with JB, Gabriel, Grog, Fred the Red, etc, not talk to someone like me, who just enjoys a bloody good rant.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:54
@Craig Mc: If you turned on Nani, that would be proof enough that the end of the World was upon us. We count on that devotion Bro. And good for you because the lil man needs some love.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:54
@Craig Mc: he doesn’t play in the prem because he is a liability
March 5th, 2009 at 18:56
@Grognard: Yes Grog, he bloody well does, and he sure gets it from yo Man Craig
.
March 5th, 2009 at 18:57
@Liam: A bit like your posts Liam
.
March 5th, 2009 at 19:03
@Liam: Are you talking about the FORCE that you wrongly think might be complimented as converting Grog to your way of thinking then?. Because there aint no force that could make me turn on Nani, any more than I could turn on the GF, my mother, Grandma, the dog, or anyone who holds the affection of my heart
.
March 5th, 2009 at 19:08
@James: James, Hold on their Hombre. You are new to this site and you like myself and many others on this site know nothing about our mate Craig. Yes he is a die hard supporter of Nani and especially the team and we all poke plenty of fun at him over his Nani fetish. But you being new come on here and calling him biased and silly are way out of line and you know nothing about the bloke.
Craig is one of the few members on this site that is the life blood of Red Rants. We all respect and love the guy and we appreciate his contributions and his insight on the game. And yes his Nani love is severe but then again, there is nothing wrong with being silly and bias amongst friends. It’s when a newbie come on to the site and tries to rock the status quo by insulting a long time member that is wrong.
Regardless of your opinions on Nani or on United, I ask you to consider your status on this site and respect the valued and long time contributors of this site by treating them with some respect initially. This is a loyal fellowship of like minded and severely devoted fans of Manchester United. We are not like the other sites out there. We are sort of elitist and have very defined views and personalities.
After a while when you become more acquainted and comfortable with us, and we with you, feel free to let us have it once in a while and poke fun at your heart’s content. But right now is not the time and sorry but you were out of line. Disagree but refrain from the insults. None of us know you well enough yet to get a better feeling of your views and your insight. We assume you are a United fan so you are very welcome to participate in our conversations, but please refrain from hostile disagreements. We are guilty of that once in a while but then again, we all know each other and know hat makes each other tick. Once you become more comfortable with who we are, you will better understand why I have written this to you. I hope you realize that my intentions are good and that we would value your contributions. But putting us down will not win you friends mate. Just remember that.
March 5th, 2009 at 19:09
@Rahul: Where do I sign on as your wing man Rahul
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:10
@Craig Mc: Relax Bro, Grognard has put on his warpaint.
March 5th, 2009 at 19:10
@Stephen: Awwww Sephen Bro, why do you have to come in and spoil the fun mate, by talking SENSE
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:12
@Craig Mc: That would be a first!!
March 5th, 2009 at 19:18
Seriously how many games in the premier league has nani played all season, must be about 10. People on here go on about nani and yes he can frustrate the hell out of you but how many successive games does he get? He plays a game in the cup and then hes dropped. As i said earlier maybe im too harsh on park but i do admit that against say inter and liverpool in a week it is unrealistic to play nani and ronaldo cos we will be much too attacking and could easily get caught on the counter. I say yes play park then but what i complain about is that last year he would play in these games and a few others, but this year he seems a 1st team player and in games like home to west brom and fulham and the like nani is much the better choice because he offers much more attacking. People say stats dont tell the whole tale and to a degree thats true, stats wont show a whole players value to the team but looking just and goals and assists nani is miles ahead whilst playing half the number of games park has. Nani has atleast 5/6 goals and probably has a couple of assists. Park meanwhile has about 1 goal and probably no more than 3 assists. Maybe park on the whole does contribute alot but it certainly isnt in the attacking area of the pitch. Were not chelsea, we take pride on our attack, so why if parks attacking stats are to be honest extremely poor is he getting picked week in week out. I commend him for performances where he runs around alot and never gives up, but how will that help against the likes of fulham at home when they sit back all game. Thats what im saying about him, he possesses very little in attack, his stats are shocking in terms of what he provides to the team attacking wise. For me the main thing a winger does is score or create for others and he doesnt do this much for me and this is why i dont rate him, and no1 will change my mind otherwise.
Craig Mc, you say about valencia coming in the summer and yes it sounds like it will happen, only thing is i reckon he will come in in place of nani which would frustrate me, u im sure would be furious. He just doesnt deserve the treatment he is getting and i gotta say i feel sorry for the guy seeing park running around like a headless chicken at times.
March 5th, 2009 at 19:18
@Grognard: TOSIC – are you shitting me Grog? You should watch the reserve team games on MUTV, Tosic is so far unbelievavly ordinary. He has so far done nothing to convince me that he is Red Army material – sorry.
Imagine though if we got Ribery! With Ribery (scarface), Tevez (neck scarring), and Rooney (bulldog look) playing together, even before a ball was kicked, just looking at these three players would scare the feck out of the opposition
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:25
@Matt: I know Matt, but think about how difficult it is for the Manager, so many good players, and the fans all having their favourites. Nani has nowhere near played the PL games you mention this season Matt, but wherever he goes, I will support the lad. I just took to him. That happens with some players, for all of us I guess. I want Dan the Man to go get Fergie with that hairdyer he threatened, and frizzle Fergie’s brain, so he can’t remember to choose his pet few players
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:26
@Stephen: Hahahahahahahahaha – I know, but always a first for everything
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:28
@Grognard: You putting on your warpaint Grog fills me with trepidation, NOT relaxation
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:37
@Grognard: And there you go James – Grog covered Craig Mc’s arse in the trenches
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Now Grog, I draw the line mate at you calling my like of Nani a FETISH. How many others of you on here think Nani is a fetish? And don’t all rush with your answers
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James, don’t worry about giving me a barrage from the gunpowder of Big Gun slingshots. Just know, I wont be offended, but I reserve the right to fire back
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March 5th, 2009 at 19:52
@Craig Mc: So many battle ready war-heads!!!
March 5th, 2009 at 20:09
Does any1 think that maybe because our centre midfield is pretty strong that maybe in quite a few games next year when hes back, hargo may be used more as a winger on the right side. Ronaldo has played frequently on that left side this year and maybe hargreaves would be a good choice for next year instead of park. He will offer just as much as park and more cos he can cross well and he can also defend coming in at RB. I know were top and all but i really feel we have missed hargreaves this year. As someone mentioned earlier we havent really had a set RB all year, hargo would have been brilliant there and of course back in his natural position in CM would still be a good place for him to play. Does any1 know how hes doing with his comeback. I hope he makes a full recovery cos he potentially can become a legend at this club, really he can. Excellent player hope he returns soon.
March 5th, 2009 at 20:15
@James: I think you are mistaken and obviously think that I deem Ronaldo to be crap on the left, which he is not, far from it. I just think he’s better on the right.
Just watching the end of season revew for 2007-2008 I noticed that many of Ronaldo’s goals coming from the left are coming at the end of crosses, while many of those coming from the right (who are, as I said, more numerous than those from the left) come after some good personal work by Ronaldo himself.
Added to the fact that last season, Ronaldo had a freedom which he does seem to have this year round. So I’m fair by not attributing his relative slump to just his positioning, but also to other factors as well.
Other than that, I thought I should comment on some of the tone you used to address my comments. While I enjoy a good friendly banter and can accept being proved for some of my views – Liam and JB recently made me reconsider my position on O’shea – I thought that some of the tone you used were not very gracious, to put it mildly. You seemed to have taken the “case closed” comment [which by the way I did back up, just re-read my posts] as something personal. Well there was a big smiley at the end of the phrase just to signify that you should take this as an invitation for a friendly argument – which obviously you did not heed. So if you’re going to stand by your, uh, stand, that’s fine by me. As goes the usual catchphrase here on this blog: “We’ll just agree to disagree”
March 5th, 2009 at 20:19
I just tought this article was quite brilliant. Obviously not written by a United fan but brilliant nonetheless.
March 5th, 2009 at 20:26
@Craig Mc: So basically, you just enjoy talking bollocks without reason, just because you can? It makes no sense why anyone actually thinks you talk sense then, or why you’re a ‘valued member of this blog’.
@Grognard: I know enough to say he has a bias to Nani, that’s not out of line.
And of course there’s something wrong with having a bias to a player, it ruins the point of any argument you’ll have about Nani with him. It’s senseless.
I don’t want to make friends on the internet, it’s sad. Chances are you’ll never meet these people, and probably aren’t even from the same country as most, so there’s no point in making friends on the internet.
Unless you’re just that lonely, and have so few friends.
March 5th, 2009 at 20:27
Phew, I’m just tired now. I wrote an initial reply to James which was lost somehow by my browser, so I had to restart rewriting it from scratch. So I won’t be refreshing for a bit, probably will go to sleep too. Ciao les mecs.
March 5th, 2009 at 20:28
@NicoQB: Please paste the content as the link is blocked in the office..
March 5th, 2009 at 20:29
@Stephen: I agree and anyone that disagrees must have a huge Nani bias, they need a goal almost as much as we need to score to stay in the CL, that might means attacking more and of course Nani offers more than Park, but also Park’s defensive quality are waaay better than Nani’s, so lets say Nani gives the ball away to Maicon thereby leading to him using his speed and agility to get into the box and deliver to Ibra for the crucial goal they need?(thats if we aren’t more than 1 goal ahead).
@Dan: Kinda naive, what makes you think they won’t be more fired up and put us under more pressure(which I think Park will handle better), when they know a goal MIGHT be enough to get them through?
March 5th, 2009 at 20:34
@NicoQB: The fact he had a great year had nothing to do with playing on the right. He just had a great season.
The fact he’s not playing well now is because he’s having a bad season, nothing to do with playing on the left.
It’s irrelevant.
Before last year, he was better on the left than the right. Last year he might well have had an even better season if he played on the left, with the sort of attacking help he would’ve got from Evra.
March 5th, 2009 at 20:35
@James: Well if you do have such a rewarding life outside of this blog, why don’t you just go back to it then and leave us to our pitiful lives?
March 5th, 2009 at 20:41
@James: I’m stopping this discussion right now. No point in stretching on such a thing that obviously will not yield anything.
@despicable: Here you go:
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8742_5009976,00.html
March 5th, 2009 at 20:41
@James: tbh I don’t think Ronaldo had a set position last season, he just did what he wanted
@Craig Mc: bit rich coming from you who has been in trouble with the law more than once on this site
March 5th, 2009 at 20:45
@Dan: What team in world football has ever won every game by 3 goals minimum, it’s no wonder you get disappointed so easily with players
March 5th, 2009 at 20:53
@James: United fans should stand together. Its not about friendship as much it is about being UNITED. As for Craigs bias, its a funny thing. Me myself has the Anderson bias, kinda like Craigs Nanis. Just that I still think Andy is better off at Old Trafford instead of sunny Spain.
You should calm down a little. And for people having a bias ruining the sake of argumentation, what the fuck is that all about?! We have got plenty of people here thinking Nani sucks, and that he isnt United quality. Other think Nani should start every game. That group is led by Craig. He is pointing out the positives of Nani, and I see no harm in doing that. We all got different opinions. And if you wanna be accepted at this blog, you cant talk down on people, judge them or say stuff like them having no life. I dont know you yet, so Im not gonna be to hard here. But a new United fan on this blog is always a good thing!
March 5th, 2009 at 20:56
@Dan: You have no idea how hard I laughed from that! Legendary stuff mate!
March 5th, 2009 at 21:03
@Dan: Park’s one of our most consistent players.
March 5th, 2009 at 21:31
@Craig Mc: I have heard that but I still think it is far too early to make that judgment. Right now Tosic is still learning and is suffering from fatigue and culture shock. Give him some time. Either way, I refuse to believe he is better than Nani.
March 5th, 2009 at 21:33
@Craig Mc: Nothing wrong with a good fetish mate. I know your fetish is filled with love and devotion, but it’s still a fetish is it not?
March 5th, 2009 at 21:36
@NicoQB: That’s interesting mate because I think Ronaldo is more dangerous on the left side when he is allowed to cut in and shoot with his right foot. Quite often that option is not there for him when he cuts in from the right and his left foot although good, is nothing compared to his lethal right foot. I do think he is a better and more generous play maker from the right, so in that we are probably in agreement.
March 5th, 2009 at 21:48
@NicoQB: Sorry mate but I thought the article was rubbish and a one dimensional skewering of a player who I feel is unfairly portrayed as a cheat and a scoundrel. Yes he is known for the odd dive and embellishment but I cannot recall a player in recent memory who has been so poorly treated and picked on by opponent players and even worse, by referees who are out to make an example of him. I am sick of tackles from behind and clothesline direct at his head going virtually unpunished. Did he literally need to smash him in the head yesterday and give the player a concussion for one to rate that despicable act by Taylor as nothing more than criminal? Because criminal is what it was and the referees inability to properly punish the act was bloody well diabolical.
It absolutely sickens me the amount of anti Ronaldo sentiment on this blog. This is a Manchester United blog and Ronaldo is our best player. He is ours until he isn’t ours and I really feel we should all be in his corner. He does not deserve this alienation and turncoat behavior that many have shown him. Fin e he screwed up in the Summer and he apologized over it. forgive, forget and move on. If the Jewish nation can forgive Germany over the Holocaust, certainly United fans can forgive Ronaldo for his Real dream and his occasional dives and theatrics. After all, it was nothing more than self preservation because nobody els out on the pitch is concerned about his health and welfare. To justify and condone what Steven Taylor did last night by saying Ronaldo dives and acts and to make it sound like it was n’t that big a deal because he never drew blood or caused serious injury just makes the writer of the garbage look like an ass. The fact you think it’s brilliant truly shocks and disappoints me mate. But you are free to think what you wish.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:02
@James: So you don’t want to make friends on the Internet. That’s fine and certainly your prerogative but this blog has numerous individuals who think of each other as distant friends. We get a long and occasionally we argue. It’s how you define the word argue that bothers me. We don’t like to argue, we like to debate. That means agreeing or disagreeing with somebody without accusatory comments and malicious intent. Calling a person and idiot, silly, full of it, a clown etc is just not the way to make an argument. Fine, Craig’s view on Nani are bias but that is not a fault on this blog. We all have biases and many of us who have been around on the blog for a while now know each others biases inside and out.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with a bias. Thats the definition of a hard core fan. If you have known Craig a s long as many of us you would know he has taken a lot of grief disguised as fun poked at him over his loyalty to one Louis Nani. And that’s fine. I have taken the same kind of abuse over my loyalty and love for Michael Ballack and Juan Roman Riquelme. It’s part of the fun. The difference is that most of us on here know how to word the stuff in a friendly enough tone to make sure that one is not offended by comments and if one disagrees, the y do so using proper words and phrases to make their case. Putting down a member and calling him bias (with a seriousness) and silly (just insulting) is not the way to be on here.
Sounds to me that you are one of those young Internet types that doesn’t care what they say and how they say it because on the Internet you never have to face up to somebody for your rudeness. Well sorry mate but that’s hiding behind your computer and being a coward because words can’t harm you. That’s what I hate about young people and their anti-social lazy laze fare attitude on the Internet. Make the effort to get to know us and show us some respect and you’ll definitely get the same in return. Act like an ass and claim you don’t care about making friends is not a way to ingratiate yourself in a small community of like minded individuals who respect and value each others opinions. So drop the Generation X attitude because it doesn’t play with us. Trust me, all of us are great at handing out written abuse as well as ignoring those who are just trolling for trouble. I’d like to think you would like to be the opposite of that. Hopefully that’s the case.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:05
What’s up with some of you on here?
I can’t believe the anti Park comments, especially after his performance last night.
I know that he is no Ronaldo but he does his job very, very well. Remember all you short term memory lot that at the back end of last season he was exceptional and even Fergie admitted it was one of his most difficult decisions to leave him out of the Final.
I am a big fan of Nani. I believe he is the real deal. but not yet. Not for every match. Fergie got it right last night. Again.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:08
Park is God for us on the right wing. We wouldnt have won any of our trophies these last years had it not been for him. Finished!
March 5th, 2009 at 22:10
@James: Thats a very cynical and incredibly antisocial view of life mate. For those of us who do like making friends on the Internet in communities where we share things in common, it’s not the same thing as the people you know intimately or have shared time and space with. It’s a different form of friendship, but a friendship it is nonetheless.
There are those on this site that I know if I was ever in their area or if they were in mine, would want to get together and shoot the bull over a couple of pints of lager. Sorry but that does not make us lonely and as pathetic as you seem to make us out to be. It does however say a lot about you. And that I will keep to myself.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:11
@NicoQB: Well said mate.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:18
@Grognard: Hey that bloke James just worked me up enough to watch all the Ronaldo goals from last season and believe me, he scores much more cutting inside from the right side of midfield. When he plays on the left, he tends to score more from headers or from tap ins though of course he has the occasional run and shot.
Of course, I’m basing my observations from last seasons review and no player plays the same way from one season to another, but what lead to this drawn argument was the way in which I saw Ronaldo repeatedly underperforming (of course its all relative to last season, but also to the way he tends to dominate some games) on the left, and how he suddenly found his foot when playing on the right. As I already mentioned way up in some previous post that might just be one of the explanations, but I really think he made his name as a right winger come right forward. Proof of this is when we bought Nani, the word was that we were going to have “a left-sided Ronaldo”. That implies that Ronaldo was plying most of his trade on the right, and successfully so.
@Grognard: The point of the article in itself was half-humourous and while I agree that Ronaldo is the recipient of more vicious fouls than any other player in the league, I’ve also come to accept the fact that he can be a bit of a twat off the field. The mourinho comparison (don’t worry i haven’t frgotten how many of us reds don’t like TNSSO) about entertainment value for me was valid – if he leaves, the premiership has one less entertainer, and I’m trying to look at it from a non-partisan point of view. When I saw who wrote the article I was prepared to take tyhings with a pinch of salt – the guy is the very same person who wrote the infamous “Neville diairies”.
Oh and by the way, I wasn’t being anti Ronaldo by posting this link to the article, I just thought it would make for a funny read, provided we take off our fabled red-tinted glasses. I know even Scott of ROM (if i’m not mistaken) considers him to be a diver, so there’s no harm in enjoying a joke. Makes me remember that one of the funniest things I heard about Eboue was on Arseblog, so…
March 5th, 2009 at 22:19
James,
It would have been better if you’d replied to my email. I gave you the benefit of doubt to be posting by your current handle. I suppose I was wrong. You really don’t have a right to pass judgements on fellow commenter’s social life. If you think it’s sad, move on. I don’t get your point of coming back from time to time to slag off people here.
The fact that this is a Man Utd fan blog and the fact that fans and bias are fairly synonymous terms in many occasions makes your point about bias moot. Even if the bias in Craig’s comments are unreasonable there are better ways to put your point across. I’d really appreciate it if you explained yourself by replying to my email, otherwise, you’re not helping yourself here.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:23
@Dan: Good points Dan but did we open up and play attacking balistic football against Barcelona in the return leg at OT last year? No. We played cautious because we knew that no matter how good we might be, Barca was also a team with outstanding players and game breakers. So being patient and playing it safe won the day and eventually won us the CL. There are times when caution has to be considered. A 0-0 draw at the San Siro may lead you and others to believe that we will kill them at OT. Trust me Mourinho isn’t an idiot and he will have some changes and surprises for us. If we all out attack them they have world class players who can do damage to us on the counter. Look at Newcastle yesterday. They looked dangerous on counters but never had the skill at the end to make a difference. Inter do. Without a player like Park to neutralize a threat like Messi or an Alves, we leave ourselves more exposed. Frankly we don’t need his offensive contribution to still be dangerous and to create chances. So by playing Nani we may create a few more chances but how many more will we give the opposition. And chances on counters can be far more lethal than chances against a park the bus defense.
I dosee where you are coming from though. I too crave Man Utd football where we score 3 or 4 goals a game and attack attack attack. But the modern game has become a technical and tactical game of chess. It’s much more intricate and a team can spring a leak much more easily if they concentrate on only on facet of the game. I leave it to Fergie to get the mix right and although Park is far from my preference, My dream of Ribery or Marin manning that spot is also a pipe dream. So I will go with what the Boss thinks right. After all, who are we to question him? Even though we try.
PS, Sorry for pissing you off the other day. It was not my intention but those things do happen once in a while. Like i said then, no matter what, I luv ya mate.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:25
@Grognard: Amen!
March 5th, 2009 at 22:29
@NicoQB: I’ll take your word for it mate on him scoring more form the right side. I just seem to remember more of his goals form the left. Still, I believe you.
And as for the article, I wasn’t unnecessarily commenting on you as a Ronaldo basher but the article did piss me off and I wanted to point out to some of the anti Ronaldo types on this blog that he needs our support and that he is ours for good or bad. We must be loyal to him up until the day he leaves OT. And as for Arseblog making fun of Eboue, well they should be making fun of 80% iof the clowns on that team. They are useless. However we are champions of the world. There is very little to poke fun about perfection.
I save that for Arsenal, Chelsea, Real and above all, the Scouser bastards to the west.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:32
I really should be going to sleep now! Afterall its GMT+5hrs here. So sorry to anyone if I’m not replying… Ciao donc.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:44
@RedDevilEddy:
March 5th, 2009 at 22:45
Ive got some test tomorrow, so its revision, and bed for me. Wish me luck! or else
March 5th, 2009 at 22:45
Look folks you can debate the Park versus Nani issue until the end of time, I have certainly got involved often enough in it. But here is the bottom line for you. Nani has been a bit part player this year; he has played 334 minutes in the league all season, that is less than four full games. Ironically he played frequently in the CL group stages but to be honest you would be surprised to see his name on the team sheet for a knock out game. The bulk of his playing time has been against sub-standard opposition in the domestic cups.
Against these cannon fodder teams he has produced a number of bright moments, in the form of some very well hit goals. But other than that he has been underwhelming at best. You can argue the various defensive/offensive merits of Park and Nani but that has been a moot point this season. Take a look at the team sheets this season and who appears in virtually every game of any significance? There is no argument, Park is a nailed on regular in the strongest starting 11 while Nani would likely struggle to maintain a place on the bench. This is not coincidence or conspiracy.
Now plenty will say that Nani has been harshly treated and should play more against cannon fodder etc. And to a certain extent I agree with the points. However one of the most experienced managers in world football has decided that selecting Park over Nani in his team gives it the greatest chance of success. Based on the results achieved to date this season and given that SAF sees all of the players at close quarters every day, I feel that his decision is sufficiently justified.
The challenge for Nani now is to work harder in training and games, improve his decision making and force his way back into the team. There is no doubt that the basic building blocks for an excellent player are there. However if he has the attitude that he should be starting over Park simply because he has more natural talent (that some supporters seem to have) then his United career is as good as over already.
March 5th, 2009 at 22:48
@Grognard: You see grognard, you get me! some times i wish mike basset would be our manager to scream, its a straight 4-4 fucking 2!!!
Its cool about the other day, you should no im not an angry person and find it hard to carry a grudge.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:13
Ok lads, CL final 09, we face real madrid. who would you want starting on the wings?
ronaldo? nani? park?
Ronaldo will definitely start, but neither park or nani would start the final! it will be hargreaves on that wing, and if he wer’nt injured, how much would you care to bet that hed be an automatic starter this season? it would be hargo on the right, ronnie on the left. because lets be honest, hes better then both, hes better defensively then park(he is my no1 right back actually) and better offensively then nani. a complete package.
Hargo>>>>nani>>>>>park
night night, dont let the scouse…steal your hubcaps…
March 5th, 2009 at 23:21
Dan agree with your comment above, i said earlier that i thought if hargo hadnt been injured this year he would have played right wing with ronnie on the left. Not sure why ronaldo is playing on the lef this year but i think nico went into that extensively so i aint starting that again.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:51
@Dan: I would have played Ronny and Hargreaves me too. But because he isnt fit I would play Park. Of cource, the easiest and best answer to your question would be to buy David Silva/Valencia/Ribery and use him there. Expensive, but easiest.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:52
@Matt: Hargo could also easily take over Ronnie’s free kick and set pieces duties too. I hope he gets over his tendonitis problems after the ops, and his knees hold up. I am the biggest Hargo fan.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:56
@Dan: Good luck mate. Ive also got a test tomorrow, fucking school is killing me! Ive got 6 tests in 9 school days now, who the fuck do those wankers think we are?! Robots?! Give me a fucking break here, Im already got my hands full with more important stuff than how it looks in a synagoge.
At least, if you are gonna have a test, at least let it be one that really matters. Im busting my ass off every day, for what? So the teacher can say I managed to remember how it looks in a synagoge? IM 15 FOR FUCKS SAKE!!! Not 8!!! Shitheads…. 
March 5th, 2009 at 23:57
@Craig Mc: Believe me, you dont wanna challange Grog in the “I love Hargo the most” fan club.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:58
@Liam: Trouble with the law – WTF does that mean? I have NEVER ever sent emails to RR whining like a big woman about anybody on this blog – I learned a long time ago to fight my own battles, SORT IT myself. Neither have I ever recd an email from RR, because we sorted things in full fight on here when it was needed. So no feckin idea what you are talking about. I apologise for answering your posts, because it is always better for other readers when I don’t.
March 5th, 2009 at 23:58
@Dan: Im not sure Owen is better than Nani going forward. Better all round player, but not attacking wise. Not far away though…
March 6th, 2009 at 0:08
Excelent point JB!the “debate” is closed like maicon in J.S. Park`s pocket , I guess
)
@Grognard-comment n.268
About “anti Ronaldo sentiment” on this blog, it is shame that some utd suporters need comments from other football Genius like Messi or Wenger to back Ronaldo and his great capabilities that hold us top of the Europe and England, cozz he has something diferent that no other football player in our modern man utd history, had…and we should recognise that….even if he leavbe united he will be legend for us…SAF said that, Messi, wenger.etc…but it`s not enough for someone…
Lionel Messi, who came 2nd to Ronaldo, has today claimed that our winger deserved the awards.
“Of course it doesn’t bother me at all that I didn’t win this year,” Messi said. “I’ve always said he was a brilliant player. His instincts are out of this world. Until you see him on the pitch, you don’t realise what a physical presence he has. It is good to be recognised but it will depend on the titles Barca wins. Cristiano won the Champions League and the English league last season and that’s why he deserved to be recognised.”
March 6th, 2009 at 0:18
@James: You need to get a sense of humour James, because you can’t seem to understand people who do have one, and are just making fun of other people with their comedic answers. Lord, some people take life far too seriously. I enjoy BANTER, and so do many others on here. If I talk bollocks in your opinion, then how bollocks is it that you feel the need to reply to my posts. You can just ignore them you know, and get into serious debating with those who love that kind of thing. I like terrace banter, and yes a lot of bollocks is talked and shouted from the terraces, but most folk enjoy the fun, and then go home afterwards and forget it. I am that kind of person, and don’t think I need to apologise to you or anybody else for it. Like I said, there are serious shits who post on blogs, and others who like to take the piss, and only those who know and enjoy piss taking will get it. Whose to say which is right or wrong. I don’t care if your all serious and like stats, sombre debating and FACTS. Ask Rafa if you don’t believe me. You think your the only one on here who is a serious debater, you didn’t develop that art form you know. RR, JB, Fred the Red, Grog, many others are serious debaters, who I respect, though I have debated feverishly with all of them. On the whole though, I quite enjoy ‘bollocks’ now and again, so don’t knock it. You obviously don’t seem to have a life either, because you have taken time to answer most of what you call Bollocks post. The mind boggles.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:25
@RedDevilEddy: Hahahahahahahaha – you got that right Eiddie mi man. You remember don’t you, how after Hargo came to United, Grog and I fought his corner, as we did with Berba, and as I now do with Nani. Man we got into some right heavy debating about it all. Hargo and Berba came good for us, so now its ‘come on Nani.’ The lads lagging behind.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:28
@RedDevilEddy: Yeah we all know that more important stuff you got your hands full of Eddie – she’s young and gorgeous right?
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:32
@JB: I thought you thought Fergie was the MOST important Manager in the world Bro – not just one of the most important.
. So that’s your take on the Park/Nani debate, HOW COULD YOU JB? 
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:33
@Red Ranter: Don’t worry RR, I just came on for a quick wind-up, and I honestly couldn’t get to any of my emails yet.
I’ll not be back, I can promise you that.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:33
@Dan: Get that early night Dan, and kick arse in that exam tomorrow.
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:36
@Red Ranter: Are you back for good now RR, if you are thats great, you’ve been missed mate.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:38
@JB: Beautifully said JB. I couldn’t agree more. Try not lose sleep over that OK mate.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:39
@RedDevilEddy: Errrr Eddie, correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t Park OUT for a long time when we were winning our trophies last year
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:42
@Dan: Mike Basset. I loved that mate
And although I am one who can carry a grudge, I certainly don’t with you mate. You’re a standup bloke in my books. Sometimes we’re just in different corners of the ring, thats all.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:44
Man what is it about people on here and exams the next day lol, i got bloody coursework in due tomorrow and im nowhere near finishing. If i was as dedicated to my work as i was to talking about united i would be top of the class. Ah well better get some rest and be fresh for tomorrow. Night all.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:44
@Dan: Absolutely right mate. Hargreaves would be the first choice at Right Midfielder because frankly he is outstanding in that role, can mark as well as park and has the ability cross the ball ala Beckham. Great point. But then everybody expected that from me because I have my bias love for Hargo.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:46
@Gubby: Gubby, don’t worry mate. What’s up with us, is that seemingly there is too much bollocks talk. I was at the game though Gubby, and Park was on his arse a lot. Don’t deny he has had some exceptional games for us though
. Especially the Barca OT semi final. He missed a sitter though mate, as he often does. But then, they all do, except Nani of course 
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:49
@NicoQB: Remind me to get as wise as you Nico, and avoid things that do not yield, as you superbly say
.
March 6th, 2009 at 0:50
@Craig Mc: One of the most ‘experienced’. He is obviously the most important by some distance
@Grognard: If I was you I would go to the doctor, you are agreeing with me far too often lately!! You’re not running a fever are you
March 6th, 2009 at 0:51
@Rd: Aaaah RD, you know now don’t you Bro, I have a huge Nani bias
.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:19
@JB: Oh Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooo, Grog’s agreeing with BOTH you and a certain other person, who believes powers from another world have been influencing Grog to be more harmonious
. Now I stand ALONE 
.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:22
@Grognard: Bias love and Bollocks talk – what a combination eh Grog? Hargo is such a great, great footballer Grog, I really hope beyond hope that his ops are successful, and we can see the very best of him next season.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:41
@RedDevilEddy: Damn straight. Hargo is my boy and I have loaned him to United. United was lacking a little Canadian style heart and soul.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:47
@Aleksandar Macedonia: Well said mate. Ronaldo has problems with his form this season but that has a lot to do with injury, conditioning and having to alter his game a bit because teams are clamping down on his style of play because of his incredible season last year. So this is nothing more than a transitioning period for him and I pity the teams in the next couple of years when Ronaldo will himself have adapted to the tricks being used against him. Remember, he has a genius in Fergie in his corner too. He will be back to his former form sooner than later and he may even exceed it. He is truly special.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:50
@Craig Mc: Faith in Lil Man Nani. He’s too good not to come good. FAITH!
March 6th, 2009 at 1:51
@James: Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.
God how I hate when we get invaded by trolls.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:53
@Craig Mc: Yes but last year Nani was frakken great too. In fairness he has gone backwards this year so the reemergence of Park has been a godsend. Hopefully Nani will also have the resurgence next year and make that position his. He needs to start offering Fergie what Fergie wants. He’s slowly coming around.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:55
@Craig Mc: Craig, how did you find ST James Park and it’s atmosphere as parks go? Curious to find out what you think seeing you are a regular at OT too.
March 6th, 2009 at 1:56
@JB: No but it could be that time in the month.
Actually, it’s amazing what a good mood can do for one. I’ve been in a pretty good mood of late. Up until James showed up and started messing with my bro Craig. 
I do like it when we agree though JB because even when we do I have a great deal of respect for your views and knowledge of the game.
March 6th, 2009 at 2:00
@Craig Mc: You said it mate. I can’t wait to see Hargo come backe better than ever. I really believe he will make a full recovery and i just salivate at the look of our team next year with him being slotted all over the place based on what Fergie wants for the day. Hargo is the man for me mate. My favorite United player and a player who makes me proud to be Canadian. Lets keep our fingers crossed and hope he comes back at 100%.
March 6th, 2009 at 2:36
OK, this may or may not be on topic,
)on and off the field, the fella must be needing a bit of a break soon…
but how long do ya think ronnie can keep playing without being rested?
apart from all the BS he cops (and gives
i mean we have the most potent offence in europe it seems, shouldn’t we be able to rotate our players a little?
we’ll definately be needing a healthy ron + the rest of the front row if we’re gonna challenge all the titles to the end
March 6th, 2009 at 2:39
@Grognard: Dunno, what would you prefer, Carrick and Hargo in the centre with Park on the right/left with Ronnie or Carrick and Fletch with Hargo on the wing? Scholes and Giggs start one every 3 games each probably so until they retire it looks like there wont be any first choice, just rotation.
March 6th, 2009 at 2:46
@Natzca: Probably the FA cup game on Saturday, Fabio will hopefully play. I think he’s probably my favourite young Latin player and I’ve only ever seen him play once for the 1st team and 2 or 3 reserve games. I just have a feeling that he will be amazing, I don’t know what it is because even though Rafael has been good I just can’t shake the feeling that his twin will be better. Also, Fabio is right footed so why hasn’t he been given any gametime with all of our RB injuries? O’Shea has been good but he is playing roughly every 3 days now and could do with a break
March 6th, 2009 at 2:56
@Natzca: You mean we have a topic here Bro, well I never
. I have thought for a while that Ronnie needs to be forced to take a break, but because Ronnie always insists on playing every game, Fergie allows him too mostly. I have never seen this side of Fergie with any other player before, and it worries me! Yes mate, Ronnie should be rested, but with important games coming up, I don’t think he will be.
March 6th, 2009 at 3:01
@Grognard: Grog, I have only been at St James Park when United have played there, and the atmosphere is MEGA. I have to give it to the Geordies Grog, they are fantastic supporters of their club, and salt of the earth diehards mate. They don’t deserve to drop down into the championship, it will be a travesty if they do.
March 6th, 2009 at 3:01
I just went back to the 2nd article ever done on this site and it was about transfer targets. It’s good reading in retrospect.
http://redrants.com/possible-transfer-targets-for-man-utd/
One question however makes me cringe going back to it ‘Who is better, Ribery or Nani?’ In that Summer we effectively paid a couple of million less to get Nani when we could have gotten Ribery. I’m sorry but for this I blame Queiroz who obviously wanted to be credited with finding the next Ronaldo.
March 6th, 2009 at 3:19
@Liam: yeah, imagine when both of them become regulars… man our sure hope whoever follows SAF knows how to harness the full potential of our youngsters…
here’s a scary thought, a few months ago, I mentioned that Hiddink would be a good replacement, I watched how he pulled teams like Korea and Australia to new heights, but then i realised he seems like a bit a freelance specialist, come in, fix a team, get paid a lot then move on to the next “project”. United doesn’t deserve a manager like that, so here we are now, he’s managing Chelski another side “project” team added on to his main project Russia.
wow this post doesn’t really flow, anyway it’s a rant in’it?
March 6th, 2009 at 3:27
@Craig Mc: Yes all posts should be strictly on topic, using good grammar and punctuation, with logical well thought out responses
I know i’m not one to have much credentials on this blog as i don’t post much, but i read the previous posts re: James, man the poor fella got hammered, guess he deserved it, but it’s fun reading this blog with people with diff opinions, biased or not.
March 6th, 2009 at 3:36
http://www.redcafe.net/f6/anyone-else-seen-238701/
a must watch. Dr. Rooney and Super Ronnie
Edwin looks like a fireman too
March 6th, 2009 at 3:39
@Craig Mc: Same goes for Upton Park, they have passion and then some for their club, I love how they cheered Tevez when he gets subbed off/on
March 6th, 2009 at 3:47
March 6th, 2009 at 4:06
@Liam: The more I think about it the more it becomes impossible to select. Todays games are about rotation so really is there such a things as a main lineup? My ultimate setup would be Carrick and Hargreaves with Ronaldo and Nani because I still believe Nani can make good and because I always liked the pairing of Hargo with Carrick. But I have no problem placing Hargo on the right side Carrick and Scholes in the middle and Ronaldo on the left side or make that Carrick with Giggs or Anderson. Fletcher is fine but he is never on any of my preferred lineups. And the jury is still out on Tosic. One thing is for sure, with Hargo on the team, I have no use for Park other than a spot start to rest Hargo or another player and on as a sub. Hargo can do whatever Park does and he offers so much more after that. With Scholes, Anderson, Giggs and Fletcher you have four players you can rotate and keep fresh. Carrick for me starts 4 out of 5 games as does Hargo and Ronaldo, well it looks like he may never sit a game out again.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:29
@Craig Mc: I can see a conversation between Fergie and Ronny this past summer in Portugal go like this;
FERGIE: Cristiano, Cristiano, why all this nonsense about Real Madrid? What have I done to deserve this kind of disrespect? I loved you like a son.
RONNY: I need more adventure, I need more spice in my life, I have girlfriend, she tell me, Ronny, why you not come to Spain, play every game and we shag all night.
FERGIE: Laddy Laddy, now you can still have that back in Manchester. I’ll get Lil Man Nani and Anderson to stop all they are doing and to go out and get some top of the line English hostess bitches for you to throw parties and have a great time. You don’t need some Spanish fly to do do that.
RONNY: I am bored, I hate Manchester it’s too cold, rainy and the fans sing Ronaldo Ronaldo only when I score. I want them to sing continually.
Sometimes they boo me when I div……I mean get fouled and fall. They not always show me special love that make my toes tingle. I think I want Spain. Cannot see life in England. No appreciate step over, no appreciate wink, no appreciate special attitude. and country loves Mourinho too much. Makes me want to die. I hate him, he not more special than me. He Portuguese piece of shit.
FERGIE: Ronaldo, all I can say is forget about the pretty boy Mourinho. You are my pretty boy and United is your team and I love your step overs
and your attempts to turn Savage into a woman on every free kick. What will it take for you to come back and honor your contract? I cannot let you leave, Fuck Laddy, I won’t let you leave but I will grant you one wish to keep you playing with us. What will it be eh?
RONALDO: OK, I come back. I love you Boss, you treat me good but you sit me down too often. Makes me cry and very lonely. Ronny need to play and Ronny need to play all the time. I come back if you promise never to sit me down again. I play every day even if I look sad and tired and even if my hair is not playboy cute. I need to play and to have special love with goal and with ball and I love to wear my yellow boots. They make me sexy yes? You play me every game, I come back. OK Boss.
FERGIE: Ah very well Laddy. I hate to be told how to do things but I’m getting old and I don’t care anymore. I just can’t bare the thought of trying to replace you and your cute step overs and back heels. Also, Rooney will kill me because he will be forced to give up his Ronny hand puppet and he will die if that happens. OK you play every game.
There you have it. The hidden transcripts from last summer when Fergie met Ronny in a famous summit. Now we all know why Ronny is not be sat down at all this season.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:32
@Craig Mc: A team as big as that should not have such a Mickey Mouse owner and should have been able to secure better talent this January to ensure their survival. It would be sad to see them go but the attitude at the top was always too negative for the team to handle. And too much money was always spent on lost causes like Barton, Owen etc. It’s too bad.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:40
@Natzca: We appreciate new bloggers mate and even if you aren’t necessarily new, the more you contribute, the more we appreciate it. James got hammered because Jame’s intentions on this site were never honorable. He came in like trolls do to cause havoc and remind us all how pathetic and lonely he is and to then get under our skins. Well he succeeded in getting under our skins but he didn’t have the intellectual capacity nor the bollocks to come to a gun fight with nothing more than a stick. And frankly he picked on the wrong fellow unfairly. We here at Red Rants protect those we like and respect.
You on the other hand are more than welcome because it seems like you want to offer and contribute some interesting thoughts and ideas. Get things percolating a bit and offer some food for thought. And you are more than welcome to it mate. Welcome to the family
March 6th, 2009 at 4:46
@Liam: Loved it Super Ronny and Rio the Thespian. And Ronny, you already are Superman to me because only a super human could survive the abuse you take from game to game.
March 6th, 2009 at 4:47
@Pangasinan Football: Have faith mate. They will do good by us in the end.
March 6th, 2009 at 5:27
I still don’t understand the concept of comparing one player with another?
I guess you could say Ronaldo scores more often than Nani, or Vidic starts more often than Evans, Ferdinand in older than Rafael and that Rooney has bigger ears than Tevez! I mean these are facts that we can get our head around – indisputable, concrete and satisfying.
Where I have a problem is when, for whatever reason, we start to talk in terms of talent. Park is “better than” Nani, Hargreaves is “better than” Park and Carrick is “better than” Hargreaves. Just doesn’t make sense!! For Christs sake, where does Park fare with Carrick or Nani with Hargo and come to think about it, where do our 2 young Brazilians fit in with the equation??
I also want to know what “better than” means. Does it mean one has more social condiments than the other or that ones footballing brain has a measurably larger surface area than its counterpart. Pretty tough to tell!! One things for sure, it’s impossible to argue it all to a conclusion!!
I know this is a passionate game, and I curse at every United player that puts a foot wrong and I yell and holler at all the great touches of brilliance but to say that its all better or worse takes the fun out of it for me!!
Live for the moment!, know that Rooney’s goal was an instance of brilliance, not better nor worse than anything else he’s done. That VDS’s fluff was something that was bound to happen, not better or worse than he’s ever done. That Vidic’s season is spectacular, not better than Ferdinand’s!
AS for SAF, he’s the best fucking manager ever, period!!
March 6th, 2009 at 6:38
@Redrich:
Well said.
March 6th, 2009 at 8:21
@Craig Mc: I was thinking more of the Barca game at Old Trafford last season… I dont think we would have won not for Park(He and Brown were my men of the match.)
About that other comment, yeah she is young and goregous.
But Ive got more things than that too! School fucking sucks out your soul, and bores you to death. Ive got my footy to think of, my health, chilling, friends… School is the most important of all, but boy could I use a vacation right now! 
March 6th, 2009 at 8:37
@Redrich: Well here’s the thing mate. You enjoy the game the best way that makes you comfortable but try not to get down on many of us who may over intellectualize every play. It’s our way of enjoying the game. We can’t all be the same. I’m not trying to be rude here but if I discuss the poor first touch of a player, it is my prerogative and it is my form of reflection and contemplation on a subject. If it’s not your cup of team by all means ignore it and ignore posts that discuss these things. As for me, sitting back and taking in a game like a house plant isn’t exactly what I call stimulating. The game has more to offer than it’s simplest form. It is a game played with intelligence, vision and sublime skill. And the best way to respect and honor it is to notice those aspects and report or debate them. Sorry but I just don’t agree. Comparison between players and coaches is part of the game.
March 6th, 2009 at 8:52
@Redrich: It can mean anything you or anyone else wants it to mean, and that’s the FUN of it Redrich. We don’t all say or think the same, and so express it – thats the variety and colour of it. Has everything always got to make sense, I don’t think so. Hell the whole world doesn’t make sense – if it did, there wouldn’t be any feckin useless wars, where the young men and women of this world are lost, cut off in their prime. If we tried to make sense of everything, we could all go mad Bro. Where sport is though, folks are always going to debate and discuss the merits or non merits of players. That’s all part and parcel of sport, and terrace/forum/blog talk.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:04
@Grognard: Grog
, I think it was more like this:-
Fergie – What the Feck you think you have been playing at all summer fellow? You aint going nowhere Sonny. You signed a contract, and you will see it out – no questions. You wont get any more money than you signed for either, don’t try and screw us laddy, because your messing with the wrong club. You wont get much support or anything else from the terraces for a while, because you bolloxed up all the love and respect given to you by United’s faithful. So get your act together, and be back on time for training after your foot operation. Mess with us anymore, and I will have no problem sitting you in the stands. You writing all this down Sonny?
March 6th, 2009 at 9:32
@Natzca: I Don’t the Hammers will be going down this season though Bro. They do have a similar great crowd atmosphere and diehard support like the Geordies, so yes mate, I agree with you. Hammer supporters sure love Tevez, your right
.
That brings up another topic of debate though doesn’t it? Is Tevez staying with us, or going elsewhere in the summer. I think he has nailed his colours to the mast that he wants to stay put, but United have gone very quiet about it all. So guess we wont know anything until summer transfer frenzy comes.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:42
@Pangasinan Football: Yes we do indeed all want the PL and CL trophies again, especially has retaining the CL hasn’t been done for years. Or has it never been done before – I can’t remember. I think in it’s present format it hasn’t been achieved before. JB perhaps will tell us
.
With regards to the title given to our team of ‘THE UNTOUCHABLES’, Hmmmmm, we have been plating some slippery slope football for a few games, shakey, but it doesn’t matter does it, because we are seemingly the ‘Mean, Lean, WINNING machine.’ Oh Yes. If we win the next three games, the United faithful will all be on cloud nine – so Fulham, Inter, and ScouserFOOL beware – we’re coming straight for you.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:48
@Craig Mc: Yes I get that but you missed the point of my conversation piece. It was intended to answer the question of why Ronaldo never gets rested, not what really happened and how Fergie probably took care of the situation.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:50
@Craig Mc: To my knowledge it has only been retained the following year when it was just the old European Cup format. In that instance Real Madrid won it five years in a row, Ajax and Bayern won it three years in a row and Liverpool and Nottingham Forest won it twice in a row.
March 6th, 2009 at 10:26
@Pangasinan Football: Did u just say ‘MANU’??? Get a grip of how to appropriately address our team. Or are you a scouser in disguise??? Whatever the reason, don’t do it again.
March 6th, 2009 at 10:37
@Grognard: The secret trancsript was a gem!
March 6th, 2009 at 12:03
@Grognard:
, I know Grog, I got what you were getting at mate, but you know how devilish I can be. Well you should do, you’ve put up with me long enough 
.
March 6th, 2009 at 12:27
I would bloody love Newcastle to get relegated. I hate Shearer. I hate Keegan. Here’s a few seasons in the Championship for you, sleeping giant.
I hate barcodes.
March 6th, 2009 at 12:47
Grognard, my man, that behind the scenes exchange between Ronnie and Fergie was hilarious! It sounds exactly like the sort of deal they would have cut out.
James, you have some interesting views and you justify them. But it is not OK to attack the views of others in such an aggressive way. We all have our personal truths and any opinion is going to be partly subjective.
We really did miss a trick not snapping up Ribery. Also I’ll be pissed if we go for Valencia at the end of the season when we could have got him for half the fee last season.
Part of Ronaldo playing on the left is that Park is a right midfielder whereas Ronaldo is versatile enough to play on both flanks.
Last season we were playing Giggs on the left a fair bit, and sometimes Nani as well. But Giggs is now past it, and Fergie doesn’t seem to trust Nani. So we go with Ronaldo on the left, Park on the right.
Even if we got Valencia…he’s a right winger, so Ronaldo would end up on the left.
March 6th, 2009 at 14:03
@Traverse: There’s a good possiblity you might get your wish Traverse – the barcodes have got L’Pool and Arsenal next – shame –
.
March 6th, 2009 at 16:49
@Craig Mc: To know you is to love you Bro.
March 6th, 2009 at 16:58
@colver: Yes I agree about Ronaldo being more of the preference on the left. I think Fergie also likes his linkup with Evra. It takes advantage of both player’s talents more. I don’t mind Valencia but I am still of the belief we could do better. I’d prefer to see Ribery stay with Bayern my other favorite team but if he is definitely to go, getting him would be a dream. Our attack with Ronny and Ribery on the wings would be the scariest thing to come into football since “Total Football”. Honestly, how could teams cope with that? Especially with Carrick and a healthy Hargreaves in the middle with the occasional sprinkle of spices known as Anderson, Scholes, Giggs and Fletcher. Meanwhile our super humans on the wing would Nani (hopefully), Park and Tosic to turn to for some hard work. Keeping RiberRonny rested and healthy and ready for big games would be their duty. But I don’t see United going after Ribery unless a calamity like Ronny leaving was to occur. Instead, I see us overpaying for a Valencia or taking a leap of faith on some other young and unproven winger who may or may never get a real shot. So far Tosic has shown nothing and although I believe we should be patient, his lack of form even with the reserves has me wondering if he could end up being a dud. Personally, I think he will be fine.
March 7th, 2009 at 4:44
@Craig Mc: yeh quiet is scary, it’s like telling a girlfriend you love them, but they don’t say anything back. WE all know Tevez loves to be here, and the fans love him back, but does management feel the same way?
you’re right, guess we’ll have to wait till summer to find out,
I hope he stays, he may not have been efficient as he was last year, but we all know what he’s capable of seriously, it’s a massive loss i reckon.