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Southampton v Man Utd FA Cup Match Thread

This will be short — and will serve more like a place holder for match related talk.

Southampton will be interesting opposition as — correct me if I’m wrong — it’s the first time we meet them after relegating them to the Championship for the first time in their Premier League history.

It’s a four o’clock kick off, UK time, which is a few hours from now and I can’t really say much about our opposition. I could make the stock statement here, about this being their cup final and them parking their bus in front of their goal. But I think we know all that already.

For us though, it’s not exactly a chance for us to find our attacking groove because Fergie will look to rest the stars ahead of next week’s clash against Chelsea. But then we also have a Carling Cup fixture in midweek against Derby County. It is quite possible that the manager plays some stars for this and some for midweek — but then again, we can play this guessing game all week. So I can’t really bring an informed analysis ahead of today’s game. I don’t know why I am not too excited by the prospect of today’s game.

Oh well…

What I want to talk about briefly, before leaving you to discuss about the match, is regarding media speculation on Tevez possibly moving. I see no quotes where Fergie actually says that he’ll leave so I’ll not jump the gun. However, what Fergie says in reality is this:

“We will just work our way through it and that’s all we can do. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn’t, we will just have to move on. It’s unfortunate, but that’s life. Carlos wants to stay. He’s happy here. I think he’s actually said that to the players.”

While there is a non-committal tone to his words it’s not an admission. It’s quite similar to the Wes Brown situation where the player wanted to stay. I’m sure, if Tevez were to demand £125,000, he wouldn’t be getting it. [Something in the 90k region is as far as I would go — considering the apparent value Fergie has placed on him; in terms of appearances he’s made this season.]

I’m sure asking this question — should Tevez be allowed to leave? — will divide opinion equally among fans. And would love to hear your response. I’d want him as long as we don’t over pay. Even 32 million is steep in my opinion. As a player he’s a wonderful asset to the club, needless to say.

Right, I’m out. Over to you…