Oct 18
The World Loves Rooney + West Brom Preview
… if said world is England. Suddenly the boy can do no wrong and he’s the darling of everyone concerned. Moreover, England is suddenly a world beater. Such hubris is not very difficult to build these days — at least sections of the English press never fail to disappoint in this regard.
But let us make no mistake here: Rooney has been excellent for England, and we saw flashes of his goal scoring form even for United. And, as a selfish United fan, that is my primary concern.
It’s no secret that Rooney has seemed better when his role has been more defined. When he’s not shunted out wide, and is given a more central role he gets far more out of his game offensively. The presence of Emile Heskey helped him immensely because of the way the Wigan striker selflessly linked with him. He may not score any goals from now on till the end of time, but his role in being the target man and allowing Rooney to flourish cannot be discounted.
Which is why I expect Rooney to get better for us in the presence of a better player in Berbatov. Today will be a test to see if he can translate his rich vein of England form for us. It’s also worth noting that Rooney was on a scoring streak early last season only to draw blanks as injury contributed to break his rhythm. If Rooney stays away from freak injuries (like tripping over stray training equipment) he could use this form to transform his season. Personally, I am a big fan of the Roon and I really want his talents to come to the fore now. It’s been far too long waiting. And I don’t want to sound like a scouser by saying ‘this is Rooney’s year’.
On Rooney Sir Alex had quite a few words to say in yesterday’s press conference:
It’s all to do with maturity. What we have noticed is that he goes on these scoring bursts and his form improves. That’s the way he’s been ever since he came to us, but you hope that by the time he gets to his mid-20s the greater experience will bring more consistency to his scoring and it will be better spread. We know he can score but it’s a matter of getting consistency. Maybe he’s got to get that thing experienced players have – like Gary Lineker, who never kicked a ball in some games and still scored two goals. When Wayne is in his mid-20s maybe he will score goals when he’s not playing particularly well, too. You just hope – as with all young players – that when they get to their mid-20s they are going to be the full article in terms of their authority, timing and decision-making, and how they live their lives.”
Indeed.
Moving on, we return to regular football — what a relief that must be for most of us — and we host West Bromwich Albion. It’s a game we ought to win comfortably if we are to continue our climb up the table. But games following the international break is always going to be tricky. Despite that, it’s the best possible game we could have asked for following a break, so we’ll have to win this. Simple as.
In team news, Rooney would partner Berbatov as a jet lagged Tevez takes a spot on the bench. There has been lot of rumours circulating about him, but due to my self imposed exile I couldn’t cover it on the blog. I hope to get to that in a few days. In defence, Brown, Rio, Vidic and Evra would take their customary positions in front of EVDS. The central midfield remains a question mark, as always. But I suppose it will be Fletcher and Giggs. Carrick is yet to reach full fitness, while Owen (Sa)Hargreaves continues to keep the physios busy. Ronaldo and Nani could take the wings IMO.
Predictions: 2-0 to United. Come on you reds!!!
Related items from Red Rants:
- Featured Lookalike: Nani and…?
- Man Utd vs Roma: Preview
- Tevez Update: Is a Solution Finally In Sight?
- Reds Put Four Past WBA
- West Brom v Man Utd: Match Thread
Tags: Daily Roundup · Game Preview
October 18th, 2008 at 10:27
rooney and tevez to score…
October 18th, 2008 at 10:31
Brown, Rio/Vidic would be rested I guess…
October 18th, 2008 at 10:44
Since this’s not the biggest team we could play, …….
Why not try out the 4-2-3-1 TODAY ????
with Berba up-front & Roo, Ro & Tev behind him.
I’ld realy luv to see that combination
October 18th, 2008 at 10:45
Would like berba to get on the board today for his first premiership goal. 3-0 is my prediction
October 18th, 2008 at 10:45
Finally, we will now have the season up and running properly after these stop start breaks. On MUTV last night it was said that United have a good record after coming back from international breaks so Baggies beware! lets hope it continues and with players returning injury free plus Carrick and Hargreaves nearing full fitness things are looking good. I hope the manage starts Rooney, he will be all fired up and brimming with confidence but the manager did say that he would look for fatigue in the players and with another important match in mid week it will be interesting to see what team he starts with. Happy days
October 18th, 2008 at 11:39
care for some bullshit mates? read this f*ckn article. JT the hero of england. ffs.
Scolari: For John Terry, Dying In The Field Would Be Glory
Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has hailed the warrior-like resilience of his captain, John Terry, who is set to make a surprise return from injury today…………….
bubububullshit! curse you jt, you are just afraid that rio will pick up your slack again.
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=918262
October 18th, 2008 at 11:42
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=915013
kaka is my idol.
October 18th, 2008 at 11:46
hey guys any of ye have the link for game this evenin?
October 18th, 2008 at 11:55
Hey guys.. At What time is the Match today, i have to leave Office..
October 18th, 2008 at 11:58
@Despicable: 5:30 BST
October 18th, 2008 at 12:20
Thankz
Means i can work… 10:30 in INDIA
October 18th, 2008 at 12:21
So Dan(u-ol), Where are u from??
October 18th, 2008 at 13:45
@count berbatov: I am not quite sure if you were serious or not in your comments, but I would have to say that Kaka is the greatest footballer on the planet, both in terms of his on the pitch performances and his off the pitch character. I know the most important thing to do on the pitch is score goals, help your teammates score goals or help prevent them. Kaka does all of these, but he also is a wonderful example of a human being. Cristiano Ronaldo could learn a thing or two from the reigning World Footballer of the Year. God Bless Ricky Kaka, the greatest footballer in the world. I still dream that he would join the Greatest Football team in the world, Manchester United. But until then I will cheer for him in every game he partakes in. Not AC Milan, but Kaka. Even when he played against United I wanted him to do well, which he did. I wanted United to win, but I was pulling for Ricky as well. Glory, Glory Man United and Glory, Glory Kaka.
October 18th, 2008 at 13:50
@Despicable: england!
October 18th, 2008 at 14:03
@RichmondRed: Kaka has been poor over the last two seasons. No matter what he does off the pitch, it’s what he does it on it matters. On his last two seasons’ form, he doesn’t deserve to even be in the top 10 best players in the world.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:06
@Conor: i agree, i really dont rate kaka that high, he shouldn’t be world player off the year at all.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:08
Chel$ki murdering boro!!! They are not even playing their 1st team…
scoring for fun…
October 18th, 2008 at 14:30
Yeah in my view Ferguson should play Rooney as a forward the whole time. This may mean leaving him out of some games if tactics require a lone striker (Berbatov?) and wingers either side. But that would be better long term because Rooney would develop discipline from playing the same position in every match for club and country.
I also agree Berbatov could be amazing for Rooney. He does not have Heskey’s work rate but he can play with his back to goal and link up more effectively with Rooney as he is a more skillful player.
It hurts when Chelsea go into rampage mode. We are supposed to have the best attack in the country but Chelsea are the ones winning by cricket scores this season. It is not even as though we are conceding less.
I am being patient because Berbatov needs time to adapt and Ronaldo is only just coming back from injury. But I expect once we get to November we should start racking up some 3-0, 4-0, 5-0 wins.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:39
The world loves Rooney?. Well surely there are the ODD one or two who don’t?
.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:43
5-0 Chelsea while they’re missing Deco, Essien, Ballack, Carvalho, Cech, Drogba, Joe Cole and Ashley Cole. Every one of those players bar one is a guaranteed starter. Credit where credit’s due.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:44
@Conor: It does not matter what he does off the pitch to be World Player of the Year, but it does matter what he does off the pitch as a footballer and role model to young people. Also, I believe you are stretching your claims on Kaka’s form. Two years? A bit of an embelishment. I will admit his form over the past seven months has not been World Footballer of the Year material, but come on mate, it has been less than a year since he had the best footballing year of his life. Please get your facts straight.
October 18th, 2008 at 14:51
@RichmondRed: Last season he was awful. The season before that he put in sporadic world class performances, mainly in the Champions League, and undeservedly won WPOTY.
October 18th, 2008 at 15:02
@Conor: It makes you realise doesn’t it, how bloody good Man United are then, because we drew with Chelski AT THEIR PLACE, and we were far from at our performing best. They looked ordinary against us, and YES I am biased
.
October 18th, 2008 at 15:09
Craig you make a good point but ultimately last season we had a fabulous record against the other top 4 teams but dropped points against weaker teams so won the title by a narrower margin than we should have. You have to admire the way Chelsea have just been brushing aside weaker teams this year. I also think as Chelsea and Liverpool have improved we will find it harder to win all the six pointers so we need to focus this year on demolishing the smaller teams. I think Berbatov will be a great help with this because last year we had games where we created a hundred chances and failed to convert one. Berbatov has a better conversion rate than Rooney and Tevez and is second only to Ronaldo.
October 18th, 2008 at 15:33
Both LooserFool n Arsenal 1 goal down…
October 18th, 2008 at 15:46
@colver: I agree Bro, we need to get back to our free scoring against the lesser teams. Our forwards all seemed to have lost their shooting boots in pre season and early few games. One or two just beginning to find them now, and lets hope it is a real change back to shooting form, and not just a false dawn
. I wonder who Fergie is going to play today. I hope we do not have makeshift of our other forwards to play out wide, because Tev and Rooney haven’t showed so far that they can play out wide, especially on the left wing, where they have to keep checking back in order to get a cross in, and most often not very good crosses either.
Fergie is full of it
. With his “Rooney will play where I tell him” comments. Always having to flex his ‘I am the boss’ muscles. Why?. He can be such a stubborn mule at times. But he is the boss and usually does a good job of it. Nevertheless, some of his decisions regarding where he plays certain players out of position do cost United. I believe that is why we did drop points against the minnows last year, because he brings players in who need games, and will slot them anywhere.
Well I’m off to make a hell of a feckin noise on the terraces, see ya guys
.
October 18th, 2008 at 15:48
@colver: you mean ronaldo is second to berbatov.
October 18th, 2008 at 15:52
Zaki, what a goal!
Dippers 1, Wigan 2
October 18th, 2008 at 15:55
amr zaki…. would anyone take a punt on him should united fail to buy tevez??? I rate him he’s put two past the scousers at the kop end good player impressive…
October 18th, 2008 at 16:34
team news?
October 18th, 2008 at 16:44
JB???
October 18th, 2008 at 16:45
just heard rafael will start!!!
October 18th, 2008 at 16:46
Team News:
GK: VDS
RB: Da Silva
CB: Ferdinand
CB: Vidic
LB: Evra
RM: Ronaldo
CM: Fletcher
CM: Giggs
LM: Park
ST: Rooney
ST: Berbatov
Subs: Pig, Brown, O’Shea, Neville Nani, Gibson, Evans
October 18th, 2008 at 16:48
Aww, finally REAL football is back! Have had to watch Norway play same old long-ball game, England scoring good goals but their aoverall play is shite. And what a better way to return to watch football than to watch Wigan lead at Anfield after what must be the goal of the season. Zaki is a real talent, both his goals have been amazing. His aggression to win the first one back, and the second…WOW!! Best goal Ive seen since Scholes goal against Barca. Classic!
Now, Its less than 1 hour to kick off. I have the team:
VDS
Rafael-Rio-Vidic-Evra
Ronaldo-Flecther-Giggs-Park
Rooney-Berbatov
subs: TK, Evans, Oshea, Nani, Gibson, Brown, Neville.
score prediction: 4-0 to United. Rooney(2), Ronaldo and Berbatov to score.
COME ON YOU REDS!!!
October 18th, 2008 at 16:55
gahhhhhhhhhhh liverpool the fucking cunts
October 18th, 2008 at 17:02
ando must be tired or sumptin
October 18th, 2008 at 17:23
4 – 0 Rooney brace, Berba and Slave
October 18th, 2008 at 17:25
6-0 to United…
October 18th, 2008 at 17:27
Teves not on bench!!!:???:
October 18th, 2008 at 17:30
I know and not a genuine CM either, what the fuck. Anderson where is he? No second striker. I don’t like the line-up at all…
October 18th, 2008 at 17:40
where the hell is tevez? I thought he was serving a suspension for argentina, so shouldnt he be fully rested?
October 18th, 2008 at 17:45
Tevez, Anderson, I guess we are feeling confident…
October 18th, 2008 at 17:49
This is fuckin shite
October 18th, 2008 at 17:55
kill ther eff
October 18th, 2008 at 17:56
Wow, rooney is in great form that was a top drawer finish. and a Rubbish call by the offical. should be 1-0
October 18th, 2008 at 18:00
Nothing wrong with The Roons goal, the defender fell over for fucks sake
October 18th, 2008 at 18:06
does anyone have a link to the game???
October 18th, 2008 at 18:13
A story of one half of crap crosses in the box
October 18th, 2008 at 18:17
giggs has been POOR to say the least.
October 18th, 2008 at 18:21
Giggs’ been awful… Ref is nuts…
October 18th, 2008 at 18:22
I could play for wba they are just kicking us off the pitch. I think the reff will get it under control in the second and we will run rings rooney 4 a brace and 1 for berba.
October 18th, 2008 at 18:29
giggs is NOT a cm, nor a winger. i doubt he will ever be used upfront, i think the old retirement buss is coming.
October 18th, 2008 at 18:39
ref is POOR
October 18th, 2008 at 18:46
RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYYYYYYY
October 18th, 2008 at 18:47
GET IN!!!!
October 18th, 2008 at 18:48
white pele
October 18th, 2008 at 18:48
Why was O’shea trying to smother Rooney into the grass? lol!
October 18th, 2008 at 18:54
Thank god for Wayne Rooney!
October 18th, 2008 at 18:57
I dont like Giggs corners. Let Rooney take them, cause his have been pretty good.
October 18th, 2008 at 18:57
Take a bow… Sir Wayne Rooney
October 18th, 2008 at 18:59
Pretty good performance from Rafael! Some sketchy moments on tackles, but still a very ambitious and confident showing.
Additionally, how does one get a log-in on this site?
October 18th, 2008 at 19:00
fuck what a goal!!!!
Lightning!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:00
That looked easy!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:02
LOL WHAT A GOAL
October 18th, 2008 at 19:02
Holy Shit!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:04
Ah thats better! Slave makes it 2, Berba 3 how about that for class!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:04
WBA are knackered, they have nothing left in the tank
October 18th, 2008 at 19:06
absolutely love berba’s reaction to his stunning goal!
Who says Cantona cant be cloned!!!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:07
ronaldo’s body language does make u think… He used to have such a cheesy smile he just looks depressed now…..
October 18th, 2008 at 19:07
does anybody know what happened to Tevez?
October 18th, 2008 at 19:09
@johnsom33: jet lag
October 18th, 2008 at 19:10
@dan(u-ol): but he didnt play for argentina. he wasnt even on the bench.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:13
@johnsom33: mate, you can still get jet lag, jet lag has nothing to do with football. football can make it worst though.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:19
@Viz: doesnt worry me much. i think once the bigger games start coming he’ll start to get into it more. and if his body language worries you than what about Berbatov?
October 18th, 2008 at 19:23
@MUFC Fan in America: he’s the mardiest guy in the world but he wanted to come to united however much i adore ronaldo he still wanted to leave…
October 18th, 2008 at 19:29
Now that was splendid. I’ll comment more this evening when I return home. I’m off to see a movie and have dinner with a friend. Man Utd certainly turned on the class in that second half.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:30
What a goal-fest today mates… Roo, Ron, Berba, Nani. End of story.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:37
Is it FIFA 09 celebration day? Rooney, Nani, Kuyt, Nasri and Malouda.
Seriously, best performance so far this season. WAYNE ROONEY!!! All I haev to say. Grog, you were sceptical, Stephen and Andrei were laughin at me, Craig said it would happen when pigs plied. But here it is: Ive said it before, Wayne Rooney will be the best player this season. 8 goals in 6 games, 1 goal and 2 assists today, playin like only God can do himself. WAYNE ROONEY!!!
P.S. Loved Nanis celebration, 10/10
October 18th, 2008 at 19:37
anyone else worried by the lack of celebration by Ronaldo?… i know berbatov didn’t seem bothered to have scored.. but i expect more exubberance from Ronnie. mind on other things?
other than that, great result, definatly on the way to full power. hope evra is back for the celtic match, mind it was funny watching o’shea
backheal hopelessly..
special mention to rafael, who i think had a really good game, true not a lot of defending to be done (at least in the first half) but his forward runs were brilliant.. and to think he’s only 18/19.. give him a few more seasons and he’ll be well on the way to the Brazilian first team.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:38
Ronaldo looks really miserable!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:39
Oh and, my predition was aaaaalmooot right! 4-0(right). Rooney to score brace(nearly regiht, would have been if ref wasnt blind!
), Ronaldo to score(right) and Berba to score(right)! 
October 18th, 2008 at 19:40
PS , atletico vs real is a circus
October 18th, 2008 at 19:45
Now this what we want to see from Nani… Selfless play… He was great today…
October 18th, 2008 at 19:50
Craig! Now thats the Nani we all want! Seems as though it finally got to his head!
October 18th, 2008 at 19:52
Rooney: 1 goal, 2 assist
Ronaldo: 1 goal
Berbatov: 1 goal, 1 assist
Nani: 1 goal, 1 assist
Magic 4?
October 18th, 2008 at 19:57
@frankie: I once had a girlfriend who wanted to end our relationship until I persuaded her to carry on for a little while longer, but when I looked in her eyes and watched her body language I knew it was over, the Ronaldo lovers on this site better come to terms with the fact that he no longer wants to be at OT coz when I look at his body language I see a man whose heart lies elsewhere.
October 18th, 2008 at 19:59
@RedDevilEddy: Hey, hey, hey!! I am the one who got battered over the summer for saying that Rooney is better than Ronaldo…
…remember:
Rooney – better than Ronaldo!!
October 18th, 2008 at 20:00
What a second half, though. I think we can go on a pretty long winning streak now.
Everton next and sometime in November, Arsenal at the Emirates so we should keep it going until then.
October 18th, 2008 at 20:00
@Andrei: Sorry, dunno how you got in there.
Ment just Stephen.
October 18th, 2008 at 20:02
@Andrei: Everton have been terrible at Goodison this season, and Arsenal havent been much better they either. Im starting to get worried for the Toffees. I think they and Spurs are gonna be involved in a major crisis this season. Relegation I mean.
October 18th, 2008 at 20:02
what a day for my dream team, Berbatov, Ronaldo, Lampard and Zaki all on the score sheet plus a few clean sheets threw in for good measure, get in there
October 18th, 2008 at 20:04
Rooney got a 10 from SS!
First time Ive ever seen a United player get a 10 from Sky. And he didnt even score a hat-trick! Well done Wayne! 
October 18th, 2008 at 20:22
Attention to all Rooney bashers who wanted to sell him etc etc etc?!?!?!
October 18th, 2008 at 20:22
Can anyone provide the links for the goal please?
October 18th, 2008 at 20:27
I just saw the second half, and thought we were splendid…what amazed me even more was how the score was 0-0. But I guess that’s cos we didn’t play even half as good in the first half. I thought Rooney and Berba were just amazing…and Nani looked good too when he came on. Ronaldo seemed down. esp due to his lack of celebration..I think it’s just cos he’s overshadowed now. And I love it this way! Who said we were a ONE-MAN team!?!? Hahahahha….
Rooney’s goal was splendid..and I loved the way he celebrated. Easily man of the match! Oh, but to certify that we do need CraigMC to come back and seal it saying he did “good”..Hope we get that atleast!
October 18th, 2008 at 20:37
yep i say we should sell ronaldo as early as january, he doesnt want to wear the shirt so ronadlo, you did good for us but goodbye. i wonder if £30mil plus ronaldo will tempt messi to OT…
October 18th, 2008 at 20:38
Re: Ronaldo
Reckon he didnt celebrate because he was so fed up the whole day not having more chances. and when he did, i reckon he thought, “yeah, it was meant to be, pass me the ball more next time.”
didnt u all see the big smile on his face when rooney came by to say congrats? Miserable my ass
haha maybe he wants to be more non-chalant than berba… haha what a goal berba scored…
Ronnie: “i am as cool as you are berba”
October 18th, 2008 at 20:42
im sorry. tevez seems to have died or gone on holiday. did i miss something? replaced by nani in magic 4? wtf is my answer! make it a magiac 5!! go on
October 18th, 2008 at 20:49
@Andrei: Until Roon does it consistently OVER the whole season, like Ronnie has done the last two seasons, then I will not join with you in saying Rooney better than Ronaldo.
Ronaldo better than Rooney, until Rooney proves otherwise OVER the whole of this season.
Anybody who saw Ronnie’s body language today, and doesn’t believe he’s depressed, or at least really down and miserable, must be in denial.
I hardly think Ronnie is being overshadowed as Ants boy says, considering he is far from fit and up to his usual standards of performance. He is down, down, down at United now, seems FAR from happy to me, and I actually feel sorry for him
.
However Rooney was my man of the match today
, but he might not have been if little man Nani had been on for the whole game 
, soz everyone, I just couldn’t resist that 
.
October 18th, 2008 at 20:52
@Craig Mc: right now rooney>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>ronaldo
that surely cant be denied.
October 18th, 2008 at 20:56
@dan(u-ol): Over what, half a dozen games? That’s the kind of daft short term thinking that had certain people wanting Rooney dropped for an extended period and/or sold
October 18th, 2008 at 21:00
Rooney>Ronaldo?
Haha, call me when Rooney does 42 goals or a 20/20. Rooney wishes he could have as good a 2 seasons as Ronaldo has.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:01
WOW!!!! WHAT a second half!!! The baggies played their hearts out with nine men behind the ball all thru the 1st half, plus the ref apparently wanted to show he can make the ‘BIG’ calls.
What a crap decision to disallow Roney’s goal, nevermind the handball by the baggies defender and Rooney’s manhandling in the area. 
Anyways, you can try and withstand a great team, but in the end they will always breakthrough. That was the story of the 2nd half.
Rooney was relentless, he looked like he ‘wanted’ to improve on his form, a player on a mission to ensure success for his team and his team-mates. I love this boy, and long may his excellence on the pitch continue. The thing I was most impressed with was our chemistry. It’s getting back up to standard and I loved watching the front four weaving in and between positions when attacking, West Brom didn’t know what was happening. Fletch was awesome, did great in that holding role and even made some good forays into the opposing half, the boy is goin to give hargreaves a real run for his money (if he gets fit, that is
).
Lordy, I’m so excited!!!
This is the performance we have been waiting for, I just wish I was on the terraces to cheer the players, they deserve all the praise they get following this game. 
October 18th, 2008 at 21:01
@dan(u-ol): Dan(u)ol my friend, it can when people like Andrei are saying Roon is BETTER than Ronnie. Maybe at the moment yes, FOR A FEW GAMES, but Ronnie isn’t back to form is he?. I am not judging like some of you over just the present last few games, I am judging over a whole season. I don’t think Ronnie is happy, and I don’t think it has anything to do with being overshadowed. Fergie said on MUTV in an interview once, that Ronnie needs to feel loved, and thrives on the fans loving him. I still think it has more to do with fan response, than being overshadowed – sorry but that’s my opinion.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:04
@MUFC Fan in America: A man of great sense, I am with you MUFC America.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:08
Craigy, how was it on the terraces?
Bloody loud, eh? 
what a second half performance!! We totally outclassed them!! You going for the Celtic match? 
October 18th, 2008 at 21:09
@Craig Mc: i agree completely, BUT, no one can deny that currently rooney is better then ronaldo. dont think about the past, or future, think about the present, who is better?
October 18th, 2008 at 21:15
JEEZ!!! we just won a prem match 4-0, playing excellent football, without our ‘four’ first choice midfielders, yet all some people can do is bicker about Rooney and Ronaldo!!
Give this ego-massaging a rest lads, Rooney has been on excellent form and if people say he is better than Ronnie, accept it, cuz he deserves that accolade due to his recent performances. They are all our players, and I actually see no reason why we should be bickering about who is better or slagging one player because we like another. I know it’s a rant site and all, but please let’s try and have some positive comments, especially after such a positive result!! 
October 18th, 2008 at 21:24
@Gabriel: It was not as great an atmosphere in the 1st half obviously. West Brom fans gave it some welly though, cos they thought they were in for a draw. Halsey always seems to cock it up when he refs our games – numb nuts
. Shame that goal will not be included in Rooney’s collection, because it was a really good goal. 2nd half was thrill a minute football, the kind I love 
. No need to tell you how good the atmosphere was as the goals rained in – you will see it on MOTD. Celtic – yeah man 
.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:26
@Craig Mc: Is there a link for MOTD? I cant find one! Please Hurry!
October 18th, 2008 at 21:27
@Gabriel: We should be allowed to answer comments posted on the board, especially when our names are mentioned personally. Get used to it Bro
.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:31
@Gabriel: And Gabriel, why do you find it necessary to regard everything as negative debating when Roon’s name is mentioned – we are just offering different opinions Bro. You only bring in negativism, when you tell people what they should and shouldn’t be posting
. Only Fred the Red can rap my knuckles and get away with it, well and RR of course 
.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:33
@Red Diablo: Diablo its on BBC TV, I havent got the commection, but I am sure someone like JB will have – he’s a genious at that sort of thing.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:35
@dan(u-ol): If you want me to judge on the last 6 to 8 games, obviously Rooney is in better form, but Ronnie is not fit. Like JB said to you though, it is not fair to judge on just a few games. I did say Roon was my MOTM today, because he was the MOTM.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:48
@Craig Mc: it’s not only about Rooney, there’s Nani, Tevez, Berba and co. All our players get unduly criticised and judged from time to time, I have no ’serious’ issues with it, it was just misplaced, that’s all, and that’s why I was asking y’all to quit it. Besides, it seemed some people were looking to score an ‘I told you so’ point over others and some were trying to defend by not giving credit to where credit is due. It’s just the putting down of some of our players I don’t appreciate, as it’s all unnecessary. I know it’s too much to ask and everyone has and is entitled to their opinions/comments, well, I am entitled to mine too, so get used to it.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:53
@Red Diablo: I take it you don’t live in the UK? If you do you can watch it on the BBC website. I’ve never had to watch MOTD online before but I will have a look for a link for you.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:56
@JB: Thanks a bunch in advance dude! And I live in Pakistan.
October 18th, 2008 at 21:57
@Gabriel: I got used to it a long time ago
. Nobody IN MY opinion was trying to score any points against anybody, I certainly was not offended by anything anybody said. Also, I think praise was giving where it was due, I named Rooney MOTM.
Anyway just to please you, here is a comment. “Oh my God isn’t Wayne Rooney just out of this fucking world. He is just the greatest thing since feckin gorgeous blondes were crated by God. He is so outstandingly feckin magic out there, head and shoulders above every other fecker. He has proven over the last 6 – 8 games, that he is so much better than last 2 seasons flavour of the month Ronnie. Berba is majestic too, and is little understood. Nani and Vidic were too bloody extraordinary out there. The whole team deserve a million pats on the back, and I toast them all with the top booze our local off licence can provide. Rah Rah Rah. That okay then you all
.
October 18th, 2008 at 22:02
@Craig Mc: Ok! For the Record! Brunettes>Blondes
October 18th, 2008 at 22:05
nanis first run with the ball he could have put it threw to roony in the box but hi did the footwatch dance and tried too score then i think with roon on fire and with ronaldo and berba in the box he was forced to provide and it opened his game up. he kept his head up and payed attention to the team and not just the goal and he was rewarded with an ass and a goal in the end.
October 18th, 2008 at 22:08
@Red Diablo:
, thought you’d be a Brunette lover Diablo 
.
October 18th, 2008 at 22:08
@Craig Mc: more like it mate
That performance deserves all the accolades it receives!!! Our Man Nani did great!! that’s what I want to see from the lad, he definitely looks more mature and useful on the ball now… the good thing is his confidence, if ever was low, has just shot straight back up and we’ll see him hopefully unleash that on Celtic 
One other performance that really impressed me was Fletcher’s, the boy is really cementing his place in the team and it’s looking like a case of ‘who will partner fletch’ now. Today in the holding role, he once again excelled. His tackling and interception are great, plus he sporadically makes useful forays into the opposing half, i’m really impressed with him and at 24, he can even get better.
October 18th, 2008 at 22:12
@Craig Mc: I don’t want to nitpick or start an argument but you were criticising Rooney earlier in the season despite him only being back from a virus that negated his whole preseason.
I don’t really want to talk negatives after a performance like that (reminded me so much of Wigan last season-hope they do it again against stoke next month because I’m going to that one) but I don’t see how everyone thinks Berba was so great. I know that I’m the main anti-Berba guy on this site but I didnt see him do anything special today. He hit all of his shots straight at the ‘Keeper and whenever a cross went into the box that wasn’t from an FK or corner he was nowhere to be found. He nearly allowed Carson to save his goal by hitting it straight at him
October 18th, 2008 at 22:30
@Red Diablo: This is the best I could come up with and I’m not sure if it will work because it hasn’t started to broadcast yet.
http://www.justin.tv/islsport2
The alternative is to find yourself a UK proxy and watch it on the BBC website.
October 18th, 2008 at 22:43
MOTD is pathetic, i finally watch the bloody thing, its ALL liverpool, which is funny considering that in the live game, it was WIGAN the BOSSED the game NOT the scum. i hate bbc…
October 18th, 2008 at 22:43
@Liam: I was criticising Rooney with good cause, and I usually complained about him being everywhere but where he should be. I believe that Capello has sorted Rooney out, but I expect most Roon fans will not agree with this. Also, in case you didn’t realise, the supposedly positive, over the top post I wrote for Gabriel I WAS BEING SARCASTIC
.
I know you don’t like Berba, and often comment about this, but its your opinion, and I don’t mind you stating it. I am not going to pummel you over it, like many Roon fans do with anyone who dares to criticise him
.
October 18th, 2008 at 23:01
@Craig Mc: I didnt pummel you I was just pointing out some slight double standards that you seem to have. Also Stevie Wonder could have seen that it was sarcasm
October 18th, 2008 at 23:16
@dan(u-ol): I know!! The whole media sides with the paedophile’s band of followers or that chelski scum. And why exactaly do the BBC seem to be Bin Dipper sympathisers? Ridiculous!
October 18th, 2008 at 23:39
Fletcher really bossed the midfield today
October 18th, 2008 at 23:39
@Liam: I will agree with you about Craig mc giving Rooney a hard time even coming from injury(virus actually) lay off. However when it comes to Berbatov you got it wrong imo. His touches were sublime,his vision only matched by Rooney’s and he created opportunities.I think with the limited amount of ball time he had,he did magnificently.And that’s exactly the point with Dimitar;play through him and you get the best out of him. But all in all I believe you are one of the very few who think he played bad.
October 18th, 2008 at 23:49
AARGH!!!
I can’t get enuff of this performance, t’was the perfect remedy for a case of ‘post international-break depression’!!! 
Bring on Celtic… can’t wait to demolish the hoops at home. I think my second favorite player of the week has to be fletch, this boy is the man now!!! Who needs Veloso, Palacios and senna when we got Fletch, he is really coming into his own and I hope he is a late-bloomer, cause there will be nothing better than to see his perseverance finally pay off with a consistent spot in our 1st eleven. 
October 19th, 2008 at 0:05
The performance Rooney put on today was immense, in fact its pretty obvious he is in unbelievable form right now. Nobody is denying that, WE ALL KNOW he is capable of that. This is precisely the reason people had become so frustrated with him, because he wasnt playing up to his standards. I also think its funny that people are giving Capello al the credit for Rooneys form. Correct me if I am wrong, but but didnt this all start after Fergie benched him? Ever since then we have seen a man on a mission. I think it was a wake up call to him, and thank God he woke up. Les just pray he doesnt get hurt(Knock on wood).
As for Rooney being better than Ronaldo, Lets not get carried away here. It has already been stated, but Ronaldo kept it up for 2 season not just 5 games. Rooney still has a way to go before he is on Ronaldos level, so hopefully he will continue this run till the end of the season.
October 19th, 2008 at 0:09
@Craig Mc: I could be in denial, but I dont think Ronaldos body language suggest his heart is somewhere else. I think he is frustrated because he isnt yet on the same level he was on before the injury. I also think the arrival of the Count and Rooney stellar play has taken a little bit of his sunshine. I think overtime he will start to enjoy himself again once he hits another rich vein of form.
October 19th, 2008 at 0:35
@johnsom33: Its all speculative mate. I don’t know whether his heart is elsewhere, or whether it is still at OT. His body language does speak a lot to me. If it was that he was just frustrated because he wasn’t at the level he was last year, then when he scores he would celebrate like he used too. But that’s just my opinion mate, and I don’t think he feels at home at OT anymore.
really, because United started to spark up again when he came back. Then again, thats just my opinion 
.
October 19th, 2008 at 0:42
@Jay wire: Why should I lay off as you put it. When did this blog become a place that people can dictate who a blogger can rant about if they feel they have a cause?. Read the blog rules mate, there’s nothing that says we can’t debate the arse off a player if we think we have a point. You don’t have to read my posts you know. Feel free mate, that when you see my posts, skip over them if you don’t like what I have to say about players/player.
October 19th, 2008 at 0:51
@Liam: No Liam, you love the arse off Rooney, like so many others on this blog, and you can’t bear anything negative being said about him. I never complained about you not liking Berba, or citing continually what you think about him. Because everyone had there opinion on players, and one mans meat etc. So I don’t really care if you hate Berba with a vengeance. I have my faves, and others have theirs. I think Nani deserves to play more, others DONT. So we fans are always going to differ on players and their performances/non performances. Why is it such a big feckin deal if I have not been particularly impressed with Roons form etc, up til the last few games?. Its hilarious the reaction from Roon lovers
.
October 19th, 2008 at 0:57
By the way Roon fans, as RR says, the world loves Roon, so what does it matter if the odd one or two don’t?.
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October 19th, 2008 at 1:30
@johnsom33: Well said with that first paragraph mate.
To me, it was the first game in a long time where Rooney unquestionably bossed the game. He honestly hadn’t done that in a long time but wow it was great to see. It looked like when we were sensing a goal at the start of the second half, it was Wayne that picked it up a little bit and started playing with that little bit extra sense of purpose. This in turn lifted the rest of the lads, and it looked like they were looking to get Rooney the ball to let him create. I know it was just WestBrom, but it was great to see.
At times, Fletch had to do the work of two men in the center, very impressive performance.
Hope Evra hasn’t done his hamstring
Thought Rafael looked horribly nervous in the first half, which is understandable for a 18 year olds first game at OT. But he was getting blown past far too easily and looked terrified to be in possession, but then as the game went on he had a few good runs, a few good touches and he improved. Promising…
Berba…Good to get on the score sheet, but I dont think he set the world alight. Can only get better I think, which is scary.
Ronaldo, I thought he was again rather poor and struggled against some LB I’ve never heard of before. But, again like CountBerba, he is no where near on form which can only be terrifying for our rivals, in England and ChampionsLeague. Once they are both on form, wow…
Nani had a fantastic cameo
Loved O’Shea’s back heel…
October 19th, 2008 at 1:45
@Drew Vader: Drew, did you go to the game?. It was very enjoyable. It should have really been the same score as the Chelski got today, because Rooney’s first goal should have stood. I think it is going to be very noisy against Celtic. They will bring 8-10,000 fans with them, and the chanting and banter will be full blown terrorism
. The atmosphere will be electric, and I can’t wait. Wonder what the team will be. We will need to play at our very best to beat Celtic, contests between our two great clubs are always hotly contested indeed 
.
October 19th, 2008 at 1:51
@Craig Mc: I never said you should lay off;I was talking about Rooney’s lay off. Sorry about the misunderstanding
October 19th, 2008 at 1:56
@Jay wire: Its okay mate, I am sorry I misunderstood. I have been trying my darndest to avoid talking Rooney, but people mention my name in threads, bringing up Roons good play, and wanting me to say how good he is. Don’t know why it is that important really
. But he was undoubtedly MOTM today. I hope his present good form continues Jaywire 
.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:04
Lads, dont turn this into a competition between Rooney and Ronaldo, they are both United players and we should enjoy both of thier contributions coz if we can get them both firing on all cylinders at the same time then I fancy our chances big time.
As for Berba, at times he contributes very little, but the little that he does contribute is pure class, his touch and vision are special and his ability to make the right decisions almost everytime simply cannot be coached or taught, if he just put a bit more effort in then he would be a serious candidate for the most creative forward in world football.
And I agree with Craig mc, Nani needs to start playing a load more games now, theres a diamond just waiting to get cleaned up and polished in Nani so cmon SAF, give the kid some gametime.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:08
Then we good bro. Btw Nani sucked.
Just playin with u.I’m out man.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:31
@Fred The Red: Fred, what do you think about Ronnie’s body language mate – truly?. I just been watching the game again on Setanta, and his goal was superb, but he didn’t even smile, let alone celebrate. He used to love running and acknowledging the crowd last season, but he just acknowledges the other players now. I feel like he is just going through the motions Fred, doing his job, but not enjoying it. What’s your take on that Bro?.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:32
@Jay wire:
, you tease you 
.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:41
@Craig Mc: Like others, i think its due to his frustrations at not being back to his full best, i don’t think we can deduce from his body language where his heart lies. But hey who cares, he could bawl his eyes out and cry “let me go Fergie” after each goal for all i care, as long as he keeps getting the goals.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:46
@Craig Mc: I wish I went mate, but alas I have an ocean between myself and Old Trafford….Did my review sound negative?? I enjoyed the second half immensely!!
October 19th, 2008 at 2:48
@Rd: Do you really genuinely not care Rd?. It concerns me to see Ronnie looking so pained, after what he has given us, especially the last two seasons. Maybe he truly does believe he has already fullfilled his destiny at OT. I feel sad for him that Fergie persuaded him to stay now. I can’t explain what it is Bro, but I do care about the lads wellbeing. It should be more than just wanting him to be a goal machine for us. As Cantona once said, once you lose your love for something, you do need to move on to the next thing.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:52
@Drew Vader: Oops sorry Drew, didn’t realise you were from over the ocean
. No your review was just fine mate. If Rooneys goal had stood, perhaps the 1st half would have had other goals too. 2nd half was more exciting though.
October 19th, 2008 at 2:57
@antsBoy: My words don’t taste very god because the doctor cut salt out of my diet. Damned bland and dry to boot.
October 19th, 2008 at 3:37
Before I comment on the game let me say a few words about the rejuvenated and reborn Wayne Rooney. I was one of those that after many years of love and devotion for the Roon started to question his development and the direction his career was headed in. The fault was not all his. Injuries and Fergie had a lot to do with temporarily derailing the fastest rising star in British football. Now two people have to be given credit for the lads resurgence and exceptional form of late. First credit has to go to Fabio Capello. First off he stuck with Wayne when things were not going well but he more than Fergie got on his case about his weight, his waste of energy and his demands that he play his position correctly or else. Then when some success came his way Fergie took notice and did the same. However, Fergie also did one better. After a few poor performances he actually did what I and others had suggested for months. That was benching him for a game. Well he benched him but brought him on late in the second half. Since then we and Wayne have never looked back. Rooney need to realize that his way and his own stubbornness was getting him nowhere and now he has shown better use of his time and energy as well as controlling his emotions a little better. A tempered and controlled Wayne Rooney has proven to be a lethal weapon. He now is reminding me of that chap that scored so well for England in EURO 04 and who scored three goals in his United debut. And today I noticed him thinking shot before pass on a few occasions. In the 50th minute Carson made a good save on him just a few minutes before he scored. However, Ronaldo was in a much better scoring position. The non confident Wayne of 30 days ago would have passed on to Ronaldo and probably got an assist. But todays Rooney shot instead. He scored in the game and but despite his new shooting attitude, he still managed to assist on two goals. Bloody awesome and if he keeps this up no one will hear a peep out of me regarding the Roonaroo.
Now on to the game. One thing a bout the game that I want to really comment on is Fergie’s wisdom and total smarts on how to play teams like West Brom who put stack the midfield and put 9 or 10 men behind the ball.
While a lot of us may have felt frustrated and impatient about no goals and no pace in United’s game in the first half I actually started to see the pattern which fergie was counting on and the plan he so expertly carried out. Work WB hard and keep possession. Playing that style will not open anything up for us in the first half but it will severely fatigue the opponents and then in the second half we will be fresh and then we will kick it up a gear and start throwing the awesome United free flowing counter attack at them and annihilate them. That 4th goal was a perfect example of that but all the goals came from relentless pressure and a lift in pace that put the WB on their heels after they were pretty well gassed.
Master tactics and tremendous patience from the Gaffer. There was no doubting our class in the first half and I honestly felt that the end would be 3-0. It was only a matter of time when we broke the scoreless tie and once that happened, WB’s roof collapsed upon them crushing them like the true minnow and bottom feeder they are. Teams like that are everything I hate by large bloated leagues that allow pretenders to play with the big boys. They worked hard but in the end they were rubbish.
Special kudos to Rooney for an outstanding game and to the back four for doing their job in effortless fashion. Loved Berbatov’s goal and his reaction. Now if ever anyone wants my definition of a poachers goal, that was it. Berbatov. The Count had a quiet game by his standards but he still remained dangerous and his presence does so much for Ronaldo and Rooney in terms of creating space and opportunities.
Ronaldo scored but for me he is still far from top form. He almost looks like he has lost a step (God forbid) and his one on one skill are eluding him a bit. Also, no layoff should be causing him to offer up so many useless free kicks. I’m not worried because he is the best player in the world (except for my beloved Riquelme) and he will eventually kick it into the next gear. But I am very concerned that he played poorly in two 0-0 games for Portugal. With games like that it will be no time at all before Carlos Queiroz is back at United as #2. Portugal should have no trouble scoring against opposition like that. Love Rafael on the right side I must say. I am very loyal to Brown over Neville but when Rafael plays I have to admit not only am I elated but I am usually very impressed. Fergie has got it right starting him against teams that don’t pose much of an offensive threat. Why? Because the lad is going to fit into our full time future plans very very soon. He is top class out there. Happy to see Nani get a goal but my mother would have scored that one. Still, it should boost his confidence which certainly needs it. It will also give Craig another reason to live. Love ya bro…….
8-10 for the team today and 9.5/10 for Rooney who is my man of the match.
10/10 on his strategy and tactics. Just a wily tactician who let West Brom fall right into his honey trap. Brilliant!!!
Fergie gets an 8/10 for his team selection although I would have placed either Welbeck or Manucho on the bench as opposed to four defenders????/
October 19th, 2008 at 5:10
Well I wont comment on the game as almost everyone here as written about it but I just want to point out what I think about Roonie body language. I just want to believe he would have celebrated more assuming he goal was the first, but scoring the second goal against a team like WBA when he knows he’s not playing at the top of his game doesn’t call for much celebration. I strongly believe he’s mind is still with us for now, I’m not sure about next season.
October 19th, 2008 at 5:15
@Grognard: LOL. Nice One mate!
October 19th, 2008 at 6:50
Now imagine this team with a fully fit Ronaldo and a proper central midfield pair!
Liver…who? 
October 19th, 2008 at 13:02
@Grognard: Grog, I feel Red Nev showed in his 20 minute cameo what Fergie wants from a maurauding left back. Rafeal watch and learn. Gary was getting into the dangerous positions when he came on. He was always getting in front of the Brom fullback. Go Nev.
Also, in games against lesser opposition, why are Rio or Vid not rested, when we have a very good reserve in Evans. Evans has done a good job for us when he has played. Why flog Rio/Vidic to death every bloody season?.
October 19th, 2008 at 13:04
October 19th, 2008 at 13:29
Ballon d’Or Nominees
Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal), Togo.
Sergio Agüero (Atletico Madrid), Argentine.
Andreï Arshavin (Zénith Saint-Pétersbourg), Russia.
Michael Ballack (Chelsea), Germany.
Karim Benzema (Lyon), France.
Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus Turin), Italy.
Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Spain.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Portugal.
Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Ivory Coast.
Samuel Eto’o (FC Barcelone), Cameroon.
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Spain.
Fernando Torres (Liverpool FC), Spain.
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC), England.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Inter Milan), Sweden.
Kaka (Milan AC), Brazil.
Frank Lampard (Chelsea), England.
Lionel Messi (FC Barcelone), Argentina.
Pepe (Real Madrid), Portugal.
Franck Ribéry (Bayern Munich), France.
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), England. Marcos Senna (Villarreal), Spain.
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Spain.
Luca Toni (Bayern Munich), Italy.
Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United), Netherlands.
Rafael van der Vaart (Hamburg SV puis Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Ruud van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid), Netherlands.
Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United), Serbia.
David Villa (Valence CF), Spain.
Xavi (FC Barcelone), Spain.
Youri Zhirkov (CSKA Moscou), Russia
No, you didnt read wrong, he’s not on the list. Guess who im talking about.
October 19th, 2008 at 13:44
how the fuck is rio not on that list?!?..its a fucking outrage that the world’s best centre back isn’t there but Pepe the madrid scum load of crap is.
October 19th, 2008 at 13:57
@Craig Mc: I reckon it was merely for the purpose of re-establishing chemistry after the int break and the continual streak of clean sheets, both with Celtic in mind. Rio and Vida are needed at their best for Tuesday so this clean sheet will only do their confidence good and they are now back to their psychic best. Evans will definitely get games and I see the next prem match as his next outing.
With regards to Red Nev, that’s why Fergie has been showing confidence in him, his positioning, clever overlapping and crossing are spectacular and he just needed some games to get back to his regular best. Not to discredit Brown, but it will be very competitive in that position, mainy btw those two. It’s a pity the same cannot be said about our left-back position, if only Fabio wasn’t injured, I’m pretty sure we’d have seen a whole lot of him recently. We sold Silvestre because we had Fabio and O’Shea, and while O’Shea is solid defensively, he doesn’t offer that productivity that Evra and co do going forward.
Exciting times for our defense, we really are looking covered for the foreseeable future, although I would like to really see Foster and Kuszak get a decent amount of games this season, before handing either the No.1 glove.
October 19th, 2008 at 14:09
Evra should be on there too
October 19th, 2008 at 14:10
@Sidharth: mate, it’s compiled by France football magazine and how they can ignore Rio is beyond me. First, UEFA decides John Terry is a ‘better’ defender, then Rio is now not good enuff to be on there, despite performing better than both defenders on that list!!
I feel bad for Rio and maybe it’s a bit superficial for me to say he deserves more accolades for his stellar performances, but footballers are human too and they enjoy recognition and praise for their performances. Rio is getting praise but not the recognition or accolades and that sucks big time 
Maybe it spurs him on to do better, who knows, but one thing he can take home is that all ManUtd fans recognize and appreciate his talent and performance on the pitch. He will always be remembered for it and be forever immortalized in our hearts and history books.
October 19th, 2008 at 14:41
EVERYONE WHO DOESN’T KNOW -BUT HAS AN OPINION LIKE GABRIEL- READ THIS ONE…
FIFA UEFA IAAF AND IOA
will never be patient again…I mean with “incidents” like Rio who didn’t give his urine to them….well, whoever doesn’t give his URINE AND BLOOD IS OUT OF THIS “HAPPY COMMUNITY”…..
They sell sports and games.They don’t want their games to be accused as filthy , dirty , unhealthy or whatever…..
The same case with Thanou….She didn’t appear for the tests before the 2004 Olympics.She was banned for two years and when this year 2008 she asked to run in the Olympics she wasn’t allowed.She was called by the Greek Olympic team but she wasn’t allowed.
NO URINE – NO PRIZES
So,the big guys won’t buy this crap footballers and athletes sell.
P.S. I told you ROONEY IS THE BEST
October 19th, 2008 at 15:30
@NiKOS: @NiKOS: LOL!
Well said.
His goal reminded me of Ole`s in 99. ROONATOV! 
I dont care if Ronaldo celbrates like Rooney yesterday or like a depressed man. As long as he gets the goal I will care. Still, I think Berba should start showing a little more emotions when he scores…
October 19th, 2008 at 16:46
RIP TEVEZ
October 19th, 2008 at 16:58
Seems Hull would be playing Champions League next season…
October 19th, 2008 at 17:03
@RedAllTheWay: Man how can you say that! Tev probably didnt get to play as he must’ve been suffering some serious jet lag after his around the world trip in the week. Anyway I am damn hopeful tevez will be our player long term (even if it means no ronaldo! I’ll be happy to sell him for 60-70m to whosoever wants him now. We have Rooney
By the way look at Hull!!!! Who would have thought they’d be 3rd (from the top) come november!!! Incredible! hats off to the players and hteir boss.
October 19th, 2008 at 17:05
Anyone gone over to Goal.com today?? According to them, we are getting rid of Hargo in January, and Tevez soon after….Of course, there are no quotes given anywhere, but why let that get in the way…
October 19th, 2008 at 17:24
I would rather keep Tevez than Ronaldo. I jst hope he gets a game soon… We have three busy weeks ahead of us.
Tuesday: Celtic
Saturday: Everton
Wednesday: West Ham
Saturday: Hull(btw, conrgats with another win!)
Wednesday: Celtic
Sarurday: Arsenal
Tevez is bound to at least get 3 games. He will probably play against West Ham, one of the Celtic games and the Hull one. We need him to stay fresh and he needs games! I love Roonatov, but I also love Roovez!
I wonder when Ronaldo will become his usual self. He has had a month now, but I still dont see any progress. Maby its just me, but I dont like watch him play anymore. When he did something wrong before, I didnt care so much. But now I am just getting frustrated. I wish we sold him for some £40-60 million and bought Benzema and Bale. Would have become my FIFA 09 team then! My wish United team for next season:
VDS/Foster if Edwin retires
Rafael-Rio-Vidic-Evra
Carrick-Hargreaves-Anderson
Rooney-Berbatov-Benzema
subs: Foster/PIG, Brown, Bale, Fletcher, Nani, Possebon, Tevez
I may be alone with this wish, but I would very happily trade Ronaldo for Benzema!
October 19th, 2008 at 17:51
i noticed a very prominent trend… call me on it, but my opinion is that everyone here loves to get ahead of themselves…..
about rooney, about ronnie, about tevez… sheesh…
October 19th, 2008 at 17:57
who wants to take me up on a bet that when spurs play us, they will play out of there skins almost like the 1970 brasil squad, not this shite which they are now
October 19th, 2008 at 18:15
ive got a joke for you lot.
tottenham hotspur.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:20
@Craig Mc: You’ll have to show me a lot more to convince me that Neville deserves to be out there more than Rafael. Yes he got himself in a few good positions and almost scored a goal but this was still just West Brom. Neville to me has shown a lack of quickness and and I worry about him against good opposition. Sometimes one needs to know when it’s time to move on or retire. I would never play Neville over Brown and now even over young Rafael who with all honesty is outstanding but needs to be broken in slowly against poor opposition.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:24
@dan(u-ol): Are you referring to Louis Saha?
Seriously though, you must be referring to the omission of one Rio Ferdinand. Correct?
October 19th, 2008 at 18:34
@dan(u-ol): Look, theres only about 4 or 5 players in the running for the award. Not worth getting your undies in a bunch because Rio isnt in it.
@Grognard: I agree 100%.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:41
@RedDevilEddy: I just laugh when fans complain about the type of celebration or no celebration that players give after a goal. Oh he wasn’t happy or animated enough, oh he didn’t celebrate with his teammates, oh he looked unhappy and disinterested. Berbatov is not an animated individual. He is as reserved in his personality and show of emotion as he is as a player. No unnecassary use of energy and emotion. That’s just his style as it is Ronaldo’s to look arrogant and moody. Just be happy they do what they do for us. Personally I prefer a player who does very little celebrating. When I played sports way back when I remember one of my coaches telling me that when I scored a touchdown in American football, that I should act like I’d been there before. I honestly despise some of the ridiculous and totally childish celebrations that many have. Rocking the fucking baby is top on my list but I also hate the thumb sucking and the me me me one that tells me a player who does that is so fucking full of himself. Actually my least favorite is actually Frank Lampard’s ring kiss but that’s only because I hate Frank Lampard. And Nani better cut out that one legged flip. Very easy to land wrong and tear and ankle or knee ligament doing that. It’s not worth the risk or the managers wrath. Miro Klose scored the game winner yesterday and was so happy he did one of his flips and timed it wrong and ended up on his ass. I just want players to grow up and show proper emotion and celebrate with teammates and get on with it. My God some of them act like they just won the lottery or the war. Like I said before, players should act like they’ve been there before. Berbatov for me is classic because he scores and acts like a Ninja and predator of the night. No emotion. Just a clinical assassin. That intimidates an opposition much more than a player who makes an ass clown of himself after a goal. After all, this game is being played by men, not a bunch of ladies going through PMS.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:42
@MUFC Fan in America: I think there is fair reson to be annoyed about it because IMO he should be one of the four or five in the runnning for the actual award. To not even make the short list beggars belief.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:45
@RedAllTheWay: Now that Real Madrid are showing interest in Tevez I think his days in a Man Utd uniform may be numbered. Oh they may finally offer him a new contract but by then, will he want to sign knowing he is third choice and riding the bench full time? He’s proud and has a lot of ability and he knows it too. He loves the team but his ego and his pride may get in the way and he may go where he feels more appreciated or where he knows he will be a starter again.
October 19th, 2008 at 18:47
@RedDevilEddy: Are you kidding me mate. I’d rather have one Ronaldo over 10 Tevez’. I couldn’t care less about his personality provided he is loyal and he wants to play for us. If that changes then that’s different.
October 19th, 2008 at 19:01
if tevez is unhappy about being benched, im sure welbeck/campbell would be more then happy to take his place.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:04
I wish we were playin Spurs next week.
They are SHIIIITE!!! Ramos for next sack? I think so, dont hope so. 
Brutal, crazy and shitty Spurs…
October 19th, 2008 at 20:25
@Grognard: Feck me Grog, if I scored in front of the Stretford end, I would strip naked, run the full length of the pitch and back again. Do cartwheels for the next part of my act, and play the rest of the game NAKED. Well before the guys with the straight jackets came to carry be away to the local asylum that is
.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:29
@Grognard: I never said we should play Nev, I just said that he showed in his cameo what Fergie wants in a maurauding full back. Everyone knows I am a Wes Brown fan, I was not pleased when he was left out recently. However Rafael did nothing yesterday to convince me he is ready for a first team place on a regular basis.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:32
@RedDevilEddy: Ronnie’s not himself but he is scoring goals. More than you can say for some players who are themselves
.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:36
@Craig Mc: I would have gone absolutely mental! Celebrating like Rooney did yesterday and wave to the fans. Finishing it with a Ronaldinho dance.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:36
@dan(u-ol): Bet Tevez will join Ronnie and Nani when they move in the summer
.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:40
What do you guys think? If spurs get relegated, which of their players would you fancy at United?
October 19th, 2008 at 20:40
@Craig Mc: I doubt that all three will move.
Probably Ronnie, but not Tevez and Nani.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:43
@Gabriel: I have always been a fan of Bale. I want United to buy him as a back-up to Evra and a possible left-winger. We only have Nani, Ronaldo and Park… latter not so good, so Bale would be great. I wouldnt like Mdric, to be honest I think it is he that makes Spurs so shite at the moment. He is a terrible passer and his head doesnt follow the speed of the Prem. Dos Santos is good, but we dont need him. Yeah, only Bale is good enough for me. And of cource, I want Campbell back.
October 19th, 2008 at 20:47
@Craig Mc: Craigy my man, still prophesying this ‘Spanish Exodus’, huh?
Now Tevez will be joining the exodus too, huh? Well, almighty ‘Oracle’, what else do you see in the future, maybe Anderson will follow his buddies too… 
October 19th, 2008 at 21:00
@Gabriel: You just wait and see scoffer
. Those who scoff most, choke first 
, feck did I just say that? 
. Trouble with Fergie gathering all these portuguese speaking players, and latin mentalists, they are a clan, and they go together when one unsettles the rest. So says the great oracle of the North 
.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:02
@RedDevilEddy: I like Bale too, he has potential, but he’s snubbed us once before!!
What’s with young welsh players snubbing us for London teams, first Bale, then Ramsey… don’t they recognize that two of the best welsh talents (Giggs and Hughes) thrived successfully at United? Anyways, I wouldn’t mind him, but we have Evra and Fabio and I really don’t want anything to hamper Fabio’s progress, but he still wouldn’t be a bad addition.
Luka Modric I think is a very promising player, relatively young and will have gained valuable premiership experience from Tottenham. He is an attacking midfielder, so we could definitely use him and i think with a little bulking up, he could become a great player in the premiership, definitely someone you could use in your squad. Same goes for Dos Santos, even younger and already experienced playing at the very top. The thing is, I’m not really sure what his exact position is
Is he a winger, supporting striker or an attacking midfielder? Anyways, i’m not just convinced he can cut it in the wings at premiership level yet, but will be a very interesting buy, as he’s showed glimpses of raw talent and promise.
Those are the three best I think Tottenham have to offer and since we already have such a great rapport with them
following Carrick’s and Berbatov’s transfers, I don’t see any problem in acquiring those players if they were relegated. 
October 19th, 2008 at 21:11
@dan(u-ol): Don’t forget poor Manucho.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:13
@Gabriel: DS is a SS, CAM player. He is not as good as people actually think. Ive watched him before, very overrated and only thing he can do is dribble- to no effect.
BTW, if you dont know this Roma are losin 4-0 against Inter in Rome.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:16
@Gabriel: The reason Bale snubbed us for Spurs was because he would get more games there and grow up better. He hasnt so far, Spurs havent used him so much as he may have thought. Mainly because of injuries, but… I think now he would like to join us.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:19
@Craig Mc: It’s just a difference in personality and i am sure age my friend. I’m from that old school that tempered their enthusiasm and in one statement showed respect for the opposition while intimidating them with their cool demeanor. Adults acting like children not only infuriates me but it really pisses off a remotivates the opponent. It also leads to headhunters going out to injure a player who embarrassed them with his celebration. Today’s athlete is spoilt beyond belief and that makes them act incredibly childish. Sorry mate but I just can’t stomach such acts of foolish exuberance. It’s pretentious and irritating. As for you celebrating naked in the Stretford end, to be honest, I’d probably prefer your girlfriend as she would probably look better in her birthday suit.
In fact I have a solution to our problem. After the home team scores, a WAG strips naked and dances at the Stretford end. I’m all for naked women, not footballers and certainly not the Craigmeister.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:21
@Craig Mc: Really?
I thought Rafael played very well and showed good sense in terms of when to move forward and when to stay back. He was also very tidy with his passes and his tackles. I love the lad and want to see way more of him.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:25
@Craig Mc: yeah mate, you ‘did’ just say that
You are right in saying they are sort of a tight group with shared reasoning/behaviour, but I just don’t see such a mass exodus of our latin and Portuguese-speaking contingent. I mean, if they can’t handle a little pressure and competition, then I’m sorry to say, they might as well leave. I don’t want them to, but football is a team game and if any of those other players went to teams similar in stature to United, they will still be facing rotations in the squad.
I know latin players are hot-tempered (and all the other cliches associated with them) but in spain, for example, there are good latin players that sit on the bench, face rotation and even face worse conditions!! They don’t just up and leave because of that, they stay and fight for their place, why should it be any different here?
Honestly, I reckon these issue is blown out of proportion and was ignited with the departure of CQ. They are in the best team in the world, playing a major part in our quest for major honors, loved by the best fans, if they are not satisfied with that, then I’m sorry, we can’t give them anymore.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:30
@Gabriel: I too was tipping Spurs for top 5 and possibly either tipping Liverpool or Arsenal for fourth. It’s a disgrace because they have more talent than 13 or 14 other teams in the league. Their general manager and Daniel Levy are fucking ass clowns and should get the boot before poor Juande Ramos who was dealt a terrible hand with Berbatov and Keane defections and then had to settle for Pavyluchenko and a kid for compensation. I think Pav is good but not for that team in this situation. The biggest failure is Modric who for me was too young to be placed in the position of play maker and midfield general. They also still have very ordinary central defenders. What Levy did was sabotage the team with his Berbatov tirade and instead of keeping Berba, he lost him and Keane and then sold a bunch of role players to Sunderland. And now Arshavin and other big name targets of Spurs for January have said they no longer have any interest in playing for the club. Unless there is a drastic change of fortune Spurs are headed down and that would be a tragedy because that club had such a bright future just three months ago. I don’t blame Berba or Keane like so many do. I blame Levy for completely creating instability and then waiting until the last moment to make deals which left them no time to recover. Not paying the money for Arshavin will go down as a major mistake. In fact sacking Marty Jol I still feel was a massive mistake. All he needed was some more time and a few upgrades in players.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:32
@RedDevilEddy: Ronny is not going anywhere. Not until Fergie leaves anyway.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:33
@RedDevilEddy: We have Fabio as a backup for Evra. All we will need is Fabio because in two years Fabio will have taken over on the left and Rafael on the right.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:34
@Gabriel: Hey! I invented the Spanish Exodus conspiracy theories last year when I was being accused of being against Latino players. I deserve some credit too.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:36
@RedDevilEddy: Yeah, it was kinda weird Barcelona let go of him, more so, for such a relatively small amount. If he was as good as was promised, he could have at least commanded a higher fee. Maybe they wanted the best for him and sold him for peanuts so he could easily move on, like United do their youngsters who fail to make the grade
who knows, but like you said, he hasn’t really convinced me as a player that excels in a certain role, so maybe a bit more playing time and I can properly rate him.
Oh yeah, Roma are an erratic team at the moment, one day, they are playing gloriously, the next they are getting beat by CFR Cluj
October 19th, 2008 at 21:37
@Craig Mc: Ah Craig, now you are sounding like me from last year. And you know you are right but I have learned to have more faith in Fergie’s powers of persuasion. Still, Tevez is probably gone because he has no contract.
October 19th, 2008 at 21:52
@Gabriel: Word was that Barca didn’t rate Dos Santos that highly after his bright start to his career. Certainly Bojan had forced himself well above him in the pecking order by last season. There were also rumors that he had serious attitude problems (i.e Big Time Charlie syndrome) which damaged his progress. I would say the reason he didn’t go for that much of a fee was that he was/is nowhere near as good as the initial hype suggested.
October 19th, 2008 at 22:03
@Grognard: Mate, don’t get me started on Cunt Levy. When he was carrying out his heroic battle against United, the press and tottenham fans were praising him for leading the charge against bullying and financial out muscling from bigger clubs when it came to their players and potential targets. Where has it got them now?
They might have a better chance of keeping hold of their stars now, but they certainly have a lesser chance of actually attracting any stars in the future.
The people I feel sorry for are the Tottenham fans, because the hype surrounding them was really built up to the point that they genuinely believed they were gonna grab a top-four spot. How cruel is football, eh? Instead of crucifying a manager who has been thrown into a foreign-speaking disaster show, the axe should fall on Levy and Comolli. They are the ones that created this mess, the manager knew Berba and Keane were going to leave, instead of Levy to sell them sharply and focus on acquiring the manager’s targets early enuff to ensure bedding-in time, he was busy ‘taking a stance’ against the ‘BIG’ clubs, what an imbecile!!
October 19th, 2008 at 22:11
@JB: that’s a pity mate, cuz the hype actually got to me… i seriously thought he was gonna be close to Messi’s level and they would be running barca’s attack in the not-to-distant future. Well, if it was his own doing, then he has no one else to blame. Although, it’s a shame he went to the now sinking ship that is Tottenham, he could have really had a second go at developing into that promise at a place like United or Arsenal (actually, he might be too old for them
).
October 19th, 2008 at 22:14
@Grognard: But Grog, the Ladies in the old trafford crowd would probably rather see Craigmeister than female wags
.
October 19th, 2008 at 22:20
@Craig Mc: Who says that? Not in my world!
October 19th, 2008 at 23:38
@Gabriel: I think Ramos has to take some blame though. After a year at the club he still refuses to learn English and he seems removed from his players while always putting restrictions and demanding physical activities before them. Just the other day the players were complaining of starvation due to the diet he put them on. I’m sorry but this is professional football, not the bloody army. If i was a footballer I wouldn’t stand for any coach threatening me with my starting role unless I follow his diet plan. I would tell him to go fuck himself and then demand a transfer. I’m all for discipline but it looks to me that Spurs not only feel the pressure of losing but they have had the enjoyment and love of playing the game zapped right out of them. Levy and the board have to answer for a lot of that but Ramos has not shown an ability to adapt and to try new things in order to get the team motivated, playing well and above all winning games. I say sack the whole lot of them. Man it must a living Hell being a Spurs supporter. It must be like being a blood relative of John Terry’s. Now that is a thought that would make me suicidal if it was me.
October 19th, 2008 at 23:39
@Craig Mc: They must all be skanks with very low self esteem.
Not to mention no class or taste at all. 
Just kidding bro. I’m sure you are a true stud muffin.
October 19th, 2008 at 23:40
@Grognard: Sums up my thoughts on Spurs, thats why it kinda pains me to see them being soo rubbish, their team is better than that and they deserve more than the position they are now
@Craig Mc: United always comes first for me, and so far his “moody attitude” hasn’t really started to affect his on-field play or poison the other team mates a la Berbatov based on Ramos’s claims, I’d be a little worried when thats starts to happen though.
@dan(u-ol): Not underrating Vida, but surprising(in a good way) to see him make the list, Rio deserves it to, strange that he didn’t make it.
October 20th, 2008 at 0:22
@Grognard Ya betta watch it Grog
, you obviously haven’t been on the OT terraces, there are some real tasty birds around. Not many skanky lasses in Mcr anymore 
.
October 20th, 2008 at 0:24
@Grognard: Grog, Ramos post match interview was perfect English mate. He already spoke the lingo before he came here I understand. Are you thinking of someone else?.
October 20th, 2008 at 0:26
@RedDevilEddy: Eddy mate, your not a lady though, are you?.
.
October 20th, 2008 at 0:44
I imagine there will be a Spurs exodus at some point. Unfortunately we are the worse placed to benefit. No doubt Levy blames us for Spurs’ demise.
Bale would be nice. I think it is important we retain a strong British contigent in our team and he would give us the same strength on the left that we possess on the right. But really he has not improved much since joining Tottenham. It is whether he’d accept being a squad player because I doubt he would ever be world class.
I am so glad Rooney is in the limelight. I think this could give him the confidence he needs to be more selfish and develop an appetite for scoring to the point where he develops that predatory instinct. I loved the goal at West Brom it was as though their defence wasn’t even there!
October 20th, 2008 at 0:58
@colver: I don’t want Bale mate. He snubbed United for Spurs, and look where it has gotten him
. He had his chance and made the wrong choice. Anyway, he is very injury prone isn’t he?. He has been out for spurs more games than played for them.
October 20th, 2008 at 1:01
Fergie says Rooney will never be like Lineker, a predator who stays in or around the box. WTF Fergie, we wish we had a Lineker. Lineker was feckin brilliant player, for club and country.
October 20th, 2008 at 1:31
The France Football magazine “experts” are a bunch of incompetent ignorants .How can you have Rooney shortlisted and omit Rio? They(I know it was the Uefa geeks) must have something personal with Rio because they had Terry as the best defender in the Champions League and they overlooked Rio for the England and Manutd captaincy.
Ok, I think I’m getting carried away,here
October 20th, 2008 at 3:02
whats the difference between tottenham and a triangle??? a triangle has 3 points! hahah
October 20th, 2008 at 5:12
@Craig Mc: Reallly? The only tasty birds I’ve been around lately are a few oven baked chickens. It’s refreshing to know that there are beautiful women in the stands. Keeps the blood pumping.
October 20th, 2008 at 5:15
@Craig Mc: I noticed that but I wouldn’t call it perfect. Still, I was always led to believe that he was reluctant to learn English and that he used guys like Gus Poyet to communicate for him.
Nevertheless, he hasn’t communicated well with his team and they appear to have tuned him out. Despite the fact he is a fine coach, it’s time for a change me thinks.
October 20th, 2008 at 7:10
When Spurs go down we should throw in a bid for David Bentley, and tell the rest of those scumbags to piss off. What a disgrace that club has become. IB know he hasn’t been setting the world on fire lately but could you imagine the service he would give Berba and company?
October 20th, 2008 at 8:09
“yo wazzup shitheads. Ill pop ya ass! Rizzle, dizzle my chizzle. Skank up the pimp man!”
Words? Sven!
Juts bored. At school now and doin sum borin shit about global warming. Wish me luck!
October 20th, 2008 at 8:21
@Craig Mc: No, but I know lots.
October 20th, 2008 at 8:23
@Wheezy: If we buy any more Spurs players, they might as well be called our farmer club.
October 20th, 2008 at 8:35
Watched the match for a second time and had some thoughts…
In the first half I think we were in a rigid straight forward 4-4-2 but then in the second half it looked like we were playing more of a 4-3-3 with the front 3 of Berba Wayne and Ronnie moving around in their fluid style, backed up by Giggs Fletch and Park.
This got me thinking about when some of the players return to full fitness.
In the first half/4-4-2 mode…
—-Berba—-Wayne
Ronnie–Fletch–Carrick–Hargo
Evra—Vida—Rio—-Wes
Then, in second half if the need arises and we need to step it up a gear, can morph into a 4-3-3 of…
Ronnie—Berba—Wayne
—-Fletch—Hargo—-
——Carrick——–
Evra–Vida–Rio–Wes
Here, Anderson could swap with Fletch or Hargo I think. In the later case, if Anderson is preferred to Hargo, then in the 442 mode I would push Fletch out wide right and have the 2 CMs of Carrick and Anderson.
Just throwing it out there…Any thoughts??
October 20th, 2008 at 11:20
What about
———–Berba———–
-Nani-Rooney-Tevez-Ronaldo-
———Hargreaves——–
-Evra—Rio—Vidic—Brown-
The other teams will have to defend so much that they can’t mount a proper attack! =)
October 20th, 2008 at 12:00
@RedDevilEddy: I have always been a Rooney fan!