Aug 13
United are on the ‘Brink of a Signing’
It’s a quiet day if you ignore the words Dimitar Berbatov. But you can’t ignore it today, because otherwise, there wouldn’t be much to write about here. So let’s not ignore it and decide to talk about it. Er, okay…
Dimitar Berbatov is on the brink of joining Manchester United according to most sports outlets. There has been all sorts of crazy speculation. But there is little, by way of quotes, to suggest anything. However, such has been the mood in the press, with some papers having proclaimed that Berbatov is already in Carrington and will sign ahead of the Friday pre-season photo shoot, that it is safe to say that Berba will be a United player soon.
The transfer fee reportedly anything between £25 to £28 million has also sparked debate on the value of the player. I personally think £25m is a good deal but think the final fee to be closer to the £28m mark.
Anyway, I think we can start thinking up Berba chants.
Elsewhere, John Terry decides to chime in with his contribution to the pre-season trash talk. “I don’t think United have another level to go to, he suggests. “They had a lot of players in their team who have been at the peak of their form for the last two years.” Fair enough. But we also don’t have players who slip when all they’re supposed to do is to kick the fucking ball from the spot.
And Ryan Giggs has admitted that, whilst he’s played the past two seasons like they were his last, there is a good chance this could be his last. There is a piece on the Telegraph that also talks about his desire to get into coaching.
And finally, ahead of the new season I thought I could get RR a bit of a facelift. It’s the same theme with some minor tweaks. Initially I flirted with the idea of a radically different theme, but I had already fallen in love with my existing theme that I thought a few minor tweaks to be handy. Now there is a rotating header that will change upon page load, randomly. Hopefully we’ll get to add more headers and also iron out minor bugs in design in due course. Of course, thanks are in order to Ahmed of Soccerlens for getting the right designer to do the job and generally bearing with my nitpicking.
And since there is a big time gap between when this post was drafted and when it went to publish mode, here’s hoping Berbatov has signed as you read these lines.
Till tomorrow.
Related items from Red Rants:
- Tottenham v Manchester United – Match Thread
- Part-time gardener to make United debut soon
- Hargreaves Stirs Up Some Debate | Saha Could Start (Wow!) | Some New Signing
- Owen Signs, and he’s no Henrik Larsson
- United On The Brink Of Greatness, Again
Tags: Daily Roundup
August 13th, 2008 at 10:13
Hey RR
I don’t like the new look at all. Red Rants had a distinctive feel with the earlier theme. Now it reminds of any other United Blog.
-1 for the new look.
Recently came across an interesting blog: In the end the Germans Win
Hope the Berba deal goes through
August 13th, 2008 at 10:18
I dont want Berba. And I cant think of a player I despise more than John Terry.
August 13th, 2008 at 10:22
Hey, I do a +1 for the new look. Like RR said, it’s almost 98% the same with some basic changes. Looks fresh definitely!
Yeah, and here’s hoping the Berba deal goes through before we reach 100 comments today!
August 13th, 2008 at 10:22
John Terry is a cock.
August 13th, 2008 at 10:29
I once heard that john terry fellow could have won the cup. Instead of doing so he decided to fuck it up. Spiffing!
August 13th, 2008 at 10:41
Berbatov + United = Treble ??
August 13th, 2008 at 10:55
OOHHH I FEEL IT LADS, WE ARE GONNA MAKE A SIGNING TODAY!! touch wood.
the improvements kick ass lol.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:06
@stephen
you got that right. even though the world and his wife knows that john terry is a dumb mother fuck3r.
Bring in da berba!
August 13th, 2008 at 11:06
Anybody remember just before we won the double, Terry and Ballack coming out in the press, to the effect that they were “gonna do us” ripping both trophies from our grasp. I saw at Blackburn our response to that. United players played like men possessed. So more shit stirring from Terry & Co. will have same effect. However Fergie did start all this with his needless jibes. Fergie’s comments put more pressure on our players. And I hope that Ronnie stops that dithering about, run, pause, then shoot – he has cost us a few times with that. Wish United would make Berba declaration, but won’t because of the whole sue case thing.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:06
Just made up Berbatov chant – to the tune of ‘They’ve got the biggest floodlights in the football league’ (He’s got the whole world in his hands)
He’s got the best first touch in the Premier League,
He’s got the best first touch in the Premier League,
He’s got the best first touch in the Premier League,
Dimitar’s the new Cantona.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:09
Neways guys.. atlast something in transfer season, we must be happy.. i would like if fergie has something up his sleeves..
August 13th, 2008 at 11:10
I guess we need Berbatov for now. He will add a new dimension to our attacking style. I guess Rooney should take a rest on Sunday so he can come back 2 weeks from now.
I was worried about us signing Berbatov cos he is 28 and a price of 28 million is just too much. But come to think of it, we can still get another striker next season like Benzema or Aguero who could be ready for new challenges then.
Dont be down United fans, this a step forward and u will all see the benefit of the money paid soon.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:10
Errr sorry folks, the Ronnie dithering I mentioned, I was talking about his approach to penalties.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:17
One thing will be intersting is the fee, if the fee is circa £30m, why oh why has this dragged on for so long. But if the fee is circa £25m then all this waiting will be worth it, will be interesting.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:37
so am i the only one here who thinks that Berba is a bad signing? Dont get me wrong, I want a striker. But I feel like we are buying him just cos we need a striker and he wants to come. His laziness on the pitch and his childishness off it are my main concerns. what happens when SAF decides not to play him for whatever reason? he will throw the toys outta the pram and sulk around like a child. Or what will happen when we are 2-0 down in an important match with 20 mins to go? When Rooney and Tevez are busting their collective balls to not only score but win the match, are we gonna see Berba doing the same?
August 13th, 2008 at 11:38
Ya dats for sure.. i think it might be below 30, otherwise the delay is not justifying.. Neways is there any other news of transfer??
August 13th, 2008 at 11:39
ok, so its 99% certain that berba is on his way… if thats the case, why (if true) we’re bids put in for Silva? yes he is a forward but more so a winger (correct me if im wrong) so perhaps if thats failed as it looks to have done… we may even have two signings by the end of the transfer window.
berba to get no.9 shirt saha to get the “im too sick to play” shirt.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:40
Ya the attitude might be a problem.. I hope SAF will Handle that..
August 13th, 2008 at 11:41
Ya SAF might be looking for replacement of Giggs..
August 13th, 2008 at 11:43
@jstar7: He is languid not lazy because he does not have pace ofr taclke back does not mean he is lazy, would you say Cantona was lazy?
I also do not agree he is childish off the pitch, what is your example of this?
@Will: He should get the 9 dog!!
August 13th, 2008 at 11:50
RedRanter: The rotating banner isn’t working here. You may want to try disabling caching in your rotation script. http://uk2.php.net/header
August 13th, 2008 at 11:54
@Stephen: I agree with Harry 100%…. article in times
and “languid not lazy”..are you kidding me? yes he is tall and to some extent languid….but he is still lazy!
and most importantly…in no way can you compare a player like berba who has never even played for united to the legend of eric. i can see what you are getting at…but i dont agree.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:58
Ya i too feel that he will come good.
August 13th, 2008 at 11:59
Jstar7, ask most Spurs fans about Berba. When Spurs refused his move to United the last time we went in for him, Martin Jol said he knuckled down and gave his all for the team that season, but his heart was always with United. Then this season coming, United in again, and Spurs knew he wanted to come to us unreservedly. Yet Levy having a spat and trying to bring down Sir Alex, held back and back and back the transfer. Berba then saw Keane allowed to go to L’Pool at first time of asking. No wonder Berba was moody and pissed off with Spurs. He had toed the line, keeping quiet, not like Keane who openly spoke out about leaving for L’Pool, and they being the team of his boyhood dreams. Berba wanted United desperately but didn’t go spouting to the press. Just like Ronaldo, everybody else has spoken out about Berba in the press, doing him down, but he hasn’t hit back. I respect that. And if he is a brooder, he is a brooder so what, it takes all kinds to make a world. The day will come like Ronnie, when Berba will speak out, and then we will all know the truth and can agree or disagree.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:03
@jstar7: I am firstly not camparing Berbatov to Eric at all and to say I was is completely wrong mate, I was comparing their styles. We are not in need of a worker up front we have two already we needa player with guile which Berbatov has in abundance.
Plus no disrespect to Redknapp but he talks a lot of rubbish, and that article comes from a guy who signed Milan Barros, Glen Johnson, Jermaine Defoe, Sol Campbell, Sylvain Distin all whose attitude has been questioned over the years. I believe in Fergie, and he obviously can get the best out of players as he did with Eric and numerous others.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:08
@Craig Mc: yeah ok you make a good point. he hasnt said anything in the press and that is indeed somethinig to respect him for. and i can undertstand his frustrations what with keane going to liverpool etc. there is just something about his attitude that doesnt sit right with me. and i know you say if he is a brooder so what? but i think that a brooder can be temperamental…ie if things dont go their way they dont put the effort in and their form drops because of it. are we going to tip toe around him at united, play him in every game, in the position he wants to play in, and try our best to keep him happy incase he goes into a strop and his form drops and our goals dry up?
August 13th, 2008 at 12:08
By the way folks, I am not saying that Ronnie shouldn’t have made the statement he did earlier than he did, or that Berba should have done the same. What I said I respected, was that they didn’t attack back when they were being attacked and misrepresented by every Tom, Dick and Harry who had an opinion. Imagine having to come back against all the lies and wrong info coming out about them, they would have had no bloody time to do anything else.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:10
Re Berba’s attitude – Fergie has a pretty damn good record of being able to motivate guys who can come across as prima donnas. Cantona is the obvious example – which is why I don’t mind the comparison. Dwight Yorke as well.
I’m not worried about his attitude for that reason. In fact, for this first time this summer, I’m damn excited about the whole thing. He is the missing piece of the puzzle, for me!
August 13th, 2008 at 12:13
Ha Terry doesn’t learn does he. You should do your talking AFTER you have done the business. He’s just gonna end up with even more egg on his ugly mug.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:14
@Stephen: yeah stephen…sorry for coming down a harsh on you…i read it again and i prob got your meaning a bit wrong the first time..apologies. and i do agree with you on not needing another worker striker to some extent…but he does need to put effort in..if not as much work…if that makes sense?? and i believe in SAF too, he can def get the best outta players…but sometimes he doesnt get it right. i also slightly disagree bout your chosen players from pompey…aside from baros i think the rest of those players have done great under harry and will prob have another great year!
August 13th, 2008 at 12:22
jstar7, I just got through saying mate, the testimony that was coming out of White Hart Lane, was that once Berba knew that his desire to come to United was refused, that Jol says he knuckled down and GAVE HIS ALL that season, even though he was bitterly disappointed. So that isn’t somebody who is letting broodiness interfere with his game. This pre season however he has looked depressed in photos, I admit. But I think there is a concerted effort by Spurs to discredit him by attacking his SUPPOSED moodiness and general behaviour. It’s club politics so that they can pacify spurs fans incensed by Berba’s sale otherwise.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:25
@jstar7: I agree mate re you point on what he has got out of his players and I also agree that they will have another great season under Redknapp, but all I was saying was the players I mentioned their attitude has been questioned.
I do agree that Berbatov does need to put his shift in with regards to effort, but I think he will. I even saw Ronaldo track back last season!! and if Fergie can make that happen then I don’t think we have too many worries regards to Berba (can we call hin Berba yet?!)
August 13th, 2008 at 12:25
well i do hope the deal goes through…and about John Terry not to worry mates..as when last time any player did this to United we made them look all foolish..remember wat Arsenal said before a match against us and We beat them 4-1 i think…we gonna thrash Chelski…
August 13th, 2008 at 12:30
@Craig Mc: so spurs would deliberatly try to discredit their own striker that they are trying to claim is worth more money than we think he is worth? its not really a good sales tactic.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:31
Penguin, good point mate about Fergie, and his cool record on dealing with player temperaments. He is renowned as a great man manager. Hahaha though, we are all into this, and we don’t even know if we have Berba yet?. Talk about counting your chickens etc, I need to calm down a bit, way too excited.
August 13th, 2008 at 12:33
@Stephen: hahah good point…if SAF can get Ronaldo to track back then there is hope for Berba(tov) yet!
August 13th, 2008 at 12:48
@Craig Mc: Counting them, fuck me mate I have even named them!!
August 13th, 2008 at 12:53
Come on people, yes Berba has his flaws but have faith in SAF. He comes with his arrogance but so did a certain man called Cantona when he came. SAF will be able to sort Berba out and get the best out of him, that is why he is the best manager in history! Now lets all rejoice over a fantastic signing
(fingers crossed)
August 13th, 2008 at 12:58
I was just looking @ Goal, and came across this gem of an article wrtten by the football genius brain of Alan Hanson, what a football mind he has and he has such insite into the season to come.
Hansen Tips Chelsea Or United For Title
Former Liverpool captain turned TV pundit Alan Hansen is tipping each of the Premier League’s ‘Big Four’ to win their opening games of the season – but expects the title itself to stray at Old Trafford or go back to Stamford Bridge.
Now BBC must be so proud of the money spent on this clever footballing mind, I would have never thought that, thank God for pundits. I am now off the Paddy Power with my £10 clutched tightly in my hand, I suggest you all follow suit, but don’t tell anyone as the odds will dicrease.
August 13th, 2008 at 13:01
http://www.manutd.com/publish.sps?pagegid={FE60904B-C2A8-4E60-9B05-700DBBC29BBC}&teamid=459§ion=playerProfile&bioid=2110
look at all the other names in the dropdown box?! wtf
August 13th, 2008 at 13:07
Jstar mate, they are not discrediting his game are they?. I believe Spurs were preparing the fans for any eventual sale, by discrediting his ATTITUDE. That is, that he was depressed and moody because of wanting the transfer to united, and that this was affecting his games pre season and his attitude around the camp. I mean think about it Jstar, what games pre season?. Spurs have hardly played him. Whyy is that?. Not because his mood, but they intended to flog him and not want him injured.
August 13th, 2008 at 13:08
FUCK FUCK FUCK this is bad, please tell saf didnt sign windass…
August 13th, 2008 at 13:12
I’m really excited to see Berba in a United shirt but were’nt we looking for a target man? I confess, I didnt watch to many Spurs games last season but… he doesnt seem to be in that role… so where do we see him playing and how will the team set out this season if we do indeed sign him… please someone answer me this question, I realise I dont post much and for the most part my posts get ignored
August 13th, 2008 at 13:19
@sig: We put Berba up top and play Rooney off him
August 13th, 2008 at 13:26
Stephen – hahaha, at your naming of the chickens mate!.
Sig, Berba does play more forward for Spurs, and he can hold the ball up while other players move forward and run into positions. His distribution is magnificent too, his ability to play players in. He is a good header of the ball in the box too. I think he will be our most forward player, but then Fergie may surprise us, we don’t know what system he will play with Berba in the team. No doubt other posters will give you their thoughts. We have to get him to sign for us 1st though, no confirmation yet!.
August 13th, 2008 at 13:36
@dan(u-ol): Dean Windass would net 30 a season upfront for Real Madrid…. no worries.
August 13th, 2008 at 13:43
I hear ya sig-after a lot of consideration i dont think berba is the right man for us either. He has the leagues 3rd highest assist percentage. Whilst this is a big possitive it shows he tends to drop deep quite often. We def dont need a striker who is gonna do that coz Both rooney and tevez do it excessively!
To sum it up id much prefer huntelaar…….im praying to fuck fergie pulls it out the bag!
August 13th, 2008 at 13:47
my only doubt about Huntelaar is that for someone that is apparently quiet a prolific goalscorer no-one seems to step up there interest in him… personally Id rather have a Munucho with work permits then take a step back and go the Nistelroy (Huntelaar) route… Is there any news on progress with the work permit?
August 13th, 2008 at 13:48
@realred: its good to hear i am not the only one who thinks berba is not the right man!
August 13th, 2008 at 13:51
@sig: You would rather Manucho over Huntelaar why?, and what sort of player do you think Manucho is?
August 13th, 2008 at 13:57
@Stephen I think Manucho is a player that has a lot of promise and afterall he is already on our books… to me it’s worth a crack before rummaging in there for a striker that no-one seems to want and most probably at a hefty price afterall we are United arent we?
If we offload Saha to Roma like its being reported and only then would I be interested in taking a risk on Hunt… I’m just extremley dubious as to why no-one seems to be to interested in him
August 13th, 2008 at 14:08
@sig: Fair point with regards to Manucho, but playing someone with no top league experience and who has had only a handful of games in the Greek league is surley a risk.
With regards to Huntelaar there are no sure fire gaurentees in football but his goal scoring record is superb, and his international record is also very good. He has scored 70 goals in 82 games for Ajax and 8 in 13 for Holland, that would be good enough for me.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:18
@Traverse:
The website seems to have a list of names that have played for any team thats played in the prem. Change the team id and you get a whole new list of players connected to another team. Your link for example points to the Boro one, increase it by 1 and you get Newcastle, 1 again and you get spurs and so on.
@realred:
I think Huntelaar may end up being signed, if not now in either the jan or next summers window. Fergie seems to be after 2 new strikers and if we get Berba a risk on a player thats ultimately unproven in both the premiership and at the top level is lessened.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:27
seems as though Chelsea are calling a press conference at 5.30pm… did they pip us to Berba? lol only kidding. prolly John Terry wanting to retract his statments…
August 13th, 2008 at 14:32
My instinct tells me and has been telling for a long time that he is the wrong signing. Paying over double what Spurs paid for him 2 seasons ago doesn’t seem like good value especially when you think his only CL experience was as a bit part player for Leverkusen. We need somebody who will suit our system immediately i.e. Somebody with pace and finishing skill-aerial ability has become overrated in our search for a striker to the point that we would probably take a worse player because he is good in the air.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:33
@sig: Ashley Cole and John Terry are going to announce their civil partnership.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:37
kaka or rob have signed for them i reckon.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:39
@sig: where did you read this?
August 13th, 2008 at 14:45
@benjd: all over the news mate
August 13th, 2008 at 14:47
@dan(u-ol): Didn’t see it on any newspapers sites…Anyway, I see it on Chelsea’s site now.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:53
edi easy on the caps mate.
August 13th, 2008 at 14:55
just had 2 get a point across RR
August 13th, 2008 at 14:59
You could use bold. I’ve mentioned this time and time again. A few words are ok, not entire sentences.
August 13th, 2008 at 15:07
sir yes sir!
August 13th, 2008 at 15:09
@benjd: Try now, the headers should rotate properly.
If they don’t, lemme know.
August 13th, 2008 at 15:10
Im not worried about their upcoming statement, because I think it will be the absolute opposite to what everyone is expecting. I may be wrong, but im not arsed about chelsea
August 13th, 2008 at 15:13
@Ahmed Bilal: Yeah spot on. I got a picture of Scholesy this time instead of Rooney over and over again.
August 13th, 2008 at 15:24
I reckon Lampard has signed a new contract haha
August 13th, 2008 at 15:31
John Terry is an idiot! Saying that our team has peaked is a bunch of rubbish. Yeah, Nani and Anderson won’t improve!? Rooney will miss tons of sitters and we will lose at Fratton Park and Upton Park again…right? John Terry can suck my balls. He should be practicing penatly kicks at the training ground instead of running his shite mouth off! Ok, I’m done.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:03
bbc reporting the berbatov deal.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:06
@dan(u-ol): Not funny the second time.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:07
@dan(u-ol): you are a fool
August 13th, 2008 at 16:09
@dan(u-ol): dan ,thats another fake article, just look at the URL,, haha are you up to one of your tricks again.. fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me
August 13th, 2008 at 16:10
@jstar7: who the hell are you?
@Red Ranter: ahh fine, that article is copied and pasted anyway. though i beileve its the same as the guardians and the times articles today, which is quite reliable, as reliable as the bbc in many ways.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:10
@Mike: HeHe, shame on me twice hehe.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:12
@dan(u-ol): dont get arsey with me mate. if you are gonna post fake stories expect to be called a fool.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:14
@jstar7: He was taking the piss mate.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:15
@Red Ranter: I must have missed the comedic tone in his post. sorry.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:21
Could anybody please tell me, why the Feck United’s transfer dealings are always long drawn out feckin laborious saga’s?. Why are we so feckin slow of the blocks, and leaving it almost to the last minute (apart from last year) to get things sorted. Bet we have lost many a good player through such dilitary dawdling. They probably got pissed off with all the messing around of United. Other clubs don’t seem to have the same problems, or is that just me being pessimistic?. Craig Mc – Rant over.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:25
@Craig Mc: Yeah Craig tell me about it, ‘feckin transfers’!
August 13th, 2008 at 16:26
@Craig Mc: What do you mean? Last summer’s transfers were done before we got home from the pub on the last day of the season. It has only recently been Hargreaves and now Berba.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:33
@Craig Mc: I would say it’s for a couple of reasons:
a) we seem to put every effort into not getting screwed over on price – as has been mentioned on the blog more than a few times, we could have had Berba a month ago if we’d been willing to pay £32m.
b) our targets are often agitating for a move to us as much as the other way round – certainly true of Berba, Hargreaves and Tevez – and they do this publicly.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:37
Tin Man mate, you didn’t read my post properly, I said in it APART from last seasons dealings lol. But think back, Rooney, Carrick were last days of transfer windows, and the other two you mentioned. I am afraid that United have always been notoriously slow in getting things done. Even big man Fergie himself said, there’s no rush, we want to take things slowly. Well how feckin slowly I ask, we have patently bloody obviously needed another decent striker for over 18 months now, maybe longer. Aaaaaagh, so frustrating mate!.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:41
@Craig Mc: Beautifully said about Berbatov. First off he was never tapped up. He made a request to be transferred last year to Jol. Then when Ramos took over he told him he would honor his request at the end of the year. The season ends and who comes out crying Beatles tunes and wanting a move to the shit hole of England but Robbie (there’s no account for bad taste) Keane. Fine, Keane wants out but Berbatov was first to ask and unlike Keane he patiently waited an entire year and acted like a professional by playing and doing well in the process (albeit with a moody frown on his face).
Where does Levy and Spurs get off holding back on their word to him while selling Keane at the first sign of trouble? Just total garbage. Berbatov has been labeled a sulking baby, a malcontent and lazy and it’s all because of this back stabbing he’s received from Spurs. Levy’s lack of class in this whole saga has been astonishing. Yes I understand they value him highly, they should, he’s fantastic. But to play these kinds of games with United, Fergie and Berbatov exposes Levy as a no class ass. Honor your agreement to move him. Forget the contract because in essence, it was torn up in spirit last season when Jol said he could go at season’s end.
Berbatov is a great player with incredibly fine and unique skills for a Striker. He is very Cantonesque in style, if not in substance. Frankly, he is too good a player to be playing for Spurs. A player like this needs to be on a team that plays up to his capabilities and ambition. He admits to having made a big mistake by not coming here in the first place. I for one believe he will be a big success but don’t expect too much too soon. If he indeed will be a United player at some point this week, he will need two maybe three weeks to get adjusted to our style and to get familiar with the players both on and off the pitch. But once he does, he will be dynamite.
Berbatov adds class and finesse to our team that we have not seen since the King. He brings a style of football that I best compare to fine cuisine. It’s not for everybody but for those with very strong and refined pallets, they will be in heaven.
When I think of the stupidity coming out of John (missed it by that much) Terry’s comments today, I laugh. We are the champions, we are younger, faster, better and now, we probably will have Berbatov and that will make us even more multi-dimensional and tougher to beat. And all Chelsea have to show us is Art Deco, Bosingwa (whose not in the same class as R Da Silva) and a slow plodding group that is one year older and with a manager who has no experience managing a club team of that size in Europe. God give me strength, but I just don’t see it. Perhaps it’s possible with Ronaldo out another month or so and our tough early schedule, but I still don’t see it. Not with Berbatov in tow also. You see, we have something on top of age advantage that Chelsea simply don’t have. We have class and we have Fergie.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:41
Sorry Im not contributing anything substantial to this post Im in work and don’t have time for a rant
Unlike Jstar7 the lazy bollox in the office above me
All I will say is I don’t want Berb or Huntelaar but if I had the choice between the two it would be Berb. Huntelaar is a poor mans RVN. At the end of the day we don’t have much of a choice. Berb always seemed the most likely striker to be signed and we had to get someone in as we couldnt start the season with what we have considering our goal scoring predicament. So I hope Berb proves me wrong and he’s a goal machine for us this season.
Anyway I found this article by of all people Piers Morgan the Gooner scumbag on SAF which I thought was excellent so here it is for anyone who wants a wee read….
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/othersports/article-1043193/Piers-Morgan-I-hate-Sir-Alex-good-reason-.html
….and just on another completely random point in the off chance but does anyone know where I might still be able to buy the away strip from last season. Had all year to buy it and now the new one is out I want the old one and can’t find it anywhere, D’oh!
August 13th, 2008 at 16:47
Penguin mate, but the point is, we still get screwed in the end anyway, because we leave it until the very last nano second, and then we have no more time to negotiate. That’s how we lost Ronaldinho a few season ago, because of price haggling. Ronaldinho said publically, that he was ready to come to United before Barca, but the clubs couldn’t agree the fee. Fergie himself was raging, and blamed it on Peter Kenyon’s mess up – but it was all down to money and United’s dawdling.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:49
@Craig Mc: Yah I know Craig, lol. I was lightheartedly pointing out how great it was last season. The press don’t make it any easier, we get the most coverage over any other team. I bet the actual process or deal is only as long as anyother transfer.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:50
@Craig Mc: If I was Chelsea I’d shut the fuck up and prove my point on the pitch instead of in front of a microphone. They don’t say those things to stir us up, they say it to motivate themselves because deep inside their evil black hearts, they have serious doubts and as long as that nucleus of players is at Chelsea the team will never play the style that Abramovich wants. Therefore, look for Scolari to get the axe by season’s end. What he has there is a good but very old and very rigid team that is set in it’s way and cannot unlearn what Mourinho put in place. Abramovich will have to get prepared for more ugly football and more 1-0 and 1-1 drudge matches. Nobody at Stamford Bridge gets it. The players as a whole are to old and they cannot adapt to this hybrid philosophy of Brazilian up tempo football. If they can, I’ll stand corrected but I don’t see it. I see them having success but not the kind they are hoping for. There only chance is to jump out like gangbusters, get a sizable lead while United deals without Ronaldo, and other early season concerns as well as a schedule that is so unfairly stacked against us, that I wonder why United didn’t cry bloody murder to the League. The nine teams directly below last year are away games in this first half. Unheard of and certainly unprecedented. You think the London based EPL has had it with United’s 22 year dominance of English football?
August 13th, 2008 at 16:51
@jstar7: its fine mate, but you wont make to many friends on this blog, if you throw insults at people like that around, this is a serious blog that knows how and when to have a laugh, not to throw insults at some one because you find their joke unfunny. but anyway its done and dusted, lets move on
August 13th, 2008 at 16:53
Is it official? http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/index.html
August 13th, 2008 at 16:56
@jstar7: The door at Old Trafford swings both ways. If Berbatov doesn’t work out, he’ll be shown the door. But have no worries, he will be fine. He’s with Fergie now and he’s with a team that will help him reach his ambitions as a player. He was really bought for one major purpose and he also wanted to come here for that same purpose. That being the Champions League. He’ll accept sitting down every so often in the EPL and especially in Cup games, but in the CL, he will be the number one guy up front. Bank on it. And he’s not going to be lazy on Ferguson run team. If he is, the bench is a great place to relax.
All the same things were said about Cantona too, but all he wanted were the same things Berbatov is seeking. As well, the club culture and feeling he will get from being apart of this great organization will seduce him. Have no worries mate.
August 13th, 2008 at 16:57
@Craig Mc: I agree that we’ve made some false economies over the years – Ronaldinho is probably the worst – but it is certainly one of the reasons why our transfers often drag out, which was the question.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:01
@sig: Trust me, he’s a target man. He’s not a goal poacher per say but he is a target man. He is exceptional at holding up the ball and waiting for the others to join in and his first touch and his passing is absolutely breathtaking. He also scores wonderful goals with great skills and imagination. His aerial ability is also quite good so yes, he is a target man.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:05
@Craig Mc:
It will be due to who the club are. We are seen as a bottomless pit for funds in the same way Chelsea are. Clubs ask for stupid amounts due to that and while Chelsea will just pay it as Roman doesn’t care we have to make sure its as cost effective as possible
August 13th, 2008 at 17:05
@sig: Tell me mate, what do you know about Manucho? Manucho could very well be manure for all we know. He comes from bloody Angola for crying out loud. Not exactly known for being a football hotbed now is it. Huntelaar is over priced and frankly all thew teams that would be interested in him, already have a striker for that position. Even Real Madrid who have shown interest as well as Arsenal have a similar player. His day will come. As for Manucho, the jury is out on him until he actually shows up. When I think of him, I think Djemba Djemba or Kleberson. Hopefully I’m wrong and he won’t be a bust but I’m not expecting much. He’s also not a kid.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:08
hardley big news, lampards signs a 5 year deal, how old is he again?
August 13th, 2008 at 17:10
@realred: I watch a lot of Spurs games and many of his assists are in the box with deft little touches and even flicks and chips. Unlike Rooney and Tevez who fear the box like a dog fears a bath, Berbatov doesn’t. He is very adept and very comfortable there but he does roam out once in a while two. But that’s fine too as it is interchangeable in our style of play.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:12
@Grognard: i hope you are right…i really do! the jury is still out for me but if he loses the attitude and bags a load of goals for us then im sure he can change my opinion!
@dan(u-ol): its grand and indeed we will move on. (i should say tho…i had no way of knowing it was a joke, and “fool” isnt exactly that bad an insult)
August 13th, 2008 at 17:15
@jstar7: yes, but it is still an insult nonetheless, but please, lets just move on.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:15
@wakey: Fergie is not going to have four world class strikers and have the unenviable task of having to constantly sit two down. We already have that 4th striker. Manucho, Campbell or even Welbeck should emerge in that position. And if they don’t, Fergie will go buy a very young player that can be broken in slowly. And there is no way Huntelaar is going to accept a role as 4th striker. That’s just not going to happen. With three strikers of equal value you can rotate and keep all three happy. A fourth makes it very difficult indeed. Sheringham was our fourth back in 99,2000 etc but he was old and welcomed the role. He was also flexible because he could play and AMF role as well. Solksjaer would have accepted the role of water boy if it allowed him to be with the club. Lads like him are truly one in a million.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:18
Looks like Berbatov is well on his way. Fine. Im just wondering who will be benching most times in our forward line up. One or two of Tevez,Rooney and Nani. And if we resort to 4-3-3 then Rooney should be on the bench because i think Tevez is proving 2 be the better player. If we play two up front, Tevez should be on the bench. Thing is we need a season formation rather than changing all the time like they do in Italia. So all im saying is someone is going 2 be disappointed due to lack of playing time if Berba comes. So who do u guys feel should be ultimately sacrificed between the trio?
August 13th, 2008 at 17:19
For me the best bit about signing Berba is that he is simply a joy to watch. I used to tune into all the spurs games I could just to see him play. I was watching against Charlton when he spun the defender with a ridiculous touch around half way and then went in himself to score – just magic. He’s just the classiest player I’ve seen since Ruud in his pomp, but with better passing and less box awareness. Even if we win nothing this season, watching Berba, Rooney, Tevez, Nani, Anderson and Ronaldo will be worth the price of admission alone. We’ll play the game how it should be played.
Also, I fully expect Chelsea to win the league this year. 3 years in a row is a massive stretch, especially in the Prem. A lot of stuff did go our way last year, I’m more than happy to acknowledge it. Chelsea’s squad is still the best on Earth, therefore a betting man would say over 38 matches that will show. I don’t really care to be honest, because I’ll enjoy every minute of our matches, whereas watching them makes me want to mimic the Joker pencil trick in the Dark Knight by myself.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:23
@Beachryan: you really dont care if we win nothing this year??
i care.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:26
@Craig Mc: What bothers me with all the procrastinating is by leaving it to the very end we give the player no time to get comfortable and acclimated with his new teammates on and off the pitch. He has a new system and style of football to learn. Throwing him to the wolves against Newcastle isn’t exactly fair especially since expectations will be so high.
I’m sure Fergie and Gill have their valid reasons but it is very frustrating to both supporters and to the player himself. I for one would hate to join a team without having really practiced with them. I’d feel like a fish out of water. Not the worst thing in the world and Berby will get used to everything quickly, but still, not the way it should be done.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:28
@Grognard:
Huntelaar though ISNT at this moment world class. You are also forgetting that Rooney himself plays alot more like a AMF and could very well be deployed as a a Scholes replacement, much in the same way Rossi was touted as a potential scholes replacement.
You also have to think Huntelaar has to a) Accept an initial backup/rotation role at a top club b) Join a second string team in a good league or c) Destroy his chances of ever being world class by continuing in a league that doesn’t challenge him
August 13th, 2008 at 17:29
£2million a year for a 30 year old fat englishmen, romans got money to burn.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:29
@Beachryan: We all might as well give up then.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:32
@TinManUnited: Actually we don’t get the most coverage. Believe it or not the media both in London and elsewhere seem totally obsessed with Liverpool. Don’t ask me why, but they are. Arsenal also is up there. I’d say we were third above Chelsea. Everybody and his mother is constantly linked to the Scousers and what really gets me is that now they are linking Joe Cole to them when they don’t even have the money to seal the deal with Villa for Gareth Barry. That club is literally broke and in financial turmoil yet everybody is linked to them.
They had to sell a bunch of players just to afford Keane for crying out loud. And what have they really accomplished in the last 20 years other than their one fluke CL title and an FA Cup? How many EPL title since 1990 have the won? ZERO! So why all the fuss about them. I can understand the London based media being obsessed with the Gooners or the Russian Mafia but Liverpool? I just don’t get it.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:36
@wakey: Can’t ever remember Rossi as a replacement for Scholes, and don’t see Rooney as one either. Rooney needs to play off another striker, Berbatov if/when he comes would be ideal as Rooney could run onto Berba’s through balls and vice versa.
Huntelaar is class and in a 4 striker rotation would be great to play with either Tevez, Rooney or Berbatov, but it is just a dream!
August 13th, 2008 at 17:39
@dan(u-ol): I’m sure the Special One is crying right now as his beloved Frank has betrayed him. From now on Frank is….. not fantastic….NO. From now on….it will be the Drogba. Poor Mourinho. Life at Inter isn’t working out the way he was hoping because it seems nobody worth their price in gold wants to play in Italy anymore. And to that I just have to LAUGH. It’s about bloody time the world woke up to that country’s disgusting display of football and scandal.
I have to say that Lampard signing with Chelsea is a surprise because of the number of midfielders they have. Ballack, Deco, Essien etc. How can you keep all of them happy. And why would I give a player who is near 30 a 5 year deal. Lunacy!
August 13th, 2008 at 17:42
JStar7, don’t worry mate, everyone gets uppity on here now and again, makes for interesting reading lol!.
Grog, (1) Your quote, Ambramovich will have to get prepared for more ugly football, 1-0 and 1-1 drudge matches. What you mean like the kind of football drudgery we’ve dished up pre-season lol?. The kind we are likely to continue to serve up without our main strikers?.
(2) – Re Manucho Grog, he is no Djemba Djemba or Kleberson. He is a good footballer, very fast, and an excellent header of the ball. I was very impressed what I saw of him in the African nations cup. All the football commentators were saying Fergie had found another GEM in the making. I believe he will do okay for us, especially with the scope of improvement he will experience from the coaching of his skill at OT. You say he is not young, but 25 is not old Grog!.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:42
@jstar7: I’m always seen as Mr. Negative on this blog. In this case I am Mr. Positive. Berbatov will be a gem for us.
Now watch, I’ve jinxed things. In the next 24 hours we will hear that the deal is off.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:44
That press release sums up Chelsea. What a bleeding joke. Nobody cares about overrated fat frank and his big contract. bottom line is: hes rubbish! what a waste of oxygen they all are.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:45
@dan(u-ol): It’s a little like the boy who cried wolf. You make a joke once and fool everyone (namely me). Then the next time you offer something that looks like a joke, nobody takes it seriously and yet it is. Lesson learned by all I think.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:48
Lets all see with regards to Manucho, he is completly unproven @ any real level, and could either be the new Ole or the new Bellion!
August 13th, 2008 at 17:49
Penguin, I hear you, and I get your point about being financially screwed!.
Dan(u)ol, what are you saying mate?. Is that what Chelsea called a press meeting for – Lampard’s contract. I doubt that, because on sky news they are saying that this upcoming Chelski news is exceedingly exciting. Maybe they managed to get Kaka – after paying 80 million for him according to their alleged bid. Feckin obscene money if you ask me.
Wakey, I understand what your saying about us having to pay way over the odds because of who we are, and our club not wanting to pay it.
Tin Man – I wish mate, I wish!.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:49
@Jay wire: All three forwards will rotate to keep them fresher for a long season. Tevez will play more of the Cup games and a majority of the EPL games while Berbatov will play very few cup games, a fair amount of EPL games and all CL games. Rooney will be given rest to spell off the others and he will be moved around like he always has been from time to time. I honestly don’t see this hurting Nani much. Giggs is the only one holding back Nani. This three man rotation will do wonders for our team over the long season. When it comes to crunch time in April and May, they will be fresh as a daisy while other teams will be old, tired and knackered.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:50
@Mike: @Grognard: Oh YES! Someone finally took Berba over huntelaar!
August 13th, 2008 at 17:52
@Grognard: YOU YOU! So you are in for Huntelaar after all?
I prefer Huntelaar over Berba and this news about Berba is untrue!
There! I have unjinxed your JINX!
So Berba comes!
HAHAHA
August 13th, 2008 at 17:54
The arrival of berba will not signal a return for rooney to a free role off berba. More likely, berba will play his normal deep game and rooney will continue to play on the shoulder as he did last season, and look to get on the end of berba’s frequent, classy passes.
August 13th, 2008 at 17:54
@Grognard: Hey werent you going to Grognify Dan(uol) ?
August 13th, 2008 at 17:57
@Grognard: You’re probably right. It’s just that I have my United blinders on. Don’t usually see all the scouse coverage, but they do cover when their houses get broken into. That’s probably why they get more coverage than us.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:04
@Craig Mc: yea craig, honest that was chelskis big *cough* announcement.
@Red Diablo: HeHeHe
@Grognard: hehe, still licking your wonds from a danizization
August 13th, 2008 at 18:08
@Beachryan: I have to politely disagree about your Chelsea pick and your claim that they have the best squad on the planet.. They don’t. They are thin up front, they are loaded with too many AMF players and not enough good defensive midfielders. Their wingers are overrated and actually quite pathetic at times (except for Joe Cole) and their defenders are getting older and slower. Both Carvalho and especially Terry started to show a lot of wear and tear last year but they also looked way off form at times. Ashley Cole is not what he used to be and he’s even more of cunt now than then and I’m sorry to say but even the great Petr Cech is a shadow of his former self. He has let in a number of questionable goals for both Chelsea and his national team ever since he returned from his injury. They are slower and more methodical and the owners constant tinkering and meddling will create turmoil and disharmony with the coaches. I expect Scolari to be gone by season’ end because he doesn’t look the type to tolerate that kind of bullshit.
You see one thing that Chelsea no longer have is harmony. They had harmony, confidence and belief under Mourinho. They lost that under Grant and despite that they made a great run because of their talent. But they are a year older and there are no signs that they are getting any younger or better. They will have to get used to a new manager who has been ordered to change the team’s style of play despite the fact that most of their players were bought specifically because they fit the more static style of play that Mourinho wanted. Unlike United, most of their player s are on the wrong side of the age meter where most of ours are on the right side and have the potential to get even better. The Da Silva twins, Possebon, Evans, Gibson and Campbell may be our future but look at what we have now for youth that’s still getting better. Vidic, Evra, Anderson, Nani, Ronaldo, Rooney, Fletcher, Park, have all not reached their peak. And it’s arguable to say that Tevez and Rio haven’t either as they seem to be getting better. Hargo despite his injury looks fantastic and Brown is getting better too. Scholes, Neville and Giggs are the only players on the down side as well as EVDS, although you would not notice by his play between the posts. And above all this, we have the master running the show. No turmoil, no outside stresses, no owner interference and above all, no age problems and lack of depth up front and in the back. At least not anymore when we get Berbatov. And yes, lets not forget Berbatov. A player of exquisite class and skill who just makes us that more powerful.
To be honest mate, if we weren’t missing Ronaldo for a month and half of the season and we never had such a brutal away schedule in the first half, I’d tip us to win the title by more than ten points. Chelsea are beter than Liverpool and Arsenal but they are still behind us. And it’s as it should be. UNITED FOREVER!
August 13th, 2008 at 18:09
@wakey: He is so world class. Give me a break.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:13
Anyone, am I going loopy, or does this thread change halfway thru and start at number 1 again – ? instead of 101?. Has my computer got a demon inside it playing silly devils on me, or are your computers showing the same?.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:14
@Craig Mc: Manucho may very well be the real deal but he comes with no previous pedigree and so he has to prove a lot more to me than Huntelaar has to.
And lets be fair mate, you are making far too much of our pre season style of play considering we had so many players out, and we were bleeding so many of our reserves. The past should tell you something of the way we play and the way Chelsea play. And I don’t see that changing.
As for Manucho, Kleberson was considered to be a real find for us and Djemba Djemba was too. And we all no how that turned out. Lets also not forget poor little Diego Forlan. My point is not everybody is cut out for United
August 13th, 2008 at 18:18
@Grognard: Yah let’s not forget Liam Miller, what a crock he turned out to be. Probably the worst one yet.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:19
Oh, wait. Taibi and Bosnich. Ouch.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:20
@Craig Mc: Fuck knows half the time I am on my Blackberry which is border line imposible!
August 13th, 2008 at 18:23
i still dont get why you guys reckon rooney is poorer compared to tevez, i feel that rooney contributes more to the team in terms on driving force. something that tevez isnt able to cough up yet.
im not some english maniac, it isnt about being argie or english. it is about the effect on the team the players have. sure tevez gets the important goals, but so does oshea onces in a while. so i dont reckon that THAT would be a good criteria.
i always felt that rooney has been played outta position since saha became a twig. if we built the team around rooney, instead of ronaldo, i think we would be more prolific and intimidating man utd than what we currently have
but my opinions are all moot. we shall see how well we do with rooney back in the hole. i for one am backing him to shine this season with a targetman infront, barring any injuries.
we are over 100 comments and we still havent signed him… sigh…
August 13th, 2008 at 18:24
v. Newcastle.
VDS
Brown Ferdinand Vidic Evra
Nani Scholes Carrick Giggs
Rooney/Tevez
Berba
That’s pretty sweet looking to me. Tevez will probably start as he has been looking nice, but I don’t fancy being Fergie when they are all on form.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:39
@dan(u-ol): Keep looking over your shoulder mate and keep the lights on at night. One day you will be Grogerrified.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:42
@Craig Mc: Perhaps your computer has been Danified. It’s showing up normally on mine. Turn your system off and reboot it. That should correct the problem I think.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:45
@Grognard: is this optimism we’re seeing from you
I was actually scared for a second that Chelsea would have a meaningful announcement
August 13th, 2008 at 18:45
@TinManUnited: The biggest for me was Poborsky. I thought he was overrated because of one cheeky chip at EURO 96. He also had a hairstyle from the early 70’s and so I knew he was out of touch with what United were looking for. And hey, how about the not so great Cruyff. Jordi Cruyff. Obviously he didn’t turn out as well as his old man.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:47
Wink, I see what you mean about the Roon. He is more of an effective driving force to the team, than Tev. Tevez is more like an all action Scholesy, spending more time in midfield, but is not as efficient in pin point passing. With regards to important goals scored at needed times, I still can’t work out how the feck Wes Brown came to be in the centre forward position to score early in the L’Pool match. I mean come on lol!!!.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:49
@Wink: People are fickle and they are jumping on the Tevez bandwagon right now because of his great attitude and effort. But he is not Rooney. I love Tevez, really I do. What’s not to love, but Rooney on his day is truly a gift from the Gods. He has lost a bit of his form over the past two years because of nagging injuries, being moved all over the place and because he puts too much pressure on himself and works to hard tracking back and doing things he needs to stop in order to conserve energy and keep his emotions in check. If he does that, he will once again be Englands one and true shining light. He needs to stop smoking though, and I am very serious about that. Any modern day player that smokes should seriously get their heads examined.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:50
@Liam: Yes it is, and I’m going to see a doctor about as we speak. I’m concerned that there is something wrong with me. I’m drowning with positive vibes man.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:57
@TinManUnited: Nani is suspended for the Newcastle game. Most probably Hargreaves would play or Fletcher for him. If Berba comes it’ll be him and Tevez and Rooney on the bench.
August 13th, 2008 at 18:58
Okay Grog, I shall take your advice, and pull the plug, let the comp die a quick death, and then defibrillate to jump start it again!. If that doesn’t work, look out for flying computer, instead of flying pigs!!!!!!!.
August 13th, 2008 at 19:05
@sig: How right you were!!!
August 13th, 2008 at 19:07
@Krishnan: No I think Tevez will be put wide with Rooney behind Berba
August 13th, 2008 at 19:10
Totally agree. Its Chelsea who are on the decline. True Ronaldo and Rio had exceptional seasons even by their standards. But Anderson, Nani, Hargreaves and Tevez are going to be better next season and if we get Berbatov we will have a whole new dimension to our attack allowing us to spread the goals around the team and make up for any shortfall from Ronaldo.
As for Chelsea…well they lack genuine width and their defence is not as impassable as it used to be. They still pack a very impressive midfield that can steamroll teams with a goal threat from Lampard and Ballack and Drogba on his day is the best striker in the world. But if you take out any of those three players they are struggling for goals. Meanwhile we have Ronaldo, Rooney, Tevez and hopefully Berbatov all capable of 20 a season plus.
Rooney is a better player than Tevez. He has the ability to lift the entire team the same way Gerrard can for Liverpool. But Tevez is the form player and the most match fit so Id expect him to start the season off.
August 13th, 2008 at 19:11
@OllieY: That might be the general formation till Nani comes in. But if all three are played against Newcastle the bench would be very weak. And also I don’t think SAF would rush Rooney.
August 13th, 2008 at 19:23
I wonder if United will play Silvestra, and Evra further forward while Nani is out. I would like to see Fabio Da Silva play in front of Evra, to see how he plays. He looks a good player, and he is supposed to be better than Rafael, who has had the opportunities so far.
August 13th, 2008 at 19:45
@Krishnan: What do you mean rush him? He had a virus and I’m sure its cleared up so it wouldn’t be rushing him. He looked fine at the charity sheild, so I’m pretty shore he will be starting.
August 13th, 2008 at 19:50
@Grognard: Mate, I think Wakey has a point. He isn’t world class yet, because he hasn’t proved himself at the highest level. And that’s not his fault because he’s not in a club that will help achieve what he’s capable of. And by that I mean winning meaningful stuff apart from the Eredivisie title. There is a thin line between a great player and a world class one, and that is on how one performs on the biggest stages. He needs to make a move (either Spain or England) if he’s to make the step up from very good to world class.
He may be world class according to you, but at the moment it’s a matter of personal opinion rather than something tangible on the world stage.
August 13th, 2008 at 20:01
@Krishnan: Yah I forgot about Nani, the little slapper. We”l def see one or two of the yound ones on the subs bench Sunday. Perhaps Possebon or Raphael. If Rooney feels he is fit then he will be playing on Sunday though.
August 13th, 2008 at 20:09
Nice to see Anderson getting good use. He didn’t even play today. Might as well send him home!
August 13th, 2008 at 20:20
@TinManUnited:
Much as I can’t wait to see Ando playing for United again… He didn’t play today only because Brazil had already qualified for the next stage.
August 13th, 2008 at 21:27
Any news on Berbatov???
August 13th, 2008 at 21:29
@Red Diablo: He went for a haircut today, so he will look nice for the United team photo on friday. lol
August 13th, 2008 at 21:40
Is anyone watching the ‘pool game? Standard Liege have missed a peno and have had some great chances to take the lead. (btw I’m only watching the match because my brother supports them)
August 13th, 2008 at 21:48
@Grognard: i dont care for past form, as you said for the last 2 YEARS(since the last euros actually) rooney has been off form, its OK when your a couple of matches of form but YEARS, thats pathetic. right now tevez is better then rooney, we can not just assume playing rooney with berbatov will recapture his form, knowing him, it wont. Tevez is the man on form right now, just like i predicted months ago, i remember all the negative feedback i got for that, now look whos laughing, i predicted this type of form from tevez and i think he is better then rooney right now. with a tevez berbatov partnership i am more then confident with of domestic success and hopefully european success when tevez on this form, and berbatov banging in the goals. but with a tevez-rooney or a berbatov rooney partnership, we will get goals but it wouldnt breed the same success as an on form tevez-berbatov partnership. if you dont understand what i mean, think off this, whats the better partnership, Dos santos and bent(pretty good partnership, could pull of some magic) or berbatov and bent, the latter obviously wins, yet the first could still bring them success.
August 13th, 2008 at 21:50
@Stephen:
“He has scored 70 goals in 82 games for Ajax and 8 in 13 for Holland, that would be good enough for me.
“
His scoring record isnt in question. Sig brings up the point nobody wants to address. If he is so bloody good at scoring why is no one coming in for him? I am not sold on Huntelar at all, and I dont think Fergie is either.
I am very curious about Manucho, logic would tell us he isnt ready to contribute seeing how he is fresh out of the angolan league. and the move to the EPL let alone the champions of Europe is a big ask for 98% of the footballers out there. The thing that intrigues me is, why would Fergie sign and unproven 25 year old unless he saw buckets of raw talent? Im willing to bet Fergie thinks he has the ability to play at this level and contribute, but he isnt sure if he has the temperment to hack it. Case in point Forlan, loads of ability but he just isnt suited for United.
August 13th, 2008 at 21:58
Manucho will make it. Rooney is out of position too often rather than out of form Dan(u)ol. But we shall see this season!.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:01
I watched L’Pool tonight, and was bored out of my mind. If Torres was on the field, I think he was hiding. All hype and no substance on tonights effort. Bland, Bland, Bland.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:06
welcome to the best team in the world mr Berba
thanks for making united the first and last perfect team in the world
August 13th, 2008 at 22:08
@Craig Mc: Just the fact that rooney is our engine sohuld be enough for you?
I mean you actually criticizing him?
August 13th, 2008 at 22:14
Me and Grogs already had the Rooney-Tevez debate. Let it go, it leads to nowhere. Just sit back and watch them continue to strengthen their partnership. People wondered wether or not they could play together last season. But when they were both on form they were truly breathtaking.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:26
@Stephen:
He wasnt ever used in the role but there was alot of talk especially amongst those who regulary watched the reserves that Rossi that his style of playing and his size would have made it easy to mould him in a Paul Scholes mould (old Paul Scholes that is, not the Paul Scholes we have seen the last couple of seasons)
Rooney himself shares many an attribute with Rossi. He drops deep, reads the game well, can hold his own. You certainly could see Rooney being involved in the centre before reading the game, bursting into the box and finding himself on the end of a ball as its not that different to what he does now when playing at his best. He likes being involved in the build up and goes looking for the ball, he often takes up strange positions but which ultimately end up being good.
@MoYa:
And he was booked in the first game, another booking would have seen him out of the next game. Hence him being rested
@Grognard:
He isnt world class yet. Otherwise we would be labelling any player who did well in any league world class. Like many players he has the potential to be world class but approaching 25 he is also very close to becoming another player who wasted his potential. As RR said he need needs to get a move to England or Spain as he needs to put the final part of his development into play. He needs to surround himself with better players and be playing against better opposition that presents a challenge rather than coasting it in Holland. If he is to do that he either has to be willing to goto a less prestigious club in a more competitive league or needs to be willing to potentially play second fiddle at a United or Real level club for a season (And thats not saying he would have to, some players do thrive in such surroundings and hit the ground running but many dont). I do think if he moves to a top league in the next year he has the qualities to be in the world class striker group by the time he is 27-28 but he really could go the other way if he doesnt move soon
August 13th, 2008 at 22:37
On the Rooney Debate I have to say in the last couple of seasons he has frustrated me alot in game. He is capable of being amazing and often is but even at his best his game is littered with sloppy play when it comes to the simple stuff. Things like simple 5 yard passes from him all too often go astray, play others into danger ect ect. If he could get these routine aspects to a better and more consistent level then I think it would do a world of good to his overall level of his play .
August 13th, 2008 at 22:39
@johnsom33: Really when did you have this debate? we had this same debate(well me and a bloke named conor actually, grognard just commented on it i believe) about tevez and rooney, grog thought tevez would never be prolific, then i posted his stats, which actually prove other wise if you look carefully. Tevez has been prolific at the start of his career, but since 2003 i believe, he has never had a summer off, he’s just been playing football for the last few years non-stop, which is where his goalscoring starts to decline, but i believe after the summer he just had, he will bring his game up a few gears, and he has, just look at the pre-season and the games against pompey, he looks possessed, im backing him for 20-25 goals.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:45
@dan(u-ol): Yeah! But Rooney on his best position as a 2nd striker! = Destruction of the enemy!
August 13th, 2008 at 22:46
Can someone explain this to me on a phew points I am about to make first of all chelsea’s super arrogance, it seems to me that chelsea have not stopped running their big mouths. we hear terry come out with idiotic points like they are a team on the up, what have chelsea shown in the transfer market replacing one ageing average midfielder with another who was spat out and is a barcelona reject. And they buy anther RB it’s not a transfer summer for chelsea that is making united shiver in fear. let’s look at their squad
chelsea’s squad.
Goalkeepers
cech 26 cudicini 34 hilario 31
defence
bosingwa 25 ferrira 29 terry 27 carvalhio 30 alex 26 ivanovic 22 a cole 27 bridge 28
midfield
lampard 30 essien 25 ballack 30 deco 31 mikel 21 wright phillips 27
j cole 27 maloudo 28
strikers
drogba 31 anelka 30 shevchencko 32
30 year old players 9
I look at that squad and it’s not a squad that is on the way up more on the way down, our midfield is just as good as theirs our attack is a younger and better than theirs and our defence is better. I dont call foster brown ferdinand vivic evra anderson carrick hargreaves ronaldo nani tevez rooney players on the way down, add the players like the brazilian twins the possebon the player we just signed welbeck united seem to have a structure that is in place to win many more trophies.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:51
@Red Ranter: You are forgetting he has also scored at a very good rate for Holland. And Ajax isn’t exactly playing in the Iraq first division. Don’t nullify a players world class status just because he is not in an elite league. His skills translate to any level. He’s just that good. Sorry but I have to disagree with that. Holland is a bloody factory for world class players and they all start there. And the great ones were world class before they moved to Italy, Spain or England.. And yes we are talking about personal opinions here but seeing as I’m right, that’s OK.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:53
@dan(u-ol): DAN. Read this carefully. Rooney is only 23. He has plenty of time to mature and get better. Don’t write him off so easily. Jeez, that’s fickle. If he was 29 I’d agree with you.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:54
Let me just say this. There’s no way that Rooney will be benched. There’re a few reasons for this. First of all, he’s simply too good. Anyone claiming, his form has suffered… well, look at his stats. They’re improving every year, and that’s quite marvellous considering his injuries.
Second, SAF likes him too much. You can never disregard the feelings of the manager on such issues, and even though, SAF surely likes Tevez as well, he has a thing for Rooney. Luckily, he has good reason to feel this way, since Rooney is one of the most gifted players in the world… even when off his best form a bit. Yes, he’s that good. People tend to disregard the influence he has on games due to his movement, vision and passing. Frankly, there’s noone better than him at these very important features.
So while Tevez is a great great player (who I admire very much), he’ll be dumped before Rooney, simply because Rooney is the better overall player.
I’d prefer if both Tevez and Rooney could be on the pitch, though, and luckily we’ll see loads of that this season as well, even with the signing of Berbatov. They’re so industruous together. Imagine those two and Ronaldo running around Berbatov’s great little flicks… uhh, I’m getting all aroused.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:55
@dan(u-ol): No doubt Tevez has looked very sharp and very determined this pre season! I think its impossible to leave him out so will be interesting to see how Fergie plays it. I dont think we will see a settled partnership but whatever 2 Fergie goes with(hell all 3 of them will work!) its gonna scare any defence. But pre season form means nothing once the serious football starts, lets see how they are all performing after a few games. I for one wouldnt leave Rooney out and I hope he gets given a chance to shine in his favoured deeper role but whilst Ronaldo is out I can see him being used out wide.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:55
Red Diablo, what on earth are you on about. I was supporting the Roon because Dan(u)ol was saying he was out of form for 2 years. I was saying to Dan(u)ol Rooney wasn’t so much out of form, as being played out of position. I am sorry you misunderstood!.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:56
@dan(u-ol): No doubt Tevez has looked very sharp and very determined this pre season! I think its impossible to leave him out so will be interesting to see how Fergie plays it. I dont think we will see a settled partnership but whatever 2 Fergie goes with(hell all 3 of them will work!) its gonna scare any defence. But pre season form means nothing once the serious football starts, lets see how they are all performing after a few games. I for one wouldnt leave Rooney out and I hope he gets given a chance to shine in his favoured deeper role but whilst Ronaldo is out I can see him being used out wide.
August 13th, 2008 at 22:59
@Craig Mc: oh ok! then all those things i said to u go to dan!
August 13th, 2008 at 23:00
@wakey: Sorry pal but I’m not that stupid. The Eredivisie is not just any league in the world. It’s amongst the top ten leagues in the world and in the top 6 in Europe. This silly bias that players are only world class if they play in Italy, Spain, England and perhaps Germany is such utter nonsense and complete bollocks.
Look, lets drop the Huntelaar jabs as it’s me pissing me off and it’s pointless now as we are not buying him. So leave the poor Dutchman alone and give me some peace in the process. The topic is truly tired and really, now it does not really matter anymore if he is world class or a total muppet. He’s not a United player so it’s time to say goodbye to the subject.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:03
@Grognard: HEHE! Yes Grognard admits defeat for Huntelaar!
GO BERBA!
August 13th, 2008 at 23:07
@micheal: Excellent research their mate. Too true. Chelsea are still quality but they are not in our class. The only reason they compete so close to us in the standings and in the Cl is because they play a style that chokes off inferior teams and then they have enough quality to poach a winner. They are drab uninspiring and lacking in speed, and width and they are too too old to be taken seriously against us. Hell, if we had Berbatov last year we would have won the Double with much greater ease. Hell, we would have one the Treble. It was our shortage of forwards and us being forced to play 4-5-1 or 4-6-0 to survive. That’s not happening again unless we are totally crippled by injuries. Our depth up from this year will lead us to glory yet again. I’m convinced of it. We just need Ronaldo back ASAP.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:10
@Red Diablo: GROW UP! Try to contribute some interesting and informative material rather than your pointless and irritating comedic jabs. I for one don’t find them funny and pissing me off because I missed out on my selection for our striker is rubbing it in a little to deep and to often. I like Berbatov so, I’m not that upset. Except of course when you keep up the childish ribbing. What are you 15?
August 13th, 2008 at 23:11
@Grognard: Wakey has a point though. The Eredivisie might be one of the top 6 leagues in the world, but look at the defenses of most of the teams there. That could partly be the reason why Huntelaar has scored so many goals. Now he needs to challenge himself more and play against tough defenses in England or Spain. If he stays at Ajax, he could be a legend there but he would never be called a great player because of the level of the opposition he played against. For that at least he needs to leave Ajax. Ajax are not even playing in the Champions League this season.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:13
@Ryan: Lets remember one thing about Tevez. Yes he has looked really good this off season and he has worked his ass off but you know something, he is a forward and I;m not seeing a bucket full of goals. He’s far from perfect. When it comes to strikers, I prefer substance to style. After all, it’s all about bulging the back of the old onion bag.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:16
Red Diablo, what’s going on in your head tonight mate lol?. Grog doesn’t say anywhere he is giving up on Huntelaar, just on the present type of debating about him. If he could though, he would def have Huntelaar at United and I think even before Berba, although he like Berba too. That’s the impression I am getting anyway.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:17
@Krishnan: Yes and the defense in the last 10 teams in the EPL are that much better hey? Give me a break. The EPL is an overrated league that is top heavy with 4 or 5 excellent teams and a whole lot of shite after that. PSV and Ajax aren’t exactly pushovers in European competition either you know. You may think he has a point and so may RR but I don’t so I see no real reason to go on about it as you guys are not going to change my mind on Huntelaar. And one day when he moves to a top club, I will be vindicated. I just hope it isn’t Chelsea, Arsenal or Real Madrid.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:23
I do agree with those of you who think Huntelaar needs to move to England or Spain. Hell even Huntelaar knows that himself. He has been angling for a move all summer, saying how he loves and favours teams with history like Man Utd and Barca. He can’t be that bad if Arsene Wenger is interested in signing him. It must be that Ajax are pricing him out of the market. I feel sorry for the lad!.
August 13th, 2008 at 23:31
@Grognard: You are right and we know both Tevez and Rooney have it in them to improve their tallys from last season. I just hope Rooney has an injury free season and shows us exactly what we know he has in his locker.
August 14th, 2008 at 0:05
@Grognard: I’m not pushing you to accept my opinion. Whatever you say, he has not played against top class defense and we don’t know how he would perform against good defenses. Ajax did not go past the Champions league qualifiers in the last 2 years, and have not qualified again this season. He missed a penalty in one of those matches which Ajax lost. He scored against Inter Milan on his debut in a 2-2 draw but other than that he has never been tested. That is the point I’m putting across. In order to prove himself as a great, he needs to play against tough opponents.
August 14th, 2008 at 0:08
Grognard,
I think Wakey and I haven’t knocked Huntelaar as being sub standard. I do honestly think he will move to a top club soon and that he is quality. But he needs to make the move if he needs to make that next career step. And the Dutch league like it or not, is not the place.
There has been no attempt at making jabs, so I don’t understand the need to get pissed off about it. I cannot honestly see any attempt here being made to piss you off regarding Huntelaar that is.
And you are almost right about Red Diablo. He mentioned it earlier, he is actually 16 years old!
August 14th, 2008 at 0:12
@Grognard: @Craig Mc:
HEHE! OK OK! I apologize!
the thing is that as I finally saw Grognard Happy and Optimistic!
And I was bored waiting when the news would come that Berba had finally signed!
I just couldnt help ruining his day! HAHA!HEY just kidding mate! Take it easy!
Anyway about contributing to this Blog! Del Piero scored a Cracker! In the UCL qualifying gamE!
Oh and Pool couldnt beat a Belgium team! Leige something!
HAHA! When Berba comes to OT! We will show what a partnership is!
And about the Huntelaar banter!
Looks like we all are forgetting where Ruud came from? And how he became a hit!
August 14th, 2008 at 0:13
@Red Ranter: Oh come on! He was still wrong by 1 YEAR!
Thats a big difference!
NO AGE DISCRIMINATION PLS!
August 14th, 2008 at 0:18
@Craig Mc: I think the Arsenal interest was all media BS, since Wenger came out saying he knew Ade would stay all along and that he was never shopping for a striker.
Anyway, still waiting for tomorrow, it seems like it might finally be the day when we sign him…hopefully
@Craig Mc: I doubt it cus all along the price that is being quoted in the press is between £18-22m and at 24 i’ll say he’s worth it, a lot better than Berbatov at 27 for £25-28m, I’m not so sure that its Ajax pricing him out
August 14th, 2008 at 0:19
@Rd: Yeah! August 14th would be the perfect day for Berba to sign! Its Independence day of Pakistan on that day!
August 14th, 2008 at 0:23
@Red Ranter: If this is a strictly over 18 blog! No prob! I’ll go!
August 14th, 2008 at 0:25
@Red Diablo: Did I mention that?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:04
RD, if that the right asking price by Ajax for Huntelaar, then I just don’t understand. Surely at today very inflated prices, 18 – 22 mill would be a bargain. I think most clubs would be happier at the 18 mill, so probs 22 bit too much.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:09
Red Diablo, no problem mate, no offence taken or apology needed lol. As for the age thing, we were all young and mischevious once. I am the very mature age of all of 24 years old now though!.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:17
To be honest, I don’t mind the Berba signing over Huntelaar. I think Huntelaar is more multi-dimensional because of his ability to play as a pure target man a la RVN, while at the same time being significantly more mobile than Ruud or a target man type. I think Berba can do wonders for us with his pace, possession, and ability to split out wide and allow Rooney, Tevez, Ronaldo, or even Hargo make some runs in the box. The pace alone of our attacking players this year with a stiker of this sort will be a thing of beauty.
The interesting thing now, assuming the signing happens, are the multitude of formations at SAF’s disposal. I’ve always been a huge fan of the 4-2-3-1 and I think this is the first year in a while we have the personnel to execute it to perfection, especially in the CL. I have wood thinking about the amount of counter-attacks can be staged with Hargo or Carrick puching the ball up and the pace of our front four finishing.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:29
@Craig Mc: Yeah! Thanks for the consolation!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:24
I think the new headings are awesom
e!!!!!!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:26
@BCsteve: I definitely hope to see the 4-2-3-1 used at times this year…CT/Roo/CR/Berb all playing at once is a wonderful thought. Add that to a solid group along the back and plenty of talented CM who prefer playing deeper roles and it creates a very imposing team. Unfortunately, I think we will rarely use this formation. Fergie will be forced through injuries and high volume of matches to rotate heavily. The front four won’t be used all at once very often, but I hope we do get to see it a few times because it should be magic. Can you imagine the da Silva brothers running the flanks in the formation?
………………………………….
I wish we would receive notification about Manucho’s work permit. Does anyone know when we should hear? I would expect before the season, but who knows… I just want to get the guy in training and hear how he is rated by the staff. At the very least he will give Campbell solid competition for the 4th spot.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:16
@IBleedRed, I unfortunately agree with you. The depth of the squad almost acts as a hindrance to the 4-2-3-1, not to mention the fact that it would likely only be seen in the CL, and even then, only if we draw a Spanish side in the knockout phases. Still, it’s comforting to know that SAF has that formation in his back pocket. If only CQ were around to encourage its use more often. But until then, I am curious to see what SAF can do with the 4-4-1-1 in league. Back when RVN was around, we saw a United that was capable of dominating when the forward was used effectively. However, the supporting cast of 2002/03 and other years with a target man was not nearly as good as it is now, so I expect good things with this formation. At any rate, if/once the squad gets healthy, I expect fireworks to be in store for us.
The only negative thing about signing a striker is that it will inevitably lead to a dip in CR’s goal total, which is already being compounded by his injury. This is bad for two reasons: 1. Some fucking idiots may think that Terry’s are vindicated and 2. If he does end up leaving next summer, Real will try to low-ball us with the fee. If that is the case, then SAF will undoubtedly tell them to fuck off, but we would all have to sit through a summer of horse shit coming from the Guardian, Telegraph, and every news outlet on the Iberian peninsula. Just a thought.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:04
@Red Ranter: Yes he is 16 and he’s been throwing the Huntelaar jabs for a while now.
As for Huntelaar, I’m truly disappointed that we never signed him but thankfully a good second choice will be showing up to dull the pain. And I am truly fed up and tired of all the negative talk about him not being this or not being that. An elitist like myself who has watched as much of that lad as I have just has a low pain threshold regarding that stuff because I honestly feel I know better. I know you don’t like to hear that kind of stuff but I’m being honest. I’m a good judge of talent and I’ve rarely made an error when it comes to a player or a prospect. Even when many were calling Ronaldo a show pony I just knew he would be the best in the world one day and I had a very strong feeling he would be a good goal scorer, although I would never had predicted 42 goals from him. So my ego unfortunately has a hard time conceding defeat over Huntelaar. And I’m just waiting for the day he proves me right to everyone. But you are right, he seems far to comfortable playing for Ajax and he needs to move up in the footballing world. That fucking van Basten did nothing for the lad’s stock and value by not playing him at the EUROS. And now the cunt want shim to stay at Ajax. If I was Huntelaar I’d tell him where he can stick it.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:11
@Grognard: I know you are being honest about it. But getting worked up over someone for calling Huntelaar crap is just not worth it, is all I am saying. It’s not like he insulted your family or something. I understand your irritation at what you deem as uninformed opinions from others, but then that’s free speech for you.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:14
And about the Huntelaar jabs, I thought it was meant in good humour albeit repetitive. I never thought that would make your blood boil. Anyway the kid apologized so I guess he’ll know better next time before sharing a joke with you.
Hopefully there’s no more bad blood between the two of you.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:45
There’s something wrong w/ the site in my Firefox. I didn’t even notice that there was a new entry because the text is up in the black banner and there’s no Red Rants logo or anything. I’ve cleared my cache and cookies but no dice.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:57
Grognard, my consolations on Huntelaar. Perhaps after bad break ups with Stam and RVN SAF has decided to stop going Dutch or just got blinkered by his admiration for Berbatov. I am sure he will get his chance at a big club and show the world just how good he is. I just hope it is not Real!
August 14th, 2008 at 6:39
@Red Ranter: Where do you live? I just assumed you were a Brit but I’m guessing not since you are posting at 4AM.
Another morning arrives and there’s nothing confirmed in the papers, which is disappointing. Hopefully we’ll wrap something up soon, but I’ll add to the Huntelaar debate before it’s too late.
In my crude managerial mind, I would say that choosing between Berbatov and Huntelaar is damn easy. A lot has to be said for being proven in the league of the proposed signing club, and it’s a choice between a proven Premier League Genius, and a Dutch league goal machine, I really think there is no choice (even if you do have to pay a little more).
EDIT: If the above wasn’t obvious, I’m Pro-Berbatov.
August 14th, 2008 at 6:58
League tells Spurs to prove United tapped up Berbatov
August 14th, 2008 at 7:01
@benjd: Live in the United States. And I am not a Brit. (It’s funny because I get that a lot.) Anyway, I believe that’s enough information… and wouldn’t want to share anymore about myself over the “interwebs”.
August 14th, 2008 at 7:08
@Red Ranter: Hah, yeah sorry. I did mean “what country” rather than “where is your house”.
August 14th, 2008 at 7:18
@Red Ranter: I think the reason I get so worked up is twofold. First, I got my hopes up for quite a long time that this player would one day wear United red and second the personal man hours I’ve put in watching this player perform and develop has to count for something with me. It’s not just that I know more about the player, it’s the sacrifice of many hours watching the Dutch league to virtually scout a player like him and a few others. I’m far from a professional scout but there are times I put in as much time, if not miles in to the game.
August 14th, 2008 at 7:22
@Red Ranter: No theres no bad blood and it’s not like I don’t have a sense of humor but he began to rub it in a number of times. I can take the joke the first time. By the third or fourth time, it gets irritating as it’s just adding salt to the wound. Losing out on a player you had your heart set on is not easy to take. Having it rubbed in your face by a kid whose having a cheap laugh on your account…..well, I just kind of lost it a bit. But no, I hold no grudges towards the lad. And generally, I can take a joke. Hell, Dan pulled a worse one on me and I took that one fine.
August 14th, 2008 at 7:26
@colver: I don’t think he is judging all Dutchmen based on Stam and RVN. I’m sure EVDS doesn’t think he is. I honestly think it wasn’t a lack of respect or admiration for Huntelaar. Rather, I think he had his heart and his mind set on Berbatov and nothing was going to move him from that. With that said, I found out that Berbatov did train today with Spurs. Why would Spurs risk injury to him by having him train before a potential sale? Makes me wonder if the deal is off again. This train wreck of a transfer is making me really fed up to be sure. How about you?
August 14th, 2008 at 7:32
This Berbatov deal seemed to be finally moving ahead yesterday…but still no concrete news. This really takes the pis*.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:22
Now some people are saying that he wont move until spuds get what they want! Tell em you wanna move berba!
August 14th, 2008 at 8:28
@MUFC Fan in America: if you use adblock plus, then disable it.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:36
According to the Mirror newspaper, Levy has now turned again, because Fergie said he was looking at other players, namely Henry etc. So now Levy has changed the agreed asking price from 28 million to 32 million, and allegedly that’s the delay. To be honest, I think United should pull out NOW if that’s the truth, because Berba is not worth the 28 million at his age etc, and Levy wanting to continue to be a total shit, let him feck off. I don’t care if we don’t get anybody. I mean that. Why the feck should we give Levy 32 million, so we are paying for all of spurs transfers. Leave Levy with an angry Berbatov on his hands. I don’t know about you all, but we should NEVER pay 32 million for Berbatov. If we don’t get anybody else, we will get by until Ronnie is back. Fergie please tell Levy to go Feck himself. I mean Berbatov is not like the world’s best player is he. Do not pay 32 mill Fergie, let Levy cry all over the White Hart Land pitch first. I was very enthusiastic about Berba coming to us, but now Levy has pulled this shit, I say forget it!.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:43
@Craig Mc: A minor detail we are missing here is the Mirror article has no quotes and no proof that this is the reason for the impasse. That said, there are reports that Arshavin to Spurs is a done deal.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:54
RR, where are the reports about Arshavin coming from?. Also, I still don’t think we should allow spurs and Levy to take the piss if there is a shred of truth in what the Mirror is reporting.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:59
RR, just saw your earlier post. If your not a brit but an american, then how did you get to love Man Utd so much?. Must have Brit or Irish ancestry somewhere lol?. Whatever, I appreciate this blog provision.
August 14th, 2008 at 9:02
@Craig Mc: Lets talk about Liverpool!
They couldnt bear a Belgium team! With their BEST STRIKEFORCE that was going to seet the world alight for them! HAHAHA!
Looks like it going to be 19 YRS!
Oh and to RR!
We should have a UCL+PL winners headrer as well!
that would be neat!
To any Pakistani out there, Happy Independence Day!
August 14th, 2008 at 9:05
@craig mc
good point. we can always get huntelaar for 20 million, but id prefer berbatov
August 14th, 2008 at 9:05
@BCsteve: to insert @ symbol, click the arrow next “IBleedRed says:”
Anyways…
Continuing on the 4-2-3-1 discussion…
VDS (Foster, TK)
Wes (Nev, RDS) Rio (Wes, Evans) Vidic (Wes, Evans) Evra (FDS, Silly???)
Scholes (OH, Fletcher) Carrick (Andy, Possebon)
Ronaldo (Nani, Park) Rooney (Campbell) Tevez (Nani, Giggs)
Berbatov
I think in a injury/suspension free world, this would be our strongest squad. Look at it. That is frightening. I left JOS out of the depth chart because the man is too cunning to be pinned down to one spot.
August 14th, 2008 at 9:07
Red Diablo, happy Pakistan Independence day mate. Do you have speacial celebrations going on today in your country?.
As for L’Pool, as I said in an earlier post, I saw the match, and it was truly bland. They didn’t get into the opposition area hardly. Hope they keep that up!.
August 14th, 2008 at 9:09
@Craig Mc: Ashravin reports= http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/tottenham/2554523/Tottenham-Hoyspur-close-in-on-Andrei-Arshavin—Football.html
August 14th, 2008 at 9:15
Er are we still on the brink………………………
August 14th, 2008 at 9:20
i agree with RR, huntelaar might be good, but he will reach the next level by staying with ajax, he needs to move to a different league, a top league in europe to see what he’s made off. i personally believe, he wouldnt make it in our league, i’ll continue this comment in a couple of minutes, my PC is restarting, CRAP.
August 14th, 2008 at 9:29
Stephen – are we still on the brink?. At 32 million, I hope not mate. That’s 3 times as much as Spurs paid for him. I will be pissed if Fergie forks out that price for the Berba.
August 14th, 2008 at 9:45
@Craig Mc: If we pay £32m I will be very annoyed, @ £25m I still donn’t think he is cheap but palletable.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:21
Looks like Madrid have made an offer for huntelaar, we need to hurry and get berbatov or put in a bid 4 hunter!
the windows become annoying again………
August 14th, 2008 at 11:23
We need a striker. we should get one for whatever price in my opinion.
But of course, 35 mil plus is pushing it.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:24
Suddenly its not looking too good……
August 14th, 2008 at 11:26
The spuds are greedy twats
August 14th, 2008 at 11:34
Levys a cock
August 14th, 2008 at 11:52
@Craig Mc:
I agree mate that is a ridculous price but its getting to the point of what choice do we have now. Its crap to think that the best and biggest football club in the world is being forced into a corner over the signing of strikers available.
Still I’d rather we pay £25-30 mill for Berb than £20 mill for the Hunter. I just don’t want to see that style of player back at Utd unless its for a plan B to bring off the subs bench. What would you not do to have an Ole player back at the club again.
@edi:
Yes Levy is a cock and so is John Terry. You can never mention that too many times
August 14th, 2008 at 12:15
@Craig Mc: I would be ready to give that much money to a top striker like him!
Face it whatever the price is! We need him! And I dont think that money is an issue for us!
August 14th, 2008 at 12:24
@Grognard:
Peter Crocuh has a pretty good strike rate for England, does that make him world class. Huntelaars strike rate in the dutch league is artificial due to the level of competition and his chances to play for Holland have often come against relatively poor opposition. Strike rates alone really don’t tell the whole story with a striker.
As for Dutch players being world class before moves. That really hasn’t been the case for a long time now. Back in the 90’s when you had the great Ajax side the league was strong due to the player restrictions in Europe meaning the top dutch players all stayed in the league then that was the case but as soon as the restrictions were removed the exodus started and now the quality quickly moves to a stronger league. Its now little more than a feeder league and a retirment home, one of the stronger of feeder leagues due to the Dutch development system but a feeder league all the same. For its fortunes to be reversed it needs Blatters 6+5 rule
@Rd:
18-22 million for a player who is nigh on 25 and hasnt any experiance in a top league and thus is still somewhat of an unproven entity is a little on the high side at this moment. If you can get him for the 18mill then thats probally just about acceptable but still on the high side but as it edges up it gets worse.
@Grognard:
Cut the “I’m all knowing” crap. You arent the only person who eyes and can watch football. Infact if you seriously think the Dutch league is a real test for Huntelaar your eyes are clearly need to be tested. David Jones I think has shown this, he excelled in his time in Holland and has done ok in the Championship but couldnt make the United team and struggled to shine even in the poor Derby side in the prem.
Anyone can see he has the raw attributes to be a top player, raw attributes alone though mean nothing. Alot of players can look to have the raw attributes but just don’t ultimatly cut it. You need to have the right attitude and personality and you need to be able to refine the raw attributes.
Theres an article on Soccerlens about the MLS which discusses the damage the MLS has done ultimatly to the US International side due to helping squander the potential of future stars. Alot of the players who have looked good just dont have a competative enough league to refine their potential and as such plateued. One example is Fredy Adu who was the next big thing, but failed to really improve in the MLS but has become a more complete player in a more compeative situation in Portugal despite not playing as often.
Huntelaar has the potential but he is raw and we dont know if he has the attitude to cut it in a more competative enviorment. He needs however to make the move to give himself the chance of not letting the dutch league squander his potential
August 14th, 2008 at 14:06
sooo whats holding spurs up with the Berbatov transfer… do they truly believe they will hold us to ransom at £32million
sorry but he’s truly not worth that kind of money… money in football blows my mind right now… I thought only a few years ago you could get the likes of Messi for that figure. YUP someone with a little more left in there battery… and at the age Berba is he’s no duracel bunny
August 14th, 2008 at 17:49
@dan(u-ol): Speaking of CRAP, stating the theory of yours that Huntelaar cannot make it in the English League is exactly that…..CRAP. BULLCRAP to be precise. Fine, you don’t think he is good enough for United, I’ll live with that one, but to say he is not good enough to play for any of the other teams in this league, which half of them are CRAP anyway, is totally ridiculous. And you base this on what profound knowledge or evidence. The one time you’ve seen him in the UEFA Championships, or the less than a handful of times you caught highlights of him playing for Ajax on tv or YouTube?
Sorry for my snobby and elitist outlook but regardless of what RR thinks, I will not let blokes like you get away with putting down excellent players by saying they can’t do this and that, when they clearly haven’t taken the time to really see them play enough to offer an informed opinion. Honestly, and be truthful here, how many times have you seen him play a full match? You once told me and so I’m testing your memory to see if you are lying or not.
Although this is a freedom of speech blog and people are welcome to their theories regardless of experience, it’s my pet peeve when people offer their uninformed opinion and there are the few occasions where I just can’t take it. You don’t see me offering much on players from Africa, France, or even Italy. Although I watch a little Italian footy, I am basically ignorant to the goings on in those leagues because they don’t interest me in the least. Where I am highly opinionated of course is the German, English, Spanish and Argentine leagues. So please DAN, I implore you, stop making claims about players you know very little about. Stick to those you do know a lot about, the Manchester Utd reserves for example. Because lets face it, if you were manager of United, most of them would be first team players. Lets be honest here, players like Welbeck, Evans, Simpson etc you see as good enough to be first squad. I have a good friend who is like you when it comes to baseball. He knows everything about the LA Dodgers minor league teams and players, and quite a bit about the Dodgers but he forgets that they play in a league with over 30 teams. He knows nothing about the other teams. It’s called tunnel vision, and it’s fine I guess. The difference between him and you though is he doesn’t talk to me about players in the Yankees farm system because he knows nothing about them and he knows that I do.
Stick to the players you know about if you are going to make bold statements on their ability and qualities. Sorry mate but your last post just exasperated me big time. I do apologize for my elitist attitude but when it comes to defending a player for being wrongfully judged, I’m the Supreme Judge Advocate. Be fair.
August 14th, 2008 at 17:54
@wakey: You just don’t get it mate, and you never will. You “wakey” up every morning with one thing on your mind, how do I piss off the Grognard today? What will I find to disagree with him on this fine day? Personally, I don’t care anymore because I find your arguments weak and pointless. I also find them provokingly negative in tone. I am also sick and bloody tired of having the same argument about Huntelaar for a month now. Please mate, give it a rest and shut up. I’m not playing anymore. How much clearer must I get on this subject? Also, I have had just about enough of your insults to last me a lifetime. If you have a problem with me, bring it up with RR. Otherwise leave me the fuck alone and stop baiting me into arguments.
August 14th, 2008 at 18:02
@wakey: One more thing. If you have a problem with me and the way I think, then I suggest you either keep it to yourself, or you complain to RR via e-mail. I for one am fed up with you trying to bait me and constantly get under my skin by insulting me and forwarding you pathetic and inconsequential little agenda. As of today, I will never ever respond to anything you ever write again because it is clear you are a prick when it comes to dealing with me. Life is too short and my tolerance level and patience is even shorter so as of now, you don’t exist and nothing you have to say will ever be responded to. If you think that is childish, fine. Consider self preservation. Why? Because I’m so fucking to telling you what you can do and where you can go with your opinions that I would be really breaking the cardinal rule of this blog. And frankly speaking, this blog means a lot to me, and you and your views are personally worthless in my eyes. It’s not about debate or disagreement with you. It’s about ego and oneupmanship. Your childish and I won’t play with a bloody juvenile. Consider our conversations dead and in the past
August 14th, 2008 at 19:21
Grognard,
wakey has not attacked you in anyway. He has made valid arguments. The only thing that may have been offensive to you is when he said cut the I’m all-knowing crap. But I already warned you about the perils of calling yourself an elitist.
You are letting your past tiffs with him influence the way you argue with him. He has disagreed with you and there is no irrefutable evidence of one-upmanship. If you feel baited then you can always stay out of it. What wakey has done is not illegal.
Yes he has attacked you inappropriately in the past but I have deleted quite a bit of them. But on this occasion he wasn’t in the wrong.
August 14th, 2008 at 21:11
@Red Ranter: Yes I’m letting my past tiffs influence me and it only takes a little insult or a stubbornness to understand that I’m not buying an argument to get me going. He’s been on it for weeks now regarding Huntelaar. On top of that he always makes snide little comments like, You’re wrong and again I won the argument.” I’m not so upset with the crap comments as much as I’m upset with the relentless badgering regarding this issue. I have told him time after time after time that I don’t agree and I have been a Hell of a lot more politer about it. But he is relentless and he needs to get his dig in at my expense. I don’t appreciate it and I am wise to it. I don’t care what his views are regarding Huntelaar. I know what they are. He knows what mine are. So why does he persist with this? I’ll tell you why? He loves to bait me into an argument. It’s as simple as that. He’s free to say what he wants about any player he wants, just leave my name out of it and he needs to stop baiting me. I’m no longer interested in what he has to say and I will no longer respond to him.
Yes I’m an elitist but that only explains the fact that I know a lot about certain things and I am a difficult nut to crack when I am well researched or experienced on a certain subject. As I’ve said before, nobody hears a peep out of me when it comes to Italy, France, Portugal and other leagues that I do not watch or read up on. But I consider myself close to an expert on the Bundesliga, EPL and the Dutch and Argentine leagues. I should not be insulted or condemned for this knowledge like no student should condemn their teachers for knowing more about the subject being taught. With most people I do my my very best not to talk down to people or do be overly demanding. And I could give you a list of names on this blog who would agree with me and who have very cordial relations with me on this blog. I have nothing against Wakey personally as i’m sure heis a ecent bloke. But he has a bug up his ass when it comes to me and it has infuriated me. So out of self preservation and preventing a future explosion that both you and will regret, i will choose to ignore him. It’s the best for all three of us.
You can choose to disagree with my view all you want RR. That’s fine and I respect that. It’s just that I know what I am reading and I know how it makes me feel, and I don’t like it. The fact that you have deleted attacks of his in the past says a lot about him and it just adds ammunition to my argument and my stance on the subject. Neville Chamberlain I’m not. I’ll be damned if I allow him to attack me like i’m Poland in 1939.
And finally, his arguments are rarely valid. They are based on rumors and innuendo and he can never give me concrete proof about anything in my opinion. And opinions are subjective aren’t they?
August 14th, 2008 at 22:43
@Grognard:
No you are the one who doesnt get it. Your a hypocrite of the highest order. When it comes to Hunterlaar you have exactly what you claimed Dan has, that being Tunnel Vision. Why is it ok for you to have this tunnel vision so you ignore all the facts but not ok for Dan.
As for claiming my arguments are based on rumours and innuendo. Yeah right because im the one who goes off on players based on what tabloid hacks write even when they debunk their own stories in their articles. Oh wait no that you.
My arguments have pretty much all been backed up by facts yet your responses are always to pick on the few exceptions that help you and your aim to feed your ego as the ‘Special One’ even if the exceptions arent even valid as they are from donkey years ago when the situation was remarkably different. You arent the only football fan reading this blog, or for that matter the only one who can and does watch football from around europe or the world on a regular basis so you are about as much the Special one as Jose Mourinho so just drop the ‘I’m right as I know more’ act
And i’m not trying to bait you, if anything I would say you are the one trying to bait others with your pig headedness. Most people here who have seen him play agree with you that Huntelaar is a real potential star. But alot of people myself included also are able to take our blinkers off and see the bigger picture. We can see the quality of the league he is playing in, we can see how other top players in his league have struggled when moving, we can see that alot of players have stunted their progress by staying in a weak league too long, we can see players more often than not taking time to settle in a higher level of football/a new country/a top team and we see that some leagues can suit a player while others dont. We point this out with examples and what do we get “Your wrong, im the only one who knows about this league as im the messiah” and the odd example thats the exception not the rule or actually disproves your view if you look carfully.
Lets look for example at one of your favourite examples, Mr Dennis Bergkamp. Firstly when he was playing for Ajax it was a different league to the League Huntelaar is playing in now. It was full of the top dutch talent and a some future and current none dutch talent. The league was competative due to this and the quality meant that it was a league that youngsters couldnt just get the start of their football education but could also round it off there. Bergkamp then moved to Italy, the Dutch league was still good at this point but Italy was a step up. He struggled in Italy scoring just 11 goals in 50 league appearances as he just couldn’t settle in the league or the country. He then moved to England, he settled in better than in Italy but it still took him time. Coming to England at the time was actually a step down in level from Italy so that no doubt helped. So while he went on to become one of the EPL greats it wasnt instant and his move up a class from Ajax certainly wasnt rosy. And certainly if you go through the foreign strikers currently at EPL teams you will find that most of them are either seemingly in a Bergkamp at Inter situation of just not fitting in a better league or new country or are in a Bergkamp situation and just took a little while to get accustomed (Torres, Tevez to name just 2)