Oct 26
United Let Everton off the Hook
It was built up to be Rooney’s day. It didn’t quite turn out that way. The former Blue was booed as usual, and the baiting worked to an extent, as he got quite worked up in the process. But the more important talking points will be of how United allowed Everton to claw their way back into a game when they were so rampant to begin with.
It is ever so tempting to revisit the Dr Jekyll and Hyde performances that’s been a feature of this United side — something I’ve been mentioning in the past match reports on how the team switches on and off almost suddenly, and inexplicably. Yesterday, we stomped all over Everton in the first half and it’s amazing how we went in at half time with only one goal to show.
Fletcher had a dream first half, Giggs was sublime, Berbatov was very much at the centre of all that was good. But all this was in the first half.
In the second, Everton suddenly sprung back to life and looked more the battlers of the past few seasons than the pedestrian outfit of the season so far and, to their credit, deserved the goal due to the pressure they exerted on the defence.
Rio Ferdinand had a game to forget, and tactics employed by Ferguson were questionable. The only good thing that could come of yesterday’s result would be a draw today when Chelsea and Liverpool clash. That should keep both table toppers at touching distance.
I felt taking off Rooney was a bad decision despite him having an off game. I thought Nani ought to have started instead of Park. If we are to get more out of Tevez, we need him to be playing more often. Clearly we can’t have him influence the game if he’s not starting. And while that’s difficult considering our striker pair’s form, he could have at least started the Celtic game in midweek.
I thought too much was being made of Phil Neville’s challenge on Ronaldo — who, for me, is still struggling. I am also not impressed by his exaggerated rolling and general whining when things don’t go his way.
All that said, it was a game we should have comfortably won — but we didn’t. Regardless of the position we were in, we should have won. I can’t say anything more because I am disappointed with the result. And that’s especially because of the manner in which we somehow threw away a glorious opportunity to come closer to at least one of the league leaders.
Credit to Everton for picking themselves up after a woeful first half. Sadly, the same couldn’t be said of United after an excellent first half. All it is now is just a case of what could have been…
Related items from Red Rants:
- Everton will not roll over for United
- Everton vs Reds: Appalling But Three Points
- The International Break Will Help United Significantly
- Manchester United did not break Premier League rules in Howard “deal”
- Everton vs Reds: Preview
Tags: Match Reports
October 26th, 2008 at 12:08
Think the players looked really jaded in the second half… Unfair we had such an early kick-off after a midweek game, while the others only play today.
But no excuses… We should have won!
Needed to kill the game off early, extremely disappointing…
October 26th, 2008 at 12:35
Im really looking forward to seeing carrick back..he might have slowed the game down when they were pressuring us before evertons goal.Ronaldo looks terrible,thats probably as poor as he has played in a long time.He almost seemed to be fighting with the ball.I hope something positive comes out of his poor form,maybe his ego wont be as big.
October 26th, 2008 at 12:50
United were hopeless second half. They lacked invention and creativity.
United need to be getting 3 points against all teams outside the top 4 since in the past we have been consistant against the other teams and have not had to necessarily beat the top 4 to win the title.
October 26th, 2008 at 13:16
As usual a “balanced” appraisal of yesterdays match, thanks for the voice of reason RR!
October 26th, 2008 at 13:56
I have to say that I like Everton usually, but the break-yer-fecking-bones tactics did not impress me. United have beaten teams playing this type of football before, so that is no excuse for having drawn – the team was absoultley horrible. Rio, Roo and Ron were high… in fact apart from Park and Giggs nobody did anything worth mentioning. Hope they will bounce off this and give Tevez a bloody start once in a while, will ya?
October 26th, 2008 at 15:07
I think we should be happy with a draw. Everton are actually a really good team and yesterdays game was like a cup-final for them. United look tired, most players have played 90 minutes 6 times in 3 weeks. Ronaldo, Rooney, Vidic, Berba, Giggs and Fletch all need a rest. Hopefully Carrick is back for Wednesday so we can play:
If he was fresh and didnt have an injury he should have started. Park was good, but with Nani we would have gotten more chances. To Fergie from RDE: NANI AND ANDERSON!!! 
VDS
Neville Rio Evans Evra
Nani Carrick Anderson Park
Tevez Rooney and Berba get one half each
We need players to stay resh and we should use Tevez soon. And Andy. And Nani for crying out loud! Brilliant on Tuesday, ditched for yesterday! WTF!?
October 26th, 2008 at 15:08
Oh, and Pool lead. What was gone wrong with this world?
October 26th, 2008 at 15:26
Is it me or would it be preferable if Liverpool won this match??? In the long run, I don’t see them maintaining a winning consistency and will definitely drop points. Chelsea, however are very capable of putting in a long run of undefeated games and any chance to get points from them would be a positive for us. I know the scousers will be unbearable with their ‘this is our year’ rubbish if they won this match, but in the long run, it might be beneficial to United if Chelsea drop points against any team, as I see them as the only real threat to our title.
October 26th, 2008 at 15:58
Gabriel,
Fully agreed with you there mate. I prefer Pool to win today (not that I like them) rather than a draw or a win for Chelski.
Cheers
October 26th, 2008 at 16:25
if i have to choose a side to win between the rents and the fakereds, well i have to choose pollshit this time, come on, they’ll fuck it up late in the season anyway.. =) but i want a draw., how come we play westham on wed? i cant watch the game then,….
October 26th, 2008 at 16:29
oh shit, scousies won.
October 26th, 2008 at 16:36
liverfools were luckey whatever thel muf it up later good that chel dropped points.
ronaldo staying at manutd
October 26th, 2008 at 16:45
Holy shit, the scousers won!
Chelskis unbeaten run is broken by Liverpool? What is going on?! 
No, Liverpool were lucky but I was impressed by them anyway. They are gonna screw it up later in the season but at the moment they look dangerous. Well, they did last season too. I think they were unbeaten until december, then Readin and us beat them twice in a row. So I am not worried so much. Still, how on earth could Chelski lose? 
October 26th, 2008 at 16:49
Guys, Ive scored some slick goals on FIFA 09. Please check them out. Grog and Dan, you may learn something.
Anderson screamer
October 26th, 2008 at 16:50
Rooney is (un)lucky
October 26th, 2008 at 16:51
My game
October 26th, 2008 at 16:56
Very good result for
PoolUnited.October 26th, 2008 at 17:07
@R:
Now all we need is for Arsenal, Portsmouth and Villa to lose so we can remain in 5th place with a game in hand 
Ironic for Chelsea, just before the match, Scolari was proclaiming his squad as the invincibles II
football, eh? 
October 26th, 2008 at 17:29
Allllight; Allllllight, Calm down; calm down….
The Scousers will bollocks up their title run in due course when Gerrard atarts his perennial ten game disappearing act, and the weight of cocsitently performing in the league and the Champions League starts to get to them. Then they’ll simply revert to what they are; largely mediocre and overpriced.
October 26th, 2008 at 17:29
Sorry, just bored.
October 26th, 2008 at 17:47
@RedDevilEddy: Wow! That was class man!
October 26th, 2008 at 17:59
@NicoQB: Thanks!
I do that all the time… 
October 26th, 2008 at 18:05
@NicoQB: The flick from Tevez was his first touch after he came on for Wazza. My usual team is:
VDS
Brown Rio Vidic Evra
Ronaldo Carrick Anderson Nani
Rooney Berbatov
subs: Foster, Rafael, Evans, Hargreaves, Fletcher, Alanzinho/Messi, Tevez
October 26th, 2008 at 18:24
Well a Liverpool win was very good for us! Pool are more likely to drop points in the future than Chelsea so we have a better chance of making up ground.
Still Everton was a game we should have won. There is a definite problem this season. We have completely lost our staying power. This would not matter so much if we could kill games off in the first half. But we don’t and we have always won by outscoring opponents rather than holding leads so when we are misfiring or jaded second half we allow results like this to happen.
Rio and Rooney showed lack of discipline and really sometimes I feel we have leadership problems. That is why teams like Everton can get physical, break our rhythm and we cannot get back into the game. We need players who can stamp their authority and rally the troops.
Ferguson in his old age is indulging in flair players and there is no doubt that on our day we can make any team in the world look positively mediocre. But there are times when I think we still need a midfield general like Keane, a goalkeeper like Schmeichel and defenders like Gary Neville starting.
Other news Mourinho seems to be lined up as a successor. I think we have enough flair to still play attractive football but I think if Mourinho added to that the ability to grind out strings of 1-0 wins stretching dozens of games we’d run away with the title!
October 26th, 2008 at 18:38
For those of you who missed this late last night in the previous post.
Alright I was going to wait until tomorrow to comment on the game but I just can’t wait. I’ll make my observations in point form for effect.
1. Julian Lescott is an ugly mofo and his forehead reminds me of the Sven Goram Erickson puppet on I’m on Setanta Sports. What a melon head.
2. Rather than get angry at Everton for some of their roughhouse tactics in the second half I commend them on showing a lot of heart even though they have very little skill. Moyes is a good motivator but I still feel his tactics were amateur hour and United just blew too many good opportunities in both halves to win the game by two or three goals. Everton had two real opportunities all game and they scored one goal. I counted eight good opportunities for United. They need to be sharper than that.
3. Ronaldo’s lack of finish and first touch has really got me mystified. He should be over the injury rust and conditioning period. He had his moments and he also had some bad luck but he just isn’t comfortable out there. And please, until he can prove to me that he can get the fucking ball over a wall, please have someone else take the free kicks. Stop complaining about the wall and get your head in the game Ronnie. He seems far to occupied with the moments he is unfairly fouled and no call is given. And Phil Neville’s foul on him was not as bad as he made it out to be. Sure it was worth a yellow but Ronaldo rolling around was just a joke and the main reason referees don’t like calling fouls for him. His finishing at times is atrocious or he just seems like a step behind his usual pace and self. Two chances in the last ten minutes that last years Ronaldo would have blasted home. Like I said, I am mystified.
4. I think Fletcher really did a great imitation of a young Paul Scholes in the game. Tidy with his passes and a good instincts on when to go forward. His goal was sublime and an obvious reason why he should be starting. Keep it up Fletch.
5. Ryan Giggs also looked very good today and he made some nice passes and very nifty moves. Unfortunately nothing came from his efforts but the quality and style was there and I think he looked great.
6. Today we saw the Anderson everybody loved so much last year. Desire and more confidence on the ball. His ball to Ronaldo in the 83rd minute should have been a goal and it was truly fantastic. His body control and strength on and off the ball were excellent and he really showed me something considering I have never been one of his loudest advocates. Way to go Andy!!!!
7. Rooney had an off game and players need to wake up to Berbatov’s genius when it comes to passes. Too many times they just didn’t get what he was thinking and that’s too bad because his ideas are true genius. Rooney had a couple of great chances but was unlucky. His yellow card was 50/50 ball where both guys had their cleats up so I am still trying to understand why he was the only one carded?
8. The Rooney yellow and the Neville yellow are just examples of how the referee let the game get out of hand for not calling stuff earlier. Oh and kudos to Vidic and Giggsy for shaking old Louis Saha’s world a bit. Amazing thing is he got up each time and continued. If he was wearing the red of Man Utd that would have been four months in the infirmary flirting with the nurses and crying about his lot in life. The guy is spineless and his game showed it. If I was Saha I would have been so sky high for this game that it would have taken minor miracle to keep him off the scoresheet. As it was, he was invisible until of course he was fouled. The guy is absolutely useless and has no heart whatsoever. Just rubbish.
9. So when is Carlos Tevez ever going to come on and actually score a goal or get close enough to the goal to score a goal? I am tired of the rambling gringo running around with no real point to his game. Get centered and start heading for goal. He just seems like a guy who isn’t sure what his role is. It’s easy Carlos. next to your name in the program it says ST or F. That means striker or forward. They are generally know n for being the guys who try to score goals, not run around midfield like the Tazmanian Devil accomplishing shite. Honestly sometimes that stuff is entertaining and even productive, but here’s the thing mate, SCORE SOME FUCKING GOALS ALREADY!!!!
Sorry about the caps RR.
10. And finally, why the Hell does a class team like United not devour all it’s opponents like they do on FIFA 09? Damn it, why can’t life reflect the reality of my expert use of the side in FIFA 09? Why can’t they kick ass and take names and never let up on teams. OK so I’m joking around a little but bare with me. My FIFA 09 comparison has a point. In a video game the I never and I say never let uop on a team after I have scored a goal. I am a greedy mofo and I love goals so I go for the jugular. United had Everton where they wanted them after the first goal but they let them off the hook. Sure they created some chances but seriously, Everton tactical setup was perfectly suited to United’s game and they should have laid an ass kicking after the first goal. But like many other games they play, they love to let teams off the hook. Sure they score a fair amount of goals but our class and skill is so superior to Everton’s that scoring less than 3 goals against them when they have the ball so much and control of the midfield is inexcusable. Sometimes they lack killer instinct and that little extra bit of quality at the every end. And also, what the Hell was Rio smoking today? Christ he was awful. We know he is good for a couple howlers in a season. Fortunately today his howlers did not count against us.
So we end up with a draw in a game we should have won easily. I’m guessing this won’t be fatal because I am predicting either 0-0 or 1-1 between the Scousers and Chelski tomorrow. Both teams will bottle it and play for a boring draw because they are both formed from the finest shit money can buy. Yes the Grognard was extra cranky today. Still, hope you had a bit of a laugh with my review of this game. The game that got away.
Cheers!
October 26th, 2008 at 18:46
@RedDevilEddy: You can tell it’s a video game and unrealistic because the chances of Anderson scoring is as little as Tottenham winning the league this year.
Nice goal but I wish I could show you some of the classics I have scored over the years. This week I scored a goal almost identical in buildup and finish as Nani’s goal late in last weeks 4-0 win. It was almost perfectly identical. Eerie!
Ronaldo also scored a goal for me the other day in a tight game that made me cry for the fact that he is sucking badly in real life. The goal was sublime and typical Ronaldo circa 07/08.
October 26th, 2008 at 18:51
I think it’s bloody sad that United allowed Liverpool to be the team that broke Chelsea’s streak at the Bridge. God knows we had our chances and we just blew them. Still, Liverpool are not accustomed to being front runners and they will eventually fall back to the pack like Arsenal did last year. Why? Because other than a handful of players, they do not have the quality or the depth to keep it up. Then again, United have to stop giving away points because with their lineup anything but a win is unsatisfactory…..even if it’s a little unrealistic to expect a win every week. I say why not. Be Champions!!
Oh an one more thing I forgot to mention in my long review of the match. Can anybody on this team cross a bloody ball with any bloody accuracy and vision? God awful!
October 26th, 2008 at 19:06
@Grognard: Look at the Rooney goal, its hilarious. I have tried to do that some times, but it doesnt always work out. My best goal isnt there. Or my two best goals. Berba overhead kick from Nani cross vs Chelski and Ronaldo heel-flick goal vs Fulham. Ive scored many better, but today those are my best goals.
And Andy has a good chance of scoring a goal like that if he takes a shot once in a while. And of cource before that he has to do some shooting practice.
October 26th, 2008 at 19:56
Yeah I have a work colleague who supports Pool and he is boasting about how they beat United AND Chelsea.
But really for me Liverpool are a cup team. They can punch above their weight in individual games but I am sure with time Benitez will rotate and the team will lose their momentum.
Last two games against Chelsea: Champions League final-should have finished them off first half. League game this year-should have finished them off first half. See a pattern?
October 26th, 2008 at 20:30
@colver: Yep, Its a shame, we seem to be losing our killer instinct. We need it back now. and I really want tevez to get a game, I think he could change things.
October 26th, 2008 at 20:56
Some people have far too high expectations. We can’t be perfect for christ’s sake.
October 26th, 2008 at 21:11
Dear Grognard. I wish you(and everyone else) to watch this goal. Do you think you can take a better free-kick with Ronaldo? From 38 yards!
Insane Ronaldo free-kick!
October 26th, 2008 at 21:13
And if you think Anderson wont score a goal like the one in comment 14, you probably dont think he will score anyone like these either. Well, neither do I but…
Anderson midcircle goal
I bet Dan would like to see Andy do one of those.
October 26th, 2008 at 21:57
”I’m a Manchester United player. I want to respect this club, my team-mates and the fans, and I prefer not to talk of other teams at this moment.”
Thank you ronaldo for saying that… I hope he isnt just saying that cause he knows he is rubbish at the moment.
October 26th, 2008 at 22:09
What does everyone think about the Mourinho as Fergie’s replacement rumours that have been floating around this past few days?
October 26th, 2008 at 22:13
@Rd: I dont like it. i dont want Mourinho to be Fergies succesor as it would mean Ronaldo, Nani and Anderson would defo move. I want CQ or Martin O`Neil to take over whan that horrible day comes.
Please look at my goals in comment 32 and 33.
October 26th, 2008 at 22:17
Most of Ronaldo’s interview with Marca translated:
“Do you regret playing while injured – did playing the Euros (injured) spoil your image as a winner?”
I’d do it again. For a couple of months before the CL Final I was in pain. With Manchester we were challenging for everything and I didn’t want to stop – I was convinced we were going to win.
By the Euros it was worse – painful all the time. I promised Scolari that I would play. I don’t think I could have done more.
Did United tell you not to play in the euros?
Clubs try to protect their players. But I talked to SAF and he said that if I could play to the end of he season with United, they wouldn’t try and stop me from playing for Portugal. They respected my decision, but they’d have prefered me not to play the euros.
Have you recovered from the injury?”
3 or 4 more games and I should be back at my best level – mentally and physically. Missing the pre-season has had an effect as well.
“Last year you said you’d like to play Barca in the CL final – and this year?”
I’d like to be up against Real Madrid or Inter. I’ve never played against them – it’d be nice.
“Do you get harrassed/bothered by the English press?”
Not here in Manche
Is it true that Atletico were interested in signing you before you went to Manchester?
Well, when I was 17 a lot of teams were interested – Real Madrid, Valencia, Juventus, Arsenal – were asking questions. There was some contact from Atletico. But in the end, Ferguson was the one who wanted me there and then.
City say they’d pay 170m for you, can you see yourself moving to the “eternal rival”
No, it’s never crossed by mind. I can’t imagine leaving United to go to City.”
“You missed the penalty in the CL final – has that been the hardest moment of your career?”
Winning the CL was one of the greatest moments of my career. People keep on about the penalty mistake. In fact – in the street, people still ask me how I could have missed. But they forget that I scored the goal that got us to the penalty shootout. (Raw nerve there!)
“When Anelka missed, how did you feel?”
When we won it, the accomplishment. Was a sensation spectacular, incredible. I had to cry, to laugh. It’s something that’ll allways be with me.
“Where do you prefer to play?”
Left or right. Sometimes it’s nice to have some freedom to move more.
“Can you play as a centre forward?”
Yes, but it’s not a position that I enjoy as I’m not adapted to it. With more games – I could start to feel like a good 9 but right now I don’t consider myself a centre forward.
“Is it true you watch every game you play?”
Yes, it’s true. MUTV re-broadcasts our games. I like to watch and analyse the action. I think it’s a way to look at defects, to improve and polish. I want to get better every day.
October 26th, 2008 at 22:20
Most of Ronaldo’s interview with Marca translated:
“Do you regret playing while injured – did playing the Euros (injured) spoil your image as a winner?”
I’d do it again. For a couple of months before the CL Final I was in pain. With Manchester we were challenging for everything and I didn’t want to stop – I was convinced we were going to win.
By the Euros it was worse – painful all the time. I promised Scolari that I would play. I don’t think I could have done more.
Did United tell you not to play in the euros?
Clubs try to protect their players. But I talked to SAF and he said that if I could play to the end of he season with United, they wouldn’t try and stop me from playing for Portugal. They respected my decision, but they’d have prefered me not to play the euros.
Have you recovered from the injury?”
3 or 4 more games and I should be back at my best level – mentally and physically. Missing the pre-season has had an effect as well.
“Last year you said you’d like to play Barca in the CL final – and this year?”
I’d like to be up against Real Madrid or Inter. I’ve never played against them – it’d be nice.
Is it true that Atletico were interested in signing you before you went to Manchester?
Well, when I was 17 a lot of teams were interested – Real Madrid, Valencia, Juventus, Arsenal – were asking questions. There was some contact from Atletico. But in the end, Ferguson was the one who wanted me there and then.
City say they’d pay 170m for you, can you see yourself moving to the “eternal rival”
No, it’s never crossed by mind. I can’t imagine leaving United to go to City.”
“You missed the penalty in the CL final – has that been the hardest moment of your career?”
Winning the CL was one of the greatest moments of my career. People keep on about the penalty mistake. In fact – in the street, people still ask me how I could have missed. But they forget that I scored the goal that got us to the penalty shootout. (Raw nerve there!)
“When Anelka missed, how did you feel?”
When we won it, the accomplishment. Was a sensation spectacular, incredible. I had to cry, to laugh. It’s something that’ll allways be with me.
“Where do you prefer to play?”
Left or right. Sometimes it’s nice to have some freedom to move more.
“Can you play as a centre forward?”
Yes, but it’s not a position that I enjoy as I’m not adapted to it. With more games – I could start to feel like a good 9 but right now I don’t consider myself a centre forward.
“Is it true you watch every game you play?”
Yes, it’s true. MUTV re-broadcasts our games. I like to watch and analyse the action. I think it’s a way to look at defects, to improve and polish. I want to get better every day.
October 26th, 2008 at 22:23
Most of Ronaldo’s interview with Marca translated:
“Do you regret playing while injured – did playing the Euros (injured) spoil your image as a winner?”
I’d do it again. For a couple of months before the CL Final I was in pain. With Manchester we were challenging for everything and I didn’t want to stop – I was convinced we were going to win.
By the Euros it was worse – painful all the time. I promised Scolari that I would play. I don’t think I could have done more.
Did United tell you not to play in the euros?
Clubs try to protect their players. But I talked to SAF and he said that if I could play to the end of he season with United, they wouldn’t try and stop me from playing for Portugal. They respected my decision, but they’d have prefered me not to play the euros.
“Have you recovered from the injury?”
3 or 4 more games and I should be back at my best level – mentally and physically. Missing the pre-season has had an effect as well.
“Last year you said you’d like to play Barca in the CL final – and this year?”
I’d like to be up against Real Madrid or Inter. I’ve never played against them – it’d be nice.
Is it true that Atletico were interested in signing you before you went to Manchester?
Well, when I was 17 a lot of teams were interested – Real Madrid, Valencia, Juventus, Arsenal – were asking questions. There was some contact from Atletico. But in the end, Ferguson was the one who wanted me there and then.
City say they’d pay 170m for you, can you see yourself moving to the “eternal rival”
No, it’s never crossed by mind. I can’t imagine leaving United to go to City.”
“You missed the penalty in the CL final – has that been the hardest moment of your career?”
Winning the CL was one of the greatest moments of my career. People keep on about the penalty mistake. In fact – in the street, people still ask me how I could have missed. But they forget that I scored the goal that got us to the penalty shootout. (Raw nerve there!)
“When Anelka missed, how did you feel?”
When we won it, the accomplishment. Was a sensation spectacular, incredible. I had to cry, to laugh. It’s something that’ll allways be with me.
“Where do you prefer to play?”
Left or right. Sometimes it’s nice to have some freedom to move more.
“Can you play as a centre forward?”
Yes, but it’s not a position that I enjoy as I’m not adapted to it. With more games – I could start to feel like a good 9 but right now I don’t consider myself a centre forward.
“Is it true you watch every game you play?”
Yes, it’s true. MUTV re-broadcasts our games. I like to watch and analyse the action. I think it’s a way to look at defects, to improve and polish. I want to get better every day.
October 26th, 2008 at 22:26
@Conor: We got it already!
Just kidding. I feel a little confused since he says he wants to play Real in the final. He wants to win, so that means he cant really be serious about going to Real anymore? Can he? I dunno, it just sounds like he is a little frustrated and some of his answers are just exuses. Grow up son..
October 26th, 2008 at 23:29
Just been hearing about the mourinho to united rumours and i gotta say i may be in the minority but i would really love to see him get the job to take over once ferguson decides to leave. He is a born winner and nothing seems to faze him, he can handle the press, the players love playing for him and he has always had a respect for united. When you say you dont like him, then answer me this, who is better than him who united could get? Certainly the likes of o’neill, keane, hughes are good coaches but are they good enough to step right in and become our manager and start challenging for titles straight away, i dont think so. I think quieroz has a shout but he doesnt seem a great manager just an excellent assistant. I know people say mourinho plays boring football but i think that is cos he took charge of a boring team. In his first way anyway chelsea were a good attacking team anyway, and with all the attacking players we have i dont see him not using it to his advantage. Like i say im probably 1 of the few people who would like to see mourinho get the job, but tell me your thoughts. Cheers lads.
October 26th, 2008 at 23:35
Testin, testing.
October 26th, 2008 at 23:38
Ey, RedRanter. Just got a gravatar, but it wont show on this page. Why is that?
October 26th, 2008 at 23:51
@Matthew: He’s been playing boring football at Inter, for the most part, too. Have to say I’m a little disappointed by that. Still my first choice all things considered. On the subject of Mourinho:
Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has branded Blues striker Didier Drogba ”a diver”.
Drogba has often been criticised for going to ground too easily but was vigorously defended by Mourinho during his time in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Now, just over a year after leaving Chelsea, Mourinho has turned on the 30-year-old while also hitting out at Cristiano Ronaldo, Fernando Torres and Robin van Persie for the same thing.
Mourinho told feelfootball.com: ”I am no longer Chelsea coach, and I do not have to defend them any more, but I think it is correct if I say Drogba is a diver.
”Drogba, Ronaldo, Torres and Van Persie are the divers. Who dives more? Who has won more penalties in recent years? But English football is the one that criticises the divers the most.”
Mourinho claims he is against diving but encourages his players to go to ground if they are fouled.
He added: ”I hate diving, but I’m not happy if a player is kicked by somebody in the box and he tries to remain standing.
”It’s very, very rare a referee gives a decision if the player doesn’t go down so I tell players not to be naive, but to be fair.”
I thought his last few quotes were funny, but this just shows a complete lack of loyalty towards Chelsea and that’s just not on.
Slightly changed my view on him taking over, he really is a mercenary and that’s not how Manchester United should be run.
Eddie, mate, there’s no need to post so much bollocks in so many comments. A bit more intelligent debate and a little less talk about Fifa 09 and gravatars would be nice.
October 27th, 2008 at 0:08
@RedDevilEddy: I wonder how i missed your post…nice goals!! Plus i can see your gravatar now…
@Matthew: My thoughts exactly, I’ve been thinking about it, i thought i was crazy cus most Man United fans seem to disagree. I’ve really got no problem with him besides his style of football, which i hope he can change. We need someone who can handle a big club and not a manager whose first experience at a big club is Man Utd, we can’t be an experiment, thats why i think we need someone proven. Gus Hidnik(not sure i spelt it right) would be my first choice, but i doubt we can get him.
@Conor: I’m not defending him, but you can’t blame if he’s showing some “bitterness” towards Chelsea can you? He brought them glory during his stay and then gets dropped after a few bad results, though it’d have been better if he’d kept quiet, but you don’t expect him to be happy with the way Chelsea treated him.
October 27th, 2008 at 0:16
@Rd: Being bitter towards Chelsea is different than showing a complete disregard for any form of loyalty, especially towards Drogba who has said many a time he’s a massive fan of Mourinho, which is a testament to his man management skills to get someone with such an explosive personality to say such things.
He has every right to be bitter towards Abrahmovic, not Drogba.
All the while he’s already said twice he’d like to come back to England once his contract with Inter is up. If I was Moratti I would probably sack him. But the thing is, Mourinho knows he’s the second best manager in the world so he can get away with things like that.
Basically, he’s an arrogant cock, but an extremely successful one.
October 27th, 2008 at 1:56
@RedDevilEddy: Another case of AI goalkeeper mistakes that have always riddled the game. Besides, Anderson couldn’t hit the target if his life depended on it. The Ronaldo goal is nice though.
October 27th, 2008 at 2:00
@RedDevilEddy: I’ve had the same problem since I returned. I can’t figure this Gravatar shite out either.
October 27th, 2008 at 3:37
@RedDevilEddy: Your gravatar seems to be showing for me.
October 27th, 2008 at 4:35
@Conor: 3 or 4 more games. Alright. I can live w/ that. He says he can become a number 9, the hell did we need Berbatov for?
Also, RedDevilEddy, i see your gravatar. I dont know why you cant.
October 27th, 2008 at 5:08
Eddy i can see yours too, its andy right mate?
just a question here mates, inter won the serie A last year right? then why the fuck did they sacked mancini?
October 27th, 2008 at 5:38
http://penguinunited.blogspot.com/
October 27th, 2008 at 5:53
@Conor: Eddie, mate, there’s no need to post so much bollocks in so many comments. A bit more intelligent debate and a little less talk about Fifa 09 and gravatars would be nice.
I could say the same about you posting the same Ronaldo interview 3 times.
But I thought I’d let it pass. And there’s nothing wrong asking about gravatars over here, although email would be the right thing to do.
October 27th, 2008 at 7:53
most fans keep on talking about ronaldo.what about the piglike baldheaded cunt? he has 3 goals in the league playing every match as a striker and he is on form?or you want to add goals scored against borats kazakhstan as well.do they have an impact on united?
the midfield was too light especially against a team that stuffs the middle.giggs and fletch can produce a moment of brilliance but cant contain the pressure from a packed midfield.
i dont know if fergie doesnt like nani and anderson,but playing park and giggs ahead of them is disrespectful.park for all his running is poor
October 27th, 2008 at 7:56
@Red Ranter: Okey, I see it too now. Looks like it took some time for it to show up.
October 27th, 2008 at 7:59
@john freakin’ o’shea: Inter wanted to win the CL. They obviously thought that Mancini couldnt do that when they were beaten 3-0 by Liverpool.
October 27th, 2008 at 8:01
@Grognard: Vision, tecnique, power and accuracy is what I use.
October 27th, 2008 at 8:04
@Conor: Listen. I just found out how to put up goals I scored and I am proud of them.
Why not show them to people. If you think I shouldnt post those, then okey. But If you say I should start and intelligent debate when there really aint sumthing to talk about then… You come up with something. Okey here then: Do you think Liverpool can win the League? Thats a debate for you.
October 27th, 2008 at 9:15
I’m not sure if I am more dissapointed over us dropping points this weekend or Pool doing what we should have done a few weeks ago?
Somehow I get the uncomfortable feeling that pool is going to snatch the title this year. They’ve always been hampered by a slow first half of the season and an astonishing second, yet not enough to make up the deficit caused by their first half-season performances. This year, they seem to win matches whilst not playing well at all. I think I’m getting worried here.
Our performances…well…my take on your question RR:
“…how United allowed Everton to claw their way back into a game when they were so rampant to begin with”
We seem to be doing that a lot of late. My personal take on it is, it is an indication of SAF’s lack of tactical creativity.
United were always menacing to play against. We go one goal up, defend it, let the opposing team attacking us, and rely on our explosive counter-attacking to take care of the rest. With Berbatov’s inclusion in the squad, the explosive counter-attacking does not exist anymore. Still, SAF relies on this tactic to the tee.
I want to take this opportunity to vent my dissapointment at Berbatov’s form. I want him to succeed just as bad as everyone (I guess the same way that SAF wants him to, because we were both yearning for another Cantona before his retirement). Unfortunately, a couple of things went wrong, and now our team seems a bit unsettled. Berbatov is the player we all wanted, but not needed.
I cannot see how anyone can say he had a ‘good’ game. So far this season, he was below par for me. Maybe it is my fault because I expected so much from him. Point is, thus far, he has not delivered and do not justify being picked ahead of Tevez (except for his price tag of course). I really hope he does, but facing reality, so far he hasn’t.
Why are people being ‘delusional’ in claiming that Rooney’s current form is because of him? Rooney in fact is playing ‘poorer’ than he did last season. The only difference is, he is converting everything whereas last season he was just plain bad-luck. I am really pleased to see him finally converting, but that is because of Rooney, not because of him partnering anyone specific.
Giggs really impressed me on Saturday. He brought back memories of the Giggsy of old. If anything, I appreciate the trip down memory lane.
I will also go out on a limb here and say that the criticism Anderson seems to have gotten the past couple of days (I didn’t comment, but I read the comments every day) is really ludicrous. Even in his raw state, Anderson is arguably the most complete midfielder ever to have graced Old Trafford. (And, that even includes our beloved Keane). The only thing lacking, is goal-scoring, which I believe will come. You can see that he is actually moving towards goal-scoring positions as apposed to running away from it like last year.
October 27th, 2008 at 9:48
Im actually glad the pool broke chelsea’s record, and put a dent in the blues ego’s. John terry deserves to be stripped of his captaincy for England for his challenge on mascherano and a few other incidents that just disgraces his role as captain of England.
I must say i was extremely dissapointed with Man utd’s performance in the second half. To me giggs was the most influntial player on the field, and i totally agree with RR comments on ronaldo, where its getting a bit sickning to see him simply whining about eveything, he should just get on with it sometimes.
But i save my last critc for the gaffer, who i cannot believe left out a player of such high caliber and a player who has given us 110% in every game out. Tevez deserves to be playing regularly, he has proved his worth. Full respect to berba, but i still think he needs time to find his form in United, therefore i think its only fair he gets substiuted in the second half.
Anywayz i hope united learn from this,, coz this was def our game!
October 27th, 2008 at 9:53
United should have take 3 points, but they didnt, which i have to blame the gaffer for. Why wouldnt you play someone who has proven himself and always gives a 110%. Tevez should have been in the starting line-up, full respect to berba, but why doesnt he come in as a sub for a few games until he is able to actually find his top form. United should not sacrifice a winning combination of rooney and tevez. I mean they won us the double last year.
October 27th, 2008 at 10:10
@Karl: “Anderson is arguably the most complete midfielder ever to have graced Old Trafford.”
I think that is going a little too far!
October 27th, 2008 at 10:32
Hi guys been quite a while since i commented. Well it was a frustrating perfomance saturday. We are switching on and off too often in games and seem complacent. I cant fault everton’s play, didnt see it rough its just that we were outhustled. Sometimes I wish we had the grit of chelsea of not getting bullied in midfield. Our pacy game seems to have varnished, ronaldo was rubbish and dont get me started on Park. The substitutions were questionable and Frankly I want CQ back. At this rate Im seeing Tevez off in January, he needs games and dont understand why he is kept on the bench for too long. Anyway I hope our perfomances improve on wednesday and the guys get their act together. Hopefully carrick would be fit again and Hargreaves visit to the Doctor at Leicster give a satsifying solution to his tendonitis problem.
in other news the Mourinho rumours are gainning weight. I hae mixed feelings it it does happen since he will add the steel i feel me miss in midfield but he will make us play not-so good footy and grind out results.
October 27th, 2008 at 10:37
1. Anderson is a raw talent.
2. He can attack as good as he can defend.
3. He has vision, skill, ball control, can dribble, can pass.
4. he can slow the game down (as can be seen from most of his performances of late where he is clearly instructed to keep things tidy and spread the ball around ala Scholes – given, he does not do it as beautifully or effectively like Scholes at his best, but neither does Scholes in fairness), he can speed the game up.
So, how far is that really taking it?
October 27th, 2008 at 10:40
@Nelson Otieno: We have three centrel midfielders out injured.
I don’t understand what CQ could have done on Saturday, Everton played well second half, sometimes we just have to accept that. If you want boring turgid football, winning one nil then Mourinho is your man, but thats not for me.
October 27th, 2008 at 10:43
@Karl: He is very raw and will develop hopefully but I think your comment was going a little far, did you watch Bryan Robson play?
October 27th, 2008 at 10:47
I’ve been supporting united for almost 30 years. I have seen Robson play.
He is by no means the best midfielder, but I do believe he is the most complete midfield talent.
October 27th, 2008 at 10:48
I forgot to add to the list of accolades,
5. He can long pass, he can short pass.
October 27th, 2008 at 10:52
@Karl: More than Robson. He could score as well remember, you could argue Charlton was a midfielder, I am not having a dig at Anderson please don’t get me wrong.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:01
@Stephen. I didnt say I want mourinho, I have mixed feelings on him being our manager. Ijust acknowledged that I like the steel in brings in midfield. As with needing CQ back, the questionable subsitutions(and lineups in some games) Fergie has made in the current campaign resulting to the team loosing shape makes me think that CQ was running the tactics show
October 27th, 2008 at 11:03
@Red Ranter:
True.@
donibrasco: What about Rooney? He’s been our most influential player in the last 4 or 5 matches for us. His game’s not just about goals and never will be.Park is a very good player, he’s been poor this season. Giggs has been our best winger this season. Nani’s been far too inconsistent to get consecutive starts in such important matches.
@RedDevilEddy: That’s the thing though Eddy, you don’t just need to talk for the sake of it.
I think Liverpool have a good chance of winning the league, no-one else seems to though. They just seem to ignore them. Rafa’s done brilliantly in the big games this season tactics-wise as both us and Chelsea have played badly, you have to assume that has something to do with how he’s made his team difficult o beat. They’ve shown character this season. They’ve shown the ability to win against anyone even without their best player, Torres. That’s something we failed miserably with at the start of the season. And they’ve shown a more attacking mentality.
I’m impressed with them.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:05
@Nelson Otieno: I don’t agree mate, we have had a lot of injuries and we have changed our style because of Berbatov, and Fergie had always made some funny subs!!!
Tevez is a real worry, I hope he gets a game on Wednesday he must be desperate for a run out.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:07
@Nelson Otieno: You’re absolutely out of your mind if you think CQ was ‘running the tactics’. He’s really shown his tactical nous at Portugal so far, hasn’t he? Never mind the fact that SAF’s won the treble without CQ, you’re not honestly going to tell me it’s all down to Steve McLaren’s tactics that we won it?
October 27th, 2008 at 11:08
@RedDevilEddy: how do you add videos actually? i scored a screamer in open play, and wanted to upload it but flopped. please tell.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:17
I understand your point.
Apart from being a raw talent that needs polishing up, Anderson’s only imbalance is matching his great good positioning with attacking positioning. in fairness to him, that has a lot to do with our current tactics and the way SAF utilises him. He has the ability for goal-scoring, it will come. Look at when Fabregas’ goal-scoring started.
I don’t want to argue that Robson was more complete than him (it’s debateable, and you’re most propably right), because my point is that the criticism on such a great prospect at this stage of his career is just preposterous. Even whilst being very raw, he is that good.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:22
@Karl: I completely agree mate, he is so young and is developing and you are spot on with the tactics issue, if like Fabregas he had a midfield partner who he plays with on a regualar basis then his game would develop better.
He is only 20, and needs a run of games with Hargreaves or Carrick then we will see the best out of him.
@Conor: I agree with your every word mate.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:22
@dan(u-ol): If you have Xbox Live you can. Get a profile on http://www.eafootballworld.com. connect to Xbox live on your console and then it comes upload when you either score or take instant replay. Do that, but If you do it on slow motion it will screw up. Then you will see it.
Watch my goals on comment 32 and 33 and tell me what you think.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:33
Maybe the ‘running the tactic show’ isnt the appropriate phrase. I feel that when CQ left we have lost some element of our game tactical wise
October 27th, 2008 at 11:36
@Stephen, I don’t know about you, but I personally feel he performs better when paired with Carrick. Perhaps it has to do with Carrick’s positioning in the game when they play together. You always know where Carrick will be, and he always sits deep. I get the impression that Owen is a bit to energetic to play with (this is in no means a bad thing on Owen), but with Carrick, Anderson’s role is more clearly defined. With Scholes, due to his inability to tackle, Anderson is usually relegated to sit deep and focus more on defence. What do you think?
October 27th, 2008 at 11:38
I don’t mean disrespect to Fletch by forgetting to mention him.
I think the 2 of them also make a good partnership, but not to get the best out of Anderson.
October 27th, 2008 at 11:52
@Conor
I agree Carlos hasnt faired well in Portugal(and McLaren in the England days)and maybe the phrased I used wasnt appropriate but I feel when CQ left our game tactical wise hasnt been lets just say errrr….. good.
You can read this piece and parts before and after it to help you understand my point of view
October 27th, 2008 at 12:08
@Karl: I think Anderson has not got a clear role in which he personally knows and excels in. Let’s not forget he played a total of 26 games combined for Porto and Gremio, less than his first season at United. So infact, he should by now, be more suited to the role he plays for United. Given the skills he has exhibited so far, one would say he is a creative center mid. He does make purposeful runs at times, but lacks the composure of a real attacking mid to finish the move off or provide those defense splitting runs ala fletch
His hustle and bustle is what makes him stand out and I reckon this would be most suited for a central midfield berth, where he doesn’t have the responsibility of making runs into the box or shooting much (cause lets face it, he can’t), rather, he picks passes and controls play in midfield. If he can slow his game down, then he will be able to pick out passes better and can read plays and intercept them neatly.
He definitely can play with any midfielder in our pack apart from Scholes as they are both very similar. When he plays with Fletch, fletch does tend to do the forward running while Ando floats around. They switch a lot, when we are defending and counter attacking, fletch is further back, but when we are pressurising, fletch begins to make his runs. If he does play with Carrick, he can definitely move forward a bit as Carrick will hardly do that, similar with Hargreaves. I don’t reckon he could play with Giggs though, he doesn’t have the discipline to be an anchor in the midfield.
October 27th, 2008 at 13:16
I fear Liverpool’s invincibilty of the 70s and 80s coming back
October 27th, 2008 at 13:55
we’re really missing carrick, and to a lesser extent hargreaves, whilst fletcher represents a fairly good amalgimation of the two when he plays in the centre, i’d much rather have carrick on the pitch, he controls the game, sets up attacks and also provides unpraised amounts of help to the back four, i think that when he’s back we will see a much more solid and dominant team… for the entire of the match.
October 27th, 2008 at 13:55
I have to agree with Karl and say that Anderson is a raw talent. In fact he reminds me of Ronaldo at his age in terms of potential. I expect he’s the Kleberson we expected but never got; technical, physical, creative and when needed defensive. He’ll grow soon enough. Watch in a few years.
I think Mourinho would be a great successor. He’s inspirational, charismatic, tactically competent, savvy man management and knows how to handle any budget. He sees the game much in the manner fans of Football Manager would look at it; this is because he never really played much professionally. So as a manager he’s a very good choice. Now obviously his personality and former affiliations would make some of you cringe but we are not looking for a friend or mentor, we are looking for a Manager. CQ is also in there with a strong shout. And Certainly Martin O’Neill…I love him, in fact to me him, Mourinho, CQ, Raijkaard and Ruud Gullitt are the only real viables(In that order) to succeed our shinning Knight. Scolari is also very talented but he’s at Chelsea at the moment…
@Karl: I think you are very harsh on Berbatov. He has 5 goals in 7 games! He’s practically leading the line! He’s very good and has had a positive affect on Rooney regardless.
I do believe Tevez needed more action in the past 2-3 games and I feel he could have featured without compromising Rooney and Berbatov. Fergie likes fluid forwards, why not try Tevez in place of Park at times. At Everton he could have introduced him for Park for Example at the half or 60th Minute. Its always a period to shake things up at 60 and decide what you approach is going to be for the rest of the game (If you haven’t done so at half time or things need a refresh) Obviously by 60 at Everton we needed something. Tevez for Park for example brings fresh bite and impetus. Or Anderson for Giggs for that grit in midfield. Tactically Fergie my have mistepped on Saturday but who am I to judge the Great One?
The team is fine, hopefully in time these little early season kinks are ironed out. We are extremely well balanced this season, every position is covered well(Maybe the left wing slightly, what I would do for a Marcelo circa FM 2007). We need real focus, desire and committment form the boys and we are there. The season is long, may we prosper in the end.
October 27th, 2008 at 13:58
@Will: Absolutely. He’s been an unsung hero since joinning us, he would bring that certain focus I feel we need as does Hargreaves brings extra bite and urgency in the middle. We’ll need all out players before this season is over….
October 27th, 2008 at 14:07
Very disappointing result in the end after such a dominant first half performance in a game we should have won. We knew they would come out in the second half and put us under pressure which they did but we should have been able to move up a gear which we didn’t or couldn’t and I hope we do not look back at the end of the season with regret at this result. I am also a little disappointed at Anderson and Nani’s performances, although still learning I would have expected a bigger influence from the pair this season, they just seemed to have have not progressed enough to have that impact and prove to be match winners, i know it’s early days yet and things can change rapidly but we do not need to keep dropping points at games that we should have won.
October 27th, 2008 at 14:17
Re Berbatov slowing down our play: there `
October 27th, 2008 at 14:21
@Abu: Great post, but why Gullit? He failed at LA Galaxy, what makes you think he’d do better here?
October 27th, 2008 at 14:40
Gullit!!!!!!! NO chance.
O’Neil is the only person I want to take over, Mourinho is too self obsessesed and arrogant to manage our great club. CQ great number 2 but no a manager and his record is proving that.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:01
Oops. Scrap my last post 87.
Berbatov shouldn’t slow our play down. Holland played very attractive counter-attacking football with RVN up top who is even slower than Berbatov.
I do think his contribution so far is overrated. He has shown a lot of style, an eye for a pass, and an eye for goal. But he needs to get stuck in and make use of his physical presence.
We look a bit lightweight this season which is why we got out-hustled by Liverpool and Everton who decided to get physical second half and pressed us and broke up our flow. We lose our discipline, get intimidated and roll over. I put it down to lack of leadership and desire. Our attitude should be “You want to get tough Everton? Bring it on. We will run rings around you and shrug off your desperate challenges and cut you to pieces”
Mourinho is the best choice but I also worry the quality of our football will suffer. He is multi-lingual, has as good a track record as anyone over the last five years, is young enough to build a team, is respected by the players (with the possible exception of Ronaldo), would be hilarious with the press, and would give us a ruthless efficiency we’ve been lacking recently.
My biggest worry is Mourinho does not know how to deal with flair players. Like Benitez he is a system coach and does not believe in giving players too much freedom to express themselves. Look what happened to Joe Cole under Mourinho.
I am not bothered about his Drogba comments. Chelsea are the enemy now and one of Inter’s rivals for the Champions League. He is just starting the mindgames early.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:05
@colver: I can’t see us appointing Mourinho, he doesn’t play United football and he can be a liability at times with he opinions.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:10
@colver: Joe Cole became a much, much better player under Mounriho. He instilled a bit of fight and intelligence into his play, before he was just a one dimensional player all about the flair.
Now his game’s based around movement off the ball and end product.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:10
ronaldos won world player of the year btw.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:15
@Conor: You could put that down to maturity as well.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:21
@Stephen: well yeah, that’s obviously played a massive part in it too. but it’s not like Mourinho made him a worse player, he made him mature quickly.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:29
@Conor: He play that much under Mourinho, and he criticised him after he scored the winner against the dippers, sort of sums Mourinho’s footballing philosophy.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:42
Game of two halfs!!!
Rooney badge kiss
October 27th, 2008 at 15:55
@colver
“Berbatov shouldn’t slow our play down”…but he does.
@Abu: I admit I am a bit harsh on Berbatov. Perhaps it is because I feel let down due to expectations about comparisons to the great one. Thing is, people complained about the price for Tevez last week. In the same measure, for Berba’s price, I expected more. More serious however is the fact that we needed a fit Saha type of player, not another Rooney/Tevez. Have anyone noticed that on Saturday Rooney played up top for most part? I don’t know about everybody else, but I believe he is out of position there.
I have a suspicion that CQ already has agreement with united to take over from SAF after the WC.
My ideal choice for manager would actually be a Mourinho that is a bit more attack-minded.
October 27th, 2008 at 15:58
@Karl: Thats O’Neill!!
October 27th, 2008 at 16:06
@Stephen – Perhaps
I do agree with you on the CQ however. As much as I love and respect the man, and admit that he was the brains in the outfit, I also believe he will be the perfect no.2.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:10
@Karl: To be honest I would not want him back, he has left us twice and I think he was a brilliant number two, but I can be a little bitter @ times a feel he just can’t keep leaving and we just take him back when things do not work out for him elsewhere.
There aren’t many real candidates out there to be honest, it is a tough act to follow and it won’t be an easy job to take on.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:11
Oh its been a long time since Ive been here, anyway I dont get why people here talk about the price of a player when we arent paying a dime out of our pockets?!!
October 27th, 2008 at 16:13
@Karl: I feel given that its only 12 games or so played and he arrived so late in the season, he needs a bit of time to settle in the team, ergo you might be expecting too much. I do feel though that he drops down quite deeper than I would hope but his hold up play is a welcome sight. I suspect he wil come good. I dear say….money well spent.
Gullitt used to impress me with his punditry and insight but I don’t know him all that well as a manager. Falling in the MLS is nothing, I live in the US, its a weird system of football…er soccer here. I first saw O’Neill as a pundit, I thought he was smart and he came well recommended. After seeing him work in the EPL, I have to say he’s the man. He has show ability, top notch. But still Mourinho is a model manager, his merits outway his demerits much like Sir Fergie or Arsenhole Wenger.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:15
@Abu: Gullit also failed miserably @ Newcastle.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:17
@saudi red devil: But we are in the long-term. Extortionate money paid out by us for everything ranging from advertising to transfer fees will only end up raising ticket prices. You can’t honestly tell me you don’t care about the amount we have to pay for tickets?
@Stephen: He criticised him in public about being lazy and not helping out his team at all, which is typical Mouinho. SAF did the exact same thing when Nani did a few tricks against Arsenal even though he was our best player on the night along with Rooney, but not in public. Same ramifications – it helped them mature.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:19
@Conor: I whole heartle agree with response to Saudi Red Devil mate being a season ticket holder.
The problem with Mourinho is the football he plays is just not United and him being him will not change, it is not in his nature.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:23
@OllieY: Rooney was behaving like a feckin idiot with his crowd baiting antics at Everton. He was lucky not to be sent off, he already had a yellow. That is one thing I hate about Rooney, always loses his head and reverts to type. We lost him then for 20+ minutes, and a vital part of the game. What a clown he is sometimes. Players, I don’t care who they are, or from what clubs, should not be baiting fans. Shows their petulant immaturity, AND causes rioting amongst fans. Dickheads!.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:28
@Stephen: Stephen mi man, even United themselves, are not playing United football
. I am pissed off by the way they keep throwing the points away in games where they have taken the lead AWAY from home in the big games. L’Pool are doing what we did last year, fighting until the very last minute and coming back in games. They are ravenous to win the PL after the years of dearth.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:29
@Karl: Tell me another player like Saha, who involves himself in the build up play as well as he does?
Eto’o and Ibrahimovic are the only two players who have the physical presence to lead the line better than Rooney while still having the necessary ability before they arrive in the box to keep this team working as well as it does.
Tevez slows down the play more than he does in all honesty, he hold on to the ball for too long and makes wrong decisions more often than not.
@Stephen: Glad to hear it, I didn’t know there were any other season ticket holders here other than the ones I already knew.
That is a problem for Murinho, but if you look closely at his results and compare them to O’Neill’s over the years, I can be very sure that the amount of goals scored isn’t much higher on O’Neill’s side, if at all.
O’Neill plays open football, but he doesn’t play free flowing attractive football. what he does is base his game around pace and power up front and a winger to provide most of the damage.
It’s like watching Mourinho all over again without the defensive solidity. Hoof it up the pitch to Carew to knock it on to Agbonlahor or knock it back to Young to whip it in, and they relied heavily on set piece goals last season. Chelsea relied on the pace of Robben, the power of Drogba and the creativity of Lampard or Cole.
They all have their flaws.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:30
@Stephen:(what am I doing wrong with the names they stay inactive) Everyone fucks up at Newcastle….lol. But I do agree Ruud would be a wild card at best he’s very low on my list. I’d say O’Neill and Mourinho are my candidates. I would put CQ in there but his record as no. 1 is suspect.
How do you guys feel about Roovez last year? I felt it wasn’t a partnership that got enough time together on the pitch. I feel they can still work together as long as one stays up top long term. I would love to see all three at once but I think only Mourinho or O’Neill would utilize a system like this.
Imagine Berba leading the line, living on the last defender’s shoulder blade. Rooney in the hole right behind him. Tevez and Ronaldo as LF and RF, with two deep mids. The team is so fluid anyway that at all points players will swap and it’ll just be fluid. I mean out frontline is better than Carew, Agbonlahor, Young. OR Drogba, Malouda, Cole. But then I fear Fergie’s lone striker syndrome. He has to change it up if it doesn’t work at least.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:33
@Craig Mc: It looks that way matey, we were really good first half on Saturday but throwing away leads will be costly.
I am not sure about Liverpool and personally think it is still between us and Chelsea, I will tell Arteta is class and we missed a trick there, he was top draw Saturday.
We seem to have some sort of hangover from last season, we miss Carrick’s passing and Hargo energy, we also need Ronnie firing again, as it shows sometimes how reliant we are on him, last season that would have been a game we would have nicked I am sure of that, maybe time for Carlos the great to get a run, freshen things up.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:41
@Conor: Well you could argue that Mourinho has managed better teams who should score more, but Villa have scored 16 goals from 9 games and Inter 13 from 8, so pretty similar.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:41
@Stephen:
I agree mate Guillett (sexy football! WTF) a bad choice, CQ excellent no 2 but wouldn’t trust him with the main job at OT.
As much as I like Martin O’Neill as a person and a manager I would have doubts on his credentials on taking the helm of a massive global club like Utd.
Spot on with the special one. That just says it all really. Totally self obsessed plus the insipid football that was churned out under him at the bridge ever week was just unbearable.
The way things are going at the minute and if Capello keeps doing a good job with the England setup then I could maybe see him getting the nod from the Utd board.
Either way I think Fergie has to be closely consulted on this but once the decision is made then Fergie cannot be hovering in the shadows. Its going to be a tall enough order for the next Utd manager taking over from arguably from one of the greatest and most successful manager of all time without him looking over your shoulder.
Scary stuff, Utd without Ferguson just doesn’t seem right.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:46
@Conor : I have to disagree with your Tevez comments and i can justify myself by looking at the Utd review DVD. Berbatov as you said can add more to our attack, but is not settled with our team right now. By playing him ahead of a much more settled and proven Tevez for whole 90 minutes in important away matches like Everton is not the way to do it. He and Tevez should be rotated and depending upon the situation.
At Everton last week, we saw a rigid defense and defensive midfield shape from Everton in the second half (hail Moyes’ tactics for that). They were able to seperate Rooney from the play and allow Berbatov to run at them (who is not as effective as Rooney in that). Ronaldo was forced to play wide due to the lack of movement off and on the ball.What we really needed was Tevez who would hustle and hurry the defenders which causes lapse of concentration…Defenders however good they are, dont like forwards who keep running into space and running at pace to them (for which Rooney and Tevez are masters) ..
The off the ball movement and creative play from the 3 – Ronaldo,rooney and tevez- was so effective last season (of course + the creativity and range from Carrick and solid defense)..
Any defense in this world would break up when ball starts to come back at them time and again. thats what happened at Everton..Due to the lack of movement and space up front ,Giggs and Fletcher was asked to be more involved in attack trying to open up Everton defence which exposed our defense.
I still dont know why Fergie dont like the Rooney-Tevez pair and realise that it is that pairing that helped Ronaldo to score 42 goals and also helped win a double…Berbatov is an asset to have but not one without which we cannot play.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:47
@scoop: I agree with Fergie moving on we had a that problem with the spectre of Busby over O’Farrell.
The only thing with O’Neill he managed Celtic and they are a big club.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:58
@Stephen: One thing Mourinho will do though Stephen, IS KICK UNITED ARSE. He is a winner, and wouldn’t put up with some of the pissing about of the united forward players at the moment. He wouldn’t be sat down on the bench just absorbing it all that’s for sure. He would be up by the touchline, giving any WASTRELS on his team a verbal mugging. I have heard him, and he is so bloody good at it. People can say what they like about Tev, but he is a winner too, he cannot stand losing. That’s what I mean about kicking the arses of players who give up all too easily. Too much feckin success I guess. Fergie says he will boot out those players he sees have dropped their hunger levels – yeah right.
October 27th, 2008 at 16:58
@Stephen:
No disrespect to Celtic whatsoever who have been the best team in scotland for sometime now and their fan base worldwide is huge but I still wouldn’t put them up their on a par with your Utd’s, Real, Barc, AC’s etc etc.
The question is can Utd afford to have a punt on Martin O’Neill who could be sensational for us or do we go with a proven track record.
With our debt and reliance on success and silverware to manage that debt for me its a no brainer. Not worth the risk.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:08
@Craig Mc: @scoop: I agree with Mourinho being a winner and you can’t deny that, but his teams are efficient and hard-working.
Ok he won the EPC with Porto which was superb, but he spend millions with Chelsea, and he took over when they finished 2nd with Ranieri,
Inter won the league last year also.
Maybe I am picking holes simply because I dislike him and his style of play, and it is about him, not his team or club. Remember we won the league with 8 points to spare and in 3 years he spent £225m, but I am posibly being picky?
October 27th, 2008 at 17:21
@Stephen: Stephen Mourinho’s Chelsea were very unlucky though not to get to two CL finals. They were robbed against the dippers with disputed goals both times
. If they had got to those finals, as they should have, then I believe they would have a CL trophy under Mourinho 
. Same thing happened to Arsenal in their game against L’fool, they were done by a goal that never should have been in their CL leg at Anfield. Lucky bastards L’fool. They get so many ref decisions that are extremely suspect.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:25
@Shyam: I agree that they should be rotated, and Tevez should have played against Everton from the start in hindsight.
The thing is Tevez and Rooney never clicked the way Rooney and Berbatov have, and so they are the first choice partnership. Berbatov has already picked out Ronaldo’s runs on a number of occasions only for Ronaldo to mess up because he’s lacking in match fitness. This has nothing to do with Berbatov not being able to link up as well with Ronaldo, it’s just because he’s not match fit. Put last year’s Ronaldo in this team and he’d have already scored double the amount he has.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:26
@Craig Mc: We we done by a linesman at OT against his Porto side, if that had been allowed would he have been at Chelsea?.
I want to be convinced because I believe we would win under him, he also is a strong charater but his football ahhhhhhhhhhh!
October 27th, 2008 at 17:27
@Conor: To be fair to Ronnie that was not a straight forward chance, and sometimes we are so reliant on him, Berba was poor on Saturday and should have been taken off.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:33
@conor I live in Saudi Arabia so tickets dont concern me, now that I know I understand, thanks.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:42
@Stephen: I wasn’t talking about that chance at all, no blame attached to Ronaldo for the draw against Everton for me.
He’s missed a few other chances though, and had a few poor first touchs, it’s all part and parcel of missing pre-season and it’s not his fault at all. I was just making the point that all this bollocks about how we’re ruining the holy trinity just so we can play Berbatov, who clearly can’t become a part of this in some people’s minds, isn’t even close to the truth.
Berbatov’s vision is ideal for Ronaldo’s movement. Can’t say the same for Tevez.
October 27th, 2008 at 17:50
@Conor: Berba is class no doubt, if we win our game in hand we will be 2 points off Chelsea, and we have played Liverpool, Chelsea, Blackburn, Portsmouth and Everton away, so really things are not all bad.
Carlos needs a game to be honest, but it does look unlikely now, I could be wrong that we are going to sign him, I have a funny feeling that Fergie wants Benzema and is squeezing Carlito out.
October 27th, 2008 at 18:19
@Matthew: I don’t know mate, Abramovich’s meddling and the presence of AV Grant seemed to faze him pretty good. He’s also the Antichrist to attractive attacking football. A good manager but not be all and end all. I mean do I want to see United play like Chelsea in style? I don’t think so. His ideas and style of play are so embedded in that team’s DNA that even Big Phil can’t seem to exorcise those demons. I don’t think so. United need a man who understands the beauty of football and why the game needs attack and imagination to be attractive and successful.
October 27th, 2008 at 18:22
@RedDevilEddy: Your Anderson gravatar is showing to all of us mate. Try clearing your computer’s cache and wait for a few hours and it may show up for you.
October 27th, 2008 at 18:26
@RedDevilEddy: And I see a little humility also.
October 27th, 2008 at 18:38
Mourinho becoming United manager would ensure one thing. Great episodes of “I’m on Setanta Sports”. Be Champions!
And regarding all this Mourinho talk right now at this time I would like to answer with a a quote from the Special One. “SHUTUP!”.
October 27th, 2008 at 18:48
@Grognard: Well….
what is ture, should be said. 
October 27th, 2008 at 19:52
@Stephen: We will be 2 points off Chelsea, but 5 points off L’fool though INNIT
. I mean Chelski have been scoring a glut of goals lately, and had plenty of opportunity before Pool got their jammy goal against run of play. After that though, Pool could have had and should have had at least another 2. Was Kalou playing for Chelsea, because he seems to have got them quite a few goals lately. He is more likely to score than Anelka 
.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:02
Please someone tell me when Carrick will be back. Plus someone earlier mentioned Anderson as the most complete center midfielder at UNited. I have no doubt that presently that title belongs to Carrick. And yes Fergie remind us all of how bad the Rooney/Tevez partership was so bad. apparently it was so bad it won us EPL and CL. Please give Carlito a start.Please…
October 27th, 2008 at 20:07
Am i scared of Liverpool? Hell no. I am certain they owe me maximum points when they come to OT. Happy that Scolari has finally tasted defeat at the beloved bridge. We need to really get our act in gear and start picking up maximum points. Against West ham and Hull, 6 full points is what i expect. Anything short of that, then i am really scared for our title hopes. And lets all give Ronnie some more time. He’ll definitely get there.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:20
@Conor: No blame for Ronaldo at all? Not even for playing absolute shit the entire 90 minutes and not making one identifiable positive contribution? He was a girl in a red shirt on saturday mate, spent more time on the ground bitching and moaning about being touched than playing. Not to mention insisting on shooting with every free kick that was given inside the opposition half, no matter how far out and no matter that he has had one, repeat one, free kick all year that cleared the wall (celtic for berba’s second offside goal).
So yes, lots of blame for Ronaldo from me.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:24
@Craig Mc: Better question, was Ballack playing for them? He was no where to be seen. I loved watching the second half of that match just to watch the Chelski players having hissy fits all over the field. It was hilarious!! They were screaming at each other, diving, surrounding the ref, JT the cunt resorted to being a bully and trying to intimidate players, all in all very entertaining!!
October 27th, 2008 at 20:26
Oh, and once Carrick is back and 100% fit I want to see a CM partnership of him and Fletch. With Carrick sitting deep I think that will allow Fletcherinho the freedom to make his wild ass runs into the box. But I must say, its refreshing to see him make those runs, and to see his determination and will to win shinning through.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:30
@Drew Vader: Vader, Ballack is out because he had operations on both feet. I believe 3 weeks or something he will be out. Last time I heard anyway.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:33
@WhiteY: Says anything short of 6 points from next two games, and you will be really scared. Get prepared to be scared then mate
.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:39
@Drew Vader: None at all. If our midfield can’t keep hold of the ball then Ronaldo gets absolved of the blame.
That’s how it works for me.
I’m not going to blame a player like Ronaldo who relies on others to pick out his runs rather than the other way around, if no-one’s keeping hold of the ball. He’s more about relying on other people creating for him than creating things himself, although obviously when he’s on form he can be very creative. Never mind the fact he’s still not fully match sharp.
Rooney was anonymous, same for Berbatov and Park. That leaves our two centre mids to provide the creativity, and they couldn’t keep hold of the ball in the second half.
No blame from me.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:50
@Craig Mc: I meant Lampard! My bad. So my point looked idiotic.
October 27th, 2008 at 20:55
@Conor: Isn’t he a part of this midfield that couldn’t keep the ball?? By my eyes, we started with a standard 4-4-2 with Rooney Berba up top, Giggs and Fletch in CM, Park on the left and Ronaldo on the right. Sooooo is Ronaldo just allowed to sit and wait for the other lads to do the work then hand him the ball on a plate? Fuck that mate. He was one of the main culprits of losing the ball and giving possession right back to Everton with his constant falling over. And if he isn’t fit then fucking hell he should be working in training right? How many points are we going to sacrifice just trying to let him get fit?
I agree with you that Rooney, Berba and Park were all anonymous, but in the first half Fletch and Giggs kept the ball just fine and Ronaldo still didnt do a damn thing positive.
October 27th, 2008 at 21:09
@Conor: If our midfield can’t keep hold of the ball then Ronaldo gets absolved of the blame.
And I dont understand that argument at all….I mean seriously, if I held myself out to be the player on my team, (not to mention the best player in the world) and my coach asked me after the match why I played poorly and contributed nothing, and I responded with “Well its not my fault, my teammates couldn’t keep the ball” my coach, a guy from Leeds, would have fucking choked me. Right there on the spot he would have dropped me.
Seriously, I dont give a fuck if all 10 players on the pitch are half asleep, that is no excuse for that performance. If you’re a leader on the team and the self appointed best player in the universe, then fucking take your tampon out and play take some charge and start fucking playing. Good God man, that really got me all riled up!!
October 27th, 2008 at 21:30
Ohhh how I love the way we turn on our players after any set back. You know what, instead of score predictions why don’t we run a pool of who will get scapegoated the next time things go tits up
It sure is an open field, after all you would have thought the world player of the year and scorer of 42 goals last season, would have earned himself a bit more slack than a couple of poor games after returning from injury 
@colver: I would actually mark Joe Cole down as one of the few flair players who improved under Mourinho. But your point stands, Robben, Duff and Wright Phillips all arguably went backwards under the Special One.
October 27th, 2008 at 21:36
@Karl: You have listed a lot of things Anderson can do but you could argue that he doesn’t do many of them particularly well.
His passing, both long and short, is a cut below the likes of Scholes/Carrick. From an attacking point of view his actual output is horrendous. Looking at his work rate, he frequently tires after about 60 minutes in a game and fades badly (although he has improved this season in that respect). His shooting is nothing short of abysmal and he still disappears from games far too often.
All that being said, he is a major talent and has time on his side to work on various aspects of his game but to label him as the most complete midfielder there has been at United seems a bit OTT.
October 27th, 2008 at 22:07
Sorry Conor. But I cant live if I dont do this.
Everybody who plays FIFA 09 should watch and learn. If you can do this you are on my level. 
And just so you know, I did that on purpose. 
), this is the last FIFA 09 goal I will post. I promise! Take a look at it will ya. Please. 
Conor(aka PES fan
October 27th, 2008 at 22:41
Drew Vader, the fact that he’s worked extremely hard to get back a good month or so ahead of schedule and score 2 goals and get two assists, while being involved heavily in the build up to most of our best work, seems to have just gone right over your head. He’s getting no blame from me with the work ethic he’s shown in that, and on the pitch, up until now. Everyone has bad games, the fact is there are a lot of players who had worse games than him – Rio, Wes, Park, Rooney, Berbatov. I think i’ll stick to blaming Rio if I’m going to blame anyone for that result.
October 27th, 2008 at 22:51
@RedDevilEddy: Fair play mate, that’s a pretty nice goal. How’d you do that?! I’m a big Fifa fan, I’ve preferred it to PES right from the start. Why were you playing Vasco de Gama though?
October 27th, 2008 at 22:57
@Conor: Hihi.
You understand that Im proud of scoring those kind of goals. I have practiced the whole day just to do that. First off you do the rabone feint which you can learn on youtube(like I did). And I found out something on my own. The heel flick goals come when you press LT and RT and shoot without aiming. You have to time it perfectly and it is really difficult. The old saying “Practice makes perfect” is really true here. 
Thank God you are a FIFA fan. I dont get how people can still prefer PES over FIFA now a days. The game has become a joke.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:00
@Conor: I played Vasco da Gam cause Ive been playing all the teams in the brazillian leage lately. I played Corintians, Fluminense and Cruzeiro before, so Vasco was next in line to be defeated.
I look at the brasilian players because in the game they all seem to have so good ball control. So if I see a player that impresses me, and is young, I might buy him in Manager mode. Only met one player so far that really impressed me, the keeper on Cruzeiro. But he was old so.. my search still continues. 
October 27th, 2008 at 23:07
@Conor: Oh and if sany of you think that is difficult to do in the arena, try it out in a match! That is a challange for ya. With the goalie and the defenders racing towards you that is nearly an impossible task.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:18
@Conor: Actally Ronaldo has 3 goals(Bolton, Boro and WBA) and 4 assists(Bolton, Aalborg, Blackburn and Celtic). For a player that has just come back from a serious injury and is yet to find his form, that is some slick stats.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:24
@JB: Its also really amazing and wow worthy with some comments on here after a bad result(I’m not saying no one has the right to be pissed), its like anytime something goes wrong this season, fans WANT to blame someone: CQ departing, Fergie losing the plot, Berbatov being too slow, Ronaldo not doing enough, Fergie not giving the players a kick up the ar$e and on and on and on…
@Grognard: So realistically, who do you think would make a good manager after Fergie?
@WhiteY: The last I heard, Fergie said he should be back for Wednesdays game, he already trained with the Squad for the Everton game, but Fergie didn’t want to risk him.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:26
@Conor: Not a damn thing has gone over my head, pal. Maybe the fact that coming back early from injury doesn’t win the team any points has gone over yours…..
October 27th, 2008 at 23:38
@Drew Vader: You’re right, coming back from injury early and scoring a match winning goal, entirely created on your own, against Bolton really doesn’t give your team any points.
Ronaldo’s an absolute wanker for doing that in all honesty, he should’ve just fucked off to Madrid.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:40
@Rd: Rd, this is a discussion board, based on people’s opinions, so what’s the problem if their opinions differ from yours?. Some people on here think they are so superior to others with their sanctimonious answers. Leave people to have their own opinions, even if you don’t agree with them. That’s life mate.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:42
@Drew Vader: Ronaldo has started six games this season, with our record reading as follows:
Six wins, one draw, 18 goals scored, two conceded. Ronaldo has scored three goals and got himself 4 assists in that period.
It does indeed appear that we are carrying him while he returns to full match fitness……….
October 27th, 2008 at 23:44
@Conor: Conor mi man, come on mate. No bigger Ronnie supporter than me after the summer fiasco, but I believe he should just get parts of games whilst not fully fit and performing to full potential yet
. I do know he scored brilliant goal against Bolton though 
.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:44
@Craig Mc: I’ll presume that is a dig aimed at me
October 27th, 2008 at 23:49
@Drew Vader: Vader, Lampard played mate
.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:50
@Craig Mc: He scored a penalty! What do you mean with “a brilliant goal”?
October 27th, 2008 at 23:54
@JB: JB, was it you I made the post too, but IF you think the cap fits
. You post some good and valid points, but you also bitch at others who feel pissed about their perception of things. None of our opinions are sacrosanct bro 
. But No, I was referring to quite a few on the board who bitch when anybody quotes even the slightest NEGATIVE about a player. Some people might see legitimate things that they feel are needing change. But then again, that is just my opinion 
.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:59
I think we should have adjusted to Everton’s roughshod play by bringing on Ando and Tevez earlier. Then we could replied with a bit of our own and maybe seized back control of the game. These are the sort of in-game tactics that has cost us points recently, we just tend to assume that our quality will shine through, however, it doesn’t always, you need to adapt sometimes.
I seriously hope Fergie goes into our future games with a plan around this roughshod strategy teams utilise against us when they have their backs pinned to the wall with our quality play… because West ham and Hull will definitely employ it.
October 27th, 2008 at 23:59
@RedDevilEddy: Eddy a penalty that was good mate, considering the total sitter he missed on saturday
. Like I said, I have been Ronnie’s biggest supporter, but he has his imperfections. I think he should just be playing an hour each game, until he gets his form fully back. That is what was happening initially. It should have continued, and keep continuing until he is up to his outstanding performance level.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:02
@Gabriel: My sentiments exactly mate, as you will see in my posts further up the page
. With regards to tactical nous, I have been going on about the need for this for ages now 
.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:04
@Craig Mc: Nah, it was a good pen but Ive seen him score better. The ones vs Arsenal and Wigan last season were much better. His goal against WBA is prbably his best so far this season.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:04
@Craig Mc: No but your post was directed to a response Rd made to my comment, it is hardly a huge jump from there is it?
I don’t have an issue with anyone voicing negaitive views on a player, as long as they seem fairly constructive and not just someone bitching and whining. Sure I layed into Anderson in the next comment. And no doubt Ronnie will score a few goals and he will be the best thing since sliced bread again in a couple of months.
There is just no patience anymore
The one that got me was the comment about missing Carrick above. I remember arguing with virtually every man and his dog this time a year ago that Carrick was not a useless, boring, overpriced, waste of space. And now we will be greatly improved by his return! Or Wes Brown who got untold grief at stages last season due to his limited attacking input but now people go mad when he isn’t in the starting line up. People seem to change their opinions on players more often than they change their underwear 
October 28th, 2008 at 0:12
@Craig Mc:
Fergie really does believe in our squad, that’s the crux of it. He believes so much that he doesn’t see us being dominated or being rode roughshod over as a serious problem, because ‘we have the quality to shine through’. You could see him smiling when all this was happening on Saturday, he genuinely believed we were gonna pull through it. Well, I hope this is a wake up call!! Our squad is talented and has definitely improved in quality this year – as is evident when we decide to step out of first gear – but we need that extra push and direction in order to always be at our best. Fergie should trust the players less and direct them more, that’s what I feel.
About that performance, I reckon the whole team was suffering from a hangover, there was something not just right. I mean, Rio had a bad game
something was definitely wrong!!!
October 28th, 2008 at 0:14
@JB: I remember those Carrick days well, you proved us wrong big time about that. It is amazing how he turned it around from being a useless flop to our most important midfielder.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:22
@RedDevilEddy: And I thought I had too much time on my hands.
Mate, take it from em, go outside and get some sunshine and a bite to eat. FIFA 09 is a great game, not a way of life.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:23
@JB: When was Carrick’s importance ever doubted
Good thing I wasn’t here, cuz I woulda gone nuts!!! I love Carrick mate, the most composed player in our 1st eleven. Hardly ever puts a foot wrong, Elegant, effective and productive. It’s like having a Rio in midfield 
People talk about having a midfield general, but you don’t need a Keane when you have a Carrick, who goes about controlling and dictating play without much fuss or hassle. I can’t wait for him to get back mate, what’s that saying again… You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone…
October 28th, 2008 at 0:28
Check the official fifpro best lineup- good to see Rio getting some credit:
http://www.fifpro.org/
Kaka the odd man there, me thinks, perhaps Sneider should have figured…
October 28th, 2008 at 0:34
@Grognard:
– never a truer word spoken Bro.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:35
@NicoQB: So very, very chuffed for Rio mate. Thoroughly deserved. How the feck did Gerrard get in there though
.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:41
@Gabriel: Amen to that Bro. But that kind of supposition from Fergie has thus far cost us some points. I think he feels so loyal to all the players, and is trying to fit them all in, that he just chucks on a subs whoever he feels needs a bit of time on the pitch. I seriously often feel no rhymm or reason to his subs at all. At home we can get away with it mostly, but in the away games we can get caught out.
October 28th, 2008 at 0:50
@Rd: A great manager is not necessarily a great technical or tactical coach. Fergie’s greatest asset other than experience is his man management. I want a manager all the players will respect, fear and look up to. But above all, they need a manager who will constantly put the team and the reputation of the club above selfish demands. Ferguson is second to none in this area. Who would I want? Truthfully, I want a man who loves and cares about Manchester United first but who will get the respect of the players. Who fits that bill? Martin O’Neill, Mark Hughes (???? maybe), Roy Keane and Carlos Queiroz are the best of the bunch. If this was FIFA 09 and not real life my manager would be King Cantona. Too bad he has no experience or any coaching credentials because he would get the attention and the respect of the players with his personality and attitude, not to mention his temper and pride. Queiroz for me is the ideal candidate because of the mix of players we have and the direction in which the team has gone towards signing and developing players. We have gone Latino and our mix of Portuguese, Brazilian and other Latin or Portuguese speaking players is highly evident and therefore it seems to make sense to hire a man who will get these player’s respect and attention, while still having a strong relationship and ability to connect and communicate with the English speaking brigade. I don’t put too much stock in what has been happening with the Portuguese national side. Every time you make a change at the top there will be transitional problems and the team needs time to gel and get used to his way of doing things. That plus the fact that Ronaldo has struggled to find his form has not helped CQ.
O’Neill is a good candidate but I question his ability to communicate with the foreign brigade as well as his ability to tactically prepare the team for Europe. I think he would do well within the EPL but his history in Europe has not been great and his tactics at times can be rather pedestrian. I like him as man manager and a man who commands loyalty and respect. Mark Hughes is really getting his chance to prepare for the United job right now with the money and opportunity that Man City have to become a contender. Lets see over the next two seasons what he does with that opportunity. If he succeeds he is an obvious choice. While at Blackburn he wasn’t. I want to see how he does in Europe and how he manages ego’s and foreign super talent. The jury is still out on him.
Keane has done as well as could be expected I guess. He has so many of the qualities in terms of man management but I am not sure about his tactics and technical game thinking. You see, managing a team like Sunderland requires completely different tactics and a highly cautious approach to games. Can he then take on a team of superstars, get them all on the same page and then play fast free flowing attacking football? I kind of doubt it. Still, I’d hate to doubt Keano. The man is intelligent and has a big heart and a desire to win. That is more than half the battle right there.
Do I want Mourinho? Not really but after Fergie retires if he is hired it’s not like I am going to start a boycott if he is. He is an exceptional manager and a great motivator with an excellent grasp of tactics and the more intricate technical subtleties of the game. He is a great character and would be the media darling of England and especially Manchester and he would get respect from his players. But, I seriously would doubt his dedication and loyalty to stay with United for more than 3 or 4 years and I still believe that he is by nature a defensive and cautious man and it shows in the way his teams play. United have too much great offensive talent to have shackles put on them by a manager whose ego and stubbornness far outweighs his common sense to let the attackers lose on the opposition.
Honestly, I am hoping and praying that the new influx of great young talent like the Twins, Jonny Evans, Possebon, Manucho, Welbeck, Gibson and all the proven greats like Ronny, Berba, Rooney, Rio and the rest make Fergie reconsider once again the notion of retiring. Hell, when you are having fun you should keep it going. This team is built for speed and built to last a while and Fergie should go on for at least 3 or 4 more years. He knows it will kill him to leave. Man Utd keeps him young and alive. He is the only manager we need. If he does retire, hopefully it will be at a time when his successor will be someone we all want and look forward to. Not some wanker we can’t stand or barely have any knowledge of. Today I read the name of Ruud Gullit and almost crapped myself.
We’ll have to do quite a bit better than that dutch tosser. 
October 28th, 2008 at 0:56
@JB: So if people change their minds quicker than their underwear, why get into a stew about it JB?. You may feel they have no constructive logic, but that is what RANTING is mate
. Trouble with that whole we must have constructive debate, is that some posters start to go on about other posters being sensationalists, or over emotional. We are going to get that though, because some people are PASSIONATE types, and profuse debaters, where others like yourself, are stoics, in control and matter of fact . It takes all types, but for me, hotheaded, mouthy posters are not a problem. I love a good verbal boxing match. I can appreciate those like you though Jb, who are logical and controlled commenters. I think that my logic makes sense to me, even if it doesn’t to others. Yet I wouldn’t want to deliberately offend somebody else just for bloody mindedness. As I said to RR at one point, how bloody boring would it be on here, if EVERY POST WAS SANITISED 
. I don’t appreciate the disinfectors of debating 
.
October 28th, 2008 at 1:28
@Craig Mc: True, true, bro.
Those awards things very often take heed of player reputation instead of actual performance.
Oh well at least now, Ronnie and Rio are getting recognised by their peers.
Mark my words, next year its going to be Rooney!
October 28th, 2008 at 2:19
hey guys,
i’ve been a reader for a while, first time posting and all that blah blah…
anyway, on this stuff about a successor, someone tell me otherwise if so,
but any thoughts on Guus Hiddink? I mean he’s well accomplished on the international stage, but didn’t have as much luck when he was at Madrid a while back,
but any thoughts?
October 28th, 2008 at 2:46
@Conor: Created entirely on his own?? hahaha so the ref played no part in that one huh? Give me a break man
October 28th, 2008 at 3:06
Fletcher a young paul scholes, you having a laugh Grog?
October 28th, 2008 at 5:11
@SHANNON: No I wasn’t having a laugh. He played great and he reminded me of a young Scholes. That’s not saying he is one. One game does not make him a Scholes but I don’t think comparing him for his performance on the day was out of line. I don’t appreciate the mockery their mate. If you found my comparison too funny, then keep it to yourself because I don’t like being made to look like an idiot with comments like that. I’m not fucking Ricky Gervais OK.
October 28th, 2008 at 5:32
@Grognard: I like Ricky Gervais.
October 28th, 2008 at 8:45
Guys, stop whatever you’re doing and read this http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article5026752.ece
Very interesting SAF interview!
October 28th, 2008 at 8:46
@Grognard: Sunshine? Have yoy been in Norway lately? Dude, its practically a storm here! My footy training have been cancelled for two weeks now. I know FIFA aint a way of life, but when youve got nothin else to do then its a good thing to spend you time with. The boys and girls here are pussies, they are afraid of going out if its raining.
I wanna have fun, but its difficult to do it alone. 
So, FIFA and homework it is! 
When the sun comes out things will have a different tone. What did you think about the goal, btw?
October 28th, 2008 at 8:50
@Grognard: Fletch is a little like Scholes, he just doesnt have that power shot.
October 28th, 2008 at 10:28
@Drew Vader: Is the referee in our team?
Fact is we wouldn’t have won that match without Ronaldo’s goal, which he created himself.
You can’t turn the blame on him, no matter how much you want to.
October 28th, 2008 at 18:14
@Red Ranter: I like Ricky Gervais too. It’s just that I’m not Ricky Gervais.
October 28th, 2008 at 18:20
@RedDevilEddy: Sunshine was a figure of speech mate. I live in Vancouver. Far less sunshine than Norway, believe me. Rain is a way of life here. Right now is the beginning of the monsoon season and I will be seeing very little sun until April or May. Still, I try to do some other things other than FIFA 09. You have your homework, I watch dvd’s, read books and fiddle on my computer but I also go out and visit with friends etc. FIFA 09 is great but like the old saying goes “too much of a great thing makes RedDevilEddy a dull boy”.
Oh and the goal was very sweet. The other day I scored two bending beauties with Hargo. I have no luck with Ronaldo in FK’s.
October 28th, 2008 at 18:23
@Grognard: Neither does he!!
