May 19
Wayne Rooney – The only option left?!
It’s been quite a regular occurrence of late hasn’t it? No I’m not talking about Ronaldo whinging or even a Carlos Tevez transfer story. I’m specifically referring to Wayne Rooney, his versatility and this endearing quality he possesses to play left wing.
Ok so it’s not the biggest revelation since the discovery of electricity as it has been tried and tested before. Although there’s no denying that what it does provide us with is options, affording Ferguson complete freedom to tinker and tweak his attacking line-up however he pleases. And boy has it worked admirably the last few games.
With Rooney operating on the left we have seen Berbatov and even Ronaldo flourish as the central striker. Who knows as Ferguson studies this alternative system, he may even see sense and grant a certain Argentine a future with us that he so desperately craves. With a tighter more compact system and Rooney as an out and out striker, surely that wouldn’t have been the case.
In fairness Wazza squandered the simplest of chances against Wigan on Wednesday, a simple header that he would normally have buried in his sleep. Although since being deployed on the left Rooney has rarely failed to excel and fears that his talents were being wasted out wide were quickly put to bed.
We all feared that a fleet footed Theo Walcott would rip a confidence stricken Patrice Evra to shreds in the Champions League although on both occasions (at OT and the Emirates) Rooney played a part in thwarting the pacey England man to almost a non existence.
The spirited and industrious Rooney may not be the best tackler in the world but he’ll certainly put in a decent shift to aid forward thinking Evra who we all know can be prone to getting caught too far up the pitch. While it’s fair to say that Rooney’s defensive duties haven’t really been tested to the max this season, a meeting with Messi later this month will surely be a decent benchmark to determine his full credentials. Not to jinx it but I’m sure he’ll pass with flying colours.
There’s no doubting Rooney’s genius in the role just behind the striker but in my opinion he’s been given something of a new lease of life on the left. With Giggs a seemingly better option in the middle these days, Nani hardly being flavour of the month with Sir Alex and Tosic something of an unknown quantity at first-team level at least, Rooney is certainly the best viable option for me.
The way he cuts in with that bludgeon of a right foot and lashes towards goal, defenders will often know exactly what he’s about to do but stopping it is a completely different ball game. It’s certainly a joy to watch anyway.
To digress ever so slightly, Rooney’s aggressive nature has led to much criticism for years but to be honest I feel that it is a key component in his armoury that makes him such an unassailably brilliant player. Yes he needs to keep his anger in check in the most precarious of situations but a lot of the time he successfully channels his temper and he can often unfairly get into trouble purely for a reputation that precedes him.
While Ronaldo will never comprehensively commit his future to United we will all still justifiably admire his mercurial ability. At completely the other end of the spectrum you would have to literally drag Rooney out of the dressing room if he’s ever to leave Old Trafford – a trait that I think should draw much praise and adulation as I don’t know where we would be without this sublime scouser.
Related items from Red Rants:- West Ham v Man Utd: Live
- Derby Man Utd: Live!
- Manchester United vs Arsenal Live – Time to celebrate?
- Arsenal v Manchester United Live – Champions League Semi Final
- United win easy, questions on Evans and Rossi
Tags: Opinions/Columns
May 19th, 2009 at 16:40
Good right up Rooney has been superb this season especially as he does get pulled from pillor to post and is the most critised player from the press with his temper.
He is a red through and through and feel he will end his career with us which would be fantatic, especially as he could well be a future captain, not sure about your views that Carlos “craves” to stay with us, I would say quite the oppersite.
May 19th, 2009 at 18:37
Rooney is still much worse on the wing than as a striker. Does anyone notice how much better JOS has played when he has been consistently at RB this season? Same with Rooney. He has been sub-par for the last 2 games on the left and his long range shooting accuracy have gone to shit. So no, Rooney shouldn’t be played on the left at all when he’s one of the best STRIKERS in the world
May 19th, 2009 at 19:00
Rooney…. Please Play SS in the Final!
May 19th, 2009 at 19:38
Personally I have to say that I see Rooney on the left as only a temporary solution.
Let’s not forget: Rooney hit his peak form this season playing as support striker: Calpeelo used him as such in the England team, he carried his form into United, and scoring for fun and creating for others. I think that at that moment he believed he could have taken on the whole world, and basing myself from what his form was then, I would have believed so too.
Now, circumstances forced him to play on the left. His form at the time was so good that he carried is good form on the left. Notice that this very good form was achieved as a support striker. Now after a sustained bout on the left, he’s already losing some of the otherworldly quality of his playing. He’s still certainly good – just not as hood as he was mid-season.
So, yes he’s an option on the left, but for me he should remain an option – not become a starter there.
May 19th, 2009 at 20:19
My team for the final
VDS
)
o’shea
vidic
rio
evra(through lack of other options
Ronaldo
carrick
anderson
giggs
Rooney
Macheda(HAHAHAHAHAHA)
nah, its berbatov.
this formation can switch between 4-4-2 and 4-3-3 frequently. and rooney can play as a striker, not a left winger.
May 19th, 2009 at 20:48
@Dan: I think you are harsh on Evra he is a really good player who had a poor spell and is getting out of that of late, and personally would not swap him for any other left back in the league.
May 19th, 2009 at 21:18
Wayne Rooney is fuckin class, its a testement to his brilliance and versatility that he would be considered a left winger, but like others have said, he is one of the best strikers in England. He should play off a main striker, thats why he does so well with England and Donkey Heskey! Do we ever hear Wayne complaining because he’s played out of position, throwing hissy fits cos he’s substituted? No.
The Boy Wonder has the Red of Manchester flowing through his veins, he has that never say die attitude that epitomises United. His will drags his fellow team mates through their own inadeqacies. He has had a very good season, yet i feel we still have alot more to see from our favourite scouser. Viva Wayne Rooney.
“Met a lad the other day
said he saw the white Pele
i said to him, who was that?
He goes by the name
Wayne Rooney,
Wayne Rooney, Wayne Rooney, he goes by ve name of Wayne Rooney”
May 19th, 2009 at 22:24
@Liam: I couldn’t agree with you more Liam
. The England Manager has found the Roon’s best position, and it isn’t out wide LEFT!
May 19th, 2009 at 22:26
A couple of news today that I wanted to bring to the United Faithfull
The prospect of Ronaldo leaving now looks very distant as Real Madrid’s top transfer targets are Kaka and David Villa. This is a well known fact as today it was reported on the News and from a well known source. The new president Perez is unwilling to pay the figure that is being plotted about so in my opinion with fact behind me it doesn’t look likely that Ronaldo will leave.
However on the other hand Carlitos Tevez’ departure seem ominous (to another English club), I hope I am proved wrong as he is a fantastic player who I and many other United fans alike admire him for his match winning displays and heart. In fact this blog should start a petition or something pleading with him to stay (hey it’s an idea!!).
I also believe that Evra is a fantastic left back defensively and, I also admire him greatly for his attacking flair. Furthermore I think that it is unjust that many seem to underestimate him, yet I believe he is the best left back we have had in years. To put it simply the last 2 or 3 years he, like Nemanja, has been a pleasant revelation
Overall If I am proved wrong and there are a couple of big name stars to leave United I beleive we will both have the finances and the know how to continue to succeed as we have the squad depth. UNITED Champions FOREVER
May 19th, 2009 at 22:26
All you guys who have MUTV, did you catch the ‘How we won the league’ programme today. I couldn’t believe the goals Berba scored, some were really terrific. I had forgotten just how good he was in scoring early season etc. I enjoyed the programme
.
May 19th, 2009 at 22:29
it honestly baffles me why weve never tried tevez on the wing in a 4-3-3 formation he does it for argentina when they play messi on one side tevez on the other and aguero through the centre, if we were to play tevez in the final i think the team should be
van der sar
o’shea rio vidic evra
scholes carrick park/anderson
tevez ronaldo
rooney
May 19th, 2009 at 23:00
I really think the best spot for Rooney in the future would be as an SS to Ronaldo
May 20th, 2009 at 0:08
@Stephen: I wrote the article before the weekend mate so Tevez comments obviously seem a bit outdated!
I do agree with what you are all saying about Rooney’s best position being a supporting striker but it’s great that he gives us options on the left too.
May 20th, 2009 at 0:11
There’s been talk about valencia coming to OT next season… I’ll quote A kick in the grass here:
“..We hear that Valencia of Wigan is being lined up, but for crying out loud the lad has scored just three goals all season, this compares badly to Tevez who has so far notched 15, one more than Berbatov…what’s more, will any of the seriously big clubs be knocking down Wigan’s door to sign Valencia? I don’t think so.
Knowing United, they’d end up paying close to £20m for the Wigan player and at that price we shouldn’t be talking about taking a gamble, but the fact is, exactly as it has been with Nani, it would be a gamble. Why gamble at all when we already have the player the manager, players’ and fans’ want?…”
I’ve been thinking more or less the same thing. I’ve not seen muc of Valencia truth be told, but he hasn’t exactly set the league on fire.
More worrying is reports that liverpoop are sniffing around Yoann Gourcuff. Now that boy is class – he’s worth around 10 goals and 10 assists a season.
May 20th, 2009 at 0:27
Usain Bolt being arrogant and funny; Nemenja, sorry, Nemen-ee-ah,being confused!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxFOJWaRPuk
May 20th, 2009 at 1:09
The Sun is full of the Tevez transfer to Loserpool. Joorabchian told Spurs who made an inquiry for Tevez, that L’FOOL had offered the 26 million fee, and £166,000 a week wages
totalling over 50 million. Apparently Joorabchian have said that L’fool have got the job done with the finance, and that Tevez is very happy about it.
May 20th, 2009 at 2:12
@Craig Mc: If that’s true, there will be many a united fan who’s going to end up devastated. I hope it is not.
In other news, Andrei Arshavin is hilarious!
http://www.theoffside.com/world-football/the-arshavin-files-the-quote-machine-returns-women-beware.html
http://www.theoffside.com/leagues/england/english-premiership/arshavin-midfielder-quote-machine-promoter-of-equal-sexes.html
May 20th, 2009 at 2:17
@Craig Mc: If he goes to Pool, he is dead to me. What a traitor then.
Otherwise, I will always cheer him on from the sidelines
May 20th, 2009 at 2:34
@Craig Mc: if Liverpool decide to pay that sort of money on Tevez then so be it, for me, hes a 15~18 million player at the very most, and 166 grande a week would make him the highest paid player in the league, I would say that the story is pure garbage.
Personally I couldnt care less who he signs for, he is good, but not great, and the United fans who sung out SAFs speech on saturday are a disgrace by the way, After all that SAF has done for the club and mind bogglingly on the very day we got the league trophy these so called fans decide to dround out the speech of a man who has guided the club to unparalelled sucess, even booing him for taking Tevez off, they should be barred from OT.
May 20th, 2009 at 2:36
@Madschester United: There is a full article about it in the Sun mate, who state they got the information from Spurs, who made an offer for Tevez, and were told L’fool were pushing thru a 50 million pound deal.
Also in the Sun – Boro, N’Castle and Sunderland have said that if as suggested Manchester United field anything less than their full 1st team squad, these clubs intend to Sue United for the 30 million LOST revenue. They are complaining that all they are asking is a LEVEL playing field, and they will sue if United are the club who do not give that level playing field
. Which has prompted to PL & FA to say that they are aware of this weekend, and WILL be watching what happens carefully. I had a feeling, after all the sueing that has gone on in football the last few years, that this would be the response from clubs who feel United have not done their part in this relegation dogfight.
May 20th, 2009 at 2:46
@Fred The Red: I agree Fred, but I think it was a good proportion of the Stretford End fans, and I can’t see them being banned mate! I certainly think Tevez has played the popularity card, when the Tevez team press/media agenda to push United didn’t work. Have you read the Sun article Fred, in thesun.co.uk? It also mentions about the threat of Man United being sued by the 3 North East relegation teams, if we field a second string team, and leave our stars out
.
May 20th, 2009 at 2:54
Guess we should be cautious, because it is the Sun. With the info coming from Spurs sources though, WHO KNOWS!
May 20th, 2009 at 3:16
@Craig Mc: sued on what grounda mate, every team that has played in the Epl has played a weakened team at one stage or another during the course of the season, even some the teams down there have done it in the cup competitions in the past, The FA would have to throw the book at every team who rested players against these teams at any stage of the season for them to be logically consistent, that aint goiing to happen mate. Plus most of our squad players have played a reasonable amount of games for the first team this year and can point to the Carling Cup for proof of thier quality.
No mate, The FA would be very reluctant to bring United to book over this and in my opinion if they were to sue United they would have to prove that the team that SAF picked to play against Hull was not capable of beating Hull, and this would be very hard for them to do.
May 20th, 2009 at 5:42
I will never believe that crap about rage being part and parcel of a player. It may be motivating to feel it, sue, but expressing that should be done entirely in footballing terms, and failure to do so demonstrates a lack of composure and concentration.
We like Rooney not being able to control himself on the pitch because it fits with the idea of noone else being able to control Rooney on the pitch either. But he has played his best games without getting too angry, and he needs to accept that whathas happened cannot be changed and just get on with it. I think both he and Ronaldo could learn (different) but valuable lessons from this; Rooney needs to stop getting so angry with himself and Ronaldo needs to stop getting so stroppy with everyone else.
Self control is never a detriment to a players game.
May 20th, 2009 at 10:26
@Fred The Red: Fred I agree with you Bro, but it was the PL & FA who said they were aware of the situation, and would be watching what happens this weekend. It wasn’t the PL who said they were going to Sue United, it was Boro, Sunderland and N’Castle according to all reports. The hell was discussed out of this threat to take United to the law courts on 5 live this morning. Most of the pros on the show ant those interviewed, all sided with Man UNited
.
May 20th, 2009 at 11:19
alreet lads toonfan here do u man u fans want us to go doon on sunday
May 20th, 2009 at 11:43
Absolutely rediculous! Sue who? Sue your respective managers for incompetance, sue your players for lack of effort, sue your fans for lack of support. They’ve got one game left to prove their worth to the premier league.But this is not about one game ffs, they had all season to survive, if these pretenders had played more football all season instead of parking the bus, maybe they wouldn’t be in this shit. I’ve no pity for any of them, personally i’d like to see the barcodes and boro go down.Nothing against the fans, but i have no time for Shearer or Southgate.
Time for fresh blood! This is the way of league competition, boo fuckin hoo! Cant make the grade, tough luck!Btw I’m looking forward to the return of Wolves. And i’d like to see Hull survive, at least they’ve got some balls! At the end of the day, will we be shouting about fair play against Barcelona when we’re missing players because of injury or suspension? I think not. Fergie has a duty to Manchester United football club to give us the best chance to beat Barca, not too insure that some no hopers from the north east get a chance to survive, garanteed if this was liverpool or chelsea this matter wouldn’t even be discussed. Fuckin ABU cunts, cant stand to see United succeed, jealous of everything that we’ve achieved over the years. Make no mistake this is aimed to destablise our CL final, its got NOTHING to do with “fair play”.
May 20th, 2009 at 11:55
@phoenix red:
, Phoenix mi man – SOCK IT TO ‘EM why don’t you 
. Anyway Bro, the North East clubs are denying the threats to sue as absolute nonsense 
. We did say last night, that this was the Sun newsspaper, and was probably tosh.
Any chance of you going to Rome then Phoenix??? If you rant is anything to go by, I can just imagine how raucous you are on the terraces – wooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
.
May 20th, 2009 at 12:19
@Craig Mc: Believe it Bro! I’m a very loud mo’fo to use an americanism! God blessed me with a great voice, which i’m not afraid to use. I suppose it came in handy working on stage for 20 years! Not to mention the football terraces, i’m one of those fuckers who starts off chants, always cant speak for a week afterwards! Its been my job to deafen and shame those fuckin prawn sandwiches!
Unfortunately i’m not going to Rome, hardly any work in the last two months, : ( i’m gutted. Anyway i’m sure there will be other chances to attend a CL final, and you can be rest assured that where ever i watch this game, no one in my vicinity will have any doubts to where my allegiences lie. I’ll be wearing my ‘99 final “sharp” kit for luck. I really hope this game lives up to its billing and we dont have a repeat of Barca away last season! What about you Bro? You going?
May 20th, 2009 at 12:35
@phoenix red: Your mission to deafen and shame those feckin prawn sandwich brigaders
. Bet you do it so well too 
. So your the choirmaster leading the chants on the terraces – bloody magic Bro 
.
I would crawl on my hands and knees to get to Rome if it was down to me! All my mates will BE THERE. I would if a certain person in my life wasn’t feeling all clingy in her baby condition
. Still, I do feel that it is important to BE THERE for her, if you know what I mean Bro. Anyway, I can just imagine how loud it will be wherever you choose to see the game, which I am sure will be in one of Irelands finest pubs – right? You know Phoenix Bro, I got a good feeling that we are going to WIN this game, and within the 90 minutes this time. Depends what team Fergie picks though. I would love it to be a classic game, but the Barca little short carousel passes in MF for long ages, can of stifles things a bit. United need to score a couple of goals early, and then Barca will have to push forward. Just hope Barca don’t get away with like so many penalty shouts this time 
.
May 20th, 2009 at 13:24
@Craig Mc: yeah i hear you Bro! I know where you’re coming from, we all love that banner, “United, Kids, Wife, in that Order!” but reality says otherwise!! It is tongue in cheek though. Its still 50/50 whether i watch it in the pub or with a load of mates in someones gaff, we’ll see. Hopefully our attacking style will rip Barca apart.
May 20th, 2009 at 14:03
@phoenix red: @Craig Mc: It’s going to to be a long week boys!!! Bring it on!!!
Can’t wait have a bad feeling though also Carlos would not be in my squad especially as I predicted he will sign for the Dippers, wankers 
May 20th, 2009 at 15:15
@Stephen: this Teves saga is leaving a bad taste in everyones mouth, if he’s going, ta ra, dont let the door hit you on the way out. And you’re welcome to Looserpool and their bench, ask Robbie Keane. I agree Bro, leave him out if these rumours are true. A dipper in the dressing room! No thanks. Initially i would have wanted to keep him, now i dont care, either way. Its a bit like deja vous, except Summer has started early! Couldn’t he have kept his mouth shut till after the CL final? Was that asking too much? The club stalling, means one thing to me, he’s not rated THAT £’s highly, and Fergie is looking elsewhere.
On the plus side(if its goodbye), it means more garanteed playing time for those we already have, maybe the space afforded by his departure would mean more playing time for Rooney in his preferred position! with Berba and Nani getting more games. And space for our up and coming devils, Macheda, et all. I must admit, i was looking forward to a rampant fab four against Barca though.
So Bro, banish those demons and believe! (i’m beginning to sound like Eddy, joke Eddy!) This is it, we’re gonna be the first team(i hope) to retain the Champions League. And i love that chant “champions of England, champions of Europe” and want to hear it aired for another season!
May 20th, 2009 at 15:18
@phoenix red: Amen to that brother!!
May 20th, 2009 at 15:40
@Craig Mc: The scousers can’t afford Tevez AND Barry, not to mention some defensive reinforcements. FSW himself admitted his acquisitions this summer will define their season. If they shell out enough to gazump Tevez from us (I’m sure we will put in a decent offer for him), they’ll have a great strike force but the same crappy defence next year. Could this be Fergie’s plan – to bankrupt them into buying only one player he knows they can’t afford? I wonder…
May 20th, 2009 at 17:00
So if we put out our first team against Hull. They are not exactly going to bust a gut and risk missing the final are they?
Hull will probably have a stiffer game against our second string trying to make a name for themselves.
Also why would Liverpool want to sign Tevez. They already have their own “Tevez”.
He’s called Dirk Kuyt. Why would they want two.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:03
@gubby: Carlos was brought up in the slums of Buenos Aires, he should feel like it’s home from home in Liverpool.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:04
@RedB:
, conspiracy, conspiracy eh? L’pool haven’t denied the Sun article though have they, or at least they hadn’t last time I looked 
. Unless you heard something Red B. Anyway, Tevez has done a lot of damage as far as I am concerned, with his actions and mouthing, so I don’t really care if he migrates to the scousers. He knows what he is doing! I believe Fergie is right in not doing business at the price the Tevez team want, don’t you think so RedB?
May 20th, 2009 at 17:07
@gubby: You don’t know then Gubby, that Rafa wants everything that Fergie has
? Jealousy and envy mate 
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:07
This Tevez rumor about him going to Liverpool for 50 million is just a load of bollocks. The tabloids have gone into overdrive to conjure up such exquisite fantasy. I mean seriously, look at Liverpool. They are riddled in debt, have to owners at each other’s throats and are looking to get rid of ten players in order to find funds to buy other players. They are not about to sell those players and use up all that money on just one, that being Carlos Tevez. I see Liverpool not being able to afford Tevez for more than 20 million and so my gripe today is with the idiots who write the tall tales for the tabloids. Seriously, these wankers are about as believable as Spurs winning the Prem. Use some imagination and some constructive story telling if you want people to buy into your bullshit you frakken hacks. Anybody with an IQ higher than Robbie Keane can tell that Liverpool haven’t got that kind of money to throw around. And lets face it, no matter how much many of us love Tevez, we all know he isn’t worth 20 million, yet alone 50.
I’m just fed up with this sport’s useless lack of journalistic integrity. It’s a disgrace and it has been for decades now. Why is it so out of line to demand…..NO, expect truth and integrity in sports journalism? We get it in spades here in North America. Sure their are columnists who interpret things in their own way but stories are published only if they are true or there are substantial sources to draw from. There is no making up stories and creating and fabricating news. That is left to tabloids that deal in other areas of news and in the entertainment world. Sports is left out of it because it just should. What is it about Spain and England especially that has allowed the creation of false and unethical sports journalism and why is it for that matter allowed and tolerated? Is nothing sacred in these countries? What’s especially disturbing is that these terrible journalistic practices and travesties are being performed not just by tabloids but by the major and supposedly well respected papers in the country. And then a lot of this false information even makes it to the television. Absolutely amazing a and just so criminal. Shame on all of them for turning football into a circus as well as the theater of the absurd.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:08
@Craig Mc: Liverpool haven’t got 50 pounds to play with yet alone 50 million. It’s all high fantasy right up there with the Lord of the Rings. But not as entertaining.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:11
@phoenix red: Well you got my Amen to that Bro
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:11
@gubby: Good point. I said this a few weeks ago myself. Why would Liverpool want Tevez when they already have Dirk Kuyt who is very much the same kind of hard working player and one who also seems to score more goals? This is just garbage being concocted by Kia Joorabchian to elevate Tevez price and to piss off United. They are obviously feeling bitter.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:15
@Grognard: Same as us with Rooney and Tevez, which is probably part of the reason we are no longer interested in signing, that and the ludacrous amount of money being asked.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:18
@phoenix red: Wouldn’t it be great Bro, if fortune really smiled on us, with a Roma 7-1 type game win again. Well I intend to dream on anyway Phoenix
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:20
@Grognard: Speaking of journalism, you’ll enjoy this. (I think you might have heard of this story, but still.)
May 20th, 2009 at 17:22
@Stephen: FFS Stephen – Bad feeling?
. We need all the OT faithful to be sending out the right vibes Bro 
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:24
@Shera: I love that, it’s a well known fact. Right. If anyone is bought by Real it will be Franck Ribery because of his ties to Zidane who is in line for a major position with the club if Perez gets reelected. There has been zero in the Spanish media and the world media about Villa and Kaka going there. I’m not saying it’s impossible, I’m just saying I will go with the more tangible sources which claim that not only is Ribery going there, but that he has been annoying his Bayern teammates by telling them he is going there. Ribery is the reason why Ronaldo is not going to Madrid.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:29
Phoenix mi man, I at least persuaded the GF to travel down to Manchester, and stay with my family, So I can go with my Bro and his friends to the MEN or somewhere big like that to relish the atmosphere of the CL final. The family have agreed because they are against me swanning off to STAB City – Rome
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:33
@Craig Mc: I never enjoy the season until it is over, especially Cup Finals, they cause my body and liver serious damage
May 20th, 2009 at 17:37
@Stephen: Your poor liver awwwww
. Its pickled with all that red wine Bro. You better watch it, or you’ll be getting a Fergie type Red NOSE before you know it 
. I understand what you mean though about nerves 
.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:40
@Craig Mc: Ha ha I was looking at his nose on the TV the other day, I would say it is more purple, Mine is more maroon!
May 20th, 2009 at 17:40
@Stephen: I am still certain that the number one reason Tevez is going is because he wants to start more games. This has got nothing to do with money. It’s all about his ego and his wish to be a starter. And I can’t blame him for that because he is good enough to be starting for 99% of all the clubs out there. In fact I can only think of two or three clubs in the world that have no room for him. Man Utd is one of those teams.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:52
@Red Ranter: Classic stuff. That still won’t dissuade Wenger from buying him on the cheap. The fact he doesn’t really exist will fall in favorably with Wenger’s team philosophy that Arsenal’s opponents don’t really exist.
The fabrication and outright lies on the Internet are bad enough, but when journalists from major newspapers borrow the stuff and then publish it in their papers it just becomes so comical and sad all in one. It just confirms one thing I have said about the Internet for years now. That it is an evil entity that needs to be regulated and yet that seems to be an impossibility so we are stuck with it in it’s corruptive and destructive present form. And yet, what would we do without it?
My friend called me yesterday for some help with his computer that crashed. He was in a panic because he could not get on the Internet and go to his tv talk blog and his LA Dodgers blog. He was suffering chills and going cold turkey over the fact he could not get online.
Has it come to that? 
May 20th, 2009 at 17:54
@Craig Mc: It only becomes “Stab City” when a Roman team plays. They could give a rats ass about Barcelona and United.
May 20th, 2009 at 17:57
@Grognard: Well said.
It’s a damn shame that football journalists have this idea that they can print their down-the-pub speculation as news when it comes to transfers. And the fact that the British press report what’s said in AS and Marca as true…
May 20th, 2009 at 18:04
@Grognard: If he runs the blog, and if that’s his livelihood, like it is for people like Ahmed who are professional bloggers, then it’s a problem. However, if that’s not the case with your friend, then it’s sad.
Anyway, everyone should read the web blogs of the folks behind this Masal Bugduv expose, they are a class apart.
Fredorrarci’s Sport Is a TV Show
Brian Phillips’ Run of Play — Brian’s articles on the fortunes of his Football Manager team – Pro Vercelli – is a work of art.
May 20th, 2009 at 19:37
@ Grognard – Coming from a North American background, I still find it absolutely galling at what gets reported as ‘news’ in the UK papers. And not just the crap ones, but even the Guardian/Times now too. There is no such thing as a reputable journalist in the UK, sensationalism sells and that’s the bottom line.
I just wish some players would start taking these papers to court for their libel, and sort it out. But no one has the balls.
The Sun patently make things up every day, and they’re not even the worst! Why is there no consumer protection? It’s like false advertising to call it news.
Give me Sportscenter anyday..
May 20th, 2009 at 19:58
@Beachryan: Beachy, no smoke without fire though Bro
.
May 20th, 2009 at 20:05
is there any chance Tevez is gonna play in the Final?
May 20th, 2009 at 20:13
Y not start a petition to let loose the admiration the united fans have for Tevez and the desire to keep him at the club- Personally i would love him to stay rather than us signing any other player in the world right now. The drive he gives us is phenominal. If this website were to start a petition its still an attempt and a valued one at that??
May 20th, 2009 at 20:30
fantastic tongue in cheek article about tevez and berbatov
May 20th, 2009 at 20:30
@Grognard to an extent you are correct about Ribery moving to Real Madrid, however this does not mean he is the number 1 or even 2 target it has become well known that a certain Spanish pundit and Source working for Sky Sports News has stated the Real and indeed Perez are looking to build a more Spanish team with.David Villa will be heading his way to the Bernabau next season, Kaka is another story due to his loylaty to Milan and yet his desire to win something in his glittering career. While a player such as Ribery much like Ronaldo desires to go to Real but unlike Ronaldo can be probably purchsed for a far less price. My friend Grognard you also seem to be mistaken about the idea of Tevez leaving yes, it is a horrible and sad thought but it not “bollocks” as you so articulately put your argument. Tevez has made it clear that if he does indeed leave the Red Devils then he will be playing for another Premier League club next season, So check your sources on that friend, and as for my sources just research better on British websites and you will see what i mean, Thank you
May 20th, 2009 at 20:32
excellent tongue in cheek article about berbatov and tevez
the last attempt failed because i posted the wrong link
May 20th, 2009 at 21:17
@Mr.Muhozi: Berba Greater than that Ass named Tevez…. Anytime of the day… Any second.. But he’s only good when he plays with a REAL second Striker…… AKA Rooney…
May 20th, 2009 at 21:33
@Shera: Errrrr sorry Shera, but that is one petition I wouldn’t sign Bro, and for the following reasons:-
1. IMHO Tev is a good player, but not worth the large amounts of money his 3rd party slave owners are demanding. I am sure of this, because both David Gill and Fergie have spoken openly in media interviews that the amounts bring asked for are totally unnaceptable in the light of the present credit crunch.
2. The Tevez team, with the agreement and expressed consent of Tevez himself, have done the unthinkable as far as the United board and manager are concerned, sought to push their case consistently through the press. Gill has warned Joorabchian that United will NEVER do business that way.
3. Tevez has played the United fans like a fiddle, waging his own popularity parade, in order to get the fans onside. Worst thing is, he has done this at a time when the club and team focus should be on the CL final in Rome. Also, I don’t know what the United fans are thinking of in going to the lengths they have to support Tevez, who is willing to go even to United despised Loserpool! The booing of a Fergie decision and that at Old Trafford is something never seen at Old Trafford, and I hope never repeated. We don’t need Tevez that bad, that some of the United faithful would turn on Fergie in front of the world’s press.
4. I expect David Gill and Ferguson are sick of explaining to baying United fans why the club has hitherto NOT signed Tevez. Naming specifically the problems they are having with the Tevez owners. I would like to know where these baying United fans have come from, maurauding around OT after the game, like a Rent a Mob. Scenes I haven’t seen before at OT.
4. Lastly, I personally don’t care for Tevez himself publically mouthing continuously to the press and tv. Nor for his big headed assumption that he should be assured as a starter at OT. No player is going to get that assurance promised to them. Apart from Ronaldo, the mard arse who seems to be able to get everything he wants. Then Ronaldo is Ronaldo, and gives United so much more than Tevez.
5. There are plenty of Tevez supporters who will sign your petition mate, but why is it needed really, when United fans have already made LOUDLY clear at every recent game, they want Fergie to re-sign Tevez?
May 20th, 2009 at 21:40
@johnsom33: I hope not Johnsom. Tevez didn’t turn up for the FANS & PLAYERS end of season awards, and was the only player missing. To me that says a lot about his character Bro. Besides, I want the CL final to be ALL about the TEAM and not about one man Tevez!
May 20th, 2009 at 21:59
@Craig Mc: I think We’ll make an offer for Tevez for what we think he’s worth, no more, then bindippers won’t afford the same price, never mind more. Kia will want to sell to citeh or some other crap team with more money than sense and Tevez will be torn between playing for a crap team not in the Champions League and staying with us. What I doubt is his power to persuade Kia to take a pay cut.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:05
@Red Ranter: No unfortunately my friend does not run a blog or anything like that. He is very much a stay at home hermit type who never even had a computer 6 years ago until I decided to buy him one so that he would get with 21st century. Once he got it he basically became addicted to it from an Internet perspective and along with his tv, those two items basically encompass 95% of his life. I spend a fair amount of time these days with the PC due to my disability but even I have a semblance of a life, although I could often say there are days when I wonder about myself too. I at least go out and do things with friends and take part in other activities. I love the computer and the tv as well but I also like reading books, going to movies, restaurants and visiting with friends. My working days are over unless I get a back operation but then again, other than the money, I really don’t miss the pressure. I thrived under it but I still feel it drags years off of a person’s life.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:05
@Shera: y not no?
May 20th, 2009 at 22:13
@Red Ranter: I just loved the video of Ibrahimovich asking to be subbed off and Mourinho ignoring his wishes, subbing three other players off including the GK and leaving him out there. Mourinho showed that heartless pile of shite who the Boss is and it just speaks volumes over how much of an ass clown IbrahimoBitch is and how much he lacks the desire, courage and heart that is needed to compete at the highest level. God how I hate that overrated Swedish meatball.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:18
@Beachryan: So true mate, so true. I think UK laws are too lenient or this kind of shite would have been shut down years ago. It’s no wonder Fergie refuse to be interviewed by so many among them the BBC. When you can’ even trust the BBC to tell the truth, then you know the problem is bad.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:19
@johnsom33: I think we’ll see him as a sub. if we are tied or losing. If we’re winning I think Fergie will show him just what he thinks of all the BS that has gone on these past couple of weeks.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:21
@Shera: I’m all for Tevez staying and I do think that at times he has been treated unfairly but I for one would never sign any kind of petition against my club or my manager. I respect Fergie far too much to ever go against him like that. Even if he doesn’t know I exist. That bridge I won’t cross out of loyalty.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:21
@Mr.Muhozi: You need to give us the link mate. OOPS never mind, I noticed you have it below.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:25
@Shera: That pundit you are talking about is an ass clown. I forget his name off the top of my head but I know the guy you are talking about. The guy should be ambulance chasing or hassling movie stars because he is a total hack who never ever gets anything right. The fact he still gets paid is amazing to me. Also, Ribery will cost Real a minimum 50 million to get. Do you think they have 200 million in their coffers to go for him Kaka and other? It’s Ribery or Kaka, not both. And I will put my money on Ribery.
May 20th, 2009 at 22:28
@Shera: Also, where have I said that I don’t think Tevez is leaving. I have said that I hope he doesn’t leave but I do not believe I have said that he is not leaving. At least not lately. I’m pretty reserved to the idea that he is leaving and because of his demand for more playing time. His agent may be about the money but Tevez is about ego and playing time. So yes, I do think he is leaving because I do not see him ever being promised more playing time with United.
May 20th, 2009 at 23:52
Our treble will be better than yours
– http://www.oleole.com/blogs/fcbnews/posts/trebles
May 21st, 2009 at 0:07
Before people start to jump on @Fcbnews, Nic’s a good friend of the blog — and runs a pretty good FC Barcelona blog. I’m sure he meant this as some sort of friendly banter. So be nice.
@Fcbnews: We’ll see.
May 21st, 2009 at 0:15
Cheers RR. All the best mate, except for next Wednesday of course
May 21st, 2009 at 0:16
@Fcbnews: really funny man..
you are talking seriously 
sorry..
absolutely hilarious,,
ohh
May 21st, 2009 at 0:25
I’m about 99% sure we’ll start Rooney on the left for the CL final, in an effort to nullify Messi, it should work well. I hope Fergie will use Berbatov at the top, and Ronaldo on the opposite flank, but I fear/imagine he’ll do the Arsenal formation again, but with Giggs in for Fletcher.
After seeing Chelsea pretty much dominate against Barca in terms of chances created, I have to think Fergie is going to set us up compact and counter-attack driven. So likely:
———–VDS———-
-O’Shea-Rio–Vida-Evra–
—–Carrick-Ando——-
———-Giggs———
–Park———-Rooney–
———Ronaldo——–
May 21st, 2009 at 0:26
=1
May 21st, 2009 at 0:33
@Fcbnews: Only problem is Nik, you won’t be winning the last trophy for your treble to be better than ours
. Good stats mate, but stats won’t be on the field playing a CL game 
, and the Man United team on the field, will win this game. Unless the referee ignores 3 or 4 definate penalty shouts, as was the case at Chelsea. Come on Nik, with all your stats, even you would be hard pushed to say that Chelsea NOT Barca should be facing us in Rome. Happy days mate, but just not the day we play you in the FINAL 
.
May 21st, 2009 at 0:37
I’m wondering where everyone goes on the internet to stream hi-q videos of anything concerning Manchester United. I’m familiar with Fred54, but i can’t figure out if he posts to a specific website or if his videos are simply disseminated at random. Can anyone help?
May 21st, 2009 at 0:40
@Beachryan: I think Berba should play, because we need someone who has close control, good first touch, and can hold the ball up. We need this so that we can keep some possesion away from Barca’s keep football. If Giggsy plays, then I do worry, because he is too oft giving the ball away, conceding possession muchly. Andy will be better I think, because he at least is not easily dispossessed as Giggsy.
May 21st, 2009 at 0:45
@Beachryan:
———–VDS———-
-O’Shea-Rio–Vida-Evra–
—–Carrick-Ando——-
–Park—Berba-Rooney–
———Ronaldo——–
how about this??
May 21st, 2009 at 0:50
@I_Bleed_Red: He’s usually on Soccerpulse forum
May 21st, 2009 at 3:30
@Fcbnews: the stats are impressive mate and your team is to be admired to, but in my opinion the the competition thay you faced in La Ligs this season was poor with no team really providing Barca with a stern test. The fact that Madrid put up a spirited fight should not gloss over that they are a poor side who would struggle to finish in the EPLs top 4 or 5 teams.
Chelsea, who are the 3rd placed team in England, provided your sternest test this season, and it was a test that some might say you were fortunate to pass.
I believe next weeks final has paired the two best teams in Europe together, but as Craig said, stats dont win football matches, players do, so we will see you in Rome my friend, hope you enjoy the match, just not as much as us, Respect.
May 21st, 2009 at 6:36
@Fcbnews: First of all may I start by saying welcome. Secondly may offer my sincerest sympathies for your upcoming loss.
May 21st, 2009 at 6:44
@Fcbnews: I’d be more concerned about how you are going to repair the massive leaks in your defense that have sprung open with the exclusion of both of your fullbacks and Marquez. Then I would pray very hard that Iniesta recovers because if he isn’t playing, that just makes things far too easy for words. Our midfield will suck the air out of Xavi and cut off the passing lanes to Messi. Once that is done we can just stick a fork in you because Barca will be done like dinner.
United have too much class and too much depth. Barca are a quality side but they play in a less physical league where the marking is not like what they faced against Chelsea. They also are a small and very soft team. Physically easy to intimidate and impose one’s dominance over. The fact we are not playing Chelsea in this final after the beating they gave you guys is amazing and almost miraculous. Sorry but I call it as I see it.
Can you win? Yes, but United would have to literally have to choke and Rooney and Ronaldo would have to be no shows on the pitch. I seriously doubt that Ronaldo will not be up for a match that will be all about bragging rights between him and Messi. And as for Messi, he will not show up again for a big match because he gets physically phased out of such matches very easily. Ronaldo will dominate and United will win by at least two goals.
May 21st, 2009 at 8:44
This will be our team for the Champions League final:
VDS
Oshea-Rio/Evans-Vidic-Evra
—Carrick—Anderson—
Park—–Giggs—–Rooney
——–Ronaldo———-
Barcelona are just a Arsenal side with more tecnique and more effective. Their Fabregas is Xavi, their Arshavin is Iniesta and their Walcott is a much better Messi. And if Etoo is Adebayor. Fergie should be happy we faced Arsenal in the semis as it gave us a chance to practise our style against such teams in a vital game instead of training. I believe we can win against Barca if we score on at least 1/3 of our chances, because even though people feel it wont be a great final, the space Barca will leave for us when we counter will be HUUUUGE. And without the speed of Dani Alves and Abidal in defense their back line will be slower than a retirement home. If Rooney, Ronaldo and Anderson can use their speed when we counter we will score a few, I believe. But, time will tell. I can only say that I believe…
May 21st, 2009 at 8:53
@Grognard: I feel there are 4 players that Barca should be really, really afraid of. Despite they should be afraid of our whole team because we have too much class,
, 4 players in particular should be feared.
Vidic- His aerial power will crush Barca. If we get a corner I would count that as a scoring opportunity before its even taken. Vidic vs Pique, Puyol, or Toure doesnt frighten me the least. When he can own Drogba and Terry like they were little mice then I am looking forward to see what he can do to Xavi, Etoo and Messi.
Anderson- Not my bias talking, but Anderson has been good when being able to show his physique. He normally plays well against top sides, Arsenal and Liverpool, because he faces players like Alonso and Fabregas. Players that need space to do something on the pitch. If he can hazzle Xavi and Inisesta(which I really hope doesnt recover), then he might be one of the most important factors. Plus, his speed on the counter will be vital.
Rooney- If used on the left wing Barca will have serous trouble. First of all, he will help out Evra with Messi, which I feel he has enough defense ability to do. He can cut inside to take a pop at goal, and he can cross which makes him unpredictable. And his crosses have been absolutely mrvellous this year, Inter, Spurs and Sunderland can confirm that. If Ronaldo can get his head on one of those crosses, he will leave Puyol and Valdes stranded.
Ronaldo- I dont feel I need towrite anything here… We all know what he is capable of.
May 21st, 2009 at 8:55
Oh, and by the way guys. Ive staretd my “Rooney- My story” prject for FIFA 09, and I just wonder which songs you feel I should use as the audio trck. Ive got Numb by Linin Park so far, then some commentary from ITV, Sky and BBC. If you could reccomend one more song for me it would be great. Thanks for the help!
May 21st, 2009 at 10:00
5 minutes alone by Pantera
In Manchester at the moment. Went to see Ross Noble’s comedy stylings last night. off on the Old Trafford tour today. woot.
May 21st, 2009 at 10:13
@RedDevilEddy: Can you paste the link for the old videos that you made? The top ten goals thing. Missed them last time.
May 21st, 2009 at 10:17
@RedDevilEddy: Thong Song by Sisqo?
May 21st, 2009 at 11:08
@Stephen: Are you serious?!
Dont think it fits for Wazza. 
May 21st, 2009 at 11:18
@RedDevilEddy: Ha Ha only joking mate,
it should match his tatoo The Stereophonics ‘Just Enough Education To Perform’
May 21st, 2009 at 11:43
@Stephen: Thanks for the tip mate, “Have a nice day” fit perfectly!
May 21st, 2009 at 12:09
Eddy that would be my team as well. Although I have a sneaking suspicion that Fergie is going to be a sentimental old fool and play Giggs and Scholes alongside Carrick in midfield…which would be game over.
May 21st, 2009 at 12:16
@colver: He has to play one of them but not both.
May 21st, 2009 at 12:20
@colver: Also he may be sentimental but he is not stupid.
May 21st, 2009 at 12:21
@colver: Fergie wont play Scholes against Barca. Despite Scholes scoring the winner last season, he did fuck all during the game! His passes werent great, and with Barca playing 3 in midfield Scholes will be useless because he will not be given room. Giggs will probably start, because he can do damage and he doesnt need too much room to do stuff.
May 21st, 2009 at 12:21
@Stephen: Well said.
May 21st, 2009 at 12:45
@RedDevilEddy: I do agree also with your team, I cannot see Fergie picking any other side bar that one, in the biggest game of the season we are leaving out two players who could and have cost a combind figure of over £60m, in Berba and Carlos.
The real concern in the game is our lack of “leg” in midfield, being without Hargo and Fletch is leaves us only with Andy in the centre to do the grafting, Carrick and Giggsy with all their ability are not known for their workman like play.
For us to win Anderson has to have one of his best games in a United shirt, closing down the obvious two in midfield. The concern is how much of the ball we will have in the final, the pitch size is 105 × 68 m, which is exactly the same as OT, so it is a big pitch especially if you don’t have as much of the ball as you would like. Wee could be camped very much in our half for long spells, so maybe Berba should start so he can hold the ball up and give the midfield a much needed breather, as however good Roonie is, he does like to run in behind.
God knows but I cannot wait!
May 21st, 2009 at 12:46
Tevez latest whine – “The manager hasn’t even told me whether I will be playing, or having any part in the CL final – BOO bloody HOO!” Whats new then, Fergie hasn’t told any of the players yet who is going to be involved, except Sheasy and Park, who seem to be the flavour of the month right now
. Think about it Tev, you told the world that you cannot agree with the way United manage the club, or the way the Old Man Fergie goes about things. The old man???? For someone who wants respect so bloody desparately, you need to learn to show some to those who are as GREAT and achieved everything, as Fergie has. I wouldn’t lose any sleep if Tevez isn’t involved. I am tired of the drama of the Tevez saga, its about the team and CL, not about prima donnas who wouldn’t know the word PATIENCE, if it bit them on the arse 
.
May 21st, 2009 at 13:14
@Stephen: ER that was meant as Ronnie not Roonie, bloody work!!
@Craig Mc: I totally agree, I would not say the team until the day of the game, but that is probably old fashioned, Tevez certianly isn’t doing himself any favours.
May 21st, 2009 at 13:46
@Mr.Muhozi: An entertaining read, and that’s just what it is.
“…his (Berbatov) tackling is reminiscent of a geography teacher that’s had to take PE at the last minute…”
“… The tackle count narrowly goes against Berbatov, with Tevez taking it 1,923 to three. ..”
just thought those stats might just shed some truth (I’m just quoting ROM here):
Successful Tackles:
Wayne Rooney: 12
Carlos Tevez: 15
Dimitar Berbatov: 23
Just for the sake of reference,
Rio Ferdinand: 21
Jonny Evans: 20
Its good to have light hearted bantering journalism, but somehow, I just thought he was reproaching Berbatov’s cold efficiency, while Tevez is celebrated for his workmanship…
May 21st, 2009 at 13:56
Thanks for reassuring me guys. I just had a feeling that Fergie felt this would be Giggs and Scholes’ last Champions League final ever and would decide to reward them for the service to the club. More likely you are right Giggs will start and Scholes will get 15 minutes as a substitute.
May 21st, 2009 at 14:02
@RedDevilEddy: A song for “the boy Rooney?” How about Bowie’s “boys keep swinging”?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jRODPlfhys
May 21st, 2009 at 17:04
@NicoQB: I honestly hope you were joking!
Thats a horrible song…
Ive decided to go for Linkin Parks “Numb” and “Have a nice day” by Stereophonics.
You should look forward to it, its class! 
May 22nd, 2009 at 1:29
@RedDevilEddy: Then I’ll just spare you my thoughts on Linkin Park, mate! *couch* talentless posers *cough*
