Bleacher Report - Articles by TheRepublikOfMancunia.com

Jonny Evans: Our Lads Don't Get Nervous

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 05:43:45 -0500

Jonny Evans’ ability is something most people took note of following Sir Alex Ferguson’s refusal to sell him. Sunderland saw a £10 million bid rejected for a player that hadn’t even had a look in on the United first team.

Having already won over the fans at Sunderland, who chanted “There’s only one Jonny Evans!” as he warmed up alongside the pitch in our meeting at Old Trafford, he is receiving increasing praise from our fans and the media alike.

He’s put in two solid performances against Chelsea this season, as well as Inter Milan, Villarreal and a whole host of other teams, with a total of 20 appearances so far this season.

He has today claimed that he is ready for the League Cup final, as are the other younger players who are likely to feature, and points out he is not as inexperienced as people might think!

“Most of the lads don’t get nervous,” Evans said. “People talk about inexperience but, as long as your concentration is good and you do the basics right it should be fine. You don’t want to get carried away on the ball and try to beat people at the back. It’s best to keep everything nice and simple.”

Evans is quick to point out that he isn’t as inexperienced as people describe him as, reminding us of the Premiership season he’s already had with Sunderland.

“People say I was a rookie defender when I came into the team but we had a lot of tough games at Sunderland last season,” he added. “Playing against Chelsea and Arsenal when you are near the bottom of the Premier League isn’t easy. Of course, we have good players here which does make it easier. They have helped me and I have gained confidence from that.”

"Evans: Our Lads Don’t Get Nervous" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Carlos Tevez: The Best Is Yet to Come

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 05:27:25 -0500

Carlos Tevez’s future won’t be resolved until the end of the season, but that won’t stop our Argie striker from enjoying all the matches he gets to play in and trophies he gets to lift.

“The best part of the season is coming up,” said Tevez. “We’re in the last 16 of the Champions League, we are top of the league and we’re in the Carling Cup final. We want to win everything, that’s what the fans are demanding, and we will try to win on all fronts. Let’s hope we can do that.”

Aside from winning trophies, Tevez’s aim is to get as much game time as possible, wanting to provide goals for the team.

“My personal goal is to play as many minutes on the pitch as I can, and score as often as I can for the team,” he added.

"Tevez: The Best Is Yet To Come" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Same Old Jose Mourinho: Whenever His Team Is Undone, He Blames the Ref

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:44:23 -0500

Jose Mourinho, what a character he is, I hear people say all the time.

A character. A breath of fresh air. A personality.

Let’s be honest, the guy is a prick.

He got outdone by Ferguson in the title race and blamed it on injuries.

He didn’t like Cristiano Ronaldo stealing the show, so claimed ‘the boy’ was uneducated and had a difficult childhood.

Whenever he doesn’t get a result, it is the referee’s fault.

The fact that Inter got played off the park on their own ground is no fault of the referee! Sadly, as always, TNSSO has covered up his short-comings by putting the blame elsewhere.

“Hopefully in the next game the referee will be on our side,” said Mourinho. “I don’t want to go into details of things like how we didn’t have a penalty. Everything was against us, every little detail. You watch how many free-kicks they had and we had. The way we got yellow cards and they did not. I think the tendency was clear.”

January 26th 2009

“This weekend the referees haven’t been great and it was the case again tonight, as there were so many cards, including my own red, which was very harsh to me. Tonight’s referee was one with no experience, and he certainly did not favour us in any way.”

January 2005

“In the second half it was whistle and whistle, fault and fault, cheat and cheat. The referee controlled the game in one way during the first half but in the second they had dozens of free-kicks. I know the referee did not walk to the dressing rooms alone at half-time.”

February 2005

“When I saw Rijkaard entering the referee’s dressing room I couldn’t believe it. When Drogba was sent off I didn’t get surprised.”

(Mourinho later confessed he didn’t see Rikjaard enter the referee’s dressing room)

"Same Old Jose… Whenever His Team Is Undone, He Blames The Ref" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Jose Mourinho Insists He Didn't Snub Sir Alex Ferguson

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:42:36 -0500

Much is made of the friendship between Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho, with both insisting on numerous occasions they have the greatest respect for one another.

However, reports in this morning’s papers suggested that Mourinho had snubbed Ferguson after the game, refusing the shake hands, following the match in which United dominated.

Mourinho has insisted this isn’t the case though and explained his departure.

“My dugout is a special dugout because we have a door which gives me the chance to leave it directly,” Mourinho explained. “Yesterday I left a £300 bottle of wine in the hotel with a note saying we would meet each other after the game at Old Trafford. I am always close to him and we are always friends and I will be there for him after the second game.”

Still, could have given time for a hand shake. Sore loser?

"Jose Insists He Didn’t Snub Boss" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Forget the Rafalution…In Youth We Trust

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 05:00:41 -0500

The fresh faced and future star studded United youth team of 1992 may now almost seem like a distant memory to many United fans, but it was these players who provided the nucleus of Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad for many years to come.

After breaking into the first team ahead of his other class of '92 graduates, Ryan Giggs had already made himself an established first team player by the time many of the youngsters were given their real big break in the team.

It was the beginning of the 95/96 season before many of United’s young prodigies were really given their chance, losing 3-1 on the opening day of the season, on a dismal day for the club at Villa Park (and notably, the last time we’ve lost at that ground!).

Despite the curse of the new grey away strip the team had been sporting, Alan Hansen used all his expertise in order to advise Sir Alex, with his infamous quip, “You’ll never win anything with kids.”

Following the shaky start to the season, United’s so-called “kids” went to prove Hansen and all their other skeptics wrong.

Gary Neville, Nicky Butt, David Beckham, and Paul Scholes in particular playing a key role in order to secure the club their second League and FA Cup double winning season in three years, under the guidance of Eric Cantona who returned from his ban part way through the season.

Fergie and his kids on this occasion had the last laugh, and it was these youngsters who formed the backbone of the club’s famous Treble winning team just four seasons later.

But introducing youth is not something which stopped there for Sir Alex. Over the years as well documented, United have been renowned worldwide for their superiority in developing the best youth talent, with a success rate likely to blow any other Premiership team out of the water.

Sir Alex has always to some degree managed to find the perfect blend of youth and experience, with the '92 class having the likes of Mark Hughes, Eric Cantona, Steve Bruce, Bryan Robson, and the like to look up to.

The current crop of youngsters are able to find their feet under the careful guidance of such seasoned veterans as Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, and Edwin van der Sar.

Despite the large amounts of money banded about in the modern area, ever since the arrivals of the likes of Abramovich, The Glazers, Hicks and Gillet and Co. it seems that a strong youth set-up plays more than a key role in the deciding of the Premiership.

Over the last two seasons, Liverpool in particular have flexed their spending muscles in trying to purchase the Championship, but to no avail.

However, the problem with these teams is, they cannot for any amount of money buy the amounts of heart and desire that comes with a young, home-grown talent, raring to burst onto the scene, waiting in the wings for a chance.

The kind of desire and tenacity not seen at the other members of the "Big Four" since the promotion of John Terry, Steven Gerrard and Mr Liverpool himself, Jamie Carragher to their respective first teams.

Players such as Darren Fletcher, not always first choice for Sir Alex, and not always a fan favourite, is starting to win over the Old Trafford faithful, with his performances in the big games, in which he will be undoubtedly one of the first names considered for the United teamsheet.

To use Liverpool as an example again, Rafa Benitez has excelled himself this season with his many outspoken comments concerning United, much to his humiliation, Rafa appears to have neglected much of his clubs youth.

Despite the occasional use of new youngsters such as David N’Gog, Rafa has decided to neglect many of the youth side that defeated our own side in the FA Youth Cup final merely two years ago, preferring to spend (wisely) £19million on Robbie Keane and £7million on Andrea Dossena.

United’s youth scouting system is one which, for the benefit of the club, has now spread to accommodate not just the crop of England’s talents, but now the World’s, boasting special talents from the likes of England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Brazil, Serbia, Italy, Norway, and Germany amongst others.

Although young players can be a gamble, and not all of them work out, what they do give to a squad is strength in depth. So far this season, United have used more players than any other team in the Premiership, fielding 29 players so far.

The likes of Rafael and Jonny Evans and in particular have been revelations this season, proving not only that they can hold their own at the highest level, but also make a decent push for a first team place.

With other youngsters knocking at the door, such as Danny Welbeck, Darren Gibson, and Rodrigo Possebon and next season seeing the return of Fraizer Campbell, the arrival of Serbia’s Adam Ljajic, as well as the likes of Fabio, Federico Macheda, and Davide Petrucci certain to feature more since being selected for the Champions League squad, the future of the club certainly appears to be in good hands for many years to come!

Following on from Failsworth Devil’s article, this piece came from lifelong red Stuart Davis.

"Forget The Rafalution… In Youth We Trust" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Outplayed On Your Own Turf, Jose! How Was That for Defensive?

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 04:00:56 -0500

“I don’t believe Manchester will come to the San Siro to win, they will play very defensively,” Mourinho said on Monday.

More possession. More shots on target. More shots off target. More corners. Higher passing completion. Fewer fouls.

The difference between football in England and Italy was shown ever so clearly on Tuesday evening, with the Italian consecutive title winning side being taught a lesson on their home turf by the English consecutive title winning side.

Ahead of the match, I would have taken a 2-1 happily, although feared we might not be that lucky. Truth be told, I don’t watch an awful lot of Italian football (it would probably always come second to watching paint dry) so I didn’t know a lot about Mourinho’s side before we played them.

I’ve seen enough of Ibrahimovic to know that he’s a threat (and also know that he’s not as good as Ronaldo), but more worryingly was the thought of playing an Italian team.

Whilst we could get our tactics right with Carlos Queiroz about last season in Rome, I was apprehensive as to whether Ferguson and Mike f**king Phelan would be able to tactically get this game right. After all, this wasn’t just any defensive-minded Italian team we were playing, but a Jose Mourinho defensive-minded Italian team, which is worse than anything we’ve faced before.

We’ve come up against Porto and Chelsea, in leagues where more attacking football is encouraged, and we’ve been kept out and caught on the attack. God only knows what he would do in charge of a bloody Italian team!

Yet with half an hour gone, I could only scratch my head and wonder why we weren’t ahead. We played them off the park, limiting their few attacks to breaks on the counter, which were rather easily snuffed out before they got dangerous. In contrast, our passing ripped their midfield apart and we were creating chance after chance.

Now, whilst I can brag all I like and act like a smug git over our team outplaying TNSSO’s away from home, essentially it doesn’t count for much, as 0-0 is a shit result. Even if we had been second best, 0-0 would be worse than a slim defeat in which we scored.

Ahead of the Barcelona game at Old Trafford last season I was absolutely shitting myself and now we have to prepare for exactly the same scenario. The stakes aren’t as high, with us not being one step away from the final, but the fact Mourinho is their manager and the idea of the press wanking over TNSSO "out-witting" Ferguson evens it out a little.

I couldn’t bear it. For 90 minutes, unless we’re two or three nil up, I will be waiting for their last minute goal that knocks us out and Jose’s camp touchline dance, part two. It will be torture.

Difference is, I imagine, Wayne Rooney will be starting in the return leg, as will Vidic, and our lads have the incentive and belief in their ability to retain the Champions League title. That should be all the extra fight we need to knock Inter out because on last night’s showing, they really weren’t anything to write home about.

"Outplayed On Your On Turf, Jose! How Was That For Defensive?" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Journalist Holt Joins Fergie Fan Club

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 04:00:41 -0500

I’ve always voiced my negative feeling on journalist Oliver Holt, who has repeatedly and unfairly ripped our club, manager and players apart. He once incredibly claimed that it was Sir Alex Ferguson’s fault that Wayne Rooney missed the World Cup, as Rooney was clearly riled at Stamford Bridge and should have been substituted. The fact that he then went on to break a bone in his foot and miss the best part of the World Cup was all down to Sir. Of course, why didn’t I think of that??

In the summer before United won the title in 2007, Holt was incredibly dismissive of our manager, even claiming that essentially, Ferguson had lost the plot.

If United want to muster more of a challenge to Chelsea next season, the last person—after Wayne Rooney—that they should be selling is van Nistelrooy. Selling him would be a huge step backwards and a massive blow to the club. Does Ferguson seriously expect anyone else to believe that the injury-prone Louis Saha is a better bet next season than a goal machine like van Nistelrooy. If he does, then his judgement is waning faster than everybody thought.

Ferguson thinks there is no need to buy a new forward when he rids himself of Ruud van Nistelrooy. The theory is that he will be OK with Wayne Rooney, Louis Saha, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Alan Smith and Giuseppe Rossi. Which is fine, apart from the fact that Rooney’s got a dodgy temperament, Saha’s injury prone, Solskjaer’s played seven league games in the past three years, Smith has never been a natural goalscorer and Rossi’s not ready.

A year before, Holt was even more damning of Ferguson, claiming that nothing he went on to achieve would ever make up for the fact he was on borrowed time and should have retired.

Next Monday, Sir Alex Ferguson will celebrate 20 years in charge of Manchester United. In some ways, I’d like to join in the accompanying orgy of back-slapping and misty-eyed remembrance. But I can’t.

He has consistently produced teams that have played breathtaking attacking football and which have been superb ambassadors for our game. He has moulded players and men to admire in his two decades at the helm and built United back up into one of England’s leading clubs. But like celebrating his pal Tony Blair’s 10 years as prime minister next May, Fergie’s anniversary amounts to nothing more than a lazy and meaningless ballyhoo for a man who has stayed on too long.

Whatever United go on to achieve this season or in seasons to come, nothing changes the fact that Ferguson should have quit in 2002 when he said he was going to quit. The European dynasty Ferguson vowed to found never materialised. The win in the Nou Camp in 1999 was a one-hit wonder. So lavish praise on Sir Alex Ferguson. But don’t get too misty-eyed when next Monday rolls around.

Then amazingly, after United go on to win another two League titles, as well as the European Cup, Holt is in full praise of Fergie, claiming that there were little doubts he would be able to achieve such a feat!

If there’s one thing Ferguson doesn’t need to worry about any more, it’s the applause. It’ll never die out. Not for him. Not now. Because on Thursday, he erased the last quibble about his greatness as a manager by winning the Champions League for a second time. There weren’t many doubts anyway. He has led Manchester United to 10 Premier League titles and established himself as the leading British manager of his generation.

Now it appears as though he’s well and truly converted, with his write up in this morning’s Mirror ripping TNSSO to shreds, whilst lavishing praise on United. Dipper? Bitter? No, it appears as though Holt might be a closet red after all!

So Jose Mourinho guessed correctly about the Manchester United team Sir Alex Ferguson would pick. Not that it did him a blind bit of good. The Special One predicted Fergie would leave out a couple of his star forwards and it was the last thing he got right all night. Fergie just stuck to his plan and picked the team he wanted to pick anyway. If, at first, that seemed like a small victory for Mourinho, it soon started to feel like an empty one, too. Because if Mourinho knew how United were going to line up, if he knew how to prepare for them, how come he had to stand by his dugout and watch United play Inter off the park in their own stadium?

For all Mourinho’s bluster about this Inter team being a match for the English champions, it was clear United were in a different league. If Inter conjure a victory out of this tie after the way they were picked apart last night, then it will feel like if not the death of football, then at least a heavy blow to its solar plexus.

United were beautiful to watch as they passed their way through and around Inter. Their midfield outplayed Inter’s as comprehensively as Spain outplayed England in Seville a fortnight ago. There is an argument that if Wayne Rooney had been in the side, then perhaps United would have killed Inter off in the first half and not allowed them to be still in the tie as they head to Old Trafford in a fortnight. But United had plenty of chances and most fell to their most clinical finisher, Cristiano Ronaldo, who was denied by the woodwork, fine goalkeeping and his own profligacy. And even if there will now be doubts in United’s minds as they go into the second leg, there should be a whole lot more in Inter’s after the gulf between the two sides was made apparent.

And as for Mourinho’s boast that Zlatan Ibrahimovic should have been voted the best player in the world ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo, that seemed like a bad joke. It’s only because Mourinho has talked him up so much that Ibrahimovic has gatecrashed that debate. There are precious few who believe he belongs in the company of Ronaldo, Lionel Messi or Kaka. In fact, you have to work hard to find anyone who’s ever seen him have a good game. Last night was no different. The contrast between the two men was startling.

Ronaldo was a constant threat, raiding down the flanks and testing Julio Cesar with a series of stinging free kicks, one of which the keeper pushed on to the post. He nearly scored twice with two powerful headers, he pulled the Inter defence to pieces and taunted them with his tricks. Ibrahimovic? He was nowhere. He was nothing. His didn’t muster an attempt on goal until the 17th minute and the Inter crowd must have wished he hadn’t bothered. His shot flew out of play for a throw. Most of the night he was marked out of the game by Jonny Evans. That’s the Jonny Evans who’s not even a first choice at Old Trafford and who was carrying an ankle injury.

No wonder there was a giant Inter sign at one end of the ground that said ‘Never Relegated’. It seemed a curious boast for a team on top of Serie A and has pretensions of winning the Champions League but after the way they played last night perhaps avoiding the drop should be the limit of their ambitions.

"Holt Joins Fergie Fan Club" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Media Reaction: Ronaldo Better Than Ibra, United Better Than Inter

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:44:52 -0500

What did the media make of our 0-0 draw at the San Siro?

The Daily Mail: If Jose Mourinho is to progress at Old Trafford in two weeks’ time, he is going to have to do it the old-fashioned way. The Porto way. Smash and grab, as it was five years ago. What was proved at the San Siro last night was that, man for man, Manchester United have the better team: and one man for one man, in particular.

Mourinho has built up the bout between Cristiano Ronaldo, the best player in the world, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the man who would like to believe that he is, but had this been in the boxing ring the man in the red corner would have had his arm raised in triumph long before the end. Ibrahimovic postured like a great player, Ronaldo played like one. All he lacked was the sprinkle of luck that would have turned a match-defining performance into a match-winning one.

How was Ronaldo better than Ibrahimovic? Let me count the ways. He was a better header of the ball. A bigger threat from free-kicks. He ran with the ball to greater intent. His shots were more dangerous. And his passing? Well, let’s be generous and call that a draw. Ibrahimovic passed the ball very nicely. Just not very often.

Ronaldo had electrified the San Siro in a way that was beyond compare. Ibrahimovic? The thinking man’s Dimitar Berbatov. He must have some magnificent games while our backs are turned, though.

The Times: Sir Alex Ferguson was content but undeniably frustrated as Manchester United came away from the opening round of the renewal of his rivalry with José Mourinho in the San Siro last night with a narrow edge.

United were unfortunate not to emerge with a more creditable result than a goalless draw against Mourinho’s Inter Milan and Ferguson was left to rue the failure to turn a dominance of possession into a lead to take back to Old Trafford.

United dominated possession in a one-sided first half that showed them to be worthy world and European champions. Mourinho had been as voluble as ever before the match, but the former Chelsea manager was scratching his head midway through the first half as Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates threatened to run rings around his Inter players.

United’s dominance was built on solid midfield performances by Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Park Ji Sung, with Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Dimitar Berbatov deployed farther forward.

Ferguson got his tactics spot on, United playing at the high tempo that has often characterised their best European performances, until Inter woke up in the second half. Inter’s frustration was summed up when Francesco Toldo, the substitute goalkeeper, received a yellow card for abusing the referee from the bench on the stroke of half-time.

The Guardian: It is a mark of Manchester United’s expectations that they will be irked neither to have won nor even scored at San Siro. A new record for the Champions League of 20 consecutive games undefeated will have scant relevance for them.

Jose Mourinho had predicted that the visitors would not meet his team “eye to eye”. He was right—and Sir Alex Ferguson had certainly taken a tangential view of the fixture.

United had been entirely true to themselves in the attitude applied to the match. They opened by demonstrating why they were unbeaten in so many European fixtures. There was an ease to the domination they relished at the start of the game. The domination verged on the outlandish.

"Media Reaction: Ronaldo Better Than Ibra, United Better Than Inter" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Manchester United Lineup for Inter Match Announced—Good and Bad News!

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:50:00 -0500

Following the fretting over which players were going to start in defence for United tonight, following the injuries to the majority of our defenders, it has been confirmed that John O’Shea, and more importantly I’d say, Jonny Evans, have passed late fitness tests and will be in the starting XI.

Van der Sar, O’Shea, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra, Carrick, Giggs, Park, Fletcher, Ronaldo, Berbatov.

Of course, I’d probably rather see Rafael, Wes, and Neville all starting at right back ahead of JoS (sorry!), but that is a lot more solid looking defence than we’d feared!

We’re looking at Park and Fletcher on the wings, Giggs and Carrick in the centre, with Ronaldo just behind Berbatov?

Subs yet to be confirmed, although I’m hoping to see Wayne Rooney’s name on there! Whilst I’m sure Ferguson is just being cautious, following the lad’s recent return from injury, I never like to see him omitted from the starting lineup.

"United Line-Up For Tonight Announced - Good and Bad News!" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Former Arsenal Star Dropped by TNSSO for United Game

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 11:25:56 -0500

Patrick Vieira, who shat himself when confronted by Roy Keane ahead of our 10-man, 4-2 thumping of our former title rivals, has voiced his shock at being left out of Inter Milan’s 19-man squad tonight.

The central midfielder, who has seen better days, was not picked by Jose Mourinho for what could be the most crucial game in Inter’s season, given that they should stroll to the title again. Not the greatest vote of confidence.

“The manager took his decision,” said Vieira. “Am I surprised? Yes, of course insomuch as I featured in the last two games and to be honest I thought I would be part of this list. Manchester United are favourites, even if Inter have nothing to envy them in terms of squad.”

Now on to my favourite Vieira moment:

I’m sure our travelling fans will sing a song for him, regardless of the fact he’s been left out of the squad.

"Former Arsenal Star Dropped By TNSSO For United Game" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Manchester United-Inter Milan: Pictures of John O'Shea and Jonny Evans in Italy

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:39:48 -0500

God only knows which players Sir Alex Ferguson will pick at the back for today’s massive game against Inter Milan.

As it stands, Fabio da Silva, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra are our only confirmed fit defenders for this evening, with Gary Neville, Wes Brown and Rafael da Silva all ruled out through injury, Nemanja Vidic missing through suspension, whilst John O’Shea and Jonny Evans are question marks.

Training yesterday shows that O’Shea was at least involved on some level, whilst Evans was left to sit it out.

Will we see left-back Fabio given his Champions League debut at right-back? Maybe play Evra in the centre alongside Rio with JoS at right-back and Fabio at left back? Maybe shift Fletcher to right back and leave Fabio on the bench?

None of those combinations fill me with confidence, given we’re facing the talent of Ibrahimovic, who has already scored 17 goals this season!

"PICTURES: O’Shea and Evans In Italy" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Darren Fletcher: My Thoughts Are with You, Dazza

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:16:48 -0500

News reports today have announced that Darren Fletcher’s home in Bowdon was robbed last night, with his missus and kids there.

Fletcher was in Italy ahead of our Champions League game with Inter Milan.

Hayley Grice, who had Fletcher’s twin sons back in 2007, had a knife held to her throat as she was forced to hand over her engagement ring.

When the robbery took place, the kids were in bed, leaving her and her mother alone downstairs to deal with the thugs.

“They are the priorities in my life now so it’s difficult to talk about coming back to Scotland because you don’t know what’s going to happen, whether your kids will be settled down in school in England or whatever,” Fletcher has said of his fiancée and kids in the past.

“I love where I live. I have been there for seven years. I still regard Scotland and Mayfield as my home but I’ve started my own family down in England now. That’s what I see as home now.”

Pedersen Vs. Fergie: Was It a Dive?

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:16:12 -0500

The diving debate has reared its ugly head once more, following a booking for Cristiano Ronaldo and a turned down penalty appeal for Pedersen at the weekend.

Is it a dive if there’s contact? I’d say yes. If a player makes the decision to go to ground, they are diving. If a player can stay on their feet but chooses to fall over in attempt to win a penalty, after contact has been made from the opposition, I believe that to be a dive.

The problem is, some players are stronger than others. Wayne Rooney is a player who usually stays on his feet, to his detriment. When playing for England in the last World Cup he was fouled numerous times in the run-up to his sending off. Had he chosen to go to ground he won have rightly won a free-kick and that would have been the end of it.

A referee wouldn’t award a penalty for a player who had been kicked in the penalty area, but didn’t go to ground, so is it just common sense to play for a penalty when your opponent has been foolish enough to make contact, as Rafael was with Pedersen on Saturday?

Who knows, I’m not getting in to the morals of it, but I will say Pedersen dived.

Ferguson - No penalty

“The boy Pedersen dived. There is no question about that at all. Yet Cristiano Ronaldo gets booked for the same thing and Pedersen doesn’t. Both cases were the same. You have to give either a penalty or a yellow card.”

Pedersen - Penalty

“You don’t want to go down at Old Trafford, you want to try and score a goal. Rafael got his arms round my shoulder - that’s the key thing. If the referee thinks I was diving I should have got a yellow card like Ronaldo did. They’re two situations but I’m not the referee. I felt something on my shoulder. He got his arms around my shoulder. People will probably look at my legs but I felt something and it’s not like I tried go down, I had a great opportunity to score.”

The Independent - No penalty

Big Sam Allardyce was naturally aggrieved when Morten Gamst Pedersen failed to gain a penalty after Rafael da Silva briefly draped an arm on his shoulder – and certainly no one could dispute the raging inconsistency of referee Howard Webb, who ruled out the spot-kick but omitted to hand out the yellow card produced so quickly for Ronaldo. Pedersen’s fall seemed no more artful than the Ronaldo flop.

Sky Sports - Penalty

Having lost one lead, it seemed unlikely the hosts would do it again, yet Rafael Da Silva was incredibly lucky to escape when he put his hands on Morten Gamst Pedersen’s shoulders in an attempt to get into a tackling position as the Norwegian burst into the box. Pedersen went down. Webb said no.

The Guardian - No penalty

The whole afternoon was much the same, with old controversies renewed and Blackburn’s allegations of refereeing bias gaining volume when Webb decided not to award a penalty after Rafael da Silva placed a hand on Morten Gamst Pedersen’s shoulder as he chased him into the United penalty area.

Allardyce suggested, pointedly, that Old Trafford could “intimidate” match officials, an argument that was undermined by the fact Webb had earlier disallowed a perfectly legitimate Jonny Evans goal for a perceived foul by Ronaldo.

In any case, football should surely not be encouraging players who automatically hit the ground as soon as there is even a feather’s weight of contact.

Pedersen denied Ferguson’s accusation of a “blatant dive” but perhaps in the future he will take the old-fashioned option of trying to score rather than win a penalty.

"Pedersen vs Fergie: Was It A Dive?" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Ferguson Fancies Liverpool Over 'Slow' Madrid

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:12:05 -0500

Are Real Madrid favourites to win the Champions League?

“No chance,” Ferguson responded bluntly. “Their game lacks pace. They have great players like Heinze, Cannavaro, Gago, but they aren’t quick. There is Robben, the only one who can give them some rhythm, but he isn’t very brave. The three English teams - Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal - or Barcelona are the favourites, along with United. The level of the Premier League is so elevated that it prepares you for games at the highest level. And Barcelona can count on a fantastic player, Messi.”

"Ferguson Fancies Liverpool Over ‘Slow’ Madrid" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

When The Earth Stood Still For Ronaldo

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:57:10 -0500

While the rest of the team ran to celebrate with United hero Edwin Van der Sar following his penalty save against Nicolas Anelka, teammate Cristiano Ronaldo fell to the ground in tears. If not for John Terry’s miss, Ronaldo’s tears would have been of sadness rather than joy, as he was our only player to miss a penalty after scoring the opening goal in the game.

Ahead of our match with Inter Milan, Ronaldo has reflected on just how great it felt to see Anelka’s penalty palmed away, knowing that United were now champions of Europe.

“I always had a great ambition to win the Champions League, because it isn’t obtainable for every player,” said Ronaldo. “It was my first Champions League win, so the emotion was spectacular. I remember Edwin van der Sar saving Nicolas Anelka’s penalty and for me it was like the earth stood still, it was a really brilliant sensation. Sometimes we can’t control our emotions. It’s every player’s ambition to be a part of the Champions League, and they would all like to win it. I’ve had that privilege, and I hope to repeat that very soon.”

"When The Earth Stood Still For Ronaldo" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Ronaldo: We Are Better Than Inter

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:55:51 -0500

“From now on, all games are important,” said Ronaldo. “It’s time to kill or be killed. Whoever loses will exit the competition and we don’t want to lose, we don’t want to get stuck along the way. It will be a difficult game, but I think that Manchester United have a better team, and we’ll do our best to win it. They’re a team we need to respect. They’re a good side and first in Serie A so we need to be very careful. They’re a team with very experienced players, but we also have our aces and great players. We have a more experienced team, we’re the reigning champions. It will be a good game, a well-contested game, and the better team will win.”

"Ronaldo: We Are Better Than Inter" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

"United Fan" David Beckham Fancies United To Beat Inter

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:52:37 -0500

David Beckham, who is currently behaving dreadfully towards the club that pay him £500,000 a week, has today confirmed that he will be in the San Siro tomorrow night, cheering on his boyhood team, Manchester United, against his current team’s rivals.

“I’m sure that United will have had scouts at the game against Milan last week and at many other games that Inter have played recently,” said Beckham.

“They are two great teams. United have got some incredible players and so have Inter. United are favourites in my eyes, but I’m biased. I think they are because of the strength of their squad and the way they have been playing recently. They are on a run where they look unbeatable, and I hope that continues. As a Man United fan, I’m on their side—and also as a Milan player. I’ll be coming to the game and I’m sure I’ll speak to some of the players and the manager. It’s going to be a great game, but I obviously hope that United win.”

"‘United Fan’ Beckham Fancies United To Beat Inter" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Pretentious Cantona on Artistic Football Coaching Job

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:51:05 -0500

With time running out on Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United career, the search for his replacement brings about an element of panic for our fans. After spending over two decades with the club winning trophy after trophy, the idea of bringing someone else in is terrifying.

With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer currently learning his trade with our Reserves, there would be some who fancied him for the job. Another former player whose name always gets a mention has today claimed that for him to become a football coach, he must manage great players.

He’d have to look hard to find a team with greater players than United!

“I have the pretentiousness to think that I must work with great players,” said Cantona. “Just look at Maradona, he is the perfect example of what I’m saying. As a club coach he has won 2 games out of 25. But being Argentina’s coach is the ideal place for him and his results are proving it. I don’t know if I’m right, but I have convictions and if coaching is to be my job, I will do it as an artist.”

"Pretentious Cantona On Artistic Football Coaching Job" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Put a Sock in It, Moaninho!

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:17:18 -0500

TNSSO is up to his usual tricks with the press this week, having a go at decisions made in United’s favour over Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic.

Mourinho believes both players should be missing for both games against Inter Milan and will stomp his feet and shout about it until people pay attention to him.

Not content with talking about these decisions months ago when they both occurred, Mourinho will keep hammering out his point (kindof like Mad Rafa).

Moaninho 1: Vidic

“I think Nemanja Vidic should be suspended for both legs, not just this week’s game. We will certainly try to make things uncomfortable for the United defence without him at the San Siro.”

Moaninho 2: Rooney

“Back in 2005 Uefa used TV evidence to suspend Michael Essien for a challenge that he made in the Champions League against Liverpool. Against Aalborg, Rooney made a challenge that deserved punishment. But nothing happens. What is the difference between Michael Essien from Chelsea and Wayne Rooney from Manchester United? I don’t think there is a difference.”

I’ll explain the difference. FIFA looked at the video evidence of both cases. With Essien’s they believed a red card was appropriate, with Rooney, they didn’t. There is the difference. Simple. Add to that the fact the Aalborg player

"Put A Sock In It, Moaninho!" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Club Over Country: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Chooses Manchester United Over Norway

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:10:02 -0500

Any player who chooses club over country goes down fairly well with the United faithful—with a United > England stance running through large sections of our support. Alan Smith once turned down the opportunity to play for his country in order to get 90 minutes for our Reserves, which did no harm to his reputation amongst the fans!

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed today that he turned down the position to manage his national team, Norway, to keep his job as United’s Reserve team manager.

“I did not think it was the right time for me to say yes to the offer,” said Solskjaer. “But of course it was nice to be asked. I work for Manchester United, and my career is going in the right direction. It would have been exciting to take on a much bigger job than my current job, but I have a job at United.”

Will Solskjaer spend his entire career with United?

"Club Over Country for Solskjaer" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Liverpool Faces Tough Road

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:53:28 -0500

After earning a draw against City, Liverpool is now seven points behind Manchester United at the top of the table.

Rafael Benitez, whose mental stability has come in to question at times this season, has conceded their title chase is more difficult now, but he is focusing on getting a good result at Old Trafford in a few weeks time.

Sadly for him, Liverpool’s results at Old Trafford have worsened with every passing season!

“I think we will have to beat Manchester United now,” said Benitez. “Clearly it is more difficult now. It is a bad result. We have to beat Middlesbrough and Sunderland and start thinking about if we can win at Old Trafford. You never know what can happen, but clearly they can win games and win games without playing well. There are still 12 games to go though, you can’t say anything is finished.”

2007/2008
United 3 Liverpool 0

2006/2007
United 2 Liverpool 0

2005/2006
United 1 Liverpool 0

2004/2005
United 2 Liverpool 1

Under Benitez, Liverpool has lost their last four matches at Old Trafford, conceding eight goals. The only goal scored in these four matches came from John O'Shea.

Essentially, Liverpool and Rafa have blown it. Titles are not won in February, but they can certainly be lost. They are relying on a win at Old Trafford, something just one team managed to accomplish last season. And no road team has won at Old Trafford this season. This means times are getting desperate!

"Liverpool’s OT Record On The Decline… But Mad Rafa After A Win" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

City Fan Tells Truth Behind Manchester Myth

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 04:00:56 -0500

Whenever I’m outside of Manchester and I get talking to whomever, the topic will usually turn to football. It’s not long before I’m talking about United.

“You’re from Manchester? I thought proper Mancs supported City.” If I had a quid for every time I heard this, I’d be almost as loaded as the Arabs at Wastelands!

Let’s be honest; the idea that Manchester United can draw in fans from all over the World, but repel support from Mancunians, is plain and simply totally idiotic. It doesn’t make any sense!

People don’t assume all scousers support just one of the Merseyside teams, people don’t assume all Brummies support just one of the Midland teams, people don’t assume all cockneys support just one of the London teams… but because United fans have fans all over the country and all over the World, for some reason, it is assumed by those outside of Manchester that Mancunians support City. Moronic.

I’m not sure how this myth spread so rapidly; I have my suspicions that bitters on their jollies perpetuated the lie, but I honestly can’t get away from Manchester without hearing I can’t be a ‘proper Manc’ because I happen to support the team of my father and grandfather etc., and that team happens not to be Manchester City.

Whilst City fans might enjoy going down south or abroad and claiming all Mancs support City, they’d be embarrassed to make such a claim within the city.

You only have to go to a pub on match day, in the centre or in the suburbs, to see just how many United fans there are in Manchester. Head out to Stockport and it’s a different story though!

A report in 2001 showed that 7,808 of the season ticket holders at Old Trafford lived in ‘M’ postcodes, compared to the 6,678 Maine Road season ticket holders with ‘M’ postcodes.

Obviously, proportionally, that means City had a higher percentage (40% of their season ticket holders were from Manchester, compared to the 29% of United’s), but it does show how many more Mancs have season tickets at United compared to City.

The most popular area for United season ticket holders was Sale (M33), with 3 percent of all holders coming from this area, which is roughly five miles from the ground and about 10-15 minutes in the car, and just three stops on the met.

The most popular area for City season ticket holders was Cheadle (SK8), with 4 percent of all holders coming from this area, which is also roughly five miles from the ground.

Comedian Jason Manford, who you’ll know if you’ve seen 8 Out Of 10 Cats, is a Salford-born blue. Last night he was on Jonathan Ross and was asked about his football support.

After already taking the piss out of the City mugs who showed up with the tea-towels on their head, doing their very best "walk like an Egyptian" impressions, he had to explain the differences between United and City to Ross.

“City is the team for proper Mancunians though, right?” Ross asked. Manford paused rather awkwardly and confessed that actually there were loads of United fans in Manchester (comparing us to rats, saying you were never more than a few feet from one of us!) and that the myth about City fans and Manchester wasn’t true.

If even the City fans are fessing up, then maybe we are actually getting somewhere. But I won’t rule out the chance of ignorant southerners again questioning my support or giddy bitters continuing to spread the Manchester myth!

"City Fan Tells Truth Behind Manchester Myth" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Ryan Giggs Loves Manchester United

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:49:09 -0500

Ryan Giggs has successfully reinvented himself as a central midfielder this season, enjoying great form and even better write-ups in the press. Sir Alex Ferguson wants him to be knighted, but Giggsy will settle for just winning trophies!

“We’re pleased to be in four trophies at this stage of the season, that’s what you aim for,” said Giggs. “It’s not easy playing Saturday-Wednesday, Saturday-Wednesday. You need more than 11 players, you need 20-odd players. We had it last year, so hopefully we can do it again and see how far we can get.”

Giggs’ form and loyalty to the club has been rewarded with a year-long contract extension, which will see him staying at United until at least the end of next season.

“I’m enjoying my football more than ever,” he added. “It was great to sign. I love the club.”

"Giggs: I Love This Club" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Didier Drogba of Chelsea Embarrassed By Manchester United Defeat

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:46:25 -0500

Had Didier Drogba not slapped Nemanja Vidic in last season’s Champions League final, he would not have been sent off and therefore would have been available to take one of the penalties. Instead, John Terry took one of the penalties and missed, allowing United back in to win.

Of course, there’s no guarantee Drogba would have scored, but anyone would fancy him to put the ball in the back of the net over Terry. It wasn’t to be for Chelsea though.

Drogba’s only start against United since then was our 3-0 thrashing of our former title rivals at Old Trafford last month. He was absolutely hopeless, easily the worst player on the pitch, which is saying something considering how poor Chelsea were that day.

There aren’t too many players who I actually really, really dislike, but Drogba is definitely on that list. It’s hard to find a redeeming feature about the slimy, cheating, mercenary prick, which is why it makes me smile to admit his embarrassment at losing to us.

“Defeat at Manchester United was embarrassing—not just for me but for all of us. I can barely remember when we lost a game like that,” said Drogba. “In the past, when we played United, we always gave them a very hard game. Maybe we would win or draw, but we would never lose like that. We have got into trouble at the end of games at Fulham, Manchester United, and Liverpool.

"We all have to get that amazing feeling of invincibility back again. We would be in the dressing room and we knew before a game that we would win. We felt well prepared and from that we were confident. Lately we have not been as strong and we have had a lot of injuries.

"United have shown what we used to do, which was winning while not playing well. A few of their games recently they’ve won 1-0 and now they are 10 points ahead of us. We used to do that.”

"Chelsea Striker Embarrassed By United Defeat" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Fergie Has a Problem with Welbeck Celebration?

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:32:12 -0500

Whilst many reds had been following the career of striker Danny Welbeck, the whole country was forced to acknowledge our young talent after his debut goal against Stoke this season.

He hit the ball perfectly from distance, the ball rocketing in to the top corner of the goal.

More recently, he scored another good goal, this time against Derby, yet his celebration was notably absent. He just walked over to the crowd, before his team mates caught up with him.

One of the reports in the papers this morning suggests that Sir Alex Ferguson was less than happy with Welbeck’s nonchalance following his goal, with ‘a source close to the club’ voicing Fergie’s displeasure.

“Alex was very angry about the way Welbeck celebrated his goal at Derby. He felt there was a touch of arrogance about it. Danny is just a kid and Alex does not like the thought of him getting too big for his boots. That is a lesson plenty of players have learned over the years at Old Trafford.”

The report suggests Welbeck was relegated to the Reserves as a punishment, where he managed to impress, scoring twice to help United turn a losing 4-1 scoreline to a winning 5-4 result.

Do you think Ferguson really had a problem with Welbeck’s cocky celebration?

"Fergie Has A Problem With Welbeck Celebration?" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Carlos Tevez Says Manchester United Are the Best in the World

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:09:12 -0500

Carlos Tevez has today claimed that Manchester United are the best in the world at the moment, thanks to the strength in depth on offer to Sir Alex Ferguson.

Whilst it would be hard to argue with Barcelona being the best side at present, it is reassuring to hear Tevez speak positively about the size of the squad that keeps him out of the starting XI at times.

Tevez announced this week that the contract issue should be resolved at the end of the season, something most reds would be happy to see happen.

“We have the best team in the world at the moment,” Tevez said. “One of the reasons for that is the range of options available to the manager. We have players who can come in at any moment and make a difference. That’s the reason we’re still fighting on all four fronts.“

Tevez also had time to offer praise to our record-breaking defence, although acknowledges it’s a team effort that ensures we don’t concede.

“At the moment our defence is amazing,” he added. “It’s the safest defence in the world, but it’s down to everyone in the team. If you look at the midfielders or the forwards, we all battle to win the ball back. It’s a joint effort.”

"Tevez: We’re The Best In The World" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Gary Neville Reacts to Contract Extension

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:00:16 -0500

After months of set-backs, Gary Neville finally returned from an injury which had kept him out for over a season. He had to sit back and watch Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand lift the trophies, missing out on Manchester United’s second most successful season ever.

It was Neville’s performance in United's 2-1 defeat against Arsenal that led many to believe his United career was over. He was second best throughout the match—Samir Nasri ran rings around him—before his substituted replacement, Rafael da Silva, scored a blinding goal.

His form has steadily improved since then, although it is likely his dedication to Manchestuer United is being rewarded with a year-long contract extension, rather than any special displays so far this season.

“Manchester United is the only club I have ever wanted to play for so I am delighted to have signed for another year,” said Neville.

Sir Alex Ferguson has gone as far as to claim Gary is part of the spirit of this club, praising him for his successful return from his long-term injury.

“Gary, Ryan and Paul are the spirit of Manchester United and so we are delighted that Gary has signed for another year,” added Ferguson. “Gary is a true professional and I admire how he has overcome an injury which kept him out for over a year, returning as good as ever. He deserves this new contract and we are very happy to have him here.”

"Neville Reaction To Contract Extension" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Bookies Paying Out over United Treble Because Nobody Can Score against Us!

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:30:21 -0500

The following quote was published at The Republik of Mancunia:

“We know and punters know the race for trophies is all but over for another year so why wait for the formalities?” said a Paddy Power representative. “If none of the opposition are able to even score a goal against United what chance have they got of actually beating them to silverware? We just hope someone can do us a favour and stop them in Europe. However, paying out on all three is a gamble. Football has a way of biting teams on the backside when they least expect it so we could yet end up with egg on our faces and not for the first time. Paddy Power are famous for being the first to call title races over, even paying out on Chelsea after just seven games of the 2005/06 season. But we haven’t always got it right, famously paying out on Arsenal in the 2002/2003 season only to have to pay out again when Manchester United pipped them to the title.”

Paul Scholes: I Caught It Quite Well

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:47:55 -0500

Paul Scholes is on two goals in three games at the moment, with his goal against Fulham last night going down as one of his better finishes. He caught the ball perfectly and fired the ball in Mark Schwarzer’s direction. The keeper could only block it though, unable to stop it crossing the line, given the pace it came to him.

Granted, it wasn’t up there with his goal against Bradford or Barcelona, but there’s no denying he hit it sweetly. In a typically modest fashion, Scholes has played down his finish, instead praising the ball that came in to him from Michael Carrick.

“I don’t think it was one of my better ones,” said Scholes.“It was a great ball from Michael to find me and I caught it quite well. The keeper will probably be a little disappointed he didn’t save it but I was happy it spun into the net. Over the years I have always contributed goals but in the last couple of seasons that hasn’t been the case as I have been playing slightly deeper. Hopefully that’s the start of a few more to come.”

"Scholes: I Caught It Quite Well" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.

Manchester United: Patient Play At Its Finest

TheRepublikOfMancunia.com — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:33:55 -0500

Manchester United have played patient football throughout the season, particularly at Old Trafford, when the opposition come and park the bus. Breaking down teams who are clinging on for a 0-0 draw for dear life is a difficult task and something Sunderland, Bolton and Middlesbrough have almost proved successful with against us this season.

This means our ability to take our time and wait for the right moment to pounce has to be at it’s highest.

Our second goal against Fulham last night showed our patience at its best, completing 22 passes before putting the ball in the back of the net.

The nicest pass of them all came from Paul Scholes, a lovely flick with the outside of the boot which landed perfectly for John O’Shea to stab across to Dimitar Berbatov for the tap-in.

Pass 1: Dimitar Berbatov intercepts a loose Fulham pass and stabs the ball back to Nemanja Vidic.

Pass 2: Vidic plays the ball wide to the left, where Patrice Evra controls with his chest.

Pass 3: Evra has space to take his time and pick his pass before playing it to Berbatov, who calls for the ball.

Pass 4: Under challenge, Berbatov runs with the ball before playing a 10-yard pass to the flank where Park Ji Sung is waiting.

Pass 5: Park dummies his marker before cutting back, and lays the ball off centrally to Paul Scholes.

Pass 6: Scholes passes to Michael Carrick, who is waiting for the ball in the centre circle.

Pass 7: Carrick continues to play the ball to the right and slides a short pass to Rio Ferdinand.

Pass 8: Ferdinand pokes a short ball quickly forward to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Pass 9: Ronaldo in turn lays it instantly back to Carrick, who has found space in the middle of the pitch

Pass 10: Carrick runs forward before sliding the ball to Berbatov’s feet 10 yards from the Fulham penalty area

Pass 11: Berbatov is under pressure from the Fulham defence and plays the ball back to Carrick

Pass 12: Carrick goes the aerial route and fires the ball out wide to the right where John O’Shea controls instantly

Pass 13: O’Shea plays a slightly loose pass to Carrick, who manages to get there ahead of a Fulham player

Pass 14: Scholes makes himself available in the centre and Carrick plays a neat ball to his fellow central midfielder

Pass 15: Scholes instantly lays it on to Vidic

Pass 16: Vidic plays the ball up the middle along the ground to Park

Pass 17: Park plays a quick ball in to feet to Scholes

Pass 18: With the outside of his right foot, Scholes bends the ball out wide to O’Shea

Pass 19: Instead of crossing into the box then and there, O’Shea plays it back to Carrick

Pass 20: Carrick slips the ball to Scholes

Pass 21: Without taking a touch, Scholes clips the ball over the Fulham defence into the box for O’Shea, who had made a run from the right

Pass 22: O’Shea stretches for the ball and manages to make contact with the very tip of his toe, deflecting it across goal

GOAL: Berbatov, waiting patiently on the left of the box, surges forward and reaches the ball before defender and ‘keeper for a simple tap-in.

Whilst Berbatov’s quick feet made the finish look easy, it was anything but, however it is Scholes who our Bulgarian thinks deserves the praise.

“Nobody else in the world can play the way Scholes does,” said Berbatov. “The passes he produces all over the field and the way he changes the game is brilliant. Every manager would like him. But luckily, he is here and playing with us.”

"Patient Play At Its Finest" was originally published at The Republik of Mancunia.