Bleacher Report - Articles by Keith Griffin

Football Needs a Smile To Return to Its Fans, Football Needs a Garrincha

Keith Griffin — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:36:42 -0400

Am I the only one slightly disillusioned with football at the moment? Aren’t we all sick of the nastiness, the back stabbing, the refs, the added time debates, the diving, the money, the commercially driven chairmen, the bans, the sponsors, and even the rivalries?

I know I am. I wish the game were simpler, don’t you? A pitch, a ball, goals, and an abundance of talent. Who can we adore anymore?

How many players can we refer to as “The Joy of The People”? How many players nowadays are hailed by a nation, and revered long after they have passed away?

Garrincha was one such player.

Recently after reading a biography of the Brazilian, I felt I had to share his story with those that may know very little of the man nicknamed “Anjo de Pernas Tortas,” or “Angel with Bent Legs.” After all, he’s probably one of the very few players that I’ve read about that returned a smile to my face—a smile which all football fans seem to have lost to the modern game and its demons.

Garrincha was born in Pau Grande, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil in 1933, an impoverished area. When he was born, it was noticed that he had several birth defects ranging from his spine to his legs.

Yet, it was this deformation of his legs that would serve to create his legacy. His right leg bent inwards, while his left leg was six inches shorter than his right, and bent outwards. They looked as if “a gust of wind had blown them out of position.”

Although his hometown of Pau Grande was impoverished, it is said Garrincha enjoyed a very wild and activity-filled childhood. He would spend hours away from home, hunting animals, diving into the lake, and, most importantly, playing football with his friends.

It was on these streets that Garrincha honed his talents, dribbling in between pot holes and trees, the close control impeccable thanks to his extremely strangely shaped legs, which seemed to glide in and around the ball.

It was also on these streets that Garrincha started to become noticed by some small local teams. Garrincha, always picked first when the teams were decided, was easily spotted by the scouts because, simply, Garrincha dominated these games. Time after time, the onlooker would see a barefoot boy dribble around players with ease, before stopping, letting his opponent gather, and beating him again.

It was apparent that the youngster found joy in the simple art of beating an oncoming opponent. Though, I doubt very much if Garrincha saw it as an art, but just as fun, as football should be played, according to his nature and his instinct.

Some others had of course spotted his talents, and Garrincha sometimes travelled far to have trials with clubs, such as Cruzerio and Fluminense. However, time after time, they sent him packing for numerous reasons, one being that he turned up one day without boots.

However, when one day Garrincha was playing a game for one of the local sides, he showed his enormous talents to exactly the right person. The referee for the game was none other than Botofogo right back Araty Vianna, who, upon seeing the No. 7, a boy with crooked legs, score three goals in the first half hour, before adding another two before the final whistle loudly acclaimed, “This guy is a hundred times better than any winger at Botfogo!”

Months later, Garrincha found himself at Botofogo for a tryout, not that it bothered the youngster, now 19 years old and married. He had seen these trials come and go, and football to Garrincha was not about glory or money, it was just about a ball and your next opponent to beat.

However, they decided to see what Garrincha was really made of, and faced him with an enormous challenge. “Put him up against Nilton Santos,” the trainer demanded. Santos, at the time, was regarded as one of the most complete defenders of his age.

At 28 years old, Santos, powerful and experienced, approached the buzzing youngster slowly to intercept him. Suddenly, Garrincha was past him like the crack of a whip, before stopping again ready to take on Santos again.

The defender tackled powerfully, however, Garrincha passed him again.

Later on in the game, the two met again. Garrincha nutmegged him. Santos has never been nutmegged by anyone. The onlookers stood amazed…but smiling. It was one of those moments of pure footballing beauty. How could you not smile?

They knew a star was born.

Botafogo signed him immediately, and in his first game for his new club, Garrincha scored in a 1-0 win over Avelo.

In his second game, Garrincha dribbled around the entire defence of Cantagalo, including the goalkeeper before passing in front of an empty net for a teammate to score. They stood bewildered. Why do all that dribbling, exposing an empty net, and then pass it?

As Ruy Castro said, “For Garrincha, the fun was in dribbling. Just dribbling.”

Garrincha would go on to become one of the greatest players ever to grace the earth. Some still argue that he was much better than Pele, who officially holds that award.

He went on to play for Botafogo for 12 years, scoring 232 goals in 581 games, winning the Carioca Championship three times, and becoming a cult legend. He also won two World Cups, one in 1958 and another in 1962.

But throughout his career, Garrincha brought joy to those who watched him. The people would sing his name from the stands.

The people related to Garrincha. While Pele was undoubtedly one of the best players to grace the earth, his fame brought him wealth, while Garrincha was always the boy from Pau Grande.

He made people laugh uncontrollably when he took on defenders (he once got sent off for dribbling past a defender too many times), and some of the same people who were laughing were people that Garrincha was no different from. They might have been people from Pau Grande.

Can we say the same thing of the footballers today? Can we relate to them like the people of Rio, and other parts of Brazil related to Garrincha? When is the last time a player brought a smile to your face?

Wayne Rooney, snarling and spitting venom at the opposition? William Gallas, sitting in protest on the pitch? Cristiano Ronaldo, rolling about the pitch in pain created in his mind to create a set-piece?

Recent players may have brought joy to you of course. Ronaldinho was similar to Garrincha in many ways. He tricks and flicks, makes us laugh at the opposition and smile in amazement at his talent. He smiled when he played.

Now, he lurks among an A.C. Milan team, struggling to find form. Adriano, another Brazilian who promised greatness, has returned to his home to find the happiness that made him want to play football in the first place, to find the connection that Garrincha felt with the people, and the joy that people in return felt for him.

The same too applies to Ronaldo, now wowing crowds at Corinthians. Only now, upon his return, has he rediscovered the simple joys of football in the country that made us all realize its beauty in the first place.

For the sake of football, and the reasons we all watched it in the first place, let's hope for another generation of Garrinchas, Ronaldos, Adrianos, and Ronaldinhos.

Someone to make us happy about football again.

David vs. Pariah: Is It a Good Move For Beckham To Return To Manchester United?

Keith Griffin — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 14:21:42 -0400

David Beckham today issued a "come and get me" plea to Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson as he looks to rejoin the team that has remained close to his heart throughout his life.

The midfielder, who would become available on loan in the New Year, is hungry for regular football at the highest level as he tries to shine under the watchful eyes of England boss Fabio Capello and remain a key member of the national squad.

Ferguson has already surprised the footballing world once already this summer with the acquisition of veteran and ex-Liverpool striker, Michael Owen. The Man United boss even saw fit to hand him the legendary number seven shirt following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Owen's impact has been instantaneous, scoring twice in three preseason games, including a winning goal.

Which begs the question, if Beckham was to return, what impact would he have? And how open would the gaffer and the fans be to such a move?

The Ferguson Factor

Once you leave Manchester United, you don't ever come back. Ferguson is a master at ousting players that are either troublesome, past their best or just not needed and at the same time, retaining the respect of the fans who maybe sad to see their hero's leave.

Ruud Van Nistlerooy, one of the clubs greatest goalscorers of all time was shunned because of his reported bad attitude. He's not afraid to rid the team of anyone despite their reputation or their impact.

Beckham, like Ruud was sold because Fergie felt that his life at that time was more glamour fuelled than football orientated. Life had become Hello magazine for Beckham, and so found himself in sunny Madrid before the lifestyle became infectious with other players in the squad.

A fallout between the superstar and Ferguson was born (culminating in Ferguson kicking a boot following a loss to Arsenal, only for it to hit Beckham in the eyebrow, later needing stitches) and only recently has it cooled.

Has Ferguson softened enough to swallow his pride and bring the 34 year old back to Old Trafford? He certainly isn't the raging, red faced, boot kicking demon he once was.

Maybe the fallout can be forgiven and Ferguson could get himself another freebie in the transfer market and add to a very average midfield that currently just isn't good enough to compete on all fronts next season.

If such a move did happen, what advantages would "Golden Balls" bring?

Use of his abilities in the team

No-one in the world can cross a ball like Beckham. No-one can flight the ball like he does and no-one can spin a free kick like him either.

It's widely expected that Manchester United will switch back to a conventional 4-4-2 following the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo whom was given the free role in a very fluid and position-less attacking formation.

And Beckham could be perfect in that conventional 4-4-2. His crossing as I mentioned is sublime and could easily provide the ammo for the big Bulgarian Dimitar Berbatov to fire home.

Simply, Manchester United do not score enough from crosses and Beckham could rectify this, if given space and time to do his magic. This tactic of course was never quite used enough when Ronaldo occupied the wings, mostly down to the fact that he was more dangerous dribbling towards defenders and shooting.

Speaking of Ronaldo, there is another area that he once mastered that Beckham could now claim as his once again—free kick taking.

The Portuguese ace was the number one free kick taker and was very rarely left out when it came to a set piece. Now with Ronaldo over in sunny Madrid, there are no obvious free kick takers in the squad and Beckham could easily take this responsibility and appease those fans with his curling wonders.

He hasn't a bad strike rate when it comes to them either.

Development of Youth

There are at this moment in time, some fantastic youth's plying their trade at Manchester United. Fedrico Macheda, Danny Welbeck, Darren Gibson, Adam Ljajic and of course Zoran Tosic (who is very Beckham like himself) could all benefit from some playing time with Becks.

Ferguson once credited Rio Ferdinhand's meteoric rise in the Man United team to Laurent Blanc, who was playing with the Red Devils in his twilight years. Merely training with the Frenchman really gave an advantage to Rio during his early years at Old Trafford and helped shape him into the world class player he is today.

Becks too can become that sort of figure at the Carrington training ground and give the youngsters an extra-edge.

Financial Benefit

Here's the part none of us want to hear, but fact of the matter is, football is a business now and isn't really the pure sporting joy it once was. The innocence has long left the "beautiful game" and Manchester United are unfortunately no different.

Suffering from massive debts and interest payments of £43 million on that debt, they need all the tours and jersey sales they can get.

That's another area Becks can really have an impact. No matter what team Beckham plays at, the jersey sales rocket into the heavens.

Asia is the one area that commercially, Manchester can lay claim to. And with the jersey sales and attention that the acquisition of Beckham would bring, it would be very hard for any other team to ever break the strangle hold that the Red Devils have placed on the Asian continent.

Funnily enough, writing this article and thinking of all the advantages, financial benefit was the first thing that popped into my mind. Just goes to show how much football (and its fans attitudes) has changed from the game we all played as youngsters to the financial institutions they are now.

The Disadvantages

Of course its not all great and good. There are various concerns over Beckham's fitness and whether or not he can still cut it.

You may argue that he was such a success in his last loan spell with Italian giants A.C Milan proves he is still at the top. But what about the Premier League which is faster, tougher and more vicious than the Serie A?

A rainy day in Ewood Park with Cristopher Samba bearing down on you is a far cry from a sunny afternoon in Palermo...

Another worry is the timing of his arrival if such a move blossomed. Beckham can't join till January when the MLS ends and there is a strong chance that Man United may have settled into a good chemistry and that should not be disturbed.

Its very likely United will be in a strong position in the league and to upset that chemistry (especially when United are traditionally stronger after Christmas) may prove their undoing.

The Conclusion

Whether or not Fergie even considers this potential move we don't know. It's very unlikely that he would bring back one of his ex-players but the times are changing and who knows, maybe he will.

With the World Cup coming up next summer and Becks desperate to make the squad with regular football, it might provide that extra edge and motivation that may otherwise lie dormant.

After all, Ferguson is using this incentive on Owen to get him to hit the back of the net often, why not with Mr.Beckham too?

It would also send out a message that Man United are taking up a new (and very strange for Fergie) transfer ethic and refuse to pay huge amounts of money for players where they simply cannot compete with Manchester City and Real Madrid.

I for one wont be unhappy if the midfielder does return. We still love him and his return would be the perfect boost before a tough, competitive season.

I imagine Beckham wouldn't mind it either.

"I'd love to go back to United because they are the team I support," Beckham said today.

Watch this space...

Manchester United Accept £80 Million Ronaldo Bid From Real Madrid

Keith Griffin — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 06:25:11 -0400

Manchester United have confirmed that they have accepted a bid from Real Madrid for Portuguese ace, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The winger has been courted by Madrid for the past three seasons and many fans felt it was only a matter of time before he departed from the Red Devils, especially after recent displays of dissent and questioning his manager's tactics following the Champions League final loss.

A fee of £80 million has been accepted, crazy money if you ask me, but money needed to find a suitable replacement.

I'll keep this article short, because I'm sure their will be many of the same subject to follow.

All I can say is I'm very disappointed that one of the best players in the world is leaving us, that he will always be remembered fondly, and I wish him the best.

Carlos Alberto Claims Manchester United Are "Raping" Brazilian Football

Keith Griffin — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:52:32 -0400

Carlos Alberto, the Brazilian World Cup winner of 1970, has slammed Manchester United for apparently "raping" Brazilian football.

Following reports that Manchester United have signed up-and-coming Brazilian star Dodo, 17, from Corinthians for a sum of £5.7 million, Alberto gave a scathing interview in which he stated that he believes the Red Devils are taking advantage of Brazilian talent and snatching them up at a very young age.

"It is disgraceful United are allowed to rape Brazilian football. The big teams have the money and can take our best players. It is a big problem in Brazil. The clubs cannot keep hold of them if they are good young players because they can make much more money in other countries."

Dodo, who had not made one single first team appearance for the Brazilian club, follows other fellow countrymen Rodrigo Possebon, Fabio, Rafael Da Silva, and Anderson (although not actually signed direct from Brazil) at Old Trafford.

Dodo, who is rated as one of the best young central defenders in the game at the moment (comparisons have been made with Alberto himself) is part owned by Corinthians and part owned by a third-party group, Traffic Football Management.

I know what United fans are thinking: Here we go again. Carlos Tevez hysteria is back.

Manchester United struck up a deal with the third-party company last year to basically have first choice on over 120 young footballers being groomed in Sao Paulo academies to play European football.

All these footballers are of course owned by Traffic Football Management and to be honest with a name like Traffic—and the way they own players—slavery comes to mind.

Although we know that's not the case, the comparison holds some water.

However this Manchester United fan is in two minds about what Carlos Alberto is stating.

Why Carlos Alberto is right

To a certain degree I have sympathy for Carlos. During his playing days, Brazil was the place to be. At his peak years he played for Fluminense, Flamengo, and Santos.

However, it seems to be very rarely now that a Brazilian player stays in his homeland and instead plies his trade in Europe with one of the elite teams such as A.C. Milan and Barcelona.

He went on to say "they should change the law so at least until the age of 20 or 21 the best players are playing in Brazil and get some experience before moving to Europe."

And it's here that he is 100 percent correct.

Even if the players are to move, then maybe the least they could do is wait until they develop into more accomplished and experienced players.

Take Manchester United's Anderson for example. He joined Portuguese champions FC Porto at a very young age before securing a transfer to the Red Devils. During his time in Brazil, he was touted as one of the world's greatest up-and-coming talents.

An excellent attacking-midfielder, along with pace and trickery, some even dubbed him the next Ronaldinho.

However, his development has been disappointing and instead has turned into a "piano carrier" or defensive midfielder.

Who's to blame for this?

Probably Porto and Manchester United for not using him to his full potential, but blame could also go to Anderson for not spending more time playing in Brazil to hone his talents further.

Whether Manchester United's other Brazilian fledglings turn out the same remains to be seen.

But why target just Manchester United?

This is where I think Carlos Alberto has made a mistake. While I do not condone what Manchester United have done regarding the deal with the third party or the signing of other young players, it's blind stupidity to target Manchester United alone.

Clubs from Spain and Italy have been mainly guilty of this over the years, taking some of Brazil's top talent to their clubs.

Carlos Alberto never targeted Real Madrid when they "raped" Sao Paulo and Fluminense for Robinho and Marcelo respectively.

Carlos Alberto never targeted A.C. Milan when they "raped" Internacional, Sao Paulo and Fluminense for Alexandre Pato, Kaka, and Thiago Silva.

Or when Diego was taken to Europe, or Arsenal snatched up Denilson, or when Liverpool raided Gremio for Lucas, or when Juan was taken to Bayern Levrekusan.

The list is endless.

The "raping" is not confined to Brazil either. Remember when Inter Milan snatched up five South American players (who included Recoba) for a measly £10 million?

Is Carlos Alberto's problem more to do with third parties?

While I believe that the Brazil legend certainly has a valid case for complaint, I wonder if he is more worried that the Brazilian clubs that are losing these players are not getting the compensation deserved.

The third parties, which own these players, are more or less receiving a large chunk of the transfer fee.

Although the Brazilian league is a conveyor belt of talent, surely the loss of transfer fees has a profound effect on the facilities and the ability for that club to improve.

If FIFA stepped in to stop such third parties being involved with players, then the said clubs could charge whatever price they liked for their starlets.

Imagine if instead United had to pay £20 million instead of £5.4 million?

I'm sure they would not be as interested then.

Either way, from a fan's point of view, I am very excited about any Brazilian players coming to the club I support or any club in Europe for that matter. It's always a gift to watch some of the best players in the world strut their stuff in some of the world's biggest leagues.

I just wish their wasn't so much disgrace and politics behind the beautiful game.

My Memorable Highs and Lows of Man United's '08/'09 Season

Keith Griffin — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:39:24 -0400

Welcome to my compilation of the high's and low's that I experienced throughout Manchester United's 08/09 season. In the following slideshow you will see five high points of the season that will forever be held in memory and four low points that I hope will soon be forgotten! These points could be goals, player development, losses to rivals, or of course, trophy wins. Enjoy!

Begin Slideshow

Manchester United Act Quick and Appeal Fletcher's Red Card

Keith Griffin — Thu, 07 May 2009 08:37:25 -0400

Manchester United have acted quickly in appealing Darren Fletcher's harsh red card awarded against him in the semi-final clash against Arsenal.

Fletcher received his marching orders after he seemingly brought down Spaniard Cesc Fabregas which resulted in a penalty. However replays showed that Fletcher actually made good contact with the ball and the decision was deemed as harsh.

However, UEFA general secretary David Taylor has suggested that there may be some hope of the Scottish midfielder appearing in the final yet.

While UEFA rules state that only a case of mistaken identity is the only way a red card can be appealed, Taylor (who spoke with Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson after the game) suggested that the ban may be overturned on compassionate grounds.

"I tried to give Alex as much advice as I could with regards the procedure in these circumstances. There is no formal process. But if the club want to write to us with information—such as video evidence—explaining why they think this is a harsh punishment then they can do that.

The likelihood is that we'd then refer the matter to our disciplinary body. They would then look to see if there were any special circumstances to justify any departure from established procedures"

After the conversation, Ferguson obviously thought it worth a try and quickly lodged the appeal.

This will no doubt, throw up the usual argument of "one rule for Man United, another for the rest."

More importantly, Barcelona may also have a case for an appeal with regards Eric Abidal who was seemingly sent off for no apparent reason in last nights other semi-final contested between the Catalan's and Chelsea.

Nicholas Anelka was storming towards the box when he suddenly fell over, seemingly tripping over himself, however Abidal was harshly shown a straight red.

If Man United can appeal Fletcher's red, then there is no reason that Barcelona can't appeal the red card Abidal received.

If both were overturned then United's midfield would regain the muscle that Fletcher brings to the team which will also be vitally needed against the midfield duo of Andreas Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez.

But Barcelona's dwindling defence will also receive a boost with the return of the French defender.

Question is:

Should Fletcher's red card be overturned?

And is it worth it if it allows Barcelona to regain one of their best defenders?

Gaël Clichy: A Breath of Fresh Air as "Cashley" Cole Continues To Shame Himself

Keith Griffin — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:39:26 -0400

Two ends of a spectrum.

Two very different men.

Gaël Clichy and Ashley Cole are so far apart in personality type, that is hard to fathom that they are from the same planet.

Last Thursday morning, Clichy rose from his bed and went training for his currently struggling team (at least by their standards)—Arsenal.

After a hard training session, he donned his casual clothing and went to meet an artist named Gerald Scarfe to help decorate a car in Arsenal colours and designs, before being present to see it raffled off to raise funds for a charity that Arsenal often help out—The Teenage Cancer Trust.

Last Thursday morning, Ashley Cole rose from his bed at 5:30 a.m., in a prison cell. He was there because he was arrested for being drunk and disorderly outside a club in London. He abused photographers and policemen.

He was arrested and fined £80 before his tough line manager Guss Hiddink fined him a further £160,000—two weeks wages.

Just think Cashley, if you had taken Arsenal's improved contract offer of £55,000, you would have only been fined £110,000, saving yourself £50,000!

Oh yes, there most definitely is a divide in persona's between these two players.

"We're getting a lot of money and living our dream, our passion...when the club asks us to give a day's wages or assist with this (charity event) I give. It is nothing to me and it can make such a big difference to the children" the Frenchman said.

Hiddink meanwhile remained visibly angry at one of his star's outburst. "There are rules inside this club about going out. I had a firm talk with him...he overreacted in his abuse to the police."

It seems Gael Clichy really is a breath of fresh air in a footballing world that contains more premadonna's and metrosexual males than it does blades of grass.

Its stories like this that remind us that there really are "human" footballers out there that do more than spend mounds of money, drive fast cars and well...

Cheat on their wives, eh, Ashley?

The Best and Worst Of Cristiano Ronaldo Seen As Man United Scrape By Blackburn

Keith Griffin — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:05:12 -0500

Manchester United moved eight points clear of nearest rivals Liverpool tonight as goals from Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo condemned Blackburn to only their second defeat since the appointment of Sam Allardyce.

Another three points in the bag and another step forward towards another title. Even the most pessimistic United fan must say that things are starting to look really good now.

Sir Alex made five changes, the most surprising exclusion was the replacement of record setter Edwin Van Der Sar with Polish stopper Tomas Kuszczak. Young starlet Rafael was also handed a starting place while Wayne Rooney and Nani returned to the side.

Defensive rock Nemanja Vidic was also excluded; the only reason I can fathom why is to give Johnny Evans some much needed playing time alongside his partner, Rio Ferdinand, for the Champions League tie in Italy Tuesday.

The game started as United have started all games recently - fast and aggressive. Nani was put through from a Rooney pass early on, but failed to capitalise.

Paul Scholes fizzed with energy and once again controlled the midfield admirably and came close with a fierce shot from outside the box. United continued to pressure and were rewarded in the 23rd minute. The anonymous Nani finally did something useful by playing a ball through the Blackburn defence for Rooney to slot home.

The England starlet has now scored 14 goals this season and is currently in a rich vein of form with four goals in as many games.

However, the lead did not last long.

Over 1,300 minutes of football had elapsed since United's measly defence had conceded a goal yet it was no surprise that as soon as Fergie decided to drop his two most influential guardians of that defence - Van Der Sar and Nemanja Vidic - the record was finally broken.

Andre Ooijer was allowed to bomb forward into space in the center of the pitch before dispatching a perfectly weighted pass to Roque Santa Cruz, who calmly rounded the laughable Kuszczak before slotting into an empty net.

Old Trafford were silenced. Did that ball really go in? We conceded?

United, and in particularly Paul Scholes, looked to drag themselves back into it and thought they had restored the lead when Johnny Evans powered home a header. However, the ever enigmatic Howard Webb ruled that there was pushing and disallowed the goal.

The second half was as hectic as the first. Blackburn created numerous chances, Ryan Nelsen hitting the post causing a sudden rise in my blood pressure.

United continued to dominate and control possession in spells. However it was Ronaldo's diving antics that made more swear words leave my mouth than any other incident in the game.

Collecting the ball on the edge of the area, he began to power through between defenders - as only Ronaldo can. My hands tighten into a fist in anticipation, waiting for the Portuguese ace to rifle the winner home.

Instead, he performs a fresh air dive - as only Ronaldo can.

At that moment I turn and look at my friend, who duly shakes his head in disappointment.

"Did I really just see that?" I thought to myself. Howard Webb definitely did, as he brandished a deserved yellow to the current World Player of the Year.

Next, Ronaldo kicks out at David Dunn and somehow does not get sent off.

The game wore on and United won a promising free kick on the edge of the Blackburn area. Four minutes after getting booked for simulation and showcasing the worst of his talents to the Old Trafford faithful, Ronaldo steps up to power home an unstoppable free kick past Paul Robinson.

56 minutes in - Ronaldo dives and whines and gets himself booked.

60 minutes in - He changes the game and possibly his team's season with a moment of genius.

The two sides of the coin that is Cristiano Ronaldo. Surprisingly he later admitted he dived but also showed anger at Morten Gamst Pedersen not being booked for diving too.

“I thought Pedersen dived. It wasn’t a penalty. Pedersen dived and didn’t get a yellow card, but I dived and he did book me! But I suppose that’s just the situation of the game.”

Straight after the goal, Ferguson introduced Carlos Tevez for the awful Nani (surely he is not yet ready for this level yet?). Johnny Evans was replaced Nemanja Vidic. Evans, who looked to be carrying an injury, will now be considered a doubt for the clash in Milan. A huge blow to the defence considering Vidic's suspension.

United held on for a narrow, if barely deserved win while the cries of "Are you watching Mersyside?" rang around the stadium.

Indeed I'm sure Mersyside were watching, and will look to close the eight point gap tomorrow against our hated neighbours Man City.

Inter Milan vs. Manchester United: The Key Battles of the San Siro Siege

Keith Griffin — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 10:30:12 -0500

Inter Milan vs Manchester United is probably the most exciting tie of the Champions League so far. Not only because of the huge array of talent that both squads boast, but also the great minds that manage the respective sides.

The first leg at the majestic San Siro seems to be where many believe the whole tie may be decided. And the following key areas may very well be the deciding factors in the win, loss or draw for either team.

Probable Lineups

Manchester United

------------------Van Der Sar------------------

Neville---------Ferdinand-------------Evans-------------------Evra

Park-------------Carrick--------------Scholes---------------Ronaldo

Rooney--------------Berbatov

Inter Milan

------------------Cesar------------------

Maicon---------Samuel-------------Cordoba--------------Chivu

--------------------------Cambiasso-------------------------

Zanetti-------------Stankovic--------------Muntari

Ibrahimovic---------Adriano

Key Battles

Patrice Evra and Cristiano Ronaldo vs Maicon:

Probably the most exciting part of this game will be the battle between the attacking pair of Ronaldo and Evra against one of the most dynamic and offense minded right backs in the world - Maicon.

United's attacking pair are extremely dangerous when together on the left flank, providing a strong outlet for a counter attack, but the Inter Milan ace is also adept at attacking down the flank and it will be an explosive game considering that when Maicon attacks, Ronaldo and Evra will bomb forward and vice versa.

Recently watching Inter I noticed many of their attacks start from the right flank and Maicon is essential to this tactic.

This battle really could decide the game.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Adriano vs Rio Ferdinand and Johnny Evans:

One question will lay in everyone's mind as they tune in to watch this game. "Is Ibrahimovic going to turn up tonight?". And there is a certain reason for this question.

Ibrahimovic is has built a reputation for not playing as well in the "big" games as he does against weaker opponents.

But it would be a massive mistake to underestimate the Swedish ace. Blessed with skill, pace and an uncanny eye for goal, he could very well disappear or rip United to shreds. And partnering him, is another striker who when he wants to, can be unstoppable.

The loss of defensive rock Nemanja Vidic for Manchester United will give the two front men even more confidence in their home ground, knowing that the Ferdinand and Evans pairing has not yet been tested harshly this season.

Ferdinand is prone to lapses in concentration and Evans is young so one mistake and it could prove costly.

Paul Scholes vs Esteban Cambiasso:

Manchester United over the last few years have concentrated on possession football when away from Old Trafford and its vital that Paul Scholes is allowed pull the strings in midfield and control the pace of the game as only the Salford man can.

Anyone who watched the Fulham game on Wednesday night and seen Scholes majestically spray passes about knows that he is in a rich vein of form and will be vital to coming away from the San Siro with a suitable result.

However Argentinian Cambiasso is a near perfect midfielder and will look to keep pressure on the United playmaker and keep the pace of the game to Inter's liking.

Although United will almost certainly play two up front (Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov) it is probable that Rooney will spend more time in midfield, niggling Cambiasso and helping in the link up play, at which Rooney excels.

Form Guide

Although the Champions League is an extremely unpredictable competition, a number of interesting facts speak volumes about each team.

Inter's last three games against English opposition ended in defeat for the Italians
Of seven Champions League games against Italian opposition, Man United have only lost once
Of Inter's last eight Champions League games, they have only won two
Man United have been unbeaten in their last 19 Champions League games - equalling the record of Ajax and Bayern Munich
Man United have the joint best defensive record this year in the competition along with Juventus - with only three goals conceded
Inter Milan have the worst record of the 16 teams that qualified, earning only eight points in the group stages
Of Man United's last seven Champions League games, they have only won two outside of a penalty shootout

So as you can see, Inter do look like the underdogs when looking at the facts, but like I said, it's the nature of cup competitions to throw up a few unexpected results.

In the end, it could be decided in the dugouts.

Sir Alex Ferguson vs Jose "The Special One" Mourinho:

A war of words is yet to start between the managers who both have a liking to verbal mind games.

Fergie's record against Mourinho is to be honest - dire. It seemed that after that defeat to Porto in 2004 who Mourinho was then managing was the beginning of a duel that seems to continue for a long time yet.

Head to head, the Portuguese tactician holds all the aces and has the added advantage of knowing United inside and out, so be expected to see Fergie try something wily to catch the Inter boss off guard.

Mourinho has been touted as a replacement for the aging Scot and victory for the "Special One" here may do him a huge favour in finding himself in the Old Trafford hotseat within the next three years.

It's looking like this tie could really be a cracker over two legs, however I believe the first leg in the mighty San Siro will be a cautious affair.

My Prediction: Inter Milan 0, Manchester United 0

Paul Scholes Shines as Manchester United March on to a Five-Point Lead

Keith Griffin — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:46:24 -0500

The Red Devils hosted Fulham tonight and with Liverpool hot on the heels of the current table toppers, Manchester United needed nothing else but a win to give them a comfy five-point lead.

Although a tough game against Blackburn beckons this weekend, Alex Ferguson fielded a strong team to take on Fulham, who have not won a game outside Craven Cottage this season. Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic resumed their roles as the "Immovables," no doubt giving Edwin Van Der Sar confidence that the record of 13 straight clean sheets will remain intact for another game.

John O'Shea was trusted with the right back berth while Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes took up the central midfield positions. Ji-Sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo found themselves on the wings, while Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov found themselves with the responsibility of piercing the Fulham defence.

And it didn't take long for United to find the back of the net against a severely stretched side.

A Ronaldo cross from the right was turned away by Toni Kallio resulting in a corner. Michael Carrick swung it to the outside of the box to the awaiting Scholes who blitzed a volley towards goal.

Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer dived to his right fantastically, only to let the ball bobble underneath him and give United the one-nil lead and the smell of blood that usually precedes even more goals.

After the goal, United pressed even further, controlling the midfield superbly. Michael Carrick and especially Paul Scholes twisted and turned the defence constantly with splitting passes.

Surely Scholes must be considered the best passer of the ball in the league still?

17 minutes in and Zamora threatened with a header at Van Der Sar's far post. Newspapers such as The Mirror laughably called the United keeper the "man that does not concede" while slating Zamora as the "man that does not score."

And true to form, Zamora endured an awful night, with Nemanja Vidic once again pouncing on any ball within his radius.

United continued to dominate, and on the 30-minute mark found their reward as the niggling Berbatov tapped in John O'Shea's flick from out wide on the right before celebrating in his usual sleepy manner...

Evra was fantastic down the left with Ronaldo, giving a strong message as to how things may be next week in the San Siro against Inter Milan. Although Ronaldo seemed frustrated and clearly wanted to add to his bulging tally, he did enough in the game to show that his amazing form of last season is slowly but surely seeping back.

Fulham could not piece together an attack as the game wore on and Scholes continued to create space and time for the attackers. Tevez fizzed, Berbatov graced, and Ronaldo danced. However it was the first touch of adopted scouse Wayne Rooney after his 60th minute substitution that put the final nail in the coffin for Fulham.

Scholes, Tevez, and Park all linked up at the edge of the box before the Korean drove a shot across the face of the goal. Rooney slipped in behind the sleepy defenders before crashing a shot into the roof of the net and past the extremely disappointing Schwarzer.

Ferguson brought on the impressive youths Darren Gibson and Jonny Evans for Michael Carrick and John O'Shea respectively, and Gibson soon sent a scorcher of a shot at Fulham's goal.

The Red Devils comfortably controlled the rest of the game, with only a Bobby Zamora flick that barely went wide threatening Van Der Sar. The Dutch keeper comically raised his eyebrows and smirked—realising that his clean sheet record nearly evaporated.

The current champions move five points clear of their nearest rivals, Liverpool, and while the lead is still a close one—Manchester United remain favourites as they march on, on, on.

Paul McGrath: The Fall and Rise of the Irish Legend and Flawed Genius

Keith Griffin — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 11:38:27 -0500

I remember one day, not too long ago, receiving a phone call from my father. Expecting a very different outcome, I gingerly answered.

"Are you coming for a pint?" he asked.

"Ah I'm a fairly busy Dad, I might pop up in a while if I get the time."

"Believe me, come up now!" he exploded.

So I did, knowing my father does not excite so easily over having a drink with his son!

Entering the pub, I was met with the sound of laughter and the sight of a giant man sitting beside my father. Dark jeans, a big leather jacket, and a close-cropped haircut; I didn't quite know who he was until I stood beside the man once hailed "God" by Aston Villa fans.

I looked into the big brown eyes of one of the greatest players to grace the game.

Not only a “God” for Aston Villa, but for my beloved Manchester United and Republic of Ireland. A player who was typical of footballers back then, who played hard on the field and played hard off it; a game galaxies away from the standard nowadays containing metro-sexual males like Cristiano Ronaldo.

McGrath was part of an elite hard men contingent such as Bryan Robson, Steve Bruce, and Norman Whitside.

He and my father both turned and looked at me, a smile cracking on my dad's face knowing I was feeling the equivalent of shell shock. Paul McGrath turned and put a big arm round me saying, "Well mate".

And that’s how the night started. My dad, Paul McGrath, and me.

He talked of Alex Ferguson. Of Manchester United. Of Aston Villa. Of Ireland. Of his life...and this is what he told me.

Paul McGrath was born on the 4th of December, 1959 to an Irish mother and a Nigerian father. Soon after he was born, his father fled the scene, leaving his fearful mother to confide in her only option—putting Paul up for adoption. McGrath was raised in various tough orphanages throughout Dublin, the grim photos of which can still be seen today.

McGrath endured an even more tough time during his youth due to the fact that he was black, something so uncommon in Ireland at the time, that it caused heads to turn at the sight of such a rarity.

However, McGrath proved that he was more than just a rarity—being an ethnic minority—but also a very special talent on the football pitch, even as a youngster.

His first club, Pearse Rovers, were the first to experience his raw but still extraordinary talents. To put it simply, Paul McGrath was a behemoth on the pitch. At 16 years of age, he was unbelievably quick for a boy who was obviously quite large.

He was fearless in both the air and in the tackle. Not long after, and although Pearse had always treated Paul well, he moved onto Dalkey United in hope of career progression. Dalkey sourced him a place to stay and a job in which to help provide for himself. Throughout the club, he found great friends who stayed loyal to him for many years.

It was while McGrath was with Dalkey that he attracted the attention of Manchester United’s chief scout at the time, Billy Behan, who constantly sent back glowing reviews of the defender to then United manager, Ron Atkinson.

A trip with Dalkey to Germany opened a door in McGrath’s life that would forever change the course of his playing career and his general well-being. Dalkey were scheduled to play friendlies in Germany at the time; however, McGrath and a few other players, decided to have a few drinks while out of sight of the club's authorities.

A teenage McGrath placed his lips over a bottle of Southern Comfort and from that day forth, the warm, burning feeling that filled the troubled man’s body would always seek to be renewed. That was the day Paul McGrath found the alcoholic within him and fuelled it.

The problem would continue to become worse and worse. Two months after returning from the Germany tour, McGrath suffered a severe mental breakdown, rendering him speechless and seemingly unaware of where he was.

He was admitted to a hospital for several months before he was reunited with his mother and finally came round, and slowly but surely found his feet back on the football pitch where he was born to be.

Finding his form for Dalkey once again, he secured a move to St. Patrick's Athletic, becoming a full time professional in 1981. It was at St. Pat’s that McGrath finally showed why Manchester United were interested in securing the services of the titan-like Irish man.

Throughout the season, McGrath performed perfectly, receiving the PFAI Player of the Season award and scoring four goals in his 31 appearances, before finally earning his move to the English giants that had watched him so closely over the years—Man United.

Now before I tell you anymore of Paul McGrath’s story, let me shed some light on his character, which is so essential in understanding why the paths of his life turned the directions that they did.

Paul McGrath was born to play football. He was graceful, yet tough. Skillful, yet not over-indulgent in his style of play. He was quicker than most strikers and wingers, and contained what team-mate Kevin Moran called an overdrive, or “the ability to be running at high pace with someone and, all of a sudden, it's like a fifth gear kicks in".

Yes, along with his fantastic aerial ability, it’s true to say that McGrath was one of the best defenders to grace the game.

However, McGrath’s problems only surfaced off the pitch. Like George Best, McGrath’s troubles echoed the Northen Irishman's. He suffered from a shyness that only increased as his fame did.

A prime example is when he was at the top of his game at Manchester United. Asked to man-mark Alan Shearer for the game (arguably one of the best strikers to grace the English game), McGrath merely shrugged, choosing to see it as just another job that had to be done.

That game he dominated Shearer, receiving yet another man of the match vote. However, when asked to present medals to a local schoolboys' team, McGrath could not physically do it.

That’s how bad the shyness or paranoia stretched, which in turn leads us to our solution, or rather McGrath’s form of solution, that again echoed Best and in today’s times, Adriano. McGrath used alcohol to find his way through periods of his life that a sober McGrath could not possibly face.

Anyway, I digress.

At Manchester United, his legend grew. Under Ron Atkinson, McGrath was deployed as both a defender and midfielder, but performed both to the highest level.

In the 85/86 season, he pushed Gary Lineker for the PFA Player of the Year award but did grab his one and only honour at Man United, the FA cup, when they defeated Everton in a one-nil win—McGrath being named man of the match.

At this time however, the demon within Paul was starting to rise again as a result of both his childhood and of course (and more importantly), the significant drinking culture that dominated football in those days, before nutritionists and fitness experts entered the beautiful game on a more important basis.

McGrath would often be spotted in the pub after a game with his favourite drinking comrade and equally talented, Norman Whiteside. However, the drinking situation was to become worse.

McGrath, with his ever increasing fear of the limelight, consumed more and more alcohol on a more regular basis, often turning up training drunk or even at his lowest point—playing important matches while under the influence of alcohol.

McGrath often attended the team meals etc. drunk, or refused to leave the hotel unless he had a strong drink, more often than not leading to one of his team-mates finding McGrath blinded drunk. One of his lowest points while playing drunk was, while about to take a free kick, he totally missed the ball.

But guess what? Manchester United manager, Ron Atkinson, let it slide. Why? For two amazing yet very real reasons.

One, it was tolerated because as long as a player turned up on a Saturday afternoon and played, all else was tolerated outside life on the pitch.

Reason No. 2 however, was equally disturbing even for the footballing culture back then. McGrath, even under the influence, was often still the best player on the pitch.

Frank Stapleton once said of him “People tolerated what Paul did because they were getting something out when he played football which was the wrong thing to do. Maybe the problem was that he was too good a player. Probably was.”

However, this trend was to but end at Manchester United, when Alex Ferguson replaced Ron Atkinson. As soon as entering the fray as boss of the Red Devils, Ferguson sought to weed the club of those who thought drinking was as much a part of football as the grass on which it was played. At the top of that list was Paul McGrath.

Alex Ferguson however, knew the Irishman’s worth and sought to give him a few chances to show Fergie that he could be relied on.

McGrath, as would happen to become a pattern within his life, let the gaffer down by refusing to adapt to the new manager's ethos. This, along with a string of knee injuries and multiple surgeries, led the boss to offloading McGrath to Aston Villa in 1989.

Ferguson did offer a pay-off of £100,000 and a testimonial, but the divide between the two had grown too deep, and McGrath refused, before packing his bags and joining the Villains.

Not many players leave Manchester United unwanted, only to become an instant success elsewhere. In fact, I can't think of any apart from McGrath.

In short, the Irishman earned his nickname “God” in front of the Villa crowd, becoming the cornerstone of a defence that was to strike fear into every striker in the league. In his first season with Villa, they came close to winning the league, finishing second to the then dominant Liverpool.

The following season was to prove disappointing, fighting relegation throughout, after their infamous manger Graham Taylor chose to manage the English national side. The next season, reunited with Ron Atkinson, Villa again finished second in the league, to former club, Manchester United.

In this year, McGrath won his first English PFA Player of the Year trophy, but was also the club's player of the year for four consecutive seasons. The icing on the cake I’m sure came in 1994, as he collected his first trophy as a Villa player, helping his side beat Manchester United in the League Cup final.

He moved from Villa in 1996 to Derby, where age and those infamous knees started to trouble him. He was not as impressive as he once was. He finished his career at Sheffield Wednesday before retiring.

McGrath of course, was also an established player at international level throughout his career, making 89 appearances for the Republic of Ireland.

There too, he became a “God,” with those who watched him from the stands becoming his heavenly choir that sung the infamous “Ooh Ahh Paul McGrath” long before it was adapted for the enigmatic Frenchman Eric Cantona.

McGrath’s most famous moment (I won't need to tell the Irish contingent of Bleacher Report) came in the 1994 World Cup when McGrath, who had decided to play regardless of a niggling shoulder injury, was stuck with what would be a daunting task to most defenders back then—marking Roberto Baggio.

Tracking Baggio backwards, McGrath slid across Baggio's front and tackled the ball straight off his toes, knocking it back to the feet of an Italian player, who immediately chipped the ball into the air, to try and set Baggio up for a half-volley.

As the ball was dropping, McGrath got off the ground, leapt up and headed the ball away, beating Baggio in the air. McGrath landed on all fours, facing out from the goal. The ball landed on the half-volley right in front of an opponent who shot for goal, with McGrath taking the shot straight in the face and immediately beginning to chase the ball.

Thrice the big man had thwarted the Italians. For the rest of the game, Baggio never got a sniff.

What was so amazing throughout McGrath’s life was the fact that he was a severe alcoholic. Four times during his spell at Villa he attempted to take his life, the worst happening in (as often was) a drunk stupor as his son, who was very young at the time, witnessed his father slash his wrists.

He was later rescued, but wait 'til you hear this...He played for Villa a few days later, using wrist bands to conceal his wounds. He led the Villians to a resounding 6-2 over Everton, in which McGrath starred brightly and went on to play 35 consecutive games afterward.

McGrath reached other unimaginable lows in his life. The worst he mentions in his autobiography “Back from the Brink” as being when, so desperate for a drink, he decided to drink Domestos. Harrowing stuff I know, but a world that unless we have experienced, we surely can't and have no right to understand.

McGrath enjoyed a lot of success in his playing days, but it is often wondered what sort of player he may have been if he was not an alcoholic or had not been severely depressed.

Ferguson said of him once, “It's incredible that he could play to the level he played at, given what was going on in his life...I can understand why he is still so popular, like George Best, people like flawed Geniuses because they see something of themselves. They're ordinary people who became great.”

I still see him around my hometown these days, but do not trouble him for handshakes or autographs. I know all too well, that although he appreciates the gesture, a part of him just wants to be left alone to enjoy his family and be what a lot of us are—normal.

McGrath, I’m sure, has seen enough limelight in his life. I just kindly nod these days and note that when I see him sitting at a bar, that it's mineral water he is sipping and that his road to rehabilitation continues.

McGrath’s flaws were never strong enough to outrun him anyway.

Man City and the ADUG Takeover: Goodbye to the Best Academy in England?

Keith Griffin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:12:50 -0400

So, Manchester City fans around the world jumped with joy after the news of their recent takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group. Exciting news indeed.

However, beneath the stacks of money, Brazilian superstars, and dreams of Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo in the blue jersey, lies the possibility of a tragedy.

The possible tragedy is one which would be a disaster to Manchester City as a club. It would also be a disaster to the England national side and more importantly, a downward turn for English football in general.

If Manchester City's new owners are intent on putting together a "dream team", then the tragedy I speak of will be the destruction of one of the best academies in the country. An academy which has produced more than 20 first-team footballers in recent years, one that is the envy of some of England's more elite clubs.

Of course I can understand the exhilaration felt by City fans after the club was bought and enriched with the wealth of the new owners. The effect can already be seen with the better-late-than never acquisition of world-class superstar Robinho.

However you have to wonder how this will effect the careers of the promising youngsters who hope to find themselves in the Manchester City starting eleven in the next few years.

These young and hungry players have become a tradition at City and although they are not the trophy hauling team like rivals Manchester United, they can boast about one thing which the Red Devil faithful cannot—homegrown English talent in an abundance.

You need only look at their wonderful talent in the team, and when you realise the players (both now and in recent years) that actually rose through the ranks to the first team, it really hits home how good it is. Bradley and Shaun Wright Phillips are both very successful, Shaun more so—he has become an established international who looks set for great things.

Stephen Ireland has cemented his place in the Manchester City midfield, and is one of the best midfielders in the EPL. A tad egotistical you might say, but you cant deny his talents.

Names that really stand out are Nedum Onuoha, Daniel Sturridge, Michael Johnson, and of course Micah Richards. These four players are some of the most coveted in England. Micah Richards looks like a world class defender in the making, and already has the quality to warrant a place in the Manchester United or Chelsea starting eleven, never mind City's.

Daniel Sturridge is slowly bursting onto the scene, and has already been linked with city rivals Manchester United and London giants Chelsea. The powerful and pacey striker has all the attributes to become a great.

Michael Johnson is one of the most exciting talents in the world right now and the industrious and creative midfielder was close to a summer move to either Arsenal or Everton. There are already whispers of him becoming an automatic starter for England in the future, and he has even been touted as captain material.

Other successful promotions from youth to stardom include Ishmael Miller, Willo Flood, Lee Croft, Dixon and Kevin Etuhu, and Shalugm Logan.

Correct me if I'm wrong but not too many clubs in England can boast such results with the promotion of youth through the ranks through the club. Manchester United's only recent success seems to be Fraizer Campbell, who unsurprisingly was used as a bargaining chip to land Bulgarian Dimitar Berbatov.

Which kind of shows how much he is valued at Old Trafford.

Liverpool's only youngster of late who has seen some first team action is Damien Plessis, who although he looks very exciting, has a tough job breaking into the quality filled Liverpool midfield.

Manchester City hope to be the new Chelsea, and last time I checked Chelsea haven't promoted a youth player in a while. So I hope for one they don't follow their blueprint. I believe the effect would be disastrous and it would be a huge downward turn if this conveyor belt of young stars was to be suddenly obliterated.

With the Arab owners looking to become the "biggest team in the world" and with Kaka, Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo in their crosshairs, can we really expect them to nurture the promising talents anymore?

I don't think so. Although Mark Hughes today moved to quell these worries, I somehow don't believe that the impatient owners will stick to the tradition.

"The youth policy still has a role to play, what we have now are the means to enhance that operation," said Hughes. Somehow I don't think so. It looks as if the owners want immediate results and that calls for large sums of money to be thrown at mercenaries such as Robinho.

The first signs of this tragedy could be seen today with another youngster—Ched Evans— being linked with a move down a division to Welsh giants Cardiff. Who else will follow him out the door as Man City recruit established stars?

Of course, this not only affects Manchester City and the those in the academy, it also affects the England national team. If this academy was to stop producing players then which team will nurture aspiring English teenagers to higher levels?

Certainly not Arsenal.

I don't think any English team can boast an academy like Manchester City'. Middlesbrough come close, but how long before they too are taken over? Will the same happen at the Riverside also? Or maybe West Ham can revive their great tradition of producing stars, but with the havoc that is erupting over at Upton Park can we scratch them off too?

Only time will tell what will happen with this situation, and I for one hope that Manchester City and co. don't forget their great tradition and continue to keep the conveyor belt rolling.

If the owners want to fill the team with world stars such as Fabio Cannavaro, and let the likes of Micah Richards dwell on the bench, then I'm sure Manchester United or Chelsea won't mind snatching one or two of these homegrown gems from under the noses of City.

And so the trend would continue.

So I hope Manchester City fans, among their new found hope and exhilaration, realise that despite superstars such as Robinho and Jo at the club, there are also quite a few already at the club who are just waiting for their chance to shine.

So what's your opinion on the situation? Is it better for Manchester City to just focus on building the dominating team the owners dream of or would there be further rewards to be reaped from developing the youth academy?

Feel free to comment and please don't forget to rate!

Manchester United's Silva Bid Is Just A Bluff, It's All About Berbatov

Keith Griffin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:08:53 -0400

Valencia have rejected a bid by Manchester United for David Silva, according to the striker's agent. United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants a new forward before the transfer window closes on 31 August.

That's the official word from the football media. It's the official word from the agent of Valencia and Spain star David Silva. And as soon as I saw it splashed all over the media I have to say, I had a good laugh to myself. That old wizard Ferguson is up to his old tricks again.

I've no doubt that Sir Alex is willing to crack open the cheque book again this summer to acquire another forward, we all know Fergie loves his world-class forwards. But don't be fooled by Manchester United's bid for David Silva. The only man in the Scot's crosshairs this summer is Dimitar Berbatov, not the Spanish starlet.

Fergie has deliberately set up a smokescreen in an attempt to lure Spurs into selling the Bulgarian international at the preferred cost of approximately £20 million instead of Spurs asking price of closer to £30 million.

Daniel Levy has already reported Manchester United to FIFA regarding their "tapping up" of Dimitar Berbatov. Apparently Levy has a dossier of over a years worth of evidence pointing the finger at United.

Do I believe all this? To be honest I do. Manchester United and Ferguson can be as bad at chasing and coaxing top class players to Old Trafford as Ronaldo-hunters Real Madrid, whom Manchester United fans all heavily criticised over the summer.

So thats why I believe Fergie is now taking a differernt route and trying to show Spurs that we are willing to look elsewhere to bolster our forward line instead of trying to break down the London club for their last remaining world-class striker.

But Spurs, rightfully so, are holding out for a more respectable fee before sending Berbatov on his way to Manchester. Daniel Levy and Juande Ramos have both announced that the striker won't be leaving. However, it is commonly known that the Bulgarian is eager to leave to play Champions League football and, at 27 years of age, thinks he has spent enough time without major trophy success to stay at Spurs and help drive them towards that goal.

So the situation we have in front of us is: Manchester United want to buy, Berbatov wants to be sold, and Spurs are willing to sell but only at the right price. So Manchester United "pretend" to target other players so Spurs have a small heart attack and start to worry about having to keep the sulky striker in tow and possibly lose him the following season for less.

And in fairness to Spurs, they haven't fallen for the bait, yet.

So if you turn on SkySports in the next few days and don't happen to see Dimitar Berbatov in the red of United, expect to see "Manchester United make enquiry regarding availability for Catalan star Eto'o" or "Ferguson sets sights on Dutch striker Huntelaar" because the mind games will continue and the smokescreen will stay up until the big Bulgarian is on the books at the Red Devils.

Manchester United Should Have Faith in Their Youngsters

Keith Griffin — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 08:25:47 -0400

It's not often I get to watch Manchester United's reserves play, mostly due to the fact that it's very hard to get access to coverage of the games. However, last night, I just happened to barge my way into a friend's house who happened to have a subscription to MUTV, and so I sat down to watch the Peterborough vs. Manchester United game held at London Road.

And after watching this game and some of the other preseason games that had taken place in the Vodacom tournament in South Africa, I started to wonder if these young starlets will be playing next season. Because, quite simply, they are wondrous.

Manchester United are a club which have a tradition of promoting youth through the ranks and developing them into world stars who, more often than not, spend their best years at Old Trafford.

However, in recent years Sir Alex seems happier to delve into the transfer kitty and battle it out with the world's elite to sign the best players around.

Is it because it's easier just to buy a player, who, although he may cost the club millions, will slot straight into the team and provide instant success?

Or maybe it's because we basically don't have the talent in our academy and it would be a waste to try and promote them into the first team?

To be honest, my opinion is that the current United team is so hard to break apart and is filled with so much quality that it is quite hard to receive any game time with the first team.

How can you separate Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinhand? Or Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez?

But I really think, after watching all the preseason games of late, that the current youngsters waiting in the reserves and academy are future stars in the making. You need only watch them to see why.

And that's why I believe that Fergie should shock everyone this season and stay quiet in the transfer market.

Why spend £20-30 million on 27-year-old Dimitar Berbatov, whose attitude stinks, when we have the hungry and vibrant Frazier Campbell? Why purchase cover for the solid duo of Vidic and Ferdinhand when Craig Cathcart looks set to match their talents in future years?

Here's a quick look at the top five most promising players currently at Manchester United who impressed during the preseason.

Tom Cleverley

He played extremely well against Kaizer Chiefs in the Vodacom Tournament in South Africa and bagged himself a fine goal in the process. He can play in defence or in central midfield and has a strong physical presence to match his never-ending stamina.

Cleverley was nominated for the Reserve Player of the Year award last season at age 18. This guy has a promising future ahead of him if he can keep up the impressive performances.

Man United's first team midfield is notoriously hard to break into (just ask Darren Fletcher), but with the winding down of Paul Scholes' career and Darren Fletcher growing more impatient by the day, Cleverley may find himself receiving chances to break into the first team if he gets a few games in the Carling Cup.

Craig Cathcart

Cathcart played a confident game against Peterborough last night following up on stellar performances in South Africa. A confident central defender, he can produce the goods in the air with a strong heading ability.

With the guts to go into 50-50 tackles, he looks like one of the stronger candidates to break into the United defence sooner rather than later.

He was made captain of the reserve side in the 06-07 season. He also made his way into the senior squad during that season because of the Red Devils' infamous defensive crisis which affected us so badly toward the end of that season.

Although he was an unused substitute, his inclusion speaks volumes about his talent. Definitely one to watch.

Rodrigo Possebon

Here's another standout player. Anyone who knows their stuff about United must know his name.

Possebon is one of the brightest stars around. The Brazilian is energetic and aggressive and has played quite a few preseason games already. You need only watch him a few times to realise how good this guy could possibly be.

Strong and composed on the ball, he is constantly looking for the killer pass, but also boasts a wicked shot from long range. That was evident in last night's friendly vs. Peterborough, when he looked to drive their keeper into the net from 30 yards out.

Your typical box to box player with a twist of skill and physical presence, he needs only add goalscoring to his repertoire to become an instant choice for the first team in future years. And at only 19, time is on his side.

Rafael and Fabio Silva

Oh, how I got excited over these two. Not many knew their names (often referred to before their debut as "the Brazilian twins"), but after last night I'm sure that our eyes will now be firmly fixed on the Cafu and Carlos-like duo who caused problems for Peterborough with their blistering pace and silky skills and, extremely surprisingly, their aggressiveness in a tackle.

Neither of the brothers, who play at left and right back, are very tall or built. But just like their fellow countryman Anderson, they seem to posses an incredible strength.

I count these two as a single entity as I just don't want to imagine one playing without the other across the pitch.

Hopefully they will get more playing time against the "Old Lady" Juventus tomorrow night, where they will no doubt receive a sterner test.

Long-term replacements for Patrice Evra and Gary Neville, don't bet against these two being in the squad before long. If you don't believe me, just see Fergie's star-struck interview after last night's game where Rafael stole the show.

Frazier Campbell

Another young lad who needs no introduction, Campbell looks set to join Rooney, Tevez, and Ronaldo this season after Fergie confirmed the Huddersfield-born striker has earned his place in the team.

His stellar performances for Hull last season, finishing as the club's top scorer with 15 goals, has shown the Old Trafford faithful that Campbell does indeed have the talent to battle Rooney and Co. for a starting place.

Lightning quick and aggressive, he has also beefed up from his earlier years. And as we all know this is so important in the EPL, one of the most physical leagues around.

Not afraid to run at a player, he is exciting to watch and his confidence is evident after his recent goals in South Africa and in Ole Gunner's testimonial where he scored the only goal of the game.

Hopefully he will take his chances when they are put in front of him this season. He might just see his name on the team sheet more and more.

So hopefully these great talents, along with others such as Danny Welbeck and Sam Hewson, can make more of an impact on Fergie and show that you don't always need to purchase the Berbatovs and Huntellars of the football world to achieve success.

I know I'm not alone in these thoughts as the promotion of youth through the ranks of any football club, not just Manchester United, is very much a good thing, for football and for the spiraling-out-of-control transfer market.

The Silva Twins Shine As Manchester United Beat The Posh Two-Nil

Keith Griffin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:03:20 -0400

Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United travelled to Peterborough this evening to face the side managed by his son Darren. Many would have predicted United to win this match pretty easily, and although the Red Devils did end up defeating the Posh two-nil, it was the side managed by the younger Ferguson which showed more bite and at many moments in the match could have easily put the ball in the back of the net.

United fielded a pretty strong team to start, with Carlos Tevez leading the attack alongside the promising Frazier Campbell. Rio Ferdinand and Wes Brown were given the task of holding off the Peterborough attack, while Darren Fletcher and John O'Shea were chosen to control the midfield. Sir Alex also handed a debut start to Rafael Silva, with his twin brother Fabio also getting 45 minutes of the game under his belt.

However despite the strong team it was Peterborough who looked the better side, constantly pressuring the United goal who was guarded by the excellent and equally busy Tomas Kuszczak. Aaron Mclean was impressive, although he was guilty of missing a sitter which should have put them one-up.

Russel Martin and Shane Blackett were equally impressive as was Scott Rendell who was intent on running rings around Rio Ferdinhand and Wes Brown, using his pace to trouble them for most of the game.

Carlos Tevez was causing nightmares in the Peterborough defence time and again, popping up from midfield one minute, the wing the next or as equally devastating through the centre.

However, we all know Tevez's talents but it was newbies Rafael and Fabio who caught the eye, especially Rafael who played the full 90 minutes and spent those minutes bombing forward and overlapping constantly. His tacking was superb and his pace and dribbling were flashes of what could be an exciting talent. His twin turned out to be extremely similar in style and proceeded to show what he could do on the other flank after his introduction.

Manchester United took the lead in strange fashion after Russel Martin chested the ball into his own net from David Gray's cross. Still Peterborough caused problems but United settled the game in the 68th minute when Darren Gibson struck a long range shot into the top corner.

At this stage both sides had made a number of changes, with another Brazilian youngster in the form of Rodrigo Possebon came on, who looked once again solid and composed in midfield.

All in all, Manchester United put in a performance which was just enough to beat Darren Ferguson's side, with Tevez probably United's best player.

Nani however disappointed again in my opinion, with a number of bad passes and seemingly the inability to get by a man. Hopefully he can improve before the season start, and I also hope we get to see more of the fantastic and promising duo of Rafael and Fabio Silva.

Liverpool: Rafa Benitez Finally Building a Side to Challenge For the Title?

Keith Griffin — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:23:23 -0400

Recently Liverpool agreed a fee with AS Roma for the transfer of John Arne Riise to the Italians. It was approximately £4 million. It came as a shock to some—some welcomed it, some didn't.

But it wasn't the sale of Riise that piqued my interest, it was what it meant to the club as a whole.

It is also the imminent transfer of Xabi Alonso to Juventus that caught my eye. Firstly, John Arne Riise has been a great servant to the Anfield faithful, delivering years of consistent quality up and down the left flank. Who can forget one of the most potent left feet to enter the game?

I think however, that Riise's performances did drop considerably in the last two years, culminating in his own goal that effectively signed his death warrant at the club.

The same could be said of Xabi Alonso. A great player who could be ranked up with some of the best passers of the ball in the world alongside Andrea Pirlo and Riquelme. However, like Riiise, his form also dropped from his best in the last two years.

My point is, is Rafa Benitez finally showing a ruthless streak by shipping these players from the club? To sell a seven-year servant, who at 27 could still offer three to four years service? To transfer from the club Alonso, who could still prove to be useful?

I think personally Benitez is finally starting to overhaul the club, and weed out those who are not at the required level anymore. Although many may be sad to see these players leave, it could be the start of something special for Liverpool.

Last season, Liverpool came very close at one stage of being overtaken by local rivals Everton and I think this put a bit of fear in Benitez that, despite the tag of the "Big Four", teams below are starting to reinforce and are slowly but surely catching them, and first in line to for the chop by the likes of Spurs, Portsmouth, Aston Villa, Everton, and Manchester City are Liverpool.

I can't see the Anfield faithful settling for fifth place and another trophy-less season. That's why I think Benitez is finally going to make a burst for the league this year.

For the first time in a while, you can look at the Liverpool team and see a world class spine running through it that is vital to any team looking to compete in Premiership.

Pepe Reina is a very capable goalkeeper, Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger, along with Martin Skrtel can handle anything thrown at them. Steven Gerrard needs no introduction, and Javier Mascherano has proved to be the perfect foil for Stevie G, letting him bomb forward effortlessly.

And of course, there is a certain "El Nino" up front.

Its true that Liverpool need some work out wide, with pacey and creative wing backs needed along with a world class winger. But Rafa seems finally to be taking ruthless action in selling both Riise and Alonso.

If Rafa can make some smart moves in the transfer market this summer, acquiring someone to take the weight of the goalscoring from the shoulders of Fernando Torres and a winger to give the strikers some quality service from out wide, it could be a very fresh and rejuvenated Liverpool next season.

There is a major problem when it comes to Liverpool though. To make these major signings needed, you need money to compete with the overflowing wallets of Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.

There lies the problem for Rafa. No doubt he would like to match up David Villa with his national strike partner Torres to form one of the most fearsome forword lines in the world; however, with Villa in red hot form for Spain at Euro 2008, his price has no doubt rocketed up another £15 million. So Benitez may have to look elsewhere.

Rafa Benitez has been reasonably successful since he joined Liverpool, but the fans want to see progress in the league. The Liverpool fans are a patient lot and many don't expect success in the league overnight, but what they will want to see is progress. They will want to see the team make a burst for third, then the following year for second.

If Rafa can overcome the constant bickering between Tom Hicks and co. and achieve success in the league on a limited budget, then he really will become a part of Liverpool's shining history.

Rome wasn't built in a day as they say, just ask Sir Alex Ferguson how long it took for him to erect his empire. But Chelsea and Manchester United are becoming stronger everyday, while Arsenal seem to be just waiting to burst into life.

If Rafa doesn't make strides this year or the following then it will be very hard to make an impact after that. However, as I've said, Rafa has the squad. It needs minor tweaking and he himself needs to have more ambition in the league regarding his rotation.

Liverpool on a good day can demolish anybody. The problem is those good days are as rare as Hicks and Gillette sharing a joke.

I for one, even as a Manchester United fan, would love to see the "Old Enemy" competing for the league along with a few of the up-and-coming teams that are sniffing behind the "Big Four".

If Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard can keep up the devastating partnership they have formed, then I believe Liverpool have a very bright season ahead of them, and Manchester United and Chelsea will now have to keep a close eye behind them as well as on each other.

Bring on next season.

Manchester United: Is It Necessary to Spend Big This Summer?

Keith Griffin — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 04:26:01 -0400

Every day you open a newspaper from now until the start of the new Premier League campaign, Manchester United will be splashed all over the sports pages for mainly two reasons:

"Is Cristiano Ronaldo leaving?" and "Fergie set to spend £50 million in summer spending spree!"

Although I want to avoid the Ronaldo debate as his departure may or may not influence how much Manchester United spends this summer, I personally think they do not need to spend another ridiculous amount of money.

Last summer they overhauled the team and finally formed a team which could dominate Europe and England for years to come, even drawing comparisons to the great treble-winning side of 1999.

However I believe the money should be spent on trying to tie down the already young and impressive side United already have, instead of acquiring up to three new players when there is already fierce competition for places.

Carlos Tevez is a prime example.

His arrival last summer was a breath of fresh air and his performances throughout the season—although Ronaldo's overshadowed them—were just as influential as the Portuguese talisman.

Tevez is, as many forget, only on a two-year loan and this needs to be turned into a long term contract as soon as possible.

Manchester United already shelled out £5 million for every loan year that Tevez spends at Old Trafford. To tie Tevez down to a full contract could cost up to another £20 million.

So I believe United should at least concentrate on keeping this already fantastic striker before even thinking about potential targets such as Luis Fabiano and Dimitar Berbatov.

United don't really need any bolstering in central midfield with promising players like Anderson, Darren Fletcher, Owen Hargreaves, and Rodrigo Possebon all waiting for their chance, never mind that Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick are more than capable of being one of the best midfield pairings around.

The defence is also similar, with plenty of cover there also.

Rio Ferdinhand and Nemanja Vidic look likely never to be broken up as a duo, while Patrice Evra recently signed a new five-year contract and has established himself as one of the best full backs in the world at the moment.

Wes Brown proved this year that he is, as many have suggested, no weak link in the United defence, proving his worth against the best Barcelona could throw at him.

Manchester United's goalkeeping crisis that has spanned years seems finally over with Edwin Van Der Sar in the form of his career and plenty of reinforcements awaiting in the promising Ben Foster and Tomas Kusczak.

The rest of United's squad is similarly strong with Nani and Ryan Giggs competing for the left side of midfield and Ji-Sung Park also vying for a place in the starting eleven.

Wayne Rooney and Tevez have formed a lethal partnership against all criticisms at the start of the season, and youngsters such as the up-and-coming star Danny Welbeck and the already-impressive Fraizer Campbell are looking to try make a break into the the first team forward line.

So it would make you wonder why United would need to go and spend such a vast amount of money again. Really, it could come down to two reasons.

With Cristiano Ronaldo looking set to leave, Fergie will look to replace the gaping hole left on the right hand side of midfield.

He will also look to, with much more difficultly, replace his fantastic goal rate.

This would be a main reason to spend big on a similar type player to slot straight back into the title-winning team, and would be massively helped by the fact that Real Madrid would need to make a formal offer of up to £60 million to snatch the world's best player from Old Trafford.

Another reason Sir Alex may look to spend big is out of fear of the war chest "Big Phil" Scolari may be handed by Russian billionaire owner Roman Abramovich at Chelsea.

No doubt Fergie knows how much talent Scolari boasts as a manager, who has a knack for getting big name players to gel, never mind what he might achieve with a reported £90 million budget to strengthen the squad.

So maybe Fergie might look to also bolster his team for what looks like his hardest test yet to retain a Premier League crown and the elusive European Cup.

Although I may be wrong, I think United have more than enough to challenge again on all fronts, and fend off the fresh Chelsea challenge under World Cup winner Scolari.

If Ronaldo by some miracle does stay at United, then that’s another problem solved and less money will need to be spent. Then all United need do is strengthen the squad with some of the youngsters in the reserves and maybe seek to find some bargain buy to replace the departed Gerard Pique.

Manchester United would be far better off using the massive windfall from the Champions League and Premier League glory to take a huge chunk from the debt which has haunted the club since the Glazer family took over.

I'm sure this would surely please the American owners to see that the huge gamble of handing Ferguson a huge £50 million war chest last summer has paid dividends to such an extent that they need not hand it out again this summer.

Soccer Punditry At Its Best: Eamonn Dunphy

Keith Griffin — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 05:53:12 -0400

There is probably no-one within Bleacher Report who will know who I am talking about in this article (apart from maybe Marc Kaveh), but I urge you to read on regardless.

If you are lucky enough to ever watch the coverage of any Champions League or Euro 2008 match on Irish television, it’s absolutely brilliant.

It’s hosted by a man on the wrong side of 60 named Bill O'Herlihy and the pundits who accompany him are none other than the Ireland and Arsenal legend Liam Brady, Liverpool great Graeme Souness, and Leeds' former midfield maestro Johnny Giles who would all be considered very respectable figures within the football world.

But another pundit who also joins them is the real gem in this group of past masters: Eamonn Dunphy.

Although not on the same legendry player status as the others, (although he did play for Manchester United if only for three games and Milwall) Dunphy has a far more potent weapon to wield than football skills and shiny medals of leagues and cups won in the years gone by.

He can just slate any football figure on television without as much as thinking of the repercussions, and in fact, he just doesn't seem to actually care if he is right or wrong. He makes his opinions and sticks by them.

Eamonn Dunphy is a renowned journalist within Ireland and also the author of a number of bestsellers including 'Only a Game?' and more famously and controversially Roy Keane's autobiography.

He especially hates Cristiano Ronaldo. And I do mean hate. He will single him out for criticism at the very first minute of the program, as you will see by the some of the quotes I have listed below.

He is very fond of Roy Keane and considers him an Irish legend, as he does Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes as well as John Terry and Michael Essien.

So you can see what sort of player he prefers, the hard grafting, old fashioned footballer who plays the game to for the team and always looks to win with good simple passionate football.

Maybe that's how we can explain his hatred for Ronaldo. He doesn't like the step-overs and dummies etc.

The reason so many people listen to Dunphy is simple. What he says about players is absolutely hilarious. Even if you love Ronaldo or Gerrard or whoever he is slating that day, you can't help but laugh.

Listed below are some of my favorites, and I guarantee you won’t hear Gary Lineker or Alan Shearer saying this stuff.

On Luis Garcia:

"They (Liverpool) should put Garcia where he belongs—in the dustbin."

On Cristiano Ronaldo:

"The way Ronaldo clicks his heels, is the most wicked thing in the game."
"a simple cheat" or "Poof ball."

On Kevin Kilbane:

"Kilbane's head is better than his feet. If only he had three heads, one on the end of each leg."

On Michael Carrick:

"Carrick was signed for Spurs a few years back for £3m. That's the level he is at. He is a nothing player. He is one-paced. He doesn't have the personality to always get on the ball like a United player should. "

A "nothing player" is one of Dunphy's favorite sayings.

On the Alex Ferguson and Gordon Strachan feud:

Eamon: "Scots they're either nice or they're horrid and these two are horrid.
Bill: "The Scots wont like that Eamon, that's bordering on racism".
Eamon: "It’s not racism its ethnic criticism Bill."

Ok, that one ain't funny but shows how far Eamonn Dunphy can go, and this you must remember is on live television.

On the very hostile boardroom at Real Madrid:

"Bill, Bill... those directors over there are on another planet. They're on mushrooms or something...THEY'RE ON ACID BILL!!!"

On John Hartson:

"Bill, Hartson is not a 7million pound player...it’s a disgrace, a shambles! This is the state of football today Bill. I have a clip here of why Hartson is NOT a £7million player....Roll it there Bill!(literally 1 second in to the clip) OKAY, HOLD IT THERE BILL!!! (draws a circle around Hartson's arse) Bill, that is NOT the arse of a £7million player!''

On Rio Ferdinhand:

"Ferdinand is a clown. He was a liability for the first goal and he is always a liability. It was Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink against Rio Ferdinand of Barclays Bank."

On Liverpool vs Barcelona:

"I was hoping in the last fifteen minutes that Barcelona would beat them. I've made my mind up on Benitez tonight. He's a nice man but he's got a huge negative streak running through him. Liverpool was terrible in the second half. They didn't play football. If that was a concert, you'd boo. Gerrard: found out. A nothing player. They were terrible. Terrible."

On Fabio Cannavaro:

"If Rio Ferdinand is worth £100,000 a week, then this guy is worth EUR100 million . . . . . a day."

On Harry Kewell:

"Kewell should have been yanked off the pitch at half time and put in a hot bath, a boiling hot bath."

"Fat and a clown. A fat clown for all to see"

On Djibril Cisse:

"Here we have Cisse, right wing, attempts to put in a cross, BANG...hits the full back, again BANG hits the full back, BANG...off the full back again, and once more, BANG...smacks the full back again.... Millions of euro and he can't clear the first man, I mean...what's he trying to do to the full back here, Kill him??"

On Sergio Ramos:

"He's a nothing player, he's like Paul McShane on steroids, costs more but just as likely to get you shot in the head."

Before Man United hammered Roma 7-1:

"O'shea not good enough, Ferdinand and Brown dodgy, Ronaldo a puff ball, Fletcher and Carrick nothing players, Rooney has never done it on the big stage."

So as you can see, 'the Dunph' takes no prisoners. And if you can imagine this on live television, it brings quite a few gasps! Included here are a few links to watch the man in action.

Slating Ronaldo after semi final 1st leg vs. Barcelona.

Dunphy and Liam Brady argue over Liverpool vs. Arsenal game semi final 2nd leg. Remember Liam Brady is coach of Arsenal youths and is slightly biased, but the Dunphy doesn't seem to care.

Dunphy slating BBC pundits Lineker and Shearer.

Dunphy calling Ronaldo a "brat"

And last but not least, the major fight between the pundits over Roy Keane leaving United. Sound quality is poor to start, but it's a worthy watch. Believe me.

Anyway, check it out and hope you enjoy. It really is pure cheekiness on television.

If Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves, Wayne Rooney Must Lead Manchester's Attack

Keith Griffin — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:50:21 -0400

Oh how we United fans are bored of transfer talk already. Bored of wondering when and where Louis Saha is going, bored over the Aaron Ramsey transfer milling about the media, bored over watching yet another youth leave in the form of Gerard Pique and adding another position that needs cover.

Oh yes we are bored, but none of the above add up to how bored we are over the Cristiano Ronaldo transfer saga.

Ask most Manchester United fans at the moment about the current situation over our Portuguese No. 7, and they will simply say "If he's going, will he just hurry up and go, and if not just come out and say he is staying?" followed by a torrent of abuse and lots of table banging, followed by their own opinion on possible replacements.

It true, our 42-goal winger would be a huge loss. A titanic loss. Let's not fool ourselves, he drove us towards both trophies last season and set the world alight, proving his talent once again.

Losing him to Madrid would not spell disaster for United, but his departure means a chunk of potential and a vital cog in the United setup is gone. If he does leave, and he most likely will, then it leaves us with a difficult situation.

It's a situation which needs someone within the team, someone who can show he can grab the team by the scruff of the neck and lead them to glory, someone who can be a match-winner.

I think that man is Wayne Rooney. If this team is to really improve after Ronaldo leaves, then I think Wayne Rooney must improve. He is, as many United fans know, the heart of the United team at the moment. If Ronaldo was the player who finished a move, it was often Rooney who started it.

I remember at the start of the preseason that Sir Alex Ferguson was saying how this season would be Rooney's. That because he would now have a proper preseason and more training under his belt before the start of the campaign, that we would finally see a sharper and more productive Rooney, and that he would outshine Ronaldo, who took all the plaudits the season before.

Unfortunately, only a game into the season, Michael Duberry stood on Rooney's foot and broke a metatarsal. Disaster. No Rooney, Carlos Tevez wasn't at United yet, and once again Saha was injured.

So Fergie's prediction of Rooney taking all the headlines was right, but not in the way he expected, I'm sure.

Ok, I'm being unfair, because once he recovered from the injury he did find a rich vein of form, hitting nine goals in nine appearances for both club and country, and things looked good again. His most memorable performance in this time came against Aston Villa, where he scored twice after United went one nil down to a Gabriel Agbonglahor goal.

Then yet again injury struck, in the form of an ankle injury, and he never seemed to find that rich vein again. When I attended the reverse fixture against Villa at Old Trafford, a man beside me decided to remind me that Rooney hadn't scored a league goal at Old Trafford since October, and this being March well things weren't too good for Rooney in front of goal at that time...obviously.

However, he went on to score twice in that game.

And it's moments like that which remind me that Rooney can easily lead United's attack while Ronaldo decides to don the white shirt of Madrid. When the cards are down and people doubt his ability, Rooney steps up. No-one will say Rooney isn't a big game player. We know he is. Ask Liverpool, Arsenal, or Chelsea fans. Ask AC Milan and Roma fans.

Rooney can be potent in front of goal if he is played in the right position and he starts to take his chances more efficiently. And those are the two major problems with Rooney, aren't they? Either he isn't in the right position and can't affect a game the way he does best, or when he gets the chance to affect it, he misses.

Hopefully if United purchase target man, say in the form of Roque Santa Cruz or Klauss Jan Huntelaar, then Rooney can finally play where he is supposed to play, in the hole behind the striker(s). This way he will affect the game more, his link up play will improve, and hopefully he can make more of those dangerous one-two's with Tevez—like against Middlesbrough—and find himself in front of goal more.

Hopefully his finishing can also improve too. Too often this season he has fluffed one on one's and blasted too many sitters wide. Good chances don't come often, and he should take them more. When he does, I honestly believe he can make up 30 goals as well as his usual 10 to 15 assists.

If he can also improve his discipline he can become a "great" and finally live up to all the hype that surrounds him in the media.

Tevez has had big impact on Rooney's game and United's play in general, and I hope that they can form a ferocious partnership together. With Ronaldo's departure imminent, they now represent the attacking youth of Manchester United along with Nani, Anderson, Fraizer Campbell, and Danny Welbeck.

So come on Rooney, show them why we say Man United never dies. And hopefully next season when I'm sitting in the stands, no one will be mentioning that you haven't scored a goal at your home ground in six months.

Cristiano Ronaldo: I Want to Play for Real Madrid

Keith Griffin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 04:39:59 -0400

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally broken his silence. And it's not good for Manchester United.

Speaking from the Portugal training camp in Switzerland today, he has finally stated where he intends to play next season: Real Madrid. He told Terra magazine the following:

"I want to play for Real Madrid, but only if it is true they are eager to pay me and Manchester United what they have been saying they will."

The statement will come as a blow no doubt to Manchester United and all its fans across the world. Ronaldo seemingly thinks his career will progress further if he joins Madrid, and money also seems to be on the mind by the tone of the quote above.

He also added "However, it does not depend on me. It is important to send a message.

"From now on I will not talk again about this until the end of the Euros. It is not worth asking me because I will not reply."

Looks like United have a crisis on their hands to replace the goals aplenty that Ronaldo provided. Dont know what else to say really. I'm still in shock. Seems money has prevailed once again in luring a superstar to Spain.

I'll still remember Ronny for the man who broke records, dazzled us with style and speed, and also for driving us toward back-to-back titles and our first European Cup since 1999.

You're not the first legend to leave the club, and you wont be the last legend to don the red shirt...but no one man is bigger than the team and I'm sure not only Man United fans will echo these thoughts, but football fans in general.

Roy Keane the Ultimate Replacement for Alex Ferguson?

Keith Griffin — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:25:14 -0400

For the third time in my life today I picked up Roy Keane's autobiography and read it through once more. If you haven't done this already I suggest you do, no matter if you're a Liverpool or Leeds fan, it's a worthy read.

Filled with honesty and passion that was so much part of Keane's career whether it transformed into good or bad on the pitch.

It was during the read when I got thinking, wouldn't Roy Keane be a perfect candidate to replace Ferguson when the Scot finally decides to leave his post.

I thought, what qualities does Ferguson have that makes him such a success? Sir Alex is passionate, relentless, headstrong, ruthless and a craving to be the best that is everlasting. It's well known that Fergie knows the club from top to bottom, from the money men to the laundry women, the "prawn sandwich brigade" to the hardcore.

Fergie is Manchester United. He has carried on the traditions of Matt Busby. The traditions of slick and stylish attacking football to graduating youth into the famous red shirt.

I wondered, how can we ever see the likes of him again at Manchester United? He would be hard to replace. Hard to find someone that is as immersed in the traditions and passion of the Red Devils. Hard to find someone who can be a father figure to youngsters and executioner to those whose time is up. Hard to find another man filled with such humour, rage, love and commitment.

If you look at the names that have been swirling throughout the media as to who will replace Sir Alex when he retires in the next three years, not many fit the mould in quite the same way.

Mark Hughes? Maybe. Looks bound for Manchester City instead of United.

Martin O Neill? Great manager but in the process of building a great side who look set for great things.

Sven Goran Erikkson? Definitely has talent but is a boring plank who lacks personality and the fire in his belly to be a "great."

That's why when I look at Keane I just know it would work. He can match all the qualities of Ferguson and then some. He can become a "great." He knows United from the inside out, been there through the good and the bad. No one in the world could match his drive and the fire that made Keane the player he was. I don't think anyone could match it as a manager either.

In three years time, when Ferguson decides to step down as he has stated, I believe Keane will take it. I believe he is being groomed to take over at United.

When he took over from Sunderland, it's as if the players were filled with belief, that Keane's hunger for perfection was somehow transferred to them and sure enough, they gained promotion. Welcome to the big league.

Then came the huge war chest that was given to Keane to help the Black Cat's survive the onslaught that is the Premier League. And well, that's where Keane stumbled. The majority of his signings were awful. It was obvious that he had very little knowledge of the transfer market.

However they survived. Just.

Still when you take into account that it was still Keane's first season in the Premier League, it's quite an achievement. I'm sure he won't make the same mistakes again.

I think that in three years time, Keane will be the No.1 candidate to take the helm at United. The fans would welcome him. He was our leader on the pitch for years, why not off it?

I believe that Keane would carry on the same traditions that have made United so successful. He already has the qualities that Ferguson has. He can see right through a player, I remember an interview with the Cork man where he said (as manager of Sunderland at the time) that he doesn't care what a player does all week, as long as he gives 100% on match day.

He can understand a lack of ability, but not the commitment. And he stated that any player not willing to give 100%, regardless of ability would be basically removed from the club.

If you are not proud to wear the shirt, then you won't. This was obvious after the Liam Miller incident where after turning up for training late a number of times, Miller was placed on the transfer list.

Ruthless? Yes, but totally understandable. Take out the weeds. Take out those who are not worthy.

That's why I believe Roy Keane is the perfect replacement. Once he gains some experience and learns more about the managerial world, then not many will be more suitable.

It would seem like fate if he was to take the helm, returning to once again lead us to glory just when days seems to darken and we reminisce of the days gone by with Fergie.

"If I was putting Roy Keane out there to represent Manchester United on a one against one, we'd win the Derby, the National, the boat race and anything else. It's an incredible thing he's got." - Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson knows how Keane works and Keane knows how Manchester United works. I hope it happens. I hope when he is appointed that we give our legendary midfielder the time he needs to take us to more success, the time that is so precious and rare in the managerial world these days.

I hope the ending to the book will someday be repeated by Keano, "Now I'm back with Manchester United. We have a lot to prove and I'm relishing the challenge and I'm hungrier than I've ever been."

Manchester United 2007/2008: The Awards

Keith Griffin — Wed, 28 May 2008 11:54:38 -0400

Manchester United undoubtedly enjoyed an extremely successful season, winning the Premier League (scoring more and conceding less) and also pipping Chelsea to the Champions League (where they went unbeaten).

There's no greater pleasure for me than to watch my team through every game of the season and see the good, the bad, and truly beautiful.

I have listed awards that I think apply to some of United's players and also some of the best moments throughout the season.

Overall Best Player Of The Season: Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo easily wins this award. Producing match winning performances all season, he has been the catalyst to United snatching the double, notching 42 goals in 48 games.

He lit the league up with his pace and style. He entertained United fans all over the world with dazzling displays that continued to roll in game after game.

Like him or loathe him, Ronaldo was not only the best player for Manchester United this season, but the best in the whole league.

Best Defender: Rio Ferdinhand

This definitely was the best season ever for the Englishman in a red shirt. He was a giant in our defense and finally banished claims that he needs Vidic to partner him in order for him to perform well.

Some of his best performances came in the Champions League where he used his pace and heading ability to nip attacks in the bud.

The reason I picked him over the equally impressive Vidic and Evra was due to him also taking up the captaincy and doing a brilliant job under the pressure that no doubt accompanies it. If he continues like this as captain, he looks set to keep it for years to come.

Best Midfielder: Cristiano Ronaldo

Again, this needs no explanation. He didn't have much competition for this one. Even though Michael Carrick put in some good performances, I believe he still has a ways to go, and Paul Scholes didn't feature as heavily as usual.

Either way, it still would have been very hard to take this one from Ronny.

Best Striker: Carlos Tevez

Not much to choose from here. It's him or Rooney and Tevez edges it for me. He set the tone in a lot of games with constant running and tracking back to help out in midfield.

Easily my favorite player at the moment, watching him develop from a shaky start to become such an influential player has been a great pleasure.

Probably our best player in the Champions League (excluding the defence) and with 19 goals to his name, including some especially important goals against the likes of Spurs, Lyon, Blackburn and an opener against Chelsea. He had an absolutely fantastic season, with hopefully many more to follow.

Best Young Player: Anderson

Anderson was a breath of fresh air this season, proving himself to be quite a talent indeed. Powerful, quick and aggressive, the Brazilian youngster oozes potential and looks to be a legend in the making... just ask Gerrard and Fabregas.

When this guy adds goals to his name watch out.

Hardest Working Player: Carlos Tevez

Tevez easily wins this for me too. The only players to match his work-rate are Rooney, Park, and the Energizer Bunny. I'll pick Tevez due to his impact in important games.

Visibly fitter since his days with the Hammers, his hunger to chase the ball is never filled. His most noticeable performances as a running-machine came in the Champions League, especially against Roma.

He should remind you of Alan Smith in work-rate, but... with goals.

Most Consistent Player: Patrice Evra

Ok, you probably think I'm contradicting myself here as I said Ferdinand was the best defender, but Evra gets the nod for me here due to his consistency defending at an extremely high standard, but also going forward.

Evra is both a nuisance to the opposition's winger and a constant threat to their full back. A real live-wire.

Best Utility Player: Owen Hargreaves

Whether filling in at right-back, central midfield or even right-midfield, Hargreaves did his job effectively and consistently to a high level.

All this adding to the fact that it was his first season with United, with a high transfer fee to live up to, and a whole host of injuries limiting his involvement, Hargreaves has been nothing short of remarkable.

Best Individual Performance: Wes Brown vs. Barcelona

Although amazing over both legs, the second leg particularly stood out for me. A defensive rock throughout the game, especially towards the final minutes as Barcelona threw onslaught after onslaught of attacks against us, Brown inspired United to withstand it.

Not bad considering Barcelona are arguably the best attacking team in the world.

One of United's masterstroke's this season took place off the pitch in securing Brown to the club with a new contract after it was feared he would leave. He has shown us why he is worth every penny. The local lad has been a phenomenon.

Best Goal: Cristiano Ronaldo free kick vs. Portsmouth

A firm favorite for me, it was an amazing free kick that left the crowd in awe and David James in disgust. It was unique and was only heightened by the fact that James just seemed to stand still as it flew into the top corner, jaw hitting the floor.

The 30-yarder was a real beauty.

I remember watching it and the commentator saying "Well, this will most likely hit the wall." Nothing like hearing a Ronaldo critic eating his own words.

Best Move: Tevez's goal vs Middlesbrough

If Ronaldo's goal was the best individual goal, then this was the best team goal.

Anderson chipped the ball forward for Tevez to cushion into Rooney's path, then strode forward to finish in clinical fashion after the England man had returned possession with an inspired back-heel.

An absolute moment of beauty to keep you mesmerized for the rest of the game. It also banished claims that Arsenal were the only team to play the "beautiful game."

It finally put to bed criticism's that Rooney and Tevez were incapable of playing together.

A taste of more to come.

Best Moment In The Premier League: Manchester United 3 Liverpool 0

There were lots of moments, but beating the old enemy once again never loses the same intoxicating effect. Nani sealed the win with a fine strike, making a fool of the defense before sending a rocket past Reina.

Ferdinhand and Vidic added further insult to injury by making Fernando Torres look ordinary, which is no small task.

Gerrard left no doubt as to who bothered them most that day. "Rooney destroyed us with his direct running."

Best Moment In The Champions League: Paul Scholes rocket vs. Barcelona

Obviously, Van Der Sar's save in the final from Anelka came close, but we might not have been there if it wasn't for Paul Scholes.

His strike that took us to Moscow was reminiscent of days gone by when Scholes would bomb forward at any opportunity. The ball fell to Scholesy and even Barcelona should know that you don't leave Scholes alone to shoot from there.

Well that's it for me. These were some of the awards I credited to the players this season. It wasn't a season that will be forgotten easily. So feel free to add your own award's or give your opinion to those that are there already.

Gerard Pique Signs Four-Year Contract with Barcelona

Keith Griffin — Tue, 27 May 2008 01:13:00 -0400

Today Manchester United have revealed they have reached an agreement on a fee for Gerard Pique to join FC Barcelona this summer.

The 21-year old central defender, who is also adept at playing right back, was seemingly frustrated at a lack of first team opportunities.

Many fans will no doubt be sorry to see Pique go as he was a promising talent, and during the 2007-08 season looked more and more likely to break into the first team following numerous appearances and notching two goals to his name, most memorably in the Champions League against Roma.

The Spanish defender was a product of the infamous Barcelona youth academy, and was snatched up by Sir Alex Ferguson when he was 17.

However, he has become Barcelona's second signing of the transfer window, along with Sevilla's Seydou Keita.

I wish him all the best on his home return to his former club.

Euro 2008: Ten Players to Watch Out For

Keith Griffin — Mon, 26 May 2008 06:26:38 -0400

So, the leagues are over for another season and with Euro 2008 just around the corner, we will all be predicting who is likely to win the tournament.

Clubs from around the world will be sending scouts to seek new talent, while managers can either bolster their reputation with victory or tarnish it with defeat.

Either way, it promises to be a great tournament with some of the Europe's finest talent on show. Here are some of the players who are sure to impress.

10. Luca Modric—Croatia

The midfielder, who can also double as a second striker, is regarded as one of the finest and promising young talents in the world at the moment.

In 2007 he was voted Player of the Year in the Croatian League for Dynamo Zagreb. Despite this, the playmaker was still relatively unknown until he played against England in a friendly and proceeded to dazzle us with silky passing.

If you still don't know him, you most likely will by the end of the tournament and realise why Spurs fans are so excited over their new signing.

9. Fabio Cannavaro—Italy

The 34 year-old World Cup-winner is still seen as one of the finest defenders in the game.

He proved this in the 2006 World Cup when he was probably the best player of the whole tournament.

Cannavaro, who stands only 5'9" tall, was named FIFA World Player of the Year thanks to his performances for Juventus and Italy that year. The feisty Italian played every minute of the World Cup and, as a result of his displays, the team only conceded two goals during the whole competition.

He also showed great experience and discipline, not once receiving a yellow or red card. Now with partner Alessandro Nesta retired, will Cannavaro be able to continue the form that earned him a move to Real Madrid and lead Italy to glory?

8. Luca Toni—Italy

The 31 year-old Italian seems to be in the form of his life, both for club and country.

First, he fired Bayern Munich to a league and cup double, scoring 24 goals in 31 appearances to finish as the league's top scorer and another 10 goals in nine appearances in the cup.

Although not prolific in the 2006 World Cup, he has hit a rich vein of goal scoring form in the Euro 2008 qualifiers, most memorably scoring both goals against Scotland in a 2-0 win in addition to scoring in the first minute of the second game at Hampden Park.

He will look to continue that form for the rest of the competition and fire Italy to glory.

7. Cesc Fabregas—Spain

The silky Spaniard received all the plaudits at the beginning of the season, cutting through defences effortlessly with smooth and effective passing.

As the key provider for frontman Emmanuel Adebayor, the Togolese striker proceeded to bang in goals from left, right, and centre for Arsenal.

Fabregas also added something new to his repertoire, scoring fantastic match-winning goals.

Although he went off the boil after Christmas, Luis Aragones will no doubt know how important Fabregas can be to the national side. At only 20 years of age, this wont be Fabregas' last tournament, but this is his chance to step up and put in some performances to cement his place as a world-class midfielder.

6. Karim Benzema—France

Recently voted the best player in France, the 20 year-old Lyon striker has turned heads this season, and all the top clubs from around the world will be keeping an eye on the youngster.

This season he has been prolific in front of goal, scoring 20 times in 32 appearances, in turn leading Lyon to a league and cup double. He also celebrated his first International call-up by scoring two goals in the qualifiers.

Benzema seemingly has it all: power, speed, positioning, and as most Manchester United fans will remember, the ability to score goals from out of nowhere.

Raymond Domenech will no doubt use Benzema a lot, especially as the striker is adept at playing as a central striker as well as on the wings. Like Fabregas, this won't be his last tournament, but it's his chance to showcase his skills and earn a transfer to one of Europe's elite.

5. Klass-Jan Huntelaar—Netherlands

Think of Huntelaar and one word should spring to mind: prolific.

The Ajax hitman scored 33 goals in 34 games for Ajax this season, and comparsions have inevitably been made to Manchester United legend and fellow countryman Ruud Van Nistlerooy.

The Dutchman made his debut against the Republic of Ireland in August 2006 and instantly repaid Marco Van Basten with two goals and two assists. A lot of clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid - who are both strongly linked with him, will be keeping an eye on him during this tournament.

Although not blessed with pace, he is a natural poacher and has good heading ability. At only 24 years of age, he admits he wants to impress and move on from Ajax.

"It's a nice tournament to show yourself," he's said. And with his natural talent, he promises to be a big hit.

4. Michael Ballack—Germany

No need for introductions with this player. A lot of people had thought when he went through a bad patch with Chelsea last year, with injuries, lack of form, and absence from the team, that Ballack had only moved to Chelsea from Bayern to raise his bank balance instead of his reputation.

How he has proved everyone wrong this season. No more injuries, in some of the best form of his life as well as one of the first names on the Chelsea team sheet, he has overshadowed Frank Lampard and bossed the midfield in almost every game he played.

Germany's hopes will be boosted by his experience, physical presence and knack for scoring goals. If anyone will lead Germany to the trophy, Ballack will.

3. Franck Ribery—France

Perhaps going unnoticed to a certain extent, Ribery is regarded by many as one of the top-five midfielders in the world. Many say he goes un-noticed because of the lack of coverage and commercialism of the Bundesliga, but one thing is for sure: Ribery is quality.

The French winger, who joined Bayern Munich at the start of last season, drove them to a league and cup double through dazzling displays of speed, passing, and goal scoring.

In 26 appearances for the club he has notched 11 goals and also a glut of assists to his name.

With one goal and six assists already in the the qualifiers, he promises to light up the tournament. Named Player of The Year in the Bundesliga, don't be surprised to see his name in the team of the tournament, whether or not France find glory in Euro 2008.

2. Fernando Torres—Spain

Torres, although a world class talent with Athletico Madrid, never proved prolific in front of goal with a scoring average of only 15 goals per season.

That was until Rafa Benitez took him to Liverpool, where has become arguably the best striker in the world.

Pace, power, skill, and absolutely fearless, every defence should worry about this man. He can score goals from anywhere, and can leave you standing in awe at the same time.

His partnership with David Villa for Spain is one of the most lethal in the world, and service to the strikers will no doubt be top notch due to the presence of Fabregas and Xavi in midfield amongst others.

With 32 goals in 40 appearances for Liverpool and 15 in 46 for the national side, even Italy's defensive rock Cannavaro should be afraid of "El Nino".

1. Cristiano Ronaldo—Portugal

What to say about this man? Few can dispute that the title "Best Player in the World" is going to waste on Ronny.

The Manchester United starlet is improving year by year, game by game, adding something new to his array of talents all the time.

He is blessed with it all: Blinding pace, strong upper body, capable of shooting with both feet, a unique free kick, and, as proven in the Champions League final, fantastic in the air too.

Some say he doesn't turn up in big games; well, this is Ronaldo's chance to prove all the critics wrong once again.

After 42 goals this season, no one can argue that all eyes are on him to continue his fantastic club form into Euro 2008 and cement his place among the greats.

With 20 goals in 54 appearances for Portugal, expect him to be a firm favourite for the Golden Boot to add to every other award he has swept in this season. At least Rooney won't be about for any more "winking" incidents...

Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs: The Last of the One-Club Players?

Keith Griffin — Fri, 23 May 2008 10:53:25 -0400

I'm going to stay away from the post-Champions League buzz and draw your attention to Manchester United's other great achievement.

Wednesday night, when Ryan Giggs entered the pitch, a loud roar arose in the stadium. He entered the game as the most highly decorated player in England. Throughout his 18-year career, his trophy haul consists of 10 league titles, four F.A Cups and now two European Cups.

He also entered the game to break another record also, add another achievement to his illustrious career—he broke Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time appearance record, playing for United for his 759th time. He will be 35 years of age in November, and 18 of those years will have been dedicated to the Red Devils.

When Giggs first came to United on trial as a teenager, Fergie knew he had stumbled upon a gem. Ferguson went on to say that he knew within a few minutes that Giggs was the real deal—that the way he glided over the pitch, seemingly weightless, mesmerized him.

Now he has gone from that day to this, loyal to the cause, and a true professional.

Paul Scholes is the next player that Manchester United can be proud to call their own. Scholes is part of the 'Golden Generation' that also included the Nevilles—and, of course, David Beckham. Scholes can also be credited as the man who made it possible for us to play in this years Champion's League final, due to a goal reminiscent of the old bombarding Scholes of years gone by.

So the question I pose: Are these players the last of the one-club players? Are these the last of soldiers of the 'loyal' generation?

In the modern game, loyalty to a singular club throughout your entire career is so rare, that Giggs and Scholes are daily applauded for it. So rare that we spend our days watching our favourite teams, waiting to find a player that may also show loyalty to that team in the mould of Giggs and Scholes.

How many can stay loyal and play at the same level that Giggs and Scholes have over the years? Take Flamini—although not at Arsenal from an extremely young age, he had his breakout season for Arsenal this year, and what does he do? Up and leave for AC Milan.

Of course, credit must also go their professionalism off the pitch. This may also be the reason for their extended time playing for the club. Roy Keane for instance was Mr.United, but in the end his off-field (and some say on-field) antics led Ferguson to let his best midfielder ever to go. So, Giggs and Scholes also deserve applause for never appearing in papers over contract negotiations, or training-ground bustups.

Ferguson too deserves credit—especially for letting Giggs, who for a winger lost his legendary pace, adapt his game, and phase him into a different style, instead of just releasing him and replacing him with a youth long ago. Same for Scholes, who had a career-threatening eye injury. Yet, Ferguson stood by and Scholes repaid him by putting in the season of his life.

Now, I know there are other examples, such as Gary Neville. I'm just focusing on two players that I have idolised over the years, and who I still see as great examples to the youth of today. Also, Giggs and Scholes have played this a lot this season compared to Neville—hence, I focused on them.

Steven Gerrard is another great example. A Liverpool lad through and through, he has stood by Liverpool through thick and thin, and become a one man army. He too reflects the great professionalism shown by Giggs and Scholes.

Even as he no doubt craves the Premier League crown, as he has publicly stated, he has not moved off. He has not complained. He just keeps working on getting Liverpool there, and I believe he will eventually.

I personally believe it will be a long time before we see the mix of loyalty, world-class talent and professionalism in another player. Maybe it's the influx of foreign players into the EPL. Maybe its more about money these days than striving to be the best for your club and for your club to be the best.

Ferguson said after the Champions League win, "Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs are in the twilights of their careers and they will still contribute in a big way next season as they normally do, but they won't play as many games.

"They will eventually be phased out which is what you have to do in this life. Ryan will be 35 in November, Paul will be 34 and they will play 25 to 30 games next season because we have the back-up, we have the young players now"

Paul Scholes opened the scoring for us this season in the EPL against Portsmouth, and Ryan Giggs closed the season by scoring against Wigan. And I thought then just how important they have been, still are, and always will be to Manchester United.

So do you think we will ever see the likes of these players again who combine talent, professionalism and unrivaled loyalty? And who else deserves a mention in your opinion?

Real Madrid: We'll Sign £100 Million Cristiano Ronaldo

Keith Griffin — Tue, 13 May 2008 08:16:45 -0400

As has been happening for many summers now, Real Madrid has again insisted they will sign winger Cristiano Ronaldo (who scored 41 goals this season) from Manchester United.

Personally, it has driven me mad.

It no doubt has had a similar effect on Sir Alex Ferguson, who is obviously extremely keen to hold onto the player, maybe more than any other player during his tenure at United.

While this may simply be speculation, it still serves to drive Ronaldo from United and into greedy hands in the Bernabeu.

A lot of flak has come Rafa Benitez's way lately over the way he conducted his negotiations over Aston Villa captain and England hopeful Gareth Barry. Villa manager Martin O'Neill has criticized him for being too public, and trying to unsettle Barry.

The same criteria apply to Inter Milan and their treatment of Belarussian Alexander Hleb. Wenger stated that if their alleged tapping up of Hleb continued he would "report them to Fifa."

So why is this case any different?

Everyone knows Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon is desperate to sign Ronaldo. But, I don't think he has the right to publicly announce on nearly every possible occasion that he is confident of signing Ronaldo.

A Bernabeu source said today, "The suggestion coming from Ronaldo's people is that he is not sure United can make good on the promises he has been made, and is starting to wonder if there is anything more he can do in England.

"If he is looking for the next challenge, then it can only come by leaving England and there can be no better club than Real Madrid."

Now that just shouts out to be reported to Fifa.

The same applies to the relentless hunt of Cesc Fabregas. Who do Real Madrid think they are to just come out and announce that the next challenge for these players is in La Liga? La Liga, mind you, are considered by many to be inferior to the English Premiership.

However, like music to the ears of many Manchester United fans, Ronaldo today said, "I'm at the right club, playing with the right players, and I learn things all the time. That's what great about being at United. I improve all the time and I want to improve every season."

Either way Calderon's and Madrid's constant harassing of the Premier League's top stars is, in my opinion, disgraceful. The sooner Fifa crack down on this behavior the better. No matter who you support in England, it's players like Ronaldo and Fabregas who light up the league.

So, Calderon, stick with Raul and rejects like Van Nistelrooy and Heinze. Ronaldo is ours.

Sir Alex Ferguson: Lets focus on Europe Now

Keith Griffin — Mon, 12 May 2008 01:07:27 -0400

YES! We are Champions again!

Yesterday I watched as Manchester United won their 17th league title and Sir Alex Ferguson's 10th. And how fitting to see Ryan Giggs, on the day he equals Sir Bobby Charlton's appearances, stick the ball in the back of the net to condemn Wigan to certain defeat, and make sure that Chelsea won't be snatching the league from us.

Although a brave Wigan put it up to United and were far from "rolling over", as suggested might happen by the media, United proved victorious with Rio Ferdinand and Nemanj Vidic especially standing out.

Afterward, the players celebrated joyfully in front of a crowd dominated by United fans.

Cristiano Ronaldo and fellow country man Nani danced with the Portuguese flag between them. United fans who didn't make it to Wigan stood instead outside Old Trafford singing ecstatically, "Champione, Champione Oh Wey, Oh Wey, Oh Wey".

Ryan Giggs became the most decorated player in England with a 10th league title to add to his already bulging array of medals.

But as the players and staff danced the night away basking in glory, no doubt Fergie is already focusing on the upcoming final against behemoths Chelsea in the Champions league which, after victory in the league, will leave United with a confidence boost.

Chelsea hopes John Terry and Didier Drogba will recover from injury to face United in Chelsea's first ever Champions League final, and no doubt Fergie will monitor their situations closely as an absence of either or both could prove critical.

Either way, United will enter the stage in Moscow beaming with confidence. "We are bouncing into the final now," Ferguson said. "If we had lost the title, it would have been different."

No doubt Chelsea will be tough opponents—I would have preferrd Liverpool—as Ferguson probably would have too. But a league and cup double would no doubt signal the start of another great team assembled by Sir Alex. "If this team goes on to win the European Cup, it will be my best ever," he's said.

Not many would disagree.

However, Chelsea has already begun to bolster their squad for next season, and as I write this, they have agreed to a fee for Porto right back Jose Bosingwa for £16.2 million. They will hope to outdo us again next season in the title, but will worry about facing a United team seeking revenge.

Anyway, what a great season and I hope United cap it all off with a great entertaining win over Chelsea in the final. Hard luck Arsenal. And well done Liverpool, fourth again.

Berbatov to Leave If the Price Is Right, but Is Manchester United His Next Club?

Keith Griffin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 05:05:05 -0400

Dimitar Berbatov's agent put many top flight clubs on red alert recently when he announced that the Bulgarian is ready to leave his current club, Tottenham Hotspur, to seek Champions League football.

To compound this claim, Spurs manager Juande Ramos stated that, if the right price is offered by another club, then they would not stand in his way if he sought to leave.

The 27 year old would definitely be on the shopping list of many clubs this summer if he does choose to leave and one that is most likely to approach him is the team I support Manchester United.

Sir Alex Ferguson has been rumoured to admire the prolific striker but the question I pose, as I did to my friends, is would you like to see him there?

I love watching Berbatov play. The guy literally oozes class. He just drifts and floats around the pitch and it seems like he can do it all. Set up attacks, finish them, pass well and even hold it up so that he brings other strike partners into the game. This season he has scored 15 league goals alone, quite a figure considering that Spurs lack any kind of creative midfielder. I can see why United fans want him there, and why Chelsea fans also hope he may come their way. He would be quite a force.

But, I just do not want to see him at United. Let him go to Chelsea, or Milan or wherever. To me it just seems that Berbatov has just become sick of the situation he has found himself in, and because it now suits him he wants to leave.

Now if he turned around and said 'I WANT to play for Manchester United, i probably wouldn't be writing this. But instead he just wants to go and play for any team who is competing in the Champions League. To me it seems like he has no loyalty, and if you remember, United did try to sign him before he joined Spurs but refused because he was not promised first team football.

After the titanic trouble of signing Carlos Tevez last summer which still needs to be completed, I think he deserves his chance to forge a strong partnership with Wayne Rooney and become a first choice striker. I don't want to see him relegated to the bench in place of £30-£40 million signing Berbatov.

And if it so happened that if he joined United and lets say, went through a run of bad form and was forced to sit out a few games, would he then become sick of his situation at United and look for another transfer? That is the main reason for me not wanting Berbatov at United, even if he does have the potential to become a legend in the mould of Van Nistlerooy or Cantona.

Another reason I don't want to see a player like Berbatov at United is because I think he would slow down the new found pace we have played with since Van Nistlerooy's departure. United are blisteringly quick on the counter attack, with Rooney, Ronaldo, Tevez, Nani and Anderson all pretty quick with and without the ball. So maybe he would slow down that system and we would become more one dimensional, and so easier to defend against.

Now I'm not saying Berbatov doesn't deserve to be at a top club, i'm a massive fan, and United do need a goalscorer, but someone in the mould of Torres or Benzema would be more welcome. Tevez has too much quality and United went through too much trouble to get him for him to be sitting on the bench. I think Fergie should take a leaf from Wenger's book and maybe try sign some young talent or even give the impressive Manucho a chance.

Whats the betting he will end up at United anyway? Ferguson is ruthless when it comes to signing the best strikers and Berbatov falls into that category. Unless he finds a way to play all three strikers together, and admittedly that would be mouth watering, Ill be unhappy to say the least...

Players That Do Not Recieve Enough Recognition Part 1: Michael Essien

Keith Griffin — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:20:17 -0400

There are certain players within the EPL who do not receive enough recognition, don't get enough time in the limelight, or are just plain underrated. Some players graft and fight to keep the defense together, some are assist leaders who are outshone by the goal scorers, and some are the invisible backbone.

To me, one of the players that fall under those headings is Michael Essien.

Essien has been one of the best players to enter the league in years. He has it all. He's powerful, his passing is simple and constructive, and he has stamina to burn. He will take part in the attack, defense, and will rough up that skillful midfielder who has annoyed your defense all day.

Bought by Jose Mourinho in the same summer as Sean Wright-Phillips, Del Horno, and Lassana Diarra, many were waiting for him to live up to his £24 million price tag that took him from Lyon to the Blues.

Admittedly, it was a turbulent start. Many said he was overpriced and average. He put in some nasty tackles, which to the surprise of many fans, didn't earn him a red card.

But two seasons on (and a small bit of discipline), and Essien has transformed into one of the most complete midfielders in the world. At only 25 years of age, one would have to rank him in the top five midfielders in the EPL.

Gerrard Houllier describes him on the same level as Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Patrick Viera. In 2006, he helped take Ghana to the last 16 of the World Cup, and just one year later he was named Chelsea's player of the year.

Yet when you buy the paper in the morning, he's never splashed all over the sports section, is he? You'll find David Bentley, Steven Gerrard, or Wayne Rooney. No Essien. Yet in my opinion, and the opinions of many others, he is the heart of Chelsea.

You forget that when Lampard scores a cracker from 25 yards, that it's Essien that won the ball with a perfectly timed tackle outside his own box and passed it off to Lamps.

He does the dirty work, the tough stuff, the nitty gritty. Ask him to play right-back? He'll play there as if he has his whole life, and probably still get his regular eight-out-of-ten rating that he receives weekly in the midfield.

I’m not saying that every Chelsea or football fan lets him go unnoticed, but compared to the praise of his teammates, he's never in the center of the limelight.

Believe me, I keep a close eye on Essien every time he plays, because before he joined Chelsea, he was close to joining Manchester United. Of all of the signings that United missed out on to Chelsea (Duff, Robben, Ballack), Essien definitely hurt the most. He would have perfectly filled the gaping hole Roy Keane left in his departure.

So, ladies and gentlemen, what i'm trying to say, is that next time Drogba or Lampard score on the break, just remember who created that break. Because he really is one of the best players around.

Michael Essien Statistics 07/08

Goals: 6

Assists: 3

Clean Sheets: 12

Red Cards: 1

Yellow Cards: 5

Fouls Conceded: 20

Fouls Won: 38

Tackles Lost: 8

Tackles Won: 31

Attacks Created: 13

Appearances: 24

Manchester United or Arsenal: Who Will Dominate in the Future?

Keith Griffin — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:36:47 -0400

This years Premiership was contested mostly between Manchester United and Arsenal. Although that has changed now with Arsenal dropping off and Chelsea now Manchester United's main threat, it was intriguing to see two relatively young teams who are preparing for the future, and play such attractive football, battle it out.

Both Manchester United and Arsenal squads contain young players who are regulars in the first team the most noticeable being Cesc Fabregas.

But the question I'm posing is, which one of these teams will dominate the competiton over the next 5 to 10 years?

Both teams, as I said contain young players which would be welcome in any team and are promising talents for the future. Be it Fabregas, Clichy, Walcott for Arsenal or Anderson, Nani, Campbell or Rooney.

Will Arsenal, when their artistic players mature further dominate the league for years and start to be regulars in Champions League finals? Or will United's explosive youngsters continue to be the dominant force? (in the league anyway!!)

Arsene Wenger has brought so much to the modern game, turning youngsters who are a little rough around the edges and polishing them into world class superstars. The football is smooth and sexy and a joy to watch. Fabregas is probably one of the best central midfielders in the world, if not the best, Clichy not far off being one of the best full backs.

Sir Alex Ferguson has had his fair share of young gems too, we cant forget the 'Golden Generation of the Neville bro's, David Beckham and Scholes and Giggs who still ply their trade.

Ok, enough babbling. What I'm asking is your opinion on each team. Will Wenger produce another set of 'Invincibles'?

Or will Ferguson produce a team to match the treble winning team of 1999?

Or will Liverpool just surprise us all and take over everything? That cant happen can it? Please someone tell me that cant happen!