Ronaldo's Double, Portsmouth Misery.....

Cristiano Ronaldo's stunning double in the space of three minutes was the highlight as Manchester United returned to the top of the Premier League table.

With the influential Paul Scholes back, the champions ran riot early on and Ronaldo put them ahead after a slick one-two with Nani on nine minutes.

Moments later the Portuguese winger lashed a 30-yard free-kick into David James' top corner in typical fashion.

Though they battled bravely throughout, the scoreline flattered Pompey.

The visitors, with seven wins on the road this season, went for a typically adventurous 4-4-2 formation with Milan Baros making his debut but Harry Redknapp's bravery immediately backfired.

With the 33-year-old Scholes making his first start since October, United put Pompey under intense early pressure.

Nemanja Vidic, back to partner Rio Ferdinand in defence, lofted a clever ball over the top of Pompey's defence for Park Ji-Sung but Sol Campbell recovered to clear the danger.

But Ronaldo, given a central striking role alongside Wayne Rooney, quickly put United two goals up in stunning fashion.

Firstly, on nine minutes, Scholes played an instinctive first-time pass to the reigning PFA Player of the Year who chested down and then raced away to collect Nani's perfectly weighted pass in the penalty area.

With just James to beat, Ronaldo opened up his body and coolly slipped the ball through the Portsmouth keeper's legs.

Three minutes later the Portuguese winger drew gasps of disbelief from the Old Trafford crowd with another display of his unique gifts.

Lining up a free-kick from 30 yards, Ronaldo lashed the ball with incredible pace and power into the very top corner.

Shell-shocked, Portsmouth fought to get back into the game and Baros should have collected Lassana Diarra's clever through-ball after slipping through United's defence unnoticed.

But with French full-back Patrice Evra marauding down the left, and Scholes pulling the strings, United were dominant.

England striker Rooney should have extended their lead but swiped at the ball carelessly when presented with a clear chance from six yards out after Scholes, Nani, and then Evra, had all linked well to play him in.

Pompey boss Redknapp rang the changes at half-time bringing on Hermann Hreidarsson for Sylvain Distin and Arnold Mvuemba for Lauren.

Though his tactical ploy succeeded in making the game scrappier, United still carved out chances.

James, making his 500th Premier League appearance, saved well from a powerful Ferdinand header on 50 minutes and Rooney, looking out of sorts, fluffed an attempted lob from 20 yards with only the veteran Pompey stopper to beat.

Portsmouth did manage to build some passages of possession, mainly through Diarra, Baros, and the impressive Niko Kranjcar.

But when United stole the ball they were incisive, with Rooney and Ronaldo forcing Campbell into a number of last-ditch clearances.

United's forward pairing were brought off with 15 minutes to go and, with Owen Hargreaves coming on to shore up the midfield, the home side continued to go close as they secured a victory which took them back to the top of the table.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:
"David Beckham's strike rate was pretty good, Eric Cantona used to take them too but Ronaldo's strike rate is phenomenal.

"That without doubt must be the best (I've seen in the Premier League). From that distance he is going to hit them. No keeper in the world would save that.

"The boy practises. It's a delight to see, terrific."

"I think it was a fantastic performance - one of the best this season. I can't believe it was only two. We missed a few chances, but at the end of the day you've got to think about the performance."

Portsmouth assistant manager Tony Adams:
"United were exceptional, especially in the first 45 minutes. From our point of view, we didn't play that well and we didn't keep the ball.

"We didn't turn up in the first half but we did get into them more in the second half.

"Their substitutes bench is phenomenal and it's a difficult place to come when you're not playing well yourselves.

"Our players will grow and they will learn from this. We need to get back on track because we have a tough game against Chelsea at the weekend."

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Scholes (Anderson 62), Carrick, Park, Ronaldo (Hargreaves 73), Rooney (Tevez 73).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, O'Shea.

Goals: Ronaldo 10, 13.

Portsmouth: James, Johnson, Campbell, Distin (Hreidarsson 46), Pamarot, Lauren (Mvuemba 46), Davis, Diarra, Kranjcar, Baros (Hughes 78), Mwaruwari.

Subs Not Used: Begovic, Pedro Mendes.

Booked: Pamarot.

Att: 75,415

Ref: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire).

The in-form Cristiano Ronaldo puts the Red Devils ahead in the 10th minute

A stunning free-kick shortly after sees the Portuguese double the hosts' lead and score his 27th goal of the season

Wayne Rooney is among several who nearly make the scoresheet as Man Utd stroll back to the top of the table

Boss Hopeful Over Manucho

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident that Manucho’s fine form in the African Cup of Nations will facilitate a successful work permit application for the striker.

The 24-year-old’s move to Old Trafford is pending approval, and his haul of three goals in Angola’s opening two tournament matches will no doubt aid his cause.

“It just adds to the fact that we’ll get the work permit easier, I’m sure of that,” said Sir Alex. “He’s got a talent, the boy, there’s no question about that. It’ll be interesting to see how he does in the rest of the tournament.”

With the work permit application still to be approved and Angola seemingly set to progress into the quarter-finals, Sir Alex admits it is unlikely that Manucho will feature for United this season.

“It’ll be too late, really, by the time we get him back and get a permit,” he said. “We’ll probably farm him out somewhere else for the remainder of the season.”

Owen's Wembley Mission

Success in this season’s FA Cup won’t just provide Owen Hargreaves with another winners’ medal – it could also afford the 26-year-old his first run-out at Wembley Stadium.

It seems incredible that Hargreaves, now a regular in the national side, has never played at the home of English football. And yet, following United’s win over Spurs in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, Hargreaves told MUTV of his ambition to go all the way in this season’s competition.

“We’ll just take it game by game and we’ll focus on the next one once we know our opposition,” he said. “But hopefully we’ll get to Wembley. It’s still a long way away and there’s lots of football to be played.

“I’ve never played at Wembley before. I’ve sat on the bench for England once or twice and I was injured when United were there for the Community Shield last year. It would be nice if we could get there.”

There is a chance Hargreaves could fulfil his ambition of playing on the hallowed Wembley turf before May’s FA Cup final. If picked by new manager Fabio Capello, the former Bayern Munich midfielder could line up for England against Switzerland in a friendly match on Wednesday 6 February.

FA Cup 5th Round Draw

United and Arsenal will play out the tie of the round after being paired together in the FA Cup last 16.

Having overcome Tottenham in Sunday's thrilling tie at Old Trafford, the Reds will now entertain Arsene Wenger's side at Old Trafford in the fifth round of the competition.

The Reds may feel slightly unfortunate to have drawn such difficult opponents, especially as Chelsea and Liverpool were handed home ties against Huddersfield and Barnsley respectively.

Incredibly, United have now drawn Premier League opposition in each of the last 10 FA Cup ties (plus two replays). In order, they are: Arsenal, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Watford, Middlesbrough, Reading, Portsmouth, Aston Villa, Liverpool.

The full draw is as follows:

Bristol Rovers v Southampton
Cardiff v Wolves
Sheffield United v Middlesbrough
Liverpool v Barnsley
Man. United v Arsenal
Preston v Portsmouth
Coventry v West Brom
Chelsea v Huddersfield

Ties will be played on 16/17 February.

Man. United Advances Into 5th Round Of FA Cup After Defeating Tottenham

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to put Manchester United into the last 16 of the FA Cup after an entertaining tie.

Wayne Rooney cleared Dimitar Berbatov's header off the line before Robbie Keane converted Aaron Lennon's cross to put Tottenham ahead in a lively first half.

Ryan Giggs teed up Carlos Tevez to level but Edwin van der Sar superbly denied Jermaine Jenas before half-time.

Ronaldo netted a penalty after Michael Dawson saw red for deliberate handball and he fired in the third near the end.

It continued United's long unbeaten run at home against Spurs - which began in December 1989 - and was no less than the Premier League champions deserved after a dominant second-half display.

They were tested, however, during an opening 45 minutes which featured plenty to admire from two sides that have won the Cup 19 times between them.

For all their fluid movements, the home team often lacked a telling final ball and Spurs drew encouragement from the success they had in containing the lethal triumvirate of Rooney, Tevez and Ronaldo.

Indeed, the visitors came desperately close to an opener in the 15th minute when Berbatov headed Lennon's corner goalwards, only to be thwarted by Rooney on the line.

The warning signs were there for the favourites and when a raking pass from Dawson was collected by Lennon, the winger's cross was met by Keane, who ghosted past the centre-halves to claim his fourth strike in as many games.

United responded with predictable vigour and after Cerny tipped over a fierce Ryan Giggs strike from the edge of the area they were deservedly level.

John O'Shea's deep ball caused confusion for Young-Pyo Lee and Dawson, allowing Giggs to nip in and lay-off to Tevez, who fired across Cerny and into the net.

Spurs were undaunted and, with the game opening up, almost regained the lead right on half-time.

Jenas raced clear down the middle following Steed Malbranque's defence-splitting pass and he got in an effort which Van der Sar pushed past the post.

More composure soon after the break would have yielded another Tottenham goal.

A slip from left-back Patrice Evra allowed Lennon to break free but he chipped over, and a clever punt from Keane created an even better opening for Jenas, who sidefooted off-target.

Those misses proved costly as Sir Alex Ferguson's men cranked up the pressure.

Ronaldo was enjoying more freedom and he really should have made it 2-1 when a sublime pass from Tevez sent him clear into the box.

But the goal United had been threatening duly arrived when Dawson was dismissed for using his arm to deny Rooney a shooting opportunity and Ronaldo fired home his 10th goal in eight games from the spot.

The game looked up for Tottenham but they bravely ventured forward and Wes Brown's attempt to clear a Malbranque cross bounced back off the post.

However, any hopes the visitors were harbouring of a replay were ended when a dreadful error from Cerny saw Ronaldo's shot squirm under his body and over the line.

Carlos Tevez celebrates scoring Man. United equaliser against Tottenham

Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov looks dangerous and keeps Rio Ferdinand and his defensive colleagues busy throughout

Young-Pyo Lee grapples with Wayne Rooney as Man Utd try to assert themselves after the interval

Cristiano Ronaldo converting the penalty against Tottenham after Michael Dawson literally hands a penalty to the Red Devils

The Portuguese scores another late on when his shot deflects and squirms under Cerny to seal vicory for Man Utd

Beware Of Viruses!

Two new computer worms Nuwar.OL and Valentin.E were detected as announced by Panda Security on Jan. 25, 2008. Valentine’s Day is around the corner and these computer viruses use the topics of Valentine’s Day to spread via e-mail.

Be careful if you received e-mail with the subjects like “I LoveYou So Much,” “Inside My Heart” or “You … In My Dreams,” Searching for True Love,” “True Love” and attached file called “friends4u,” they are viruses. Do not click the link in the e-mail or open any attached file, it will link to a Web site that downloads the malicious code.

According to PandaLabs, “If the targeted user opens the attached file, a copy of the worm will be downloaded. The malicious code installs on the computer as a file with the .scr extension. If the user runs it, Valentin.E shows a new desktop background to trick the user, while it makes several copies of itself on the computer. Finally, the worm sends out e-mails with copies of itself from the infected computer to spread and infect more users.”

Follow the tips offered by Panda Security if you do not want to be the victim of the computer viruses:

1. Do not open any e-mails that come from unknown sources.
2. Do not click on links in e-mail messages, even if they come from reliable sources. It is better to type them in the address bar.
3. Do not open attached files that come from unknown sources. Be wary of files that claim to be Valentine’s greeting cards, romantic videos, etc.
4. Protect your computer with security software capable of detecting both known and new malware strains.

Welbeck Set For Step Up

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that teenage striker Danny Welbeck will be considered a first team squad member for the rest of the season.

The highly rated 17-year-old made an impressive cameo appearance against Al-Hilal earlier this week, catching the eye sufficiently to provide further reinforcements in the Reds' senior squad.

"We brought young Welbeck into the squad for the trip to Saudi and he did very well. He will stay with the first team squad now," revealed Sir Alex.

"He’s no doubt a Manchester United player, the boy, but he’s only young, he’s only 17. He needs time, like they all do, and he needs a bit of strength.

"But he’s got a lot of marvellous things about him. He’s a local boy, which is nice too, it’s nice to get a local boy in."

Sir Alex also revealed that Welbeck's ascension to the first team setup has been hastened by United's shock exit from the FA Youth Cup.

"We knew about him, but while the Youth Team were still in the FA Youth Cup, we left him alone, but now they’re out of the Cup he joins us," he said.

"He’ll be a nice wee addition, I think he’ll get involved once or twice as the season goes on."

Sir Alex Backs Giggs' Chase

Sir Alex Ferguson is hopeful of having quadruple cause to celebrate come May - success in three competitions and a new club appearances record for Ryan Giggs.

The veteran Welsh winger is just 18 appearances short of overtaking Sir Bobby Charlton, with 742 to Sir Bobby's 759. Barring injury, it appears to be a case of when, rather than if, he surpasses the longstanding record.

With United still going strong in the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup, Sir Alex is hopeful that his side can make enough progress to facilitate Giggs' chase.

"Well, we have 15 Premiership games left so a lot depends on the cups," Sir Alex told the media during United's trip to Saudi Arabia.

"Ryan does play a few games as a substitute so, with the FA Cup and Champions League, we could just about get there this season. Let's hope it's in the Champions League Final in Moscow!"

'Brokeback Mountain' Heath Ledger Found Dead

28-year-old Australian-born Brokeback Mountain co-star Heath Ledger was found dead on January 22, 2008 at his apartment in New York. He was found face down and naked on bed with sleeping pills nearby.

A housekeeper went to his apartment to inform him about the massage therapist who had an appointment with him had arrived and found him dead in his room.

His body was moved to the floor, and after receiving no response from the actor after shaking him, the massage therapist and housekeeper called authorities.

It was not clear if Heath Ledger had committed suicide but the policemen are investigating the possibility of an overdose.

Sunderland Snap Up Bardsley

Sunderland boss Roy Keane has swooped on his former club again by taking United right-back Phil Bardsley to Wearside on a permanent deal.

The 22-year-old's transfer takes the number of ex-Reds on the permanent playing staff at the Stadium of Light to six.

Paul McShane, Danny Higginbotham, Kieran Richardson, Dwight Yorke and Andrew Cole have all plied their trade at Old Trafford at some point in their careers, while promising young defender Jonny Evans is currently on loan with the Black Cats.

A tough-tackling defender, Bardsley made his debut for the Reds back in December 2003 against West Bromwich Albion in the Carling Cup.

He went on to make 18 appearances in total for the Reds, although his time at United was interspersed with a number of loan spells away from the club.

First there was a stint at Royal Antwerp in 2004, which was followed by his most involved season for United in 2005/06, where he stood in for the injured Gary Neville by making 15 appearances between August and February.

However, the Salford-born defender was unable to hold down any further regular football at OT, and time with Burnley, Rangers, Aston Villa and, until now, Sheffield United followed.

Wes Brown's excellent cover for long-term injury-victim Neville and Danny Simpson's emergence through the ranks meant Bardsley slipped down the pecking order.

He becomes the third player to leave United in the January transfer window, following the departures of Ryan Shawcross and Adam Eckersley to Stoke City and Port Vale respectively.

United Reject Applause Idea

United have dismissed suggestions there could be a minute's applause at Old Trafford when fans mark 50 years since the Munich tragedy.

Tuesday's papers report opposition fans have urged the Reds not to hold a minute's silence before the Manchester City match on Sunday 10 February - the nearest fixture to the anniversary - because of fears the tribute may be disrupted by a dissenting minority.

But Phil Townsend, United's communications director, told us today:

"Manchester United have given great thought to the best way of remembering those who died at Munich. We feel a minute’s silence is the most appropriate way of paying tribute.

"We do not feel that applause is appropriate given that 23 people died.”

A number of tributes are planned for the City match. For example, the two sides will wear special kit that will not feature the clubs' sponsors.

No FA Action For Sir Alex

The Football Association has ruled that Sir Alex Ferguson will not be charged after rejecting claims the Reds boss made gestures towards Reading fans on Saturday.

It was proposed that Sir Alex was responding to taunts from the home fans at the Madejski Stadium after Cristiano Ronaldo had secured a 2-0 victory deep into injury time. The United manager insisted he was merely celebrating United's goal and subsequent win.

"All I was doing was expressing my relief at winning one of our hardest games of the season," he said after the match.

After studying video evidence and consulting the fourth offical at the game, the FA said on Tuesday that it would not be taking any disciplinary action.

Sir Alex has, of course, only recently returned to the dug-out having served a two-game touchline ban in the games against West Ham and Birmingham City. He was found guilty of using abusive language towards referee Mark Clattenburg during the 1-0 defeat to Bolton.

Players Handed Deserved Break

Sir Alex Ferguson will give his players a well deserved day off on Tuesday as part of their sunshine break in Saudi Arabia.

The Reds are enjoying a four-day training camp in the Middle East which also included Monday night's friendly game against Al Hilal in Saudi legend Sami Al-Jaber's testimonial.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez were both on the scoresheet, but United went down 3-2 in front of a 65,000 sell-out crowd at the King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh.

After a day's relaxation on Tuesday, the players will train again on Wednesday before heading home to prepare for Sunday's FA Cup fourth round tie against Tottenham.

Sir Alex admits he was disapppointed by Monday's defeat, but insists the Reds' mid-season trip has been a successful one overall.

"We're satisfied," he said. "It was a great experience in terms of a different kind of atmosphere than we're used to.

"Even though we were relaxed, we still want to compete as best we can, so we're disappointed to lose.

"We're resting on Tuesday," he added. "Some of the players will stay by the pool and get some sun, some will play golf. I'll certainly be playing golf!

"Then we'll have two training sessions on Wednesday before heading back home. Hopefully all the players will feel refreshed."

Friendly: Al Hilal 3 Man. United 2

An acrobatic overhead kick proved the difference in Riyadh as United’s exhibition match against Al Hilal ended in a 3-2 defeat.

Bader Al-Kharashi scored the spectacular winner on 73 minutes in a game to honour Saudi Arabia’s most famous footballer, Sami Al Jaber.

Jaber, 35, represented Saudi Arabia at four World Cup finals and scored in three. His club career, which began in 1988 and ended only this season, has been spent entirely at Al Hilal, except for a four-game spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2001.

Despite United’s impending heavy fixture load, Sir Alex remained true to his word and sent out a strong team in the impressive King Fahd Stadium. Cristiano Ronaldo was undoubtedly the fans’ favourite, drawing cheers and whistles of admiration with every touch. He dazzled in the early minutes with fancy footwork but failed to test Al Hilal goalkeeper Mohamed Al-Deayea with a long-range strike.

It was the home side who came closest to opening the scoring on seven minutes when Yasser Al Qahtani beat the Reds’ offside trap and teased Edwin van der Sar to the right-hand side of his area. With the Dutchman stranded, Al Qahtani crossed into the middle but the ball was just too high for the man of the moment, Al Jaber, who failed to meet the cross.

The execution may not have been perfect but the move sent out a clear statement of intent: the Saudis were not about to lie down and let United steal all the headlines. That message was rammed home on 19 minutes when Al Hilal took a shock lead, albeit slightly fortuitously when Al Qahtani capitalised on a ricochet off Rio Ferdinand to fire past van der Sar.

The lead didn’t last long, however, and United turned defence into attack with trademark speed on 25 minutes. Seconds after Ferdinand had put his body on the line to block another Al Hilal shot, Ronaldo was riding a challenge in the centre circle before releasing Carlos Tevez through the middle. Tevez, one on one with Al-Deayea, made the finish look easy as he slotted the ball under the onrushing goalkeeper with his left foot.

The 1-1 scoreline reflected the balance of play, although neither side had really broken sweat. Testimonial matches are rarely played at the highest intensity and this was no exception. Few tackles were felt at full force, with Ronaldo allowed to display his full repertoire of tricks and flicks.

After setting up United’s equaliser, the Reds’ no.7 got on the scoresheet himself just after the half-hour mark when he met Nani’s corner with a firm header at the near post.

Sir Alex’s men would have gone into the break 2-1 up had the referee not awarded Al Hilal a highly dubious penalty on 38 minutes. Not that anybody seemed to mind. In fact, even the United boss was smiling when he realised the decision was engineered, it seemed, in order to give Sami Al Jaber the opportunity to score in his own testimonial.

It had been an innocuous challenge from Rio Ferdinand but Al Jaber was emphatic with his finish from the spot, sending substitute goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak the wrong way and the ball into the top corner. The 70,000 who had gathered in the King Fahd Stadium to pay tribute to Al Jaber’s career erupted with delight, their hero savouring every moment of applause.

Sir Alex made four changes at half-time, the most unpopular of which was Ronaldo’s withdrawal. The trade-off, however, was the introduction of Wayne Rooney, another favourite among the Saudi Arabian fans. Owen Hargreaves, Ji-sung Park and Nemanja Vidic were also granted time on the pitch, with Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Carlos Tevez rested.

There was more penalty drama early in the second half when John O’Shea was adjudged to have brought down Al Jaber, although replays showed only the slightest of touches. Al Jaber, presented with a chance to score his second from the spot, passed on the opportunity, graciously allowing team-mate Mohamed Al Shalhoub to take the kick.

Shalhoub stepped forward and duly found the net, but the bizarre award of the penalty was nothing compared to the official’s even stranger request for it to be re-taken. Unfortunately for the home crowd, Shalhoub lacked composure the second time around, screwing his shot wide of Tomasz Kuszczak’s post.

And then came the moment Saudi football fans never wanted to see. Fifty-six minutes into the game, the fourth official held up the number nine and brought an end to Sami Al Jaber’s night. In the stands supporters stood and voiced their appreciation, while hugs and kisses abounded on the pitch.

Sir Alex made his own significant substitution on 65 minutes when 17-year-old Danny Welbeck has handed a taste of first-team action. Just last week, Welbeck was playing for United’s Academy side; here he was in Saudi Arabia performing in front of 70,000 fans.

Welbeck showed some assured touches on the ball and almost found the net with a smart header on 86 minutes.

Before that, Wayne Rooney went within inches of giving United the lead. Owen Hargreaves missed a free header in front of goal, but the ball hit Rooney at the back post and looked destined for the net until a goal-line intervention kept the score at 2-2.

The scoreboard operators were spared on that occasion but were called into action on 73 minutes when Bader Al-Kharashi secured the win. A looping header across goal seemed to pose little danger to the Reds’ defence until Al-Karashi launched himself into the air and executed a terrific overhead kick that flew into the bottom corner.

Danny Welbeck had a chance in the final minute to level the scores but the youngster blazed over from the penalty spot after being brought down inside the area. Had he scored, Welbeck would have been hugely unpopular for the night belonged to Sami Al-Jaber, Saudi Arabia's favourite footballing son.

United: Van der Sar (Kuszczak 30, Heaton 65); Simpson, Ferdinand (Vidic 46), O'Shea, Evra (Hargreaves 46); Eagles, Fletcher, Anderson (Welbeck 65), Nani; Ronaldo (Park 46), Tevez (Rooney 46)

Subs not used: Brown

Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez in action for Man. United in an exhibition match against Al Hilal

Cristiano Focused On Team Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo says he is not bothered about breaking George Best's goals' record, insisting he is more concerned with helping the team hold on to their Premier League crown.

The 22-year-old bagged his 23rd goal of the campaign in the 2-0 victory at Reading on Saturday and in turn equalled his tally for last season.

It also drew him ever closer to the 32-goal club record for a winger from Best. Ronaldo is flattered by the comparisons to the United legend, but says he remains fully focused on achieving team honours, rather than concentrating on personal milestones.

“It is a pleasure and a great compliment when people compare me to George Best. For me, Best was one of the most important players ever," he said after the win over Steve Coppell's men.

“If I break his record I’m happy but to be honest, I don’t care. The most important thing is for the team to win the title.

"I never imagined I would have 23 goals by January but the team are playing very well and my team-mates are creating many opportunities for me to score.

"Last season I scored 23 times. This time I want to score more. I just want to do my best and improve every year," he added.

A Refreshing Change

Sir Alex Ferguson believes the Reds' training camp in Saudi Arabia will be a refreshing break for the players ahead of a busy run-in to the season.

The Reds landed in the Middle East on Sunday morning having flown out after their hard-fought 2-0 victory at Reading.

The squad will be in action again on Monday night when they play a friendly against Al Hilal Club in Sami Al-Jaber's testimonial.

"It'll be a good opportunity for the players to have a little break away with some peace and quiet. And hopefully they'll get a bit of sun on their backs too," the boss told MUTV.

"It's always nice to get all the squad together and the players who joined this season like [Carlos] Tevez, Nani and Anderson will enjoy the camaraderie and get to know their team-mates even more. So it'll do us good.

"We return home on Thursday afternoon and hopefully we come back refreshed and ready to continue the challenge for honours, starting with the FA Cup game with Tottenham on Sunday."

Identity Of Mona Lisa

It has been a big question mark for decades about who is the woman in the Da Vinci’s famous painting Mona Lisa.

There was an argument about the identity of Mona Lisa and some people were saying that Mona Lisa is Da Vinci himself…Finally, the identity of Mona Lisa has been revealed.

According to a German researcher, he found a book that once belonged to a friend of Da Vinci, Agostino Vespucci and the identity of Mona Lisa was mentioned in the book.

In the book he found, there is a remark about the woman who posed for the portrait Mona Lisa is the third wife of a Florentine businessman, Mona Lisa del Giocondothe.

Rio Never In Doubt

Rio Ferdinand says the talent in United’s squad means he was always confident the Reds would strike the killer blow against Reading.

United missed a glut of chances at the Madejski Stadium, and it took until the 77th minute for Wayne Rooney to put the Reds in front.

Rio and his defensive team-mates managed to pick up an 18th clean sheet of the season, but he insists his faith in United’s forwards never wavered.

“You start wondering [whether you’ll score], but in the last fifteen minutes we always knew we’d get three or four more chances,” he told MUTV.

“With the talent we’ve got, you keep thinking ‘we’ll score the next one’. Rooney and Ronaldo, who have been doing so well for us lately, managed to put the ball in the back of the net.

“Getting a clean sheet is important, because if we do that then we know we’re going to have the chance to win the game. That was one of the main things for us today, keeping a clean sheet.

“We had a lot of opportunities in the first half, but we didn’t put them away. In the second half it followed a similar pattern, but we managed to get two goals later in the game.

“We were lucky that we got that today, but I think we created enough to chances [to deserve it].”

Reading certainly made United work for the victory, and it took a moment of class to undo Steve Coppell’s side.“That was probably the hardest game we’ve had all season,” Rio added. Reading worked us very hard. They pushed us all over the pitch and we had to battle for our three points today.

“For Wayne’s goal, the ball in from Carlos was exquisite. He picked out Wazza, and he stretched his leg out and managed to guide it past the keeper. I think he took the keeper by surprise with how early he hit it, it was a great goal.”

United’s title rivals Chelsea and Arsenal also earned hard-fought away wins on Saturday. Chelsea beat Birmingham 1-0, while Arsenal defeated Fulham 3-0.

“All three of us could have dropped points,” said Rio, “but we’ve all won. We’re just pleased with our result. We’ve not conceded a goal and we’ve won the game.”

A Hard Fought Victory For Man. United At Madejski Stadium

Second-half goals from Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo kept Manchester United at the top of the table.

United were not at their best and were given a stern test by Reading who could have taken the lead had Dave Kitson lobbed over Edwin Van der Sar.

But with 13 minutes remaining, Reading switched off, leaving Rooney to cushion home Carlos Tevez's cross.

Reading pressed for an equaliser, but as another attack broke down, Ronaldo burst upfield and coolly slotted home.

The Portuguese was far from his blistering best, but still managed to notch his 23rd goal of the season - already equalling his tally from the whole of last season.

United, who head to Saudi Arabia for a five-day training camp after this match, were given a thorough examination by the Royals who were eventually undone by a move of pure class.

Reading boss Steve Coppell, who made 320 league appearances for United, opted for a bold, attacking line-up and his ambition was almost rewarded.

With Reading's two backline stalwarts, Ibrahima Sonko and Andre Bikey on Africa Cup of Nations duty, Kalifa Cisse was charged with containing Tevez and Ronaldo.

The lofty centre-back was immense as he outmuscled the Argentine, while his partner Ivar Ingimarsson - until Rooney's goal - admirably marshalled the England striker.

Reading were made to defend for large parts, but they were a constant threat on the break with Leroy Lita and Kitson linking well and creating decent chances.

Fine work down the left from Lita set up Kitson who, with Van der Sar grounded, failed to get his shot off before Nemanja Vidic slid in to prevent the striker from shooting.

Ronaldo then jinked in from the right and crashed a left-foot shot low past the post, while the returning Owen Hargreaves forced a fine fingertip save from Marcus Hahnemann from a free-kick from 25 yards.

Ryan Giggs came on at the break and his introduction almost brought United the opener.

The Welshman's corner was flapped at by Hahnemann and Cisse had to make a heroic hooked clearance off the line to deny Vidic.

United began to dominate and Reading were forced to rely on sporadic counter-attacks, although Kitson should have lofted his close-range shot over Van der Sar when clean through.

United's pressure soon told and with 13 minutes remaining, Rooney took his chance under the gaze of England boss Fabio Capello by superbly guiding Tevez's clipped pass into the bottom corner.

James Harper broke from midfield and almost equalised only to drag his effort narrowly wide.

Three minutes into injury-time, as Reading surged forward for an unlikely leveller, Ronaldo broke up the attack and surged upfield before slotting in.

Reading manager Steve Coppell:
"We put an awful lot into the game and tested them to the end. But the quality of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo proved too much.

"We had a real go at them and although it looks like a routine 2-0 victory, it certainly wasn't that.

"We didn't want to sit back and we often feel our best defence is to attack and it almost paid off today."

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson:
"We had a number of chances in last third but we started to worry that we weren't going to get the goal.

"Credit to Reading who never stopped working and really made us work.

"It was a really open match. Our own attacking play wasn't at it's best and more care was needed up front. We scored at the right time and held on."

Reading: Hahnemann, Murty, Ingimarsson, Cisse, Shorey, Doyle, Hunt, Harper, Convey (Matejovsky 80), Lita (Long 83), Kitson.

Subs Not Used: Federici, Rosenior, De la Cruz.

Booked: Convey.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Carrick, Hargreaves (Nani 70), Park (Giggs 46), Rooney, Tevez (Fletcher 81).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, O'Shea.

Booked: Ferdinand.

Goals: Rooney 77, Ronaldo 90.

Att: 24,135

Ref: Steve Bennett (Kent).

Wayne Rooney poses a constant threat to Reading during the thoroughly entertaining opening half

Rooney breaks Reading's brave resistance in the 77th minute as he pokes the ball past Marcus Hahnemann

Rooney is on hand to set up Cristiano Ronaldo who calmly slots home to score his 23rd goal of the season

Scholes Nearing Comeback

United have been given a welcome boost with the news that Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Louis Saha are all close to full fitness.

Owen Hargreaves has also recovered from a knock and is available for the Barclays Premier League trip to Reading on Saturday.

Scholes has been out of action since October after injuring knee ligaments before United's Champions League clash with Dynamo Kyiv. He returned to training over Christmas and will be checked out by United's medical team next Thursday.

If given the go-ahead, he will start full training and could be available for the FA Cup fourth round clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday week.

“We are waiting for clearance from the medical staff next Thursday," assistant manager Carlos Queiroz said on Friday.

“We think the medical staff will give Scholes clearance to start full training. If he does get the all-clear he can play immediately. It’s a possibility [he could be involved against Tottenham], or at least he will probably be on the bench.”

The influential midfielder has been training for a number of weeks now and is said to be in excellent shape. “His fitness is fantastic," added Carlos. "He’s training like an 18-year-old. He’s very excited, he can sense that he’ll be back soon."

Neville, meanwhile, could fly out with the squad to Saudi Arabia on Saturday evening for their four-day training camp.

The Reds' defender made his second comeback in the Reserves last week after ten months on the sidelines with ankle ligament trouble. He felt his hamstring in the match against Everton and was forced off at half time.

But Sir Alex Ferguson and his coaching staff will make a decision about the skipper after training on Friday. If he's left behind, he will play for the Reserves against Bolton next Wednesday.

Saha is also ahead of schedule in his race to overcome a knee complaint. The striker missed United's 6-0 demolition of Newcastle last weekend with the knock and the club confirmed he would be out for around three weeks.

But Queiroz says is a step ahead in his rehabilitation and is likely to be back "earlier than expected".

Brown Staying At Man. United

Manchester United will resist the temptation to sell Wes Brown before the January 31 transfer deadline, despite the growing danger of losing him on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Brown has reached an impasse with the club, who have refused his demands for a contract extension worth £55,000 a week, but, despite firm interest from Everton, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager, will not sell.

“We did turn down an offer from Newcastle a couple of weeks ago,” David Gill, the United chief executive, said. “But it’s unlikely that a team would come in and offer something substantial for him when he is out of contract in the summer.”
Oliver Kay, The Times

Fletcher Wants To Stay

Darren Fletcher says he is happy at United and has no intention of leaving, despite interest from other Premier League clubs.

Media reports suggest the 23-year-old midfielder's former international boss Alex McLeish is keen on taking him to Birmingham City. But Fletcher insists he is not looking for pastures new.

"I am still happy playing for Manchester United and I am not thinking of going elsewhere," he said. "I never heard anything about Birmingham being interested, I just know I want to be here for a long time.

"My only focus is on being ready when the manager needs me and being able to perform for the club when asked."

The Scot has played 15 times for the Reds this season, nine times as a substitute with Anderson, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Carrick so far higher up the pecking order. And with Paul Scholes due back later this month, competition is fierce for central midfield opportunities. But as the season enters its crucial stages, Fletcher hopes this will be the time where he can make his contribution felt.

"It is frustrating because any player wants to play," he said. "But it has been down to the form of the midfield. Fair play to Anderson, when Paul Scholes got injured, he came in and has great. The manager has stuck by him, which is what he does when you perform well.

"We will see how things pan out at the end of the season in terms of games played and what you have contributed to the squad. But I am not thinking about that just now. I'm looking short term, and I'd like to win a few trophies and hopefully go a few steps further than last year."

Gilberto To Join Man. United?

Hertha Berlin's Gilberto has emerged as a candidate to give Manchester United extra cover at left back.

The 31-year-old's agent Alexandra Martins claimed agreement with United was close after talks on a new deal at his German club broke down over his demand for £1.75million a year.

Gilberto's contract runs out at the end of the season and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to snap up the tough-tackling left-sided defender or midfielder.

Gilberto said: 'I have received offers from England, Portugal and Brazil. I have become accustomed to winning trophies with Brazil and would like to do the same at club level.' Hertha general manager Dieter Hoeness said: 'Trying to extend his contract is a priority for us.'
- The Daily Mail -

Carrick Eyes Front-runner Role

Michael Carrick says United’s challenge now is to remain top of the league until the end of the season.

The Reds midfielder had arguably his finest game of the season in the 6-0 hammering of Newcastle on Saturday evening. The win moved United above Arsenal on goal difference at the Premier League's summit, and Carrick says the Reds are determined not to let the advantage go.

"Before we played Newcastle we knew Arsenal had drawn and that if we won we would go top," Carrick told MUTV.

"It is nice now to be sitting on top of the pile. Hopefully we can stay there, but that’s up to us. That’s the hard part. We managed to do it last season and hopefully we can do it again.

"I am sure we will if we keep playing like that. We want to get the momentum again and hopefully stay there for the rest of the season."

United currently have 51 points from 22 games, three less than last season’s total at the same stage. The Reds took 35 points from a possible 48 in the final 16 matches of last term’s title run-in, and may have to go close to that total again this time around. That means the Reds may have to pass the 85-point mark to retain the title.

Carrick is certain the Reds can deliver successive titles if United take all the good elements of the second-half performance against Newcastle into the crucial forthcoming months.

"We just have to do the right things in games," he added. "As long as we try to do that we’ll win a lot of games. When it does click, teams struggle to cope with us. When we play to that standard we will beat anyone and cause anyone problems. Hopefully that continues."

Rooney's Been Robbed!

Wayne Rooney's frustration at not finding the net in the Reds’ 6-0 win on the weekend was clear, and perhaps more understandable when you consider the United ace learnt just 24 hours prior to kick off that his personal goals tally had been cut by the Premier League.

A memo circulated last Friday from the Dubious Goals Committee revealed the Reds’ opener at the Emirates Stadium in November had been ruled as a William Gallas own goal.

United’s club statistician and official media outlets, including ManUtd.com, had previously credited the strike to the England international.

The decision now means Rooney’s 2007/08 tally stands at nine, while his goal at Villa Park in the recent FA Cup third round clash was his 68th in a United shirt.

Other rulings by the Dubious Goals Committee included allowing Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs’ strikes at Villa Park in October to stand as Reds goals, while the same decision applies to Carlos Tevez’s second against Middlesbrough and Cristiano Ronaldo’s first against Blackburn Rovers.

Patrice Evra congratulates Wayne Rooney after United's first goal at the Emirates Stadium in November. The Dubious Goals Committee has now ruled it should be credited as a William Gallas own goal.

Man. United Reject Saha Fears

Louis Saha has not been ruled out for the rest of the season, contrary to reports in the UK press.

Saha picked up a knee injury in training leading up to Saturday's 6-0 win over Newcastle.

Sir Alex Ferguson said on Friday: "Louis got a knock in training, but hopefully he'll be okay [to play against Newcastle]."

But media reports on Saturday morning speculated that the 29-year-old, who was not included against the Magpies later that day, would not play again in the current campaign.

However, Reds chief executive David Gill told BBC Radio Five Live that the Frenchman has suffered a "slight knock, [but] he is certainly not out for the rest of the season."

Who Wants To Be An American Gangster?

Won a pair of tickets to the movie, American Gangster. I will be watching it on this coming saturday at The Cathay.

I am quite glad to watch this great movie for free in a lucky draw contest organised by Singtel, and will be asking my former work colleague along, since he is also quite an avid movie fan.

If the movie reviews conducted by the media are to be believed, then this is a definite must-see movie! Well, I will leave it to you people to decide, but I will recommend that you purchase the tickets and to watch the excellent masterpiece acting by the two lead actors, namely, Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe.

Movie Plot:

Based on the life of drug-kingpin-turned-informant, Frank Lucas, the movie follows him as he grew up in segregated North Carolina where he watched as his cousin was shot by the Ku Klux Klan for merely looking at a white girl. He eventually made his way to Harlem where he became a heroin kingpin by travelling to Asia's Golden Triangle to make connections, shipping heroin back to the US in the coffins of soldiers killed in Vietnam. He soon made over a million dollars a day in drug sales. Lucas was shadowed by lawman Richie Roberts, who finally helped bring the kingpin to justice. The two then worked together to expose the crooked cops and foreign nationals who made importing heroin so easy.

* American Gangster opens in Singapore cinemas on 10th Jan 08

American Gangster Wallpaper (click on the image to download it)

Man. United To Open Evra Contract Talks

Manchester United have begun talks over a new deal with France international defender Patrice Evra.

United chief executive David Gill has already signed Nemanja Vidic and Edwin van der Sar on new deals.

And Ferguson said: "David spoke to Patrice's agents, so he will probably fix up a meeting with them."

Evra, 26, was signed by boss Sir Alex Ferguson in January 2005 and is now first-choice left-back after a tough start to his career at the club.

He initially struggled to adapt to the Premier League after arriving for £4m from Monaco before establishing himself in the 2006-2007 season.

Evra overtook Gabriel Heinze in the left-back pecking order and was a regular as United claimed the league title last season.

Boss Applauds "Incredible" Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson described Cristiano Ronaldo’s goalscoring this season as “fantastic” and “incredible” after the Portuguese winger shifted his tally for the campaign up to 22.

That figure puts him one behind last season’s total of 23, and a remarkable ten more goals than he had scored at the same stage last season.

“It’s fantastic, incredible in fact,” Sir Alex said after the game.

“We wondered at the start of last season whether he could match last season’s tally of 23. You had to say ‘why not?’

“I expected him to score more this season because he works so hard. That’s why there were no bets this season, all bets are off with Ronaldo,” he joked.

“[His first hat-trick] was always coming. He’s been close on a number of occasions but today he capped a really fine display with the hat-trick. We’re all delighted for him.”

But this was more than just the Ronaldo show. Carlos Tevez grabbed two goals, while Rio Ferdinand chipped in with another.

Likewise, it wasn’t just about the goals, it was another sterling defensive display, which Sir Alex feels could be the foundation for retaining United’s title crown.

“Our performance last week at Aston Villa in the cup was carved out of a magnificent defensive display,” he said. “It gave us the energy to go and win the game in the last 20 minutes. It was the same against Newcastle.

“You have to have good home form,” he added, alluding to United’s 11 wins from 12 at Old Trafford. “We’ve lost three games away from home, but the reason we’re top of the league is because our home form has been so good.

“It’s a hard league. You saw the results with Arsenal and Liverpool drawing, teams are taking points off one another.

"We expected it to be tough. Teams well below the top four are spending a lot of money on their squads. There is a drive for teams to improve themselves and stay in the Premier League. The points total could be lower this year.”

Ronaldo Revels In 'Special Day'

Cristiano Ronaldo was predictably elated to finally score his first United hat-trick in Saturday’s destruction of Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Having struck braces on 13 separate occasions for the Reds, the Portuguese winger finally bagged a match ball with a second half treble against the Magpies, taking United back to the top of the Barclays Premier League in style.

“I’ve said before, if I score two in every game then I’m very happy,” he told Setanta Sports. “But I’ve looked for a few years to score three goals for this massive club and I’m very proud.

“It’s a special day. I’m happy of course to win the game and to go top of the league, I think this is most important. It is also important to score, to help my team and today I’m very proud and happy.”

With United rampant in retaking top spot, Ronaldo is keen for the champions to kick on and stay in top form as the title race unfolds over the coming months.

“It’s important to stay at the top of the table,” he said. “If the team plays like that, in the second half, I’m sure we are the best team. But you need to keep going like that. It’s a good moment for the team and for the players.”

Man. United Turn On The Style To Hit Newcastle For 6

United produced an utterly imperious performance against a beleaguered Newcastle to move top of the Premier League on Saturday night, Cristiano Ronaldo heading up the 6-0 victory with his first hat-trick for the Reds.

Astonishingly, all of United's goals came in a second-half blitz. Carlos Tevez (2) and Rio Ferdinand also got in on the act in a game the Reds dominated from start to finish. Remarkably, it could have been even more convincing. Clear-cut opportunities ran comfortably into double figures, and so too could the scoreline.

Newcastle arrived in Manchester in the midst of uncertainty. The departure of Sam Allardyce after a five-match run without a win was hardly the best preparation three days before a trip to Old Trafford. And it showed.

United, buoyed by the news of Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham earlier in the day, were in mood to take mercy on the visitors. And with a place atop the Premier League up for grabs, the Reds started at a tempo Newcastle struggled to cope with.

Wayne Rooney had two 25-yard shots saved by Shay Given inside the first ten minutes. The first arrived after Michael Carrick’s cutting through-ball, but Rooney’s shot was high over the bar. Given was proving to be the nemesis of the United striker as twice either side of the 15-minute mark the Newcastle goalkeeper denied him. First Rooney cut inside from the left to hit a low, skidding drive that forced Given to turn the ball behind for a corner, then he proved equal to a fizzing Rooney volley from Carrick’s wonderful, arced pass.

After 27 minutes Ronaldo set a course through the heart of Newcastle’s defence. He skipped past two players and took on Steven Taylor, but the Magpies defender left a leg out to bring Ronaldo down – as clear a penalty as you are likely to see. But Rob Styles was unmoved, as he was a minute later when Alan Smith bundled Ryan Giggs over inside the area. The Welshman would have been fortunate to earn a spot-kick, but Ronaldo had every right to feel aggrieved.

Newcastle offered very little threat. But a team’s manager-less state does not necessarily preclude the ability to turn their fortunes around. In fact, it often encourages it. And Michael Owen, always capable of snatching a goal, did have the ball in the back of the net. Edwin van der Sar had already stopped as the linesman’s flag was raised, but television replays showed the decision was incorrect.

United continued to pepper Given’s goal, but to no avail. Ronaldo had one shot saved and watched his downward header from a corner go narrowly wide. The long and the short of the first-half tale was that United should have been ahead, regardless of Styles’ inability to see a clear foul on Ronaldo.

Undeterred, the Reds began the second half with the same dominance and purpose. Inside 30 seconds of the restart Taylor cleared a Tevez shot off the line and somehow turned Rooney’s follow-up over the bar.

But United would not be denied for much longer. Four minutes into the half Ronaldo gave the Reds the lead. Smith clipped the Portuguese winger’s heels as he went to shoot, and Styles awarded a rare decision in United’s favour.

Ronaldo geared up to take the 20-yard shot. Old Trafford anticipated his usual, occasionally hit-and-miss, policy of power. But he elected to strike his shot underneath the wall, to great effect. Given, who saw it late, was fooled more than anyone, unable to keep the ball out.

It took just seven minutes for the Reds to make it 2-0. A poor Given clearance struck Claudio Cacapa, freeing Giggs to square a pass across goal for Tevez to slot home at the far post.

United were utterly dominant. Steeled by a rock-solid defence, steered by Carrick and Anderson’s passing in midfield, and always with the threat of Tevez, Rooney and Ronaldo on swift counter attacks. Just as importantly, there was no danger of Old Trafford’s atmosphere falling flat. A rapturous Stretford End even cheekily requested: “Fergie, give us a song!”

On the pitch there was still plenty to shout about. The Reds’ forward play was sumptuous, and soon garnered a devastating third goal. Carrick, Rooney and Tevez all interchanged passes, before the Argentinian found Ronaldo’s run into the box. His finish was as sharp as the most clinical poacher, and his 21st goal of the season ensured beyond any doubt that three points and top spot would be United’s.

Simpson, Rooney (again!) and Carrick were denied goals in the final 20 minutes, but there was still more to come. Rio Ferdinand popped up at the far post five minutes from time to make it four, before Ronaldo completed his hat-trick and Tevez grabbed a second in off the bar. Alan Smith was sent off late on to compound Newcastle's woes. But on a day when both Arsenal and Liverpool dropped points, this was an emphatic message to send out to the rest of the Premier League: the Champions will take some shifting.

Team Line-ups

Manchester United: Van der Sar; O’Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra (Simpson 68); Ronaldo, Carrick, Anderson (Fletcher 73), Giggs (Nani 73); Tevez, Rooney.

Subs not used: Kuszczak, Park.

Booked: Rooney

Newcastle United: Given; Carr, Taylor, Cacapa, Enrique; Milner (Viduka 65), Butt, Smith, N’Zogbia; Duff, Owen (Rozehnal 83).

Subs not used: Harper, Emre, LuaLua.

Booked: Duff

Sent off: Smith

Attendance: 75,965

Cristiano Ronaldo breaks the deadlock as his powerful free-kick flies under the wall in the 49th minute

United move into a comfortable lead as Ronaldo collects Tevez's pass before scoring his second of the match

Wayne Rooney's sublime pass is smashed home by Rio Ferdinand as Newcastle are pulled apart by the hosts

Ronaldo scores the fifth to complete his first hat-trick for Manchester United with just two minutes remaining

Update: Angela Chang's Upcoming Singapore Concert

Latest: Details of Angela's concert has been announced!

Tickets to her March concert will be made available to the public starting at 9am (internet booking) today! Other sales channels will officially start an hour later.

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Coton Forced To Retire

Tony Coton has been forced to retire from his role as Goalkeeping Coach after an operation failed to repair his ongoing knee problems.

The 46-year-old will leave United when his contract expires in June, and Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to pay tribute to a hugely popular member of his staff.

"He's been a fantastic servant for the club, not just as a coach but he's also a fantastic personality," he told his weekly press conference. "He's always looked after all of our keepers. We're all really going to miss him and we're very sad to see him go. It's very sad because he's been a coach here for ten years.

"But obviously being a goalkeeping coach you have to be able to kick the ball and play a part in the routines the keepers go through and unfortunately that's going to be a problem for him.

"We're looking at ways in which we can help him in other ways. He'll be with us until the end of his contract in June and we'll help him with his rehabilitation. Hopefully he'll find some other interests."

Coton himself is hugely disappointed to be leaving, but says he has fond memories which will stay with him forever.

“It’s unfortunate we reached this decision, but after speaking to the surgeon and the medical staff at Manchester United I have been advised to retire from coaching," he explained. "After two operations in four months which have been successful in terms of quality of life away from coaching, unfortunately, I will be unable to carry on coaching.

"I have had ten fantastic years and the experience and memories are what people dream about and I would like to thank everyone at Manchester United, especially the first team staff that I have been closely associated with over the last ten years. I can't go without saying what a pleasure it has been working for the best manager in the world, Sir Alex Ferguson, and I wish he and the team continued success.”

Sir Alex insists the Reds will wait until the summer before they make a new appointment and says it is unlikely to be current No.1 stopper Edwin van der Sar.

"I've spoken to both Tony and Edwin about who would be a good successor and both of them have made good points. It's not an easy appointment to make, but hopefully we'll get the right man," said the United boss.

"I don't think it will be Edwin. He wants to continue as a player and doesn't know what he wants to do after he's finished playing. That's fine and the right way to think about it because if he starts thinking about all that at the moment it could affect his performances and mental approach to it all.

"Come the summer we need to look at what we're going to do. Edwin has got one more year after that and, of course, his profile would be fantastic [for the job]. But that's something we'll look at in the summer."