Ferguson Expects Queiroz To Stay

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident his assistant Carlos Queiroz will not join Portuguese side Benfica next season.

Reports in Portugal said Queiroz was wanted to replace Fernando Chalana, who took temporary charge when head coach Jose Antonio Camacho left this month.

But Man Utd manager Ferguson insists there have been no approaches from Benfica for the 55-year-old Portuguese.

"I can't speak for Carlos but I'm quite certain he'll not be going to Benfica next year," said Ferguson.

Queiroz returned to United in 2004 after a one-year spell as Real Madrid manager.

He has an impressive CV that also includes stints as head coach for Portugal, the United Arab Emirates and South Africa.

Ferguson added: "The Real Madrid experience was something else. It was a job he had to take.
"But Carlos learned how difficult it is. He wasn't allowed to buy and instead told to sell players."

Benfica, who have been forced to play second fiddle to FC Porto on the domestic front in recent years, parted company with their Spanish coach Camacho on 9 March.

He was replaced on an interim basis by former Portuguese international Chalana, who will be in charge to the end of the season.

Rooney's Wait Is Finally Over

Wayne Rooney was pleased to end a six-game run without a goal, and a five-month wait to find the net in the league at Old Trafford, with two goals against Aston Villa.

The Reds striker, whose last league striker at home came in the 4-1 win over Middlesbrough on 27 October, saw a couple of chances go begging and feared his barren spell was set to continue.

But after striking twice in a hugely impressive 4-0 victory on Saturday evening, he revealed his relief that the wait was over.

"I'm very pleased," he told Setanta. "It's been a bit frustrating in the last few weeks.

"I had a chance just before I scored that I missed. I should have scored, and I felt like I wasn't going to score again. But I was delighted to get two goals in the end."

Rooney's goals may grab the headlines, but there wasn't a bad performance in a red shirt. Now with just six games to go in the race for the title, United are getter closer and closer to retaining the crown.

"It was a good game for us," he added. "Coming after international matches, it can be tricky. But we got two goals in the first half which settled us down, and then we got two more in the second half. It was a good performance all-round and a well-deserved win.

"Each game we get closer. But we have to keep playing our game and picking up the wins in every game. If we do that that will hopefully see us through."

Inspirational Ronaldo Crushes Aston Villa

Manchester United stretched their lead at the Premier League summit to six points with a stunning display.

Cristiano Ronaldo's outrageous flick started the agony for Aston Villa after 17 minutes and he provided Carlos Tevez with a simple second before half-time.

Wayne Rooney rounded Scott Carson for a third after 53 minutes and he slid home the fourth with 20 minutes left after more superb creativity from Ronaldo.

Shaun Maloney missed Villa's best chance, but United were outstanding.

United's football was mesmeric, despite atrocious conditions, and Martin O'Neill's fast-fading side could easily have been on the end of an even heavier beating.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson took a precaution ahead of the Champions League quarter-final visit to AS Roma by resting goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who was suffering from a slight groin strain.

Tomasz Kuszczak returned in goal, but spent much of the evening admiring a virtuoso United attacking display.

Ronaldo had already tested Villa keeper Carson before he produced a finish that was brilliant even by his own sky-high standards to give United the lead after 17 minutes.

Villa could not clear a Ryan Giggs corner, and when Rio Ferdinand chested the ball towards Ronaldo, he produced an outrageous flick between the legs of Martin Laursen to beat Carson.

Ronaldo turned creator as United extended their lead after 33 minutes, producing a perfect first-time cross to provide Tevez with a simple headed finish.

Villa were facing a long and arduous 90 minutes, and their situation was not helped when striker John Carew limped off with a groin injury before half-time, to be replaced by Maloney.

Rooney should have sealed the points for United after 48 minutes when he was put clear by Tevez only to shoot wide - Maloney then wasting an equally good chance for Villa in a similar position seconds later.

England striker Rooney made amends for his miss after 53 minutes when he took another flamboyant touch from Ronaldo to round Carson and score with ease.

Kuszczak was called into action after 55 minutes to save from Maloney's curling angled drive, but it was a minor inconvenience to a United side threatening to run riot.

Ferguson made a triple substitution in the 61st minute, sending on Owen Hargreaves, Anderson and John O'Shea for Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Ferdinand.

Hargreaves was in on the action instantly with a perfect cross that Tevez somehow headed wide, before Rooney struck the outside of the post with a measured finish.

Ronaldo and Rooney were irresistible - and combined once more for United's fourth in the 70th minute.

Rooney slid in a right-foot finish after being played in by another stunning touch from Ronaldo.

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Brown, Ferdinand (Hargreaves 62), Vidic, Evra (O'Shea 62), Ronaldo, Carrick (Anderson 61), Scholes, Giggs, Tevez, Rooney.

Subs Not Used: Foster, Park.

Booked: Vidic.

Goals: Ronaldo 17, Tevez 33, Rooney 53, 70.

Aston Villa: Carson, Reo-Coker, Mellberg, Laursen, Bouma (Osbourne 80), Agbonlahor, Petrov, Barry, Young, Harewood (Salifou 69), Carew (Maloney 41).

Subs Not Used: Taylor, Knight.

Booked: Bouma.

Att: 75,932

Ref: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).


Cristiano Ronaldo opens the scoring on 16 minutes at Old Trafford with a cheeky flick

Ronaldo then crosses for Carlos Tevez to add a second for the Red Devils before half time

Wayne Rooney scores twice in the second half and almost bags a hat-trick to complete a comprehensive win

Foster Kept As Cover

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Ben Foster will remain at Old Trafford for the remainder of the season, providing top-class cover for Edwin van der Sar and Tomasz Kuszczak.

The England international was set to build his match fitness with a short-term loan deal until the end of May.

However, Sir Alex opted to exercise caution after van der Sar's recent injury.

"Ben was ready to go out on loan, actually," the manager said on Friday. "I talked to a few managers, then Edwin got his groin injury.

"It's the third time he's had a groin injury this season, so the old dog maybe needs a bit more protection!

"And when Tomasz got his sending off it brought Ben back into the limelight.

"With only seven games to go I think it would be silly to take chances. We have the option, if something were to happen to Edwin again, or even Tomasz, of having England's goalkeeper for the future."

Foster stepped in for the 1-0 win over Derby when van der Sar was injured and Kuszczak was suspsended.

Further chances of first-team football may be limited, however, because Foster is not registered for the Champions League, which means Kuszczak is ahead in the pecking order should van der Sar get injured or need a rest.

Sir Alex admits Foster would most likely have preferred to sample competitive action after so long on the sidelines, even if it meant going out on loan, but paid testament to his selflessness at remaining in Manchester.

"We could have let him go out to Coventry, Nottingham Forest or Stoke City, the teams who enquired about him," said the manager. "But really I think it was an easy decision.

"I don't think it suits Ben entirely, but in fairness to the lad he understood. "At 24 years of age his career's in front of him, he will do very well."

Scholes Holds The Key

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident that Paul Scholes has returned to top form in time to inspire United to a successful end of the season.

The veteran midfielder has been feeling his way back to fitness and form after being dogged by knee problems, but Sir Alex is confident that his display against Liverpool last Sunday suggests a timely return to his devastating best.

“Last Sunday's win over Liverpool was a great sign for me in terms of the confidence and composure of the team," he told his weekly press conference.

"But what pleased me most was the performance of Paul Scholes. After three and a half months out he’s taken time to get back to real Paul Scholes form.

“He was absolutely head and shoulders above everyone on the pitch – and there were some fantastic performances. His form over the next few weeks will be important for us.”

Scholes remained at Carrington during this week's international programme, leaving him fresh for the visit of Aston Villa on Saturday - a prospect which is sure to daunt Villans manager Martin O'Neill, who is a huge admirer of the midfielder.

"Winning is about being able to compete week in, week out,” said O’Neill. “All you have to do is look at Paul Scholes.

“He’s won umpteen Championships and he still plays as if he’s 18. That comes from within and from being really successful and hungry."

Inside The Dressing Room With Rio Ferdinand

England's latest skipper, Rio Ferdinand, says he's one of United's more mature squad members. Somehow, though, you sense he's still in the thick of the dressing room banter...

Best trainer: Scholesy. He’s such a good passer, and his team always wins in training.

Worst trainer: I’d say Wes or Wazza. They must be saving themselves for the games.

Fittest squad member: Wayne or Ronaldo. They’re both explosive players that could run at the same pace in the last minute of a game as they could in the first.

Who tries the most outrageous skill? Obvious… Ronaldo. Nani tries to compete, but to no avail!

Most competitive and toughest tackler: Wayne, Vida and Scholesy. There are some big tackles that go in. Maybe they don’t like their team-mates.

Anyone play out of position? No, the manager doesn’t let us. Back in the day I used to play up front in training. But that was stopped, I think I was too much of a threat to the forwards.

Joker in the dressing room: The sly joker is Fletch. People don’t suspect him, but when something’s going on he is normally involved. Pique and Fletch are always at the centre of pranks with player’s clothes. Me? I don’t get involved. It’s not my game. I’m a very mature member of the squad now so I don’t get drawn into the young boys’ antics!

Most intelligent player: Edwin van der Sar would like to think that he’s the most intelligent. I’d probably put myself up there [laughs]. But seeing as Edwin thinks he’s the most intelligent, let’s let him believe it.

Person you'd least like to have on your quiz team: Got to be Ando (Anderson). Considering he joined the club at the same time as Nani, Ando’s English is shocking by comparison! Nani is holding television interviews in English and Anderson struggles to hold a conversation with the lads. He wouldn’t get us many answers.

Best dressed: I’d say the person that puts the most effort in is Ronaldo. He doesn’t just wake up, go into his wardrobe and throw something on. He tries really hard. Every day his clothes are a planned event.

Worst dressed: Tomasz Kuszczak! I say that purely for the electric blue shirt he wore one night out once. It was shocking. It was one of the worst colours that I’ve ever seen. The thing is, he’d saved it just for that occasion as well.

Best dressing room music: Mine. My iPod has by far the greatest variety of music; 80s pop, 80’s soul, R‘n’B, reggae, dance, old house music... there’s a mixture there. Unfortunately, some of the young European lads don’t appreciate old Hacienda house music. Patrice likes to get involved with selecting dressing room music. He tends to cater for the foreign lads a bit more with his Euro pop. To be fair to him he mixes it up with a bit of R‘n’B. But he doesn’t have the variety and depth of music knowledge that I have.

Shades Of Best

Sir Alex Ferguson admits Cristiano Ronaldo reminds him of George Best.

The Portuguese winger rewrote Best’s club record for goals in a season from midfield when he notched his second against Bolton last Wednesday.

It took Ronaldo’s 07/08 tally to 33, a figure he added to on Easter Sunday in United’s 3-0 win over Liverpool.

“There are certainly similarities [between Ronaldo and Best], “ Sir Alex told Manchester United Radio.

“When George played as a winger I don’t think he ever stayed still. He roamed from side to side – he played on the right, the left and through the middle.

“I’ve looked at Best’s goals and a lot of Cristiano’s are similar. He starts from wide positions before cutting inside. The boy’s in tremendous form right now."

Ronaldo may have eclipsed Best’s tally, but United’s club record for goals in a season still belongs to Denis Law. In the 1963/64 campaign, Law found the net an incredible 46 times.

“Denis was a fantastic player – he was my hero – but I didn’t know that,” Sir Alex said. “That even beats my record! I scored 45 in 51 games for Dunfermline back in 1965/66.”

Rio Hails Red Devils Rearguard

Rio Ferdinand says United's defensive solidarity is down to consistent selection of a settled back four.

The Reds have earned 25 clean sheets from 45 matches in all competitions so far this season. And it's no coincidence that Wes Brown, Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra have started 22 games as a complete unit.

"I said when I first signed for United that when we got a settled back four we would see the benefits as individuals and collectively. That's what we're seeing at the moment."

United's defence once again proved impassable against Liverpool on Sunday, and Ferdinand and Vidic in particular were outstanding. The pair silenced Fernando Torres, who arrived at Old Trafford having scored nine goals in six games.

It was the continuation of one of the most formidable central defensive alliances in the Premier League, and Ferdinand says their understanding happened completely naturally.

"It takes time to get used to playing alongside some players, but myself and Vida hit it off quite quickly. Our styles just gelled, it's as simple as that," he told MUTV. "There are some players that happens with, and long may it continue."

Rio and Vida's record
Played 34
Won 25
Drawn 5
Lost 4

Anderson Aiming High

Brazilian midfielder Anderson could already lay claim to an unforgettable debut season. But, as he told United Review, there's more he can do to make it even better...


How would you sum up your first season at Old Trafford?
I feel I’ve improved my performances both in matches and in training. At first, it took me time to get used to the way things work at United, but from then on I’ve just tried to improve step-by-step and give my best for the team. I’m very happy with everything about my life at Old Trafford.


Which do you feel has been your best performance so far?
If I had to pick one I’d say the 4-0 win over Wigan [in October]. It was only my fifth appearance for the club and I came on after [Nemanja] Vidic got injured. It was a great win for the team and I felt I was the best player on the pitch that day [laughs]!


You’re a big favourite with the fans already, does that mean a lot to you?
I love it – we all sing each other’s songs in the dressing room when we’re joking around. I find it difficult to describe how it feels to hear the fans sing my name – it’s amazing. It gives me extra strength on the pitch and makes me want to do my best to repay the fans for the fantastic support they have shown me since I joined. They’ve all made me feel very welcome.


The words of the song describe you as a midfield magician and we’ve seen you play in a number of midfield positions – where do you feel your best position is?
I don’t have a preference, to be honest. I just want to play in as many games as possible. Even if I have to play in goal, I’ll do it! I’ve enjoyed every match I’ve been involved in this season and the different positions I’ve taken up. In the long term, I’m sure the manager will play me wherever he feels I will be most effective.


Are you pleased to have avoided Liverpool in the Champions League draw and how much are you looking forward to facing Roma again?
To be honest I didn’t really have a preference as to who we were drawn with in the quarter-finals because at this stage of the competition every game is a tough one, no matter who you play. It’ll be a little strange to play Roma again so soon after the group matches, but I’m really looking forward to the tie. We all want to win the trophy and we know we’ll have to fight very hard to do that. But we have a great chance.


Aside from helping the team win trophies, presumably you’re looking to add goals to your game sometime soon…
I’m literally praying for goals [laughs]! I’m hopeful that when I start scoring I will score some important goals in important games. I’ve certainly got some good celebrations planned!


The fixture schedule is going to be very busy between now and the end of the season – are you looking forward to the challenge?
Its a beautiful thing to be involved in a finale to a season such as this one. We’re in a good position in the Premier League and the Champions League and we are focused on winning both trophies. Do I get nervous? [Puts on his sunglasses and reclines in his chair, grinning] No, never. I’m always happy! And I hope I will be even happier come the end of the season

Keane Backs Red Devils Title Bid

Sunderland manager Roy Keane is certain United will not loosen their grip on top spot in the Premier League and fully expects the Reds to retain the title this season.

United's 3-0 win over Liverpool took Sir Alex Ferguson's men five points clear of second-placed Chelsea and six ahead of now third-placed Arsenal.

Keane reckons United are "like an animal that has sniffed blood" going into the critical final stages of the title race.

"Get your money on United," he said. "They will win the title without a shadow of a doubt. They have had one or two slips, especially at City, but they have been given another chance."

The basis for Keane's comments, which came before the weekend's developments, is his knowledge of the United dressing room attitude.

Keane came to embody the Reds' spirit and determination during 12-and-a-half years at Old Trafford, and he insists they are attributes that still exist in the current side.

"They won't let it go," he added. "The desire is in the fabric of the club. A lot of it comes from the manager, and they have got the hungry players.

"Sometimes it is harsh to say that another team doesn't have the bottle. From my experience of being in that position and the other teams not getting the results, it can be such a fine line.

"I don't think there is a fear of losing [at United]. They are driven on by the expectation of the club. When you sign for Manchester United, you are going there to win, not to come second."

Crown Sir Alex At The Bridge

Man. United head for Stamford Bridge on April 26 and, if they’ve won the four games before and then beat Chelsea, they can’t be caught.

What would make that extra sweet for United fans is that they had to sit and suffer in West London two years ago as Chelsea won 3-0 to celebrate the title on a day that Wayne Rooney broke a metatarsal.

United’s Patrice Evra described the remaining fixtures as “seven finals”.

In fact, if United win the next five, which includes the visit of Arsenal on April 13, they simply can’t be overtaken.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson acknowledged: “I think Chelsea hold the key. We’ve still got to go to Stamford Bridge where they’ve got a formidable record.”

Bill Thornton, Daily Star

Sir Alex: Chelsea Are A Title Threat

Sir Alex Ferguson will take great comfort in United's five-point lead after a potentially decisive weekend in the title race, but he remains alert to the threat posed the Reds' now closest challeners Chelsea.

Avram Grant's men leapfrogged Arsenal with a 2-1 win over the Gunners on Sunday, hours after United defeated Liverpool 3-0 at Old Trafford.

The Reds go to Stamford Bridge on 26 April, which Sir Alex feels will be crucial. "I think Chelsea hold the key," he said, "especially as we go to their place where they've got a formidable record.

"We've established a good lead but we're not taking anything for granted, we have to carry on playing the way we have been. I've said all along, the team who shows real consistency between now and the end of the season will win the league."

The dominant performance against Liverpool has given the United boss plenty of confidence and belief going into the final seven league games of the season."We've developed this season and I think you saw that maturity reach its peak in our win over Liverpool," he said.

"We've retained last season's consistency, we're challenging for the league and we're in the quarter-finals of Europe."

Title run-in

Man. United
Aston Villa (H)
Middlesbrough (A)
Arsenal (H)
Blackburn (A)
Chelsea (A)
West Ham (H)
Wigan (A)

Chelsea
Middlesbrough (H)
Manchester City (A)
Wigan (H)
Everton (A)
Man. United (H)
Newcastle (A)
Bolton (H)

Wallpaper - Man. United 3 Liverpool 0

Wes Brown celebrating the opening goal in United's excellent Easter win over Liverpool.

To download: Click on the image, right-click and set as Background

Carrick Not Complacent

Michael Carrick insists the Reds won't rest on the laurels of victory over Liverpool, even if Sunday's win has sealed United's status as strong title favourites.

The midfielder believes the fixture list still looks difficult, telling MUTV: "We’re playing well at the moment but we’ve still got a tough run-in and it’s not going to be easy.

"We’re not getting carried away by any means but we’re happy with our position. Three or four weeks ago we were a few points behind Arsenal and aware that we needed to get points on the board fairly quickly.

"We’ve managed to do that and obviously Arsenal have slipped up a little bit and opened the door for us."

When United opened the door against Liverpool, the identity of the first scorer caught Carrick by surprise.

"It was mad to see Wes (Brown) up there, I was a bit shocked it was him when the goal went in," he laughed.

"It means a lot to Wes to score against Liverpool, being a local lad, and his goal got us up and running. We played some good football after that."

For all the good football and goalscoring opportunities created, United had to endure a long wait for the security of a second strike. As comfortable as the Reds seemed to be against the ten men of Liverpool, Michael admits a few doubts were starting to creep in as a rack of chances went begging.

"Cristiano had a great chance - just before he scored the second goal - and you think is it going to be one of those days?" confessed Carrick.

"Sometimes the longer it goes on the harder it becomes and Liverpool were just beginning to have a half-decent spell in the game, getting a few free-kicks and things."

The game can be on a knife-edge until you get that crucial second goal. Once we got that we could relax and enjoy the game a bit more and then Nani’s goal capped things off for us."

Sir Alex: We Could Have Had More

United blasted three goals past arch rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford with Sir Alex Ferguson insisting it could have been many more.

Wes Brown opened the scoring in the 34th minute before late goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani sealed the three points.

“The 3-0 scoreline wasn’t flattering,” Sir Alex told MUTV. “Not at all. Wayne Rooney could have had a hat-trick, Cristiano Ronaldo could have had a hat-trick… we certainly had the better chances and the better penetration.

“I was disappointed we didn’t finish them off earlier. When we did get the second goal there was relief right around the ground.”

Tomorrow’s papers will undoubtedly focus on referee Steve Bennett’s decision to send off Javier Mascherano just before half time for dissent. The Argentine midfielder was already on a yellow card when he ran over to Bennett to protest another decision.

“The boy had already been booked and dissent is dissent,” Sir Alex said. “There’s been a lot of focus on dissent after what happened with Ashley Cole. I don’t know why he got involved in the situation. He’s come running across the field to argue with the referee.

“The sending off gave us control of the match, although I think we had reasonable control up until that point.”

The three points propelled United further ahead at the top of the Barclays Premier League, although the manager said the result won’t have direct bearing on the title race.

“We’ve done our job but we’re not getting carried away. You can’t get carried away in his league. But it’s a good morale boost, that’s for sure."

Super Sunday As Man. United Beat Liverpool 3-0

Manchester United outclassed 10-man Liverpool to strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League table.

Wes Brown put United ahead from Wayne Rooney's cross before Liverpool's hopes were hit when Javier Mascherano was sent off for dissent before the break.

Pepe Reina made some great saves but he was at fault when Cristiano Ronaldo headed home United's second and Nani's fine finish completed an emphatic win.

Chelsea's victory over Arsenal leaves United five points clear at the top.

Sunday's results leave United in pole position to retain their title with seven games of the season to go but the main talking point after this match was Mascherano's dismissal.

The Argentine midfielder, who had been booked early on for a wild challenge on Paul Scholes, foolishly chose to continue an argument that his team-mate Fernando Torres had started with referee Steve Bennett over a series of challenges by United players.

In a week dominated by discussion of Ashley Cole's conduct towards the officials during Chelsea's draw with Tottenham on Wednesday, the spotlight was always going to be on how Bennett reacted here.

Torres had already been booked for dissent when Mascherano got involved so, if Bennett was to be consistent, he had no choice but to produce another yellow card.

The decision further infuriated Mascherano, who had to be escorted off the pitch, and his manager Rafa Benitez was also left angry.

It also virtually ended his side's hopes of getting anything from the game, as United had dominated even when Liverpool had 11 men on the pitch.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men had created all the best chances in the opening period and only some superb saves by Reina kept the home side at bay.

United could have had a penalty when Jamie Carragher clipped Rooney in the area but the striker stayed on his feet and his eventual shot was saved by the Spaniard.

Reina came to the rescue again when Paul Scholes' free-kick caught the Liverpool defence napping, collecting the ball after Rooney failed to control it.

The Reds' best spell followed when they at last threatened Edwin van der Sar's goal.

Fabiano Aurelio sliced his shot wide when well placed inside the area, while Steven Gerrard had a rasping effort deflected over soon after.

But United were still threatening themselves and Ronaldo hit the post from a Ryan Giggs free-kick, only to be wrongly ruled offside, before Reina almost fumbled Giggs' cross into his own net.

The Liverpool defence was struggling with any high balls played into the area and it was no great surprise when United took the lead through that route.

Martin Skrtel did not attempt to reach Rooney's cross and Brown beat Reina to the ball, which looped into the net off his back.

Mascherano's red card meant Liverpool had it all to do after the break and, if not for their goalkeeper, they would have been dead and buried.

Scholes' clever lob sent Ronaldo clear but Reina came out to block and, after watching Ronaldo's free-kick fly narrowly wide, he saved his side again with an instinctive stop from Rooney.

Reina made another instinctive save to deny United substitute Carlos Tevez after Alvaro Arbeloa had inadvertently steered the ball into the striker's path.

He also did brilliantly to push away Ronaldo's shot but will not enjoy watching a replay of the resultant corner, from which the Portuguese star rose above him to head home.

Nani's thumping finish from the edge of the area only underlined United's superiority as Liverpool's seven-game winning run came to an abrupt halt.

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

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Hargreaves, O'Shea.

Booked: Ferdinand.

Goals: Brown 34, Ronaldo 79, Nani 81.

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Mascherano, Alonso, Kuyt, Gerrard, Babel (Benayoun 66), Torres (Riise 82).

Subs Not Used: Itandje, Hyypia, Crouch.

Sent Off: Mascherano (44).

Booked: Mascherano, Torres, Arbeloa.

Att: 76,000

Ref: Steve Bennett (Kent).

Pepe Reina feels the full force of United's Wayne Rooney during a frenetic opening

The hosts start to dominate and take the lead as Wes Brown beats the stranded Reina to the ball to head United ahead

The 34th-minute header is only Brown's second league goal for the Red Devils and it gives them a crucial advantage

Liverpool are reduced to 10 men as Javier Mascherano gets a second yellow card for dissent from referee Steve Bennett

Liverpool's miserable afternoon goes from bad to worse as Cristiano Ronaldo heads home the second in the 79th minute

Nani finishes things off for Sir Alex Ferguson's men as he rifles a powerful shot past Reina in the 81st minute

Ferguson's side maintain their dominance at the top of the Premier League with a vital 3-0 victory over their fierce rivals

Robson Takes On Ambassador Role

Manchester United have appointed former captain Bryan Robson as an ambassador for the club.

Robson, nicknamed Captain Marvel during his illustrious 13-year United career, will help promote the club’s name, charity and community work around the world, working alongside United director Sir Bobby Charlton.

The 51-year-old former Middlesbrough, West Brom and Sheffield United manager says he is looking forward to his new role at Old Trafford.

“I’m delighted to have the chance to work alongside Sir Bobby and to be such a central part of Manchester United’s future. Since signing for the club in 1981, it’s always been special to me.

“I enjoyed the happiest and most memorable times of my career at Old Trafford and it will be great to play a role in making the club even more successful.”

United’s chief executive, David Gill, added: “Bryan was the outstanding player of his generation and he remains close to the hearts of everyone that saw him play.

"His relationship with United supporters is second to none and I look forward to working with him for the benefit of the club, the team and the fans.”

Rio A Doubt For Liverpool Game?

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that his reshuffled defence against Bolton was a pre-emptive experiment in case Rio Ferdinand misses Sunday's clash with Liverpool.

The England defender continues to carry a slight back injury and, with the Merseysiders' visit to Old Trafford looming large, Sir Alex opted to rest Patrice Evra and Wes Brown, fielding a defence of Owen Hargreaves, Nemanja Vidic, Gerard Pique and John O'Shea against Gary Megson's side.

"We made a lot of changes and I think that was necessary because, with Rio Ferdinand doubtful for Sunday, we had to find out about young Gerard Pique," Sir Alex told MUTV after the 2-0 win.

"We’ve got great confidence in the lad and he’s come through very well. That was important. We also wanted to rest Wes Brown in case Rio doesn’t make it, then we’ve got the alternative of playing Wes at centre-back – that’s a decision we’ll have to make.

"We tried Owen Hargreaves at right-back, and we can play John O’Shea there on Sunday and bring Patrice Evra in. It’s important to do these things tonight, simply because of Rio’s injury."

'Rocket' Ronny Honoured

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted it was 'an honour and a pleasure' to captain United for the first time against Bolton Wanderers.

The 23-year-old also scored both goals in the 2-0 victory, taking his goals tally to 33 for the season.

"It's always good to be captain at this massive club," he said. "For me it's an honour and a pleasure. But my responsibilities are the same. I do not change my game or personality just because I'm captain."

Sir Alex Ferguson felt Ronaldo took the added responsibility in his stride. "Cristiano looks for that kind of responsibility, I think he’s very comfortable with it," he MUTV. "Not everyone wants to be captain, but he carries the mantle very well."

Ronaldo's second goal was another superb long-range free-kick - his fifth of the season - and Sir Alex says the winger's success is purely down to practice. "It’s another marvellous free-kick. He has a technique, but practice is the most important aspect of getting shots on target," he said.

Yet again, Ronaldo's technique for striking dead balls came into question and, when asked if he had christened his style, he replied: "I like to hear people say 'the Ronaldo rocket'. Of course, I am joking!"

Ronaldo's Double Sends Man. United Top Of The Table

Manchester United brushed aside Bolton to move three points clear of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League.

Stand-in skipper Cristiano Ronaldo was in brilliant form, shooting home from a corner before striking a sensational free-kick that moved through the air.

Bolton, who have lost their last five league games, might have equalised but Tomasz Kuszczak denied Kevin Davies.

Kuszczak also denied Nicky Hunt and Gavin McCann while Nani and Ronaldo almost extended United's lead.

It was United's game in hand on Arsenal and they did not waste it, while Chelsea drew 4-4 at Tottenham on what turned out to be an excellent night for Sir Alex Ferguson's team.

At one point in the season Bolton had ascended to 13th in the Premier League table but they now appear to be in deep trouble, third from bottom and with games against Arsenal and Chelsea among their remaining eight fixtures.

Trotters boss Gary Megson, without injured skipper Kevin Nolan, might have been encouraged when he saw the United team sheet.

Ferguson left Wayne Rooney on the bench while Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs were rested completely as part of seven changes from the team that won at Derby.

But any hope Bolton had of a positive result dissolved when Ronaldo struck after eight minutes.

Poor control from Abdoulaye Meite gifted possession to United and within seconds Carlos Tevez appeared to be clean through after controlling a cross from Louis Saha with his chest.

It was a slightly heavy touch from the Argentine, allowing Ricardo Gardner to make a decent covering tackle, but after Bolton failed to clear the subsequent corner Ronaldo struck the ball into the floor and up into the opposition goal.

Bolton had set out with five across midfield - and a plan to frustrate their superior opponents, but within 20 minutes that hope lay in tatters.

A disappointing evening for Meite, which ended when he was withdrawn at the break, continued when his foul on Ronaldo was punished in brilliant fashion by the Portugal international.

His strike from a central position 25 yards from goal swerved and dipped at the last moment, leaving Al Habsi helpless.

It was Ronaldo's 24th Premier League goal of the season - taking him four clear of Fernando Torres at the top of the scoring table.

It was also his 33rd goal of the campaign in all competitions - and takes him past the season record set by George Best in 1968 of 32 goals by a winger.

The match might have been different had Davies managed to convert an excellent cross from Danny Guthrie with the score at 1-0 but his cushioned volley was well saved.

Nemanja Vidic, Nani and Tevez all threatened before the break as United looked to exorcise the ghosts of the 1-0 defeat at the Reebok in December.

And Nani came close to a third seconds after the restart, only an excellent low save by Al Habsi stopping his free-kick.

To their credit, Bolton refused to be cowed and enjoyed an excellent period of play.

Kuszczak made an excellent save to tip over a long-range strike from Nicky Hunt and the United keeper followed that with a low dive to thwart Gavin McCann.

El-Hadji Diouf had the ball in the net from a free-kick but the goal was ruled out as the referee had not blown for him to take it.

United continued to pose a goal threat and Al Habsi did well to prevent Ronaldo completing his hat-trick.

Bu the last good chance fell to Bolton's Matthew Taylor with four minutes remaining.

The ball dropped invitingly six yards from goal but his contact was poor and Kuszczak saved.

Man Utd: Kuszczak, Hargreaves, Pique, Vidic (Brown 58), O'Shea, Ronaldo, Fletcher, Anderson (Scholes 70), Nani, Saha (Rooney 70), Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Foster, Evra.

Goals: Ronaldo 9, 19.

Bolton: Al Habsi, Steinsson, Meite (Hunt 46), Andrew O'Brien, Gardner, Diouf, McCann, Guthrie (Giannakopoulos 82), Joey O'Brien, Taylor, Davies.

Subs Not Used: Walker, Campo, Rasiak.

Booked: Andrew O'Brien, Steinsson.

Att: 75,476

Ref: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire).


Cristiano Ronaldo starts in fine style as he nets his 32nd goal of the season after just nine minutes

Goal no. 33 comes with a free-kick, taking him past George Best's record of goals in a season for a Man Utd winger

Brown: We Must Be Ruthless

Wes Brown has warned United must end their wastefulness in front of goal to ensure Premier League title glory.

The Reds spurned chance after chance against Derby on Saturday and were set to drop unexpected points until Cristiano Ronaldo popped up with the 75th-minute winner.

“We’re getting really good chances, we’ve got to start putting them away," Brown told MUTV. “We made it hard for ourselves against Derby. We could have finished the game in the first 10 or 15 minutes. Luckily we got the winner in the end, which was a real relief.”

After passing up several early opportunities at Pride Park, United could have fallen behind had debutant Ben Foster not denied Kenny Miller with two superb saves in the space of a minute. “Ben’s a great keeper," he added. "It was his first game for a long time and he came in and did brilliantly.”

United top the table on goal difference ahead of Arsenal and have a game in hand on the Gunners - Bolton at Old Trafford on Wednesday. “It’s always good to be top,” Brown added. “If we can get another three points against Bolton, it’d be great for us and we know then that if we win every game, we will win the league again.”

Foster Feels Part Of The Team

Ben Foster admitted it was a “fantastic” feeling to finally make his first-team debut in the narrow 1-0 victory at Derby.

The goalkeeper was thrust into action at Pride Park due to the enforced absence of Edwin van der Sar and Tomasz Kuszczak, just a week after returning from an eight-month injury lay-off himself.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Reds in 2005 but spent the last two seasons on loan at Watford, told MUTV: “I finally feel like a United player now!

“I’ve been here nearly three years and it’s good to finally get on the pitch for the first team in a competitive game.

“I’m not one for nerves – I just take things in my stride and try not to think about things too much. It’s a big thing to come back from injury and to be thrown straight into the first team, but I thoroughly enjoyed it – though it was a bit harder than I thought!”

Many pundits predicted a cakewalk for United against rock-bottom Derby, but the Reds spurned chance after chance and would have fallen behind in the first half had Foster not made two fine saves from Kenny Miller.

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Charitable Man. United Irks Sir Alex

Sir Alex Ferguson admits United’s charity in front of goal is concerning him, following Saturday’s unexpectedly tight victory over Derby County.

The Reds passed up chance after chance at Pride Park, just as they did in last weekend’s FA Cup defeat to Portsmouth, and the manager concedes it is beginning to irk him.

“Last Saturday, of course, it (missing chances) knocked us out of the cup,” he told MUTV.

“Today we made it hard for ourselves because we missed so many chances.

“We were really charitable - it was a lot of chances. Maybe it’s a little sticky spell, but we want to get over that. We’ve got big games, Bolton at home on Wednesday and then Liverpool on Sunday, so they’re important games coming up and we want to start taking chances.

“We are making them, and I suppose that’s the biggest bonus of all. If we keep making them, you know at some point someone’s going to suffer. We just have to keep going with that.”

Cristiano Ronaldo was repeatedly thwarted at Pride Park before eventually bagging the winning goal with 14 minutes remaining, and Sir Alex was quick to salute the ease with which the winger converted a potentially difficult finish.

“We needed something special and Ronaldo’s taken his chance very, very well. It’s not easy when it comes off the turf like that and he connected really well to score a really important goal for us. He had to control it to keep it down, it was a very good finish.”

United host Bolton on Wednesday before Liverpool’s visit on Easter Sunday and, after omitting Rio Ferdinand, Nani, and Carlos Tevez from Saturday’s squad, Sir Alex admits there will be changes for those games.

“I think that we’ll be changing on Wednesday again, but not too much,” he said. “We wanted to win this game and be top of the league. We’ve got our game in hand, we want to get those three points and then we can look forward to a real battle against Liverpool.”

Man. United Late Victory At Pride Park

Cristiano Ronaldo struck after 75 minutes to deny Derby a sensational draw - and send Manchester United top ahead of Arsenal's late game.

Wayne Rooney crossed for Ronaldo to volley home and spare United's blushes.

Ronaldo hit the post in the first half but United had debutant keeper Ben Foster to thank for twice keeping out Kenny Miller just before the break.

After scoring the goal, Ronaldo skipped clean through, only to be denied by former United team-mate Roy Carroll.

Another goal would have been harsh on Derby, who reacted to a 6-1 drubbing by Chelsea with a performance of admirable resilience against the league's top scorers.

United, meanwhile, were hoping to bounce back in style after going out of the FA Cup to Portsmouth - a match in which they spurned numerous chances.

But for 75 minutes, it looked like it would be a recurring nightmare at Pride Park.

They carved out their first good chance after only 59 seconds when Ryan Giggs headed over Ji-Sung Park's cross and went on to dominate the first half-hour.

Ronaldo, playing alongside Rooney up front, hit the post from 12 yards before curling a shot with the outside of his right foot, which keeper Carroll did well to claw away with his fingertips.

Foster did not have a save to make in that period, although a couple of scuffed kicks were perhaps evidence of his debut-day nerves.

But the keeper had a chance to show his class when Derby twice threatened to take a sensational lead against the champions through Miller.

Foster first dived to his left to claw away Miller's volley from an Eddie Lewis cross and then went the same way to stop the striker curling in a shot after Rob Earnshaw's through-ball.

Ronaldo continued to be United's main threat but the Portugal international made no attempt to hide his growing frustration as the ball refused to go into the net.

Carroll saved an audacious 40-yard free-kick, then a header and then another set-piece before Ronaldo lashed a shot into the side netting - prompting him to scream skywards.

But the breakthrough finally came when Rooney muscled his way down the left before crossing for Ronaldo, who did well to steer his volley home with the ball at a difficult height.

Ronaldo's fervent reaction said it all, his goal putting United a point above Arsenal ahead of the Gunners' match against Middlesbrough later on Saturday.

Derby: Carroll, Edworthy (Todd 55), Leacock, Moore, McEveley, Sterjovski (Robert 83), Savage, Jones, Lewis, Miller, Earnshaw (Villa 77).

Subs Not Used: Price, Ghaly.

Booked: Moore, Jones, Savage, McEveley.

Man Utd: Foster, O'Shea, Brown, Vidic, Evra, Park (Saha 62), Scholes (Carrick 62), Anderson (Fletcher 74), Giggs, Ronaldo, Rooney.

Subs Not Used: Heaton, Hargreaves.

Booked: Carrick.

Goals: Ronaldo 76.

Att: 33,072

Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire).

That late winning goal. Derby defend valiantly until the 76th minute when Cristiano Ronaldo scores the game's only goal

Sir Alex Eyes Intriguing Tie

Sir Alex Ferguson was convinced that United would draw a familiar face in the Champions League quarter finals, but he hadn't reckoned it being AS Roma, whom the Reds have met four times in the last year.

The Reds boss was sure his side would be paired with an English opponent. In actual fact, United cannot now not meet Premier League opposition until the final.

"It’s incredible," Sir Alex told ManUtd.com after the draw. "I had a strong feeling that we would draw an English side.

"It’s amazing to think that we will have played Roma six times in a year. That makes it an intriguing tie because we know a lot about Roma, but they know a lot about us."

United are keen to avoid a repeat of the off-the- field trouble that marred the Reds' visit to Rome at this stage of last season's competition. However, Sir Alex is confident that will be the case.

"Away from the football, obviously my biggest concern is the fans," he said. "During the game in Rome this season the security was much improved. But there will be even more fans travelling with us for this match. That said, I have a feeling it will be another great European tie."

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti met news of the draw with caution, but admits his side have a chance to avenge their 7-1 mauling in last season's quarter-final second leg.

“They will be very tough opponents,” he said. “Everyone here seemed to be shocked at the draw. We carry the 7-1 defeat with us and it has helped us to mature. This is a chance to put things right. They may be the stronger side, but I would say that we have a 50 per cent chance of getting through.”

Champions League Q-Finals Draw: Man. United Vs Roma

United have been paired with AS Roma in the Champions League quarter finals - meaning the two sides will have met six times in 12 months.

It's the second time this season that United have been pitted against the Italians, having met in the group stages. And it's the second time in two seasons that the Giallorossi stand in Sir Alex Ferguson's way at the quarter final stage.

The Reds boss will be pleased his side are away in the first leg on Tuesday 1 April, with Luciano Spalletti bringing his men to Old Trafford for the return fixture on Wednesday 9 April.

The semi final draw was also made in Nyon on Friday. Should United get past Roma, the Reds will be away in the first leg of the last four, against either Schalke or Barcelona. The semi final first leg will be played on Wednesday 23 April, the return on Tuesday 29 April.

It means United cannot play Premier League opposition before the final in Moscow, while the winner of Arsenal and Liverpool's all-English quarter final will face either Fenerbahce or Chelsea.

Full Draw
Arsenal v Liverpool
Roma v Manchester United
Schalke v Barcelona
Fenerbahce v Chelsea

Man. United Trail Cardiff Kid?

Sir Alex Ferguson has reportedly shown an interest in Cardiff City's Wales U21 international Aaron Ramsey.

The left-sided player's fine performance in Cardiff's FA Cup quarter final victory over Middlesbrough has thrust him into the spotlight.

Despite being just 17, Ramsey has already been linked with a move to the Premier League, with reports suggesting he could be valued at as much as £5million.

There has been no formal contact from United, but Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale says Sir Alex has been in touch.

"Sir Alex Ferguson did make a telephone call to our manager, Dave Jones, but that is the only contact of any sort," he told the South Wales Echo.

"It was no more than a call to ask what the youngster is like.

"We know there is strong interest in Aaron among a number of Premiership clubs.

"But nobody has made any sort of offer and we certainly have not agreed anything."

Player Profile
Name: Aaron Ramsey
Age: 17 (26 Dec 1990)
Born: Caerphilly (nr Cardiff), Wales
Position: Left midfield
Club record: He became Cardiff's youngest ever player (aged 16 years and 124 days) when he played came on as a sub against Hull at the end of last season. Since the turn of the year he's regularly been involved in the first-team.
Other interest: Everton are said to be on his trail, and an unnamed Premier League club had a £1million bid turn down in the summer.
International: Made his debut for Wales U21s in August, some four months before he'd turned 17.

Neville Sets First Team Target

Gary Neville says he’s itching to return to the first-team squad after almost 12 months out of action.

United’s club captain played 70 minutes for the Reserves on Wednesday night and now has his sights firmly set on rejoining the race for the Barclays Premier League title.

“It’s great to be playing football again,” Neville told MUTV. “That’s my second game in a couple of weeks and I seem to have come through it okay. In that sense it’s a real positive, although I want to get back into travelling with the first team.

“By next week I’d like to be involved with the first team, even if’s just travelling with the side and being part of it again.”

Neville was injured last March against Bolton Wanderers and has since suffered a number of setbacks on the road to recovery.

“Hopefully I’ve seen the back of it now,” Neville said. “I just need to concentrate on training hard and playing well. It’s been a frustrating period and a very long time – too long. No footballer likes not playing but I’m not the first footballer to be out for 12 months. You just have to get on with it.

“Playing with the Reserves is really exciting for me. Just being out on the pitch and on the training ground… I love doing that.”

High Hopes For Maucho

United’s January signing Manucho may be relatively unknown to most Reds fans, but he could be making an impact in the Premier League next season.

Manucho, who scored on his debut for loan club Panathinaikos in their 2-0 win over Larisa at the weekend, was plucked from obscurity in Angola when a new scouting contact discovered his raw talent.

The task now to harness his potential, the first steps of which have been taken in sending him on loan to Greece, which should also aid his application for a work permit.

United’s assistant manager Carlos Queiroz, whose Portuguese contact unearthed Manucho, has high hopes of the qualities he will bring in the very near future.

“First of all he is a player that can score goals,” Queiroz told MUTV. “He’s not the sort of player you come across easily and to have the possibility to bring quality forwards to our club doesn’t happen very often.

“We are absolutely convinced he has enough qualities and potential to have a chance in the game, despite the fact that he is now 25.”

Manucho may be a late starter, but his excellent performances in the African Cup of Nations indicate a promising future.

“He showed during that competition that he is a special forward: a tall target man, a typical number nine in the box but also with enough skills to play the game and support the players behind. He’s also good with both feet and can score from inside the box or from distance.

Manucho's time with Panathinaikos will be telling – a chance to see how he copes in mainland Europe.

United's coaches will keenly monitor his progress, and with a goal on his debut for the Greek side, things are looking good.

“He just needs the opportunity to learn the game and get used to the pace of European football,” added Queiroz.

“We believe sending him on loan to Panathinaikos will help him to develop and if everything goes well we hope next season we will see him among our players.”

Kameni To Join Man. United?

Manchester United are ready to outbid Tottenham for Espanyol goalkeeper Carlos Kameni.

The £4.5m-rated Cameroon keeper had been expected to join Spurs at the end of the season but, as Sportsmail revealed last month, United's chief European scout Martin Ferguson has made a couple of checks on the 24-year-old and is interested.

Spurs believed they had a deal agreed in principle but United's move has turned Kameni's head.

The Screamer column, Daily Mail

FA Write To Sir Alex & Carlos

The Football Association has sent a letter to Sir Alex Ferguson and his assistant Carlos Queiroz asking them to explain comments made after the Reds' FA Cup defeat to Portsmouth.

Ferguson and Queiroz were both unhappy with the refereeing performance of Martin Atkinson, most notably because they felt he failed to award a penalty for what they felt was a clear foul on Cristiano Ronaldo after just seven minutes of the tie.

United went on to lose 1-0, and the Reds boss and his assistant felt the incident was a turning point in the game.

Sir Alex was also unhappy with (Match Officials Board manager) Keith Hackett.

In a statement on its website, the FA said: "[We] have written to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and assistant coach Carlos Queiroz to ask them to explain their media comments made following the FA Cup tie against Portsmouth."

Both parties have until Wednesday 19 March to respond.

Man. United Wait On Edwin

United may have to give Ben Foster his competitive debut against Derby in the wake of Edwin van der Sar's groin injury and Tomasz Kuszczak's automatic suspension.

If van der Sar isn't fit for Saturday, then Foster's return to action for the reserves last week could prove to be perfectly timed.

Assistant manager Carlos Queiroz said van der Sar sustained his injury early in the match against Portsmouth.

"He started to feel it after a couple of minutes when he was striking the ball," reported Queiroz.

"At half-time we decided there was no chance he could keep going."

Van der Sar's deputy Tomasz Kusczak came on at half-time for his 13th appearance of the season - unlucky for him as he was later sent off in the match's decisive moment.

"We accept the penalty against us," said Queiroz, after Kuszczak conceded a decisive spot-kick.

"It was a one-on-one situation and unfortunately Tomasz touched the player (Milan Baros)."

Angela Chang's 29th March Concert - Postponed

Really looking forward to Angela Chang's upcoming concert this coming 29th March, but I have to wait for it to be held tentatively in May...... . I felt really really very disappointed as I have been waiting for it in anticipation.

Reason for the change of the concert date is mainly due to Angela's ill-health. She is currently undergoing a thorough medical check and her work schedule has been put on hold to allow her time to rest and recuperate.

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Cup Exit Will Affect United's Season

Amid the frustration of United’s controversial FA Cup quarter final exit to Portsmouth, Sir Alex Ferguson hopes a steely resolve and determination to clinch silverware in the league and in Europe will emerge.

A host of missed chances at Old Trafford ultimately led to the Reds’ downfall, although poor refereeing decisions held United back in a game that appeared set for nothing other than a home win.

The concern is that the defeat, and the circumstances that surrounded it, could affect the rest of United’s season. Conversely, Sir Alex hopes that is the case.

“It has to have an impact,” he said. “The impact is that we’re going to do something about it.

“There is a determination and energy from our team that will show itself now.”

United have the Premier League to fight for and a Champions League quarter final to come, and Sir Alex’s hope is that this defeat will galvanise his squad for the rest of the season.

Sir Alex Furious With Ref Decisions

Sir Alex Ferguson was left stunned by referee Martin Atkinson’s failure to award a seventh-minute penalty, and says the system for assessing referees needs to be overhauled.

Cristiano Ronaldo was clearly fouled by Sylvain Distin, but the referee waved play on. He later sent of Tomasz Kuszczak when arguably he shouldn’t have, because Anderson and Wayne Rooney were covering when the Polish stopper felled Milan Baros.

United’s frustrations are heightened with a glut of missed chances throughout the match. But there was one theme dominating Sir Alex’s thoughts post-match.

“We’re out and you could look at a lot of things,” he told MUTV. “We missed a lot of chances for one, but the refereeing performance… Keith Hackett (general manager of the Professional Game Match Officials Board) has got a lot to answer for in this country. He’s not doing his job properly.

“He should be assessed like everyone else is assessed. I’m assessed as a manager, the players are assessed, referees are assessed. Martin Atkinson will referee next week, no problem. But his performance today should not be accepted in our game.

“I agree with Sepp Blatter, the standards in our game as opposed to the Continent, the tolerance level, is behind Europe. I think it’s a big problem.”

Of the decision not to award a penalty for Distin’s challenge on Ronaldo, Sir Alex added: “It’s absolutely ridiculous. I cannot explain it. I just cannot explain that decision. Manager’s get sacked on the basis of things like that. And he’s going to referee a game next week? It’s ridiculous. There is no answer.”

Unlucky United Out Of FA Cup

Harry Redknapp's FA Cup curse struck Manchester United again as Portsmouth won a dramatic quarter-final clash.

Sulley Muntari scored the winner from the spot with 12 minutes left after Milan Baros was upended by United's substitute keeper Tomasz Kuszczak.

Kuszczak, who replaced Edwin van der Sar at half-time, was sent off and Rio Ferdinand took over in goal.

United went close to scoring, Sylvain Distin denying Michael Carrick on the line and Patrice Evra hitting a post.

The surprise win took Portsmouth back to Wembley for the first time since 1939 for the semi-finals and ended United's hopes of repeating their 1999 treble triumph.

For Redknapp, who has previously knocked United out of the FA Cup with both Bournemouth and West Ham, it was another victory over Sir Alex Ferguson to savour.

Paul Scholes, Carlos Tevez and Owen Hargreaves all returned to United's starting line-up after the Champions League victory over Lyon - and they met with stubborn and well-organised Portsmouth resistance.

United were understandably furious after six minutes when Cristiano Ronaldo was clearly bundled over by Distin as he raced into the area, but referee Martin Atkinson ignored the appeals, to the clear disgust of Ferguson.

Pompey rarely threatened, but United keeper Van der Sar was in some discomfort as he scrambled to save a long-range shot from Niko Kranjcar.

United missed a glorious chance to break the deadlock after 18 minutes when Tevez and Wayne Rooney led a counter-attack, but the England striker was blocked by defender Sol Campbell.

The rebound fell for Tevez, but Glen Johnson made a superb recovery to block his goal-bound effort on the line.

James had been well-protected by his defence, but he needed to be sharp to drop to his right and save a low drive from Tevez.

It had been a very satisfactory first half for Portsmouth, but United had a problem in the interval when Van der Sar withdrew through injury and was replaced by Kuszczak.

Pompey almost came unstuck in a goalmouth scramble after 57 minutes, when Tevez was blocked by defenders on the line and Ronaldo's subsequent shot snaked just inches wide.

United were taking control, and Evra should have done better than cross behind Tevez after being sent clear into the area by Rooney.

Ferguson made a double change after 67 minutes, sending on Anderson and Carrick for Tevez and Hargreaves.

And Carrick was the central figure in a remarkable escape for Portsmouth three minutes later.

Ronaldo's brilliant back-heel played him into area and a goal looked certain as he rounded James, but Distin made a miraculous recovery to make the clearance.

United were turning up the heat, with James stretching to make a superb save from Evra, turning his shot on to the post.

After surviving a second-half siege, Portsmouth broke out to take the lead in remarkable circumstances.

Kranjcar broke down the right and played in substitute Baros, who was felled by Kuszczak.

The Pole was shown the red card by referee Atkinson despite the fact that Rooney and Anderson were patrolling the goal-line.

Ferdinand went in goal as replacement, but he stood no chance as Muntari drilled home home the penalty with the minimum of fuss.

Team Line-ups

Manchester United: Van der Sar (Kuszczak 46); Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Ronaldo, Hargreaves (Carrick 69), Scholes, Nani; Tevez (Anderson 68), Rooney.

Subs not used: O’Shea, Park (replaced Saha).

Booked: Rooney

Portsmouth: James; Johnson, Campbell, Distin (Lauren 74), Hreidarsson; Utaka, Muntari, Diarra, Diop, Kranjcar (Hughes 80); Kanu (Baros 54).

Subs not used: Ashdown, Mvuemba.

Booked: Diop, Diarra

In the FA Cup, Pompey's Lassana Diarra battles with Owen Hargreaves for control of midfield

Cristiano Ronaldo appeals for a penalty when his menacing run is ended by Sylvain Distin but the referee does not give it

Wayne Rooney and then Carlos Tevez both fail to score during an attack that Pompey's defence somehow manage to repel

The Red Devils lay siege to the visitors' goal after the break with Michael Carrick seeing his effort blocked on the line

Portsmouth hold on and win a penalty when Tomasz Kuszczak, on for Edwin Van der Sar, brings down Milan Baros

Rio Ferdinand replaces him in goal but is powerless to prevent Sulley Muntari's 76th-minute spot-kick from finding the net

Despite nearly five minutes of injury time, Man Utd fail to find an equaliser as Portsmouth book their place in the semi-finals