Edwin's Award

The Barclays Merit Award was in safe hands at Carrington on Friday - those of Edwin van der Sar.

The United goalkeeper collected the award after breaking the Barclays Premier League record for minutes played without conceding a goal, spanning 11 consecutive clean sheets from Stoke City on 15 November to West Brom this week.

Speaking about the achievement on Friday, Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Eleven clean sheets is an incredible record and Edwin has been a key figure in that.

"He’s in the twilight of his career, and the form of his life. His performances have been absolutely fantastic."

It seems the only regret Sir Alex has about Edwin's Old Trafford career is that it didn't start a decade ago.

"It was a mistake not getting Edwin in 1999," admitted the United manager. "I wanted him, but Martin Edwards had already done a deal with Mark Bosnich, and it was too late. He went to Juventus."

Sir Alex eventually got his man six years later in July 2005, after van der Sar had acclimatised to English football with Fulham.

"All through that season (before Edwin signed for United), we were assessing the goalkeeper situation," recalls Sir Alex.

"I left it to Tony Coton (former goalkeeping coach) to get all the information. But every time we discussed it, van der Sar’s name came up. So we didn’t hesitate and did the deal quickly.

"For Edwin’s sake, it was a great lift for him as much as it was for us. Since he arrived, he’s brought incredible knowledge to the back four, patience, great use of the ball. All the technical attributes of goalkeeping, he possesses."

Berbatov: This Feels Like Home

United’s in-form striker Dimitar Berbatov feels completely at home at Old Trafford, and says his current team-mates are the best he’s ever played with.

Berbatov has every reason to be in upbeat mood. He's struck goals against Middlesbrough, Chelsea, Bolton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion (three of them match-winners) in the last month to take his tally to 11 for the season, and he’s also the Premier League’s most creative player, with nine assists.

The reason for it is that Berbatov instantly settled in Manchester, while his unique style of play has been allowed to flourish freely under Sir Alex Ferguson, as Dimitar explained to ManUtd.com.

“I feel completely settled here,” he says. “To be honest, I felt that way from the minute I walked into the dressing room. The boys have been great. It’s like I’ve been here for years. I was made to feel part of the team straight away, and I think things clicked quite early on.

“That was a big relief for me. Sometimes if it doesn’t feel like home, you can’t adapt on or off the pitch. But it was so easy for me to settle here.”

But Berbatov, who describes himself as a perfectionist, isn’t completely satisfied just yet. “I want to train hard and continue to show what I can do in games,” he continues. “Everyone here has talent, but you need to develop the talent God gives you, work hard and, with a bit of luck, you’ll succeed.”

However, life is made a little easier when you have the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez, and whole lot more throughout the side.

“Personally, this is the best squad I’ve been involved with. I am very proud that the manager has said this as well. My country is proud, too. For me to be here, coming from a small country, it’s a big success. You can’t get higher than the standard at United. We have some of the best players and clearly the best coach. It’s a pleasure just to be here and follow in the footsteps of so many great players.”

At 27, Berbatov may be one of the more experienced members of a youthful attack at Old Trafford, but he says there is plenty for him to learn in his peak years.

“I always try to improve and work on my weaknesses,” he adds. “I listen to the boss and the experienced guys in the team who have won many league titles. You only have respect guys like that, they have achieved everything. That’s one of the great things about being here. You work, you develop, improve and, hopefully, win cups and titles. I have my own style and I always play my game. With that, if I can help the team, great.”

Anderson Interview

Injury may be keeping him on the sidelines, but very little gets our bubbly Brazilian midfield magician down, as we found out when we spoke to Anderson recently…

You said it was “a dream come true” to join United. Enjoyed the last 18 months?
I’m still living the dream. It hasn’t ended yet, and I don’t want it to! I love playing here and I want to achieve a lot more for United. I want to win a lot of trophies.

We saw you dancing when the team collected trophies in Wigan and Moscow last season. Where did you learn to dance like that?
I learned to dance this way with my friends. Do you like it? We’re always dancing and it makes me feel happy, which is important.

Who’s the toughest opponent you’ve faced since arriving in England?
Javier Mascherano! He’s the hardest to play against. He’s so strong and he tackles with so much power. Of course, he’s from Argentina and I am Brazilian so maybe that is why! I’ve also had good battles with Steven Gerrard, Denilson and Cesc Fabregas. They’re all very good midfielders, but Mascherano is the toughest.

When will we see you hit the back of the net?
[laughs] Maybe one day I’ll score a goal! Perhaps a shot will fly in or somebody else’s will hit me on the way to goal, or maybe I’ll be allowed to take a penalty! Sure, I’m bothered about not scoring but what’s more important to me is that we win.

So how will you celebrate your first goal?
I think I’ll be so excited that I'll just do a lap of the pitch!

Edwin Is The Best!

Rio Ferdinand has hailed Edwin van der Sar as the best goalkeeper he has ever played with.

Van der Sar cemented his reputation as arguably the best keeper in the world at the moment with a record 11th successive Premier League clean sheet in Tuesday's 5-0 rout of West Brom.

Ferdinand predicted the 38-year-old Dutchman - who has a year left at United after this campaign - can play on past his 40th birthday in October 2010.

“Edwin's the best keeper I've ever played with, it's as simple as that," said centre-back Ferdinand. "The calmness and assuredness he brings to the back four in front of him is great. He's got another year after this one and I'm sure he has the capability to go on and do it again.”

- David McDonnell, The Mirror -

Man. United Record Delights Ferguson

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed his pride after his side set a new Premier League record of 11 successive clean sheets.

The league leaders eclipsed Chelsea's previous tally in the 5-0 win against West Brom at The Hawthorns.

He said: "I am proud of them. They have been fantastic in this run.

"Edwin van der Sar has had a fantastic career but he was really pleased to get this record. You look at him and what happened has really thrilled him."

After Van der Sar kept West Brom at bay for 84 minutes he broke Chelsea keeper Petr Cech's Premier League record of 1,025 minutes without conceding a goal.

The Dutch keeper, who collected the match ball, said: "The most important thing is the win, but of course it is great for the team to get the record. I just needed to keep the concentration levels high and fire up the defenders and midfielders.

"We are delighted with the record because we haven't even had a settled defence, with players injured and others coming in and out."

Van der Sar and Nemanja Vidic have been the only ever-presents in defence over the 11-game run, although they will lose the Serbian to suspension next month.

United expect to discover on Friday what punishment Vidic will face for his sending-off in the Club World Cup final victory over LDU Quito in Japan.

He could get either a one or three-game European ban as Fifa have handed the matter over to Uefa, with United scheduled to face Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League.

But domestically Ferguson was pleased his side took the opportunity to improve their goal difference by thrashing a West Brom side who were reduced to 10 men five minutes before half-time by the sending-off of defender Paul Robinson for a foul on Ji-Sung Park.

Ferguson said: "The scoreline was important. We showed a ruthless streak about us, possibly for the first time this season.

"It has been a long time coming and we needed it because I think goal difference could play a part. It is a satisfying result in that respect."

Dimitar Berbatov Launches Rout As United Claim Premier League Record

Manchester United made it a record 11 Premier League clean sheets as they thrashed West Brom at The Hawthorns.

Dimitar Berbatov's angled finish put them ahead after 22 minutes, with Albion's Paul Robinson sent off before half-time for fouling Ji-Sung Park.

Carlos Tevez tapped in seconds before the break after Scott Carson dropped Ryan Giggs' free-kick, and Nemanja Vidic headed home a third on the hour.

Cristiano Ronaldo then struck twice in eight minutes to seal United's win.

It gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side a three-point lead ahead of Liverpool in the title race, with the added bonus of topping up their goal difference in style.

United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has now gone 1,032 minutes without conceding, beating the previous record set by Chelsea's Petr Cech five seasons ago.

Albion and their fans were furious with the performance of referee Rob Styles, particularly his decision to send off Robinson, but the brutal reality was that they were outclassed by a United side that looked in ominously good order.

United were lifted by the return of Rio Ferdinand after a back injury - but he was rarely required as the champions strolled to victory.

Jay Simpson looked lively early on for Albion, but United always carried the greater threat and it was no surprise when they carved out the opener.

Michael Carrick exchanged passes with Berbatov and the Bulgarian completed the formalities with a powerful angled finish past Carson.

Tevez should have doubled United's lead three minutes later, but he turned Ronaldo's cross just wide at the near post.

Ronaldo was also guilty of squandering a glorious opening when he chipped over Carson when clean through, but his effort rolled wide.

The huge task facing Albion was made even tougher five minutes before the interval when Robinson was shown a red card by referee Styles for a meaty challenge on Park.

It did not look like he had his foot raised and he appeared to get the ball, but Styles saw differently and enraged The Hawthorns by sending off the experienced defender.

The game was effectively over as a contest seconds before the interval when Carson dropped Giggs' free-kick at the feet of Tevez six yards out, the Argentine slotting home a simple finish.

Albion's last hope of a lifeline disappeared when Ryan Donk's powerful shot struck an upright and rebounded to safety after 57 minutes.

United got their third on the hour when Vidic arrived to power a corner from Giggs past Carson.

It was now a case of damage limitation for Albion - but United were not in the mood to allow them even that small mercy.

The fourth came after 65 minutes when Tevez released Giggs, who timed his pass to perfection for Ronaldo to score with a precise right-foot finish.

Ronaldo was on target again eight minutes later when Berbatov, who looked suspiciously offside, played him in to beat Carson through his legs.

It was time for some changes from United, with Ferguson giving a Premier League debut to new Serbian signing Zoran Tosic.

It was a comfortable night for United - but not for rivals Liverpool and Chelsea who play on Wednesday.

West Brom: Carson, Hoefkens, Pele, Donk, Robinson, Zuiverloon (Morrison 64), Borja Valero, Koren, Brunt, Simpson (Bednar 64), Fortune (Cech 46).

Subs Not Used: Kiely, Kim, Dorrans, Filipe Teixeira.

Sent Off: Robinson (40).

Booked: Koren, Bednar, Carson, Donk, Morrison.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Neville (Eckersley 71), Ferdinand (Brown 70), Vidic, O'Shea, Park, Carrick, Giggs, Ronaldo, Berbatov (Tosic 77), Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Scholes, Fletcher, Gibson.

Booked: Park, Carrick.

Goals: Berbatov 22, Tevez 44, Vidic 60, Ronaldo 65, 73.

Att: 26,105

Ref: Rob Styles (Hampshire).

Berbatov drills the ball home to put Man. United ahead after 22 minutes

Giggs Set For New Deal

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Ryan Giggs will be offered a new contract after his sparkling form this season.

The veteran winger-turned-midfielder has been used tactically in recent seasons, playing irregularly but turning in top-notch displays that belie his 35 years of age.

His current contract expires at the end of the current campaign, but Sir Alex insists his longest-serving player need not worry.

"Ryan will be offered a new contract, of course," said Sir Alex. "He has been fantastic for us this season - he seems to be getting even better with age.

"He seems to be one of those rare people who find that age and injuries don't catch up with them."

Giggs has become the most decorated player in English football history, with a string of team honours, but has been largely overlooked for individual accolades.

Following Giggs' fine form this term, however, Sir Alex feels he is in with a shout of scooping the PFA Player of the Year award at the end of the season.

"He could win the Footballer of the Year award," said the United manager. "And it would be fitting if he did after the career he has had."

FA Cup 5th Round Draw

United have been drawn away to Derby County or Nottingham Forest in the fifth round of the FA Cup sponsored by E.ON. The tie will be played on Friday 13, Saturday 14 or Sunday 15 February.

Derby initially met Forest in the FA Cup on Friday night, just three days after losing a thrilling Carling Cup semi-final second leg to United at Old Trafford. Rob Hulse gave the Rams a first-half lead at Pride Park, only for Welsh international Robbie Earnshaw to equalise in the 64th minute. The sides will meet again at Nottingham's City Ground on Wednesday 4 February, to decide who will host the Reds in round five.

Should Forest be successful in the replay, they will meet United for the first time since the Treble winners' famous 8-1 win at the City Ground ten years ago. As for FA Cup history, clashes in consecutive years saw the Reds beat Forest 1-0 away en route to winning the competition in 1990, the season after losing 0-1 at Old Trafford in the last eight.

United also went on to lift the trophy after last playing Derby in the FA Cup. Norman Whiteside scored the only goal at the old Baseball Ground in the fifth round of 1983.

FA Cup fifth round draw
Sheffield United v Hull City
Watford v Chelsea
West Ham United v Middlesbrough
Sunderland or Blackburn v Coventry City
Derby County or Nott'm Forest v Manchester United
Swansea City v Fulham
Liverpool or Everton v Doncaster Rovers or Aston Villa
Cardiff City or Arsenal v West Bromwich Albion or Burnley

Happy 牛 Year!!!

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Rainie Yang

Sir Alex Tops Times Power List

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been named the most influential man in British sport.

The Scot topped the Times newspaper's Power 100 list ahead of London 2012 chairman Lord Sebastian Coe and Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour.

Ferguson, 67, took over at Old Trafford in 1986 and has won more trophies than any other manager in British football.

Jeremy Darroch, Sky TV chief executive, was fourth and Dave Brailsford, British Cycling performance director, fifth.

Explaining why Ferguson came out on top the Times commented: "He has been shaping our sporting lives for decades, to the extent that he is atop our summit, and the hard part is not establishing where his power starts but where it ends.

"Ferguson's leverage goes way beyond a Godfatherly presence among his peers. If the modern Premier League is a global phenomenon — and it is the most watched and wealthy sporting franchise on the planet — then Ferguson is its founding father.

"It was he who built the modern megaclub that is Manchester United, the giant flagship of the Premier League enterprise."

Before being appointed Manchester United manager, the Scot was in charge of Aberdeen where he won the Scottish League title on three occasions and also has success in Europe, winning the Uefa Cup Winners' Cup and Uefa Super Cup.

United are currently World, European and Premier League champions and Ferguson continues to look to add to his haul of 10 Premier League, five FA Cup, two Champions League and two League Cup titles.

Coe won 1500m gold at the 1980 and 1984 Olympics and was instrumental in bringing the Olympic Games to London in 2012.

The 52-year-old also set a number of world records and is a former MP, chairman of Fifa's ethics committee and vice-president of the IAAF, the world governing body of athletics.

The Times said: "He will be remembered as one of British sport's greatest statesmen."

Putting Sheikh Mansour at number three on the list, the newspaper said the impact of his riches "has been seismic" and that "there is every chance he will top this list next year if he achieves his goal of transforming City."

The oil-rich Sheikh, a member of the royal family of Abu Dhabi, bought City in summer for about £200m and is reportedly worth about £15bn.

The Eastlands club have already flexed their newfound financial muscle with a bid of £100m for AC Milan star Kaka, only to be rejected by the Brazilian, but did the seal the signing of Robinho from Real Madrid in September for £32.5m.

Billionaire Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was sixth in the list, England and on-loan AC Milan midfielder David Beckham seventh and England manager Fabio Capello eighth.

Debutants Earn Praise

United’s three debutants against Tottenham Hotspur – Fabio, Richard Eckersley and Zoran Tosic – have drawn praise for their impressive Old Trafford bows.

Injuries may be testing the full depth of Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad, but the situation is also offering chances to young players, with United fans introduced to more new faces in the 2-1 FA Cup fourth victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

“They did really well,” Paul Scholes told MUTV. “Fabio did really well and it’s unfortunate that he picked up an injury. But then Eckersley came on and did really well. He’s been out for three months with a knee injury, so to come straight into a first-team game is really good, and Zoran came on towards the end, dug in and defended for us really well.”

Fabio, whose twin brother Rafael has already made 18 appearances in the first-team, really caught the eye with a confident performance at left-back before eventually being forced off with a calf strain. "The da Silva brothers have got great temperament to play,” said Sir Alex. “They’ve got a winning mentality. Like Rafael, Fabio loves playing and loves training, the enthusiasm is always there."

Reds goalkeeper Ben Foster was in the perfect position to judge Fabio’s first outing for the Reds. “Confidence is something that those twins definitely aren’t lacking!” he said. “Since they arrived they have been absolutely fantastic. Fabio has been a bit unlucky with injuries, but he’s definitely one for the future.”

The Debutants:

Fabio

Richard Eckersley

Zoran Tosic

Manchester United Come From Behind To Knock Tottenham Out Of The FA Cup

Dimitar Berbatov knocked his former club Tottenham out of the FA Cup by scoring the winner at Old Trafford.

Roman Pavlyuchenko's header from Tom Huddlestone's cross put Spurs ahead, but they were pinned back after that.

Carlos Tevez was twice denied, first by Ben Alnwick's excellent save and later by the crossbar, before Paul Scholes equalised with a low, deflected shot.

Berbatov rifled in after latching on to Michael Carrick's superb lofted pass to seal United's place in the fifth round.

In midweek, Spurs came out on top after a terrific fightback at Burnley to reach the Carling Cup final - where they will meet United - but the Londoners were unable to repeat the trick.

United proved too slick, too strong and too incisive for their visitors, who seemed to surprise themselves when they drew first blood after only five minutes.

Pavlyuchenko beat Nemanja Vidic to Tom Huddlestone's cross and glanced a header into the far corner to give Spurs a dream start.

And it seemed a world away from the nightmare Spurs almost suffered against Burnley - a night boss Harry Redknapp called the most uncomfortable of his footballing life.

But Redknapp, who had selected a strong-looking line-up, was soon to feel discomfort again as United took control of the match.

United, too, were not as under-strength as expected, and it was familiar faces that were on the end of chance after chance.

Berbatov latched on to a ball over the top but dragged his shot wide and soon after, Tevez smashed a fierce effort against the bar.

It was not just experienced internationals who were catching the eye, United debutant Fabio Da Silva was making a big impact as an attacking left-back.

And the skilful Danny Welbeck was denied what would have been a Ricky Villa-esque goal by Chris Gunter's excellent block after the winger had weaved past three players.

Scholes and Cristiano Ronaldo shot off target as United peppered Tottenham's goal and Alnwick saved superbly when he palmed over a Tevez volley.

Yet after all their intricacy, it was an ugly goal that brought United level, when Scholes' low shot took a deflection off Huddlestone to leave Alnwick stranded.

But the strike that put United was top quality - and a double blow for Spurs as it involved two of their former players.

Carrick picked out Berbatov with a sublime pass and the Bulgarian took one touch to control before placing the ball into the bottom corner.

Spurs made a change at half-time, bringing on Giovani for the disappointing Luka Modric.

But while there was a little more threat from Redknapp's side there was no real cutting edge.

Gareth Bale shot wide from a tight angle and David Bentley, who later made way for Jermain Defoe, also struck a shot off target.

The former Blackburn winger's well-struck volley that whistled into the side netting was the closest his side came to an equaliser.

Ronaldo forced another good save from Alnwick but chances dried up as the tempo of the matched slowed.

Spurs tried to inject some pace into their play but never looked like getting an equaliser, despite applying some pressure at the end.

The Londoners had one handball appeal and one appeal for a foul turned down by the referee as United held on.

United will clinch an unprecedented quadruple if they win the Carling Cup, the FA Cup, the Premier League and the Champions League.

However, boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be concerned after Ronaldo, Da Silva and Welbeck became the latest additions to a lengthy injury list.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:
"Give them a start - it always helps, doesn't it?

"But they recovered well, they played excellent stuff in the first half and the goalkeeper's made two or three very good saves, we hit the crossbar.

"Dimitar Berbatov's goal was fantastic but it was also a marvellous pass from Michael Carrick."

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp:
"I thought we did well. It is tough to come here - you have to be careful, if you open up you can get beaten by four, five or six goals.

"We started well, but a bad two-minute spell cost us. In the second half neither keeper had an awful lot to do.

"But I thought we were always in the game and I could see us nicking a goal and earning a replay."

Man Utd: Foster, O'Shea, Neville, Vidic, Fabio Da Silva (Eckersley 53), Welbeck (Fletcher 86), Carrick, Scholes, Ronaldo (Tosic 72), Berbatov, Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Giggs, Possebon, Chester.

Booked: Vidic, Tevez.

Goals: Scholes 35, Berbatov 36.

Tottenham: Alnwick, Gunter, Corluka, Dawson, Assou-Ekotto, Bentley (Defoe 72), Huddlestone, Zokora, Bale (Taarabt 67), Modric (Giovani 46), Pavlyuchenko.

Subs Not Used: Gomes, Gilberto, Rocha, Dervite.

Goals: Pavlyuchenko 5.

Att: 75,014

Ref: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).

Berbatov hitting the winning goal against his former club

Debutant Tosic in action

£125m Deal Fits For Reds

United are out to land a new £125million shirt sponsorship deal - with Saudi Telecom favourites to get their name on the famous shirt.

AIG yesterday confirmed they would not be renewing their £19m-a-year sponsorship deal at the end of next season. The firm has collapsed in the credit crunch and had to be propped up by the US taxpayer.

Saudi Telecom, the leading provider of telecommunications in Saudi Arabia, have no such problems. They are desperate to increase their influence with United, who are massive in the Middle East.

Saudi Telecom already have a £15m, five-year deal with the club to use United’s branding with their products inside their own country. But the prospective shirt sponsorship deal will dwarf AIG’s and be worth £25million-a-year over five years.

A United spokesman said: “[We are] exploring the possibility of a shirt sponsor for the 2010-11 season. The club is in dialogue with a select number of top companies worldwide and has so far received sufficient interest to be confident it can improve on its £19m annual partnership with AIG.”

United have also made contact with Indian financial services corporation Sahara.
- Staff reporter, The Sun -

Sir Alex Praises His Coaches

Sir Alex Ferguson feels vindicated in his decision to promote Mike Phelan to assistant manager and Rene Meulensteen to first-team coach in the wake of Carlos Queiroz's departure last summer.

The Reds boss says the two senior members of his backroom team have taken well to the challenge of their new roles.

"We don't like change," the boss told Inside United. "We like to have longevity at the club."

Sir Alex refused to be rushed into a decision when Queiroz departed to take over as Portugal national team coach, but he is pleased with how his eventual appointments have worked out.

"When I was looking around the club, one of the issues we had to consider was the international flavour we have, but other than that Mike was the outstanding candidate for the assistant's role.

"Rene brings a different type of coaching to that of Carlos Queiroz, but still boasts just the same quality. So it was a natural thing to do, I think, and they've both done very well so far."

AIG Ends Man. United Sponsorship Deal

The troubled US insurer AIG will not be renewing its shirt sponsorship deal with Manchester United that expires in May 2010.

AIG agreed to pay £14m-a-year for four years for the shirt sponsorship and also has a longer £5m-a-year deal to run MU Finance.

It is currently restructuring itself, having received a $150bn (£109bn) bail-out from the US government.

It is not clear whether the MU Finance deal will continue.

AIG signed a six-and-a-half year deal at the beginning of 2008 to offer insurance, credit cards and mortgages using the MU Finance brand.

Manchester United said that it had already started talking to a select group of potential sponsors.

Its spokesman added that it was normal to begin the process this early because technical issues surrounding the manufacturing of shirts meant that it has to know who will be its shirt sponsor for the 2010/2011 season by the autumn.

Last week in Macau, Manchester United chief executive David Gill said he would not be surprised if the AIG shirt sponsorship deal was not renewed.

AIG has already ended its sponsorship deal with the US Davis Cup tennis team.

O'Shea Hopes For United Quadruple

Manchester United defender John O'Shea is dreaming of the quadruple after reaching the Carling Cup final with Tuesday's 4-3 aggregate win over Derby.

Utility man O'Shea told BBC Radio Manchester: "That is obviously something you hope for at the start of the season and we're in one final now.

"We're still in the FA Cup, going well in the Premier League and the Champions League is soon to start up again."

The Red Devils have won the Community Shield and Club World Cup this season.

Republic of Ireland international O'Shea said: "Fingers crossed when the Champions League starts up, we'll have a fully fit squad - that's where you can dream of those sorts of things."

O'Shea scored his first goal of the season in Tuesday's 4-2 win as they overturned a 1-0 first-leg deficit.

United are hoping to top the treble season of 1998/99 when they won the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

Wembley Here We Come!

Darron Gibson is looking forward to a grand day out at Wembley after helping United reach the Carling Cup final with victory over Derby.

The young Irishman produced another composed and sound performance in midfield as the Reds triumphed 4-3 on aggregate to book their place in the March 1 showpiece.

"I’m buzzing," Gibson told MUTV. "I can’t wait to go to Wembley - it’ll be my first major final so I’m really looking forward to it.

"It was a good game. We knew we had to be offensive from the start, we scored two early goals and deserved to win in the end. I think the game was over after we scored two, although they did well to get back into it."

This was Gibson's ninth appearance of the season and the 21-year-old is delighted to be a growing part of Sir Alex Ferguson's plans, particularly in this competition.

"It’s unbelievable," he said. "I see players like Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick on the bench and there’s no better feeling. It’s good that the boss is keeping faith with me and putting me in there."

Gibson is now hoping Burnley can spring a major surprise in the other semi-final on Wednesday, by overturning a 4-1 first-leg deficit against Tottenham.

He added: "It should be a good game, Burnley have a lot of work to do to pull it back, but hopefully they can do something."

Fledglings Merit Final Place

Sir Alex Ferguson will give United's youngsters a day to remember on Sunday 1 March, as reward for taking the Reds to yet another domestic final.

The manager is promising to play some of his young players in the Carling Cup clash against Burnley or Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley. And while it will be the first major domestic final for the likes of Jonny Evans, Darron Gibson, Rafael and Danny Welbeck, it will be Sir Alex's 14th, following 15 semi-final ties.

“It’s a great record. The club have done well in semi-finals over the years and once again the players have done us proud," Sir Alex said.

“Wembley’s a special place. I think our record of going to finals there is terrific. Just being there is always a great experience but you obviously want to win the final because that's really the only way to enjoy it.

"Finals are always hard to get to. The young lads have done fantastic to be there and they will play in the final, absolutely.

"I was just disappointed I couldn't give Possebon a bit tonight. The injuries meant I had to bring on James Chester and Darren Fletcher. So that was a bit disappointing for young Rodrigo because he deserves a bit of it."

Chester made his debut, aged 19, as a second-half substitute for Gary Neville. Like so many fledglings in the past, the reserve team captain didn't look fazed by any means.

"He came on at a difficult time because we were starting to limp about the place, we'd lost a bit of momentum and we had some defending to do," said Sir Alex. "But he did very well.

"The important thing with our young players is to find out about their temperament.

"They've all proved again tonight they have an excellent temperament for playing on big occasions. It’s always a big test for a young boy in front of 75,000 fans and they’ve done very well with that."

Chester looked set for a comfortable introduction to senior football after the Reds raced into a three-goal lead but a late Derby resurgence made it a decent test and won the praise of the United manager.

"Obviously in the first half we could have been out of sight, our performance was absolutely brilliant. But Derby kept on plugging away and they got their rewards with two goals and it made it a good night for their ten or twelve thousand supporters who’ve travelled.

"It turned out to be a really good cup tie in the second half."

Man. United See Off Derby To Cup Final

Manchester United booked their place in the Carling Cup final despite being given a late scare by Derby County.

The Rams led 1-0 from the first leg but a fierce Nani strike levelled the tie and defensive errors let John O'Shea and Carlos Tevez put United in charge.

Derby improved after the break and Giles Barnes replied from the spot when Paul Green was fouled in the area.

Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty seemed to have sealed United's win but Barnes' superb free-kick set up a tense finale.

It is United who have reached Wembley, where they will take on Burnley or Tottenham, but the Championship strugglers still deserve praise for the spirit they showed at Old Trafford when the game looked dead and buried.

It also emphasised how there could have been a very different outcome had Derby made the most of their opportunities in the first leg.

The Rams had won that game courtesy of Kris Commons' strike but they wasted several other chances and their failure to take more than a one-goal cushion to Old Trafford was always going to make their task in the second leg a difficult one.

Things began promisingly enough for Derby when Commons hustled Darron Gibson off the ball and fired in a rasping shot that United keeper Ben Foster was grateful to see fly wide.

But, once United settled and began to probe the Rams defence, they found gaping holes and took full advantage.

On 16 minutes, Nani was allowed to pick up the ball on the half-way line and advance unchallenged towards the penalty area before letting fly with a ferocious shot that Roy Carroll got a hand to but could not keep out of his net.

Things got worse for Derby six minutes later when Gary Teale stepped up to try to catch O'Shea offside but only succeeded in giving the Republic of Ireland defender time to pick his spot for his first goal this season.

And their defence disintegrated altogether on 34 minutes when Giggs fed Rafael with a quick corner and the Brazilian whipped in a curling cross that gave the unmarked Tevez the easy task of heading home from close range.

The tie looked done and dusted at that point and United, understandably, took their foot off the pedal after the break.

Carroll had to claw away a free-kick by Giggs, who had been in vintage form early on, immediately after the restart but from that point onwards it was all about Derby.

The Premier League leaders were not exactly under pressure but they were no longer threatening, while the Rams went close with Rob Hulse heading over and Green missing the target with a volley.

Things got even more interesting when defender Jonny Evans picked up an injury with 15 minutes left but was forced to play on as United had used up all three of their substitutes.

Evans was clearly struggling and that was a factor when he clipped Green in the box with 10 minutes left, allowing Barnes to drill home from the spot.

United responded well and Ronaldo, who had come off the bench, appeared to wrap things up with a penalty of his own after Tevez was brought down by Carroll.

But Barnes had other ideas and his superb free-kick in injury-time brought Derby within one goal of forcing extra-time.

It was not to be but the night was still far less straightforward than United might have anticipated at the interval.

To add to United's problems, Rafael and Anderson also picked up injuries and could face long lay-offs at a crucial stage of the season.

Man Utd: Foster, Rafael Da Silva (Fletcher 42), Neville (Chester 67), Evans, O'Shea, Nani, Gibson, Anderson, Giggs (Ronaldo 58), Welbeck, Tevez.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Tosic, Scholes, Possebon.

Booked: Rafael Da Silva, Fletcher.

Goals: Nani 16, O'Shea 22, Tevez 34, Ronaldo 89 pen.

Derby: Carroll, Connolly, Albrechtsen, Todd (Barazite 62), Stewart, Teale, Addison, Green, Davies (Savage 46), Commons (Barnes 68), Hulse.

Subs Not Used: Bywater, Villa, Nyatanga, Hines.

Booked: Addison, Green, Carroll.

Goals: Barnes 80 pen, 90.

Agg (4-3)

Att: 73,374

Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).

Man. United take just 16 minutes to cancel out Derby's lead as Nani scores with a dipping effort from 33 yards

Five minutes later, John O'Shea springs a woeful offside trap and slots in Manchester United's second to put them ahead on aggregate

Carlos Tevez is left unmarked to head in his sixth goal in the Carling Cup this season as United head in at half-time 3-0 ahead

Giles Barnes makes it 3-1 from the spot as Derby reduce the aggregate score at Old Trafford

Substitute Barnes' penalty makes it 3-2 on aggregate but then Roy Carroll brings down Tevez for another clear spot-kick

Cristiano Ronaldo, on as a substitute for Ryan Giggs, steps up to score from the spot to restore United's two-goal lead

Panda 'SUN SUN' On Sale Now!

Dear Friends:

Kindly do your part in helping the less fortunate....

为了帮助慈援组织(Mercy Relief) 扩展国际发展援助计划，帮助更多贫困群众，爱心大使 孙燕姿推出了"爱心熊猫"绒毛玩偶。每只“爱心熊猫”都附上孙燕姿亲笔写的爱心小语，每只售价38新元。欲购买者请电邮 exchange@mercyrelief.org 或拨电 +65 6332 6320。

Mercy Relief’s Goodwill Ambassador, Stefanie Sun launched Panda “Sun Sun” at rural Anyue county in Sichuan on 13 January 2009.

Panda ‘Sun Sun’ (read as San San) is the 2nd edition of Stefanie Sun’s charity collection for Mercy Relief. Each Panda is S$38*.

Sun Sun dons Mercy Relief’s field vest and cap, together with a picture of Stefanie at a Dujiangyan relief camp just after the Wenchuan earthquake. The photo comes with Stef’s personal humanitarian message and signature.

The 5,000 limited edition will be available for sale to the public and Stefanie Fans’ clubs around the world including Singapore, Taiwan, China, Macau, Hong Kong and Canada.

The first edition of Stef’s charity collection was the Goodwill Bear launched in 2005 to support the post-tsunami operations in Aceh. The limited edition of 2000 units was fully sold out within a month.

Proceeds from the sale of the pandas will go towards supporting Mercy Relief’s international development programme in the Asian region to address the rural poor.

To purchase:
1) Come to our office & collect the Panda personallyMercy Relief office:160 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh #01-1568 Monday - Friday : 10am - 7.30pmSaturday : 10am - 3pmPrice SGD $38 nett- cash payment only

2) Fill in the purchase order form and send to exhange@mercyrelief.org In the form:

a) Choose payment mode - Credit card or cheque payment

b) Choose collection mode - self collection or direct home delivery*

*For local (within Singapore) delivery - Price SGD $48 (inclusive of delivery & handing charges)

*For overseas delivery- Price SGD $70 (inclusive of delivery & handling charges)

For other purchase queries or to make bulk reservations, you can contact Mercy Relief at exchange@mercyrelief.org or +65 63326320. Purchase reservations are valid for 1 week.

Link to Purchase order form for Panda Sun Sun (http://www.mercyrelief.org/displaysinglerss.php?linkurl=http://mrupdates.blogspot.com/2009/01/purchase-order-form-for-panda-sun-sun.html)

Mercy Relief's Goodwill Ambassador, Stefanie Sun has launched Panda 'Sun Sun' at rural Anyue county in Sichuan on 13 January 2009

Sun Sun dons Mercy Relief’s field vest and cap, together with a picture of Stefanie at a Dujiangyan relief camp just after the Wenchuan earthquake. The photo comes with Stef’s personal humanitarian message and signature.

Gary: Hard Work Starts Here

United might be top of the league, but club captain Gary Neville is refusing to get carried away.

Dimitar Berbatov’s late winner at the Reebok Stadium saw the Reds leapfrog Liverpool at the top of the table, if only until Rafa Benitez’s side play Everton on Monday evening.

But Gary Neville has won enough trophies to know the only time league position counts is on the last day of the season.

“We’re experienced enough to know that nothing’s won in January,” Neville told MUTV. “We’re top of the league now but we can be knocked off. We’ll only know how significant this result was at the end of the season.

“[In December] our aim was to get through the Club World Cup trip to Japan and still be in contention. We’ve done that and we’re top now, but the really hard work is still to come.”

At times on Saturday it looked as if United would never find a way past Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaskelainen. But Neville says he never gave up hope, even as the clock ticked ever closer to the 90 minute mark.

“I remember looking at the clock and there was a minute left,” Neville said. “But at this club you never think you’re out of the match – you always know you’ll get another chance. That’s been the motto down the years: we’ll always get a chance.

“And we got that against Bolton. Carlos Tevez did absolutely brilliantly down the inside right channel. He got into those areas all day, particularly in the first half and we kept playing it into him. He was very dangerous for us.”

Of course, Berbatov’s header wasn’t the first goal United have scored in the dying minutes this season. In fact, the Reds’ winner at Bolton was the 19th occasion United have scored in the final 15 minutes of games this season.

“We’ve had to do that a few times recently,” Neville said. “I’m thinking about Sunderland, Stoke and now Bolton. All those teams have played in a similar way and ended up with no reward because we’ve remained patient and not lost our concentration at the back.

“We know someone from our team can create a bit of magic or one of the defenders will lose their man. And the more tired the opposition gets, the more difficult it is for them to stay with our players.”

Berbatov Heads Man. United To The Top

Dimitar Berbatov's late winner sent champions Manchester United to the top of the Premier League table for the first time this season.

Berbatov headed home from close range after a fine cross from Carlos Tevez on the right in the 90th minute just as the game was heading towards a draw.

For the preceding 89 minutes United had been thwarted by Jussi Jaaskelainen.

The Bolton keeper saved superbly from two Cristiano Ronaldo free-kicks and also a header from the United winger.

United's win saw them equal Chelsea's record, set in 2004-05, of 10 consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, as they bid for a third consecutive title.

Long-time leaders Liverpool will now have to beat Everton in Monday's Merseyside derby to return to the top, though Sir Alex Ferguson's side will then have a game in hand.

United were missing the injured Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra but were boosted by Tevez and Jonny Evans both passing late fitness tests.

In the opening exchanges United dominated possession, while Bolton relied on set-pieces and long balls to trouble the visitors but found Nemanja Vidic and Evans in fine form.

Bolton started with new loan signing Ariza Makukula up front and his physical presence troubled United in the air.

Fabrice Muamba also provided muscle in midfield and he saw a long-range effort tipped over the bar by Edwin Van der Sar.

It took until the 35th minute for the first real chance of the game when Ronaldo's header was beaten out by Jaaskelainen.

The Bolton keeper was called into action twice again before half-time, first superbly stopping Ronaldo's fierce, low 20-yard free-kick and then routinely keeping out Anderson's long-range effort.

If Ronaldo troubled Bolton with his free-kicks, he was less assured with his final pass, while Tevez struggled to hold on to the ball up front.

Anderson and Michael Carrick were also erratic with their distribution and in truth United lacked the guile that Rooney, who was missing with a hamstring injury, provides.

Ronaldo again went close with a free-kick while Bolton offered very little, seemingly content to settle for a vital point.

With 17 minutes remaining Ferguson called for the cavalry and Ryan Giggs, making his 550th league appearance, and Paul Scholes entered the fray.

The veteran duo sparked United into life as they went in search of the vital goal.

Tevez went close with a header while Ronaldo also saw another powerful free-kick kept out by Jaaskelainen.

Just as it looked as if the game would end goalless, Tevez escaped the attention of two defenders before crossing for Berbatov, six yards out, to head powerfully past Jaaskelainen to win the game for United.

Bolton manager Gary Megson:
"Our part in that goal was particularly poor.

"I put three centre-halves in there at the end because we were out on our feet. It looked as though we would get something but it hasn't happened.

"I don't know if this result was ominous for the rest of the league but if anyone finishes above United, they will win it.

"They usually come good in the second half of the season but if you look at what Chelsea have done, they will be equally delighted. That is what good teams do."

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Steinsson, Cahill, Andrew O'Brien, Samuel, Davies, Basham, Muamba, Gardner (Puygrenier 83), Taylor, Makukula (Obadeyi 64).

Subs Not Used: Bogdan, Smolarek, Riga, Shittu, Sinclair.

Booked: Makukula.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Neville, Vidic, Evans, O'Shea, Fletcher (Giggs 69), Carrick, Anderson (Scholes 69), Ronaldo, Tevez, Berbatov.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Park, Nani, Welbeck, Chester.

Booked: O'Shea.

Goals: Berbatov 90.

Att: 26,021

Ref: Andre Marriner (England).

Berbatov heading the vital winning goal that sends Man. United to the top of the Premier League

Rafael: I Love This Club

Almost unknown when he arrived at United a year ago with his twin brother Fabio, Rafael has been quick to make his mark at Old Trafford. Already a world champion, he’s intent on more silverware to cap a stunning maiden campaign...

A year ago you began training at United – did you think you could come so far, so quickly?
When I arrived, I had not played for a year. I was surprised when I played against Peterborough in August, I never thought it would happen so soon. I know my ability, but my training was not good at first. After the first game, the boss said some very good things about me, which was fantastic for me because I love this club. I am already thinking of being here in many, many years. One year ago I was not even playing, now to play so much is fantastic.

There are a few Brazilians at United these days – does that help make you feel at home?
Yes, very much. When I first came here, there were no Brazilians and only Ronaldo who spoke Portuguese. Now there's Nani, Anderson, Ronaldo, Manucho, Rodrigo (Possebon), (Evandro) Brandao... Fabio, my brother, of course. It is very nice, and very helpful that I can speak Portuguese, but it's not so good for my English!

You're young and learning, what areas of your game are you trying to improve most?
I think being in defence, because here is completely different to Brazil. The right-back in Brazil is always attacking, attacking, attacking, but not here. For me, maybe sometimes it is that way because I like attacking, but it’s not usually that way in England so I want to improve my defending.

Gary Neville is one of your direct rivals for the right-back position, but is he helping you?
Rivals, yes, but he has helped me so much. All the time he is helping me. In games we've played together he is always telling me where the right position is to be. He knows so much. I want the position of right-back, but Gary has been very good to me.

How enjoyable was it to score your first goal at Arsenal, even though United lost?(Smiles)
I will never forget that game. because this was my first goal for United, and a nice goal too! United and Arsenal is a big game, so it was very good to score. I did not celebrate because the team was losing. If we had got another goal, then I would have celebrated more.

What were your thoughts ahead of the Manchester derby, and facing Robinho? Were you pleased with how you played?
That game, I did not play well. It was my first derby and I don’t know why, but I don’t think I played well. But before that game, in Brazil, everybody was ‘ah, Robinho’, but ‘Who is Rafael?’ Now, the people in Brazil know. After the game we traded shirts, he said ‘good work’ and wished me good luck for the rest of the season.

What are your aims for the remainder of the season?
I want titles. We are world champions already this season, but I want more – including the Premier League. And I want to make lots of appearances. For me, at 18 years old, it has been amazing. Now I want more.

Sir Alex Confirms Manucho Loan

Sir Alex has confirmed Angolan striker Manucho has joined Hull City on loan until the end of the season.

The 25-year-old, who signed for the Reds in December 2007, made his first-team debut against Middlesbrough in the Carling Cup earlier this season.

He’s since made three appearances from the bench for the senior side, while four starts in the Reserves this term have yielded one goal, but United are keen for the powerful striker to gain some regular experience at the top level.

“Manucho needs experience, and he needs games at a good level,” said the boss, who isn’t concerned that the Angolan’s departure leaves United short in the striker department.

“We’re confident in the progress of [Danny] Welbeck and the young boy [Federico] Macheda, who is doing exceptionally well in the youth team and Reserves. He’s a big lad now, he’s doing fantastically well. We also have the option of playing Ronaldo as a striker, too. So we’re well covered in that department.”

Manucho joins a Hull City side currently eighth in the league but struggling for form. After a strong start to the season, the Tigers have won just one of their last 12 league games.

This is the second loan spell in Manucho’s United career. Shortly after signing for the Reds, he joined Greek side Panathinaikos, where he scored four times.

Andy Cole: Man. United To Win The Title

Ex-United forward Andy Cole is adamant the current strike-force at Old Trafford has what it takes to win the Barclays Premier League title again this year.

The Treble-winning legend has been an interested observer since Dimitar Berbatov joined Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney at his old club. With Cristiano Ronaldo also in the mix, it's arguably United's best attacking quartet since Cole was on the payroll with Teddy Sheringham, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Dwight Yorke.

“It takes time to adapt to a new style and to build partnerships," Cole told BBC Sport.

“When I first went to United, Brian Kidd told me 'If you think 40 goals is enough at this football club, you're wrong.' I looked at him and thought he was mad. But once I'd been at United for a few months, I knew exactly where he was coming from."

United’s strikers are now approaching top gear with Berbatov, Rooney and Tevez all scoring significant goals during the past month. Tevez netted the only goal at Stoke City on Boxing Day and he could start United's next away game at Bolton. Rooney's out through injury after scoring the 49th-second winner against Wigan - his 12th goal of the season.

Meanwhile Berbatov's efforts against Middlesbrough and Chelsea are helping him to win over those critics who demanded a greater yield from the languid Bulgarian, despite the contribution he was already making to the team with his graceful style and passing.

Cole said: "I had to work incredibly hard to develop my game and these players will do the same. I think they'll take United to the title."

Vidic's Perfect Match

Wayne Rooney may have scored the only goal of the game, but Nemanja Vidic was the star of United’s 1-0 win over Wigan.

That was the verdict from Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson after United kept a club-record ninth consecutive clean sheet in the league

Nemanja was absolutely magnificent today,” the boss told MUTV. “His performance was the best you’ll see from a centre-back.

“He played like a natural centre-half, a winner of the ball, a reader of the game. He was tough as nails and I thought he was absolutely fantastic.”

Vidic was perhaps busier than many United fans had expected. After all, the Reds had easily brushed aside Wigan on the Latics’ past two visits to Old Trafford.

On Wednesday, however, Steve Bruce’s side showed much more character, with Lee Cattermole and Wilson Palacios proving particularly willing to put themselves about in the centre of midfield.

Indeed, as Wigan gradually gained more control in the centre of the park, Sir Alex was forced to reshuffle his side and switch to a three-man central midfield. The natural width Nani provides was sacrificed; in its place United opted for Anderson’s steel and stamina.

“The challenge for us was to get a win,” the boss said. “Sometimes there are games you win 1-0 in which you don’t play particularly well. There have been many occasions like that over the years.

“But we battled hard and showed a lot of sprit to get the three points.”

Mixed Fortunes For Match Winner Rooney

Manchester United closed the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to two points - with a game in hand - as they struggled to victory against Wigan.

Wayne Rooney slid in Cristiano Ronaldo's cross in the first minute, but limped off with a hamstring injury five minutes later.

Substitute Carlos Tevez then missed United's best chance after rounding Latics keeper Chris Kirkland.

Wigan had plenty of possession but could not carve out any clear chances.

United were not at their most impressive, but manager Sir Alex Ferguson will simply be delighted to have built on the 3-0 win against title rivals Chelsea with another vital three points to move into second place in the table.

And United's defence stretched their impressive recent record to nine league games without conceding a goal.

Wigan, for their part, performed creditably after going behind so early on, confirming their development under Steve Bruce.

Ferguson made five changes from the side that beat Chelsea so comfortably on Sunday - and they carried on where they had left off by taking the lead inside a minute.

Newly crowned Fifa World Player of the Year for 2008 Ronaldo escaped down the right flank, and his cross was the perfect invitation for Rooney to steer in the simplest of finishes from close range.

It was Rooney's last meaningful action as he fell victim with a hamstring strain five minutes later and limped off, to be replaced by Tevez.

And the Argentine should have doubled United's lead after 25 minutes. He was sent clear by John O'Shea's clearance, but his touch let him down as he rounded Kirkland and the chance was lost.

Wigan were barely seen as an attacking force, and it took a brave challenge from Mario Melchiot to block Paul Scholes's goal-bound drive.

The visitors' only clear opening came four minutes before the interval, when Ryan Taylor shot wildly off target after finding space in the United area.

The visitors needed to increase the tempo after the break, but they only succeeded in picking up three yellow cards in quick succession.

Titus Bramble and Paul Scharner were booked for fouls on Dimitar Berbatov and Tevez, while Amr Zaki was cautioned for breaking too soon from a defensive wall.

Wigan then enjoyed their first sustained spell of pressure, with United forced to defend and goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar saving well from Maynor Figueroa's volley - a threat caused by his own poor throw.

The home side's display had been strangely lacklustre in the second half, and Wigan were being given plenty of encouragement in their belief that they could fashion an equaliser.

Bruce's side almost drew level with nine minutes left when Antonio Valencia's fierce rising drive flew just inches over.

Berbatov almost provided the hosts with the breathing space they badly needed, curling a 20-yard effort narrowly wide with the outside of his foot.

Wigan ended the game in United territory, but never seriously threatened to snatch and equaliser and deprive the champions of victory.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Rafael Da Silva, Vidic, Evans, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Scholes (Fletcher 85), Carrick, Nani (Anderson 59), Berbatov, Rooney (Tevez 8).

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Neville, Park, Welbeck.

Goals: Rooney 1.

Wigan: Kirkland, Melchiot, Scharner, Bramble, Figueroa, Valencia, Cattermole (Kapo 88), Palacios, Taylor (De Ridder 81), Zaki (Camara 75), Heskey.

Subs Not Used: Kingson, Edman, Brown, Boyce.

Booked: Bramble, Scharner, Zaki.

Att: 73,917

Ref: Steve Bennett (Kent).

Cristiano Ronaldo shows off his Fifa World Player of the Year award to the crowd before kick-off

Just 54 seconds of the game has elapsed and Wayne Rooney puts United ahead after a fine cross from man-of-the-moment Ronaldo

Man. United Announce Asia Tour 2009

United chief executive David Gill today announced plans for the Manchester United Asia Tour 2009, the club's fifth tour to the continent in the last decade. The Tour will include stops in Jakarta for the first time, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur and China, with the details of the China stop to be confirmed at a later date.

Organized by ProEvents, the Tour will provide both crucial pre-season training and an opportunity for the world champions to play in front of legions of fans across Asia.

The Reds’ provisional schedule* will see the team depart from Manchester on 16 July as it kicks off its tour in China. From there, the team will head to Seoul to play once again at the World Cup Stadium on 20 July.

In Jakarta, the team will play against an Indonesia Super League Select at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on 24 July. United’s final match will be against a Malaysia XI at either the Shah Alam Stadium or Bukit Jalil Stadium on 26 July.

Unveiling the tour dates, David Gill said:

“Our tours to Asia are always special. The atmosphere generated by the supporters is amazing. The Club enjoys unrivalled support across the continent and it is great to give those fans the opportunity to see their heroes in action in their own country. This tour takes in some new areas – with a game in Malaysia, where we haven’t played since 2001, and one in Indonesia, so it promises to provide some exciting new experiences.”

Speaking from Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson said he and the players were looking forward to their return:

“The players are really looking forward to our Asia Tour. For some, the Club World Cup in Japan was the first time they had experienced the passion generated by the Club in Asia and they enjoyed it immensely. We know we will get terrific support in each of the locations and we will be going to put on a show for our millions of fans over there. Indonesia will be a new experience for us and one I’m especially looking forward to.”

The most popular football club on the planet, according to the 2008 Barclays Global Fans Report, Manchester United are the reigning English, European and World Champions having taken the 2007-08 Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles, and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.

Having previously visited Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Macau and Guangzhou, the club will make its first ever stop in Jakarta this summer. With a population of more than 200 million, Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country making Jakarta’s inclusion in the tour schedule a natural choice.

Paul J. Kam, Chairman of ProEvents, the tour’s sole and exclusive organiser said:

“We are very pleased and excited to welcome Manchester United to Asia. Fans will have a great opportunity to see the newly crowned World Champions play live this summer.

"This marks our sixth tour with Manchester United in 13 years and we are truly proud and appreciate the trust and confidence placed in us by the cClub. It is especially exciting to welcome Manchester United to Jakarta, where Indonesian fans will be able to experience the Reds for the first time.”

David Gill was in Macau to visit the recently-opened ‘Manchester United Experience’, www.manutdexperience.com, at the Venetian Macao Resort-Hotel. The interactive exhibition is the first of its kind in Asia and provides an opportunity for United fans to immerse themselves in the club’s history and culture. The attraction has become a must-see for fans across Hong Kong, Macau and the Pearl River Delta since it was opened by United legends, Bryan Robson and Brian McClair, last month.

*Please note, tour dates are provisional and subject to final confirmation from the local and English FA’s. Confirmed dates and venues will be announced in due course.

Cristiano Salutes Sir Alex

Cristiano Ronaldo took time out to salute the influence of Sir Alex Ferguson as he collected the FIFA World Player of the Year award on Monday evening.

The Portuguese completed a clean sweep of 2008's major personal accolades in Zurich, but was quick to stress that the award was also recognition for the work of others.

"This is an overwhelming moment," he said, upon collecting his award. "It's a dream come true. It's one of the most important moments of my life, and I hope to be back in this position again. After what I did in 2008, to receive this award is amazing and I feel very proud of this achievement.

"It has to be said that the manager has played an important role in this. It was a great season for my club as well as me. Sir Alex Ferguson has taught me so much, his experience over so many years is of paramount importance, and it's a privilege to have such a great manager.

"This is the climax of a fantastic era. I'm proud and happy at what my team has achieved and all the trophies that we've won. I am lucky to to be part of the history of a club like Manchester United."

Ronaldo is also the current holder of the Ballon d'Or and the reigning FIFPro World Player of the Year, PFA and FWA Player of the Year, and has collected a spate of other honours for his stunning exertions over the last year.