FA Cup 3rd Round Draw: United To Face Minnows

United have been drawn at home to Kettering Town or Leeds United in the FA Cup third round.

Conference side Kettering held League One high-flyers Leeds to a 1-1 draw at Rockingham Road on Sunday, and a replay will be required on December 8 to determine which side travels to Old Trafford on January 2 or 3.

The Reds have only twice before faced Kettering - winning FA Cup first round ties in 1896 and 1897 under the club's initial moniker of Newton Heath - but share a deep rooted rivalry with the Whites, despite their absence from the Premier League since 2004.

Speaking after their deadlock at Rockingham Road, Leeds manager Simon Grayson and his Kettering counterpart Lee Harper were both in agreement about the incentive of travelling to Old Trafford.

"It's a fantastic draw for either us or Kettering and a fantastic incentive to get through," Grayson told ITV Sport. "Obviously the rivalry's there for Leeds and Manchester United, but we've got to get through Kettering first. It's a tie both teams will be looking forward to. That's what the FA Cup's all about."

Harper concedes his side will be underdogs to oust the League One leaders on their own turf, and thus is focusing solely on the looming replay at Elland Road.

"It's going to be extremely difficult to go to Elland Road and get a result," he said. "It'll be hard for us, but we'll give it our best shot. We've got an enormous task ahead of us before we start thinking about getting there (Old Trafford) yet. We're going to go to Elland Road, have a great time, do our best and you never know what'll happen."

Full draw:
Tottenham v Peterborough;
Brentford v Doncaster Rovers;
Middlesbrough v Manchester City;
Stoke City v York City;
Notts County v Forest Green Rovers;
Huddersfield Town v West Bromwich Albion;
Sheffield United v QPR;
MK Dons v Burnley;
Chelsea v Watford;
Nottingham Forest v Birmingham City;
Preston North End v Colchester United;
West Ham United v Arsenal;
Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers;
Portsmouth v Coventry City;
Sunderland v Oxford United or Barrow;
Wigan Athletic v Hull City;
Everton v Carlisle United;
Sheffield Wednesday v Crystal Palace;
Tranmere Rovers or Aldershot v Wolverhampton Wanderers;
Blackpool v Ipswich Town;
Fulham v Swindon Town;
Stockport County or Torquay United v Brighton & Hove Albion;
Scunthorpe United v Barnsley;
Southampton v Rotherham United or Luton Town;
Bristol City v Cardiff City;
Reading v Liverpool;
Staines Town or Millwall v Derby County;
Plymouth Argyle v Newcastle United;
Leicester City v Swansea City;
Bolton Wanderers v Lincoln City;
Accrington Stanley or Barnet v Gillingham;
Manchester United v Kettering Town or Leeds United

Discipline Delights Boss

Sir Alex Ferguson praised his side’s discipline and composure after the Reds secured a convincing 4-1 victory at Portsmouth to move within two points of Chelsea.

The United boss watched from the stands as a Wayne Rooney hat-trick and Ryan Giggs’ 100th Premier League goal ensured the Reds remain hot on the heels of Carlo Ancelotti's pace-setters.

The Reds survived a rocky first period before storming to victory after the break, and Sir Alex was pleased with the way his team remained calm before deservedly taking all three points.

“It’s a great result for us, 4-1 away from home, I was very pleased with that,” he told MUTV. “Some of the football was good, and in the second half we kept our discipline very well, we kept possession of the ball very well and we deserved it in the end.”

The Reds' emphatic victory negated a potentially lively debate about the award of Portsmouth's penalty, given for a slight shirt tug by Nemanja Vidic and subsequently converted by Kevin-Prince Boateng. Nevertheless, Sir Alex was satisfied by the manner in which his side overcame that setback.

“I think the linesman put the referee under terrible pressure, and he was fifty yards away," he said. "You see these things every week in the box. Players wrestle with one another, tug at each other’s jerseys but that’s never a penalty kick. This linesman has changed the course of normal decision making. It was disappointing for us to concede in that kind of situation.

“Half time came at a good time for us. The important thing was to keep our discipline, keep our composure and play our football. An early goal was always important in the second half because they had to chase and things can open up for you, and that’s exactly what happened."

Sir Alex also singled out Tomasz Kuszczak for special praise, after the Polish goalkeeper, starting in goal due to the absence of Edwin Van Der Sar, saved United a number of times in the first half.
"In fairness to them, Portsmouth made some good chances," said the United manager. "Tomasz has made three fantastic saves today so we owe him a debt because his performance was top notch, we’re pleased with him."

Giggs' Glee At Slick Reds

Ryan Giggs felt United benefited from a second half downpour as the Reds crushed Portsmouth 4-1 at Fratton Park.

After enduring a tricky first 45 minutes against Avram Grant's side, United hammered in three second half strikes in a much-improved display, and Giggs felt that the Reds’ slick passing game mirrored the saturated south coast turf.

Speaking to MUTV, Giggs said: “The rain helped. It made the pitch a lot quicker and we were much slicker with our passing. Just after half time we created chances, and soon after that Wayne managed to score. It was the perfect start.

“After that the goals came at good times, two quick goals and then we were able to be more confident on the ball.”

United’s control of the second half came after a tricky first period in which the hosts put the Reds’ defence under considerable pressure, forcing Tomasz Kuszczak to be called into action on various occasions.

“It got a lot easier in the second half,” said Giggs. “In the first half they made it difficult for us. As well as the two penalties the game was stopping and starting a lot. In the second half we started very well, created chances and managed to get the goals.”

The veteran winger was especially pleased with the result because, as is the case most weeks, United’s opposition raised their game to make things as hard as possible for the Reds.

"We were warned by the manager before the game that every home came they’ve played they could have won," he said. "They’ve got quality going forward and experience throughout the team so we knew it was going to be a tough game. When we come here, like anywhere, it’s their cup final so they up their performance.”

Finally, Ryan reserved special praise for Wayne Rooney, who netted his third United hat-trick.

"He was brilliant, he was up there on his own. He tied down the two centre-halves and was brilliant all game. He took his goals well and he could have had more but his overall performance was good."

Ryan Giggs scoring his century of Premier League goals

Rooney Eyes Best Ever Tally

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is confident he can achieve his best ever goal tally for a season having helped himself to a hat-trick against Portsmouth.

Avram Grant's first match in charge of Pompey was overshadowed by the form of the England man, as his treble eased United to a 4-1 victory at Fratton Park.

Rooney, who scored twice from the penalty spot, now has ten goals to his name this season; a campaign in which he has perhaps stepped from Cristiano Ronaldo's shadow to establish himself as the club's most important player.

His best ever campaign is back in 2006/07, when he scored 23 in all competitions. It is a figure he is confident he can eclipse this term.

"Taking penalties my tally should be a lot higher," he told the club's official website.

"Thankfully, I've scored two of them today. It's a great feeling to score a hat-trick, an amazing feeling."

United's other goalscorer on the South Coast was the evergreen Ryan Giggs, whose second-half effort was his 100th Premier League goal.

Giggs turns 36 on Sunday and Rooney admits he is staggered at the level of consistency the Welshman achieves week on week.

"If you'd have looked at him playing today you'd never have thought he was anywhere near 36. More 26," he told Sky Sports.

"The way he conducts himself, his performances are just unbelievable."

Rooney Nets Hat-trick In Fratton Park Win

Wayne Rooney's hat-trick helped guide Manchester United to victory over bottom-of-the table Portsmouth.

Rooney put the visitors ahead from the spot after he was brought down by Michael Brown only for Kevin-Prince Boateng's penalty to haul Pompey level.

Ryan Giggs crossed for Rooney to slot in and the Welsh winger was then fouled to allow the England striker to grab his third with a second penalty.

Giggs added a late free-kick as United kept the pressure on leaders Chelsea.

The win moved United to within two points of Premier League table-toppers Chelsea, who play Arsenal on Sunday.

It was Giggs' 100th Premier League goal and capped a performance of vision and verve which has been the trademark of an illustrious career - and this a day ahead of the his 36th birthday.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had to watch from the stands as he began the first of a two-game touchline ban and, in an even first half, it was far from comfortable viewing for the Scot before his team eased away to victory.

Portsmouth had new manager Avram Grant in charge and, although he will take encouragement from the display, he knows his side need to start converting some promising play into points.

The Fratton Park side have bemoaned a lack of fortune this season with seven of 10 Premier League defeats being by the odd goal.

They certainly did not lack a fight and fervour to their play against United but it was a lack of composure in front of goal against the top-flight champions rather than luck which proved their downfall.

Striker Aruna Dindane was Pompey's main culprit as he squandered three gilt-edged chances and capitalise on an early spell of pressure.

Dindane was played in behind the United defence by Prince-Boateng but took too long to get his shot off and United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak quickly came out to smother the danger.

Ivorian Dindane then sent a 22-yard shot just wide and also headed past the post from 10 yards when unmarked as he met an inviting cross from Jamie O'Hara.

Kuszczak had also tipped over a 20-yard strike from O'Hara which was bound for the top corner as United were unusually forced on to the back foot.

However, the visitors have the type of players capable of turning defence into attack in an instant and duly did so as they punished Pompey's profligacy.

Rooney exchanged passes with Antonio Valencia as the pair led a swift United counter-attack before the England striker won a penalty after being fouled by Brown.

The Pompey midfielder protested his innocence but television replays appeared to show Brown catching Rooney, who picked himself up to calmly score from the penalty spot.

To their credit, Pompey continued to force the issue and were given a route back into the game when they were also awarded a penalty.

United centre-back Nemanja Vidic appeared to be harshly punished for tugging at Frederic Piquionne's shirt as they went up for an O'Hara free-kick and Prince-Boateng, who missed a spot-kick last week, made no mistake this time.

Dindane headed wide as he spurned another chance, while Paul Scholes had a shot deflected narrowly wide as the game developed into a sparky affair.

But any hopes Portsmouth had of causing an upset suffered a major setback as United raised their game after the break, with Giggs setting up Rooney's second goal.

Giggs was found by a Darren Fletcher ball from midfield and immediately curled in a ball for Rooney to slot past keeper Asmir Begovic.

Giggs's persistence then saw him win the ball back off Piquionne, who brought down the midfielder to leave referee Mike Dean little choice but to award a third penalty of the match.

Rooney completed his hat-trick - his third for the Old Trafford outfit - by sending Begovic the wrong way to give United some breathing space before Giggs curled a 22-yard free-kick into the bottom corner.

Pompey continued to battle on and John Utaka hit the crossbar but the visitors, ultimately, proved too strong.

Portsmouth manager Avram Grant:
"If I came from the moon and heard the result I would have thought Man Utd played great and Portsmouth was not so good but we played very well.

"I thought we played better. We created chances and conceded soft goals.

"Our goalkeeper almost didn't touch the ball and (United keeper) Tomasz Kuszczak made three great saves."

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson:
"Ryan Giggs is an exceptional player. A rarity. He will play for two years yet."

He added: "So many things were happening (in the match). It is a great result for us and some of the football was good.

"In the second half we kept our discipline and the ball very well and deserved the win in the end."

Hat-trick hero Rooney with the match ball.

Vidic Rejects Exit Rumours

Centre-back Nemanja Vidic has insisted that he wants to be the rock Manchester United build their next team upon.

The 28-year-old has been the subject of persistent rumours that he is keen for a move away from Old Trafford.

But the Serb, under contract at the club until 2012, insists that he has no desire to leave north-west England.

"I am glad to have been part of this club for so many years, if I could be one of the bases on which a new team is built I would be very happy," he said.

"I have never said I want to go and play in another country. Other people have spoken or written about it and I am not happy with that.

"But I have said in the past what I think. I don't want to keep talking about it because I can't stop what people say.

"The fact is I am happy here."

It has been suggested that Vidic's advisors have been happy to let rumours about the interest from Barcelona in particular rumble on because they would bring forward talks on a new contact.

The Serbian international, rated as one of the best centre-backs in the world, cost United manager Sir Alex Ferguson £7.2m when he moved from Spartak Moscow at the end of 2005.

He has been a big success at Old Trafford, but speculation that his wife Ana is unhappy in the north-west has persisted.

Discontent rumours were fired by an interview that the player gave in Russia last year when he described the United Kingdom as "joyless" and made particular reference to the amount of rainfall he experiences in Manchester.

He also indicated a desire to play in a warmer climate at some stage in his career, but his latest comments suggest that he has had a change of heart.

"I don't want to rush and I don't want to speak about my future in the media," he said.

"I will speak about it to the club. But I don't want to push them. I don't want to push anyone.

"We will see what happens. I am here and I am happy. I have shown in the games that I want to be part of the team and to play every game 100% for this club."

Tosic Plans United Stay

Zoran Tosic's agent has rejected reports linking the winger with a move away from Manchester United.

Reports in Holland have suggested Steve McClaren's FC Twente were keen on signing Tosic on loan when the transfer window reopens.

Tosic is well down the pecking order at Old Trafford and has made only one appearance so far this season in the Carling Cup. The Serbian international joined United from Partizan Belgrade in January 2009 and he is regarded as one very much for the future within the corridors of Old Trafford.

Twente were hoping to lure Tosic to Holland so that he could get regular first-team action ahead of next summer's World Cup.

However, the player's agent, Zoran Pavlovic, says the 22-year-old is happy to fight for his place at United and that he has not been contacted by Twente.

"Zoran is well in Manchester and he is staying at Manchester United, " Pavlovic told skysports.com.

"I have had no contact with FC Twente and Zoran is very happy at Manchester.

"He has three years left on his contract and he wants to fight for his place.

"His first option is to stay in Manchester."

Neville: Sloppy Football Costs us

Gary Neville admits United didn’t deserve to get anything out of Besiktas’ visit to Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

The Turkish champions won 1-0 courtesy of a deflected Rodrigo Tello strike, but Neville says the real reason the Reds lost was because of United’s poor showing in the final third.

“We didn’t convert our chances, the goalkeeper made a few good saves, some of our decision-making was poor, the last pass often wasn’t good, some of the crossing wasn’t up to scratch… the play in the last third wasn’t decisive enough and we didn’t take our chances,” Neville told MUTV.

“Usually we’d expect to score a goal in 96 minutes of football at Old Trafford but we didn’t do that.

"In general, I thought we were good – Macheda and Welbeck did very well with their link-up play in the first half and we should have created more from that. We just didn’t do enough to score that goal.”

Neville, who’s been missing from recent domestic action because of a three-game ban, says it’s important to forget Wednesday’s disappointment and look ahead to United’s forthcoming fixtures.

“We’ve got a few big games coming up now so we have to move on. “It was important for me [to play 90 minutes against Besiktas]. I’ve been fit throughout the period of my suspension so it’s been frustrating not being able to play. I’d have liked to have come back into a winning team, though.”

The Reds now travel to Germany on 8 December knowing a draw or a win against Wolfsburg will be enough to secure top spot in Group B.

“We need to go to Wolfsburg and get a result,” Neville said.

“Is top spot important? It depends. You can finish second and get a favourable draw or you can finish top and get a disastrous draw – that’s what can happen in the Champions League and this year the competition seems particularly topsy-turvy.

“I think it will be difficult whoever we get drawn against in the next round, but for our pride and the way we like to do things we want to finish top.”

Kiko Takes Heart In Display

Federico Macheda was disappointed not to fire United into guaranteed top spot in Group B against Besiktas, but the Italian front man was pleased with his overall contribution at Old Trafford.

The Reds started really brightly against the Turkish champions, with Macheda, Danny Welbeck and Gabriel Obertan all linking up well to spark plenty of early openings. But United couldn't find the finishing touch and a breakaway Besiktas goal proved to be the only difference between the two sides.

"We're disappointed to lose because I think we could have won the game," Kiko told MUTV. "We were unlucky because we had quite a few chances but couldn't take them.

"I was quite happy with my performance. If I had scored it would have better, but maybe next time I will score."

Having had his second taste of Champions League action, the 18-year-old striker is aiming to take even more first-team opportunities.

"I hope to play as many games as possible, but it's not easy because there are many good players in front of me. But when I get my chance I hope to take it.

"Now we need to go to Germany and get a result to win the group. But we are confident that we can win the game and win the group, definitely."

Sir Alex Ferguson Unfazed By Lost European Record

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was not overly concerned by his youthful team's 1-0 Champions League defeat at the hands of Besiktas.

The loss ended United's European run of 23 matches unbeaten at Old Trafford and they still need a point to top Group B.

But Ferguson, who made eight changes to the side that beat Everton on Saturday, said: "I think we were a bit anxious but it's not a bad thing.

"They're young and you expect them to make mistakes."

And he added: "It was a strong showing in terms of the flow of the game."

United lost to a long-range Rodrigo Tello strike that was helped on its way past goalkeeper Ben Foster by a Rafael da Silva deflection.

They had long periods of possession but, despite two good efforts from Gabriel Obertan, the hosts only came really close to equalising in stoppage time when they had a penalty shout before veteran Besiktas keeper Rustu made two superb saves.

"We've shown some really good things tonight," stated Ferguson. "That's encouraging but at the end of the day we just didn't get the result we needed."

It was also United's first home defeat of the season but the Scot said he would consider using a similar team against Wolfsburg on 8 December.

"We'll see how our programme is going at the time but I'd be confident in these players," added Ferguson.

Substitute Patrice Evra was the man who was brought down in the penalty area late on and Ferguson was certain his team should have been rewarded.

He said: "It's a penalty kick - that's two games in a row they have denied us stonewall penalties but what can you do about it?"

"In the second half Besiktas went very defensive, they stopped the game and played out time. It's difficult for young players to understand that but it's a good experience for them."

Besiktas Ends Man. United Proud Home Record

Rodrigo Tello's deflected first-half goal defeated a youthful Manchester United as Besiktas ended their 23-game unbeaten sequence at Old Trafford in the Champions League.

Sir Alex Ferguson - with qualification for the last 16 already assured - fielded an experimental line-up and gave some of Manchester United's young brigade a chance to shine on the big European stage.

Gabriel Obertan was the most promising of the Old Trafford undercard, but the inexperience of a side also containing Danny Welbeck, Federico Macheda, Rafael da Silva and Darron Gibson was exposed as they failed to turn long periods of territorial domination into an end product.

And that long run without a loss, stretching back to when AC Milan won 1-0 at Old Trafford in February 2005, was broken when Tello's long-range strike after 20 minutes took a touch off Rafael and beat keeper Ben Foster.

Besiktas's veteran keeper Rustu emerged as his side's hero in injury-time, rolling back the years to produce two fabulous saves in quick succession from Macheda and Wes Brown as United went in desperate search of an equaliser.

They were United's last opportunities and the noisy band of Besiktas supporters inside Old Trafford celebrated wildly at the final whistle.

United boss Ferguson made eight changes from the side that won easily against Everton on Saturday, and while they were lively they created little to trouble the colourful Turkish international keeper Rustu.

Obertan made a lively start and flashed an inviting cross into the six-yard box with no United player able to apply the final touch - and Macheda sent a shot just wide on the turn from the edge of the area.

Besiktas, perhaps encouraged by the under-strength nature of United's team, swept forward and took the lead after 20 minutes when Tello sent an angled shot from 25 yards beyond the reach of Foster.

It looked like Foster may have been at fault, but in the much-criticised keeper's defence, Tello's effort took a crucial deflection off Rafael.

Obertan had a chance to draw United level when he broke clear into the area, but his attempt to beat Rustu at his near post failed as the keeper made a comfortable block.

Michael Fink could have doubled Besiktas's lead as the interval approached, but he sent a low effort against the outside of an upright from 10 yards with Foster helpless.

United continued to enjoy almost all the possession after the break, with Ji-Sung Park shooting wide and the lively Obertan forcing Rustu to dive low to his left to save his 20-yard effort after a superb run.

Ferguson attempted to give United an end product for all their possession by introducing Michael Owen for Park after 68 minutes as Besiktas were having difficulty getting out of their own half.

And the Scot was left fuming on the sidelines as another substitute, Patrice Evra, provided a penalty shout when he looked like he was blocked in the box, but the referee waved away the appeals.

There was still time for United to finally find their way through to Rustu in five minutes of stoppage time, but the battle-hardened keeper showed he still possessed some of the old magic with two stunning stops to deny first Macheda and then Brown to seal a famous victory for the Turks.

Anderson in action against Besiktas

Wes Brown Happy At United

Wes Brown insists he is not looking to leave Manchester United, despite again struggling to force his way into the first team.

Recent years have seen Brown emerge as a first-team regular at Old Trafford, as he put a niggling run of injuries behind him.

But again his bad luck with injuries returned this term, and despite being fully fit - he is yet to force his way back into the side on a regular basis.

"I have been injured on so many occasions, I am used to coming back and trying to getting back into the team," he said.

"That has happened again this season. The injuries have been frustrating but this is the only place I have ever wanted to be and Manchester United is the only club I have ever wanted to play for.

"I am still happy to do that."

Brown admits he is happy to pass on his experiences over his injuries to young players.
"A lot of the younger players come to me for advice," he said.

"I just tell them to listen to the physios because whatever injury I have suffered, their advice always meant that I was able to come back. I have great trust in them.

"Injured players just have to believe in themselves, work hard, and you will get back really fit."

Fearless Fletcher

Darren Fletcher has revealed he loves nothing better than getting his teeth into the likes of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Cesc Fabregas.

Manchester United midfield ace Fletcher gets a buzz out of challenging himself against the best players in the Premier League.

"I don't want to sound big-headed but I've never come up against anyone who has torn me to shreds. The only time that's happened has been in training against Roy Keane and Paul Scholes. I watch how good Lampard, Fabregas and Gerrard are but when we play them I think, 'Right, I'm going to see how good you really are! I'm going to get against you and see how you like it. And when you've not got the ball I'm still going to get about you and see how you like it’. I'm going to ask you, 'Do you fancy it? Do you like getting kicked? Do you like the fact I am going to be at you for the whole 90 minutes? As soon as you get the ball I am going to be in your face. You are not going to like it one bit’.”
- Martin Blackburn, The Sun -

Owen Loves Life At Old Trafford

Sometimes heroes spring from the most unlikely of sources. Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen is fast becoming a fans’ favourite in M16…

Firstly, are you happy with your contribution so far in a United shirt?
Yeah, I am. In my own mind I never doubted I’d score goals if I stayed fit and was given time on the pitch. How can you fail to score goals in a team like this? You’re playing with such good players that it’s impossible not to get chances.

Four goals in 17 appearances only tells half the story. If you break that down into minutes played, it’s actually a very good strike-rate…
In Madrid it was a similar story – I didn’t start every game but I ended up with the best goals-to-minutes ratio in the league. You can twist stats whichever way you want. A goal every one-and-a-half games sounds good, whereas four goals in 16 games isn’t quite so impressive. But they’re both accurate. At the end of the day, all I’m concerned about is playing and scoring as many times as I can.

How are you adjusting to making so many appearances from the bench?
I’ve played in a team that was struggling and I much prefer life at a winning club, even if that means I don’t play every minute of every game. I’m here at a club that’s full of quality, training with top players every day and working under a top manager. I’ve had my fair share of starts and minutes on the pitch this season so I’m not about to complain.

Have you heard ‘Michael Owen is a Red’ ringing around Old Trafford?
[laughs] I’m not sure Gary Neville’s too pleased with me nicking his song! To be honest, 10 years ago I wouldn’t have dared dream I would one day play for United, so it’s a nice surprise. I’ve been very fortunate to end up here and there’s no better feeling than playing, scoring, winning a match and hearing the fans sing your name.

Your winner in the Manchester derby helped endear you to United supporters…
Definitely. That moment was really special. When I retire and I’m thinking about the top five or six thrills I got out of football I’ll definitely think about my goal in the World Cup against Argentina and scoring two in an FA Cup final. But scoring that goal against City is right up there with those moments.

Often the best way to get over a defeat is to play again… and quickly. Was it frustrating to have an international break after losing at Chelsea?
You could look at it like that but we didn't have that desperate desire to get out there and prove anything to anyone. When we lost at Liverpool it was a different story – we didn’t perform well at Anfield – but at Chelsea there’s no way on Earth we deserved to lose that game. We walked away from Stamford Bridge with our heads held high and feeling pretty happy with the way we played. There were plenty of positives to take out of that performance.

The general consensus among fans is that a five-point gap in November isn’t the end of the world. What’s the feeling among the players?
As an outsider for many years, the image I have of Manchester United is of a team that only really hits top gear around Christmas. I remember a lot of unbeaten runs in the latter part of seasons and, looking ahead at our fixtures, we’re aiming to embark on one of those now. We’ve got a good opportunity – we don’t play any of the ‘big’ sides again until the end of January – so there’s definitely no need to panic over a five-point gap.

Fergie Eyes In-house Succession

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Ben Foster or Tomasz Kuszczak will take over from Edwin van der Sar when the veteran finally hangs up his gloves.

The Dutch master, who turns 40 next year, is set to decide in the coming days whether he will continue at Old Trafford beyond next summer when his current contract expires, or give way to someone else.

While Ferguson has been strongly linked with CSKA Moscow's Igor Akinfeev, he has given his clearest indication yet that Van der Sar's successor will come from in-house.

The United boss said: "Edwin's not said anything yet about what he intends to do.

"He has come back from his recent injury well. It will be Christmas time or sometime in December when he will outline his plans and how long he will go on.

"We will await that.

"Ben has terrific ability and needs game experience. Tomasz is also another good keeper.

"At the end of the day the two of them will fight it out, I'm sure of that."

Owen's Winning Ambition

Michael Owen has scored goals at the very highest level, played for some of the world’s biggest clubs and won the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

But the 29-year-old admits there’s still something missing from his glittering career: a Premier League winner’s medal.

“It’s something I think about a lot,” he told ManUtd.com.

Owen’s one of only a handful of current Reds who have failed to lift the famous trophy; the closest he’s come was when Liverpool finished second, seven points behind Arsenal, in 20001/02.

Winning the league is an ambition Owen’s held since the very beginning of his career and one he hopes he can fulfil during his time at Old Trafford.

“When I was first asked to sign for Manchester United I went to bed thinking about what it would feel like to join a new club and meet new staff and new players,” he said.

“Playing under Sir Alex was also a big attraction and I thought about how good it would feel to run out every week at Old Trafford and play in front of so many people.

“But the big thing for me was the chance to win honours. Manchester United is such a great club and I’d love to be part of a league-winning team.”

Foster's Going Nowhere

Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed suggestions that Ben Foster's United days are numbered.

The England international, who started the season as the Reds' first-choice goalkeeper, has been deposed by the return from injury of Edwin van der Sar.

Foster recently voiced his frustration at the peculiar situation of being higher up the pecking order internationally than domestically, but Sir Alex insists the 26-year-old is going nowhere.

"He is definitely staying here," said the United manager. "He has had a couple of bad mistakes in games but his performance level has been very good. He will be a terrific goalkeeper. So will Tomasz Kuszczak.

"They are good goalkeepers; they just have the problem that they have Edwin van der Sar in front of them."

With 39-year-old van der Sar weighing up his future on an annual basis, Sir Alex is eager to keep hold of a goalkeeper he vehemently believes is the finest at Fabio Capello's disposal.

"Ben is a strong lad. Without doubt he is England's best goalkeeper," he said. "Without question he has the best presence and he is the quickest. He is also very brave.

"But for a lad of 26 he has not had much game experience. That is the negative part for him and that is where maybe it will cost him his England position at the moment.

"However, I am not protecting the lad because he is my goalkeeper but when I look at the abilities of the goalkeepers in the league who are English, I don't think they are as good as Ben Foster. It is as simple as that."

Boss Pleased With Patient Reds

Sir Alex Ferguson praised his players' patience and persistence in wearing down Everton to eventually claim a comfortable and impressive 3-0 victory.

The Reds rarely looked out of control in the match, with first goalscorer Darren Fletcher epitomising United's energy and industry.

"I was pleased," Sir Alex told ESPN. "It was a controlled performance. We showed a lot of patience, particularly in the first half when we were trying to open them up. Fortunately we got the first goal at the right time."

United had to weather a spell of Everton pressure after the break as the robust Yukubu added yet further strength to the Toffees attack. But the Reds withstood that period and Michael Carrick soon struck United's second goal.

"They made a change, bringing Yukubu on and going direct," added the boss. "They have a lot of power and height up front which you have to handle. But the second goal put us in the comfort zone and from then on I didn't think we could lose it."

With United back up to second spot above Arsenal and keeping the pressure up on Chelsea, Sir Alex wants to see his side kick on and mount a long winning run to tee up the usual title push in the New Year.

"That's the name of the game for us [to kick on now]," the boss said. "I stand by the view that if we get to New Year within a point, in front or round about the leaders, we have a big chance in the second half of the season."

Killer Touch Delights Carrick

Some Old Trafford matches have been too close for comfort this season - thankfully Everton wasn't one of them as the Reds racked up a three-goal lead heading into the last 15 minutes.

The cushion was certainly appreciated by second goalscorer Michael Carrick, who admitted to being vexed by games such as Arsenal (2-1), Birmingham (1-0), Bolton (2-1) and Sunderland (2-2) when the Reds have been unable to rest for a second.

"I think it was very important for us to bounce back with a good win," Carrick told MUTV.

"Everton always had a threat with Louis Saha up there and Yakubu coming on, so we had to keep pushing for another goal. It was nice to see the second and third go in. It meant we could play our football and relax a little bit.

"It's been a tad frustrating when we haven't been able to kill teams off at home. We've been creating enough chances to do it, but the goals just haven't been going in for us.

"Thankfully they did against Everton and although we could have had a few more, I think the scoreline reflects fairly on the game."

United's killer second goal came from Carrick's left boot, and although it was a cool finish from Ryan Giggs' pass, it couldn't rival the thrill created by Darren Fletcher's opener.

"It was a stunning volley," praised Carrick. "I thought it was going to be a bit too high for him to keep down but he managed to get his shoulder over it, his technique was spot on.

"You can see how much it meant to Fletch to score. His performances are really at the highest level now. He's one of the best midfielders around at the moment and it's great to play alongside him. He's really on top of his game.

"It was nice for the midfielders to chip in and help the strikers. We've got to score goals to win matches and we can't just rely on the front two to do it every week.

"The midfielders have started the season well and we need to contribute a few more but as long as we're winning, who scores is really not an issue. It's winning that matters.

"United's ninth win in thirteen league games so far means the champions are well-placed to assail Chelsea's lead at the top of the table over the next two months, even after losing the so-called six-pointer at Stamford Bridge.

"Losing to Chelsea was a blow," says Carrick, "but we took a lot of confidence from the game. Today (Saturday) showed that result (0-1) didn't knock us off our stride. We know what we can do and we know we can still be up there where it counts in the league."

Fletcher Superb Strike Kickstarts Comfortable Win Over Toffees

Manchester United's Darren Fletcher produced a superb strike as he helped his side ease to a win over Everton.

Fletcher converted United's dominance into a goal when he got over a hip-high ball and sent a shot into the top corner from the edge of the box.

Michael Carrick swept in the second after being picked out by Ryan Giggs.

Antonio Valencia completed Everton's misery when his angled far post shot went in via a deflection as the champions ran out comfortable winners.

It was an improved performance from United following two defeats in three Premier League games and came after leaders Chelsea had temporarily moved eight points clear of them by hammering 4-0 Wolves.

Everton had knocked United out at the FA Cup semi-final stage last season but, without a win at Old Trafford in the league since 1992, anything but a United win seemed unlikely - and so it proved.

The visitors' tactics played into United hands as a depleted Everton set up to frustrate the home side and invited pressure.

United rarely need any encouragement and they quickly set about trying to engineer a way through the visitors' defence.

Wayne Rooney sliced a shot wide and a Giggs effort was saved by Tim Howard, although a probing United initially struggled to find a cutting edge to their slick build-up play.

Everton striker Louis Saha - back at Old Trafford for the first time since his summer switch to Goodison Park - provided some rare action for Edwin van der Sar when he struck a shot on the swivel which the United keeper comfortably saved.

However, it was the home side making all the running and the inevitability that they would eventually score became a reality in spectacular style.

Fletcher is more renowned for his tigerish style but, when Valencia nodded a Patrice Evra cross into his path, the midfielder showed impressive technique as he let the ball bounce before sending a swerving volley into the top corner.

Everton brought on striker Yakubu to support the isolated Saha and they immediately started to pose more problems.

The substitute played Tim Cahill in behind the United defence, although the alert Van der Sar came out to smother at the midfielder's feet as he tried to dink a shot over him.

Yakubu also held off Wes Brown before angling a left-foot shot wide but Everton's hopes were quickly ended when United went up the other end and added a second.

Giggs picked out a lurking Carrick with a precise pass from the left flank after Rooney mis-hit a shot towards the corner flag and the midfielder sidefooted home a left-foot shot from just inside the area.

United were in total command with the only minus for them being that Michael Owen struggled to make an impact on the game as he made only his third Premier League start for them this season.

However, Valencia latched on to a Paul Scholes pass and benefitted from a deflection off Leighton Baines to add the finishing touch to an impressive three points which keeps them in Chelsea's slipstream.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:
"We have to look at all the games as must-win now.

"We need to get on a run and be near the top by New Year's Day.

"Then, in the second half of the season we can have a real go and give ourselves a chance."

Everton boss David Moyes:
"Unless you are the manager thinking about the best formation to stop Manchester United, you can't really know.

"The fact is when we went two up front we conceded two goals, so there is no guarantee we would have done any better.

"We did not do enough to get a result and cannot complain at the outcome."

Darren Fletcher opens the scoring for Man. United with a superb strike

Scholes Wants Fergie To Stay

Paul Scholes is hoping Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will stay in charge at Old Trafford for 'a long time to come'.

Ferguson has recently marked 23 years at the United helm and the guessing game persists as to when the Scot will step down.

The 67-year-old scrapped previous plans to retire at the end of the 2001/02 season, while there have been suggestions he could call it a day next summer.

But United stalwart Scholes believes Ferguson can manage the club into his 70s and continue to fill the trophy cabinet with silverware.

"His record speaks for itself," Scholes told the Manchester Evening News. "Twenty-three years is a long time and, hopefully, he can continue to be here and win trophies for a long time to come.
"Other teams don't have the benefit of having a manager for so long.

"I think it goes to show what can be achieved if you have a manger for so long and the trophies they can win.

"I've known no different. When I played for England there was a change of manager from time to time and it probably didn't seem to help most of the time. I've been lucky enough to play under one manager and it has been great."

Rodwell Move Near?

Sir Alex Ferguson could be forced to step up his interest in Jack Rodwell - considering a move as soon as January for the Everton starlet.

The United boss would have preferred to hold off the transfer until the summer; however, strong interest from Chelsea, whose transfer ban has been lifted during the mid-season window, has changed matters.

Man City are also said to be interested in the England U21 midfielder.
- James Robson, Manchester Evening News -

Neville Wades Into Referee Debate

Manchester United defender Gary Neville has waded into the debate over the standard of refereeing by calling for the creation of an elite referee pool.

"They should use a few elite officials in the big games instead of trying to give all referees experience," Neville was quoted as telling The Times.

"Their decision-making doesn't seem to be great in the big moments," he added.

His comments come just days after Sir Alex Ferguson was given a two-game ban for his comments about ref Alan Wiley.

The Football Association handed the 67-year-old Ferguson a four-game ban, with two of those suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season.

Ferguson was fined £20,000 and warned about his future conduct following his disparaging remarks about Wiley's fitness after United's 2-2 draw with Sunderland on 3 October.

"Italian referee Pierluigi Collina always used to get the big Champions League matches because he rarely made mistakes," added United captain Neville.

"They should make it like that in England.

"These big games shouldn't be about giving refs experience. They should have to earn it. The best players play for the big clubs and the best commentators commentate on the big games. That's how it should be with refs."

After United's recent 1-0 defeat by Chelsea, Ferguson said he and his players were losing "faith in refereeing" after the London club won with a disputed goal.

"I don't think it was a foul by Darren Fletcher which led to the free kick," said Neville echoing his manager's sentiments over Chelsea's winner.

"I don't want to say we've been hard done by this season because every team has their complaints, and I don't want to jump on referees' backs because they are under a lot of pressure," added Neville.

"Nevertheless, I expect the big decisions in the big matches to be correct, which is not happening at the moment."

The referees' union Prospect was "disappointed" at the two-match ban and fine meted out to Ferguson, believing the authorities had missed an opportunity to make a statement to back up the FA's Respect campaign.

Foster 'Disheartened' At Man. United

England goalkeeper Ben Foster is "disheartened" by his Manchester United status - but has no plans to leave.

At the start of the season he stood in for Edwin van der Sar, but a series of errors means he is third-choice behind the Dutchman and Tomasz Kuszczak.

"I'm third choice for United yet I'm playing for my country," said Foster after England's 1-0 defeat by Brazil.

"It's very disheartening not even to be on the bench, but I can't go saying 'I want to leave' or anything like that."

With Van der Sar absent through injury in the early months of the season, Foster was handed the gloves by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, only to make embarrassing mistakes in the derby win over Manchester City and the 2-2 draw with Sunderland.

"I thought I started off well but then there was a period of two or three games where I made a few mistakes," added Foster.

"But they were the only ones I made really and I was disappointed to find myself out of the team."

But while his club form dimmed, Foster's international prospects brightened due to Robert Green's suspension following his dismissal against Ukraine, allowing the United keeper to play against Belarus and Brazil.

"It is everything for a footballer to go to the World Cup but I can't go saying 'I want to leave' or anything like that," said Foster, reflecting on his chances of going to the World Cup in South Africa if he is not playing in the United first-team.

"I have just got to see what happens."

Fabio Capello is expected to take three keepers to South Africa, with David James, Green and Foster the Italian's preferred stoppers.

Nani Lifts The Lid On Sir Alex

Manchester United winger Nani has given an insight to life under Sir Alex Ferguson and admitted he is finding it hard to make progress at Old Trafford.

Nani, 22, currently on international duty with Portugal, has seen his first-team opportunities limited this season, despite the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, and says his confidence has suffered as a result.

Nani has this season had to settle for a place on the substitutes' bench for key league games against Liverpool, Tottenham and derby rivals Manchester City, while he was not included in the match-day squad for the weekend defeat at Chelsea.

And while Nani admits he has not yet lived up to expectations since his £16.5million move from Sporting Lisbon in July 2007, he believes his United career has been undermined by unfulfilled promises.

Speaking to a Portuguese newspaper, Nani said: 'People expect more from me and it is not easy. I could be doing better, scoring more. But just think, I had a huge game today, but the next one, I'm not even sure that I will play. Such a situation breaks the confidence.

'I did not play the important matches, against Liverpool, Manchester City or Tottenham. Not playing these games, I am a bit sad. But for now I am not considering leaving.'

Nani also revealed that he had been on the end of Ferguson's infamous 'hairdryer treatment' on several occasions and admitted the manager's aggressive approach on the training field still shocked him.

'He is a very complicated guy,' said Nani. 'he's tough. If things are OK, he will be OK, but if there is anything he believes to be wrong, you are screwed. He can go from complimenting you to just plain trashing in a couple of minutes. Has it happened to me? Hell, yes. He'll say "Nani, how could you miss this or this?"

'And it is always with **** this and **** that. No one is safe on the pitch. Even Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville get it, but it takes longer with them because they are more experienced.'

Fletch: Nowhere Else I'd Rather Be

In part two of this interview with Darren Fletcher, the Scot discusses his role in the team, the inspiration of Ryan Giggs and reveals why he doesn't want to play football anywhere else in the world...

As you’ve developed into one of the key players, do you feel more pressure to control games and dictate play?
Everyone has to influence the game and as a central midfielder you can’t hide from that because you’re right in the middle of it all. There are loads of different ways you can be an influence, whether it’s winning tackles, picking out passes or setting the tempo of the play – but I see those things as my job. We have so many talented players that I don’t feel there’s an emphasis on me to win games, but I know my role in the team and I don’t try to go beyond that. If I’m doing my job right and everyone else does their job, with the quality we have we’ll come together and win. There are times when you have to step it up but everyone in this team knows their roles. Sometimes you have to sacrifice yourself for the greater need of the team so that someone else can come up with the winning goal or bit of magic. That’s something I’ve learned to do.

Pundits put you in the top bracket of midfielders in the country alongside Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Michael Essien and Scholes. Do you see yourself within that company?
[Smiles] It’s not for me to say... I hope I bring something to the team that is needed and valued. I’m playing for one of the best teams in the world. That’s something I’m proud of. There are brilliant midfielders in this league and I love testing myself against them. You hear about great midfielders and there’s nothing better than having a real go at them to see how good they are. That’s a challenge I’ve always enjoyed, whether it’s playing against top teams in Europe, in England, or against Roy Keane and Paul Scholes in training as I have done over the years. It’s still a challenge every day in training against Scholesy. I really enjoy it and playing against players of his quality helps me a great deal.

The Liverpool and Chelsea midfields seem to be far more heavily praised by the press than United’s. Do you feel the Reds’ midfield is underrated?
We heard it all summer from different people, ‘United’s midfield is this, United’s midfield is that’. That’s fine. It doesn’t bother us, we know what we’re capable of doing and I know how good these players are. We probably have more central midfielders than any other position at the club, and there’s so much ability to choose from. Maybe at the other clubs they have their set midfielders who turn out for the team most weeks, but we have six or more who can play. But I think that’s to our advantage. We have more strength in depth than the other top teams and, in my opinion, definitely just as much ability. It may be that we don’t receive as much limelight as the midfielders at other clubs, but we’re league champions. I know which I’d take given the choice! It’s all about the medals you have won come the end of your career. Ryan Giggs is the inspiration for a lot of players in this team. You want to be recognised as a good player, but also you want to look back on your career and feel proud of what you achieved. If we go unnoticed all season and win the league you won’t hear any of us complaining.

Does Giggsy inspire you to keep striving to improve, rather than settle for what you have done so far?
If I look at what I’ve achieved, then at what Giggsy has done, he blows me out of the water [laughs]. It makes you think: “Yes, I’ve achieved quite a bit, but there’s still so much more I can do.” So many of the lads have such great respect for Giggsy. You hear some of them talking in the dressing room, saying ‘What would you give to have done everything he has in the game?’ He’s the inspiration for players such as Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick, John O’Shea, Wes Brown... we all want to get to that level and achieve as much as he has done. I’m not saying we will, but he is the benchmark. He sets the standard.

Does having someone who’s achieved so much prevent any complacency among the players?
Yes, it does. Avoiding complacency is a trait of the club – from the manager down through the more experienced players. Complacency is a part of human nature, you can settle for what you already have, but at every possible opportunity it’s reiterated to you here that you can’t rest on your laurels.

Can you achieve everything you want to do at United?
Definitely. There’s nowhere else I want to be. I have no aspirations to play anywhere else – in this country or abroad. I’m already at the biggest and best club in the world. Anywhere after this would be a step down. You don’t know what the future holds - you can never say never – but as long as I’m happy and playing regularly at United, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. I’ve been here since I was 15 and I want to continue at United and be part of this club’s success for years to come.

Sir Alex Handed Touchline Ban

Sir Alex will have to oversee affairs from the stands against Everton (h) and Portsmouth (a) after the United boss was handed a touchline ban at an FA Regulatory Commission hearing on Thursday.

The manager, who admitted the charge of improper conduct, was given a four-game ban for recent comments made about referee Alan Wiley, although two games are suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season. He was also fined £20,000 and warned about his future conduct.

Commission Chairman Peter Griffiths QC said: "Each member of the Commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson’s achievements and stature within the game. Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities.

"The Commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say.”

The suspended sanction will be automatically activated should Sir Alex be found guilty of a similar charge before the end of the 2010/11 season. It will be in addition to any sanction imposed for that offence.

Anton Backs Big Brother Rio

Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand says older brother Rio will overcome doubts about his fitness and form and return stronger than ever.

Manchester United defender Rio has come in for criticism about his form lately and is struggling with a calf injury which shows no sign of improving.

"I know my brother and he'll come back stronger than ever," said Anton.

"People are doubting him for the World Cup - it's astonishing, he's been England's best player at the last two."

Rio Ferdinand, 31, has become a key player for Manchester United since his move from Leeds in 2002, but he missed the first month of the season with a torn thigh muscle and since then has had calf problems.

Some of his recent performances for United and England have come in for criticism, but brother Anton, 24, said his brother was being unfairly criticised for slipping from his own high standards.

"This is the first time he's had a bad period since he left West Ham (in 2000) - for a player who has played so many big games to only have one bad patch in a 10-11 year period says something," he said.

"He's one of the best - he knows this would always happen, the minute he doesn't play well people will jump on his back."

The Rise And Rise Of Darren Fletcher

The football world’s eyes are at last wide open to what the boss knew all along – Darren Fletcher is pure gold. The 25-year-old’s emergence as one of English football’s finest engine-room controllers has surprised a few, but his displays have vindicated Sir Alex’s faith in him. We spoke to Fletch – proud father whose twin toddlers make his on-field challenges seem a doddle – about his hard-earned authority as a top-class midfielder...

A year ago you said you were playing your best football, but you’ve stepped it up yet another level since then…
I’m enjoying everything at the moment because the team is successful. Last season was great, despite the disappointment of the Champions League final. That low was partly because it was the last game as well, but if you look back on what we achieved right throughout the season it was fantastic. I played in a lot of big games and was given a consistent run in the side. The most important thing for me this season has been to kick on and not sit back and take my place for granted. At United you’re proving your worth in every game, there’s always someone who wants to take your shirt. That drives you on. I want to keep improving as a player, as I feel I have done in every season I’ve been here. You look at Giggsy, Scholesy and Gary Neville – as they’ve got older they’ve improved through their experience, knowledge, maturity and application of what they do off the pitch as much as on it.

The coaches have spoken of your determination to improve. Does the hard work you’ve shown to get where you are now bring added satisfaction?
This is a level that I’ve been striving to reach. The way I’m playing now, I’m the player I’ve always wanted to show people I could be. I’m not saying I’ve worked harder than anyone else, I’ve just tried to make sure I improve my game – and things have really paid off. Doing weights is a big thing for me now, whereas before it didn’t seem to have much effect. But just because you’re in the gym, that doesn’t make you a great player. It’s small percentages of improvement that help you become a better athlete and player. Becoming a father has really helped, too. Having two lads [twins Jack and Tyler] has matured me as a person, and that helps on the pitch as well.

What difference has having the boys made to you off the pitch and on it?
Having the boys has helped take my mind away from football, which is no bad thing. When I was younger I was intense and uptight about how well I was playing. I was constantly thinking about situations in games, what I could do better, or a bad performance would play on my mind. If you’re sitting at home with nothing else to do it’s easier to think about those things. Whereas now I go home to my children, who take up lots of my time, and it puts everything else into perspective. It gives you a great outlook on life. Now I know there’s a time to work and be focused on that. But I’ve also got my family, who are the biggest part of my life now. It allows me to relax much more, and because of that my game and outlook on everything is more balanced and more mature.

Mike Clegg [United’s strength and conditioning coach] says you’ve struck the perfect balance between football fitness and gym work. The only other person he’s seen do that is Cristiano Ronaldo. Quite a compliment...
Fitness has never been a problem, but in terms of strength and power my gym work has made a real difference. Striking the right balance is important. There’d be no point in bulking up if that was to the detriment of being able to get around the pitch, which is a big part of my game. I wanted to get to a level where I had strength, but also the stamina to keep going over 90 minutes. I’ve found a good balance, although I reckon I could still do a little more and put on more weight without affecting my fitness. There’s room for improvement but, like I said, I’m always looking to develop the little things. It’s not just the physical side – it’s a mental thing as well. I have more experience now, and simply being at this club improves you as a player; being in this team, around these great professionals. It’s been a gradual progression for me, but I’m really enjoying myself and I want that to continue for many more years to come.

When Ronaldo left in the summer, Sir Alex said it was a chance for other players to step up. Did you see it as your opportunity to stamp your mark on the team?
The players all knew we were losing a massive player, and a big gap in how and where we got our goals. We knew other players would have to rise to the challenge – we needed everyone to raise their game. Maybe there were times when we expected Ronaldo to come up with the goods, whereas now everyone knows we need to produce, individually or collectively. We’re a different team now, with a different style. Ronaldo was brilliant for us as much as we were brilliant for him, but now we have a new style and new players. We try to find the best way to win a match as a team. That’s United’s secret and a lot of the players have learnt that from Giggs, Scholes and Neville. There’s more than one way to win a match. We’ve shown already this season that we can win playing brilliant, attacking football. But sometimes it has to be ugly. They have the know-how to do it and the rest of us are learning. There will be times in games when we might not be on top, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to lose. That’s what makes this a good team, a championship-winning team.

Obertan: I'm Ready For This Test

United fans are good at recognising quality, and in Gabriel Obertan they see plenty of potential and promise. Speaking to ManUtd.com for the first time since joining from Bordeaux, the French winger discusses his love for the English game, reveals how he's settled at OT, and outlines his plans to become a first-team regular...

It must have been frustrating getting your big move then having to sit on the sidelines. Are you pleased to finally be playing now?
After four months of just waiting and resting, I’ve been really looking forward to starting my career as a Manchester United player. I wanted to feel part of the squad, part of the group, and be involved in the games. So I’m feeling really good right now.

Saying that, did the time out help you to settle in England?
I think there were definitely some positives to it, and even though I was frustrated at not playing I tried to look at it in a positive way. In my disappointment, there were good things I could take from it. I got to know everybody at the club, I could begin to understand how things work here and get settled in England.

What are your early impressions of the club?
Manchester United has made a huge impression on me already. I knew it was a big club, of course. Bordeaux is a big club in France, but you come here and it is totally different. This is a world class club and it’s a totally different organisation. The quality of the players is different as well. Here there are only international players. Everything is quicker and the quality of the football is unbelievable.

Did you see your move to United coming or was it a surprise?
I knew United were interested because Jim Ryan (head of youth development) came to watch me play four years ago. I knew there was interest there but I didn’t expect the move to happen so early in my career. But I felt ready for it, I knew I was ready for the challenge and the change in my life. It was like a new beginning for me and I am just glad to be here and have the opportunity to play for this great club.

What are the main footballing differences between England and France?
The quality at United is higher than I experienced in France. Also the amount of contact, there are a lot more physical challenges than in France, and the speed of the game – it’s so fast. It's much slower in France, where you have time to look for space around you or pick out a pass. Here, everything is in a rush, because if you don’t rush then you will be tackled and lose the ball.

You seem to have the right attributes to cope with that…
I’ve always liked English football. When I was in France I would watch English football every weekend. And I think you're right, for my qualities I believe this is the best league in Europe for me. I’m quite fast and I like to attack and be in one v one situations with defenders.

What was it like making your debut at Old Trafford? What was going through your mind as you were about to come on?
I felt proud to be here and glad to get my first real injury out of the way. Obviously I’d played in the Reserves and enjoyed playing against Barnsley in the cup, but stepping out at Old Trafford is something else because I’ve never played in a stadium like that before. I was so excited and just couldn’t way to play and get on the pitch. It felt like the first step. I was a bit nervous at first, but after five minutes it felt like I’d been playing here for three years or something. The fans really get behind you and it’s a great sensation.

The fans have taken to you really quickly, chanting your name at matches…
I am very proud of that. It gives you a huge push when you are playing and you hear people singing your name. It’s like you have other forces behind you. It’s also made me feel very welcome here, and if I hear the fans singing my name I just want to give them something back by playing well and keep working hard for them.

And what do you hope to achieve at United?
At first I just want to be part of the squad, be in the group that travels to all the games, and get a few minutes in each game to begin with. Then, if I keep working hard and show what I can do, I have ambition. So, why not aim to be a regular in the team? I might need a year to achieve that, but I hope I can do it.

Fletcher Rues Wenger Comments

Darren Fletcher believes he is being singled out by referees as a result of comments made by Arsene Wenger earlier in the season.

The Arsenal boss did not name the 25-year-old directly but accused Manchester United of 'anti-football' after their 2-1 win over the Gunners at Old Trafford in September, before adding his disbelief that 'a certain player' had gone unpunished after numerous fouls.

Fletcher insists the accusation that he is a dirty player is now coming back to haunt him after he was penalised for a soft foul on Chelsea's Ashley Cole on Sunday. To his manager's ire replays showed the Scotland international won the ball.

The decision was to prove pivotal as John Terry headed home from the free-kick to hand the Blues a 1-0 win that takes them five points clear at the top of the table.

"It was clearly not a foul," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I knew at the time and I have watched it again on the replay. I back-heeled the ball and Cole just jumps up in the air and the ref gives a foul.

"I think we are starting to see Mr Wenger's comments starting to influence referees which is a shame really.

"Now we have to raise our game and ensure these decisions are not affecting the game."

Defeat Will Galvanise Us

The Reds may have felt a real sense of injustice as they left Stamford Bridge on Sunday night, but John O'Shea believes the defeat will now inspire a long unbeaten run.

O'Shea admitted to feeling 'terrible' after seeing United lose out to a controversial John Terry goal 14 minutes from time despite dominating for long periods of the game.

The Irishman says the Reds can take heart from their solid display against the Blues and insists it's imperative United hit those heights again over the coming weeks.

"We hate losing games and we know that we now have to go on a great run," O'Shea told MUTV.

"The international break comes at a bit of a bad time - you'd prefer to have another game a few days later to help put the defeat out of your mind. There's a bit of a sour taste left, but hopefully we'll get over that.

"Not many teams come to the Stamford Bridge and dominate games. We had great spells in the game where we had Chelsea really pinned back and we caused them problems on the counter-attack as well, but our final ball or shot just didn't go for us and we were lucky at times as well.

"We stuck to our game plan very well and were the better team.

Unfortunately we didn't get what we deserved."

O'Shea was particularly disappointed by the performance of the match officials who failed to spot Didier Drogba's foul on Wes Brown as Terry headed home Lampard's free-kick, which O'Shea feels should never have been awarded.

"We didn't think it was a foul in the first place [Fletcher on Ashley Cole] - Fletch went in and came out with the ball," he declared.

"The ref's angle of it and the Chelsea players' reaction won them the free-kick. And then Wes was clearly fouled by Drogba as the ball came in. The referee's position was terrible - he was stood right behind one of the Chelsea players and was too far away to see it.

"Lots of decisions seemed to go against us - I crossed the ball towards the end and Lampard clearly stuck his arm up [to block it].

"It was just outside the box, but the linesman was ten yards away and surely had to see it. The little things just didn't go for us and we're very disappointed in that sense."

Wes: Drogba Fouled Me

Wes Brown was bitterly disappointed with the manner of defeat at Stamford Bridge, and says United “didn’t deserve” to lose a game the team had dominated from start to finish.

The Reds players were visibly downbeat with a heavy sense of injustice upon departing West London on Sunday, and with good reason.

There were several issues with John Terry’s 77th minute winner. First, Darren Fletcher clearly won the ball for the initial free kick. Brown then says Didier Drogba impeded him from trying to clear the ball, and the Ivory Coast forward also appeared to be in an offside position and interfering with play.

“It’s very hard to take, we played really well,” Brown told MUTV after the match.

“I thought we played really well as a team and passed the ball brilliantly. We were the better team and had more chances. We should have done better with our chances, but we definitely didn’t deserve this result and it’s tough because we go home with no points.

“I don’t think the referee played well and we’ve been let down by that goal. The decision to award the free kick was harsh. Then Drogba was holding me and pulling me down, obstructing me from challenging for the ball when the free kick came in the box. The ref didn’t see that either – what can we do about it?”

Brown had been exceptional in central defence alongside Jonny Evans. The pair kept the league’s supposed most potent and powerful strike-force at bay with a commanding performance.

“We were fine,” said Wes. “I thought we played well as a back four and I thought we limited them to very few chances.

"In that sense, we felt like we did our jobs, which makes it worse when they score a goal like that. It’s disappointing. We just have to keep going and try to put this behind us. We need to carry on playing as we did today, but just add goals to the performance.”