Fergie Doubts Cristiano Ronaldo Return

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes it would be 'very difficult' to ever bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford.

The Portuguese superstar scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for United before leaving for Real Madrid in 2009 for a world-record fee of £80million.

Ronaldo helped United to Premier League glory on more than one occasion and was also part of the team who won the 2008 UEFA Champions League.

Ferguson has fond memories of the now-26-year-old's time in England, but has virtually ruled out a return, despite rumours the player might be interested.

"It would be very difficult," said Ferguson, ahead of Sunday's crucial Premier League match against Arsenal.

"He had a great time here, but he is at a great club now too."

Ferguson continues to think of Ronaldo as the best player in the world, despite the competing claims of Lionel Messi, and wasted little time seeking him out on Wednesday after ending Real's controversial 2-0 defeat to Barcelona.

"I spoke to him after the game," said Ferguson. "He had a great time here, we got six years out of him. We got him as a kid and he went to Madrid a man.

"He is enjoying being there and though he might not have been at his best on Wednesday, he is still a great player."

Fletcher Targets First-team Return

Darren Fletcher admits he will find it difficult to win a place back in United's team during the run-in.

The midfielder played the first half of the reserves' 0-0 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford on Thursday night and told MUTV afterwards that, while he's itching to get involved, the performances of his colleagues in his absence have been exceptional.

Despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson's recent assertion that Fletcher will be one of his first-choices when fully fit, the Scot is refusing to take anything for granted.

"It was nice to hear that from the manager," he said on MUTV. "But it'll be hard to get back into the team as the lads have been fantastic. The lads have been different class. Everyone in the squad has played a part. We're in a great position with a month to go.

"I want to give myself a chance to give the manager another option and play some small part in the Premier League or Champions League. All I can ask for is a sub appearance or starting the odd game. I just want to be involved but it's a squad game."

Fletcher was laid low by a virus that caused concern at Old Trafford and, although he refused to rule it out completely, it seems unlikely he'll be thrust into Sunday's clash at Arsenal.

"The plan was always to play 45 minutes as the manager doesn't want me to push too quickly and set myself back," he explained. "I was always coming off but I feel good. Hopefully, I'll do a bit of training tomorrow and get my fitness back.

"It was a bad virus, it was maybe a week originally but it just escalated and is one of those things. I lost a bit of weight and had to put that weight back on so it was a long, slow process. It was originally a couple of weeks but ended up being longer.

"I don't want to rush too quickly. I'll speak to the doctor and the manager tomorrow and see how I feel and take it from there."

Sir Alex: There Is Drama Ahead

Sir Alex Ferguson is forecasting more thrills and spills in the title race when United, Arsenal and Chelsea play out the final phase of the campaign.

The great rivals all have four league games to play, commencing this weekend. The Reds and Gunners go head-to-head on Sunday afternoon, less than 24 hours after Chelsea host Tottenham, a team still with aspirations of their own in terms of the chase for a top-four place.

“I think there’s still drama ahead,” said Sir Alex on Friday morning. “The teams at the top will drop points, including Chelsea. And if we get to the last home game needing to win it to win the league, I’d be happy with that, even though Blackpool may be fighting against relegation and they’ll be really difficult opponents. We’d have taken that scenario at the start of the season. I think we’d take it now.”

The manager would obviously like to get it done and dusted by then, of course, and it will be if the Reds can win the next two games. “The slant I seemed to be getting from the media was that Arsenal and Chelsea were expecting to win these games and change the top of the league,” said Sir Alex.

“My view is, ‘Why can’t we win these matches?’ Surely the form we’re in, we can win the matches. It’s not going to be easy for Arsenal or Chelsea, any easier than it is for us. These are difficult games. But in the form we’re in we’ve got good chance. If we get a point, it’s not the worst point - away from home down at Arsenal - but we’re not going there looking for a point.”

Sunday’s game could have been an even more important affair, had Arsenal not slipped nine points behind United by losing their last game 2-1 at Bolton. Sir Alex admitted, “I have been a bit surprised (by Arsenal’s slide). Chelsea were the dark horses in the sense that people seemed to think they were out of it. But I looked at their programme and I thought they had an easier run-in. They’re now on our coat tails.”

Firsts: Rafael

Brazilian right-back Rafael reveals his personal firsts. We wonder if he still bears a grudge against his brother…

First training session at United
I was 15 at the time and my brother and I came to train with [Academy coach] Paul McGuinness. I remember he showed us a video of Pele – it was fantastic.

First United game you attended
That’s an easy one to remember. It was United against Roma [10 April 2007] and we won 7-1. It was incredible. Not a bad introduction, hey?

First day at school
I remember it very well. I cried a lot. I didn’t want to be at school that day, I just wanted to go home.

First pair of football boots
They were Umbro boots, I remember that much. But they were very simple, I doubt they make them anymore.

First hero
Roberto Carlos. I remember watching him and wanting to emulate the way he played.

Pet
It was a cat, but to be honest it wasn’t mine. It belonged to the neighbourhood. He would come and go all the time but he often returned to our house because we would always feed him.

First concert
It was back in Brazil when I was young. I don’t know if the readers will have heard of her but it was a singer called Ivete Sangalo.

First hospital visit
I was playing with Fabio and I ended up falling down a hill and breaking my arm. Fabio was fine, though!

Rio Eyes More Trophies

Rio Ferdinand insists that even if Manchester United win the double this season, his hunger for silverware will not subside.

Premier League leaders United are on course to clinch their second domestic and European double in four years having triumphed over Schalke in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday night.

England international Ferdinand has already helped the Red Devils to four Premier League trophies and a Champions League title during his time at Old Trafford, as well as two Football League cups, but the 32-year-old's appetite for titles has not waned.

"If I finish in two years' time with what I have now, I wouldn't be satisfied. No chance. I would be having nightmares," he said.

"There is so much to be won. If we didn't win the league this year I would be devastated.

"I want to win the league this year, next year and every year I am playing."

He added: "This is our fourth Champions League semi-final in five years. And we have only won it once. There is a lot of disappointment in those four years."

The current United team has been written off by critics on countless occasions this season, but Ferdinand insists his side remain unaffected.

"It is wishful thinking on a lot of people's behalf," he laughed.

"People want us to lose because we have won the league three out of the last four years and they probably want to see a little bit of variation.

"But they can have those opinions and keep talking like that. We just try to win games. If we win games and end up winning titles we won't be thinking about what people have said about us."

Ferdinand feels United's never-say-die attitude is the reason for their success.

"What sets us apart from other teams is that the hunger never dies," he said. "It stems from the manager and filters down through the squad.

"We have players in this squad who want to win things.

"There are still players in this squad who have not won the league. There are others who have won it a few times who want more. That is the basis on which we do our work every single day."

Evra's Warning For Reds

Patrice Evra has issued a warning to his Reds team-mates ahead of the semi-final second leg with Schalke.

The Frenchman has first-hand experience of overturning a two-goal deficit in the Champions League and believes it would be disastrous if United fail to reach Wembley after a superb show at the Veltins-Arena.

However, the flying full-back admits the display was one of the best he's been involved in at European level.

"We never know," he told MUTV. "In football, we never know. I think we played very well tonight but it was a little bit strange to get to half-time without scoring a goal. I think everyone was frustrated. We kept doing the same things we did in the first half. I think there was one team on the pitch and it was a great performance. But, in football, you never know because I remember when I was playing with Monaco, we lost in the Bernabeu 4-2 and Madrid thought they were going to the semi-final. But in the second leg we won 3-1.

"So we have to be as professional in the second leg as we were tonight, we have to keep going and we have to win. We have to win at Old Trafford. If we don’t get to the final, it would be disastrous. We have to do our job. We are very near to another final but let’s do our job at Old Trafford."

Evra was asked if it was as complete an away performance as he could remember in his time in Manchester.

"Yes, definitely," he replied. "The one we did against Barcelona in Camp Nou in the semi-final, when we drew 0-0, tactically the team was very strong. But tonight, I think it was one of the best performances United play away.

"I’m not surprised because I saw the desire in our team and the respect we had for Schalke. I think Manchester United respected Schalke a lot tonight. Before the game, we said we’re playing in a semi-final, it doesn’t matter whether it’s Schalke or another team. We’re playing to go to the final. It’s important. That’s why we played with respect and I think everyone did their job very well tonight."

The defender is just frustrated he couldn't convert a late chance after being played in by substitute Nani.

"I nearly scored," he added. "Nearly, nearly, again! They have to go in, not just nearly score. But maybe in the second leg or in the final?"

Reds Praise Rooney Role

United team-mates Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra have heaped praise upon Wayne Rooney following the striker’s superb display in the Reds’ UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg win over Schalke on Tuesday.

Rooney scored one and set up the other on a night when Sir Alex Ferguson’s side could easily have hit five or six were it not for the heroics of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who made several impressive saves against a rampant United attack.

Operating in his newly adopted position behind strike partner Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, Rooney excelled against the Germans, playing with a sense of freedom that allowed the England star to dictate the game from various areas of the Veltins-Arena pitch.

It's a position he has made his own, according to Reds team-mate Evra: “I think Wayne has found his position. When he’s a little bit behind the striker, he gets more touches of the ball.

“I also think Wayne can play as a number 10. He likes to give good balls, and he scores. From behind, maybe he’s more dangerous. I think Wazza is happy to play there as well.”

It was a sentiment echoed by Ferdinand, who was quick to praise Rooney’s versatility and energy up front: “Wayne played in two positions on Tuesday, playing high and running in behind as well as playing just off Chicharito, by coming short and getting things going for us. He seems like he’s enjoying his football - long may it continue.”

Sir Alex: We Are Reaching A Peak

United's ultra-professional victory over Schalke has Sir Alex Ferguson brimming with confidence as he braces himself for a crucial week in the life of Manchester United.

The return leg of the Champions League semi-final, at Old Trafford next Wednesday night, is sandwiched between two games that will all but decide the destiny of the domestic league title. The Reds are ready for all of them, insists Sir Alex, as he reflects on a job well done in Germany.

"The players are relishing these games," said Sir Alex. "I think we're coming to a peak.

"There was a fantastic atmosphere (inside Schalke's Veltins-Arena) tonight but it never bowed our players once. They kept on playing their football, showing confidence and trust in one another.

"Our concentration, the intensity of our play and the speed of our passing were all excellent tonight.

"It was a top performance. I'm really pleased with the players, every one of them has done fantastically well tonight."

A measure of United's domination is that the best individual display on the night was arguably that of the Schalke goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer - a young man often linked in the press with a move to Old Trafford. He's reportedly bound for Bayern Munich now - "I think we know that" said Sir Alex - but he'll head there with confirmed admirers in Manchester.

"He was fantastic. It was one of the best performances I've seen against Manchester United," added the boss.

"(At half-time) I was cursing myself for mentioning the Dortmund semi-final and all the one-on-ones we had (in my pre-match interview). But we've got more experience now than we had then (in 1997)."

Neuer was effectively a one-man wall in the first half, thwarting Javier Hernandez, Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs on numerous occasions to maintain parity at the end of the one-sided period.

"The funny thing was that when Chicharito 'scored' (early in the second half) but he was offside, it told the players they could beat this goalkeeper! Of course, Ryan scored and then Wazza did. It's a marvellous result."

Rio: Can't Take Win For Granted

Rio Ferdinand insists United are taking nothing for granted despite a 2-0 triumph against Schalke in the Champions League semi-finals.

The Reds bring the Bundesliga side back to fortress Old Trafford with a commanding lead after a splendid performance that extended the run of away clean sheets throughout this season's competition.

Ferdinand, immaculate as ever at the heart of the defence, is still fearful of the quality possessed by Ralf Rangnick's team.

"We'll wait and see," he told MUTV. "We won't count our eggs too soon. We know that teams can peg you back. There's quality in all sides at this stage of the competition. Players like Raul are quality so you can't take anything for granted."

The shut-out record is not in the centre-back's thoughts as he focuses on completing the job in the second leg.

"It all counts for nothing if you don't get there, or if you get there and you don't win," he explained. "We need to make sure we continue the way we're playing and when we take Schalke back to Old Trafford, we play the same way we did here and then hopefully get through to the final."

After an opening half where only goals were missing from an outstanding team display, Ferdinand admits he feared one lapse in concentration or moment of quality from the hosts could undo all the fine work.

"I thought, first half, we were very good," he said. "We should have come in at half-time maybe three or four goals up. Their keeper played well and made some good saves. We were just a bit disappointed at half-time.

"Going out for the second half, we said as long as keep a clean sheet we'll get more chances and this time we need to put them away. We did that. In some ways, I was a little bit surprised [by how dominant we were] but then I look at the players in our changing room and it doesn't surprise me because we've got quality in there. If we click and play well like we did in the first half, we can open up any team.

"It was on a bit of a knife-edge for us defensively because we were thinking after creating so many chances that if they got one and put it away, it would be a big upset."

Giggs: Should Have Been More

Goalscorers Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney illustrated the mentality running through the United camp by declaring themselves disappointed with the 2-0 lead from the Champions League semi-final first leg.

An outstanding team performance made a mockery of Schalke's 100 percent home record in the competition as the Reds set things up nicely for the return fixture at Old Trafford next Wednesday.

But, while refusing to rule the German side out, both players insisted there should have been a wider margin of success.

"We created enough chances to be four or five up at half time," said Giggs. "Before the game, we'd have taken 2-0 but we're slightly disappointed it was only two. I thought if we kept creating chances, one would go in and hopefully I would get one on my left foot rather than my right foot!"

Rooney, again outstanding working in tandem with Javier Hernandez, echoed those sentiments. "You never know," he said of the two-legged tie. "We're a bit disappointed we didn't take a few more of our chances.

"We played very well tonight and I thought we created some great chances. Overall, I'm delighted with the performance and we've done really well to get two away goals so it's a good win for us.

"We have to be professional and finish the job off at home. Schalke are a good team and we won't take them lightly. They went to Inter Milan and won 5-2 there so we need to make sure we're professional and fully concentrated and manage to do the job and try to get to that final."

Giggs, again highlighting the sort of the attitude that filters down from the manager, is already thinking about Sunday's trip to Arsenal in the Premier League.

"It's a tough game on Sunday and the manager will obviously rotate and then get us ready for next week against these at Old Trafford," he added.

"So obviously we're pleased but the substitutes help as well, the lads who came on did well as well, so it's not about 11 players but about the squad."

Giggs and Rooney were speaking to Sky Sports.

Giggs and Rooney On Target Against Sorry Schalke

Manchester United took a giant step towards the Champions League final as they outplayed Schalke in Germany.

United could have been well ahead in the semi-final first leg by half-time, denied only by a series of incredible saves from Germany keeper Manuel Neuer.

They broke the deadlock when Wayne Rooney slipped in Ryan Giggs to slot home and Rooney doubled the advantage by firing in a Javier Hernandez pass.

Edwin van der Sar saved from Sergio Escudero, but Schalke were awful.

United will welcome Schalke to Old Trafford on Wednesday 4 May for the second leg and they now know, barring a complete catastrophe, that they will once again represent English football in the showpiece of the European game.

Sir Alex Ferguson had warned his side not to underestimate Schalke prior to the match, with United the hot favourites to progress to the Wembley final on 28 May and face either Real Madrid or Barcelona.

Schalke, 10th in the Bundesliga, had destroyed holders Inter Milan 7-3 on aggregate in the quarter-finals, but they were completely overrun from the first whistle by a United side better in every area of the pitch.

Until they got as far as Neuer, that is. The 25-year-old Schalke captain and Germany number one, who announced last week he would be leaving his hometown club in the summer after a 20-year association, produced a goalkeeping performance of the very highest order for more than an hour.

He was a one-man barrier who prevented United wrapping up the tie in the first 45 minutes, thwarting the visitors as they carved the Schalke defence open almost at will.

After Alexander Baumjohann sent a first-minute shot into the arms of Van der Sar as Schalke produced the first attempt of any note, it was all United, as they produced a display of fluent, attacking football their opponents could not live with.

Rooney's deflected shot was wonderfully clawed away by Neuer, who then denied Park Ji-Sung low down to his right and Hernandez too - and that was all inside the opening 10 minutes.

Schalke were without key defender Benedikt Hoewedes because of injury and the gaping holes at the back suggested they badly missed him.

Neuer continued to deny United, superbly sticking out a hand to deny Hernandez again, with the Mexican wasting two more golden openings shortly after.

It seemed a matter of time before United would score but Neuer made another breathtaking one-handed save from Giggs' downward header, denied Hernandez once more from the right-hand side of the box and then stood his ground to thwart Giggs from a cute Rooney pass.

Although it defied belief that the score was 0-0 at the break, in the second half United picked up where they had left off as Patrice Evra's glancing header forced Neuer to tip over his crossbar.

After Giggs shot wide, Schalke had a five-minute period in which they at least competed. A dangerous Raul cross to the far post was headed away by Rio Ferdinand and Edu forced Van der Sar to save low down to his left.

But United were gearing themselves up for another wave of attacks and they eventually scored the goal their extraordinary dominance deserved.

Schalke's generosity meant Rooney could have driven a bus through their defence, but he settled for slipping in Giggs, the Welsh veteran keeping his cool to slot between Neuer's legs and send the travelling support into ecstasy.

In the process, at 37 years and 148 days old, Giggs became the oldest goalscorer in Champions League history, overtaking AC Milan striker Filippo Inzaghi when he scored against Real Madrid in November.

It got even better for the United fans two minutes later as Hernandez was given what seemed an eternity to run on to a loose ball and find Rooney in the area, his strike partner giving Neuer no chance by dispatching the ball into the bottom corner.

Schalke, bereft of ideas and the ability to hit back at United, were restricted to pot shots from distance and substitute Escudero brought a good save from Van der Sar, but they were never likely to get back into it.

A jubilant United, also six points clear at the top of the Premier League, will now pay close attention to the first leg of the Real Madrid v Barcelona semi-final at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.


Wayne Rooney enjoys making it 2-0 with a cool finish

Sir Alex's European Vow

Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to his team's experience - but feels Manchester United should always aim to be participating in the last four of the Champions League.

United, striving to take over domestically as England's most-successful club if the Reds can win a record 19th title, are also eyeing European rivals when it comes to winning trophies.

Sir Alex admits he is jealous of clubs like AC Milan, Ajax and Real Madrid's record in the competition but is pleased to have so many players fit and available for the tough semi-final trip to Schalke.

"The present group have a lot of experience in Europe now. The semi-finals is where we should be, you get envious of other clubs with great records in Europe.

"We're trying to get parity with the likes of Real Madrid."

England internationals Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney will be key figures for the Reds in the away leg at the Veltins-Arena after playing in the stadium during the World Cup defeat to Portugal on penalties in 2006.

"Rio's experience showed itself in the first leg against Chelsea," added the boss. "He was immense. Experience and ability is vital in the situations we have at the moment. He's fresh and ready to play and it's a big boost for us.

"Wayne's form has been fantastic the last two months. The more important thing is the freshness that has come into the team with players coming back. Anderson, Rio, [Antonio] Valencia and [Ji-sung] Park.

"Sometimes it happens that way. When big competitions come along, you find all your players are fit. It brings selection headaches but they're the ones you want.

"There is an expectation of the boy [Rooney]. He's stepped up to the mark to that. It's all down to him, no-one else.

"This is a team that will not give in. There's absolutely no chance of that. That's a great quality. You saw that against Everton."

Boss Hails van der Sar

Edwin van der Sar is just three European games away from signing off at United in the same perfect way as legendary Reds goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

When Danish international Schmeichel announced his retirement during the 1998/99 season, he could only hope that the Champions League final in Barcelona would turn out to be his last match for the Reds.

So it proved to be, and now van der Sar will have a similar ambition as he prepares to face Schalke in the semi-final, fresh from another vital contribution to United’s cause in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Everton.

"Edwin made a fantastic save, an absolutely brilliant save, especially as it took a little deflection," said Sir Alex, referring to when the ever-agile 40 year-old steered Jack Rodwell’s shot wide after it clipped off the inside of Jonny Evans’ legs.

Van der Sar’s role in the Reds’ vital league victory didn’t begin and end there, either.

"To hear him at half-time in the Everton game was absolutely wonderful," revealed Sir Alex.

"The way he motivated the players was really good to listen to.

"Edwin van der Sar is one of the best and I hope it's not impossible to replace him."

Van der Sar’s departure next month brings back memories of Schmeichel’s exit. United’s struggle to find an established successor encompassed comparatively short-lived stays for shot-stoppers Mark Bosnich, Massimo Taibi, Roy Carroll, Tim Howard and even a World-Cup winner in Fabien Barthez.

"We're now in a similar situation to when Peter Schmeichel left," said Sir Alex. "We should have signed Edwin then (in 1999). I had the opportunity but things conspired against us at the time and we made the wrong decision. But he’s been unbelievable since we signed him (in 2005)."

Evans: Never Write Us Off

Jonny Evans admitted he should have known better than to fear the worst after Chicharito popped up to finally pierce Everton's stern resistance at Old Trafford.

The Ulsterman conceded that he thought the Reds were going to slip up against David Moyes' side, giving further hope to Chelsea and Arsenal in the title race, prior to yet another dramatic denouement at the Stretford End.

"To be honest with you, I thought it was going to be one of those days," he told MUTV. "We hit the post and had quite a few chances in the first half, and you do sometimes fear the worst.

"I suppose you shouldn't at a club like this, at Old Trafford playing into the Stretford End. We've done it so many times over the years. It's just a great relief.

"Going into the last four games six points ahead is just an unbelievable feeling as well, as long as we keep ticking the games off. We've got hard games against Arsenal and Chelsea, and if we can get the points against them and not let them back into it, then we'll definitely go on and win the league."

The Northern Irish international was a surprise inclusion as Sir Alex Ferguson shuffled his pack ahead of Tuesday's Champions League trip to Schalke, and Evans admitted he was delighted to be back after a three-match suspension.

"It was a good performance from us today," he said. "The manager made a lot of changes, including myself coming in and players who haven't really played that much in a while, and it was a big gamble. I'm sure people looking at the team sheet would think 'this is a big gamble', but that's what the manager does here and it paid off.

"The suspension seemed like it was going on forever because of the international break, there was two weeks between the games. The manager even asked me last week when the suspension was up! You've just got to keep patient and I've been working quite hard to keep my fitness up for if I ever got the chance to come in, and I didn't feel too bad."

Chicha Salutes Team Ethic

Despite stealing the spotlight with yet another priceless winner, Chicharito saluted United's collective resolve after the Reds' hard-fought win over Everton.

The Mexican striker persevered after a string of missed chances against the resolute visitors, before nodding home Antonio Valencia's 84th-minute cross to see off David Moyes' side.

Chicharito told MUTV: "There was a little bit of frustration, but you need to keep going in the next play, and the next, and the next, because you can't stay there only thinking 'I missed it', you need to be ready for the next one. Thankfully the goal came and near the last minute.

"For 90 minutes we kept going and kept going because we wanted the goal, wanted the three points as soon as possible. We keep going, keep working and it was a difficult day also because it was hotter and that made us a little bit more tired. But the history of Manchester United is like this - we can score in the first minute and also the last minute."

The victory over Everton precedes a run of games in which the Reds contest a two-legged Champions League final as well as facing the rest of the Premier League's top three, but Chicharito confirmed that United only had eyes for seeing off the Merseysiders.

"It's the only thing we have in our mind and thankfully we got it (the win)," he said. "It's unbelievable because we know the importance of these three points because we need to get all the points we possibly can because we can win the league. This is the key part of the season, we have Schalke then the two games against Arsenal and Chelsea.

"It's very important. Here the thing always in our mind is that we have to win, we need that three points. It doesn't matter who scores. We're going into big games now and even defenders can score and we can win - that's the most important thing here. We think always that the team is the most important thing. We don't need to be selfish and think only of scoring."

Sir Alex: I Knew Win Would Come

Sir Alex Ferguson's faith in his team was repaid once again on Easter Saturday when Javier Hernandez scored United's late winner at the Stretford End.

A damaging 0-0 draw was on the cards as the Everton players - in particular centre-back Phil Jagielka and former Reds goalkeeper Tim Howard - continually thwarted Chicharito, Wayne Rooney and company. But the United manager always felt the victory would come as his side chased it all the way in the club's hallmark manner.

"I could feel the goal coming," Sir Alex told MUTV. "We had the momentum and the crowd was up. When the crowd gets going, it sucks the ball in.

"Today's game was tricky. Everton are very resilient and some of their defending was fantastic today. Their goalkeeper and two centre-backs were absolutely brilliant. We had shots blocked near the line, some misses and the goalkeeper made two or three great saves.

"Our decision making wasn’t up to scratch in the first half, when we had some great openings, and we could have had the game finished by half-time. But in the time-honoured fashion of Manchester United, we don’t do that. We wait to the very end. It keeps everyone hanging and on the edge of their seat, but we get there.

"You say to yourself, ‘It’s going to be another late one here.’ You can just smell the history of the club and so it was to be.

"The important thing is we never gave up. We took gambles, we took risks. We put Wayne Rooney in the middle of the pitch, we brought Ryan Giggs on, Michael Owen on. Jonny Evans has not had many games, neither has Fabio, but they both saw it through and showed great resilience and determination to get through it.

"It was a fantastic performance by the lads in the way they kept going against a good Everton team. I think we can be very pleased today. We’ve got the result we want."

Not for the first time this season, Sir Alex paid tribute to the attitude and ability of Chicharito, United's match winner - and the talent of the man who created his goal, Antonio Valencia.

"Chicharito has done better than everyone expected in his first year because we thought he would just get used to the English game and get strengthened up," said Sir Alex. "But he’s passed all those tests. He’s first in at nine o’clock in the morning and he’s the last one to leave. He’s a truly dedicated boy.

"Valencia was fantastic again today. It's a real bonus to get a fresh player like him at this time of the season."

Boss: We Can Beat Both Rivals

Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed inferences that United will drop six points in the next two league games as "nonsense."

Fans of the Reds' rivals have been looking at the May fixtures with the hope, even belief, that the leaders will lose at Arsenal next Sunday and Chelsea at Old Trafford the following weekend. The boss bristled with indignation at this when asked on Sky Sports to assess the state of the title race following United's 1-0 win over Everton.

"The thing that puzzles me is that people keep saying we’ve still got to play Arsenal and Chelsea as if we’re going to lose them," said Sir Alex.

"Why can’t we win these games? Why should people say we can’t beat Chelsea at home or we can’t go to the Emirates and win like we’ve done previously?

"I said to the players today, ‘Forget all that nonsense, just win your games.’ That’s what we want to do. Win the games and we’ll be all right."

The Reds could now wrap up an English-record 19th league title in the next home match, against Chelsea, on Sunday 8 May. The character of his squad gives Sir Alex every confidence it could happen but nevertheless, there'll be no complacency in his corner.

"I think we have to keep our head down and not get carried away. There are only four games left and the way my players are going about their business and the effort they’re producing gives us an outstanding chance.

"I think there’s a winning attitude among all the players. They refuse to give in and they have a determination to do better."

Late Hernandez Goal Beats Resolute Everton

Javier Hernandez struck a late winner to keep Manchester United six points clear at the top of the Premier League with victory against a dogged Everton.

Sylvain Distin gifted United possession and Hernandez made Everton pay seven minutes from time, nodding in Antonio Valencia's cross at the far post.

Hernandez earlier forced two good saves from Tim Howard, while Everton's Victor Anichebe might have had a penalty.

But after a spate of Howard saves, United's pressure eventually paid off.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side now only need to pick up seven points from their last four games to be assured of a record 19th English league title.

They made hard work for themselves on a gloriously sunny day at Old Trafford but United laid siege to the Everton goal in the closing stages and Hernandez, not for the first time this season, popped up with a crucial goal.

United now head to Germany for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Schalke on Tuesday knowing the Premier League is theirs to lose.

Yet with so much to play for it was a subdued start to the game, with United seemingly paying the price for resting the likes of Nemanja Vidic, Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick as they struggled for any fluency against an Everton side looking to extend an eight-match unbeaten run.

United, who had failed to score in their last two games - the FA Cup semi-final defeat at the hands of Manchester City and the goalless draw at Newcastle on Tuesday - looked uncharacteristically edgy and the visitors, superbly marshalled at the back by Phil Jagielka, were in no mood to capitulate.

Wayne Rooney summed up the frustration inside Old Trafford when he very obviously berated his team-mates for a lack of energy and that proved the catalyst for United to produce their best spell of the first half.

Nani shot at Howard from an angle on the left, Hernandez forced the keeper to parry wide after a neat one-two with Anderson and then the Mexican brought another top stop from Howard with his first-time right-foot shot from a fine Rooney pass.

Their best chance of the half came moments before the whistle as Antonio Valencia outmuscled Leighton Baines down the right and fed Nani inside the box, the Portuguese winger's goal-bound shot hitting Hernandez - on the floor and trying to get out of the way - and flying wide.

Everton hauled off the ineffective Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Jermaine Beckford at the break and sent on Anichebe and Tim Cahill and they began to take the game to United, with Anichebe's penalty shout a huge moment in the game.

He did superbly well to roll Rio Ferdinand just inside the United half and he raced into the area down the left, going down under a challenge from Ferdinand as the defender chased him down only for referee Peter Walton to wave play on.

Edwin van der Sar had to be at his very best to fingertip away a low, deflected Jack Rodwell's shot halfway through the second half but from then on it was all United as they produced wave after wave of attack.

A Fabio cross from the right was sliced against his own post by Distin, before Rooney's top corner-bound 25-yard free-kick was pushed away by an alert Howard, who then superbly tipped over a Hernandez header from Valencia's right-wing centre.

But just as Everton must have thought they had clung on for a point, Hernandez popped up to capitalise on Distin's error and ensure the destiny of the title remains firmly in United's hands.


Chicharito rises to nod Antonio Valencia's cross past Tim Howard

Valencia: More To Come

United’s players have been queuing up to pay tribute to Antonio Valencia, who has looked remarkably sharp on his return to the side. The Ecuadorian tells United Review there's still more to come...

How have you enjoyed being back playing?
It’s a great source of pleasure after all the time I’d been out. Training with the lads, playing again and being involved in different competitions with the team at an exciting time of the season – it doesn’t get better than that. I’m back at nearly 100%, happy to be involved again and hope to help us win some silverware.

Was it difficult to keep your spirits up while you were out injured, and were you ever worried about coming back?
All injuries make you feel a little bit down at first, but luckily I had the support of my family and my daughter, the fans and all the people around me, so it was easy to keep my spirits up. I was just determined to recover and that was always at the forefront of my mind. The physio assured me early on that I was going to make a complete recovery, which gave me a lot of heart and confidence.

Have you been surprised by how well you've played since your return?
My comeback has gone pretty well considering how bad the injury was, and how long the recovery process was. But I think I still need to work on a few areas before they are back to how they were: I need to improve my speed, strength and muscle mass. But I guess it’s not going so bad now I’ve been back a couple of months!

Wayne Rooney says he's pleased you're back – do you enjoy playing with him?
Of course – who wouldn’t? We enjoyed some success playing together last season but, more than that, he’s an inspirational leader for the side, a team player who gives everything for the cause.

Was it nice to get a goal against Fulham?
Yeah, it’s always good to score a goal, and especially so after a long period out of action. It was a small moment of relief for me, a milestone in my recovery, but my main aim was on getting back to playing and helping the team, so that’s what I was focusing on at that time.

What's your favourite goal for United so far?
I couldn’t choose a favourite goal – I’ve honestly enjoyed them all. But I’d love to score an important goal for United, in a final or another game that really matters. I suppose I’d like to score a few more in general, but I actually prefer laying goals on for my team-mates. That’s my main job and I enjoy it.

Nemanja says you’re someone everyone can look up to. How does that make you feel, coming from your skipper?
They’re nice words, but there are a lot of players to look up to at this club: Vidic himself, Giggs, Scholes and Rooney – these are all guys to admire and learn from. There’s a high level of professionalism at this club and it can only improve you as a player.

There's a busy schedule ahead, but having been out for so long, do you feel fit and ready to go in every game?
I think so! I’ve played in a handful of games now since my return and believe I’ve performed quite well. I’ve suffered no ill-effects from the injury and feel stronger with every game, so if the manager shows faith in me then I will do my best for the team.

What have you made of Chicharito and Dimitar Berbatov this season?
They’re both great guys, so it’s a privilege to share a changing room and also to be on the same pitch as them. They’ve enjoyed superb seasons, scoring plenty of goals between them and, at the moment, you’d have to say they’re two of the best strikers in the world.

So who would get your vote as United’s player of the year?
That’s a difficult one because there are so many players who’ve played prominent roles in what has been an enjoyable and successful season so far. All the guys have given everything so I wouldn’t like to single one out.

What would a Premier League winners' medal mean to you?
It would be brilliant to win the league, not just for me but for the Ecuadorian people who follow Manchester United as well as Antonio Valencia. On a personal level, it would be the perfect way to cap my recovery from injury to lift the title for the first time, so it’s something I’ve set my sights on.

If you could take one attribute from any of your team-mates, what would it be?
It’d have to be Ryan Giggs’ technique. He’s a phenomenal player with such grace and ease on the ball, and it’s remarkable that he’s maintained such a high level of technical ability throughout his long career.

This interview first appeared in United Review.

Owen Bemused By Newcastle United Boos

Manchester United striker Michael Owen says he was disappointed after being booed by Newcastle fans during Tuesday's 0-0 draw at St James' Park.

The former Magpies man was jeered when he came on after 81 minutes.

Owen said on Twitter: "Got a poor reception off the home fans which was disappointing. Was desperate to score!"

He added: "Knew I would get booed as that's what a lot of fans do but if they knew the facts then they may have a different opinion."

Owen joined Newcastle from Real Madrid for £16m in 2005 and scored 30 goals in 79 appearances in an injury-hit four years on Tyneside.

The England striker was unable to prevent Newcastle being relegated to the Championship in 2009 and left the club that summer to join Manchester United on a free transfer.

After Tuesday's match, Owen, 31, hit back at negative comments from Magpies' fans, saying (hereafter all quotes are reported verbatim): "From what most of you Newcastle fans are saying you should be pleased I left the club! If i had known that earlier I could have left sooner!

"For the record, I tried my best in every game for Newcastle. Under KK (Kevin Keegan) I played well and i'll never forget the 2 I scored against Sunderland (on 20 April 2008).

"When I meet Newcastle or Liverpool fans they all respect what I've done for their clubs. In stadiums it changes, 1 boo and the rest follow.

"By the way, im not looking for sympathy. As long as my family don't boo me when I walk through the door I couldn't care less!!!"

Owen had expected a difficult reception on his return to St James' Park, saying prior to the game: "What a day, it's even sunny here in Newcastle! Looking forward to seeing old friends but I doubt the fans will give me a warm reception!"

The result meant Manchester United missed the chance to open up a nine-point gap at the top of the Premier League table - with Arsenal seven points behind with a game in hand.

Owen added: "Disappointing result but credit to Newcastle, they played well and put us under plenty of pressure especially in the first half an hour."

But after the game, Owen, who has more than 120,000 followers on Twitter, was involved in a frank exchange with the Daily Mirror's chief sports writer Oliver Holt on the social networking site.

Owen and Holt's Twitter exchange in full:

Holt: "Honest question then Michael: why don't you tell them the facts?"

Owen: "I try to answer most questions Ollie but can't be bothered* being a back page story so some things don't need to be said!"

*The BBC has substituted "bothered" for the word Michael Owen actually used

Holt: "Fair enough, Michael. But I think sometimes if fans and journalists knew facts, there would be more sympathy with players."

Owen: "Fair point. The relationship between players and media is poor and needs improving as the people who suffer are fans."

Holt: "Probably worse now between media and players than back in 97-98 when you burst on to scene. More contact then, I think."

Owen: "If papers printed what is actually said then i think players would talk to you more openly. I know I would."

Holt: "You have spent a lot of your career writing for our newspapers, though Michael, both tabloids and broadsheets."

Owen: "It's the sensationalising of headlines that annoys most players. It makes us look like clowns when most lads are normal."

Holt: "Headlines are a problem for a lot of writers, too. Comes down to trusting a journalist to look after you, I suppose."

Owen: "But I made sure I had headline approval! My point is, the articles are fine, it's the headlines that make us look stupid."

Holt: "Agreed. Think we are at a point where writers need to fight for right headline to ensure bit of trust with player spoken to"

Owen: "And there is my point. The trust just isn't there hence the relationship between players and journalists is non existent."

Holt: "Players and media stuck in bad cycle now. Understand why trust has broken down but less contact is making things worse. Part of problem is no contact. GNev (Gary Neville) said journos should stay in England hotel so we'd have to face you after bad piece."

Carrick: We Must Move On

Michael Carrick admits he was "screaming" for an injury-time spot-kick at St James' Park - but insists the Reds must swiftly banish the disappointment of it not being awarded.

The midfielder thought his side were on the brink of a trademark last-gasp winner when his former team-mate Danny Simpson challenged Javier Hernandez inside the Newcastle penalty area. Instead, the latter was booked by referee Lee Probert and the league leaders were left to reflect on what might have been.

"I thought it was a penalty. I've (since) seen an angle on the TV and there is contact there," Carrick told MUTV.

"I was screaming for a penalty and I thought it was [going to be] another late goal for us. Obviously it's disappointing it wasn't given."

While Carrick conceded that Newcastle were the better side in the first half, he felt the Reds merited some reward for an improved perfomance after the break.

"We throught we played well enough in the second half to score a goal at least. Giggsy had a chance or two and Chicha had the penalty shout.

"We came here to win the game so we're obviously disappointed. At the moment the draw feels more like two points dropped [than one gained]. But we'll have to take it and move on.

Boss Upset By Penalty Call

Sir Alex Ferguson was upset with referee Lee Probert for showing a yellow card to Javier Hernandez in injury time rather than awarding a penalty.

Chicharito was sent crashing inside the box under a challenge from former Red Danny Simpson but Probert opted to book the Mexican for simulation after blowing his whistle with even Simpson admitting afterwards that he felt a spot-kick had been given.

With United having to settle for a goalless draw at St James' Park, Sir Alex remains fully confident for the remainder of the Barclays Premier League campaign.

"It was a clear penalty but it's an insult because he's booked him," complained the manager.

"The referee had a good game tonight. I thought he had an excellent game but he lets himself down by booking the player. If he's not giving the penalty, fine, but to book him is an insult. I saw it myself and there was definitely contact, no doubt about that."

As regards Newcastle's appeal when Peter Lovenkrands went down inside the area, he replied: "I haven't seen that. I'd have to see it again."

Sir Alex had sympathy for Ryan Giggs, who shot inches wide from the best chance of the second half, and felt his players did well to weather some early pressure from the highly-motivated Magpies.

"It was a great chance [for Ryan] but actually the defender got a touch on it, just a fraction, to put him off a little bit," said the boss.

"In the first 20 minutes, Newcastle played really well and full marks to them. They did exceptionally well in the first 20 minutes but, the longer the game went on, once we got to half-time I was sure we'd improve.

"We did really well in the second half - the passing was terrific and we got into great positions but just didn't trouble the keeper and that was the only thing.

"It's difficult to say [overall]," said the boss. I suppose the way Newcastle fought and challenged they probably feel they deserve a point. But, apart from the first 20 minutes, we were more or less in control for the remainder of the game."

Boss Upbeat After Toon Draw

Sir Alex Ferguson remains confident of landing a record 19th title after the goalless draw at Newcastle.

The boss concedes the trip to Tyneside was a difficult one and he feels upcoming fixtures against nearest challengers Arsenal and Chelsea will be pivotal to the Reds' hopes of remaining on top of the Barclays Premier League.

"I'm confident we'll be fine now as that was a hard one to get over," said Sir Alex. "At this stage of the season, we're in a better position than we were on Saturday as there's one less game and five games left.

"I think you've got to look at Chelsea also and how they respond to three home games in a row. There's two important games coming up - obviously Arsenal away and Chelsea at home. But we've got a better goal difference than Chelsea and I think we're in a better position today."

Sir Alex appreciates the need to keep rotating his squad after making five changes to the team beaten by City at Wembley.

"We did that tonight [reshuffled the pack] as we tried our best to freshen up," he added. "We did the best we could as it was a tiring pitch at Wembley, a slow pitch that can drag players down a little bit. But, in fairness, we didn't show signs of that - we were energetic and our players thrived on the challenge, which is good coming at this stage of the season."

Man. United Draw A Blank On Tyneside

An off-colour Manchester United missed the chance to open up a nine-point gap at the top of the Premier League as they were held to a draw by Newcastle.

The visitors were guilty of poor passing throughout, though Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs missed good chances.

And striker Javier Hernandez felt he was fouled in the box by Danny Simpson late on, only to be booked for a dive.

Newcastle deserved a point, though, and might have had a penalty of their own when Anderson felled Peter Lovenkrands.

Both decisions could have gone either way, with contact made on each occasion, but referee Lee Probert waved the appeals away to ensure an absorbing clash ended goalless at St James' Park.

It is a result which could prove valuable for Newcastle, taking them as it does to the 40-point mark teams often cite as necessary to guarantee safety from relegation.

But for Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson and his men it will be considered a case of two points dropped and means second-place Arsenal and third-place Chelsea could pull to within four and six points respectively of his side should they win their games in hand.

It remains a tall order for the chasing two, but as both face Man Utd in the run-in, neither will count themselves out of the title race just yet.

Arsenal's dramatic draw with Liverpool on Sunday had appeared to leave the door wide open for Man Utd to open a hugely significant gap at the top of the table with a win at St James' Park - and with the Magpies pretty stable in mid-table with six matches to go in the campaign, many might have expected a cakewalk on Tyneside.

Far from it. The visitors forged the two clearest chances of the first half, but the opening 45 minutes were far more memorable for an effervescent home display that defied those expecting the Magpies to roll over on their own patch.

Buoyed by a typically raucous home crowd and driven on the pitch by the likes of Joey Barton, Jonas Gutierrez and Cheik Tiote, Newcastle recovered from a glorious early Man Utd chance to cause the visitors all sorts of problems.

Magpies keeper Tim Krul should take no little credit for that for his fabulous point-blank save from Javier Hernandez, the Mexican denied from Rooney's centre all of four yards out, but the hosts were equally grateful for an unusually error-strewn display from the Premier League leaders.

Giggs was particularly guilty of sloppy passing - and the chances flowed for Newcastle as a result.

Gutierrez almost rounded off a fine run in from the left with a 20-yard finish, his effort deflected wide, while Tiote, too, was denied from range, this time low down by Red Devils keeper Edwin van der Sar.

Barton and Shola Ameobi could also have done better when well placed inside the area, while Lovenkrands contrived to nod a free header wide 16 yards out with no Man Utd player close to him.

In between that, though, the men in red created the night's second glorious chance of the night, only for Rooney to blaze over from inside the area after being laid in on goal by Hernandez's neat flick.

And for all the home side's good play, that and Hernandez's early chance underlined a threat from Ferguson's men that always seemed to be bubbling under the surface of an absorbing encounter.

But the hosts plugged away in the second half and a less sympathetic referee might have awarded a penalty against Anderson when the Brazilian appeared to catch Lovenkrands in the Man Utd box on the hour mark.

But, as the visitors gradually eradicated their passing errors and began dominating possession, a clear-cut opening for Ferguson's team seemed only moments away - and so it proved when Patrice Evra burst into the area and cut back for Giggs unmarked 12 yards out, only for the Welshman to skew wide with the goal at his mercy.

From then on in, the match consisted mainly of Man Utd's attack against Newcastle's defence - Stephen Ireland's volley from Ameobi's knock-down aside, the midfielder's 20-yard effort dipping narrowly wide.

But, in truth, the Red Devils rarely looked likely to break the deadlock and it summed up their night when Hernandez was booked in stoppage time for a dive as he rolled over Simpson's lunge in the box.

It meant the visitors were forced to settle for a point that will only reinvigorate Arsenal's and, possibly, Chelsea's hopes of producing a late fightback in the race for the domestic title.


Javier Hernandez is thwarted by Tim Krul early on.

Man. United Sorry For Wembley Dressing Room Damage

Manchester United have apologised and offered to pay for the damage caused to their Wembley dressing room following Saturday's FA Cup semi-final.

United said they drew the Football Association's attention to the damage done to a wall following the 1-0 loss to fierce rivals Manchester City.

They added it was "only surface damage" and neither manager Sir Alex Ferguson nor any players were responsible.

The FA says it is very unlikely to take any further action over the incident.

The damage - which a United spokesman described as "about three inches in diameter... and not a hole" - was inflicted in the aftermath of Saturday's heated encounter at Wembley, which City won thanks to Yaya Toure's 52nd-minute strike.

United midfielder Paul Scholes was shown a straight red card late on for a dangerously high tackle on Pablo Zabaleta.

At the final whistle a number of United players - including defender Rio Ferdinand and midfielder Anderson - angrily confronted City striker Mario Balotelli.

The Italian is believed to have thrust the badge on his shirt in the direction of opposition supporters, while also winking sarcastically at centre-back Ferdinand as the players left the field.

Ferdinand has since apologised for the incident but also criticised Balotelli for taunting the United fans.

"If you score a goal and give a bit to opposing fans I kind of accept that," said Ferdinand through Twitter. "But at the final whistle, go to your fans and enjoy it, not opposing fans."

"If I offended anyone, I apologise, emotions obviously running high."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was forced to watch the match from the stands as part of his five-match ban for comments made about referee Martin Atkinson.

The defeat ends United's hopes of repeating their 1999 treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.

Fergie: Good Chairman Is Key

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes the key to a young manager's success is having a good chairman.

Managers have become increasingly dispensable in the modern game, with four Premier League bosses having been shown the door this season.

And 69-year-old Ferguson, who has spent 25 years at the Old Trafford helm, believes the most important thing young managers can hope for is someone dependable in charge of the club.

Ferguson said: "More than ever, management is a precarious industry. I say to all young managers that the first thing they need is a good chairman.

"They also need luck and they need to make sure they're prepared to make sacrifices for the job, because this is an unremitting industry.

"It's a results industry, as we all know, but you can help yourself by being totally committed to that alone."

Ferguson is often the first man to speak up in support of axed managers, and was particularly disappointed by Roberto Di Matteo's departure from West Brom earlier in the season.

"My sympathy goes out to managers who lose their jobs," added the Scot.

"There's been a lot of unusual sackings lately, which I've found hard to understand."

Ferguson, meanwhile, says there is no chance of him getting carried away with his success because his wife, Cathy, will not even let him keep his silverware at home.

He said: "I prefer to think about what's ahead and what next I can achieve, and I think that has kept my feet on the ground quite well. I've never got carried away with it.

"My wife, Cathy, is fed up with the whole thing. When Alastair Campbell phoned her about my knighthood she said to him, 'Do you not think he's had enough rewards?'

"You'll not find a thing about my career in the house at all. She's unbelievable. I can't even take a football book home or she'll say, 'What are you doing with that?"'

Edwin's Faith In Reds' Character

Edwin van der Sar has praised United's strength of character ahead of the latest test of the Reds' title credentials.

Sir Alex Ferguson's trophy-chasers head to Newcastle on Tuesday with the chance to extend the lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League to nine points.

The veteran keeper, who is retiring at the end of the season, admits the away form earlier in the campaign dented the team's confidence but knows the players are now in the right frame of mind for the run-in, despite missing out on a place in the FA Cup final.

"We had been a bit scrappy in the first half of the season," he explained. "We conceded some last-minute goals. It doesn't do your self-confidence a lot of good. Of course, you need mental strength in certain games when you keep conceding in the last minute or the ball is not going in. It can do something with you.

"It shows the strength of character and the belief this manager has in the quality of this team. You get confidence when you get on a roll. You are not struggling and you get your players back. There are goals in the team and, defensively, you are sound. It is a good feeling."

The Dutchman admits the return of injured trio Rio Ferdinand, Antonio Valencia and Ji-sung Park has provided a timely boost to the squad.

"The manager has a certain way he wants to play and there are certain players he would choose when he selects his team," said van der Sar.

"When Rio or Valencia or Park comes back from injury, it gives you a great feeling. You know you are a strong line-up. The ones who came in did brilliantly, but the experience Rio can bring, together with Vida [Nemanja Vidic], is very important. It is a strong intent of our qualities.

"I enjoy playing with them very much. It is great to have two quality defenders in front of you. It makes my job a little bit easier, also with the directions I give to them and the way the team is balanced out.

"If somebody goes forward, Michael Carrick knows he has to stay back. If Patrice [Evra] goes away, John O'Shea knows he has to stay. It is a great understanding that we have at the moment."

Reds Dominate Team Of The Year

Four Manchester United players have been included in the annual PFA Team of the Year.

Edwin van der Sar, Nemanja Vidic, Nani and Dimitar Berbatov have all shone this season for the Reds, and at a gala dinner in London on Sunday their consistent performances were recognised by their fellow professionals.

Vidic, Nani and Javier Hernandez were also nominated for individual gongs – Vidic the Player of the Year award, Nani and Hernandez the Young Player of the Year honour – but the prizes went to Gareth Bale and Jack Wilshere respectively. Hernandez, in his first season in England, came third in the Young Player category.

The Reds’ representation in the Team of the Year was higher than any other club’s. Alongside United’s quartet, Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City), Samir Nasri (Arsenal), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal), Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur) and Carlos Tevez (Manchester City) were also selected.

PFA Team of the Year
2011

Goalkeeper:
Edwin van der Sar

Defenders:
Bacary Sagna
Vincent Kompany
Nemanja Vidic
Ashley Cole

Midfielders:
Samir Nasri
Jack Wilshere
Nani
Gareth Bale

Forwards:
Carlos Tevez
Dimitar Berbatov

Vidic Issues Rallying Cry

Nemanja Vidic says United must not dwell on the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City and concentrate instead on winning a record 19th league title.

The Reds' skipper has challenged his United team-mates to bounce back from losing to City at Wembley by picking up three points against Newcastle in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Speaking after Saturday’s semi-final defeat, Vidic told MUTV: “We have played many games in the last few weeks and the next one is against Newcastle away, which is always a hard game to play.

“We must forget the City game now and concentrate on winning the title. It will not be easy but we have to perform, play good football and try to win the league.”

In the end, Yaya Toure’s goal was the deciding factor in an extremely tense and nervy affair in which both United and City enjoyed spells of dominance. Although Vidic cites the Reds’ second half performance as the root cause for defeat.

“We had two or three chances in the first half but didn’t score the goal," he added. "All they had were shots from distance but their goal has cost us the final.

“We didn’t play as we should have in the second half. It was more open, they played a bit higher up the pitch and scored a goal.

“We had a few good situations from the right side which I think we should have done something with but we didn’t. We talked a lot about concentration, but today we didn’t concentrate enough.”

Edwin: Our Luck Ran Out

Edwin van der Sar felt United just ran out of luck after going down to a derby defeat to City at Wembley.

The Dutchman believed the Reds were not at their best on the sapping surface and admitted the team felt a little tired in the closing stages.

However, he hopes for an improved showing at St James' Park on Tuesday and that Liverpool do us a favour on Sunday at Arsenal.

"We started a bit slow but had two chances in quick succession," he told MUTV. "If one of those goes in, maybe it's a different game and they would have to chase us.

"In the second half, when they scored, we went to 10 men, one man down, and it was hard to chase and try to get the equaliser. We had some half-chances or possibilities to get the ball into the box but nothing really materialised. We were hoping for that famous injury-time goal again but I think our luck ran out a little bit.

"You never know, it's always nicer when you score first but that didn't happen and the goal we conceded was a bit scrappy. It's not the way we normally defend so we have to do something to take the blame - all the players who have been on the pitch. Nobody really performed to their standard I think. So we need to make sure we do better on Tuesday."

In terms of City being organised during the closing stages, the Dutchman felt the Reds were starting to feel tired on the Wembley pitch.

"It's normal, of course City tried to be organised and strong," he said. "They put Shaun Wright-Phillips on near the end for more pace up front. We had a go in the last 20 minutes but just maybe we were a bit tired also in the end. We have played quite a big amount of games in the last three or four weeks. It's easier to defend something than to make a goal."

The match on Newcastle is another test of the Reds' mettle as the side look to bounce back from Saturday's disappointment.

"It depends on the result of course," van der Sar replied when asked if it's useful to have a match coming up so quickly. "We have got two days to recover from this game then, on Tuesday, it's an important game.

"First we have to watch our friends from up north playing against Arsenal and let's hope they make it a nice game.

"As a player, we don't really think about that [the Double]. We know which games are coming and we're going to focus on them and hopefully we manage to get the other two [trophies]."

Sir Alex: We Must Recover

Sir Alex Ferguson has challenged his players to start another winning streak after the 1-0 FA Cup semi-final defeat to City.

The Reds were beaten by Yaya Toure's goal and any hopes of a comeback receded when Paul Scholes was dismissed with 18 minutes remaining.

Sir Alex felt his team paid the price for a 'sloppy' start to the second half but appreciates the need to focus on getting three points from a tough trip to Tyneside in a few days' time.

"It's a major game on Tuesday up at Newcastle," he told MUTV. "We're getting recovered to get ready for the game on Tuesday. It doesn't matter when you play, you know you've got to recover and get on a winning streak again.

"The first 15 minutes after half time cost us the game," admitted the boss. "Slack moments. Edwin [van der Sar] had a bad kick out and Michael Carrick couldn't hold it and it was a goal.

"From then on, they were defending apart from a couple of counter-attacks. It's disappointing as we should've been ahead in the first half as we were the better team.

"The chance that Dimitar [Berbatov] missed - there was a great save by the keeper but the second chance, from under the bar, if he'd have scored there, I had a feeling whoever scored first would win the match.

"We were a wee bit sloppy and it got them on the counter-attack against us - that first 15 minutes cost us the game.

"I think the pitch was slow. It's a good pitch but very slow, we like quick pitches and it maybe suited City a bit more than us.

"It [the red card] didn't kill the game. I thought we played better after it. I thought we played very well after the sending off.

"With Paul, we've seen it over his career. He's had unbelievable moments and is a great player, one of the greatest ever at this club. But he has these red mist moments and this was another one. He's a bit unfortunate maybe as he went for for the ball and it bounced up and he's gone through and caught the boy on the thigh."

Toure Fires Man. City Into FA Cup Final

Manchester City reached the FA Cup Final for the first time in 30 years with victory over derby rivals Manchester United at Wembley.

Yaya Toure demonstrated power and poise to take advantage of Michael Carrick's mistake to score after 52 minutes and set up another Wembley date against either Bolton Wanderers or Stoke City in May.

United controlled the first half-hour and Dimitar Berbatov - in for the suspended Wayne Rooney - missed two golden chances in the space of seconds early on.

And United, who had Paul Scholes sent off late on for wild challenge on Pablo Zabaleta, paid the price as City finally gathered momentum to end as deserved winners and end Sir Alex Ferguson's hopes of repeating the historic treble-winning season of 1999.

City threatened through Mario Balotelli, Joleon Lescott and Vincent Kompany before Toure made the breakthrough, with United's only serious second-half response a deflected free-kick from Nani that keeper Joe Hart touched on to the bar.

It was a remarkable turnaround in fortunes and form for City and boss Roberto Mancini, who responded to an abject showing in the 3-0 defeat at Liverpool on Monday by insisting they would reach the FA Cup final and also next season's Champions League.

Balotelli was involved in an angry flare-up with Rio Ferdinand and Anderson at the final whistle after jubilantly brandishing his badge in the direction of United's fans, but nothing could take the edge off the wild celebrations from the City supporters who have waited so long to step out of the shadow of their illustrious neighbours.

Both sides were robbed of their most influential players, but ultimately City coped with the loss of injured Tevez better than United handled the gap left by Rooney - they now have a month to relish their return to the great showpiece after a lengthy absence following their loss to Tottenham in a replay in 1981.

In Rooney's absence, Ferguson turned to Berbatov and the Bulgarian twice squandered opportunities to transform United's early domination into an advantage.

He raced clean through on Hart after United put together a slick passing exchange on the edge of the area but the keeper blocked brilliantly, then somehow turned Nani's cross over the top from inside the six-yard area seconds later.

City's opening had been subdued as United dominated possession but as the interval approached they finally demonstated a measure of self-belief and threat.

Gareth Barry found the side-netting after turning in the area then Balotelli gave Edwin Van der Sar the chance to demonstrate his agility, even at 40, with a long-range effort that was turned over the top by the veteran keeper.

And as City drew encouragement from their spell of pressure, Lescott should have done better than fire off target from Adam Johnson's corner and Kompany was only inches wide from the edge of the area.

City's renewed self-belief saw them continue in similar vein after the break and take the lead through Toure after 52 minutes.

Carrick was at fault, conceding possession then being brushed aside by Toure, who raced past Nemanja Vidic before slotting a composed finish past Van der Sar.

As United struggled to regain their composure, Johnson's shot almost crept in at Van der Sar's near post and Lescott was once more guilty of wastefulness when he tamely headed David Silva's cross wide.

Ferguson reacted to falling behind by sending on Javier Hernandez for Antonio Valencia. He arrived in time to watch Hart turn Nani's free-kick on to the bar after it glanced off the head of Balotelli.

United were deservedly reduced to 10 men with 17 minutes left when Scholes was high and late in a challenge with Zabaleta, leaving referee Mike Dean to produce a red card that was little more than a formality.

It was effectively the end of United's challenge and City were able to survive five minutes of added time before a party started in one half of Wembley.


Paul Scholes is sent off after a foul on Pablo Zabaleta

Hargreaves's Manchester United Career Could Be Over

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson fears injury-plagued midfielder Owen Hargreaves may never play for the club again.

Hargreaves has been beset by a horrific run of injuries since moving to Old Trafford from Bayern Munich in 2007.

Ferguson said: "His contract is up at the end of the season. I don't know what is going to happen."

The England international has managed only 39 appearances during nearly four seasons at United.

Ferguson believes Hargreaves's latest setback, a shoulder injury, has extinguished any hope that the player may return to first-team action this season.

The only appearance the 30-year-old has made this campaign was a surprise start in the Premier League match at home to Wolves on 6 November but his first start for two years lasted only six minutes before he limped off with a hamstring injury.

Asked if there was any chance the £17m signing would feature again this season, Ferguson stated: "I don't see it at all.

"It is a shoulder injury. It has just brought his season to an end. He has just carried bad luck all the time he has been here. I am pretty sure he won't be playing this season."

With Hargreaves's injury problems showing little sign of abating, the Old Trafford boss faces a decision this summer on whether to offer a new deal to a player who has not completed 90 minutes of football since September 2008.

"His contract is up at the end of the season but I don't know what is going to happen," commented Ferguson.

"[United chief executive] David Gill had a discussion with the boy last week. But no more than that. We have to make a decision."

Hargreaves enjoyed a successful debut season with United, helping the club to the Premier League crown and playing in the Champions League final against Chelsea in 2008. He scored in the penalty shoot-out as Ferguson's men triumphed in Moscow.

But he had played with tendonitis in both knees, which resurfaced in the summer of 2008 and restricted the Canadian-born player to two league appearances.

Hargreaves continued to be dogged by pain and visited a surgeon in America to try to solve the problem.

It was a similar story last season when he appeared just once in the first-team, as a 93rd-minute substitute against Sunderland in May 2010.

Champions League Semi Finals: United To Meet Schalke

Schalke stand in the way of United reaching the Champions League final at Wembley after completing a comfortable two-legged victory over Inter Milan.

Bolstered by a stunning 5-2 win at the San Siro, only a disastrous collapse would have halted the Bundesliga side's progress.

But Spanish veteran Raul had the home fans celebrating on the stroke of half time with yet another goal in Europe's premier competition in front of the watching Sir Alex Ferguson and Mike Phelan.

Although Thiago Motta equalised in the second half, Benedikt Howedes made it a convincing 7-3 on aggregate and it is Schalke who will meet United over two games for the right to face Barcelona or Real Madrid on 28 May.

Jose Mourinho's side beat Spurs 1-0 on the night, 5-0 on aggregate, with a Cristiano Ronaldo goal.

Rooney's Derby Day Dazzler

Although Wayne Rooney is unavailable for Saturday's FA Cup semi-final nobody will ever forget the indelible mark he made on the most recent Manchester derby with his stunning overhead kick.

It was a moment of sheer genius from our No.10 and one that was a subject of debate when Inside United caught up with the man himself and team-mates Michael Carrick and Wes Brown...

Can you talk us through your goal Wayne…
WR: It came off my shin didn’t it?! [Laughs]
MC: That shin-pad deserves a lot of credit!
WR: I just remember Nani’s cross taking a deflection and the ball coming over and just hitting it. You’re always working on your technique, but goals like that are just instinctive. When I was in the air, I remember Berba shouting towards me as if to say ‘what are you doing?!’ Then I turned round and it was in the top corner.
MC: He was just gutted because you’d taken Goal of the Season off him! [All laugh]

How many times have you watched it?
WR: [Smiles] A few! It’s amazing the amount of the people who have come up and asked me to sign pictures of it since. To score a goal like that in a Manchester derby was a great feeling and it’s definitely one of the biggest buzzes I’ve felt after a goal.
WB: It’s one of the biggest buzzes I’ve felt after a goal and I wasn’t even playing!

Where does it rank in terms of goals you’ve scored?
WR: It’s the best I’ve scored in a game but if you ask the lads they’ll tell you I score goals like that every day in training. So it was nice to do it in a game this time!
[All laugh]
WB: No chance.
MC: I’ve been here nearly five years and I’ve never seen him score a goal like that in training!
WB: Don’t forget about that goal against Newcastle Wazza [volley in 2004/05]…
MC: The City goal was more important though.
WB: Yeah it was but I wanted to mention the Newcastle goal so I got a mention because I scored in that game too!

The celebration was Cantona-esque…
WR: Rio asked me to do it before the game. I don’t know why I remembered, but as I was running away to celebrate it came into my head to do it.

What about you guys, what was your view of it? Michael you were just about to come on and Wes you were on the bench…
MC: I was close to doing a Mourinho-style celebration down the touchline but I didn’t have my suit on! Me and Michael Owen were standing pitchside and I think MO ran all the way down to you didn’t he?
WR: Yeah he did.
MC: I didn’t really know what to do or where to run, I just went mad where I was stood like every other United fan inside the ground. The emotion of that moment was unbelievable. I had to remember to calm myself down though because I knew I’d be coming on pretty much straight away.
WB: I completely lost the plot in the dug-out. I was jumping on Chicha and then I started grabbing Strudders [Tony Strudwick]! For that two or three seconds after you’re just lost in the moment.
MC: Yeah I think everything comes to you in that one instant - the importance of the game, the goal you’ve just witnessed and the fact it’s a derby.
WR: I remember waving up to the box where my family sit just after the goal because Coleen had brought Kai to the match, but when I saw Coleen afterwards she said she’d had to leave about a minute before I scored. I couldn’t believe it!

Giggs Displays 20-20 Vision

Ryan Giggs continues to produce displays that defy logic as the 37-year-old plays with the freshness of a man 15 years his junior.

United's most decorated player says it's competition for places that's driving United towards glory this term, with everybody scrapping for a starting slot. Selecting an XI each match must be a nightmare for Sir Alex Ferguson but it's a headache the manager's happy to have.

As the big matches pile up, Giggs feels there are 20 players all capable of providing valid arguments to suggest they should be starting. Of course, not everybody can be kept happy.

For instance, Nani was left out of the Champions League tie at Chelsea despite being hugely effective all season. When the task was completed in the second leg, the likes of Dimitar Berbatov and Paul Scholes didn't get a run-out and Michael Owen wasn't even on the bench.

"Confidence is high and we're getting players back," Giggs told MUTV. "And that's what you want for the run-in.

"You don't want to be struggling with injuries. You want a full squad to pick from because there are games every three days now.

"The manager will chop and change again on Saturday [against City], I'm sure, and the players who come in will do a job.

"We're just pleased the confidence is high and we've got probably 20 players competing for 11 places."

The Reds' strength in depth is hopefully going to prove essential as the crowded fixture list means everybody looks set to play their part in the run-in.

Ji-sung Is Our Unsung Hero

Michael Carrick has revealed Ji-sung Park is just as popular in the dressing room as he is with the Old Trafford crowd.

The South Korean midfielder swiftly ended any hopes of a Chelsea comeback with a razor-sharp finish to prevent a nervous finale and send United storming into the Champions League semi-finals.

Park's energetic input has long been recognised by the fans and Carrick has paid his own tribute to the 30-year-old who specialises in big-match goals.

"Typical Ji," Carrick told MUTV. "The lads love him.

"He's so appreciated in the dressing room. A lot of the work he does goes unseen by many, but not by us, I can assure you of that. We appreciate everything he does and he's popped up again with a vital goal but his overall performance was just brilliant for us."

Carrick is typically modest about his own contribution despite two midfield masterclasses against Chelsea, outshining the likes of Frank Lampard and Michael Essien in both legs.

"Hopefully I'm just hitting top form at the right time really," he stressed. "It's nice to play well and it's nice to win the big games. I think the team in general are hitting good form. There are a lot of players playing well now and it's a good sign for us going into the run-in."

Thoughts inevitably turn to the semi-finals with Inter Milan requiring a miraculous comeback at Schalke to prevent United from meeting German opposition once again in the competition.

"It looks like Schalke at the moment," added Carrick. "You don't want to speak too soon because Inter will go there and an early goal can change it easily, but we'll see how it goes.

"The Champions League is very special. Our record over the last four or five years has been very good. We're confident, playing well and in the later stages we always back ourselves but they're always tight games and you need to play well at the right time so hopefully we can do that."

Hernandez On A High

Javier Hernandez says he is ready to fire United to glory whether starting or coming off the bench in the closing stages of games.

Some had lazily pigeon-holed the Mexican striker as an impact substitute, the new Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose electric pace exposes tiring defenders with the clock ticking down. But goal-machine Chicharito clearly has so much more to his game.

He has started United's last two home matches in the Champions League and repaid the manager's faith with three goals against Marseille and Chelsea. This after also being selected in the XI for the win at Stamford Bridge and forming a blossoming partnership with Wayne Rooney.

Hernandez appreciates he will still be left out of certain matches as Sir Alex Ferguson rotates his squad with the Premier League's top scorer Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen itching for more chances themselves.

"Like I always say, I need to be ready," vowed The Little Pea. "If I am to play one minute or 90 minutes.

"All my team-mates and I are very happy about that. I have only words of thanks to all of them and all the staff - to the boss and all of my team-mates. Of course, I'm very happy and I'm enjoying it a lot. The most important thing here is always that Manchester United win, and it doesn't matter who scores the goals," he told MUTV.

Rooney Explains Swearing Mistake

Wayne Rooney has admitted he lost control when he swore into a live TV camera after scoring against West Ham at Upton Park, and that it was wrong.

The Manchester United striker, 25, was banned for two matches by the Football Association and must sit out Saturday's FA Cup semi-final with Manchester City.

"I didn't realise what I'd done," he told talkSPORT. "It was just emotions."

Rooney also thinks his team-mate Ryan Giggs should be knighted, and laughed off a storm over a split with sponsors.

After helping United into the Champions League last four when a 3-1 aggregate victory over Chelsea was completed on Tuesday, Rooney - who previously indicated he felt victimised by the punishment - conceded his conduct in east London on 1 April was unacceptable.

"It was a release of scoring the three goals to get us back in the game," he said. "As soon as I realised after the game I apologised as soon as I could.

"Of course, it was wrong of me to do.

"But I accept my punishment and you just have to move on. Hopefully the boys can pull through for me on Saturday, and hopefully get to that FA Cup final."

Rooney - who was superb in the two European matches against Chelsea which fell either side of the Fulham Premier League game he missed through suspension - also admits being bewildered at the fuss created by a parting of the ways with former sponsors Coca-Cola.

Press speculation claimed he was dropped after the swearing incident, but England international Rooney says they ended their relationship last year.

"I spoke with Coke towards the end of last season about signing a new deal and, with the Olympics coming up, they wanted a bit more of my time to do more commercial appearances," he said.

"I just didn't have the time to do it.

"This all happened at the end of last season - so I haven't been with Coca-Cola since 2010, but it's only just come out now. It makes me laugh when people say I have been dropped by them."

After he and Ryan Giggs inspired United to victory against domestic rivals Chelsea in Europe's elite club competition, Rooney hailed his Welsh team-mate as one of the greatest players in the club's history - and believes it is only a matter of time before he is knighted.

"He is just incredible," he said.

"What he's done for Manchester United and what he's done for the young players, it's absolutely fantastic to have him at the club. He's a genius and I don't think it'll be too long before we're calling him Sir Ryan in my opinion."

Rooney also praised fellow United veteran Paul Scholes, now 36.

"Scholes is the best footballer who I have ever played with," he said.

"His vision, his passing, everything about him. He's world class.

"Over the course of the season the manager has brought in a lot of younger players and it's worked, the likes of Chris Smalling, Javier Hernandez, Darron Gibson. With these guys we've managed to get the results we needed and we're progressing as a team.

"The future looks good for us and we're on the up."

Of his own displays, Rooney added: "It's been a tough season for me, but I'm pleased with my form and the results we're getting.

"I'm playing in a slightly different position now - which means I'm getting more of the ball and can dictate the game."

Rio Eyes Wembley Win

One down, one to go. That was the message from Rio Ferdinand after United’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Tuesday night.

The win, which sends the Reds through to the Champions League last four, came in the first of two huge games this week for Sir Alex’s men.

And now that the Blues from London have been vanquished, Rio’s set his sights on United’s Manchester neighbours, who the Reds meet at Wembley this Saturday in the FA Cup semi-final.

“It’s a massive week for us,” Rio told MUTV. “We’ve got one game out of the way and now we look forward to the City game on Saturday.

“It’s a huge game for the fans and the players. Fingers crossed we can be successful and make a lot of people happy.”

Should United play with as much swagger as the side mustered for long periods against Chelsea, the Reds shouldn’t be troubled by Manchester City.

“We played well, we played some really good football,” Rio said, reflecting on the Champions League win.

“People may have expected us to sit back because we were 1-0 up [after the first leg] but the manager told us to go out and play and be on the front foot and I thought we did that for most of the game.”

Some 30,000 United fans will make the trip to Wembley this weekend to watch Sir Alex’s men in action. City will take just as many supporters, but Ferdinand’s confident United’s fans can have a big impact on the game, just as they did at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

“The fans always sing their hearts out for us. They’re always backing us and when we need a bit of a lift during a game we can rely on them to push us in the right direction.”

Ryan Revels On Center Stage

Another game, another study in enduring excellence from Ryan Giggs.

Having teed up Wayne Rooney's first-leg strike, the Reds' record appearance-maker laid on both goals to help United navigate Chelsea and plot a path into the Champions League semi-finals.

In another ageless display against top level opponents, Giggs shone despite being repurposed as a central midfielder alongside the similarly imperious Michael Carrick.

"I enjoy it," he told Sky Sports. "I've got Carras (Carrick) next to me, who was fantastic in the two games and it makes it easier when you've got the likes of Ji and Nani and Antonio around you, so I enjoyed it in there.

"I think it's easier in there than on the wing. On the wing you need to get up and down, in midfield you can just pick your moments, really. I enjoy it in there."

Giggs conceded that United had enjoyed "a little bit of luck" in surviving a strong first-leg penalty claim and a marginal offside in Chicharito's opening goal, then paid tribute to Chelsea's part in a hard-fought tie.

"It was a tough game tonight," he said. "Chelsea gave us a great game and we're always pleased to get through to the semis. Obviously they needed to score, we just knew that we needed to try and score as well to try and take a bit of the pressure off us.

"I think we played well down there. We had a good gameplan and stuck to it, and tonight, even though Chelsea put us under pressure we scored a couple of great goals."

Boss: We Have Hit Top Form

United are coming to the boil at the perfect stage of the season, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

After watching his side march into the Champions League semi-finals with home and away wins over Chelsea, the United manager feels the Reds - buoyed by a merciful shortage of injuries - are hitting top form.

"I think we've hit our form," Sir Alex told Sky Sports. "I don't think there's any doubt about that. You've seen it in the second half at West Ham and the performance at Chelsea, plus the performance tonight.

"It's a really good moment for us and the players are enjoying it. I think they're relishing the challenges they've got now. You see the momentum the team's under at the moment.

"Momentum is a great thing. everyone's desperate to play on Saturday against Manchester City and they're all desperate to play in every game now. The bonus I've got is that all my players are getting fit again now, and that's a great boost to us."

Goals from Chicharito and Ji-sung Park, allied to Wayne Rooney's first-leg strike, took the Reds past the stern challenge of Carlo Ancelotti's side, and Sir Alex was quick to pay tribute to the visitors.

"We were playing against a very, very good team tonight, Chelsea, and they played their part tremendously," he said. "There were moments in the second half, even with 10 men, where they had a go. Credit to them, but I thought we were the better team on the night.

"We had some fantastic performances. Ji-sung Park, Chicharito upfront. Ji-sung Park's record of goalscoring in big games is fantastic and he's done it again. It was a fantastic finish. Wayne played to his maximum. He was up for it. In the first game he was outstanding and tonight he did his job right. I thought all over no-one let us down."