Gill Bemoans United Treatment

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has claimed that the club were unfairly targeted by the Football Association last season.

The Red Devils saw striker Wayne Rooney handed a two-match ban for swearing into a television camera after scoring in the 4-2 victory over West Ham at Upton Park.

And Old Trafford manager Sir Alex Ferguson was hit with a five-match touchline suspension for his comments about referee Martin Atkinson in the wake of their 2-1 defeat at Chelsea.

Gill, who is a member of the FA board, was speaking in new book Champ19ns, which covers the club's record 19th top-flight title last term.

He said: "I do genuinely believe there have been some poorish decisions that, in my opinion, wouldn't necessarily have hit other clubs.

"That's not to say I'm condoning Wayne's comments, because I don't think they were correct, or what Sir Alex said (about Atkinson) because it wasn't helpful.

"But at the same time, the actual punishments were harsh. We're possibly being caught up in being one of the biggest clubs and the 'Respect' agenda being there.

"What better way to demonstrate the authorities are being tough than by hitting one of the biggest clubs the hardest?"

De Gea Out To Emulate Edwin

Mancheser United new boy David de Gea has set his sights on emulating Edwin van der Sar's achievements at Old Trafford.

De Gea has signed a five-year deal at United after arriving from Atletico Madrid.

The Spain Under 21 international, who is United's third signing of the summer, has set his sights on filling the void left by van der Sar's retirement.

"In my opinion Edwin has been the best goalkeeper in the world whilst here at United," De Gea told MUTV.

"I hope to emulate him and spend a great number of years here. Hopefully I will equal or even surpass the performance and contribution he made to the club."

De Gea knows it could take him time to adapt to the rigours of English football admitting there are major differences between La Liga and the Premier League.

"There are differences between the two (leagues)," added De Gea.

"The Premier League is known to be a more physical style of play.

"There are a lot of high balls and a lot of play in the air but I hope to adapt fairly quickly and with my own style hope to contribute to it being an all-round success."

De Gea has set his sights on winning the Champions League with United as they look to go one better than last season's final defeat to Barcelona.

"Of course everybody wants to win the Premier League," continued De Gea.

"That's no different from me - I'd like to do that but also aiming to win the Champions League is realistic. That is what we're going to do."

Ex-Red Endorses de Gea Buy

Reds goalkeeping legend Alex Stepney has endorsed the signing of David de Gea from Atletico Madrid.

The hugely promising Spain Under-21 keeper was the man identified by Sir Alex Ferguson as the best option for the position after exhaustive scouting around the world.

With Edwin van der Sar retiring, the new arrival seems likely to be handed the number one shirt and Stepney feels he will soon pick up the language in Manchester.

"He's done very well for Atletico," Stepney told ManUtd.com. "His record last season (24 clean sheets in 45 games) is incredible in a top-class league. I've only seen him on TV and you can't tell everything about a player on TV.

"For example, I always like to see what a goalkeeper's doing position-wise when the ball's down the other end of the pitch and the cameras rarely show that. But certainly I've seen what a good shot-stopper he is and it would seem that he's going to be Sir Alex's number one.

"We've also still got Anders Lindegaard, Ben Amos and Tomasz Kuszczak on the books, of course, and one of them will have to leave, either on loan or permanently. A club like Manchester United has to have three top-class goalkeepers because if your number one gets injured, you need quality cover in the team and on the bench."

1968 European Cup final star Stepney expects the keeper to quickly adapt to his new surroundings in plenty of time for the big kick-off in August.

"It doesn't take long for players to settle in at Carrington, even if they don't speak English," he explained. "United is so geared up to help them in and learn the language if necessary so all parties, the player and the club, can get the maximum benefit from the deal."

Sir Alex confirmed his decision to plump for de Gea at Gary Neville's testimonial last month and the deal has been done in time for the 20-year-old to bed in with his new team-mates during the close season.

Rio Welcomes New Keeper

Rio Ferdinand has expressed his enthusiasm for the signing of Atletico Madrid keeper David de Gea.

The Reds defender has used his Twitter page to offer his support for the man who is set to play behind him next season following Edwin van der Sar's retirement.

The 20 year-old Spaniard's style has already caught the eye of the United centre-back.

Ferdinand tweeted today, "David de Gea welcome bro! Another quality young player signed, Manchester United have had a nice bit of movement in this transfer window.

"De Gea has got nice feet too. I love that in a keeper...sweeper."

Striker Michael Owen added: "I'm sure he will be a massive success."

Manchester United Confirm Signing Of David de Gea

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper David de Gea from Atletico Madrid on a five-year deal.

The Spain Under-21 international, 20, underwent a medical at Old Trafford on Monday and will finalise what is thought to be an £18.9m move on Friday.

"I feel very proud and I can't wait to start playing here," De Gea told MUTV.

"When a club the size of Manchester United comes in for you, it obviously makes you very, very happy. I'm keen to do my best and show what I can do."

The deal marks De Gea out as the second most expensive keeper behind Gianluigi Buffon, who cost Juventus £32.6m in 2001.

De Gea, part of the Spain squad that won the European Under-21 Championship on Saturday, is a product of Atletico's youth academy, spending his first professional season with the club's reserves in the Segunda Division B before making his senior debut as a substitute in the Champions League against Porto in September 2009.

Since then he has made nearly 100 senior appearances for the Spanish outfit.

His arrival at Old Trafford follows the departure of Edwin van der Sar, who retired after the Champions League final defeat by Barcelona in May.

In May, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the Red Devils had been working on the De Gea deal for "quite a while".

"He's a young goalkeeper, very quick, good composure, presence and an outstanding replacement for Van der Sar," Ferguson told the club website.

"We were looking for the same type of qualities as Edwin, because the one great quality Edwin always had was his composure and organisational ability."

And, upon completion of the deal, De Gea added: "I saw Man Utd's interest as an extra motivation to work even harder to show off my ability.

"It's a great privilege to be part of a club like United."

Ferguson currently has goalkeepers Tomasz Kuszczak, Anders Lindegaard and Ben Amos on his books but De Gea is widely expected to be the Scot's number one in the new season.

The deal takes the Premier League champions' summer spending past the £50m mark after the acquisitions of defender Phil Jones from Blackburn and Ashley Young from Aston Villa.

Lessons Learnt For Macheda

Federico Macheda has vowed to learn from the experience of a disappointing loan spell with Sampdoria as he prepares to rejoin the United squad.

The 19-year-old striker opted for a temporary return to his native Italy in January, instead of going on loan to a top-flight English club, but the Genoa side's relegation scrap meant he was used sparingly as the club ultimately failed to avoid the drop from Serie A.

"I really wanted to have an experience in Italy," Macheda admitted to Sky Sport Italia. "But I now hope to stay in the [Barclays] Premier League.

"For a youngster, England is a better place to play. It wasn't easy from a psychological point of view to leave United and join a Sampdoria side who were fighting relegation. It was a delicate situation."

Speaking recently to ManUtd.com, Reserves boss Warren Joyce stressed the need for Macheda to take the positives from the stint away from Old Trafford.

"Sometimes you learn about yourself even when things don’t go well," explained Joyce. "Federico’s had to dig deep.

"I know it’s his home country but he’s been away from Manchester and things have not gone particularly well for him. He’s had to look at himself and time will tell.

"We only had one real meeting out there in Italy, but I’ve had regular dialogue with him on the phone and he sounds up for the challenge and he might have learned from this bad experience.

"Only time will tell. It's now all about how he comes back to United and responds to the challenge."

De Gea Undergoes Medical

David de Gea has arrived in England and had a medical ahead of his proposed switch to Manchester United.

The Spanish goalkeeper has been identified by Sir Alex Ferguson as the long-term successor to Edwin van der Sar at Old Trafford.

United are prepared to spend upwards of £17million in order to secure his signature, with it widely agreed that he is the most promising shot-stopper in Europe.

De Gea underlined his obvious potential on Saturday as he helped Spain to European U21 Championship glory.

Having put transfer discussions on hold while he competed in that tournament, he is now prepared to push ahead with a move to England.

De Gea has been pictured arriving at the Bridgewater Hospital and is all set to put the finishing touches to an agreement with United.

His arrival at Old Trafford will see the Red Devils push their summer spending spree past the £50million mark and continue with their policy of snapping up bright young talent.

Ferguson has already acquired England U21 centre-half Phil Jones from Blackburn and England winger Ashley Young from Aston Villa.

Such is the Spaniard's reputation that compatriot and Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina, who seems likely to face De Gea when the north-west rivals clash at Anfield on October 15, reacted positively to the player's move.

"I very much welcome this news because David is a great keeper," he told La Gaceta.

"When it becomes official he is going to start working to prove in the Premier League what a good goalkeeper he is."

Nani Committed To The Cause

Nani insists he is staying with United after revealing how his improved tactical discipline has impressed Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Portuguese winger has had to contend with speculation over his future following the arrival of Aston Villa's Ashley Young and he was grilled on that very topic by local media during a summer trip to Singapore.

"I don't want to talk about other players," Nani told The New Paper. "But I can tell you one thing - I just think about me and not others. This is most important. If I am good, I do not have to be scared of anybody, that's the thing.

"Am I staying at United? Definitely? Yes."

Nani's confidence in the status quo is underlined by his club - United have responded to journalists' questions about his future with strong denials that he could be sold in the wake of Young's arrival. The former Villa man is an addition to the ranks, not a replacement for Nani, and the latter very much looks forward to improving further at Old Trafford.

"[Last season] was my fourth year there," said Nani. "I [continue to] work with Sir Alex and, to tell you the truth, it's fantastic. I learn from the way he works because he has such a strong mentality and the discipline is very high. We have to do things perfectly - he likes [players to be] inch-perfect.

"When I arrived, I was playing well but I didn't have enough discipline in my game, that was maybe why I didn't play most of the matches. Now I can say I'm okay with discipline and very good at the things Sir Alex likes. It's maybe why I'm one of the players he believes in more."

Nani accepts Sir Alex's tough call to start him on the bench for the Champions League final against Barcelona at Wembley.

"I was a bit surprised," he said. "But this is football. It's not me making the decision. The manager makes the decision and you have to respect it.

"He has his office and it's not just for football but if you have some problems and need some help, he will always help. I've been there with him to speak and he's a very good person. He gives confidence to the players and it's very important in the big games."

Nani welcomed the appointment of Andre Villas-Boas as Sir Alex's counterpart at Chelsea but laughed at the suggestion he could link up with his fellow countryman at Stamford Bridge in the future. "That's a joke?" he replied.

Park Has No Leaving Plans

Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung is hoping to be given the opportunity to stay on at Old Trafford.

The Korean has been linked with a switch to Serie A giants Juventus of late, with United having bolstered their options in the middle of the park.

The arrival of Ashley Young is expected to see Park slip down the pecking order, while the likes of Tom Cleverley are set to push for regular first-team football this season.

Park is refusing to read too much into the speculation, though, and insists he has every intention of staying put.

"It would be an honour for me to keep playing for Manchester United," he said.

"I just want to stay at Manchester United. As an Asian player, it's an honour to play for the biggest club in the world.

"I want to achieve the 20th league title for United."

Anders Up For United Fight

Anders Lindegaard has vowed to fight for his place in the Manchester United side next season.

Danish international Lindegaard, who joined United last January from Aalesund, found himself third-choice keeper last season behind Edwin van der Sar and Tomasz Kuszczak.

Despite the retirement of Van der Sar, Lindegaard could find his path to the starting XI blocked by the possible arrival of David De Gea from Atletico Madrid.

Lindegaard, who made only two first-team appearances last season, is excited about the new season ahead and is ready to do all he can to win the No.1 shirt at Old Trafford.

"I am really excited to get things started. It will be an exciting season for me and for the team," Lindegaard told Norwegian daily Sunmorsposten.

"I will fight with all I have for the position to be mine.

"The goal for Manchester United is to win as many titles as possible and I will do my best to contribute to this."

Juventus Deny Park Interest

Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has denied that the club have an interest in signing Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung.

The 30-year-old Korean, who is out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of next season, moved to dispel speculation regarding his future by admitting that he wanted to stay at Old Trafford earlier this week.

It was widely reported on Friday that the Bianconeri were ready to table a bid for the experienced winger, but Marotta was quick to dispel those rumours.

He told Sky Sport Italia: "No, we're not interested in Park.

"We will sign a quality player in attack, certainly a top striker. We already have a world class addition to our midfield with Andrea Pirlo."

The Old Lady have been linked with summer moves for Atletico Madrid star Sergio Aguero and Villarreal striker Giuseppe Rossi and Marotta admitted interest in the duo.

He added: "Both players are talented and capable of making a difference.

"They do match up with the profile of the kind of player we are looking for."

Izaguirre Claims United Interest

Celtic full-back Emilio Izaguirre claims he is wanted by Manchester United and that Sir Alex Ferguson has previously been in touch with the SPL club.

Izaguirre joined the Bhoys last summer and enjoyed an impressive debut season in the SPL which culminated in the Honduras international scooping the player of the year awards.

He was recently linked with United's arch-rivals Liverpool and revealed he was 'flattered' by the interest being shown by the Anfield club.

However, he now says that Premier League champions United were keen on a deal in January before Patrice Evra signed a new contract and are set to hold further talks with Celtic next month.

"I am aware that Manchester United and Celtic agreed for a meeting in July," said Izaguirre in Honduras. "We have to see what happens if I stay or I go.

"I have to confirm it's 100% true that Manchester United were following me and were interested in me in January.

"It was Alex Ferguson directly who made contact with the Celtic directors.

"I think it was the time when they didn't close the negotiations with Patrice Evra. As far as I am aware Celtic refused to sell me as we were concentrating on the league.

"Regarding possibilities, I prefer to stay silent as I did when Celtic signed me. This is a job of my agent.

"If I have the chance I welcome the move with open arms. If that is the case I will thank God and I will take my opportunity."

Celtic boss Neil Lennon, meanwhile, insists there has been no approach for Izaguirre or Israel midfielder Beram Kayal.

Lennon said in the Daily Record: "You're always going to get speculation about your best players. I understand that.

"But there's been no interest expressed in Beram or Emilio and I've had no one on the telephone enquiring about any other player if it comes to that.

"Every player has his price but I'm not prepared to sell my better ones and Emilio certainly comes into that category."

Young Relishing United Switch

Ashley Young has admitted that the chance to join champions Manchester United was too good to turn down.

The 25-year-old was signed up to a five-year deal on Thursday for a reported £16million fee.

The midfielder revealed that the opportunity to challenge for the club's 20th league title and to ply his trade for a team like United was the realisation of a boyhood dream.

Speaking after putting pen to paper on the biggest move of his career, former Aston Villa star Young admitted he was excited at becoming part of the club's rich history.

"The opportunity to come and play for one of the biggest clubs in the world is one I couldn't turn down," he told MUTV.

"It's a chance to hopefully become part of their history by helping to win the 20th title.

"It's a prospect I always looked at from being a child; to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"I've got that opportunity now so I've just got to take it with two hands."

Michael Owen, who extended his stay at Old Trafford by signing a new 12-month contract earlier this month, wrote on twitter: "Great to hear the Ashley Young deal has been finalised. Great addition to the squad."

Irwin Hails Young Capture

Former Red Denis Irwin has welcomed the signing of Ashley Young and has tipped the attacker to be a real success at Old Trafford.

The club announced on Thursday it had reached agreement with Aston Villa to secure the services of the 25-year-old and Irwin is predicting a bright future for the England international.

“I think it’s a great signing and I expect him to be a really good player for us,” the Treble winner told ManUtd.com. “He’s got good ability and is a real threat from set-pieces, which is something we’ve been missing in the last couple of years.

“He can play anywhere behind the front man and his delivery into the box is fantastic. He’s got a real eye for goal too and, given the opportunity, I think he’ll chip in with a few goals next season.”

Young is United’s second signing of the summer following the capture of defender Phil Jones from Blackburn earlier this month. And Irwin wouldn’t be surprised to see a few more new faces before the transfer window closes.

“The fact we’ve lost Nev, Scholesy and Edwin, and Owen Hargreaves has also left, meant we needed to bring some players in because you need a big squad to be able to challenge for the top prizes. Phil and Ashley are really good acquisitions and I’m sure both will do well.

“I think there will be a lot of money spent in the next couple of months by a lot of teams and I wouldn't be surprised to see us bring in a couple more players."

United Seal Young Swoop

Ashley Young has swapped the claret and blue of Aston Villa for the famous red of Manchester United.

The 25-year-old is the second confirmed new arrival at Old Trafford this summer, after Blackburn Rovers defender Phil Jones agreed a move on 13 June.

A club statement on Thursday afternoon read: “Manchester United is delighted to announce it has reached agreement with Aston Villa for the transfer of Ashley Young.

“The player passed a medical in Manchester this week and has agreed a five-year contract.”

Young, who began his professional career at Watford before moving to Villa Park in January 2007, made 193 appearances for the Birmingham side and scored 30 goals. He's also renowned as a chief creator: in the last five Premier League seasons, only Cesc Fabregas provided more assists for his team-mates.

In an exclusive interview with MUTV, to be aired on Thursday evening at 18:30 BST, Young admitted he will miss the Midlands club, but explained "the opportunity to come and play for one of the biggest clubs in the world is one I couldn't turn down".

"It's a chance to... hopefully become part of the history by helping to win the 20th title." he said. "It's a prospect I always looked at from being a child: to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world."

Reds defender Rio Ferdinand welcomed the deal on Twitter, hailing his England team-mate as "another top, hungry and young player".

Reds Embark On Asia Trophy Tour

Manchester United have begun a 12-day tour of Asia with the Barclays Premier League trophy.

Ji-sung Park and other United players past and present will accompany the trophy for part of its travels around Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

United have been visiting and playing in Asia since 1974 and last took the Premier League trophy around the Far East in June 2008.

More than half of the club's estimated 333 million fanbase live in Asia and the club's visit will give them a rare, up-close glimpse of the trophy and some of the first-team stars.

The Trophy Tour is being supported by club partners Nike, Audi, Turkish Airlines, Hutchison 3, Danamon Bank, Singha, TM, PCCW and MUFB.

United's commercial director Richard Arnold said: "We know from the huge response from the Asian-based supporters in our 16 million Facebook followers and our commercial partners in the area just how much our Asian fans celebrated the historic 19th title win, so we wanted to make sure they could be part of that history by taking the trophy to them.

"Some of the players have taken time out of their summer holidays to say a big thank-you to those supporters and it promises to be a lot of fun."

Jones Not Daunted By United

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New Manchester United defender Phil Jones is aware he faces a huge task in earning a place in the champions' first team, but is not daunted by the task.

The recently appointed England Under 21 captain cannot wait to get started at Old Trafford and is confident he has not sacrificed first-team football by leaving Blackburn.

Jones, 19, last week completed his move to Sir Alex Ferguson's side for a fee reportedly in excess of £16.5million.

He will link up with his new team-mates, including international centre-back partner Chris Smalling, once he returns from holiday after England crashed out of the European U21 Championship on Sunday night.

Jones said: "I'm not sure when my first day is going to be. I have got to go home first, go on a few holidays and chill out for a little bit.

"Hopefully, I will get a call from the gaffer and I'm looking forward to that.

"Everyone knows they are one of the biggest clubs on the planet. It's a massive move for me and I just can't wait to get started. It's a massive challenge."

Jones will doubtless begin his Old Trafford career behind Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Smalling in the pecking order, but he is unfazed by the prospect.

"Chris has shown that you can go in there and play games for United," Jones said of Smalling, who joined the Premier League champions a year ago. "He has done extremely well.

"The gaffer has shown he is not afraid to put young faces in the team. When I get the chance I am confident I will take it."

Park Could Leave By 2013

Park Ji-sung believes he only has 'one or two' more years at the top and is unlikely to retire at Manchester United.

The South Korean is 30 years old and appreciates that his ability to produce his best on a regular basis is diminishing.

Park's game is based around a seemingly endless supply of energy, which allows him to cause countless problems for opponents.

He appreciates that he cannot continue to perform at the very top for too much longer, and he has already retired from international football.

Park, who joined United from PSV Eindhoven in 2005, has now revealed that he expects to see out his playing days away from Old Trafford, with it likely that he will have moved by 2013.

"I won't be able to show my best after one or two years," Park said in the Daily Mirror.

"I don't know how long I can stay at Manchester.

"I never thought about retirement but it's obvious that I don't have much time left as a player.

"According to circumstances, I might leave Manchester United and retire in another team."

United Wait On Varane

Manchester United will find out within the next 48 hours if their bid for Lens starlet Raphael Varane has been successful.

United have been tracking the Lens stopper for a number of months and were the first side to make a move for him this summer.

They lodged a bid of around €10million for the 18-year-old central defender, who admitted he was considering his options carefully.

Varane intimated he would like to continue playing first-team football next season, so United were set to allow him to move back to France on loan.

Real Madrid, who have also lodged a bid, were also happy for him to return as part of the deal but he also looks set to have the option to move within his homeland as Paris Saint Germain have also lodged an offer.

And it is PSG who have emerged as favourites to land his signature, despite the attention of the two European giants.

Lens president Gervais Martel confirmed that interested clubs will soon find out Varane's future.

"Given the clubs involved, it would be very hard to stop him [from moving," Martel told La Voix du Nord.

"I hope this will be finalised in the next 48 hours - I have just spent four hours on the phone, and there are many things to settle."

Rovers Reveal Jones Concern

Blackburn have claimed that Manchester United approached Phil Jones before being granted permission to speak to the England Under 21 international.

The talented and versatile centre-back's anticipated switch to Old Trafford was sealed on Monday and he will put pen to paper on a five-year deal when he returns from the European Championship in Denmark.

But Ewood Park owners Venkys considered making an official complaint to the Premier League over the £20.5million deal, only to back down as they did not want any legal wrangle to hamper Jones' career.

Anuradha Desai, chairperson of the Venkys group, held talks with manager Steve Kean and they decided the best course of action was to allow the highly-rated youngster to move on with their blessing.

Desai told the Mail on Sunday: "We have reasons to believe that the player's agent and maybe the player had been in touch [with United] for two to three months before permission was granted.

"I was ready to take Manchester United on, ready to go to a tribunal if that's what it led to. But we spoke at length to Steve Kean and we knew Phil wanted to go to United.

"We concluded that the person who would be most damaged by a delay and legal action was Phil. That wasn't fair on him. There was a release clause for £16.5m and the total deal was £4m more with the add-ons. We wish Phil well.

"Phil is an outstanding young English player and I'm proud of the role Blackburn played in developing him. We made him an enormous offer to stay with us and we wanted to keep him."

United insist that they conducted all their transfer business in the correct manner and Jones' agent also rejected the suggestions from Rovers.

A spokesman for Manchester United responded: "We had the appropriate permissions to speak to Phil Jones."

And Jones' agent, John Colquhoun added: "I won't be commenting on the confidential process that was undertaken.

"Everyone is telling me they're happy with what went on so, unless I hear different and unless I've got questions to answer, I don't feel I have to comment."

Obertan Unsure Over Lille Link

Manchester United winger Gabriel Obertan has played down talk linking him with a move to Lille.

Reports have suggested that the Ligue 1 side were lining up a loan swoop for Obertan as they look to bolster their squad for next season's UEFA Champions League campaign.

Obertan has struggled to make an impact at United since arriving from Bordeaux in the summer of 2009.

The 22-year-old admits he is in the dark over the links with Lille and is unsure where his future lies

"I will not be loaned to Lille, for now," Obertan told France Football.

"I should know if Manchester wants to loan me and if they want to [loan me] to Lille.

"For now, I do not know."

Scholes Relishing Coaching Role

Freshly-retired Paul Scholes is yet to iron out the details of his new coaching role with the Reds, but he is keen to impress his experience on whoever he works with.

After a gilded 17-year career at the top of the game, Scholes' know-how is an invaluable commodity for Sir Alex Ferguson, and the midfielder is relishing the new career move.

"I’m not too sure what the manager wants me to do yet but I’m looking forward to it," he says. "I've done bits and pieces. It’s certainly something different and I just want to be able to help players in whatever way I can.

"I haven't done that much yet but what I have done I have enjoyed. I am not looking too far ahead. I just want to get into it and start it and hopefully I can do the job.

"If I can do it I will want to be as good as I possibly can be. I just don't know at what level I will be most comfortable. I will just take it as it comes. If I get some confidence as I am doing it we will take it from there."

The famously unassuming Scholes concedes that he has long been regarded as an unlikely coach or manager, and he expects that he will soon be able to tell if he is cut out for his new role.

"You think the end is never going to come and you don't think about what to do like I have in the last six months," he admits. "In the last six months I have been thinking about it. I am going to give the coaching a go.

"It might not work out and I might have to end up doing something else. Football is the only thing I know a little bit about. I will try coaching and if it doesn't work or I am not very good at it I won't carry on doing it. I think I will probably know within two or three weeks of starting the job whether I am will be any good or if I want to carry on doing it."

Wes Brown Linked With Villa?

Skysports.com understands that Wes Brown has emerged as a possible transfer target for new Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish.

McLeish was confirmed as the new man at the helm at Villa Park on Friday and has already begun making plans for his moves in the transfer market.

Manchester United stalwart Brown has been tipped to leave Old Trafford this summer after 15 years with the North West giants.

The versatile defender made just 15 appearances last season and has already been linked with a switch to Sunderland under former team-mate Steve Bruce.

McLeish believes that the 31-year-old former England international could be a useful addition to his Villa squad and is considering an approach.

Newcastle full-back Danny Simpson has also been linked with a possible switch from St James' Park to Villa Park in recent times.

Top-flight Loan For De Laet

Ritchie De Laet's learning curve is set to continue in 2011/12 with a season-long loan at Norwich City.

By joining the newly-promoted Canaries, the versatile Belgian defender will get the chance to pit his wits against Barclays Premier League opposition every week, having previously been on loan in a lower tier. In fact, De Laet played for three different teams in the Championship last season - Preston North End, Sheffield United and Portsmouth.

An article published on Norwich's official website at 17:00 on Friday read: "Norwich City can confirm the signing of Manchester United defender Ritchie De Laet on a season-long loan, subject to the relevant paperwork being completed."

Canaries coach Paul Lambert told his club's site: "Ritchie will be great for us. He's young and one of his main strengths is pace and he comes from a great club where he's played first-team football. He'll come in and help the other lads out. He's played a lot of first team games out on loan last season and I'm sure he'll do great for us."

United Reserves coach Warren Joyce recently spoke to ManUtd.com to review De Laet's 2010/11 season out on loan.

"De Laet had an outstanding season in the Championship, I’m sure all three managers he played under were delighted with him," said Joyce.

"He produced some real high-quality performances in the Championship and looked really strong. He played in a variety of positions and ended up at right-back with Portsmouth. That's not a position where he’s played a great deal at United, either for the reserves or the first team. But he did really well there for Portsmouth. Previously he was left-back at Preston and did well, and he played in both full-back positions and at centre-back for Sheffield United so he had a good year."

Ironically De Laet's final home game for Portsmouth was against Norwich on 2 May, when the Canaries clinched promotion to the Barclays Premier League by winning 1-0.

Fixtures 2011/12: Provisional Dates

Manchester United's bid to retain the Barclays Premier League trophy in 2011/12 will begin with a trip to West Bromwich Albion.

This match is initially scheduled for Saturday 13 August but like all fixtures, it's subject to change and fans are advised to wait for confirmation before booking travel or accommodation. Selections for live TV broadcasts and, consequently, the revised kick-off times will be announced in due course.

It's the first time in six seasons the Reds will play away from home on the opening day. Old Trafford's first action will come the following weekend when Tottenham visit M16 on Saturday 20 August. That's the first of three consecutive home games against London opposition: Arsenal (27 August) and Chelsea (17 September) follow shortlty afterwards, with a trip to Bolton sandwiched between.

At the other end of the season, the Reds finish with a tricky trip to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland on Sunday 13 May. The last home game is against newly-promoted Swansea City on Saturday 5 May. United's full 2011/12 list is as follows:

Sat 13 Aug - West Brom (A)
Sat 20 Aug - Tottenham Hotspur (H)
Sat 27 Aug - Arsenal (H)
Sat 10 Sep - Bolton Wanderers (A)
Sat 17 Sep - Chelsea (H)
Sat 24 Sep - Stoke City (A)
Sat 1 Oct - Norwich City (H)
Sat 15 Oct - Liverpool (A)
Sat 22 Oct - Manchester City (H)
Sat 29 Oct - Everton (A)
Sat 5 Nov - Sunderland (H)
Sat 19 Nov - Swansea City (A)
Sat 26 Nov - Newcastle United (H)
Sat 3 Dec - Aston Villa (A)
Sat 10 Dec - Wolves (H)
Sat 17 Dec - QPR (A)
Wed 21 Dec - Fulham (A)
Mon 26 Dec - Wigan Athletic (H)
Sat 31 Dec - Blackburn Rovers (H)
Mon 2 Jan - Newcastle (A)
Sat 14 Jan - Bolton Wanderers (H)
Sat 21 Jan - Arsenal (A)
Tue 31 Jan - Stoke City (H)
Sat 4 Feb - Chelsea (A)
Sat 11 Feb - Liverpool (H)
Sat 25 Feb - Norwich City (A)
Sat 3 Mar - Tottenham Hotspur (A)
Sat 10 Mar - West Brom (H)
Sat 17 Mar - Wolves (A)
Sat 24 Mar - Fulham (H)
Sat 31 Mar - Blackburn Rovers (A)
Sat 7 Apr - QPR (H)
Mon 9 Apr - Wigan Athletic (A)
Sat 14 Apr - Aston Villa (H)
Sat 21 Apr - Everton (H)
Sat 28 Apr - Manchester City (A)
Sat 5 May - Swansea City (H)
Sun 13 May - Sunderland (A)

Key league clashes
Provisional dates:
Sat 27 Aug Arsenal (H)
Sat 17 Sep Chelsea (H)
Sat 15 Oct Liverpool (A)
Sat 22 Oct Man City (H)
Sat 21 Jan Arsenal (A)
Sat 4 Feb Chelsea (A)
Sat 11 Feb Liverpool (H)
Sat 28 Apr Man City (A)

Cup dates (provisional)
Wed 21 Sep Carling Cup 3
Wed 26 Oct Carling Cup 4
Wed 30 Nov Carling Cup 5
Sat 7 Jan FA Cup 3
Wed 11 Jan Carling Cup semi-final (1)
Wed 25 Jan Carling Cup semi-final (2)
Sat 28 Jan FA Cup 4
Sat 18 Feb FA Cup 5
Sun 26 Feb Carling Cup final
Sat 17 Mar FA Cup 6
Sat 14 Apr FA Cup semi-final
Sat 5 May FA Cup final

MPs: Make Ferguson A Lord

A campaign has kicked off at Westminster to make Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson a Lord.

Two Labour MPs from Manchester - Graham Stringer and Tony Lloyd - have tabled a Commons motion calling for the 69-year-old Scot to be awarded a peerage.

Stringer and Lloyd argue that football should be represented in the House of Lords because of its "economic, social, cultural" importance.

Ferguson led United to a record 19th league title in May.

That was the 12th Premier League crown the Red Devils had won under Ferguson, who has also captured the Champions League twice, the Cup Winners' Cup, the FA Cup five times and the League Cup on four occasions.

He also led Aberdeen to three Scottish League titles, four Scottish Cups, the Scottish League Cup and the Cup Winners' Cup.

A lifelong socialist, Ferguson was knighted in 1999 when Tony Blair was Prime Minister.

THE MOTION IN FULL

"That this House recognises the economic, social, cultural and sporting importance of football to the United Kingdom; is therefore surprised at the paucity of representatives from the world of football in the Upper House; further notes that Sir Alex Ferguson, as the manager of Aberdeen and Manchester United, is the most successful manager in the history of British football; and calls for him to be recommended for appointment to the House of Lords."

Man Utd Target David De Gea Unfazed By Big Transfer Fee

Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea has said he would not feel the pressure of a high transfer fee if he were to join Manchester United.

De Gea, 20, will reportedly cost £18m and become the second most expensive keeper behind Gianluigi Buffon, who cost Juventus £32.6m in 2001.

"That does not interest me. The value that really counts is what you do on the pitch," De Gea said.

"I feel very motivated that Manchester United are thinking about me."

De Gea, who is on duty with the Spain Under-21 side at the 2011 European Championship in Denmark, made 45 appearances for Atletico Madrid this season and kept an impressive 24 clean sheets in the process.

He is widely thought to be the goalkeeper that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has pinpointed to replace the recently retired Edwin van der Sar.

"I like the fact that they are considering me as a replacement for a goalkeeper of Edwin van der Sar's calibre," De Gea added.

"I will need to keep on striving and working hard, as I am still in the outset of my career, and I still have much to do at this level.

"I hope I will still be playing when I am his age. It is hard to look so far ahead but it is something I want to do."

De Gea came through Atletico Madrid's youth system and made his first team debut at the age of 18 in a Champions League match against Porto in 2009.

He also won the Europa League in his first season as he helped Atletico to a 2-1 win over Fulham in the 2010 final in Hamburg.

With his current deal set to expire in 2013, Atletico have previously stated their desire to convince De Gea to sign a new contract.

Should their attempts prove unsuccessful, a buy-out clause reportedly in the region of 25m euros (£22m) is in place.

MOST EXPENSIVE GOALKEEPERSContinue reading the main story Gianluigi Buffon - £32.6m
Angelo Peruzzi - £10.5m
Craig Gordon - £9m
Fabien Barthez - £7.8m
Gianluca Pagliuca - £7.5m

Besiktas Land Bebe On Loan

Reds winger Bebe will spend the forthcoming season on loan at Turkish side Besiktas.

The 20-year-old joined United from Portuguese outfit Vitoria de Guimaraes in a surprise deal in August 2010 and has since made seven first-team appearances. He scored in both the Carling Cup and the Champions League competition last season - coincidentally, against Turkish opposition, Bursaspor - while also proving a threat in the Reds' Reserves, for whom he scored six goals in 13 appearances.

Now Bebe's development is expected to continue after Besiktas, who finished fifth in the Turkish Super Lig last term, secured his services for the duration of the 2011/12campaign.

Fixtures Out On Friday Morning

United's route to retaining the Barclays Premier League title will be mapped out this Friday with the release of the provisional 2011/12 fixtures.

'Fixtures Day' is eagerly awaited by fans all over the world and while the dates provided are heavily subject to change, the order will at least give some indication as to how the title race could unfold. For example, we found out this time last year that the Reds would face Arsenal and Chelsea in successive May 2011 weekends, even if final confirmation of the actual days and kick-off times came months later.

Boss Will Rebuild If Required

Paul Scholes admits Sir Alex Ferguson will have no fear of building the next iteration of United during the current transfer window.

The Reds look set for a high churn of players this summer, with Scholes following Gary Neville and Edwin van der Sar into retirement and Owen Hargreaves leaving the club.

Phil Jones has already agreed to sign and scores more players are linked with joining or leaving the Reds on a daily basis, and Scholes says the manager will have no qualms about making required changes.

"The manager will know what he needs and if he needs to buy players or he’s happy with what he’s already got," said Scholes. "Over the last couple of years he’s not really added that much to it, and if he feels the need to do it now, he’ll do it. He’s built three or four teams now and if he needs to do it again, I’m sure he will."

Replacing the midfield creativity of Scholes is no mean feat for Sir Alex. The likes of Wesley Sneijder, Luka Modric and Samir Nasri have all been tipped as potential big-money signings but, with several gifted midfielders in the Reds' ranks at both senior and youth level, Scholes feels the answer could be in-house.

"I don't need replacing," he protested, before adding: "I don't know where the answer lies about a replacement. That is up to the manager and his staff. There is no doubt there is a lot of talent at this club. You only have to look at the youth team this year and what they have done. There are some great players.

"The ones we have been linked with are great players as well. I am sure the manager will buy or bring through the right players and will be just as successful and hopefully get towards the Barcelona level as well."

Now self-consigned to the sidelines, Scholes admits he draws excitement from the transfer rumblings which fill the action-starved summer months.

"It’s great," he said. "Even when I was a player you see all these top players around the world that you’re linked with, and you’re excited about maybe playing with them. As a fan now, just like my son is, we’re hoping we buy the best players in the world and that they make us even stronger for next year."

Paul was speaking to ManUtd.com, the Press Association, Manchester Evening News, Key 103 and BBC Radio.

De Laet In Norwich Medical

Skysports.com understands Norwich are closing in on the loan signing of Manchester United defender Ritchie de Laet.

De Laet impressed during loan spells with Championship trio Preston, Sheffield United and Portsmouth last season.

The 22-year-old is highly-rated at Old Trafford and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes a loan spell in the Premier League is the next stage in the defender's development.

A number of clubs are believed to have expressed an interest in signing De Laet, but Norwich look set to win the race for his signature.

Canaries boss Paul Lambert is thought to be a big admirer of the Belgium international and is keen to bring him to Carrow Road.

The Premier League new boys have lined up a season-long loan deal for De Laet and if the former Stoke man seals the move he will become Norwich's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of James Vaughan, Steve Morison and Elliott Bennett.

Scholes Considered Oldham Athletic Move

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has said he did consider playing for Oldham before he retired.

The 36-year-old, who is a lifelong Latics fan, had spoken previously about the possibility of playing for the club at the end of his career.

He told BBC Radio Manchester: "If Oldham would have been a possibility and I still felt great physically then I probably would have played on."

"The decision I made to retire was just the way I was feeling."

Instead of switching to Boundary Park, where Scholes still visits as a spectator, he will now take up a coaching role at Old Trafford.

Scholes made the last of his 676 appearances for the Red Devils in the 3-1 Champions League final defeat by Barcelona at Wembley last month.

The former England midfielder, who turned down Fabio Capello's invitation to come of out international retirement for last year's World Cup, said previously that his diminishing influence on the pitch was one of the main factors when he chose to stop playing.

"If I couldn't go to another club and play well and contribute to another team then I didn't see the point in doing that," he added.

My Heart Told Me To Stay

In the second of our two-part Patrice Evra exclusive, the full-back pinpoints United's best performances of 2010/11 and reveals why he signed a contract extension.

Some of United's best performances in 2010/11 came against Chelsea – the crunch league game in May, especially, was a huge result. An injury meant you missed that match, though. Where did you watch it and what was the mood like in the camp afterwards?
We all felt very happy because it was a big result, but we knew that the job wasn’t finished and we still had to get the result against Blackburn. I watched in the dressing room. It was the most stressful game of my life! I don’t really understand why, because we played some great football, but when you’re not out there on the pitch you feel frustrated and a bit helpless. When Vida scored the second goal I was on my knees celebrating, I was so happy.

Which other performances from last season stick in the mind?
Blackpool away was unbelievable, West Ham as well. And Villa, when we came back from 2-0 down to get a point. That was a big result. The league victory over Wolves at Old Trafford when Ji-sung Park scored a late winner sticks out, as does the win over Everton when Chicha scored late on. There have been so many twists. The big one for me, though, has to be the win over Chelsea.

Have you ever known a team that comes back as often as this one?
It’s just the culture of the team and the belief we have, and it shows you the spirit of Manchester United. The manager gives us great belief as well and always tells us we must believe until the last second. Sometimes we just know we will win. I remember a couple of games when we were 2-0 down, but I knew we would go on and win. Maybe we are lucky but it’s also because of the belief we have. When you have that spirit it makes you difficult to beat.

Can you remember the most inspiring team-talks this season?
There are a lot of important team-talks… honestly, as I said earlier [in part one of our interview], the key moment for me was the Bursaspor game. People were saying a lot of bad things about the team and not only did it really frustrate me, it hurt me as well because I love this club. But I was convinced we would be okay and we were.

Who did you vote for as United’s Player of the Year?
I voted for Nani, but I think Berbatov deserves a lot of praise, too. People say things about Berba, but to me he is different class. He’s a good guy as well. People haven’t given him the credit he deserves. Nani got my vote because he has been a very important player for us. He played very well particularly at the beginning of the season and deserved to win.

Wayne Rooney’s overhead kick won the Goal of the Season award…
Of course. It’s one of the best goals I’ve ever seen. Wayne could try that again 100 times and it might never go in. I think he had a lot of help off God with that goal! But he deserves it. He had some difficult times but to produce a goal like that was fantastic.

Chicharito picked up the fans’ award. You know how hard it is to settle at a club like this – how impressed were you with him?
I must give Chicha great credit because it’s not easy in the first year. I remember my first six months being very difficult, but he settled in so quickly. He fully deserves his award. He’s a big professional who works very hard. I think he’s had a great season, not just because of his ability but because of his humility as well. He said in his acceptance speech how when he joined he’d hoped to play a bit with the first-team but had expected to mostly play with the Reserves. That humility has helped him go far and he deserves it.

He makes goalscoring look so easy…
Seriously, he is just a goal machine. He scores so many in training. He reminds me of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer so much.

After drawing a blank in 2009/10, you got on the scoresheet in 2010/11 against Wigan. Talk us through it…
It was good to score, but I still think I should get more goals. My good friend Ji-sung Park crossed for me to score with a header.

Yes, and you said afterwards you were going to buy him a car as a thank-you for the assist…
[Laughs] Ji kept joking with me afterwards, saying, “Where’s my car?” Maybe I’ll get him a toy one instead!

You’re a player who always seems to be full of energy. What’s your secret?
I don’t know. My son has inherited it as well – I can’t rest when I go home because he always wants to play! Since I was young I’ve always had lots of energy. Louis Saha used to say to me: “It looks so easy for you to play 45 or 50 games a season.” I’m just lucky, and it’s a privilege to wake up every day and come to training and play for this great club.

How do you stay injury free? You seem to bounce back from even the most robust challenges. Is it just luck, or are you an “elastic man” like Rafael once said?
[Laughs] Honestly, I don’t know. I guess it’s down to good physique and I eat very well. I think it’s just a gift of God and it’s something I’m very grateful for.

How hard did you have to think before signing your new contract at United, which will tie you to the club until at least summer 2014?
It was an important decision for myself. I love this club, everyone knows that. I had a good meeting with Sir Alex and I talked to my family. I decided to follow my heart and my heart told me to stay here.

How do you see your next five years at United? Are you confident the club can win more titles?
Definitely. I’m already focused on next season and winning the league again. Some people say to me: “Pat you’re like a robot – you have to enjoy the moment more.” Sometimes I have the feeling that I haven’t enjoyed the moment, but I’m like that, I want to move on to the next challenge and enjoy it all when I have finished.

Jones Relishing United Challenge

United-bound defender Phil Jones has described his imminent move to Old Trafford as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.

The Reds announced on Monday 13 June that a deal was in place with Blackburn Rovers to bring the 19-year-old to the club as soon as the Under-21 European Championships have finished.

Within 90 minutes of the announcement, Jones had addressed his fans on social networking site Twitter, writing: “I’d just like to start off by saying that I've loved my time at Blackburn and I will always be a huge fan.

“But this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I am looking forward to a new challenge. Thank you for all your kind messages.”

Soon-to-be-team-mate Michael Owen, who remains a Red for at least another year after agreeing a new deal earlier this month, welcomed the Jones deal as “great news”.

United Seal Jones Deal

Phil Jones will become United's first signing of summer 2011 after the Reds successfully negotiated a transfer with Blackburn Rovers.

A club statement published on Monday reads as follows:

"Manchester United is delighted to announce it has signed an agreement with Blackburn Rovers for the transfer of Phil Jones.

"The player passed a medical in Manchester last week and has agreed a 5-year contract. The deal will be completed once the player returns from international duty."

Jones, 19, came through the youth ranks at Blackburn before turning professional on 1 July 2009. He made his senior debut two months later, in a Carling Cup victory at Nottingham Forest, and went on to make a total of 40 appearances for Rovers.

The robust central defender, who can also play in midfield, has been capped seven times so far by England at Under-21 level. The latest appearance was in Denmark on Sunday, when he started alongside new club colleagues Tom Cleverley, Chris Smalling and Danny Welbeck in the 1-1 draw with Spain in the UEFA Under-21 Championships.

Phil Jones

Born: 21 Feb 1992
Nationality: English
Position: Centre-back

Blackburn Rovers record
2010/11 season: 28 games
2009/10 season: 12 games

Scholes Explains His Retirement

Paul Scholes has revealed that his decision to retire was taken purely on physical grounds.

The midfielder wound up his epic Reds career at the end of the season. At a media briefing ahead of his August testimonial, Scholes confirmed he stands by his choice.

"It’s something I’m still getting used to, but I knew it was the right time," he said. "There were a few games last season where I didn’t feel great, and in training as well. I thought it was probably the right time to do it and I stand by that now. You can’t go on forever, it’s all done now and I’m looking towards the future.

"I don’t think anybody wants to play a bit-part, but I’d realised that's just part and parcel of it, given the stage of my career and the way I was physically. You’re at a top club with the best players and you just have to realise your legs can’t do what you want them to do.

"If you are going to be a part of this club you have to be available from the beginning and to be able to last 90 minutes. When I was starting games I didn't feel great. I didn’t mind playing the odd game or coming on at the end of games - it was probably the right way to use me. The best I felt was when I was playing the last 15 or 20 minutes and really that's not right."

Paul was speaking to ManUtd.com, the Press Association, the Manchester Evening News, Key 103 and BBC Radio.

Besiktas Start Bebe Talks

Besiktas have confirmed they have started negotiations with Manchester United over the possible signing of Bebe.

Sir Alex Ferguson surprised many after reportedly paying £7.4million for the striker last summer from Portuguese side Vitoria de Guimaraes.

The 20-year-old, who never played a game for Vitoria, was available for £125,000 from his old club Estrela da Amadora just months earlier.

But the winger, who grew up in a homeless shelter outside Lisbon, spent most of last season in the United reserves.

His last first-team appearance came against non-league Crawley in the FA Cup back in February.

And with Aston Villa forward Ashley Young set to join after he returns from his holidays, Bebe looks to have played his last game for the club.

He is expected to initially join the Turkish giants on a loan deal with a view to a £2million permanent switch, which would represent a £5.4million loss for United.

Gibson Prepared To Leave

Sunderland target Darron Gibson has revealed that he is ready to leave Manchester United if he does not start playing more regularly.

Skysports.com reported earlier this week that the Black Cats had launched a triple bid for Gibson and United team-mates Wes Brown and John O'Shea.

Gibson is now waiting to see whether a move materialises but insists he would have no problem making the switch to Wearside if it benefits his career.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder has previously been urged to quit Old Trafford by national team manager Giovanni Trapattoni as he remains a bit-part player under Sir Alex Ferguson.

And the 23-year-old has now indicated that it might be time for him to embark on a new challenge at the Stadium of Light.

"If Sunderland get the three of us it would be unbelievable business," he said.

"It wouldn't faze me one bit to leave, all I want is what's best for me.

"So if the best thing for me is to leave and go somewhere that I'll play every week then so be it.

"I haven't sat down with Sir Alex to talk but if it comes to me not playing as much as I'd like next season I'll have to move.

"I'm nearly 24. I'm going to have to go somewhere else if I don't start playing regularly."

No United Move For Cesar

Inter Milan goalkeeper Julio Cesar has moved to distance himself from reports linking him with Manchester United.

Roma have also been credited with holding an interest in the Brazil international, who has been a major player for Inter since joining the club from Flamengo in 2005.

Despite the fact he is widely regarded as being one of the world's top goalkeepers, that has not stopped Inter from being linked with Bologna's Emiliano Viviano.

Mooted talk of an approach has led to inevitable speculation about Cesar's own future, with United having been linked despite a deal for Atletico Madrid's David de Gea seemingly close to being sealed.

Cesar, though, has moved to quell speculation of a move as he has reiterated his contentment with life at Inter, despite conceding Roma were definitely interested in acquiring his services.

"Roma have tested the waters with me, they were really interested," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"But I decided to stay at Inter until 2014, which is when my contract expires.

"So, the story is closed. I'd like my name to disappear from the pages of transfers. No Roma, no Manchester United, no nothing.

"Now I want to beat AC Milan and win back the Scudetto. Also, I'd like to win the Champions League again."

When quizzed on the future of team-mate Wesley Sneijder, a reported target of both Manchester clubs and Chelsea, Cesar was equally emphatic.

"Sneijder to Chelsea? Don't worry, he stays here," he concluded.

Evra: We Are Not Finished Yet

Ever-popular defender Patrice Evra helped United to win the club's 19th league championship shortly before celebrating a milestone birthday. Now, as he enters his 30s, the full-back insists his team can win more titles...

What were your feelings after winning the league?
It was a great feeling and it’s a massive achievement. When you play for Manchester United your target is always to win the league. Losing it by a point last season was difficult to accept and I felt like I had not done my job properly. This year there is a big satisfaction. A lot of people have criticised us – I remember some saying earlier in the season that it was the end of the empire. There were some difficult times – if you look back to when we played Bursaspor [at Old Trafford in October], we were behind in the league and there were things going on off the pitch, but I remember doing an interview after that game where I said: “You have to pay the musician to the end of the show, not now.” I always believed and I was proved right because we won the league.

What did Sir Alex say to you all after you had secured the title?
He was so happy – and we were all really pleased for him. After we lost at Arsenal he asked everyone whether or not they wanted to win the 19th title and break the record? “How many opportunities are you going to miss?” he said. “You’re going to regret it if you don’t win it.” I was so pleased we got the point we needed at Blackburn, because if we hadn’t I think we would have got the hairdryer!

What can you tell us about the celebrations that night?
The celebrations were very special for me as it was my 30th birthday the next day. I’d asked the players to give me a good present and winning the league was the perfect one! I remember when I won my first title with United, I was round at Mikael Silvestre’s house and he had a bottle of champagne to mark each title he had won. Now I have the same which is fantastic. But I want another four. Our aim every year is to win the league and we won’t stop here.

You’re now on the way to catching up Giggsy’s haul of medals…
[Laughs] It’s going to be very difficult to do that. I’d have to play for another eight years and win every year – but why not? Giggsy is a legend, and if I can get anywhere near him it would be amazing.

Was it extra special knowing that it was the 19th league title, and that you were adding another chapter to the amazing history of Manchester United?
Of course. Every time you’d go to a restaurant or walk down the street this season, the fans would talk about the 19th title. But I want to say to them now: we’re not finished yet. This is just the beginning. I know Manchester United can win more titles and we have to keep doing that. Of course this is a great achievement and we’re very pleased to be part of it, but we have the players and the quality to win more than 19.

It was a topsy-turvy season to watch; has it felt the same way from a playing point of view?
Yes. We weren't as consistent as previous seasons, but no team showed consistency throughout the season. The problem for us was our away form. I just don’t understand why we didn't win more games away from home, or played the same way as we did at Old Trafford. Our home form won us the league. Just imagine if we can come back and start winning away – we could maybe win the league by 10 or 15 points! We have to resolve the problem [away from home]. As I said, I don’t know why it happened this season but next year we will make sure things change.

Is it even more satisfying to have won the title when you consider how competitive the league was?
Yes, definitely. I don’t want to sound arrogant but I always believed and I was confident [we would win it]. When people were saying we weren’t playing well, it was only because we’d made some mistakes in terms of letting teams back into games like at Fulham and at Everton. I was confident that no team was better than us.

Can you remember the feeling in the camp after the first couple of months of the season, when it seemed that Chelsea were winning every game five- or six-nil?
I respect every team in the league, but you have to remember Chelsea beat a couple of the teams who had just come into the league. But when they had their first big test against [ Manchester] City, they lost. The way things went at the beginning of the season didn’t scare me. I know we made mistakes and dropped some points away from home, but I was not afraid that Chelsea kept winning five- and six-nil. It may sound strange but I was always confident. And we actually ended up with a better goal difference than them.

As usual, the team stepped up in the second half of the season. Can you put your finger on why this seems to happen every year?
I don’t know why we finish better than we start. Maybe we know we are close to the end and we really push ourselves. I think Manchester United like to play with pressure. We like the challenge. People have asked me this season what has been the key to us winning the league and I say it’s because we play with the right spirit, the Manchester United spirit. Without that spirit we wouldn’t have won the title because no one player was better than another. Yes, you can talk about players like [Dimitar] Berbatov, Nani, Edwin [van der Sar]… but everyone played their part this season. I’ve always said the star of Manchester United is not one player, it’s the team. And the star this season was the team.

What do you say to people who claim United were only champions as 'the best of a bad bunch'?
A lot of people have criticised us but we didn’t play against the critics. It’s about being confident in your ability and doing your job. People can say you’re a bad player or not good enough, but it doesn’t matter if you have confidence in yourself. You have a job to do – and when you win the league, then you have done your job.

Scholes Testimonial Match Announced

Paul Scholes' testimonial will pit Manchester United against the New York Cosmos at Old Trafford on Friday 5 August, 2011.

The 36-year-old playmaker ended his epic playing career and agreed a coaching role with the club last month, but will line up for the Reds one last time in a showcase game which also features the return of Eric Cantona to Old Trafford.

The Frenchman, Director of Soccer at the Cosmos, will pit his managerial wits against Sir Alex Ferguson as he takes charge of the visitors, who will feature a selection of invited stars from around the world, and Scholes is relishing the occasion.

"This is going to be a big night for me and my family but one which I intend to enjoy and I will savour every moment," he said. "I have spent my whole footballing life at Manchester United, so this will be an emotional farewell.

"This club is special in many ways but the fans are the best and I have always appreciated their support throughout my career. I hope they enjoy the night, especially seeing the Boss and Eric battling it out in front of the dug outs."

Sir Alex expects the ever-bashful Scholes to be afforded a huge public send-off in recognition of his sterling service to United, and says it would be richly deserved after such a distinguished career.

"Paul’s retirement was typical of the man: low key, he was safe on holiday just so he could avoid any media interviews," said the United manager. "However he won’t be able to hide away this time and it will be fantastic for the fans to be able to bid farewell to this exceptional footballer.

"The accolades he’s received have been well deserved but for me Paul is one of those players who turns up, plays his football and it is that natural ability that makes Paul unique and revered by many, including myself. It is sure to be a great night and a well deserved recognition for Paul."

United In Talks Over Young

Sky Sports sources understand Ashley Young's representatives have held talks with Manchester United.

The 25-year-old Aston Villa winger has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer after admitting he wants to challenge himself at a higher level.

No comment has been made by either club but Young's representatives have been in discussions with United this week.

Sir Alex Ferguson is already set to strengthen his squad with the arrival of Phil Jones and Young could be the second English player to make the switch to the Premier League champions during the transfer window.

The England international enjoyed a fruitful season with Villa last term, producing a number of impressive displays despite it being a difficult year of transition at the club.

Young has already revealed that he wants to play in the UEFA Champions League, suggesting that he is set on an exit from Villa Park.

The former Watford midfielder has risen to prominence in recent years and is now considered an important player by England coach Fabio Capello, most recently scoring against Switzerland in a Euro 2012 qualifier last weekend.

United Step Up Nasri Pursuit

Skysports.com understands Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri.

Speculation has intimated Nasri is on United's radar and skysports.com has now learnt he is the club's top target.

The talented French schemer's reluctance to engage in contract talks with Arsenal until he is satisfied their transfer targets are of the required standard to mount a title push next season has alerted Sir Alex Ferguson to his possible availability.

Despite being close to wrapping up a deal for Blackburn defender Phil Jones and Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea, amid widespread speculation Aston Villa's Ashley Young is also heading for Old Trafford, Ferguson's appetite for new signings has yet to be sated.

Nasri is seen as an ideal replacement for the retired Paul Scholes, with the centre of the field an area United's management are keen to revamp with fresh talent.

Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder has been linked but Nasri, with just a season left on his existing deal, could be a more realistic deal to finance.

Arsene Wenger would be loath to lose one of key men, especially given Nasri's exit would likely lead to other members of his squad questioning their own futures.

However, United are now ready to test Arsenal's resolve to keep a player who has previously intimated he would be open to the prospect of moving to Manchester.

Chicharito: I Owe Fergie

Javier Hernandez has indicated that his long-term future lies at Manchester United because he owes Sir Alex Ferguson a 'great debt'.

The Mexico star enjoyed a dream debut season in England as his 13 goals helped United to the Premier League title.

Real Madrid have been linked with a multi-million pound bid to take Hernandez to the Bernabeu this summer.

But the 23-year-old is determined to help United to further silverware in order to pay back Ferguson for helping his career.

Hernandez said in The Sun: "I'm very motivated after a great season with United.

"From now on I'll owe a great debt to Sir Alex for bringing me to Europe. My dream has not changed.

"I want to win many titles to give back to the team that opened the doors for me."

Dortmund Issue Kagawa Warning

Borussia Dortmund have issued a 'hands-off' warning over Manchester United-linked Shinji Kagawa.

Reports in the Japanese media have suggested United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is planning to send scouts to follow the 22-year-old's progress.

But Borussia insist the Japanese winger, who has been on the sidelines with a broken foot, will remain with the German champions.

Kagawa is under contract at Dortmund until June 2013 and general manager Michael Zorc says the Ruhr Valley club are eager to extend his current deal.

Zorc said: "It's not a topic for us, Kagawa is not for sale.

"Our ambition is to extend Shinji's contract early. When he returns from his holidays, we will discuss everything with him in peace."

Black Cats Bid For United Trio

Skysports.com understands that Sunderland have launched a triple bid on Manchester United by making offers for Wes Brown, John O'Shea and Darron Gibson.

Sunderland are busy in the transfer market with Jordan Henderson set to finalise his move to Liverpool.

Now Black Cats chiefs have made their own moves and have lodged a bid of around £12million for the trio.

And it is believed United are ready to do business for the trio of players who have all come through the ranks at Old Trafford.

Defender Brown, 31, midfielder Gibson, 23, and utility man O'Shea, 30, will now decide whether they want to make the switch to Wearside in the coming days.

Blackburn's Phil Jones Set For Manchester United Move

Blackburn defender Phil Jones is set to join Manchester United in a deal worth up to £17m.

The England Under-21 centre-half is having a medical with the Premier League champions, after turning down offers from Arsenal and Liverpool.

Jones only made his Premier League debut in March last year but has made a big impact in his first full season.

The 19-year-old was due to travel to Denmark with the under-21s on Wednesday for the European Championship.

Jones will not find it easy to disrupt United's first-choice centre-back pairing of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, while Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans are also competing for places at the heart of Sir Alex Ferguson's defence.

But he impressed as Blackburn ended their season with a four-game unbeaten run, which included a 1-1 draw with United and wins over Bolton and Wolves, to ensure their Premier League survival.

Jones, who was born in Preston, joined Blackburn's youth set-up in 2002, making his debut in a Carling Cup win at Nottingham Forest in September 2009. His first Premier League appearance came six months later in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Ewood Park.

United striker Wayne Rooney reacted to the news by writing on Twitter: "Phil Jones is a good young English player. One of the toughest defenders I played against last season. Can play midfield too."

He added: "I don't know if Phil Jones is signing for us, just saying he is a good player that's all. I haven't got a clue if he is signing or not."

The defender has made 35 appearances in total for Blackburn but has yet to score for the club.

Evra Pledges To Regain Top Form

United defender Patrice Evra says he needs to “do much better next season” and believes he will, with the benefit of a full pre-season behind him.

Evra endured a tough summer in 2010 as France faced problems both on and off the pitch at the World Cup in South Africa. The left-back didn’t travel to the USA with his United team-mates last July and he feels his season suffered as a result.

“Next season I think I should give more because this wasn’t my best season,” he told Inside United in an exclusive interview.

"I can say that, I can be honest with myself. I missed pre-season and only had a week’s training before I played my first game. People forget that.

“Some of the other players had about five weeks to work on their fitness and play some friendly games. And although I trained during my holiday having only one week’s training meant it was difficult at the beginning of the season. In the middle and towards the end I felt back to my best but I need to do much better next season.”

Patrice won’t suffer the same fate this year. With no international tournaments, the Frenchman should get almost a month off (he’ll begin his holiday after France face Poland in Gdansk on 9 June) before joining his team-mates at Carrington in early July and flying to the USA for the Reds’ pre-season tour.

In America, United will play five matches – three against MLS opposition, one against an MLS All-Star side and one against Barcelona – and undergo intense training sessions in preparation for the 2011/12 campaign.

In addition to his vow to perform better next term, Patrice also wants to chip in with more goals. So far, in 245 appearances, he’s netted just three times for the Reds.

“I should score more goals,” he said. “A perfect season for me would be to score five goals. I know I have the quality and the potential to achieve that.

“People know I can create goals, but I need to score more.”

Berbatov Eyes American Return

Dimitar Berbatov may be enjoying his summer break at the moment, but you can bet Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the USA next month will be well and truly in the striker’s thoughts as he relaxes following a record-breaking season.

The Bulgarian helped the Reds make history last term and, alongside Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez, topped the Barclays Premier League scoring charts.

Despite press speculation linking him with an Old Trafford exit, Berbatov is adamant he’ll stay and fight for his place and expects to be involved when United head to the States in July for a five-game pre-season tour.

Speaking exclusively to ManUtd.com in May, Berbatov said: “I’m looking forward to the tour because I really enjoyed my time in America last year. Everybody was very nice and friendly and the cities are very interesting.

“We’ll see a few different places this year and meet different people, which is good. I must admit, a lot of people, including myself, were hoping we would go back to America this year. We’re all excited.”

The Reds’ three-week jaunt across the Atlantic will give fans in Boston, Seattle, Chicago, New Jersey and Washington DC the opportunity to watch Sir Alex’s men in action… and the United players a chance to explore a country that Berbatov admits holds special appeal.

“There are a lot of things I love about America, including the movies. So many great films have been made there. I also like watching the NFL a lot – I don’t have a favourite team but I always watch the Superbowl – and I’ve been to Miami a few times and like that part of the world. When I finish playing I think I’ll go back to America and explore the country a bit more.

“Before then, I’m looking forward to going back with United. The pre-season tour isn’t so much about team bonding – we know each other already and are all very close. It’s more about getting our fitness levels up and preparing for the season so when the first game arrives you’re in top shape.

"If you have a good pre-season you really enjoy the dividends once the real thing kicks off in August.”

DHL Sponsor Tour 2011

DHL, Manchester United’s official courier and logistics partner, has been announced as the title sponsor of the club’s summer tour of the United States.

The three-week July tour will take in Boston, Seattle, Chicago, New Jersey and Washington DC and gives the team a great opportunity to play in front of US fans.

Through the title sponsorship, DHL secured rights, including player and club legend appearances, tickets, hospitality, branding and advertising opportunities. DHL will also bring its unrivalled logistical expertise to ensure the team is delivered to each game in a DHL-branded bus.

Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: “The team is really looking forward to going back to the US. The tour is great preparation for the season and the facilities over there are fantastic. I’m looking forward to some good football and the chance to meet our fans.”

The club's commercial director, Richard Arnold, added: “We already have a fantastic relationship with DHL and so we are delighted they have decided to specifically target this important market and create a unique marketing platform by becoming the title sponsor of our summer tour. Respected and trusted around the world, DHL shares our commitment to delivering excellence and I’m certain having them on board will help make this tour a great success.”

DHL Express US chief executive officer Ian Clough said: “Our sponsorship of the Manchester United USA Tour 2011 provides an outstanding opportunity to promote DHL’s brand in major US markets. We’re excited to team with Manchester United, a truly global sports brand whose international footprint mirrors our own."

The Reds kick off the pre-season tour in Boston with a game against New England Revolution on 13 July. Further matches follow against Seattle Sounders (Seattle, 20 July), Chicago Fire (Chicago, 23 July), MLS All-Stars (New Jersey, 27 July) and Barcelona (Washington DC, 30 July).

Tour 2011
USA Tour 2011 Fixtures

13 July: New England Revolution
Gillette Stadium, Boston

20 July: Seattle Sounders
Qwest Field, Seattle

23 July: Chicago Fire
Soldier Field, Chicago

27 July: MLS All-Stars
Red Bull Arena, New Jersey

30 July: Barcelona
FedExField, Washington DC

Rene Highlights Fans' Input

Rene Meulensteen has hailed the contribution made by the supporters during the title-winning campaign.

The first-team coach admits that the Red Army are vital to the success of the team and have helped turn Old Trafford into a fortress as well as backing Sir Alex's side on the road.

The support and belief of the fans will again be an asset next term and, arguably, it could provide the edge over the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal in particular in the pursuit of more glory.

"We've had a fantastic season but it could've been an absolutely great season," said Meulensteen on MUTV. "We can't forget we've been to the semi-final of the FA Cup and the final of the Champions League against Barcelona. We have to hold our hands up as we played a really good team with great, great players.

"It doesn't take anything away from what we've achieved. 19 titles is an unbelievable achievement - the players and fans deserve it.

"The players would never be able to achieve this without the fans. There are moments you wouldn't believe when the fans really carry the team. They've done that this season on many occasions."

Reds Out To Defend Trophy

United's stars have already set their sights on winning a 20th league title.

The Reds may have celebrated the record-breaking Premier League triumph but are now focusing on retaining the trophy next year. With clubs strengthening over the summer, it promises to be a real battle to come out on top again but Sir Alex Ferguson's side are ready to meet the challenge head on.

"When we've got the trophy, we don't want to let it go," stressed Michael Carrick. "We'll enjoy the summer but we're very, very determined to keep hold of it this time."

History-maker Ryan Giggs seems like he will never be satisfied with his incredible winners' medal haul. "It's not about 19 but pushing on and trying to get to the twenties," he stated. "That's what this club is about - not standing still but moving forward and hopefully having a successful season next year."

John O'Shea can barely wait for the 2011/2012 campaign to get underway.

"We've been getting to finals and been successful and the key is looking at the examples we've got in Giggsy and the manager wanting to improve all the time," said the Irishman. "Hopefully, they'll keep going.

"It [the break] will go very quickly as it has always done and I can't wait to get back and defend our title."

Premier League winners' medals:
Ryan Giggs (12)
1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011.

John O'Shea (5)
2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011.

Michael Carrick (4)
2007, 2008, 2009, 2011.

Berbatov: I'll Remain At United

Dimitar Berbatov has vowed to remain at Manchester United next season.


The 30-year-old forward, who was left out of United’s matchday squad for the Champions League final against Barcelona, admits the Wembley omission was painful. But in an interview in Bulgaria the striker quashed speculation suggesting he left the stadium before the match and is now seeking an Old Trafford exit.

"To be honest, I was in the dressing room,” he told Bulgarian newspaper 24 Chasa. “I watched the final from there.

“This was embarrassing for me – that I was not included in the group. I didn't want people to see the pain in my eyes," he said.

Berbatov, who arrived at Old Trafford in September 2008 for a club-record fee, has one year left on his current contract. He’s already been linked with a host of clubs – both in England and abroad – but insists he’s going nowhere.

"I will remain at United,” the striker said. “I will fight for my place and I will fight for title number 20.

“If I was a man who gave up easily, I would never be here in the first place. Starting July 4, everything begins all over again – my personal fight to be in the first team, and for United to win more titles.”

Owen Extends Old Trafford Stay

Michael Owen's contract has been extended for a further year, in a deal that will see the forward complete a third season as a first-team player.

Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Michael has proved to be a top footballer. It’s unfortunate Michael didn’t get more opportunities but the form of Chicharito put everyone in the shade and his partnership with Rooney proved invaluable. I am delighted Michael is staying for a further year and we will look to give him more opportunities in the new season.”

Michael Owen said: “I’m delighted to have agreed a one-year extension to my contract. To play alongside so many great players, under an exceptional manager, and in front of so many incredibly passionate supporters, is a real inspiration. I can’t wait for next season to start."

Fletcher Lifted By The Fans

Darren Fletcher admits the fans have picked the United players up ahead of the summer break.

There was obvious disappointment within the camp following the Champions League final defeat to Barcelona but the parade through Manchester with the Premier League trophy raised spirits - despite the persistent rain.

The Scottish midfielder believes it has provided the perfect boost leading in to the close season ahead of the tour to the United States in July.

"The lads loved the parade," he told MUTV. "Even though it’s raining, the turn-out is fantastic. Obviously a few of the lads were down after Saturday when we met up this morning but the fans have picked us up.

"This is my first parade like this. I remember watching the one in 1999 and thinking how amazing it was. I can’t believe the turn-out. The lads are really surprised and genuinely humbled by this turn-out. It makes us realise again what great fans we’ve got.

"The boss told us to enjoy ourselves and remember we’ve won the league, the 19th title. We also got to the Champions league final and it’s been a fantastic season. Ultimately the last game was a disappointment and that’s the one you tend to remember but I think today is going to see us out on a high. I think we have just gone away after the Champions League final then the lads would have been really down. It’s given us another boost and a reminder of how good it is to win the league."

Fletcher, like the fans, is already starting to look ahead to next season and the defence of the title.

"There’s always pressure," he added. "It’s expected every year. These fans expect it and we’ve got to rise to those expectations as individuals and as a team. We want to win it again, we want to keep achieving.

"It’s nice to relax now. It’s been a long season and the lads have got a few knocks. It’s nice to recharge your batteries. But, after a couple of weeks, I’m sure we’ll be itching to get back as we always are."

Yorke Backs Scholes Role

Dwight Yorke is convinced Paul Scholes will be a success in his new role as a coach at United.

The midfielder's former Old Trafford team-mate believes the 36-year-old still has so much to give around Old Trafford despite calling time on his playing career.

"I'm very lucky to go up to the training ground and watch him train and the things that he does are fantastic," enthused Yorke. "He made the game look so easy.

"It's not a surprise [he's becoming a coach] and I can see why Sir Alex wants someone of his experience around the place, with what he's done in the game, and kind of give a lot more of Paul Scholes. We don't see enough of Paul Scholes around the place.

"I'm sure with what he's contributed to the game, Sir Alex would love him to pass on that kind of knowledge to the youngsters coming through the ranks.

"He's taking coaching badges at the moment, hence it's part of the reason why Sir Alex wants him around the place as well."

Yorke was talking to Sky Sports News.

Rooney: We'll All Miss Scholes

Wayne Rooney admits he will miss playing alongside Paul Scholes.

The midfielder has decided to hang up his boots and is rightly being lauded as one of the best footballers of his generation.

Rooney will have learned plenty from the 36-year-old and it's encouraging that Scholes is staying at Old Trafford in a coaching capacity to help pass on his experience to the promising midfielders coming through the ranks.

"He’ll be missed greatly," said Rooney. "I just heard the news this morning. We knew he’d make a decision but didn’t think it would be this quick. We’re all sad to see him stop playing. He’s been great for United and England and he’ll be missed by all of us.

"He hasn't started that many games of late and I'm sure that’s come into his head and he's made his decision.

"But he’ll be a big miss for us. He’s the best I’ve played with and against. He’s only small but it’s so difficult to get the ball off him. Every United fan will miss him."

Wayne was speaking to Talksport.