United Showed True Colours

Phil Jones believes United showed what the club is all about with a gritty 1-0 triumph at Everton.

The defender produced a solid performance at right-back and played his part in a resolute rearguard action towards the end, helping to answer all the questions posed by David Moyes' team. After the derby drubbing last weekend, victory at Goodison for the first time since 2007 was the perfect tonic for the champions.

"Everyone showed today what Manchester United are about," stressed Jones to MUTV. "It was a bad day at the office last week but we've shown fantastic team spirit in training, got our heads up and picked ourselves up quickly.

"This is a massive win for us today and we're delighted in the changing room.

"It was tough and we expected it from Everton because of previous years of coming here. It was mad [at the end] and we had to defend it but we did that and, thankfully, got the three points.

"It's very nice as a defender [to get a clean sheet]. Defensively as a unit, I thought 11 players defended and not just four. 11 players defended terrifically well. They were throwing the kitchen sink at us today and I thought we stood strong as a unit and held together."

Jones was pleased to welcome Nemanja Vidic back into Barclays Premier League action as the Serbian powerhouse helped organise the defence.

"He's our captain and you don't want to go without your captain," added the ex-Blackburn defender. "He showed his determination and grit today and it wears off on everyone else."

Boss Salutes Battling Victory

After witnessing the battling spirit and fortitude he demands of his players, Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased with United's attritional victory at Goodison Park.

Aside from a fine free-kick from Leighton Baines which thumped the visitors' crossbar, Everton rarely looked like piercing a resolute Reds defence, while Chicharito capped the game's move of outstanding quality to bag all three points.

"It was a hard game," Sir Alex told MUTV. "We expect a hard game every time we come to Everton, in fairness. The crowd get behind them and they show great enthusiasm.

"In the first half in particular we played very, very well. Second half we defended well and that was the pleasing aspect for me. Winning 1-0 - I'll take half a dozen of those anytime because that's championship form when you get those kind of results.

"We had probably the best chances in the game. All their attempts were crosses and we managed to get most of them away. Really David [De Gea] has not had anything to do in terms of saves.

"They were unlucky when they hit the bar, it was a fantastic free-kick, so we rode our luck on that one. I thought we just battled in the second half and got the result we wanted."

With last weekend's exposure of United's attacking instincts still fresh in the mind, the Boss was reassured by his side's core strength at Goodison Park, with Nemanja Vidic outstanding and Wayne Rooney deployed centrally.

"Everyone's telling us the stats about chances made against us," he said. "We have to reduce that, If we're going to win the league we have to reduce those types of statistics against us. Today we were very solid.

That was a fantastic performance by him [Vidic]," he said. "Every ball that came in he got it clear, and that's his speciality: he's a fantastic header of the ball. That was the key to us today.

"All the midfield players were terrific too, in the first half, and Danny Welbeck and Ji-sung Park had some great interchange play.

"The goal was an absolutely brilliant goal and Chicharito does what he does best and got us the goal that won the match."

Little Pea Earns Big Win

Manchester United bounced back from last Sunday's 6-1 defeat by Manchester City as Javier Hernandez's goal gave them a hard-earned victory at Everton.

Hernandez was well-placed just two yards out to side-foot in Patrice Evra's cross in the 19th minute.

The goal was reward for a bright start from United, but they were matched by Everton for the remainder of the game.

However, Leighton Baines struck the crossbar with a free-kick and Louis Saha's shooting lacked precision.

A point would have been just reward for the efforts of David Moyes' side, but having failed to earn that they can take a lot of heart from a spirited display against opponents with a point to prove following a week of largely negative headlines.

For United, victory was all-important, with a stellar performance second, following their home humbling last weekend. They achieved the former, with only brief but impressive flashes of the latter.

There had been much debate this week over how United manager Sir Alex Ferguson would react to last Sunday's defeat in terms of team selection.

In the event, he dropped defender Rio Ferdinand and winger Nani, retained Jonny Evans, despite his red card against City, and restored Nemanja Vidic and Tom Cleverley to what was an attacking line-up, featuring Hernandez, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney. The latter's every touch was greeted by the now standard jeers from the Everton support.

The approach initially paid dividends as United made positive and fluent early forays into Everton territory, one of which teed up Park Ji-sung, whose six-yard shot was saved by Tim Howard.

United capped their impressive start by taking the lead after 19 minutes, when Evra's pin-point cross from the left meant Hernandez had only to side-foot home from two yards out.

However, instead of kicking on, United shrank somewhat and Everton grew as a force in the game.

David de Gea was forced to save a Leon Osman snapshot and Jack Rodwell fired wide from 25 yards before Baines struck the crossbar with a free-kick from the edge of the area as the home side pressed hard for an equaliser.

Hernandez could have made the second half easier for his side had he finished a well-constructed move with his shot from the edge of the box, but Howard's save set up a tense second 45 minutes.

United's growing nervousness in defence was clear to see as Saha twice tested De Gea with shots from the edge of the area.

The visitors then almost gifted Everton an equaliser when Evans gave away possession. Fortunately for the defender, Rodwell's shot from an angle flew just past the far post.

With half an hour to go, Welbeck could have settled United nerves but his shot from close range, on an angle, was palmed over by Howard.

This left United needing to show resolution and composure in the final minutes of the match in the face of further pressure from the home side and - barring a home penalty appeal for a coming-together between substitute Magaye Gueye and Evra - they did so with aplomb.

Everton manager David Moyes:

"I think we are unlucky not to get at least a point out of the game. We played well and Manchester United had few attempts, especially in the second half. I thought we looked the stronger side in the second half.

"Maybe it was just that bit of quality in the final third that we didn't have.

"Great credit to the lads. We have gone toe to toe with Chelsea [in the Carling Cup] in midweek, when we were unlucky not to go through, and done the same today."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:

"It was a hard game and we expected that because every time you come to Everton the crowd get behind them and show great enthusiasm.

"But in the main, in the first half particularly, we did very well and in the second half we defended well and that was the pleasing aspect for me.

"The fact that there have been so many chances against us recently - we had to reduce that if we are going to win the league and today we didn't have any problems."


Javier Hernandez celebrates the only goal of the game

Carling Cup Quarter-final Draw: United To Meet Palace

United have been drawn at home to Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup quarter-finals.

The Reds have so far seen off the challenge of Leeds United and Aldershot Town and now face Championship side Palace in the last eight of the competition.

The tie will take place during the week commencing Monday 28 November.

Full draw
Chelsea v Liverpool
Arsenal v Man City
United v Crystal Palace
Cardiff v Blackburn

Cleverley Buzzing At Return

Midfielder Tom Cleverley discusses his return to fitness in an exclusive interview. This article first appeared in Red View, the club's free official newsletter.

You must be delighted to be back after spending six weeks on the sidelines?
Definitely. The injury was bad timing. I was in the team, I was playing well and enjoying myself. These things happen in football though and you've just got to work hard on getting yourself fit, listen to what the physios say and stay upbeat.

How good did it feel to be back in action against Aldershot?
It felt great. It helps when you've got fantastic players around you as you can bed yourself in and work your way up to being 100 per cent.

A lot of fans have said how much they feel the team has missed you in recent weeks - that must be nice to hear but does it put extra pressure on you?
It's always nice to hear, but there's a bit of pressure [on everyone] anyway because last weekend's game was a bad result. At the start of the season, the whole team was very fluent and we were playing fantastic football. The games have been harder in recent weeks and it's very flattering to hear fans say they've missed me.

What do comments like that say about how far you've come this season?
It's been brilliant. Things went a little better than I expected at the start of the season and then I was disappointed to get injured, but I'm buzzing to be back now and hopefully we can get back to winning ways on Saturday.

Is there a positive feeling in the camp despite the derby result?
Yes definitely. We've got a great team spirit. We'll regroup and go forward from here.

Amos Enjoys Being In Control

Control and concentration were the keys for United goalkeeper Ben Amos as he marked his second senior match of the season with a second clean sheet.

The 21 year-old made one flying save at the very end of the Reds’ 3-0 win at Aldershot Town, to keep out Luke Gutteridge’s piledriver and deny the hosts a consolation goal, but it was otherwise a quiet night for the man wearing the number 40 shirt.

“Obviously it was good to get the save at the end, to show what I can do,” Amos told MUTV, “but I didn't have a lot to do, just distribution and tidying things up. That’s one of the biggest things about being a goalkeeper for Manchester United - you can have nothing to do all game and then, when the one thing you need to do comes along, you've got to do it well and keep it out. That's my job, to keep a clean sheet and I think everyone's happy.”

The game went very much according to plan, said Amos, as United dominated possession and converted three chances inside the first 48 minutes.

“Our aim was to control the game at our tempo like we did at Elland Road [against Leeds in the previous round]. If you give the home team even a bit of encouragement, especially in a tight ground like this, the crowd get behind them and get on your back.

"If you're not switched on, these games can go horribly wrong," Amos added. "Concentration is vital and you need to be ruthless in the box and put your chances away. We wanted to kill them off early doors and we did it with some nice goals.”

Valencia Still Improving

Sir Alex Ferguson feels Antonio Valencia is not quite at 100 per cent despite his stunning strike at Aldershot.

The United winger impressed on his return from injury towards the end of last season but the manager feels he needs to handle the Ecuadorian with care.

Valencia missed out on a large chunk of the 2010/11 campaign following a serious ankle injury sustained against Rangers in the Champions League and was also sidelined after being hurt whilst on Copa America duty for his country in the summer.

"I had a chat with Antonio yesterday," Sir Alex revealed to MUTV after the 3-0 win in the Carling Cup. "He, himself, says he's needing games.

"He was a long time out and has been back but probably needs another few games. Tonight was another one."

Valencia certainly showed no signs of rustiness when hammering in the third goal at the EBB Stadium but, after also being used at right-back recently, the wide man will be hoping to prove his fitness for another stint in his preferred position.

Cup Tonic Quenches Owen

Michael Owen admitted United were under pressure prior to a comfortable Carling Cup victory over Aldershot Town.

Not for the age-old reason – Goliath going away to face a David with nothing to lose – but because the Reds, albeit a different XI, had suffered a demoralising defeat just two days earlier.

“There was a little bit of pressure after the City result,” said Owen, after scoring in the Reds’ 3-0 win. “Although no-one [in tonight’s team] started at the weekend, we still had the Manchester United reputation to look after in many ways. No matter what side we put out tonight, we wanted to bounce back and thankfully we got the win.”

Owen wasn’t named in the Reds’ 18 for the Manchester derby, but the collective pain – and desire to recover after shipping six goals to City – was shared throughout the squad.

“As you can imagine really, the usual laughs and jokes at training quietened down a little bit after Sunday and it focused our minds. Sometimes you need a kick in the teeth to get up and going again and to concentrate on the basics. It was a big kick in the teeth and we were eager to bounce back.

“We played some good stuff in the first half. It was quite similar to the last tie at Leeds as again we went 3-0 up and then took our foot off the gas a little bit. It was a bit more even in the second half, and, to their credit, Aldershot never let their heads drop. We're thankful we're through to the next round of the Carling Cup. Roll on Everton [in the league] now.”

Ferguson Praises Disciplined Display

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased to see a more disciplined display by his side as they beat Aldershot in the Carling Cup.

The 3-0 win follows Sunday's 6-1 trouncing by Manchester City - a performance Ferguson called "suicidal".

"The nature of Manchester United is to go and win the game, whether it's eight men, nine men, 10 men," he said.

"But tonight they kept their discipline, kept their professionalism - the players enjoyed that."

Having changed his entire starting XI, Ferguson was delighted as goals by Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia earned the victory.

Defender Phil Jones was the only player in the squad at Aldershot's Recreation Ground to have played any part against Manchester City.

Although Dean Holdsworth's team had chances to score and had some good possession in the second half, Berbatov's 15th-minute opener settled the four-time League Cup winners before Owen scored just before half-time to help send them through to the last eight.

Ferguson was wary of the potential for another blow after Sunday's humiliation, and highlighted how hard Aldershot made his team work.

"Aldershot take a lot of credit because they kept pressing the ball and they worked their socks off and made us play," he told BBC Sport.

"It was an important night for us in that respect because in cup ties you can easily get knocked out - all it needs is a slice of luck. We're into the next round and that's the important issue."

Ferguson said he was pleased with the players who came into the team, including Tom Cleverley, who returned after an injury picked up in September, and Nemanja Vidic, who was rested against City on Sunday.

"I have a fantastic squad and it's been difficult for some because the team's consistency this season has been very good," he added.

"But we have a long season ahead and players like Valencia and Vidic got a good 90 minutes and I'm pleased about that because [Vidic] really needed that.

"Even early on I thought he was blowing hard - I think he always needed a game and that will bring him on a ton.

"Berbatov had a great game tonight, too, and Park Ji-sung, as he always does, had a tremendous work-rate and passing ability. The big bonus was to bring back Tom Cleverley."

Aldershot boss Holdsworth said he was content with his team's performance, despite the scoreline.

"I'm proud of their effort," he said. "They worked extremely hard and there's a lot to learn from playing against sides like that.

"When my players look at what the best do, there are a few lessons there. With my respect for Manchester United and the effort the boys put in, it was a fantastic occasion for the club."

The former Brentford, Wimbledon and Bolton player added: "We want more of this."

United Call The Shots

Manchester United recovered from their Manchester City mauling to progress to the Carling Cup quarter-finals at the expense of League Two Aldershot.

In a totally changed side from Sunday's 6-1 defeat by their city rivals, Dimitar Berbatov put United ahead with a neat finish from Park Ji-sung's pass.

Berbatov set up Michael Owen before half-time and Antonio Valencia smashed in from 25 yards after the break.

Aldershot had some long-range efforts with Luke Guttridge going closest.

The midfielder's shot whistled past the post in the dying stages and he had a free-kick well saved by United goalkeeper Ben Amos to almost give Dean Holdsworth's side a consolation.

But the hosts were no disgrace despite the evident gulf in class between the two sides, with Jermaine McGlashan also shooting over in the first half.

The last time these two teams met was for a League Cup tie in 1970, which finished 3-1 to United.

On that day, George Best, Denis Law and Brian Kidd were all on target and it was a similarly comfortable game for the visitors this time as they got the shock at Old Trafford out of their system.

But it was a United side showing 11 changes from the City defeat that did so - Sir Alex Ferguson perhaps deciding to let his first-team stew a little longer while reintroducing some of his fringe players.

But those who were given the opportunity set about their work in a professional manner from the start with Berbatov at the heart of much of United's good work in the first period.

Tom Cleverley, back in the United line-up after a foot injury in September, also showed some neat touches and link-up play before he was taken off after the hour.

The 22-year-old lined up in central midfield with Park and the pair combined early on to gift Berbatov his first goal of the season.

It was a decent finish from 12 yards but the one-two between Park and Cleverley cut through the Aldershot defence easily.

The hosts recovered, however, and made some progress down their right with McGlashan firing over after a fine run.

The Shots, who since that game 41 years ago have been through a winding-up order under their former guise of Aldershot FC, also peppered Amos in the United goal with several long-range efforts.

Berbatov last started a game over a month ago and was joined in attack by Owen, who himself was last named in the first XI against Leeds in the last round.

The Bulgarian set up his strike partner just before half-time when he cut the ball back with a cute pass after haring down the right on a counter-attack.

And following the break Valencia put the game out of reach for the valiant hosts, receiving Cleverley's square ball 25 yards out and hammering the ball past Ross Worner.

Berbatov could have added to his tally but dragged a shot wide and had a free-kick saved by the Aldershot keeper.

And although Guttridge's attempt to grab a late reward for all his side's hard work was unsuccessful, Holdsworth was justifiably proud of his team's performance.


United's players celebrate Berbatov's opening goal

United Welcome Zong

Manchester United has signed a three-year partnership with Zong, one of Pakistan’s leading mobile telecoms companies.

The deal will give the club’s estimated 10million fans in Pakistan a chance to see all the goals scored, as well as exclusive interviews, news and behind-the-scenes access from Old Trafford, bringing them closer to United than ever before.

Reds commercial director Richard Arnold welcomed Zong and said he felt the company would be a "great partner" for United in Pakistan.

"It is a relatively young company but has ambitions to be one of the major players in the country," Arnold said. "Partnering with United will give them high visibility, as well as helping the club to communicate directly with millions of our supporters there.

"Using our digital assets to engage our global fanbase is an increasingly-important part of our commercial strategy and we are very excited about the possibilities presented by this partnership."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he uses his mobile phone on a daily basis to keep up-to-date with football news and results and joined Arnold in welcoming Zong into the United family.

“The way the club uses modern technology to reach our millions of fans around the world is outstanding. Zong will be a key player in allowing us to bring the passion and excitement of Manchester United to our fans in Pakistan.”

Zong's director of advertising and promotions, Rizwan Akhter, described the partnership as unique and anticipates a bright future for all concerned.

“This partnership is one-of-a-kind coming from Pakistan and the initiative that Zong has taken to team up with a giant like Manchester United will only lead to prosperity, growth and triumph. For all the glory that is to come, we stand united, to take on all opportunities and victories together as one. Today, we play for the same team!”

Zong chief financial officer Feng Tuixian added: “We see ourselves as an integral part of peoples’ lives, providing support to over 12million subscribers. We help them in their business or at work, bringing friends and families closer together, providing quality moments of leisure and recreation while remaining at the cutting-edge of technology.

“We share Manchester United’s commitment to be the best among competitors. I am sure this is the start of something very big indeed.”

Chicharito Signs New Deal

Javier Hernandez has signed a new five-year deal which will see the striker stay at Old Trafford until the end of the 2015/16 season.

Chicharito, 23, signed for United from his hometown club of Chivas de Guadalajara in Mexico in July 2010 and made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut in the Community Shield against Chelsea. He has gone on to make 55 appearances for United and score 23 goals.

Sir Alex Ferguson told ManUtd.com he is delighted by the news, saying: “The last player I remember making an impact as big and as quickly as Javier is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and he reminds me of Ole a lot.

"His talent for creating space in the box and his finishing ability mark him out as a natural goalscorer. Off the pitch, he is a pleasure to manage. He works very hard and is a popular member of the squad.”

The man himself said he was thrilled to have committed himself to the club for a further five years.

“Playing for Manchester United has been a dream come true for me," insisted Hernandez. "I never expected my first year to go so well and I’m delighted to commit my future to United.

"To win a title and appear in a Champions League final was fantastic. I’m looking forward to helping my teammates as we bid to win more trophies for this great club.”

Vidic Ends Serbia Career

Nemanja Vidic has announced his retirement from international football.

The United captain earned 56 caps for Serbia and scored two goals.

"After a great deal of thought and with a heavy heart, I have decided the time is right for me to retire from international football," Vidic told ManUtd.com.

"I feel, after 10 years of playing for my country, it is the right time for me to stand aside and allow the younger players to come through.

"I would like to thank all the managers, coaches and players I have played alongside.

"I have always been very proud to play for Serbia and would like to wish them well in future tournaments."

Jones Always Had Faith

Phil Jones says he never had any doubts that he could rise to the challenge that comes with playing for the biggest club in the world.

The 19-year-old defender has been a revelation since signing for the Reds in the summer and has already shown he has the talent and attitude to succeed at Old Trafford.

Jones is loving life as a Red and says he always had faith that his ability would shine through.

"I knew the pressure would be huge. Manchester United are a massive club and I knew it would be a big challenge for me," Jones told ManUtd.com.

"But I’ve said before I’ve always believed in my ability and hopefully I’m proving to people that I can rise to that challenge.

"I'm really enjoying myself here. All the lads have been brilliant to me and really helped me along," he added.

"Training with world class players week in, week out has only made me a better player and I’m thankful for that."

While Sir Alex's men will be keen to move on as quickly as possible from Sunday's derby defeat, Jones says being involved in high profile matches like Sunday's is exactly the reason why he joined the Reds.

"I wanted to play a part in all these big games," he explained. "I enjoy the challenge and am looking forward to the ones we have ahead.

"The thing that’s stood out since I’ve joined United is the desire to win every single game. It means to everything to win at this club.

"I’m just glad to be a part of it."

Phil was talking to ManUtd.com, PA Sport, BBC Radio and Key 103.

Chicharito Still Humble

Javier Hernandez speaks to United Review and ManUtd.com as his second term in Manchester unfolds...

You had a fantastic first season here. Do you feel any pressure to perform even better this term?
Ha! People in Mexico have been asking me this a lot, but I have to say the answer is ‘no’, I don’t feel any added pressure. Last season is in the past – I’m happy we won the league and scored a lot of goals, but now this is a new period. It doesn’t matter if it’s my second season or my 10th, it’s a new challenge and I’m only thinking about doing the best I can at this present time. I’m playing for the best club in the world. I just want to enjoy myself and improve with every game.

Will it be more difficult this term because defenders know more about you?
Sure, but I know more about them as well and about playing in the Premier League than I did last season. Don’t forget that. It works both ways!

Does the movement you display inside the penalty area come naturally to you?
I think it’s from watching so much football. I love the game. If there’s a match on TV then I’ll watch it. I don’t care who’s playing, I don’t care which league it is. Instead of watching films in my free time I’ll sit in front of a match. And when I watch I analyse other players and am thinking about my own game. You have to remember I’m in a very physical league. I’m not the tallest or strongest so there’s no point in me trying to compete in those areas. I need to use other skills or talents to get the better of defenders.

Have you set a goals target for yourself this season?
No, I never do this. I’m just thinking about working hard, improving my game and making sure I’m ready when the manager asks me to play, whether it’s for one minute or for the full 90. If I can help the team by scoring goals, that’s great. However, what matters most is that Manchester United keep winning matches.

Taking the league title for the 19th time last season was a huge achievement for the club. Can this squad lift the trophy again this term?
I’m sure we can do it. We have a lot of young players who are hungry to do well, and that helps inspire the rest of the squad. Some of the older guys may have been here for many years and won a lot of trophies, but they still have a lot of desire. I think we have a good mix of youth and experience, and that will be very important for us.

Just how much are you enjoying life at United and in Manchester?
It’s unbelievable. In some ways I’m still getting used to wearing this special shirt, being around these incredible players and seeing my name on the United teamsheet... it’s amazing. Some days I wake up and I just can’t believe it. I’m living in this great country and playing for the best club in the world in the best league in the world. I’m so thankful for that.

Sir Alex Eyeing Transfer Gems

Sir Alex Ferguson has confidence in his scouting network unearthing more gems like Javier Hernandez in the near future.

Big-spending Manchester City have changed the complexion of the transfer market over the past couple of seasons, but the boss does not envy City's buying power as he is satisfied with the groundwork that has gone into ensuring United are the top club in the country.

The structure at Old Trafford means he is relaxed about the threat being posed by United's neighhbours with his long-term plan reaping benefits for all to see. When asked if he would like to share the buying power Mancini enjoys, Sir Alex provided an honest answer.

"You can do a lot of things with money, of course," he explained to journalists before Sunday's derby clash. "There's not a lot you can do with this training ground, though, other than the things we're doing next summer with it, so we're ahead of the game in that respect.

"We have a good training ground, a good youth set-up and we don't need to touch that. We do well scouting abroad to get young players in so there's not a lot we could do with money.

"It could make us even better in some respects but I don't look at money as an important issue for us. If I need a player, the Glazers have been great and have always provided money - and will continue to do so. The difference between us and City is we have bought over a long period and there's a structure here. City are doing it in a quick spell because the Abu Dhabi people took over looking for instant results, which they're getting."

Although obviously not revealing any names, Sir Alex hinted that he's planning more investment in his squad next year with a couple of potential bargains in the frame.

"It's down to good scouting," he reasoned. "We're quite good at these things and we're doing not bad. There's a couple of players at the moment we're looking at who could be the same type as Hernandez, you know, so we do well at that.

"In the modern-day game, it's obvious where the top players are now because there's less and less of them.

"If you make a bad buy, sometimes the scouts have done work on it and you've maybe only seen them a couple of times, then that responsibility will lie on your shoulders very heavily.

"We've made a couple of bad buys ourselves over the years but, in the main, we've done alright."

Fletcher: We Feel The Fans' Pain

Darren Fletcher insists Sunday’s humiliating Manchester derby defeat was as painful for the players as it was for the fans.

The visitors had gone into a 3-0 lead before Fletcher gave the Reds a glimmer of hope nine minutes from time when he pulled a goal back.

But hope turned to despair when City bagged a further three goals in injury-time and ensured bragging rights went to the blue half of the city.

“We realise how much this result has hurt the fans and how they’ll go into work on Monday and get a lot of stick, but the players are hurting just as much. We live in the city too and we’re going to have to deal with it as well,” the Scot told MUTV.

“No-one wants to lose by the margin we did today, but you’ve always got to look at positives and say you can lose by that score or lose 1-0 and it’s still the same amount of points [to lose].

“I said to the lads in the dressing room afterwards that we need to remember how it feels to lose a game like this, but to remember that no medals are handed out now.

"There’s still a long way to go in the season. It’s a bad result, but by no means is the league over. We’ve got to respond and win our next game.”

Fletcher pointed to the sending-off of Jonny Evans just after the break as the game’s big turning point, but recognised that United were somewhat naïve in the way they approached the final part of the encounter.

“We kept trying to win the game when it was conceivably not possible. Maybe we were a bit naïve and should have sat behind the ball and tried not to concede,” he added.

“At the time you’re thinking we’re at Old Trafford and we always want to get the ball down and play. The players haven’t been brought up to sit behind the ball, defend and see games out. But to lose those goals late on was very disappointing.

“The sending-off was the turning point,” continued Fletch.

“Even though we were a goal down I thought we controlled the match in the first half, played the better football and put them under pressure without really creating any real chances.

“To lose a man right at the start of the second half made it a long 45 minutes with ten men against a good side."

Sir Alex: This Will Have An Impact

Sir Alex Ferguson is looking for a reaction from his players after United suffered a 6-1 thumping at the hands of local and title-race rivals Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League.

The boss believes the manner of Sunday’s defeat will have a positive impact on his squad and hopes his men will bounce back to title-winning form against Everton next weekend.

“You have to recover,” declared Sir Alex. “In the history of Manchester United, it is another day and we’ll recover from this, there’s no question about that.

“But that kind of defeat will make an impact on the players. There’s a lot of embarrassment in the dressing room and quite rightly so. Hopefully they’ll show that [reaction] next week.”

The Reds dominated the early possession against Roberto Mancini’s side and were perhaps unlucky to fall behind to Mario Balotelli's goal on 22 minutes. Victory was by no means beyound United as the second half kicked off, but a red card for Jonny Evans undoubtedly made the quest for a positive result more difficult.

“For the first 10 minutes, we absolutely dominated the game and played some brilliant football so it was hard to believe when we went 1-0 down," Sir Alex reflected. "But that was retrievable. The sending-off was a killer blow to us.

“The player (Balotelli) didn’t control the ball, but the fact Jonny tugged his jersey gave the referee plenty of reason to send him off. It was a killer, a really bad blow to us because City are so strong defensively."

The Reds threw men forward in a valiant attempt to repeat the heroics of the past and claim a trademark win from behind, but it was a tactic that was exploited by the visitors.

“We just kept attacking," said Sir Alex. "It’s alright playing with the history books but common sense has to come in at times. With the experience we had at the back, we should have realised that and settled for what we had when it went to 4-1.

“At times our full-backs were almost our wingers and we were playing almost two versus three at the back. That was suicide and crazy.”

Man. United Loses Proud Home Record and Suffers Shocking Defeat Against Noisy Neighbours

It had been billed as the biggest Manchester derby in decades, but it turned out to be a derby day to forget for United as City celebrated a historic 6-1 victory at Old Trafford.

The Reds started as the brighter of the two teams but it was the Blues who made the crucial breakthrough when Mario Balotelli sidefooted past David De Gea after 22 minutes. Jonny Evans’ red card just after the break made it a real uphill fight for the champions and it got worse thereafter as Balotelli grabbed a second goal before further strikes from Sergio Aguero, David Silva and two from substitute Edin Dzeko left Old Trafford stunned. United’s 18-month unbeaten run at home was well and truly over.

Sir Alex Ferguson made three changes to the side that had earned a point at Anfield eight days earlier with Wayne Rooney, Anderson and Nani all returning. Meanwhile, Jonny Evans partnered Rio Ferdinand in the back four, with Nemanja Vidic - sent off in the Champions League in midweek - not in the 18. City boss Roberto Mancini, meanwhile, opted for a five-man midfield of Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry, James Milner, Mario Balotelli and David Silva with Sergio Aguero up front on his own.

United dominated the early possession with Nani and Ashley Young looking lively on both flanks, and Wayne Rooney seemingly very much in the mood, dropping deep to dictate the play for much of the opening 20 minutes. But tellingly, as it turned out, the Reds failed to create any real clear-cut chances.

City saw very little of the ball in that period but whenever they did the men in blue were always quick to try and find the man that makes them tick – David Silva. The Spaniard looked a threat every time he gained possession; indeed it was his pass into James Milner which led to City taking the lead on 22 minutes. Silva collected possession on the edge of the area before slipping the ball into Milner who had burst down the left. His pull-back fell perfectly for Balotelli who cleverly steered the ball into the far corner and out of the reach of De Gea.

It was harsh on United who had barely given City a look-in up to that point. The Blues visibly grew in confidence on the back of the breakthrough as the game livened up. Balotelli just failed to connect with an Aguero cross soon after the goal, while Yaya Toure flashed a 30-yarder over the bar.

After the initial shock of falling behind, the United players got back into their earlier stride and cranked up the pressure on City. Young curled an effort just wide, while Anderson and Rooney both stung the palms of Joe Hart in quick succession. Jonny Evans spurned United’s best chance five minutes from the break when, after being found by Rooney via a short corner, the defender completely missed his kick from five yards out.

Evans was at the centre of the game’s big moment two minutes after the restart when he pulled Balotelli back as the Italian striker bore down on goal. Referee Mark Clattenburg had no choice but to give the Northern Ireland international his marching orders and in turn make United’s afternoon a whole lot harder.

Despite the setback the Reds seemed to be galvanised and, buoyed on by a raucous Old Trafford crowd, duly bombed forward despite the numerical disadvantage. Young saw his ricocheted effort drop just wide, while Rooney blasted a shot straight at Hart. United’s new-found optimism was short-lived however when Balotelli’s doubled his and City’s tally on the hour-mark. Silva was again at the heart of City’s good play as he flicked a lovely pass into Milner who had burst into the area and once again delivered a pass to Balotelli who was on hand to slot home from close range.

United’s misery was compounded nine minutes later when Aguero made it 3-0 to City, at the end of another excellent move. Balotelli backheeled the ball to Milner who put Micah Richards in down the right and crossed for Aguero to convert from three yards. It almost got worse for United soon after when Silva blasted over and substitute Edin Dzeko rolled a shot wide and then saw another saved by De Gea as City broke forward.

Darren Fletcher handed the champions a lifeline nine minutes from time with a sublime curling finish into the top corner after a one-two with Reds substitute Hernandez, but City made sure of the victory and a painful for afternoon for the Reds when David Silva and Edin Dzeko (twice) found the net in injury-time. Bragging rights - and more worryingly, a five-point lead - belong to the Blues.

Interview: Ashley Young

Ashley Young's emergence this season as one of the most dangerous attacking weapons in the Premier League and his new-found status among Fabio Capello's favourite forwards meant the 26-year-old spent Manchester United's UEFA Champions League win over Otelul Galati enjoying a well-earned rest.

Sir Alex Ferguson was saving his £17million summer signing ahead of Sunday's clash with Manchester City. But Young is aware his life could have been a lot different. He might not have been using his time looking forward to participating in one of the most intriguing derbies in decades.

United's new No.18's career could have been over before it started when, as a teenager, he was initially rejected by Watford. But he displayed the determination of a player who would go on to make the step from Football League to Premier League, earn international recognition and an eventual move to one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"When I was 16, I got told that I wasn't going to be offered a full-time scholarship," Young told skysports.com the morning after watching United's victory in Romania. "I was told I could go back part-time and go work where I grew up. For a kid at 16, to hear that, it is obviously disappointing. But I had the choice to go back or leave the club. I had been there since I was 10, so I just wanted to show them that they had made a mistake. Luckily, I think that was a turning point in my life and I have never looked back since. Within a year, I was offered a professional contract."

Young knows the significance of what was essentially a second chance at Vicarage Road. He made his first-team debut in September 2003 under Ray Lewington, who now works as Fulham's Academy technical director. The then 18-year-old did not disappoint and scored as a substitute in a 3-1 win over Millwall in what was then Division One. Young maintains a soft spot for Watford.

"I still speak to people who are there who I grew up with and played alongside," he said. "I still speak to some of the staff as well. I was there from when I was 10 to 21, so it always has a place in my heart."

One hundred and one league appearances later and having helped Watford to promotion to the Premier League, Young moved to Aston Villa in the January of 2007. Martin O'Neill had been determined to get his man and paid just short of £10m to win what had been a fierce bidding war involving a number of clubs.

Young's combination of livewire pace, goalscoring and creativity meant he was a rare commodity. He also had ambitions of his own and the move to Villa Park was designed with an eye to competing at the highest level. Those targets were never truly realised.

Young's move to United became inevitable, as his contract approached its conclusion and some critics suggested he lacked commitment and desire in his final months with Villa.

"I joined the club and said I wanted to be playing in Europe and challenging for titles," Young explained of his time in the Midlands. "I never had a frustrating time there. I had a great five years. Obviously we had some great times and some not-so-great times. But you have that throughout your football career.

"Every time I put on an Aston Villa shirt, I gave 110 per cent and wanted to go out there and win. In three seasons (2007/08, 2008/09 and 2009/10) we finished sixth and the season before last (2009/10) we were in the final of the Carling Cup and the semi-finals of the FA Cup. So I had some great times there and I would never say anything frustrated me."

Young's move to United on a five-year contract became one of the worst kept secrets in football. Liverpool was a possible destination, "there was interest, but nothing materialised". However, Old Trafford was his priority. The chance to work under Sir Alex Ferguson at a club who had just won a record-breaking 19th league title and had reached a third Champions League final in four years, which included lifting a third European Cup in 2007/08, was too tempting.

"You just look at the club's history and the titles they have won," said Young. "I am an ambitious person and I wanted to win titles and play in the biggest competitions. Obviously United are winning Champions Leagues and playing in Champions Leagues every year. For me, it was a no-brainer.

"The manager, as well, the players, I just wanted to go there straight away and stamp my authority. The day I signed was a great moment for me and I wanted to get straight into pre-season training and get the ball rolling."

He continued: "You feel the difference from the time you sign for United. We went on a pre-season tour of America. Every stage that we went to, it was fantastic the amount of fans that were there cheering. United, as a club, is global. Everybody around the world knows about the club."

Young may believe he has 'not looked back' since first becoming a professional at Watford. But his impact at United surely ranks as an equally integral step. His form since moving to Old Trafford has blossomed for both club and country.

He smashed two sensational goals in the 8-2 humiliation of Arsenal and also scored the crucial last-gasp equaliser to rescue United from an embarrassing home defeat to Basel in the Champions League.

At the same time, England boss Capello has been raving about a player who he previously left out of his 2010 World Cup squad. Young has this season found the winner against Wales at Wembley and headed the opener in the 2-2 draw with Montenegro which booked a place at Euro 2012. He is becoming the man for the big occasion.

"I am extremely happy with how things have gone," Young said of his time to date at United. "It is an easy place to settle. There is a great team spirit and they welcomed me with open arms. I knew a few of the players who have played with England, so it was easier. You go into training every day with a smile on your face.

"From the time I signed, I said it (playing with United) was going to be a challenge. For me, as a player, I always want to challenge myself at the highest level. Being able to do that at the biggest club in the world, there was no thinking of who I was going to sign for. It was always going to be United for me."

It is easy to forget Young is now four years short of his 30th birthday. It does not seem long since he was a teenage star at Watford and perhaps joining United at a later stage in his career has proved beneficial. To some extent, he has gone unnoticed and he is now in the peculiar position of hitting his peak at the same time as being one of United's elder statesmen.

Young is older than established United first-teamers Wayne Rooney and Nani. But he also has at least two years' extra experience than the next generation of Phil Jones, David de Gea, Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling, Anderson, Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez. Ferguson will consequently expect him to represent a role model. Young, though, knows he can also learn from the likes of experienced team-mates Ryan Giggs, Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand or captain Nemanja Vidic.

"At 26, the only thing young about me is just my name," he joked. "That's what I keep telling people. The players that have come through, the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Wells (Welbeck) and Clevs (Cleverley), have done brilliant for us this season. They will continue to improve and learn. All of them want to learn in training and want to be the best they can be.

"There are experienced players at United they can look up to. Any time the experienced players talk to you, they have been there, they have done it. You know if you need advice, they are always willing to talk to you. I'm sure for them (the experienced players), and even myself, it is fantastic for the club as a whole to see the youngsters coming through and doing so well."

But the long-term future can wait. On the immediate horizon is Sunday's derby with City. Roberto Mancini's men will make the short trip to their bitter rivals still stinging from throwing away a two-goal lead in the 3-2 Community Shield defeat at Wembley in August, when Young played the full 90 minutes and his free-kick set up Smalling to spark United's comeback. However, bankrolled by the Abu Dhabi wealth of owner Sheikh Mansour, City will also arrive at Old Trafford unusually sitting above United with a two-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

"Obviously they are a major force now with the spending power they have had and the players they have been able to bring in," said Young. "But we are not concentrating on City, we concentrate on ourselves. Going out there on Sunday, we know it is going to be a tough game. But, as long as we go out there and play as well as we have been doing this season, I'm sure we can get the three points that we will deserve."

If the hype is to be believed, the match is a chapter in a new order of the Premier League - a new phase of Manchester dominance. Young, though, remains focused.

"There has been a lot of talk about the two futures of the teams and the way things have gone this season," he said. "They are saying it is going to be us (United and City) for the title race. But there other clubs involved - the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. There are a few teams fighting for the title.

"But I think everybody affiliated to United wants to win that title for the 20th time, which would be fantastic. That is not just players, that is staff as well. As soon as I signed for United, I had that winning mentality. You get that drummed into you straight away. Even in training, everybody wants to win and you just hate losing. It is going to be a tough test come Sunday, but everybody is looking forward to it."

Macclesfield Reject Lonsdale Asks Sir Alex Ferguson For A Trial

When Max Lonsdale was released by League Two side Macclesfield Town, the pro-active 18-year-old decided to knock on Sir Alex Ferguson's door to ask for a chance with Manchester United.

To the midfielder's surprise, Ferguson was suitably impressed by his courage and, after watching a DVD of the youngster in action, offered him a two-week trial with the Premier League champions.

"I just thought nothing would come of it," Lonsdale told the Daily Mail. "But then the following Tuesday I got a call from [reserve-team coach] Warren Joyce, telling me to be at the training ground at Carrington for a meeting."

The left-footed midfielder ended up staying at the club for more than four weeks and played in five reserve-team games.

During that time, he played alongside midfielder Darron Gibson and trained with midfielders Darren Fletcher and Tom Cleverley and forward Danny Welbeck.

Lonsdale, who told only his father of his plan to speak to Ferguson, added: "I posted DVDs to other clubs but got nowhere, so I just thought, 'Right, I'm going to do it differently with United. I'm going straight to Sir Alex'."

Twice he called round to the United boss's house only to find the Scot was on holiday, but the third time, Ferguson's wife answered and suggested he call back the following day.

On the fourth occasion, Lonsdale finally got his man and spent 15 minutes discussing football and his career to date with the 69-year-old.

"I admire people with courage, particularly a young person like that who had the guts to come to my door and tell me he wanted a career in the game," Ferguson told BBC Sport at the beginning of Lonsdale's trial.

The club decided not to take Lonsdale on, but so impressed was Ferguson with the teenager that he arranged a trial with Championship side Doncaster and said that the door would always be open at United.

"[Ferguson] was one of the last people I saw on my final day at Carrington," said Lonsdale.

"He said I'd always be welcome to go back and train with them and that the door would never be closed."

Lonsdale is currently recovering from an ankle injury before Doncaster manager Dean Saunders can assess his potential.

"I just need to work hard at my next club, keep developing physically and try to find a bit more pace and it can still happen for me," said Lonsdale.

"The dream of making it at United isn't over."

Lindegaard: Title Race Still Open

Many have already predicted this season's title battle will be a straight race between United and City, but Anders Lindegaard still believes it's too early to say who will be the Reds' biggest challengers.

Much of the attention this season has been focused on the progress of both Manchester clubs who meet at Old Trafford in Sunday's eagerly anticipated derby clash. And while Lindegaard admits to be being impressed with the Blues this season, he remains wary of the threat posed by Chelsea, who lay just a point behind United and three behind City.

"Four games ago I would have said it will be between City and United, but Chelsea seem to be going well as well," the goalkeeper told PA Sport after keeping a clean sheet in the win over Otelul Galati. "You can't say it is just about United and City now. It is too early.

"I think City have looked very good. They have quality players in all positions. They have two for each position, just like us. There is no doubt it is going to be a tight race this year."

Lindegaard says the players are well aware of the importance of this weekend's derby which Sir Alex has labelled the biggest in his 25 years at Old Trafford. But the Danish stopper insists the squad will prepare for the match as they would for any other with victory being the sole aim.

"One of the things that impressed me most when I came to United is that every game is handled the same way," he explains. "It doesn't matter whether it is Crawley at home or Chelsea away. It has always been very serious. It seems like one of the cornerstones of this club is to always take your opponent seriously. It is going to be a normal build up to the City game, as it would be with any other."

Sir Alex: Patience Was Key

Sir Alex Ferguson says patience was pivotal in United’s 2-0 win over Otelul Galati in the UEFA Champions League.

The boss praised the performances of Nani, Anderson and Wayne Rooney in particular, after the latter converted two penalties to seal a hard-fought triumph in Romania.

"You have to work hard to get the victory in away games as it is not easy,” Sir Alex explained. “They (Galati) made it very difficult for us but we have possession figures to show we were in control of the game.

"In the second-half we improved a great deal. Nani’s performance was terrific, Rooney started to come into the game and Anderson was terrific too. I was satisfied with the result.

"It was a long night but we had to be patient to work through the game.We didn’t have enough penetration in the first-half as Rooney played more in midfield, but he moved further up the field in the second-half which created problems for them. He has great composure and he took his penalties well."

Sir Alex also revealed he is unlikely to appeal Nemanja Vidic’s straight red card against Galati, despite question marks being raised over the severity of the referee’s decision.

“He (Vidic) has raised his foot and in the context of a lot referee’s interpretations - particularly in Europe - you can see why he has given the red card. But it was very harsh.”

Victory in Bucharest moves United up to second in Group C, just two points behind leaders Benfica with three games remaining. This state of play means the Reds are in the driving seat, according to the boss.

“We won and that is the important thing. We have to do our job at Old Trafford, hopefully we can win beat Galati again which brings us to eight points and I’ve always said that 10 points gets you through.”

Smalling Relishes Central Role

Chris Smalling says life is looking up for United in Europe after the Reds registered a first win in Champions League Group C at the third attempt.

The versatile England defender played the full match at centre-back against Otelul Galati, unlike his sidekick Nemanja Vidic who was unfortunate to be sent off just after Wayne Rooney had put the visitors 1-0 up at the National Arena in Bucharest. The Serbian's suspension from the next game, also against Galati at Old Trafford on 2 November, could enable Chris to continue in the role he enjoys the most.

"It was nice [to play at centre-back]," Smalling told MUTV in Romania. "That is my favoured position so it is good to get as many games as I can there. But if I can contribute in whatever way, then I’ll give it my best."

Smalling sympathised with Vidic's plight, saying: "I saw the incident from behind. I didn’t expect the red card. Referees are sometimes more harsh in Europe but I’d have to take another look at it [on TV, to judge it properly]. I think for the first five minutes after we went down to ten men it was a bit frantic but then I think we started to settle down again and control the ball again. Luckily we saw the game out."

The defender felt he had a better view of the attacking magic which eventually enabled United to beat Otelul Galati, who lived up to the players' expectations as stubborn opponents. The Romanians, after all, had only lost 0-1 at home to Benfica and conceded fewer goals to Basel (1-2 away) than the Reds did at Old Trafford last month.

"It was a difficult game. We thought they were going to be hard to break down and they were just that tonight," said Smalling. "We knew we had to be patient. There weren’t too many chances in the first half but we kept pressing and it paid off. We started to penetrate more in the second half and luckily we got the two goals.

"It was great work from Wayne, in and around the box. He and Chicharito were causing problems and with Galati clocking up yellow cards, it was inevitable we would penetrate closer to the goal."

The 2-0 win keeps United on course to qualify for the knockout stages with group leaders Benfica, who beat Basel 2-0 in Switzerland.

"That was a massive game for us tonight. When we play Galati at home next, if we can get another three points then it will look a lot more rosey than it did a week ago."

Carrick Savours 3 Points

Michael Carrick has praised a job well done after United overcame the tricky obstacle of Otelul Galati in the UEFA Champions League.

The Reds midfielder was delighted to pick up three points and has challenged his team-mates to build on Tuesday’s 2-0 victory during the three remaining Group C fixtures.

“It was very bitty. It was good at times and not so good at others,” Carrick reflected. “We expected a tough game though. People expected us to come here and score a lot of goals and for it to be an easy night but we knew it was going to be tough.

“We had to be patient and in the end we came through. We are delighted with the three points. It’s a much-needed win and it’s been a long time coming. We’re up and running now and hopefully we can keep the momentum up.”

Carrick was a standout performer and man of the match contender at the National Stadium, operating alongside Anderson in middle of the park. The England international was also forced to fill in at centre-half briefly following Nemanja Vidic’s straight red card, a decision he felt was harsh.

“It was a dubious sending off at best, really, so we are disappointed with that. It was all hands to the pump for a few minutes and luckily I got a block in front of a guy who had a decent shot at goal.

“I thought I might have played at centre-half for a bit longer, but the boss changed it and after that we were pretty comfortable and managed to get the second goal."

Attention now turns to Sunday’s Manchester derby and the culmination of a busy week for United and Carrick, following last weekend’s draw with Liverpool and the long midweek trip to Romania. “It’s a massive game, obviously. It’s been a tough week but the first two games have gone okay and hopefully we can finish it off well.”

Rooney Seals Match With 2 Late Penalties

United endured a difficult night in the UEFA Champions League, needing two Wayne Rooney penalties to defeat unfancied Otelul Galati and playing the last 25 minutes with ten men after Nemanja Vidic's controversial red card.

Both Rooney's first goal and the skipper's dismissal came just after the hour mark as the Reds critically upped the ante after an uninspiring first period at the impressive National Arena in Bucharest. There wasn't a huge improvement in the second half but the English champions did just enough to claim a first win in this Group C campaign and inflict a third slender defeat on the Romanian hosts.

Sir Alex Ferguson's eleven showed nine changes from the side that started at Anfield, retaining only Patrice Evra and, moving from right- to centre-back, Chris Smalling. Nemanja Vidic made his first appearance for the Reds since the opening league win at West Brom, and behind him Anders Lindegaard came in for his third start in goal this term, having impressed on the previous European trip to Benfica.

United's hosts - with their record-signing centre-back Milan Perendija reportedly costing just £85,000 - were massively underdogs, despite only losing by the odd goal in their first ever games in the Champions League group stage - to Basel (1-2 away) and Benfica (0-1 home), the two sides who limited the Reds to just two points prior to this excursion into the unknown in Romania.

As expected, Galati conceded the lion’s share of possession to the English champions but they were comfortable behind the ball for the first 20 minutes. In fact, it was the Romanians who drew first blood in terms of shooting opportunities, the first gifted by the Reds’ rusty skipper Vidic to lone striker Bratislav Punosevac. The latter failed to pack sufficient power into his effort to concern Lindegaard and his second strike, from a similar spot just outside the box, found the same fate – straight into the Dane’s hands. United’s keeper almost contrived to create a third chance in a row for the Romanians when his careless clearance cannoned back off his captain but the Reds survived the scare.

Failing to clear their lines from a free-kick almost cost United’s rearguard dear when defensive midfielder Iaon Filip strode forward to fire a shot just over Lindegaard’s bar. But this latest in a handful of half-chances was hardly reflective of the overall play, with United dominant in midfield where Rooney dropped in to join Anderson and Carrick in patiently trying to pick a way through the massed ranks of white shirts. However, Carrick’s most important early contribution - on his third consecutive start in the Champions League – was to throw his body in the way of Ionut Neagu’s effort.

Rooney went closest to a first-half breakthrough when his free-kick, not dissimilar to Steven Gerrard’s at Anfield, crept through the wall and was scrambled away less than convincingly by Branko Grahovac. The Galati goalkeeper made a better save from a better shot, unleashed by Patrice Evra on a typical burst down the left flank. The Bosnian shot-stopper also blocked a right-foot strike from Nani, moments after watching Carrick spurn United's best opening of the half by sidefooting Nani's pull-back over the bar. The frame at the other end was also cleared vertically, by Liviu Antal's header just before the break, from the only corner of a disappointing first half. The absence of injury time was a blessing.

United’s bid to raise the tempo at the start of the second half was met with some rough-house tactics from the Romanians with Nani on the receiving end of two fouls by right-back Cornel Rapa, the second of which was punished by a yellow card. Perendija was also cautioned for going through the back of Rooney but the Reds weren’t angels either, with Carrick entering the book for a clumsy challenge on Antal. Neagu continued the flurry of cards when he cynically took Nani out as the Portuguese winger tried a spot of ball-juggling in midfield.

Undeterred, Nani teed up Rooney for a shot on the turn that just whistled past the left-hand post and fed the same team-mate again in the move that finally made the breakthrough in the 64th minute. When Wayne’s attempt to find Hernandez unmarked on the other side of the box was thwarted by Sergiu Costin’s blatant handball, the striker stepped up to sidefoot home the resulting penalty with Grahovac diving the wrong way, right.

If Costin was lucky to escape with a yellow card – Galati’s fourth – then Vidic was very unfortunate to see red when he caught Gabriel Giurgiu with a raised right boot. The shock on the Serbian’s face was plain to see but away he trooped, to leave ten men facing fired-up Galati who might have equalised had Carrick not blocked Antal’s venomous volley. Moments later Sir Alex sent on Jonny Evans to play alongside Smalling, with Antonio Valencia sacrificed. A further change followed at the back with Phil Jones coming on for Fabio who’d earlier been treated after an awkward fall.

Nani nearly made it 2-0 with a free-kick saved by Grahovac, after Giurgiu was booked for a foul on Chicharito, but Punosevac was off-target at the other end - just - having connected first time with Filip's cross. Nani tried again with the clock just shy of 90 minutes but this time his shot struck the right-hand post, this coming moments after Perendija's second yellow card - for another foul on Chicharito - evened up the personnel.

Rooney's second penalty, after the striker himself was tripped in the box by Antal, made the points absolutely safe and took some of the pressure off the Reds with the Galati home game coming next in this campaign.


Rooney fires home from the penalty spot

Evra To Pursue Claim

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Patrice Evra will pursue a claim of racial abuse against Liverpool forward Luis Suarez and trusts the Football Association to investigate the incident thoroughly.

Speaking after Uniteds's 1-1 draw at Anfield last Saturday, Reds defender Evra told French television channel Canal + that Suarez had “said a certain word to me at least 10 times... there is no place for that in 2011”.

In Romania on Monday night, the United manager insisted Evra still felt strongly about the issue.

“We spoke to Patrice today and he was adamant he wanted to follow it up,” Sir Alex said. “It's not an easy one because everybody knows Manchester United and Liverpool have great responsibilities in terms of what happens on and off the pitch. Incidentally, I thought Saturday was terrific - both sets of fans were good and there was none of the silly chanting we've had in previous years.

“This [allegation] isn't something we want to level against Liverpool and it's not against Liverpool... but obviously Patrice feels very aggrieved by what was said to him. Now it rests in the hands of the FA.”

The FA have confirmed they will investigate Evra's claim, an allegation Suarez has vehemently denied. Liverpool have also released a statement publicly backing the striker and offering him their total support.

FA protocol dictates any investigation into the matter must begin with an interview of Evra, who will be asked to repeat the claim he has already made to both Canal + and Saturday's referee, Andre Marriner. But with United currently in Romania that is unlikely to take place until the squad arrive back in England on Wednesday.

While supportive of Evra's claim, Sir Alex insists racism is not common in the English game.

“There are very few examples in England of racism,” he said. “It's not an issue for the game – there's an odd example and this is what's maybe surprised Patrice Evra. He feels he was slighted by somebody on Saturday and that's something we don't want to see.”

Rio: Don't Write Me Off

Rio Ferdinand is confident in his own ability and will not pay attention to critics saying his best days are in the past.

The Manchester United defender faces increased competition for a place in the side at Old Trafford, while he was left out of the England squad to face Montenegro as Fabio Capello felt he had not played enough games this season.

He has had to deal with a long line of muscular problems since being struck down by a back injury at the end of 2008 and there have been suggestions his time at the very top of the game could be coming to an end.

With Phil Jones excelling on his debut in Podgorica and Bolton's Gary Cahill forging an effective central defensive partnership with John Terry, there are plenty who feel Ferdinand will not even get to Poland and Ukraine next summer.

But the former West Ham star has heard it all before and after an outstanding display in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Liverpool, he confirmed he has no desire to pay any attention.

"I have had people writing me off many times in my career," he said. "I just go out and play. I am confident in my own ability.

"Whatever anyone writes doesn't bother me whether it is good or bad.

"I wasn't in the England squad so I just have to shrug my shoulders and get on with it.

"I am not one to sit around and moan and mope."

Ferdinand is not too worried about what happens with England just at the moment as he concentrates on performing well for United.

"At the forefront of my mind is Manchester United and making sure we remain successful," he said.

"I have had a couple of little niggles but I have been training hard the last couple of weeks and I feel very good."

Ferdinand has five Premier League titles and a Champions League winners' medal to his name with United, but insists he remains as hungry as ever for silverware.

"People are talking about it as though I must be getting bored after 10 years," he said.

"But the motivation of playing for Manchester United never goes.

"The feeling you remember is winning. If you could bottle that feeling when you sit down on the pitch or in the dressing room, after you have just been given a trophy, you would be a billionaire. You want it all the time.

"If you get bored of that, you shouldn't be playing football."

Ferdinand added: "If you get beaten in training there is normally an argument or finger pointing.

"That desire never wavers. When you pull on that shirt you cannot go out there with a feeling any less than wanting to win.

"I have said from the day I arrived to the day I leave you will be judged on what you won. You can be a great player and win nothing, then you don't get remembered.

"You have to be part of a team that wins. That is the driving force behind this squad."

Jones Handles Role

Phil Jones admitted he was surprised to be plunged into the midfield minefield at Liverpool but felt United deserved a point from the challenging trip to Merseyside.

The England international played at right-back for his country last week and is most at home in the centre of the defence but was asked to do a job in midfield by the boss for the first time since his move from Blackburn.

As he'd fulfilled the role during his time with Rovers, the youngster wasn't too daunted at the prospect and feels he was able to help the champions get a grip on the game with Javier Hernandez's header salvaging a 1-1 draw.

"Yes, it was a surprise," he revealed to MUTV. "But, if the gaffer says I'm playing there, there's no arguments. I'm happy to be playing.

"It's hard as I've not played there in a while. The last time I played there, was for Blackburn quite a while ago but I had to adapt today and I think it was about breaking the play up and making it difficult for Liverpool to play in there because it was quite congested.

"It was difficult today but I thought the lads did well and we deservedly got the point. It's a hostile one and a tough one but we knew that and expected it. We coped with it well, even when they got a slightly controversial free-kick outside the box and they put it in, we still kept at it and found ourselves in the game.

"Chicha's come on and done terrific and got his just rewards. He does it every day in training and is a fantastic guy to work with as well. He was brilliant when he came on."

Jones shrugged off a heavy knock he received when colliding with Lucas towards the end of the first half, even though it threw some doubt on whether he'd reappear after the interval.

"I'm alright," he declared. "I jolted my knee a bit when I clashed heads with someone, I can't remember who it was. I'm fine."

Consequently, the versatile youngster looks set to be included for the Champions League trip to Otelul Galati as he will be able to offer plenty of options to the boss after proving he is comfortable when asked to play in midfield.

Rio: Draw Was A Fair Result

Rio Ferdinand admits United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool was a fair reflection of the game, following a closely fought encounter at Anfield in the Barclays Premier League.

The Reds defender believes a point in Merseyside should be celebrated, considering United’s recent baron run against Kenny Dalglish’s side and also expressed his delight at being involved in the big games, following a spate of recent injuries.

“I’m happy with a point in the end,” Ferdinand said. “They created a couple of chances towards the end but our passing was controlled in the second-half and we played some good football. We just didn’t make the right decision in the final third and we could have had a couple more opportunities. But considering what we have gone through in the last couple of years - I think we’ve lost three on the spin at Anfield - a point isn’t a bad result.

“These are the atmospheres that you want to play in. This is what you love and enjoy. As I’ve said before, there is no better place to come and get a result for United fans. It’s great to be playing again. I’m enjoying my football, training every day and that’s all you can ask.”

Ferdinand was central to a moment of controversy in the second-half when he appeared to bring down Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam who felt he was illegally apprehended, although, the Reds defender was not convinced when quizzed on the matter.

“There was a slight bit of contact but I don’t think it was enough to make a fella of 12 or 13 stones fall on the floor. But that’s the way the game is today and we just have to get on with it. We showed the resilience that you need to fight back and get a deserved point at a place like Anfield.”

Chicha: Team Comes First

Javier Hernandez was delighted to net the equalizer in United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool, but insists the overall team performance is more important than his own personal achievement.

Chicharito salvaged a well-deserved point at Anfield, coming off the bench to head home on 81 minutes following an excellent flick-on from strike partner Danny Welbeck. And the Mexican explained why the strike was better than his last at Anfield.

“It was a very tight game. I think they opened up a little bit more when the second-half started, created chances and scored a goal. But then the game opened up even more and we managed to score a goal too.

“The goal meant a little bit more than the last one I scored here as we lost 3-1 that day. A lot of my team-mates have told me about the atmosphere when playing at Anfield. The fans are great wherever we play but here it was very special.

“But the most important thing is to help my team and my team-mates. There are no heroes in this team and we all want to help, it doesn’t matter who scores the goals. We know it is a very important point but I don’t feel like a hero. I scored the goal but United scores overall.”

The Reds striker has endured a stuttered start to the campaign whilst suffering from a plethora of injuries, though he is keen to impress now fully fit.

“I want to do my best in every game. Having injuries is part of the game, there are always good and bad moments, but we need to be ready, enjoy it and do my best for the team.”

United Boss Blames 'Soft' Free-kick For Liverpool Goal

Sir Alex Ferguson was disappointed with the referee's decision to award the free-kick that lead to Steven Gerrard's goal in the 1-1 draw at Anfield.

The United boss said it was a 'soft' award after Rio Ferdinand tangled with Luis Suarez in the 68th minute.

He said: "The referee is under tremendous pressure but, when you see it again, it was a very soft one.

"Suarez dives all over the place and it makes it very difficult for the referee," added Ferguson.

The United chief had earlier left striker Wayne Rooney on the bench following his sending off for England against Montenegro which resulted in a three-match Euro 2012 ban.

Ferguson added: "He's obviously had a bad week with England. He was very disappointed to be sent off and the three-match ban from Uefa makes it very difficult for England.

"He could miss all the European Championship. I wanted to have Wayne in the right state of mind.

"It's important to get everyone in good fettle and in good form. You don't want any albatrosses hanging over their heads."

Liverpool and England midfielder Gerrard believes Wayne Rooney "has to go" to next summer's Euro 2012 finals, irrespective of whether the Uefa punishment is reduced or not.

Gerrard said: "For me he has got to go, the talent that he is. He is that good a player, I think you have to take the risk and take him.

"We will have to see who we come up against in the group games but we should progress from the group stages and then you need your best player out there with you to push on all the way to the final.

"It is devastating he is out for the first three games. It is a massive blow for everyone."

Gerrard's goal against Manchester United was cancelled out by Javier Hernandez. On United's equaliser, Ferguson said: "I thought Hernandez took his goal brilliantly. He has such a great record and you always think he can score. I thought he was being man-handled by the Liverpool lads when he scored.

"It wasn't a game until the goals were scored. After that it became a much better game.

"It's always intense at Anfield and Liverpool always make it difficult for you. We have faced most of the top sides now but we won't know until the end of the season whether it's a great point to have taken home with us.

"Liverpool probably had the best chances to win the game but David de Gea made two great saves."

Man. United Hit Back For Anfield Draw

Substitute Javier Hernandez earned Manchester United a point after England striker Wayne Rooney was left out of the starting line-up at Anfield.

The Mexican levelled nine minutes from time after Steven Gerrard, making his first start since undergoing groin surgery in April, put Liverpool ahead with a 68th-minute free-kick.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he dropped Rooney after he was left "devastated" by the three-match ban that rules him out of England's Euro 2012 group games following his red card in Montenegro.

As well as Rooney, Ferguson also left Hernandez and Nani on the bench in a much-changed United team.

It looked like proving an expensive decision as Gerrard slotted a free-kick through the United wall to make it 1-0.

That was the signal for Ferguson to make changes - and Hernandez rescued a point with a close-range header.

Liverpool substitute Jordan Henderson almost snatched victory twice in stoppage time but United held on to end a run of three successive Premier League defeats at Anfield.

United were second-best for long periods as they struggled to adapt to an unfamiliar line-up and were ultimately fortunate to leave Merseyside with their unbeaten league run still intact.

And Ferguson was largely indebted to young keeper David de Gea, who has had his critics this season but made crucial saves to keep United in contention as they came under concerted pressure in the closing stages.

Ferguson, perhaps recalling how United had been comprehensively outfought in the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool last season, opted for a side with a more pragmatic look with Phil Jones moved into a midfield role.

And in an undistinguished opening, Jones had the best chance when he met Patrice Evra's cross at the far post but headed weakly off-target with what proved to be United's most inviting opening of the first half.

Liverpool captain Gerrard then created confusion in the United six-yard area with a whipped cross - but the clearest opportunity fell to Luis Suarez in the 33rd minute. Charlie Adam's shot deflected invitingly into the Uruguayan's path but, after cleverly wrong-footing Jonny Evans, he was thwarted by De Gea's block.

It was Liverpool who once again carried the momentum after the break and the recalled Rio Ferdinand was booked for a foul on Suarez, whose confrontational approach and brilliant natural ability was proving hard to handle.

After Evra was also shown a yellow card following a prolonged bout of bickering which also involved Suarez, Ferguson decided on a double change by replacing Park Ji-sung and Ashley Young with Nani and Rooney.

As they stood waiting to come on, Liverpool took the lead as Gerrard showed what his side have been missing. United hotly contested the free-kick awarded when Adam tumbled under Ferdinand's challenge - and Gerrard steered a 20-yard free-kick past De Gea, thanks in no small part to Ryan Giggs jumping out of the wall.

Ferguson then made another change as Liverpool moved within sight of victory, sending on Hernandez for Jones in the hope that the Mexican's goal-poaching instincts could be the catalyst for a comeback.

And so it proved when Hernandez arrived with perfect timing on to Danny Welbeck's flick from a corner to send a header flashing past Pepe Reina.

De Gea was United's hero again within seconds of Hernandez's equaliser, diving to his left to claw away Dirk Kuyt's shot as he got on the end of a superb cross from Stewart Downing.

Liverpool were still pressing for the winner in stoppage time with another substitute, Henderson, prominent. His angled finish was brilliantly turned away by De Gea and he also headed just over.

Defender Martin Skrtel should have done better than sky a chance into the Kop in the dying moments - and it was the Manchester United supporters who were happier with a point at the final whistle.


Javier Hernandez scored Manchester United's goal after coming off the bench.

Giggs Keen To Sign New Deal

Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has said he is keen to extend his 21-year stay at Old Trafford.

The 37-year-old is on a year-by-year contact with the Premier League champions, and will seek an extension to his current deal after Christmas.

"Nothing interests me but playing with this team," he said after receiving an international football award in Monaco.

"After Christmas I will go to Sir Alex Ferguson's office and talk about my contract," he added.

Giggs is the most decorated player in English football, having won 12 league titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups and two Champions League titles in his career, and was in Monaco to receive the Golden Foot for 2011 - an award open to players over the age of 29 who are still active in the game.

Speaking to Italian magazine Calciomercato, he said that he did not envisage any problems over a new deal, given his strong relationship with his United boss Ferguson.

"I have a great relationship with him. All it needs is that I sit down at a table with him to renew it," he said.

In the magazine interview, Giggs goes on to warn Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli that he is in danger of seeing his talent overshadowed by his disciplinary problems.

Balotelli has had a mixed career at City, scoring 13 goals in 33 games but also receiving 11 yellow cards and two reds, and being substituted in disgrace on a pre-season tour of the United States.

"He is really very good, but also a little strange," Giggs said.

"God knows how many fines he has received! In England, no one except Manchester City fans really like him. But I think that he is talented."

Balotelli has also hit the headlines for his exploits off the pitch, with Italian prosecutors investigating his visits to known mafia hotspots, although there is no suggestion the striker has committed any offence.

Giggs v Balotelli
Ryan Giggs was named PFA Player of the Year in 2009
A year later, Mario Balotelli was named the 'Golden Boy', the best under-21 player in Europe.

Hernandez Agrees New Deal

Manchester United ace Javier Hernandez has put pen to paper on a new five-year deal at Old Trafford, according to his agent.

The Mexico striker has made a massive impact in Manchester since arriving last summer, scoring 20 goals in all competitions last season.

United have now responded to his heroics by tying him down on a long-term deal, according to his agent Eduardo Hernandez although the club have yet to confirm the deal

The agent is quoted by various English newspapers as telling ESPN Deportes: "We have renegotiated Javier's contract and he is now committed for five years with Manchester United.

"The initial contract was good for Manchester and for Javier because it enabled them both to see if they could fit together and if he could achieve what was expected of him.

"Both sides have met their expectations and United were happy to reward Javier after his very good performances last season.

"I will not talk about numbers, but it is a five-year contract. It is a fixed salary with incentives based on the team's success in each of the different tournaments.

"Javier was not badly paid with his initial contract, but it was his first contract and, with respect, not comparable with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Nani. But today I can say that the contract has just been signed and everyone is satisfied."

Eduardo Hernandez also played down recent speculation linking Spanish giants Real Madrid with a move for his client, saying: "It was never likely that Javier would leave.

"Talks began some time ago and United came up with a very good offer and I have nothing but praise for the way they have recognised Javier's performances."

The new deal for Hernandez follows that signed on Monday by United midfielder Tom Cleverley, while striker Danny Welbeck has also been offered a new deal.

Sir Alex Has No Plans To Retire

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he no longer thinks about retiring and is looking forward to bringing further success to the club.

The 69-year-old is celebrating 25 years as United boss but has intimated he would step down if his health or hunger for the job deteriorated.

"I just don't think about retirement any more," said Ferguson.

"We've got a good young team and a lot of youth at the club as well as some tremendous staff. The future is good."

Ferguson added: "When you've been on the treadmill for so long, 25 years in my case, and my health is good at the moment, it's just a matter of looking forward to being the manager of Manchester United, rather than worrying about Alex Ferguson.

"The great part for me is still to be out on the field with the players and coaching them. As the game has changed, I have had to change with it. For example, sports science in the last decade has seen a phenomenal improvement and that has become a major development in the game."

The Scot, who was speaking at a ceremony where he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Manchester for his quarter of a century at Old Trafford, added: "I think it's always nice to be appreciated and recognised, and getting this recognition is testimony to all the hard work that has gone on at Manchester United in the last 25 years, not just by me, but by everyone at the club."

Since joining United from Aberdeen in November 1986, Ferguson has become the most decorated coach in British football.

He has won the Premier League title 12 times, the FA Cup on five occasions, four League Cup finals, two Champions League triumphs and also the now-defunct European Cup Winners' Cup.

University of Manchester deputy president and deputy vice-chancellor Professor Rod Coombs, who was also in attendance at Tuesday's ceremony, said: "These two and a half decades of the Ferguson era at United have coincided with - and been a big part of - the renaissance of this city. That renaissance has been manifest in industry, in commerce, in architecture, in the arts, in our university, and in sport.

"Of course we are blessed with two great football clubs here, but today we are celebrating the achievements of one manager who has made a unique contribution at Manchester United, and through that, a unique contribution to the city of Manchester and its prominence in the world.

"Every citizen of Manchester, every business in Manchester, and everything that comes out of Manchester, has an extra visibility and an instant recognition factor all over the world.

"The sustained success of Manchester United is such a potent driver of that phenomenon. And the reason it has been sustained for so long is standing here on the platform today. His achievements are truly unique."

SIR ALEX FERGUSON'S UNITED HONOURS

Premier League (12): 1992-93, 1993-94, 1995-96, 1996-97, 1998-99, 1999-2000, 2000-01, 2002-03, 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09, 2010-11

FA Cup (5): 1989-90, 1993-94, 1995-96, 1998-99, 2003-04

League Cup (4): 1991-92, 2005-06, 2008-09, 2009-10

Champions League (2): 1998-99, 2007-08

Cup Winners' Cup (1): 1990-91

Club World Cup (1): 2008


Ferguson has been awarded an honorary degree for his 25 years at United

Owen: The Art Of Finishing

A deadly presence in the area, Michael Owen tells Inside United what’s required to be a top-class striker and reveals how he sharpened his predatory talent.

"A lot of great strikers seem to have instincts built into their make-up. There’s definitely an intuitive element that goes with being a striker – or at least being a certain type of striker. I’d say that I was an instinctive striker, as is somebody like Chicharito. But I wouldn’t have said Wayne Rooney or Dimitar Berbatov are as reliant on instinct as we are. It comes down to making the right runs and being in the right position at the right time. You always have to be ready; you have to be on your toes anticipating where the ball will be. As I said, some people seem to have a knack for that sort of play from an early age and, of course, years of playing as a striker helps hone that as well.

"When I was young, I obviously had a lot of pace, but that wouldn’t have got me anywhere without my instinctiveness in front of goal. The combination of those two attributes helped me get into Liverpool’s first team, but then I had to learn about other parts of the game – dropping deeper, holding up the ball, bringing others into play... I never got taught that as a kid. There are a lot of things you can learn on the way, but if you’ve got one or two potent weapons at the beginning it can give you a head start. From there, there’s a lot of hard work involved and you need to have the desire to improve.

"You can’t get anywhere with just one God-given talent. You can have one attribute that will give you an edge over others in a certain department – you might be very tall, very strong or very fast – but that’s not enough these days. You have to be able to transfer those natural talents into football situations. You have to work very hard.

"To be honest, I wouldn’t say I was a kid who used to analyse my own game and identify the areas I wasn’t so good at and then spend hours improving them by practising on my own. I just loved playing football and played as often as possible – I’d go to the park and shoot into the goals, but I wasn’t really making a conscious effort to improve any particular parts of my game which I felt needed work.

"I think the deeper understanding of the game came, in my case, just through experience. The ability to play different types of passes, to score different sorts of goals – it all came from testing stuff out on the pitch. I’d find myself one-on-one with the goalkeeper and try a certain type of finish. If it worked, I’d try it again the next time. If it didn’t, I’d try something else. So you teach yourself how to react to different situations, based on the situations you’ve been in previously. It’s a gradual process and you need a lot of luck too.

"Timing a run to get in behind a defender is all about trial and error. It’s a very difficult art to teach anybody. Coaches might tell you when to make your run and at what angle you should make it – diagonal runs are usually favoured because your momentum carries you towards the goal and you’re likely to stay onside a little longer – but every situation is different. You have to try things for yourself and work out what’s effective and what isn’t. The runs you make inside the penalty area – be they towards the near post or peeling off to the back post – are largely instinctive, although you can obviously learn from watching other players and watching the masters at work.

"You’ll see some strikers who linger behind a defender for nine-tenths of a second and then, just as the ball’s about to be crossed, they’ll make a quick movement and nip in front. I think it’s important to watch other strikers and combine that with your own experiments on the pitch. You can certainly develop that side of your game.

"It’s never been easy to make it as a professional footballer and it’s not getting any easier. These days football is very athletic as well as skilful – you need the right sort of body to cope with the rigours of the game. You also need to be quick, or you’ll be left behind. You need to be confident and calm on the ball, and have a good reading of the game. You need an awful lot to succeed. But don’t let that put you off!"