Giggs: Age Is Just A Number

Ryan Giggs has dismissed the relevance of age to his career as the Manchester United legend celebrates his 40th birthday.

The Welshman turns 40 on Friday and Giggs remains an integral member of United's playing ranks, despite also taking up a coaching role in the summer following David Moyes' appointment.

He sparkled in central midfield during United's 5-0 thrashing of Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League in midweek in a performance which showed how Giggs has developed as a player since he burst onto the scene as a buccaneering winger in the early 1990s.

Giggs does not believe age should factor into any thoughts of retirement and his priority is ensuring that he can still make a positive contribution to United.

"There is an ageism thing but I just take it as a challenge," said Giggs. "I will know myself when it is time.

"The thing you have to come to terms with is people saying, 'His legs have gone, he shouldn't be in the team because he is too old'.

"But I had bad games when I was 19, 20 or 25, 26, probably more in fact. You just have to weigh up are you still effective, are you still contributing, is the manager still picking you?"

Giggs Is Happy To Be A One-club Man

Ryan Giggs has admitted he would be finished now had he ever elected to leave Manchester United.

Giggs celebrates his 40th birthday on Friday with talk already starting to turn towards the potential for being offered yet another contract extension in the summer.

Should he sign one, it would take his first-team career with the Red Devils to 24 years and, injury permitting, allow him to reach the staggering 1,000 game milestone.

His personal records will almost certainly never be beaten - he has, after all, won as many league titles as Arsenal have managed in their entire history.

But it all could have been so different had he ever opted to sever ties with the club where he made his name, as fellow Class of 92 members David Beckham, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville all did.

"If I'd moved from club to club I'd be finished by now," said the Welshman. "I'm lucky that I have been at one club, where I am surrounded by good players. I also have a good manager.

"I look after myself and try to train every day in order to make myself available for selection.

"I enjoy it as much as I can and, of course, try to contribute to the team."

Only once, since he made his debut against Everton in 1991 has it appeared possible Giggs would leave.

In the wake of a trophyless campaign in 2002, which featured a shattering Champions League semi-final defeat to the same Bayer Leverkusen outfit Giggs played such a significant role in destroying on Wednesday, the Welshman's critics were lining up to take a shot.

Always one of the fittest players at Old Trafford, Giggs' increasingly delicate hamstrings were starting to cause concern and at one stage he was even booed by his own supporters.

There was talk of a big-money move to Italy and though Giggs has stated before he was never made aware of any interest, it is fair to assume if he had offered any encouragement, there would have been a lengthy queue for his services.

It didn't take long for Giggs to emerge from his difficulties.

That same 2002-03 season he scored a wonder goal against Juventus in Turin. He also started working those hamstrings with regular yoga sessions, now an accepted method of keeping in shape but at the time something unusual.

All this as he was edging towards his 30th birthday.

Since then he has won six more titles, a Champions League and the FA Cup. Giggs has been crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year, been voted the best player of the Premier League's first two decades, plus scores more individual honours.

"I don't know what the younger lads think of me," added Giggs. "When I was 17 and 18 I thought 31 was ancient. Here I am at 40.

"It can be hard sometimes but I am still enjoying it.

"As long as that is the case I will carry on."

However, in much the same way as Denis Irwin credits Giggs for the effort put in on his behalf for the length of time he spent at United, so the man he played behind so often is happy to share the praise now.

"It is a pleasure to play alongside someone like Phil Jones," said Giggs. "He does my running for me.

"All I do is try and control it all."

Irwin Admires Evra

Former Manchester United star Denis Irwin feels Patrice Evra has been one of the club's best players since David Moyes took charge at Old Trafford.

The ex-Republic of Ireland international has been impressed with the French left-back and also Chris Smalling, who has covered superbly for Rafael on the other flank.

"Pat had things in the summer going on with the talk of other players coming in," explained Irwin to ManUtd.com. "There's Alex Büttner there as well to challenge. But that is part and parcel of being a United footballer.

"He has responded really well and I think he's been one of our best players this year. I would definitely say that. I'm not surprised he's a contender for your Player of the Month award. He's been really solid this season and got the goal at Cardiff, which helps as well.

"It goes with the territory. There is always a young lad trying to take your place and there are always going to be links with players in your position in the press. You have got to deal with it and I think he has in the perfect way. I think he's responded really well.

"He knows the football club inside out. He's a good lad to have in the dressing room, a good leader and a bubbly character. He has been great for us this year."

On the other flank, Chris Smalling has performed impressively in a right-back role and scored his first goal of the campaign during the 5-0 rout of Bayer Leverkusen.

"Smalling has done really well when he has filled in at the right-back slot," added Irwin, who was speaking at Chevrolet retailer Frosts of Shoreham. "He is a good defensive player and no more could be asked of him. Rafael has more footballing ability, I think everybody would say that and it's not unfair to do so, but Smalling was excellent against Arsenal and I can understand why he has been a regular in Rafael's absence."

The champions face a taxing trip to Tottenham at the weekend as the North Londoners look to bounce back from the 6-0 mauling at Manchester City last Sunday.

"I think it is going to be a bit of topsy-turvy season," Irwin opined. "To be fair, the Premier League is leaning that way with so many ups and downs at the moment and we are going to have some disappointments.

"It was disappointing on Sunday to get in that position of being 2-1 up with a few minutes to go on the back of a really good run. After pulling Arsenal back in towards us, it was disappointing to let two points go away but you have got to say Cardiff deserved it and played very well.

"The Spurs result puts more pressure on us because you see the reaction from them as well on the back of a heavy defeat.

"For some reason, when players get a defeat like that, they put in extra work in training and more focus. They play on Thursday night at Tromso but, back in front of their home supporters, they will be hoping to make some amends and we have to be on guard. It could be a dangerous game for us."

Denis Irwin was presenting Frosts of Shoreham with a Manchester United Chevrolet Trax – for more information go to www.chevrolet.co.uk.

Evra: Let's Build On Bayer Win

After the five-star performance and result in Germany that sealed qualification for the Champions League knockout stages, Patrice Evra insists United must make the most of the confidence gained from the victory and push forward in the league.

The Frenchman spoke of the Reds' frustration at conceding a late equaliser at Cardiff last weekend on the back of a morale-boosting victory over Arsenal.

Another North London side are next up for David Moyes' men this weekend with a lunchtime trip to Tottenham on Sunday. And Evra insists only victory will do.

"We didn’t make the most of the Arsenal win and that was why we were so disappointed about the Cardiff draw. We are in good form but for that silly goal at Cardiff," he explained to reporters after the 5-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

"We have not lost for a long time and we want to keep winning and winning. We cannot wait for Tottenham, but we know we cannot afford to lose at White Hart Lane.

"If we'd have won against Southampton and Cardiff and not lost to West Brom we would be top of the league and that is why we are so frustrated," he added.

"Of course others haven’t taken advantage but I only look at Manchester United. We know we had a bad start, but we are working well with the new manager."

While there have been plenty of surprise results throughout the Barclays Premier League this season, leading to a number of teams being in the mix at the top of the table, Evra insists everyone at Old Trafford has high hopes for another successful campaign.

"We know we can do something big this year. We are really confident," he declared. " Every game, every year is a challenge playing for United, but we are strong. We have mentally strong characters.

"There is always belief we can do something here. I play for Manchester United and every year is a new challenge and every year I believe in this team. I never read papers or watch what people say on TV, I just trust in myself, my team-mates and the manager.

"People always write Manchester United off," he continued. "Remember last year people were saying the same then, but in the end we won the league by 11 points. I always say the Premier League is not a sprint but a marathon. It doesn’t matter that other teams drop points, the most important thing is that Manchester United don’t drop anymore points.”

Berg: Giggs Can Play On

Treble winner Henning Berg believes his former United team-mate Ryan Giggs is capable of extending his playing career by another "two or three" seasons.

Giggs turns 40 today (29 November) and is showing no sign of physical deterioration, although his training schedule is tailored to get the most out of him, and most recently he turned in an eye-catching display against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.

Berg, who played alongside Giggs between 1997 and 2001, is confident he can prolong his illustrious career thanks to advancements in sports science and also admits that he wouldn't be surprised if the Welshman signed yet another contract extension at Old Trafford.

"Ryan is obviously a different player now compared to when he broke through as a 17-year-old winger, but that says a lot about how football has developed in terms of sports science to make sure that players still have enough power and energy to play the physical part of the game," Berg told ManUtd.com.

"To be fair, last season he looked fitter than he did two or three years ago. That is a great achievement. He has a lot of help at the Aon Training Complex, but the biggest reason is his own mind, making the right decisions on and off the pitch. He has been fantastic.

"The way that football has developed, the central midfielder doesn't have to run from box to box or more than other players.

"In that position now it is possible to play on longer. Just look at Andrea Pirlo at Juventus. He is younger than Giggs and is not running any more than him.

"Who is to say Ryan cannot play for another couple of years, or even three years? We just don't know, you shouldn't rule it out. For him to play at this level for so long has been unbelievable and I think it is still possible for him to go on."

Berg has a great deal of admiration for Giggs' longevity in the game. "It is a fantastic achievement to play professionally at 40," he added. "How can you better that one? It says a lot about his hunger for the game and his joy for the game. He enjoys being a footballer and if he didn't, he wouldn't have reached 40.

"He has been quite lucky with injuries - he has got good genes. It is just a shame that he was not able to play at a World Cup or a European Championship, but I'm not sure he will think about that too much because he has achieved everything else."

Giggs Still Going On Merit

Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister feels Ryan Giggs is still playing for the club on merit rather than sentiment.

Giggs continues to be selected under new manager David Moyes and this, according to Pallister, proves the worth of the former Wales international. As he turns 40 today (Friday), it seems few would bet against him continuing beyond the end of the current campaign.

"It's about time Giggsy retired - he's keeping kids out of the game!" joked Pallister, who was honoured alongside Ryan, then the Young Player of the Year, at the 1992 PFA Awards.

"What can you say? I just love watching him play. Obviously I played with him for seven years and watched him mature and become the player he is. He's still making an impact. I hear some people say he's 40 but don't look at his age, look at what he does on the pitch still.

"He is still making a contribution and can still play on the left-hand side of midfield, never mind in the centre. He's not going to play as many games as most of the players in the squad but, when he does play, he is fit enough and good enough to make an impact. We've seen David Moyes is already using him and there's no sympathy vote there. He is using him because he can play an important role in the team."

Former centre-back Pallister recalled the first time he clapped eyes on the schoolboy superstar, soon after signing for the Reds from Middlesbrough in 1989.

"I first saw him as a 15-year-old when he was called Ryan Wilson," he relayed. "I went to watch the youth team with Paul Ince as we were in a hotel and had just signed for the club.

"We went to Old Trafford and sat with the manager. He turned around to me and Incey and said: 'There's a kid playing tonight on the left wing called Ryan Wilson and he is going to be a star.'

"I thought: 'That's a big statement, gaffer.' Here was a spindly-looking 15-year-old kid but he ran amok against kids who were 16 or 17 and was terrific. The manager was obviously right as he went on to become a star and one of the best players ever to don the shirt of Manchester United."

Giggs Savours Manchester United's Victory At Bayer Leverkusen

Ryan Giggs expressed his pleasure after Manchester United thrashed Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 to qualify for the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

Giggs, who will turn 40 on Friday, turned in a fine performance to help United claim their biggest away win in the Champions League.

Antonio Valencia broke the deadlock and an Emir Spahic own goal quickly made it 2-0, before Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Nani struck after half-time.

"I think our speed (was the difference)," Giggs told Sky Sports 2 after a masterful display in central midfield.

"The first goal was a good example; quick play. It was a pleasure to play behind our front four."

While he was delighted to seal a place in the knockout stages, Giggs felt United could even have won by a wider margin.

"We could have scored more," he said.

"But we can't be too greedy. To score five anywhere in Europe is a great result.

"Going into a game knowing a win puts us through is a carrot and the five goals and a clean sheet is a bonus.

"It was a pleasure."

Kagawa In Control

Shinji Kagawa has struggled to make an impact so far this season, but he excelled in his favoured position in the centre on Wednesday as Man United thrashed Bayer Leverkusen...

"When you get opportunities you want to take them," said David Moyes in his shrewd assessment of Manchester United's 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad at the start of November. Against Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League, United took their chances. It was a confident display of ruthless counter-attacking that started with a superb move for Antonio Valencia's opening goal and ended with a delightful fifth from Nani. Leverkusen might be second in the Bundesliga but on Wednesday they were a distant second best.

With Marouane Fellaini and Robin van Persie missing through injury, Shinji Kagawa was handed a rare start in his favoured No.10 role and no-one seized their opportunity more than the playmaker. There were no tears from Jurgen Klopp on this occasion, except perhaps in respect of Borussia Dortmund somehow sitting below Leverkusen in the Bundesliga table.

"I think he's good in them all," said Moyes when asked about Kagawa's best position and Klopp's deployment of the attacking midfielder after the draw in San Sebastian. It was a curt response from the manager but Kagawa's contribution against Leverkusen proved there was a point to the question. On the left he has flickered in and out of games, whereas he was involved in almost all the impressive aspects of United's display on Wednesday as they qualified for the last 16. And there were many.

The contrast between the playmaker's performances on the left and in the centre certainly hints at more than just a lack of familiarity in his role on the wing but if he is happier driving through the heart of the team then surely Moyes must indulge him?

It may be impossible not to. As United went in search of an early lead, Kagawa robbed Stefan Reinartz of the ball near the half-way line and burst forward, playing a neat pass to Ryan Giggs before continuing his run into the penalty area. His presence in the box was enough to distract makeshift left-back Emre Can, allowing Valencia to ghost in at the back post and set United on their way to a record away win in the Champions League. It was a decisive moment, especially for Kagawa, and he was visibly galvanised as he made the most of his chance in the middle.

The playmaker's performance and encouraging understanding with Wayne Rooney - who was also excellent - possibly hands Moyes another headache in his team selection. "It is a long season and we are going to have to make sure we have different combinations for different games and tonight Shinji and Wayne played well," said the manager in his post-match interview. It is clear that he prefers to partner Rooney and Van Persie in attack but these are the difficult decisions that must be made at a club of United's stature.

"I would probably have to say it is the best (performance of his tenure)," Moyes continued. "To come away from home and score five is special." Three weeks ago United failed to take their opportunities but on Wednesday, with Kagawa pulling the strings in the centre, they clicked to give their best display of the season. It leaves Moyes with an interesting decision ahead of Sunday's clash against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

Lingard Extends Blues Stay

Jesse Lingard has extended his loan spell with Birmingham City until the New Year.

The exciting Manchester United prospect will remain at St Andrews up until and including 1 January in 2014 after notching six goals in seven outings for the Midlanders, including a strike in last weekend's draw with Blackpool.

Lingard was top scorer on United's 2013 tour and has also broken into the England Under-21 side, playing in the recent 9-0 thrashing of San Marino. Blues boss Lee Clark has been utilising the 20-year-old in a central attacking role of late and, of course, his four-goal haul against Sheffield Wednesday marked an astonishing debut in September.

After recovering from a knee injury, the youngster will be determined to realise his potential throughout December at Championship level.

The deadline for loan transfers for Football League clubs is on Thursday and the window will not reopen until January.

Smalling Boosted By Rout

Chris Smalling says confidence in the camp is high after Manchester United hit five goals without reply past Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday night.

The Reds clinched qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League in ruthless fashion and the defender scored his first-ever goal in Europe's premier competition.

United finish off Group A with a home game against Shakhtar Donetsk, needing at least a point to keep the Ukrainians off top spot. For now, attention is focused on the Barclays Premier League and Sunday's noon showdown at Tottenham.

"Everybody was really chuffed," he told MUTV. "I think we were due a performance like that. For a large part of previous games, we have dominated but never really killed off a team. We did it here and take a lot of confidence from that.

"Defensively, we were sound and, going forward, we looked a threat as Shinji Kagawa, Antonio Valencia and Nani wreaked havoc. We just said: 'Go out and run at them' to our attacking players and they did that. For us to really demolish Bayer was pleasing.

"Luckily, we have got our last game at home and we are very confident going into that as, in Europe, we've been very strong all season. Nobody is really tired in the dressing room, the enthusiasm is really up and, if we can get a win on Sunday at Spurs, we can consider this a good seven days."

There is no question of Smalling claiming a second goal after his aerial challenge led to Emir Spasic heading into his own net from a Wayne Rooney free-kick during the first half.

"No-one was claiming it but I couldn't do with that one," he admitted. "It was the defender. I just put him under enough pressure and, thankfully, he's put it in his own net."

Nani Happy To Get Off Mark

Nani wants to keep up the good work after scoring his first club goal of the season in Manchester United's 5-0 thumping of Bayer Leverkusen.

The Portugal international marked his return to the side with a superbly-taken strike after being played through by Ryan Giggs with a couple of minutes remaining at BayArena.

Although he has netted for his country in their World Cup qualifying campaign, this was Nani's first United strike since netting against Reading in the FA Cup last February. The outing in Germany was also his first appearance in the Champions League since the exit to Real Madrid last term, when he received an extremely harsh red card.

"It was a great goal and I'm happy," Nani enthused to MUTV. "But the most important thing was the result. We want to continue like that.

"Scoring five goals away from home is not easy against a German team. I think we have to be happy with what we have done tonight and keep up the good work."

The Reds' tactics worked to perfection against Leverkusen and a clean sheet was another huge plus point from the evening.

"We started very well," added Nani. "First of all, we knew they would attack a lot at the beginning of the game. They started to try to attack and score early but we defended very well and the whole team was compact.

"We tried to exploit the counter-attack, had opportunities and took them and that's why we scored five goals."

Rooney Wants Top Spot

Wayne Rooney thinks it is important Manchester United win Group A after clinching Champions League qualification with a stunning 5-0 success against Bayer Leverkusen.

The Reds star helped set up the first four goals and produced yet another excellent performance, combining well with Shinji Kagawa in particular after the Japan international returned to the side in a central position.

The scoreline is one that will send shockwaves through Europe but the striker insists there must be no complacency when Shakhtar Donetsk, who recorded a heavy win against Real Sociedad themselves (4-0), come to Manchester next month.

"I think it's a great result obviously and, once the score was 2-0, we really did well to kill the game off," he explained to MUTV. "So I'm sure teams will look at the result but we will focus on the next game.

"We now need a point to finish top of the group so, while we're delighted with three points here, it's all important we try to get that point in the next game.

"I thought we played fantastically well with some great, powerful play and quick transitions. We took our chances so it was a good performance.

"Obviously, it was disappointing to lose a goal towards the end at Cardiff [on Sunday] and we didn't play as well as we can. So we're all delighted to come here, and put on a great performance, and are looking forward to playing Spurs on Sunday now."

Rooney was rightly pleased with his contribution despite failing to score himself and praised colleagues Kagawa and Ryan Giggs, who turns 40 on Friday.

"I think it's a team game and it's always great when you can help your team-mates score goals," he stated. "Thankfully, they have done that tonight.

"Shinji is a fantastic footballer so it's great for us. He hasn't played much football but came in tonight and played superbly. It's great to have players fighting for the positions.

"Ryan has done it for years and I've run out of things to say about him. During the game, actually, the centre-half for Bayer was asking how he is still playing at that age! It's great to see him with his composure on the ball. I certainly won't be playing at that age, that's for sure!"

Giggs Still Astounds

David Moyes continues to be amazed by Ryan Giggs' evergreen qualities after the midfielder breezed through the entire game in Bayer Leverkusen and claimed an assist for the 88th-minute goal by Nani.

Giggs may turn 40 on Friday but there are no signs of age beginning to catch up with him. On the contrary, his manager believes there is an argument that the United legend is actually improving.

Despite coming on at the weekend in Cardiff, the Welshman was selected from the start in Germany and performed superbly alongside Phil Jones in the middle of the park.

"People will always question Ryan’s age but you can’t question him as a footballer," insisted Moyes. "He’s fantastic. I thought he did brilliantly tonight, in everything he did. He didn’t look fatigued, he’s a terrific all-round player.

"He is unbelievable. You could even say he is getting better. His vision and pass for the last goal for Nani was superb. And his fitness is also incredible. I am lucky to be working with him.

"The situation with Ryan is he keeps playing and he will tell us when he's had enough or his time is up. He keeps training and playing and his performances have been great."

Moyes: A Special Night

David Moyes described Manchester United's 5-0 victory at Bayer Leverkusen as the best display since he took over as manager of the club.

The Reds were outstanding in Germany and sealed qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League in barnstorming fashion with a commanding performance illuminated by some wonderful link-up play between the midfield and forwards.

"Leverkusen are doing so well in the Bundesliga at the moment, second only to Bayern Munich, so that puts our result and performance into perspective," explained the boss. "It was an all-round great performance, coming away from home and scoring five goals somewhere that's renowned as being a difficult place to come.

"The link-up play was super tonight, I think Wayne Rooney got four assists. It’s a long season and we’re going to have to have different combinations for different games but, tonight, Wayne and Shinji Kagawa were very good.

"Sometimes Wayne might need to play up front and Shinji will play behind. We have to make sure we have alternatives if Wayne or Robin [van Persie] are injured. Shinji was excellent tonight but he's also good on the left.

"The goals will get the headlines but we defended well. It was an important game because we had to win to stay top of the group and we've now qualified.

"I’ve been hoping to get this type of performance more often, I’ve not had it as often as I would have liked. I think there have been signs that we were getting better but, at the same time, we have been a little wasteful on occasions. However, there have been games where we’ve looked like getting goals and thankfully we managed to do so tonight.

"I’d have to say it’s the best [display] so far [in my time at United] because of the goals and we’ve not done it in a game of this magnitude. But I want us to do it regularly.

"I hope I can continue the standards set before I came here and that’s what I plan to do. The team’s performance tonight showed that. It’s what’s expected here, doing well in the league and cups and I’ll try to keep that going."

Moyes is aware that the overall task is not yet finished as Shakhtar Donetsk could still pip the Reds to top spot in Group A with victory at Old Trafford in the final fixture.

"The job is to make sure you qualify," he added. "The next job is to win the group. We want to do well in all competitions. We're in a good run of form, we had a slip-up on Sunday but, in the main, we're doing well. I'm pleased that we're improving all the time."

David Moyes was speaking to Sky Sports and at the post-match press conference.

The Match: Five-star Reds

Here’s our detailed take on United’s remarkable 5-0 win at Bayer Leverkusen…

The Match United were ruthless in dismissing the obvious threat of the Bundesliga's second-placed side and, in truth, the scoreline could have been even more embarrassing for the Germans. Wayne Rooney was a central figure but Antonio Valencia's display will cause teenager Emre Can nightmares after a fluid formation reaped dividends. This was the club's biggest-ever win away from home in the Champions League.

Goals Rooney was behind both first-half goals as his cross allowed Valencia to steal in and open the scoring while a dangerous set-piece was headed into his own net by Emir Spahic eight minutes later. Jonny Evans touched in after Bernd Leno kept out a Rooney effort and another assist by the centre-forward allowed Chris Smalling to grab number four. Nani's cheeky fifth, from a Ryan Giggs through ball, was a moment of sheer class.

Star men MUTV pundits Lee Sharpe and David May opted for Evans, Shinji Kagawa and Valencia as their Man of the Match nominees with Kagawa coming out on top but Rooney was also in irrepressible form once again. Giggs impressed in central midfield and, as you would expect from a 5-0 victory, everybody performed superbly.

Sub-plots Many fans were pleased to see Kagawa start in his preferred central role and the Japan international did not disappoint on his return to Germany. Home coach Sami Hyypia's Liverpool past received plenty of attention in the build-up and many observers expected a real examination for the Reds on the back of the draw in Cardiff and Leverkusen's outstanding home form.

Opposition Leverkusen appeared to miss Sidney Sam, who was ruled out through injury, and star striker Kiessling was often too deep to make a telling impact. The Germans are above Borussia Dortmund and only behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga on merit and had won their last eight home group games in the Champions League. However, they were very much second-best on the night.

Move of the match The first goal actually came from a corner for the hosts. Kagawa won possession and found Giggs, who played the ball out wide to Rooney. A dangerous cross allowed Valencia to arrive late at the far post and finish off a clinical counter-attack.

In the stands Sir Alex Ferguson was among the crowd and will have enjoyed the proceedings just as much as the noisy travelling supporters who were vocal from the outset. Numerous chants rang out but there was some special serenading reserved for Giggs, who turns 40 on Friday. Those in attendance witnessed a special, record-breaking performance.

Champions League Group Stage: Bayer Leverkusen 0 Man. United 5

Manchester United cruised into the last 16 of the Champions League with a remarkable 5-0 triumph at Bayer Leverkusen's BayArena fortress.

The Bundesliga outfit were strongly tipped to cause the Reds a host of problems but were dismantled in front of their home fans, who had hoped to see their own side clinch qualification. Wayne Rooney was involved in four of the goals while Shinji Kagawa and Antonio Valencia also sparkled throughout. Valencia, an Emir Spahic own goal, Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Nani registered on the scoresheet for an emphatic win - the biggest away success in European Cup since hammering Shamrock Rovers 6-0 in 1957.

It took 16 minutes for United to post a first real attempt on goal but the threat was ever-present once Nani curled over the bar from Ryan Giggs' intelligent pass. When Bayer responded, Evans produced a marvellous goal-saving challenge after Stefan Kiessling dribbled past Rio Ferdinand and it proved vital with the opener coming seconds later when the visitors cleared the corner.

Shinji Kagawa dispossessed Stefan Reinartz and the ball was fed to Rooney via Giggs. The striker's cross from the left was too high for Kagawa but Valencia arrived at the far post to sneak the ball home off the upright to follow up his strike in the first encounter between the two clubs back in September.

Rooney was again the provider from the left-hand side when his free-kick was back-headed into his own net by Spahic with the centre-back under pressure from Smalling and Evans. The Reds were rampant and Kagawa was unable to find a finish to match a penetrative run through the middle while Valencia worked Bernd Leno as the interval approached.

Kagawa received a clattering challenge from keeper Leno when bidding to extend the advantage in the second half before Nani fired wide after a swift interchange of passes with the alert Rooney. Reinartz headed against the woodwork with Rooney grounded and appealing for a foul from a corner but it proved a rare scare with Rooney unlucky to bend a drive wide after knocking the ball through Simon Rolfes' legs.

The points were sealed on 65 minutes when Giggs' corner was headed on by Evra for Rooney to force a sprawling save out of Leno. Evans reacted quickest to the rebound to smuggle the ball in for a third. There was no let-up from David Moyes' side and lofted passes by Kagawa and Rooney led to Smalling getting in on the act by netting from close range.

It always looked like getting worse for Leverkusen but Leno dived to pull off a one-handed stop to thwart Jones and substitute Anderson was unable to finish off Nani's inviting pass. A fifth goal did arrive two minutes from the end when Giggs' through ball was chested past Leno by Nani and the Portuguese winger produced an exquisite finish with the outside of his right foot, jabbing the ball in from an acute angle.

David De Gea was given a chance to show his class when denying Eren Derdiyok. United need a point against Shakhtar Donetsk in the final Group A game to qualify in first place. Following this result, confidence will surely be sky-high for the Reds.

Down Memory Lane

As Man Utd prepare to face Bayer Leverkusen, Sky Sports gets Denis Irwin's memories of the famous victory over another German opponent, Bayern Munich, in the dramatic 1999 Champions League final

"I cannot believe it. I cannot believe it. Football, bloody hell." Sir Alex Ferguson's immortal line after Manchester United's unbelievably late victory over Bayern Munich in the 1999 UEFA Champions League final has become a part of the sport's legend.

After injury-time goals from substitutes Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer sealed one of the most dramatic 2-1 successes by cancelling out Mario Basler's sixth minute free-kick, the entire footballing world was left in a state of shock.

Ferguson summed up the feeling of fans around the globe with his words. With an improbable comeback, United had secured the trophy which completed their set of an unprecedented Treble when combined with the Premier League and FA Cup.

Ahead of United's meeting with Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday night, when even a draw could secure progress to the knockout stages of this season's Champions League, ex-United left-back Denis Irwin - speaking at Chevrolet retailer Frosts of Shoreham, gives Sky Sports the inside story of that night in Barcelona.

Was the 1999 Champions League final your greatest night in football?

"I thought my first year at United, when we beat Barcelona - a team who included Andoni Goikoetxea, Ronald Koeman and Michael Laudrup, who went on to win the European Cup the following year - in the 1991 Cup Winners' Cup final was probably my best moment. We were underdogs and I won my first medal. The first year we won the Premier League was huge, as well. But, of course, everyone remembers 1999 and the Treble and the manner in which we did it. The club had also had to wait so long, 31 years, for the European Cup."

What were your emotions before the Champions League final, with United on the brink of winning the Treble?

"I was nervous and tired, because the Premier League is a long, long slog. But you always go in there with confidence. We were missing our two best players, Roy Keane and Paul Scholes, so we had to rejig and Ryan Giggs played on the right and Jesper Blomqvist came in, with David Beckham coming into central midfield with Nicky Butt. We did not play well. We did have a little bit of luck - they hit the post and the crossbar. We were putting ourselves under pressure, because we had won the Premier League five or six times before and it was time to stand up in Europe."

You were 1-0 down at half-time, do you remember what Sir Alex Ferguson had to say?

"I was 33 at the time so you take a lot more in. He just said, 'you will be walking past that trophy on the way back out, make sure you give the game everything. You do not get too many opportunities to win the European Cup so go out and grab it'. But we always had that belief in ourselves."

Can you still picture the moments when Sheringham and Solskjaer scored the two goals to win the match?

"Yes, very clearly. Through experience, you take a lot more in and enjoy it. I remember the goals being a huge relief. The first one was a huge relief and the second was probably a huge disbelief that we had gone on to win the game. It was a great occasion."

Can you reveal any stories from the celebratory nights out?

"I was getting a bit old by then [laughing]! But the manager always told us to make sure we enjoyed it, because you have to celebrate your success."

The Bayern players had been in complete despair at the final whistle, did you speak to any of them?

"I do not think any of them wanted to speak and we were so caught up in the occasion ourselves. You could tell from the look on their faces, even when we scored the first goal, they were distraught. A couple of their players were lying on the ground in disbelief. To go so close for them must have been heartbreaking."

Denis Irwin was presenting Frosts of Shoreham with a Manchester United Chevrolet Trax - for more information go to www.chevrolet.co.uk

Moyes Enjoying Euro Experience

David Moyes insists being involved in the Champions League with Manchester United has been nothing but enjoyable so far - but the Reds boss is not resting on his laurels until Group A qualification is secured.

The United manager has overseen a number of positive results in the competition this season, placing the Reds top in Group A. Victory over Bayer Leverkusen at the BayArena on Wednesday would guarantee qualification for the last 16 of European football's elite tournament, while a draw would also be enough if Real Sociedad beat Shakhtar Donetsk.

Moyes says everyone in the United camp is determined to "get the job done" in Germany and is looking forward to the challenge. "It's a great competition and every game has had different things which have intrigued me - in the games away from home and the games at home, in terms of how they've been played," explained the boss.

"I don't want to say that [the competition has been what I expected] because you never know what to expect in any game. I've been here before [in the Champions League] albeit in a slightly different role at Everton, but overall I've really enjoyed the experience.

"The group is very open as it stands. We had a great opportunity in Sociedad to pull away further but we didn't take it. We have a big job to do here in Germany. We want to try to get the job done. But we know we have a hard game. If it has to go to the last game so be it. But we will try to get the work done as soon as we possibly can."

Giggs: Season So Far Has Been 'Crazy'

Ryan Giggs says "it has been a crazy season so far" - but is confident Manchester United can finish strongly again.

Giggs, who turns 40 on Friday, is well versed in the myriad twists and turns of Premier League campaigns by now.

However, 2013/14 is proving to be a particularly up-and-down season for United, who lie sixth in the table after 12 games, seven points behind leaders Arsenal.

The Red Devils endured a chaotic September, losing to Liverpool, Manchester City and West Brom, but have since put together a 10-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

"It has been a crazy season so far," said Giggs.

"We've been in so many title races and from experience, we know we've just got to hang in there while we're not at our brilliant best.

"As long as we're there or thereabouts in January and we get a run together, history shows that the team who does that will have a great chance of winning the league."

As he is now working in a player-coach role under David Moyes at Old Trafford, Giggs says his reaction to a defeat has to be of benefit to those around him.

"Experience tells you how to deal with it," the Welshman told The Times.

"When I was younger, I would go home after a defeat, close the curtains, not leave the house, not watch any sport.

"You can't be like that when you're a coach. You've got to help give the players the foundation they maybe haven't got.

"They might not have known that feeling before. They might read the papers and believe it. They might think 'is this it?'

"You tell them, 'I remember thinking it was the end of the world after we got thrashed by so and so, but we ended up winning the Double'. It's giving the players that insight when, like me years ago, they might have felt it was the end of the world."

On Wednesday, United are in Champions League action at Bayer Leverkusen where they will be hoping to seal qualification out of Group A, before returning for a league clash at Tottenham on Sunday.

Mid-air Drama For United

The Manchester United squad had to endure some mid-air drama before they landed safely in Germany on Tuesday.

United were arriving ahead of their UEFA Champions League game at Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday but their chartered plane had to abort its landing just 400m above the runway in Cologne.

The 185-seater Monarch Airbus 321 plane was unable to land because there was another plane on the runway and the pilot had to circle the airport before touching down 10 minutes late at 5.40pm.

Defender Rio Ferdinand wrote on Twitter afterwards: "Landed in Germany ... just. I've only just recovered after that choppy landing!"

And another member of the United camp told the Manchester Evening News: "It was quite frightening.

"We were coming in to land when we had to pull up suddenly, because it appears there was a plane on the runway.

"The captain came on the intercom to apologise for what happened and then we landed safely."

United manager David Moyes and other senior figures, including former chief executive David Gill, were on the flight with the squad, but Sir Bobby Charlton and former boss Sir Alex Ferguson were not on board, although they are both due to attend the match.

Moyes Doesn't Want Wayne Rooney To Change

Manchester United manager David Moyes says there is no way he will be trying to change Wayne Rooney's playing style.

The England international has been in great form for United this season but was criticised at the weekend for kicking out at Cardiff's Jordon Mutch.

Rooney was yellow carded for the foul but many pundits felt he should have been dismissed and Moyes conceded that the striker was "probably a bit fortunate".

However, speaking ahead of United's UEFA Champions League game at Bayer Leverkusen, Moyes stressed that he will not be trying to rein in the natural instincts of his player, whose general disciplinary record has been much-improved in recent years.

"He is an aggressive player," said the United boss. "It is a big part of his game.

"He plays with his heart, as well as the skills he has got in abundance.

"That is the way he is and that is the way he was when he was a boy at Everton with me.

"That is what a lot of people have said might have been missing from his game last season but it is certainly not missing now. He has the hunger and desire back, he is committed for everything.

"I would rather have a Wayne Rooney that way than any other way.

"Everyone recognises the form he is in. He scored a goal again (at Cardiff) and made another.

"Maybe more attention has been drawn to something else rather than his goal or making another goal but the attention for all this season has been on his good form."

Rooney has not been sent off since seeing red in Montenegro when on England duty two years ago and his last United red card came when he received a pair of yellows at Fulham in March 2009.

Moyes has been delighted with the 28-year-old since taking charge at United and added: "Wayne Rooney's form and his attitude and his temperament have all been first class. I couldn't fault any of them.

"I want Wayne to have fire in his belly, he plays better when he is tough and aggressive. I don't want to change Wayne Rooney that's for sure.

"I don't want him to be kicking at anybody but I want him to keep being aggressive, I want him to keep challenging and running.

"At the moment we are seeing a really good Wayne Rooney who is in top form and scoring goals as well."

Rio Eyes Early Qualification

Rio Ferdinand wants a repeat of Manchester United's performance against Bayer Leverkusen at Old Trafford when the Reds travel to Germany for Wednesday's Champions League group-stage fixture.

United beat the Bundesliga side 4-2 in September, with Ferdinand recalling "there was a lot of fluidity about our team – good interchanges, quick passing, plenty of first-time balls and lots of running".

"It was good but we want to improve further on that," he said. "We need to pick up points and it would be nice if we could finish the job this week with a win."

Victory would secure safe passage to the competition's latter stages and Rio and his team-mates are eyeing qualification with a game to spare.

"If we go there and put in a good team performance I'm sure we can come away with the points," he said.

Leverkusen warmed up for Wednesday's clash with a 1-0 win against Hertha Berlin, with striker Stefan Kiessling scoring his 12th goal of the season so far.

Kiessling didn't net when United and Bayer met earlier this season, but Ferdinand knows exactly what the 29-year-old is capable of.

"He has good movement and we watched a lot of videos on him before [the game at Old Trafford] so we knew a lot of the dangers he posed. He's scored a lot of goals over in Germany in the past few seasons so we know we have to be on our toes to make sure he doesn't get many chances because he's definitely capable of finishing them.

"Video analysis is a big part of preparation before every Champions League game. If you want to get an insight into how your opponents are going to play then you have to watch videos because we don’t see them every week.

"We obviously watch a lot of Premier League football and a few big games from other leagues, but we don't watch the Bundesliga every week. Leading up to a Champions League game you spend a couple of days getting to know your opponents so there are no surprises come kick-off.

"As a defender I watch the forward play, the way the team attacks and then individual players and how they move. It's important for defenders because we're reacting to the forwards' positions, their movements, their runs, the way they strike the ball, the foot they use to shoot with... we take a lot from those videos."

Manchester United Won't Rush Darren Fletcher Back

David Moyes says no date has been set for a possible return to action with Manchester United for Darren Fletcher.

The midfielder's last competitive appearance came against Newcastle United on Boxing Day 2012.

An inflammatory bowel disease has kept him on the sidelines for the best part of a year, with the condition requiring another lengthy period of treatment.

Fletcher has, however, come through a 90-minute run-out for United's U21 side in recent weeks as he closes on full fitness.

The Scotland international is hoping to soon be back in contention for a place in Moyes' first team plans, but the United boss will not be rushing the 29-year-old back into the fold.

He told the club's official website: "I don't think he's quite ready yet.

"He has a bit to do in terms of more reserve games.

"It's great to see him training regularly, that's a big thing. He's beginning to look like a footballer again, and that in itself is a real plus for him.

"I wouldn't want to put a date on (a return) because of the condition. It's something we just have to take as we go along.

"He's training well and looking good, so we'll try to ensure that continues. I would hate to put a date on things and I'd need to check in with the doctors as well that everything is going to plan."

Giggs Might Extend Career Beyond 1000 Appearance Mark

Veteran winger Ryan Giggs admits he might extend his Manchester United career even further if he passes 1000 appearances for the club.

Giggs made his debut for United back in 1991 and can look back on a glittering spell at Old Trafford as he approaches his 40th birthday.

The Welshman made his 954th appearance in Sunday's 2-2 draw with Cardiff and will continue playing if he remains part of manager David Moyes' plans.

When asked about the milestone, he told Sky Sports News: "I honestly don't know. It's not something I can say that I've thought seriously about.

"If it comes great, if it doesn't I'm not going to grumble, but we'll see. If I'm playing well and enjoying it then I'll carry on."

Giggs rubbed shoulders with the likes of Steve Bruce and Bryan Robson in United's dressing room as a youngster and accepts that he is now the elder statesman at the club.

"When I was in the first team, you're looking at Brucey and Robbo who were 33, 34, and you were thinking that is ancient, so I don't know what the young players are thinking of me," he said.

"They're all saying 'it's your birthday this week' and I'm going 'yeah, yeah it's a big one I'm 35'. They're looking at me, and then obviously they get the truth out that I'm 40 and they're sort of shaking their head and I'm thinking yeah it's old."

Phil Neville graduated with Giggs from United's FA Youth Cup winning side in 1992 and the pair were part of a hugely successful era for the cub.

Neville believes his former team-mate has written his name in football history after picking up Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup winner's medals.

"He's got to go down as probably one of the greatest players that's ever played in the Premiership," said Neville.

"He's still achieving, he's still got the same determination he's still making an impact every time he plays.

"He's a fantastic human being and I can see him playing until he's 41 because he looks after himself so much. He's got to keep going and producing the levels that he's doing, but if anyone can do it then Ryan Giggs can, he's smashed every record that's been put in front of him."

When Gary Met Giggs

Together they've played over 1,000 times for Manchester United.

So when Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville sat down for a one-on-one interview with fellow United legend Ryan Giggs, experience suggested a classic interview was in store.

In a full and wide-ranging interview, the veteran winger also talks about his future hopes and aims and discusses what it's like to now be a player-coach and who he considers to be United's main title rivals this season.

Read the taster of the interview below:

Gary:Do you feel like United have turned the corner? You are nine games unbeaten in all comps. Do you feel as though you are in control again? That the inconsistencies have now stopped for United?

Ryan: We're unbeaten in nine games so that's not bad form, especially as we're talking about an inconsistent season. So we can still play better and we'll need to play better if we are going to win anything. I think both individually you look at yourselves and ask how you can play better and as a team as well but that's the case for the majority of the teams in the league.

Gary: Is there any one particular thing that you think you need to do better in terms of moving forward?

Ryan: Good question. I don't know really. I think you just try to go on a run and once you do you feel like you can beat anyone, whether that be playing well or whether that be getting them dogged results - those 1-0s. That just builds confidence and then if the team has to change then you are coming into a winning team.

Gary: What are the differences between this season and last season in terms of the managerial set up and the coaching set up?

Ryan: Just when I thought we'd got rid of one Neville, another Neville comes back! That's been a major change! Obviously it's a massive change with Sir Alex going. He was such a successful manager and the only one that I played under. But the gaffer's come in this year and of course he's got his own ways of doing things and the players have taken things on board. I've really enjoyed the training, I've really enjoyed the way the manager works and the inconsistent start is down to the players not playing as well as they can do. There were always going to be changes because the manager has been there for 20-odd years. The gaffer has come in and I think he's enjoying the challenge and now we are starting to get that consistency, I hope that we can build on.

Gary: So would you say that the players need to take responsibility for the inconsistent start?

Ryan: Now I'm a coach I think you've got to put it on the players! No, it's a mixture of the staff and the players - we win together and we lose together. Our early performances weren't good enough and now we are starting to see what the players are capable of. I think the manager is starting to see we're champions and why we were champions.

Gary:You've been part of teams that have navigated 13 Premier League title successes. Do you feel as though you are in control of steering this one over difficult periods and getting towards that title?

Ryan: I think it's that kind of crazy season where it's a case of staying calm if you lose a game and try to go on a run. That is how Championship winning teams win the league - they show that consistency and they show that form.

Gary:Which team do you see as your biggest challengers?

Ryan: I honestly don't know because there have been such big changes at our club, Mourinho coming back to Chelsea, City changing their manager - and I think that's shown a little bit; there's the stability of Arsenal, there weren't any major changes at Liverpool and they've got off to a relatively good start. There are a lot of good teams up there and teams that probably haven't shown the form that they are capable of.

Turner Backs Wayne Decision

Cardiff captain Ben Turner backed the decision not to send Wayne Rooney off in Sunday's 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

Turner had no complaints about seeing United striker Rooney escape a red card for lashing out at Jordon Mutch during the first half at Cardiff City Stadium.

The controversial incident occurred just eight minutes into the match when Rooney kicked Mutch before lashing out at the Cardiff midfielder with his left hand as his run was blocked off.

Rooney was only shown a yellow card by referee Neil Swarbrick but might consider himself fortunate not to have been dismissed.

However, Turner admits he did not want to see the England striker - who put United ahead in the 15th minute with a deflected shot and set up Patrice Evra's headed goal from a corner - sent off.

"I do think he kicked out from where I was, but I think the way game's going, I didn't want him sent off really because it's becoming less and less of a physical game and I think we need to keep some of that in the game for the enjoyment of the fans," he told Sky Sports 1.

"I think it's nice to have a bit of that going on."

Moyes Defends Rooney Incident

Manchester United manager David Moyes has insisted that Wayne Rooney did not lash out at Cardiff City midfielder Jordon Mutch.

The striker was booked during Sunday's 2-2 draw at the Cardiff City Stadium after appearing to kick the Bluebirds midfielder in the first half.

However, Moyes believes there was no malice towards Mutch and that referee Neil Swarbrick made the correct decision by opting to show Rooney a yellow card.

"The boy (Mutch) runs across his path and there's a bit of a tussle, but I didn't think it deserved any more than a yellow card," Moyes told Sky Sports.

"I don't think it was a lashing-out, I think it was more that he felt hard done-by with the boy running across his path with the ball.

"I didn't think it was a lash out to cause any harm, I think it was more of a disappointment that he lost the ball."

The Red Devils boss was disappointed with his side's defending and was frustrated to see Cardiff midfielder Gary Medel escape punishment, after the Chilean appeared to hit United midfielder Marouane Fellaini in the face.

"If he slaps someone in the face, then you'd expect some action to be taken. We actually lost our concentration because we were set up for the freekick, the referee then spends a minute or so talking to everyone and then sets it back up.

"We still should do better but it gave them two bites of the cherry as they did actually deliver the first ball," he added.

"It gave (Peter) Whittingham another chance to get his sighters in and he certainly put in a good ball."

While opposite number Malky Mackay admits Medel could have been dismissed, he also believes United midfielder Fellaini needs to be careful with the way he marks.

Asked about Medel, Mackay told Sky Sports: "He could (have been sent off) but then I also look at Fellaini and doing what he does normally and putting his head on someone else's face, and that's for me a sending off. So I think that's something that needs to be looked at as well.

"Having seen the way Fellaini marked and used his arms at times in the game, not all the times but at certain points, but more so putting his head into someone's face, I think that also justifies having a look at.

"But overall I'm happy that both teams deserved to have 11 men on the pitch. They didn't deserve to have any men off and neither did we."

Cardiff defender Ben Turner admits he did not want to see the England striker - who put United ahead in the 15th minute with a deflected shot and set up Patrice Evra's headed goal from a corner - sent off.

"I do think he kicked out from where I was, but I think the way game's going, I didn't want him sent off really because it's becoming less and less of a physical game and I think we need to keep some of that in the game for the enjoyment of the fans," he told Sky Sports 1.

"I think it's nice to have a bit of that going on."

Rooney Admits To 'Bad Tackle' On Jordon Mutch

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has admitted he was at fault when he kicked out at Jordon Mutch during Sunday's 2-2 draw against Cardiff.

Referee Neil Swarbrick opted to book the 28-year-old rather than show him a red card for the first-half incident.

"Just watched game back. I agree mine was bad tackle and ref dealt with it," Rooney tweeted.

Manager David Moyes added: "There was a bit of a tussle but I don't think it deserved any more than a yellow card."

Cardiff manager Malky Mackay agreed with the booking, but stated "certain referees" might have sent Rooney off.

"Overall, Neil Swarbrick did well and I thought he called the big decisions well today," the Scot said.

Former Newcastle and England forward Alan Shearer believes if the official had another chance to look at the incident, the decision would be a different one.

"The referee dealt with the tackle, but if he had seen Rooney kicking him then it would have been red," Shearer said on Match of the Day 2.

Rooney became the centre of controversy in the eighth minute after lashing out when he became frustrated trying to dribble free of Mutch.

Despite the protestations of the Cardiff players, Swarbrick declined to dismiss Rooney. This decision was to anger the Welsh side even more soon after as the striker put his team in front with a deflected strike.

Following an equaliser from ex-United forward Fraizer Campbell, Patrice Evra's header from Rooney's corner looked to have given the champions a valuable away victory.

However, they were denied by substitute Kim Bo-Kyung, who nodded home a Peter Whittingham free-kick in the 90th minute.

The South Korea international's late intervention saw United finish the weekend in sixth place in the Premier League table, seven points behind leaders Arsenal.

Rio Upbeat Despite Draw

Rio Ferdinand was as disappointed as anyone by Manchester United's 2-2 draw at Cardiff City but tried to stay positive after Sunday's stalemate.

Despite first-half goals by Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra, the Reds were denied all three points by Kim Bo-Kyung's injury-time equaliser.

While acknowledging the champions should have secured victory earlier, Ferdinand insists the Reds should not view the late concession as a calamity.

"We set out to win and are disappointed not to do so, but other big clubs will come here and drop points," Rio said. "We're unhappy we didn"t close the game out but, looking back at the end of the season, we may say this was a point gained rather than two lost.

"[Cardiff's equaliser] was the last free-kick of the game and a silly one to give away - we didn't defend it as well as we should have. It's happened a couple of times this season and we have to put it right.

"But nothing's given out now so it doesn't matter what the table looks like, as long as we're within touching distance. We'll keep looking to pick up points, build momentum and push our way up the table."

United must now quickly move on to the Champions League game at Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, when victory would secure a place in the knockout stages of the competition.

"We want to finish the job, get it done early so we can get back to the Premier League and have nothing else distracting us," Ferdinand added. "They're a well-equipped team and it's not going to be easy but we're more than capable."

Cleverley: We Will Move On

Tom Cleverley says the Reds must move on from the disappointment of conceding a late equaliser at Cardiff and ensure qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League is secured in Germany on Wednesday night.

David Moyes’ men looked set for a 2-1 victory in the Welsh capital until Kim Bo-Kyung headed home an injury-time equaliser to ensure a share of the spoils for Cardiff. Cleverley told MUTV the late leveller was hard to take, but insists the players will be ready for the test away to Bayer Leverkusen in midweek, knowing victory will seal a spot in the last 16.

“It would have been a massive three points had we been able to hold on, especially because of the teams around us playing one another. Everyone in the dressing room is very disappointed - the result means as much to the players as it does the fans,” he admitted. “It definitely feels like two points dropped, but all credit to Cardiff, they played well and we weren’t at our best.

“We’ve got a really important game coming up on Wednesday and we know we need to get our heads up and make sure that we qualify. It’s good we’ve got that game because you want to try and get a rhythm going and bounce back from a disappointing result. It was a pity that after the Arsenal game we had to wait two weeks to play again so Wednesday can’t come quick enough for us.”

Shinji Absence Explained

David Moyes revealed Shinji Kagawa sat out Sunday’s game against Cardiff with a bruised foot sustained on international duty with Japan.

Kagawa was one of "four or five key players" missing from Moyes’ side in the Welsh capital, with Nemanja Vidic (concussion), Robin van Persie and Phil Jones (both groin) among the other absentees.

While Kagawa played in both of Japan’s friendlies during the international break, van Persie did not take part in either of the Netherlands’ games.

Jones, meanwhile, could be in contention to return in the Champions League at Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, a game Marouane Fellaini will miss through suspension.

"Kagawa got injured playing for Japan," Moyes said at his post-match press conference. "It’s an injury to his foot; there’s some bruising there, but it’s not too bad.

"Robin’s groin is the problem at the moment; his toes are much better. We are hoping to get both Nemanja and Robin back as soon as we can.

"I hope they'll be in contention for Wednesday but I couldn’t give you a definitive answer."

When asked if Jones could feature in Germany, Moyes added: "Possibly. I don't think he is as bad as we first thought. He's not too far away. It's a groin injury, right up his hip."

Moyes Laments Points Drop

Manchester United manager David Moyes had much to lament after his side were held at Cardiff City after leading 2-1 going into injury time.

The champions ended up only drawing 2-2 after Kim Bo-Kyung headed in a costly equaliser from a free-kick that Moyes felt should not have been conceded. And either side of that agonising moment, United substitute Danny Welbeck and the scorer of the first goal Wayne Rooney missed chances that they might have buried on another afternoon.

"I'm disappointed that we couldn't take the three points," Moyes said. "We gave away a stupid free-kick which led to the [second Cardiff] goal. But we also had a number of chances to put ourselves 3-1 up and we didn't do so, so in the end we've paid the price.

"That's two points dropped in this game and two points dropped in the Southampton game and that can be costly. We've got ourselves to blame [for that]."

The missed chance that many fans will look at was the one created by Ryan Giggs' glorious ball over the top to Rooney after Kim's equaliser. The recipient of the pass elected to feed Welbeck instead of shooting but Cardiff goalkeeper David Marshall intercepted and the opportunity was spurned.

"We actually had two chances in injury-time," noted Moyes. "Wayne had that great chance and Chris Smalling had a half-chance on the turn as well.

Before then, Welbeck had a fantastic opportunity [at 2-1] but unfortunately couldn’t take it."

Turning to the goals United conceded, the manager said the first one - scored by former Reds striker Fraizer Campbell - was well crafted but he felt his players were the architects of their own downfall for the deflating second strike.

"You have to look at all goals you concede as being poor goals but I have to say that Cardiff made two fantastic passes in the build up to their first goal. I’m not sure that they'd be able to make those passes again but today it came off and they got the goal.

"The second goal was a really poor one to let in. We should never have given away that free-kick and put ourselves in a tough position.

"Just before it, there was a bit of a melee in the box [involving Gary Medel and Marouane Fellaini]. The referee must have seen something because he stopped the play and it gave Peter Whittingham another to chance to set himself up and get his cross in. It disrupted our concentration.

"We didn't play well enough in the second half," the manager added. "We gave too many free-kicks and we allowed Cardiff to punt a lot into the box and we had to defend [against that]. For the majority of it we defended fine, we did most of the job well. But we didn't defend the cross in from the free-kick."

Moyes refused to put the result down to the absences of senior players such as the injured Robin van Persie, Shinji Kagawa and Michael Carrick and recent concussion victim Nemanja Vidic.

"We had four or five key players missing, which didn't help," said Moyes, "but that's never an excuse here because we've got enough players and even with the team we put out today we had enough players to win it. We had enough quality to win it, but unfortunately in the last minute we threw it away."

The Match: Late Blow

We assess United's frustrating draw with Cardiff City in greater detail...


The Match An exercise in frustration for United, who looked to have battled to victory after twice forging ahead, only to let the points slip at the last. Cardiff perhaps deserved a point for their contribution to an attritional game, but United will rue chances missed when leading 2-1, and then immediately after Kim's leveller. David Moyes will view the result as two points dropped, especially coming immediately after victory over league leaders Arsenal earlier this month.

Goals Ben Turner's lax pass out of defence was emphatically punished in the 15th minute, as Antonio Valencia seized on the loose ball, advanced and picked out Chicharito inside the Cardiff area. The Mexican neatly helped it on to Rooney, who brought the ball under control and unleashed a near-post effort which nicked Gary Medel's studs, bouncing down and then up over the diving David Marshall. Rooney then turned provider in the final minute of the first half, whipping in a marvellous corner which Evra powered past David Marshall.

Star men Rooney once again turned in an all-action display, embellishing his goal with a string of dangerous deliveries from set-pieces, including the assist for United's second goal by Evra, who also turned in another impressive outing.

Sub-plot A pair of decisions from referee Neil Swarbrick provoked post-match debate, having booked Rooney for his kick at Jordon Mutch before offering Gary Medel nothing more than a stern word for aiming a slap at Marouane Fellaini moments before Kim's equaliser.

Move of the match Though the move was started by Turner's errant pass and finished by a deflection, United's opening goal was neatly worked. Antonio Valencia's cross to Chicharito was pinpoint, but the Mexican's flick to tee up Rooney's finish was sublime.

Opposition Cardiff plugged away all afternoon, enjoying the greater chances in the first period and shutting down United's creative advances in an evenly-poised second period. Though they were ultimately indebted to wasteful finishing from the Reds in the late stages, Malky Mackay's side showed impressive resolve to pinch a point and extend their solid return to the top flight.

In the stands Predictably, a fervent atmosphere was generated by Cardiff's biggest gate of the season, which included 2,800 travelling Reds. The combative nature of the game ensured the volume was cranked up by both sets of supporters, though it was ultimately the home contingent who had the last laugh with their late leveller.

Premier League: Cardiff City 2 Man. United 2

A last-minute equaliser from substitute Kim Bo-Kyung snatched a draw for Cardiff City and dealt United a frustrating setback in the Barclays Premier League title race

First half goals from Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra came either side of Fraizer Campbell's equaliser for the hosts, who tested the champions throughout but rarely threatened goalkeeper David De Gea prior to Kim's late leveller.

United might still have pinched the points in injury-time when Rooney was played in on goal, but the striker scuffed his attempted pass to substitute Danny Welbeck and City stopper David Marshall pounced on the loose ball.

Shorn of several key players through injury, including top scorer Robin van Persie, manager David Moyes made five changes to the side which overcame Arsenal prior to the recent international hiatus, and that sizeable reshuffle contributed to a disjointed first half display from the champions.

Rooney provided the majority of the game's talking points, kicking out at Jordon Mutch early on after the City midfielder had blocked the striker's forward surge. Referee Neil Swarbrick brandished a yellow card, to Cardiff's ire, and the home contingent's sense of injustice was heightened when Rooney soon opened the scoring.

Antonio Valencia and Chicharito combined to tee up United's no.10, who took his time before unleashing a near-post effort which nicked Gary Medel and looped over the stranded David Marshall. Though the City goalkeeper was soon required to fend away a Marouane Fellaini header, it was the hosts who took the initiative for the remainder of the half.

Mutch was heavily involved as Campbell deservedly levelled the scores, releasing the former United striker with a fine through-ball which teed up a simple finish past the exposed De Gea. The Spaniard's goal repeatedly came under threat in the remainder of the half, with Campbell, Don Cowie and Peter Whittingham all firing off target, only for United to snatch the lead before the break when Evra powered Rooney's left-wing corner past Marshall.

The Scottish stopper was impressively equal to headed efforts from Fellaini and Chris Smalling in the opening minutes of the second half, but Cardiff soon rallied to disrupt the visitors' flow and almost levelled when Campbell raced onto Tom Cleverley's errant pass, only to chip a delicate effort against De Gea's crossbar.

Scares were few and far between for the champions, and the victory might have been assured if Marshall hadn't smartly saved at the feet of substitute Welbeck, who subsequently half-volleyed just over the bar after a classy one-two with Rooney.

Those misses ultimately proved costly as City substitute Kim headed home Peter Whittingham's left-wing free-kick in the final minute to send the home fans wild with delight. Their celebrations might have been cut short twice in stoppage time, but Rooney's scuffed pass to Welbeck and Smalling's subsequent wayward shot ensured a share of the spoils and a frustrating end to a battling afternoon for the Reds.

Fellaini Can Step Up

Former Manchester United midfielder Mickey Thomas is hopeful that August acquisition Marouane Fellaini will fill the void left by the injury to midfield mainstay Michael Carrick.

Thomas, now a regular pundit on MUTV, believes Carrick's absence may give Fellaini an opportunity to shine, and is backing the Belgian's physical approach to help the Reds remain on an unbeaten run.

"The midfield is crucial and we must win each game in that area," the Welshman told ManUtd.com. "With Carrick likely to be out, it'll be interesting to see who plays in midfield.

"Personally, I think it might give Fellaini the opportunity to come in and do well," Thomas added. "When he was at Everton he effectively cost United the league in 2012 with his performance at Old Trafford [4-4 draw]. He can provide the aggression in midfield that we need."

The former Red also praised current United winger Antonio Valencia for his impressive recent displays. Thomas feels the Ecuadorian winger could join Fellaini in proving pivotal to the champions' cause heading into the hectic festive period.

"United are coming back into a good run of form," Thomas continued. "Valencia is starting to play well and have a big impact but people have not really been mentioning that. He is starting to get that confidence back into his play, he moves the ball well, and I like that."

Moran: Fans Believe In Moyes

Former Manchester United centre-back Kevin Moran feels the club's fans deserve praise for their vocal backing of new manager David Moyes.

The Irishman, who racked up almost 300 appearances in a decade of service at Old Trafford, attended the recent win over Arsenal and was bowled over by the level of support for Sir Alex Ferguson's successor. As a spectator, he saw first hand the amount of belief shown in the current boss from the stands.

"It was always going to be tough with the new manager settling in and making his own stamp and mark on the situation," Moran explained to ManUtd.com.

"I must admit one thing I have felt, especially whilst at the Arsenal game, was the crowd were behind David Moyes. The support was fantastic. I think that very much rang out throughout the whole ground. It wasn’t just after we scored or when we were winning towards the end. It was before we scored the goal. It shows you how good United supporters are. They are really willing to get behind David Moyes and say to him: ‘You’re our manager and we’re going to back you’. The supporters have seen how the longevity of the previous manager has been one of the main reasons for the club's success. There is no doubt they believe in Moyes and that they will be more than willing to give him an opportunity."

Moran, who won two FA Cups with the club in the 1980s, believes the 1-0 success in United's last outing was vital for the champions.

"It was a huge result against Arsenal," he asserted. "I expected it to be a much better match than it was but the more important thing was to come away with the three points. I’d seen Arsenal play Borussia Dortmund away and I thought they were excellent in that particular game. They didn’t play anything like as well at Old Trafford but you have got to give credit to United for that.

"We got the goal and dug in after that. Even though there were not a lot of chances for either side, it was all about getting the three points. It certainly puts us very much back in the race, not that we were ever out of it because you never can be at this stage. Nonetheless, you would not have wanted to lose any more ground, especially to Arsenal. If we’d have gone 11 points behind, it might have been a bit too much."

Rooney Defends Fitness Levels

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has insisted that Sir Alex Ferguson was wrong when he indicated he was concerned about the England star's fitness on occasions last season.

The 28-year-old travels with United to Wales to face Cardiff City on Sunday in a game which has taken on added importance after Saturday's victories for Arsenal and Chelsea.

Rooney has been praised for a series of energetic displays for United this term, but he reignited the debate with his former manager about his physical condition by claiming he was performing at the same level for club and country last season.

"It was the same last season. I've got all the stats, so I know," Rooney told the Sunday Times. "The stats are pinned up around the training ground every day and after every game you always get your stats - and it's the same with England.

"It's something you can monitor in terms of how much work you are doing and sometimes you do need a bit of a rest, so that's what we do.

"I'm just saying it's the same as last season but it's been noticed this season."

Rooney is expected to start in United's first-ever Premier League game at the Cardiff City Stadium despite playing 161 minutes in England's last two matches - more than any other England player.

His new manager David Moyes admitted he has been impressed by Rooney's work-rate but suggested he might be prepared to give him some time off in the future for fear of burning him out.

"With the intensity of his football and how well he is playing, I was hoping we could have got him some time off," said Moyes.

"Obviously, Roy (Hodgson) has to pick his teams and the games were important for him and I respect that but somewhere along the line I will need to give Wayne a breather.

"If I get an opportunity I might be able to give him a little bit of time off as he is incredible with his effort and work. We've seen a Wayne Rooney we all like and all enjoy watching but we can't run him into the ground all the time."

Players Pleased For Carrick

Rio Ferdinand and Anderson have spoken of their delight at seeing Michael Carrick prolong his stay with the Reds.

The club confirmed on Friday that the England international has extended his contract until June 2015 with an option to sign on for a further year.

Both Ferdinand and Anderson believe it’s great news for the Reds and are looking forward to Carrick’s return from an Achilles injury in the next few weeks.

“Over the years there are some players you appreciate more when they’re not playing and Michael falls into that category,” explained Rio in an interview with MUTV.

“He’s been fantastic for us over the years. Unfortunately he’s picked up an injury right now but I’m pleased he’s signed for another couple of years. He’s an important member of the team.”

Anderson echoed those sentiments, adding: “Everyone knows Michael is a quality player and so important for the team, and he is someone I learn a lot from.

"He is so experienced – he has played in the Premier League for many years and he’s always there to help the team and all the players. I’m really happy for him and it [his contract extension] is well deserved.”

Moyes Plans For The Future

Manchester United manager David Moyes says any potential business done in the January transfer window will focus on improving the squad in the long term.

Clubs will have one month from the turn of the year to strengthen with new faces but Moyes is not looking to make any ‘quick-fix’ purchases, and would only consider players who can make a lasting impact at Old Trafford.

“The thing about this club is that we always think long term,” he told reporters. “I am thinking how we are going to have a side that is going to be competing in the Champions League and right at the top end of the Premier League for four or five years.

“It has to be a continual building process here. We will continue to look to do that. In any one window you couldn’t change it all around anyway. It takes maybe two, three or four windows to do that. To talk about January and make it sound as if that would be the place where everything is cured and any problems would be resolved would be wrong.”

Moyes added that while he is open to bolstering his squad in the near future, he wouldn’t rush into signings for the sake of it and wants to bring in the right kind of player. “It is not me saying we are not going to buy anyone in January,” he continued. “We are going to try to if the opportunity is there, but they have to fit the right criteria. If not, we will have to wait until the summer and see if we can get them then.”

Moyes Retains Ronaldo Hope

Manchester United manager David Moyes has admitted he would love to one day have the opportunity to work with Cristiano Ronaldo.

There was speculation during the summer that Ronaldo could be set to leave Real Madrid and return to Old Trafford, having spent six years with the club before he moved to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2009.

A move did not materialise and Ronaldo instead signed a five-year contract with Real, insisting that he would be happy to spend the rest of his career in the Spanish capital.

It seems highly unlikely that Moyes will now ever get his wish to manage Ronaldo, but he is still hopeful that it could happen.

"Everyone at Manchester United would tell you he is the best in the business anyway," Moyes told MUTV, having watched Ronaldo's awesome performance for Portugal in their World Cup play-off victory over Sweden in Stockholm on Tuesday.

"I have not been fortunate enough to work with him but there is still hope some day it might be possible."

With FIFA extending the voting period for the coveted Ballon d'Or prize, it seems likely Ronaldo will claim a prize he won for the first time as a United player in the 2008 Champions League campaign, when he scored an incredible 42 goals.

Former team-mate Anderson is in no doubts.

"When you have Ronaldo it makes it easy," said the Brazilian.

"He scores all the time. He scored three goals on Tuesday. He is an amazing player, for me the best player in the world."

Banif Bank Deal Announced

Manchester United has today announced a financial services agreement with Maltese commercial bank, Banif Bank (Malta) plc.

The four-year agreement will see Banif Bank produce and market the official Manchester United credit card in Malta.

The Banif Bank Manchester United Credit Card will provide United’s Maltese followers with the opportunity to take advantage of the competitive rates offered by Banif Bank, as well as benefit from various United related incentives. These include discounts on the Club’s official membership scheme and reduced entry prices for the Old Trafford museum and tour. Card users will also have chances to win match tickets, signed merchandise and opportunities to watch the players during training sessions.

Banif Bank started operations in 2008 and operates exclusively within the local market. The company employs 160 people, servicing around 32,000 clients across ten branches and a further six business units.

Manchester United’s group managing director Richard Arnold comments:

“Malta has a long and proud association with the Club, with its Supporters’ Club there being founded over 50 years ago, in 1959. This partnership with Banif Bank gives Manchester United fans in Malta another way to engage with the Club they love. Banif Bank has grown rapidly since it was established in 2008 and has an expert understanding of its local market. We are excited that its customers will be able to take advantage of the great Club incentives and competitions that this partnership brings.”

Banif Bank’s chief operating officer Nuno Martins comments:

“In Banif Bank’s short five and a half years of existence, the Bank has positively surprised Malta in many ways. We did it again - credit cards do not come any bigger than this! It is a great honour for our Maltese Bank to be associated with one of the most successful football clubs and brands in the world.

“With a Manchester United Credit Card wedged in their wallet, fans have an efficient and simple way of making payments anywhere in the world, while showing off their loyalty and allegiance to the club with cash points. Additionally, they will have access to a range of benefits and opportunities that money simply can’t buy!”

Event Boosts UNICEF

Manchester United players and celebrity guests turned out in style for the 14th annual United For UNICEF Gala Dinner, at which over £200,000 was raised for UNICEF, the world’s leading children’s organisation. The sum raised beat last year’s record total of £166,000.

The black-tie evening, a highlight in Old Trafford's social calendar, was hosted by Sky News sports presenter Jacquie Beltrao and was attended by the full first-team squad and their partners plus manager David Moyes and his coaching staff. Britpop band Ocean Colour Scene headlined the event and other celebrities in attendance included singers Peter Andre and Shayne Ward, TV soap stars Kym Lomas, Antony Cotton, Catherine Tyldesley, Brooke Vincent and Chris Bisson, plus Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys of pop legends OMD.

Over the last 14 years, the United for UNICEF partnership has raised over £3million, impacting on the lives of over 3.4million vulnerable children worldwide. It is the longest running partnership of its kind between a sporting organisation and a global children’s organisation.

The partnership has recently been renewed for a further three years and the Club has pledged to raise a further £1million during that period. This money will go towards helping transform the lives of vulnerable children in Vietnam who are affected by abuse, exploitation and neglect.

Guests at the event were able to support UNICEF by bidding on money-can’t-buy prizes in the auction and by purchasing inspired gifts that represent the provision of care for children in Vietnam.

Enjoying his first Gala Dinner as United manager, David Moyes commented, “The crisis in the Philippines this month puts into perspective UNICEF’s vital work with children throughout the world. It’s been a tremendous evening for myself, the players and the many guests who have come to Old Trafford tonight and it makes it all the more special knowing that the money raised will go towards our target of £1million for United for UNICEF.”

Patrice Evra, who holds UNICEF close to his heart due to their work in his native Senegal, said, “I always look forward to the UNICEF dinner and I appreciate that we keep doing this event every year. It’s important to understand this is not just a normal dinner; it is for the children and the many people that UNICEF helps around the world.

“For me, as a father, I know how important it is to see my children eating food and having a bed to sleep in; when I think of other children who don’t have these things I feel really sad and that’s why, when I get the chance to help other people, I will do it straight away.”

UNICEF UK executive director David Bull concluded, “UNICEF is extremely proud of our long-standing partnership with Manchester United and the continued support we receive from the Club and its fans. We are extremely grateful to everyone who attended this evening or bid on the charity auction. The amazing amount of money raised tonight will help us to reach even more children in need of our help.”

Boss Hails Ageless Giggs

Ryan Giggs has received an early 40th birthday present in the form of a glowing tribute from United boss David Moyes.

The veteran Reds hero will enter his fifth decade on Friday, 29th November, over 22 and a half years after he made the first of his 951 appearances so far for United.

The Welshman’s latest milestone will follow hot on the heels of United’s visit to his birthplace, Cardiff, for the return to action following the latest pause in the domestic programme to allow for international fixtures.

Giggs has made 10 appearances in all competitions under David Moyes this season, and the boss says the United no. 11 has exceeded his expectations

“The best thing is to say he doesn't play like he's 40 and he doesn't look like he's 40,” enthused Moyes. “He's an outstanding player and it's a privilege to be working with him on my staff but also to have him as a player.

“I’ve seen something different since I’ve come here – just how good he is, close up – and it’s incredible. It will be great for him to go back to Cardiff and I'm sure the supporters will give him a big cheer.”

Cardiff's Mackay Lauds 'Iconic' Giggs

Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay says Manchester United's Welsh winger Ryan Giggs is his favourite player of the past 15 years.

Giggs will face home-town club Cardiff for the first time in his career if he plays in Sunday's Premier League clash.

Mackay believes Giggs, who turns 40 on 29 November, will become a manager once his playing career is over.

"Every day of the week, every week of the year for the last 15 years he has been a top player," said Mackay.

"He is a top bloke and he is probably my favourite player of the last 15 years."

The Welshman made his United debut in March 1991 and has won 13 league titles, four FA Cups, four League Cups and two Champions League titles.

The Bluebirds will become his 117th different opponents as a Manchester United player should he feature at the Cardiff City Stadium on Sunday.

Giggs, who won 64 caps for Wales, joined manager David Moyes's backroom team during the summer when he was appointed player-coach.

Mackay, Cardiff boss since 2011, has no doubt Giggs will become a manager in his own right once he calls time on an illustrious playing career.

"I met him a couple of weeks ago at the FA Pro Licence course I was talking at," Mackay added.

"He is now stepping into the other side of the game in that player-coach role I had at one point and a lot of players have had at some point when their careers are finishing.

"But I think you look at how he has conducted himself professionally through his whole career and he just looks a model pro.

"The way he has kept his body and how his game changed when his pace went, and his thought process in terms of how to play.

"Even the way he started to adapt his body through using yoga to allow him to play into his 40s, he has been an absolute star

"He is obviously an iconic figure here for what he has done for Wales and I have no doubt at one point he will end up in management.

"He has learned from the best [former United manager Sir Alex Ferguson] and it will be good to see him on Sunday."