Quinn: Big Moment For RvP

Niall Quinn says Manchester United could be a force to be reckoned with again after they eased past Hull City 3-0 at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Goals from Chris Smalling, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie secured a third straight Premier League victory for United and kept them fourth in the table.

It is the first time they have won three top-flight games in a row since last December and Quinn told Saturday Night Football Match Choice they are starting to hit their stride at the right time.

“They are in serious form at the moment,” he said. “Even the fans are reacting positively, they have really enjoyed the last three wins and the performances have meant so much. The players are becoming more comfortable and their true form starts to show.

“Manchester United are in one of those periods where you half expect them to just go on and keep winning. They have got a home game against Stoke on Tuesday then a top-four clash against Southampton and if they take six points from that to approach the Christmas period they will be a force to be reckoned with again.”

The only blot on United’s copybook from the win over Hull was an injury to Angel di Maria that saw the Argentina international substituted after just 13 minutes.

Among the positives was Van Persie scoring his first goal in four matches with a fine strike past Allan McGregor.

“I saw him being written off but to score a goal like that and convince your manager you are still up there and capable of doing it is a big moment,” said Quinn.

“Van Gaal knows when to give a subtle warning to his marksman Van Persie, telling him you need to do a little bit more, and he responds with a moment like that which is fantastic for him.

“He admitted himself he needed the goal and he has got a big act to follow compared to how well he has done before.”

Quinn was also impressed with defender Smalling, who has come in for some criticism this season but was solid against Hull.

“He had a great game,” said Quinn. “He is another player who has really benefited from Van Gaal coming to the club. He was very iffy at the start and had his problems against Manchester City, but I thought he was excellent today.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Carrick: Time To Kick On

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick hopes the Reds can carry recently-gained momentum into the busy festive period, starting with the match against Stoke on Tuesday.

The England international, who played a key role in United’s 3-0 victory over Hull on Saturday, was encouraged by another assured display and urged his team-mates to build on three straight wins.

“It was a good performance and a good win,” Carrick told MUTV. “We controlled the game from the start and played some really good football. Hopefully they'll be more of the same on Tuesday.”

The Reds' no.16 also told the club’s official TV channel that he hopes manager Louis van Gaal can now maintain a settled XI after a spate of injuries have led to a stop-start opening to the campaign.

“Our downfall this season is that we've had to change the team too much and we haven't had a consistent run with this squad,” Carrick explained. “Hopefully that will change now and it's nice to have a game so quick so we can keep that momentum going.

“It's been strange in some ways [having no midweek games] compared to what we've been used to over the years but it's something that we've got to grips with. It was a good performance and win against Hull but it's behind us now and our focus is on Tuesday.”

The midfielder was also keen to praise team-mate Robin van Persie after the Dutchman responded to recent criticism from some quarters with a stunning second-half goal against the Tigers.

“It was some strike! It was only really half a chance, but he's controlled it and smashed it into the top corner.

“It's great when the boys up front are creating chances and scoring goals. If we can do what we did on Saturday on a more regular basis we'll be a real threat.”

Graphic Novelist Thrilled To Work With United

Belgian artist Philippe Glogowski was pleased to receive the first copy of his official graphic novel ‘Manchester United: Tales from History Volume 1’ when he visited the Aon Training Complex earlier this week.

Over 40 pages of illustrations were printed as a result of a collaboration between the club and publishers TJ Editions, as Glogowski’s retelling of parts of United’s history – such as the Busby era and more recent times including the club’s record-breaking 20th league title – becomes the first to be produced in its form.

The graphic novel, narrated by a United fan along with his family and friends, is designed to be the first of a three-part series encompassing the most important events in the Reds' history.

In an interview at the Aon Training Complex, Glogowski acknowledges that while he’s entering unchartered territory with his latest release, he hopes his unique publication can reach out to United fans in Britain and beyond.

Speaking to ManUtd.com, the artist explained: “We really appreciate the Premier League and we wanted to get to the head of it and do something with the best team. So we prepared something to catch the attention of people at United and it worked.

“This is a club known all over the world, so maybe we will find readers outside of the UK borders. We think there are people very far from Britain who are interested in graphic novels and football, too.

“The idea came about with a meeting with a friend of mine. We had the same passion for football. I was working in graphic novels as an author for more than 20 years. We had the idea through a simple conversation. Why not present a graphic novel about the history of a great British club?

“I worked alone but I showed every step of my work to the people here at United, who helped us very much. From the moment I started the drawing, it took me seven months, which is a short time, so I did a lot. But there was a lot of collecting information for the script. Normally it would take me nine months to a year to do such a book, so it was full speed.”

With many unforgettable moments in the story of United left to be illustrated by Glogowski, the Belgian is already planning content for the other two instalments of his project.

"We have talked about one Champions League title in this one,” he continued. “We will talk about the Treble in the second book and then we will talk about the '68 triumph in the third one. We have so many things to tell.”

Fluid Reds Hint At Van Gaal's Philosophy

Predicting Manchester United's precise formation is becoming a thankless task and that is because there is a fluidity in Louis van Gaal's line-up that makes positions difficult to define.

The manager's fabled philosophy is becoming clearer. The man from the country that invented 'Total Football' has ideas about space and movement that enable his teams to dominate areas of the pitch and, consequently, control games.

Michael Carrick did not start as one of three centre-backs, as anticipated, but instead performed the midfield pivot role where Daley Blind impressed before his unfortunate injury. Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia, two buccaneering wingers by trade, were entrusted with orthodox full-back roles either side of Marcos Rojo and Chris Smalling.

Robin van Persie actually began the Hull City clash in a deeper role that usual, freeing Angel Di Maria to join Wayne Rooney in attack. This plan, presumably to exploit the speed of the Argentinian, was scuppered when he hobbled off with only 14 minutes on the clock.

It was a blow but Ander Herrera came on to adopt the position held by van Persie, with the Dutchman moving further forward. Herrera knitted things together with minimum fuss, popping around simple passes to keep possession while Juan Mata and Marouane Fellaini were asked to patrol the left and right of midfield. Both had the licence to influence the play and Fellaini would push into areas where he could bully the Tigers' defenders if any long balls were aimed in his direction.

While United were largely in cruise control after the interval, there were obvious signs of the team spirit within the camp. Everybody was delighted when van Persie silenced his doubters with a thunderous drive and he was given a rapturous ovation on the 70-minute mark when he made way for Radamel Falcao. It was a chance for the fans to show their backing for the centre-forward in the wake of some incorrect newspaper back-page reports about his position in the side.

Falcao took his place and, rather than go for goal himself, Mata tried to tee up the South American, only for Michael Dawson to ruin that plan with some wonderfully heroic defending. Darren Fletcher came on for right-back Valencia but the side remained so adept at handling the ball that there were no gaps to be exposed.

Instead, the only downside was the sight of Rooney collecting a painful-looking injury in stoppage time which, after Di Maria's apparent hamstring worries, will cause a nervous wait ahead of the visit of Stoke City although van Gaal said Rooney told him afterwards that he would be fit.

Other than the ongoing injury concerns, things are looking extremely positive on the pitch and the boss' influence is becoming visible for all to see. The constant interchanging of positions needs to be seen in the flesh to be fully appreciated and, thankfully, we have another opportunity in a few days' time.

Credit: manutd.com

Herrera: We're Fortunate To Have Falcao

Ander Herrera has hailed the never-say-die attitude of Radamel Falcao and believes his Manchester United team-mate will prove to be a vital part of Louis van Gaal’s squad this season.

With the help of fellow Reds midfielder Anderson, Herrera looked to further raise the great significance of Falcao’s return to training earlier this week by carrying the Colombian onto the pitch at the Aon Training Complex.

Already fully aware of the loan star’s qualities from clashes between Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid, Herrera feels a combination of Falcao’s ability and relentless efforts will ensure a strong impact at Old Trafford will be made by the 28-year-old, who came off the bench in the win over Hull City.

“The fans love Falcao because he fights for every ball like it is the last ball of his life,” the Spaniard told MUTV. “That is one of his best characteristics. We are lucky that Falcao is here and I’m sure he’s going to be a very important player and I think the Manchester United fans know that.

“When a player gets injured it’s a bad moment for them. I know Falcao well. I knew him in Spain, he was fantastic. Atletico Madrid won the Spanish Cup against Real Madrid and he was the most valuable player in the final and we want to see Falcao as soon as possible on the pitch here. Anderson and me tried to make that moment happy for Falcao. We are like a family here – we all want to achieve the same objectives and everyone has to be involved.”

Another man in United’s group that Herrera looked to shower with praise was goalkeeper David De Gea, who, according to his compatriot, could become the finest in his position. On numerous occasions the club’s custodian has safeguarded victories for his side, with an acrobatic stop earlier this season to deny Everton and help seal all three points proving to be one of the most impressive in a growing line of excellent stops made by the Spain international.

“He has been fantastic and is one of the best players in the world at 24 years old,” Herrera said of his countryman and close friend. “He wants to help the team get to the top of the league, like me, like everyone. We feel he can become one of the best if not the best goalkeeper in the world.”

A valuable 2-1 away win at Arsenal last weekend, followed by a convincing 3-0 victory over Hull sees United currently occupying fourth place in the Premier League – a spot Herrera wants the Reds to maintain at the very least for the remainder of the campaign.

“We have to be in the Champions League,” the 25-year-old insisted. “I want to play there next season with United. We want to win every competition we are in and if we are in the competition next season we will want to win it. We all have to work to get there, all the players. If you want to achieve one objective everyone has to work together, not only the 11 players, all the squad has to be involved.”

Young Happy To Continue At Left-back

Manchester United's Ashley Young enjoyed his run-out at left-back during the 3-0 victory against Hull City and would be happy to reprise the role in Tuesday's clash with Stoke City.

The winger caught the eye with a substitute appearance at wing-back in place of Luke Shaw at Arsenal and adapted superbly to playing on the left-hand side of a four-man defence in the England youngster's absence on Saturday.

Nobody is epitomising the versatility and fluidity of the squad more than Young, who has worked hard to prove his capabilities in different roles since Louis van Gaal took charge.

"Obviously it's a new position for me to play in but I know the job that I have got to do there because we practised during the week," he told ManUtd.com. "I knew what I was supposed to go out there and do and it was fluid. Everyone was rotating and everyone was moving. I don't think Hull could deal with that.

"We got on the scoresheet early on and needed to attack and be aggressive in our play against them, pressurising high up. It paid off because we kept on winning the ball back. It was hard for Hull to pick players up, particularly our midfielders, and the way they rotate means it is always difficult for a team to play against. It's always nice to see players rotate in front of you as you are able to get the ball and find an easy pass and just go forward and attack.

"When we were two goals ahead, we said at half-time we had to get that next goal as it was going to be important they didn't score next. We got it through Robin [van Persie], it was a fantastic goal and, after that, we controlled the game."

Young still got forward to good effect and provided one inviting cross with his left foot that was headed off target by Marouane Fellaini in the second half.

"In that position, you have to get forward as well at times," he explained. "Obviously, you have to defend but it's always nice to be going forward rather than defending. I think I showed that, being a winger, that I knew when to break forward and when to defend. I got a cross in and was joking to Felli after the game I wish he'd scored because I'd get the assist! We got three goals and three points and that is all that matters."

When asked if he would look forward to retaining the position for the visit of Stoke, he replied: "Of course. If the manager wants me to play there again, of course I'll help out. I'm delighted to be playing football again. I'd been out for so long and it was a frustrating time but I'm back now and hopefully the injuries are behind me."

Smalling Grateful For Goalline Technology

Chris Smalling was grateful that technology could confirm he had scored the goal that set Manchester United on the way to a comfortable 3-0 win over Hull City.

The defender's close-range effort was shown to have crossed the line by a matter of inches after Tigers' goalkeeper Allan McGregor had fumbled the ball in a goalmouth scramble.

Goalline technology showed referee Anthony Taylor that Smalling had indeed scored, his first strike since his goal against the same opposition last Boxing Day, but the 25-year-old told MUTV he wasn't sure Saturday's would be given.

"I didn't think it was over the line initially," he admitted. "Thankfully the goalline technology gave it. I think [if] it’s a case of whether it’s over or not, the [technology] takes away that doubt."

The Reds' third win in a row came from a confident display that pleased the team and manager Louis van Gaal alike in the wake of a battling performance at Arsenal one week ago.

"The manager said it was our best game of the season and I think it was," Smalling added. "It was a complete performance. I think he said of the Arsenal result that we ground that out without particularly playing well, but this time we did. He’s said he wants six points and we want to deliver that on Tuesday against Stoke."

Injuries had forced van Gaal to reshuffle his starting XI, and an early knock for Angel Di Maria saw another change, but the influence of substitute Ander Herrera earned praise from Smalling.

"We’ve been so unfortunate with injuries but we’ve managed to stick together and roll with it. Ander's passing game is something the manager likes, and he kept us moving."

Dominant Reds Please Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal was delighted with the control his players exerted in the 3-0 win over Hull City on Saturday, singling out Ander Herrera for special praise.

The young Spaniard entered the fray on 14 minutes after Angel Di Maria was forced off with what looked like a hamstring problem. Herrera adapted to the frenetic pace of the game seamlessly and caught the eye of his manager.

“I have to say Herrera came in and did fantastic, I was very pleased with how he did.” the boss told MUTV. “He is a very fit player which is why I also let him play in the Reserves. I'm very happy for him because he needed a good performance.”

Van Gaal was also keen to stress his satisfaction with the team’s all-round display and felt that the players kept their shape better than in recent games.

“I was very pleased with our dominance in the whole game and also with our positional game,” the manager added. “We scored three goals, created more chances, and we didn't give any chances away - that's very good.”

The goal of the game was arguably Robin van Persie's 66th-minute strike from the edge of the box which flew into the top corner. Van Gaal was pleased to see van Persie back amongst the goals and hailed his superb effort.

"A striker needs to score goals and he scored a beautiful goal. I was very happy for him," added the boss.

Di Maria Set To Miss Stoke Match

Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria is expected to miss Tuesday's match against Stoke City.

The Argentina international was substituted early in United's 3-0 win over Hull City on Saturday with what looked like a tight hamstring.

Captain Wayne Rooney, scorer of United's second goal, limped off at the end of the match as well, but manager Louis van Gaal later told MUTV he expects Rooney to be fit for the Barclays Premier League clash with Stoke at Old Trafford.

"Angel shall be out for Stoke, I think," said van Gaal. "Wayne, I don't know. He said he would be fit for Stoke. I hope he is because he is in great form."

Premier League: Man. United 3 Hull City 0

Manchester United made it three wins on the spin for the first time in 2014 with a convincing 3-0 defeat of Hull City at a misty Old Trafford.

Chris Smalling and Wayne Rooney handed Louis van Gaal's men a commanding first-half lead and Robin van Persie answered some of his recent critics with an explosive third to clinch another welcome three points.

The Reds were exceptional and had already seen a penalty appeal for a Curtis Davies handball waved away and Rooney curl wide when Smalling made the breakthrough. Panic ensued at the back for the Tigers from the defender's header and, when Allan McGregor spooned it straight back to the centre-back, he shot with accuracy. It looked over the line as McGregor carried it backwards and goalline technology swiftly proved this was the case - the first goal United have been awarded in this manner.

Smalling went close to a second when brushing the side-netting and van Persie shot straight at McGregor before the luxury of a second strike on 42 minutes. Ander Herrera, on for the injured Angel Di Maria, sprung forward to win a header that was misjudged by Davies. Van Persie capitalised to tee up Rooney and the skipper expertly bent his shot away from McGregor to double the lead.

Hull were more of an attacking force in the second half, Andrew Robertson forcing David De Gea into belated action after a positive run, and Nikica Jelavic heading over, but United still looked fully capable of inflicting further damage on Steve Bruce's side.

Van Persie's diving header from an exquisite pass by the outstanding Michael Carrick produced a brilliant save out of McGregor but the offside flag was raised in any case. The Dutchman was not to be denied though as he rapped a glorious left-foot finish high into the net, proving right to ignore Rooney's shouts for a pass, after Robertson carelessly gifted possession back to Herrera.

Marouane Fellaini headed off target from an Ashley Young cross before van Persie departed to a huge ovation with Radamel Falcao making his return to action. Although De Gea was extended by a Jelavic header, Smalling threatened again when having an effort cleared off the line by Stephen Quinn.

The Stretford End prepared to greet a Falcao goal in the final minute when Juan Mata unselfishly played the ball back to the substitute but Dawson blocked on the line and made a brave tackle as the Colombian attempted to bundle it over.

Rooney sustained a painful knock in stoppage time on the back of Di Maria's early injury, but overall Louis van Gaal will be delighted with both the performance and result ahead of another imminent league test, against Stoke City on Tuesday night.

Club Launches 'Pass The Parcel' Appeal

Manchester United is asking fans to give the gift of childhood this Christmas, in aid of global charity partner, Unicef.

The Manchester United 'Pass the Parcel Christmas Appeal' encourages supporters to donate via text or online to help Unicef provide urgently needed supplies to enable children caught up in humanitarian emergencies such as trauma, conflict and disease, including the current Ebola crisis, to not only survive but also enjoy their childhood by recreating learning and sporting environments.

‘Sport in a Box’, which is one of the items that the 'Pass the Parcel Christmas Appeal' will fund, is a lockable case which when opened can transform any space, allowing children from different parts of the community to play together, helping to break the cycle of violence and suffering. Each box contains enough sport equipment for 90 children to play together and includes items such as footballs, a goal net, a basketball, skipping rope, whistles and frisbees.

David Bull, executive director of Unicef UK said: “Around the world children are facing dangerous and desperate situations. We want to make sure that these children, even in the most difficult emergency situations, not only survive but that they get the help they need to enjoy life again in safety. Even being able to kick a ball around with friends can help bring back their childhood and help them to cope with their troubles. Our Pass the Parcel appeal with Manchester United is a great way for all fans to give children something to cheer about this festive season and help make their future feel a little less bleak.”

The 'Pass the Parcel Christmas Appeal' will run throughout December and forms part of the wider United for Unicef partnership, which is currently celebrating its fifteenth year.

All funds from this appeal will go to Unicef’s Children’s Emergency Fund to help young people across Africa, Asia and South America. As United’s Official Logistics Partner, DHL is supporting the fundraising campaign by delivering the ‘Sport in a Box’ parcels and other urgently needed aid supplies to these regions.

Fans are encouraged to get involved by texting ‘BALL’ to 70755 to donate £5 or visit www.manutd.com/christmasappeal.

Credit: manutd.com

Van Gaal: Shaw Injury Not Serious

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has sustained an ankle ligament injury, but will only be out for a "few weeks", according to manager Louis van Gaal.

Some reports suggested the 19-year-old would be out for as long as six weeks with the injury picked up in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League win at Arsenal.

"There are no serious complications," said Van Gaal.

"He has sustained an ankle ligament injury. He will be out for the next few weeks because of this."

He added: "Last time I said something about injuries it was not interpreted so well. So, Manchester United Twitter, pay attention."

Van Gaal was referring to the confusion surrounding the injury to midfielder Daley Blind, who last week was thought to be out for six months with a knee injury after a tweet by the club's official account.

The Dutchman. who later clarified that his compatriot would spend six to eight weeks on the sidelines, said on Friday: "I gave Blind a holiday and he came back on Monday.

"He has to exercise and practise every day as an injured player has to train more than the fit players."

The United boss also confirmed that striker Radamel Falcao, who has not played since 20 October, and defender Marcus Rojo, who has missed four weeks, could feature in Saturday's Premier League game against Hull City at Old Trafford.

Falcao, who has not completed a full 90 minutes since joining United in September, is returning from a calf problem, while Rojo dislocated his shoulder in the defeat by Manchester City.

Their availability eases an injury list that includes Shaw, Blind, defenders Rafael, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans and midfielder Jesse Lingard.

"We have to wait and see until the last training session of course. It's always difficult to say but we have good news, yes.

"Maybe Falcao can come back in the 18, maybe Rojo can come back in the 18. That's it."

United climbed into the top four for the first time this season with last weekend's 2-1 win at Arsenal.

"We are still fourth so I am happy but we have to be at least fourth in the end of the season and not now.

"Now is not so important. We have to improve our playing style and beat our opponents more easily."

Saturday's meeting with Hull sees Van Gaal take on City boss Steve Bruce, who won three Premier League titles as a United player.

The game at Old Trafford will be Bruce's 700th as a manager.

"I have seen Bruce playing at Manchester United. He was very firm, a leader. Players who are leaders often become a manager and he is."

Valencia Happy To Be A Team Player

Antonio Valencia insists he is willing to play wherever he is needed if it helps to assuage Manchester United's current injury problems.

The Ecuadorian was deployed at wing-back in last weekend's win over Arsenal, having been used as a conventional right-back in the two games before that.

He’s also played in his customary winger role and even central midfield so far this term, demonstrating a useful versatility with so many of his team-mates sidelined at one point or another.

The 29-year-old told United Review, the club's official matchday programme: "The manager has decided to play me in a number of positions: sometimes right-back, sometimes wide midfield, other times in central midfield. These are decisions he takes and what I do is take them on board and put them into practice.

"You have to really concentrate for the entire 90 minutes [at right-back]. You can’t afford to make any kind of mistake because, if you do, the forwards you are up against are then in on your goal."

He continued: "We are having a run of bad luck at the moment with injuries, where we always seem to have a few players out, but we’re hoping that before we reach the halfway point in the season we’ll have everyone back and we can go on to pick up enough points to get us firmly in the top three or four."

Valencia is poised to make his 200th United appearance in Saturday's home game against Hull City, who are managed by his former manager at Wigan Athletic – and ex-Reds skipper – Steve Bruce.

"He’s a really great manager," Valencia said. "He was in charge towards the end of my time at Wigan, after Paul Jewell left. He’s tough when he needs to be and I’m very grateful for everything he did for me. I’m just hoping we can get the better of him on Saturday."

Bruce Wary Of Rooney And Fellaini

Hull City defender Alex Bruce believes in-form Wayne Rooney and Marouane Fellaini could be a real threat in Saturday's clash at Old Trafford.

The Manchester United pair have been in fine fettle of late and have impressed Bruce, son of legendary Reds centre-back and current Hull boss Steve Bruce. Fellaini has emerged as a key figure while Rooney, who has six United goals to his name in four games against the Tigers, will be another man the visitors fear. Bruce junior hopes to return to first-team action following a hamstring problem after a run-out in the Under-21s on Monday.

"Wayne is always a threat isn't he?" Bruce told United Review. "He’s a great player. I watched the Manchester derby and he nearly scored a great goal with a turn when he ran through, only to be knocked off the ball at the end. It shows the quality he has and he’s always capable of scoring a great goal at any given moment, like he did at the KC Stadium last season when he produced a little bit of magic with a 25-yard volley from nowhere that got them back into the game. It’s one thing we have to keep on top of.

"Louis van Gaal has brought in some quality players like Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao. There are threats all over the pitch and I think Marouane Fellaini has done well in the past few weeks. He scored a great goal at West Brom and it was a huge boost in confidence for him. He’s been playing well and I think he has been one of United’s best players in recent weeks. He’s a threat as well as a big physical presence."

The 30-year-old believes van Gaal will continue to impose his own influence on the playing staff and emerge as a success in the job. "It’s still early days but he’s brought in a lot of players," added Bruce. "He’ll probably tell you he might want to bring in one or two more. It’s a transitional period and he wants to have his own stamp on things so you have got to always give the manager time. He’s got a good pedigree and has done well at every club he has been at before. I don’t see any reason why he won’t do well at United."

Evans Bemoans Freak Injury Situation

Jonny Evans is hoping to be ready to return to first-team action as he feels Manchester United's injury problems this season are merely a freak situation.

The defender came through a run-out in the Reserves during the 5-0 victory against Blackburn Rovers in the Lancashire Senior Cup unscathed and is back in contention ahead of the upcoming home games with Hull City and Stoke City.

Evans has been out with a broken foot since the defeat at Leicester City in September and fellow centre-backs Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo are also sidelined, while Paddy McNair, Chris Smalling and Tyler Blackett have been unavailable at various times due to injury and suspension.

"It's nice to get 60-odd minutes under my belt," Evans told MUTV. "It's been a long time coming. I didn't expect to be out this long so I'm pleased to get some minutes. I thought the lads played well and it was an enjoyable game to be part of.

"I think the manager will have to assess that [a first-team recall] and also the fitness coaches. I've been training for a week or two now but it's taking me time to get my fitness up as I've been out for so long."

Evans is obviously relishing the opportunity to cement a place in Louis van Gaal's starting XI on a regular basis, like the other defenders who have been frustrated to pick up knocks when bidding to impress the Dutchman.

"That's the aim," he stated. "You're looking at that at the start of the season. Players don't get injured on purpose.

"There have been injuries with the odd hamstring or groin, there have been quite a few of those, but Rojo dislocated his shoulder and I had a fracture in my foot. There were a couple of other injuries - Phil Jones has got one that came out of the blue.

"It's hard to say - we don't want any more injuries but what can we do about it? They're freak injuries and it's difficult from that point of view. It'd be nice to get settled in the team - everyone in the squad wants to get settled in their position as well."

Giggs Facing Greatest Challenge

Ryan Giggs' short spell in charge of Manchester United has given him the appetite for management, reports Sky Sports News HQ's James Cooper.

This time last year the biggest challenge facing Ryan Giggs was his 40th birthday, 12 months on the most decorated British footballer has retired as a player, begun his coaching career, managed Manchester United and is now assisting Louis van Gaal.

The ups and down are captured in a new DVD, “The Life of Ryan”, which was initially conceived to chart the end of the playing career of a winger, who joined United as a 13 year old, but became a fly-on-the-wall examination of his 4 game stint as manager at Old Trafford.

That brief taste of management, 2 wins, a draw and a defeat, has given Giggs the hunger for more.

“I enjoyed it and I can see why so many people go back for more because no matter what’s happened, if they’ve ended in disappointment in a job, the buzz that you get when you win and preparing the team through the week and then seeing it materialise at the weekend it’s a great feeling and a great satisfaction. Of course there’s highs and lows throughout the week and things that you don’t expect but that’s all the excitement, you never know what’s going to come next.”

And for Ryan Giggs the contrasting emotions stemming from victory or defeat were something he felt far more keenly as a manager than he ever had as a player.

“As a manager the feeling of winning is much greater and the feeling of losing is. As a player, the feeling of losing is bad but as a manager you feel it even more so.”

Giggs got his chance in the Old Trafford hot-seat following the departure of David Moyes. In his short time as manager of Manchester United he was the one who gave Ryan Giggs his first coaching position and while the Welshman is now part of Louis Van Gaal’s new era, Moyes has recently returned to management in charge of Real Sociedad.

“You always look at what you could have done better and what you did well. Of course it was a disappointing season overall, but you have to look forward and learn from your mistakes, look to improve all the time. It was a tough year for everyone, but obviously I hope that David does well. It’s a great chance for him and a great challenge for him to be actually coaching in a different country which probably not enough British managers do, so it’s brave and I’m sure he’s excited and I hope he does well.”

So what of Louis Van Gaal, the man who led Holland to the semi-finals of the last World Cup and has managed the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich? On arriving at Manchester United one of his first decisions was to appoint Giggs as his Assistant.

“He obviously demands a lot, he’s somebody who’s got plenty of experience, likes to play attacking football, likes to give youth a chance so there’s plenty of synergy there with the history of Manchester United and the traditions so it’s great to learn from somebody who’s managed at the top for so long and just try to learn as I go and try to prove myself as a coach. It’s an apprenticeship, it’s starting all over again. It’s a totally different mindset from being the one being spoken to, to actually giving out the instructions, delivering training sessions and doing things throughout the week to prepare for the game.”

Giggs’ use of the word “apprenticeship” to describe his latest role hints at his ambitions to take what he learns alongside Van Gaal into an eventual career as a Number One but he’s experienced enough to appreciate that although he’s been at the club for more than 27 years his future doesn’t have to include Manchester United.

“No it doesn’t but I take your point, I’ve been at the club for so long, that I’m familiar with the club but if I want to further my coaching career or managing career and if it’s not at Manchester United then so be it but I’ll just have to wait and see.”

For a man who’s won 13 Premier League Titles, two Champions Leagues, four FA Cups and three League Cups, Giggs isn’t someone who dwells on his achievements nor harbours many personal regrets from his playing career. The fact that he retired having scored in all but the last of his Premier League seasons as a Manchester United player is something that doesn’t seem to bother him either.

“I have much bigger regrets than that like playing better when we got beat off Barcelona in Rome and also at Wembley, again against Barcelona, more about things like that, the big games that you lost but personal accolades yeah they’re great but it never mattered to me much when I was playing and doesn’t now.”

In his new DVD Giggs reveals the question he’s been asked most frequently throughout his career is “When are Manchester United going to win the title?” and while Van Gaal harbours the dream of adding the Premier League to his Spanish, German and Dutch crowns, the issue now seems to be when will Manchester United be in title contention again?

“It is a process, I mean I think everyone will agree that Chelsea are head and shoulders above anyone else at the moment but it’s a process and you just have to try to keep improving and see where that takes you. It’s never easy winning the League or never easy beating teams in the Premier League, we’ve seen that this season it’s getting more like the Championship has been year after year it’s a case where anyone can beat anyone so you have to be at your best every week and hopefully we will be, we’ll keep improving, get players back on the pitch and, like I say, there’s enough talent in that dressing room to take us up the League and try to finish as high as we can.”

As someone who came into that dressing room as a schoolboy and left it as a superstar Ryan Giggs knows just what Manchester United’s latest crop of youngsters are going through and what’s expected of them. More than that he gave some of them their first taste of first team action during those four games in charge at the end of last season. But it was his single loss, at home to Sunderland, that showed many of those players a different side to the man who’s determined to manage and has the passion to go with that conviction

“I did as a player, you lost your rag as an experienced player, you lose your rag if you see players not pulling their weight or if you’ve disappointed or something. As long as you lose your temper in the right way and it’s for the right reasons but yeah I wasn’t happy at half-time against Sunderland or at full-time but the other games were no problem. But yeah I do lose my temper.”

His 40th birthday proved to be the start of what Giggs has termed a “rollercoaster” year and while his next birthday now beckons those 12 months have reminded everyone inside and outside of Manchester United that anything can happen in the days ahead.

'The Life of Ryan' is out now on DVD, Blu-ray and digital download.

Credit: Skysports.com

Manchester United Launches UNITED:LIVE

Manchester United has today announced details of its new fan event – UNITED:LIVE. Aimed at sharing the excitement, history and tradition of the world-famous club, UNITED:LIVE will bring fans together to celebrate everything Manchester United.

The new platform will engage with the club’s 264 million followers in Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa and China, through four unique events in Bangkok, Jakarta, Johannesburg and Beijing, encompassing two exciting new programmes: Football Festival and Red v Red.

The Football Festival will take place in Bangkok, Jakarta and Beijing and is a multi-zone football and entertainment experience. The full-day event will give fans the opportunity to enjoy exclusive, live screenings of 'The Greatest Story Ever Told' (an interactive experience which examines the history of the club), live music acts, Manchester United Soccer Schools events, the chance to quiz club legends in live Q&A sessions, and club partner fan zones.

Red v Red will see two of our club legends go head-to-head, captaining opposing teams in a battle of skill and agility. Fans will have the unforgettable experience of sharing the pitch with some of the most illustrious names in the club’s history. Red v Red matches will be held in Bangkok, Johannesburg and Beijing.

The first in this exciting UNITED:LIVE series takes place in Bangkok on 13 and 14 December 2014 and will feature the inaugural Football Festival and Red v Red match, featuring Manchester United legends Andy Cole and Ronny Johnsen. The ballot for fans to apply for tickets is now open and can be accessed via the following link: www.manutd.com/unitedlive

The UNITED:LIVE ticket ballot will be open until Sunday 30 November. Successful applicants will be notified by email approximately two weeks prior to the event.

Manchester United Group Managing Director Richard Arnold comments: "UNITED:LIVE is the latest example of the club’s determination to engage with its fans, wherever they live. These innovative and interactive events will allow our fans in Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa and China to share and deepen their passion for the club.

"With the help of our family of commercial partners, we aim to captivate, entertain and interact with the people who make this club unique – its fans."

Credit: Manutd.com

Training Talk: Wayne Rooney

In-form captain Wayne Rooney is the latest player to answer our questions on training...

Who would you play alongside in your ideal five-a-side team?
Do you have to have a goalkeeper? If not, I’ll go for Angel [Di Maria], [Radamel] Falcao, Robin [van Persie] and [Juan] Mata.

Who scored the best goal you have ever seen in training?
I’d probably say Giggsy. I remember him scoring a volley a few years ago.

Which is the best goal you have ever scored in training?
I’m not sure I have any particular goals in mind. It’s not something I’ve really thought about as obviously there are days when we do a lot of finishing and a lot of shooting and I’ve scored some great goals. But there have been so many from a lot of players over the years, not just me, and obviously the ones in training are not the ones you remember.

Who is the most competitive player in training – Daley Blind said it was you?
Yeah I’d probably say myself and Fletch [Darren Fletcher] really! Rafael is always another one and obviously Daley has come in and been really competitive. I think the way the squad is now means it’s really competitive and we want to win in training. You’re disappointed if you’re on the losing team so I think everyone is quite competitive.

What is your favourite part of training?
My favourite part is when you go into the games, that’s when the players really enjoy it. There is a lot of tactical training with the shape and the play. You enjoy that and it’s great for you and your knowledge of the game.

Credit: manutd.com

Falcao And The King

ManUtd.com's Adam Marshall discusses his chats with two gifted Manchester United centre-forwards, one from the past and the other from the present...

I had the good fortune to interview two world-class strikers this week, Denis Law and Radamel Falcao, both famed for their predatory instincts in the penalty box.

Manchester United legends do not come much bigger than Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has two statues in and around Old Trafford. Speak to anybody from his era and they revel at his remarkable ability and endearing characteristics.

As someone who was never fortunate to see him play live, only videos provide evidence of his talents to accompany the testaments from older fans. Watching Law in action is sometimes like witnessing a modern-day footballer transported into the black-and-white footage, displaying movement, electricity and elasticity in startling measures against relatively leaden-footed defenders.

Hence, my continued surprise that he only operated as a striker under the instruction of Sir Matt Busby when United were short in attack. I think of Law as the archetypal centre-forward (237 goals in 404 matches suggests as much) but he craved constant involvement in a play-making role so he could dominate games. “I wanted to be [Alfredo] Di Stefano,” he told me.

Falcao seems a different animal – ‘El Tigre’ arrived at United with a reputation for scoring goals from all angles and enjoying the art of finishing. We have seen glimpses of his obvious talent, the visionary cross for Robin van Persie’s header at Leicester, the instinctive shot against the bar in the same game and, of course, his alert finish against Everton.

The fans clearly already adore the Colombian and anticipate more goals on his return to the side. They are, after all, his currency. A calf problem has hampered his attempt to settle into Louis van Gaal’s team but he's raring to go again and show why he is rightly regarded as one of the top strikers in the world.

There is an aura surrounding the South American, a bone fida superstar who cuts an impressive figure and looks like the sort of guy who is constantly greeted by flashbulbs to capture his every move. Yet he is charming and good natured, always breaking into a smile and keen to acknowledge those around him.

An engaging personality, he is becoming more accustomed to his new surroundings, and speaks a decent level of English already. Not only could he understand the questions but his initial response on a couple of occasions was to reply in our language without thinking, before elaborating in Spanish to provide the depth that our upcoming Inside United magazine interview required.

Falcao leaned forward to emphasise his key points and his determination to succeed in Manchester, the disappointment he feels at sustaining the recent calf problem, and his desire to produce a flurry of goals, his stock-in-trade.

He appreciates he must do his talking on the pitch as he fulfills a long-held ambition to play in the Premier League. Although he missed Saturday's victory at Arsenal, he returned to full training on Sunday and his time to shine will surely come soon enough. There is little doubt, with his pedigree and assured nature, that our faith in Falcao will be fully vindicated.

Credit: manutd.com

Mata: Let's Maintain Our Good Streak

In his latest blog, Juan Mata hails a welcome victory for Manchester United but bemoans the injury to team-mate Luke Shaw...

Following Saturday’s victory, we had an intense training session on Sunday and we also reviewed the game in London. Now we are looking forward to our next two consecutive games at Old Trafford.

This win was very important, that’s for sure. Arsenal are a team that keep attacking the entire game, even more so when they play at home. They created good chances and it was tough, but we managed to bring the three points back to Manchester thanks to David [De Gea]’s great performance, Antonio [Valencia]’s shot that ended up in an own goal and Wayne [Rooney]’s clinical finish.

We are fourth now and we want to keep climbing the table. After two victories in a row, all we want now is to maintain this good streak. It’s not going to be easy against Hull and Stoke, but we hope to play two good games and win. The bad news was Luke Shaw’s injury and, unfortunately, we are suffering too many of them so far this season, but the most important thing is to keep winning games while we wait for the team-mates to be fully fit.

Music, movies and books

As I write this, I’m listening to Ludovico Einaudi. I always - or nearly always - update my blog with his music playing in the background; I like it and it’s very relaxing.

Thank you all for your recommendations about movies, you have good taste… ;-) I think the next classic film I’m going to watch will be Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’. These days I’m reading the biography of a sports legend, tennis to be precise, Andre Agassi.

Hugs to all of you Juan

Read the full blog, in which he also talks about Lionel Messi's goalscoring record and La Liga, at juanmata8.com.

Credit: manutd.com

Smalling: We're All In It Together

Manchester United's players were understandably jubilant as they left the Emirates Stadium on Saturday after a smash-and-grab win over Arsenal, and Chris Smalling says the morale-boosting first victory on the road this season will fuel a focused, positive atmosphere in training this week.

The 2-1 triumph, capped by Wayne Rooney's brilliant breakaway goal late on, was a cocktail of nerves, David De Gea brilliance and a little luck, but there was more than a pinch of persistence to put the team's pre-match plans into action too.

Smalling admits it was by no means a perfect performance and the post-game video analysis work will signal areas for improvement, but he says United's players are in it together and wins like Saturday's will only help the team go from strength to strength.

"It was a massive win," he told ManUtd.com. "We've played better than that away from home actually and not picked up the three points. So, analysing the game at the training ground, we'll see lots of things we could have done better, but we'll also look back and say it's an important three points. It's all positive for us and we want to take that into a positive week of training to improve even further."

The underlying story to United's display was a tactical discipline, according to the Reds defender, but even that required defensive heroism, at the hands of De Gea, or from yet another combination of centre-backs in front him, of which Smalling was the most experienced, flanked by youngsters Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett.

"I think the key to the win was our shape," adds Smalling. "We had to stay compact and keep our shape, but also a lot of people threw their bodies on the line for the team. There was real strength and solidarity in our commitment as a team because Arsenal had a lot of shots and they play the ball quickly around the penalty box. Time after time we put a block in and we really wanted to make sure we came away with a win."

The personnel changes, particularly in defence, can hardly come as a settling influence, but Smalling says it's been a case of make do and mend. "It's been our story this season," he says, "that we have had to change the team and the formation quite a lot. It's not ideal but we've had to make do. Against Arsenal, just as we have tried to do all season, we stuck together to get the result."

After the Reds moved up to fourth place in the Barclays Premier League table, the pertinent question is: what could United achieve with a fully fit squad?

"Each team thrives on a settled side," says Chris. "I think if you look at the teams towards the top of the table that's something they have benefitted from, maybe making just one or two changes each week. We don't have that luxury at the moment. But we'll stick together – all the players are in it as a group – and when we do get a settled side I think you'll start to see the consistency we're all striving for."

Louis van Gaal's Case For The Defence

Perhaps predictably, Louis van Gaal delivered the best line of the day as he reflected on how his side survived an early storm to beat Arsenal 2-1.

But there was nothing expected about the way his Manchester United side claimed their first away win of the season.

"If Arsenal had scored in the first 20 minutes then it is a different game," said the United boss. "And then maybe I have to respond to all the questions asking why I chose the three centre-backs. But now I can laugh."

The joke ended up being on Arsenal's attacking players rather than the unlikely trio of defenders that Van Gaal had picked - Chris Smalling, Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair - who surprisingly held out until Olivier Giroud's ferocious strike in stoppage time.

Saturday evening's defeat was not the same old story for the Gunners either - they did not take the lead this time, for starters.

And while we already knew that both teams are unlikely to mount a title challenge, there were still things to be learned from a game billed as the battle for fourth place.

It had taken United until the 85th minute to muster a shot on target, with Kieran Gibbs' bizarre own goal gifting them the lead before Wayne Rooney's late strike prevented the game finishing with that odd statistic.

As well as his first away win as United boss, this was arguably the first win under Van Gaal that had been earned by his defence.

Arsene Wenger was keen to point out that David De Gea was man of the match at Emirates Stadium but in truth the United keeper made a lot of saves he would be expected to make, rather than any truly outstanding ones.

Or as Van Gaal put it: "Most of his saves were from outside the area and from that distance the goalkeeper has more advantage than the player shooting."

The biggest reason De Gea's recently dislocated finger was not truly tested was United's makeshift backline, something few people expected to be saying before this game when they saw the team sheet with the names of Smalling, McNair and Blackett on it.

A fourth clean sheet of the season looked even less likely when one of the wing-backs, Luke Shaw, was forced off after 16 minutes to be replaced by Ashley Young - who according to his manager is not fully fit.

At that stage, Arsenal were rampant and it seemed a case of when they would score, not if. But instead of collapsing, United stood firm.

Smalling, who is not viewed as natural leader, marshalled the youngsters either side of him. In front of them, Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini added much-needed bite to midfield.

Together they earned Van Gaal a win that moved his side up to fourth in the table - something he seemed surprised about when he was told.

Credit: BBC Sport

Souness: Man. United Exploited Arsenal's Vulnerability

Arsenal’s vulnerability to the counter-attack is costing them, says Graeme Souness.

Arsene Wenger’s men were twice hit on the break by Manchester United on Saturday Night Football, and eventually slipped to a 2-1 defeat to their rivals at the Emirates.

Whilst the hosts racked up almost twice as many attempts on target as United and worked David de Gea nine times, they often left themselves short at the back and eventually paid the price, said Souness.

“We spoke about confidence before the game and that's what both these teams need,” said the Sky Sports pundit. “But Arsenal are going away with even less than what they started with after this.

“United had to rely on their goalkeeper but they grew into the game and became threatening in the second half, while again we come back to Arsenal’s vulnerability. When Arsenal get on the front foot, the empty spaces they leave behind them make them so vulnerable.

“It happens all the time. At 1-0 you’re still very much in the game. You must play like that, until the last minute when you have to go for it.

“They got picked off but they play like that when they’re winning 1-0! They leave empty spaces all the time. You have got to have someone who is willing to sacrifice themselves and fill spaces. If they had someone thinking like that a lot of their problems would be eliminated.”

Wayne Rooney chipped in United’s second after Kieran Gibbs had diverted Antonio Valencia’s drive into his own net and Souness said the England captain deserved his reward after a typically hard-working display.

The forward regularly dropped in to mark Arsenal playmaker Mikel Arteta when United didn’t have the ball, before breaking with Angel di Maria on the counter-attack.

“Rooney was very workmanlike and did a job for the team,” said Souness.

“I’d imagine Rooney is first on the training ground and last off the ground. He just loves football and that’s the way he plays. He’s quite happy just to be on the pitch. That was the case tonight. His job, his priority was to stop Arteta getting on the ball and doing things.

“He’s a goal-scorer and they like to see their names in the headlines on a Monday morning, but he’s also willing to do a job for the cause.”

Jamie Redknapp stopped short of suggesting United’s victory was a major turning point for Louis van Gaal’s side but he is confident, given the attacking firepower they possess, they will finish in the top four come the end of the season.

The win over Arsenal moved United into those Champions League-qualifying spots and Redknapp says they’ll be buoyed by taking all three points from a top-four rival.

“I think Manchester United will finish in the top four this year,” he said. “They’ve got quality going forward and not playing Champions League football week-in, week-out will help them.

“They could have been two or three down and were up against it in the first half hour, but this gives them confidence and this is a starting point.

“They’ve won five games this season and they’ll win more because of the quality they’ve got going forward.”

Credit: skysports.com

Van Gaal: I Was Right To Start Shaw

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal was frustrated to watch Luke Shaw suffer an injury during the first half of Saturday’s 2-1 win over Arsenal but insists he was right to start the in-form defender at the Emirates Stadium.

Shaw was initially a doubt for the Premier League tie after picking up a knock while playing for England against Scotland on Tuesday. But after a positive session at the Aon Training Complex on Friday, the boss decided he was fit enough for selection.

A late challenge from Shaw’s former Southampton team-mate Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain led to him being replaced by Ashley Young after 15 minutes in north London and, speaking afterwards, van Gaal was asked if he made the right choice of defenders.

“I am convinced that I made the right decision,” van Gaal explained in his post-match press conference. “This is the life of a manager, the result is always giving you the reason or not [to pick these players]. I cannot do other things because I don't have so many players.

“Shaw has come back from internationals not fit enough so we made him fit, but then he gets injured again. Then I have to give Young a game but Young is not fit enough to play 90 minutes. I have said this before. Then I have to change the line-up again.

“I think the players have done fantastic. Tyler Blackett, Paddy McNair and Luke Shaw, how old are they? So when you play against a team like Arsenal, a team that are always changing position, you have to have communication. I think that is pretty good, but I was not pleased with the overall performance.”

Van Gaal Hails Fantastic Victory Over Arsenal

Louis van Gaal hailed a “fantastic result” after his reshaped Manchester United team secured an invaluable 2-1 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Although the Gunners controlled much of the game, it was the Reds who took the lead when Kieran Gibbs converted into his own net on 56 minutes. Wayne Rooney then doubled the advantage with a fabulous chip before Olivier Giroud hit back in added time.

With a host of injuries to consider, the manager reverted to the 3-4-1-2 formation and his decision eventually paid dividends as United clinched a first away win of the season and climbed to fourth spot in the Barclays Premier League.

“It was a fantastic result,” said van Gaal in a post-match interview. “We had a lot of injuries and in spite of that we have won. In an away match, it is very difficult. Arsenal are a very good team, an attacking team and that I knew in advance.

“That is why I chose this strategy and at the end I can laugh, but at the same time, you can imagine that if Arsenal could have scored one of the four or five chances in the first half then maybe this would have been another game.”

Although van Gaal was clearly delighted to learn United are now among the Champions League places, the Dutchman was understandably cautious when asked if Saturday’s result could later be viewed as a turning point in the season as a whole.

“We have to wait and see,” he explained. “Of course, it is the first away victory so the players were very excited in the dressing room but, okay, it is only one victory. We have to confirm that with victories in the next two games that we play at home. Then we can say, okay, we have the spirit now and we will go looking at upstairs and not downstairs.”

Rooney Praises Game Plan After Arsenal Win

Wayne Rooney believes his Manchester United team-mates executed Louis van Gaal’s game plan to perfection on Saturday evening by securing a vital 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

The Reds set up to counter attack and were forced to defend for long periods of the game, but crucially broke the deadlock via a Kieran Gibbs own goal in the second half before Rooney chipped over Emiliano Martinez to cap a wonderful move on the break.

Although Olivier Giroud hit back in the fifth minute of injury time, United held on to record a morale-boosting win in the Barclays Premier League and Rooney was clearly enthused by his side’s performance when speaking after the final whistle.

“It was a very important victory,” said Wayne. “We weathered the storm at times, especially in the first half, and then we knew we could hit them on the counter attack, we knew they were vulnerable on the break and we did that.

“We rode our luck at times, our goalkeeper was fantastic for us today but we hit them with two good goals. It was quite a difficult game, they had a lot of possession but we hit them on the break and that was our game plan.

“We knew we had to get as many players into the defence as we could and we did that by putting five at the back. We had a bit of experience in myself, Michael and Fellaini in the midfield to try and protect them and I felt we did that well at times.

"We also knew we had the legs in terms of Robin [van Persie], Angel [di Maria] and myself joining in on the break, which we saw to good effect in the second half.”

United have moved up to fourth in the Barclays Premier League table and are 13 points off leaders Chelsea ahead of the important winter schedule. Rather than getting carried away, Rooney is focused on gleaning six points from the next two home matches against Hull City and Stoke City.

“We are taking each game as it comes,” the United captain insisted. “It has been a bit of an indifferent start for us this season and we hope now to go on a good run of games and judge the position we are in after Christmas.

“We have got two home games coming up [Hull and Stoke at Old Trafford] and we feel like we should be taking six points out of them. We want to try to build a bit of momentum going into the New Year so today was a massive result in terms of starting that.”

Young: Resilient Reds Did Homework On Arsenal

Ashley Young says Manchester United had to be resilient – and were a little fortunate – to be in a position to reap the rewards of a second-half counter-attacking plan at Arsenal.

En route to securing a first away win of the season, the Reds endured an early barrage from the Gunners and were thankful to David De Gea for a string of fine saves in the first period. Consequently confidence swelled after the interval and United were able to inflict a smash-and-grab 2-1 win.

"When you come to the Emirates you know it’s going to be a tough game and you’ve got to be resilient,” Young told MUTV. “We’re playing against an Arsenal team that play one-twos around the box but every man in our team defended well, from the forwards to the back line. When you get three points at Arsenal it’s a fantastic feeling, the dressing room was so happy.

“I think [resilience] is going to have to be [the key word]. Players like Paddy [McNair] and Tyler [Blackett] at the back were fantastic, and Chris [Smalling] as well. It's new for Tyler and Paddy to come to the Emirates but I thought they were great from the word go and it's not an easy job.

“Every man had to defend at some point and, in truth, we felt we were lucky to go in at half-time at 0-0. We came out in the second half and started to play, we got the goal and I didn't think Arsenal would score after that. We played on the counter-attack and got the second and might have got a third. We set out to get the three points and it's a great result.”

Attention to detail is vital on Louis van Gaal’s watch and United’s breakaway plans, cultivated beautifully in Wayne Rooney’s late goal, were not a spur of the moment thing. “We watched videos on Arsenal and you can see that you can hit them on the counter attack,” said Young. “That's why it was important to get the first goal. Once we got that goal there were chances to get even more. To get the win was brilliant.”

Rooney’s goal capped a great eight-day period for the United captain, after earning his 100th England cap and scoring three times on international duty.

"It's been a fantastic week for Wayne," added Ash. "I don't think he could have asked for a better week. It's always nice to see him going through on goal as you always fancy him to score and thankfully he did that. He was fantastic for the team but so were all the 11 players and the subs too.

"It was nerve-wracking towards the end and we were hoping to get the third goal. When you see Angel go through and miss, then Arsenal get one back, you start questioning the fourth official [for his timekeeping]! Thankfully we were resilient and made sure we won."

Ashley’s relatives were in the stadium, but as their allegiances lie with the Gunners, United's victory might not make him popular in the Young household for a while. "My family were up in the stands today, in the Arsenal end. But I'm not too bothered if they're not talking to me! They can talk to me tomorrow. It was brilliant to be involved. I didn't expect to be involved so early. We've got the three points and I'm happy with that."

Paul Ince: Selling Welbeck Is A Mistake

Former Manchester United captain Paul Ince believes his former club should not have let Danny Welbeck leave.

Welbeck, 23, who had been at Old Trafford since the age of eight, joined Arsenal for £16m in September.

"When he left Manchester United it was a shock. He has got pace to get behind teams and create gaps for others to exploit," Ince told BBC Radio 5 live.

"I think it was a bad, bad decision to let him go. He offers something different to what Manchester United have got.

"They haven't got pace - (Wayne) Rooney is not the quickest, neither is (Robin) van Persie and (Radamel) Falcao is injured.

"Since he has gone to Arsenal his performances have been fantastic. I don't think he has got anything to prove to Manchester United."

Welbeck scored 29 times in 142 United appearances, but since his move he has found the net five times for the Londoners in 12 appearances.

Rooney believes his former club-mate did the right thing by leaving United to join Arsenal.

"For Danny, and his own career, it was probably the best move for him," United captain Rooney told MUTV ahead of Saturday's trip to the Emirates.

"He's done great and scored a few goals. Danny gives you what he always gives you - a good shift."

Rooney, who played alongside Welbeck for England against Slovenia and Scotland in the recent international break, admits it will be strange playing against his former team-mate.

"Of course, Danny has been here all of his life," Rooney added. "He is a Manchester lad so it is weird seeing him there.

"At times, as I said to him, he works a bit too hard but he's scoring goals and he's doing well."

Van Gaal: January Arrivals Are Unlikely

Louis van Gaal has reiterated Ed Woodward’s assertion that it is unlikely Manchester United will make any signings during the January transfer window.

Woodward, the Reds’ executive vice-chairman, revealed earlier this week that the club have targets for next summer but insisted it is a "low probability" those players will be available in January, adding: "We are not looking for short-term fixes."

Van Gaal subsequently stated: "Ed did not say we should not buy; he said it's difficult in January to buy players who are of good enough quality for Manchester United. So because of that, we are not buying.

"And I agree with that, because if you buy a player, he has to be better than what you already have in your squad. It is very difficult to find such a player.

"I believe that is what he wanted to say and, believe me, we are speaking the same language."

Asked directly by journalists whether he is interested in signing Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman, van Gaal said: "I cannot discuss players with the media.

"I’m sorry, I cannot answer this question. And not only Strootman but all the players in this world. I cannot discuss it with you."

Premier League: Arsenal 1 Man. United 2

Manchester United's elusive search for a first away win in 2014/15 came to what had initially seemed like an unlikely end with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. A Kieran Gibbs own goal in the second half, Wayne Rooney's galloping breakaway effort in the 85th minute and, not for the first time, the heroics of David De Gea at the other end of the field earned the three points.

Antonio Valencia's low shot after 56 minutes was inadvertently deflected by Gibbs into his own net to give the Reds the lead, then Rooney finished off an incisive counter-attack to make it 2-0. Angel Di Maria could have made it 3-0 late on but missed a good chance and Olivier Giroud pulled a goal back to make it a nervy finish. But this was a commendable performance of persistence from United in testing circumstances.

With a host of ailments debilitating United’s squad, Louis van Gaal was again forced into personnel and formation changes – this time 3-4-1-2 – with Paddy McNair, Chris Smalling and Tyler Blackett forming a back three, with Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia occupying wide midfield positions. Even that lasted just 15 minutes as Shaw picked up a knock from a challenge by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Ashley Young replaced him as a left-back and United switched to 4-4-2.

Danny Welbeck, facing United for the first time since leaving Old Trafford in the summer, had a shot blocked in the fourth minute, before Per Mertesacker headed wide. Welbeck then missed the target with a header of his own and, with Arsenal cranking up the pressure, the former Reds forward teed up Jack Wilshere, who forced a brilliant point-blank range save from United’s outstanding no.1 De Gea.

United’s first opening came from a set-piece on 21 minutes as Rooney fired over the bar. It was rare relief from previous one-way traffic and United had De Gea to thank again when he forced Oxlade-Chamberlain wide in a one-on-one and saved the Arsenal man’s shot with an outstretched leg.

Wilshere was lucky to escape punishment after half-an-hour in an altercation with Marouane Fellaini, but referee Mike Dean chose instead to calm tempers by talking to both players. Although unconnected, that break in play signalled a change of pace for United. Di Maria produced the Reds’ best chance of the half when he cut inside from the right and steered a left-foot shot just wide of the post, while Rooney had a shot blocked and a series of United corners came and went to no avail.

Five minutes into the second half and De Gea once again denied the Gunners as he closed the angle on Welbeck’s shot and United were looking increasingly thankful to the Spaniard’s heroics between the posts, but little more than five minutes later the Reds were in front. Szczesny clashed with Gibbs when the Arsenal goalkeeper came to collect a cross and the loose ball fell to Valencia and his low shot deflected off Gibbs, who was lying prone on the floor, and diverted into the net. It was by no means pretty but United’s persistence in adversity paid off.

The collision with Gibbs forced Szczesny off, to be replaced by substitute keeper Emiliano Martinez on his Barclays Premier League debut, but still Arsenal were intent on finding an equaliser.

The last half an hour was a nervous affair until Rooney seemed to put the game out of sight, charging away at speed before dinking his finish over substitute goalkeeper Martinez. Di Maria's missed chance for an almost identical finish to Rooney could have proved costly when Giroud beat De Gea at his near post to give the Gunners a fighting chance of a draw. But the Reds held on for a morale-boosting first triumph on the road.

Confidence Key For Van Persie

As Manchester United prepare to visit Arsenal on Saturday Night Football, the man who has been the Premier League top scorer for both clubs finds himself under the spotlight for the wrong reasons. Adam Bate examines the stats to get to the bottom of Robin van Persie’s form…

Manchester United finished the first day of last season’s Premier League at the top of the table following a 4-1 win at Swansea in which Robin van Persie scored twice to make it a perfect start for David Moyes.

“A new manager but the same talisman,” wrote Jason Burt in the Telegraph. “RVP remains the league’s MVP.” Who could argue? His rising strike into the roof of the net late on appeared to herald a continuation of the previous season’s ruthless brilliance. Swansea were a match for United that day. They just didn’t have Van Persie.

Fast forward 15 months and any suggestion that he remains the Premier League’s best striker might feel absurd. There is no debate regarding whether the Dutchman is superior to Sergio Aguero or Diego Costa. In fact, the conversation has already turned to the future of young James Wilson and the possibility that he should be given the opportunity to liven up United’s attack.

The view that this decline in standing might be explained away simply by a glance at his birth certificate – Van Persie turned 31 in August – is more nuanced than some would suggest. The evidence is not clear and it seems the commonly-held view might not be the complete one.

Studying his movement in the flesh at the Hawthorns last month, the old runs were still being made and the statistics would appear to back that up. In the aforementioned Swansea game, Van Persie ran 10.18 kilometres and made 53 sprints. So far this season, he’s averaging 10.47km per game and making 54 sprints every 90 minutes. On the face of it, little has changed.

Curiously, the statistics actually indicate that the problem isn’t merely that Van Persie is failing to get into the positions to score. In fact, a significant factor in his diminished impact is as a result of what he’s doing – or not doing – when he gets there. “When he pulls the trigger it’s a goal all the way,” said Moyes after the Swansea brace. But that’s emphatically not been the case.

Of the 35 players who have scored three or more goals in the Premier League this season, Van Persie has the worst shot conversion rate of any of them – a miserable 13.6 per cent. By comparison, Costa is putting them away at an unsustainably daft rate of over 45 per cent.

It’s not about the quality of the opportunities either. A straightforward explanation might be that his United team-mates are failing to provide the service. And yet, according to Opta, Van Persie has scored just two of the six clear chances that have come his way so far this season. Again the comparison with Costa, who has converted 10 and missed just one, is particularly unfavourable.

Fewer quality chances and failing to score when they do arrive; it’s a worrying combination that hints at inexorable decline. But there is a sense in which the difficulties are psychological rather than physical. While the question of motivation has been raised, it seems that for a player once heralded as understanding his own game better than most, decision-making has become an issue.

Perhaps it is telling that his shooting accuracy is actually higher now than in his 2012/13 season when he was the country’s top scorer. Hitting the target might be solid advice everywhere from the park to the lower leagues, but at the highest level there’s money to be made in finding the corners. The more Van Persie concentrates on just hitting the target, the less he finds the back of the net.

“Three goals in nine games is not enough,” the player himself told Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant last week. “Against Chelsea I had a nice chance and I had three options: chip it, go round the keeper or just straight at the goal. I chose the last and safest. If I wouldn't have thought it over I would just chip it. I just have to trust again in my intuition.”

Of course, there’s a fine line between recognising a problem and overthinking it. However, it is encouraging that Van Persie is not resigned to the slide and is instead working to solve it. Perhaps there is reassurance too in knowing that for all the aches and pains, if he’d converted the clear chances missed, only Costa, Aguero and Alexi Sanchez would be above him in the scoring charts.

Can Van Persie bounce back? Sir Alex Ferguson once compared his impact at Manchester United to that of Eric Cantona and after scoring in odd-goal wins over Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal in that title-winning season it was understandable.

But Cantona’s United career was over at 30 and Van Persie has work to do to avoid people drawing similar conclusions about his own time at Old Trafford. A decisive performance against his old club on Saturday would be a good place to start.

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Steve Round: Rooney Will Break Goalscoring Records

Former Manchester United assistant manager Steve Round believes Wayne Rooney will become a record-breaking goalscorer for his club and country.

Rooney is pursuing Sir Bobby Charlton on both of those fronts and is currently three behind Charlton for the national side and 30 short of his Old Trafford record of 249.

Round, who was assistant to David Moyes during his ill-fated tenure in charge at United, thinks the 29-year-old Rooney is adding a greater maturity to his game and can become a legend for both teams.

“I’ve seen him mature as a person and as a footballer,” Round told Sky Sports News HQ. “If you look at his record, he has to be an automatic pick for England.

“The only thing left for him is legacy - he’s won everything. He’s been injured in one or two tournaments and the team hasn’t hit the ground running.

“If he gets the chance on the world stage again, he will do us proud. He’s a terrific footballer and he could break every record.

“By the time he’s finished his career he could have every record in the bag and be one of the greatest players that has played for Manchester United and for England.”

Boss Provides Injury Update For Arsenal Test

Louis van Gaal has delivered mixed news for Manchester United fans around the world by suggesting Angel Di Maria, David De Gea and Michael Carrick will be fit to face Arsenal on Saturday, while also hinting that Daley Blind could be side-lined with a serious knee injury sustained in the international break.

At the beginning of this week, the Reds had no fewer than 12 first-team players who were doubtful to face the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium. While speaking at the Aon Training Complex on Thursday afternoon, the manager provided an update on his depleted squad’s fitness.

“It's difficult to say if anyone is back because we have to wait for Friday's training session to decide if they're back,” van Gaal told reporters. “But they’re not coming back in the squad - that's a different thing. My philosophy is that you have to train at least one week with the squad, better two. But if you see our circumstances, we maybe have to bring players back to the squad.”

Expanding on his point, the boss said: “Di Maria has trained today normally so I don't think that is a question mark, but Shaw is. De Gea is good, no problem. I think I have to wait for the reaction in training with Carrick, but I also expect he's ready to play.

"Blind is not ready to play. He has now a brace on his knee, 10 days' rest, then we have to make another scan and we can say more about his injury. It's not so bad as the doctors are thinking after the match, but it shall be a long story, I believe, but not six months or something."

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Di Maria Injury Not Serious

Argentina coach Gerardo Martino is hopeful the foot injury suffered by Angel di Maria in their friendly with Portugal is 'nothing serious'.

Manchester United winger di Maria was taken to hospital for X-rays after being caught on the foot by Nani - on loan from United at Sporting Lisbon - during the first-half of Tuesday's friendly international at Old Trafford.

The £59.7m signing carried on playing until he was replaced on the hour mark, although Martino confirmed after the game he had needed to go for a scan.

But he allayed fears di Maria could be looking at a spell on the sidelines, saying: "We don't think it is anything serious. It was quite a tough blow that he took.

"It was a tough knock. It cut the skin a little bit. But we have had a look at it and we are evaluating the situation.

"We are having a look at some X-rays, some images that have been taken but in spite of that we don't think it is too serious."

The Argentina star hopes he will be fit to face Arsenal on Saturday and later wrote on Twitter: “It was just a blow. I hope it does not swell anymore so I can play at the weekend.”

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Van Gaal's Injury Concerns For Arsenal Test

Louis van Gaal could face a major selection headache for Saturday’s trip to Arsenal, with no fewer than 12 Manchester United players potentially battling injuries after the international break.

David De Gea is a doubt to face the Gunners after dislocating his finger while training with Spain ahead of their Euro 2016 qualifier against Belarus. The Spaniard was not sent back to the Aon Training Complex for treatment, however, which could be a positive sign for Reds supporters.

Meanwhile, the manager will definitely be without summer signing Marcos Rojo at the Emirates Stadium after he dislocated his shoulder in the Manchester derby. There are question marks over Rafael, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans, while Luke Shaw could miss out after taking a knock in England’s 3-1 win over Scotland.

Midfield enforcer Daley Blind will watch from the stands after suffering what looked like a serious knee injury in Holland’s 6-0 win over Latvia and Michael Carrick is struggling for fitness after leaving the England camp with a groin problem. There were also concerns over Angel Di Maria after he took a kick to the ankle from Nani during Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Portugal at Old Trafford, while long-term absentees Ashley Young and Jesse Lingard are both still on the treatment table.

Van Gaal has fewer problems up front with Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and James Wilson all passing through the break unscathed. Radamel Falcao is the only doubt, though the Colombian is reportedly closing in on a return to action following a three-match absence with a calf injury.

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Nani Still Sees United As His Home

Nani admits he still sees Manchester United as his home after returning to help Portugal earn a 1-0 victory over Argentina in Tuesday's international friendly.

The winger is currently on loan at his former club Sporting Lisbon and has been performing well in his homeland.

"It's always a pleasure to come to Old Trafford and play a game of football," he told MUTV. "It's always a great feeling and so exciting to come here and enjoy this game - especially when I know it is my home.

"Most of the supporters are United supporters so I was very happy to be here. I am feeling good. Like I said in the beginning, I wanted to go to play more to get at my best and things are going well.

"I'm working hard to be at my best. I just want to continue to work very hard and play well."

Nani is keeping an eye on how things are unfolding under new boss Louis van Gaal.

"Of course," he explained. "I continue to follow Manchester United every day. The team are not doing very well [in the table] but I am very confident the future will be better."

Woodward Plays Down Talk Of January Moves

Manchester United are unlikely to make any signings in the January transfer window, says the club's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.

He added the situation might change if any long-term targets became available but said they would not consider "short-term fixes".

United spent just over £150m in the last window, including a club record £59.7m on winger Angel Di Maria.

They are currently seventh in the Premier League table.

"We are not looking to enter the market for short-term fixes," said Woodward, speaking on the day United posted a 9.9% fall in revenue to £88.7m for the three months to the end of September, which reflected "absence from the Champions League".

"However, we have targets we are looking at for next summer.

"Should any of them become available in January, which is obviously rare, we will consider acting. But it is a low probability."

During the summer transfer window, United also bought Ander Herrera (£28m), Luke Shaw (£27m), Marcos Rojo (£16m) and Daley Blind (£13.8m), as well as spending £6m to bring in Radamel Falcao on loan.

However, they have been hit by a succession of injuries, most recently to midfielder Blind and goalkeeper David De Gea.

Manchester United Reveal Sharp Drop In Revenue As Lack Of Champions League Football Bites

Manchester United's first-quarter revenue fell 9.9% compared with the same period last year, figures have revealed.

United's overall income for the first three months of the financial year was £88.7m, down £9.8m, but the club did record a profit of £8.9m.

Failure to qualify for this season's Champions League meant big reductions in both broadcasting and matchday revenue, down 13% and 21.8% respectively, while money from commerical activity was down 5.2%.

But the lack of European football did not prevent United securing a record kit deal during the quarter, and chief executive Ed Woodward predicted further "growth opportunities" as the financial year progresses.

He said: "While we recognise that the 2014/15 fiscal year financial results will reflect our absence from the Champions League, we signed the largest kit sponsorship deal in the history of sport in the first quarter.

"With that concluded, we are excited to focus our efforts on the meaningful growth opportunities in sponsorship, digital media and retail and merchandising."

Sports business consultant David Bick told Sky Sports News HQ the results should be of concern to the club's shareholders and warned a prolonged spell out of the Champions League would have a knock-on effect on the £750m Adidas kit deal that kicks in next summer.

He said: "Certainly it's a record deal, worth an average of £75m a year, but there will be a rub and that is there will almost certainly be a penalty clause in that contract in the event that they don't qualify for the Champions League.

"Last season they earned 47-8m euros just from the additional media rights, then you have to add on matchday revenue and commercial revenue.

"If they don't qualify I think that Adidas deal will come down quite considerably, and it won't compensate for the loss of the other side of the revenue. It comes back to the fundamental - if you're normally a regular Champions League participant then being out of it carries severe financial penalties."

Manager Louis van Gaal has suggested it might take three years to revive United. Bick said: "My anaylsis suggests if you're out (of the Champions league) for more than two years it starts to have a very serious impact. In purely financial terms they can't afford to wait three years."

David de Gea Ignoring Real Madrid Rumours

David de Gea is aware of rumours linking him with Real Madrid but is ignoring them as he feels 'loved' at Manchester United.

The 24-year-old knows all about the pressures and prestige of competing in the Spanish capital, having moved to Old Trafford from Atletico Madrid in 2011.

He initially struggled to get to grips with the Premier League, with concerns raised as to his ability to deal with the physicality of life in England.

De Gea has, however, silenced his critics and emerged as one of United’s most consistent performers and one of European football’s top goalkeepers.

Unsurprisingly, his efforts have been noted back in his homeland, with Real seeking a long-term successor to club icon Iker Casillas.

De Gea is reading little into the speculation, though, as he remains under contract until 2016 and is thoroughly enjoying his time at United.

He told La Sexta: "It is difficult to say whether a bid will be made by Real, because of all the rumours that appear in the press.

"In Manchester I feel wanted. If you took seriously what is written about you, you'd almost think you're going to a thousand clubs.

"So the best you can do is pay attention to where you are. I feel very loved by Man United."

Blind Suffers Suspected Knee Ligament Damage In Holland Match

Manchester United midfielder Daley Blind suffered suspected knee ligament damage during Holland’s 6-0 win over Latvia.

The 24-year-old, who joined from Ajax in the summer, limped off after a challenge by Eduards Visnakovs in the 20th minute and United will be anxiously awaiting the results of an MRI scan on Monday.

Manager Guus Hiddink gave a grim assessment of the injury when asked about Blind following the final whistle in Amsterdam.

"I'm rather negative," he said. "I think it's a medial ligament that is twisted. It might be a rupture."

Blind himself later posted on his Instagram account: "I'm proud of my 25 games for the Dutch national team, but I'm so gutted with my injury... I'll stay positive (and) will come back stronger! Nevertheless a great win, 6-0!"

Blind has produced some commanding displays in United's midfield and his prolonged absence would be a major blow for manager Louis van Gaal.

The Dutchman had deployed his £14m signing as an emergency central defender following injuries to Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo and the suspension of Chris Smalling.

Van Gaal already had concerns over the fitness of Michael Carrick, who pulled out of the England squad with a groin injury, while goalkeeper David De Gea dislocated his finger in training with Spain.

United have moved up to seventh in the Premier League, despite a stuttering start, but face a tough trip to Arsenal this weekend.

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Carrick Calls For Patience

Michael Carrick says everyone connected with Manchester United must get used to a more patient approach under Louis van Gaal.

United supporters have grown accustomed to seeing opponents blown away, with a glittering era of success enjoyed under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Things have moved on, though, with a transitional period, started by David Moyes and taken up by Van Gaal, leaving the Old Trafford outfit as a work in progress.

United have had to alter their tactics accordingly, despite bringing in the likes of Angle di Maria and Radamel Falcao, and Carrick hopes fresh thinking will be embraced by those on and off the field.

The England midfielder said in the Daily Mail: “The philosophy is different in that he is happy for us to keep the ball for long spells to get in the game, and get rhythm in our game.

“Whereas before, especially at home with the crowd as well, it's always been a case of trying to attack as quickly as possible with speed and penetration, and even if you give the ball away a few times, keep trying it.

“It's just a different way of approaching the game really, there is no right or wrong, just different beliefs I suppose.

“It's fine for the players, we adapt, we see it every day and are learning all the time. It is more for the fans as well, to appreciate it and to be fair, they have been great.

“Sometimes when you are keeping the ball, they might think they want us to put it straight into attack. But there is a meaning to it as well, it's not like we are just keeping the ball for the sake of it. So that is something we all have to get used to.

“The manager is obviously firm in what he wants and the standards he's got. It is up to us to hit them really and if we don't, he lets us know which is fine. That is the way it should be.

“I think the secret of being a manager at that level as he has been for a number of years is to know when to have that strong aura, and when to be more friendly and approachable. You need that barrier because that is what creates the respect and get people to respond to you.”

United have endured a rough ride under Moyes and at the start of Van Gaal’s tenure, but Carrick believes the future is bright and that positive progress will soon be made up the Premier League standings.

He added: “We have had ups and downs but hopefully that is in the past, that is over. We don't want too many ups and downs, we certainly don't want any downs.

“We want to try and keep progressing, we feel like we are but as I said before it's results that show so now is the time we really need to get a run of results together, to build the momentum to get up that league.”