Will Power

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Bournemouth Vs Man. United: How Do They Compare?

They'll be playing each other next season - but how do Bournemouth and Manchester United compare?

Bournemouth virtually sealed promotion to the Premier League on Monday night, meaning the south coast side will come face-to-face with England's elite next season.

Boss Eddie Howe described the club's rise from the depths of the fourth-tier and the brink of extinction to Premier League new boys as an "amazing journey". A comparison with Manchester United demonstrates the scale of their achievement...

Seasons in England's top flight

Bournemouth: 0

Manchester United: 90

For all but five of Bournemouth's 116-year history, they have played in or below the third tier and last season's 10th-placed Championship finish was a club record. In contrast, Manchester United have enjoyed 90 seasons in the top flight since 1888/89 and are currently on a 40-season run in England’s elite division.

Last week, Sky Sports' Ultimate League, which listed the average finishing positions of English clubs over the past 50 years, placed United second, with an average placing of 4.9. Bournemouth were 62nd, with an average placing of 59.8.

Stadium capacity

Bournemouth: 12,000

Manchester United: 75,635

Bournemouth may be one of the best teams in the Championship this season but their Goldsands Stadium has the lowest capacity in the second tier. Chairman Jeff Mostyn has spoken of his aim to increase the capacity from 12,000 to 18,000. However, even that total would fall below the lowest capacity in the Premier League this season - 18,439 at QPR's Loftus Road.

Bournemouth have an average attendance this season of 10,265. Manchester United's Old Trafford, meanwhile, can hold 75,635 - second only to Wembley in England and in the top 10 football stadiums in Europe. Their average is a Premier League-high 75,329.

Six seasons ago...

Bournemouth: Finished 21st in League Two

Manchester United: Premier League, League Cup champions, Champions League runners-up

Bournemouth were facing relegation to non-league - and potential extinction - at the end of the 2008/09 season. However, heroics from record appearance-maker Steve Fletcher 10 minutes from time against Grimsby sealed a 2-1 win to preserve their Football League status. The striker - whose winner was his 100th league goal - later had a stand named after him at Dean Court.

While Bournemouth were scrapping for their existence, Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United were enjoying a stellar season, beating Tottenham on penalties to win the League Cup before wrapping up a third Premier League title in a row to equal Liverpool's record total of 18 championships. United even had the chance to round off a near-perfect season in the Champions League final against Barcelona, but finished runners-up after a 2-0 defeat in Rome.

Transfer record

Bournemouth: Reported £3m for Callum Wilson

Manchester United: £59.7m for Angel di Maria

Bournemouth splashed the cash on Coventry striker Callum Wilson last summer. The 23-year-old has repaid the club in impressive fashion, scoring 20 Championship goals and 23 in 49 appearances in all competitions.

Manchester United broke the British transfer record in the same window to land Real Madrid attacker Angel di Maria. The Argentine started in impressive fashion with three goals in his first five games but has found himself used as a substitute in the second half of the season.

Finances

Bournemouth: £5.1m turnover (2012/13)

Manchester United: £433.2m (2013/14)

In the financial year ending July 2013, Bournemouth made £5.1m in annual turnover - but lost £15.3m. The statement - which included their promotion to the Championship - also highlighted an £8.7m loan from Russian owner Max Demin. The club made a loss of just £3.4m the year before. Chairman Mostyn said: "Success requires investment."

Those numbers are miniscule compared with Manchester United, though. United announced in September a record revenue of £433.2m for 2013/14, including profits of £23.8m. However, in February, in the club's latest quarterly results, it was revealed United's debt has risen to £380.5million.

Credit: Skysports.com

Real Ponder Hernandez Future

Real Madrid are considering activating their purchase option to sign on-loan Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez.

Hernandez moved to the Bernabeu on a season-long loan last summer and found his first-team opportunities limited until last week, when Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was hit with several injuries to key players.

The 26-year-old has stepped up to the plate in magnificent fashion, scoring three decisive goals in two important games, and Madrid are now weighing up the possibility of signing him on a permanent basis.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Madrid’s purchase option, which is set at €20m, must be activated by Thursday.

However, Madrid are unwilling to meet that valuation and want to negotiate a new deadline and fee with Manchester United.

United are thought to be open to extending the deadline to allow more time for Madrid to make a decision.

Credit: Skysports.com

Manchester United Launches On WeChat

Manchester United has today announced details of an exciting new presence on WeChat, the largest and fastest growing social messaging platform in China.

The Chinese-language social messaging service will allow users to access Manchester United news, videos and imagery direct to their mobile phones and share with friends.

The launch on WeChat is the latest reinforcement to the Club’s leading position on China’s social media scene. Manchester United is currently the most followed sports club on Sina Weibo and Tencent Weibo, two of the country’s most popular social media platforms, with a combined following of over 13 million users.

Manchester United’s Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold, said: "Manchester United is always striving to find new ways to engage with our fans around the world and the launch on WeChat in China is another exciting development in our social media offering.

"The Club’s 107 million followers in China have already demonstrated their huge passion for United by making us the most followed sports club on our existing platforms and I’m sure this new WeChat service will experience similar success and help bring fans closer to the Club."

Manchester United Announce Tour Schedule


Manchester United has today announced the schedule for the club’s pre-season tour of the United States. Tour 2015, presented by Aon, will see the team play four matches against Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Club America and San Jose Earthquakes across the US this July. These matches are part of the International Champions Cup, a tournament that United won during last summer’s tour of the United States.

The tour starts with a match against Mexico City-based Club America on Friday 17 July at Seattle’s CenturyLink Field.

United will then play local MLS team San Jose Earthquakes, who United legend George Best famously played for in the 1980s, on Tuesday 21 July. The venue for this match will be announced in the coming weeks.

The third fixture of the tour on Saturday 25 July will see United face Barcelona at Santa Clara’s Levi’s Stadium, a brand new venue that was only opened in July 2014.

United’s trip concludes with a match against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday 29 July at Chicago’s Soldier Field. The club is very familiar with the city having first visited Chicago in the summer of 1950.

Manchester United group managing director, Richard Arnold, said: “Manchester United has a great history of visiting these US cities, creating memorable experiences for players and fans that date back as far as the 1950s. Tour 2015, presented by Aon, will allow the team to train at some of the best facilities in the world and play in front of thousands of passionate US supporters at first-class stadiums.

“After this month’s Manchester derby broke records to become the most-watched Premier League match in US cable television history, the club is excited to be returning to the United States at a time when the appetite for football is greater than ever.”

Aon is the presenting partner of Manchester United’s Tour 2015, offering its expertise in risk management, insurance, reinsurance brokerage and human resources solutions.

Aon president and chief executive officer, Greg Case, said: "We are very excited that Manchester United is returning to the United States this summer, as it is a great opportunity to showcase our shared values of teamwork and the pursuit of excellence in one of our largest markets.

"Our global partnership with Manchester United allows us to bring the team closer to our clients, prospects and colleagues in the US and reinforces the parallels between sport and business that serve as the foundation of our partnership with the club. Throughout Tour 2015, presented by Aon, we will be bringing those parallels to life through a variety of local market client engagements that highlight our capabilities in risk, retirement, health, talent, data and analytics and capital.”

This year’s International Champions Cup will be decided via a league format with each team playing four matches and the club with the most points at the end of the tournament will be crowned champions.

Tickets for the matches will go on pre-sale on 4 May 2015 and general sale from 7 May 2015. For more information on Tour 2015, presented by Aon, including how to register for tickets, visit www.manutd.com/tour2015

Credit: manutd.com

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Who's In Shaw's 5-a-side Team?

Luke Shaw reveals who scored the best goal he's seen in training and which Reds team-mates would join him in his ideal 5-a-side team...

What is your favourite part of training?
The quick and sharp games like five versus five and six versus six.

Who would join you in your ideal 5-a-side team?
Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. Someone at the back with me so I’d go with Marcos Rojo and then someone else for the midfield - it would have to be Marouane Fellaini.

There has been a debate over who is the fastest player at the club – Ashley Young thought it could be you but who would you nominate?
Antonio Valencia, maybe. I think it’s me, Antonio or Angel Di Maria.

Have you been working on anything specific in the gym?
I do work a lot on power with my legs and do a lot of leg weights. Obviously, I focus on the upper body as well and a lot of core work too – you do different things in the gym.

Do you use any technology to analyse your performances in training?
Sometimes, when you go in afterwards you have a good think about the session and stuff like that but I mainly concentrate on working as hard as I can in the session.

Who scored the best goal you have ever seen in training?
I think I’ll say Angel Di Maria’s goal in the first few weeks after he joined the club. It was from outside of the box, with his right foot and he smashed it into the corner. That is probably the best goal I have seen so far.

What is the best goal you have ever scored in training?
There aren’t many contenders really! I can’t really remember any amazing goals. Obviously, I score with the odd shot along the floor or something like that will go in but I’ve not hit an unbelievable goal yet. I’m sure next time you ask me, I’ll have one. I hope so!

Fellaini: I Never Lost My Quality During First Man. United Season

Marouane Fellaini says his fruitful time at Everton was too "quickly forgotten" after a poor first season at Manchester United, but insists his confidence is back at Old Trafford.

Fellaini was David Moyes' first signing after Sir Alex Ferguson left the club in the summer of 2013, but had a season to forget as United finished seventh in the Premier League.

The £27.5million signing played just 16 times in the top-flight, and was linked with several clubs last summer at a cut price.

But under Louis van Gaal, the Belgium international has found confidence and is now a major part of United's style of play, and Fellaini says he never lost his ability, only his belief.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, Fellaini said: "I'm happy. I have to continue like that, to show what I can do for my team-mates. For me, that's the most important thing.

"[Joining United] was new for me. It was difficult. A lot of people criticised me, but people they forget quickly I played five great seasons and one year.

"Some people said I lost my football. It's not that. OK, I lost a bit of my confidence... it was not a great season for me, but it's good for the future because I learned a lot about that."

Speaking ahead of his return to former club Everton on Super Sunday, Fellaini says his return to the squad in the 2-2 draw at West Brom in October gave him a new lease of life.

Fellaini scored moments after being brought on at half-time in the Hawthorns clash, and from then on he has been one of the key contributors to United's upturn in form.

"I came back in the squad and the manager said to me 'you have to show'. After that, my confidence grew and I showed my quality," added Fellaini.

"For me, the team have to press well. We have to be available from the goal kick, to be in the box and I must win my physical challenges."

Credit: Skysports.com

Who Should United Sign?

Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas believes Manchester United should make Gareth Bale their top transfer target this summer, while insisting they also have attacking and defensive issues to address.

Louis van Gaal's men had their resurgent run of six straight wins ended with back-to-back defeats to Chelsea and Everton over the last two weekends, raising questions as to whether they are ready to compete for the title next season.

Borussia Dortmund's Mats Hummels has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, while David de Gea's future has attracted speculation amid reported interest from Real Madrid.

However, Nicholas believes United's priority should be landing Real's world-record signing Bale, following a tough second season at the Bernabeu for the Welshman.

Break the bank for Bale

"If you want to make a serious statement, then you need to throw everything at getting Gareth Bale," he said.

"He's the sort of player that can create a massive excitement and help United make an immediate impact when they return to the Champions League.

"I think Bale would be open to returning to the Premier League, even if he wouldn't say it.

"United can say to him, 'you've been successful in Spain winning the Champions League but after your ups and downs, you can come here and be our Ronaldo, rather than playing second fiddle'.

"They need to offload Di Maria, who came in and offered a lot of energy but now doesn't seem totally committed like he did at Real Madrid."

Striking option

"I also feel United need another striker, somebody whose job will be just to stick the ball in the net," said Nicholas.

"I don't think Falcao fits into the system so I don't seem them keeping hold of him. I would keep Van Persie but I don't think he'll come back the same again.

"I like players who are ruthless in the box and (Gonzalo) Higuain ticks that box for me. When Arsenal missed out on him two seasons ago, I was gutted. He's not a great footballer but he knows what to do when he gets the chance to score."

Carrick the key

"Then you look at midfield. I don't think they’re really struggling in that department but Daley Blind isn't a top holding midfielder. Michael Carrick is definitely their best player in that position when fit."

Defensive difficulties

"Defensively there are still issues," added Nicholas. "Chris Smalling has definitely improved but they need another centre-back.

"Sir Alex Ferguson tended to buy partnerships. He went for Chris Smalling and Phil Jones as cover for Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

"There are a few options that I like the look of; obviously Mats Hummels comes into the equation, Miranda at Atletico Madrid, while Sevilla's left-back Benoit Tremoulinas could be another option that they'll look at."

Replacing De Gea

"If David de Gea leaves for Real Madrid, then you go out and get Petr Cech, if Chelsea are willing to sell to a rival club that is.

"He’s the sort of player that can come in and provide the sort of presence which will make the defence feel settled."

Credit: Skysports.com

Carragher: United Undone

Jamie Carragher believes teams have started to work out a way to beat Manchester United after Everton inflicted a second straight Premier League defeat on Louis van Gaal's side.

United enjoyed long spells of possession at Goodison Park but struggled to create any real openings as Everton ran out 3-0 winners thanks to goal from James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas.

The game followed a similar patter to United's defeat to Chelsea last week and Carragher thinks Roberto Martinez paid close attention to Jose Mourinho's tactics to help steer his side to victory.

"We've been very complimentary about Manchester United in the last few weeks," Carragher, speaking on Super Sunday, said.

"Louis van Gaal has got a system, a way of playing but in the last week it looks like teams have come up with a way of playing against them. They are saying: have the ball.

"This is Roberto Martinez. Jose Mourinho is that type of manager but with Roberto Martinez, his teams would never normally have such low possession.

"But against United, they accepted they'll have the ball and decided to hit them on the counter-attack."

Carragher was full of praise for Everton's midfield trio of McCarthy, Gareth Barry and Ross Barkley and insists they were the key reason behind the Toffees' third consecutive home win against United.

He added: "In the midfield areas, there was a job that was done last week by Zouma on Fellaini. I think Gareth Barry did a similar job today but the fact James McCarthy got the man of the match and Barry was in the running was the job they did.

"It wasn't just Fellaini in this midfield for United; it's the job of Herrera as well. McCarthy looked after him, as did Ross Barkley. You wouldn't say he had his greatest game in terms of being on the ball and going forward but how disciplined he was. His job was to stop Daley Blind.

"Those three players were virtually doing man-marking jobs and the three of them did it excellently. That's where they got the win from because they won the ball back quickly and could counter-attack.

"It looks like teams are looking at Manchester United and thinking how to stop them. Chelsea and Everton have come up with a way, certainly in those midfield areas."

Graeme Souness also believes teams have found a way of stopping the threat of United by shackling Marouane Fellaini.

The Belgium international has been a key figure in United's surge up the table but Souness believes Chelsea - and now Everton - have toppled United by nullifying the threat of the former Everton midfielder.

"If you go back a week, Van Gaal said after the Chelsea game that it was the best his team have played since his time at Manchester United," Souness told Sky Sports.

"We highlighted Fellaini before the game and how much of the attacking side of Manchester United is down to him. He is a real threat for them when he gets in the final third.

"The threat was taken away last week with Kurt Zouma man-marking him and this week he gets himself in trouble early on. It looks like he could get sent off so he's been taken off and the threat is gone.

"He is such a large part of Man United when they get in the last third. Have they learnt how to play against Man United? Take care of Fellaini and you’re a long way to taking care of them."

Credit: Skysports.com

Gary Neville: United Were Toothless

Gary Neville believes Manchester United looked "toothless" in attack in their 3-0 defeat against Everton, and reiterated the importance of Michael Carrick's role to the side.

United slumped to their second successive loss at Goodison Park as they continued their poor run of results against the Toffees.

Their third defeat in a row at Goodison saw United put their hopes of a top four finish in jeopardy, but it was the nature of their performance which displeased Neville, speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the most.

“It was a strange game, and you would have thought that both teams had nothing to play for in some ways,” Neville said.

“The atmosphere was strange all day long. Usually when Everton are beating Manchester United the place would be bouncing.

“United were toothless, and that is being kind.

“I didn’t really see them try and dribble past a player, make any forward runs.

“At times they were not getting enough men in the box and the final pass was poor.

“It is the worst I have seen United play for five or six weeks.

“They have been playing so well. Even in defeat at Stamford Bridge last week they played really well.

“Today it wasn’t there. It was Everton who had the cutting edge. It was through Lennon, Lukaku and Mirallas when he came on who looked the ones most dangerous to break through either defence.

“For a long time United have had a good record at Everton but certainly not in the last three seasons.

“Last season was such a poor performance. I don’t think United were that bad today, despite it being a worse result.

“Today United just didn’t come to terms with how they had to play the game. They needed to show more urgency."

United looked vulnerable through the middle at Goodison without the injured Michael Carrick to protect the back four.

The influence of the England midfielder cannot be underestimated. United have won 72.2 per cent of the matches that Carrick has started but just 37.5 per cent of encounters without him in the team, and Neville feels United are a different side without the veteran.

“When Michael Carrick doesn’t play, their record without him shows he is missed,” Neville added.

“It is not just the control and composure, but it is his forward passes, he just moves the ball forward into good areas quickly.

“When United won the ball back today they didn’t get the ball forward quick enough.

“Michael Carrick does that. Even if it is only a 10-yard pass, he gets the move moving in the right way.

“They miss him badly, they really do. It is no coincidence they have lost the last two games without him.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Souness: Offside Rule 'Unfair'

Sky Sports pundits Graeme Souness and Thierry Henry both agree there is currently too much ambiguity over the offside rule in the aftermath of Everton’s 3-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday.

Roberto Martinez's side recorded their biggest victory over United in 23 years at Goodison Park, but there was some controversy over the nature of the home team’s final goal scored by Kevin Mirallas.

The Belgium took advantage of how the law is at present to run on to an overhit Ross Barkley through-ball intended for Romelu Lukaku, clearly standing in an offside position, before beating United goalkeeper David de Gea.

As both Souness and Henry pointed out after the match, though, it is hard to actually criticise United’s defence for their part in the goal, with centre-back Chris Smalling reading the play well by stepping up and catching Lukaku offside.

However, the issue arose because despite the Everton striker clearly being in an offside position when the ball was played, with United’s back four stopping as a result, Mirallas - lurking behind an unaware Antonio Valencia - was not.

And it is that confusion which the duo believe is unfair on defenders.

"There’s too much of a grey area now," said Souness. "People who do not understand football historically say they do not understand the offside rule. I’m beginning to think like that now, I’m not quite sure.

"There’s too much discretion. It’s left up to the referee and the linesman and I think United are entitled to feel hard done by there. The rules say that can happen, but I think it’s unfair on the defenders.

"If you work with a back four the idea of staying up the pitch is to make sure you are always in contact with your midfield and your midfield are in contact with you strikers. You are always compact going up and down.

"That is a fundamental rule, but there’s so much greyness attached to it now, it’s very difficult for defenders."

Former Arsenal forward Henry agreed with Souness’s viewpoint, although he did admit United’s defence were wrong to just stop playing in the build-up to Mirallas’s goal and that the midfielder’s strike was legitimate under the present rules.

"Everton were fortunate," Henry said. "You want to give the striker the benefit of the doubt. We want to see goals, but Smalling’s doing what you want to see a centre-back do.

"Obviously Mirallas carries on and scores a goal but when you look at it from a different angle, that ball is being played to Lukaku. Therefore Smalling stepping up holds a great line.

"The defence did well and Smalling did well catching Lukaku offside. I repeat that ball was played to Lukaku. That should be offside and they all stop. Now you shouldn’t do that because we all know the rule and that’s a good goal at the end of the day.

"I’m just saying, to help the defenders out, it was great movement from Smalling and he recognises the ball is for Lukaku and steps out."

Credit: Skysports.com

Steve Round: Warm-ups 'Crucial' For Coaches

Former Everton and Manchester United assistant manager Steve Round believes coaches can gain real insight into their team's mental readiness for fixtures by watching their pre-match warm-up.

United boss Louis van Gaal said he knew something was wrong with his players in the warm-up before their 3-0 defeat to the Toffees at Goodison.

The Dutchman said he and assistants Ryan Giggs and Albert Stuivenberg felt the pre-match routine was not as good as usual and conceded that it was too late to change things in the final minutes before kick-off.

And Round, currently working part-time with Derby, said the warm-up can offer coaches a glimpse of a player’s mentality before they take to the pitch properly.

Speaking to the Morning View on Sky Sports News HQ he said: "I’ve taken thousands of warm-ups and you do get a feeling as a coach when you’re out there, you can sense when your team are bang at it, focussed, ready to play and when you think that they’re not quite there.

"I’ve been in and said to the manager ‘listen, the team might need a little bit of motivation, they might need a rattle off you before they go out’ and charge the batteries up a little bit.

“I’ve also had games when I thought the team were right at it and ready to go and we’ve been 2-0 down after 10 minutes. It’s a difficult one to put context on. He obviously felt it wasn’t right, he got feedback off his coaches, off Ryan and the rest and he thought they weren’t quite ready to match Everton’s start.

“That was the key aspect here. I think if Everton hadn’t started as well or even got the early goal then maybe they’d have got away with it but obviously Everton came out and they were pumped.”

And Round said it would be difficult for van Gaal to make too many changes in such a short space of time if he felt things weren’t quite right just before kick-off.

He added: “It is very difficult because you’ve got a mentality that’s grown over a few days rather than just minutes in the warm-up so to flip that mental switch in five minutes before they go back out is difficult but I have seen it done.

“I have seen managers get right into the team sitting down, get them into a huddle, whatever it may be, to try and change the mentality if they feel that they are not quite ready to go out.

“I saw one manager once make the team put their head in a cold bucket of water, just to try and get them sharpened up and ready to play.

“But I’ve also seen it the other way. I remember the semi-final at Wembley when Everton played Man United and we were in the warm-up. We were right near the Everton fans and the roar and the song from the fans - it was too loud and it affected the team.

'Performance'

“I had to stop the routine and calm them down and say relax a little bit, get refocused and then we’ll start again. The song finished and we carried on. So you do get that sense as a coach but whether you can actually really affect it I’m not sure.”

While admitting the pre-match routine is a vital part of the game, both physically and mentally for managers, Round believes the ultimate resonsibility for individual performance lies with the player.

“You’re trying to get them switched on to be ready for kick off and the challenge ahead," he said. "That’s the key aspect; it’s not just the physical side.

"You get them warmed up so they don’t get injured and they are ready to play physically but it’s also mentality as well – you want them to be mentally switched on, ready for what lies ahead.

“You’ll do different things, you’ll see a lot of teams do a physical warm up then they’ll go into possession to give them a feel of the ball and then some unit work to try and get them familiar with the position and any last minute tactical things you want to do.

“You’re getting them game-ready but at the end of the day the responsibility on your performance as a player really comes down to you. You have to make sure that you are ready to play and that comes from within.”

Round said it was probably the worst he has seen United play under van Gaal but also paid credit to Everton, saying that Roberto Martinez got his tactics right from the first whistle.

“I haven’t seen all their performances but it is probably the worst I have seen them play in,” he said. “But I think that’s taking away from Everton’s performance a little bit. They were excellent on the day – they got the tactics right, I think they came out the blocks really fast. Big credit to Roberto Martinez; I think he got the game plan and everything else absolutely spot on.

“When Everton are playing well Goodison is a tough place for any team to go. Manchester United have struggled there recently and I think it was more Everton’s performance than Man United coming off the pace of it.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Six Talking Points From Everton's 3-0 Win Over Manchester United

After Everton's 3-0 win over Manchester United, we look at the key talking points from the game.

James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas secured the home side victory - but what does the result mean for United's top-four chances and how can the visitors turn possession into goals?

Fellaini frustrated

A frustrated unused substitute in Manchester United’s defeat to Everton last season, Marouane Fellaini was expected to make a happier return to Goodison Park this time around.

After all, the Belgian had been United’s star performer in their Manchester derby victory, described as ‘unplayable’ by Wayne Rooney and seen Premier League leaders Chelsea alter their tactics to contain him in recent weeks.

Yet, just as Kurt Zouma nullified United’s tall target man at Stamford Bridge, Gareth Barry marshalled him for Everton on Sunday. After spurning United’s best opportunity of the game and picking up a booking for a rash tackle on Ross Barkley, Fellaini was replaced with Radamel Falcao at half-time.

It was an unceremonious exit for the man United paid Everton £27.5m for, and Graeme Souness highlighted after the game how much Fellaini’s performance - and removal - affected the visitors.

“We highlighted before the game how much of the attacking set-up of United is down to him,” said the Sky Sports pundit. “He’s a real threat in the final third. The threat was taken away last week with Zouma and this week he gets himself in trouble, looks like he’s getting sent off, so Louis van Gaal takes him off. He’s such a large part of United in the final third. If you take care of Fellaini, you’re a long way to taking care of United.”

Everton's upturn continues

Everton’s success over Manchester United perhaps should not have come as a surprise. After all, United have now not won in any of their last seven trips to Goodison Park, losing the last three. But Everton’s form should also have indicated this would not be any easy Sunday afternoon for Van Gaal’s men.

Roberto Martinez’s side have been a team transformed in recent weeks. Unbeaten in six, Everton have taken 16 points from a possible 18 and victory over United moved them into the top half of the table for the first time since Christmas.

Five wins in their last six is a remarkable return for a side which has only managed six other Premier League victories all season. Everton’s home form has been central to their upturn; they've now won their last four on their own patch without conceding a single goal.

The streak has come too late to bring Everton success this season but, as goalscorer John Stones told Sky Sports after the game, it will set them up nicely for the 2015/16 campaign.

“We all know we’ve been under par this season but we’ve shown in last 10-15 games we’re coming back to ourselves,” he said. "This run is going to do us the world of good into next season."

United must find answers

Despite limiting Everton to just 34 per cent of possession – their lowest total this season – and registering more attempts (17 v 9) and a better passing accuracy (86 per cent v 70) United left Merseyside with nothing.

It was a similar story in last week’s 1-0 defeat at Chelsea and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher reckons opponents have now discovered a way to play against Van Gaal’s side.

He said: "We’ve been very complimentary about United over the last few weeks. It looks like Van Gaal has a system, a way of playing. But these last two weeks it looks like teams have come up with a way of playing against them, saying ‘have the ball’.

“Last week it was Jose Mourinho. He’d accept he is that type of manager. But with Martinez, his teams would never normally have such low possession. But they accepted ‘they’ll have the ball and we’ll hit you on the counter-attack’.”

Now, says Souness, the challenge is for Van Gaal to find a solution. “United will feel hard done by again,” he added. “They’ve had all the ball, most of the shots, played in the opposition's box and still lost 3-0. They’ll have to look at that and come up with some answers.”

Offside rule causing confusion

“People who don’t understand football, historically, said they didn’t understand the offside rule – but I’m beginning to think like that now. I’m not quite sure,” Souness told Sky Sports after watching Mirallas score Everton’s third.

The Belgian latched on to a through ball intended for Romelu Lukaku – who was standing in an offside position – and, with the United defence stood still with their arms in the air appealing for a flag to be raised against the striker, Mirallas slotted past David de Gea to end the contest.

Technically, Lukaku, who halted his run onto the pass, was not involved in the play, yet Souness says that is unfair on the United defence who held their line to play him offside, only to see Mirallas run from deep to collect the ball.

"There’s too much grey area," said Souness. "There’s too much discretion that’s left up to the referee and the linesman. United are entitled to feel hard done by. The rules say that can happen, but it’s unfair on the defenders. As a back four, the idea is to stay up the pitch. That’s a fundamental rule, there’s so much greyness attached to it, it’s very difficult for defenders."

However, Gary Neville on commentary had little sympathy for the United defence, and in particular Antonio Valencia, who should have been marking Mirallas. He said: "You never stop. Look at Valencia at right back, with his hand up in the air. United have given away three really poor goals."

McCarthy and Barry key

Neville awarded McCarthy the man of the match prize and had plenty of praise for the 24-year-old and his midfield partner, Gareth Barry.

"They’ve been the outstanding two on the pitch for me," he said. "The way in which Stones and Phil Jagielka have been protected by Barry and McCarthy, they’ll feel like they’ve had a very comfortable afternoon. They won’t feel like they’ve been put under any pressure. As much possession as United have had in front of them, they haven’t tested the goalkeeper or defenders in any real way.

"I’ll give McCarthy the man of the match. All through the game he’s been non-stop, protecting his back four, breaking up play."

It was a view echoed by defender Stones in his post-match interview with Sky Sports and the stats back up the impact both McCarthy and Barry had on the game.

The two covered more ground than any other Everton player (Barry 11.44km, McCarthy 10.74km), while Barry won more duels (seven) than any midfielder on the pitch and McCarthy regained possession for his team on more occasions (seven) than any Everton outfield player.

The pair only gave away three fouls between them all game, while Barry made more tackles than anyone on the pitch (five), made more clearances than any other midfielder (five) and lost the ball fewer times than any outfield player to complete 90 minutes (seven).

Liverpool back in top-four race?

While Van Gaal will no doubt spend the next few days analysing United’s performance at Everton, his attention will turn to Hull on Tuesday night, where Liverpool can move to within four points of the top four with victory in their game in hand.

After a frustrating 0-0 draw at West Brom, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers said his side would have to win their remaining five games to stand any chance of making the Champions League spots. Yet, United’s defeat at Everton will give the Reds a boost.

United still have Arsenal to play at Old Trafford. Defeat in that fixture, would mean anything other than victory against West Brom, Crystal Palace or Hull would open the door for Liverpool to snatch a top four spot.

Of course, United still have a superior goal difference to Liverpool and Rodgers’ men must face Chelsea in their run-in. But Everton may just have given their Merseyside neighbours hope…

Credit: Skysports.com

Monday, April 27, 2015

Mata: We Can't Afford Another Game Like That


n Juan Mata's latest weekly blog, he discusses United's fight for Champions League football next season, and praises David De Gea's PFA Team of the Year inclusion...

Hi everyone. I know that you are very disappointed after yesterday’s game. We do feel the same and I’m still sad as I write this, but the only thing we can do is to stick together and look ahead. For a team like us such a big score is not easy to take, but we have to put it aside to face the next games.

It is clear that the game against Everton was tough since the beginning after McCarthy’s goal. However, we tried to recover by creating some chances and playing in Everton’s half of the pitch, but we couldn’t find the way to turn around the score. They played their game very well, they were solid in defence and took almost every single chance they had to score.

As I said before, we are in the final stage of the season and we must try to win each of the remaining games. The goal is to get four wins in the last four games of the Premier League. We need to return all the support we got from our fans at Goodison Park – they were brilliant, once again – and we hope to do it this coming Saturday at Old Trafford against West Brom. We all want to be in the Champions League next season and, in order to get there, we must go back to the right path with good performances and good results. We can’t afford another game like this one.

Also, I would like to congratulate my friend David de Gea for his inclusion in the PFA Team of the Year. It’s a reward for his great season and a recognition to his skills. And I also congratulate my friend Eden Hazard, who was named Player of the Year.

We start to know the champions of some European leagues, but not in Spain, where things will be tight until the last few weeks. Barça had a solid game to beat Espanyol and they sent a clear message to their rivals. Meanwhile, Real Madrid played in Vigo, in a tough stadium [to play at].

Nolito put the local team ahead but Real Madrid reacted quickly with a goal from Kroos and especially with a great performance from Chicharito. He is a good friend of mine and I’m happy that he is scoring goals in the last few games. He deserves every good thing that happens to him.

Sadly, this weekend was marked by the tragedy in Nepal and India, and the effects of the earthquake are getting worse and worse. I want to send my solidarity and support to all the people affected and the families of those who lost their lives.

I hope the next weekend is better and we can get closer to our goal. Thank you for your unconditional support.

Hugs,

Juan

Credit: manutd.com

Smalling: This Defeat Is A Wake-up Call

Chris Smalling has promised fans they will see "a different Manchester United" next week against West Brom after a second successive defeat at the hands of Everton on Sunday.

Goals from James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas secured the points for Roberto Martinez's side at Goodison Park, as the Reds failed to bounce back from last weekend's narrow loss to Chelsea.

Smalling says the performance was below the standards set in recent weeks and insisted that the players are determined to learn from the latest setback.

“Right from the first minute we were off the pace and they had a pressure that we usually have," he told MUTV. "We were second best. This is a massive wake-up call for us.

“I think it was always going to go down to the final couple of games. We’ve got four big games now in which we’ve got to make sure we were better than today. I think we’ll go back and look at the video tomorrow and, come the next training session, we’ll be eager to put this right.

"We haven’t been the second-best team in games this season, even when we’ve lost, we’ve always had that aggression and those tackles but today we were far from it. I think we’ll see a different Manchester United next Saturday against West Brom."

The defender was disappointed by the manner of Everton's goals, and added that despite a familiar dominance in terms of possession, the Reds can improve during the final run-in.

“I think in the last two games we’ve had good possession, and especially in the first half today I think we created some good chances, but it was a game in which you needed to take chances and, if we had, it might have been different. In terms of aggression and one-on-one battles we were off the pace.

“The goals [we conceded] were very uncharacteristic, one from a corner and one from a breakaway where everyone has their positions and knows their jobs, so there’s no way they should be getting through as easily as they did today.

“We felt that our play at times was good and we played a lot of passes in towards their box. Given how we’ve played in the last few games, teams are more defensive and today we couldn’t find the answer despite a couple of good chances in the first half.

“We kept plugging away but couldn’t find those gaps. It was difficult. We’ll make sure we learn from this, the fans deserve a lot better than what they saw today.”

Van Gaal Questions United Warm-Up

Louis van Gaal says he knew something was wrong with his Man Utd players by watching the warm-up before the 3-0 defeat at Everton.

James McCarthy gave Everton an early lead in the Super Sunday clash, capitalising on some lacklustre United defending, before goals from John Stones and Kevin Mirallas condemned Van Gaal’s side to their second straight defeat.

United had chances to get back into the game, but for the second consecutive match, they could not get on the scoresheet, much to Van Gaal’s frustration.

"You shall always be compared with your opponent in aggression and motivation and Everton really wanted to win this game, and I don't think we equalled it," said Van Gaal after losing 3-0.

"The fighting spirit of Everton was higher, and when they scored the first goal it became difficult for us.

"I had already the feeling and my colleagues [assistants] Ryan Giggs and Albert Stuivenberg had the feeling because the warm up was not so good as usual.

"In the last minutes before the game you hope you can recover and stimulate your players but then it is too late.

"You have to prepare the match already two or three days before and Everton has done that and they have won because of that.

"In phases we played well, and created chances, but I did not see the belief that I have seen when we were behind in matches.

"We need that aggression and a little bit of luck.

"It is of concern that we have not scored for two games in a row."

McCarthy's goal particularly irked Van Gaal, as United committed too many men forward and were not forceful enough in the tackle.

"We lost three duels in a row, and that was the first goal," Van Gaal added.

"You cannot start a game like that.

"When you are 1-0 ahead, you can defend how Everton and Chelsea [United’s last opponent] did.

"You play compact and have a lot of players behind the ball.

"In the second half, we didn’t create as many chances.

"It is very important that you score a goal, and get belief from that."

Van Gaal Is Wary Of Liverpool In Top Four Race

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal admits his team's 3-0 defeat at Everton has provided a timely boost to the Toffees' neighbours Liverpool.

Brendan Rodgers' men drew 0-0 at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday to slip seven points behind the Reds in the race for a UEFA Champions League spot.

However, Sunday's defeat at Goodison Park means Liverpool can now close the gap to just four points when they face Steve Bruce's Hull City in midweek, before welcoming relegation-haunted QPR to Anfield next weekend. The Merseysiders will then finish the campaign with fixtures against Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Stoke City.

United entertain West Brom on Saturday ahead of clashes with Palace, Arsenal and Hull City. Although the Reds are only two points adrift of third-placed Manchester City, it is a top-four position that is vital and Sunday's result has breathed life back into what van Gaal describes as a "rat race", particularly with Tottenham and Southampton still involved.

Speaking after the defeat at Everton, van Gaal was asked about Liverpool potentially moving to within a point of United and if he is worried about that situation.

"Yes, I know that and I have said that," the boss told reporters. "You give the light to your opponents, I said that in that way and you are right about it."

Rooney Suffers Injury During 3-0 Defeat At Everton

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney suffered an injury in the closing stages of Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Everton, adding to Louis van Gaal’s headache on a testing afternoon at Goodison Park.

The Toffees earned a convincing win via goals from James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas, and United’s afternoon went from bad to worse when Rooney suffered an injury that led to him being replaced by Robin van Persie on 88 minutes.

The England skipper was then pictured in the dugout with an ice pack around his leg and a look of discomfort on his face. The severity of his injury is yet to be determined.

Van Gaal confirmed to MUTV: "Yes, Rooney was injured. He had a shot on his knee, so we have to wait and see how heavy (serious) it is."

Premier League: Everton 3 Man. United 0

Manchester United lost back-to-back games for the first time under Louis van Gaal on Sunday as Everton secured a 3-0 win at Goodison Park after goals from James McCarthy, John Stones and Kevin Mirallas.

The defeat leaves the Reds fourth in the Barclays Premier League table with four games left to play and seven points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool, who drew 0-0 with West Bromwich Albion on Saturday but still have a game in hand to play following their involvement in the FA Cup semi-finals.

The afternoon began with a minute’s silence that honoured former Everton chairman Sir Philip Carter and the 30th anniversary of the Bradford fire disaster. Although such occasions can affect the tempo of the game, this match began at a high pace.

Everton scored in just the fifth minute with a powerful counter attack that began with Gareth Barry clearing a United corner. The ball was scrambled forward and Seamus Coleman played it inside to James McCarthy, who scurried past challenges from Paddy McNair and Daley Blind to calmly finish past David De Gea.

Marouane Fellaini spurned an excellent chance to level moments later by blazing over from 15 yards after pouncing on a loose ball. The Belgian, making his first appearance at Goodison with United, was then booked following fouls on Coleman and Ross Barkley.

United’s pressing caused Everton problems, however, and the Reds controlled the opening 30 minutes. Blind, who was recalled to the starting XI in place of Radamel Falcao, forced a decent save from Tim Howard early on before the former Reds goalkeeper produced another comfortable stop to deny Chris Smalling’s header.

Romelu Lukaku's speculative effort on 28 minutes made easy work for De Gea, but United's no.1 was soon picking the ball out of his net after John Stones rose to powerfully head Leighton Baines’ corner home. It was the defender’s first goal of the season and one that left United with work to do after the break.

Van Gaal intervened at half-time by replacing Fellaini with Falcao and United went close to scoring immediately when Rooney’s close-range shot was brilliantly saved by Howard. Juan Mata also saw an effort blocked following an excellent overlapping run and pass from Luke Shaw, though the second half was largely uneventful up until the hour mark.

Angel Di Maria replaced the unusually quiet Mata on 63 minutes and Everton forged a decent chance soon after when Barkley hit a 20-yard shot at goal. Shaw was then booked for a foul on Aaron Lennon as United’s frustrations began to show.

Di Maria hit a terrific forward pass on 69 minutes that was met by Falcao, who arced his body into a position which enabled him to head a lofted effort that was well saved by Howard. Rooney then hit a 25-yard shot that was blocked by a brave Everton defence that was impressive in its acts of heroism.

Kevin Mirallas replaced Leon Osman for Everton and scored a decisive goal on 74 minutes in questionable circumstances, having latched onto a long ball that was originally aimed at an offside Lukaku, but he finished past De Gea as the United defence waited for the linesman’s flag to rise. The Belgian international notably scored in this same fixture last season.

Falcao seemingly scored with an impressive finish on 82 minutes but the Colombian was offside. Rooney then picked up a late injury and was replaced by Robin van Persie, though the Dutchman could do nothing to prevent a painful defeat at Goodison Park.

De Gea Named In PFA Team Of The Year

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea has been named in the PFA Barclays Premier League Team of the Year for the 2014/15 season, capping his excellent form this campaign.

The Spaniard has been tremendous all season and has not missed a single minute of top-flight action, registering 33 appearances and keeping 10 clean sheets for the Reds.

Joining De Gea in the PFA Team of the Year is Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill, John Terry and Ryan Bertrand in defence. Alexis Sanchez, Nemanja Matic, Philippe Coutinho and Eden Hazard in midfield, with Harry Kane and Diego Costa up front.

David has also been nominated for the PFA's Players’ Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards, which is an incredible feat for a goalkeeper. He was previously named in the 2013 Team of the Year after helping United win the title.

MUTV recently spoke to De Gea about his remarkable form and he was understandably pleased: “It’s true that last season was good for me from a personal point of view, but I think that things are going even better for me this time around,” he explained.

“I think I’m competing better, performing well and I think my decision-making is a lot better this season. I’m happy and I’m trying to keep going in the same way and keep improving.”

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Gundogan: We Profile The Manchester United Target

With Manchester United reportedly closing in on a £21.5million deal for Ilkay Gundogan, we take a closer look at the Borussia Dortmund midfielder who has also been linked with Arsenal and Manchester City.

Name: Ilkay Gundogan

Age: 24

Position: Central midfielder

Club: Borussia Dortmund

Nation: Germany (nine caps, two goals)

Early years

Despite his status as a fan favourite at Dortmund, Gundogan was raised in the neighbouring city of Gelsenkirchen, home of their bitter rivals Schalke 04. Gundogan was born to Turkish parents but eventually chose to represent Germany, the country of his birth.

The midfielder had a brief spell at Schalke as a schoolboy, but his first professional contract actually came at Bochum, who he joined in 2005 before he was snapped up by FC Nurnberg as a promising 18-year-old four years later.

Gundogan was already a German youth international at this point, but it was at Nurnberg that the rising star began to establish himself in the Bundesliga. After helping them avoid relegation in his first season, he impressed the following year, scoring five goals in 25 Bundesliga appearances as they secured a sixth-placed finish.

Gundogan's impact had not gone unnoticed by Nurnberg's Bundesliga rivals, and champions Dortmund clinched a reported £3million deal for his signature in May 2011.

"Gundogan is willing to learn and is very smart," said Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp at the time. "He also brings a great attitude. Ilkay has a great passing game, is a complete player, and fits perfectly into our footballing system."

But despite Klopp's backing, Gundogan had a challenging start to life at Dortmund. The relatively unknown 20-year-old was given the unenviable task of replacing Nuri Sahin, the Bundesliga Player of the Season who had just departed for Real Madrid after captaining Dortmund to their first title triumph under Klopp.

Deployed as a deep-lying playmaker, Gundogan soon found himself dropped to the bench. "It was a tough time," he reflected. "Things hadn't gone as well as I had thought, and the coach was right to take me out of the team and protect me. It did me good to take a step back and regain some perspective."

But 2012 would prove a pivotal year for Gundogan as he won back his place in Dortmund's midfield and became a central figure as they secured a German Cup and Bundesliga double.

After his early struggles, Gundogan had got to grips with Dortmund's explosive playing style, combining creativity and outstanding passing with the defensive attributes and tireless energy needed alongside Sven Bender or Sebastian Kehl at the base of their midfield .

He was rewarded with a place in Germany's squad for the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine. "To be able to experience all that at the aged of 21 was a dream come true," he said.

The following season would prove to be one of near misses for Dortmund, as they were beaten by rivals Bayern Munich to Bundesliga, German Cup and Champions League titles, but Gundogan went from strength to strength.

He was ever-present on their run to the Champions League final, where he scored from the penalty spot and completed more passes than any of his team-mates as Dortmund were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Bayern at Wembley.

Surprisingly, Gundogan has never claimed more than three assists in a single Bundesliga season but, as Klopp says, he is a complete midfielder with numerous strengths. While he doesn't always provide the killer pass, Sahin is integral to Dortmund's playing style both on and off the ball and in the 2012/13 season he provided a perfect platform for Robert Lewandowski, Marco Reus, Mario Gotze and Jakub Blaszczykowski, all of whom finished the season in double figures for goals.

A long-term back problem ruled Gundogan out from August 2013 until October last year, causing him to miss a full season as well as Germany’s victorious World Cup campaign, but he has returned to the international fold this season.

Gundogan has also notched three goals and three assists in 19 league appearances for struggling Dortmund this season, but with his contract set to expire next summer and Klopp on his way out of the club, his time at the Westfalenstadion is coming to an end.

"Signing a creative player should be our priority this summer," said Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal in February. "I'm looking for balance and I need it in midfield."

That balance looks set to be provided by Gundogan next season. Van Gaal reportedly sees Gundogan as a long-term successor to Michael Carrick, but as well as intelligence in possession and tactical discipline, he offers greater mobility and creativity.

His energetic and tough-tackling playing style also suggests he would have no problem adjusting to the pace of the Premier League.

Manchester City and Arsenal are also thought to be admirers of the 24-year-old, while Bayern have a history of plundering their rivals’s top talents, so United must move swiftly to get their man.

Gundogan is an elite-level talent who still has his best years ahead of him. Van Gaal will hope to build his midfield around him for years to come.

Credit: Skysports.com

LVG Laments His Side's Poor Start To The Season

Louis van Gaal believes Manchester United could have won the league had it not been for their troubled start to the season.

United won just three of their opening 10 Premier League games under the Dutchman and defeat to Chelsea last weekend left United 11 points behind the league leaders, but van Gaal is already plotting his side's route to the top of the table next season.

"Yes, we had a very bad start," the United manager told MUTV when asked if he wondered what might have been this season.

"I have already explained that after several matches why so I don't have to repeat myself but if we had started well, we could have been the champions."

United were without European football this season after their seventh-placed finish under David Moyes last term, but can go a long way to securing Champions League football with victory at Everton on Super Sunday.

Van Gaal admits he did not enjoy watching the Champions League quarter-finals this week.

"Of course I miss it," he said. "When I look to the matches this week also, great matches and also sometimes disappointing because the level was not always high and the difference between the teams was very high, I believe, so I miss it very much.

"I hope we shall achieve our goal for the season and play next season in the Champions League but we still have 15 points to fight for. It is not done yet."

Ilkay Gundogan Close To Manchester United Move


Manchester United are close to agreeing a £21.5m deal to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, according to Sky sources.

Gundogan is out of contract at the end of the 2015-16 season and Dortmund are thought to be willing to sell this summer to avoid losing him for nothing, as they did when Bayern Munich signed Robert Lewandowski after the Polish striker's contract ran out.

The 24-year-old midfielder, who has won nine caps for Germany, has also been linked with a move to Manchester City and Arsenal but United are now close to wrapping up a deal.

Gundogan began his career with Bochum, before moving to Nuremberg. Dortmund signed him in May 2011, and he helped them reach the 2012-13 Champions League final. He scored a penalty in the final against Bayern at Wembley, though Dortmund lost the match 2-1.

He was sidelined for over a year with a mystery back problem which baffled doctors and forced him to miss Germany's World Cup triumph in Brazil.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal stated in February that he wanted to sign a creative midfielder in the summer and Gundogan, who is technically accomplished and a fine passer - as well as a tenacious tackler - certainly fits the bill.

He was signed by coach Jurgen Klopp - who will leave Dortmund at the end of the season - to replace Real Madrid-bound Nuri Sahin, and he initially struggled to make an impact.

But he made the breakthrough in the 2012-13 season, helping Dortmund to their first league and cup double, and the final of the Champions League the following season.

He has scored 15 goals in 123 appearances in the Bundesliga, and one goal - that penalty at Wembley - in 20 Champions League appearances.

Credit: Skysports.com

Louis van Gaal Backs Ryan Giggs To Succeed Him At Manchester United

Louis van Gaal expects Ryan Giggs to succeed him as Manchester United manager when he ends his stint with the three-time European champions.

Giggs has been assisting Van Gaal since the Dutchman took over at Old Trafford last summer.

The former United midfielder had a brief spell in temporary charge of the 20-time champions following the dismissal of David Moyes last season and Van Gaal - whose current contract runs until 2017 - believes the Welshman would be his natural successor.

"I expect that he (Giggs) will be the next manager after I am gone," Van Gaal told MUTV.

"Now I have the responsibility. He has tasks that he has to perform like the players. What he has to do, for me, he does it very well."

Speaking last week, Van Gaal suggested he could see similarities between Giggs and his own former assistant at Barcelona, Jose Mourinho.

Van Gaal said: "I have to admit, I could not imagine when I spoke with him (Giggs) in May, that he would work so very hard. As an ex-player, you are not used to working hard. He is a very hard worker.

"He reads the game very good, like Jose. But to manage a group you have to learn. What I can see is that he is also learning quickly."

Giggs, who made a record 963 appearances for United, presided over four matches last season following Moyes' abrupt departure; winning two games, drawing one and losing the other.

De Gea Offered 'A Lot Of Money' To Stay At Manchester United

Louis van Gaal says Manchester United have offered David de Gea "a lot of money" in a bid to keep the goalkeeper at Old Trafford.

De Gea is in the running for the PFA Player of the Year award after an impressive season but links with Real Madrid have been a recurring theme in recent weeks.

In January, Van Gaal said he expected the 24-year-old to extend his current deal, which expires at the end of next season. But three months on there are no signs of progress.

When asked how negotiations were progressing, Van Gaal said: "It can always happen. I am not the boss. I want him to stay. The player is the boss - he can say 'yes' or 'no'.

"You will have to ask David de Gea, not me. He has to sign. We have offered him a lot of money."

As to new signings this summer, Van Gaal refused to be drawn on Memphis Depay, saying only: "I don't discuss it with the media."

The club are however closing on a £21.5m deal with Borussia Dortmund for midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, according to Sky sources.

Van Gaal - speaking before Sky Sports News HQ broke the news of an imminent deal for Gundogan - said: "It's dependable on the market. It's not so easy as you think. OK, Manchester United is coming and can buy a player. It's not like that.

"Of course it's an advantage (to start early) but it's also dependable on the market, which players are free, which players want the clubs in the world to sell. It's not so easy and I don't want to buy every player.

"It has to fit in the profile of the positions in my philosophy. In the end the player has to decide and not the manager and not the manager of the selling club."

Credit: Skysports.com

Paul Merson: Chelsea Could Target Falcao This Summer

Paul Merson feels a drop in value would make Radamel Falcao a big summer transfer target, with Chelsea a possible destination.

The 29-year-old has scored just four times in 25 appearances for Manchester United since his season-long loan move from AS Monaco and United are not expected to retain a striker who earns a reported £280,000 a week.

While Falcao’s current £43.5m price tag and high wage demands are likely to limit interest in the forward this summer, Merson feels a lower transfer value could lead to a surge of clubs wanting the striker - including Jose Mourinho's Blues.

“If he went down to £15m then I think there would be a lorry load of teams after him,” Merson told Soccer Saturday. “He is a good player and I think he’ll get fitter and fitter.

“He hasn’t really had a season; he has only been in and out. He needs to play 20 games and then I think he’ll be back to where was when, for me, he was one of the best centre forwards in world football.”

The Colombian produced a strong performance for United during their 1-0 loss to leaders Chelsea on last week’s Saturday Night Football clash, although is yet to reach the heights that made him a prolific frontman for the likes of Porto and Atletico Madrid.

With Diego Costa’s ongoing hamstring problems mean strikers are in short supply at Stamford Bridge, and Merson expects Chelsea to show interest in the striker should his transfer fee go down.

“Watching that (Falcao’s performance for United at Stamford Bridge) last week, I think Chelsea would take him at £15million – they need another centre forward.

“Whatever happens next season, to be successful in the Premier League and in Europe, they need another centre forward badly, because when Costa hasn’t played they’ve missed him.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Valencia Enjoying Right-back Role

Manchester United's Antonio Valencia is happy having made the right-back berth his own during the 2014/15 campaign.

Although he was signed as a winger, the Ecuadorian has taken on a new role on a regular basis this season, a position in which he is preferred by manager Louis van Gaal. In his typically understated style, Valencia has adapted seamlessly to his new responsibilities and is relishing the opportunities that came with it.

"I quite enjoy it, I’m happy there,” Antonio told MUTV. "It works well and I’ve played a lot there this season. It’s been a hard position to learn, but the key is to keep your concentration for the entire 90 minutes. You’ve really got to be on the ball for all that time."

"When I go forward to overlap, I’ve always got to be conscious about getting back and it’s a lot more dangerous," he added. "If you do leave room for people, they can hurt you. This is different to the position I’m used to playing in, where you can be less cautious when attacking."

Concentration is a keyword for the entire squad, according to the Reds' no.25, who says it's a priority for United to forget last weekend’s frustrating defeat at Chelsea and focus on an important clash against Everton on Sunday.

"When you play so well and lose a game like that it hurts even more," Antonio said. "The Everton game means we can put the defeat behind us and concentrate on this weekend."

Van Gaal Has Great Faith In Luke Shaw

Louis van Gaal is convinced that Luke Shaw will come of age at Manchester United and mature into a top-class defender.

Last summer's signing from Southampton has had an injury-affected first campaign at Old Trafford but was back in the starting line-up at Chelsea and was arguably the Reds' star performer on the day.

The teenager's performance at Stamford Bridge did not come as a shock to his manager, who has great faith in the England international's obvious potential.

"I believe in Luke Shaw so, for me, it isn’t a surprise," van Gaal told MUTV. "He played very well against Chelsea and I’m very happy for him.

"It is of course the first season of a 19-year-old boy because he is still a boy and he is growing. Maybe, next year, he is an adult on the pitch and I hope so. I believe in Shaw."

Since making his Reds debut against West Ham in late September, Shaw has gone on to rack up 18 appearances this term, but he will be aiming to nail down the left-back position as his own next term.

Daley Blind had taken over at left-back until injury to the Dutchman afforded Shaw an opportunity to reclaim his place, and he took the chance with both hands.

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Blomqvist: This Is Our Time

Former Manchester United and Everton midfielder Jesper Blomqvist believes Manchester United are primed to complete the double over the Toffees on Sunday.

The Reds secured a narrow 2-1 win at Old Trafford in October when David De Gea produced a stellar performance, including a penalty save to deny Leighton Baines, and are out to avenge the results of 2013/14 when Roberto Martinez's team came out on top on both occasions.

"I’m sure Everton are looking forward to playing United," the Swede told ManUtd.com at a Foundation event in Ordsall to promote the Red Heart United Legends game. "Obviously, it’s at home for them and Louis van Gaal understands it can be harder in these games. He said it was more difficult to play Aston Villa than some of the big games as the players have the right motivation already for them.

"Sometimes, when you play teams below you, it is easier to think you can be a bit more relaxed. This is an aspect to be aware of but they’ll know Everton away is a tough game. I think all the players know that. I realise United lost twice to Everton last year but that was a special season after Sir Alex left and I think this year is our time."

Van Gaal Pleased Evans Is Back From Suspension

Jonny Evans is available to face Everton on Sunday after serving his six-match suspension for spitting and Louis van Gaal is delighted to have the experienced Manchester United defender back in his squad.

During his weekly interview with MUTV at the Aon Training Complex, the boss explained why it has been frustrating to be without Evans for so long and, amusingly, even revealed how the Northern Irishman’s team-mates reacted to him going on holiday during his ban.

Asked to comment on Evans' absence, van Gaal admitted: “That’s always frustrating but you cannot do anything about that. I have also said to my players that the decision to punish him was not according to my opinion because it was a natural spit and not a spit to a player. There is a difference between that.

“I have defended him and I still defend him, so I don’t punish him. I also gave him holiday and then the players are saying to me: ‘Oh, you’re better spitting on the pitch and then you get a holiday!' So now I am the wrong man for the players.”

Credit: manutd.com

LVG Fires Warning To RVP

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has warned Robin van Persie he faces a fight to return to the first team despite recovering from injury.

Van Persie has not played since suffering an ankle injury in the 2-1 defeat to Swansea on February 21 and was named on the substitutes bench for the 1-0 reverse at Chelsea last weekend.

But speaking ahead of the Super Sunday trip to Everton, Van Gaal said the Netherlands international must prove both fitness and form with United's U21s before he will be considered for a starting spot.

"He has to train very hard, play in the second team," said van Gaal.

"He has to show his qualities again. Then I have to compare him with the positions he can play, with the players that play in that position - it is always the same."

Van Gaal refused to comment on United's interest in PSV Eindhoven winger Memphis Depay following the Dutch club's confirmation of an enquiry earlier in the week.

"I don't discuss it with the media," he insisted. "You know my answer. I have a lot of relationships with players. I cannot buy all the players I have coached already."

Sunday will be the first time in-form Marouane Fellaini has returned to Goodison Park since Everton sold him to United for £27.5million and Van Gaal hopes he will be given a good reception by the home fans.

"Marouane Fellaini has qualities and we want to let them dominate in a team and that's why his performances are better just now," he said.

"I have spoken with Fellaini because I know this (is his first game back there).

"Fellaini is always dry in his answers. He said, 'It's a game...'. (I said,) 'Yes, but it's a special game for you'.

"I hope the fans shall receive him like the Chelsea fans received Juan Mata because I like that very much. I hope it's like that."

Credit: Skysports.com

Rafael Out For Rest Of The Season With Rib Injury

Manchester United right-back Rafael will miss the rest of the season with a rib injury, manager Louis van Gaal has confirmed.

Rafael came off during an U21 game against Leicester on Monday after an aerial collision with Anthony Knockaert.

Van Gaal said: "It's unbelievable. He has broken his ribs so he shall not play any more this season for Manchester United. It's very unfortunate."

Adnan Januzaj suffered an ankle injury in the same match but it is not as serious and he could be fit for contention against Everton.

"(His injury) is not so heavy," Van Gaal said.

Van Gaal also revealed United will be without Marcos Rojo, Michael Carrick, Phil Jones and Robin van Persie for their trip to Goodison Park.

Daley Blind has a knee knock, but has a chance of playing.

"Only Blind maybe can reach the game against Everton but Jones, Carrick and Rojo cannot play," van Gaal said.

Jonny Evans is available for selection against Everton after serving his seven-match ban following an altercation with Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse.

Credit: Skysports.com

Friday, April 24, 2015

Paul McGrath's Verdict On Five United Centre-backs

Former Manchester United defender Paul McGrath hopes the current crop of players in his old position see out their learning curve at Old Trafford.

So far in 2015, five centre-backs have played for the Reds in the Barclays Premier League and the 1985 FA Cup-winning legend feels they all have something to offer as the post-Ferdinand and Vidic era unfolds.

Ahead of his appearance as a pundit on MUTV's Matchday Live for the Everton game on Sunday, this is what McGrath had to say to ManUtd.com about the quintet in question (listed with their 2014/15 records):

Chris Smalling (20 starts, 4 sub appearances, 4 goals)
"Chris is very sharp and quick going forward - I love the speed that he has. And a bit like myself, he likes to roam with the ball at his feet. It's hard to compare centre-backs now to players from my era though, because they can't go into fifty-fifty tackles like we used to do!"

Marcos Rojo (22 starts, 2 sub appearances, 1 goal)
"I watched him in the World Cup last summer and I thought then, before he signed for United, that he is a class act. I like the way he plays football – he’s not afraid to make a pass and he’s not afraid to receive one, although he’s perhaps more of an out-and-out defender than some of the others who like to move forward with the ball."

Phil Jones (20 starts, 1 sub appearance)
"I have to say I really admire Phil Jones. He's one of those defenders who’s prepared to put his head in where it hurts. He looks like he would go through a brick wall for you."

Jonny Evans (14 starts, 2 sub appearances)
"It's difficult to answer when people ask me which current centre-back most reminds me of my playing style. But I suppose it could be Jonny Evans. He wins his fair share in the air and he also seems calm on the ball. He likes to play a bit of football, get it back and knock it around."

Paddy McNair (12 starts, 3 sub appearances)
"I thought he was incredible against Chelsea. He showed a maturity level that I would never have shown at that age (19). If a space opens up in front of you as a defender and you know you’re quick enough to go through it without getting caught, then you should go through it. He did that a few times at Chelsea and even tested Courtois with a shot. He seems to be very comfortable with the ball at his feet.

"I think each of them has qualities that are going to benefit them over the next few years. It’s lovely that they’re all so young, still with some learning to do. It would be great to see them stay and do that learning with Manchester United because they deserve to, they’re all really good players. I think we’re well covered at the back."

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Why Fellaini Is Vital

With Marouane Fellaini having turned his reputation around at Manchester United, Adam Bate looks at the story – and the stats – behind his renaissance under Louis van Gaal…

His previous return to Goodison Park must have been a low point for Marouane Fellaini. Booed by home supporters as he warmed up near the touchline, the Manchester United midfielder failed to make it onto the pitch against his old club as Everton ran out 2-0 winners one year ago this week. For David Moyes, the defeat signalled the end of his time in charge at Old Trafford.

With the man who’d spent £27.5million on him departing the club and little enthusiasm among supporters for his continued presence, that might also have been that for Fellaini. Indeed, when he was omitted from the squad for Ryan Giggs’ first game in charge – a cathartic 4-0 home victory over Norwich – things looked particularly bleak.

But events since have surprised many. Incoming manager Louis van Gaal has always been more tactical chameleon than philosopher-zealot and the man Jose Mourinho once described as “pragmatic” soon saw a use for the 6’4” Belgian. The 27-year-old has emerged as the team’s go-to guy when it comes to linking defence and attack.

'Unplayable'

United skipper Wayne Rooney has hailed his team-mate as “unplayable” and Old Trafford is now appreciating his efforts too – rewarding Fellaini with a thunderous reception when withdrawn late on following a typically powerful performance in the recent Manchester derby. British transfer record signing Angel di Maria is being kept out of the side on merit.

So how has Fellaini managed to turn opinion and results around? Importantly, while a handful on the pitch, it seems clear that the player is rather easier to deal with on the training ground. “He’s very professional,” Moyes told the Mail. “He will do anything you ask and all you’ll ever hear from him is a ‘thank you, coach’ at the end of a training session.”

Undoubtedly, that has worked in his favour with Van Gaal – a coach who demands a receptive audience. “I have heard a lot of stories about him but from the first training session he did what I asked,” said the United boss. “He was open and he wants to perform so I am not surprised.” He added: “Marouane always does the things that we want from him.”

What Van Gaal wanted was an aerial presence further up the field. Getting the ball in deep areas was the easy part for his United team - with over 60 per cent of possession this season, they rank among the top five teams in Europe - but breaking the lines was proving rather trickier. When opponents pressed them, United’s inexperienced defence was prone to buckle.

Aerial strength

Van Gaal needed an out-ball and with Fellaini winning 5.7 aerial duels per game, far more than any other midfielder, that’s precisely what he provides. “We like to play out from the back and if teams are pressing us then we have him as an option,” said Rooney. “He is probably the best in world football at bringing the ball down and getting us out of that pressure and further up the pitch.”

Van Gaal understandably bristled at suggestions that he is a long-ball manager. The Fellaini factor is more about bringing balance to his team. For while it’s true that United play 79 long passes per game (second only to QPR), they also play the second-most short passes as well. Together with Michael Carrick, it has given United two different ways to find that penetrative forward pass.

“He allows me to give balance to the team and that is important for a manager who is looking for balance,” said Van Gaal. “I think he has to play higher and higher up and Michael Carrick has to play deeper. I have said a lot of times at press conferences, for example he is a player that gives a solution for beating the pressing of the opponents.”

Fellaini factor

It’s had a transformative effect on United. So much so, in fact, that the team has won 73 per cent of their games with him and only 44 per cent without him. The longest winning run so far under Van Gaal ended when Fellaini was ill and he’s been ever present too in the recent run that encompassed wins over Liverpool and City. Fellaini is one of only four men to start in every game of those two winning runs.

Irony

As a result, it seems unlikely that Fellaini will find himself on the bench, let along expected to remain there, for United’s next visit to Goodison Park this Saturday. So there’s a certain irony that he returns to face an Everton team that have come full circle since his departure. An outfit that had once been reliant on his robust presence now eschew those methods in favour of a short passing game.

“The players we brought in gave us a different approach and we became a more diverse team,” said Everton boss Roberto Martinez of Fellaini’s exit. But while they might have found their diversity by offloading Fellaini, United have discovered it be reincorporating their much-maligned midfielder. After all the criticism, perhaps Marouane Fellaini deserves to return as a success story this weekend.

Credit: Skysports.com

Balague: Hernandez Will Leave Man. United In The Summer

Guillem Balague insists Javier Hernandez will return to England in the summer, but will not be playing for Manchester United next season.

Playing in place of the injured Karim Benzema, the Real Madrid striker netted a late winner in the Bernabeu on Wednesday to send the European champions through to the Champions League semi-finals at the expense of rivals Atletico.

Hernandez is currently on a season-long loan in the Spanish capital from United, with the La Liga giants having the option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season.

However, Balague has insisted that Real are not keen on taking United up on the offer, and a number of English clubs are interest in securing the Mexican’s services instead.

“If Real Madrid want him there is a 10m euros [£7.15m] buyout clause,” Balague told Sky Sports News HQ.

“But they are not going to keep him. There are several big English clubs that want him, but I don’t think Manchester United want to keep him.

“He will move on to one of those other English clubs.”

Sky Sports’ pundit Thierry Henry was critical of Hernandez for not celebrating with Cristiano Ronaldo, who provided the assist for the last-gasp winner, but Balague revealed that the pair embraced after the match.

“Not much was made of Javier Hernandez celebrating on his own,” Balague added.

“At that moment, Ronaldo actually celebrated with his team-mates. Sometimes he just does it on his own, sometimes he is just saying it is just down to me.

“At the end of the match, Hernandez found Ronaldo and gave him a really big hug.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Cleverley Tops Tim Sherwood's Wanted List

Aston Vila boss Tim Sherwood wants to sign Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley on a permanent deal this summer.

The 25-year-old, who is on a season-long loan from Old Trafford, will be out of contract at the end of the current campaign.

Everton are also been reportedly interested in signing the England international, despite manager Roberto Martinez refusing to be drawn on a potential deal.

However, Sherwood admitted Villa avoiding relegation could be crucial to his side being able to attract the player, with his side five points clear of the bottom three going into their final five league matches.

“I’ve been pleased with Tom,” said Sherwood. “I really like him and like what he adds to the side. He adds a lot of energy, gets back round goalside, links the ball very well.

“He certainly is one of the names I put on the team-sheet straight away. We’re certainly interested in talking to Tom, when the time is right.

“Tom and his representatives, and Aston Villa, are willing to put this on the backburner because they know how important it is to stay in the Premier League. After all Tom wouldn’t want to join the club in the Championship.

“I think there is a good chance we will try and do a deal if it’s right for both parties.”

Credit: Skysports.com

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Phil Neville: Fellaini Must Relish Everton Return

Manchester United legend Phil Neville believes Marouane Fellaini will enjoy his return to former club Everton when the Reds visit Goodison Park on Sunday.

The Belgium international was an unused substitute in the fixture last year - a 2-0 defeat which turned out to be David Moyes' final game in charge of the Reds - but can expect to be a key figure this time around after earning the faith of manager Louis van Gaal.

Speaking at a Manchester United Foundation event in Wythenshawe to promote the Red Heart United Legends game on 14 June, Neville explained why it will be a "shoot-out" between the two clubs he represented with distinction during his playing days.

"I think it’ll be good for Fellaini to go back to Goodison now because he’s going back in a better of state of mind," the ex-England international told ManUtd.com. "He's in better form and I think he’s going there full of confidence.

"What happened in terms of his departure from Everton has been forgotten about now so Everton fans can probably look at it and say Marouane did a great job for us, he’s coming back and United fans are seeing the best of him. So he’s got to go there enjoy the fact he’s playing really well for the club now and he had five great years at Everton too."

United are aiming to bounce back from the defeat at Chelsea by completing a double over the Merseysiders and maintaining the push for a top-four spot.

"I’m really looking forward to the game," Neville added. "I’m actually going to go to it because it’s two of my former clubs. Everton have come back into a little bit of form while United are probably the form team in the Premier League at the moment so it should be a really open game as it's two coaches with a real focus on a tactical battle.

"I can see it being an entertaining game. Everton play expansive football and United will obviously go for goals like United always do. It’ll be a real shoot-out. Everton have got players coming back from injury – Romelu Lukaku was on the bench the other day so he’ll be back.

"Ross Barkley, Steven Naismith and Kevin Mirallas are players that can hurt Manchester United but what United have to do is focus on the way they’ve been playing. The performances against Chelsea, Villa, Spurs and at Anfield were fantastic. If they can reach that level of performance again, it’ll be very difficult for Everton to get a result."

Man. United Showing Poor Value In Performance And Wage Stakes

Manchester United were below par in the Premier League last season in terms of performance compared with player wages, figures show.

United could only finish seventh in the 2013/14 campaign yet were the highest payers with a wage bill of £215.8million, with neighbours and rivals City the second highest with £205m.

Chelsea, currently 10 points clear at the top of the table, were third in the top flight last season were only the third-highest payers with a wage bill of £192.7m.

Another top performing side was Southampton who are only ranked 16th in the top flight in terms of their wage bill (£55.2m) and have continued to impress on the pitch this year - they are currently seventh in the Premier League.

Liverpool over-achieved last season - finishing second despite having the fifth-highest wage bill, but have dropped down to fifth in the table this season - a position more representative of their spending on wages.

The biggest under-achievers were QPR whose salary bill was almost twice what the club earned in total last season.

A £75.3m wage bill - even from a season when they were in the Championship - made them the eighth-highest payers yet they are struggling in 19th place and facing relegation.

The wages costs and profits or losses of all top-flight clubs for 2013/14 have been revealed via annual accounts posted at Companies House and overall there is a close correlation between total salary bill and league position, with the current top four in the Premier League also the four biggest payers.

The combined accounts of the 20 clubs shows overall turnover rose to £3.07billion from £2.3bn in 2012/13 with wages increasing too but at a slower rate and totalling £1.84bn compared with £1.59bn.

The latest figure shows salaries account for 59.9 per cent of turnover compared with 71.7 per cent for the same 20 clubs a year before.

The increase in income is mainly down to the Premier League's lucrative TV deal that came into effect for the first time last season. The cash injection has led to six clubs who were in the red in 2012/13 now reporting a profit.

Apart from those clubs who were promoted from the Championship last season, only Manchester City, Aston Villa and Sunderland ended the 2013/14 season having made a financial loss.

Premier League director of communications Dan Johnson said the clubs' decision in 2013 to introduce spending controls had also contributed to a positive financial outlook.

Johnson said: "There are two reasons for this. The first is increasing revenues and the second is the financial criteria the clubs have voted in two seasons ago which put financial sustainability at the heart of how they want to go forward."

The measures introduced by the clubs capped the amount they could use TV money to pay for player costs. It also put a long-term limit on a club's overall losses.

Premier League clubs' financial figures for 2013/14 (2012/13 in brackets), in order of wage bills (£):

1. Man Utd (finished 7th in Premier League): wages 215.8m (180.5m); turnover 433.2m (363.1m); wages to turnover ratio 50% (50%); profit after tax 23.8m (146.4m)

2. Man City (1st): wages 205m (233.1m); turnover 346.5m (271m); wages to turnover ratio 59% (86%); loss after tax -22.9m (-51.6m loss)

3. Chelsea (3rd): wages 192.7m (172.6m); turnover 319.8m (255.8); wages to turnover ratio 60% (67%); profit after tax 18.4m (-49.4m loss)

4. Arsenal (4th): wages 166.4m (154.5m); turnover 298.7m (242.8m); wages to turnover ratio 56% (64%); profit after tax 7.3m (5.8m)

5. Liverpool (2nd): wages 144m (131m); turnover 256m (206m); wages to turnover ratio 56% (63%); profit after tax 0.4m (-49.9m loss)

6. Tottenham (6th): wages 100.4m (96.1m); turnover 180.5m (147.4m); wages to turnover ratio 56% (65%); profit after tax 65.3m (1.5m)

7. Newcastle (10th): wages 78.3m (61.7m); turnover 129.7m (66.5m); wages to turnover ratio 62% (91%); profit after tax 18.7m (9.9m)

8. QPR (4th in Championship): wages 75.3m (78m); turnover 38.7m (60.6m) ; wages to turnover ratio 195% (129%); loss after tax -9.7m (operating loss 65.3m but £60m debt write off as one-off income injection) (-65.4m loss)

9. Sunderland (14th): wages 69.5m (57.9m); turnover 104.4m (75.5m); wages to turnover ratio 67% (77%); loss after tax -17.1m (-13m)

10. Everton (5th): wages 69.3m (63m); turnover 120.5m (86.4m); wages to turnover ratio 58% (73%); profit after tax 28.2m (1.6m)

11. Aston Villa (15th): wages 69.3m (71.9m); turnover 116.9m (83.7.m); wages to turnover ratio 59% (86%); loss after tax -3.9m (-51.8m).

12. West Brom (17th): wages 65.4m (not available); turnover 86.8m (69.7m); wages to turnover ratio 75% (not available); profit after tax 9m (8,000)

13. West Ham (13th): wages 63.9m (56.2m); turnover 114.9m (89.8); wages to turnover ratio 56% (63%); profit after tax 10.3m (-3.5m loss)

14. Swansea (12th): wages 62.3m (48.1m); turnover 98.7 (67.1); wages to turnover ratio 64% (72%) profit after tax 1.7m (15.3m)

15. Stoke (9th): wages 60.6m (60.3m); turnover 98.3m (75.5m); wages to turnover ratio 67% (77%); profit after tax 3.8m (-31.1m loss)

16. Southampton (8th): wages 55.2m (41.4m); turnover 106m (71.8m); wages to turnover ratio 59.3% (65.5%); profit after tax 33.4m (-7.1m loss)

17. Crystal Palace (11th): wages 45.7m (18.7m); turnover 90.4m (14.5m); wages to turnover ratio 50.5% (124%) profit after tax 17.2m (3.6m)

18. Hull (16th): wages 43.3m (25.9m); turnover 84.5m (11.1m); wages to turnover ratio 64% (72%); profit after tax 9.4m (-25.6m loss)

19. Leicester (1st in Championship): wages 36.3m (26.8m); turnover 31.2m (19.6m); wages to turnover ratio 116% (136%); loss after tax -20.8m (-34m)

20. Burnley (2nd in Championship): wages 21.5m (15.3m); turnover 19.6m (15.2m); wages to turnover ratio 110% (100.6%); loss after tax -4.2m (-7.8m)

Credit: Skysports.com

Falcao Could Still Make Manchester United Move Permanent

Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev claims Manchester United could still sign Radamel Falcao on a permanent deal in the summer.

Falcao joined United on a one-year loan deal in September but has failed to shine during his time at Old Trafford - scoring just four goals in 25 appearances this season.

The striker's indifferent form has led to suggestions that his future lies elsewhere but Vasilyev revealed on Tuesday that United have yet to make a decision on Falcao, for the moment at least.

"I saw Manchester United leaders last Sunday and they have not yet decided if they will exercise the option [to sign Falcao permanently]," Vasilyev told French daily newspaper Nice-Matin.

"It's not his best season but they retain the opportunity to talk at the end of the season. We are not in any further negotiations for the moment, even if big clubs are interested.

"The decision is in Manchester, then we will talk with the player to find out what he wants."

Monaco signed Falcao from Atletico Madrid in May 2013 and he went on to score nine goals in 17 Ligue 1 games during the first half of the 2013-14 campaign before suffering a season-ending knee injury in January 2014.

Falcao recovered in time to be included in Colombia's 30-man provisional World Cup squad but missed the tournament altogether when he was left out of Jose Pekerman's final 23-man squad.

Credit: Skysports.com