Rafael vs. Neville

Although the Arsenal game was not a sight for sore eyes, it did however give us a glimpse of what to expect from the young Brazilian right-back Rafael.

United were outplayed by Arsenal, they held possesion for the majority of time and held United at bay. United had some decent chances, but were unable to capitalize and break Arsenal's defence.

It seems as though Gary Neville cannot keep up with the pace of the Premier League anymore. Whether it is down to match fitness or not, I was pleased to see Rafael replace him.

Rafael has got the speed, his dribbling is excellent and as we all saw, has got one hell of the shot. Gary Neville's shots often go flying into the stands and lets be honest, he cannot attack as well as Rafael.

Rafael has the potential to be one of the greatest right-backs to have ever embraced the Manchester United shirt. He is able to defend, tackle, go forward and create chances for the team.

Gary Neville is a fine player and his services for United should not go unnoticed, however I feel it's time for a bit of flair and Rafael can certainly provide that.

Hargreaves out injured

Oh boy. I certainly was not happy when I first read about it. Cannot but feel sorry for the poor guy.

After a long and hard fought pursuit for the England international, United finally got their £18 million midfielder. What a cracker of a player Hargreaves has been for United when fit, however as unfortunate as it is, to lose a player of his calibre to tendinitis is a shame.

Hargreaves has always given his all for the club since joining from Bayern Munich, but has never gotten a good run of games due to injuries.

Hargreaves headed off to Colorado for treatment, but since his injury has been persistently nagging him for the past year or so. It seems to me that we may have to face the possible of his career being in jeopardy. As we witnessed with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's, United may lose another class player to a knee injury.

Let us hope for the best and wish Hargreaves a speedy recovery. We cannot lose a player like him without having seen his true potential.

Rooney in form

Last season people considered Wayne Rooney's season a disappointment. Even though he did not score a hatful of goals, Rooney did provide the support for the team to excel to the heights of last season.

Rooney's condribution lead United to the Premier League and Champions League title. He also had a hand in Ronaldo's 42 goals last season. But as we all know a striker is judged on the goals he scores and his assists often go unnoticed.

The 2008/09 season started slowly for Rooney, with many doubting if we would ever see the killer instinct we saw 4 years ago against Fenerbahce. Rooney is the type of player who gets down and dirty and will do anything for the team. His game has been critisized as being too demanding for a striker. We often see him down in United's half fighting for the ball, he's all over the place.

Rooney has now scored 8 goals in the last 6 games. Everyone is praising his form which not so long ago was being critisized. With Berbatov coming into the fold, Rooney has obviously raised to a new level. With Berbatov in the team, it has allowed Rooney to roam freely behind the striker and be more of a threat.

I think the question on everybody's mind is; whether or not Rooney can be consitent throughout the season. I certainly hope he can and Rooney definitly has the mentality to do so.

Tevez set for £32 million transfer

Manchester United are believed to have agreed a fee of £32 million to make Carlos Tevez a permanent member of the squad.

Tevez is currently owned by MSI and joined United from West Ham on a two-year loan. The player is expected to make his move permanent later in the year.

The £32 million transfer fee will make Tevez the most expensive player in English football. After an impressive first season at United it is clear why Sir Alez Ferguson sees the forward as part of the club's long term plans.

Last season, Tevez had a tendency of scoring at crucial moments during the campaign and also provided support and space for others. For a player of his age and quality I feel that the £32 million is justified.

Tevez is only 23 years old and has already shown us what a world class player he is. He has formed a great partnership with Wayne Rooney, the two being the main reason why Cristiano Ronaldo scored 42 goals last season and has also shown us his loyalty.

The Argentine had reportedly rejected an approach from Real Madrid this summer. Claiming he did not want to join the La Liga champions as he is happy to commit his future to United.

This is true commitment and it is what we the fans should expect from the players. Ronaldo needs to take a leaf out Tevez's book to understand what commitment is.

South Africa to legalize prostitution during World Cup

Football fans traveling to South Africa for the World Cup are in luck.

Members of the South African goverment are pushing forward plans to legalize prostitution during the games, temporarily that is.

Millions of tourists will be in South Africa and the assumption is that along with the football, they will also want alcohol and sex.

Officals claim that sex trade thirves during events such as the World Cup and if the proposal is pushed, then South Africa stands to gain economically. Due to the legalization, the goverment stands to receive extra tax revenue.

Along with the extra revenue, unemployment rates would fall as more people are able to work and also crime rates will fall because prostitution will not be considered a felony.

Additionally, legalizing prostitution will make it safer for everyone as it will be controlled.

The arguments against the proposal, other than the whole morality issue. Is that when people get used to the idea of paying for sex they will not want to give it up.

Tevez: United should let Ron go

Carlos Tevez has come out and said that if Ronaldo wants to go, he should be allowed to.

What was meant to be a summer of relaxation and rest after last season's triumphs. Has now become a summer of constant speculation and unrest surrounding our 42 goal midfielder, Cristiano Ronaldo. And I for one am getting sick of it, as I am sure the rest of you are.

Tevez is right that this is a personal descion for Ronaldo. If he wants to leave, United should not get in his way, but Ronaldo needs to come out and tell us his intentions. At the moment it seems as though he is toying with everybody and it is starting to appear like a PR stunt.

Ronaldo has reportedly been partying with Paris Hilton in the U.S., so prehaps it is an attempt to impress the ladies. I pressume Miss Hilton would prefer the Madrid sun over the Manchester rain.

Anyway, Tevez told AS,"The [United] team has great players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, of course,"

"It's clear that he is a very important player for us, but this is a personal decision, which is up to only him.

I understand Cristiano. Every footballer wants to play at Real Madrid. On the other hand, I also think that everyone wants to play for Manchester United, but if what he seeks is something else, I think that should be respected.

I have not talked to him, but when these things happen, neither side feels good."

Having taken a look at the AS website it seems that Real Madrid are paying for ad space. There was a huge Real Madrid banner when I first visited. Something tells me that Tevez may have been misquoted or what he said was taken out of context. Although I find that hard to believe considering Tevez speaks Spanish.

What ever the case, Ronaldo is out for three months and therefore cannot be transferred while injured. How else is he going to pass the medical?

Ronaldo needs to speak out about his future and what he intends to do soon or else he is going to be expecting a hostile reception at Old Trafford.

Scholes Set to Retire in Two Years

One of United's all time greats, Paul Scholes has admitted he does not expect to carry on playing for more than two season.

Scholes, now 33 years old started at United as a trainee and has remained there every since. The midfielder has been an integral part of the success United have experienced under Ferguson and he will undoubtbly be missed when he finally hangs up his boots.

The midfielder does not enjoy a high profile image compared to others at the club, such as; Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo. You hardly see him in the tabloits, Scholes has always done his talking on the pitch and is one of the most consisent performers ever to have played for United.

Scholes said: "How long will I go on? I'd think two years at the most.

"I have one year left on my contract and hopefully I'll get another one but I suppose it all depends on how you're feeling and how you're playing.

"At the moment I just think two years would be about right."

Paul Scholes is a true professional in my eyes and he always produces a solid performance. A player like him does not come around so often, lets hope Anderson has what it takes to fill in his boots.

Manucho, Who?

Back in December, Sir Alex Ferguson signed a relatively unknown stricker from Angola. His name; Mateus Alberto Contreiras Gonçalves or better known as Manucho. The Angolan frontman impressed Ferguson during a three week trial to secure himself a 3-year contract.

As we are still not sure whether he will make the grade at United, his performances at the African Cup of Nations showed that the Devils have a pretty decent player on their hands. Even though he may lack the experience of playing in Europe, he may well prove to be a real threat for Premiership defenders if he secures a work permit, which i think he will based on his appreances for Angola so far.

With all the talk surrounding Berbatov, not much attention has been placed on Manucho. I consider Manucho to spring a few suprises when starts playing and gets used to United's style.

Manucho has already stated his determination to do well at the club and his time spent in Greece playing for Panathinaikos will have helped him to adapt to European football. He did well for the Greek outfit, bagging 4 goals in 7 apperances. He will also want to prove himself at Manchester and make a name for himself.

Sir Alex Ferguson would not have signed a player he did not feel was worth the bother and I will be axiously waiting for Manucho's league debut and how he fairs for the club. For now I just hope he gets the work permit as United only have Rooney and Tevez available for action, however Danny Welbeck is an intresting player to lookout for.

Man Utd Target Alexis Sanchez

Manchester United have reportedly had a bid for wonderkid Alexis Sanchez rejected.

The Chilean is valued at £15.8 million and is regarded by many in Chile as a developing global star. Alexis Sanchez is currently owned by Italian Serie A side Udinese, although he has not played a game for them yet. He has spent the last two seasons on loan at Colo Colo and River Plate.

Sanchez was instrumental for River Plate, helping them win the Argentine championship. His style of playing has left defenders in Argentina so frustated that they have resorted to delibaretly fouling the forward. In fact River Plate manager Diego Simeone was so concerned at the kicking Sanchez was receiving that he withdrew him from the starting XI and placed him on the bench.

Udinese are keen to hold onto their starlet and River are desperate to land him. However reports suggest that a bid of over £18 million will persuade Udinese to part company with the forward. Sanchez has also been reported to be seen as a long-term replacement for Manchester united's Cristiano Ronaldo, whose future at the club remains doubtful.

Sanchez's agent Fernando Felicevich has said that Manchester United had failed in one approach for the player. But did not rule out a renewed bid from United.

Udinese may want to see how Sanchez performs in Italy before deciding on any transfers. However the £15.8 million valuation is said to have been placed by Udinese to ward off any clubs intrested. Manchester United may not be put off by the price considering the money they spent on Nani and Anderson last season, United have shown that they will pay what ever is required in order to sign world class talent.

Sanchez has now linked-up with Udinese for pre-season training.

United Bidding For Berbatov

Spurs frontman Dimitar Berbatov is supposedly a target for the Red Devils. With the stories appearing in the papers, it seems that we may well see Berbatov in the red.
United are believed to be mounting a serious pursuit for the stricker, however their £24 million offer is below Tottenham's valuation of £30 million for the 27 year old.

Now, I do not doubt the Bulgarian's striking abilities but the price is making me have reservations as to wheather United should attempt to sign Berbatov. £24 million these days for a a striker of his calibre is a fair price, however £30 million for a 27 year old seems to be asking a lot. For that amount of money United could be investing in a young talent such as Dutch forward Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.

My preferance would be Huntelaar. But Berbatov would not be a bad aquisition either, he has scored 27 goals for Tottenham over the last two season and established himself in the Premier League as a competent goal scorer. As long as United do not pay over the odds for him, I would not mind seeing him play for the Red Devils.

Let me know what you think.

Fulham vs Manchester United Preview

Second last team in the league Fulham and second top team Manchester United are set to face each other tomorrow in what should prove to be a difficult home encounter for Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Ryan Giggs is set to miss the match after not fully recovering from a calf strain, while Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic are are both fit.

Players to look out for

Clint Dempsy is Fulham's top scorer with 6 league goals. United may have trouble with the tall midfielder but put in Owen Hargreaves and problem solved.

Fulham's Finnish defender Toni Kallio has had previous experience with Cristiano Ronaldo. Kallio played very well against Ronaldo during the Finland - Portugal games at the EURO 2008 qualifiers and will be up for the challenge again tomorrow. The games finished 1-1 and 0-0 respectively, with Roy Hodgson as Finalnd's manager

USA international Brian McBride has returned from injury and has scored 2 goals against United to date.

Stats

Fulham have not been able to beat Manchester United at Craven Cottage since they were promoted, the last Fulham beat them was back in 1964 with a 2-1 victory.

The last time the Reds dropped points was in December 2004 with 1-1 draw.

However the wins have come with one goal margins for United. Last season's corresponding fixture finished 2-1 with a late goal from Ronaldo to provide United with the win.

Predictions

Manchester United will reclaim top spot in the league if they beat Fulham and Arsenal lose.

With Fulham's form of late, 1 win in the last 15 games, they seem set to welcome a demolition from the Red Devils. We all saw what happened to Newcastle last week.

However I don't think we will see a 5-1 win tomorrow, although I do predict that United will win. Nani will most likely be playing and his crosses have been first class this season. Along with Ronaldo, Tevez and Rooney, United have the necessary ammo to fire them to victory

Although Fulham shouldn't be written off. They're in battle against relegation and they are usually quite strong at home. They have beaten Chelsea and Liverpool at Craven Cottage in the past and United should be careful not to suffer the same fate.

Manchester United will have to guard against complacency tomorrow but I think they come out with a 2-0 win.

Wes Brown Holding Out For £80K

After rejecting Manchester United's offer of £55 000-a-week, Wes Brown feels that he's worth more.

Apparently the defender is holding out for £80k-a-week. Are you kidding me?

In my opinion I do not think Wes Brown is worth that much, I agree with Sir Alex Ferguson when he says that the offer is more than genorous.

Let's take a look as to why he wants £80k:

1. He feels that he's worth more than £55k because in the absense of Gary Neville, he has become a first team regular.

2. Man Utd rejected Newcaslte's £800 000 bid for Brown last month and then placed a £3 million price tag for the player. His advisors claim that such a price should put Brown among the club's top-earners.

First of all, just because Wes Brown is filling in for Gary Neville does not make him worth £80k a-week. If Sir Alex Ferguson knew that he would lose Nevile for the majority of the season he may have invested in a defender. And when Gary Neville recovers, Brown will find himself on the bench again. I don't think a bench warmer is worth £80k and at 28, £55k is a good deal.

Secondly, I honestly doubt that players worth £3 million earn £80k a-week.

In last summer's transfer window four players in the Premiership moved for a fee of £3 million:

Oliver Kapo (Birmingham) Fredrik Ljungberg (West Ham) Kenny Miller (Derby) Claude Davis (Derby)

Out of the four, only Claude Davis is a defender and is also 28 years old.

So does that mean Davis should also be earning £80k a-week?

Wes Brown needs to get off his high horse, he's not going to get a better deal than the one Manchester United offered. Ferguson must be getting frustated with Wes' games now and his departure seems iniment. I just hope Brown relises how stupid he's being and accepts the deal.

If he doesn't accept, well United have Rafael and Fabio, two young Brazilian full-backs coming in the summer. The transfer window will be open, so if Brown does leave United will have the chance to buy somebody who's better than him

Lyon vs. Manchester United Preview

The Champions League starts off again this week, with Manchester United facing French opposition Lyon. Ryan Giggs is set to make his 100th apperance in the competition, making him the 8th player to reach that feat if he's featured in Wednesday's game.

Cristiano Ronaldo has recovered from a virus and is set to start at the Stade Gerland. While Gary Neville and Mikael Silvestre are still with long-term injuries.

Players to look out for

United will have to be on the look out for Lyon forward Karim Benzema and winger Hatem Ben Arfa. Benzema has scored 19 goals this season for Lyon and will pose a threat to United keeper van der Saar.

Hatem Ben Arfa has been compared to the likes of our Ronaldo recently and his trickery has gained rave reviews among pundits.

Pierre Michaud a journalist with French TV station Euronews described his game against Toulouse in mid-January as "out of this world". One word that is often being used in analysis of Ben Arfa's game is "unpredictable" and with Michaud having seen almost every game from the Stade Gerland, he certainly seen it all.

Karim Benzema (left) celebrating with Hatem Ben Afra (right)

United will need to find a way to contain Ben Arfa and cut off the supply to Benzema and Fred. Ben Arfa's dribbling may be difficult for United's defence to deal with but it is nothing they can't handle.

Lyon's defence

Lyon will have be wary of Manchester United's attack. Lyon's defence is a cause of concern; Fabio Grosso and Anthony Reveillere are the weak links and with the likes of Nani, Giggs and Ronaldo looming, they may have some trouble.

Lyon has leaked a goal almost every game and conceded 8 goals in the group stages this season. And with United never been shy of attacking, Lyon will be under pressure to not give the visitors an away goal.

Stats

The only previous meeting between the two clubs was back in the 2004-05 Champions League group stage. The first match ended 2-2 at the Stade Verland and the second a 2-1 win for United.

Lyon hasn’t lost in the last 4 games in the Champions League this season, while United are unbeaten in all six games.

Cristiano Ronaldo is currently the joint top scorer in this year's competition along with Inter's Ibrahimovich both on 5 goals.

Predictions

United are facing Lyon at a good time, even though they are trailing Arsenal in the league by 5 points, they managed to beat them last Saturday 4-0. They will be going into the game full of confidence and with every chance of getting something out of the game.

Meanwhile Lyon lost to Le Mans 1-0 last weekend and will be out to make amends for the defeat. They are top of Ligue 1 by only 1 point in front of Bordeaux.

With Lyon denfence and United's fondness of attacking, both teams will up for a fight. I hugely doubt that either team will sit back and defend.

United will be seeking for an away goal to take back to Old Trafford and Lyon's main strength is their fire power up front with Benzema.

United Fire The Gunners Out

Manchester United against Arsenal was probably the game everybody was waiting to watch. But few would have predicted the 4-0 score line United produced.

Now a lot has happened since my last post and I'm sorry for the wait. Capello started his reign as England manager with a win. Manchester United's Angolan striker Manucho made an impression in the African Cup of Nations and moved to Greek side Panathinaikos on loan. Whereas Premier League's plan for a 39th game abroad has been hitting headlines the past week.

FA Cup

Manchester United 4 - 0 Arsenal

United produced a stunning display to deny Arsenal a place in the quarter-finals. Rooney (16min), Fletcher (20min, 78min) and Nani (38min) produced the goals. Arsenal always looked to be playing catch up with United and it was virtually game over for the Gunners when Eboue got sent off.

Manchester United's passing was on the spot that day and they looked brilliant at the back too. After the 2-1 loss to City last weekend, United certainly improved their performance and made an amends.

Liverpool 1 - 2 Barnsley

In the other games, Barnsley's Brian Howard sent his team to the quarter-finals with last minute strike against Liverpool. To make matters worse Liverpool lost at Anfield to Barnsley, then again United have done the same in the past season.

Benitez's rotation policy is certainly proving to be the reason for Liverpool's form. Sure it's nice to get everybody playing some games, but how can they gel if there's a different line-up every week. Benitez left Gerrard on the bench for the game and ultimately removed Liverpool's inspiration from the field.

Chelsea 3 - 1 Huddersfield

Well this was no shocker.

Lampard scored twice and took his goal tally to 101, making him the 8th player for the blues to do so.

I really can't be bothered to write about Chelsea so I’m not going to tease myself with it.

Cardiff 2 - 0 Wolves

For the first time in 81 years Cardiff have progressed to the quater finals thanks to goals from Peter Whit Ingham and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

Wolves were terrible at the back and Cardiff capitalized. The full-backs were nowhere to be seen as the Bluebirds crossed from side to side.

The last time Cardiff went through was back in 1927. They became the first non-league team to ever lift the trophy. Hasselbaink has meanwhile played down the prospect of winning.

However they are with a chance if they can avoid the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea.

Coventry 0 - 5 WBA

Well I guess the score reflects what the game was like for Coventry.

A 5 – 0 away win is always sweet but you have to feel sorry the supporters. The sending off of Michael Doyle certainly didn’t help.

WBA were holding onto a 1-0 at half time and dismissal of Doyle helped to open up space for WBA.

Bristol Rovers 1 - 0 Southampton

Bristol Rovers sent the Saints crashing out after Ricky Lambert rounded off an impressive display with a late free-kick to secure the Pirates’ progression.

Bristol Rovers are playing in League One and had already knocked out Premiership strugglers Fulham in this year’s competition and were determined to have a go at the Saints.

Paul Trollope’s side controlled most of the possession throughout the game and certainly deserved the win.

There are 2 more games to be played with Sheffield Utd – Middlesbrough and Preston North End – Portsmouth playing later on Sunday.

Four teams outside of the Premier League are through and the draw takes place on Monday 1325 GMT.

FA Cup Finalists Geoff Thomas and Mark Bright will be drawing the ball along with Sir Trevor Brooking.

The games will be played on the weekend of 8 & 9 March, the winners of the ties will receive £300 000.

The draw numbers:

1. Bristol Rovers
2. Cardiff City
3. Sheffield United or Middlesbrough
4. Barnsley
5. Manchester United
6. Preston North End or Portsmouth
7. West Bromwich Albion (WBA)
8. Chelsea

Goal Scoring Monster Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has by far the best player in Premier League this season. He overcame the abuse from England fans last season and dazzled us with his dribble. This season he has been in equally good form, if not better. This year Ronaldo has not only shown us he can just dribble but can also score.

Ronaldo arrived at Old Trafford as an unknown from Sporting Lisbon, he spent the first few games on the bench before getting his debut. Ronaldo was once branded as a one-trick pony, he caused fury among England fans last season. But rose above it and claimed his first English Premier League championship.

Now, the once so called "one-trick pony" has a bag of tricks up his sleeve. He cannot stop scoring. No matter what defenders do, they're left standing in ashtonishment. His mere presence sends shivers to his opponent. It is not whether or not he will score now, it is a matter of when, that sparks fear.

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 28 goals so far this season, his latest was his stunning free-kick against Portsmouth. Ronaldo is on his way to beating Gearge Best's record of 32 goal for a midfielder.

His strike rate is one that any striker in the world could wish for at the moment. He has scored 28 goals this season and we're still in Febuary. There is four months of club football left and i'm waiting in excitement to see what his goal tally is at the end of the season.

FA To Crack Down On Dissent

In almost every match that is being played throughout the English Premier League there's is bound to be some controversy surrounding referee's decisions. Players immediately gather around the referee to give him a piece of their mind, some often use abusive language while others try to snatch the card from referee's hand. I'm referring to John Terry during the Manchester United - Chelsea following Mikel's dismissal (2-0 Old Trafford, 23.09.2007).

However that is not the first time John Terry has been involved in similar situations. Referees are under pressure to make correct decisions. When a whole bunch of players come and surround him, it makes his job more difficult.

This takes me back to a story of a referee in Malaysia and could provide the FA with an unconventional, dangerous yet effective, if not a humours solution to the problem.

A local football match became riotous after the sending off of a player. Most referees would take a step back and calm everybody down. But not this bad ass ref, he pulled out a gun and fired warning shots in the air.

Now wouldn't that be something, if all referees carried guns. John Terry would certainly think twice before raging to match officials. I mean the players must have really ticked off that Malaysian referee for him to pull a gun on them.

Although I do not expect the FA to sanction referees with firearms. But what they are suggesting is that only the captains be allowed to approach the referee.

Well why not?? They have the same system in rugby and it works perfectly. On top of that it should be the captain and only the captain to manage affairs on the field. You don't need the whole team ganging up on the referee. It looks as if they're going to mob him or something and why should the captain need the whole team behind him anyway??

I all for this proposal as it makes total sense. But we wouldn't be in this situation if it was not for Chelsea players always critising a decision that goes against them.

Manchester United Face Arsenal

The 5th round of the FA Cup has been drawn and Manchester United are set for a head-to-head encounter with joint league leaders Arsenal.

Now the game is being played at Old Trafford on February 16/17. United are in good form at the moment and I'm eagerly waiting for the game. Partly because I want United to kick Arsenal out of another Cup competition. But the game should prove to be a cracker.

Bristol Rovers in the 5th round

Meanwhile Bristol Rovers face off against Southampton. You may be thinking why I'm taking a mention at Bristol Rovers, well having lived on the out certs of the city I feel some sort of connection.

Bristol Rovers beat Premier League stragglers Fulham to reach the 5th round, they are currently 18th in League One, while Southampton are 13th in the Championship.

I really hope the Pirates overcome the Saints and advance to the quarter finals.

What's great about this years FA Cup is that three teams outside the Premier League will reach the next round.

Sheffield United have already beaten two Premier League teams (Man City, Bolton) to reach this stage and could prove a challenge for Middlesbrough. Hopefully we'll get to see an upset, my preference would be Barnsley beating Liverpool of course.

I want to give a shout out to Havant & Waterlooville, it takes courage to go out and attack Liverpool at Anfield. For them to take the lead twice was truly remarkable and certainly a joy to watch.

Matches played on Feb 16/17

Bristol Rovers (L1) v Southampton (CH)

Cardiff City (CH) v Wolves (CH)

Sheffield United (CH) v Middlesbrough (PRM)

Liverpool (PRM) v Barnsley (CH)

Manchester United (PRM) v Arsenal (PRM)

Preston (CH) v Portsmouth (PRM)

Coventry City (CH) v West Brom (CH)

Chelsea (PRM) v Huddersfield Town (L1)

"Three Horse Race"

It now seems according to Owen Hargreaves that the chase for the title has effectively become a "3 horse race". Liverpool are 14 points of the pace and that is a large gap to close down. Liverpool have been out of contention for the title the last couple of years and this year is no different.

The title will be battled out between Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea. Neither of these teams' form seem to be fluctuating. Manchester United and Arsenal are both playing attractive football and winning. Even with Jose Mourinho's departure, Chelsea have not fallen to far behind the wagon.

Chelsea are only 4 points behind leaders Manchester United, while Arsenal are level on points with United. With Liverpool's off-pitch trouble and current form they may even sturggle to qualify for the Champions league if this trend continues.

Everton, Aston Villa and Manchester City all on 40 points at the moment seem set to challenge Liverpool for the 4th Champions League spot. I would personally like to see another team than Liverpool in the CL because i'm personally getting sick of them at the moment.

Manchester United are on a run at the moment and hopefuly the training camp in Saudi Arabia will recharge their batteries for the final push to a another title this season and potentially another Treble. That would certainly be the icing on the cake.

Manchester United Beat Reading

Honestly I did not watch Manchester United against Reading. I had other matters to attend to, however I wasn't surprised with the 2-0 away win. It's starting to become a habit now, Manchester United are on a roll and seems as if we'll be at the top come the end of the season. Anyway I tried reading the match report from soccernet but then decided I couldn't be bothered. Match report at soccernet. I'm too lazy to write about it:)

This week has been full of news in the football world mainly due to Kevin Keegan's appointment as Newcastle manger. Way to go Newcastle get rid of your manager in the middle of the season, although I don't blame Mike Ashley for sacking Allardyce. The football Allardyce made Newcastle play was s**t! Newcastle could have least given the poor guy a season. They're 12th in the league, which isn't so bad. Now Keegan faces the task of building the team again and getting them into Europe.

Keegan has 2 weeks of the transfer window left and it isn't likely Newcastle will receive a injection of creativity this month. Players are unlikely to move now and finding a player of quality will prove troublesome.

Keegan's first game in charge finished in 0-0 draw against Bolton, it will be interesting to see how he does and how long he lasts.

Ferguson Chases Treble

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has challenged his squad to prove how good they are by delivering the treble (Premier League, FA cup, UCL).

ManUtd are 2 points behind league leaders Arsenal, face a to Lyon and may face either Tottenham or Reading. A treble is well within their reach as it was last season. In fact last season was the closest they had ever come to winning all three trophies since the remarkable 98/99 season.

However last season proved that United needed more depth in their squad, as tiredness and injury to key players sealed their fate in last season UCL semi-final. The problem has been dealt with, with the acquisitions of Tevez, Nani, Hargreaves and Anderson.

All of them are first team players and have proved their worth so far this season. Anderson's quick adaption to the English game has put a smile on every body's face. Hargreaves has been playing extremely, whereas Nani is looking like a second Cristiano Ronaldo and Tevez has been scoring regularly. Manchester United now have the players with sufficient back-up to go all out for three trophies this season.

It's a realistic goal and Man Utd have the quality to mount a serious challenge on all fronts this season. Everybody was ecstatic after winning the treble back in 1999, lets hope we can relive the excitement that lead up to it.

Aston Villa 0 - 2 ManUtd: One Boring Game!

Wow! What a boring game! Well at least we got to see two goals in the last 10min but still. The game in general was sore on the eyes, I'm sorry but i couldn't believe what i was watching. I actually fell asleep at around the 60th min and I was in a pub!

The atmosphere was dull which kind of reflected what the game was like for us.

It was as if the team had just switched off, Ronaldo didn't even manage to pass any defenders with his usual step-overs and when he tried he managed to give the away to the opposition. The only useful thing he did during the 90min was score and that was a sitter.

And what was wrong with Carrick today, it seemed he didn't know where to the ball at times. However it did show he was short of match practise. Same for Saha, I was glad to see him back in action and I'm sure he'll get on the score sheet as soon as he gets more games under his belt.

Rooney returned to action, and I think his inclusion onto the pitch really had a positive effect on the team. It wasn't until he came that game picked up and he actually managed to get on the score sheet. His presence always seems to help United perform better

All in all the game sucked! I don't know if it was the hangover but I really wanted to get out of there and get some rest. It was unbearable to watch, I wanted to see more action and was left frustrated at the lack of opportunities Man Utd created. The players get paid around £60,000 a week, you would expect them to be more lively during the game.

Arrivals Not Expected! and The FA Cup

Sir Alex Ferguson today has said there is little chance of anybody arriving in the next. Having been linked with a number of players, Ferguson is apparently satisfied with his current crop of players at his disposal.

Rumors of Cristiano Ronaldo joining Real Madrid have resurfaced, but come on. It's always the same rumors coming out during the transfer windows.

According to the Daily Express; Manchester United have placed a whooping £75 million value on the player. That will certainly put anybody off, wouldn't it. £75 million! Can u imagine Real Madrid spending that much on a player, I certainly don't believe this rumor. It just sounds so ridiculous and unrealistic!

FA Cup: Aston Villa - Man Utd

Today's FA Cup 3rd round sees ManUtd face off against Aston Villa.

Villa striker John Carew is an injury doubt, while Shaun Maloney is making a push for the first eleven after Luke Moore's blunders against Spurs.

Van der Saar seems set for a return whereas Rooney is in the squad following his recovery from a virus. Tevez is still a doubt with a bruised ankle.

I believe Man Utd have enough quality to see off Aston Villa today. The last time United were knocked out of 3rd Round was back in 1984 against Bournemouth.

Under Ferguson the team has won the FA Cup five times and in his 21 years at the helm he has not lost a 3rd round tie. United have got history in the cup competition as the most successful team. However they will have to guard against complacency, Villa will want some revenge after the 1-4 home defeat back in October. But certainly cannot see Aston Villa winning today.

United Reject Brown Bid. Hutton Rejects Spurs! Possible ManUtd Move?

Rangers full-back Alan Hutton rejected the oppurtunity to move south yesterday to Tottenham. The two clubs had been in talks over a £8 million move for the Scottish international. However Hutton claimed the move did not suit him.

Hutton's impressive displays for Scotland this season has received praise from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson which were in light of his outstanding performance against France in November.

Ranger's willingness to negotiate a price for Hutton can be viewed as a good sign for Man Utd. Hutton is rated quite highly by Ferguson and a move for the player might be imminent.

Newcastle Utd's Brown Bid Rejected

United have rejected Newcastle's bid for Wes Brown. The fee is reported to be around £2 milllion, however the deal is still open.

Wes Brown turned down a final contract offer from Manchester United last month and could leave for free in the summer. I suspect that Man Utd would want some money for Brown and believe that they are holding out for more, I would.

With Brown likely to move on either now or in the summer, United will be short on defenders. Gary Neville is still getting fit and Danny Simpson is still learning. A move to Man Utd seems more likely for Hutton now. £8 million is a cheap price to pay for a potential long-term replacement for Neville.

And if Brown leaves this month I would anticipate United making a move for Hutton. But the only down side to it is that he's cup-tied for the UCL and we all remember what happened last season when United didn't have enough depth.

Italian Team "Scores"

This is a little off-topic, but I like to keep anything regarding football or funny open to be mentioned on ManUtd Corner.

Back in October I learned of a story about a Serie D (4th division) team signing a sponsorship deal with a brothel based in Innsbruck, Austria. Trentino 1921 have received 10 000 euros (around£7 000) for placing the name of the brothel, Casa Bianca (White house) on their official website, along with a link.

Local officials were angered that the football team had entered in a deal with Casa Bianca. Iva Baresi, a Trento city council member was furious about the deal. She told the local newspaper Trentino, " It's incredible that the (provincial) capital's team would accept a sponsor that would even give the impression that it profited from the sale of a woman's body," she continued by saying, "I believe that my feeling of being offended is the same one felt by the majority of women in Trento. I would hope that the team -- which also receives public funding -- would want to find a remedy for this situation as soon as possible." I must say she makes a valid point, it doesn't really look good for the town's image if their local football team is sponsored by a brothel.

Her conserns have been heard and a compromise has been reached, the logo still remains on the club's list of sponsors, however the link to the Casa Bianca website has been removed. Although it's not a bad marketing move for Casa Bianca, they're out to sell their service to future customers. Now, what kind of people watch football? That's right, mostly guys, and what kind of people visit brothels? Again guys. So sponsoring a football team just across the border is good marketing, Casa Bianca is reaching out to prospective clients well within their market area.

And let's face the truth here, being the chairman of Serie D team isn't that profitable. 10 000 euros is pretty good considering the revenue Trentino 1921 receive from the league and match day profits. There's no TV coverage on Serie D anyway, so where are teams going to find the cash. They need to take what they can get.

Needless to say, I would suspect the team to be enjoying the deal. I mean what's a better a way to celebrate your win than to just go to a brothel and relax. Same applies for losing, it helps ease the wound when you've lost:) It's only a 2h drive to Innsbruck and also it's one hell of a creative source for some cash for Trentino 1921.

Transfer Rumors

The transfer window has already started and Manchester United seem to have been linked with a few players lately. The Berbatov affair is constantly getting on my now, Berbatov wants to leave Spurs for a club that matches his ambition. Give me a break, so Spurs do not match his ambition. I mean they sacked Martin Jol and hired two times UEFA Cup winner Juande Ramos, how much ambitious can you get. Unless they went all out to hire Jose Mourinho.

Personally I don't blame Berbatov for wanting to leave, who wouldn't want to leave Spurs if a club like Manchester United didn't come calling... I would love to see Berbatov in a ManUtd shirt, but I do believe that nothing will happen this month. Sir Alex Ferguson has already said he is not a big fan of the winter transfer window. Also if ManUtd were looking for a striker to play in the Champions League, Berbatov would be cup-tied and he would come with a hefty price tag too.

Nicolas Anelka also seems to be linked to ManUtd, but other clubs like Chelsea and Manchester City seem to be in-line to capture him. However if ManUtd were to sign anybody, I'd prefer Anelka over Berbatov. Sure Anelka is 28 but he's a proven goal scorer and and has experience in the English game. Anelka is not cup-tied for the Champions League and would also be signed for a cheaper transfer fee.

But as I said before; I don't think any transfer activity will happen during the winter. Manchester United don't really need anybody, except in my opinion a striker. ManUtd were fortunate that Carlos Tevez only suffered a bruised ankle. United don't have sufficient depth in the striker department; Louis Saha, who we now is prone to injury would not be a reliable back-up, however when he is fit, he can certainly score goals. ManUtd would be better off investing in a striker during the window.

Bruised Ankle For Tevez

Manchester United have revealed that Tevez has not broken any bones after being carried away during United's 1-0 win over Birmingham. Tevez is not expected to feature in Saturday's FA tie with Aston Villa, however Rooney seems set to return to action after recovering from a virus.

Paul Scholes and Gary Neville are continuing their rehabilitation from long-term injury. Scholes is set for a return in mid-February. While Neville needs to get some games under his belt. Neville has not played since March, although he is training with the team.

Welcome everybody!

ManUtd Corner is the place to come if you are a die hard Manchester United fan or just a fan of football. You will be kept up to date with most of the news, transfer rumors and matches. Manchester United is the main focus here but you will also hear about other footballing topics too, along with my views.

I will try to update ManUtd Corner as often as possible and i will do my best to do so. I hope u enjoy ManUtd Corner, the place for true ManUtd fans! or regular footie fans:)