Man United Resolute On Carlos Tevez Permanent Deal Even As Man City Loom

Manchester United have dismissed speculation over Carlos Tevez’s future at Old Trafford, and stressed that they are on the right track to sign the Argentina forward permanently.

The 24-year-old former Boca Juniors, Corinthians and West Ham United ace has established himself as a key player in Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, for his energetic displays after having joined the Red Devils in a two-season loan deal in 2007 summer.

Tevez is now keen to sign a long-term deal with the Red Devils and a price-tag of £30million has been reported for the proposed transfer if United want to keep him. Recently there was speculation that the move may be delayed and Tevez, who is also reportedly a target for cash-rich Manchester City, getting frustrated following summer-arrival of Dimitar Berbatov. However, the current Premiership and European champions have refuted the rumours.

“(Chief executive) David Gill told the papers in South Africa in July that we would hope to conclude a deal with Carlos before the new year,” said a spokesman.

“That is still our aim. The clocks haven't even gone back yet, so to talk of delays is nonsense. Both the club and Carlos are relaxed about the situation.”

http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

United's Foursome Are Awesome, Says Ince

Blackburn Rovers manager Paul Ince believes that Manchester United's attacking quadrant of Wayne Rooney; Carlos Tevez; Cristiano Ronaldo; and Dimitar Berbatov is awesome.

Sir Alex Ferguson has assembled a mouth-watering strike force consisting of an Englishman; a Portuguese; an Argentinian; and a Bulgarian worth a total of £70million. Should Ferguson extend Tevez's stay permanently, then that figure would rise to £95million.

It it an attacking quadrant that would be the envy of many a sane manager, none more so than former United player and current Blackburn Rovers boss Paul Ince - whose side lost to the Red Devils 2-0 at the weekend.

When pressed about how he prepares his side to defend against such potent talent, he replied: "It’s scary, isn’t it? You can spend all week, as I have done, discussing tactics and personnel."

"I probably thought about playing 20,000 different teams. But when a team is that good, sometimes you can’t do anything about it," he is quoted by Manutd.com as saying.

"We tried hard and went in there with a lot of confidence. But they are so good. They’re a fantastic team, they always play with pace and wingers and they’re a joy to watch at times."

"Even so, I was proud of my lads. We’ll learn from this game... When United play like that they’re awesome. People were saying they weren’t playing well — but they have so much quality."

"When you can bring on Tevez from the bench, who would probably cost more than our entire first 11, that just shows what you are up against," the rookie Premier League manager concluded.

Alan Dawson
http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Van Der Sar Returns to the international fold

Edwin Van Der Sar is to come out of international retirement to after being persuaded by the Dutch FA - the KNVB.

Van Der Sar last played for Holland in the 3-1 defeat at the hands of Russia in Euro 2008. Holland were widely praised for their wonderful counter attacking football against the likes of Italy and France in the group stages - but will ultimately defeated by a Arshavin led Russia.

Current Dutch number one, Maarten Stekelenburg, has a shoulder injury which is why Bert van Marwijk has called upon the legendary Dutch goalkeeper - who has won to date 128 caps.

Other United players to be called up to their national sides are Nani and Ronaldo (both Portugal), Manucho (Angola), Brown Rooney and Ferdinand (all England), Park (Korea Republic).

http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Player Ratings: Blackburn 0-2 Manchester United

Wes Brown and Wayne Rooney gave Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers

BLACKBURN ROVERS

Brown: 8.0 - May feel aggrieved about the goal but made some excellent saves to keep the scoreline respectable. Tipped Giggs’ shot onto the bar and denied Rooney twice and Berbatov in an excellent display.

Ooijer: 6.0 - Had his hands full with Rooney and Berbatov and simply couldn't get close enough to the visitors' frontmen.

Samba: 4.0 - Found United’s pace and movement a problem, lost Rooney completely who could have added a third but dinked his shot over and a lack of concentration let in Berbatov shortly afterwards.

Nelsen: 6.0 - Committed and tried to drive his team onwards at 2-0 down with a surging run forwards.

Olsson: 5.0 - A mistake let in Brown and Berbatov in the first half and he looked shaky whenever United ran directly at him. Got nowhere near Ronaldo for United’s second.

Emerton: 6.5 - Excellent pass early on opened up the United defence for Derbyshire and not afraid to have a hit. Worked hard and was one of Rovers’ better performers.

Tugay: 5.5 - Fairly anonymous in truth, which is unlike him. Rovers needed his drive but he simply couldn’t provide it and was subbed early.

Warnock: 5.0 - Set up Santa Cruz once with a fine pass but that was about all he offered.

Pedersen: 5.5 - He offered relatively little and an ineffective performance was ended by Ince just before the hour mark.

Derbyshire: 6.0 - Forced Van der Sar into a good early save but seemed to disappear from the match after that and had little involvement in the second half.

Santa Cruz: 7.0 - His very presence seemed to worry the United back four and he tested Van der Sar on occasions but needed far more support. Hobbled off early in the seond half.

Substitutions

Roberts: 5.0 - Replaced Santa Cruz but didn’t have a sniff.

Treacy: 5.0 - A well wide late shot was about all he offered:

Andrews: n/a - Made little impact.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Van der Sar: 6.0 - Decent stop from Derbyshire and one from Santa Cruz was just about all he had to do all evening.

Brown: 7.0 - Scored the goal and initiated several attacks on the right hand side, may well keep Gary Neville on the bench a while longer.

Ferdinand: 7.5 - A great block on Santa Cruz in the first half after Van der Sar could only parry Derbyshire’s drive and kept Rovers in check all night.

Vidic: 7.5 - Blackburn may object about the part he played in Brown’s goal but defensively he was superb.

Evra: 7.0 - Set up Ronaldo who should have scored with a typical attacking foray down the left and defensively had very little to do.

Ronaldo: 7.5 - Was well marshalled in the first half but swapped flanks in the second and looked a lot happier on the right. Set up Rooney for United’s second with a fine run and cross and almost allowed Tevez to make it three.

Fletcher: 7.0 - Put an early chance wide but his passing and tracking back were first class and ensured Scholes wasn't missed.

Anderson: 7.0 - Neat and tidy, kept possession well and helped United dominate midfield.

Giggs: 7.0 - Had a great shot tipped onto the bar and his passing was immaculate all evening. Given the night off once Rooney had scored United’s second.

Berbatov: 7.0 - Some lovely through balls set up both Fletcher and Rooney and some superb touches showed signs that he is starting to settle. Yet Ferguson will expect much more for his money.

Rooney: 8.5 - A surprise inclusion after seemingly picking up an injury against Aalborg but continued his good form. Crossed for Brown to open the scoring and added a second with a fine strike.

Substitutions

Tevez: 7.5 - A cute pass put Ronaldo in and he almost made it three but his shot hit the post.

O’Shea: 6.0 - Allowed Evra to have a rest and wasn’t tested.

Park: 6.0 - A late substitution and had little time to make an impact.

Gill Clark


http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Blackburn 0-2 Man United Match Report

Defending champions Manchester United tamed Blackburn Rovers as Sir Alex Ferguson’s side scored once in each half in the Premiership game at Ewood Park on Saturday.

The victory took Sir Alex Ferguson’s side up into sixth place with 11 points from six games. Rovers remain on 10 points after seven games.

Wes Brown and Wayne Rooney were the goal-scorers on a wet evening in Lancashire. United had good chances in the first half, but failed to convert as Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher missed the target.

Paul Ince’s side also had their share of opportunities, but no-nonsense defending by Vidic earlier on saw the Serbian clear the ball to safety before Santa Cruz could get to it after Derbyshire’s shot was blocked by Van der Sar. Emerton then had a long-range effort whizzing past the rival goal.

United took the lead in the 30th minute when defender Brown headed home off a cross by Wayne Rooney, but Rovers goalkeeper Jason Brown felt aggrieved that the whistle had not gone for what he would term impediment by Vidic. The Rovers goalkeeper, who has stepped in for injured Paul Robinson, had done well until then making a couple of good saves.

Santa Cruz forced a save from Van der Sar within seconds of the start of the second period, but Blackburn were jolted soon after as the Paraguay striker picked up an injury and was replaced by Jason Roberts.

Rooney made it 2-0 in the 64th minute for the Red Devils with a clinical finish from the in-form England ace set up by Portuguese star Ronaldo, who himself missed a few opportunities as he failed to hit target.

The home side could have fallen further behind had goalkeeper Brown not rushed off his line to make a sliding tackle to prevent Dimitar Berbatov from rounding him in a one on one situation in the 74th minute.

A rare threat from Rovers in the second half, came in the 80th minute when Emerton blasted a first-time volley off Derbyshire’s cross, towards the target but Vidic came up with a crucial block.

At the other end, substitute Carlos Tevez struck his fierce low shot onto the post after Ronaldo had set up the Argentina international.

Teams:

Blackburn Rovers: Brown, Ooijer, Samba, Nelsen, Olsson, Emerton, Kerimoglu (Andrews 68), Warnock, Pedersen (Treacy 58), Derbyshire, Roque Santa Cruz (Roberts 50).

Substitutes not used: Bunn, Mokoena, Villanueva, Fowler.

Man United: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra (O'Shea 71), Ronaldo, Fletcher, Anderson, Giggs (Tevez 66), Berbatov, Rooney (Park 77).

Substitutes not used: Amos, Nani, Rafael Da Silva, Evans.

Referee: Steve Bennett.

http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Premier League Preview: Blackburn Rovers – Manchester United

Out of the Master’s Shadow

You can guarantee that when Paul Ince took over the Blackburn Rovers job from Mark Hughes, games such as this Saturday’s against the club he represented with such distinction during his playing career was one of the first he looked for when the fixture list was released.
Indeed, the concept of even facing the Premier League and European champions must have seemed a long way away this time last season when he was guiding Milton Keynes Dons to the Football League Two title. Ince, though, has taken the giant leap to the Premier League in his stride if recent results are anything to go by.

Beginning with a barnstorming opening-day victory at Goodison Park against Everton, ‘the Guv’nor’ should be very pleased indeed to see his Rovers team sitting in a comfortable seventh place in the table after claiming further wins at home to Fulham and away at Newcastle United.

The ex-Inter Milan player has also, importantly, managed to add some further quality to the Blue and Whites squad. His signing of Paul Robinson seems to have re-invigorated the much-maligned goalkeeper, right-back Danny Simpson has been an astute loan singing from this Saturday’s opponents, whilst the Latin flair and technical skills of Chilean Carlos Villanueva has lit up the Rovers attack.

Such an impressive start to his Premier League career has certainly allowed Ince to cast aside any of the doubts that were sent his way upon his ascension to the Ewood Park hot-seat.
However, there aren’t many bigger tests for a manager than when Manchester United come to town.

However, Ince has inherited a team that has performed well above expectations against the Red Devils in recent years, with Rovers pinning back United’s title hopes last season in a hard-fought 1-1 draw as well as recording a David Bentley-inspired 4-3 win in 2006.
If the former Reds idol can continue this impressive run on Saturday, then you can be sure that Sir Alex Ferguson will have to crack a wry smile at yet another one of his protégés coming back to haunt him.

With or Without Wayne

There are some players who have an uncanny knack of finding the back of the net every time they walk onto a football pitch, whilst there are others who seem to be in a constant cycle of hot and cold spells when it comes to getting their name on the score-sheet.

That Wayne Rooney seems to fit so firmly in to the latter category will make the news of his potential absence from this game even harder to take for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Rooney had looked to be coming back to his effervescent best in the Red Devils’ last two games, scoring a beautifully crafted goal against Bolton Wanderers and setting United on their way to an elementary 3-0 Champions League win against Aalborg with an uncharacteristically composed finish.

Furthermore, the mid-week jaunt in Denmark dealt a much more serious blow to Ferguson’s playing stock with the news that Paul Scholes will be out of action until 2009 due to the knee ligament damage he picked up in an innocuous challenge against AaB. The Oldham-born playmaker may not be the player that he once was, but anyone who saw his cameo appearance against Bolton Wanderers couldn’t have failed to recognise the quality and finesse that Scholes adds to the United midfield.

This latest injury will also exacerbate a problem position for United this season due to the continuing fitness issues for Michael Carrick and Owen Hargreaves, as well as the poor form of Anderson since his return from Olympic duty with Brazil. Blows such as these though will have been compensated by Dimitar Berbatov’s two goal salvo against the Danish champions.
The tall Bulgarian will be an important figure if the Red Devils are to come away from Ewood Park on Saturday with all three points.

Victories against their North West neighbours have though been scarce in recent years, a fact that Sir Alex Ferguson will no doubt be aware of when he rues the loss of his inspirational No. 10 for this match.


FORM GUIDE

Blackburn Rovers

27th September vs. Newcastle United (A) won 2-1 (PREM)

24th September vs. Everton (H) won 1-0 (CARLING CUP)

20th September vs. Fulham (H) won 1-0 (PREM)

13th September vs. Arsenal (H) lost 4-0 (PREM)

30th August vs. West Ham United (A) lost 4-1 (PREM)

Manchester United

30th September vs. Aalborg BK (A) won 3-0 (CHAMP LG)

27th September vs. Bolton Wanderers (H) won 2-0 (PREM)

23rd September vs. Middlesbrough (H) won 3-1 (CARLING CUP)

21st September vs. Chelsea (A) drew 1-1- (PREM)

17th September vs. Villarreal C.F. (H) drew 0-0 (PREM)


TEAM NEWS

Blackburn Rovers

Rovers will be without the services of Paul Robinson (calf) as he is still a week away from a return to action. The ex-Tottenham man joins long-term injury absentee David Dunn (shin) on the Ewood Park treatment table. Defender Danny Simpson will also be in the stands for this game - he is ineligible as he is a loan signing from Manchester United. Australian international Vince Grella (calf) should though be available to Paul Ince for the visit of the Premier League champions.

Last starting XI (vs. Newcastle United): Brown, Simpson, Nelsen, Samba, Warnock, Emerton, Olsson, Tugay, Derbyshire (Ooijer 84), Roque Santa Cruz (Roberts 84), Villanueva (Fowler 62).
Subs Not Used: Bunn, Pedersen, Andrews, Treacy.

Squad: Brown, Bunn, Nelsen, Samba, Warnock, Emerton, Ooijer, Pedersen, Grella, Andrews, Treacy, Olsson, Tugay, Villanueva, Derbyshire, Roque Santa Cruz, Roberts, Fowler.

Manchester United

The ease of the Red Devil’s mid-week victory in Denmark has come at a cost with Paul Scholes (knee) out of the first-team frame until January. The veteran player joins team-mates Owen Hargreaves (knee) and Michael Carrick (ankle) on the sidelines to leave Sir Alex Ferguson short of central midfield options. There is better news for Gary Neville, however, as he should return for the short trip to Blackburn after being rested against Aalborg. Wayne Rooney (ankle) does though remain a serious doubt for this game after his early withdrawal against the Danish champions. Injuries to goalkeepers Ben Foster (knee) and Thomas Kuszczak (knee) will mean that Ben Amos retains his place on the United bench.

Last starting XI (vs. Aalborg BK): Van Der Sar, Rafael Da Silva (Brown 66), Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Ronaldo, Scholes (Giggs 16), O'Shea, Nani, Berbatov, Rooney (Tevez 59).
Subs Not Used: Amos, Anderson, Park, Evans.

Squad: Van Der Sar, Amos, Rafael Da Silva, Neville, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Ronaldo, Giggs, O'Shea, Nani, Anderson, Park, Fletcher, Berbatov, Rooney, Tevez.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Blackburn Rovers

After being sporadically linked with United over the summer, Roque Santa Cruz will want to show Sir Alex Ferguson his true worth. The Paraguayan powerhouse was a constant thorn in the side of the Red Devils when the two teams met at Ewood Park last season, giving Rovers the lead with a trademark header, and Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic one of the toughest tests they received during United’s glorious campaign. A repeat of such a dominant display will give Paul Ince every chance of claiming his first major Premier League scalp.

Manchester United

With his two goals against Aalborg in mid-week, Dimitar Berbatov started to pay back the huge transfer fee that brought him to the club. Strikes against Danish minnows will, however, be quickly forgotten by an expectant United following if the Bulgarian doesn’t continue to get his name on the Red Devils’ score-sheet. Football fans are a notoriously fickle bunch though, and if the ex-Tottenham man caps off a promising week with a match-wining strike against Blackburn Rovers you can bet that any of their initial misgivings will be quickly forgotten as they celebrate another three points.


PREDICTION

Ewood Park has never been a fruitful hunting ground for Manchester United, with one win in their last three visits to Blackburn standing testament to this fact.

The task for Sir Alex Ferguson has also grown even harder in the last few days with Paul Scholes’ worrying knee injury and the fitness doubts surrounding a rejuvenated Wayne Rooney.

Bearing this news in mind, Rovers manager Paul Ince should have his troops fired up on Saturday to give his former manager’s charges a real test of their Premier League winning credentials.

Blackburn Rovers 1-2 Manchester United

Matt Monaghan

Premier League Manager Of The Month - September 2008

SEPTEMBER RESULTS


3rd Rafael Benitez (Liverpool (2nd - 14pts)):

September: 7/9pts

Looking at Liverpool's September prior to any ninth-month ball being hit, Benitez - and the red side of Liverpool in fact - would have accepted an offer of a seven out of nine point haul. With a visit of Manchester United, Stoke City, and a short trip to Goodison Park to take on Everton, who would have thought that the points dropped would have come in the central fixture? The Manchester United triumph was made even more meritorious considering the absence of key personnel: talismanic and influential captain Steven Gerrard, and the emphatic and unforgiving Fernando Torres. To follow that up with a dissappointing draw irked Liverpudlians due to the questionable striking off of a Steven Gerrard set-piece, but business resumed with a convincing twosome from Torres in the Merseyside battle with Everton - a victory that ensured Benitez would claim his seventh derby win. Liverpool - like the other Premier League clubs battling on four fronts this season - had a congested schedule due to an away Champions League trip to Marseille, and a visit of Crewe Alexandra in the Carling Cup - both of which ended with a Liverpool win, but the extra 180 minutes of football did little to tire Liverpool's legs. Robbie Keane has even begun to settle into north-western life as his audacious assist set up Torres in the derby clash. Rafa Benitez has recently said he can smell a title challenge in the air, and states it is reminiscent of the whiffs from his glory, glory Valencia days, he has also promised to bin his rotation policy in favour of a mainstay spine meaning October could be an even more fruitful month for the Spaniard.


2nd Martin O'Neill (Aston Villa (3rd - 13pts)):

September: 9/9pts

Martin O'Neill has enjoyed the full support of a loyal fanbase wherever he has gone to manage, and this unswerving faith in the Northern Irishman stretches back as far as his Wycombe Wanderers days when the home support consistently chanted: 'Martin... Martin, Martin: Give us a wave!' To which he always complied. One man that O'Neill refused to wave goodbye to though is Gareth Barry, and the Villa boss' man management skills have come to the fore as Barry's coquet summer sojourn with Liverpool now seems a distant memory as the versatile midfielder returned to his prime mid month. O'Neill guided Villa to three Premier League wins out of three with a hat-trick of 2-1 victories over Tottenham Hotspur, West Bromwich Albion, and Sunderland. The Spurs win was followed up with a Uefa Cup win leaving the Villans topped up with self assurance but running on empty. The former Celtic boss though significantly strenghtened his side over the summer and Villa's depth was put to the sword. Tony Mowbray, ahead of the West Brom game, gave an admiring glance O'Neill's way when he admitted that: "You have to admire the talent," refering to Villa's rising English quarter. The midlands side then put the Carling Cup loss to QPR to one side as they overcome Roy Keane's Sunderland. As September came to a close, Villa maintained their Champions League spot. Only Manchester United and Arsenal scored more than the clarets last term, and Villa are level pegging on goals scored with top of the league Chelsea.


1st Phil Brown (Hull City (6th 11pts)):

September: 7/9pts

A worthy winner of Goal.com's Premier League Manager of the Month. Phil Brown and his Tigers responded in a 'beau ideal' fashion after their 5-0 August humbling from Wigan Athletic. Their September results read like a title contending side's, not one that was deemed to be battling relegation: a 2-1 away win over Newcastle United; a 2-2 home draw with Everton; concluding with a historic 2-1 away win over Arsenal. While squad rotation has not worked in the past for third placed Rafa Benitez, tinkering seems to be providing a more favourable outcome for Phil Brown. Gabonese international Daniel Cousin, on his second appearance of the season, scored the winner against Arsenal. Throughout the game at the Emirates, Brown remained tactically spot on. He changed a winning tactic ahead of the clash, and boldly played Giovanni behind his strikers in a 4-3-3. Ian Ashbee helped run the midfield and pacey Gunners winger Theo Walcott was largely ineffective as he was not allowed to run the lines like he has in the past, instead being forced to cut inside, where a waiting pack of defenders - led by Michael Turner - would block his path. Hull City remain the only side in the history of the Premier League to maintain an unbeaten record away from home, and are only the second team to have left Ashburton Grove with three league points.

www.goal.com

Rooney Fitness Worry

Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney is doubtful for this weekend's Premier League clash with Balckburn Rovers, but should be fit for England's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Rooney limped out of Manchester United's 3-0 win over Aalborg in the Champions League midweek, and the club have released a statement confirming that the player will be sidelined this weekend through an ankle injury.

United are due to face-off against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, and it is extremely unlikely that Rooney will take part.

Fabio Capello, the England manager, will be hopeful that Rooney recovers in time for the World Cup qualification double header against Kazakhstan and Belarus on the week of the 11th of October.

However, Rooney's club are optimistic about his prognosis, and insist that he will be ready for national service.

A statement from Manchester United reads: "Wayne has an ankle injury and is considered doubtful for Saturday's game against Blackburn, but he should recover in time for England's forthcoming matches."

Peter Staunton

History Repeating?

Whilst it is hard not to be dubious when it comes to considering omens, United’s glorious 2007/08 campaign got off to a faltering start before it kicked in to life around this time last year with a 4-0 home thrashing of Wigan Athletic.

For those of a mystic persuasion though, it is hard to not see signs of history repeating as United struggle to gain any momentum once again after a series of poor results in the early weeks of the season.

To increase the feeling of déjà vu, North West opposition in the guise of Bolton Wanderers are also entering the Theatre of Dreams at a time when the Reds are desperate for a sacrificial lamb to give themselves a kick start.

Indeed, shambolic defending at Anfield, insipid attacking play against Newcastle and Villarreal, plus a no show in the UEFA Super Cup final had been all United had to show for their season until last weekend. However, a rallying display against ‘Big Phil’ Scolari’s Chelsea saw the Red Devils be the better side for large parts of a game that ended 1-1 after Salomon Kalou’s 80th minute equaliser.

If United play anywhere near as well on Saturday then the kind of winning run needed to ignite this Manchester United side could very well begin in earnest.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s midweek start against Middlesbrough should also add some much needed dynamism to a United attack that has struggled in his absence. The Portuguese has been sorely missed, with the Red Devils taking until last Tuesday’s Carling Cup fixture to score more than one goal in a game.

Such offensive impotence has not been on show at title rivals Chelsea and Arsenal. As such, the Sir Alex Ferguson’s charges must swiftly re-discover the cavalier attitude of 2007/08 if any more major silverware is to be added to the Old Trafford trophy cabinet come the end of May.

A Win & A Prayer

There weren’t many teams that beat Manchester United last season. To the joy of the Bolton Wanderers faithful, however, the Trotters were one of the few sides that did. That the 1-0 win over the Premier League and European Champions at the Reebok Stadium wasn’t a fluke result adds even more to the achievement.

Although normality was resumed when the two sides met at Old Trafford with the Red Devils easing to a 2-0 victory, the Bolton players should be able to draw on the confidence that home win created when the teams meet on Saturday.
Manager Gary Megson should also be able to point to Bolton’s promising performance last weekend against Arsenal. The Trotters took the lead in the game through a Kevin Davies header, and matched the Gunners in a heated contest that finally ended 3-1 to the North London club.

The tenacity that flows through Bolton was again on show against Arsene Wenger’s side, with a trademark challenge from goal scorer Davies sending Gael Clichy to the floor and the Arsenal bench up in the air in anger.

The post match comments of club captain Kevin Nolan condoning such play certainly didn’t help matters, and there can be little doubt that Sir Alex Ferguson will be watching out for any wild tackles after Rodrigo Possebon’s unfortunate incident against Middlesbrough in midweek.

As Bolton fans will be aware though, the return of Johan Elmander and Matt Taylor to the Bolton line-up will add some much-needed quality. These two players have more than enough to make their mark on this game in a much more civilised way than Davies did against Arsenal, however, and could help Bolton repeat the famous win they recorded against United last year.


FORM GUIDE

Manchester United

23rd September vs. Middlesbrough (H) won 3-1 (CARLING CUP)

21st September vs. Chelsea (A) drew 1-1 (PREM)

17th September vs. Villarreal C.F. (H) drew 0-0 (CHAMP LG)

13th September vs. Liverpool (A) lost 2-1 (PREM)

29th August vs. Zenit St. Petersburg (N) lost 2-1 (UEFA SUPER CUP)

Bolton Wanderers

20th September vs. Arsenal (H) lost 3-1 (PREM)

13th September vs. Fulham (A) lost 2-1 (PREM)

30th August vs. West Bromwich Albion (H) drew 0-0 (PREM)

26th August vs. Northampton Town (A) lost 2-1 (CARLING CUP)

23rd August vs. Newcastle United (A) lost 1-0 (PREM)


TEAM NEWS

Manchester United

The Old Trafford crowd can expect the big hitters of the first team to be unleashed by Sir Alex Ferguson for the visit of Bolton after the reserves mid week Carling Cup exertions. Serbian centre back Nemanja Vidic will undoubtedly be part of the squad after his one game suspension was served against Chelsea. This leaves Michael Carrick (ankle) and Edwin Van Der Sar (knee) as the only star names left on the Old Trafford treatment table.

Last starting XI (vs. Middlesbrough): Amos, Rafael Da Silva, Vidic, Brown, O'Shea, Nani, Possebon (Gibson 72), Anderson, Giggs (Manucho 84), Welbeck, Ronaldo (Tevez 61).
Subs Not Used: Zieler, Cleverley, Gray, Eckersley.

Squad: Kuszczak, Amos, Neville, Brown, Ferdinand, Evans, Vidic, Evra, Rafael Da Silva, O'Shea, Fletcher, Hargreaves, Scholes, Anderson, Ronaldo, Giggs, Park, O'Shea, Nani, Berbatov, Rooney, Tevez, Manucho.

Bolton Wanderers

Bolton expect club record signing Johan Elmander (hamstring) and ex-Portsmouth player Matt Taylor (broken toe) to be fit for the short trip on the M61 to the Theatre of Dreams. Promising centre-half Gary Cahill will also join this pair in the Wanderers team after the completion of the three-match ban he picked up against Northampton Town in the Carling Cup.

Last starting XI (vs. Arsenal): Jaaskelainen, Steinsson, Shittu, Andrew O'Brien, Samuel, Joey O'Brien (McCann 61), Smolarek (Riga 56), Muamba (Vaz Te 81), Nolan, Gardner, Davies.
Subs Not Used: Al Habsi, Hunt, Helguson, Cohen.

Squad: Jaaskelainen, Al Habsi, Steinsson, Shittu, Taylor, Andrew O'Brien, Samuel, Hunt, Joey O'Brien, McCann, Smolarek, Riga, Muamba, Vaz Te, Nolan, Cohen, Gardner, Elmander, Davies, Helguson.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Manchester United: After marking his first start of the season with a goal, Cristiano Ronaldo will now be ready to start taking main stage in United’s charge up the table. The Portuguese international isn’t firing on all cylinders just yet, but you can be sure that his speed and outrageous skill means that the Bolton defence will be in for a testing afternoon on Saturday.

Bolton Wanderers: For Bolton to stand any chance in this game then Fabrice Muamba’s ball-winning skills will be vital. The ex-Arsenal player will need to call on all the lessons he learnt from Patrick Viera to ensure he is a constant thorn in the side of United’s classy midfield. If this happens then the foundations of a potential upset could very well be laid by the England U21 international.


PREDICTION

With United’s world-class squad finally coming together as we enter the last days of September, it really is hard to see Bolton taking anything from this game.

The Wanderers may have been impressive during their 3-1 defeat to Arsenal, but it will take a lot more than that if they are to repeat the previous season’s victory over the Red Devils.

Manchester United 2-0 Bolton Wanderers


Matt Monaghan

Fergie’s Latest Fledglings

The Carling Cup may have its critics as a competition but the 50,000 strong crowd at Old Trafford on Tuesday night were thoroughly entertained as a youthful Manchester United side strode to a 3-1 victory over Middlesbrough. Matt Monaghan investigates


For many of these spectators the names on the United team sheet would have been completely alien to them due to their lack of first team exposure. However, as the high standard of football produced by the Red Devils will attest to, this match won’t be the only time that these players are selected to play at the Theatre of Dreams.

Ben Amos

The last few months have been exciting times for 18 year old goalkeeper, Ben Amos. Promoted to the United first team squad for their pre-season tour of South Africa, the youngster made his debut in the friendly against Portsmouth in August.

The England U18 international followed this up on Tuesday night with his first competitive start for the club. Amos acquitted himself well when called upon, and was unlucky to be beaten by a deflected Adam Johnson strike.

The Macclesfield born player’s ambition to make this more than a one off appearance was made abundantly clear to ManUtd.com in a recent interview. "Hopefully I’ll fight it out for a first-team place," he said. "That’s my aim, to play for the club. I wouldn’t be here otherwise."

Jonny Evans

Not many 20 year olds can say they’ve been part of a defence that was victorious against Spain. Even fewer players can say a game of that magnitude marked their international debut for their country.

However, this is just the scenario for Northern Ireland centre back Jonny Evans. The Belfast born youngster hadn’t even played a competitive game for Manchester United when as an 18 year old he was selected to play against the Euro 2008 champions.

Such promise was repeated in two loan spells at Sunderland where his steady presence made Black Cats boss Roy Keane desperate to acquire Evans on a permanent basis.

Sir Alex Ferguson was though quick to turn away the advances of his former captain, with Evans’ assured display in United’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge last weekend proving his judgement to be correct.

Rafael Da Silva

Manager’s with the pedigree of Sir Alex Ferguson are notoriously hard to please and are often sparing with their praise. Thus, when Ferguson described Rafael’s debut against Peterborough United in August as “a sensation” then the Manchester United faithful became genuinely excited at the prospects for their young full back from Brazil.

Rafael more than followed this Peterborough performance up with an energetic second half run out against European heavyweights Juventus the following week. The ex-Fluminese player delighted the Old Trafford crowd with his speed up and down the United flank, and set up Paul Scholes with a delightful cross that really should have been converted.

With Gary Neville creaking along at 33 and Wes Brown yet to cement his position at right back, such displays make it certain that Rafael should get many more first team opportunities like this in the future.

Rodrigo Possebon

When Rodrigo Possebon looks back on his first competitive start for Manchester United, his memories will undoubtedly be soured by the horrific challenge inflicted upon him by Emanuel Pogatetz.

However, before the Austrian’s 66th minute challenge, the Brazilian had controlled the midfield with all the poise of a much more experienced player.

Never hurried when in possession of the ball, he played the match at his own pace, whilst at the same time using his 6ft 1” frame to exert himself physically on proceedings.

Such qualities saw Manchester United more than happy to pay a fee of $3.5 million to Brazilian club Internacional in 2007 where he had grown up with A.C. Milan hot shot Alexandre Pato.

Whilst Possebon may yet to have made as big an impression as his illustrious former team mate, the fact that United manager Sir Alex Ferguson described the player as “having a chance” hints he will be given games to do so once he recovers from Pogatetz’s rash tackle.

Danny Welbeck

Of all the first team players that have come through the Manchester United academy during Sir Alex Ferguson’s long reign, not one striker has made an indelible mark on the club.

Indeed, you have to go all the way back to Mark Hughes’ prodigal emergence in 1983 to see a centre forward making the grade at Old Trafford.

For Manchester born Danny Welbeck, the 25 years that have passed since that moment shows the scale of the challenge as he bids to cement his place in the United squad.

Welbeck does though have “a big future” according to his manager, as well as a tall, languid style not too far removed from Nigerian legend Kanu or new team mate Dimitar Berbatov.

The 17 year old impressed with these abilities against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night, but to stand a real chance of following in the Manchester City manager’s footsteps he must begin to convert opportunities like the one on one he spurned against the Teessiders.

Matt Monaghan

GIGGS SENSES CUP CATALYST

Ryan Giggs can sense the familiar momentum starting to build at Manchester United - which is bad news for Saturday's opponents Bolton.

After taking encouragement from successive draws against Villarreal and Chelsea in the Champions League and Barclays Premier League respectively, United finally got the win they craved by beating Middlesbrough at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

It might only have been the Carling Cup and they might only have been facing 10 men for the last 20 minutes following Emanuel Pogatetz's disgraceful challenge on Rodrigo Possebon but for United, the win could take on far more significance than merely booking a place in the fourth round.

"We have had a tough start," acknowledged Giggs.

"We didn't play well at the beginning of the season but over the last week or so we have played some really good stuff.

"This team is capable of going on a run and winning 10 games on the trot. Hopefully that run has started now and we can carry it on against Bolton."

Unlike 12 months ago, when, much to Sir Alex Ferguson's frustration, the Red Devils folded on home soil against Coventry, there were plenty of positives.

Five younger members of the Scot's squad showed promise, a few older ones, including Giggs, got some valuable match practice under their belts, while Cristiano Ronaldo got his name on the scoresheet for the first time since last May's Champions League final.

Unfortunately, it was all overshadowed by the horror tackle on Possebon.

The young Brazilian had been patrolling central midfield in outstanding fashion and was starting to trigger thoughts of just how long Ferguson could keep him out of his starting line-up when Pogatetz made his crass lunge.

Thankfully, the Middlesbrough skipper did not break the 19-year-old's leg as originally feared.

However, Possebon may have suffered ligament damage and is facing the prospect of a spell on the sidelines.

"It was very high," said Giggs of Pogatetz's tackle.

"The ball wasn't up there. The ball was on the floor and he went over it.

"Rodrigo suffered a really bad, deep cut but hopefully he will be okay because he did really well."

Possebon's drive in the middle of the pitch helped United win the midfield duel and with Giggs relishing the chance to run at a Middlesbrough defence for whom only David Wheater really shone, the hosts could have been coasting at half-time.

Instead, they only had Ronaldo's effort to show for their efforts, although the Portugal international's header, similar to the one he produced in the Luzhniki Stadium, was a poignant one given his tumultuous summer.

"No-one wants to lose Cristiano," said Giggs.

"He is such a special player, as he proved again.

"He scores all sorts of goals, which is why he is such a danger. He looks really sharp and it is great to have him back."

Ferguson must now decide whether, with another hour under his belt, Ronaldo is ready to be let loose on Bolton, the team he made his United debut against in 2003.

The same is also true of Anderson, who has looked out of sorts since returning from Olympic duty with Brazil, although Ferguson detects the South American is nearly back to his best again.

"There is no doubt Anderson felt the effects of being in China," said the United boss.

"When he played his first game at Portsmouth the adrenalin kept him going but since then he has been pretty low.

"Now it seems he is back to his usual self, which is great to see."

Giggs too is eager to make a contribution.

At 34, the Welshman has virtually come full circle, using the League Cup as valuable match practice whereas at the start of his illustrious career it was to show his ability, which has never seriously been in question.

With 764 appearances to his name, Giggs is edging his club record way beyond Sir Bobby Charlton to a level it is impossible to imagine anyone ever reaching.

And his 145th goal - a delightful chip 11 minutes from time after Chris Riggott had stood on the ball - means he is just five short of becoming the ninth United player to reach the magic 150.

"It was a nice goal," Giggs said of his latest effort.

"I made my mind up quite early. I knew what I was going to do as soon as I went through so all I had to do was stick to it."

No Broken Leg For Man United’s Possebon From Middlesbrough Captain Pogatetz’s Challenge

Submitted by Niraj Prabhu on Wed, 2008-09-24 10:32. Middlesbrough, Manchester United Player Injury and Suspension News

Rodrigo Possebon has not broken his leg, confirmed Manchester United after the Brazilian midfielder was stretchered off against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night following a challenge from Emanuel Pogatetz.

The Red Devils won the third-round Carling Cup tie 3-1 at Old Trafford, but the joy was marred by the injury, then suspected to be a broken leg, which also saw Boro captain Emanuel Pogatetz sent off.

On Wednesday morning, a club spokesperson told United’s official website: "We can confirm that Rodrigo did not suffer a break to his right leg. He was kept in hospital overnight for observation and to assess whether there was any ligament damage to his knee."

It was the 19-year-old central midfielder’s first start for the Red Devils following his January arrival from Brazilian club Internacional.

http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Player Ratings: Manchester United 3-1 Middlesbrough

Manchester United clinched a 3-1 victory over Middlesbrough in the Carling Cup third round match. Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Nani propelled the Red Devils to the win

Manchester United

Ben Amos 6 – The youngster showed a safe pair of hands today against Boro. Could do nothing about the goal conceded against Boro.

Rafael Da Silva 6 – The Brazilian fullback was handed his full debut by Sir Alex Ferguson. And he has done well with a couple of intelligent runs.

Nemanja Vidic 5 – Vidic’s poor header allowed Boro to equalise. The Serbian looks as if he was making first start for Manchester United.

Wes Brown 6.5 – A solid performance from the England international. Made a couple of good tackles.

John O'Shea 7 – A top-drawer showing from O’Shea. Contributed in several of the attacking moves.

Luis Nani 8 – The Portuguese winger was all over the field this evening. Created chances for his team-mates but ended up grabbing a goal himself.

Rodrigo Possebon 6.5 – The Brazilian was superb in the centre of the park and played well with his passes and vision on the ball. But the injury he sustained will be a disappointment for Possebon

Anderson 7 – Good showing from the Brazilian. Was involved in the attacking moves and displayed good distribution on the ball.

Ryan Giggs 7.5 – Skipper for United tonight. The Welshman did well to lead the young side and scored the all-important second goal.

Danny Welbeck 6.5 – Showed plenty of promise with his efforts and shots on goal. However, it may take awhile before Welbeck can make the step up.

Cristiano Ronaldo 8 – His headed goal was brilliant as the Portuguese international looks to regain his form of last season.

Subs

Carlos Tevez 7 – Tireless running from the Argentine. Didn’t score a goal for his efforts.

Darron Gibson 6 – Gibson replaced the injured Rodrigo Possebon. Showed several neat touches and tested the Boro keeper with a couple of shots.

Manucho 5.5 – The Angolan striker appears overawed by the occasion. Two of his shots went well wide.

Middlesbrough

Brad Jones 6.5 – Solid display from the Boro keeper. But Jones had little say about the three goals put past him this evening.

Justin Hoyte 6 – A determined showing from the former Arsenal man. But that’s all about it for Hoyte.

David Wheater 4 – His poor first touch allowed Nani to score United’s third goal. Not the best of displays from the Boro defender.

Emanuel Pogatetz 5 – Rightly deserved his red card for his horrid tackle on United’s Rodrigo Possebon.

Andrew Taylor 5.5 – Decent play from the youngster.

Stewart Downing 6.5 – Tried to spur his team on with his decisive running and pinpoint crosses. But based on his efforts alone, it was simply not enough.

Didier Digard 5 – Did little to contribute in midfield, except for his horrible shot that went well wide of the goal.

Gary O'Neil 6.5 – Played well with an eye for creating chances, but that’s simply about it.

Mohamed Shawky 5 – Had a largely forgettable first half and was replaced at half-time by Adam Johnson.

Jeremie Aliadiere 5 – Plenty of running but no goals to show for it.

Afonso Alves 5 – The Brazilian had a couple of chances but failed to convert.

Subs

Chris Riggott 4 – His mistake allowed Ryan Giggs to score the crucial goal for United.

Marvin Emnes 4.5 – Did little to contribute to Boro’s play.

Adam Johnson 6.5 – A stunning shot and equalising goal from the substitute.

Jonathan Walker

http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Fergie Furious With Pogatetz Tackle

Sir Alex Ferguson has made known his disgust with Emanuel Pogatetz after the Middlesbrough skipper hospitalised Manchester United's Rodrigo Possebon with a horror challenge in last night's Carling Cup clash

United were victorious at Old Trafford, claiming a 3-1 victory thanks to late goals from star wingers Ryan Giggs and Nani.

But celebrations were marred by an ugly incident that occurred just after the hour mark, which resulted in Pogatetz being sent off and Possebon being rushed to hospital.

The United youngster had been about to control of a loose ball in midfield when the Boro left-back launched in with a two-footed, studs-first 'tackle'.

The 19-year-old Brazilian was sent flying through the air before collapsing in a heap and was given oxygen as he was stretchered from the pitch.

Ferguson said in The Sun: “It was a terrible tackle. I have seen a replay of it and I don’t want to see it again.

“It looked a bad one and he has gone to hospital.”

It was Possebon's first senior start for the Red Devils after making his debut as a substitute against Newcastle United on the opening day of the Premier League campaign.

The former Internacional midfielder impressed during pre-season and was expected to feature heavily in cup play this term, but now he looks likely to spend several months on the sidelines with a feared broken leg.

Ferguson added: “The kid was making his first start for us and to get an injury like that was pretty horrendous.

“For 10 minutes, I think everyone was numb and it killed the momentum in the game.

“The thing about these challenges is that the person who has done it always claims innocence. He should have walked straight off.”

Kieran Quentin
http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Manchester United Sink Middlesbrough

Manchester United 3-1 Middlesbrough

An opportunistic 79th minute strike from Ryan Giggs saw Manchester United pip Middlesbrough on Tuesday evening, after Adam Johnson had cancelled out Cristiano Ronaldo's opener. Nani made it 3-1 in the 93rd minute to add insult to injury.

First Half

It was a mix of youth and experience that Sir Alex Ferguson put out on the pitch, aware that Boro would be no pushovers.

The likes of Nemanja Vidic, Ryan Giggs, Wes Brown and John O'Shea started, as did youngsters Ben Amos, Rafael Da Silva, Rodrigo Possebon and Danny Welbeck.

A certain Cristiano Ronaldo also made his first start of the season, and it was he who broke the deadlock in the 25th minute. After a cagey start, the Portuguese winger showcased his underrated aerial prowess, rising highest to head home a Ryan Giggs corner.

United had half chances through Nani and Ronaldo thereafter, but the former blasted wide while trying to go solo, while the latter was denied by Brad Jones' reflexes.

Middlesbrough, meanwhile, lacked creativity up front, and were forced to play second fiddle all half despite some tempting deliveries from Stewart Downing.

Second Half

Sensing that something needed to be changed, Gareth Southgate brought on Adam Johnson at the start of the second half, in place of an ineffective Mohamed Shawky.

It was a touch of genius, as Boro were back level within ten minutes. Downing delivered a curling shot into the United box, which was headed away by Vidic. However, it fell onto the path of Johnson, who let fly a powerful drive that gave Ben Amos no chance at all.

Spurred by that, Boro came looking for the second, ready to rough United up in the final stretch. Sensing his side's tempo drop, Sir Alex replaced a tiring Ronaldo with 'busybody' Carlos Tevez on the hour mark.

However, it was there that the match took a turn for the ugly, with Emmanuel Pogatetz making a nasty challenge on young Possebon. Pogatetz was duly given his marching orders, while play was held up for five minutes as medics tended to the United youngster.

Possebon was immediately replaced by another youngster in Darron Gibson, while Southgate reshuffled his troops, bringing Chris Riggott on for Didier Digard as the match got going slowly.

It would be a long final 15 minutes for Boro, and they were clearly looking to park the bus and hold on to the scoreline. But they would not.

If Southgate's first substitution won him a goal, the second cost him one. Riggott slipped and fell while collecting a loose ball, allowing a prowling Giggs to pick it up and fire home in the 79th minute.

Boro tried to respond, but with one body less and the likes of Vidic, O'Shea and Brown against then, found no joy. An anonymous Afonso Alves was hauled off for Marvin Emnes, but that was no good either, as Nani made the most of the open spaces to score United's third in the 93rd minute.

Neal Glew, Goal.com
http://mpejal.myminicity.com/

Beautiul Place All over The World

shows all the beautiful place that everyone should go.

read more | digg story

Manchester United progressed to the fourth round of the Carling Cup

MATCH REPORT

90'+9	The referee blows for full-time. It's been a top-drawer showing from United as they seal victory over Boro with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Nani. Thank you for joining Goal.com's coverage of the game!
	90'+7	There is two minutes left of the nine minutes of time added on. But it appears Boro are not going to pose a threat to United at all.
	90'+4	The 3-1 scoreline suggests that it's all over for Boro. Gareth Southgate's side has tried their best to take the game to United. But the Red Devils have simply too much quality today.
	90'+3	United have kept possession well so far. Wheater makes a mistake looses the ball to Nani. Nani collects the ball and puts it into the empty net. GOALLLLL for Manchester United! 3-1 to United.
	90'	We're into stoppage now as Anderson picks up the ball from the middle of midfield and tries to thread it to Manucho. However, it is well intercepted by Wheater.
	90'	Goal	Nani
	86'	Time is ticking away for Boro, and things are looking in United's way. Anderson releases Manucho with a through ball. But the Angolan just fires his shot wide off left the goal.
	85'	Substitution	Afonso Alves	Emnes M.
	84'	Substitution	Giggs R.	Manucho
	84'	Manucho comes on to replace Giggs. The Welshman has done well this evening, leading the team superbly as skipper. Scored a crucial goal for United as well. Marvin Emnes comes on for Afonso Alves.
	81'	With about 10 minutes or so left in the match, maybe it's time for Southgate to take a gamble on his Dutch striker Marvin Emnes. Or else the tie could go United's way!
	79'	GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a howler from Chris Riggott, the substitute slips and falls just when he collects a loose ball. Riggott's mistake allows Giggs to intercept and the Welshman fires home to restore the lead for United! 2-1 to Manchester United!
	79'	Goal	Giggs R.
	77'	The pace of the match seems to have slowed down by a notch. Just as we were wondering when the next goal is going to come, Carlos Tevez dummies the Boro defence. But Nani's shot is saved by Boro keeper Jones
	75'	O'Shea threads a ball to Gibson from the left. But the youngster nervously blasts the ball wide.
	72'	Substitution	Digard D.	Riggott C.
	72'	Substitution	Possebon R.	Gibson D.
	70'	Play is stopped by the referee for five minutes. Possebon appears to be seriously injured and he is carried onto the stretcher. His right leg is wrapped up and Possebon is in tears. Darron Gibson comes to replace the injured Brazilian.
	66'	Red Card	Pogatetz E.
	65'	Emmanuel Pogatez receives a straight red card from the referee, with his crunching tackle on Rodrigo Possebon. Boro are reduced to 10 men. But it appears to be legitimate challenge on the Brazilian, who fell theatrically initially.
	64'	Loose balls are flying all over the pitch. Both Boro and United have to get their act together, if they're looking for a breakthrough.
	61'	Substitution	Cristiano Ronaldo	Tevez C.
	60'	Cristiano Ronaldo comes off and Carlos Tevez comes on to replace him. To be fair to Ronaldo, the lad has done well, grabbed a goal with his powerful header. Let's see if Tevez can provide an attacking dimension for United.
	59'	Boro and United are now concentrating their efforts in midfield, as the two teams continue to battle for possession. One thing's for sure, the goal from Johnson has sparked Boro back to life!
	56'	GOAL!!!!!!!!!! Boro are level! What a stunning goal from Adam Johnson. Downing delivers a curling shot into the United box, which is headed away by Vidic. But the ball falls into the path of Johnson, who lets fly a powerful shot that gave United keeper Ben Amos no chance at all.
	56'	Goal	Johnson A.
	52'	Nani dribbles down the left flank and into the Boro box. He twists and turns, attempting to beat Hoyte. Nani manages to do so and lets fly a powerful shot which Jones manages to save comfortably.
	51'	Boro are not giving up as yet. The players are still battling hard. Downing tries to probe the United defence with his surging run into the centre of the United penalty box. But he is shadowed by Vidic, who steals the ball off him.
	50'	Ronaldo tries to create a move from the centre of midfield, as he sprints towards the centre of the penalty area. But he is intercepted by the Boro defence.
	47'	Danny Wellback unleashes a right-footed shot from the centre of the penalty area. But his effot is parried away by Jones. Good effort from the United youngster.
	46'	Boro makes a change. Mohamed Shawky is replaced by Adam Johnson. Boro will now attack from left to right.
	46'	Substitution	Shawky M.	Johnson A.
	45'	The first half comes to an end, with Cristiano Ronaldo's goal separating the two teams. And it's a lead thoroughly merited, as Ronaldo's header simply gave Jones no chance at all. Stay with us for the second half!!
	44'	Ryan Giggs tests Boro keeper Brad Jones from the right with a long range shot from 25 yards. But it's well saved by Jones.
	42'	Cristiano Ronaldo attempts to score a second goal with his shot from the left side of the penalty area from 18 yards. But his effort is parried away by Brad Jones. Rafael Da Silva is caught offside.
	40'	Downing takes the ball from the left and delivers a ball into the centre which finds Alves. But the United defence cuts out the move, as Alves looks on frustrated.
	38'	Boro seem to lack creativity in attack. The only player who has impressed so far is Gary O'Neill, who should be given credit with sparking some of the attacking moves.
	37'	Gary O'Neill picks up the ball in the United area, and delivers a pass to Didier Digard. But the Frenchman's shot goes horribly wide above the goal.
	35'	United once again break from the right. Nani who sprints down the right with the ball decides to go for goal himself. But his shot goes well wide!
	33'	United have seemed to have slowed the pace down a little, as the players stroke the ball among themselves.
	32'	Downing with a free-kick from the left and he delivers a cross into the United box. But Wheater's header is well-saved by United keeper Ben Amos!!
	31'	Boro break down the left through Stuart Downing and he is fouled by Anderson, who pulls his jersey and nudges him. Boro earn a free-kick!
	29'	United look to double their advantage as Anderson tries to put pressure on the Boro defence with his trickery down the left. But he just can't find a way through.
	27'	United are spurred on by Ronaldo's goal. Anderson delivers a sweet pass from the left, but there's nobody in the penalty box. Danny Wellback picks up the ball but could do little with it.
	25'	GOALLLLLL! Ryan Giggs takes an inswinging corner from the right and he delivers it to the centre, with the ball meeting the head of Cristiano Ronaldo. He heads it past keeepr Brad Jones. 1-0 to Manchester United!
	25'	Goal	Cristiano Ronaldo
	23'	Giggs releases Wellback on the right, but the youngster is caught offside by the linesman.
	22'	Ronaldo releases Nani on the left, as Nani sprints into the Boro penalty box. But he fails to keep his shot down, as the ball sails across the goal. Possebon picks up the loose ball.
	21'	United have kept possession well so far. But there is no sign of a breakthrough as yet.
	20'	Wigan manager Steve Bruce is spotted in the stands. Gary O'Neill decides to test United keeper Ben Amos with a powerful shot from far, just outside the penalty box. But his effort goes well wide.
	17'	United try another attacking move with Ronaldo collecting the ball from the centre of midfield. But he's denied space by three Boro players shadowing him.
	15'	United try to attack from the left, as John O'Shea delivers a short pass to Anderson. The Brazilian whizzes past his defender and tries to deliver a ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, but it's well cut out by Boro's Justin Hoyte.
	14'	Sir Alex Ferguson looks on sternly from the stands. United are stroking the ball well, as Nani dribbles the ball from centre into the Boro penalty box. But he slams into a wall of Boro defenders!
	13'	A move involving Giggs down on the right at the edge of the area, as the Welshman sets Nani loose into the box. But Nani could only fire his shot straight into the goalkeeper. United are picking up their attacking pace!
	11'	Taylor takes the throw-in but it's an aimless throw as United regain possession. Possebon picks up the loose ball and passes well to Luis Nani, who unleashes a shot from far. But it's well collected by Brad Jones. Good effort from Nani!!
	10'	A wall is formed by the United players. Afonso Aves hits the free-kick and it slams straight into the wall!!
	9'	Afonso Aves turns well and Vidic fouls the Brazilian! A free-kick for Boro just outside the penalty box.
	5'	Southgate will celebrate his 100th match in charge of Boro this weekend. But in the meantime, his boys look really cagey. United have appeared to settle, as they're stroking the ball around, with Brazilian youngster Possebon in the thick of the action.
	2'	Ryan Giggs sprints down the left flank and delivers a dangerous ball into the Middlesbrough box. But the cross is punched to safety by Boro keeper Brad Jones.
	1'	Welcome to Goal.com's coverage of the Carling Cup Third Round match between Manchester United and Middlesbrough. Referee Andre Marriner gets the match underway. United, in their traditional red strip, attack from left to right. Boro, in their blue away strip, will kick off from right to left.
	0	Welcome to Goal.com's LIVE coverage of the Carling Cup Third Round match between Manchester United and Middlesbrough! The clash at Old Trafford promises to be intriguing encounter, especially with Gareth Southgate's Boro side looking to clinch a piece of silverware this season. Of course, traditionally United do not place the Carling Cup top of their priority. Sir Alex Ferguson has fielded a youthful side, which is led by Cristiano Ronaldo. Southgate, on the other hand, has opted to field a strong side to take on the Red Devils. What will be the outcome of this match? Stick with us and find out!

Drug Dealer Arrested At Anderson's Home

A notorious drug dealer has been arrested by Brazilian police at the home of Manchester United midfielder Anderson

The ex-Porto player is not suspected of any wrongdoing, and police stressed that the investigation will not involve him.

Richard Alex da Silva Martins 'Gigi' is thought to be a friend or acquaintance of Anderson and was detained his home in the Menino Deus neighbourhood of Porto Alegre.

Brazilian police had conducted a year-long investigation into the affairs of Mr 'Gigi' but insist that Anderson is totally innocent.

Public Ministry official Ricardo Herbstrich told Zero Hora newspaper: "There is nothing against Anderson in this investigation.

"According to what we have, he is just a friend of the dealer and maybe he doesn't even know he is a criminal."

The agent who manages Anderson's Brazilian business dealings, Paulo Tonietto stated: "The only thing I can say is that Anderson, as well as any other person, can be a friend of whoever he wants, but he is not involved in any crime.

"Anderson is a professional and he will offer an explanation of what has happened soon."

Peter Staunton
http://mpejal.myminicity.com/