United signs Obertan

Manchester United have signed Gabriel Obertan from Bordeaux on a four-year deal.

The 20-year-old has agreed a four-year contract with United.

Gabriel Obertan, a Paris-born France Under-21 international who can fill several attacking roles, will have to wait for his first-team bow, however, as an unspecified minor injury will keep him out of United's forthcoming tour of the Far East.

Obertan underwent a medical on Tuesday and reports in France have claimed he will cost the Red Devils around £3million.

"Gabriel is a player we have tracked for a few years now, but because of his educational programme our efforts to get him here have always been delayed," United manager Sir Alex Ferguson told manutd.com.

"We are delighted to get him now as he is an exciting prospect. We like to get young players and develop them, and we will see that in Gabriel over the next two years."

Bordeaux sent Obertan on loan to Lorient for the second half of last season where he made 15 appearances, scoring one goal.

"I am very happy to join Manchester United," the player added.

"This is a big opportunity for me to play at such a great club. I am very excited to be here and I look forward to proving what I can do."

Obertan scored against England Under-21s in March and took the Most Valuable Player award at last month's Toulon International youth tournament.

He becomes Ferguson's third signing of the close season after Antonio Valencia and Michael Owen, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez have led the departures in an already eventful summer at Old Trafford.

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Owen's profile

979: Born December 14, Chester.

1995: Beats the goalscoring record of Kevin Gallen and Nick Barmby for England Under-15s.

1996: Helps Liverpool win the FA Youth Cup in May. Signs professional terms with Liverpool on 17th birthday after previously joining them as a schoolboy.

1997: May 6 - Scores on his first-team debut against Wimbledon at Selhurst Park.

September 16 - Scores on European debut against Celtic in UEFA Cup.

November 18 - Nets his first senior hat-trick against Grimsby in the Coca-Cola Cup.

December 17 - Scores on his debut for England Under-21s.

1998: February 2 - Named in Glenn Hoddle's senior squad for the first time.

February 11 - Becomes youngest England international of the 20th century when he starts against Chile.

February 14 - Scores his first Premier League hat-trick against Sheffield Wednesday. Finishes season joint-top scorer in the Premier League with 18 goals.

May 31 - Named in England's World Cup squad of 22.

June 22 - Scores after coming on as substitute against Romania but England lose 2-1.

June 30 - Scores a sensational goal against Argentina before England bow out of France 98 on penalties.

December 13 - Named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, one day before his 19th birthday.

1999: April 14 - Liverpool announce Owen is out for three months because of hamstring and tendon injuries.

2000: June - Named in Kevin Keegan's Euro 2000 squad.

2001: May - Scores twice in the last seven minutes as Liverpool come back to beat Arsenal 2-1 in the FA Cup final at the Millennium Stadium.

Plays, but does not score, as Liverpool complete a cup treble when they beat Alaves 5-4 after extra-time to win the UEFA Cup.

September 1 - A hat-trick helps England to an historic 5-1 win over Germany in the World Cup qualifier in Munich.

September 26 - Signs a new four-year deal with the Anfield club.

December 17 - Named European Footballer of the Year.

2002: April 16 - Named as stand-in England captain for friendly against Paraguay.

June - Scores goals against Denmark and Brazil during England's run to the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Japan.

2003: April 26 - Scores his 100th Premier League goal, the second of four in a 6-0 rout of West Brom.

June 11 - Making 50th England appearance, captains the side in the absence of David Beckham and nets twice in 2-1 Euro 2004 qualifying defeat of Slovakia at Riverside Stadium.

September 24 - Breaks Rush's club record, scoring his 21st goal in European competition with a header agains Olimpija Ljubljana in the UEFA Cup first round 1-1 draw in Slovenia.

2004: June - Scores one goal for England in Euro 2004 - in the quarter-final defeat to Portugal.

August 12 - Sources close to Real Madrid reveal the Spanish club have agreed to give Liverpool £8million and Antonio Nunez for the services of Owen.

August 13 - Passes medical with the Spanish giants.

2005: May 23 - After scoring 16 goals in his debut season in Spain, states his intention to stay with Real Madrid despite reported interest from Newcastle.

August 3 - After Real Madrid sign Robinho and Julio Baptista, Owen admits he has had "brief dialogue with three or four Premiership clubs".

August 30 - Owen signs four-year deal with Newcastle, sealing £17million permanent transfer.

September 18 - Opens scoring in second game - a 3-0 win at Blackburn - and follows up in the next game with winner against Manchester City at St James' Park.

October 12 - Takes England goal tally to 33 with first goal of the World Cup qualifier against Poland - equalling Gary Lineker's competitive record of 22 for England.

December 17 - Scores first hat-trick for Newcastle in 4-2 win at West Ham.

December 31 - Breaks metatarsal bone in defeat at Tottenham and is ruled out for "several months".

2006: March 24 - Newcastle announce Owen requires surgery to tighten the screw inserted into his foot during the initial operation.

June 20 - Regains fitness to take his place at the World Cup but injures his knee in first minute of group game against Sweden in Cologne and is immediately replaced. Ruled out for at least nine months.

2007: April 15 - Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd says Newcastle may seek an injunction to stop Owen playing for England in the Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia in June.

April 30 - Owen makes first competitive start in over 10 months, playing the full 90 minutes as Newcastle lose 1-0 to Reading at the Madejski Stadium.

September 29 - Owen undergoes a hernia operation, which proves such a success he is expected to return to action in time for England's Euro 2008 games.

2008: January 19 - Appointed Newcastle captain by new manager Kevin Keegan.

2009: May - Finishes the season with 10 goals as Newcastle are relegated from the Premier League on the final day.

June 22 - Confirms that he will not be renewing his contract with Newcastle.

July 1 - Becomes a free agent after his Newcastle contract runs out.

July 3 - Reports link Owen with free transfer to Manchester United and he later signs a two-year contract with the champions after passing medical tests.

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United signs Owen

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid star Michael Owen has sealed his shock move to Manchester United.

The former Liverpool, Real Madrid and England striker completed a series of stringent medical tests and has signed a two-year deal with the Barclays Premier League champions.

Owen, 29, spent the day at United's Carrington training complex as the terms of his free transfer were thrashed out, after he lapsed out of contract with Newcastle at the end of last month.

Owen had undergone a medical examination on the eve of the move to assess the troublesome knee which had sidelined him for much of his stay at St James' Park.

Despite his previous injury problems the deal represents little risk to Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who has been a long-time admirer of the 29-year-old.

"Michael is a world-class forward with a proven goalscoring record at the highest level and that has never been in question," said the United boss.

"Coming to Manchester United with the expectations that we have is something that Michael will relish."

It is believed Ferguson has struck a pay-as-you-play deal which will involve a basic weekly wage enhanced by bonuses.

The player has taken a significant pay cut from the £110,000 he was reported to be on at Newcastle, for whom he scored 10 goals as they were relegated to the Coca-Cola Championship last season.

But it is the lure of playing for the champions, with the promise of Champions League football again, which excites Owen now as he tries to force his way back into the reckoning with England coach Fabio Capello.

Owen admitted United's approach came as much as a shock to him as it did the rest of football.

"I had just begun to talk to other clubs when out of the blue Sir Alex phoned me and invited me to have breakfast with him next morning during which he told me that he wanted to sign me," he said.

"I agreed without a moment's thought. This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands.

"I am now looking forward to being a Manchester United player and I am fortunate that I already know so many of the players here.

"I want to thank Sir Alex for the faith he has shown in me and I give him my assurance that I will repay him with my goals and performances."

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A life in football-History of SAF

Sir Alex Ferguson, born 31 December 1941, Glasgow.

1957: Starts amateur playing career at 16 with Queen’s Park.

1964: Turns professional with Dunfermline Athletic.

1967: Joins Rangers for a record Scottish transfer fee of £65,000.

1969: Moves to Falkirk before finishing playing career with Ayr United.

1974: Appointed manager of St Mirren, winning the first division title in 1977.

1978: Moves to Aberdeen FC and European Cup Winners’ Cup glory in 1983.

1986: Moves to Manchester United. Goes on to make football history.

What his rivals say

Arsène Wenger (Arsenal manager):
“Nobody has done better. It is remarkable to have such a consistent motivation at that level - and deal with the stress and all the other ingredients.”

José Mourinho (Former Chelsea manager, now at Inter Milan):
“I call him boss because he is the manager’s boss. He’s the top manager in the country. Maybe when I become 60, the kids will call me the same.”

Rafael Benítez (Liverpool manager):
“Ferguson is killing referees.”

“When you talk about United you’re talking about a side spending big, big money on every player, every season. For me that is the main difference between the teams.”
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We're Champions again!!!!

Manchester United have retained their Premier League titlefor a third successive season after drawing 0-0 with Arsenal at Old Trafford.

The result also means United have already secured a treble of trophies in the 2008/09 campaign, following victories in the Carling Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

And finally, the draw at Old Trafford and United retaining the Premier League once again also has the added significance in that the Red Devils have now won 18 EPL titles, equalling the record set by fierce rivals Liverpool.

Saturday 16th May 2009 is yet another memorable day in the lives of all Manchester United fans across the world.

UNITED ARE CHAMPIONS OF ENGLAND FOR THE THIRD YR IN A ROW!
11TH TITLE UNDER SAF!

HAYS OFF TO SAF AND RED DEVILS FOR ENTERTAINING US!!
UNITED WILL ACHIEVE QUADRUPLE IF THEY WIN UCL!!

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Arsenal 1 - 3 United: (United win 4-1 on aggregate)

Sir Alex Ferguson will attempt to rule Rome in three weeks' time after Manchester United produced an awesome attacking display to destroy Arsenal.

A fortuitous opener from Park Ji-sung was followed by a thunderous 40-yard free-kick from Cristiano Ronaldo to effectively book a Champions League final date with Chelsea or Barcelona on May 27 after only 11 minutes.

Ronaldo capped a fine performance and drew howls of glee from David Beckham, who had made the trip from Milan to witness a victory that will go alongside that staggering win over Juventus in 1999 that the former England skipper was a part of, by sliding home a third goal, his 25th of the season.

It was not quite a perfect night for United. How could it be when Darren Fletcher ended it in disbelief at the red card for a tackle on Cesc Fabregas which will rule him out of the Italian job.

However, it was not far off, leaving United to await events at Stamford Bridge tomorrow with so many neutrals, if not a Chelsea side hell-bent on revenge, hoping Barcelona set up what would be a dream decider.

No amount of meticulous planning can legislate for bad luck.

It is the unknown factor that, in an instant, can screw any amount of hopes and dreams into the tightest ball and throw them out of the highest window, never to be seen again.

Kieran Gibbs has not been a first-team regular very long. Fitness permitting, he has almost a decade and a half in front of him in the Arsenal side.

It is a fair bet, at the end of his career, the 18-year-old still regards the horror that unfolded eight minutes into what was such an eagerly-awaited contest as the worst moment he had to endure.

In his head, Gibbs was about to control Ronaldo's cutback, then decide whether to play a short pass out of defence or present Manuel Almunia with a routine clearance. Fate had other plans.

Instead, poor Gibbs lost his footing and hit the ground with a thump. Like lightning, Park seized on the loose ball, delicately lifting it over Almunia, whose arrival came just too late.

The United contingent went delirious. Fans, coaches, manager, players, Beckham alike all knew what it meant. They knew the prospect of Arsenal getting three to go through was so remote to be beyond comprehension.

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United 1-0 Arsenal

Manchester United are a step closer to a spot in the UEFA Champions League final, for the second consecutive time, following a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Old Trafford. The Gunners have no reason to complain, having conceded only one goal.

United dominated from the start and it did not take long for the first opportunities to arise in front of Manuel Almunia's goal. However, the Spanish keeper was in top shape and blocked several powerful efforts.

But the home side did take the lead on 17 minutes. Michael Carrick sent in a low pass from the left and John O'Shea fired it in the roof of the goal. Almunia did get his hands to it but couldn't sufficiently deflect the shot.

Cristiano Ronaldo almost got a second on 69 minutes but the Portuguese forward hit the crossbar from about 25 meters.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men, with freshly crowned Players' Player of the Year Ryan Giggs starting on the bench, were dominant in all ways and if they have any reason to criticize their performance, it would be based on the fact that more goals should have been scored in this game.

The second leg will be played at London's Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, May 5th.
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United v Arsenal - UCL SF - Preview

It is a match that millions of people are waiting for not only in England but also in the whole world. I know from my previous experience that tomorrow, millions of people in Asia, Africa, Australia and even in USA will keep their eyes on this match of Manchester United vs Arsenal UEFA Champions League Semifinal. It is the first leg and it will take place in the stadium of Man U. So, they are home team and hot favorite to win the first leg. However, you cannot count out the Gunners at all because we have seen some fighting sprit and resurgence of form in London in the last few weeks.

First, I want to talk about Alex Ferguson’s team because they are home team. On Saturday, they played against Tottenham in an EPL clash and in half time, Tottenham took 2-0 lead. Then in second half, Ronaldo and his teammates scored 5 superb goals to win the match by 5-2. Can you believe it?

Competition: Uefa Champions League 2008-09 Semi-final (first leg)

Fixture: Manchester United vs Arsenal

Date: 29 April 2009 (Wednesday)

Kick Off time: 1945 UK 0015IST(Thurs)

Stadium: Old Trafford

Channel: TEN SPORTS

Yes, it is difficult to believe unless you watched the match. This is the thing that has amazed everyone and it happened more than once this season. Alex Ferguson is happy to see that his club is in the top of the football world at this moment. They have already won the carling cup. They are in course to win the title of English Premier League and UEFA Champions League is also just 3 matches away.

Well, after saying so many good words about Man Utd, it is difficult to say similar thing about Arsenal this season. They are already of hope of every title in this season except the Champions League. This is the only thing to play for the Gunners at this moment. The next best thing that they can hope for is perhaps 3^rd position in EPL which most probably would not happen. So, tomorrow nigh can be a decisive night for them.

Arsene Wenger is also in happy and confident mood after seeing his team performed in an excellent manner in the last two matches. They drew with Liverpool in Liverpool last week by 4-4 and although Liverpool played well Arsenal never gave up. Then yesterday, they totally dominated against Middlesbrough and it was the match of Cese Fabregas. Fabregas is back on top form and he scored both the two goals of the match.

The good thing for Man Utd is that there is no major injury at this moment. Gary Neville will not be there but I believe that they have enough quality players in the defense. For Ryan Giggs, it will be an special match. If he plays then it will be his 800^th appearance for Ryan Giggs for Manchester United. They will go in the match with some impressive records in their mind. They have not lost any match in Champions League in the last 23 matches. Secondly, they are unbeaten at Old Trafford for 20 matches in CL. This is a record to be proud of. It will be Cristiano Ronaldo who have something to cheer about because it will be his 5oth Champions League match. So, naturally, he will want to make it memorable by scoring a goal or two. Rooney is in good form too. Tevez and Berbetov are doing well. So, there is less worry for United in tomorrow’s match. They will entertain Arsenal with full confidence. The fans at Old Trafford from the first minute will start discussing what will be the score line 2-0, 3-0 or 4-0.

Arsenal has some stats to remember too. They have never lost in any match whenever they played in the semifinal level in any competition in Europe. It means that each time they played in the semifinal, they reached to the final in Europe. This is something to cheer about surely. This should give some confidence to all the players.

Injury is a big problem for Arsene Wenger. There is doubt about Mikael Silvestre. Robin van Persie and Left back Gael Clichy are still injured and most probably will not be available tomorrow. Arsene Wenger is delighted to see his main weapon Cese Fabregas in superb form in right time. Samir Nasri is also a good player. However, the fans will surely miss Arshevin. So, the striking position looks weak for the Gunners. Well, Arsene Wenger is surely hoping that Cese Fabregas can provide some kind of magic.

After going through the players, my feeling that Manchester United is the host favorite in the match. It will be either a draw or a win for them. I don’t see any prospect of the Gunners getting 3 points in this match. What about you?

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Ryan Giggs - Profile

1973: Born Ryan Joseph Wilson on November 29 in Cardiff.

1990: Signs as a trainee with Manchester United in July and then as a professional at the start of December.

1991: Adopts mother's maiden name and becomes Ryan Giggs.

March - Makes United debut aged 17 as a substitute against Everton. Two months later he scores the winner against Manchester City at Old Trafford on his full debut.

October - Becomes the youngest footballer to represent Wales when he plays against Germany in Nuremberg aged 17 years and 322 days.

November - Wins his first piece of silverware with United as the Reds beat Red Star Belgrade to lift the UEFA Super Cup.

1992: Helps United lift League Cup and that season is voted PFA Young Player of the Year.

1993: Becomes first player to be named PFA Young Player of the Year twice.

Member of United side which ends the club's 26-year wait to win the league title.

1994: Helps United win the Premier League and FA Cup double for the first time in the club's history.

1996: Helps the Reds win the double for a second time.

1997: Wins a third league title in four years and in October scores a memorable goal in their 3-2 Champions League victory over Juventus at Old Trafford.

1998: Injures his hamstring in February and is out for six weeks as United finish the season empty-handed.

1999: Scores stunning winner in United's epic FA Cup semi-final replay victory over Arsenal at Villa Park in April. Helps the Reds complete an historic treble of European Cup, Premier League and FA Cup.

2000: Wins his sixth Premier League winners' medal in eight years.

2001: Collects his seventh league championship and 12th major honour in total.

July - Signs a new five-year contact worth around £50,000 a week. Sent off for the first time in his career for two bookable offences as Wales crash 3-2 in Norway.

2002: April: Describes United's Champions League semi-final defeat by Bayer Leverkusen as the "low point" of his career. United finish third in Premier League.

August 23: Nets 100th goal for United in all competitions with the team's second goal in league game at Chelsea.

2003: May - United are crowned champions again.

September - Giggs, along with Cristiano Ronaldo, charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his involvement in confrontations with Arsenal players after a goalless draw at Old Trafford.

November - Giggs elbows Russia's Vadim Evseev in Euro 2004 play-off in Moscow, prompting the Russian football association to call for an immediate ban.

December - Giggs fined £7,500 and warned as to his future conduct at an FA disciplinary hearing into Old Trafford fracas. Then suspended for two matches for Evseev incident.

2004: May - United finish third in the table but Giggs lines up in the 3-0 FA Cup final victory over Millwall.

2005: May - Signs two-year contract extension, taking him through to June 2007: February - Scores the only goal as United defeat Lille in the Champions League last-16 first leg, curling home a quickly-taken free-kick as home goalkeeper Tony Sylva lined up his wall. The French side appeared to briefly contemplate a walk-off in protest and later appealed to UEFA claiming the goal should not have stood.

May 6 - Wins ninth Premier League title with Manchester United.

May 30 - Announces retirement from international football.

October 16 - Signs new contract until end of June 2009.

2008: May 11 - Equals Sir Bobby Charlton's appearance record for the club when he plays his 758th game against Wigan.

May 21 - Breaks Sir Bobby Charlton's record after coming on as a substitute - and scoring a penalty in the dramatic shoot-out - as Manchester United beat Chelsea in the Champions League final.

2009: February 12 - Signs new deal with United, committing him to the club until June 2010.

April 26 - Voted Professional Footballers' Association player of the year.

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Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur-Preview

Gary Neville has been ruled out for a fortnight by Sir Alex Ferguson after injuring his foot against Portsmouth at Old Trafford on Wednesday. It means he will miss both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal and also the Premier League games against Tottenham tomorrow and Middlesbrough on 2 May.

However, John O’Shea is fit after injuring his ankle against Portsmouth and could be part of a United squad to face Spurs that also includes Wes Brown, who has come through two reserve outings this week without a reaction. Ryan Giggs will make his 800th appearance if he gets on the field.

Squad: Van der Sar, Foster, Kuszczak, R da Silva, O’Shea, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Ronaldo, Nani, Carrick, Scholes, Fletcher, Anderson, Giggs, Park, Berbatov, Rooney.

Fixture: Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Competition: Barclays Premier league
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Time: 17.30 UK 22.00 IST
Date: 25.4.09
Channel: STAR SPORTS India

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No Quintuple this season!

Former United goalkeeper Tim Howard returned to haunt his old club as Everton reached the FA Cup final with a 4-2 penalty shoot-out victory.

After a goalless two hours, Howard saved a woeful penalty from United record signing Dimitar Berbatov and another from Rio Ferdinand to send the Toffeemen into ecstasy.

It also ended Sir Alex Ferguson's 100% record in last-four clashes in the competition, although the Scot must have known such a scenario was a realistic possibility given the team he picked in front of a sell-out Wembley crowd.

It had become common knowledge that Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Edwin van der Sar had not even made the trip, while the veteran Ryan Giggs was down on most people's lists of the men to be excluded as well.

But the likes of Federico Macheda, Fabio da Silva, Darron Gibson and Danny Welbeck were among a youthful XI.

Ultimately it came down to spot-kicks and after Tim Cahill missed the first for Everton, Howard save United's next two with Phil Jagielka netting the clincher for the Toffees.

Toffees boss David Moyes said: "The goalkeeper made a couple of really good saves. We had a struggle to find five to take them. Jagielka was one of the ones who scored in training. We didn't have too many takers on the day."

The Red Devils had a good shout for a penalty during the 90 minutes when Danny Welbeck went down under close attention from Jagielka and Moyes feared the worst.

"From where I was I thought it was," Moyes continued.

"I've not seen it but I thought that may be close."

Everton captain Phil Neville, who like Howard was up against his former side, told BBC Radio Five Live: "It's one of the proudest moments of my career - to lead the team out at Wembley in the FA Cup final.

"They say your next achievement is the best and that is certainly how it feels.

"We've beaten the best side in the world - it's just a really proud moment."

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United v Arsenal in UCL SF

Cristiano Ronaldo's thunderous early goal left Sir Alex Ferguson to go head-to-head with old rival Arsene Wenger for a place in the Champions League Final.

The emergence of Chelsea and Liverpool may have taken the edge off battles between Manchester United and Arsenal over the past few years.
But the renewal of hostilities promises to be almost as spectacular as the Ronaldo strike that created it.

The sixth-minute effort was his 20th goal of the season and only his second in the Champions League since completing that astonishing haul of 42 in last year's final in Moscow.

There was certainly no doubting it was worthy of winning any game, and earning United the accolade of becoming the first English team to beat Porto on their own ground.

As almost a side issue, it also keeps the Red Devils on track to win the quintuple in a season they have brought back to life at just the right time.

In calling for the spirit of Turin '99, Ferguson also knew if that momentous evening was to be repeated, he would have to go through the agony of being two goals down before a famous victory could be achieved.
Ronaldo however, has his own history book to fill.

A repeat of last season's 42-goal tally was never likely to be repeated in a campaign delayed because of ankle surgery.

But the 24-year-old has still make a significant contribution to United's attempt to land an unprecedented quintuple, even if, like so many of his team-mates, he has looked a little off the pace in recent weeks.

There could have been no better stage to signal his renewed intent.
Apart from his beloved Sporting Lisbon, Ronaldo is roundly jeered when he returns to one of the major clubs in his homeland, Porto being no exception.

They recognise his talent, though, even if no-one expected what followed when Ronaldo collected Anderson's short pass closer to the halfway line than the opposition goal.

Sensing a little trepidation in home ranks, Ronaldo let rip with a shot as brutally powerful as it was audacious in its intent.

Porto keeper Helton did not have a chance of keeping the ball out as it flashed past him to give United the start Ferguson could not have dreamed.

Had Nemanja Vidic been able to keep his close-range effort under the crossbar after John O'Shea had got the faintest of touches to a Ryan Giggs corner just before the interval, the Red Devils would surely have completed their task in half the time allotted.

Unfortunately, the Serbian missed, allowing Porto to nurse plenty of hope during a half-time team-talk delivered by Jose Gomes as banned coach Jesualdo Ferreira apparently watched on TV at a secret location outside the stadium.

After his major blunder last week, Bruno Alves was determined to make amends and threatened Edwin van der Sar's goal on three separate occasions during that opening period.

But this was United at their belligerent best. Their intent showed in the reaction of a normally phlegmatic Dimitar Berbatov to losing possession and, after a public rebuke from his manager last weekend for not doing enough for the team, an apologetic wave of regret from Ronaldo after a misplaced pass.

Just as Vidic spurred the chance of a second immediately before the break, so Berbatov did the same just afterwards when he wriggled his way into the Porto penalty area.

Porto took it as their cue to mount another offensive.

But with Rio Ferdinand back alongside Vidic after his recent groin strain there was an authority about United's defending that had not been in evidence since before they were dismantled by Liverpool five games ago.

There was experience too, with Ryan Giggs and Van der Sar taking just long enough over their set pieces not to incur the wrath of Swiss referee Massimo Busacca while eating up vital seconds.

The introduction of Nani for Berbatov midway through the second period hinted at a strategy of counter-attacking at pace.

It was certainly Porto carrying any threat that did exist and Rolando was too close for comfort with a far post header.

Yet this United were different to what has been almost the shadow side that has existed before now.

And while they did not exactly coast home, the visiting supporters were celebrating victory long before the final whistle confirmed it.

SUMMARY:

Porto 0-1 Man Utd (Agg 2-3) Ronaldo 6

United now will face Arsenal in semi-finals on Apr 29 and May 5th.

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United 2-0 Inter Milan !

Manchester United scored a goal at the start of each half Wednesday to beat Inter Milan 2-0 and help complete an English sweep into the quarterfinals of the Champions League.

Arsenal's 7-6 penalty shootout win at AS Roma means all four English teams in the competition will be in next week's quarterfinal draw after defending champion United withstood concerted pressure to reach the last eight for the third straight year.

Nemanja Vidic scored in the fourth minute and Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the 49th to give United a 2-0 win over the two legs, while Arsenal lost 1-0 at Roma to draw 1-1 on aggregate -- advancing only when Max Tonetto missed the crucial penalty.

Barcelona eased into the quarterfinals with a 5-2 home win over Lyon and FC Porto progressed on away goals after a 0-0 draw with visiting Atletico Madrid.

United, which drew 0-0 at Inter two weeks ago, led early at Old Trafford when Vidic twisted and turned inside the area to lose his marker and head a corner past goalkeeper Julio Cesar from about 12 meters (yards).

Although Inter dominated the rest of the half and hit the bar with a header by striker Zlatan Ibrahimovich, Wayne Rooney set up a second goal.

The England striker taunted Maicon with the ball on the edge of the area before floating a diagonal cross from the left corner of the box through the defense, giving the unmarked Ronaldo an easy close-range header.

It was Ronaldo's first Champions League goal since last season's final win over Chelsea and marked the first time in 14 attempts that United had scored more than one goal against a team managed by Jose Mourinho.

Inter hit the frame of the goal again when Adriano volleyed onto the post but United deservedly joined Chelsea and Liverpool, which advanced on Tuesday, in the next round.

"United deserved to win," Mourinho said. "They scored two goals over the course of the two games and we have to accept that, in football, the team that wins always deserves it."

Arsenal's play was largely devoid of the flair that has characterized manager Arsene Wenger's teams but advanced when Tonetto smashed the 16th kick of the shootout high over the bar.

"We needed to show our nerve tonight and determination," Wenger said. "We were a bit nervous at the start and gave a goal away more by nerves than them creating the chance.

"I must pay tribute to the nerves of my team. There is something in there that comes out: that is huge mental strength."

Eduardo Da Silva had missed Arsenal's first kick but Mirko Vucinic wasted the advantage when he weakly hit Roma's second at goalkeeper Manuel Almunia in the middle of the goal.

Roma, which lost the first leg 1-0 at Arsenal, had earlier drawn level on aggregate in the 10th when a cross from the left beat four defenders and was fired into the net by the unmarked Juan.

Barcelona made sure of its place with four first-half goals against Lyon, two of them in three minutes from Thierry Henry.

Henry made it 2-0 and Lionel Messi then slalomed into the area and exchanged passes with Samuel Eto'o before scoring his sixth tournament goal of the season with a calm shot. Eto'o put Barcelona further in front in the 43rd from a pass by Henry.

Jean Il Makoun got a goal back a minute later with a header from a corner and Juninho hit a low shot four minutes into the second half to narow the deficit to two goals, but Seydou Keito struck in the final minute to make it 6-3 on aggregate.

Porto, meanwhile, progressed courtesy of the two goals it scored to draw 2-2 at Atletico Madrid in the first leg.

"Nobody thought we would come this far. We're a young team and we're still growing," Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira said.

Villarreal and Bayern Munich also progressed Tuesday, with the latter's 7-1 win over Sporting Lisbon wrapping up a 12-1 aggregate win -- the biggest ever in a post-group stage match.
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United v Inter Milan - Preview

Ever since the draw was made, the image of Jose Mourinho celebrating Francisco Costinha’s goal at Old Trafford following Porto’s 1-1 draw in March 2004, that sent them through to the quarter finals, has hovered over this tie. Since Sir Alex Ferguson has only ever engineered one win over the “Special One,” it appears that Inter may be able to do the impossible and shatter the Manchester United quintuple dream.

Despite dominating Serie A, the truth is that Inter Milan are not a great team, they have probably three world class players in Julio Cesar, Maicon and Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the supporting cast, which includes some real quality (Cambiasso, Zanetti etc.) is not in the same league as the attacking array of talent United have at their disposal.

So, if Inter are to progress to the quarter-finals it could well be due to the brilliance of Jose Mourinho and his side will need a resilient defensive performance combined with either an early goal to knock the stuffing out of United and the Old Trafford crowd or go the route of Porto in 2004 and claim a late away goal which won’t give Rooney, Ronaldo, Berbatov et al the opportunity to hit back.

Whether Rio Ferdinand plays or not, United will be confident of taking a major step to their second successive Champions League final after a dominant display in the San Siro. The Manchester United midfield overpowered the Italians in the first leg and the likes of Fletcher, Carrick and Park should have the legs to see off Inter should the game go to extra time.

Ferguson will surely go for the Berbatov-Rooney partnership initially with Tevez off the bench if things are not going as smoothly as expected. And Cristiano Ronaldo will expect to perform on the biggest stage and claim his first Champions League goal of the season.

Fixture: Manchester United v Inter Milan

Competition: UEFA Champions league

Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester

Time: 19.45 UK, 1.15 IST (Thursday)

Channel: TEN SPORTS (India Only)

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Inter will play 4 penalties - SAF

Sir Alex Ferguson accuses Inter Milan of negativity ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League game @ Old Trafford and predicted that Jose Mourinho’s side will play for penalties in the second-leg of their last-16 tie.

Mourinho claimed before the two sides’ initial meeting at the San Siro, which ended 0–0, that United would not be willing to meet Inter “eye to eye” and would change their usual approach. Now Ferguson has turned the tables and tried to second-guess his opponents’ tactics, perhaps in the hope that it will goad the Portuguese into taking a more attacking approach.

“Could he really have believed that we wouldn’t attack at the San Siro?” Ferguson said in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. “Well, I’ll tell you that at Old Trafford Inter will play for penalties. There is always that Italian mentality. Even with Argentinians and other foreigners, that remains the idea. They will look to suffocate the game and aim for 120 minutes of goalless football. But I’m not worried about anything. My players have shown they have what it takes when it comes to penalties. I hope it continues like that.”

United won last season’s European Cup and this month’s Carling Cup on penalties and Ferguson feels that nothing the Portuguese tries in the build-up will surprise or disturb him.

“We are used to Jose,” he said. “I’m not a little lad from the Govan alleys who finds himself on Fifth Avenue in New York. I’m not shocked by anything any more. Mourinho has a magnetic power over the media; everyone wants him because he goes from the amusing to the spirited to the offensive. He’s a great media tactician. But he also know that when the game begins it will only be Inter against the Reds, he can’t do anything more. Personally I trust in those I send out on the pitch.”

Ferguson has urged his players to find the spirit of last year’s semi-final against Barcelona as they prepare to welcome Inter. United were level at 0–0 after the first-leg of that tie and won thanks to a Paul Scholes goal. “In the build-up to a match against Jose I have to expect everything from him,” he said. “But we are preparing in the same way as after the 0-0 in the Nou Camp. An intense and efficient preparation, which worked very well.

“We controlled them well in Milan – Inter only had a couple of half-chances in the second half. My players played with an incredible level of concentration. They have to do the same in the return leg.”

Inter have not been looking their usual selves in Serie A of late, although they won 2–0 at Genoa on Saturday to move seven points clear of Juventus at the top of the table, but Ferguson believes that is because they have had one eye on Wednesday. “Inter are in command in Serie A and after they came back against Roma [3-3], they have the Scudetto in their pocket,” he added. “He must also believe it, judging from the players he’s been putting out since the first leg. He’s obviously thinking of us.”

Mourinho has spiced up the game by saying he could take over as manager at Old Trafford when Sir Alex Ferguson retires. “If you want me to rule out ever being Manchester United manager I can’t,” Inter’s coach added. “Special clubs need special managers so in theory it could work, but nobody knows what the future is in football. The England national team wanted me as coach and that is the biggest job in England, so I am sure when Sir Alex retires they will look at the best managers in the world and I certainly fall into the category.”

But Ferguson laughed off the idea that he might be close to the end at Old Trafford. “Who’s talking about stopping?” he said. “You would have to take me out of here by force. I’m really not thinking about it at all. And even less so is Mourinho thinking about coming to United.”

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Fergie: I'll continue as long as my health allows!

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that he is scared of quitting management because of the impact his departure from Old Trafford could have on his life. The Manchester United manager acknowledges that he is in the final stretch of his career but wants to continue for as long as his health and enthusiasm allow. He announced several years ago that he was going to retire from football – only to reverse his decision – and is happy to remain in the game

“When I reached 60, I asked myself the question. I almost left,” said Ferguson in an interview with L’Equipe’s sport magazine. “But I quickly realised, with my family, that it was a mistake. Today, I fear the idea of retiring. I have been on the train for so long that when I get off I fear my system will collapse. I have decided not to ask myself the question any more. Three things can make me stop. One: my health. Two: if I don’t take pleasure any more. Three: if I don’t have the strength for new challenges any more.

“Each summer, I have a look at those three things. I go to my doctor first. I had a pacemaker set up four or five years ago. Today, I am playing the penalty shoot-out of my managerial career. I know that. The rest is decided between me and me. I see my doctor every summer. He says ‘boss, you are 67. You will have more and more back pains. Getting up in the morning sometimes won’t be easy.’ This is the penalty shootout.”

Ferguson explained how he helps to bring out the best from his players and keep them hungry for success in an era of huge salaries. “I like to remind them of their roots, so they remember where their parents and grandparents come from,” he said. “I want them to think of the history of their family. To carry the values of their class. Being from the working-class today is facing a world full of technology and comfort that you can’t afford. The players can afford everything but I make sure they keep an ethos. And that starts by working hard. I try to touch the players in their heart. I tell them that nobody will knock on their door to offer them a trophy. That only work and solidarity will reward them.

“Of course you need technique, work and team spirit but you also need the sense of sacrifice. Bryan Robson was a complete and perfect example. To win, you need eight players in the rhythm and the good spirit. Then, they can carry the other three. Less than eight, it’s tough. I like to see a part of my personality in the players. Every manager is like that. It’s reassuring. At Aberdeen the players looked so much like me. Here, it’s in Bryan Robson that I found me the most. He was a manager playing football. What intelligence.

“It’s rare that players respect my tactical wishes throughout the heat of the game. It’s why I have always taken young players and never neglected the local players. So they can understand the United challenge. I prefer a player who can have a bad day but works like a madman more than a naturally-gifted player. I will give more time to the first one to improve because I know he will try and try. Roy Keane was like that. He maybe didn’t have the potential but he became an absolute Manchester United player. He strangled the life out of his opponents. He raised his game. Cristiano Ronaldo is another example. He had talents but above that I believed in his mental strength. In three or four years, he has become the best player in the world. Their success is the success of a club that has given them the right values.”

Ronaldo stayed at Manchester United last summer despite interest from Real Madrid and Ferguson said that it was not a reluctance to sell to Madrid in particular that shaped his determination to keep the Portugal international but the strength of his desire to keep the player. “If two clubs came to offer £100m for Cristiano and Cristiano wants to go to Madrid, do you think I could make him sign for the other club? You think I could go against his wishes? All I can do is advise him. But all this makes sense only if we are ready to sell Cristiano for £100m.

“We have already sold players to Madrid: Heinze, Beckham, Van Nistelrooy. We sold them those players because we wanted to. We didn’t sell Cristiano because we didn’t want to. It’s just a business question, not an ethical question. I won’t let my personal feelings influence my decision-making.”

Ferguson also spoke highly of his goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who he signed from Fulham in 2005. “At the end of January, something interesting happened with Van der Sar. When he beat the unbeaten record for a goalkeeper, he absolutely wanted to get the match ball. And he was so excited that in the dressing room he went and kissed each of his team-mates. At 38, achieving that still meant a lot to him. This made me proud. It means that maybe I have brought something to my players. I am like the keeper of the temple. For 23 years, it has been my motto to never let the perfectionism go.”

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Manchester United’s complete European record under Sir Alex Ferguson after 0–0 away draws in the first leg

Cup Winners’ Cup, first round 1991-92

Manchester Utd 2–0 Athanaikos

After a stalemate in the away leg, United needed goals from Mark Hughes and Brian McClair in the final 12 minutes of extra-time at Old Trafford to squeeze past minnows Athanaikos, at the time bottom of the Greek first division

Uefa Cup, first round 1995-96

Manchester Utd 2–2 Rotor Volgograd (Rotor win on away goals)

With injuries forcing the 18-year-old Phil Neville and 20-year-old John O’Kane to fill in as full-backs United fell two goals behind in the opening 30 minutes. Paul Scholes pulled one back early in the second half and as they threw players forward the goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel headed an equaliser, but it wasn’t enough

Champions League, quarter-finals 1997-98

Manchester United 1–1 Monaco (Monaco win on away goals)

The group stages had been a doddle and after boring their way to a 0–0 in the south of France, United thought they’d done the hard part. But injuries to Peter Schmeichel, Gary Pallister, Roy Keane and Ryan Giggs meant Ferguson’s side struggled to respond once David Trezeguet put Monaco ahead inside four minutes at Old Trafford. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer equalised early in the second half, but Jean Tigana’s side held out

Champions League, quarter-finals 1999-2000

Manchester United 2–3 Real Madrid

Mark Bosnich produced an inspired performance at the Bernabéu in United’s first knockout game as holders (sound familiar?). But a Roy Keane own goal and a brace from Raúl meant United were 3–0 down before the hour at Old Trafford. David Beckham and Paul Scholes pulled goals back, but the champions were out

Champions League, semi-finals 2007-08

Manchester United 1–0 Barcelona

As with this week’s fixture in Milan, United were hampered by injuries at Camp Nou, with Owen Hargreaves filling in at right-back. The visitors held out, however, and Paul Scholes’s 25-yard drive in the second leg coupled with a stout defensive effort was enough to set up a meeting with Chelsea in the final

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Neville and Brown ruled out !!

Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled defensive duo Gary Neville and Wes Brown out of the Premier League clash with Fulham - and virtually dashed any hope Anderson had of making next week's Carling Cup Final.

Neville is still recovering from a virus, while Brown has not yet reached full fitness, despite a couple of substitute appearances after an ankle operation.

Neither man will be considered for the Cottagers clash, as United look to stretch their lead at the top of the table to five points.

Meanwhile Anderson, who would almost certainly have been involved against Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday week, is still some weeks away from a return to action after suffering an ankle injury in the latter stages of the semi-final win over Derby.

But with Wayne Rooney back after a hamstring injury, Ferguson has plenty of options on Wednesday for a game originally postponed last August due to United's European Super Cup commitments.

"If we win the gap is five points, which is a fantastic incentive for us," Ferguson told MUTV.

"It would allow us to look at the league in its proper perspective."

United are looking for a 14th consecutive top flight clean sheet, a run that has continued uninterrupted despite their successful Club World Cup campaign in Japan before Christmas.

Even Ferguson now concedes he was concerned about the impact it would have on his side's domestic season. But, once they had returned to England and won at Stoke on Boxing Day, the Scot had no fears for United's future.

"We didn't know whether Japan was a hurdle we could overcome," said Ferguson.

"Even I had my doubts. But winning that match at Stoke on Boxing Day kick-started our season."

Although, in theory, Aston Villa and Chelsea remain challengers, in reality only Liverpool would be in a position to stop the Red Devils claiming an 18th title, allowing them to move level with the Anfield outfit.

But for record signing Dimitar Berbatov, such historical milestones pale into insignificance alongside his desperate desire to land a first Premier League crown.

"The players here who have already won it, need it again and again and again," he said.

"I have none of that. When I am here, it is like I need it - I want it.

"With the help of everybody, with the right amount of effort on the pitch and with the team we have, I am pretty sure we can win it again."

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I have the best - Fergie

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes he possesses the best squad in the Premier League.

After a slow start to the season,The Red Devils have now hit their stride and a run of only one defeat in 23 matches in all competitions sees them topping the table.

In addition, United's defence has been impregnable of late after going a record-breaking 13 league matches without conceding a single goal.

After being questioned on Ferguson's best side, the vastly-experienced Scottish tactician said he does not have a favourite starting XI, insisting that it is now a squad game.

With United going strong in every competition this season, the Old Trafford chief believes he possesses the strongest squad in England's top flight.

"People sometimes ask me what I consider to be my best side, and the short answer is that I don't have one," said Ferguson.

"I select the team that I consider is the best for each particular match. I have got a great many factors in mind, ranging from the tactical to who needs a rest and who we play in the next game.

"I can give you my best 14 or 15, but better than that, all I can say is that is a squad game and that we have a damn fine squad. In fact it is the best.

"Everyone has done so well and rallied around when we have had injuries that I'm beginning to dread picking the team.

"I feel guilty when I am forced to leave someone out who has not only done nothing wrong but who has played exceptionally well. It puts the club in a strong position, of course, but it doesn't make the manager's job very easy."

The 2008/09 campaign is now at the business end of the season and Ferguson is pleased his troops are showing the grit and determination needed to retain their Premier League title.

"We're at the time of the season where you expect the players to kick on," he continued. "We've seen it over the years.

"The present group I've got seem to have a gear where they can find. For instance, when we went to Stoke it was lively pitch and we'd just got back from Japan but we scraped a result because we never gave in.

"It was an important marker to lay down and, having come back from the World Club Cup in Japan, we needed to win that game. Once we won that, we've gone on."

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Giggs is the best - Vidic

Nemanja Vidic has held Ryan Giggs up as the perfect role model for any young player.

Giggs signed a one-year contract extension that will allow him to complete an incredible 19th season at Manchester United.

Already the 35-year-old is the most decorated player in English football history and given United's present dominance, the chances are Giggs will be adding to his collection over the next 18 months.

Vidic has been a team-mate for just three years of Giggs' near two-decade stint. Yet the Serbia defender has been around long enough to be aware of the standards Giggs sets.

And, should any player ever ask Vidic for the finest example of a professional footballer, he would have no hesitation putting the Welshman's name forward.

"Young players need to look at Ryan," he said.

"He is a complete professional and any young player can learn from him about how to develop themselves and how to have a big career and a long career.

"He has done very well this season and I am glad he has signed a new contract and will be part of this squad for another 18 months."

It is only a week ago at West Ham that Giggs - set to be followed in his successful contract negotiations by skipper Gary Neville - sauntered in off the touchline and scored a magnificent goal to put the Red Devils back to the Premier League summit.

"He has been at this level for 18 years," said Vidic. "To do that at Manchester United is not easy.

"In order to keep winning trophies for that long you don't just need football ability, you must be mentally tough as well."

Giggs' greatest goal was his memorable solo run and finish against Arsenal, voted the best ever in the FA Cup.

Having failed to become the first player for well over a century to complete a fifth win in the competition two years ago when United were beaten in the final at Wembley by Chelsea, victory over Derby at Pride Park on Sunday would leave Giggs just three wins away from making amends.

United have already been to the midlands outfit once this season, 24 hours after Nigel Clough had been installed as permanent successor to sacked Paul Jewell.

They were beaten too as Kris Commons lashed home the winner.

On that occasion, the Red Devils, who have Patrice Evra and Jonny Evans available but not Wayne Rooney who has been given extra time to get over his hamstring injury, had another game to tidy up the mess.

There will be no such safety net this time around if United lose again.

But Vidic, knowing the stakes are high, is not expecting a repeat.

"We only have one game this time around and we know it will be hard," he stated.

"Derby will want to finish it tomorrow as well. They don't want to come to Old Trafford because they know it will be more difficult for them there.

"They have a good team and the atmosphere will be quite intense.

"But we have the experience from last time and if we take our chances, I am sure we can do well.

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