United to Rome
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Manchester United FC are just one step away from becoming the first club to retain the UEFA Champions League trophy after inflicting a crushing 3-1 defeat on Arsenal FC to book their passage to the final.
aggregate 1-4
The Champions League holders turned in a flawless away performance to completely dismantle Arsene Wenger's Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, killing the tie through early goals from Ji-sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo, before the Portuguese added gloss to the scoreline with a breakaway third.
The only sour note for United came through the late dismissal of Darren Fletcher. The Scot will miss the final after being incorrectly punished for bringing down Cesc Fabregas inside the United area, allowing Robin van Persie to hammer home a late penalty.
That made for a cruel end to the evening for Fletcher who, like each and every one of his colleagues, had been magnificent in overcoming the Gunners. It was in stark contrast to the manner in which the evening began, as United put the tie to bed inside 11 minutes.
Arsenal supporters had been encouraged to whip up a frenzied atmosphere to try and help their side overcome a single goal deficit brought about by John O'Shea's first leg strike at Old Trafford, but the Emirates' noise levels dipped irretrievably after seven minutes.
United's mantra had been obvious from the first whistle: counter attack. On the Reds' second such foray, Anderson slipped in Ronaldo, who had been detailed with the lone striker's role by virtue of his searing pace, and the Portuguese fizzed a low ball across the area. Teenage full-back Kieran Gibbs slipped at the crucial moment, allowing Park to pinch the ball and slip a shot over Manuel Almunia and into the goal.
The pocket of some 3,500 United fans behind the opposite goal burst into a frenzied celebration, one which was still ongoing when Ronaldo put the tie out of sight just four minutes later. Having won a free-kick 40 yards from goal, he sent a trademark rocket towards Almunia's left-hand corner, and the Spaniard was unable to read the ball's flight. Game over, tie over, start packing the bags for Rome.
Arsenal, understandably, were rocked. The half-hour mark had arrived before the hosts even tested Edwin van der Sar, and it was a tame header from Fabregas which called the Dutchman into action. Either side of the Spaniard's effort, Wayne Rooney and Ronaldo drew impressive saves from Almunia.
With the Reds' backline in imperious, unbreachable mood, it was left to the forwards to surge forward and exploit the inevitable gaps in Arsenal's foraging formation. Ronaldo had already seen one breakaway end with an Almunia save before he struck a superb third goal.
Nemanja Vidic headed an Arsenal corner as far as the Portuguese, who impishly backheeled a pass to Park before high-tailing it towards the Gunners' area. He reached his destination at the same time as Rooney's perfectly-weighted pass, and drilled a fine shot high into Almunia's goal. Cue delirium among the United supporters, and a mass exodus by their Arsenal counterparts.
With Patrice Evra and Rooney at risk of missing the final with another booking, they were quickly hooked for Rafael and Dimitar Berbatov, while Ryan Giggs replaced Anderson after another impressive outing from the young Brazilian.
There was more of a hint of irony, then, when Fletcher raced back to superbly touch the ball away from Fabregas deep inside the United area, only for referee Roberto Rosetti to award a penalty and brandish the red card at the heartbroken Scot.
Van Persie drilled home the resultant kick as Fletcher trudged down the tunnel, joining Roy Keane and Paul Scholes on the list of United players unfortunate enough to have been ruled out of European football's greatest showpiece by suspension.
While dismay was ultimately the order of the day for Fletch, the overall mood among the United camp must be one of elation after one of the most emphatic European away displays in memory. The Reds are off to Rome, where Barcelona or Chelsea - both vanquished last season - will await. Forza United!
The only sour note for United came through the late dismissal of Darren Fletcher. The Scot will miss the final after being incorrectly punished for bringing down Cesc Fabregas inside the United area, allowing Robin van Persie to hammer home a late penalty.
That made for a cruel end to the evening for Fletcher who, like each and every one of his colleagues, had been magnificent in overcoming the Gunners. It was in stark contrast to the manner in which the evening began, as United put the tie to bed inside 11 minutes.
Arsenal supporters had been encouraged to whip up a frenzied atmosphere to try and help their side overcome a single goal deficit brought about by John O'Shea's first leg strike at Old Trafford, but the Emirates' noise levels dipped irretrievably after seven minutes.
United's mantra had been obvious from the first whistle: counter attack. On the Reds' second such foray, Anderson slipped in Ronaldo, who had been detailed with the lone striker's role by virtue of his searing pace, and the Portuguese fizzed a low ball across the area. Teenage full-back Kieran Gibbs slipped at the crucial moment, allowing Park to pinch the ball and slip a shot over Manuel Almunia and into the goal.
The pocket of some 3,500 United fans behind the opposite goal burst into a frenzied celebration, one which was still ongoing when Ronaldo put the tie out of sight just four minutes later. Having won a free-kick 40 yards from goal, he sent a trademark rocket towards Almunia's left-hand corner, and the Spaniard was unable to read the ball's flight. Game over, tie over, start packing the bags for Rome.
Arsenal, understandably, were rocked. The half-hour mark had arrived before the hosts even tested Edwin van der Sar, and it was a tame header from Fabregas which called the Dutchman into action. Either side of the Spaniard's effort, Wayne Rooney and Ronaldo drew impressive saves from Almunia.
With the Reds' backline in imperious, unbreachable mood, it was left to the forwards to surge forward and exploit the inevitable gaps in Arsenal's foraging formation. Ronaldo had already seen one breakaway end with an Almunia save before he struck a superb third goal.
Nemanja Vidic headed an Arsenal corner as far as the Portuguese, who impishly backheeled a pass to Park before high-tailing it towards the Gunners' area. He reached his destination at the same time as Rooney's perfectly-weighted pass, and drilled a fine shot high into Almunia's goal. Cue delirium among the United supporters, and a mass exodus by their Arsenal counterparts.
With Patrice Evra and Rooney at risk of missing the final with another booking, they were quickly hooked for Rafael and Dimitar Berbatov, while Ryan Giggs replaced Anderson after another impressive outing from the young Brazilian.
There was more of a hint of irony, then, when Fletcher raced back to superbly touch the ball away from Fabregas deep inside the United area, only for referee Roberto Rosetti to award a penalty and brandish the red card at the heartbroken Scot.
Van Persie drilled home the resultant kick as Fletcher trudged down the tunnel, joining Roy Keane and Paul Scholes on the list of United players unfortunate enough to have been ruled out of European football's greatest showpiece by suspension.
While dismay was ultimately the order of the day for Fletch, the overall mood among the United camp must be one of elation after one of the most emphatic European away displays in memory. The Reds are off to Rome, where Barcelona or Chelsea - both vanquished last season - will await. Forza United!
Sir Alex expects to meet Chelsea in the Italian capital
United sealed a spot in the Champions League final on Tuesday night after beating Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium. And despite Barcelona’s mouth-watering performance against Real Madrid last weekend, Sir Alex believes Guus Hiddink’s men will win the other semi-final tie on Wednesday.
That would set up a second successive Champions League final between the sides.
“Barcelona have fantastic players and I watched them on Saturday night,” he told ITV. “I was absolutely drooling watching them. It was a magnificent performance.
“But they have centre-back problems at the moment and at Chelsea that may cost them. I think Chelsea will possibly get through.”
Chelsea play Barcelona on Wednesday 6 May at Stamford Bridge (kick-off 19:45 BST).
That would set up a second successive Champions League final between the sides.
“Barcelona have fantastic players and I watched them on Saturday night,” he told ITV. “I was absolutely drooling watching them. It was a magnificent performance.
“But they have centre-back problems at the moment and at Chelsea that may cost them. I think Chelsea will possibly get through.”
Chelsea play Barcelona on Wednesday 6 May at Stamford Bridge (kick-off 19:45 BST).
Cristiano Ronaldo admits he has come into form at just the right time
The Ballon d'Or holder was unstoppable at the Emirates Stadium, leading the line superbly as a lone striker and leaving the Arsenal defence chasing shadows.
"The last few games I feel very good," Ronny told ITV Sport. "This is a special time in the season, the best games are coming. I try to play good all the time, sometimes it's not possible but I try all the time. The last games, I think I'm playing ok and helping the team, which is most important.
"I can play (as a striker) sometimes but it's not my original position. If the Boss thinks I can do a good job in that position. My priority is to play striker, goalkeeper, left winger... I just want to play."
The Portuguese was quick to offer his sympathies to team-mate Darren Fletcher, who will miss out on a second successive Champions League final after being unfairly sent off at the Emirates.
"It's very disappointing," said Ronaldo. "He deserves to be in the final because he's a fantastic player. He runs a lot, he's a team player and he deserves to play, but this is football."
"The last few games I feel very good," Ronny told ITV Sport. "This is a special time in the season, the best games are coming. I try to play good all the time, sometimes it's not possible but I try all the time. The last games, I think I'm playing ok and helping the team, which is most important.
"I can play (as a striker) sometimes but it's not my original position. If the Boss thinks I can do a good job in that position. My priority is to play striker, goalkeeper, left winger... I just want to play."
The Portuguese was quick to offer his sympathies to team-mate Darren Fletcher, who will miss out on a second successive Champions League final after being unfairly sent off at the Emirates.
"It's very disappointing," said Ronaldo. "He deserves to be in the final because he's a fantastic player. He runs a lot, he's a team player and he deserves to play, but this is football."
Rio Ferdinand
The Reds' skipper at the Emirates Stadium feels the collective hunger for silverware is evident in United's displays, with two more huge prizes still very much on offer.
"I think our performances tell you that (we're hungry for more success)," Rio told Sky Sports News. "We're digging deep when we need to and playing as well as we can as a team on most occasions.
"We need to keep doing that until the end of the season. Great, we're in the final, but we've got a lot of football before then to maintain this successful period."
Having taken just one point from three Premier League visits to the Emirates, despite impressive displays each time, Rio admits Tuesday's triumph was a long overdue reward.
"I think it was about time we got a good result here, and today we proved ourselves," he said. "We're a committed team. We want to achieve things and do well, and today we all pulled together and got the result we were looking for."
"I think our performances tell you that (we're hungry for more success)," Rio told Sky Sports News. "We're digging deep when we need to and playing as well as we can as a team on most occasions.
"We need to keep doing that until the end of the season. Great, we're in the final, but we've got a lot of football before then to maintain this successful period."
Having taken just one point from three Premier League visits to the Emirates, despite impressive displays each time, Rio admits Tuesday's triumph was a long overdue reward.
"I think it was about time we got a good result here, and today we proved ourselves," he said. "We're a committed team. We want to achieve things and do well, and today we all pulled together and got the result we were looking for."
Carrick salutes early strikes
Already a goal ahead through John O'Shea's first-leg strike, United were essentially out of sight inside 11 minutes of the decisive second encounter, and Carrick admits Sir Alex Ferguson's side were never going to sit on their original lead.
"We were well aware coming here that we didn't want to sit back and defend for the game," Carrick told MUTV. "The game was on too much of a knife-edge for that, and to score early as we did put us well in control of the game. It was a great start for us.
"Every goal was a big one in its own right. One of their defenders slipped for the first goal but it was a great finish from Ji, and Ronny's strike was incredible. The third goal was a classic counter-attack, something we were set up well to do and it was brilliant to see it go in. After that we could see the game out quite comfortably. We were well in control."
The manner with which the Reds picked off Arsene Wenger's inexperienced Gunners side demonstrated the European pedigree honed in recent seasons, and Carrick was delighted to see so many United players on song.
"In the big games you want everyone to be on top form and thankfully everything came together really well," he said. "We defended brilliantly, we were solid, we attacked well as well. So it's nice when it comes together on the big occasion."
"We were well aware coming here that we didn't want to sit back and defend for the game," Carrick told MUTV. "The game was on too much of a knife-edge for that, and to score early as we did put us well in control of the game. It was a great start for us.
"Every goal was a big one in its own right. One of their defenders slipped for the first goal but it was a great finish from Ji, and Ronny's strike was incredible. The third goal was a classic counter-attack, something we were set up well to do and it was brilliant to see it go in. After that we could see the game out quite comfortably. We were well in control."
The manner with which the Reds picked off Arsene Wenger's inexperienced Gunners side demonstrated the European pedigree honed in recent seasons, and Carrick was delighted to see so many United players on song.
"In the big games you want everyone to be on top form and thankfully everything came together really well," he said. "We defended brilliantly, we were solid, we attacked well as well. So it's nice when it comes together on the big occasion."
UEFA Champions League final at Rome's Olympic Stadium on 27 May - kick-off 20:45 local time (19:45 BST)
We will receive an allocation of approximately 19,500 tickets, priced at £183, £128, £83 and £65. Applications will be accepted from the following supporters, from 08:00 on Wednesday 6 May through to 08:00 on Tuesday 12 May:
Executive Seat Holders can apply for tickets online; if successful, tickets will be allocated proportionate to your facilities.
Season Ticket Holders who have attended all domestic and European home cup games this season can also make an application online. It is anticipated that we will be heavily oversubscribed and a ballot will be processed giving priority to Season Ticket Holders who have applied for 6 Champions League away games. Remaining tickets will be allocated to Season Ticket holders on a descending basis (i.e. 5 Champs Lge away applications etc).
Ticket payments will be processed from 12 May – 14 May and ballot results will be available from 08:00 on Friday 15 May. It is imperative that successful supporters complete all sections of the travel report which is required for UEFA. This report must be completed in full with a strict deadline of 08:00 on Sunday 17 May.
Tickets will not be posted for this match and successful applicants will be able to collect their tickets from Ticketing & Membership Services from Monday 18 May (see below opening times). Please note that tickets will only be available for collection on production of photographic identification.
Executive Seat Holders can apply for tickets online; if successful, tickets will be allocated proportionate to your facilities.
Season Ticket Holders who have attended all domestic and European home cup games this season can also make an application online. It is anticipated that we will be heavily oversubscribed and a ballot will be processed giving priority to Season Ticket Holders who have applied for 6 Champions League away games. Remaining tickets will be allocated to Season Ticket holders on a descending basis (i.e. 5 Champs Lge away applications etc).
Ticket payments will be processed from 12 May – 14 May and ballot results will be available from 08:00 on Friday 15 May. It is imperative that successful supporters complete all sections of the travel report which is required for UEFA. This report must be completed in full with a strict deadline of 08:00 on Sunday 17 May.
Tickets will not be posted for this match and successful applicants will be able to collect their tickets from Ticketing & Membership Services from Monday 18 May (see below opening times). Please note that tickets will only be available for collection on production of photographic identification.
Darren Fletcher's red card means the Scot will miss the match
Fletcher was dismissed on 75 minutes after Italian referee Roberto Rosetti adjudged the midfielder had brought down Cesc Fabregas inside the Reds’ penalty area. TV commentators and pundits all agreed the decision was harsh, while Sir Alex said Fletcher had been “terribly unlucky”.
“You can see the ball has moved in a different direction, away from Cesc Fabregas,” the boss told ITV.
“I think Darren’s been terribly unlucky and unfortunately we can’t appeal the decision.
“The referee’s probably one of the best in Europe but unfortunately there’s nothing we can do about it.
“You saw his performance tonight and in all the big games over the last few years Darren’s always been key for us. I couldn’t tell you what my team would be in the final – it depends on who the opponents are, of course – but you’d have thought Darren would have figured in it.”
Wayne Rooney admitted the mood in the dressing room after the final whistle had been affected by Fletcher's dismissal.
“Everyone’s gutted for Darren,” Rooney told MUTV. “I think he won the ball, too. To miss a a big game like the Champions League final is heart-breaking.
“But we’re all proud of this achievement. When we set out at the start of the season our aim was to retain the trophy and now we’re so close.”
“You can see the ball has moved in a different direction, away from Cesc Fabregas,” the boss told ITV.
“I think Darren’s been terribly unlucky and unfortunately we can’t appeal the decision.
“The referee’s probably one of the best in Europe but unfortunately there’s nothing we can do about it.
“You saw his performance tonight and in all the big games over the last few years Darren’s always been key for us. I couldn’t tell you what my team would be in the final – it depends on who the opponents are, of course – but you’d have thought Darren would have figured in it.”
Wayne Rooney admitted the mood in the dressing room after the final whistle had been affected by Fletcher's dismissal.
“Everyone’s gutted for Darren,” Rooney told MUTV. “I think he won the ball, too. To miss a a big game like the Champions League final is heart-breaking.
“But we’re all proud of this achievement. When we set out at the start of the season our aim was to retain the trophy and now we’re so close.”
John O’Shea
United won 3-1 on the night and 4-1 on aggregate to secure a spot in Rome on Wednesday 27 May.
“We didn’t hear our fans for the first five minutes because Arsenal’s supporters were really up for it,” O’Shea told MUTV. “Even when they got a throw-in the noise was like they’d scored a goal.
“But then our fans erupted when we scored. Credit to them: to come down mid-week, away from home... it was a special game for them and they really played their part.”
Early goals from Ji-sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo meant the contest was effectively over after 11 minutes, although the Reds still had to defend valiantly.
“We knew Arsenal at home would get plenty of the ball and attack. But we had to be strong and confident in the players we have. We knew we’d have to catch them on the counter-attack and those tactics worked a treat.
“The game was done and dusted when we got the second, and particularly the third. But Arsenal kept going and put us under a lot of pressure. It was a dream to be involved in this game.
“Everyone was ecstatic [in the dressing room] although it wasn’t quite the same as last year’s tense semi against Barcelona. This one was won early so we were all fairly relaxed and recovering in preparation for another huge game on Sunday [against Manchester City].”
“We didn’t hear our fans for the first five minutes because Arsenal’s supporters were really up for it,” O’Shea told MUTV. “Even when they got a throw-in the noise was like they’d scored a goal.
“But then our fans erupted when we scored. Credit to them: to come down mid-week, away from home... it was a special game for them and they really played their part.”
Early goals from Ji-sung Park and Cristiano Ronaldo meant the contest was effectively over after 11 minutes, although the Reds still had to defend valiantly.
“We knew Arsenal at home would get plenty of the ball and attack. But we had to be strong and confident in the players we have. We knew we’d have to catch them on the counter-attack and those tactics worked a treat.
“The game was done and dusted when we got the second, and particularly the third. But Arsenal kept going and put us under a lot of pressure. It was a dream to be involved in this game.
“Everyone was ecstatic [in the dressing room] although it wasn’t quite the same as last year’s tense semi against Barcelona. This one was won early so we were all fairly relaxed and recovering in preparation for another huge game on Sunday [against Manchester City].”
Transfer
The season isn't over but already the press are preparing for a busy summer of transfer speculation.
One of the latest names to be linked with United is Mamadou Sakho, a French Under-21 international defender. There have also been rumours about senior French midfielder Franck Ribery replacing Cristiano Ronaldo (Guardian).
The Daily Mail also speculates about Cristiano's future: "United have made the first steps to secure Kaka as replacement should Ronaldo leave this summer."
Another player touted for the exit door is Carlos Tevez. The Sun believes "Argentina ace Tevez is frustrated at a lack of action at United" and could be replaced in the Reds' dressing room by Lyon's Karim Benzema.
Manchester United has a policy of not commenting on transfer speculation.
One of the latest names to be linked with United is Mamadou Sakho, a French Under-21 international defender. There have also been rumours about senior French midfielder Franck Ribery replacing Cristiano Ronaldo (Guardian).
The Daily Mail also speculates about Cristiano's future: "United have made the first steps to secure Kaka as replacement should Ronaldo leave this summer."
Another player touted for the exit door is Carlos Tevez. The Sun believes "Argentina ace Tevez is frustrated at a lack of action at United" and could be replaced in the Reds' dressing room by Lyon's Karim Benzema.
Manchester United has a policy of not commenting on transfer speculation.
Sir Alex Ferguson
The United boss reflected on the last four losses to Borussia Dortmund in 1997, Bayer Leverkusen five years later and the most recent to AC Milan in 2007 in the build-up to the semi-final second leg at the Emirates.
Already 1-0 up following the first game at Old Trafford, Sir Alex is well aware of just how close his side are to booking a spot in Rome on 27 May, a year after beating Chelsea in Moscow. But painful past experiences mean he is taking nothing for granted.
"We have the lead and we are only one kick away from Rome. But we won't be complacent. At this stage of the Champions League you can't be complacent," he insisted.
“There have been times when we’ve thrown semi-finals away. The one against Dortmund was an example of that, we had so many chances to win the tie, it was amazing we didn’t.
“Then there was the tie with Leverkusen – we got a bit nervous in the first leg at home, but were very unlucky in the second game, we had three shots cleared off the line and hit the bar.
“The semi-final against Milan was a game we just weren’t in – we were really disappointing.
"So there has been a mixture of different things which have prevented us from going on to the final, but we’ve won both we’ve got to and hopefully we can do so again this year."
Already 1-0 up following the first game at Old Trafford, Sir Alex is well aware of just how close his side are to booking a spot in Rome on 27 May, a year after beating Chelsea in Moscow. But painful past experiences mean he is taking nothing for granted.
"We have the lead and we are only one kick away from Rome. But we won't be complacent. At this stage of the Champions League you can't be complacent," he insisted.
“There have been times when we’ve thrown semi-finals away. The one against Dortmund was an example of that, we had so many chances to win the tie, it was amazing we didn’t.
“Then there was the tie with Leverkusen – we got a bit nervous in the first leg at home, but were very unlucky in the second game, we had three shots cleared off the line and hit the bar.
“The semi-final against Milan was a game we just weren’t in – we were really disappointing.
"So there has been a mixture of different things which have prevented us from going on to the final, but we’ve won both we’ve got to and hopefully we can do so again this year."
Keep it tight and we’ll be all righ
That’s the message from Patrice Evra ahead of United’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal at the Emirates this evening.
The Frenchman, who is fit to take his place in Sir Alex’s starting XI despite picking up a slight knock in the win at Middlesbrough, is confident the Reds can keep Arsenal goalless and book a spot in the Champions League final.
“We were very happy with the way we played against Arsenal [at Old Trafford],” Evra told ManUtd.com.
“We played with a lot of pace and power, we made a lot of opportunities, showed a lot of character… everything you expect from Manchester United.
“Those were all things we talked about before the game and we went out and did that on the pitch.”
An early John O’Shea goal was the Reds’ only reward after a superb display in the first leg, but just as vital was United’s clean sheet.
“It’s true we were a little frustrated after only scoring one goal but we kept Arsenal out, which was a target before the game. We were very happy with how we defended," added the left-back.
“You saw in Porto how well we defended when it was essential we kept a clean sheet. And that happened again in the first leg against Arsenal.”
Evra was loathe to single out individuals for praise, however, claiming the Reds’ eighth shut-out in European competition this term was a team effort.
“At United, every player has the desire to defend and keep the team compact – even the strikers defend. That’s a great strength we have.
“Success depends a lot on how well you defend. If you can keep the opposition from scoring then you’re always confident you can win, especially when you look at the attackers at this club.”
If the Reds can prevent the Gunners from firing this evening, United will take a giant step towards becoming the first club to retain the Champions League trophy.
“The challenge at the start of the season was to win it again,” added Evra. “But to retain the Champions League is very difficult. Nobody has done it.
“It’s an exciting challenge and it’s a privilege to play for a club where you have the opportunity to make history. We all want to get to Rome, but first we have to get past Arsenal, and I’m confident we can do that.”
The Frenchman, who is fit to take his place in Sir Alex’s starting XI despite picking up a slight knock in the win at Middlesbrough, is confident the Reds can keep Arsenal goalless and book a spot in the Champions League final.
“We were very happy with the way we played against Arsenal [at Old Trafford],” Evra told ManUtd.com.
“We played with a lot of pace and power, we made a lot of opportunities, showed a lot of character… everything you expect from Manchester United.
“Those were all things we talked about before the game and we went out and did that on the pitch.”
An early John O’Shea goal was the Reds’ only reward after a superb display in the first leg, but just as vital was United’s clean sheet.
“It’s true we were a little frustrated after only scoring one goal but we kept Arsenal out, which was a target before the game. We were very happy with how we defended," added the left-back.
“You saw in Porto how well we defended when it was essential we kept a clean sheet. And that happened again in the first leg against Arsenal.”
Evra was loathe to single out individuals for praise, however, claiming the Reds’ eighth shut-out in European competition this term was a team effort.
“At United, every player has the desire to defend and keep the team compact – even the strikers defend. That’s a great strength we have.
“Success depends a lot on how well you defend. If you can keep the opposition from scoring then you’re always confident you can win, especially when you look at the attackers at this club.”
If the Reds can prevent the Gunners from firing this evening, United will take a giant step towards becoming the first club to retain the Champions League trophy.
“The challenge at the start of the season was to win it again,” added Evra. “But to retain the Champions League is very difficult. Nobody has done it.
“It’s an exciting challenge and it’s a privilege to play for a club where you have the opportunity to make history. We all want to get to Rome, but first we have to get past Arsenal, and I’m confident we can do that.”
Champions League nights are always that extra bit special for United fans because we are a club steeped in European tradition
We’ve had mixed fortunes in European last-four encounters before and though Scholes’ wonder-strike against Barcelona is the freshest experience in many minds, the painful defeats to Milan in 2007, Leverkeusen in 2002 and Dortmund in 1997 are still etched on my memory.
Yes we are in a better position entering the second-leg than we were in any of those games - taking a lead to the Emirates with no away goal conceded. But we are far from guaranteed a final berth - we will have to earn it at a stadium where we have yet to win. Yes, my heart says we’re going to Rome, but my head urges me to err on the side of caution.
I’ve heard a few fans talk about the importance of an early goal to ‘settle the tie’. Of course it would be welcome but it won’t necessarily be the final nail, as it could potentially lead to us sitting back and inviting Arsenal to attack us.
We managed this strategy this with great aplomb against Barcelona at Old Trafford last year (though I had lost about an inch from my fingernails by the final whistle) but Arsenal are definitely capable of scoring three at home.
Van Persie’s return gives Wenger's men a timely boost in attack and will also allow Fabregas to drop back into midfield to try to pull the strings. If our midfield can keep him quiet and Evra can ensure Walcott is again the non-entity he was last Wednesday, then the match will certainly be ours for the taking.
The Emirates will be a cauldron tonight but our supporters, who comfortably drowned out the Middlesbrough fans at the Riverside on Saturday, will be in full voice again and provide a vital inspiration for the players.
I guess all that’s left is to echo the buzz-word that has followed us around Europe for more than fifty years… believe.
The views expressed in this blog are personal to the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Manchester United FC.
Yes we are in a better position entering the second-leg than we were in any of those games - taking a lead to the Emirates with no away goal conceded. But we are far from guaranteed a final berth - we will have to earn it at a stadium where we have yet to win. Yes, my heart says we’re going to Rome, but my head urges me to err on the side of caution.
I’ve heard a few fans talk about the importance of an early goal to ‘settle the tie’. Of course it would be welcome but it won’t necessarily be the final nail, as it could potentially lead to us sitting back and inviting Arsenal to attack us.
We managed this strategy this with great aplomb against Barcelona at Old Trafford last year (though I had lost about an inch from my fingernails by the final whistle) but Arsenal are definitely capable of scoring three at home.
Van Persie’s return gives Wenger's men a timely boost in attack and will also allow Fabregas to drop back into midfield to try to pull the strings. If our midfield can keep him quiet and Evra can ensure Walcott is again the non-entity he was last Wednesday, then the match will certainly be ours for the taking.
The Emirates will be a cauldron tonight but our supporters, who comfortably drowned out the Middlesbrough fans at the Riverside on Saturday, will be in full voice again and provide a vital inspiration for the players.
I guess all that’s left is to echo the buzz-word that has followed us around Europe for more than fifty years… believe.
The views expressed in this blog are personal to the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Manchester United FC.
Michael Carrick admits Tuesday's Champions League semi-final
Sir Alex's men remain on course to become the first team to defend the trophy in its current format following their 1-0 victory in last Wednesday's first leg at Old Trafford.
Carrick maintains there is still plenty of hard work to be done at the Emirates, but is confident in the Reds' gameplan to make it to Rome.
"I’m sure it’ll be a very fast and intense game and a good one to watch, but we know the job we have do," he told reporters at United's pre-match press conference.
"We won’t get carried away by the occasion or how the game’s going, we know what we want to do and we’ll just be focused on going about our business.
"Playing against another English side is different to what we're used to in Europe, especially as both teams know each other so well.
"But it’s still a European game and there's a chance to get to the final so the incentive is somewhat greater than when you play a normal league match. Hopefully we can get the result we want."
Carrick maintains there is still plenty of hard work to be done at the Emirates, but is confident in the Reds' gameplan to make it to Rome.
"I’m sure it’ll be a very fast and intense game and a good one to watch, but we know the job we have do," he told reporters at United's pre-match press conference.
"We won’t get carried away by the occasion or how the game’s going, we know what we want to do and we’ll just be focused on going about our business.
"Playing against another English side is different to what we're used to in Europe, especially as both teams know each other so well.
"But it’s still a European game and there's a chance to get to the final so the incentive is somewhat greater than when you play a normal league match. Hopefully we can get the result we want."
Sir Alex Ferguson says
John O’Shea’s first half strike in last week’s Champions League semi-final first leg at Old Trafford means a win, draw or even a defeat by a one-goal margin against the Gunners would see United through to the final in Rome later this month.
But Sir Alex insists his players will not be just going to the Emirates to defend their lead - they will instead be aiming to get themselves on the scoresheet, especially as one away goal for the Reds would leave Arsenal needing at least three.
“We must go there with the intent of trying to score,” the boss told reporters at his pre-match press conference. “It's important that we have a goal threat. We certainly have the ability to score and hopefully we can as it would put us in a very strong position.
“Saying that, I still expect it to be a very close game and one that's very difficult to call. It could even go to extra-time or penalties. That's why I keep stressing the importance of us scoring a goal.”
While highlighting the need to attack, the United boss is also acutely aware of the importance of maintaining a solid backline with Arsene Wenger's men at least needing to score once in order to keep their Champions League dreams alive.
“We expect Arsenal to attack us. We've played them enough times in the past to know that's what they do so we therefore need a similar kind of performance to the one we produced in Porto with that same level of concentration,” he insisted. “And we're capable of producing that.
“I think they’ll change their system from last week. The fact that [Robin] van Persie trained on Monday is an indication he’ll be ready and therefore I expect to go 4-4-2.
“The history and nature of both clubs suggests it will be quite an open game and I don’t think people will be disappointed," he added.
“Hopefully we can get the result we want. There has been a good consistency about the team in the last couple of years in Europe and I hope that stands strong on Tuesday.”
But Sir Alex insists his players will not be just going to the Emirates to defend their lead - they will instead be aiming to get themselves on the scoresheet, especially as one away goal for the Reds would leave Arsenal needing at least three.
“We must go there with the intent of trying to score,” the boss told reporters at his pre-match press conference. “It's important that we have a goal threat. We certainly have the ability to score and hopefully we can as it would put us in a very strong position.
“Saying that, I still expect it to be a very close game and one that's very difficult to call. It could even go to extra-time or penalties. That's why I keep stressing the importance of us scoring a goal.”
While highlighting the need to attack, the United boss is also acutely aware of the importance of maintaining a solid backline with Arsene Wenger's men at least needing to score once in order to keep their Champions League dreams alive.
“We expect Arsenal to attack us. We've played them enough times in the past to know that's what they do so we therefore need a similar kind of performance to the one we produced in Porto with that same level of concentration,” he insisted. “And we're capable of producing that.
“I think they’ll change their system from last week. The fact that [Robin] van Persie trained on Monday is an indication he’ll be ready and therefore I expect to go 4-4-2.
“The history and nature of both clubs suggests it will be quite an open game and I don’t think people will be disappointed," he added.
“Hopefully we can get the result we want. There has been a good consistency about the team in the last couple of years in Europe and I hope that stands strong on Tuesday.”
Defensive
Ferdinand has been closely monitored by United's medical team since suffering a rib injury in last week's first leg meeting at Old Trafford.
Scans showed there was no crack or break, although the defender did suffer some bruising to his lung. He sat out Saturday's win at Middlesbrough and after coming through training on Monday he will start at the Emirates.
Evra, meanwhile, missed Monday's training session at Carrington but it was purely a precautionary measure. The left-back was substituted at The Riverside after a slight ankle knock, but will be fit to face the Gunners.
"It was just a precaution with Patrice and he should be okay," confirmed Sir Alex at his pre-match press conference in London. "Rio is okay as well, so we've got virtually everyone fit.
"It's very important to have Rio in the side. There was a concern last Wednesday when he had to come off and was coughing up blood. But thankfully it wasn't so serious that he would miss Tuesday's game.
"We're pleased that everyone has come through because for games like this you want as many of your players available as possible."
Scans showed there was no crack or break, although the defender did suffer some bruising to his lung. He sat out Saturday's win at Middlesbrough and after coming through training on Monday he will start at the Emirates.
Evra, meanwhile, missed Monday's training session at Carrington but it was purely a precautionary measure. The left-back was substituted at The Riverside after a slight ankle knock, but will be fit to face the Gunners.
"It was just a precaution with Patrice and he should be okay," confirmed Sir Alex at his pre-match press conference in London. "Rio is okay as well, so we've got virtually everyone fit.
"It's very important to have Rio in the side. There was a concern last Wednesday when he had to come off and was coughing up blood. But thankfully it wasn't so serious that he would miss Tuesday's game.
"We're pleased that everyone has come through because for games like this you want as many of your players available as possible."
Midfield will be at the centre
The United boss was full of praise for Anderson, Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher after their graft and craft in the middle of the park helped the Reds to initially dominate and ultimately beat Arsenal at Old Trafford.
All three were rewarded with a rest when the champions travelled to Middlesbrough on Saturday; they'll now be ready to return on Tuesday, possibly in place of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes who started in central midfield at the Riverside.
"The midfield worked so hard against Arsenal in the first leg, we decided to rest the three of them," said Sir Alex after Saturday's match.
"We put Anderson on the bench because he’s not had as much football as Michael and Darren. But they’ve had a rest and they’ll be fresh for Tuesday if I decide to play them all."
Anderson is also being tipped to succeed Scholes in the long term. His impressed United manager said at Friday's press conference: "I think he is going to replace Paul Scholes, that’s my opinion. I think he’s an outstanding talent, he's got fantastic speed and strength."
The boss believes the Brazilian can get even better as he gets more big games under his belt - "He’s still only 21. In the second half (against Arsenal), he was starting to be too positive, so we brought Giggs into midfield to give us more experience."
Sir Alex also awaits Anderson's first United goal after 72 games but his press conference quip of “We’re all lighting candles for that!" suggests that's not a serious concern!
All three were rewarded with a rest when the champions travelled to Middlesbrough on Saturday; they'll now be ready to return on Tuesday, possibly in place of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes who started in central midfield at the Riverside.
"The midfield worked so hard against Arsenal in the first leg, we decided to rest the three of them," said Sir Alex after Saturday's match.
"We put Anderson on the bench because he’s not had as much football as Michael and Darren. But they’ve had a rest and they’ll be fresh for Tuesday if I decide to play them all."
Anderson is also being tipped to succeed Scholes in the long term. His impressed United manager said at Friday's press conference: "I think he is going to replace Paul Scholes, that’s my opinion. I think he’s an outstanding talent, he's got fantastic speed and strength."
The boss believes the Brazilian can get even better as he gets more big games under his belt - "He’s still only 21. In the second half (against Arsenal), he was starting to be too positive, so we brought Giggs into midfield to give us more experience."
Sir Alex also awaits Anderson's first United goal after 72 games but his press conference quip of “We’re all lighting candles for that!" suggests that's not a serious concern!
United will take a slender advantage to the Emirates on Tuesday night
Instead, he says, United need to stick to the principles of attacking football that have served the team so well in recent years.
“We have to go down to London and play like we did in the first game [last Wednesday],” he said. “We’ll have no problems then.”
At the halfway point in the two-legged Champions League semi-final tie, the Reds lead 1-0 courtesy of John O’Shea’s early strike at Old Trafford. A United goal on Tuesday night would mean Arsenal would have to score three times to progress.
And Giggs has hinted the Reds might chase that valuable away goal.
“We’re in a good position but we’re under no illusions. Arsenal are a top team and they’re capable of scoring goals.
“We’ll have to look after their match-winners – Fabregas, Adebayor, van Persie if he’s fit, Walcott – but you also have to stamp your own authority on the game because we’ve got match-winners as well.
“[At Old Trafford] we went out with the intention of getting the crowd going and playing at a quick tempo. We’re at our best when we play with a quick tempo so that’s what we tried to do.
“Like I said, if we play to the ability we did last week then we’ll have no problems.”
Giggs made his 800th appearance for the Reds in the first leg when he came on as a substitute and would love to add to that tally at the Emirates. The most experienced player to ever pull on a United shirt, Giggs would provide Sir Alex with vital composure in the centre of the park.
But, the 35-year-old concedes, not everybody can play every game at this stage of the season.
“It doesn’t matter who the manager picks,” Giggs says. “Everyone’s playing well and in good form. You can’t be involved in every game but when you do come in you have to make your mark.”
Ryan Giggs was speaking to ManUtd.com, BBC Radio, Key 103 and Press Association.
“We have to go down to London and play like we did in the first game [last Wednesday],” he said. “We’ll have no problems then.”
At the halfway point in the two-legged Champions League semi-final tie, the Reds lead 1-0 courtesy of John O’Shea’s early strike at Old Trafford. A United goal on Tuesday night would mean Arsenal would have to score three times to progress.
And Giggs has hinted the Reds might chase that valuable away goal.
“We’re in a good position but we’re under no illusions. Arsenal are a top team and they’re capable of scoring goals.
“We’ll have to look after their match-winners – Fabregas, Adebayor, van Persie if he’s fit, Walcott – but you also have to stamp your own authority on the game because we’ve got match-winners as well.
“[At Old Trafford] we went out with the intention of getting the crowd going and playing at a quick tempo. We’re at our best when we play with a quick tempo so that’s what we tried to do.
“Like I said, if we play to the ability we did last week then we’ll have no problems.”
Giggs made his 800th appearance for the Reds in the first leg when he came on as a substitute and would love to add to that tally at the Emirates. The most experienced player to ever pull on a United shirt, Giggs would provide Sir Alex with vital composure in the centre of the park.
But, the 35-year-old concedes, not everybody can play every game at this stage of the season.
“It doesn’t matter who the manager picks,” Giggs says. “Everyone’s playing well and in good form. You can’t be involved in every game but when you do come in you have to make your mark.”
Ryan Giggs was speaking to ManUtd.com, BBC Radio, Key 103 and Press Association.
Reds in Ribery bid?
United launch £63m bid for Franck Ribery
Manchester United have made an offer of about €70m (£62.5m) for the Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribéry as they close in on a deal that would shatter the world transfer record. Sources in Munich confirmed the bid has been received for the France international, who has made his desire to leave Germany known in the past few weeks. United scouts have repeatedly watched the 26-year-old in recent Bundesliga matches and sounded out his friends and entourage in Munich. United's remarkable offer, which comfortably eclipses the record £44m paid by Real Madrid for Zinedine Zidane in 2001, is contingent on the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Madrid this summer but the approach to Bayern has been firm enough to suggest that the Portuguese's departure is a near certainty. Although Bayern are understood to have turned down United's offer, it is considered the first serious move in a negotiation that will eventually bring the winger to Old Trafford.
Raphael Honigstein, The Guardian
The majority of today's back pages focus on tonight's big game of course. For example, The Sun leads on the prospect of Wayne Rooney missing the Champions League final if the Reds win and he picks up a third yellow card of the competition in the process.
Manchester United have made an offer of about €70m (£62.5m) for the Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribéry as they close in on a deal that would shatter the world transfer record. Sources in Munich confirmed the bid has been received for the France international, who has made his desire to leave Germany known in the past few weeks. United scouts have repeatedly watched the 26-year-old in recent Bundesliga matches and sounded out his friends and entourage in Munich. United's remarkable offer, which comfortably eclipses the record £44m paid by Real Madrid for Zinedine Zidane in 2001, is contingent on the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Madrid this summer but the approach to Bayern has been firm enough to suggest that the Portuguese's departure is a near certainty. Although Bayern are understood to have turned down United's offer, it is considered the first serious move in a negotiation that will eventually bring the winger to Old Trafford.
Raphael Honigstein, The Guardian
The majority of today's back pages focus on tonight's big game of course. For example, The Sun leads on the prospect of Wayne Rooney missing the Champions League final if the Reds win and he picks up a third yellow card of the competition in the process.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
