United, Tottenham Battle for Real Madrid Star

Lassana Diarra will be at the centre of a bidding war in January as Manchester United and Tottenham both prepare bids for Real Madrid player.
Diarra has suffered from a lack of game time this season with manager Jose Mourinho preferring other options ahead of him. He did not even start against Barcelona in a match that seemed to demand his combative qualities and the 25-year-old is about to cut his losses and leave the Bernabeu.
The defensive midfielder has no shortage of admirers in England and United and Tottenham are both desperate to acquire his signature
If he signed for Spurs he would become only the second player after William Gallas to play for Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham. However, it is thought that Diarra would favour a move to Old Trafford where he could work with Sir Alex Ferguson and add yet another of Europe’s big clubs to an impressive looking CV. (Sportingo)

This should be interesting. Lassana Diarra doesn’t get much of a look in at the Bernabeu and the French international is willing to turn his back on the La Liga giants in the search of regular first team football and is now a firm target of both Tottenham and Man United.
Whilst Sir Alex Ferguson’s side are clearly doing very well and are more likely to secure the top club honours there is also no denying just how far Harry Redknapp’s north London side has come over the past 18 months and given that Diarra has played in London before he may have more affinity with a move to the capital than to the north.
Both Premier League clubs appear to after new central midfield options and the 25 year old Parisian will have his work cut out deciding where his career would best be suited as there seems little point sticking around at Real Madrid waiting for the likes of Sami Khedira to get injured.

United Lining up 20m Pound for "New Drogba"?

Manchester United are ready to offer RSC Anderlecht €20 million for teenage sensation Romelu Lukaku , according to Belgian sources.

The 17-year-old, dubbed 'The New Didier Drogba" burst onto the scene last season with 18 goals and six assists. And he is well on the way to beating those figures this season, scoring 14 goals and setting up three, and has a league efficiency ratio of a goal and assist every 111.1 minutes.
He is one of the most in-demand players in Europe, and Anderlecht have said as many as 15 clubs are after him.
Lukaku is strong, fast and deadly in front of goal. He moves well in the box and is always in the right place at the right time. He shoots well with both feet, although he prefers his left side.
He is a good passer of the ball, too, adept at creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Lukaku does need to work on his technique in small spaces, but he is sure to progress into a truly world class player.

Fergie: Bowyer should have Recieved Red

Sir Alex Ferguson felt Birmingham goal hero Lee Bowyer shouldn't have been on the pitch to score against Manchester United on Tuesday.
United boss Ferguson says Bowyer deserved a red card for his first-half challenge on Darron Gibson during the 1-1 draw at St Andrews.
Bowyer received a yellow card from referee Lee Mason after a late lunge at Gibson, who was starting his first Premier League game since April.
Ferguson felt Bowyer, who is 34 next week, should have been given his marching orders and he took advantage of staying on the pitch by scoring a last gasp equaliser.
The United chief fumed: "The Bowyer tackle in the first half, I thought it was a red card. He's gone over the top of the ball.
"Bowyer has been given a yellow card so nothing can be done about it (retrospectively). But it's a dangerous tackle."
Ferguson's anger was also not helped when replays suggested Blues striker Nikola Zigic had been guilty of handball and committing a foul in the build-up to Bowyer's point-saving goal.
But in the cold light of day he can reflect with satisfaction on United heading into the New Year on top of the table.
They have lost only two league matches during 2010 and remain unbeaten in the top flight during the current campaign.
Ferguson said: "I always say if we get to that top position on New Year's Day, then we've always got a great chance.
"There's five or six teams who are all contesting that area towards the top of the league."
With Wayne Rooney still without a club goal from open play in nine months, Ferguson will be relieved Dimitar Berbatov continues to sparkle.
His 15th goal of the campaign at St. Andrew's means he has already passed his totals of 12 and 14 for his previous two campaigns at Old Trafford.
Ferguson said: "Dimitar is in great form and it is good to see that. His confidence is high too - and that is important."
Ferguson will hope that Arsenal will find it as difficult as the other leading teams when they visit Birmingham on Saturday.
Alex McLeish's side have already beaten Chelsea and drawn with Tottenham at home this season in addition to gaining the point against United which moved them out of the bottom three.
Ferguson said: "Maybe it will be seen as a good point in the long run. Absolutely. Birmingham is a very difficult place to come to.
"You see their home record in terms of goals against them. Very few teams score goals at Birmingham.
"That has been going on since Alex (McLeish) came here as a manager. They set their stall out very well."
McLeish is constantly full of praise for the resilience shown by his team and their never-say-die attitude surfaced once again in thwarting United.
But the former Scotland boss is also aware of the need for his team to start being more clinical in front of goal if they are to climb away from the relegation zone.
He said: "Why are we near the bottom? We haven't scored enough goals. That is the bottom line.
"We've not been battered in any game this season and the players can be proud of that.
"I heard David Moyes talking the other day about the reason Everton are in their position they are because they haven't scored enough goals.
"We haven't done that either. The thing which has let us down is we've not scored enough goals.
"It will take us up the table if we score the chances we create."
McLeish believes United and Arsenal are the current favourites to win the title.
He said: "I don't see any reason why it shouldn't be United. Chelsea are still a wee bit away now.
"United and Arsenal are favourites now but we say that at different stages of the season and then a couple of results go against you and it changes.
"It has been such a topsy turvy season. It has been a strange one, teams in the lower half beating the top teams.
"Even the top teams have been a little inconsistent but United's recent form has been great."

Man United and Birmingham play to a 1-1 draw

Manchester United relinquished its two-point lead in the Premier League on Tuesday by conceding a disputed late equalizer in a 1-1 draw at lowly Birmingham.
After seeing crosstown rival Manchester City thrash struggling Aston Villa 4-0 thanks to a hat trick by Mario Balotelli, United required a victory at St. Andrews to ensure it would be clear at the top going into 2011.
Top scorer Dimitar Berbatov's 58th-minute strike broke the deadlock, but Lee Bowyer grabbed a dramatic leveler with a minute left in normal time, bundling home from close range after Birmingham substitute Nikola Zigic appeared to handle a deep cross into the box.
The two Manchester clubs are both on 38 points, although United has two games in hand. Arsenal, which visits Wigan on Wednesday, is third, three points behind having played the same number of games as United.
Tottenham beat Newcastle 2-0 to go provisionally fourth ahead of Chelsea, which hosts Bolton on Wednesday.
As well as the handball appeal against Zigic, United also complained that the Serbia striker fouled Rio Ferdinand as he went up to challenge for Roger Johnson's ball into the box. Bowyer could also have been marginally offside, too, before sliding home his finish from four yards.
"There was a handball, a foul on the center back - if the referee can't see it, what chance have we got?" Ferguson said. "I think it's terribly harsh ... we didn't deserve that."
United was lackluster in the first half at St. Andrews as Birmingham suffocated the visitors with its high-tempo pressing game.
Wayne Rooney, still without a goal in open play this campaign, cut a frustrated figure stuck out on the left wing, and the only real hint of a goal came when Ryan Giggs' misdirected cross was touched on to the post by Birmingham goalkeeper Ben Foster.
The second half was a different story as United looked much more threatening. Three minutes after breaking the deadlock, the in-form Berbatov - who has a league-high 14 goals for the season - dragged a shot against the post from 20 yards.
"We worked really hard but I think we deserved to get a point at the end," said Bowyer, whose side provisionally climbed out of the bottom three. 
Balotelli, who started in place of rested top scorer Carlos Tevez, converted penalties in the eighth and 55th minutes to open and round off the scoring in City's convincing victory at Eastlands.
The Italy striker's other goal came from a tap-in from close range in the 27th minute, after center back Joleon Lescott had made it 2-0 with a fine header from a corner in the 13th.
Reports in the British media suggested Tuesday that Balotelli wants to leave City after failing to settle in Manchester following his 24-million-pound ($37 million) offseason move from European and Italian champion Inter Milan.
The 20-year-old striker has been in and out of City's starting lineup and had only scored twice in the league - both coming at West Bromwich Albion in November - before Villa's welcoming defense arrived at City of Manchester Stadium.
"I think that's normal," City manager Roberto Mancini said, when asked why Balotelli was struggling to adapt. "He is 20, it's his first time away from (Italy) and he's missing his family."
Tottenham had to grind out a win with 10 men for the second time in three days after Younes Kaboul was sent off in the 65th minute for an attempted head-butt on Cheick Tiote.
Aaron Lennon had given Spurs the lead in the 57th, and Gareth Bale eased any nerves by scoring the second with a low shot in the 81st following a rapid counterattack.
Blackpool beat Sunderland 2-0 away, Blackburn won 3-1 at West Brom and Fulham defeated Stoke 2-0 away. Everton drew 1-1 at second-bottom West Ham.
Liverpool hosts Wolves in Wednesday's third match.

Wayne Rooney's Brother coming to America?

Wayne Rooney's brother John Rooney may be coming to America, here is a interview from http://www.mlssoccer.com/:
The English midfielder, who trialed with the Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers in August, has signed an MLS contract and will be available for selection by all MLS clubs via the SuperDraft in Baltimore.
MLSsoccer.com caught up with Rooney back in England as he prepares to embark on his American dream.

MLSsoccer.com: Why MLS? What has struck you about the league that you want to play in America?
John Rooney: I’ve been watching the league for a  few years now and it’s getting better and better every year. When I went over there in August I thoroughly enjoyed it. I went to one of the Seattle games [while on trial] and the Sounders fans were great. They [Sounders] had great support and it was a great experience. When I went over there it was fantastic from the start.
MLSsoccer.com: How did the opportunity with Seattle come about?
John Rooney: I played for Macclesfield in the English league and they offered me a new contract and I turned it down. I was focused on the chance and the opportunity to go over there [USA] in August and trial with two teams [Seattle and Portland]. It was the right time in my career to go over there and to improve on my young career.
MLSsoccer.com: Portland manager John Spencer played in England. How did you hit it off during your trial?
John Rooney: I didn’t really speak to him. He had only just got the Portland job when I was there. I really didn’t get to meet him.
MLSsoccer.com: What was your impression from your MLS trials?
John Rooney: I really enjoyed it. The lifestyle and the football there [in USA] was great. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I wanted to get back over there and have a career over there.
MLSsoccer.com: What’s your position on the field and what are your characteristics?
John Rooney: I trialed at midfield. In Portland I played up front in one game and I moved to midfield. Midfield is my best position. I’m probably more of an attacking midfielder. Getting on the ball and making stuff happens, creating plays.
MLSsoccer.com: How has it been waiting six months without a club? 
John Rooney: It’s been tough. I really wanted to come over there [USA] and now I’m just waiting to get myself going and get started.
MLSsoccer.com: How have you stayed fit over the last six months?
John Rooney: I’ve been training with Tranmere Rovers. Since I’ve come home from the United States I’ve been training there to keep myself fit and in shape. I can’t wait to get going.
MLSsoccer.com: Aside from Macclesfield Town, any other offers that came in for you over the last six months?
John Rooney: There were a few teams sniffing around from the higher leagues but I wanted to change my career and go to the United States to build on my own career over there [in USA].
MLSsoccer.com: Are you familiar with the way the SuperDraft works?
John Rooney: When I first went over [to USA] I started reading up about the draft and how the league worked. For the last six months I’ve been looking at the web site every day and reading about how it works. I have an idea now. I can’t wait to get over there and get started.
MLSsoccer.com: Do you have an idea of the teams which are interested in you?
John Rooney: When the draft comes. I haven’t spoken to any teams at the moment. When the combine starts I need to address the coaches that are watching and take it from there.
MLSsoccer.com: Any special connections to the USA?
John Rooney: That was my first time in the United States [in the summer]. But I heard a lot of good stuff. My family was on vacation and they love the United States. When I went over there I was just surprised how good it was and I couldn’t wait to get back over there [to USA] and play soccer over there.
MLSsoccer.com: What has your brother [Manchester United's Wayne Rooney] told you about the United States?
John Rooney: He told me about a few of the teams he played when they’ve been over on tour. The team [Manchester United] enjoyed it a lot and he likes it over there [in USA].
MLSsoccer.com: Do you see this as an opportunity to make a name for yourself outside of England?
John Rooney: That’s why I want to get over there [to USA] -- so it’s just me. And I want to build my own career over there and do my best. Hopefully I‘ll enjoy it.
MLSsoccer.com: When do you leave England for the United States?
John Rooney: I fly out on the 2^nd of January. I’ll get used to the time change over there and probably take in a bit of training before the Combine starts [Jan. 7].
MLSsoccer.com: In the meantime, any special holiday plans in the Rooney household? 
John Rooney: I’m spending it with the family before I go away. Looking forward to spending it with the family.
MLSsoccer.com: Any messages for MLS fans before they see you at the Combine?
John Rooney: Hopefully they like my style of play, what I bring to the field and the way I am.

Evra Wary of Birmingham City

Patrice Evra is preparing for "one of the most dangerous and important games of the season" ahead of United's visit to Birmingham on Tuesday night.

The Reds fought to win a point during last season's corresponding fixture in what the Frenchman described as the coldest game of his life.
Evra is expecting similar conditions this time round both in terms of the temperature and the opposition and says the Reds must be ready for a battle.
"It's one of the most dangerous and important games of the season," he told MUTV.
"I remember last year's game well - I've never felt so cold in my life! I've played in Moscow, but I never felt that cold. Honestly, in the warm-up I couldn't breathe. It was so difficult.
"We drew there last season, but it was so difficult and the pitch was hard. That's why we must make sure we recover very well [from the Sunderland match] and make sure we are ready for this game because it will be very tough."
Team-mate Ryan Giggs echoed those sentiments, adding: "Birmingham isn't an easy place to go. We've found it tough there in the last couple of years and the fact that they didn't have a game [on Boxing Day] means they'll be fresh."

Bridge Date Set

United's trip to face reigning Premier League champions Chelsea has been rescheduled for Tuesday, 1 March.
The encounter was initially due to be played last Sunday, but was postponed due to heavy snowfall around Stamford Bridge.
The new date is subject to neither side having an FA Cup fifth round replay to shoehorn into an already tight fixtures schedule. Should both teams exit the competition in the third or fourth round, the fixture could be brought forward to an earlier weekend.
Should the Reds travel to West London on 1 March, however, it will fall amid a series of away games. United travel to Marseille (23 February), Wigan (26 February) and Liverpool (5 March).
Though Sir Alex admits last weekend's postponement perhaps suited Chelsea more than United, with the champions currently struggling for top form, he retains confidence that his side can end a long winless run at Stamford Bridge.
"They were in a bad bit of form and they were probably quite happy to get the game off; that’s one way of looking at it," the manager told his pre-Sunderland press conference. "But at the end of the day it doesn’t matter when we’re going to Chelsea, we’ve got to be confident of going there with the right team to win."

Sir Alex Plays down Wayne Rooney goal Drought

Sir Alex Ferguson insists he is not concerned at Wayne Rooney's continuing goal drought.
The Manchester United striker has still not scored for his club in open play since March and the barren run continued in yesterday's 2-0 win over Sunderland at Old Trafford.
Instead it is forward partner Dimitar Berbatov grabbing the headlines and another double for the Bulgarian took his tally to 13, as well as extending United's unbeaten record to 17 games and consolidating their position on top of the table.
However, Ferguson is delighted with Rooney's overall contribution and has no fears for the England hit-man.
"Wayne had a couple of tries today," reflected the United boss.
"He was very unlucky with the chip and there were a couple of shots saved by the goalkeeper.
"He is getting there. The important thing is he is playing well. That is refreshing."
Rooney is making a positive contribution. It was his excellent chip that set Berbatov up for his fourth-minute opener, although, after blowing a succession of first-half chances, United's record signing required the assistance of a massive deflection off Anton Ferdinand to seal the points after the break.
"Dimitar could have scored four or five today," said Ferguson. "He had some terrific opportunities.
"I was disappointed with the score at half-time.
"We hit the bar and the post. Their keeper has made a couple of good saves and we played some really good football.
"It was exciting stuff but then we just seemed to go into third gear."
Part of the reason for that was the knowledge United's opponents on Tuesday, Birmingham, had their feet up following the postponement of their game at Everton.
Blues boss Alex McLeish took the opportunity to watch Ferguson's side in action, although he is set to be greeted with the presence of Nani at St Andrew's, the Portugal winger set to recover from the hip injury that kept him out of today's encounter.
Darren Fletcher was also sidelined with a heavy cold.

He too could come into contention though as Ferguson intends to make a couple of changes to his starting line-up.
"We have come into good form," he said.
"In the last few weeks we have played some very good stuff. We are getting that consistency, particularly in our defending.
"We are looking solid at the back. These are good signs for us. It is an important time to get that.
"Birmingham will be fresh. Going down there is always a difficult place to go to. They have always had a strong home record and are difficult to beat on their own ground.
"We are aware of that. I will make a couple of changes to freshen that part up. Hopefully we will get the result we want."
As someone who was part of the first United side that won the Premier League 18 years ago, Sunderland manager Steve Bruce can tell a decent team when he sees one.
And he doesn't buy into the argument that this Red Devils group are an inferior outfit.
"I have heard it said that United are not playing that well," he said.
"Well, they are unbeaten for six months, so that is not a bad statistic is it?
"They are top of the league, with games in hand, and history suggests they always get better in the second half of the season.
"Maybe we were a bit naive today. Sometimes you just have to hold your hands up and say you were well beaten.
"But I wouldn't bet against them, that's for sure."

Man United tops Sunderland 2-0

United’s hectic festive schedule began with a comfortable victory over Sunderland, as Dimitar Berbatov struck a goal in either half at Old Trafford to keep the Premier League leaders motoring along.
Restricted to only two matches in December prior to the Black Cats’ visit, United’s appetite for action was quickly apparent. Berbatov headed home the opener inside five minutes, then he and Anderson both struck the woodwork and several other chances were spurned inside the opening 20 minutes, and it took a deflected strike early in the second half to make the game safe for the Reds.
Injury-hit Sunderland scarcely threatened throughout the afternoon, and Sir Alex Ferguson was able to replace the effective Ryan Giggs and Anderson midway through the second period as he looked ahead to Tuesday’s trip to Birmingham.
Deprived of Nani and Darren Fletcher through injury and illness, Sir Alex made two enforced changes to the side which overcame Arsenal earlier this month. Ryan Giggs replaced the Portuguese winger on the left flank, while the inclusion of Berbatov prompted a reprisal of his strike partnership with Wayne Rooney.
Within five minutes the duo had combined to devastating effect. Exploiting poor positioning from the visitors, Giggs latched onto Anderson’s pass, meandered towards goal and fed Rooney, whose measured chip was emphatically nodded home at the back post by Berbatov.

Man United Sale a Ways off According to Director

A Manchester United director said Tuesday that the American owners will sell the club eventually but that day is a "long way down the line."
The owners haven't announced where the funds came from, although they have said no cash has been drawn from the club.
Reports in Britain and the Gulf over the last week suggested Qatar Holdings is preparing a bid for the club, but the 18-time English champions say they have not had an approach and the club is not for sale.
The Glazers have in the past rebuffed a 1.5 billion-pound ($2.2 billion) offer from an unnamed Qatari group and stressed in May that they "will not entertain any offers" for the club.
But United director Michael Edelson, who has been on United's board since 1982, told The Associated Press on Tuesday: "It is inevitable that at some time they will sell ... but that will be a long way down the line."
Fan protests against the Glazers have mounted throughout 2010 since the club's financial predicament was revealed in a bond prospectus sent to investors in January.
The 504-million pound bond means that even by repaying 220 million pounds of loans last month, the club is not in the debt-free state it was in before the Glazers' leveraged takeover.
In October, United posted a net loss of 83.6 million pounds for the year ending June 30 after costs associated with the huge debts wiped out record revenues of 286.4 million pounds.
Forbes magazine has estimated that United is worth $1.8 billion - making it the most valuable football team for the sixth straight year.
A group of financiers calling themselves the Red Knights joined forces with the Manchester United Supporters' Trust earlier this year in an attempt to put together a bid to buy out the Glazers. That prompted the owners to stress in May that they are committed to "the long-term ownership of the club."

Fletcher: United will Kick On

Darren Fletcher is confident Manchester United are in a position to 'kick on' during the second half of the season.
United will be top of the Premier League table at Christmas after local rivals Manchester City lost to Everton on Monday and remain the only unbeaten team in England.
Though the Red Devils' performances have lacked consistency, Fletcher believes the players have been laying the groundwork for the New Year.
The midfielder feels United are improving and is expecting the team to produce their traditional best form during the closing months of the season.
"We will kick on in the New Year," said Fletcher in the Daily Mirror. "We will certainly be physically ready for the challenges ahead.
"The performance of the team and individual performance levels are rising.
"As a general rule it's important you do your base work early on and then kick on after Christmas."

Owen Fit for Man United Return

Manchester United striker Michael Owen has declared himself fit for the club's Christmas fixtures.
United face Sunderland again at Old Trafford on Boxing Day before travelling to Birmingham two days later and then West Brom on New Year's Day.
Owen told the club's website www.manutd.com: "I'm fit and I've been in full training for three-and-a-half weeks.
"The hard bit now is getting back into the side, trying to force my way back into the squad. That's not easy at Manchester United."
United remain unbeaten and have taken advantage of Chelsea's recent loss of form to move top of the table with three successive wins.
Owen admits that, although the competition for places at United is tough, it does at least mean players do not have to be rushed back from injuries.
That is crucial for the 31-year-old, who has suffered hamstring problems throughout his career and missed the end of last season - and had hopes of going to the World Cup with England ended - because of one.
He also had a groin injury earlier in the season and the Sunderland game was his only Premier League start of the current campaign.
Owen added: "There are that many quality players at United that you're given as much time as you need to come back from injury.
"I injured my hamstring at the beginning of October, which kept me out for six weeks.
"Since then I've been able to train fully and work my way back up to full fitness - now I'm fit and hope to play a part in the games over Christmas."

Happy Holidays From The Red Devils Den

It's that magical time of the year again. Just 3 days till Christmas. So since you've been reading my blog I just want to tell you Merry Christmas or any Holiday you celebrate though I realise Hannukah has already happened!
The Red Devils won't be playing on Saturday, as it being Christmas but the Red Devils will play against Sunderland on Sunday Dencember 26, which is Boxing Day.
This year all the other EPL teams gifts to Man United is being on top for Christmas, hope we enjoy it. And KEEP IT!
FELIZ NAVIDAD!

Berba Wins Award, Says Don't Vote for me Anymore

Misery, thy name is Berbatov

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has been bestowed with the prestigious ‘Bulgarian Player of the Year’ award for the fourth consecutive year (thus equalling Barca legend Hristo Stoichkov‘s record for successive wins) and for the seventh time in his career overall – though he used his acceptance speech to plead with the country’s journalists to cease and desist voting for him, as he never wants to be landed with the gong again.

Upon taking to the podium, 29-year-old Berbatov mumbled:

“I prefer to see some of the younger boys winning the award. Please, I urge you, don’t vote for me anymore.”

Berba then sauntered off the podium, hands firmly rooted in pocket, completely ignoring a group of homeless war orphans that had gathered to ask for his autograph at the side of the stage before hoofing a tiny, doe-eyed puppy into the lighting gantry out of sheer spite.

Did Shady Buisness stop Chelsea Match?

Manchester United have no issue over Sunday's game at Chelsea being postponed.
The match was called off on Saturday after heavy snow, but much of it had melted by Sunday and the pitch looked to be playable.
United defender Rio Ferdinand questioned the decision not to play the game between the two title rivals.
But United are thought to be happy with the decision, especially as Anderson and Nemanaja Vidic were doubtful.
Captain Vidic and midfielder Anderson were struggling with illness, while key midfielder Paul Scholes is out until the new year.
Chelsea are also likely to be pleased with the outcome as Didier Drogba and Michael Essien are both struggling to find their best form and Frank Lampard has only recently recovered from injury.

Our football department will have contingency dates in mind and will work closely with the affected clubs Premier League spokesman

But Ferdinand initially reacted with surprise, especially as other matches on Saturday went ahead.
He said on Twitter: "Did anyone see the Ipswich game? Pitch covered in snow....so how come that game is played and ours is postponed?"
Some Manchester United fans on the BBC's internet forum 606 questioned whether Chelsea, who have picked up only three points in their last five league games, had called off the Premier League game to delay playing their in-form opponents.
However, only the match referee, police, the local authorities or the Premier League can call a game off. And the Premier League confirmed the game was called off some 27 hours before kick-off at the behest of the police and the local authority.
A Chelsea spokesman confirmed on Monday: "The decision to postpone the game was taken on safety grounds after comprehensive consultations between the club, local authorities and the police.
"A high-profile event of this scale affects an area much wider than Stamford Bridge, and considering the icy conditions forecast, an early decision was taken to ensure the safety of both fans and those staffing the event."
The Premier League argues that, had a decision been made on the day, it would have faced criticism from fans who had already travelled from the north west.

606: DEBATE Was the game called off because Chelsea wanted to get more players back from injury? Chelsea said it was because of snow. I thought Chelsea had underground heating les (U14728287)

In a later tweet, United defender Ferdinand referred to the safety issue, adding: "Safety for fans travelling to the game is the general feedback....I get it tweeps!"
Meanwhile, the Premier League is confident the big freeze will not lead to serious fixture congestion at the end of the season.
Eight matches have been postponed because of the weather so far - including two involving United.
But Premier League officials say there are sufficient dates set aside to cope.
A spokesman said: "Our football department will already have contingency dates in mind and will work closely with the affected clubs to get new dates agreed as quickly as possible."
The game between Blackpool and Manchester United at Bloomfield Road has already been rearranged to the last week in January.

United Battle Rivals for Madrid Rebel

Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City have been alerted to Pepe's contract dispute with Real Madrid.
The Portugal international believes he should be in the club's top wage bracket and the Premier League's big clubs could be about to meet his demands if Real refuse to increase his pay.
The 27-year-old currently earns £6m-a-year at the Bernabeu and has a contract until 2012 Madrid are only willing to offer him £4.5m for the next four years and the player has turned the deal down.
Spanish newspaper ABC claim Manager Jose Mourinho is keen for the player to stay, but the club's bosses are standing firm on their offer which they think is fair in the current financial climate.

United Swooping for 20 Million Pound Newcastle Striker

Manchester United will attempt to lure Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll to Old Trafford next summer as Sir Alex Ferguson continues to plan for the future. The 21 year old England international has been in fine form during the Magpies return to the Premier League but the recent sacking of Chris Hughton is said to have angered the youngster who may well be tempted by the move.

Alan Pardew has been quick to seek confirmation that the St James’ Park board will not sell their prized assets as he looks to bring stability to the club but knows that should a significant offer come in for Carroll then Mike Ashley, keen to balance his own books, may well consider selling the old fashioned striker. Clearly such a sale would greatly anger the club’s supporters but it seems that is something that the Newcastle United owner has gotten used to anyway.

Some have stated that the price on Carroll’s head is around £20m and that may well be a fee that Ferguson is more than willing to offer as he looks to freshen up his squad. Some believe that the Scot is ready to offload Dimitar Berbatov and with Michael Owen likely to leave the club when his contract runs out in the summer then a move for the Gateshead born goalscorer may well be even more amenable.

Man United Top of League for Christmas with Man City Loss

Today Manchester City and Carlos Travez lost 2-1 to a ten man Everton led by US National Team goalkeeper Tim Howard, Manchester City was the only team able to top the Red Devils due to game cancelations this weekend, seeing how they did not do so Manchester United are the top of the Premier League going into Christmas.
This is of course a true present for any Red Devil fan.
Merry Christmas from the Red Devil's Den!

Chelsea Game Postsponed

United's game at Chelsea on Sunday has been postponed.
A statement on Chelsea's official website said: "Sunday's game at Stamford Bridge has been postponed following consultation with the Police and the local authority.
"There has been heavy snow in London on Saturday."
United have confirmed that all tickets will remain valid for the new date once it is arranged.

United's Madrid Raid Get Major Boost

Real Madrid star Lassana Diarra has not ruled out a January return to the Premier League with both Manchester United and Tottenham interested in the former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder.
The France international has recently returned to action in Spain - playing in their last two matches - after struggling to get a game under Jose Mourinho.
He would love to make the grade in Spain, but knows the club might find it hard to turn down a January bid.
He said: "I'm playing and we will have to see what happens with my future. I am focused on the next game, what happens next, God will tell.
"I'm at Real Madrid, I have a contract with Real Madrid and I hope to play for Real Madrid, but I am a football player, everyone knows me, the directors ... I can talk to anyone."

Brazilian Bad Boy Rumored to Old Trafford

Manchester United are ready to make a significant bid to entice Barcelona full back Dani Alves. The Brazilian is yet to agree an extension to his current deal which comes to an end in the summer of 2012 and a lengthy queue is forming of interested parties keen on the 27 year old set piece specialist.
Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be a big admirer of the former Sevilla man and could see him as a very useful addition this his first team plans as it seems that the likes of Rafael have as yet to convince the Old Trafford boss as permanent regular starters. Alves has the added bonus of being able to play in a more advanced role ahead of the full back and is a player who is being monitored by Premier League rivals Chelsea and Man City.
Alves has been a huge success at the Nou Camp but may become a victim of cost cutting measures at the Catalan club who are keen to reign in debt that had been thought to be crippling the La Liga giants. Therefore any excessive demands may be turned down by President Sandro Rosell.
A move for the right sided talent would cost around £22m and would helpfully prove to the likes of Wayne Rooney that the club has the power and intention of landing superstar players and Dani Alves may well be interested in joining his fellow Brazilian international team mates at Man United.

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Bale Tempted by 40m Pounds United Bid?

Manchester United have singled out Gareth Bale and Leighton Baines as the two players they will target to replace current left back Patrice Evra, according to The Metro.
Evra is nearing the end of his current contract at Old Trafford and is yet to sign a new deal, which has led to speculation that the Frenchman will seek his football elsewhere come the end of the season.
However, it is believed that Sir Alex Ferguson is already making plans if Evra does decide to leave Old Trafford, with Baines and Bale top of his list.
Baines has been in terrific form for Everton this season, but some fear that the promising left-back might have to be sold to raise funds for manager David Moyes at Goodison Park.
But United could face competition from German club Bayern Munich, who are also interested in the highly-rated 26-year-old.
Meanwhile, despite Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp stating that Wales starlet Bale is not for sale on numerous occasions this season, it would seem that this hasn’t put off Ferguson making a bid for the former Southampton man.
Sources close to Bale have indicated that Bale could be tempted with a move to Old Trafford, as he looks to follow in the footsteps of his boyhood hero Ryan Giggs and make a name on the left wing of United’s midfield. (Goal.com)
So there you have it. This source believes that Gareth Bale is in fact very interested in joining Man United, which would go against a mountain of evidence to the contrary. The young Welshman has made it clear in recent interviews just how much he has Tottenham to thank for and the idea that he would want to move to Old Trafford just so that he could follow in the footsteps of his boyhood idol is a more than a little flimsy.
If the argument was that the former Southampton man wanted to win things that he felt that Tottenham couldn’t then perhaps this story may have had some mileage. It seems that regardless of how clear the north London club make their stance, speculation will continue to spin wildly.
Less than 24 hours ago White Hart Lane chairman Daniel Levy stated that he would not sell the talented wide man and he is unlikely to then make a fool of himself by going against his word. Clearly a lot would depend on what the player wants but right now he seems very happy as as Spurs player under the guidance of Harry Redknapp, a manager who has learned exactly how to get the most out of a player who has a great deal to offer.
A move for Leighton Baines on the face of it would look far more likely but Ferguson may not be convinced the England international is a consistent enough performer to sign.

Ferguson: Time to End Bridge Hex

Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping Manchester United can end their Stamford Bridge hoodoo in Sunday's Premier League clash with Chelsea.
United, who beat Arsenal 1-0 at Old Trafford on Monday night to establish a two-point lead at the summit with a game in hand, will move six points clear of fourth-placed Chelsea with a win this weekend.
But they have not won at the Blues' west London home since April 2002.
Ferguson told Sirius XFM: "(It) is a massive game now. We used to have a terrific record at Chelsea, but not so much over the last few years and we haven't won there for eight years.
"It's a big game and we'll be ready for it.
"We've got good players and they have all had big-game experience for years now. Their experience is very important and the desire is still there with this club."
Defending champions Chelsea have taken just six points from their last seven league games but showed signs of promise in last Sunday's 1-1 draw at Tottenham and would have won had it not been for Didier Drogba's injury-time penalty miss.

Manchester United vs Chelsea US Viewing Locations

On Sunday the struggleing Blues will clash against against Man United at 11:00amET/8:00amPT.
Here are a list of  public viewing parties for Red Devil Fans in the US published by the Fox Soccer Channel Website [http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer]. Because I know nothing what so ever on the diffrent places you should probably google them before making a final plan. I will only post the ones for Man United fans so if there isn't one in your area for the Red Devils you can go to http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/premierleague/story/chelsea-and-man-united-viewing-locations to see the list of Chelsea viewing locations.
Here are the list of Manchester United Viewing Locations catorgorized by states.
CALIFORNIA

The Press Room
15 East Ortega
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Danny Coyle’s
668 Haight Street
San Francisco CA 94117
Kezar Pub
770 Stanyan St.
San Francisco, CA 94117
Cock n Bull Pub
2947 Lincoln Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Ye Olde Kings Head
116 Santa Monica Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
The Underground
1334 Hermosa Ave,
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
The Olde Ship
1120 West 17th St
Santa Ana, CA
The Shakespeare Pub & Grill
3701 India St.
San Diego, CA 92103
COLORADO
Fado
1735 19th St
Denver, CO 80202
CONNECTICUT
The Half Door
270 Sisson Ave
Hartford, CT 06105
GEORGIA
Fado
273 Buckhead Ave
Atlanta, GA 30305
Brewhouse Café
404 Moreland Ave
Atlanta, GA 30307
ILLINOIS
Fado
100 W Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60654
Ginger’s Ale House
3801 N Ashland
Chicago, IL 60613
Globe Pub
1934 W. Irving Park Rd
Chicago, IL 60613
Temple Bar
3001 N. Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
The Galway Arms
2442 N Clark
Chicago, IL 60614
INDIANA
Claddagh Irish Pub
234 S Meridian St
Indianapolis, IN 46225
LOUISIANA
Finn McCool’s
3701 Banks Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
MARYLAND
Fado
One Park Place #7
Annapolis, MD 21401
Slainte
1700 Thames St
Baltimore, MD 21231
MASSACHUSETTS
Phoenix Landing
512 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02139
The Banshee Pub
934 Dorchester Ave
Dorchester MA, 02125
MINNESOTA
The Local
931 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Brit’s Pub
1110 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
MISSOURI
Tigan
333 Washington Ave
St Louis, MO 63102
NEW YORK
The Red Lion
151 Bleecker St
New York, New York 10012-1403
Jack Demsey’s Restaurant and Bar
36 West 33rd Street
New York, NY 10001

McCormack’s Pub
365 3rd Ave
New York, NY 10016
Clancy’s Pub and Restaurant
978 Second Ave
New York, NY 10022
Manchester Pub
920 Second Ave
New York, NY 10017
Playwright Irish Pub
27 W 35th St
New York, NY10001
Nevada Smiths
74 Third Ave
New York, NY 10003
NEVADA
Crown and Anchor
1350 E Tropicana Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89119
NORTH CAROLINA
Connolly’s on 5th
115 E. 5th St
Charlotte, NC 28205
OHIO
Fado
4022 Townsfair Way
Columbus, OH 43219
Claddagh Irish Pub
585 S. Front St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Claddagh Irish Pub
5001 Monroe Street, Suite R4
Toledo, OH 43623
OREGON
Kells
112 SW Second Ave
Portland, OR 97204
The Thirsty Lion
SW 2nd & Ash St
Portland, OR 97204
PENNSYLVANIA
Fadó Irish Pub
1500 Locust St # 1
Philadelphia, PA 19102
The Dark Horse
421 S. 2nd St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Tir Na Nog
1600 Arch St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Claddagh Irish Pub
407 Cinema Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
SOUTH CAROLINA
George’s Sports Bar and Grill
1300 Savannah Highway
Charleston, SC 29407
TEXAS
Fado Irish Pub
214 W 4th St
Austin, TX 78701
The Londoner
14930 Midway Road
Addison, TX
The Richmond Arms
5920 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX 77057
The Londoner
2909 Thomas Ave Ste A
Dallas, TX 75204
WASHINGTON
Atlantic Crossing
6508 Roosevelt Way NE
Seattle, WA 98115
George & Dragon Pub
206 N 36th St
Seattle, WA 98103
Fado
801 1st Ave
Seattle, WA 98104
WASHINGTON, DC
Fado
808 7th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
Lucky Bar
1221 Connecticut Ave
Washington, DC 20036
WISCONSIN
Shillings Irish Pub
611 Wisconsin Ave
Racine, WI 53403
The Highbury Pub
2320 S Kinnickinnic Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207
VIRGINIA
Ireland’s Four Courts
2051 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201
Summers Restaurant
1520 N Courthouse Rd
Arlington, VA 22201-2906

New Whales Manager Gary Speed oepn to Ryan Giggs Return for International Duty

New Wales manager Gary Speed says he is hoping to coax Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs out of international retirement.
Speed was appointed as the country's new boss on Tuesday and has already been contacted by Robbie Savage, who is keen to end his international exile and return to the Wales first team.
Though Speed is yet to contact Giggs, 37, he would be open to the return of the winger who has won 62 caps and scored 12 goals for his country.
"I am sure I will be ringing around," Speed said. "There are a couple who have already rung me to be honest. Sav rang me. I'm not sure about Ryan yet, but who wouldn't want him in a team? I'm sure others will be in touch."
Savage, 36, has not represented Wales since falling out with John Toshack in 2005 but hopes to earn recognition under his former international team-mate.
"I'm available to play for Wales again and if Gary Speed thinks it's the right thing for me to come back then I will do," Savage said in the Daily Mirror. "I think I'm playing well enough to be part of Wales again. But I know Gary and he won't pick people for the sake of giving his old mates a last hurrah.
"If he says, 'Sav, it's over' then I'll respect that and I'll still be a big advocate of him. The advantage I've got with Gary is that he's seen me play for the past two years. Gary is a man who commands respect, for what he's done on the pitch and for his massive football knowledge."

Anderson Signs New Contract

Anderson's outstanding recent form and undoubted potential has been recognised with a new four-and-a-half-year contract extension, which will keep him at Old Trafford until at least June 2015.
The Brazilian has been excellent for the Reds since making a full recovery from the knee ligament injury he suffered last season, and in the last few weeks has produced the type of performances that prove he can fulfil the huge potential with which he arrived in Manchester in 2007.
Sir Alex Ferguson clearly has high hopes for the 22-year-old. "We are delighted he has signed a new contract," the boss told ManUtd.com. Anderson has developed tremendously since joining us and he has fantastic potential at only 22; he is going to be a really top player."
Anderson feels he can achieve everything he wants to in his career at Old Trafford. He said: "This is the best club to be at and I would like to thank everyone for the great support I have received over the years.
"I am looking forward to winning many more trophies with United and I am so pleased to have signed a new contract."

Fergi Scoffs Over Pitch Complaint

Sir Alex Ferguson has scoffed at Arsene Wenger's complaints about the Old Trafford playing surface, with the Manchester United manager apparently believing the Frenchman's remarks were a 'diversion tactic' to distract attention from Arsenal's poor performance in Monday night's defeat.
Though Wenger avoided blaming the pitch for his side's lame loss, the Frenchman was adamant that the surface had hindered play and was a key factor in the game's low quality.

"The technical quality of the game was very average on both sides because the pitch was so poor in my opinion and the game suffered a lot from it. It was bouncy and slippery," said the Arsenal manager. "The technical quality suffered from a very bad pitch and both sides made technical mistakes."
However, those words have drawn a strong response from Ferguson, with the Scot telling a radio station: "I don't think the pitch had anything to do with it. We were just the better team.
"The pitch was good, fine. I've no problem with the pitch at all and it was a surprise to everyone that this was mentioned. I don't think anyone can complain about our pitch."
The Guardian describes Ferguson as feeling 'aggrieved by Wenger's remarks' and believing them to 'a diversion tactic'.
Meanwhile, the paper reports that 'although Ferguson's irritation with the pitch comments was clear, it does not mask the club's embarrassment that Wenger was targeted, once again, with crude chants.
Ferguson had appealed to supporters via his programme notes and in several pre-match interviews to behave better, saying the Arsenal manager "deserves better, much better" and United are at a loss about how to stop it'.

Chilean Miners Inspire United's Victory over Arsenal

Watching soccer while trapped underground gave the Chilean miners hope during their 69-day ordeal this year and their experience helped inspire Manchester United to beat Arsenal on Monday.
Some of the 33 miners rescued in October were at Old Trafford to watch Alex Ferguson's team go top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over one of their main title rivals.
"You played a part in that great win over Arsenal last night because Alex referred to your story in his team talk before the game and used the motivation from that to galvanise the players," club chief executive David Gill told them on Tuesday.
Wearing United scarves and clutching bulging bags of souvenirs from the club shop, the miners were attending a champagne and canapes reception for them at Old Trafford.
Some brushed away tears as a video of their rescue was shown, while others cheered and laughed as they saw themselves sharing passionate kisses with their loved ones.
Many of the men are huge soccer fans and watched matches on a live feed using a small projector while waiting to be rescued in the depths of the mine.
"Sport is so important in my life that it was one of the reasons that have me hope to live," miner Pedro Cortez told reporters. "I am very proud to know that Sir Alex used our story to motivate his players."

United Fans Are Fast to Make Trevez Spoof

Man United fans wasted little time in ribbing arch-rivals Manchester City after news that Carlos Tevez demanded a transfer.

The infamous 'Welcome to Manchester' poster, produced by City when Tevez swapped Old Trafford for Eastlands in the summer of 2009, appeared on the internet with Tevez now apparently looking set to bid his adopted home farewell.

Tevez is in limbo at the moment after Manchester City officials have refused to act on his transfer request.

City flatly rejected the Argentine’s demand for a move on Sunday, with Tevez reacting by insisting his mind was made up, citing a breakdown in his relationship with key officials behind the scenes at Eastlands.
There has even been rumours that rich City chief Sheikh Mansour is prepared to let Tevez ' rot in the reserves rather than be sold to a Man City rival'.

Mourinho Plotting Manchester Raid?

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has urged club officials to increase efforts to land Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez in January, according to Mexican website Record.com.mx.
Despite Karim Benzema beginning to find his feet for Madrid since the injury of Gonzalo Higuain, Mourinho is looking to further bolster his options in that department.

Real Madrid will have to do a lot of persuading to force Sir Alex Ferguson to part with his highly rated 22-year-old Mexican international, Manchester United having only signed the tricky forward just before the World Cup in the summer.

Other targets that have been touted around the media for a New Year move to the Spanish giants include Wolfsburg's Edin Dzeko and Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente.

Sir Alex Furguson Salutes 'Fantastic' Park

Sir Alex Ferguson hailed Park Ji-sung for his matchwinning efforts as Manchester United beat Arsenal 1-0 at Old Trafford on Monday night.
Park's excellent first-half header proved to be the difference as United marched two points clear at the top of the Premier League, with a game in hand.

It should have been more than 1-0 too as Wayne Rooney missed a penalty 17 minutes from time.
Indeed, Ferguson's only disappointment was that he must soon say goodbye to Park as he competes for his country at the Asia Cup in Qatar.
"Ji is in fantastic form," said Ferguson.
"Unfortunately we are going to lose him for seven matches after December 26. It is disappointing."
It is the second time in as many months United were indebted to Park, whose injury-time goal secured victory against Wolves in November.
United still had to shred a few nerves tonight after Rooney skied a spot-kick over the bar.
"I have never seen him put one over the bar before," said Ferguson.
Nani also went close with a couple of opportunities, while Arsenal's only real chance came when Edwin van der Sar pushed a Samir Nasri shot into the path of Marouane Chamakh, only for skipper Nemanja Vidic to make a vital block.
"Manchester United defended very well, but technically, the quality of the game was average," said Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, before outlining his unhappiness with the surface.
"We were not quick and sharp in possession. That was partly down to their defending but also the quality of the pitch.

"If I ask you for a good or a bad pitch, what do you say?
"They made technical mistakes as well. The pitch is not good enough."
Arsenal have now gone seven games without a win against United and have a similarly poor record in their encounters with Chelsea, who they face at the Emirates Stadium on December 27.
Not that Wenger was inclined to rise to the bait of such an apparent failing.
"Calm down," he declared.
"You have to be realistic and objective and not necessarily reach big conclusions.
"I am here to analyse one game. You have to give credit to Manchester United for their defending."
Wenger did reserve praise for 20-year-old keeper Wojciech Szczesny, who did well on his Premier League debut after a shaky start.
"He didn't make any mistakes," said Wenger.
"If you can do the job, the size of the game is not important.
"I saw Edwin van der Sar playing in big games when he was 18."
Van der Sar could not be keeping clean sheets at a more important time.
After their own stuttering start, United have now taken 20 points from their last 24 and know victory at Chelsea on Sunday would make them overwhelming favourites to reclaim their title and secure a record 19th championship.
"We have a difficult game against Chelsea on Sunday but it is also a very important game," said Ferguson.
"We had to play well tonight, but we have been playing well.
"The first-half was excellent and we should have done better on the counter-attack in the second.
"But our back four did really well. They are really getting their form now.
"If they maintain that consistency, we will have a good chance."

Fegi Focused on Bridge Clash

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United can take control of the Premier League title race if they beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
United recorded a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Old Trafford on Monday night.
Park Ji-sung's solitary first half goal extended their unbeaten start to the season to 16 matches and left them two points clear of the Gunners and Manchester City, whilst still having a game in hand.

And Ferguson knows, if his side can come away from Sunday's trip to Chelsea with another three points, they will start to feel increasingly confident about landing a record 19th league title.
"Sunday is a massive game," said Ferguson. "That will go a long way to establishing what happens at the top of the league.
"We are 16 games undefeated. Now we have to make it 17."
After scoring seven on their last league outing a fortnight ago, United showed a different side to their character, turning in a superb defensive performance to restrict the visitors to just a single chance.
In contrast, United had four excellent ones, including a missed spot-kick from Wayne Rooney which would have sealed the points 17 minutes from time.
"I was surprised at Wayne hitting it over the bar," said Ferguson. "I have never seen him do that before. He normally puts his shots on target.
"Against Rangers he hit it hard and low into the corner. Today he ballooned it over the bar."

Arsenal Highlights

Here's a link of the highlights for Today's [12/13]game vs the Gunners:
http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/video/premier-league/?vid=c587297b-3b8b-4ffc-962a-f0d4cb55d064&from=foxsports/Premier+League/headlines

Rio says Man United Deserved the Win

Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand insists his side were good value for their hard-fought 1-0 win over title rivals Arsenal.
Park Ji-sung's first-half header sent United two points clear at the Barclays Premier League summit.

The South Korean's effort was enough to secure victory over Arsenal despite Wayne Rooney wasting a golden chance to ease home nerves when he ballooned a penalty over 17 minutes from time.
Ferdinand told Sky Sports 1: "In these games sometimes you don't play well but you've got to go out and play as well as you can. We got the three points and that's the main thing.
"Three points is three points."
Ferdinand added: "Arsenal test you in different ways, they are a very talented side with great players. But I thought today we contained them very well and we had the best chances.
"We missed a penalty, unfortunately, Nani had a great chance in a one-on-one so I'd say we probably shaded it."
Left-back Patrice Evra added: "We just play our football. I think we're powerful and we showed that tonight, I'm very pleased. Everybody is very focused and working hard, and that's why we got the result we deserved."
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson praised his team's performance but admitted the missed penalty could have been costly.
"We had to play well, in these major games you want to perform and I think we did tonight, particularly in the first half we did very, very well," he told Sky Sports 1.
"It was an unusual penalty, normally Wayne always keeps them down, I've never known him to hit one over. That gave Arsenal a bit of impetus but we defended very well, the back four were fantastic tonight, absolutely magnificent."
As for the match-winner Park, the Scot said: "Park's record against Arsenal is very good, he is in fantastic form, the lad.
"Unfortunately we're going to lose him to the Asia Cup for seven matches, which is disappointing."
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal could have taken something from the game. "I believe yes, because we gave everything," he said. "The game was very intense, both teams were well-organised, the intensity of the game was very high and on a very bad pitch.
"Overall the technical quality of the game suffered from a very bad pitch and that was why on both sides you've seen unusual technical mistakes."
Wenger added: "I don't think we failed to deliver; we lost a game and that can happen here

Chilean Miners Watch Man United Win against Arsenal

Some of the Chilean miners rescued in October took part in a training session with Manchester United on Monday, hours before going on to watch the team's Premier League win over Arsenal.

The miners arrived in Manchester on Sunday and were taken to a reception at Old Trafford hosted by United great Bobby Charlton, who is the son of a miner.
"I can't believe these are the same people the whole world dropped everything for. You took it in your stride and everyone around the world is very proud of you," Charlton said.
The 23 miners waved to the crowd from their seats at Old Trafford after they were introduced at halftime of United's 1-0 win over Arsenal on Monday, which sent the hosts top of the Premier League.
The miners were also due to meet United manager Alex Ferguson.
Ferguson told the United website: "It's fantastic that they're coming ... These are people who showed real substance and perseverance to make sure they survived. There are examples in life which you should always take note of."

Man United beats Gunners in Top Clash

Park Ji-sung's first-half strike was enough for Manchester United as they knocked Arsenal off top spot in the Premier League with a 1-0 win. Park ensured the visiting Chilean miners were able to celebrate a home victory on their momentous visit to Old Trafford.
David Beckham was also in a star-studded directors' box to see the Red Devils secure a triumph that maintains their unbeaten record.
Far more importantly, it sends them two points clear of the chasing pack, with a match in hand.

It should have been more. United wasted countless chances, the best of which being a penalty from Wayne Rooney 17 minutes from time that he ballooned over the bar.

For Arsenal, the sorry statistic of a fifth reverse concealed a desperately disappointing performance which did not get that much better even after Arsene Wenger had thrown his star man Cesc Fabregas on in a last desperate bid to secure a share of the spoils.
Ferguson made the point in his programme notes that Arsenal are not the "lilywhites" they are often painted and so it proved during a tight first half in which the Gunners were well prepared to dish out some rough treatment.
On a ground where they have often been ill-treated in the past, the visitors were more than willing to stand toe-to-toe with their opponents, the only surprise being that World Cup final referee Howard Webb did not book Marouane Chamakh and Andrey Arshavin until the last seconds of the opening period.
By that point, the hosts were basking in Park's opener.
The South Korean is one of the men whose recent improvement has retained United's position amongst the title contenders.
It was his injury-time goal that secured victory over Wolves last month and it was an equally well-received effort that allowed United to seize the initiative.
Set free by Rooney's neat nod-down, Nani crossed from the right and not even a deflection off Gael Clichy could prevent the ball bouncing to Park, who contorted his body in such a way as to loop a header over Wojciech Szczesny and into the net.
For Szczesny it was a bitter blow.
Handed his league debut after just three League Cup starts for the Gunners, the Pole had been a confident presence in what has so often been a problem position for Wenger.

Sebastien Squillaci was responsible for the weak clearance that allowed Nani to send a first-time volley whistling past the Pole's right-hand post it was the hand of Chamakh that could easily have brought a penalty for United when he rather awkwardly got in the way of Nani's cross.
Arsenal were a disappointment.
The in-form Samir Nasri was a virtual bystander whilst Arshavin got onto the ball far more often but his final ball was a major let-down.
Twice the hosts came close to doubling their advantage during the opening minutes of the second period.
As part of his impressive evening, Szczesny produced a save reminiscent of Peter Schmeichel in his pomp to deny Anderson, who had burst onto a pass Rooney threaded through the Gunners defence.
Then Nani fired over at the end of a fast counter, started by Anderson robbing Jack Wilshere near the United box and he felt he should have ended it as he screamed in vain for a far-post cross after finding himself completely unmarked.
In between, Nasri had brought a full-length save out of Edwin van der Sar and Nemanja Vidic had blocked as Chamakh tried to turn home the rebound.
Nasri was far more productive, although it was the double introduction of Fabregas and Robin van Persie that really showed how determined Arsenal were not to leave defeated.
The bold move did leave them vulnerable to the counter-attack and it was on one such raid that Nani earned his side a penalty as he checked inside Clichy and forced the Frenchman to handle.
Without a goal in open play since March, the England striker has scored from the spot twice this season. It was also the fifth United penalty in Arsenal's last eight visits to Old Trafford.
There was no goal on this occasion though as Rooney ballooned his effort way over the bar.
It did not sap the striker's confidence and a superb chip brought an excellent save out of Szczesny after latching onto Rio Ferdinand's pass.
Theo Walcott wasted the Gunners' last chance to condemn them to defeat.

Fabio Coentrao In, Patrice Evra Out?

Manchester United seems to be running high on the road to glory this year till now. Though the embarrassing Carling Cup defeat to West Ham crashed the chances of a silverware to home this season, but still being the leaders of the Premier League and remaining undefeated, gives the Red Devils the edge over the other players.
Apart from this, the top notch clubs like Chelsea (the biggest competitor for United in recent times) is running a pathetic show in EPL which again makes roads easier for United. Though Didier Drogba has said that he will be the Top Drog again, still, a lot of difference remains in saying and scoring.
But what makes matters more interesting is the incoming transfer season. Sir Alex Ferguson has made it quite clear to the press several times that he is not going to spend big in the winter window. However, it seems according to the recent reports that a transfer for the United left back Patrice Evra is already on the cards.
Jose Mourinho of Real Madrid tried to address his left back problems with an offer to land Ashley Cole from Chelsea last summer, but Cole stayed put in Stamford Bridge and continued with his string of good performances. However, Mourinho's problem has not been solved, and now, he turns to United's Evra to become the key to the problem.
Does United have a cover for Evra? Yes, in the form of Fabio D Silva, the brother of Rafael, though Fabio has not been as impressive as his twin. With substitute covers like Wes Brown heading towards a possible exit to his career, United may think of covering the Evra vacuum with another player. And for that, funds will be provided from the Evra sale to Real giants.
How good will Coentrao be for United? Well, he has shown some skills in the World Cup 2010, and for that, everyone still remembers him. The Portugal left back who currently plays for Benfica has an ability to play both as a left back and as a winger. So when Ryan Giggs is absent, we can have a winger along the left too.
He can provide adequate cover along the pitch, has high energy quotient, dribbles well and is also a good tackler of the ball. In a nutshell, a player like Coentrao can be an asset to any club.
However, the 22-year-old star will not come cheap for United. Already having a long contract with his present club, Coentrao will not come under the range of £15m. Football agent Jorge Mendes is reported to supervise the deal from Benfica to Old Trafford, who previously supervised the double deal of Nani and Anderson to United from Portugal.
On the other hand, Patrice Evra won't come cheap though for Mourinho and family.
With less than a month to go in the transfer window, United can bring in talents like Coentrao and add the extra boost needed to win the EPL this season.